Ueno Zoo Tokyo
Japan's oldest zoo, home to iconic pandas and nestled within Tokyo's cultural hub, Ueno Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Ueno Zoo Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's oldest zoo, home to iconic pandas and nestled within Tokyo's cultural hub, Ueno Park.
"The OLDEST ZOO in Japan and it SHOWS, but still a must-visit for pandas!"
🎯 Weekday Visits Recommended
Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday. Weekends and free admission days get extremely busy.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The zoo is spread out, so wear comfortable shoes for lots of walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Pandas
Panda House
Catch a glimpse of Tokyo's beloved giant pandas, a major attraction for visitors of all ages.
Monkeys & Primates
Primate House
Observe a diverse collection of monkeys and other primates in their habitats.
Five-Story Pagoda
Ueno Park
A historic landmark offering a glimpse into Japanese architecture amidst the zoo's greenery.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Animals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Weekday Visits Recommended
Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday. Weekends and free admission days get extremely busy.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The zoo is spread out, so wear comfortable shoes for lots of walking.
⏰ Allocate Enough Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to see the main attractions, more if you want to explore Ueno Park.
🚫 Check Opening Days
Avoid Mondays and Tuesdays after holidays, as museums might be closed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Weekday Visits Recommended
Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday. Weekends and free admission days get extremely busy.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The zoo is spread out, so wear comfortable shoes for lots of walking.
⏰ Allocate Enough Time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to see the main attractions, more if you want to explore Ueno Park.
🚫 Check Opening Days
Avoid Mondays and Tuesdays after holidays, as museums might be closed.
🛍️ Ueno for Budget Shopping
If you love shopping, Ueno offers great deals on clothing and goods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ueno Zoo is a historic and beloved institution, praised for its iconic pandas and accessible location within Ueno Park. While some visitors note its age and the potential for crowds, it remains a popular and worthwhile destination for families and animal enthusiasts. The surrounding Ueno area also offers excellent budget shopping opportunities.
"LOVED OUR TIME HERE! Place is well maintained and even though we went during the summer, they have enough places where you can sit and cool down for a bit. Animals look well taken care of, too!
There was a line to see the pandas but it was organized! Definitely enjoyed the visit, despite needing to walk lots! 😆"
Kaybi
"We visited Ueno Zoo in Tokyo for the second time, and it remains one of the best zoos in the world. The zoo is spacious, with animals living in sizeable open areas instead of small cages. We especially enjoyed watching the polar bear and penguins outdoors during winter, which feels more natural than viewing them in an indoor cold room. The zoo itself is set within a large park, with the city’s urban skyline as a backdrop, making the walk very pleasant. However, the panda experience was disappointing—after a 30-minute queue, visitors get only a few minutes with limited views."
NG BB
"Ueno Zoo is a great place to visit, especially for families and animal lovers.
The zoo is spacious and has a wide variety of animals, including the famous giant pandas. It’s located inside Ueno Park, so you can enjoy nature too. Some areas may feel a bit old, but overall it’s fun and educational. Worth a visit if you’re in Tokyo!"
Tantii Utarii
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ueno Zoo is easily accessible via public transport. Take the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, or Tokyo Metro Ginza/Hibiya Line to Ueno Station. The zoo is a short walk from the station.
Yes, Ueno Zoo is located within Ueno Park, which also houses several museums like the Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and the National Museum of Nature and Science. +1
From Narita Airport, take the Keisei Skyliner to Keisei Ueno Station, which is a convenient option. Alternatively, the JR Narita Express to Tokyo Station and then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station is also feasible.
Absolutely! Suica and Pasmo cards are widely accepted on most trains and buses in Tokyo, making your journey to Ueno Zoo seamless.
While there are parking facilities in Ueno Park, they can be expensive and fill up quickly. Public transportation is generally recommended for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission for adults is typically around 600 JPY. Prices can vary, so it's always best to check the official Ueno Zoo website for the most current information.
For regular visits, advance booking is usually not required. However, on free admission days or during peak seasons, it's advisable to check if reservations are recommended or mandatory to avoid disappointment.
Yes, Ueno Zoo sometimes offers free admission days, often on specific dates like Greenery Day. These days are extremely popular and can lead to very long queues.
Ueno Zoo typically opens around 9:30 AM and closes at 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, with last entry usually an hour before closing. Hours can change seasonally, so confirm on their official website.
The Japan Rail Pass generally covers JR train travel to Ueno Station but does not typically offer discounts on Ueno Zoo admission itself.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The giant pandas are a major highlight. Other popular animals include polar bears, tigers, lions, and various primate species.
Yes, Ueno Zoo has a petting zoo area and a variety of animals that appeal to children. The zoo's layout is generally manageable for families.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at Ueno Zoo to see the main exhibits. If you plan to explore Ueno Park extensively, you might need a full day.
Yes, there are several food stalls and cafes within Ueno Zoo offering snacks and light meals. You can also find more dining options in Ueno Park and the surrounding area.
The zoo is generally accessible, with paved paths. However, some older areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check with the zoo for specific accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography
The panda enclosures, the various animal habitats, and the historic five-story pagoda in Ueno Park offer great photo opportunities.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check the zoo's official rules regarding photography equipment to ensure compliance.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting and potentially more active animals. Weekdays will also mean fewer people in your shots.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around zoos and public parks due to safety and privacy concerns.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider going on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds and meltdowns. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for a good amount of walking.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your zoo visit with exploring the park's free areas and window shopping in Ameyoko to stretch your yen further. Many local eateries around Ueno also offer reasonably priced meals, making it possible to have a full day of exploration and enjoyment without significant expense.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers
Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Solo travelers can also take advantage of the budget-friendly shopping in the Ueno area, making it a great destination for a day of exploration and personal enrichment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: Ueno Zoo's Legacy
Despite its age, Ueno Zoo has consistently strived to modernize and improve its exhibits. It's renowned for its successful breeding programs, most famously for the giant pandas, which have been a major draw for decades. The zoo's location within Ueno Park, a cultural hub in Tokyo, further enhances its appeal, making it a destination that blends natural history with cultural exploration.
When planning your visit, remember that the zoo's historical context contributes to its unique atmosphere. While it may not have the cutting-edge facilities of some newer zoos, its rich past and iconic residents offer a distinct and memorable experience for visitors.
Navigating Ueno Park: More Than Just a Zoo
Visitors often find that exploring Ueno Park can easily fill an entire day, especially if you plan to visit multiple museums. The Tokyo National Museum, in particular, is vast and can take hours to fully appreciate.
Beyond the museums and zoo, Ueno Park also features a large pond, shrines, and often hosts seasonal events and festivals. It's a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature, offering a pleasant contrast to the bustling city. For a taste of local life and historic charm, a stroll through the nearby Yanaka Ginza shopping street is also highly recommended.
Budget-Friendly Finds in Ueno
TikTok creators have highlighted Ueno as a prime spot for finding high-quality clothing at significantly lower prices than in other Tokyo districts. You can find items ranging from $5 to $20, including well-known brands.
When visiting Ueno Zoo, consider combining your trip with a browse through Ameyoko market for a complete Ueno experience that caters to both animal lovers and savvy shoppers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit