chengdu pandas visit

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

How To Visit The Pandas In Chengdu

Published: September 9, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Cathe Varghese

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Chengdu, the captivating capital of Sichuan province in southwestern China! Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and most famously, the adorable giant pandas, Chengdu offers visitors a unique travel experience. With its charming streets, teahouse culture, and spicy Sichuan cuisine, this city is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Chengdu is home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, also known as the Chengdu Panda Base, which is one of the most important panda conservation centers in the world. It is here where you can get up close and personal with these incredible creatures, observe their playful antics, and even participate in volunteer programs to contribute to their well-being.

Getting to Chengdu is relatively easy, with direct flights from major cities in China and international connections. The city is well-connected by an extensive network of public transportation, making it convenient to explore its many attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or a history buff, Chengdu offers something for everyone.

During your visit to Chengdu, you’ll have the opportunity to not only spend time with the lovable pandas but also discover the city’s rich cultural heritage. Be sure to explore the historic Jinli Ancient Street, where you can immerse yourself in traditional architecture, local crafts, and street performances. The Wenshu Monastery, with its serene atmosphere and beautiful garden, is another must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility.

Chengdu is also famous for its vibrant culinary scene, and no visit is complete without indulging in its renowned Sichuan cuisine. From the fiery hotpot to the mouth-numbing sensation of Mapo Tofu, Chengdu is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the chance to sample a variety of local dishes and experience the bold flavors that Sichuan cuisine is known for.

In this guide, we will dive deeper into the details of visiting the pandas at the Chengdu Panda Base, explore other attractions in Chengdu, offer tips for a successful visit, and provide insights into the local cuisine. So, pack your bags, get ready to witness the cuteness overload of pandas, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Chengdu.

Getting to Chengdu

When it comes to traveling to Chengdu, you have several options depending on your starting point. The city is well-connected domestically and internationally, making it easily accessible for visitors from around the world.

If you are flying from overseas, the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is the main gateway to the city. It serves numerous international destinations, including major cities in Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or the airport shuttle bus to reach your accommodation in Chengdu.

For domestic travelers, there are frequent flights connecting Chengdu with major cities in China. Many airlines operate regular flights to and from Chengdu, providing convenient options for travelers. The journey by air is fast and comfortable, allowing you to reach Chengdu in just a few hours from most major cities in China.

If you prefer train travel, Chengdu boasts excellent rail connections. The city has several train stations, including Chengdu East Railway Station and Chengdu North Railway Station. High-speed trains connect Chengdu with many cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an. Traveling by train is a great option to enjoy scenic views along the way and experience the convenience of city center-to-city center transportation.

For those who prefer a more adventurous route, you can also consider traveling to Chengdu by bus. China has an extensive bus network, and Chengdu is well-linked to neighboring cities and provinces. Long-distance buses offer an affordable and flexible option for travelers, allowing you to take in the landscapes and make stops at smaller towns along the way.

Once you have arrived in Chengdu, getting around the city is a breeze. Chengdu has a well-developed transportation system, including an efficient metro network, public buses, and taxis. The metro system is particularly convenient, with multiple lines covering key areas of the city and providing easy access to major attractions.

When planning your visit to Chengdu, make sure to check the latest travel information and any entry requirements, such as visas, for international travelers. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and book your transportation tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to Chengdu.

Accommodation in Chengdu

Chengdu offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly guesthouses, or cozy boutique accommodations, you’ll find plenty of choices in this vibrant city.

For travelers seeking luxury and comfort, there are several high-end hotels and international chains located in the city center. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, spacious rooms, and professional service. Many of them also provide stunning views of the city skyline or easy access to popular attractions. Prices for luxury accommodations in Chengdu can vary depending on the location and the services offered, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals.

If you’re on a tighter budget, don’t worry. Chengdu has a great selection of budget-friendly accommodations, including hostels and guesthouses. These establishments provide clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices, making them ideal for backpackers or budget-conscious travelers. Staying in these accommodations also gives you the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and exchange travel tips and experiences.

For those looking for a unique experience, Chengdu is home to several boutique hotels that offer a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern comforts. These boutique accommodations often feature stylish décor, personalized service, and a cozy ambiance. Staying in a boutique hotel allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the comfort of a well-designed space.

When deciding where to stay in Chengdu, it’s recommended to choose a location that suits your interests and travel plans. The city center, particularly the Tianfu Square area, is a popular choice as it provides easy access to major attractions, shopping malls, and dining options. Other neighborhoods, such as Jinjiang and Wuhou, offer a more relaxed atmosphere and are known for their local charm.

Overall, Chengdu offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer the luxury of a five-star hotel, the affordability of a budget guesthouse, or the uniqueness of a boutique hotel, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Chengdu.

Visiting the Chengdu Panda Base

A trip to Chengdu wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Chengdu Panda Base, a conservation center dedicated to the protection and breeding of giant pandas. Located just outside the city center, the base provides a unique opportunity for visitors to see these adorable creatures up close and learn about their conservation efforts.

When visiting the Chengdu Panda Base, it’s important to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your experience. Here are some tips to help you have a memorable visit:

1. Time your visit: The best time to visit the Chengdu Panda Base is in the morning when the pandas are most active. Arriving early allows you to catch them during their feeding time and witness their playful behavior. Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, as they tend to be more crowded.

2. Explore the base: The Chengdu Panda Base is a sprawling facility with different areas to explore. Take your time to wander through the lush bamboo groves and various enclosures to observe the pandas in their natural habitats. Be sure to check the schedule for panda feeding and interactive programs, as they offer unique opportunities to learn more about these gentle creatures.

3. Volunteer programs: If you’re passionate about pandas and want to contribute to their conservation efforts, consider participating in volunteer programs at the Chengdu Panda Base. These programs allow you to engage in activities such as preparing food for the pandas, cleaning enclosures, and assisting with research. It’s a rewarding experience that gives you a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these endangered species.

4. Photography tips: Capture the perfect panda moment by bringing a camera with a zoom lens. Pandas can sometimes be seen lounging on trees or playing together, so be ready to capture those adorable poses. Remember to respect the guidelines and avoid using flash photography, as it can disturb the pandas.

5. Don’t miss the red pandas: While the giant pandas steal the spotlight, don’t forget to explore the red panda area at the Chengdu Panda Base. These cute and elusive creatures are equally fascinating to observe and photograph.

The Chengdu Panda Base is not only a place to see adorable pandas but also an institution dedicated to research, breeding, and conservation. By visiting, you are supporting their efforts to protect these majestic animals and their habitats. So, take your time, enjoy the experience, and cherish the memories of your encounter with these remarkable creatures.

Panda Encounters

When visiting the Chengdu Panda Base, you have several opportunities for up-close and personal encounters with these lovable creatures. Here are some of the ways you can make the most of your panda experience:

Panda Nursery: One of the highlights of the Chengdu Panda Base is the panda nursery, where you can see adorable baby pandas. Here, you’ll witness the developmental stages of the pandas, from their early days to their playful antics. It’s a heartwarming experience to observe these tiny pandas being cared for by dedicated staff.

Panda Kindergarten: At the Chengdu Panda Base, you can also observe young pandas in their kindergarten area. Here, the pandas learn to climb trees, play with each other, and develop their social skills. Watching these young pandas frolic and interact is a delightful sight that will surely bring a smile to your face.

Red Panda Encounter: In addition to giant pandas, the Chengdu Panda Base is also home to red pandas. These adorable creatures are known for their bushy tails and playful nature. During your visit, you can have an opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating animals. The red panda enclosures provide a close-up view of their natural behaviors.

Panda Volunteer Programs: For an even more immersive and meaningful experience, consider participating in a panda volunteer program. These programs allow you to get involved in the daily care and feeding of pandas, under the guidance of experienced staff. You may have the chance to prepare their food, clean their enclosures, or assist with research activities. It’s an incredible opportunity to make a direct contribution to panda conservation efforts.

