Four beloved giant pandas will bid farewell to Japan's Adventure World theme park in June 2025, returning to their native China after years as crowd favorites. The departure marks the end of an era for Wakayama Prefecture's most charismatic animal ambassadors.
The group includes 24-year-old Rauhin – the first panda ever born at Adventure World – along with her three daughters Yuihin (8), Saihin (6), and Fuhin (4). Known as a 'super mom,' Rauhin has contributed significantly to panda conservation efforts by raising 10 cubs during her tenure in Japan.
Park officials confirm only two giant pandas will remain in Japan after this transfer, both residing at Tokyo's Ueno Zoo until their scheduled return to China by February 2026. The announcement has prompted an outpouring of nostalgia from visitors who grew up watching the bears.
This transfer follows international agreements on giant panda conservation between China and partner countries. As living symbols of cultural diplomacy, pandas have long served as bridges between nations while supporting global biodiversity efforts.
