The last two pandas in Japan are leaving for China as ties are strained

Published: Sunday, January 25, 2026 at 2:13 am

Japan Bids Farewell to Pandas as Diplomatic Tensions Rise

Tokyo is preparing to say goodbye to its last pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, who are set to return to China on Tuesday. Their departure marks the end of an era, leaving Japan without pandas for the first time in half a century. This comes as relations between Japan and China are strained, raising concerns about the possibility of future panda loans.

The cuddly black-and-white bears have been a beloved symbol in Japan since the first pair arrived in 1972, a gesture of goodwill following the normalization of diplomatic ties. Over the years, pandas have captured the hearts of the Japanese public, becoming national celebrities and a significant part of the cultural landscape. The current twins, born in the Ueno zoo in 2021, have drawn massive crowds eager for a final glimpse.

The pandas' departure is not just a sentimental loss; it also carries economic implications. The absence of pandas at the zoo is expected to cause an annual loss of approximately 20 billion yen ($128 million), according to an economics professor. The economic impact could reach tens of billions of yen if the situation continues for several years.

The decision to send the pandas back to China is linked to the current political climate. Tensions have escalated due to recent remarks made by Japanese officials regarding Taiwan and ongoing territorial disputes in the East China Sea. China has delayed approval of a replacement consul for the Japanese consulate in Chongqing, further highlighting the strained relations.

China typically lends pandas to other countries, maintaining ownership and control over any cubs produced. While Chinese officials have expressed a desire for Japanese friends to visit pandas in China, the prospect of new pandas arriving in Japan seems unlikely given the current diplomatic situation.

BNN's Perspective: The departure of the pandas underscores the complex interplay between cultural diplomacy and geopolitical realities. While the loss of these beloved animals is undoubtedly felt by the Japanese public, it also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in international relations. It is hoped that the two nations can resolve their differences and find a way to restore this symbol of goodwill.

Keywords: pandas, Japan, China, Ueno Zoo, Xiao Xiao, Lei Lei, diplomatic ties, political tensions, panda diplomacy, economic impact, Taiwan, territorial disputes, giant pandas, Beijing, Tokyo, panda return.

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