25 Xijiao Road, Jiulongpo District, Chongqing, China
Perfect place to see giant pandas in Chongqing
Visitor Information
How to Get There: The most convenient way is by taking Metro Line 2 and getting off at Zoo Station (Exit 1). From there, it is about a 4-minute walk to the East Gate 2 entrance.
The Panda Room in Chongqing Zoo is a must-see site for visitors and the first stop after entering from East Gate 2. The popularity of Panda House can be detected from the large number of visitors which is always exceeding 1 billion annually. In order to preserve this valuable species, the Panda House in Chongqing Zoo is designed according to the natural environment and the living habits of giant panda. Here, visitors can get a close distance to watch the giant pandas and their offspring.
Chongqing Zoo has been raising giant pandas since the 1960s and began successfully breeding cubs in the 1980s. As of July 19, 2024, the zoo has welcomed 32 panda births, including 13 pairs of twins and even one set of triplets, bringing the total number of giant pandas here to 23.
Although giant panda is a kind of bear, they all are shy when in the public. Sometimes it is hard to see the giant panda, while in other times, they may walk around in their rooms leisurely. The Panda House is open from 8:00 to 16:30, and the best time to see them is around 9:00 am and 3:00 pm, when they are usually most active and feeding. If the pandas aren't out, poke your head in the office behind the English introduction board and ask the zoo warden if he'll feed them. Sometimes that's all it takes.
Walking further along the main route from East Gate 2, near the Waterfowl Lake, you will find South China tigers and white Bengal tigers. Chongqing Zoo began raising South China tigers in 1956. Between 1978 and 1985, the zoo successfully bred 9 litters with 21 cubs, 16 of which survived. Since launching a captive breeding and population recovery program in 2007, the zoo has achieved significant progress, producing 8 litters with 13 cubs and developing valuable artificial nurturing techniques.
This section is home to a wide variety of herbivorous animals including giraffes, goats, alpacas, sika deer, white rhinos, zebras, and hippos. Visitors may encounter sika deer resting quietly under the trees or hippos eagerly waiting for their feeding time.
The Bird Forest, first built in 2002 and renovated in 2019, is an eco-friendly open-air aviary that allows visitors to walk among the birds rather than view them from cages. Here, people and birds share the same space, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Tip: Although the Bird Forest is open-style, please stick to the principle of “no approaching, no disturbing, no feeding” when observing birds.
This area currently houses more than 25 species and over 300 individuals. Set in a lush landscape with pavilions and ponds, it exhibits rare and fascinating creatures such as the giant salamander (nicknamed the “baby fish” for its childlike cries), the brightly colored albino Burmese python, and crocodiles that enjoy snoring in the water.
Tip: In indoor exhibits, avoid using flash photography and refrain from loud noises, as these can startle the animals. Even a small, frightened animal may react unpredictably.
Completed in 1962 under the supervision of Chongqing’s then vice mayor Deng Ken, the Goldfish House is one of the most iconic landmarks of the zoo. In 2017, it was recognized as one of the “Most Beautiful Scenic Spots in Chongqing Parks.” Today, it remains a model of fine landscaping among urban zoos in China. The Goldfish House consists of three parts: the Viewing Corridor, Aquarium Pavilion, and Open-air Lotus Pond, where visitors can admire goldfish, tropical fish, and other aquatic species year-round.
The Children’s Amusement Park within the zoo features more than 20 rides and attractions, offering fun for all ages. Highlights include thrilling rides such as spinning coasters and bumper cars, as well as family-friendly classics like merry-go-rounds, a mini train, shark island battles, ocean rafting, and even a space-walking experience. It is the perfect place for kids and families to add some extra excitement to their zoo visit.
Visitors can follow the guided route within the zoo, which allows you to cover most of the highlights. A common route is to enter from East Gate 2 and exit from East Gate 1, making a full circle around the park. Currently, more than 30 exhibition halls and animal zones are open to the public. Exploring them all would take around 4–6 hours, so it’s a good idea to bring some water and snacks. However, please remember that feeding the animals is strictly prohibited.
From on request
From $ 327