Panda Photography: Capture the memories of your panda encounters by taking photographs. The Chengdu Panda Base provides designated areas where you can photograph the pandas up close. Remember to respect the guidelines, avoid using flash photography, and maintain a safe distance from the animals. The base also offers professional photography services, allowing you to have a keepsake of your visit.

Remember, while interacting with pandas can be a thrilling experience, it’s important to prioritize the well-being and conservation of these endangered animals. Follow the instructions of the staff, be mindful of your actions, and always maintain a respectful distance from the pandas. By doing so, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter while contributing to the conservation efforts of these gentle giants.

Other Attractions in Chengdu

Chengdu is not only famous for its adorable pandas but also offers a wealth of other attractions that showcase the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit places in Chengdu:

Jinli Ancient Street: Step back in time as you stroll down Jinli Ancient Street, a bustling pedestrian street that reflects the charm of ancient Chengdu. Lined with traditional-style buildings, this street is filled with shops, teahouses, street vendors, and local snacks. It’s the perfect place to soak up the ambiance, shop for souvenirs, and sample delicious Sichuan street food.

Wenshu Monastery: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the tranquil Wenshu Monastery. This Buddhist temple, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, is renowned for its exquisite architecture, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds, explore the various halls, and even participate in a tea ceremony at one of the teahouses within the monastery.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: While the main focus of the Chengdu Panda Base is pandas, it is also home to other fascinating animals. Explore the Wildlife Park section of the base, where you can encounter rare and endangered species such as red pandas, golden monkeys, and black swans. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about biodiversity and conservation efforts beyond the giant pandas.

Leshan Giant Buddha: Embark on a day trip from Chengdu to visit the majestic Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the largest stone Buddha statue in the world, it stands over 71 meters tall and is an awe-inspiring sight. Take a boat ride to admire the Buddha from the river, or climb the stairs for a closer look and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Mount Qingcheng: If you’re seeking natural beauty and spiritual serenity, a visit to Mount Qingcheng is a must. Known as one of the birthplaces of Taoism, this lush mountain offers scenic hiking trails, ancient temples, and serene bamboo forests. Explore the mountain at your own pace or join a guided tour to learn about its cultural significance and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit.

Sichuan Opera: Immerse yourself in the local culture by watching a Sichuan Opera performance. Known for its unique face-changing techniques, fire-breathing, and acrobatic stunts, Sichuan Opera is a traditional art form that showcases the vibrant spirit of the region. Enjoy a dynamic performance of music, storytelling, and colorful costumes for an evening of entertainment.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Chengdu has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food, Chengdu provides a diverse range of experiences to suit every traveler’s interests. So, don’t limit your visit to just the pandas; make sure to explore the other fascinating aspects of this captivating city.

Local Cuisine in Chengdu

Chengdu is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine, which is rich in flavors, spices, and unique ingredients. Sichuan cuisine, with its bold and fiery flavors, takes center stage in Chengdu’s culinary scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local delicacies to experience the true taste of Chengdu:

Hotpot: A visit to Chengdu is incomplete without indulging in the fiery delight of Sichuan hotpot. Choose from a variety of broths, ranging from mild to extra spicy, and select your favorite ingredients, such as thinly sliced meat, fresh vegetables, and tofu. Dip them into the bubbling pot and savor the tantalizing flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Mapo Tofu: Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that showcases the region’s signature flavors. It features soft tofu cubes cooked in a fiery sauce made from chili bean paste, Sichuan peppercorns, and minced pork. The combination of spicy, numbing, and savory flavors is truly addictive.

Kung Pao Chicken: Kung Pao Chicken is another iconic dish from Chengdu. It consists of diced chicken, peanuts, and crunchy vegetables, all stir-fried in a spicy and tangy sauce. The contrasting textures and flavors make it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Dan Dan Noodles: Dan Dan Noodles, a staple street food in Chengdu, is a noodle dish tossed in a rich and spicy sauce made with chili oil, ground pork, soy sauce, and Sichuan peppercorns. The combination of chewy noodles and bold flavors creates a satisfying and addictive dish.

Twice-Cooked Pork: Twice-Cooked Pork is a beloved Sichuan dish that combines tender slices of pork belly, stir-fried with garlic, chili bean paste, and Sichuan preserved vegetables. The pork is initially simmered, then sliced and stir-fried to achieve a deliciously crispy texture.

Huiguorou: Huiguorou, also known as Double-Cooked Pork, is a popular dish in Chengdu. It features slices of tender pork belly that are first boiled, then thinly sliced and stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and spicy bean paste. The end result is a mouthwatering combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.

In addition to these iconic dishes, Chengdu also offers a wide variety of street snacks, such as spicy rabbit heads, Chuan Chuan Xiang (skewers), and Guokui (a type of flatbread stuffed with various fillings). Don’t forget to try the refreshing Sichuan-style mala fruit salad for a zesty and spicy twist.

Chengdu’s food culture is not just about the flavors; it’s also about the vibrant atmosphere of local teahouses, where you can unwind and sip on a cup of traditional Sichuan tea. The teahouses also serve a range of snacks, including dumplings, pastries, and small dishes to accompany your tea.

With its bold flavors, varied dishes, and lively food scene, Chengdu is truly a culinary playground for food lovers. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine, explore the night markets, and savor the unforgettable flavors that make Chengdu a food lover’s paradise.

Tips for a Successful Visit

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Chengdu, here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Plan your itinerary: Chengdu offers a plethora of attractions and activities, so it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance. Research the places you want to visit, decide on the duration of your stay, and allocate sufficient time for each activity. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid missing out on must-see attractions.

2. Learn a few Mandarin phrases: While many people in Chengdu can speak basic English, knowing a few key Mandarin phrases can go a long way in making your interactions smoother. Phrases such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can be helpful in various situations, from ordering food to asking for directions.

3. Be prepared for spicy food: Sichuan cuisine is known for its fiery and spicy flavors. If you aren’t accustomed to spicy food, it’s important to inform the waitstaff about your preference for milder dishes. You can also try asking for “xiao la” (less spicy) versions of the dishes you order.

4. Dress comfortably: Chengdu experiences hot summers and mild winters, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city as there may be a fair amount of walking involved, especially at attractions like the Chengdu Panda Base.

5. Carry cash: While major establishments in Chengdu accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller local shops, street vendors, and transportation services. ATMs are readily available in the city, but it’s always helpful to have cash on hand for convenience.

6. Respect local customs: Chengdu has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions during your visit. Be mindful of appropriate behavior and dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Additionally, it’s customary to ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

7. Stay hydrated: Chengdu’s climate can be humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it as needed. You can also sample local drinks like barley tea or Sichuan-style iced lemonade to keep refreshed.

8. Take care of your health: Remember to take care of your health during your visit. Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, and consider carrying hand sanitizer. Also, be cautious with street food and make sure it’s prepared and cooked properly before consuming.

9. Pack necessary essentials: Before heading out for the day, pack essentials such as sunscreen, a hat or cap, insect repellent, and a small umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable. It’s also recommended to carry a small backpack or bag to keep your belongings secure and easily accessible.

10. Embrace the local culture: Chengdu has a unique and vibrant local culture. Take the time to observe and immerse yourself in the local customs, try traditional activities like tea tasting, and interact with the friendly locals. Engaging with the local culture will enhance your experience and create lasting memories.

By following these tips, you can ensure a successful and memorable visit to Chengdu. So, pack your curiosity and enthusiasm, and get ready to explore this captivating city in the heart of Sichuan.

A trip to Chengdu offers an unforgettable experience, from visiting adorable giant pandas to exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine. The Chengdu Panda Base provides a unique opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close and contribute to their conservation efforts. But Chengdu is more than just pandas – it’s a city that captivates with its vibrant teahouse culture, historic streets, and delectable Sichuan cuisine.

Whether you’re strolling down Jinli Ancient Street, savoring the numbing heat of a Sichuan hotpot, or immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu offers a plethora of experiences to satisfy all interests. From towering mountains to world-class opera performances, there’s never a dull moment in this enchanting city.

