Mayor Rick Blangiardi exchanges views with staff members on managing cultural industries in Fuzhou, and looks forward to bringing the city's experience in cultural tourism, education and trade back to Honolulu. [Photo by Qiu Yuwen / for chinadaily.com.cn]

The mayor expressed amazement at the facility, which currently houses five pandas. Observing the large crowds, Blangiardi noted the animals' "universal appeal" should reach Honolulu someday.

The visit to the sanctuary was a centerpiece of Blangiardi's first official trip to Fuzhou, starting on Thursday. He praised the city's modernity and hospitality, noting that the warm welcome made him feel "very much at home".