On a crisp Friday morning in northeast China’s Heilongjiang province, the Sun Island Giant Panda Pavilion in Harbin transformed into a joyful celebration venue, throwing a special birthday bash for its most popular residents: 9-year-old male twin giant pandas Zhi Shi and Zhi Ma.
Named for their unique light-colored markings that resemble cheese and sesame respectively, the fluffy twins marked a milestone both in age and in their new life in northern China. The pair made their big move from the world-famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in southwest China’s Sichuan province to Harbin back on August 11, 2025, making Friday’s party their first major birthday celebration held in their new permanent home.
Local zoo staff prepared custom birthday treats shaped like bamboo wreaths and frozen fruit cakes, designed to suit the pandas’ dietary preferences while beating the mild spring temperatures in Harbin. Dozens of visitors and panda enthusiasts gathered around the outdoor enclosure to watch the twins munch on their snacks, explore the celebration-themed enrichment displays, and capture photos of the playful pair.
The relocation of the giant pandas to Harbin has already boosted local tourism, drawing thousands of visitors to the Sun Island pavilion since the twins opened to the public late last year. Friday’s birthday event further highlighted the growing public interest in giant panda conservation and unique wildlife tourism experiences in northern China.