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Ueno Zoo in Tokyo combines over a century of history with more than 400 animal species, including Japan’s only giant pandas, right in the heart of Ueno Park.

The entrance gate of Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, Japan, with people standing near ticket counters under a curved roof. Surrounding buildings and trees frame the lively Ueno Zoo area on a clear day.

Japan’s Oldest Zoo in the Heart of Ueno Park

Opened in 1882, Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest and still one of its most visited zoos. Located inside Ueno Park, it’s home to animals from around the world as well as native Japanese species. We’ve visited several times with our kids, and each trip has been a fun mix of animal encounters, easy walking paths, and little surprises along the way.

What Makes Ueno Zoo Special

An elephant stands in an outdoor enclosure at Ueno Zoo, eating grass while two young children wearing hats and casual clothes walk nearby. Trees and metal fencing are visible in the background.

The zoo is divided into two main sections:

  • East Garden – Large animals such as gorillas, elephants, and tigers
  • West Garden – Smaller mammals, birds, and Japanese species like the tanuki and macaque

The biggest draw is the giant panda twins, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, born in 2021. They are the only pandas in Japan and one of the zoo’s most popular attractions.

Highlights from Our Visit

A giant panda sits on the ground at Ueno Zoo, facing away, and eats bamboo surrounded by green stalks and leaves in a naturalistic enclosure.
  • Pandas – Seeing the twins up close was a big highlight. We arrived early in the morning to catch them at their most active.
  • Compact and Family-Friendly – The layout is easy to follow, with shaded areas, benches, and snack stalls.
  • Monorail Ride – Short but fun, especially for younger children.
  • Japanese Wildlife – Exhibits featuring native species gave us a better sense of Japan’s biodiversity.

Panda Viewing Tips

  • Check the Ueno Zoo website for the latest panda viewing schedule and entry rules. Timed tickets may be required.
  • Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded.

How to Get to Ueno Zoo

Train

  • From JR Ueno Station, take the Park Exit and walk about 5 minutes to the Main Gate inside Ueno Park. The Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hibiya Lines also stop at Ueno Station.
  • Total travel time: 5–10 minutes from nearby stations.

Pro Tip: Enter through the Main Gate near the park fountain for the most direct access to popular exhibits like the giant panda area.

Is Ueno Zoo Worth Visiting?

If you have little ones and want to see giant pandas, Ueno Zoo is one of the best places to do it. Its compact size and central Tokyo location make it an easy and enjoyable stop for families and animal lovers. You can see the highlights in just a few hours, leaving plenty of time to explore nearby attractions.

More to Explore Nearby

After visiting the giant pandas and other animals at Japan’s oldest zoo, you are perfectly situated within Ueno Park to explore a huge concentration of world-class museums, historical sites, and Tokyo’s famous street market.

  • Ueno Park – Explore the expansive parkland surrounding the zoo, which is a famous spot for viewing cherry blossoms and offers scenic walking paths.
  • Tokyo National Museum – Head to Japan’s oldest and largest museum, located right next door, to explore its extensive collection of Japanese art and cultural artifacts.
  • Tokyo National Museum of Nature and Science – Discover fascinating exhibits on natural history and science in this world-class institution also situated within the park.
  • Ameyoko Market – Take a short walk outside the park to this energetic street market, known for its bargain shopping, lively atmosphere, and diverse food stalls.

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