InsideJapan News Network
Tuesday,
22nd
February
2011
In General Japan News,
In General Japan News,
Panda fever hits Japan
The arrival of two pandas at a Tokyo zoo has led to panda fever across the nation.
Ueno Zoo welcomed the male and female animals from China, with a special street-lined event.
It is hoped that the arrival of the five-year pandas could eventually play a key role in strengthening ties with China following nearly a year of territorial disputes between the two countries, as well as boosting the number of tourists visiting the zoo.
The pair, Bili and Xiannu, left their home in China's Sichuan province aboard a specially painted All Nippon Airlines jet decorated white with black spots.
According to Kyodo News, Bili is "a big eater and sporty, and enjoys tree climbing, while Xiannu is active and has an affable nature".
The animals will stay at Ueno Zoo, which was set up in 1882, for the next ten years at a cost of around $950,000 per year.
Written by Susan Ballion.
Related news stories:
Pandas at Tokyo's Ueno Zoo 'in mood for romance' (28th March 2012)
Japanese zoo hopes panda cubs are on the way (5th April 2012)
Noda to ask China for pandas (23rd December 2011)
Pandas could be used to boost Tsunami-affected area of Japan (18th October 2011)
Ueno Zoo welcomed the male and female animals from China, with a special street-lined event.
It is hoped that the arrival of the five-year pandas could eventually play a key role in strengthening ties with China following nearly a year of territorial disputes between the two countries, as well as boosting the number of tourists visiting the zoo.
The pair, Bili and Xiannu, left their home in China's Sichuan province aboard a specially painted All Nippon Airlines jet decorated white with black spots.
According to Kyodo News, Bili is "a big eater and sporty, and enjoys tree climbing, while Xiannu is active and has an affable nature".
The animals will stay at Ueno Zoo, which was set up in 1882, for the next ten years at a cost of around $950,000 per year.
Written by Susan Ballion.
Related news stories:
Pandas at Tokyo's Ueno Zoo 'in mood for romance' (28th March 2012)
Japanese zoo hopes panda cubs are on the way (5th April 2012)
Noda to ask China for pandas (23rd December 2011)
Pandas could be used to boost Tsunami-affected area of Japan (18th October 2011)
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