By planning ahead, respecting local customs, and embracing the unique aspects of Chengdu’s culture, you can ensure a successful and memorable visit. Engage with the local community, try new flavors, and take home cherished memories of encounters with adorable pandas and the warmth of Chengdu’s locals.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or a history buff, Chengdu is a destination that will enchant and amaze you. So, pack your bags, fuel your curiosity, and embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Chengdu, where giant pandas, vibrant culture, and unforgettable moments await.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Guide To Visiting Pandas In...

Guide to Visiting Pandas in Chengdu

When someone says Chengdu there are generally two things which come to mind: pandas , which are native to Sichuan, and the fiery centerpiece of Sichuan cuisine called hotpot. If you’re visiting Chengdu these are what most would consider to be the quintessential experiences. The panda has grown to become more than an attraction. We find out why.

In recent years China has leveraged the Giant panda as a diplomatic and cultural tool. Described as Panda Diplomacy , the animal is as much a diplomatic tool as it is a tourist attraction. In essence, China gives or does not give pandas based on diplomatic conditions with foreign countries. As the Giant panda is only found in the wild in Sichuan (which is why the panda has grown to become a symbol for Chengdu itself) this gives China a cuddly bargaining chip that is very much in demand.

Where go to?

When you’re in Chengdu and want to pay the pandas a visit, you have several different options.

The most common destination for visitors to Chengdu is without question the Giant Panda Breeding Center. Home to fifty pandas, the breeding center is located on the outskirts of Chengdu, about 40 minutes drive by car. There are buses which go to the breeding center daily from bus stations, but most tourists will be better off with a taxi or calling an Uber. Taking a taxi to the breeding center from the center of Chengdu costs around $20 USD.

Inside the breeding center you’ll find an entire complex which will explain everything about pandas – not just the giant panda but others like the red panda which are also native to Sichuan. The base itself aims to create an approximation of the panda’s wild living environment. Once the pandas are adjusted to living there the plan is to release them into the actual wild for the continuation and preservation of the endangered species.

Expect to spend about a half a day at the breeding center. And (this part is important) make sure you arrive as early as possible in the morning. Famously lazy (it is the Chengdu way), giant pandas spend most of the day sleeping or otherwise inactive. The exception to this shiftless way of life is when the pandas are fed, early in the morning. During this time, they climb trees, splash in water, and sometimes put on a show for visitors. Countless tourists have come to the breeding center in the afternoon, seen a bunch of pandas sleeping, and left disappointed. Don’t be one of those, wake up early and go in the morning. Admission fee is 58 RMB and the hours are 7:30AM till 6pm. You can book tickets by calling: +86-028-83510119

If you have a camera, you will want to bring one with a zoom lens. Some of the panda enclosures are quite large. There are some amazing photos to be had at the breeding center if you have the right combination of timing, weather, preparation, and cooperation from the pandas themselves.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,395 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

China, Sichuan Sheng, Chengdu Shi, Chenghua Qu, 外北熊猫大道1375号 邮政编码: 610081

There are two other notable places to visit to see pandas in the vicinity of Chengdu.

Wolong Panda Center

The first is the Wolong Panda Center, further away from Chengdu, nestled further into the native woodlands of the giant panda. Although this facility is larger than the research center, it suffered considerable damage in the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. That, along with the panda center being about two hours from Chengdu by car have done considerable damage to its tourist traffic. If you want to get a photograph taken with a panda, this may be the only place. The scenery in this region of Sichuan is beautiful and markedly different from the urban setting of the breeding center, If you visit the panda center, you will likely want to take at least one full day at the facility. Buses go to the Wolong center daily from Chengdu’s major bus stations and you can easily arrange a tour group trip from any major hotel in the city. Private drivers are available too, although that can be a little bit more difficult to arrange if you don’t speak Chinese.

303 Provincial Rd, Wenchuan Xian, Aba Zangzuqiangzuzizhizhou, Sichuan Sheng, China

Dujiangyan Panda Base

The third and final option for checking out pandas is the Dujiangyan Panda Base . Dujiangyan is a UNESCO heritage site famous for having a 2,000 year old irrigation system, which has been in operation since the 3rd century B.C. If you visit the panda base, it’s recommended you take at least two days to check out the surrounding sights, including Mount Qingcheng, one of the birth places of Taoism and one of Sichuan’s four “Holy Mountains”. The Dujiangyan Panda Base was only constructed in 2014, being by far the newest facility of the three. Being 90 minutes away from the city, this is a great place to spend quality time with pandas as there aren’t as many tourists here. They accept volunteers, too. The cost of admission is 60 RMB.

Cuddling with Pandas

Over the years, much has been made of the unique the opportunity to have a photo taken holding a small panda cub at the research center in Chengdu. Way back in the day (prior to 2010) this came at a low cost: just a few hundred RMB, equivalent to around $40. But that was before Chengdu’s profile rose amidst China’s “Go West” campaign to develop Western China as a destination. Since then, the price has skyrocketed to the equivalent of $500 U.S. dollars and at times been entirely unavailable. Keep in mind, this fee is to hold a panda cub for about 3 minutes while photos are taken. As of 2017, tourists at the panda research base were told that they could not have their photo taken with the panda cubs due to the potential of contagious illness spreading to the young, fragile pandas (these things are big earners in China, and are loaned out to foreign countries at $1 million U.S. dollars per year).

Unfortunately, for now, you will be unlikely to be cuddling with pandas at the Chengdu research base. This could change at any time as it has in the past. Although in general it appears that China has grown increasingly protective of it’s cuddly earners, so this rule may stand.

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,395 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 1276642
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Privacy Policy

• Disclosure Policy
• Travel Tips
• 109 Genius Travel Hacks
• Teach Abroad
• Work With Us

Asia Guides

Chengdu panda visit in china | everything you need to know.

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is situated in the Sichuan Province of China, in Chengdu. Giant pandas are found in only three provinces: Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu, making a Chengdu panda visit a must for foreign tourists and Chinese tourists alike. Here is the ultimate guide of how to get there, costs, and what to expect.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Getting to Chengdu Panda Center

According to the official Chengdu Panda Base website , the Chengdu Panda Center can easily be reached by bus. Although, the bus can take from 1.5 hours – 2.5 hours. This would be great for those on a very tight budget! However, taxis are relatively cheap and by far the better option to make the most out of your visit. We flagged a taxi from Chunxi Road for just 34 Yuan ($4.90). For such a cheap price, we didn’t think it was worth the hassle of getting the bus. Plus, we didn’t want to miss the feeding time for the pandas. TIP – make sure your taxi driver starts the meter. If the driver refuses to use it, move on and find another one. The meter will be much cheaper than agreeing on a price beforehand.

Chengdu Panda Base entrance fee

The cost to enter the Chengdu Panda Base is 58 Yuan ($8.35) per adult. Considering you can spend the entire day at the centre and it’s one of the top 10 things to do in China , the price is an absolute bargain. As you pass through the entrance, there is a tourist information office. Here you can collect a map of the park. There is also an optional cart, that will take you to the top of the park for 10 Yuan ($1.44).

Best time to visit the Chengdu Panda Base

We recommend arriving at the panda centre as early as 7:30 am when feeding time for the pandas begins. Early in the morning, the pandas are at their most active. You will get to see them chomping down their bamboo, rolling around, chilling in the bath, or even rocking on a horse. Afternoon the pandas start to get a little lazy and may even go indoors to the comfort of the air-conditioned rooms to get away from the heat.

Types of pandas on your Chengdu panda visit

The Chengdu Panda Base is home to many pandas of all ages and sizes. Each panda has its name and a placard that tells you information about him/ her. We even had the opportunity to see some tiny baby pandas that were less than 2 months old. They were so young, they were still in incubators.

Did you know that there are red pandas too? Nope…neither did we! These little red cuties roam free and if you’re lucky enough you may even see one strut past your legs. If you’re extremely lucky you may even get to snap a selfie with one, so make sure to have one of these awesome selfie sticks handy. However, remember not to touch them or harm them in any way.

