Beijing Zoo
Beijing Zoo is one of the largest zoos in China, with many rare animal and plant species.
Information
Ticket price
Time
Location
137 Xizhimen Outer St, Xicheng District, Beijing, China
View maps
More about the trip
Beijing Zoo: Home to Pandas and More
The Beijing Zoo, established in 1906, is one of the oldest and largest zoos in China, covering an area of over 89 hectares. It is renowned for its extensive collection of animals, particularly its giant pandas, and serves as a significant center for wildlife research and conservation. Beyond its animal exhibits, the zoo also features beautiful gardens and historical buildings.
What to See and Do
Giant Panda House: This is undoubtedly the most popular attraction. The Beijing Zoo is one of the best places in China to see giant pandas up close. Observe these beloved creatures as they munch on bamboo, play, or simply relax.
Other Animal Exhibits: The zoo houses over 450 species of land animals and 500 species of marine animals. You can see a wide variety of rare Chinese animals, including golden monkeys, red pandas, Manchurian tigers, and white-lipped deer, as well as animals from around the world like African elephants, polar bears, and kangaroos.
Aquarium: The Beijing Aquarium, located within the zoo, is one of the largest inland aquariums in China. It features a diverse collection of marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, and colorful tropical fish, as well as dolphin and sea lion shows.
Historical Buildings and Gardens: The zoo's grounds are beautifully landscaped with traditional Chinese gardens, pavilions, and historical buildings, some dating back to the Qing Dynasty. Take a stroll to appreciate the blend of nature and history.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the most comfortable weather for visiting. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to see the animals at their most active.
How to Get There
The Beijing Zoo is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line 4 to Beijing Zoo Station (Exit A or D). Several bus routes also stop directly at the zoo entrance.
Travel Tips
Plan your route: The zoo is very large, so grab a map at the entrance and plan which exhibits you want to prioritize.
Food and drinks: There are several food stalls and restaurants within the zoo, but you might consider bringing your own snacks and water.
Consider the aquarium: The aquarium requires a separate ticket but offers a different experience, especially if you enjoy marine life.
Related attractions
Dashilar
A 500-year-old cultural history district. Daguaren Street was originally called Liangfang Fourth Lane and has a history of nearly 500 years. It is also one of the first batches of Chinese historical and cultural districts in Xicheng District. It‘s a traditional commercial area in Beijing, formerly known as "Four Courtyards Lane."Daguaren was first built in the 14th year of the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty (1420). At that time, it was called Liangfang Fourth Lane; in the first year of Hongzhi of the Ming Dynasty (1488), a fence was set up at the entrance of the alley, so it was renamed "Daguaren". Historically, it was home to century-old brands such as Tongrentang, Ruifuzhao, and Renlinseng, which covered industries including medicine, silk, and shoes and hats, forming a commercial pattern known as "top is Ma Juyuan, bottom is Renlinseng." The street once had five opera theaters and Beijing's earliest cinema, Da Guanlou, and had both commercial and entertainment functions.
Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall
Huanghuacheng, also known as the "Water Great Wall," is a unique section of the Great Wall located about 70 kilometers north of Beijing. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this section is famous for its picturesque setting where parts of the wall are submerged in the Xishuiyu Reservoir, creating a stunning combination of mountains, water, and ancient architecture. The area is also known for its beautiful wild flowers, particularly yellow flowers that bloom in summer, giving the section its name "Yellow Flower Wall."
Jinshanling Great Wall
Jinshanling is a section of the Great Wall of China located about 130 kilometers northeast of Beijing. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it is known for its well-preserved original features and breathtaking mountain scenery. This section stretches for about 10.5 kilometers with 67 watchtowers and is less crowded than other sections, making it popular with hikers and photographers. The varied terrain and stunning vistas make it one of the most picturesque parts of the Great Wall.
Liao and Jin City Wall Museum
The Beijing Archaeological Site Museum preserves and displays important archaeological discoveries from Beijing's rich history. The museum features excavated artifacts, ruins, and exhibits that trace the development of human civilization in the Beijing area from prehistoric times through various dynasties. Interactive displays and detailed explanations help visitors understand the significance of these archaeological findings in the context of Chinese history.
Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site
The Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where fossils of Homo erectus pekinensis, dating back 200,000 to 700,000 years, were discovered in the 1920s and 1930s. Located about 50 kilometers southwest of Beijing, the site includes caves, archaeological excavations, and a museum displaying fossils, stone tools, and exhibits about human evolution. It provides valuable insights into prehistoric human life and evolution in East Asia.
