Shanghai Disney Resort began trial operations Saturday, ahead of the official grand opening June 16. Cast members and their relatives were invited to take a sneak peek of the mega theme park.

There was a long line for a Disney shuttle from the themed metro station. The park, not officially open yet, was revealing for the first time ever to some special guests: the contributors to the resort and their families.

“We are here today just like ordinary tourists, and we’re really looking forward to it, so all of us are waiting in line,” said a visitor.

Those invited were making the best of the exclusive opportunities, many of them queuing early.

“I came here with my parents. And we are here to see the castle in Disneyland,” said another visitor.

With their trial operations admission tickets, the visitors were good to go. Once they got in, right in front of them was the largest-ever castle constructed in a Disney Park. There were bands, amusement facilities, and the famous parade, complete with decorated floats and world-famous Disney cartoon characters.

As well as the theme park, the Disney town retail and entertainment area in the resort has also started operation. Nearly half of the shops, including Asia’s first World of Disney Store were open to public.

“I came here to line up at around 7 a.m. I have bought some products that are unique to Shanghai Disney and can only be found in this resort, the ‘Big Shanghai’ series. And I have my tickets booked. I certainly want to find out what’s inside,” said a Disney town visitor.

Tickets for Shanghai Disneyland are already available online. All the tickets for the grand opening June 16 have already been sold.