Where to stay in Chengdu

Feeling luxurious: Felton Gloria Grand Hotel – Elegantly decorated rooms with plentiful facilities. There is also an indoor swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

Budget private room: Travelling with Hotel – Cozy place to stay with a great social vibe. The hotel offers free games and table tennis.

Dorm life: Chengdu Flipflop Hostel Poshpacker – Fantastic location! The hostel boasts a cosy lounge area with games and books for guests. They also offer tour services.

For more prices and deals on properties in Chengdu, CLICK HERE.

All in all, the Chengdu Panda Center is a must-visit and a great way to get up close to see the adorable pandas. This has to be one of the highlights of our trip through China. If only we had the chance to hold the cute baby pandas, the trip would have been even better! However, panda holding has currently been suspended at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Now you have seen the pandas, it’s time to go on a day trip to Leshan to see the Giant Leshan Buddha.

Essential resources for travelling in China

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking .com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

Like this post? Pin it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Courtney in the Middle Seat
• South Korea
• Southern New England
• Food & Drink
• Escape the Office!
• Collaborations
• International Snack Reviews
• Search for...

Visiting Pandas in Chengdu – Know Before You Go!

• by Courtney
• July 18, 2021 August 1, 2021
• 16 Comments

Tips for Visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Chengdu is famous for two things: Sichuan cuisine and pandas. They’re cute, they’re cuddly and they’re everywhere! Chengdu is seriously the city of Pandas, and I cannot overstate how intensely panda imagery dominates the entire cityscape! Panda graphics, statues, mascots, you name it! 

Table of Contents

Why All The Pandas?

Pandas are native to China’s Sichuan Province where Chengdu is located. After years of urban development, the natural habitat of the pandas is threatened. Today Sichuan’s protected breeding and research centers are critical to the survival of China’s endangered panda population.  So, what’s the best way to actually visit some real-life pandas when in Chengdu? There are three different panda-viewing options within about 2 hours of Chengdu depending on your time, interest and budget

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding - (成都大熊猫繁育研究基)

Located on the outskirts of the city, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the most popular and easily accessible option for visiting pandas. The Research Base is like a panda-only zoo, but next level. There are a variety of panda enclosures, and depending on the time year you’re visiting you’ll also see infant or baby pandas! I’ve been to plenty of zoos in my life, and at first I was skeptical. But, honestly, a visit to the Research Base is worth it! First, just watching these cute, furry creatures eat, roll around and even nap is such a fun way to spend a morning (or day)!

The Research Base was established to initially care for 6 sick giant pandas that were rescued in the 1980s. Over the past 3 decades the Base has become one of the preeminent centers of panda research and breeding globally. On your visit you will see many cute, fluffy pandas and also have the opportunity to learn about many aspects of panda life. 

The Research Base is one of Chengdu’s busiest attractions. Follow these tips to set yourself up for the best visitor experience! 

#1. Arrive Early

The Research Base opens daily at 7:30 am. Make sure to arrive by 7 am to be at the front of the line to buy your tickets. The line at the entrance will start to get pretty long by 7:30 am. Once the doors open it feels like a 5K starting line, but instead of runners you’re in a crowd of panda-lovers eager to get the panda party started!  

Also, the pandas get breakfast first thing in the morning, so they’re most likely to be awake and active. If you arrive later in the day the pandas are more likely to be sleeping and the crowds of tourists more active. Not the dynamic you’re hoping for! 

#2. Be Prepared for Souvenir Hawkers

While waiting in line for tickets, be prepared to be approached by local vendors selling panda headbands. We held firm not buying one, but if you’ve got kids you may just bring along some cash and lean into it. They do make for cute photos! 

#3 Eat Breakfast Before You Arrive

Yes, I know planning for a 7:00 am arrival makes for a very early breakfast. But, meals at the Research Center are not sold until about 11:00 am . There are multiple cafes and restaurants, but don’t expect to buy breakfast. My latte was a good holdover, but by 10 am (after 3 hours of panda-filled bliss) I was getting hangry and the only option we could find was meat on a stick. (Honestly, the meat was pretty good, but again, not breakfast.) If you stay for lunch, there are very cute bento boxes made to look like panda faces. 

For top food recommendations in Chengdu, read my guide to 'Eating Your Way Through Chengdu'! Tweet

#4 Visit the Pandas First and the Learning Centers After

The Museum and Scientific Discovery Center are located close to the entrance to the Research Base. If you’ve arrived nice and early, head to the further panda enclosures first. You’re more likely to get close-up views without being surrounded by hoards to fellow visitors.   

#5 Don't Miss the Panda Learning Centers!

When you can finally pull yourself away from watching the lovable and playful pandas, make sure to visit the 2 learning centers: Giant Panda Museum and Scientific Discovery Center. You’ll leave the Research Base knowing more than you an ever thought about panda diets, relationship patterns, habitats and more! There is historical information about the research base itself and about panda life in general. 

#6 Embrace the Panda-monium

Pandas are the name of the game when visiting Chengdu. Embrace and enjoy it! Wear your panda t-shirts, hats, socks, and backpacks! Everyone visiting the Panda Breeding and Research Base is there to see pandas, so join in the panda-monium and leave behind any worries about looking goofy. Spend time walking around Chengdu, and even in the city center you’ll see random kids (and sometimes adults!) wearing their panda accessories. 

Chengdu Visitor's Guide - Tips for Visiting the Panda Research Base in Chengdu

Getting to the panda breeding & research base.

There are a few different ways to get to and from to the Panda Research Base, including public transit, tourist shuttles and a taxi. Since you want to get there pretty early, I recommend paying the extra for a taxi in the morning.  Click here  for additional public transport information. 

You can also try taking the  HiPanda Shuttle Bus  to travel between various tourist destinations in Chengdu including the Research Base, Wuhuo Shrine Museum, Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage and even the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. This is a bit more expensive than public transit, but super convenient and easy. 

Wolong Panda Center & Dujiangyan Panda Base

Around Chengdu you will find two additional panda breeding and research centers: Wolong Panda Center and the  Dujiangyan Panda Base.  Both are further outside the city, and I recommend booking a tour if you visit either one.  Sichuan’s panda sanctuaries are UNESCO-recognized sites and make up a portion of the largest remaining natural panda habitat in the world.

'Volunteer' for the Day

  For a more interactive experience, you can ‘volunteer’ for the day to help take care of the pandas. ‘Volunteer’ programs usually include helping to clean the panda enclosures, learning about panda care, feeding the pandas (through the enclosure gate) and making panda food in a small group setting.  I say ‘volunteer’ in quotes because you should expect to pay  at least  $150 per person for the full-day experience, including hotel pick-up and transportation. 

Note that out of safety considerations for the pandas, you can no longer pay extra to hold or cuddle them. If it has been your life-long dream to be a panda keeper, then I say go for it. If not, a visit to the Research Base in Chengdu will probably satisfy your panda needs.

Other Places to Visit in Chengdu

Chengdu (成都) is the capital of China’s Sichuan Province and a bustling metropolis with a population of over 14 million people!  Yet, Chengdu still maintains a more laid back atmosphere than cities like Beijing or Shanghai. 

Read my  Chendgu Foodie Guide  for recommendations on eating your way through Chengdu. 

Read my Chengdu Visitors Guide Part for more ‘must see’ places during your visit to Chengdu.

Planning your first visit to China?  

Make sure to read these:  tips for first-time travelers to mainland china  .

Related Posts

Lay’s Bubble Chips: Lactobacillus Soda Flavor from China

Roasted Chicken Wing Lay’s – Unique Flavor from China

Travel Inspiration – Top Destinations to Visit in Asia

16 thoughts on “visiting pandas in chengdu – know before you go”.

Seeing the panda’s in Chengdu is on my bucket list when we can travel again. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences & tips! I’m saving this for later!

Linda – I hope you can make it there one day!

I did not know we could hold or cuddle pandas earlier. It is good that the same has been discontinued now.

Yes, I completely agree. Especially right now that would not be safe for the pandas!

Awwww….this looks like such a great place to visit. I am keeping this post for when I get to China – I definitely want to see the pandas.

