Japan's Last Two Pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, to Return to China Early Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Early Departure for Beloved Pandas

Tokyo, Japan – Xiao Xiao, a male, and Lei Lei, a female, the last two giant pandas residing in Japan, are scheduled to return to China in late January 2026. This move, announced by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government on December 15, comes approximately one month ahead of their original planned return date of February 20, 2026. The twin pandas, born at Ueno Zoo in June 2021, will have their final public viewing day on January 25, 2026, with their repatriation expected between January 26 and 31.

The early departure has drawn thousands of visitors to Ueno Zoo, eager to catch a final glimpse of the popular animals. Long queues have formed, with many expressing emotional farewells to the pandas that have been a major attraction since their birth.

Symbolic Return Amidst Strained Ties

The accelerated return of Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei is widely seen as a symbolic reflection of deteriorating diplomatic relations between Japan and China. This tension has escalated following remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in early November. During a Diet session, Takaichi commented that a crisis in Taiwan could constitute an 'existential crisis' for Japan, hinting at potential military intervention if force were used.

China, which considers Taiwan an inalienable part of its territory, has strongly condemned these statements. Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong described Takaichi's comments as 'utterly unacceptable' and a 'serious risk to peace in Asia and the world,' demanding a retraction. Historically, pandas have served as key instruments in China's 'panda diplomacy,' symbolizing friendship and cooperation since the normalization of diplomatic ties between Beijing and Tokyo in 1972.

Japan to be 'Panda-Free' for the First Time in Decades

With the departure of Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, Japan will be without any giant pandas for the first time since 1972. This marks a significant shift in the long-standing cultural exchange between the two nations. China maintains ownership of all giant pandas, including those born abroad, and typically requires their return around the age of four.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government had reportedly sought an extension for the pandas' stay and has requested a new pair from China to continue conservation and research projects. However, no formal response has been received, and the prospects for a new loan remain uncertain given the current geopolitical climate. The absence of pandas is expected to impact Ueno Zoo's visitor numbers and merchandise sales, as well as the broader cultural and diplomatic exchanges between Japan and China.