Ueno Zoo: Meet Tokyo's Cutest (and Most Famous!) Residents

Ueno Zoo is a hit with visitors of all ages.

Ready for a wild adventure right in the heart of Tokyo? Then head straight to Ueno Zoo (上野動物園)! Nestled within the expansive Ueno Park, this is Japan's oldest zoo, having opened its doors way back in 1882, and it remains one of the country's most beloved attractions.

The zoo is cleverly divided into two main sections—the East Garden and the West Garden—connected by a monorail. This unique layout ensures a fun and efficient way to explore everything on offer. The vibe here is lively and family-friendly, perfect for a day out. As you wander through its paths, you'll encounter a fantastic array of animals from around the globe, from majestic big cats and polar bears to adorable capybaras and gorillas. Of course, the star attractions are the lovable giant pandas, whose habitat often draws the largest crowd. Beyond the animals, the zoo's historic charm and beautifully maintained grounds make it a wonderful spot for both animal enthusiasts and anyone looking for a dose of cuteness and conservation in the big city.

Getting there: Where is Ueno Zoo?

Ueno Zoo is super convenient to reach, as it's located directly within the popular Ueno Park.

• Nearest station: The easiest access is via Ueno Station (上野駅). This major hub is served by multiple JR lines (including the Yamanote Line and Keihin-Tohoku Line), various Tokyo Metro lines (Ginza Line, Hibiya Line), the Keisei Line, and even some Shinkansen (bullet train) lines. Just take the Park Exit from Ueno Station, and you'll step right into Ueno Park; the zoo entrance is a short, pleasant walk from there.

• By taxi: A taxi can drop you off at one of Ueno Park's main entrances.

• Accessibility: Ueno Zoo is generally very accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, with wide, paved pathways throughout both its East and West Gardens. There are slopes rather than stairs in most areas, making navigation relatively easy for all visitors.

  
  

Opening hours & best time to visit

Timing your visit can make a big difference, especially if you're keen to see those famous pandas!

• Opening hours: Ueno Zoo is typically open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually at 4:00 PM. Please note that the zoo is closed on Mondays. If Monday is a public holiday, it will be open, and then closed on the following Tuesday instead. Always double-check their official website for any special closures or extended hours.

• Best time to visit: 

  • Weekday mornings: This is your best bet for a less crowded experience, particularly at popular exhibits like the Giant Pandas. You may share your visit with classes of school children, though. Arriving right at opening (9:30 AM) gives you a head start!

• Time to avoid: Weekends, Japanese national holidays, and school holidays can see very large crowds. If these are your only options, try to go as early as possible.

Reservations & admission

Getting into Ueno Zoo is straightforward, but keep an eye on those pandas!

• Reservations: No general reservations are needed to enter Ueno Zoo itself. You can purchase tickets at the gate. However, due to their immense popularity, there might sometimes be a timed entry system or separate reservation requirement specifically for viewing the giant pandas, especially during peak seasons or when there's a new cub. Always check the official Ueno Zoo website before your visit for the latest information on panda viewing rules!

• Admission Price (as of August 2025; subject to change): 

  • Adults (16-64 years old): ¥600

  • Seniors (65+): ¥300

  • Students (Junior High, High School): ¥200

  • Children (under 13): Free

• Payment Method: Tickets can be purchased with cash, credit cards, and common IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) at the zoo's ticket booths.

What can you see & do in Ueno Zoo?

Ueno Zoo is cleverly divided into two main sections, connected by a (currently closed) monorail, offering a diverse array of animal encounters.

• The giant pandas: This is often the main draw! Ueno Zoo is home to a beloved family of giant pandas. Expect queues for this exhibit, but they're incredibly cute and worth the wait!

• East Garden (Higashi-en): This is the larger section and home to the Giant Pandas, as well as Asian elephants, Western lowland gorillas, Sumatran tigers, polar bears, and various birds and small mammals. It's designed to simulate their natural habitats.

• West Garden (Nishi-en): Connected to the East Garden, this section features African animals like giraffes, zebras, rhinoceroses, and hippos. It also houses the popular Children's Zoo (where kids can get close to farm animals) and an area near Shinobazu Pond, known for its waterfowl and reptiles.

• Educational focus: Ueno Zoo puts a strong emphasis on animal welfare, conservation, and education. You'll find informative displays (often in English) about the animals and their habitats.

• Historical significance: As Japan's first zoo (opened in 1882), Ueno Zoo has a rich history, playing a significant role in public education and conservation efforts in Japan.

Japansophy’s top tips!

• Panda priority: If seeing the pandas is your top priority, head straight there as soon as the zoo opens, and check the official website for any specific viewing rules or reservation requirements before your visit.

• Wear comfy shoes: The zoo is quite large, spanning two sections within Ueno Park. You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must!

• Bring your own snacks/drinks: While there are cafes and snack shops within the zoo, bringing your own water bottle and some light snacks can save you time and money. Picnic tables are provided.

• Monorail is closed: The monorail that used to connect the East and West Gardens is currently closed for renovations (as of June 2025). Be prepared to walk between the two sections (it's a pleasant stroll!).

  
  

Facilities:

Ueno Zoo is well-equipped with facilities for visitors, especially families.

• Eating & drinking: You'll find several cafes and snack shops scattered throughout both the East and West Gardens, offering light meals, drinks, and snacks (like hot dogs, noodles, ice cream). You can also bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in designated picnic areas.

• Toilets: Clean public restrooms are readily available throughout the zoo.

• Baby-changing facilities: Baby-changing facilities and nursing rooms are available in various locations within the zoo, especially near main entrances and larger restroom blocks.

Other Attractions Nearby:

Ueno Zoo is situated within the vast Ueno Park, meaning you're surrounded by other incredible attractions.

• Ueno Park (itself!): Explore the wider park, with its beautiful pathways, statues, and serene Shinobazu Pond.

• Tokyo National Museum: Japan's largest museum, boasting an incredible collection of Japanese art and artefacts, is just a short walk away.

• Toshogu Shrine: An exquisitely ornate shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, located within Ueno Park.

• Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko) Market: Just outside Ueno Park's entrance, this lively outdoor market is fantastic for street food and bargain hunting..

  
  

Ready to meet Japan's most famous pandas and explore a world of wildlife? Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary guides you through a fantastic day at Ueno Zoo, perfectly integrated with the best of Ueno Park!