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Introduction

Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo, the oldest zoo in Japan, was established in 1882. Located within the serene surroundings of Ueno Park, it is not only a paradise for animal lovers but also an excellent destination for families and tourists to experience the beauty of nature and wildlife. The zoo houses over 400 species, including crowd favorites like giant pandas, gentle Asian elephants, and colorful tropical birds. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re young or old.

During my visit, I not only had the chance to see these animals up close but also captured many interesting moments. Through this article, I hope to share my experience along with some photos of the animals, allowing you to feel the unique charm of Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo. If you love animals or are planning a trip to Tokyo, this article will serve as the perfect guide to exploring Ueno Zoo!

Ueno Zoo Basic Information

Location: Situated within Ueno Park, easily accessible (near JR Ueno Station and Keisei Ueno Station).

Operating Hours: Generally 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).

Ticket Prices:

Adults (16-64): ¥600
Seniors (65+): ¥300
Teenagers (13-15): ¥200
Children (0-12): Free

Free Admission Days:

Zoo Anniversary (March 20)
Greenery Day (May 4)
Tokyo Citizen’s Day (October 1)

Ticket Purchase Options:

Ticket Counters: Accept cash, credit cards, and electronic wallets (Suica and other compatible IC cards).
Online Purchase: Purchase link (Credit card payment supported).

It’s highly recommended to buy tickets online to avoid long queues.

Highlights of Animal Exhibits

East Garden:

Gorilla

ueno_zoo_20240330_0011 — That pose… should I call you Uncle Gorilla?

Tiger

ueno_zoo_20240330_0009 — Majestic and powerful, truly the king of beasts!

ueno_zoo_20240330_0007 — Wait, did he just turn into a playful big cat?

Elephant

ueno_zoo_20240330_0029 — A mischievous elephant that even dances happily for visitors!

Polar Bear

ueno_zoo_20240330_0015 — This polar bear looks too hot to move, totally drained of energy.

West Garden:

Giant Panda

ueno_zoo_20240330_0035 — The silly-looking panda happily munching on bamboo.

Flamingo

ueno_zoo_20240330_0032 — Gracefully sipping water.

ueno_zoo_20240330_0031 — Stretching its wings after standing for a while.

Giant Tortoise

ueno_zoo_20240330_0049 — Looks like it pulled an all-nighter. The life of a tortoise!

Penguin

ueno_zoo_20240330_0030 — A leisurely penguin grooming itself.

Must-Visit Spots

Thai Pavilion

ueno_zoo_20240330_0066 — Located in the East Garden, this Thai pavilion glows in the sunset. If you visit during cherry blossom season, the pavilion paired with the cherry trees adds a romantic vibe.

Five-Story Pagoda

ueno_zoo_20240330_0065 — The pagoda, framed by surrounding trees, beautifully blends tradition with nature.

ueno_zoo_20240330_0063-2 — The towering pagoda against the clear blue sky offers a refreshing, open feeling.

Conclusion

This visit to Ueno Zoo allowed me not only to observe a variety of fascinating animals up close but also to capture many adorable moments through my camera. From the majestic Uncle Gorilla, graceful flamingos, to the adorable pandas and penguins, every exhibit area is a delightful experience. Additionally, the Thai Pavilion and Five-Story Pagoda add to the zoo’s enchanting atmosphere, making them must-visit photo spots.

Whether you are visiting with family, on a date, or simply a traveler who loves animals, Ueno Zoo is an ideal destination. Here, you can slow down, enjoy a moment of peace with nature, and experience the pure joy and energy of the animals. If you ever find yourself in Tokyo, don’t miss this charming zoo—it’s sure to leave you with wonderful memories.

Additional Information

Official Website:
https://www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/ueno/index.html

Zoo Map:

https://www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/ueno/index.html#zm

Google Maps:

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