Japan’s cherished giant pandas, Shin Shin and Ri Ri, have been safely returned to China, according to a statement from Tokyo’s Ueno Zoological Garden. The pandas arrived at the Ueno Zoo in 2011, bringing joy and comfort to the nation just months after the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on March 11 of that year. Over the years, the duo has continued to capture the hearts of visitors, drawing fans of all ages eager to see their playful antics and gentle nature.
The announcement of their impending departure a month ago stirred a wave of nostalgia and excitement among zoo-goers, prompting many to visit the pandas for one last glimpse before their journey home. Hiyori Sakurai, an artist in her 30s, expressed her deep connection to the pandas, stating, “Whenever I go through a hard time, I would go see Ri Ri and Shin Shin, and they always cheered me up.” Etsuko Tokuda, a self-employed woman in her 60s, echoed similar sentiments, noting, “Each day was important to me. I wanted to see them even if they were sleeping.”
Pandas, native to China, have long been seen as “envoys of friendship,” with the country’s practice of lending them to various nations being dubbed “panda diplomacy.” The return of Shin Shin and Ri Ri marks a poignant moment for both the animals and their devoted fans. Saturday was the last opportunity for visitors to see the beloved pair at Ueno Zoo, although their twins, born in June 2021, will remain at the facility, providing some solace to those heartbroken by the pandas’ departure.
Retiree Harumi Iteguchi, while saddened by the loss, found comfort in knowing that the panda couple would return to their homeland together. “Knowing that Ri Ri and Shin Shin will go back together as a couple to their home country cheered me up a bit,” she said. The departure of Shin Shin and Ri Ri not only highlights the unique bond between humans and these gentle giants but also serves as a reminder of the significance of wildlife conservation and the deep connections formed through such efforts.
