Ueno Zoo

Tokyo, Japan

Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoological park, sits within Ueno’s spacious green heart and showcases a broad collection of animals, including its celebrated giant pandas. Its compact layout and affordable entry make it a convenient cultural stop for travelers seeking wildlife without leaving the city.

Why choose Ueno Zoo

You’ll get close encounters with species rarely seen elsewhere in Tokyo, all framed by historic park scenery. Unlike larger, more distant reserves, the zoo’s compact design lets you explore at a relaxed pace and still fit other city sights into the same day.

Best for: Families · Photography · Animal lovers · First-timers

Start your Ueno morning at the zoo

Begin with the zoo’s compact exhibits, then walk to the museum district for art and history before relaxing in the park.

Morning — Ueno Zoo
11:00 — Tokyo National Museum
Afternoon — Ueno Park

Visit tips

Arrive at opening to catch the pandas during their morning feeding.
Buy a combined ticket for the zoo and nearby museums to save time.
Arrive early; the gates open at 09:30 and crowds build after 11 am.
Buy tickets on‑site for 600 JPY; allow 2–3 hours to see the main exhibits.

Plan your visit

Recommended duration: 2–3 hours — allows time for main exhibits
Best time of day: Early morning, before 10:00 — crowds are lighter
Hours: 09:30–17:00 (closed Monday) — Closed on Mondays
Entry: ¥600
Booking: not required — tickets at the gate
Category: attraction
Rated 4.2 by 40299 reviewers
Tags: family friendly, panda sightings, city park, budget access

Nearby attractions

Ueno Park — park, 2 min walk
Tokyo National Museum — museum, 6 min walk
National Museum of Nature and Science — attraction, 4 min walk
Nezu Shrine — attraction, 15 min walk
The National Museum of Western Art — attraction, 3 min walk
Nezu Taiyaki — restaurant, 13 min walk

More things to do in Tokyo

See all things to do in Tokyo or plan a full Tokyo itinerary with Next Getaway.