The Chinese mainland, stretching 5,026 kilometers from the seas of the East to the broad plains, expansive deserts and mountainous regions in the West, is blessed to have extremely diverse climates: from tropical in the South to subarctic in the North. These differences add color to the country, aside from her rich history and dynamic future.

This geographic uniqueness paved the way for the growth of various habitats for land, air and sea creatures. The country hosts many kinds of rare species that are unique in this part of the world. The Chinese government, aware of these wonderful bounties, has set up numerous zoos throughout the country to preserve the lives of these animals. From Hong Kong to Shanghai or Beijing, one can definitely find one, wherever he or she is.

The Beijing Zoo is situated in the western part of the city. Having a distinctive look like some of the Chinese gardens, the surroundings are a combination of the natural scenery and magnificent flower arrangements. This includes wide grasslands, thick tree groves, lotus pools, a stream and pavilions and halls scattered in miniature hills. Many of the hotels in Beijing can be reached through the subway which provides the quickest transportation to the place.

Previously recognized as The Ten Thousand Animal Garden, the zoo recently celebrated its centennial in 2008. It was a regal mansion under the Ming dynasty. Plants were cultivated and animals were raised during the Qing dynasty. Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, it was renovated and renamed the West Suburb Park. The zoo finally got its present name in 1955.

The zoo covers an area of more than 50,000 square meters, including the panda, lion and tiger halls, totaling to about 30 halls. In 1999, the Beijing Ocean Hall was developed and was considered the biggest in the country. It contains a wide range of fish species where visitors can be entertained by sea lions and dolphins.

The Beijing Zoo is where you can find popular exhibits such as the White-lipped deer, Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey, Manchurian tigers and Tibetan yaks. You can also see Australian kangaroos and African zebras here. Among these, the Giant Pandas remain to be the focal draw.

The zoo is also a center for zoological research that studies and reproduces rare animals from different continents around the world.

The animals in the Beijing Zoo will surely bring out the kid in each of its visitors. Since Beijing hotels can be located within minutes from the site, tourists need not fret. From cuddly bears to slithery snakes, one will definitely be enthralled by their performances. These animals will surely make you want to ask for more.