A Japanese born panda has departed Tokyo and is set to arrive in Beijing. Panda fans in Japan gathered to say their goodbye, wishing Xing Bang a happy and healthy life in China.

It was a solemn farewell.

The 4 and a half-year-old male giant panda was born to Yong Ming and Mei Mei in August 2005. The panda couple were leased by China, to the Adventure World Park Zoo in western Japan.

Zoo personnel made extensive preparations to ensure a smooth departure. Panda lovers from all over Japan gathered to see off the zoo's star attraction.