Missing pandas? A top Japanese theme park is rolling out new “keeper experiences” to fill the huge gap left by their panda stars. As of December 2025, tourists who came to snap selfies with giant pandas must now look elsewhere—but the park has a surprise! 😊
This year, after the beloved pandas completed their loan period and returned to China, visitor numbers dipped. To keep guests excited, the park launched interactive sessions where you can suit up like a zookeeper and:
- Feed adorable red pandas or raccoon dogs 🦝
- Help clean enclosures (don’t worry, it’s fun!)✨
- Learn animal care tips from pros
- Capture behind-the-scenes shots for your Insta 📸
Bookings opened in November and spots are selling out fast. These “behind-the-scenes” passes cost a bit more, but fans say it’s totally worth it for an unforgettable animal encounter.
Travel experts note that this trend reflects a bigger shift: visitors crave hands-on, Insta-worthy moments over passive sightseeing. Parks across Asia are watching closely—by 2026, we might see more “keeper” adventures popping up in Hong Kong, Taiwan region and beyond!
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, these keeper experiences bring you eye-to-eye with wildlife in a safe, fun setting. If you’re planning a trip to Japan in 2026, don’t miss this 🐼🎢
Reference(s):
Japanese theme park turns to 'keeper experiences' to fill panda gap
cgtn.com
