Tokyo, Jan 27, 2026 (AFP) - Japan's beloved last pandas leave for China as ties fray

NAMPA / AFP

2026-01-27

Hundreds gathered to say farewell to two popular pandas departing Tokyo for China on Tuesday, leaving Japan without any of the beloved bears for the first time in 50 years as ties between the Asian neighbours fray. Panda twins Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao were transported by truck out of Ueno Zoological Gardens, their birthplace, disappointing many Japanese fans who have grown attached to the furry four-year-olds. "I've been coming to watch them since t......

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