Hong Kong’s first locally born panda twins, raised at Ocean Park, made their public debut on February 15, 2025, drawing crowds of over 5,000 visitors to the Giant Panda Aventure Habitat, a day after their six-month milestone was celebrated.
Ocean Park Debut
The twin pandas will be available for public viewing daily from 10 am to 3 pm, with a maximum capacity of 800 to 1,000 visitors per hour, expected to account for approximately 50% of the total visitor flow into the park according to the Ocean Park website. Crowd management with five-minute restrictions inside the showroom will be implemented to account for health reasons, which may limit visitor-ability in interacting with the twins. Apart from early VIP access limited to 40 people per day with a price point of 1,500 HKD per person, entry into the panda enclosure is on a “first come, first served” basis.
“I am a big fan of ‘Elder Sister’ and ‘Little Brother,’ said Tina Lau, a devoted fan of the twin pandas, expressing her deep affection while visiting Ocean Park despite complaining about ticket costs. “They looked like two little mice back then, but look how big they are now!”
In light of the increased number of visitors to the attraction, Park Chairman Paulo Pong Kin-Yee has announced that they are considering extending the visiting hours. Nevertheless, there is a growing concern that the decision will require thorough evaluation and synchronisation with a suitable timetable for the twin pandas.
Panda Economy
The trend has instigated a significant increase in the introduction of panda-themed merchandise from 130 to 400, available to purchase from physical stores such as park souvenir shops and the Caring for the Future Showcase @ Art House concept store at K11 MUSEA, or through Ocean Park’s eShop website.
The phenomenon aligns with proposals put forth by government officials over the past six months.
The concept of a “panda economy” emerged following the announcement by the Beijing Central government regarding the gifting of two giant pandas, ‘An An’ and ‘Ke Ke’, to Hong Kong in celebration of the 27th anniversary of Hong Kong’s handover to China, reportedly showcasing local cultural traits, boosting tourism, and drawing inspiration from other successful models in mainland China.
Panda-themed activities
In addition to the panda twins’ debut at Ocean Park, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has organized various panda-themed activities, including the largest Panda exhibition in Hong Kong titled “Panda Go! Fest Hong Kong” launched by AllRightsReserved. The exhibition features 2,500 panda sculptures displayed at several famous landmarks aiming to attract visitors and boost tourism. Meanwhile, mailboxes and guideposts with 3D panda sculptures have been installed at numerous street corners around Hong Kong, allowing tourists to explore the city on foot while searching for hidden 3D panda sculptures.
“I think holding this activity around Hong Kong is a good idea,” said university student Rachel Chen, reflecting on seeing a panda-decorated guidepost days ago.”It made me surprised.”
Despite doubts about the extent to which the “panda economy” can contribute to Hong Kong’s tourism and cultural development, government action appears to persist in promoting the trend.
More information about other panda-themed activities:
* Hong Kong Tourism Board: Welcome the panda twin cubs and meet our new members!