The zoo's five-story pagoda was originally part of the Kan'ei-ji Temple and was donated to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in 1958.
It is operated by the Tokyo Zoological Park Society under the administration of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
The zoo maintains a dedicated 'Small Mammal House' that focuses specifically on nocturnal species.
In 1972, the zoo received its first pair of Giant Pandas from China to commemorate the normalization of diplomatic relations.
The zoo features an 'Aye-Aye Forest' which is one of the few places in Japan where this rare lemur is exhibited.
Ueno Zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan for the preservation of the Japanese Crane, a national treasure.
Ueno Zoo is Japan's oldest zoological garden, established in 1882 within the expansive Ueno Park. It houses over 2,600 animals representing approximately 300 species across both East and West Gardens. The zoo is famously home to Giant Pandas, which remain its most significant conservation and public draw. The facility is divided by a public road and connected by a pedestrian bridge. It features a historical five-story pagoda built in 1631 located within the zoo grounds. The zoo emphasizes environmental education and the conservation of endangered species native to Japan and abroad. A monorail system previously connected the two gardens but has been permanently suspended as of 2024. The grounds incorporate naturalistic habitats alongside historical architectural remnants from the early Meiji period.
The elevated walkway bridge connecting the East and West Gardens offers an excellent view of the zoo grounds and surrounding park.
Prioritize visiting the Giant Panda habitat immediately upon arrival as queues form quickly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site covers over 14 hectares of hilly terrain.
Use the map provided at the entrance to navigate the distinct split between the East and West Gardens.
Avoid visiting on weekends or Japanese public holidays, as the wait times for major exhibits can be extensive.
Closed on Mondays (or the following Tuesday if a public holiday falls on Monday) and during the year-end/new-year period.
Refrain from using flash photography near animal enclosures and remain quiet to avoid disturbing the residents.
