2024-06-22

If you want to meet pandas in Tokyo, this is the place! A thorough explanation of how to enjoy Ueno Zoo

WellBe Inc.

If you want to meet pandas in Tokyo, this is the place! A thorough explanation of how to enjoy Ueno Zoo

If you meet pandas in Tokyo, the first place you want to visit is Ueno Zoo.

Ueno Zoo, famous as a tourist attraction in Japan, is one of the few places where you can see pandas.

In this article, we will introduce in detail the places where you can see pandas, their highlights, and ways to enjoy them, with a focus on Ueno Zoo.

Ueno Zoo Overview

Ueno Zoo is Japan's oldest zoo, opened in 1882.

It is located in the Taito district of Tokyo, in Ueno Onshi Park.

Ueno Zoo is home to over 3000 animals of about 500 species, and the diverse animals are a highlight.

Particularly popular are large animals such as giant pandas, gorillas, and tigers.

There are also plenty of facilities that are great for families, such as a children's zoo and an animal petting plaza.

There are also many restaurants and souvenir shops, and they are designed so that visitors can spend their time comfortably.

Access to Ueno Zoo and opening hours

Access and hours of operation of the Ueno Zoo — Access to Ueno Zoo and opening hours

Ueno Zoo is located in the Taito district of Tokyo, and is in a very accessible location, about 5 minutes on foot from Ueno Station.

Since there are multiple train lines such as JR, Tokyo Metro, and Keisei Electric Railway, it is also very convenient for tourists.

The zoo is open from 9:30 to 17:00, and is closed on Mondays.

However, if a public holiday falls on a Monday, the park will be closed the following Tuesday, so we recommend checking the official website beforehand.

Ueno Zoo tickets and fees

Admission to Ueno Zoo is 600 yen for adults, 200 yen for middle school students, and free for elementary school students and younger.

Also, the silver fee (65 years and over) is 300 yen. Tickets can be purchased locally, but they can also be purchased in advance online.

It is especially crowded on weekends and holidays, so you can enter the park smoothly by using an online ticket.

What are the highlights of pandas at Ueno Zoo

The most popular person at Ueno Zoo is definitely the giant panda.

Currently, pandas called “Lili” and “Shin Shin” and “Xiaoxiao” (male) and “Lei Lei” (female), which were born in 2021, are being raised.

Here is a panda profile.

Lilly (male)

Born on 2005/8/16 at Wolong Conservation Center. The weight is approximately 135 kg. He has a gentle, easygoing, and self-paced personality, but he also has a slightly clumsy side, such as slipping his legs and falling.

There is also an active aspect, such as suddenly getting excited and starting to run, climbing trees, and rolling around the ground.

Shin Shin (female)

Born on 2005/7/3 at Wolong Conservation Center. The body weight is approximately 120 kg. If it's for the food they like, they are gluttonous eaters who actively participate in training.

When I learn the patterns of staff movements and instructions, I also have the guts to read ahead and act.

They are sensitive to sound, and there is also a delicate aspect where you can feel fidgety and restless when you hear a sound you're not used to.

Shao Shao (male)

Born on June 23, 2021 at Ueno Zoo.

RAY RAY (FEMALE)

Born on June 23, 2021 at Ueno Zoo.

Source: Ueno Zoo

Introduction to the panda house

Introduction of Panda House — Introduction to the panda house

The panda house at Ueno Zoo is located at Nishizono Panda's Forest (Giant Panda Exhibition Hall).

Open to the public from 10:00 to 16:00.

At Ueno Zoo, you have to stand in line to see giant pandas.

Please note that queuing up for the viewing line is usually at 15:30 for Xiaoxiao and Lei Lei, and 16:00 for Lili.

The panda house is spacious and designed so that pandas can spend time in an environment close to nature.

You can see pandas eating bamboo and climbing trees up close, and it's especially popular with families with children.

Pandas schedule

Pandas are extremely active animals, and they can be seen eating, playing, and taking naps in a variety of ways.

Pandas are often active, especially in the morning.

Meal time is a particular highlight, and the sight of them eating bamboo is very cute, and many tourists take pictures of it.

Panda spots other than Ueno Zoo

Although it is not in the suburbs of Tokyo, there are other zoos in Japan where you can see pandas.

ADVENTURE WORLD (WAKAYAMA)

Although it is a bit far from Tokyo, Adventure World in Wakayama Prefecture is also famous as a place where you can see pandas.

