In a somewhat unusual move yesterday, Japan’s Ueno Zoo released a video on its official website of its two pandas, Shin Shin and Ri Ri, copulating in their enclosure.
Rest assured that neither smooth jazz nor scented candles were involved in the incident and that this article is perfectly safe to be read at work.
After Shin Shin, the female, appeared to be ready for mating, the zoo removed both her and her partner from public view in an attempt to make the most of the two-week window of opportunity for the pair to conceive.
The pandas are reported to have mated on Monday evening and again on Tuesday morning, away from the prying eyes of the public. Not wanting to keep panda fans completely in the dark, however, the zoo uploaded a video to its website showing the pair mating at around 6 p.m. on Monday evening, giving many hope that we may well see another little black-and-white face in the near future.
After the sudden death of the pandas’ cub last year – the first born at the zoo in 24 years – many are desperate for Shin Shin to conceive again. Hopefully the pair’s recent liaisons will result in good news in the coming months.
Source: IT Media

Ueno Zoo’s Panda Enclosure Goes Big Brother, Installs Real-Time Cameras for All to See
Japan’s last two pandas leaving for China next month, Ueno Zoo announces final day for twins
Popular Japanese treat Tokyo Banana gets special makeover for baby panda’s debut at Ueno Zoo
Tokyo zoo imposes one-minute time limit for viewing pandas, line still four hours long
How are you supposed to wash a Japanese futon duvet at the laundromat?
Face lettuce appears in Japan, with the face of Death Note’s Light Yagami, but why?
Family Mart’s new Famima flagship in Tokyo has a hidden gem that most visitors miss
Studio Ghibli adds new Ponyo glassware to its anime lineup for summer
Pokémon Card Stores requiring facial recognition scans for entry in Japan in latest anti-scalper move
Tokyo subway installing new ticket gates that don’t accept payment through Suica or other IC cards
Japanese Shinkansen becomes an overnight hotel for three nights this summer
Starbucks Japan releases a miniature display rack so you can create your very own store at home
A roadside hair salon stall in China made us Norway’s Haaland for US$1, and warmed out hearts too
Universal Studios Japan requiring consent form for adults-only horror attraction
New Shinkansen luggage drop-off system begins in Japan, making train travel even easier
99-year-old woman rescued while attempting to climb Mt. Fuji
Which country’s foreign tourists spend the most money per-person in Japan? Hint: Not the U..S. or China
Giant Evangelion Spear of Longinus to be installed at Japanese train station with Eva art trains
Cup Noodle releases cold-water instant ramen in Japan, but can it really be made with just cold water?
Kodama Shinkansen trains on popular Japan route get a whole new look this winter
Studio Ghibli has a new anime out, and there’s only one place in the world where you can see it
Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Japan now has human refrigerators inspired by Japanese vending machines
Hatsune Miku collaborates with Hokusai’s art in new Vocaloid ukiyo-e illustration series [Pics]
Japan triples departure tax, foreign tourists and locals now must pay more to leave country
Studio Ghibli releases anime T-shirts that pay homage to one of Hayao Miyazaki’s most personal films
Family Mart opens new “Famima” flagship store in Tokyo that’s like a tourist attraction
Sanrio Character Poll announces winners, Hello Kitty absent from top 10 in many countries
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】