What an incredible experience! I’ve never seen a Giant Panda before and would love to see one someday. They are so cute! Volunteering looks like a fun experience too!

This is something I would love to do! Great tips about showing up early and visiting the pandas first, but not to miss the learning centres. It looks like such a cute experience!

Hi, Krista – They are sooo cute! It is cuteness overload seeing all the pandas. 🙂

This would be the most amazing experience ever! I’d love to see the pandas. Quite tempted by the panda volunteer program.

Your tip to go early for feeding time is a good one. We saw the giant pandas at the Beijing zoo many years ago in the afternoon and they were just sitting around and doing nothing. That was not too exciting. I agree, the volunteer program is more like a “get to handle pandas” experience than a volunteer program. But I can imagine that it is worth every penny.

Chengdu looks like a great place to add to a China itinerary! I would love to visit the panda centers. It’s so cute and funny that everything is panda themed. My mom and sister were supposed to go to China last year and visit Chengdu but they were obviously not able to visit. I will send them your post though, I’m sure they will appreciate it!

Kailyn – I’m so sorry to hear about your mom and sister’s plans getting disrupted. 🙁 I hope they can make it in the future. I have a food and visitor’s guide for Chengdu, too, once they are able to plan again.

Chengdu is a great place if you love Pandas.

Even though I live in China, I’ve not made it to Chengdu yet. I’m actually a bit worried about all the spicy food there, haha.

Kez – the food is definitely spicy! But, it is soooo good. My wife and I ordered average spice level hot pot, and it was extremely humbling. We should have definitely asked for low spice!

I have read about Chengdu several times. I would love to see pandas in real life. Being a huge fan of “Kung fu Panda” 🙂 It is really insightful and informative post.

This is a great article with lots of great information and thanks for the helpful tips! I loved my visit, and I cant wait to go back to learn more.

The volunteer idea is good because it educated more people, helps out the park with duties and puts some extra money into the care of the animals!

Thank you for sharing

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Pandas in Chengdu, China

By tiffany nicole.

Welcome to Chengdu, the panda mecca of the world! Housing 80% of the world’s pandas, these furry cuddle bugs are considered one of the cutest animals in the world. They’re also known as the “national treasure” of China. The panda habitat was once spread out across central, southern, and eastern China (and even neighboring countries like Myanmar and northern Vietnam). Now, it has been reduced to mainly the Sichuan province of China.

Although there are many wonderful reasons to visit Chengdu (Sichuan cuisine anyone?), I cannot lie that I did make a special trip to Chengdu specifically to visit these adorable balls of fluff.

Why Does China Have a Giant Panda Breeding and Research Centers?

Pandas eat mostly bamboo, and are quite picky with their selection. Due to China’s logging and farming practices, the panda’s natural habitats have been significantly diminished. To top that off, the panda species were placed on the endangered species list in 1990 and it’s really not too surprising why.  Reproducing is not high on the panda’s list of priorities, and female pandas only have one day a year when they are able to conceive naturally.

In an effort to protect pandas, the breeding and research centers were established to protect these reproductively challenged animals. China has created 3 main breeding centers where roughly 20 to 50 pandas are housed and watched, to keep these fur balls on the planet. We love these animals, and more money has been spent protecting pandas than any other species. Our efforts have paid off, and I am happy to say that pandas have been removed from the endangered species list, however they are still considered “vulnerable”.

Are the Centers Like a Zoo?

This is a valid concern. If you are afraid that these centers are a zoo specifically for pandas, rest assured, it is not. The main focus of these centers is for panda reproduction and simulating a natural environment so pandas can be returned to the wild. In fact, some of the money paid in entrance fees is channeled directly into helping female pandas reproduce. Artificial insemination is often required.

Which Location Should You Go To?

There are 3 major breeding centers in Chengdu, so you have options!

1. Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Base

We’ll start with the most popular and simultaneously the most crowded location. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the closest panda facility to Chengdu, and is located about a 40-minute drive outside of the city. It houses about 50 pandas and specializes in baby pandas and their care.  

Trust me when I say, you will fall apart watching the baby pandas get nursed and attempt to walk.

You are no longer able to hold a panda at this location. At the time of writing, this ability has been suspended and a reopening date is TBA. For the most up to date information, check out THIS site.

At the base of the location you will also find the Giant Panda Museum, offering everything you need to know about these unique animals.

2. Dujiangyan Panda Base

The Dujiangyan Panda Base is the newest panda base and was established in 2014. This site is smaller in size and houses roughly 20 pandas. It specializes on panda breeding, panda wilderness training, and releasing pandas into the wild.

Dujiangyan is located a bit further outside of Chengdu, roughly one and a half hours. This location might be a better option depending on what you are wanting to do. Typically there are fewer crowds and more one-on-one time with the pandas.

Currently the Dujiangyan Base is the only facility that offers a giant panda volunteer program where you can learn more about giant pandas and help take care of them. The fee for this program is pretty hefty and is subject to change, but expect to pay at least $550 USD for a one-day tour. For more information regarding the volunteer program, check out THIS site.

Note: At the time of writing, Dujiangyan Panda Base is also the only location that allows visitors to take photos and hold a panda .

3. Bifengxia Giant Panda Base

Welcome to Bifengxia Giant Panda Base, the largest giant panda base in the world! Housing over 20 giant pandas, this location raises, breeds, and rescues giant pandas from the wild.  

This base is located about a 3-hour drive away from Chengdu. It allows visitors to see pandas in a much more natural environment than the other locations. The pandas are trained in a wild environment simulation where the goal is to return the pandas to their natural habitat.

Note: At the time of writing, the Bifengxia Base has suspended its volunteer program and a reopening date is still TBA.  For the most up to date information check THIS site.

Read more: How to Hold a Panda in Chengdu

Like this post? Pin it for later!

Have you visited the pandas in Chengdu, China? Love to know in the comments below!

Welcome to Lavender Vines

I’m Tiffany, a travel lover, small business owner, and expert-level cat cuddler. Sharing the love of Jesus is one of my favorite things ever, hence why I started this blog! You’re gonna find loads of goodies on this site, but one of my fav’s is my brand spankin’ new free ebook on your identity in Christ . Cut to the chase – Jesus thinks you’re pretty cool – but my ebook explains just how cool you really are. It’s kinda amazing.

Let's be friends!

Join our mailing list & stay up to date on all things Lavender Vines!

Let’s be friends

I'M FEELIN' IT. SIGN ME UP.

You May Also Like…

San Ysidro Border Crossing: Everything You Need to Know for Visiting Tijuana

The San Ysidro border crossing can seem a bit intimidating if you've never done it before. However I have visited...

50 Realistic Ways to Save Money for Travel NOW

The most common question I get (ironically mostly from real life – not so much from my blogging life) is how I afford...

8 Simple Steps to Creating a Savings Plan (even when you know nothing about budgeting)

Are you struggling with creating a savings plan and saving money? I know this stuff is no fun (*cue crying emoji*), so...

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Complete Guide to Chengdu Panda Base: Things to Know Before You Go

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links – which means, at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through a link.

Home to over 170 giant pandas, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Chengdu Panda Base) is one of the top tourist attraction in Chengdu. This is where all the actions happen: research, breeding, conservation, and teaching the public.

Fun fact : most pandas you see in zoos around the world are bred here.  

In this guide, I will be sharing everything you need to know about the Chengdu Panda Base so you can make the most out of your experience.

Duration:  Recommend at least half a day.

Table of Contents

Opening Hours & Tickets 

The base is open 7:30am–6pm throughout the year. 

Ticket sales: 7:30am-5:00pm 

• Full price: RMB 55/person 
• Half price: RMB 27/person 

Order your entrance ticket online through Klook to skip the line!  Sign up to get $5 off your ticket!  

With over 3.5 million annual visitors to the base, both domestically and internationally, there’s going to be a LOT of people visiting daily. The base is swarmed during the weekends and holidays. 

If there’s one day to wake up early during a vacation, let it be this day. 7:30-9:30am is the best time to visit — fewer crowds, more active pandas. It’s a win-win situation. 

