As of December 2025, Japan is preparing to bid farewell to its last giant pandas. Twin pandas at a Tokyo zoo are set to be returned to the Chinese mainland in late January 2026, marking the first time in about half a century that no pandas will be on display in the country.
Since the 1970s, giant pandas have captivated millions of Japanese zoo-goers. At the Tokyo zoo, the twin siblings have consistently drawn crowds, with fans lining up early on weekends for a glimpse of their playful antics. The pandas’ popularity has sparked a surge of panda-themed cafes, merchandise, and social media buzz—vibrant expressions of a global wildlife icon.
The pandas’ return reflects ongoing conservation partnerships between Japan and the Chinese mainland. Panda loan agreements often involve substantial conservation funding and collaborative research efforts. As the twins head back, fans can continue to follow their journey through live-streams and VR experiences offered by wildlife institutions in the Chinese mainland—demonstrating how technology is reshaping wildlife engagement.
For Tokyo’s zoo staff, January will be a bittersweet moment. Staff say watching the pandas grow has been a joy, and they are proud to support their conservation. Meanwhile, panda enthusiasts are planning trips to other international zoos or exploring virtual tours, underscoring how global travel and digital access go hand in hand for today’s wildlife fans.
The departure of these pandas closes a chapter in Japan’s zoo history, but it also opens new possibilities for conservation storytelling. Young global citizens can look beyond borders—celebrating the giant panda not just as a cute ambassador, but as a shared symbol of wildlife diplomacy and digital-age connection.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
