Invitation to Panda Swamp: Unique 2026 Calendar Featuring Adorable Pandas

Introduction

The much-anticipated 'Invitation to Panda Swamp Calendar 2026' will be released by Sekai Bunka on September 26, 2025. This calendar allows fans to immerse themselves in the enchanting world created by the popular book 'Invitation to Panda Swamp,' which has sold over 20,000 copies.

Discovering Pandas in New Ways

This isn't just a regular calendar; it's a gateway to deeper knowledge and appreciation of these adorable creatures. Each month highlights not only panda anniversaries and birthdays but also intriguing stories about Ueno's historical pandas and trivia about their biology. Alongside the calendar, detailed profiles of pandas—including their gender, arrival and departure dates, and distinguishing features—offer insights that enhance your understanding and love for these captivating animals.

A Unique Artistic Blend

The calendar is adorned with exclusive artwork by popular illustrator nanako, renowned for her contributions to 'Invitation to Panda Swamp' and 'Invitation to Sea Otter Swamp.' Known for her gentle color palettes and whimsical creativity, nanako's illustrations beautifully complement the stunning photographs of pandas taken by Takahiro Takauji, a dedicated photographer who has spent over ten years documenting the life of Ueno's pandas. The magical fusion of nanako's dreamy illustrations and Takauji's breathtaking images promises to provide an artful experience that will uplift your spirits each time you flip the page.

Nostalgic Pandas Make Their Return

This calendar transports you back in time by featuring beloved pandas such as Lanlan, the first female panda to arrive in Japan, and Ton-ton, who sparked the second panda boom in the country. Each month, you can relive their stories and admire their profiles illustrated with lovely photographs, creating a nostalgic journey that celebrates the endearing relationship between Ueno and its pandas—an ongoing narrative cherished across generations.

About the Creators

Tokyo Zoological Park Society is responsible for managing Ueno Zoo, Tama Zoo, Kasai Rinkai Aquarium, and Inokashira Natural Cultural Park, taking charge of panda activities in Japan.

Takahiro Takauji runs the blog 'Daily Panda,' diligently documenting the lives of Ueno's pandas all year. He is a web and DTP designer as well as a photographer, though his deep passion for pandas remains a delightful hobby that brings joy to many fans.

nanako, based in Okayama, is an illustrator whose works span various fields, providing 'sparkles' in everyday life. She creates charming animal-themed illustrations, linking animals and humans through storytelling.