Yinchuan Zoo of Zhongshan Park

Zhongshan Park Zoo (银川中山公园动物园) is located in Xingqing District (兴庆区) in Yinchuan City (银川市), Ningxia (宁夏). The zoo is a key part of Zhongshan Park (中山公园), with its main entrance situated on Hubei West Street (湖滨西街), and additional access points at the North Gate on Beijing East Road and the West Gate near Phoenix North Street.

Overview

Established in 1929, the park is built on the site of the Western Xia Dynasty (西夏) Yuán Hào Palace (元昊宫) ruins, which were later renamed to Xima Camp (西马营) during the Ming Dynasty (明). Covering a total area of 780 acres, the park is home to a variety of historic sites, including the Wenchang Pavilion (文昌阁) and a Ming Dynasty bronze bell, along with a rich array of plant species and wild animals.

The park features a diverse range of landscapes, with 79.41% of the park covered by greenery, and more than 20,000 plant species, including rare and protected trees. The zoo itself occupies 90 acres and houses over 500 wild animals.

In 2022, the zoo launched a relocation and renovation project to a new site in Xixia District (西夏区), with an estimated total investment of 103 million yuan. The new park will include new landscaping, water features, and improved facilities for both animals and visitors, and is expected to open before Labor Day in 2024.

History and Development

Initially, the area where Zhongshan Park stands today was the site of the Yuán Hào Palace, which was a grand architectural complex during the reign of Emperor Yuán Hào of the Western Xia Dynasty. The palace, which stretched for several miles, was the most significant structure in the ancient capital of Xingqingfu (兴庆府), later destroyed in the wars. By the Ming Dynasty, the area was used as a military camp, commonly known as Xima Camp.

In 1929, under the direction of Feng Yuxiang (冯玉祥), a park was built here and named Zhongshan Park, in honor of Dr. Sun Yat-sen (孙中山). The park underwent significant expansions after 1949, growing to cover 780 acres. Over the years, additional attractions were added, including Yuhai Bridge (玉带桥), the Children’s Activity Area, and the Animal Zoo. Recently, cultural additions like the Cultural Plaza and Water Park have further enriched the visitor experience.

Key Attractions

Zhongshan Park Zoo features several notable historic and cultural attractions:

• Wenchang Pavilion (文昌阁): Located on the north shore of Yin Lake (银湖), this pavilion was built during the Qing Dynasty and stands as a major landmark of the park.

• Ming Dynasty Bronze Bell (明代铜钟): This bell, cast in 1465 during the Ming Dynasty, is famous for its distinct shape and powerful resonance, which reportedly rings on its own at night.

• Yuhai Bridge (玉带桥): A beautifully constructed bridge over the lake.

• Xixia Bronze Bull (西夏铜牛): A symbol of the Western Xia Dynasty, this bronze statue adds historical depth to the park's cultural offerings.

• Shuofang Pavilion (朔方亭) and Martyrs’ Memorial Pavilion (烈士纪念亭): Honoring historical figures and events important to the region.

• Children's Activity Area and Youth Science Center (少年科技站): Offering educational and recreational experiences for children.

Animal Exhibits

The zoo showcases 70 species of animals, including rare birds and exotic wildlife. Visitors can observe animals in well-maintained enclosures that offer a glimpse into wildlife conservation efforts. The zoo also serves as a sanctuary for animals from diverse regions, including some endangered species.

Floral and Garden Exhibits

The park is renowned for its lush landscapes and variety of plants. It features over 20,000 plant species, including rare and protected trees, and has 5 greenhouses that display over 8,000 varieties of flowers and potted plants. The flower exhibition area offers year-round beauty and seasonal floral displays.

Recent Developments and Renovations

The park is undergoing a major renovation, with the addition of new facilities and the relocation of the zoo. The focus of the renovation is to improve the welfare of the animals by ensuring they have access to the "five freedoms" (freedom from hunger, discomfort, pain, fear, and distress) in more spacious and naturalistic environments. The new design aims to integrate immersive animal displays and enhance the park's role in the urban ecosystem, supporting the city’s “one-ring multi-park” green space system.

Future Developments:

• Relocation to a new site in Xixia District, expanding the park's offerings and improving visitor experiences.

• Upgraded animal habitats, including the introduction of marine life such as seals and sea lions, in a new performance hall.

• Expanded green spaces and improved water features to enhance the park’s natural beauty and eco-friendly environment.

Visiting Information

• Location: Xingqing District, Yinchuan City, Ningxia

• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 08:00–18:00

• Ticket Price: Free Admission

• Total Area: 780 acres

• Transportation: Visitors can easily reach the park by taking multiple bus routes that stop at the North Gate, West Gate, or Guangming Square (光明广场).