HONG KONG, Apr 25 (AP) -- With the help of Donald Duck and a cloud of silver confetti, officials unveiled a new rail line Monday for Hong Kong Disneyland -- the world's first train route specifically dedicated for a theme park.

The 3.5-kilometer (2-mile) train line, which cost 2 billion Hong Kong dollars (US$257 million, €197 million), will be able to shuttle about 10,000 passengers per hour to the park, set to open Sept. 12, said Disneyland and the city's Mass Transit Rail Corp. The park and subway operator financed the project.

The line will be a branch off the subway line from Central Hong Kong to outlying Lantau Island, where Disneyland is being built.

"Disneyland Resort line will take visitors to a magical world," MTRC Chief Executive C.K. Chow said. "The 3.5 minute train journey is not to be missed for all Disneyland visitors who wish to enjoy the full experience."

The trains' windows and the straphangers are shaped like Mickey Mouse. The ceiling and the sides of the train are painted red, yellow, purple and blue.

The park is a joint venture between the Hong Kong government and The Walt Disney Co. It's being built on reclaimed land at Penny's Bay.

Critics have criticized the government for shouldering most of the US$3.5 billion construction cost for the park. But officials have argued that the park will boost employment and help make Hong Kong a major tourist destination.