Japan Bids Farewell to Its Last Pandas as They Return to China

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Tokyo: Japan’s final two giant pandas left Tokyo for China on Tuesday, marking the end of a 50-year presence of the beloved animals in the country and highlighting growing strains in Japan–China relations.

Panda twins Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao were transported from Ueno Zoological Gardens, their birthplace, after their early repatriation was announced last month. Hundreds of fans gathered outside the zoo to say goodbye, many wearing panda-themed clothing and waiting for hours to catch a final glimpse.

The pandas were loaned under China’s long-standing “panda diplomacy” programme, which has symbolised friendship between Beijing and Tokyo since the two nations normalised diplomatic ties in 1972. Their return comes amid diplomatic tensions following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding potential military intervention over Taiwan.

China’s foreign ministry confirmed the pandas’ return, saying it welcomed Japanese visitors to see giant pandas in China. While Japan has reportedly sought a new panda loan, public opinion appears divided, with a majority opposing negotiations for a replacement pair.

Experts note that while pandas are often linked to diplomacy, their movement does not always signal political intent. Still, their departure leaves Japan without giant pandas for the first time in five decades.