Giant Panda Attracts Crowds As Ueno Zoo Reopens


Giant panda attracts crowds as Ueno zoo reopens

A giant panda was a star attraction at Tokyo's Ueno Zoological Gardens on Tuesday, when it reopened after a four-month-long closure amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Visitors flocked to see Xiang Xiang, who was born at the zoo and turned 3 this month.

They watched as she moved around and ate bamboo shoots.

A woman said she almost cried, being so happy to see Xiang Xiang again.

To prevent congestion around the panda area, the zoo prohibits photography and limits people to only one visit.

The number of zoo visitors is capped at 4,000 a day for the time being. Reservations are required.

The zoo's vice head, Tomita Yasumasa, said Tuesday's crowds reminded him anew of how Xiang Xiang is loved by the public. He said the facility will continue to take measures to prevent infections.