On January 20, 2026, Pingping and An’an, two penguins bred in captivity at Nanjing Underwater World in the Chinese mainland city of Nanjing, experienced their first snowfall outside the aquarium walls. Accompanied by their keepers, they waddled onto the historic Zhonghua Gate section of the Nanjing City Wall and gleefully frolicked in the fresh snow.
Nanjing saw a light snow shower that morning, with temperatures hovering around 1°C—near the lower limit of the average range for January. This winter wonderland offered a rare opportunity for the tuxedoed residents to enjoy a taste of the Antarctic chill.
Keepers noted that exposing penguins to outdoor environments can boost their physical activity and mental stimulation. 'The crisp air and soft snow textures encourage natural behaviors, from sliding on ice to interacting with cool surfaces,' said a staff member from Nanjing Underwater World.
Visitors gathered along the ancient wall to capture photos and videos, sharing the playful moments across social media. The charming scene not only highlights wildlife care in urban settings but also sparks conversations about animal welfare and conservation in a changing climate.
As cities across G20 nations explore ways to blend heritage sites with immersive wildlife experiences, the snowday adventure at Nanjing reminds us how simple moments in nature can foster global connections and inspire young travelers, conservationists, and city planners alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
