![Dalian forest Zoo [panda room] 大连森林动物园 熊猫馆 大連森林動物園 パンダ館](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia-cdn.tripadvisor.com%2Fmedia%2Fphoto-s%2F04%2F73%2F52%2Fd0%2Fcaption.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Dalian Forest Zoo
A sprawling mountainside zoo in Dalian, China, famous for its giant pandas, diverse animal exhibits, and scenic cable car rides.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
![Dalian forest Zoo [panda room] 大连森林动物园 熊猫馆 大連森林動物園 パンダ館](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia-cdn.tripadvisor.com%2Fmedia%2Fphoto-s%2F04%2F73%2F52%2Fd0%2Fcaption.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Dalian Forest Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling mountainside zoo in Dalian, China, famous for its giant pandas, diverse animal exhibits, and scenic cable car rides.
"Massive zoo with great natural views, but some animal conditions need improvement."

🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is massive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential .
🚗 Buggy or Cable Car
Consider renting a buggy or taking the cable car to save time and energy exploring the vast grounds .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giant Panda Pavilion
Panda Pavilion
Meet the beloved giant pandas, including Jin Hu and Feiyun, stars of the zoo. A must-see for any visitor!

Chimpanzee Encounters
Chimpanzee Enclosure
Observe the playful and intelligent chimpanzees. Their antics are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Scenic Cable Car Ride
Cable Car Station
Soar above the zoo for breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and city skyline.

