Japan bids farewell to the last pair of pandas in Tokyo: the end of a historic era
Tokyo's Ueno Zoo witnessed a moving and historic moment as thousands of fans gathered to bid a final farewell to giant panda twins Xiao Xiao and Li Li. This massive gathering comes ahead of the bears' scheduled return to their native China this week, an event marking a significant turning point in cultural relations between the two countries.
An emotional farewell amid fears of emptiness
Visitors lined up in long queues from the early morning hours, many shedding tears as they waved to the beloved twins. This departure holds particular significance and pain for panda lovers in Japan, as reports indicate that the pair's passing could leave Ueno Zoo—and perhaps Japan itself, given its formal diplomatic relationship with Tokyo Zoo—without pandas for the first time in over 50 years, especially with the prospect of finding an immediate replacement under the current circumstances dwindling.
The historical roots of “panda diplomacy”
To fully understand this event, one must go back to 1972, the year that launched what is known as “panda diplomacy.” That year, to mark the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and China, Beijing gifted Tokyo its first pair of pandas (Kang Kang and Lan Lan). Since then, these black and white animals have become a powerful symbol of friendship and peace between the two Asian neighbors, playing a pivotal role in easing political tensions over the decades.
Why are pandas returning to China?
Giant pandas in zoos around the world are subject to strict agreements. Although Xiao Xiao and Li Li were born in Japan, they are owned by China. International agreements aimed at preserving this endangered species stipulate that the cubs must be returned to China when they reach sexual maturity (usually between two and four years old) to participate in breeding programs to ensure genetic diversity and the continuation of the species.
Cultural and economic impact
The absence of the pandas is not only a matter of emotion, but also has a significant economic impact on what is known as the "panda economy." These animals contributed to attracting millions of tourists and boosting souvenir sales and the businesses of restaurants surrounding Ueno Zoo. With the twins' passing, there is anticipation regarding the future of cooperation in this area, and whether China will send new panda ambassadors to revive this half-century-old tradition.
