The Great Panda Homecoming.

In a bittersweet but "aww"-inducing event, Japan is currently saying goodbye to its last two giant pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei. Today, January 25, marked the final public viewing at Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo before the twins return to China this Tuesday. One devoted fan, Takahiro Takauji, who has taken over 10 million photos of the pandas over 15 years, was among thousands who won a lottery just for a one-minute final glimpse. While the move is part of a loan agreement, the "panda mania" on both sides of the sea has provided a rare moment of lighthearted cultural connection amidst otherwise tense diplomatic news.

©YovaniBernard.