| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 08, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Zosano Pharma Corp |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001587221 |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 8, 2022 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-36570 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 45-4488360 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 34790 Ardentech Court |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Fremont |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 94555 |
| City Area Code | (510) |
| Local Phone Number | 745-1200 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.0001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | ZSAN |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
