Japan is home to approximately 90 zoos affiliated with the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Among them, “Ueno Zoological Gardens,” (hereafter referred to as “Ueno Zoo”) located in Taito-ku (Taito Ward) Tokyo, boasts the longest history.
Ueno Zoo Main Gate
Despite being located in an urban area, the zoo is home to approximately 300 species and 3,000 animals living in a natural environment.
Visitors can meet various animals from giant pandas (the symbol of Ueno) to popular zoo animals like gorillas and tigers, as well as endangered species.
Lei Lei, a giant panda on display at Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo prioritizes “animal welfare” ensuring that animals live in an environment that enhances their quality of life. This focus results in a zoo that is a treasure trove of charm and discovery
In this article, we will introduce key points for fully enjoying Ueno Zoo, with insights from Yasumasa Tomita, the zoo’s Deputy Director.
Yasumasa Tomita, Deputy Director of Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals
Located in the heart of the city, Ueno Zoo is not particularly large compared to other zoos.
For that reason, there are plenty of creative efforts to make efficient use of the space, such as combining exhibition facilities and housing multiple animal species in the same facility!
Of course, these efforts are also in accordance to their commitment to animal welfare.
Gorillas: check out their natural group behavior!
Exhibit areas where animal welfare is notably reflected include those for elephants and gorillas. For example, since January 2012, gorillas have been housed in groups 24 hours a day.
At Ueno Zoo, gorillas are housed and exhibited in groups 24 hours a day
Originally, the gorillas at Ueno Zoo were housed and exhibited individually, one per enclosure.
However, gorillas are animals that naturally live in groups. As a result, the zoo changed the gorillas’ living conditions, forming a group of seven consisting of a father, mother, their children, and an aunt, allowing them to live together as a family.
In the exhibition area, visitors can sometimes see the young gorillas cuddling up to the adult gorillas, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors are captivated by these natural behaviors that come from family living.
The same approach applies to elephants, which are given spaces where they can play in sand dunes or take naps, promoting natural behaviors and autonomy. Moreover, the zoo sees animal welfare as an ongoing effort and continues to seek improvements.
The Japanese serow and Ezo sika deer exhibit: a hot photo spot
With so many fascinating animals at Ueno Zoo, some may wonder why the Japanese serow and Ezo sika deer exhibit is considered such a popular photo spot.
While the zoo features well-known animals such as giant pandas, gorillas, elephants, and giraffes, many visitors stop to take commemorative photos in this specific area.The reason for this is the Five-storied Pagoda of the old Kan’ei-ji temple, which stands right next to the animals’ exhibition area.
It’s a rare spot where visitors can enjoy both the historical site, designated as an Important Cultural Property, and the animals at the same time.
The Five-storied Pagoda at Ueno Zoo
Furthermore, this area features mixed exhibitions where different species of animals are displayed in the same area. According to Tomita, Japanese serow and Ezo sika deer are the only mammals at Ueno Zoo kept in mixed exhibits.
So, what exactly are the benefits of mixed exhibits for the animals? Tomita explains the reason as follows:
The benefit of mixed exhibits is that they provide appropriate stimulation to the animals.
Mixed-species exhibits provide animals with natural stimulation, replicating the way different species coexist in the wild. By bringing the environment closer to nature, visitors can observe the animals’ authentic behaviors.
The stimulation created by recognizing each other’s existence is an important exhibition method when considering animals’ living environments.
At the time of our visit, only the Ezo sika deer were on display
Aye-aye: a critically endangered and precious species
The aye-aye, native to the Republic of Madagascar, is an endangered animal.
As of March 2025, Ueno Zoo is the only zoo in Japan that houses aye-ayes. The zoo is actively working toward their breeding and conservation.
An aye-aye at Ueno Zoo
Protecting species is a fundamental mission of zoos, not just for the aye-aye but for all animals. To achieve this, Ueno Zoo collaborates with other zoos. In the case of the aye-aye, conservation efforts are carried out through an international network.
For visitors, a zoo is a rare opportunity to encounter unique animals and find comfort in their adorable presence. At the same time, it’s important to recognize that many animals have lost their natural habitats due to human activity.
Zoos serve not only as places to exhibit and care for animals but also play a vital role in preserving endangered species for future generations.
Learning about how these animals came to live at Ueno Zoo may offer a new perspective and deeper appreciation for their conservation.
Polar bears: Ueno Zoo’s popular and playful animals
Polar bears are also endangered animals.
The polar bear, a designated endangered species
As of February 2025, about 30 polar bears are kept in 18 facilities (zoos and aquariums) across Japan. Ueno Zoo houses two polar bears and has been actively working on breeding programs.
A polar bear at Ueno Zoo
The exhibit is designed to resemble the icy landscapes of the Arctic, and visitors can view the bears from both outdoor and indoor observation areas.
Particularly unique is the “Water and Ice Corridor,” an observation passage surrounding the indoor pool. Visitors can observe polar bears up close through the glass.
The sight of a polar bear swimming in the pool is truly impressive! It’s a popular spot that draws visitors all throughout the day.
Giant pandas: Ueno’s iconic animals draw long lines
To see the giant pandas at Ueno Zoo, visitors need to wait in line
No visit to Ueno Zoo is complete without seeing giant pandas, animals emblematic to the zoo and area!
On weekends and holidays, long lines form to see the giant pandas with waiting times exceeding one hour. Even on weekdays, expect to wait about 30 minutes.
