Ueno Zoo celebrated its 144th anniversary today (March 20th)!

Ueno Zoo opened on March 20, 1882 (Meiji 15) as Japan's first zoo, and since then has welcomed a variety of animals from all over the world and has been loved by many people.

Throughout our long history, we have continuously devised innovative methods of raising and exhibiting animals in order to convey their charm to a wide audience.

Currently, we are working even harder to improve "animal welfare," striving to create an environment where animals can live healthy and comfortable lives, both physically and mentally. This includes creating environments that suit the animals' natural instincts and providing care that is tailored to the individual needs of each animal.

As we move forward with these initiatives, we are carefully making improvements step by step, while also facing various challenges.

In recent years, many animals have faced extinction due to habitat destruction, climate change, environmental pollution, and the impact of invasive species. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), more than 48,600 species of living things worldwide are considered endangered.

To address these global issues, Ueno Zoo is working with the national and local governments, universities, and NPOs to engage in conservation activities to protect wild animals, and is also focusing on educational outreach activities to spread awareness about these issues.

Recently, Ueno Zoo held an event called "Buy, Learn, and Protect!" in commemoration of "World Wildlife Day." At this event, together with various organizations working to protect wildlife, we shared information about the current situation facing wildlife through a market stall and talk events. Many people attended, and it was a valuable opportunity for them to learn about various activities.

Going forward, Ueno Zoo will continue to share the wonder of living creatures through the care and exhibition of animals, and to convey the importance of protecting wildlife. We ask for your continued warm support and cooperation.

[Toyo Fukuda, Director of Ueno Zoological Gardens]

(March 20, 2026)