Tokyo Sights

Zoological sights in Tokyo

  1. A

    Ueno Zoo (Ueno Dōbutsu-en)

    Japan’s oldest zoo was established in 1882, and is home to lions and tigers and bears (oh my!). The biggest attractions are normally the giant pandas, but the zoo’s only remaining panda, Ling Ling, passed away in 2008. As we went to press, a pair of new pandas was reportedly due to arrive from China in early 2011. If you object to zoos in general, this one probably won’t change your opinion, what with small enclosures for the animals and a facility that’s generally showing its age. On the other hand it’s larger than you’d think, given the obvious space constraints of Tokyo. Plus, all of the big-name animals from around the globe are well represented here. If you’re visiti…

    reviewed

  2. B

    Nekobukuro

    For Tokyoites who may not have the time nor space to keep their own pets, Nekobukuro provides a venue for short-term cuddling with surrogate cats. Creep up to the 8th floor of the Ikebukuro branch of Tōkyū Hands to get in on the kitten action.

    reviewed