A major backlash has erupted in China after a popular tour guide allegedly described “Hua Hua,” one of Chengdu’s most famous giant pandas, as “disabled” during a live commentary at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
The incident reportedly took place on April 29 during a one-day panda tour organised by a branch of Sichuan China Youth Travel Service. The comment quickly triggered outrage among tourists present at the scene and later went viral online, sparking widespread criticism of the guide’s remarks.
In response, the travel agency issued a public apology on May 1, confirming that the guide involved, surnamed Lei, was not a direct employee but an externally hired staff member assigned to the tour group. The company said the incident exposed serious lapses in management oversight at the branch level.
Authorities and the company are now cooperating with local cultural and tourism regulators in Chengdu to investigate the matter. The agency also pledged strict disciplinary action against both the branch and any responsible individuals once the findings are confirmed.
According to earlier reports, a panda enthusiast confronted the guide at the scene, pointing out that her description of “Hua Hua” was incorrect. However, the guide reportedly insisted she was reading from official tour materials and initially refused to apologise or present her tour licence.
The situation escalated further when police were called to the scene. The guide later changed her statement, claiming she had referred to the panda as having “Down syndrome,” further fuelling public anger over her remarks.
“Hua Hua,” whose Chinese name is He Hua, is one of China’s most beloved giant pandas and a major tourist attraction in Chengdu. Known for her distinctive appearance and gentle behaviour, she has become a symbol of the city’s wildlife conservation efforts and even holds a ceremonial “honorary tourism ambassador” title.
