Tokyo Zoo
Ueno Zoological Gardens
Japan’s Oldest and Most Exciting Zoo Adventure
Established way back in 1882, Ueno Zoological Gardens is Japan’s very first modern zoo, and it’s still making history! This 14.4-hectare (35.6-acre) animal wonderland is home to over 3,000 animals across about 300 species. More than just a zoo, Ueno is a place where you can dive into Japan’s passion for wildlife, learning as you wander through habitats full of incredible creatures from every corner of the world.
The 1st of October was Tokyo Citizens’ Day, a public holiday, so we discovered that entry to the zoo was free! Although it’s a regular workday, many government-run cultural sites across Tokyo offer free entry.
The Pandas
Ueno’s Furry Celebrities
Now, let’s talk pandas—the undisputed stars of Ueno Zoo! It all started in 1972, when Ueno welcomed its first pair from China, kicking off an international collaboration with Beijing Zoo and San Diego Zoo to help keep the panda population thriving. After Ling Ling, the zoo’s iconic panda, passed in 2008, two new pandas, Ri Ri and Shin Shin, moved in and had their first cub, Xiang Xiang, in 2017, followed by the twin troublemakers Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao in 2021. Although Xiang Xiang returned to China in 2023, with Ri Ri and Shin Shin following in 2024, the panda legacy at Ueno Zoo is still going strong.
Face-to-Face with the Wild
Gorilla Woods & Tiger Forest
Ever wanted to stare a tiger in the eye or get close to a gorilla? Ueno Zoo’s “Gorilla Woods” and “Tiger Forest” make it happen, bringing you nose-to-nose (safely behind glass, of course) with these awe-inspiring animals. Ueno is part of a global network of zoos dedicated to endangered species, sharing expertise and taking steps to ensure these magnificent creatures have a future. So get ready for an unforgettable, up-close adventure—you might just leave with a fresh perspective on the world’s wild side!
A Japanese Twist
The Five-Storied Pagoda and Tea House at Ueno Zoo
Adding a dose of Japanese charm to the wildlife adventure, Ueno Zoo has its very own five-storied pagoda and a traditional tea ceremony house. The pagoda dates all the way back to 1631, though it’s had a rebuild or two after fires. In 1958, the Kan’ei-ji Temple was gifted to Tokyo’s Metropolitan Government, and it’s been under Ueno Zoo’s care ever since.
Then there’s the tea ceremony house, originally built in the 17th century to host Shoguns! This beautifully preserved gem still stands on the zoo grounds, adding a historic touch to the experience. So in between checking out the animals, take a stroll over to these cultural icons—it’s like a little trip back in time, right in the heart of the zoo.
Explore the Wilds of Ueno Zoo
East and West Areas
Ueno Zoo’s East and West Areas are packed with incredible wildlife from every corner of the globe, offering two unique experiences that’ll keep you exploring all day long!
East Area
Where Asia Meets the Arctic and Beyond
Step into the East Area, and get ready for a world tour of animal encounters! You’ll be greeted by Asian elephants, alongside elegant pheasants and wise-looking snowy owls. Raptors swoop above, and then—bam!—the sight of a Sumatran tiger prowling its habitat. Next, say hello to the zoo’s western lowland gorillas before heading into the Bird House and the Nocturnal House. Inside, nocturnal favourites like the elusive Chinese pangolin, slow lorises, and bats await in the dim light.
But there’s more! Wander over to see South American tapirs, graceful cranes, and harbour seals at play. The bear collection is impressive, too: polar bears, Hokkaido brown bears, sun bears, and Japanese black bears all call Ueno Zoo home. Add in playful otters, sacred ibises, and the birds of Japan, and your journey’s far from over. Don’t miss the Monkey World, where Japanese macaques, white-mantled black colobuses, and black-handed spider monkeys swing and chatter. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, prairie dogs and American bison make their unforgettable appearance!
West Area
Pandas and Africa Await!
Cross over to the West Area, and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the zoo’s famous giant pandas. Here’s where the zoo’s African animals roam, too, from the powerful black rhinos and giant hippos to pygmy hippos and graceful giraffes. Take a detour to the lemur habitats, where you’ll meet ruffed lemurs, ring-tailed lemurs, and even the rare aye-aye.
The West Area also features the Small Mammal House, home to all sorts of little wonders—rodents, bats, armadillos, and other nocturnal animals that peek out from the shadows. For reptile and amphibian fans, the Vivarium is a must-see, housing Galapagos tortoises, saltwater crocodiles, green iguanas, geckos, Japanese pond turtles, and more.
And if you’re visiting with family, the Children’s Zoo is an absolute hit! This petting area lets you get up close with guinea pigs, rabbits, goats, and other friendly domestic animals.
Whether you’re in the East Area exploring tigers and cranes or in the West with pandas and rhinos, Ueno Zoo promises endless excitement and an adventure into the world of wildlife you won’t soon forget!
Tokyo Zoo Location
Ueno Zoological Gardens Tourist Map
Address
Ueno Zoological Gardens
9-83 Uenokoen,
Taito City,
Tokyo 110-8711,
Japan
Ueno Zoological Gardens Hours and Days Open
Ueno Zoo opens from 9:30 to 17:00 (tickets sold until 16:00) andcloses every Monday(closes Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday or Tokyo Citizen’s Day [Oct 1]) and December 29 through January 1.
Entrance fee
Adults 600 Yen £3.00
Seniors 65+ 300 Yen £1.50
Website link
