The panda cub "Yuan Zai" makes its official debut on 1/6, with 3 inflatable stand-ins making an early appearance

▲ The panda cub "Yuan Zai" will officially appear on January 6, with inflatable stand-ins already making an early appearance at the zoo (Photo / Provided by Taipei Zoo)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The adorable panda cub "Yuan Zai" will finally make its official public debut next Monday (January 6). Taipei Zoo has specially prepared three 2-meter-tall inflatable "stand-ins," which will make an early appearance at the zoo's Education Center.

Weighing over 13 kilograms, after more than 170 days of growth, the public can finally see the cute cub in person. To ensure visitors have a smooth experience meeting Yuan Zai, the zoo is currently working hard to arrange viewing routes. In addition, the zoo has also prepared three large inflatable "Yuan Zais" placed in the park’s Education Center, allowing the public to get a sneak peek. The designs of the three inflatable figures were specially selected from photos of "Yuan Zai," based on two classic poses.

After over 70 days, the adorable panda cub "Yuan Zai" is no longer only visible via live broadcasts—the public can now see it in person (Photo / Provided by Taipei Zoo)

The zoo stated that after the opening, the Giant Panda House will allow entry in sessions of about 400 people for 10 minutes each. Starting with the 10:10 AM session, 50 spots per session will be reserved for visitors arriving via the Maokong Gondola. Tickets can be collected at the zoo’s on-site station entrance, and entry must be made during the designated time slot shown on the ticket. Those who arrive late must first queue in the "Late Waiting Area" with their tickets, and staff will allow a suitable number of additional entrants depending on the queue situation.

During the Lunar New Year period, from the first to fifth day of the first lunar month (January 31 to February 4), the viewing time for "Yuan Zai" will start 30 minutes earlier. However, the zoo will be closed on New Year’s Eve. On February 17, the Giant Panda House will be closed for cleaning. Please check the latest Giant Panda-related information before heading out to avoid a wasted trip.