Chongqing Zoo
Chongqing Zoo, one of China's "Top 10 Zoos," is located in Jiulongpo District and covers 48 hectares. Founded in 1953 and renamed in 1960, it is a true urban wildlife haven. The zoo is home to over 227 species and 4,689 animals, including rare ones like giant pandas, South China tigers, and Asian elephants. As a national 4A tourist attraction and a science education base, it offers a unique blend of conservation, leisure, and learning.
Historical Overview
Founded as "West District Park" in 1955, it expanded significantly following Mao Zedong’s 1958 directive to serve industrial workers and the public. Renamed Chongqing Zoo in 1960, it now supports global conservation efforts as a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
Structural Layout
The zoo features 10 functional zones:
Aquatic & Reptile Area: Showcases fish, turtles, and rare Chinese giant salamanders.
Bird Paradise: Home to red-crowned cranes, peacocks, and tropical species.
Herbivore Zone: Includes giraffes, zebras, and Tibetan antelopes.
Big Cat Habitat: Houses South China tigers and lions in naturalistic enclosures.
Primate World: Features golden monkeys and gibbons.
Panda Base: The world’s largest giant panda population outside Sichuan (24 pandas as of 2025).
Interactive Zones: Child-friendly playgrounds, Roller skating rink, and educational exhibits.
Major Attractions
Giant Panda Enclosure: Watch pandas play in bamboo forests; feeding times at 9 AM and 3 PM.
South China Tiger Exhibit: One of China’s few breeding centers for this critically endangered species.
Bird Language Forest: A 2019-renovated aviary with free-flying exotic birds.
Asian Elephant House: Observe elephants in spacious habitats with pools.
Tropical Rainforest Pavilion: A climate-controlled dome with tropical plants and reptiles.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2 hrs):
Main Entrance → Panda Base → South China Tiger Exhibit → Asian Elephant House → Bird Paradise → Exit.
Highlights: Panda viewing, big cat habitats, and avian diversity.
- Extended Route (4 hrs):
Add: Herbivore Zone → Primate World → Tropical Rainforest Pavilion → Interactive Playgrounds.
Highlights: Family-friendly activities and diverse ecosystems.
- Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Include all zones, plus educational talks and animal feeding experiences (check schedule on arrival).
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program or platforms like Ctrip/Meituan (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Limited same-day tickets available; queues peak on weekends.
Prices:
Peak Season (Jan–Nov): ¥25 (adults), ¥12.5 (students/seniors).
Off-Season (Dec): ¥20 (adults), ¥10 (students/seniors).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, veterans, and seniors over 65.
Transportation
Metro: Line 2 to Zoo Station (Exit A), 10-min walk.
Bus: Routes 204, 207, 419, or 471 to Chongqing Zoo Stop.
Taxi: Direct to the main entrance (No. 1, Xijiao Village 1, Jiulongpo District).
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Arrive early (8:30 AM opening) or visit on weekdays.
Weather: Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Oct–Nov) offer mild temperatures.
Essentials:
Wear sturdy shoes (20,000+ steps possible).
Bring water and snacks; limited dining options inside.
Photography allowed (no flash in indoor exhibits).
Prohibited: Drones, large bags, and loud noises near sensitive animals.
Contact Us
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
