Chongqing - Hidden deep in the mountains of Kaili City, Guizhou Province, a small zoo once known only to locals has recently captured nationwide attention. Dubbed by netizens as “the most humble zoo in history,” Kaili Zoo has gone viral for all the right reasons — its animals are thriving, thanks to the care and dedication of its 70-year-old director, Feng Yuanyong.

Feng Yuanyong, the director of Kaili Zoo. (Photo/Jimu News)

It all began with a short online video, just a few seconds long, showing well-kept animals living contentedly in modest surroundings. The clip spread rapidly, drawing crowds of visitors and an outpouring of admiration for Feng, who single-handedly manages nearly every role in the zoo — director, ticket seller, tour guide, and caretaker.

“I’m both busy and happy,” Feng said with a laugh, adding that whether in good times or bad, he believes in facing life with calmness and sincerity.

A Zoo Surviving Against the Odds

A native of Anhui Province, Feng began his career as a math and physics teacher before becoming a principal and later an education official. After retiring in 2016, his love for animals led him to join his brother’s investment — the small Kaili Zoo — where he has since poured his energy and pension into keeping it alive.

For years, the zoo struggled to survive after a nearby amusement park — once its main source of foot traffic — shut down. Tickets have remained just 20 yuan per person for a decade, with children under one meter tall admitted for free. “Sometimes when visitors bargained the price down to 30 yuan for two people, I still agreed,” Feng recalled. “As long as someone was willing to come.”

At its lowest point, the staff was reduced from five to three. Feng often grew vegetables and grass himself to feed the animals. “No matter how hard it got, I had to take good care of them,” he said.

From Solitude to Support

Everything changed after the viral video. Weekend visitor numbers now reach into the thousands, and even light rain hasn’t deterred crowds. Stalls selling snacks and games have sprung up along the hillside leading to the zoo, and local families now make special trips to visit.

The attention has also brought unexpected generosity. Feng was surprised to find small sums — 1 yuan, 20 yuan, even 200 yuan — transferred to his account with notes reading, “I can’t visit in person, so here’s the ticket money.”

Visitors tour the zoo in the rain. (Photo/Jimu News)

“The kindness touched me deeply,” Feng said. “But it also made me uneasy. Making money isn’t easy, and I don’t want others to bear that burden.”

He has since publicly stated that the zoo no longer needs donations. All contributions and ticket revenue, he promised, will go toward improving enclosures, buying feed, and paying the staff.

As visitors surged, Feng’s biggest concern became safety. “We’ve strengthened every cage and checked every corner,” he explained. “Even the mountain path — I worry someone might slip. Safety must come first.”

Local authorities have responded quickly, sending personnel to assist in operations and ensure the zoo meets safety standards.

Despite the newfound fame, Feng insists nothing has changed about his purpose. “Whether teaching students or caring for animals, it’s the same — do it with heart and peace of mind,” he said, smiling as visitors lined up at dusk. “As long as I keep that attitude, there’s no hardship I can’t endure.”