Japan's Last Two Pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, Depart for China, Ending Half-Century Presence

Ueno Zoo's Twin Pandas Begin Journey Home

Tokyo's Ueno Zoo is preparing for the departure of its last two giant pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, who are scheduled to return to China on January 27. The twin pandas, born at the zoo in June 2021, will be transported from Ueno Zoological Gardens to Narita International Airport before flying to China. They are expected to arrive at a facility in China on January 28, where they will join their older sister, Xiang Xiang.

The final public viewing day for Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei was January 25, drawing significant crowds and emotional farewells from their admirers.

End of an Era: Japan Without Pandas for First Time in Decades

The departure of Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei signifies a historic moment, as it will be the first time in about half a century that Japan will not host any giant pandas. Japan's connection with giant pandas dates back to 1972, when the first pair arrived to commemorate the normalization of diplomatic ties between China and Japan. Since then, these iconic animals have served as a powerful symbol of friendship and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Panda Diplomacy and Return Agreements

Giant pandas are loaned by China to other countries as part of its 'panda diplomacy' program, with China retaining ownership of the pandas and any offspring they produce. Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei were born to parents Shin Shin and Ri Ri, who themselves returned to China in September 2024. Their older sister, Xiang Xiang, also returned to China in February 2023, with her departure broadcast live on local television due to public interest.

The return of the twins was initially scheduled by February 2026 under a prior agreement between China and Japan. However, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government consulted with the Chinese side and agreed to move the return forward by approximately one month. The cooperation agreement for giant panda conservation research, originally effective from 2011, was extended in 2021 for another five years, valid until February 20, 2026.

Uncertain Future for Panda Presence in Japan

The departure of Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei follows the return of four other pandas from Adventure World in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, in June 2025. With no new loans currently in sight, the prospects for Japan to host pandas again remain uncertain. Some reports suggest that deteriorating relations between Japan and China, particularly following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning Taiwan, may be influencing the situation. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government had reportedly requested new pandas, but the request is unlikely to succeed.