Jin Xi

Basic Profile

Jin Xi (Chinese: 金喜), also known by his adoption name “You Shuang” (友双), is a male giant panda born on September 1, 2020, at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. He holds the global studbook number 1246.

His mother is Miao Miao (淼淼), his older brother is Jin Yu (金玉), and his twin sister is Jin Shuang (金双) — together their names form the phrase “双喜临门” (double blessings arrive).

Adoption

On April 22, 2021, AIA Insurance Co., Ltd. sponsored Jin Xi through a lifetime adoption program at the Chengdu Base, giving him the adoption name “You Shuang” (友双).

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Journey to Spain

Selection

In 2024, Jin Xi (male) and Qing Zhu Yu (庆茱萸/Guo Guo) (female) were selected as the next pair to continue the China-Spain panda conservation program at Madrid Zoo — the first pandas to travel to Europe since 2019.

Departure

On April 29, 2024 at 11:24 AM, Jin Xi departed from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport aboard Air China cargo flight CA3103. The 13-hour 53-minute flight arrived at Madrid’s Barajas Airport at 19:20 local time.

Public Debut

On May 30, 2024, Madrid Zoo held an opening ceremony for the panda house. Queen Sofia of Spain unveiled a panda-themed sculpture. Madrid Mayor Almeida, the Chinese Ambassador to Spain Yao Jing, and representatives from Chengdu attended the ceremony.

5th Birthday (September 2025)

Madrid Zoo celebrated Jin Xi’s 5th birthday in September 2025 with a special cake made of fresh bamboo and watermelon.

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Life at Madrid

Facility Upgrades

Madrid Zoo upgraded its panda facility based on Chinese expert recommendations:

• Renovated birthing dens
• Additional climbing structures (scaffolding, logs)
• Enrichment optimization

Bamboo sources were established across Spain, France, and Portugal to ensure a stable food supply.

AI Assistant

In October 2024, Madrid Zoo assigned an AI assistant named “Irene” (伊雷尼娅) to assist with Jin Xi’s care and visitor education.