Disney Store has opened the doors of its flagship store in Shanghai, China, which at 5,000-square-meters is the largest retail space of any Disney Store in the world.

The opening of the Disney Store in Shanghai comes one day after the topping of the Enchanted Storybook Castle at the Shanghai Disney Resort, which is due to open next year.

"We couldn't be more delighted to open our first Disney Store in China, in Shanghai," says Paul Candland, president, The Walt Disney Company, Asia Pacific. "Disney Store plays a critical role in how millions around the world experience our brand and allows kids, young adults and families to have a uniquely fun and immersive experience while shopping for their favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars products."

With an estimated 40 million tourists visiting the Lujiazui area of Shanghai each year, the new Disney Store aims to become destination and meeting point for locals and visitors alike.

The interior of the Shanghai Store feature elements unique to the area and brings to life the most popular characters from across Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars. Among the design features in the new store are a 19-foot high Magic Kingdom Castle, a Marvel area featuring hand-sculpted statues of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America and an 8-foot tall Hulk, a character balloon area with sculpted hot-air balloons featuring Disney characters including Mickey Mouse and Goofy and a unique Mickey Mouse-shaped roof.

"We welcome the first Disney Store in China to Shanghai's Pudong District and are excited about the unique role it will play to bring a new energy to Lujiazui," says said Jian Danian, deputy governor, Pudong. "The Disney store is a stunning new landmark of retail, tourism and culture in China."