The Story Of Panda Yong Ming

Pandas, those adorable giants of the bamboo forest, have always held a special place in our hearts. Today, we take a closer look at one of these magnificent creatures who has not only charmed audiences with his gentle demeanor but has also played a pivotal role in fostering international friendship. Meet Yong Ming, a male panda who has become a symbol of Sino-Japan friendship after spending nearly three decades in Japan.

Yong Ming, with a pedigree number of 390, was born on September 14, 1992, at Beijing Zoo. His mother was Yong Yong, another beloved panda. At just one and a half years old, Yong Ming was transferred to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in May 1994. Just a few months later, in September, he embarked on a journey to Japan alongside female panda Mei Mei, beginning his life at Adventure World in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture.

Over the years, Yong Ming has become a beloved figure in Japan, not just for his cute appearance but for his remarkable breeding achievements. He fathered 16 panda cubs at Adventure World, setting a world record as the oldest panda to successfully breed in captivity. His offspring, collectively known as the "Hamada Family," have brought joy to countless Japanese fans and have played a significant role in promoting the conservation of endangered wildlife.

In recognition of his contributions, Yong Ming has received numerous accolades. In 2011, the Wakayama Prefectural Government awarded him, along with Mei Mei and Liang Bin, the title of "Prefectural Honorary Knight" for their efforts in promoting the prefecture. Further, in 2017, Yong Ming was honored with the highest award at the 10th Japan Zoo and Aquarium Association Awards. These honors reflect not only his breeding success but also his role in strengthening ties between Japan and China.

But Yong Ming's legacy extends beyond his breeding achievements. In December 2022, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, Yong Ming was appointed as the "Special Envoy for Sino-Japan Friendship" by Chinese Consul General in Osaka Xue Jian. The ceremony took place at Adventure World, where Yong Ming has spent most of his life in Japan. This appointment underscores Yong Ming's role as a bridge between the two nations, fostering closer ties and promoting mutual understanding.

As the "Special Envoy," Yong Ming embodies the spirit of friendship and cooperation between China and Japan. Xue Jian highlighted the unique role pandas play in promoting friendship and developing bilateral relations. He expressed hope that through Yong Ming and the pandas, more Japanese people would feel a connection to China, the home of pandas.

In February 2023, after nearly 28 years in Japan, Yong Ming and his twin daughters, Ohin and Touhin, returned to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. This return marked not just the end of their time in Japan but also a new chapter in their lives. A special ceremony was held to welcome them back, where Adventure World presented a monument dedicated to Yong Ming, Mei Mei, and their offspring, celebrating their contributions and the long-standing partnership between the two research bases.

Back in Chengdu, Yong Ming now enjoys a peaceful retirement in a secluded area of the research base, far from the spotlight but still cherished by fans around the world. Despite his return, Yong Ming's legacy in Japan lives on. The people of Wakayama Prefecture continue to hold him in high esteem, and Adventure World has even created an online memorial dedicated to him, allowing fans to revisit his time in Japan and stay updated on his life in China.

Yong Ming's journey from Beijing to Chengdu, then to Shirahama, and finally back to Chengdu, is a testament to the deep bond between humans and pandas. His life has been more than just a series of breeding achievements; it has been a story of friendship, cooperation, and the enduring power of cuteness. Yong Ming is not just a panda; he is an ambassador of goodwill, a symbol of the warm ties between China and Japan.

As we reflect on Yong Ming's incredible journey, let us also remember the importance of conserving these endangered creatures. Pandas like Yong Ming remind us of the beauty and fragility of nature and the need for ongoing efforts to protect their habitats. Yong Ming's life has been a celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of friendship. Thank you, Yong Ming, for bringing joy and unity to people around the world.