Tokyo Fans Celebrate Beloved Pandas Before China Return

Takahiro Takauji has taken more than 10 million photos of pandas, and Sunday's shoot was among his most meaningful. The Tokyo web engineer joined thousands at Ueno Zoo to celebrate twin pandas Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei before they return to China this week, carrying with them the love of a nation.

For 15 years, Takauji has visited the pandas nearly every day, documenting their lives on his blog "Every Day Pandas." He's published photo books capturing their funny, endearing moments. "Their shape and the way they move are honestly so cute and funny," he told reporters, his home filled with panda memorabilia collected over years of devotion.

The twins, born at Ueno Zoo in 2021, attracted massive crowds despite a strict one-minute viewing limit. Fans wearing panda-patterned clothing called out the bears' names and snapped photos as they munched bamboo and explored their enclosure. Many who couldn't get viewing tickets still came to the zoo to mark the special day.

Michiko Seki wore her favorite panda shirt and brought the same camera she used to photograph the twins' older sister before her departure two years ago. "They are animals that can provide tremendous comfort," she said, clearly moved by seeing the healthy, happy pandas one last time.

Why This Inspires

The panda love story began in 1972 when China sent Kang Kang and Lan Lan to Tokyo, sparking instant adoration. Since then, a dozen pandas have become national celebrities, inspiring everything from cookies and stuffed dolls to train station statues and department store sections dedicated entirely to panda merchandise.

The dedication of fans like Takauji shows how animals can bridge divides and create lasting joy. His daily visits and millions of photographs represent a labor of love that inspired countless others to connect with nature's gentle giants.

"I never imagined there would come a day when pandas would be gone from Japan," Takauji reflected. But the memories and photographs will keep the panda spirit alive.

The twins depart Tuesday for their new home in China, taking with them half a century of Japanese affection and leaving behind millions of cherished memories.