Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo has unexpectedly become a culinary destination, captivating visitors with its innovative lineup of animal-inspired treats rather than its living exhibits. The Jiangsu province attraction has introduced an array of whimsical edible creations that are drawing widespread attention for their creative designs and playful themes.
The zoo’s culinary team has developed several visually striking offerings, including intricately crafted animal-shaped candied hawthorn sticks, boldly designed ‘Cool Guy Gorilla’ cookies, and adorable panda-themed milk tea beverages. These specialty items are priced at approximately 25 yuan ($3.6) for coffee and milk tea drinks, while cakes and more elaborate confections average above 30 yuan.
Each culinary creation demonstrates remarkable attention to detail, transforming traditional zoo snacks into artistic expressions that complement the animal exhibits. The treats serve as both refreshments and memorable souvenirs, enhancing the overall visitor experience through their thematic connection to the zoo’s inhabitants.
The innovative approach represents a growing trend among Chinese zoological institutions to expand their visitor engagement strategies beyond animal viewing. By incorporating food artistry into their offerings, Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo has created additional revenue streams while providing unique, shareable content that resonates strongly on social media platforms.
This culinary initiative follows the zoo’s established reputation for progressive animal care and visitor experiences, demonstrating how recreational facilities can creatively adapt to changing consumer expectations and entertainment preferences in modern tourism.