Shijiazhuang Zoo (石家庄动物园), nestled at the bordering area of the Taihang Range and the Huabei Plateau, is a magnificent testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and human innovation. Spanning a vast expanse of 4,500 acres, this awe-inspiring zoo is uniquely perched on the slopes of rolling mountains, seamlessly blending the stunning natural landscape with human-made structures.
The zoo is a testament to biodiversity and education, offering visitors an immersive experience with wildlife from around the globe. With 18 distinct functional areas and 9 major galleries, it caters to a wide range of interests and ages. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to arid deserts, housing a remarkable variety of animals from pandas to tigers, and exotic birds to marine life.
Shijiazhuang Zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and recreation makes it a captivating destination for both nature enthusiasts and families, fostering an understanding and appreciation of our planet’s incredible biodiversity while providing a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Shijiazhuang Zoo
- Vlog about Shijiazhuang Zoo
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near the Downtown of Shijiazhuang
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.sjzszoo.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | The Zoo: 50 RMB for adults 25 RMB for children between 6 and 18 years old Free for children under 6 years old or 1.2 meters The Aquarium: 80 RMB for adults 60 RMB for children between 6 and 18 years old Free for children under 6 years old or 1.2 meters |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.30; Last admission: 16.30 (1st March – 31st October) 8.30 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.00 (1st November – 28th February the next year) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0311-83932000 |
Location and Transportation
Shijiazhuang Zoo is strategically situated in the picturesque Dujia Town, within the Luquan District, approximately 17.5 kilometers to the west of the bustling city center of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province. To get there, tourists can take bus 305, 309, 321, 329, 330, 332, Tourist Line 3, Tourist Line 5, Tourist Line 6, or Tourist Line 16 and get off at Zoo Stop (动物园站).
Highlights of Shijiazhuang Zoo
Valley Area
The Valley Area of Shijiazhuang Zoo is a remarkable section that maximizes the use of a naturally formed valley, spanning 20 to 15 meters in width. This unique topography serves as an ideal habitat for apex predators, including majestic lions, awe-inspiring tigers, and formidable bears. Here, visitors can witness these magnificent creatures in a setting that closely resembles their natural environment, complete with lush vegetation and terrain that replicates the wild. The Valley Area offers an immersive and educational experience, allowing guests to observe these iconic predators up close while appreciating the zoo’s commitment to providing them with spacious, naturalistic enclosures for their well-being and conservation.
Bird Forest
The Bird Forest at Shijiazhuang Zoo is a haven for a diverse range of avian species, providing them with natural habitats to thrive. A prominent feature of this area is the rockeries, an astonishing creation crafted from a staggering 12,000 tons of stone. This mountain is designed with multiple caves that offer shelter to the birds during inclement weather, shielding them from gusty winds and storms. Additionally, a strategically placed viewing platform atop the mountain enhances the visitor experience, allowing tourists to observe these beautiful birds in their natural surroundings from an elevated vantage point, creating a unique and educational encounter with the avian wonders of Shijiazhuang Zoo.
Swan Lake
Swan Lake at Shijiazhuang Zoo is a breathtaking oasis spanning 70 acres of natural beauty. Nestled on its western edge, visitors can admire picturesque rockeries and cascading waterfalls, creating a serene backdrop. A leisurely stroll around the lake, accompanied by gentle breezes and swaying willows, offers a tranquil escape. The lake is home to a thriving avian population, with over 1,100 birds inhabiting the area, including an impressive 130 graceful swans. This idyllic setting provides a captivating opportunity for guests to connect with nature and witness the elegance of these majestic swans while immersing themselves in the peaceful ambiance of Swan Lake.
Aquarium
The Shijiazhuang Zoo Aquarium, established in 1988, is a captivating aquatic wonderland that covers a vast expanse of 4,600 square meters. Within its modern facilities, visitors can marvel at a staggering collection of over 8,000 marine creatures. The aquarium is thoughtfully divided into distinct sections, featuring both freshwater and saltwater environments, each hosting an impressive array of over 300 species. This immersive aquatic experience offers a fascinating journey through the world’s diverse underwater ecosystems, providing a mesmerizing opportunity for guests to encounter and learn about the remarkable diversity of marine life from around the globe.
Animal Performance
The Shijiazhuang Zoo’s animal performances are a thrilling spectacle for visitors of all ages. These captivating shows feature remarkable acts, including tigers fearlessly leaping through blazing fire rings, bears skillfully riding bicycles, and playful goats showcasing their agility by playing with vases. The zoo hosts four performances daily from Monday to Friday, ensuring ample opportunities for guests to witness these incredible feats. On weekends and holidays, the excitement intensifies with six dynamic performances each day, providing even more chances to be enchanted by the impressive talents and agility of the zoo’s animal performers, making it a must-see attraction for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
Children Zoo
The Children’s Zoo at Shijiazhuang Zoo is a delightful sanctuary for young visitors, spanning over 1 hectare of space. This enchanting area is specifically designed to provide a hands-on and interactive experience with gentle and docile animals like rabbits and lambs. Here, children can forge a deeper connection with the animal kingdom as they interact with these friendly creatures, fostering a sense of wonder and empathy. The Children’s Zoo is a perfect place for young minds to explore and learn about the natural world in a safe and engaging environment, creating cherished memories and nurturing a lifelong love for animals.
Vlog about Shijiazhuang Zoo
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Optimal Morning Visit: It’s recommended to arrive around 9 AM, especially if you want to visit the Panda Pavilion. It’s not far from the entrance, and you can head straight there.
Convenient Transportation Options: Take the sightseeing car from the east gate for 10 yuan one way to reach the Lion and Tiger Valley. Alternatively, consider renting a two-person electric car for 60 yuan per hour.
North Gate for Amusement Park: The north gate leads to the Xinma Kingdom amusement park. If your are interested in additional rides and attractions, entering through the north gate is an option, but parking may be challenging.
Bring Snacks for Animals: Bringing snacks for the animals, especially the pandas, is recommended. The black bears are known to wave, and it’s an adorable sight. Some visitors even bring Chinese cabbages for the animals.
Animal Show Schedule: Adjacent to Monkey Mountain, there is a performance stage. On weekdays (Monday to Friday), there are shows at 10 AM and 11:20 AM.
