If you've been on Chinese social media lately, you've probably seen them — two roly-poly giant panda brothers tumbling over bamboo, swatting at each other, and melting the internet one video at a time. Meet Jiujiu and Youyou, the viral stars of Guangzhou Zoo — and the reason searches for this under-the-radar attraction have surged by a staggering 191% in just two weeks.

But here's the secret Guangzhou locals already know: the Zoo has always been one of the best-value days out in South China. It just took a pair of ridiculously photogenic pandas to make the rest of the world notice.

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Guangzhou, a family looking for an affordable day trip, or a fully-fledged panda obsessive (no judgment), this guide covers everything you need to know before you go. For a broader look at the city's highlights, check out our Guangzhou City Guide.

The main entrance to Guangzhou Zoo, accessible via Metro Line 5 Zoo Station

What Is Guangzhou Zoo?

Guangzhou Zoo — officially the Guangzhou Zoological Garden — is one of the three largest zoos in China, sitting in the heart of Yuexiu District on Xianlie Middle Road. It's home to over 5,000 animals from 400+ species, ranging from South China tigers and golden monkeys to flamingos, capybaras, and of course, its headline act: giant pandas.

What makes it stand out from other major Chinese zoos is the combination of city-centre location, extremely affordable tickets, and a surprisingly lush, garden-like environment. Unlike the sprawling safari parks on Guangzhou's outskirts, this is a zoo you can do in half a day — and one that families, couples, and solo travellers all enjoy. It consistently ranks among the top attractions in Guangzhou for both locals and international visitors.

The Real Reason It's Going Viral: Jiujiu & Youyou

Let's be honest — the pandas are why you're here.

Jiujiu and Youyou are giant panda brothers who were recently relocated to Guangzhou Zoo, and they have rapidly become the zoo's biggest stars. Visitors and social media users can't get enough of their wildly different personalities:

The iconic panda signage outside the Giant Panda House

The lush panda habitat — head here first thing in the morning

Jiujiu or Youyou working through their bamboo breakfast — the best show in Guangzhou for ¥20

Beyond the star duo, the zoo also houses red pandas, who visitors describe as strutting along branches "like they're walking a runway," and a meerkat squad that gathers every morning in a perfect line-up to soak up the sun — tiny, upright, and absurdly entertaining.

Guangzhou Zoo: Tickets & Prices (2026)

One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors? How affordable this is.

Opening Hours

How to Get There

🚇 By Metro (Recommended)

Take Metro Line 5 to Zoo Station (动物园站), then use Exit B or C. The zoo entrance is a 5-minute flat walk from the station. This is by far the easiest and fastest option. New to Guangzhou's metro? Our Guangzhou Metro Route Planner makes navigating the network simple.

🚗 By Taxi or DiDi

Tell the driver 广州动物园 (Guangzhou Zoo) or input the address: No. 120 Xianlie Middle Road, Yuexiu District. For DiDi users, copy-paste the Chinese address: 广州市越秀区先烈中路120号

What to See: A Walk-Through Guide

🐼 1. Giant Panda House — Go Here First

Make the Giant Panda House your first stop without fail. Head there the moment you enter — it's the most popular exhibit and gets busy fast. In the morning you'll catch Jiujiu and Youyou at their most active: play-fighting, eating bamboo, and occasionally acknowledging the crowd with a look of supreme indifference. The iconic stone scenery and large tree outside Panda Village is a popular photo spot — allow time for that. For panda fans who want to go deeper, Giant Panda Global tracks every panda in captivity worldwide.

🦝 2. Red Pandas

Tucked near the panda area, the red pandas are smaller, fluffier, and arguably just as photogenic. Morning is again the best time — you'll find them moving through branches with the energy of someone who knows exactly how good-looking they are.

🦒 3. Giraffe Feeding

For ¥20 you get a bundle of leaves and the chance to hand-feed a giraffe up close. A highlight for kids and genuinely delightful for adults too. Book your slot at the entrance on arrival — sessions fill up on weekends.

The baboon enclosure — always lively and entertaining for all ages

🦩 4. Flamingo Pond

A flock of pink flamingos makes for excellent photography, especially in morning light. Multiple visitors describe it as "every shot looks like a masterpiece." Even amateur phone photographers come away with stunning images here.

The flamingo pond — one of the most photographed spots in the zoo

🦁 5. Big Cats & Large Animals

Guangzhou Zoo houses South China tigers, lions, giraffes, zebras, and elephants. The big cat enclosures allow for good sightlines, and the elephant area is a favourite with younger visitors.

Best Tips for Visiting Guangzhou Zoo in 2026

Guangzhou Zoo vs Chimelong Safari Park

Both are excellent, but they serve very different travel styles. Chimelong Safari Park is the largest privately owned safari park in Asia — a full-day commitment at ¥300 per ticket. Guangzhou Zoo is the smarter pick for budget travellers or those short on time. Here's how they compare:

Nearby Food & What to Do After

Guangzhou Zoo is in Yuexiu District, which means excellent food options are minutes away.

• Xiaobei Road — a lively area with African and Middle Eastern restaurants, a uniquely Guangzhou dining experience
• Liuhua Lake Park — a short walk away, perfect for a post-zoo wind-down stroll
• Beijing Road Pedestrian Street — 20 minutes by metro, ideal for shopping and street food in the evening

For a classic Cantonese meal near the zoo, ask locals about nearby teahouses (茶楼) serving morning dim sum. Guangzhou is the spiritual home of yum cha, and you should not leave without experiencing it. Our Guangzhou Food Guide covers the best restaurants, street eats, and dim sum spots across the city. If you're planning an evening out afterwards, our Guangzhou bars and nightlife guide has you covered too.

Frequently Asked Questions