Celebrating Japan's oldest zoo

The Ueno Zoo, arguably Japan's best-known zoo and one of Tokyo's renowned landmarks, was founded on this day - March 20th - 1882. As such, today is Ueno Zoo Anniversary Day 上野動物園開園記念日. Although no way near the biggest in Japan, it is a large zoo with approximately 14.3 hectares and about 3000 animals across 400 species. It has long served as a place where people can learn about wildlife, conservation and the natural world.

In fact, when it first opened, it was attached to the Imperial Museum. Nowadays it is managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Its history reflects Japan's evolving relationship with animals - from early museum like exhibits to today's focus on education and environmental stewardship. The zoo is going through somewhat of a transition at the moment further to their famous panda being sent back to China (on China's request). However, there are still several other large animals you can see at the zoo, including gorillas, elephants and tigers.

It's a long time since I was there last, but my children all get to go with their school in Junior HIgh School, which is quite a common day trip from schools in Saitama Prefecture. They don't just go to the museum, but nearby attractions to. Ueno Zoo is convenient like that as it is located in Ueno park with the Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Nature and Science and the National Museum of Western Art all nearby.

Have you been to Ueno Zoo?