Can you imagine a place where the world’s wonders were once brought together in one park? That place is Grand World Scenic Park in Guangzhou. It was once a vibrant amusement park. Now, let’s step back in time to when Grand World Scenic Park was Guangzhou’s star attraction.
Grand World Scenic Park opened in 1995. It quickly became one of the top ten scenic spots in Guangzhou. The park covered a vast area of 480,000 square meters. Some sources say it was even larger at 710,000 square meters. No matter the exact size, it was huge. The park cost about 56.7 million yuan. Another source claims 600 million RMB to construct. It was a significant investment.
The park featured replicas of global landmarks. Visitors could see the world without traveling far. It brought together nature, sculptures, architecture, and traditions. The park highlighted the art and culture of five continents. There were six theaters and four entertainment areas. You could wander through the Arabian Market or stroll down Italian and American Streets. The Mexican Market was another highlight. Grand World Scenic Park offered the landforms, buildings, and entertainment of over 26 countries. Visitors could also buy handicrafts and souvenirs.
In its early days, Grand World Scenic Park thrived. A Guangzhou Daily article mentioned monthly income of approximately RMB30 million in 1996. Hundreds of thousands of people visited each month. But the park’s success was short-lived. Profits declined significantly just a year later. The company faced mounting debt.
Trouble escalated over the years. In 2005, a creditor requested an auction of the land. The amusement park refused. In 2009, a violent incident occurred. Forty men rampaged through the park. They destroyed equipment and attacked workers. They used fishing forks, sticks, knives, iron bars, and guns. Six security guards were injured. One was even shot. Police arrested 13 people and seized 16 suspects.
Visitor numbers dwindled. Grand World Scenic Park fell into disrepair. By 2017, a wedding photography business rented the space. Most of the attractions were decaying.
After years of abandonment, change came in 2022. The park operator reached an agreement with the government. The government took back the land. New land-use planning was arranged.
Today, Grand World Scenic Park’s future is evolving. There are plans to transform the area. It may become a high-quality residential community. It may integrate into a park system extending towards the Olympic Sports Center. Though its glory days are past, Grand World Scenic Park remains a memorable landmark. It reminds us of a time when the world came to Guangzhou.