AFTER two years of extensive renovation, Shenzhen’s oldest children’s theme park — the Shenzhen Children’s Park — has reopened to the public. First opened in 1987, the 5.98-hectare park closed in 2022 for a comprehensive upgrade that balances cherished childhood memories with new, technology-enhanced experiences. Preserved heritage Responding to overwhelming public demand, the park has retained two iconic features. The stone Elephant Slide, smoothed by generations of young visitors, now features a protective elephant-shaped shell with an extended track, reinforced structure, and shaded covering for summer comfort. The Twelve Zodiac Sculptures have been relocated to the North Gate promenade, where a moiré optical effect makes them appear animated as visitors walk by. Free-access play zones The park now offers five themed, non-powered areas — all free of charge. Highlights include: Rat Sand Mine: A dynamic micro-terrain playground with seven sand-play installations, 12 climbing tunnels, and soft safety surfacing, ideal for younger children. Monkey Forest Exploration: Built around preserved mature trees, this 300 m² zone features rope nets, treehouses, and double-fall-protection systems, providing naturally shaded, cool play spaces. Horse Paradise: A 200 m² yellow-and-white climbing castle with caged nets, rope mazes, and slides. Hillside Adventure: Climbing nets and slope walls integrated into the wooded landscape for nature-immersed physical play. Creek Water Play Area: Transformed from an old lake, this interactive zone includes water slides, fountains, sprays, wave machines, and jump jets (visitors are advised to bring a change of clothes). Paid amusement rides For those seeking thrills, the Little Elephant Discovery Kingdom houses 20 powered attractions, including roller coasters, bumper cars, a pirate ship, a Ferris wheel, a pendulum ride, a drop tower, and a carousel. Tickets are priced from 9 to 19 yuan per ride, with discounted multi-ride packages available. Park hours: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily Add: 12 Tongle Road, Luohu District (罗湖区童乐路12号) Metro: Line 1 or 3 to Shaibu Station (晒布站), Exit B; walk about 200 meters to the South Gate(SD News) | 