Tokyo Ueno Zoo: Ultimate Guide to Tickets, Animals & Insider Tips

Ueno Zoo, officially Ueno Zoological Garden, is the oldest zoo in Japan. Located in central Tokyo as a big part of Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo is home to more than 3,000 wild animals with about 400 species. In addition to its most famous giant pandas, various kinds of wildlife can be observed, like aye-ayes, Ezo sika deer, kangaroos, shoebill storks, etc. As many interactive experiences are specifically designed for kids, it is also a must-visit attraction when a family travels to Tokyo.

As the city’s top hanami viewing spot, Ueno Zoo's night illumination attracts numerous tourists every year. Do not miss the night cherry blossom illumination at Shinobazu Pond during the Tokyo cherry blossom season. Taking a stroll along the Shinobazu Lake and enjoying the night view can be a cozy and romantic experience during your time in Ueno Zoo.

The ultimate guide in this article helps you explore more about the oldest zoo in Japan so that you can plan your perfect zoo visit in Tokyo!

Top Must-See Attractions at Ueno Zoo

Ueno Zoological Gardens are divided into two areas, the West Garden and the East Garden. They are connected by the Aesop Bridge, which leads visitors to pass through two areas freely. You can observe different kinds of animals in two areas.

As the most popular main area, the East Garden provides visitors with chances to view lots of popular carnivores, like the Gorilla, Tiger, Polar bear, etc. Aside from that, you can also see squirrels, bison, and various types of bears, Japanese birds, and monkeys.

The West Garden is home to the giant pandas, assorted exotic animals, including African animals. Every distinctive garden possesses a pristine ecosystem and shows various charms for you.

Panda House

Panda Forest is a designated facility, creating a pristine natural environment for pandas. The giant pandas were donated in 1972 from China to Japan as a gesture of friendship between the two countries. And these adorable pandas became popular stars in Ueno Zoo, attracting numerous tourists from Japan and abroad.

Fresh feed is prepared for them both in outdoor and indoor spaces so that tourists can better observe them, including Xiang Xiang's cub. Note that spots may be limited when the peak time. Check the Ueno Zoo official website for more details.

Gorilla & Tigers’ Woods

Feel the thrill nose to nose with western lowland gorillas in naturalistic habitats and Sumatran tigers. They live separately. You can observe gorillas’ social structure and how they live in groups and interact with each other. On the other side, the endangered species, Sumatran tigers, roar and pace back and forth in their areas. If you're lucky enough, you may capture these behaviors up close.

African Animals

The West Garden near the Ikenohata Gate is home to a bunch of African and Australian animals, like giraffes, rhinoceroses, zebras, hippos, etc. Besides, you can also observe the shoebill storks native to Africa, which are not commonly seen in other zoos in Japan.

Elephant Hall

In the center of the East Garden, Asian elephants stroll in their expansive areas. In this popular hall, you can observe their gregarious skills and the ecosystem from different angles. Especially when they are eating and bathing in the pond, their adorable behaviors usually excite many visitors.

Children’s Zoo STEP

Children’s Zoo STEP (子ども動物園すてっぷ) can be found right next to the Benten Gate, with interactive farm animals and petting zones. Here, kids can learn more about how to care for animals and experience interactive projects, specifically designed for young visitors.

Aside from goat feeding, petting guinea pigs and rabbits is popular in interactive items. Children can put them on their lap and pet them gently. That is the reason why the zoo is recognized as toddler-friendly and a must-visit Tokyo attraction in Tokyo family itineraries.

Next to the Children’s Zoo is Shinobazu Pond, which offers a serene spot for birdwatching and lotus blooms. When the weather’s good, you can also row a boat on the lake to dive into the cozy atmosphere.

Essential Ueno Zoo Visitor Guide

Owing to moderate temperatures and natural beauty, spring is recognized as the most recommended season to visit Ueno Zoo. 66 cherry blossoms are in full bloom when spring comes to Tokyo.

Seeing and interacting with animals can be one of the best things to do in Tokyo with kids while you are viewing the sakura together. Or you can also fully enjoy Tokyo cherry blossoms in Ueno Park, Tokyo, one of Tokyo's top hanami spots, after visiting Ueno Zoo.

Besides, spring is the time for the newly born to arrive, when you and your family can witness those lively animals.