Red Panda Area
Red Panda Enclosure
Discover the charming red pandas, often found in larger numbers than their giant counterparts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Vastness
Animal Welfare Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is massive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🚗 Buggy or Cable Car
Consider renting a buggy or taking the cable car to save time and energy exploring the vast grounds.
🐼 Panda Popularity
The panda pavilion is a major draw; expect crowds, especially for Jin Hu and Feiyun.
⏰ Arrive Early
To maximize your visit and see animals before they retreat, aim to arrive early.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is massive! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
🚗 Buggy or Cable Car
Consider renting a buggy or taking the cable car to save time and energy exploring the vast grounds.
🐼 Panda Popularity
The panda pavilion is a major draw; expect crowds, especially for Jin Hu and Feiyun.
⏰ Arrive Early
To maximize your visit and see animals before they retreat, aim to arrive early.
📱 Download a Map
A map is crucial for navigating the sprawling park and finding specific animal exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dalian Forest Zoo is a vast attraction with improved facilities, but visitor reviews highlight ongoing concerns about animal welfare, including enclosure sizes and enrichment. While the pandas are a major draw, some areas show signs of overcrowding and lack of supervision. The zoo's immense size necessitates planning for transportation within the park.
"I’ve visited this zoo in 2009, 2017, and now again in 2025, and I must say—it has improved a lot over the years. The facilities are more modern, and the conditions for the animals have gotten better. However, there’s still a long way to go.
Unfortunately, animal welfare isn’t where it should be. Many enclosures remain too small and not suited to the needs of the animals. It's concerning to see species housed together that should be separated—for example, the tigers. I also noticed an overcrowding issue with the snakes in the terrarium, which isn't ideal for their well-being.
It's a relief that elephant shows have finally stopped, but signs of animal mistreatment are still visible. I really hope the zoo continues to prioritize improving animal care standards.
Lastly, I think it would be great if the zoo stayed open longer. Closing at 16:30, with many animals already off-exhibit by 15:50, feels too early—especially for visitors who want to enjoy a full experience."
Alicia Ulbrich
"Pretty abysmal conditions in the parrot enclosure as of 2024 - overcrowded and no enrichment. Many of the bear enclosures were just a pit in the ground with four concrete walls - some people were spitting their phlegm into them. Can't blame the zoo for the visitors' decisions to be disgusting but barriers could be put up... or at least have people supervising the enclosure. Raccoons were morbidly obese because visitors kept feeding them, and once again there was no supervision.
Saw a hyena with a festering open would when I visited in 2018... hopefully the zoo's care of animals has improved since then.
Good to see that the polar bears have since been removed (hopefully relocated to a place with better care) because their enclosures were completely unsuitable."
duck sauce
"Huge zoo, can buy ticket for buggy as it's too big to walk, also not enough time. There's only 2 giant Panda but many Red Panda."
Ai Fu CHIN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dalian Forest Zoo is accessible by public transport, with buses serving the area. Taxis are also readily available. Some visitors mention it's located on a mountainside, offering scenic views.
Yes, parking is available at the zoo. However, during peak times like holidays, it can get very busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Due to its large size, walking the entire zoo can be challenging. Visitors often recommend renting a buggy or using the cable car for efficient travel between different sections.
Ride-sharing apps are generally available in Dalian and can be a convenient option for reaching the zoo, especially if you're not familiar with public transport routes.
The zoo is located in Dalian, and while it's a significant attraction, it requires dedicated travel time from the city center. Public transport and taxis are common methods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website or local ticketing platforms for the most current information. Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
While specific package details might change, the zoo offers admission tickets. Additional costs may apply for services like the cable car or buggy rentals.
The zoo typically closes in the late afternoon, around 16:30, with animals often going off-exhibit earlier. It's best to confirm the exact hours before your visit to make the most of your time.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to avoid long queues at the entrance.
Yes, both the cable car and buggy rentals are separate services with additional fees. These can be a worthwhile investment for exploring the large zoo grounds.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
The giant pandas, including Jin Hu and Feiyun, are a major highlight.
You can also see chimpanzees, red pandas, and a variety of other species across the zoo's expansive grounds.Historically, elephant shows were a feature, but these have reportedly stopped. The zoo focuses on naturalistic habitats and animal observation. Keepers prepare special diets and encourage exercise for the animals.
The zoo is spread across a large mountainside area, featuring both walking paths and a safari park section. Some visitors find the layout can encourage extra spending on transport to exit.
The zoo is considered educational for kids, offering a chance to see a wide variety of animals. However, some areas might require supervision due to visitor behavior.
Visitor reviews indicate mixed conditions. While some enclosures have improved, concerns have been raised about enclosure sizes, overcrowding in some areas, and lack of enrichment. Polar bear and parrot enclosures have been noted as problematic in the past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food and dining options available within the zoo. You can find various eateries and cafes to purchase refreshments and meals during your visit.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally advisable to check the zoo's regulations regarding outside food and beverages. Bringing some snacks and water is often a good idea.
The food options typically include a range of snacks, light meals, and beverages catering to a broad audience. You might find local Chinese snacks as well as more standard fare.
There's a notable 'Cafe on the Clouds' located on a mountain near the zoo, offering stunning views of the city and sea, which could be a great spot for a meal or break.
Prices at zoo concessions can sometimes be higher than outside. It's a good idea to budget accordingly or consider bringing some of your own snacks to supplement your meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The panda pavilion offers iconic photo opportunities.
The cable car ride provides panoramic shots of the zoo and surrounding landscape. Look for scenic viewpoints throughout the park.Photography is generally allowed for most animals, but always be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions. Avoid using flash photography, especially for nocturnal animals or those sensitive to light.
A zoom lens can be very useful for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. A wide-angle lens is great for landscape shots from the cable car or scenic spots.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around zoos to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. Always check local regulations before flying any aerial devices.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer lighting, which is ideal for photography. Animals may also be more active during these cooler parts of the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the zoo is engaging, it's worth noting that some visitor feedback points to potential issues with animal enclosure conditions. It's a good idea to manage expectations and perhaps focus on the more positive aspects and the sheer variety of animals. Bringing snacks and drinks can also be helpful for keeping energy levels up throughout the day.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deciding whether to pay for the buggy rental or cable car is a key budget decision. If you're on a tight budget and have the stamina, walking is free but time-consuming. If you want to see more in less time, these services are an additional expense. Look for deals or consider visiting during off-peak times when crowds might be smaller, potentially reducing wait times for attractions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens, perhaps a telephoto for animal close-ups and a wide-angle for the expansive scenery. Be mindful of enclosure barriers and try to find angles that minimize their impact. The Chimpanzee enclosure and Red Panda area can also provide engaging subjects for photographers looking for dynamic shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Giant Panda Experience
Feiyun, in particular, has been celebrated with birthday parties, highlighting the zoo's efforts to engage the public and create special moments for its star residents. The presence of both giant and red pandas adds to the appeal for panda enthusiasts. Remember to be patient, as pandas can sometimes be elusive or resting, but their charming presence is well worth the wait.
Navigating the Zoo's Scale
Visitors often find that a single day might not be enough to see everything, especially if they want to linger at exhibits or if lines are long during peak times like holidays. The zoo's layout has been described as potentially designed to encourage extra spending on transport to exit, meaning you might need to pay for the cable car or walk a considerable distance to return to your entry point. Planning your route and prioritizing key exhibits beforehand can help make your visit more efficient and enjoyable.
Animal Welfare and Visitor Observations
Despite these concerns, there's an acknowledgment that the zoo is working towards better conditions, with the cessation of elephant shows being a positive step. The zoo keepers are noted for preparing varied diets and encouraging exercise for the animals. However, the overall impression from some reviews is that there's still a significant journey ahead for the zoo to meet higher standards of animal care and enrichment. It's advisable for visitors to be aware of these observations and to approach their visit with an informed perspective.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit