For seven decades, the Shanghai Zoo has been a beacon of wildlife conservation and education.
From a modest beginning with 31 species and 46 animals, it has flourished into a sanctuary for nearly 470 species and over 5,000 animals.
The zoo has proudly bred more than 240 rare species, creating thriving populations of South China Tigers, Asian Elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, pelicans, and penguins.
It also leads the nation in primate care, South China tiger breeding, and rare bird incubation. Annually, it attracts over 3 million visitors from across the globe.
City News Service invites you to embark on a 3-kilometer journey through the Shanghai Zoo, immersing yourself in the wonders of biodiversity.
This thoughtfully curated route highlights nine key stops, each offering a unique glimpse into the animal kingdom and the zoo's conservation efforts.
Reptile House
Highlight: Marvel at a collection of reptiles that resemble mythical dragons, including the impressive Komodo Dragon.
Fun Fact: Komodo Dragons, the largest living lizards, are native to Indonesia and endangered due to habitat loss
Visitors enjoy the Reptile House.
Komodo Dragons are endangered due to habitat loss.
The Komodo Dragon are the largest living lizards.
Goldfish Gallery
Highlight: A nostalgic gallery featuring vibrant goldfish, creating a dreamlike underwater scene.
Fun Fact: Discover unique goldfish breeds like the Dragon Eye and Panda Butterfly Tail, each with distinct and captivating appearances.
A woman poses outside the Goldfish Gallery.
The Dragon Eye goldfish is one of many unique species at the Goldfish Gallery.
Dragon Eye goldfish appear to be watching visitors as well as being on display.
Great Lawn
Highlight: Wander through three expansive lawns, including historic grasslands from the 1910s, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Fun Fact: The third lawn is home to ancient dragon cypress and mulberry trees, remarkable for their size and historical significance.
The Great Lawn is ideal for a relaxing stroll.
Ancient dragon cypress and mulberry trees are features of the Great Lawn.
Penguin House
Highlight: Witness the charming "Penguin Walk," showcasing the natural behaviors of banded penguins.
Fun Fact: Penguins may waddle on land, but their long legs hidden under their feathers are perfect for efficient swimming.
The banded penguins at Penguin House are popular with visitors.
Penguins may waddle on land but they are in their element in water.
Groups of penguins provide a charmingly funny sight.
Native Animals Area
Highlight: The first exhibit in China dedicated to local wildlife, mimicking Shanghai's wetlands and forests.
Fun Fact: Features native birds like the Red-crowned Crane and other wetland birds in a habitat that closely resembles their natural environment.
The Native Animals Area mimicks Shanghai's wetlands and forests.
The Red-crowned Crane and other wetland birds make their homes in the Native Animals Area.
Frogs also make their homes in the wetland area.
Panda House
Highlight: Visit the iconic panda family sculptures and see real pandas, a must for panda enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: Pandas, known as "iron-eating beasts" for their strong bite force, have a historical reputation as war animals in Chinese legends.
Panda House has panda family statues as well as the living animals.
The Panda is loved worldwide.
Pandas are a symbol of China to the rest of the world.
Giraffe House
Highlight: Observe the growth of baby giraffes, a testament to successful zoo breeding programs.
Fun Fact: Celebrated on June 21, World Giraffe Day, giraffes have incredibly tight skin to aid blood circulation, inspiring astronaut suit designs.
The Giraffe House has a successful breeding program.
Giraffes were an inspiration for astronaut designs.
Giraffes feed at the Giraffe House.
Elephant House
Highlight: Admire the grand Elephant House, blending Soviet and Chinese architectural styles, set amidst lush greenery.
Fun Fact: Asian elephants, the largest land mammals in Asia, play a crucial role in forest maintenance and seed dispersal.
The Elephant House blending Soviet and Chinese architectural styles.
Asian elephants play a crucial role in forest maintenance and seed dispersal.
Gorilla House
Highlight: Meet the famous gorilla family, including the iconic "Boroman" and its offspring, a rare sight in Chinese zoos.
Fun Fact: Gorillas, the largest primates, are strict vegetarians, thriving on a diet of fruits, leaves, and vegetables.
The Gorilla House is home to the iconic "Boroman" and its offspring.
Gorillas are the largest primate.
Gorillas are strict vegetarians.
Visitor Information
Opening hours
March to October: 8am-5pm
November to February: 8am-4:30pm
Ticket prices
General Admission: 40 yuan
Half-Price: 20 yuan (For minors and full-time students with valid ID)
Discounts: 20 percent off for veterans, 10 percent off for seniors aged 60-65
Free Admission: Seniors over 65, children under 1.3 meters or under 6 years old, disabled persons, and military personnel (with valid ID)
Transportation:
Parking: Limited parking is available; public transport is recommended.
Bus: Routes 57, 91, 519, 739, 807, 941, 1207
Metro: Line 10, Shanghai Zoo Station (Exit 1 or 4)
In-Zoo Transport: Shuttle tickets available for 15 yuan
Tickets can be purchased online via the Shanghai Zoo official WeChat, Ctrip, Dianping, Meituan, and Tongcheng, or at the zoo's ticket counters.
Enjoy your walk and make unforgettable memories at Shanghai Zoo!