Location and How to Get There
First things first, let’s talk about where you can find this amazing place. The SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK is located at No. 178 Nanliu Highway, Pudong New District, Shanghai. If you’re staying in the heart of Shanghai, it’s about a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic. If you’re not up for driving, you can take the subway. The closest station is Line 16’s Wild Animal Park Station. From there, it’s just a short walk or a quick taxi ride to the entrance. Easy peasy!
What Makes It Special?
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of why SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK is such a must-visit. This place isn’t just any ordinary zoo; it’s a full-blown wildlife sanctuary that opened its doors back in November 1995. Covering a whopping 153 hectares (that’s about 2,300 acres for my fellow Americans), it’s one of the first 5A-rated tourist attractions in China. What does that mean? It means it’s top-notch in terms of facilities, animal care, and visitor experience.
The Animals – A Feast for the Eyes
Alright, let’s talk about the stars of the show – the animals! SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK is home to over 200 species and more than 10,000 animals from all over the globe. You’ve got your crowd-pleasers like the giant pandas, golden monkeys, and giraffes. But there’s also some lesser-known but equally fascinating creatures like the takin (a kind of goat-antelope), the crested ibis, and even white rhinos and cheetahs.
One of the coolest things here is that the park is divided into different zones, like the Safari Area, where you can hop on a bus and get up close and personal with animals like lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!). There’s also a Walking Area, where you can stroll around and see animals like flamingos, lemurs, and gibbons in more naturalistic habitats.
Educational Fun – Learning While You Explore
If you’re traveling with kids or just a curious adult, SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK has got you covered. The park is all about education and conservation. You’ll find plenty of informational signs and interactive exhibits that teach you about the animals, their habitats, and the importance of protecting them.
There are also special animal shows where you can see behaviors like birds of prey flying, sea lions performing tricks, and even elephants painting! It’s not just entertaining; it’s a great way to learn more about these incredible creatures.
Facilities – Comfort is Key
Let’s be real, no one wants to spend the day in a place that doesn’t have good facilities. Thankfully, SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK has thought of everything. There are plenty of clean restrooms, picnic areas, and even a few restaurants and snack bars where you can grab a bite. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll appreciate the shaded areas and water stations to keep cool.
For those with little ones, stroller rentals are available, and the park is stroller-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about navigating tricky terrain. There are also gift shops where you can pick up souvenirs, from plush toys to T-shirts, so you can remember your visit long after you’ve left.
Visitor Experience – What to Expect
Alright, so what’s it like to actually visit SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK? First off, plan to spend the whole day here. There’s just so much to see and do that you’ll want to take your time. When you arrive, grab a map and plan your route. I recommend starting with the Safari Area, then moving on to the Walking Area, and ending with one of the animal shows.
One thing to keep in mind: the park is now a smoke-free zone. That means no smoking anywhere on the premises. It’s all about keeping the environment clean and safe for both the animals and the visitors. So, if you’re a smoker, be prepared to go without for the day. It’s a small sacrifice for the greater good!
Final Thoughts – Why You Should Visit
In a nutshell, SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK is more than just a zoo; it’s an experience. Whether you’re an animal lover, a family with kids, or just someone looking for a fun day out, this place has something for everyone. It’s a chance to see some of the world’s most incredible creatures up close, learn about conservation, and just have a great time.
So, if you’re in Shanghai and looking for something to do, make sure to add SHANGHAI WILD ANIMAL PARK to your itinerary. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
