Discovering the Wonders of Beijing Zoo: A Must-Visit Attraction for Animal Lovers

Beijing Zoo, also known as the Beijing Zoological Garden, is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists in Beijing. The zoo is located in Xicheng District, west of the city center, and covers an area of 220 acres.

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History of Beijing Zoo

Beijing Zoo was founded in 1906 during the late Qing Dynasty. At that time, it had only eight animals including two lions, three bears, and three monkeys. Over the years, the zoo has expanded and now houses over 14,500 animals from more than 950 species.

Zoo Highlights

One of the main attractions of Beijing Zoo is the giant pandas. The zoo has a large panda pavilion that houses both adult pandas and cubs. Visitors can watch the pandas playing, eating, and sleeping. Besides the pandas, there are many other animals to see at the zoo, including:

Lions
Tigers
Elephants
Giraffes
Monkeys
Penguins
Polar bears

In addition to the animals, Beijing Zoo has several themed areas, such as the Australian Animal Zone, where you can see kangaroos and koalas, and the Chinese Birds and Beasts Garden, where you can experience the Chinese wildlife.

Visiting Beijing Zoo

Beijing Zoo is open daily from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, and the best time to visit is in the morning when the animals are most active. The entrance fee is 20 yuan (about $3) for adults and 10 yuan (about $1.50) for children, with additional fees for some attractions such as the panda pavilion.

Tips for Visitors

If you’re planning to visit Beijing Zoo, here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is quite large and involves a lot of walking.
Bring sunscreen and a hat during the summer months as it can get quite hot.
Try to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Don’t feed any of the animals or touch them as it’s not allowed and can be dangerous for both you and the animals.

Overall, Beijing Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers and anyone interested in the natural world. With its wide variety of animals and themed areas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.