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Shenyang Forest Zoo

4.2
·13 reviews·Shen Yang Shi, China

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Pandas are most active

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Just a small selection of animals

Shenyang Forest Zoo

Best Time

Morning

Pandas are most active

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.2
(13 reviews)

"Meet Bingqing, the viral panda known for her impressive digging skills and playful antics!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giant Pandas

Giant Pandas

Panda Enclosure

Meet Bingqing, the viral panda known for her impressive digging skills and playful antics. A true star!

Siberian Tigers

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 Feeding Spectacle

Bear Enclosure

Watch brown and black bears skillfully catch apples mid-air. A unique and entertaining display of animal talent.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Panda Encounters

To maximize your chances of seeing the beloved giant pandas, plan your visit for the morning. They are most active and visible during cooler hours before the midday heat sets in. Arriving early also helps you beat the biggest crowds, especially on weekends.

Animal Welfare & Visitor Behavior

While many enclosures are spacious and well-maintained, some areas, particularly for apes and monkeys, show signs of needing renovation. Be aware that some visitors may disregard rules about feeding and teasing animals, which can be distressing. Enforcement appears limited.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Pandas are most active
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

In Shenyang, the provincial capital of northeast China’s Liaoning province, a scenic area staged a breathtaking performance of a golden phoenix and a giant dragon flying in the night sky. Orchestrated by drones, they created a spectacular scene filled with auspiciousness. 🐉🌌 #china#dragon#Loong#phoenix#chinese #drone#performance#tiktech
@china360_
980.9K likes • 7.5M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Pandas

Beat the crowds and see the pandas at their most active. They're often more visible in the morning! Instagram

🍎 Don't Feed the Bears

While bears catch apples, feeding them can lead to poor behavior. Observe their natural skills instead. Instagram+1

Cyberpunk Street in China, Shenyang😭 #china #shenyang #cyberpunk2077
@andre.cnger
152.8K likes • 800.2K views
Meet #Bingqing at Shenyang Forest Zoo, who's digging her way to internet fame! This fluffy engineer's hole-making masterclass sparked jokes: "Bury one in spring, unearth a #panda squad by autumn!" #FunChina
chinadailynews
283 likes • 9.9K views

⚠️ Beware of Scammers

Avoid individuals claiming pandas are hidden due to heat; they may lead you to fake attractions. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

The zoo is large, so wear comfortable footwear for exploring all the exhibits. Instagram

冰華Bing Hua 跳扭腰舞💃🕺 📍瀋陽森林動物園 #大熊貓 #我的大熊貓 #熊貓 #冰華 #瀋陽森林動物園 #panda #giantpanda #lovepanda #binghua #shenyangforestzoo #cutepandas #pandanlovers
my_lovely_panda1
30 likes • 627 views

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! Instagram

🍎 Don't Feed the Bears

While bears catch apples, feeding them can lead to poor behavior. Observe their natural skills instead. Instagram+1

⚠️ Beware of Scammers

Avoid individuals claiming pandas are hidden due to heat; they may lead you to fake attractions. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

The zoo is large, so wear comfortable footwear for exploring all the exhibits. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moments

Bring your camera to snap photos of the diverse animals, especially the bears and pandas. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(13 reviews)

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

Giant pandas and their antics
Bear apple-catching shows
Siberian tigers

What People Dislike

Poor primate enclosures
Visitor disregard for rules
Limited enforcement of welfare

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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! Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during busy seasons. Reddit

Zoo hours can change seasonally. It's crucial to verify the operating hours for your planned visit date on their official channels. Reddit

Information on discounts for specific groups like students or seniors is usually available on the zoo's official website or at the ticket counter. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🦁 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! Instagram+3

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

If you observe concerning behavior, it's best to report it to zoo staff. While enforcement seems limited, raising awareness is important. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Shenyang Forest Zoo typically offers various food stalls and restaurants within its premises, providing options for snacks and meals. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Food prices within tourist attractions can sometimes be higher than outside. Budget accordingly, or consider packing some snacks to supplement your meals. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The panda enclosures, Siberian tiger habitats, and bear areas offer excellent photo opportunities. Early morning light can be ideal for capturing clear shots. Instagram+3

Photography is generally permitted for most animals, but always be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions in certain areas. Instagram

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. Instagram

Using flash photography can disturb animals, so it's often discouraged or prohibited in many zoo settings. Check for signs or ask staff. Instagram

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking photos of other visitors or their children. Respect personal privacy. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shenyang Forest Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. The giant pandas, especially the viral Bingqing, are a huge hit with children, offering endless entertainment with her digging antics. Instagram The bear feeding demonstrations, where bears catch apples, are also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and provide exciting photo opportunities. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🐼 Panda Enthusiasts

For those whose primary goal is to see giant pandas, arriving early in the morning is crucial. Pandas are most active and visible during the cooler parts of the day, and this strategy also helps you avoid the largest crowds. Instagram Witnessing Bingqing, the panda famous for her digging, is a unique experience that many travel specifically to see. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Buffs

Shenyang Forest Zoo offers numerous opportunities for photographers, from the charismatic pandas to the powerful Siberian tigers and the acrobatic bears. The bear apple-catching displays are particularly photogenic, offering dynamic action shots. Instagram+1 Consider bringing a telephoto lens to capture detailed shots of the animals from a distance, and a versatile zoom lens for general zoo scenes. Instagram

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. Instagram Capturing the unique personalities of animals like Bingqing the panda can lead to some truly memorable and shareable content. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Star Power of Bingqing the Panda

Shenyang Forest Zoo has gained significant attention thanks to its resident giant panda, Bingqing. Videos of her remarkable digging skills have gone viral, earning her the nickname 'fluffy engineer.' Instagram This unique behavior has captivated audiences online, making her a must-see attraction for many visitors. The zoo has embraced this popularity, with social media buzzing about her antics. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Navigating Animal Welfare Concerns

Visitor reviews highlight a mixed experience regarding animal welfare at Shenyang Forest Zoo. While many enclosures are described as spacious and comparable to Western zoos, some areas, particularly for apes and monkeys, are noted as needing significant renovation. Reddit This suggests ongoing efforts to improve conditions, but also areas that still require attention.

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

The Spectacle of Bears and Tigers

Beyond the pandas, Shenyang Forest Zoo boasts impressive populations of Siberian tigers and bears. The Siberian tigers are a powerful draw, offering visitors a chance to see these magnificent predators up close in what are described as relatively spacious enclosures. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram+1 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. Instagram+1

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