Yong Ming (永明) is a remarkable giant panda with a life story that spans continents and generations. Born on September 14, 1992, at the Beijing Zoo, he represents not just a symbol of wildlife conservation but also a bridge of friendship between China and Japan. His journey from the vibrant landscape of Beijing to the serene environments of Japan and back again has touched the hearts of many, showcasing the importance of international cooperation in wildlife preservation. As we delve into the details of Yong Ming’s life, we will explore his early experiences, significant achievements, and the love and respect he has garnered from fans worldwide.
Basic Information
- Name: Yong Ming (永明)
- Gender: Male
- Lineage Number: 390
- Date of Birth: September 14, 1992
- Place of Birth: Beijing Zoo
- Mother: Yong Yong (永永)
- Father: Liang Liang (良良)
- Siblings: Ying Ying (迎迎), Yong Liang (永亮), Ji Ni (吉妮), Niu Niu (妞妞), Yuan Yuan (园园), Ben Ben (犇犇)
Intriguing Details of Panda Yong Ming
Picky Eating Habits: When Yong Ming first arrived in Japan, he frequently experienced discomfort, possibly due to difficulty adjusting to the new environment. Over time, he developed a habit of being picky about food. He disliked steamed buns made from cornmeal, milk, and rice flour, preferring bamboo instead. It is said that Yong Ming’s picky eating habits often frustrated his keepers to the point of tears. However, when he ate food he liked, he would adorably lift his right foot, rest his right elbow on his knee, and squint his eyes in enjoyment.
A Legendary Panda Father: During his time in Japan, Yong Ming and female pandas Mei Mei and Liang Bang (良浜) established the largest overseas panda family – the Hama Family. As of March 20, 2024, Yong Ming had fathered 16 cubs, earning him the title of a distinguished “heroic father.” All of his children’s names include the character “浜” (Hama), like Cai Bang (彩浜), You Bang (优浜), Jie Bang (结浜), Cai Bang (彩浜), Feng Bang (枫浜), Tao Bang (桃浜) and Ying Bang (樱浜), commemorating their time at Wakayama’s Adventure World.
Life Experience of Panda Yong Ming
Early Life: Yong Ming was born at the Beijing Zoo, where he spent the first year and a half of his life. In May 1994, at just 18 months old, he was exchanged to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to prepare for breeding.
Travel to Japan: On September 6, 1994, Yong Ming made a significant move to Japan’s Adventure World in Shirahama, Wakayama, alongside a female panda named Mei Mei (梅梅). This journey was part of the “Sino-Japanese Giant Panda International Long-term Breeding Cooperation Program.” Yong Ming quickly adapted to his new environment, playing a vital role in strengthening the panda population in Japan.
Honorary Prefectural Lord: In 2011, the Wakayama Prefectural Government honored Yong Ming and two other pandas with the title of “Honorary Prefectural Lord” for their contributions to promoting the region. The Governor, Yoshinobu Nisaka, expressed hopes for cooperation between Wakayama and China to increase the panda population.
Japan Animal Grand Prize Winner: In December 2017, the 10th Japan Animal Grand Prize was hosted by the Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Japan Animal Welfare Society. Yong Ming was honored with the highest award in recognition of his outstanding contributions.
Birthdays: On Father’s Day, June 19, 2022, Adventure World celebrated Yong Ming with special gifts, further highlighting the affection he has received from his caretakers and the public. By December 2022, Yong Ming was recognized as the oldest panda in Japan, having reached the remarkable age of 30. His legacy includes the natural birth of 16 cubs during his time in captivity.
China-Japan Friendship Ambassador: On December 17, 2022, Wakayama Adventure World held a special ceremony for Yong Ming, who had accompanied the public for 28 years. Mr. Xue Jian, the Chinese Consul General in Osaka, attended the event and presented Yong Ming with the world’s first China-Japan Friendship Ambassador certificate. More than just a giant panda, Yong Ming served as a bridge of friendship between the people of China and Japan.
Back to China: On February 14, 2023, it was announced that Yong Ming would return to China on February 22. A farewell event was held in Shirahama on February 21, attracting many supporters who gathered to express their love and admiration for the beloved panda. On February 22, he and his twin daughters, Ying Bang (樱浜) and Tao Bang (桃浜), flew back to China, marking the end of an era in Japan. On the day of the handover ceremony, Wakayama Adventure World presented the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding with a commemorative monument featuring Yong Ming, Mei Mei, and their offspring, honoring their legacy.
31st Birthday: September 14, 2023, marked Yong Ming’s 31st birthday. Although he had already returned to China, his time in Japan remained deeply cherished by his many Japanese fans. To satisfy their longing for Yong Ming and his family, the Chinese Consulate-General in Osaka, in collaboration with the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wakayama Adventure World, the Sichuan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, and the China National Tourist Office in Osaka, organized a special birthday celebration. At the event, fans watched a documentary reviewing Yong Ming’s wonderful years in Japan and, for the first time, saw videos of his daily life after returning to China.
Current Status: Currently, Yong Ming resides in a peaceful, serene area of the Chengdu Research Base, away from public exhibition. The environment is tailored to ensure that he enjoys a comfortable and quiet retirement.