Why Hong Kong’s Twin Panda Cubs Are This Summer’s Cutest Celebrities

In Hong Kong, the twin giant pandas Jia Jia and De De, born at Ocean Park Hong Kong on 15 August 2024 to mother Ying Ying, are all the rage. Their birth was a historic event as they were the first giant panda twins to be born in the city and especially owing to the fact that Ying Ying, their mother, turned into the world's oldest first-time mother at the age of 19. In May 2025, the city chose their official names via a public contest and ever since then, the pair have turned into a must-see sensation of Hong Kong. Recently in the middle of August, their birthday was also celebrated with much verve and gaiety.Who Are Jia Jia And De De?The cubs were delivered hours apart in the early morning of 15 August 2024. Ocean Park’s keepers and vets provided round-the-clock care through their fragile first weeks, closely tracking milestones such as fur growth, eye-opening and first steps—updates that quickly drew an avid following. Today, both cubs are robust, energetic climbers and crowd-pleasing tumblers, typically viewed with their mother inside Giant Panda Adventure at Ocean Park.How They Got Their NamesOn 27 May 2025, Hong Kong officials made a big announcement of the winning entries from a public naming competition that drew over a whopping 35,700 submissions. The female cub was chosen to be called Jia Jia (加加), a name associated with support and auspicious family prosperity; the male was called De De (得得), evoking success and the idea of virtue—both choices intended to convey upbeat blessings for the city. The ceremony was held at Ocean Park and drew an overwhelming attention.Why Their Birth MattersBeing famously difficult creatures to breed, giant pandas coming out in twins was still a rarer occurrence. The successful delivery and healthy development of Jia Jia and De De have been hailed as a conservation win and a scientific milestone, especially given Ying Ying’s age. Their popularity has also lifted Hong Kong’s tourism mood—part of a broader “panda economy” moment the city has embraced.Why They’re This Summer’s StarsJia Jia and De De are a beacon of genuine conservation significance with irresistible public appeal. They are photogenic ambassadors for a vulnerable species and a shot of uncomplicated joy in a fast-paced city—drawing families, students and travellers to learn, cheer and, yes, queue for that perfect panda moment. As Ocean Park expands their habitat and programming, the twins will remain a headline reason to put the south side of Hong Kong Island on your itinerary.Where to See Them: Ocean Park Hong KongA marine-themed park, Ocean Park in Wong Chuk Hong on the south side of Hong Kong is the official home of the pandas. They live in what is called the Giant Panda Adventure, a purpose-built, climate-controlled habitat within the park’s Amazing Asian Animals zone. In 2025, the park expanded the twins’ activity space in order that the visitors could have a better engagement with the pandas in terms of viewing. If you’re planning a visit, aim for morning or late afternoon when temperatures are gentler and the pandas are often more active.What Else Is in the Park?Ocean Park is more than pandas. Highlights include the Grand Aquarium, the Ocean Express funicular linking zones, hilltop thrill rides with South China Sea views, and the separate-ticket Water World (open year-round). Families can easily spend a full day combining animal exhibits with shows and rides.Things to See Near Ocean ParkOcean Park sits in Hong Kong’s Southern District, making it easy to pair a panda visit with coastal sightseeing:Deep Water Bay & Repulse Bay: Two classic Hong Kong Island beaches short ride away—ideal for a post-park swim or seaside lunch.Aberdeen Fishing Village: Boardwalk strolls, harbour views and traditional sampan rides offer a glimpse of the city’s maritime past.Stanley: A little farther along the south-side coast for a market browse, heritage walk and waterfront cafés.The Peak (via Admiralty then Peak Tram): Head back across to the north side for Hong Kong’s signature skyline panorama at sunset.Getting ThereThe easiest route is the MTR South Island Line directly to Ocean Park Station, adjacent to the main entrance. Taxis and ride-hailing vehicles are widely available; limited parking exists on site but fills quickly on weekends and holidays.Practical Tips For Seeing The CubsTiming: Check the park’s daily schedule; panda viewing can be paused for animal care. Mornings typically offer calmer crowds.Crowds: Expect queues during weekends, school holidays and special events (e.g., the twins’ first-birthday celebrations in August 2025 drew large turnouts).Respect the rules: Flash-free photography and quiet behaviour help keep the animals comfortable.Temple Street After Dark: Rediscover Hong Kong's Iconic Night Market