Overview
- State media footage showed twins Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei arriving in Sichuan, where they entered quarantine at China’s giant panda research center.
- Their departure leaves Japan without any giant pandas for the first time since 1972, when panda exchanges began after diplomatic normalization.
- The twins were trucked from Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo to Narita Airport and flown to China after authorities advanced their scheduled February return by about one month.
- Japanese vice-government spokesman Kei Sato said panda exchanges have improved public opinion in both countries and voiced hope they continue, though future loans are in doubt.
- Fans queued for farewell viewings through a lottery system, reflecting strong public interest that had boosted local businesses during the pandas’ time on display.