Beijing Zoo – One of the Biggest Zoos in China

Located in Beijing Xicheng District, Beijing Zoo is one of China’s oldest and largest city zoos, covering an area of about 90 hectares. It was established in 1906 during the Qing Dynasty as an agricultural experiment farm. Now, the zoo has grown into a comprehensive zoological and botanical garden, housing over 500 species (excluding the aquarium) and over 5,000 individual animals, along with over 500 marine species and over 10,000 individual marine creatures.

Visitors can see not only the unique animals in China, such as crested ibis, and giant pandas, but also many exotic animals from different continents, such as Callithricidae, polar bears, flamingos, penguins, Amur leopards, etc.

Each year, it attracts over 6 million visitors from around the world. If you travel to Beijing with your family, Beijing Zoo is especially recommended to offer you and your kids an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.

Basic Facts of Beijing Zoo

• Chinese name: 北京动物园 (běi jīng dòng wù yuán)
• Location: No.137 Xizhimenwai Street, Xicheng District, Beijing. Adjacent to the Beijing Exhibition Center and the Moscow Restaurant on the east side.
• Area: about 90 hectares
• Opening hours: 7:30-18:00 from April to October; 7:30 -17:00 from November to March.
• Visiting time needed: 4-5 hours
• Regular admission(Giant Panda Hall not included): CNY 15 per person from April to October, CNY 10 per person from November to March.
• Combo tickets (including both the zoo entrance and the Giant Panda Hall): CNY 19 per person from Apr. to Oct. CNY 14 per person from Nov. to Mar.
• Best time to visit:Suitable for visiting all year round.
• Why visit: Home to numerous rare and unique animals; with various animal performances, animal science exhibits, beautiful natural landscapes, and easy accessibility.

Brief Introduction to Beijing Zoo

There are a total of about 30 halls divided according to various species and continents, such as Australian Animal Area, American Animal Area, African Animal Area, Amphibians and Reptiles Hall, and so on.

Generally, these halls are scattered in three main areas: East, South, and North. The main entrance is located in the East area, and the Beijing Aquarium is in the North Area.

The East area is home to the rare animal exhibits. The main animal houses in this area include the Giant Panda House, Lion and Tiger Mountain, Bear Mountain, Monkey Hill, and the Waterfowl Lake, etc.

The South area is dominated by herbivorous animals, including the Giraffe House, Deer Park, and the Primate House housing golden monkeys and orangutans.

The North area primarily shows large animals and marine life, including the Beijing Aquarium, Elephant House, and the Rhino and Hippo House.

Besides the animal houses, the zoo also preserved many notable architectural landmarks, including the Changguan Tower, Song Jiaoren Memorial Tower, Changchun Hall, Bin Feng Hall, Peony Pavilion, etc.

Main Animal Houses in Beijing Zoo

Given the vast area of the zoo and the wide variety of animal species, it will need an entire day to thoroughly explore all the exhibition areas. If limited in time, you can pick up some of the top-recommended halls as below.

Giant Panda House

The Giant Panda House is one of the most popular attractions in Beijing Zoo, thus seeing more tourists. Here visitors can get up close to dozens of adorable giant pandas and observe their daily lives and habits.

Amphibian and Reptile House

The most mysterious exhibit at Beijing Zoo, the Amphibian and Reptile House comprises multiple sections for crocodiles, turtles and tortoises, frogs, salamanders, lizards, pythons, and snakes. Here you can also encounter many rare creatures like chameleons, flying dragons, giant tortoises, etc. It will offer children a glimpse into the wonders and mysteries of nature.

Gorilla Hall

Located at westernmost of Beijing Zoo, the Giraffe House is divided into seven rooms, allowing visitors to touch giraffes at a close distance.

Beijing Aquarium

Located east of the Elephant House, Beijing Aquarium attracts many kids with its captivating marine experience. It is not included in the zoo, you’ll need to pay extra CNY 175 per person.

The aquarium is divided into seven thematic areas, offering captivating marine experiences. The vibrant angelfish and koi in the Rainforest Wonder, sharks in Shark Town, adorable belugas through floor-to-ceiling windows in the Bering Strait exhibit, and the living fossil from the dinosaur era will all expand your knowledge and captivate your eyes.

Good to know: There is a separate, spacious theater for marine animal shows. The shows typically take place at 11:00, 15:00 (Monday- Friday)/ 11:00, 13:30, 16:00 (Saturday& Sunday).

Waterfowl Lake

Located near the main entrance of the zoo, Waterfowl Lake is home to a variety of waterfowl, including swans, mandarin ducks, pelicans, geese, and ducks. Here you can observe these birds engaging in various activities, creating a dynamic and picturesque scene.

When is the Best Time for Beijing Zoo Tour?

The Beijing Zoo is suitable for visiting all year round, but in spring and autumn, the weather is more pleasant. Summer is also good for escaping the heat.

Tips: Visitors had better avoid the official holidays in China, because many Chinese citizens choose to travel on official holidays. As a result, most Chinese tourist attractions are overcrowded and traffic jams are quite common.

Official Holidays in China

How to get to the Beijing Zoo?

Bus

Visitors can get off at Beijing Zoo Station. Bus No.7, No.15, No,19, No.27, No.65, No.87,No.332, No.334, No.347, No36. No.362, No.534, No.563, No.685, No.697, No.808, No.814, Te-4, Te-5, Yuntong104,105,106 and 205 are available for visitors to choose.

Subway

Visitors can take subway line 4 and get off at Beijing Zoo Station, and then walk through the Exit B to get to the South Gate of Beijing Zoo.

Cruise ship

You can embark on a loyal boat cruise between Beijing Zoo Pier and Nanruyi Pier at the Summer Palace. The entire route spans about 9 km and takes about 60 minutes. The ticket is CNY 120 per person. During the cruise, you can enjoy the picturesque views of Zizhuyuan Park, Wanshou Temple, and Maizhong Bridge.

Beijing Zoo Travel Tips

• Visitors are advised to book tickets through the official “Beijing Zoo” WeChat account in advance to avoid waiting in line.
• The Giant Panda House does not have restrooms, and re-entering requires purchasing a new ticket.
• Do remember to collect a guide map at the entrance to help locate the animal houses you are interested in.
• In the walking area, you can purchase park-provided food to feed gentle animals. These interactive experiences are popular with children.
• To protect animal health, it’s now allowed to feed animals with outside food.
• Avoid loud noises or tapping on glass when viewing animals.
• Bring snacks and water as food options in the zoo can be limited and pricey.
• Apply sunscreen and wear hats to prevent UV damage if visiting during summer days.

Recommended Beijing Tours including Beijing Zoo

• Beijing Panda and Forbidden City Day Tour
• 2 Days Beijing Highlight Tour
• 4 Days Beijing Group Tour with Panda House

Attractions Nearby

• Summer Palace: An ancient royal garden featuring beautiful lakes, long corridors, and many ancient buildings.
• Beijing Botanical Garden: Home to various rare plants.
• Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan): Rich in exquisite architecture, and charming landscapes.