“Xiaomeisha Ocean World” has recently opened and immediately sparked controversy. Many internet users have criticized the lack of fish species within the aquarium, with claims that the whale sharks are merely robotic fish. Some visitors on the first day of operation found the overall professionalism lacking and even demanded refunds.
According to official promotions, the newly renovated Xiaomeisha Ocean World is a meticulously crafted “international-level marine theme park,” making it the largest ocean park in Shenzhen. Spanning an area of 60,200 square meters with a building area of 132,500 square meters, the park holds a total water capacity of 40,000 cubic meters.
On October 1st, Xiaomeisha Ocean World in Yantian, Shenzhen, started its trial operation. The business was booming, with an average daily reception of over 15,000 visitors, totaling over 100,000 visitors in just seven days. Adult tickets are priced at 240 yuan (originally 280 yuan), with children’s tickets at 150 yuan.
However, on the first day of operation, internet users already started to complain. Some voiced concerns about the unfinished construction work, stating that the smell of building materials lingered throughout the area. The park’s crowd control measures were deemed inadequate, leading to long queues for purchasing water and vending machines running out of stock without timely replenishment, resulting in a chaotic venue. Criticisms also arose regarding the limited variety of fish species, with areas appearing dull and maze-like. Some visitors felt that Xiaomeisha lacked significant attractions aside from some light shows, mentioning that two dolphins swimming a few rounds were not worth the 240 yuan ticket price. Complaints escalated to visitors requesting refunds as early as before 3 p.m.
Many internet users expressed their disappointment upon discovering that the “Whale Shark Pavilion” featured a mechanical whale shark instead of a live one. They argued that even if a live whale shark was unavailable, they would have preferred not to see a fake one as it lacked authenticity and appeal.
In response, park staff clarified that live whale sharks are prohibited from being traded in the market, hence the decision to invest millions in creating artificial whale sharks within the aquarium.
Reactions from the public varied. Some believed that paying nearly 300 yuan to see a fake shark was not worthwhile, while others viewed the artificial whale shark as a step towards promoting environmental conservation and ecology.