Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo

Hongshan Forest Zoo, a National 4A-level Scenic Area in northern Nanjing, spans 68 hectares with 85% forest coverage. This mountainous sanctuary houses over 3,000 rare animals representing 260+ species worldwide. Its unique combination of forest landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant thematic programs makes it one of China's most distinctive zoological parks.

Highlights of Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo

Giant Panda House

Giant Panda

As a partner of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Hongshan Zoo keeps cute giant pandas in habitats designed to copy their natural home. Up close, visitors can watch these lovely animals eat bamboo, roll around playfully, or relax in trees—every moment is sweet. Pandas are most active from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., making this the best time to see them.

China Feline House

The China’s first feline-only exhibit, it shows rare cats like leopard cats, lynxes, and leopards. Its cleverly made enclosures copy their natural homes, so the animals live almost like in the wild. Through glass walkways, visitors get close views—seeing them walk gracefully, climb nimbly, or watch their surroundings sharply. This exhibit pulls you in, showing cats’ mystery and charm, as if you’ve stepped into a wild cat kingdom.

Asia Primate House

Golden snub-nosed monkey in the Asia Primate House

This exhibit ranks among China's top zoo attractions with its innovative "tree-loop system" that supports towering tree growth, perfectly recreating primate habitats. Here, visitors can observe gibbons effortlessly swinging between trees using natural vine "swings," demonstrating their remarkable agility. The animals' foraging instincts are displayed through hidden feeders that simulate wild feeding conditions. Interactive information boards clearly explain different primate species, their habitats and behaviors, revealing their fascinating world.

Native Species Conservation Area

Yangtze alligator in the Native Species Conservation

This special zone at Hongshan Forest Zoo shows off local wildlife and successful conservation work. It features rare animals from the Yangtze River area and East China, like Chinese Yangtze alligators, deer, wild cats, and raccoon dogs, all living in natural-style homes. Visitors can watch them behaving just like they would in the wild. Clear signs tell you about each animal's home, how endangered they are, and how we protect them. The area also holds fun talks about conservation. More than just animal homes, this place helps people connect with nature and care about protecting local wildlife.

Meerkat House

Cute meerkat in the Meerkat House

In Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo’s Dahongshan area, the 1293㎡ renovated Meerkat House opens 8:30-16:30. It has stone-like habitats and an African desert playground, plus underground tunnels and a central glass spot for 360° views of meerkat groups. These social animals, with gray-yellow fur tinged red and unique back stripes, often stand on hind legs as lookouts. The 14:00 daily feeding is lively—they stand guard together and compete for food, giving visitors a fun, one-of-a-kind experience.

Educational Value

Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo follows "Teach People, Help Society." It cares for zoo animals and takes in hurt wild ones from Jiangsu, doing key local wildlife protection work. Fun learning programs teach understanding, love, and respect for nature, making people more aware and willing to protect animals and their homes.

Activities to do at Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo

Educational Activities & Animal Adoption Program： Keepers and volunteers give over 100 daily educational talks, helping visitors learn about animal behavior and conservation. Visitors can adopt animals like otters or caracals via our WeChat mini-program, costing 500-2,000 yuan a year. Adopters get certificates and souvenirs (individuals) or plaques (groups). Spots are limited—call on workdays with questions.