Panda lovers gather to honor 30 years of China-Japan breeding cooperation

(ECNS) -- A grand campaign has been staged at Adventure World, an amusement park in Shirahama of Japan's Wakayama Prefecture, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of China-Japan joint research on giant panda breeding and protection.

The event was attended by guests including Chinese Deputy Consul General in Osaka Wei Youmei, Director of China Tourism Office in Osaka Ma Xiaochen, and Deputy Governor of Wakayama Prefecture Hiroshi Shimo, alongside more than 2,000 panda lovers.

China Tourism Office in Osaka set up several experience and display areas. Participants could DIY paint panda toys named “Anyi” (comfort and ease), the Sichuan cultural and tourism mascot , and tasted mooncake-shaped like pandas, enjoying the Mid-Autumn Festival vibes in advance.

At the event, videos were displayed to show the history of Sino-Japanese cooperation in giant panda breeding.

On Sept. 6, 1994, giant pandas Youhin (female) and Eimei (male) were sent from Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to the Adventure World, marking the start of international Sino-Japanese joint research on pandas.

Over the past 30 years, Eimei has given birth to several healthy cubs and formed a big family, becoming a core contributor to the Sino-Japanese panda protection project.

The male panda was appointed special envoy for Sino-Japan friendship by the Chinese Consul General in Osaka Xue Jian.　　

Since the return of Eimei and other family members to China, Wakayama panda lovers have been concerned about their current condition. The CCTV iPanda column produced a "Mid-Autumn Reunion" video on their lives at Chengdu Research Base and other locations in China.

The big family has flourished thanks to more than 30 years of joint breeding efforts between the two countries, marking a precious achievement.

While some pandas munched bamboo shoots, the footage showed others playing leisurely. Seeing the pandas healthy and vibrant, enthusiasts shed tears of joy.