Founded in 1954, Shanghai Zoo is a testament to Shanghai’s commitment to wildlife and conservation. This zoo started as a golf club. Can you imagine? Now it’s a sprawling home to over 6,000 animals.
Shanghai Zoo covers a vast area of 743,000 square meters. That makes it one of China’s largest zoos. The zoo proudly holds the title of the second largest city zoo in China and is one of the top ten zoos in the nation.
Within these boundaries live more than 400 animal species. Around 600 of them are native Chinese animals. The zoo is dedicated to offering both its animals and its visitors the finest experience possible.
Have you seen a giant panda? Shanghai Zoo is home to these amazing creatures and also to golden snub-nosed monkeys. There are South China tigers, too and even Bactrian camels.
Animals from all over the world call this zoo home. Chimpanzees swing through their enclosures. Giraffes reach for the sky. You can even see kangaroos, gorillas and ring-tailed lemurs.
Shanghai Zoo began as the Xijiao Park. It transformed over time into the ecological garden we see today. The original golf course design is still visible.
As you walk around, notice the 100,000 trees. They represent almost 600 different species. The green spaces and lawns cover 100,000 square meters.
The zoo has the goal of educating visitors and promoting animal conservation. The Swan Lake shows this dedication. Natural reed clumps and trees offer shade to many bird species. Pelicans, geese, black swans and night herons all thrive here.
Since its establishment, Shanghai Zoo has welcomed over 150 million visitors. It strives to deepen the public’s understanding. It also seeks to create a greater appreciation for wildlife and their environments.
So, how do you get here? You can take metro line 10 to Shanghai Zoo Station. If you prefer a bus, several routes will drop you nearby. Numbers 57, 91, 519 and many others will bring you here.
Remember, the opening times vary slightly. From March to October, the zoo opens from 6:30 to 17:30. From November to February, it closes a bit earlier at 17:00.
Plan to spend three to five hours here to explore the diverse habitats and inhabitants of Shanghai Zoo. It costs 40 CNY per person to enter this world of wildlife. Prepare to leave with a renewed sense of wonder.