
Shenyang Forest Zoo
Home to viral panda Bingqing and majestic Siberian tigers, Shenyang Forest Zoo offers engaging animal encounters and impressive bear displays.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pandas are most active

Shenyang Forest Zoo
Best Time
Pandas are most active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to viral panda Bingqing and majestic Siberian tigers, Shenyang Forest Zoo offers engaging animal encounters and impressive bear displays.
"Meet Bingqing, the viral panda known for her impressive digging skills and playful antics!"

🎯 Arrive Early for Pandas
Beat the crowds and see the pandas at their most active. They're often more visible in the morning!
🍎 Don't Feed the Bears
While bears catch apples, feeding them can lead to poor behavior. Observe their natural skills instead.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Pandas
Panda Enclosure
Meet Bingqing, the viral panda known for her impressive digging skills and playful antics. A true star!
Siberian Tigers
Tiger Enclosure
Witness the majestic Siberian tigers up close. A powerful and awe-inspiring sight for any wildlife enthusiast.
Bear Feeding Spectacle
Bear Enclosure
Watch brown and black bears skillfully catch apples mid-air. A unique and entertaining display of animal talent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Panda Encounters
Animal Welfare & Visitor Behavior
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Pandas
Beat the crowds and see the pandas at their most active. They're often more visible in the morning!
🍎 Don't Feed the Bears
While bears catch apples, feeding them can lead to poor behavior. Observe their natural skills instead.
⚠️ Beware of Scammers
Avoid individuals claiming pandas are hidden due to heat; they may lead you to fake attractions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The zoo is large, so wear comfortable footwear for exploring all the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Pandas
Beat the crowds and see the pandas at their most active. They're often more visible in the morning!
🍎 Don't Feed the Bears
While bears catch apples, feeding them can lead to poor behavior. Observe their natural skills instead.
⚠️ Beware of Scammers
Avoid individuals claiming pandas are hidden due to heat; they may lead you to fake attractions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The zoo is large, so wear comfortable footwear for exploring all the exhibits.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera to snap photos of the diverse animals, especially the bears and pandas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the zoo for its impressive pandas and entertaining bear displays, with many finding the enclosures comparable to Western standards. However, some areas, particularly for primates, require renovation, and visitor behavior regarding feeding and teasing animals can be a concern for those prioritizing animal welfare.
"We visited the zoo mainly to see the pandas and the Siberian tigers. We were not sure how bad the animal welfare situation would be given the past problems. It was a bit mixed. You can very clearly see what has been renovated and what is pending. Most of the enclosures are quite spacious and seem similar to what you would see in the European and North American zoos.
Some problems:
- the apes and monkeys at the end are kept under very poor conditions. Same for a few bird exhibits.
- throughout the zoo there are places where you can buy food for specific animals to feed them. This results in very poor animal behavior, for example with the bears. Mostly it is not as disturbing as I feared.
- there are signs everywhere not to tease the animals and which ones not to feed , but the audience ignores it all and there is no enforcement. It’s really sad to see what people do to the animals. If this bothers you, you shouldn’t go.
I hope they expedite renovation and reduce the number of animals, relocating the ones that belong in groups to other zoos. Reducing the number of animals is key for being able to offer better conditions. I kind of wish the whole zoo just stopped after the cranes."
Martin Bravenboer
"Have no idea how well they treat the animals... but in terms of animals you can see if you visit: bears, tigers, hippos, and giant pandas!! Would definitely recommend. Plus, people were throwing apples and bears were catching them in their mouth while standing on two legs, how often do you see that? Had lunch while next to giant pandas having their lunch too 😍 If in town, check it out!"
Alexandra U
"It's my first time in China. I had the best time of my life . The people of China are so friendly and kind and can't wait to come back again . Thank you for your hospitality"
William Wright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The zoo is accessible by public transport in Shenyang. Many visitors use taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules.
Yes, parking is generally available at Shenyang Forest Zoo, though it can fill up during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early if you are driving.
