Photo/Illutration Giant pandas Kang Kang, back left, and Lan Lan at the Ueno Zoological Gardens in Tokyo in October 1973 (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

Good morning. I am a giant panda.

Exactly 50 years ago today, my two great predecessors--Kang Kang and Lan Lan--arrived in Japan, being the first among us to do so.

Since today is that very special anniversary, I am writing this column.

I am sure many older readers of this column remember the nationwide “panda fever.” In 1972, Japan and China normalized ties, and China gifted the pandas to Japan as a symbol of friendship.

“The giant panda represents the self-image the Chinese people want to project to the international community,” said Masaki Ienaga, 40, an associate professor at Tokyo Woman’s Christian University and author of “Chugoku Panda Gaikoshi” (The history of China’s panda diplomacy).

It may not be my place to say so, but I think China’s panda diplomacy boils down to a desire to be cute and loved by everyone.

“When China decides to give a panda to a country, it carefully chooses the recipient and the right time to ensure the gift is most appreciated,” Ienaga said.

But seeing how tough and formidable China has become recently, I’m a bit worried. No matter how hard we pandas try, it won’t be easy to improve China’s image.

Why do humans fight all the time? My carnivore ancestors evolved into bamboo eaters and chose to live deep in the mountains, where there were few enemies.

Wouldn’t it be better to rack your brain and aim for coexistence?

I walked around Tokyo’s Ueno district yesterday and was deeply moved to see us as cartoons and toys commemorating the 50th anniversary of the arrival of Kang Kang and Lan Lan at the Ueno Zoological Gardens in Tokyo.

And at the zoo, Shin Shin and the twins she gave birth to last year were happily napping.

I hope the coming half-century will be just as serene and relaxing. I pray for peace.

“Zai jian” (Goodbye).

--The Asahi Shimbun, Oct. 28

* * *

Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.

Related News