Policy

Mickey Mao

|

China has been caught between capitalism and communism for so long that it shouldn't be surprising to learn Sino-Disneyland has a mixed economy too:

The Hong Kong government, which hopes the park will attract tourists to the city for many years, has spent more $2.9 billion on the project, about 82 percent of total costs, while Disney received 43 percent of the joint venture shares.

A survey conducted by AP last year found that 56 percent of Hong Kong residents thought the financial deal with Disney was unfair while 70 percent said their "opinions toward Hong Kong Disneyland have become more negative" because of problems since its opening, including several overbooked days during last year's Chinese New Year.

There have been some culture clashes as well:

For mainland Chinese who visit the park, many of whom don't speak English, a lack of cultural relevance may be more damaging. Some of the shows and rides at Hong Kong Disneyland are presented only in English and many older Chinese do not recognize Disney characters.

"Younger Chinese like Mickey Mouse, but they should include traditional Chinese culture for adults," said Zhu Yuan, a 64-year-old retired professor visiting Hong Kong Disneyland from China's northeastern Tianjin City.

Here's a suggestion: