Shanghai Zoo 🇨🇳

Welcome to Shanghai Zoo, locally known as Xijiao Park (or Western Suburbs Park), one of the two main zoos in Shanghai. Located in Changning District near the township of Hongqiao, this expansive site has a rich past. First developed as livery stables in 1890, it became the historic Hung-Jao Golf Club in 1916 before transitioning to a public park in 1954 and officially becoming Shanghai Zoological Park in 1980.

Today, it has grown into one of China's largest ecological gardens, preserving its original golf course design across vast green areas. You will explore 100,000 square meters of lawns filled with 100,000 trees from nearly 600 species. Shanghai Zoo houses and exhibits over 6,000 animals, featuring 600 species native to China.

A highlight of your visit is Swan Lake, an ecologically friendly habitat complete with natural reed clumps and shade trees that shelter pelicans, geese, black swans, and night herons. Combining leisure, amusement, and animal protection research, the zoo invites you to deepen your appreciation for wildlife while enjoying a peaceful, nature-filled escape. Having hosted over 150 million visitors since its opening, it offers an engaging educational experience for all ages.

What to see at Shanghai Zoo

• Discover over 6,000 animals, including 600 species native to China
• Stroll through 100,000 square meters of lush green lawns and 100,000 trees
• Visit Swan Lake to see pelicans, geese, black swans, and night herons
• Explore a historic site originally developed as 1890 livery stables and a golf club

Visiting tips

Keep an eye out for local historic landmarks, as the zoo preserves the original layout of the former Hung-Jao Golf Club amidst its modern animal enclosures.

How long: 2-4 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Shanghai Zoo is easy to reach on Shanghai’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Shanghai Grand Theatre and Xiaotaoyuan Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Shanghai travel guide.