The previously used ticket distribution system has been discontinued, and visitors can join the viewing line until 3:30 PM. The public viewing hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but giant pandas frequently alternate between napping and activity during the day, so timing your visit just right is key.
That’s what makes the joy of meeting energetic giant pandas moving around their exhibition area even more special. Once you see them, you’ll surely become captivated by their irresistible charm!
A giant panda on display at Ueno Zoo
Must-try food at Ueno Zoo! Top recommended eats
Ueno Zoo, which can be enjoyed all day long, also has a rich selection of food. There are Ueno Zoo-exclusive items that you can enjoy during your visit.
Food and drinks available at Ueno Zoo
First up is the “Steamed meat bun with Bamboo shoot,” which has bamboo shoots kneaded into the meat filling. It’s only sold at “Cafe Chameleon” located within the zoo.
The giant panda design is so cute that it almost seems a shame to eat. The dough is fluffy, the meat filling is juicy, and the texture of the bamboo shoots adds a nice accent.
“パンダまん,” Steamed meat bun with Bamboo shoot, 500 JPY (tax included)
The bite-sized “Giant panda Dumpling” has a unique concept – it’s a recreation of the dumplings that giant pandas at Ueno Zoo actually eat.
These slightly sweet, chewy dumplings are perfect for when you’re feeling a little hungry. You can eat these at the fast food stores “Bird Song” and Cafe Chameleon
“体験！パンダだんご,” Giant panda Dumpling 300 JPY (tax included)
For a substantial meal, choose the “Giant panda Soy Sauce Rice.” This Ueno Zoo original bento is wrapped in an actual bamboo leaf. The giant panda Soy Sauce Rice bento available at Bird Song and Cafe Chameleon depicts a giant panda design using sticky rice and black beans, making it perfect for photos!
“竹皮パンダ弁当,” Giant panda Soy Sauce Rice 750 JPY (tax included)
Ueno Zoo also offers hamburgers using soy meat and vegan curry, accommodating dietary diversity – fitting for a zoo visited by people from around the world.
From morning when the animals are very active, you can enter the zoo, have lunch, then see the giant pandas in the afternoon – enjoying a full day.
Souvenirs to get a Ueno Zoo
When visiting Ueno Zoo, you’ll definitely want to purchase souvenirs! There’s a wide selection for yourself or to give to friends and family.
“子供パンダ,” Child giant panda Plush Toy *availability may depend on the season
The giant panda plush toy, featuring Ueno Zoo’s star attraction, is a classic souvenir. The mini-size is also recommended as room decor.
“大人用ソックス パンダ,” Adult-sized Giant panda Socks *availability may depend on the season
Cute patterened socks are available in adult sizes. They have subdued colors that match any outfit.
Ueno Zoo’s opening hours and three gates
Ueno Zoo has three entrances: the Main Gate, Benten Gate, and Ikenohata Gate.
Opening hours start at 9:30 AM, but the Ikenohata Gate, closest to Nezu Station on the Tokyo Metro line, opens at 10:00 AM.
If you want to enter right when the zoo opens, use the Main Gate or Benten Gate.
Benten Gate at Ueno Zoo is the closest entrance to the giant panda viewing area
The Main Gate, about a 5-minute walk from Ueno Station’s Park Exit on the JR line, gets crowded on weekends and national holidays as many visitors gather there.
On the other hand, the Benten Gate is relatively less crowded compared to the Main Gate, making it recommended for those who want to enter without spending much time waiting.
Ueno Zoo ticket information: prices and purchase methods
Admission fees are 600 JPY for adults, 300 JPY for those 65 and older, and 200 JPY for junior high school students. Those 65 and older and junior high school students (ages 13 to 15) need to present identification to verify their age.
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gates’ ticket machines, which support multiple languages.
Ticket machines support Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, and Spanish languages
Advance online tickets are also available
Tickets can be purchased at each entrance gate on the day of your visit, or arranged online in advance.
Online tickets are recommended if you want to enter at opening time or on crowded holidays. You can enter by showing the QR code of your online ticket to the staff at the entrance gate.
After purchasing an online ticket, simply show your QR code to staff
International tourist support at Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo, which boasts one of the highest visitor numbers among zoos in Japan, has excellent language support so that international visitors can enjoy their visit with peace of mind.
For example, brochures are available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Signs within the park are also written in multiple languages
Maps of the zoo are available for free
The interpretation service introduced at the General Information Center supports English, Chinese, Korean, as well as Russian and Thai. This service connects you to an operator in real-time who provides interpretation via video.
Ueno Zoo also offers multilingual interpretation services
However, the greatest support for international visitors might be the spirit of “omotenashi” (Japanese hospitality) that is integral to Japanese culture.
Our greatest attraction is the hospitality we provide so that international visitors can enjoy themselves comfortably.
Ueno Zoo Information
| Facility name | 上野動物園 Ueno Zoological Gardens |
|---|---|
| Address | 9-83 Ueno Kōen, Taito-ku, Tokyo
|
| Access |
Ueno Station（UEN） 5-minute walk from Ueno Station Park Gate to the Main Gate
Keisei Ueno Station 4-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station Main Exit to the Benten Gate
|
| Phone number | 03-3828-5171 |
| Hours | 9:30-17:00 *Tickets are available for purchase until 16:00 |
| Closed | Monday (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday), New Year’s holidays（12/29-1/1) |
| Admission fee | Adults 600 JPY 65-years-old and over 300 JPY Junior high school students (ages 13 to 15) 200 JPY Free for 12 years and younger |