As of 2024, a family of 4 giant pandas lives in the park.

This is a must-visit spot for panda lovers.

Kobe Oji Zoo

Unfortunately, since the giant panda “Tintin” passed away in 2024/3, there is currently no giant panda exhibition. It is the oldest panda in Japan, and it seems that it was 28 years old, equivalent to 100 years old for a human.

summary

Ueno Zoo is the best place to see pandas in Tokyo.

You can enjoy easy access, plenty of facilities, and cute pandas up close, so be sure to visit when you're sightseeing.

Also, if you have time, it's a good idea to consider Adventure World in Wakayama Prefecture.

There is no doubt that you can make wonderful memories by touching the appeal of pandas.

Please enjoy watching pandas in Tokyo!

Introducing popular massage and beauty salons in Ueno

Ueno has a variety of attractions, such as Ueno Zoo, Ueno Onshi Park, and art galleries and museums.

How about a plan where you can relax at a massage salon after enjoying sightseeing in Ueno?

Finding a massage parlor to heal the tiredness of a trip in Ueno is highly recommended as part of sightseeing.

There are many massage and beauty salons, but I will introduce recommended salons for those who are particular about technical ability and quality.

Oshiage (Tokyo Skytree)/“Zipangu Esthetic Room Oshiage Store”

The salon is located just 10 minutes from Ueno, right next to Oshiage Station (Tokyo Skytree).

We have prepared a variety of facial menus with an emphasis on results, and we provide treatments tailored to each customer's skin concerns.

All of our estheticians have over 10 years of extensive experience.

This beauty salon is recommended for those who are concerned about repeated lift-ups, aging care, open pores, and rough skin.

Kita-senju/ “Pharm K”

An authentic medical esthetic salon run by a Japanese pharmacist who specializes in beauty ingredients.

Kita-senju is only about 10 minutes from Ueno.

We perform evidence-based treatments using carefully selected beauty ingredients.

You can also enjoy everyday skin care and shopping for skin care products at our salon as souvenirs.

Iriya/“FURAHA” *Women only

A women-only salon located about 3 minutes on foot from “Iriya Station” next to Ueno station 1.

A hand massage using hot stones will relieve stubborn stiffness and swelling.

Let's heal both body and mind in a calm space and relieve fatigue.

Oshiage (Tokyo Skytree)/“Hilot Tokyo” *Women only

This salon is located only about 10 minutes from Ueno and a 5-minute walk from Oshiage Station (Tokyo Skytree).

By using a bamboo stick, flushing the details, and massaging the bottom of the foot to the base of the thigh with cream, it becomes surprisingly light after the massage.

The Asian-style interior is a relaxing and relaxing space.

Oshiage (TOKYO SKYTREE)/“Zipangu Head Office”

zipangu main store — “Zipangu Head Office”

Just a short walk from TOKYO SKYTREE! Why don't you experience a slightly different head spa than usual to heal your tiredness?

Located right next to TOKYO SKYTREE (Oshiage), we have prepared an environment where guests can relax in a spacious and bright space.

This salon's special head spa promotes blood circulation in the scalp, leading to healthier, more vibrant hair.

Experience our signature head spa massage and shampoo course to relieve fatigue and enjoy a pleasant refreshment time.

Hikifune/ “Bleu vert” *women only

This salon is located about 15 minutes by car from Ueno and 3 minutes on foot from Hikifune Station.

The salon is located in an area that is easily accessible from Tokyo's landmark Skytree and Asakusa.

It is a salon with many repeat customers, with careful counseling and treatment focusing on customer concerns.

The facial menu, which is effective for lifting up, is a gentle and comfortable treatment.

Tips to make the most of your massage and beauty experience

When receiving a massage in the Ueno area, please pay attention to the following points and enjoy the healing experience to the fullest.

Book in advance

It is necessary to make a reservation in advance, especially at popular massage parlors.

Many Japanese stores have a small number of people, and in most cases they cannot accept large groups.

If there's a store you're looking for, make a reservation about 2 weeks in advance.

Tell them about your health

Before receiving a massage, provide accurate health information to your therapist, such as your physical condition, chronic illnesses, and past injuries.

This allows you to receive a safer and more effective massage.

Heal your fatigue with a high-quality Japanese massage and be sure to enjoy a special experience in Ueno.