Tokyo's Ueno Zoo seeks to rebuild visitor numbers after giant pandas depart

Ueno Zoo in Tokyo is facing lower visitor numbers after its pair of giant pandas concluded their stay and were repatriated to China. The decline underscores the drawing power of the charismatic megafauna that had been a major draw for the institution, which sits in the heart of the capital's cultural district.

In response to the attendance drop, zoo officials have strategically positioned the shoebill—known locally as hashibiroko—as the facility's next marquee attraction. The massive stork-like bird, which can stand up to 1.5 metres tall and is native to South Sudan, boasts an imposing appearance that has already begun capturing visitor attention.

The shoebill's distinctive features, including its enormous bill and prehistoric demeanour, represent a calculated shift in the zoo's conservation and visitor engagement strategy. By developing exhibits around the rarely-seen species, Ueno Zoo hopes to sustain public interest and attendance as it navigates the post-panda era.

The pivot reflects a broader trend among zoos in Asia to diversify their collections and highlight lesser-known species, balancing entertainment value with conservation education objectives.