Arrive any time after this, the pandas are mostly sleeping (still cute but… all you get are butts) or lazily chewing bamboo. 

What can I see? 

• Giant pandas: Over 170+ giant pandas! Each panda has a sign outside its enclosure introducing its name, birthday, family and personality. Isn’t that cute? The sign is in 4 different languages (Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean) which means you won’t be missing out on the fun!  

• Baby pandas: Born around July to September. Check out these precious babies at the Sunshine Nursery House and the Moonlight Nursery House. Inside the building, you will walk in a non-stopping line. Everyone gets a few seconds to be close. Take all the pictures you want, but remember to turn off your flashes. 
• Red pandas: Also native to China. Despite its name, red pandas are not related to pandas. They are more raccoon-like and have a beautiful reddish-brown coat of fur. Red pandas have a huge enclosure space inside the base, so it’s quite difficult to spot them. Don’t give up, keep walking, and you will soon see why they are worth your efforts in searching.  
• Black swans, peacocks 

Note: As with all animals, keep quiet as they can be stressed out by loud noises. Don’t be those tourists that shout to the pandas to look in their directions. The eyes of baby pandas are especially sensitive to the lights, so remember to turn off your flashes before taking their adorable photos.   

How to Get To the Panda Base

The panda base is further away from the city center compared to the rest of the major attractions, so keep that in mind when setting your alarm clock. 

So how do you get to the giant panda research base?

Take the metro line 3 and get off at the Panda Avenue stop — 熊猫大道站. Come out Exit A and ride either bus 198A or Panda Express line 3 to the panda base. 

For those with WeChat and a Chinese phone number, you can go inside the yellow panda shop right outside the Panda Avenue station for the shuttle bus. There, you can purchase both the round-trip shuttle tickets and the entrance ticket for the panda base.  

By Tourist Bus

Kuai Zhai Alley <—> Panda base

There are tourist buses departing every hour between these two attraction spots every day from 8:30am to 2:30pm. Return route 9:30am to 5:30pm. 

The easiest method, but also the most expensive. It cost about 50RBM from downtown Chengdu or about 100RMB from the Shuangliu International Airport. 

Inside the Chengdu Panda Base 

Fun fact : The conservation base is about 247 acres. It’s only a bit smaller than the Bronx Zoo, the largest zoo in the US.  

Before you start, you need a map. 

Since buildings are all spread out and hidden, use the map so you don’t miss a section. Imagine coming all this way just to pass by the building with baby pandas!

You can either download the digital map on their official site  here   or get a physical copy at the tourist information center.  

Tourist Information Office

What’s here? Everything you need to start. 

There’s the visitor reception desk surrounded by stacks of physical maps. Storage lockers, bathrooms, and a rest area with a giant panda documentary. This place is also perfectly AC — great for hot summer days. 

Unfortunately, because it’s on top of a staircase, this is the one building many people miss on their way in. 

To get to the tourist information center, turn left after you pass the ticketing point and walk up the stairs. 

If you want a more in-depth visit, hire a tour guide. The base has 11 tour guides that can speak a variety of languages.   

Sightseeing Shuttle Bus

The base offers a hop on hop off shuttle service so you can hitch a ride between each area (it’s quite a walk). Tickets are very cheap at 10RMB per person. If you have problems walking long distances, visiting with elderly/children, or simply don’t want to walk, be sure to buy a ticket near the entrance of the park. 

I  highly recommend  this after walking the entire park. By foot, it takes around 3 hours to walk. Trust me, it’s very tiring. 

Now, if you are like me and decides “Hey! I can walk the entire base by foot”, then high five! When visiting in the morning, enjoy the tranquil and lush scenery as you walk from point to point. By the time you’re done, however, your feet probably want to kill you.

Hint: Comfort them by visiting one of the many foot massage places throughout the city.  

Panda Base Shops

Are you the type to never leave a place without first buying a souvenir? 

Good news! Souvenir shops are abundant throughout the base. Get yourself a panda hat, a couple of panda keychains and magnetics, puffy 3D panda stickers, commemorative souvenir medals, or anything you can find really. The prices are similar so it doesn’t matter which shop you buy from. 

For panda postcards, head to the Panda Post Office.

Panda Base Eats

If you ever get hungry while touring the base (I know I did), there’s a few places you can eat at: the Panda Café, the Bamboo Restaurant, and the Rose Garden Restaurant. Their locations are all nicely labeled on the map.

For street snacks, head to the Swan Lake area. They sell delicious cheap sausages!

Share this post if you find this guide useful! Or comment below if you want to share your experiences!

21 Personal Goals for 2021

You may also like, an adventurous day around viet hai village on..., 22 best things to do in hanoi, vietnam, 7 best places to eat in hanoi old..., discovering wanderlust: my travel bug story, panda paradise 12 places in chengdu to fuel..., leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sign me up for the newsletter!

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

• Find a Tour
• China Tours
• Student Tours
• MICE Travel
• Destinations
• Virtual Tours
• Chengdu Panda Base Travel Tips & Tours

Chengdu Panda Base

Located about 10 km northeast of the city center, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (also known as the Chengdu Panda Base) is the closest giant panda facility to downtown Chengdu and is a popular place to see lots of pandas of different ages in what's close to their natural habitat.

Highlights and Travel Tips

The Chengdu Panda Base is a nonprofit research and breeding facility for giant pandas that was originally founded in 1987 and opened to the public in 1993. The center began with a population of just six giant pandas and has since grown to more than 100 pandas.

The aim when building the Chengdu Panda Base was to construct an ecosystem that closely resembled the pandas' natural habitat in order to better understand their behavior. The result of these efforts is a large, 92-acre semi-natural habitat with more than 96% plant coverage. For visitors, it is more like a nice park than a traditional zoo.

The base houses several enclosures for giant pandas of different ages, a research and breeding center, panda cub nurseries, a giant panda museum, and more, making for a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to its giant pandas, the base also features a number of other rare species that are worth seeing, including red pandas, black-necked cranes, and more.

One of the main attractions at Chengdu Panda Base is the large, outdoor activity space where the giant pandas play and eat snacks. You can also sometimes view mother pandas interacting with their young in the panda nursery. The outdoor enclosures are large natural environments with low fences and ditches between the visitors and the pandas to allow for easy viewing of the animals.

The pandas are fed in the morning and are most active at that time of day. After around 10:00 am, the pandas tend to get sleepy and the park will also become crowded. In addition, it's worth noting that the pandas tend to be more active when the temperature is cool. All that being said, we suggest you visit the base as early as possible in the morning.

The base is large and nice to walk around, since much of it is in a bamboo forest. If you don't feel like walking, however, you can ride the shuttle bus within the base. Be aware that you may need to wait in line for the shuttle bus during busy times.

Make sure to bring your passport, as it may be needed when buying tickets. A camera with a zoom lens is recommended if you want to capture close-up shots of the pandas. We suggest getting a map or taking a photo of the map at the entrance, as the base is large and may be difficult to navigate.

There are also shops selling panda-related souvenirs, but the prices are usually more elevated than markets or shops outside the base.

Accessibility Information

While the main road is paved and flat, the base is large, so it is better for visitors with mobility issues to ride the shuttle bus. The walkways are mostly flat but there may be small steps in some places, so visitors who completely rely on wheelchairs may need help from others to navigate. Most restrooms within the base are wheelchair accessible.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

Opening hours: 7:30am - 6:00pm Entrance fee: 55 CNY Shuttle bus fee: 10 CNY Average time for this activity: 2-3 hours

How to Get There

It takes about a half hour and costs around 30 CNY to get to Chengdu Panda Base from the city center via taxi. You can also get there via public bus or subway, although these routes require a few transfers.

Popular Tours

• 2-Day Chengdu Highlights and Food Tour
• 1-Day Zoo Keeping Tour at Dujiangyan Panda Base
• Chengdu and Golden Triangle - 11-day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai tour
• Kung Fu Family Adventure - 9-day Beijing, Luoyang, Xi'an, Chengdu tour
• More Chengdu tours...