Ueno Zoo Tickets

Tips:
1. Free for students living in Tokyo, and free for the disabled.
2. Credit cards, e-money, and QR code payments are accepted.
3. Buy tickets at the Ueno Zoo counter without a reservation, which is available at Ikenohata Gate, Benten Gate, and the Main Gate. You may line up for tickets during the peak time. Or book designated tickets online in advance for successful access.
4. Annual free admission in Ueno Zoo’s Anniversary (March 20th), Greenery Day (May 4th), and Tokyo Citizens’ Day (October 1st).

Getting There

To the Main Gate

JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station (5-minute walk)

To the Benten Gate

Tokyo Metro Ginza/Ueno Line to Ueno Station (8-minute walk)
Hibiya Line to Subway Ueno Station (8-minute walk)
Oedo Subway Line to Ueno-okachimachi Station (10-minute walk)

To the Ikenohata Gate

Chiyoda Subway Line to Nezu Station (5-minute walk)

Note that no parking lots inside Ueno Zoo; you can pull over in the vicinity of the zoo.

Avoid Crowds

Weekdays are ideal periods to avoid crowds. You are advised to start early (9:30 am) to beat the queues at the panda exhibits. Moreover, using side paths in the East Garden is advisable for quieter animal encounters.

Family-Friendly Hacks

For a family outing, you can rent strollers near the entrance (¥ 500/day) so that you don’t have to worry about your family's trip to Ueno Zoo with toddlers. Stroller rental services are available at the main gate of the East Garden and the Benten Gate of the West Garden.

There are 3 nursing rooms inside the Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, with breastfeeding chairs. And boiled water is prepared for diluting baby formula in the rooms. Except for part of the men’s rooms, most of the washrooms are equipped with diaper changing tables.

Animal feeding sessions come in summer, which maximizes your experience, except for regular watching of animals.

Food & Facilities

Aside from stroller rentals, both wheelchair rentals and coin lockers are available at the information center near the main gate.

Fast food outlets and cafes inside the Ueno Zoo enable you to get your meals. Savor a lot of Japanese cuisine and take some limited toys as gifts! Two souvenir shops exist so that you can get various kinds of animal-themed toys. The shops provide you with some snacks as well.

Nearby Attractions & Day Trips

There are many tourist destinations around the Ueno Zoo. Use the following content for your reference. Immerse yourself in cultural experiences, fun shopping, as well as local food in Tokyo!

Shinobazu Pond

As a part of the Ueno Park combos, Shinobazu Ponds is located in the center of Ueno Park, composed of Boat Pond, Lotus Pond, and Cormorant Pond. There is a five-story pagoda by the Shinobazu Pond. Not only can you admire lotus flowers, but you can also canoe on the lake. It is a family-friendly spot on your Tokyo tour.

Kaneiji Temple

Situated on the outer edge of Ueno Park, the Kaneiji Temple plays an important role in Japan’s history. There are many highlights in this largest temple during the Edo period, including Konponchu-do Hall and the Great Buddha of Ueno. Many halls and statues can help you further explore Japan’s history and culture.

Tokyo National Museum

Viewed as the most historic museum in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum is composed of 6 exhibition halls, with collections ranging from various Japanese artifacts to Asian masterpieces. With more than 120,000 items, it is the mecca for historical buffs. Here you can appreciate the cultural relics while diving into oriental culture.

Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street

From Tokyo snacks to sweet treats, and from cosmetics to outfits, Ameya-Yokocho Market can satisfy your diverse demands. And it can be a paradise for shopaholics, with an array of 400 stores. Various steep discounts and sales promotions are held, attracting swarms of humans. That is the reason why the street always remains lively. Taking a stroll in this retro street and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere can be one of the most enjoyable things during your time in Tokyo.

FAQs about Ueno Zoo Tokyo

1. Does Ueno Zoo have pandas?

Yes. Ueno Zoo is home to 3,000 animals, including pandas, donated in 1972 as a symbol of friendship between China and Japan.

2. Can I bring food into Ueno Zoo?

Yes! You are allowed to take your food and drink. And picnic areas are available near the West Gate.

3. Is Ueno Zoo worth visiting with toddlers?

Absolutely yes. Stroller rental services are available. Most of the restrooms are equipped with diaper changing tables. Viewed as a petting zoo, Ueno Zoo also has playgrounds for a variety of outdoor sports.

4. How long should I spend here?

At least 3 hours. Over 5 hours are needed for a full experience of Ueno Park.

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