The zoo is quite expansive. Consider getting a map upon entry or using a navigation app on your phone. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
Shenyang offers various attractions, including historical sites and cultural experiences. Researching other points of interest in the city can help you plan a fuller itinerary.
While some areas are well-maintained, accessibility can vary. It's best to inquire directly with the zoo about specific pathways and facilities for visitors with mobility challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official zoo website or reliable ticketing platforms for the most current pricing.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during busy seasons.
Zoo hours can change seasonally. It's crucial to verify the operating hours for your planned visit date on their official channels.
Information on discounts for specific groups like students or seniors is usually available on the zoo's official website or at the ticket counter.
Typically, re-entry policies vary. It's advisable to confirm with the zoo staff at the entrance if you plan to leave and return later in the day.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
The giant pandas, especially Bingqing, and the Siberian tigers are major highlights. Don't miss the brown and black bears' apple-catching skills!
Yes, there are designated areas where you can purchase food to feed specific animals, like the bears. However, be mindful of animal behavior and welfare.
Many enclosures are spacious and well-maintained, resembling those in Western zoos. However, some areas, like those for apes and monkeys, are in need of renovation.
The zoo offers a great experience for children, with opportunities to see a wide variety of animals. The pandas and bears are usually a big hit with younger visitors.
If you observe concerning behavior, it's best to report it to zoo staff. While enforcement seems limited, raising awareness is important.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Shenyang Forest Zoo typically offers various food stalls and restaurants within its premises, providing options for snacks and meals.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, but it's always a good idea to check the zoo's specific policies regarding outside food.
You can expect a range of local Chinese snacks and dishes, as well as more standard fare. Options might include noodles, dumplings, and other quick bites.
While specific options can vary, many Chinese eateries offer vegetable-based dishes. It's advisable to inquire at the food stalls for available vegetarian choices.
Food prices within tourist attractions can sometimes be higher than outside. Budget accordingly, or consider packing some snacks to supplement your meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The panda enclosures, Siberian tiger habitats, and bear areas offer excellent photo opportunities. Early morning light can be ideal for capturing clear shots.
Photography is generally permitted for most animals, but always be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions in certain areas.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance, while a wider lens can be good for general zoo atmosphere shots. A good zoom lens is versatile.
Using flash photography can disturb animals, so it's often discouraged or prohibited in many zoo settings. Check for signs or ask staff.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking photos of other visitors or their children. Respect personal privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While most enclosures are decent, be aware that some areas might not be as well-maintained. However, the sheer variety of animals and the engaging activities make it a memorable day out. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is quite large, and pack snacks or plan for meals at the zoo's eateries.
🐼 Panda Enthusiasts
While the zoo offers other attractions, dedicating your morning to the panda enclosure will maximize your chances of a rewarding encounter. Be patient, as pandas do have their resting periods, but their playful moments are well worth the wait.
📸 Photography Buffs
To get the best light and fewer distractions, aim for early morning visits. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography, as it can disturb the animals. Capturing the unique personalities of animals like Bingqing the panda can lead to some truly memorable and shareable content.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Power of Bingqing the Panda
Seeing Bingqing in person offers a chance to witness this internet-famous panda's charm firsthand. Her playful nature and impressive excavation abilities provide a memorable and entertaining experience for all ages. It's a testament to how individual animal personalities can draw crowds and create a unique identity for a zoo.
Navigating Animal Welfare Concerns
Another point of concern raised by visitors is the impact of visitor behavior. The practice of feeding animals, especially bears, can lead to undesirable behaviors. Despite signage, enforcement of rules against teasing and feeding animals appears to be limited, which can be distressing for some visitors. Those sensitive to animal welfare issues may want to be prepared for these observations.
The Spectacle of Bears and Tigers
The brown and black bears provide a particularly entertaining spectacle. Visitors have captured videos of these intelligent animals skillfully catching apples thrown by zoo staff or visitors in mid-air, often while standing on their hind legs. This unique display is a highlight for many, showcasing the animals' agility and the zoo's efforts to engage them. It's a memorable sight that sets the zoo apart.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit