Guangzhou Zoo (广州动物园), established in 1958, is one of China’s largest urban zoos, alongside Beijing Zoo and Shanghai Zoo. Spanning 42 hectares, it is home to over 450 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish from around the world, with a total of more than 4,500 animals. Many of these creatures are rare and exotic, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike.
One of the highlights of Guangzhou Zoo is the opportunity to see China’s beloved national treasure, the giant panda, along with other rare species native to China, such as the golden monkey, South China tiger, Milu deer, and black-necked crane. In addition to the local wildlife, the zoo also houses animals from other parts of the globe, including hippos, rhinos, African elephants, and more. This diverse collection offers a broad educational experience for visitors interested in the animal kingdom.
The zoo also features a variety of themed zones and attractions, making it a versatile destination for families and visitors of all ages. Among these are the Butterfly Pavilion, Jinlin Garden (where visitors can view various species of goldfish), and the Amusement Park, which offers small rides like the carousel, bumper cars, and a log flume. Other zones include the Fun Park, designed especially for children, where they can interact with animals like alpacas, lambs, and piglets. There is also the Curious Stones Hall, showcasing a unique collection of geological wonders.
For animal enthusiasts, the zoo provides daily feeding sessions at specific times, where you can watch zookeepers feed animals like hippos, elephants, and pelicans. These interactive sessions offer visitors an up-close look at the zoo’s inhabitants, making it an exciting and educational experience.
One of the standout attractions within Guangzhou Zoo is the Ocean World, which opened in 1997. This multi-functional, high-tech exhibit combines entertainment, education, and scientific research, centered on showcasing marine life. Covering an area of 13,000 square meters, Ocean World features over 200 species of fish and other marine creatures. The exhibit is divided into various themed sections, providing a full exploration of the oceanic ecosystem. Key features include an underwater tunnel, the Deep Sea Wonders Kelp Tank, the Rare Species Tank, the Tropical Rainforest, Touch Pools, the Shark Tank, the Turtle Pool, the Penguin House, and the Science Education Hall. Ocean World also boasts a marine theater, Sea Lion Park, and an Ocean Plaza, where visitors can enjoy performances and interactive experiences.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | Guangzhou Zoo: 20 RMB Ocean World: 160 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00; Last admission: 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-020-38377572 |
Location and Transportation
Guangzhou Zoo is located at 120 Xianlie Middle Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 6, 78, 84A, 192, 199, 201, 219, 236, 246, 547, 833, or 862B and get off at the Zoo Stop (动物园站).
Metro: The closest metro station to the attraction is the Zoo (动物园) on line 5. After getting out of the station from Exit C, you will be standing right at the south entrance.