Customize a tour that includes a visit to this attraction

Inquiry form.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Facts, Attractions & Route)

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, also known simply as the Chengdu Panda Base , is the most popular attraction near Chengdu . It draws tens of thousands of visitors daily, both local and foreigners alike. Chengdu is often referred to as the "Hometown of Pandas" because of this incredible sanctuary.

So how should you plan your tour in Chengdu and to this hugely popular "Panda Mountain"? From key facts, must-see highlights, recommended routes, best times to visit, and tips on getting there, this ultimate Giant Panda guide will walk you through how to make the most of your Chengdu Panda Base exploration. We'll cover everything you need to know to have an amazing panda tour , from cute panda cub feedings to learning about conservation efforts. Read on for details on how to visit Chengdu's famous furry residents and turn this bucket list item into a reality!

Content Preview

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Facts

Located ca. 10 kilometers northeast of Tianfu Square in downtown Chengdu , the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding covers a massive area of 3.07 square kilometers . Established in 1987, the base was designed to mimic the natural habitat of giant pandas in order to protect and develop panda breeding research. Today, not only is it home to around 237 giant pandas of various ages and the largest captive panda population in the world, it has also become a top-rated tourist attraction where visitors can observe pandas up close .

Chinese: 成都大熊猫繁育研究基地 Location: No.1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Entrance Fee: 55 CNY/person

Opening Hours: April - October: 7:30am - 6:00pm, November - March: 8:00am - 5:00pm

Recommended Visiting Time: 0.5-1 Day

Number of Giant Pandas: 237 giant pandas of various ages

Highlights: Giant Panda, Panda Cubs, Red Pandas, Other Animals, Giant Panda Museum, Panda Tower

1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets 1 Day Chengdu Panda & Sanxingdui Tour: Trace the Lost Ancient Shu Civilization 1 Day Chengdu Panda & Leshan Giant Buddha Tour: Giant Panda & Giant Budhha Encounter 1 Day Chengdu Lifestyle Tour: Pandas, Teahouse, Food & Sichuan Opera

What to See in Chengdu Panda Base

Giant panda.

At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, make sure you have a delightful time with the adorable giant pandas scattered throughout the vast enclosures of Panda Mountain. They pay no attention to the people around them as they roll down slides, bathe in tubs, and even hang upside down from trees. Their mischievous nature brings joy to everyone. However, most of the time, they simply lie on their backs with legs dangling, carefree and relaxed. During feeding time, the black-and-white furballs eagerly munch on crunchy bamboo shoots, filling their round bellies.

Within the Chengdu Research Base, you can find around 18 different enclosures housing giant pandas aged two years and above . They are spread across three distinct areas: Moon Valley Area, Sun Hills Area, and Classic Treasure Lake Area. The Classic Treasure Lake Area has the highest concentration of pandas and the largest population. The Adventure Valley is suitable for observing pandas aged 12 and above. You can choose to take a sightseeing bus or walk between different areas.

At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the must-see highlights is the adorable pink baby pandas . The Sunshine Delivery House of Giant Panda and Moonlight Delivery House of Giant Panda are the homes of newborn giant pandas from July to September each year. Visitors can observe these cute little creatures through glass windows while they reside inside their conservation boxes. Additionally, last year's panda cubs can also be found in these two venues. These energetic cubs love nibbling on bamboo, playing in water, and rolling down the hills. Their mischievous and adorable appearance never fails to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Red pandas are the most adorable neighbors of the giant pandas . Visitors must also check out these irresistibly cute creatures during a visit to Chengdu Panda Base. In contrast to the black-and-white giant pandas, red pandas have thick, reddish-brown fur and long, striped tails. Their compact bodies and rounded heads give them an especially cuddly appearance. Red pandas are very active and agile, effortlessly climbing trees and shuttling through grass.

To observe the red pandas at Chengdu Panda Base, head over to Red Panda Villa No.1 and No.2 . Here you can watch them nimbly scampering up trees and bushes. Unlike the sleepy giant pandas, these little pandas will be alert and energetic. Get your cameras ready to capture photos of their fluffy tails bobbing through tree branches. Seeing the rare red pandas up close is an experience not to be missed when visiting the panda base.

Other Animals

Keep an eye out for these beautiful rare birds and peacocks as you explore different areas of Chengdu Panda Base. To see black swans and white swans, head over to Swan Lake , where these elegant birds glide gracefully across the water. You can also spot peacocks casually roaming around the grounds of the panda base. The male peacocks especially are a spectacular sight, fanning their vivid blue and green tail feathers. Additionally, the lush Chengdu Panda Breeding Base is home to numerous small forest birds, including great tits, thrushes, pheasants, and buntings, making it a renowned bird-watching paradise.

Giant Panda Museum

If you want to gain a deeper understanding of pandas, you can visit the Chengdu Panda Base's Panda Museum , located near the South Gate within the base. This five-story museum offers a wealth of exhibition content. Utilizing modern 3D technology, the museum showcases the origin of pandas, their natural habitats, breeding methods, and displays panda specimens, allowing you to delve deeper into knowledge about this rare animal. Additionally, the museum features two other exhibition areas—the Butterfly Museum, which showcases over ten thousand butterfly and insect specimens, and the Vertebrate Museum, which displays various vertebrate specimens.

Panda Tower

Shaped like a "bamboo shoot", the 6-story Bamboo Tower is a distinctive building located smack dab in the central area of Chengdu Panda Base. With its ace location and jaw-dropping panoramic views of the reserve, this spot has gradually become an iconic new landmark of the panda base. Visitors can mosey on up to the top observation deck of the tower for a bird's eye view of the panda breeding facility in all its glory, winding trails and distant mountains included. From this bird's-eye perch, you can even spot pandas roaming through the enclosures.

1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets 1 Day Chengdu Lifestyle Tour: Pandas, Teahouse, Food & Sichuan Opera 2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu

3 Recommended Routes to Tour Chengdu Panda Base

South to west route (5.5 hours).

South Gate (45) - Giant Panda Museum (46) - Adult Giant Panda Ebclosure (53) - Sub-Adult Giant Panda Ebclosure (54) - Sunshine Delivery House of Giant Panda (55) - Moonlight Panda Delivery House of Giant Panda (62) - Spring Sun Giant Panda Pavilion (31) - Rising Sun Giant Panda Pavilion (28) - Cloud Sun Giant Panda Pavilion (30) - Reflection Sun Giant Panda Pavilion (29) - Panda Commerical Street (03) - River Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (09) - Bright Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (08) - Full Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (07) - Autumn Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (06) - Mountain Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (04) - West Gate (01)

This is the most recommended route to explore Chengdu Panda Base . You will first visit the Treasure Lake area, where pandas are most concentrated, with minimal walking required. Then you will tour the more spread out enclosures in the Sun Hills Area and Moon Valley Area. This allows you to best appreciate the highlights of Chengdu Panda Base, while fully considering your physical strength and time.

West to South Route (4.5 hours)

West Gate (01) - Mountain Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (04) - Cloud Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (05) - Bright Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (08) - River Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (09) - Embracing Moon Giant Panda Pavilion (10) - Bamboo Tower (36) - No.1 House for Giant Pandas (61) - Red Panda Delivery House (59) - No.2 Red Panda Enclosure (58) - Sunshine Delivery House of Giant Panda (55) - Giant Panda Cub Enclosure (52) - Adult Giant Panda Ebclosure (53) - No.14 Giant Panda Ebclosure (51) - Giant Panda Museum (46) - Consulting Service (44)

As you follow this renowned photography route through the Panda Base, from the picturesque Moon Valley Area to the panoramic Bamboo Tower, you'll capture exceptional moments of giant pandas and adorable red pandas, creating cherished memories in your photography collection.

