Shanghai Zoo (Shanghai Dongwuyuan)

Description:

• One of China's best, this zoo still has a long way to go to equal the better preserves in the West. It was a private estate of the Sassoon family, then a city golf course, before its conversion to a zoo in 1954. There are plenty of open spaces for children to play, but the spaces for animals are quite confined and depressing. Expect the usual performing seals and elephants. The panda center, a 20-minute stroll northwest from the entrance, has small indoor and outdoor areas. There are about 6,000 specimens (600 species) here, as well as a children's zoo and recreation center with playground equipment and Ferris wheel.

• © Frommer's 2012