Ueno Zoo Opening Day

What Is Ueno Zoo Opening Day?

Every March 20th is "Ueno Zoo Opening Day." On March 20, 1882, Ueno Zoo (today's Tokyo Metropolitan Onshi Ueno Zoological Gardens) opened in Ueno Park, Tokyo, as Japan's first modern zoo. At first it was an attached facility of a museum under the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce. On this anniversary, admission to the zoo is free.

The History of Japan's First Zoo

Ueno Zoo has grown alongside the history of zoos in Japan.

• The early days: When it opened, the zoo covered about one hectare, and water buffalo, monkeys and eagles are said to have been popular. Admission was 1 sen on weekdays and 2 sen on Sundays.
• The meaning of "Onshi": In 1886 the zoo came under the Imperial Household Ministry, and in 1924, to commemorate the marriage of the Crown Prince (later Emperor Showa), it was granted to the City of Tokyo together with Ueno Park. The word "Onshi" (imperial gift) in its name comes from this.
• Japan's first monorail: In 1957, Japan's first permanent monorail, the Ueno Suspended Line, opened inside the zoo, linking the East and West Gardens (it was abolished in 2023).

The Zoo, the War, and the Postwar Years

Ueno Zoo's history includes both tragedy and a fresh start.

• Wartime killing of animals: During World War II, elephants and other animals were killed out of fear they might escape during air raids. This event has been passed down in stories such as the picture book "Kawaisou na Zou" (Faithful Elephants).
• Indira the elephant: After the war, in response to children's wish to see an elephant, India's Prime Minister Nehru sent an elephant named "Indira" in 1949.
• The Children's Zoo: In 1948, a "Children's Zoo" opened where children could get close to animals.

Fun Facts About Ueno Zoo

• Giant pandas: In 1972, to mark the normalization of Japan-China relations, the pandas Kang Kang and Lan Lan arrived, drawing huge crowds.
• Free admission days: Besides the March 20th anniversary, admission is also free on May 4th (Greenery Day) and October 1st (Tokyo Citizens' Day).
• A wide range of animals: Today the zoo keeps many kinds of animals, including rare species such as Sumatran tigers and western lowland gorillas.
• Management: The zoo is currently managed and operated by the Tokyo Zoological Park Society under Tokyo's designated manager system.

Tips for Enjoying Ueno Zoo Opening Day

• Take advantage of free admission to visit the zoo and take a good look at your favorite animals
• Look up what kind of environment your favorite animal lives in in the wild
• Watch videos and explanations on the official website to learn about the keepers' work
• Talk with family about memories of visiting the zoo as a child

A Place to Meet Animals for More Than 140 Years

From its opening in the Meiji era through the years of war, Ueno Zoo is still loved by many people today. On March 20th, why not reflect on the history of Japan's first zoo and pay a visit to a zoo near you?