Travel

Ueno Zoo pandas to be treated in China for high blood pressure

Sep 01 (NHK) - A pair of giant pandas at Tokyo's Ueno Zoological Gardens will return to China in late September to be treated for high blood pressure.

Male Ri Ri and female Shin Shin both turned 19 years old this year. They are the parents of twins Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei.

Ri Ri and Shin Shin have been receiving medication since showing signs of high blood pressure last year, but their conditions have not improved.

The pandas are on loan from China until 2026, but the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Chinese side agreed that it would be better for them to be treated in their motherland.

They will depart for China on September 29.

A farewell event including an exhibition about their years at Ueno Zoo will start on Tuesday. Officials will also accept messages of goodwill for the pandas from September 15.

Ri Ri and Shin Shin can be viewed at the zoo until September 28. Access to the final session from 3 p.m. will be determined by lottery. Applications will be accepted online from Tuesday.

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko said on Friday that she hopes people give the pandas a warm sendoff.

Ishiba Frames Three Pillars

Prime Minister Ishiba has instructed relevant ministers to draft economic measures focused on addressing rising prices, strengthening growth, and ensuring safety and security.

Man Evades Arrest After Series of Violent Robberies

A man who was placed on the public wanted list Thursday is suspected of playing a key role in a series of robberies in Tokyo and Saitama.

Anna Sawai Named in TIME's '100 Next'

The prestigious American magazine 'TIME' has selected actress Anna Sawai as one of this year’s '100 Next.'

Osaka's Casino Project to Start Next Spring

Osaka City has handed over land for the Integrated Resort (IR) project, which will include a casino, after signing a contract to lease the land to the developer for 35 years at a monthly rent of 2.1 billion yen.

Japan to Introduce New Mobile Numbers Starting with 060

Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is set to introduce new mobile phone numbers starting with '060,' possibly as early as December, marking the first addition of a new number in 11 years.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Travel NEWS

3 Days in Japan’s TATTOO FRIENDLY Onsen Town

Ever heard of Kinosaki Onsen in Japan? It’s a 1300 year old tattoo-friendly onsen town that’s home to 7 mystical hot springs that are all within walking distance from one another. (Hangry By Nature)

Tokyo Tower Launches First Premium Tour

Tokyo Tower has launched its first-ever premium tour following the renovation of its observation deck. Starting from october 5th, the 'TOKYO DIAMOND TOUR' will limit entry to just 70 guests per day, offering an exclusive experience inside Tokyo Tower.

Unexploded Bomb Detonates at Miyazaki Airport

A large sinkhole was found on the taxiway of Miyazaki Airport on Wednesday, caused by the explosion of a 500-pound U.S.-made bomb.

'Hands Free' Tourist Bus Begins in Kyoto

Kyoto has launched a pilot project called the 'HANDS FREE BUS' to tackle overtourism and alleviate congestion on city buses, particularly caused by tourists with large luggage.

Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks 2024 Compilation, Captured by Helicopter

The Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival, a staple of Osaka's summer tradition, was captured in its full glory. Featuring footage shot by ytv cameramen, who poured their collective efforts into capturing the event, the video includes stunning scenes filmed from a helicopter.