Treasure Lake Area Route (Essential Route 2.5 hours)

Consulting Service (44) - Sub-Adult Giant Panda Ebclosure (54) - Giant Panda Cub Enclosure (52) - Sunshine Delivery House of Giant Panda (55) - Moonlight Panda Delivery House of Giant Panda (62) - No.2 House for Giant Pandas (60) - Red Panda Delivery House (59) - No.2 Red Panda Enclosure (58) - No.14 Giant Panda Ebclosure (51) - Giant Panda Museum (46) - Consulting Service (44)

This is the classic route for visiting Chengdu Panda Base , offering the opportunity to observe giant pandas of various ages, from cubs to adults. It's a relatively short duration, and if you have additional time, you can continue exploring the new area of the base.

1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets 1 Day Chengdu Panda & Leshan Giant Buddha Tour: Giant Panda & Giant Budhha Encounter 1 Day Chengdu Lifestyle Tour: Pandas, Teahouse, Food & Sichuan Opera 2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu

Useful Sightseeing Bus Guide to Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Base

Operating Hours: 7:30 – 18:00

Ticket Price: 30 CNY/person

Stations: A total of 10 stations from South Gate to West Gate, including South Gate Station, Sunshine Delivery House for Giant Pandas Station, Moonlight Delivery House for Giant Pandas Station, No.1 House for Giant Pandas Station, Bamboo Tower Station, Sun Hill Station, Star Delivery House for Giant Pandas Station, Panda Pedestrain Street Station, Moon Valley Station, West Gate Station

How to Book: Advance purchase via WeChat official account / Onsite purchase

1. The sightseeing bus at Chengdu Panda Base runs throughout the base but does not directly reach every panda enclosure. It stops only at designated stations. You can get off at a station and walk to nearby enclosures for visits.

2. Within the base, you can take the sightseeing bus unlimited times. You can visit enclosures and then take the bus again from a station to the next one.

3. In peak seasons, especially summer, there may be queues for the bus. It is recommended to purchase tickets as soon as you enter the base. Tickets may be unavailable if purchasing mid-way.

4. If you have purchased tickets but did not take the bus or get your ticket checked, you can get a refund.

1 Day Chengdu Lifestyle Tour: Pandas, Teahouse, Food & Sichuan Opera 1 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour with a Visit to Kung Fu Panda Village 2 Days Wolong Panda Volunteer Tour - From Chengdu City to Wild Panda Habitat 4 Days Ultimate Panda Tour for Panda Fans (Chengdu - Wolong - Dujiangyan)

How to Book a Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Tickets

You can easily get yourself some tickets for the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding at a price of 55 yuan. You've got two options to snag those tickets: either hop onto the official WeChat account "成都大熊猫繁育研究基地" and make your purchase there, or simply grab them on the spot.

Now, depending on when you plan to visit, you can choose between the morning ticket (valid from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM) or the afternoon ticket (valid from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM) . No matter which method you choose to purchase your tickets, you'll have no trouble exploring the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

How to get to Chengdu Panda Base

From chengdu centre to panda base.

There are several transportation options to get from Chengdu city center to the Panda Base. You can take the subway, bus, direct shuttle bus or taxi to get there.

Subway: Taking the subway is a convenient and quick way to travel. You can take Line 3 and get off at Junqu Da Yiyuan (West Gate) or Panda Avenue (South Gate) Station. It takes about 30 minutes.

Bus: There are a few bus routes that go directly to the Panda Base, such as Bus 17, 198, 198A, 198B, 198C, 198D which stop at Panda Base Station. Bus 198E reaches the North Gate of the base.

Direct Shuttle Bus: Shuttle buses to the Panda Base are available at Chunxi Road, Kuanzhaixiangzi and Wuhou Temple. The ride takes around 1 hour and costs 10-20 CNY.

Taxi/Didi: Taking a taxi or Didi from Chengdu city center to the Panda Base takes 40 minutes to 1 hour, and costs 60-100 CNY.

From Chengdu Airport to Panda Base

If you are coming from Chengdu Airport, you can either take a taxi or the subway. A taxi takes around 1 hour and costs 100-150 CNY. If taking the subway, take Line 10 to Taipingyuan Station, transfer to Line 3 towards Panda Base Station. Subway fare is around 10 CNY and the total trip takes 1.5 hours.

1 Day Chengdu Panda & Sanxingdui Tour: Trace the Lost Ancient Shu Civilization 1 Day Chengdu Food Tour with Ultimate Cooking Class & Panda Visit 1 Day Chengdu Lifestyle Tour: Pandas, Teahouse, Food & Sichuan Opera 2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu

Best Time to Visit Chengdu Panda Base

The Chengdu Panda Base is bustling every day because it is an ideal time to visit these adorable animals throughout the year . Giant pandas have thick fur, which makes them tolerant of cold weather but sensitive to heat. Therefore, during the summer , pandas spend more time indoors and are less active. However, the best time to observe panda cubs is from July to September during the summer months when they are born. It's the perfect opportunity to see these cute panda babies.

During other seasons, especially in spring and autumn , pandas prefer outdoor activities. During this time, you can observe them playing and exhibiting interesting behaviors throughout the scenic area.

Regardless of the season, the best time to visit the pandas is from 7:30 to 10:00 in the morning . This is their feeding time and when they are most active. You can fully appreciate their adorable behaviors and observe their appetite.

1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets 1 Day Chengdu Panda & Leshan Giant Buddha Tour: Giant Panda & Giant Budhha Encounter 1 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour with a Visit to Kung Fu Panda Village 2 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour & Mount Qingcheng Kung Fu Lesson

Plan A Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Tour

One day chengdu panda base tour.

For a one day tour of the Chengdu Panda Base, I'd recommend spending half a day at the base to see the adorable pandas. Then head back into central Chengdu to explore the city sights. Stroll through People's Park and immerse yourself in local life, wander through the historical Wide and Narrow Alleys dating back 300 years for a glimpse into old Chengdu, and taste Chengdu flavors at Jinli Food Street. This allows you to experience the pandas along with a taste of Chengdu's laidback lifestyle secrets in just one day.

Alternatively, you could combine your Panda Base visit with other famous sites around Chengdu , like the ancient Sanxingdui Museum or Leshan Giant Buddha , the largest sitting Buddha statue in the world.

2 Days Chengdu Panda Base Tour

With two days in Chengdu, you could extend your trip to Leshan Giant Buddha or another top highlight of Chengdu - the famous Dujiangyan Irrigation System and sacred Taoist mountain, Qingcheng Shan.

Over 2 Days Chengdu Panda Base Tours

Dreaming of deeply exploring Chengdu and surrounding highlights after the Panda Base? Then plan for 2 days or more. Visit Buddhist holy sites like Mount Emei , the stunning Jiuzhai Valley National Park , the Four Sisters Mountains of western Sichuan, or laidback Kangding.

1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets 1 Day Chengdu Food Tour with Ultimate Cooking Class & Panda Visit 2 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour & Mount Qingcheng Kung Fu Lesson 2 Days Wolong Panda Volunteer Tour - From Chengdu City to Wild Panda Habitat 4 Days Ultimate Panda Tour for Panda Fans (Chengdu - Wolong - Dujiangyan)

Helpful Tipps for traveling to Chengdu Panda Base

1. Hire an English-speaking guide at the Panda Base (around 100 RMB). If you book our Chengdu tour package , our experienced English-speaking guides have worked at the Base for many years. They are passionate about pandas and can provide context and stories to bring your visit to life.

2. Don't scream or make loud noises, as pandas are quite sensitive and can get startled easily.

3. Don't use flash photography when taking pictures. The bright lights can disturb the pandas.

4. Don't attempt to feed the pandas. Their diet is strictly controlled by keepers.

5. Don't try to climb over fences and approach the pandas, even though they look cute and cuddly. They can attack if you encroach on their space.

Explore Chengdu & Pandas with Local Based Asia Odyssey Travel

Headquartered in China with a branch office in Chengdu , Asia Odyssey Travel is dedicated to providing the best service and ensuring an authentic and unforgettable experience for those looking to explore Chengdu. Our local team offers a range of carefully designed tours, including classic Chengdu tours , Chengdu Food Tours , Chengdu Day Trips , Best Panda Tours , Panda Volunteer tours , Mount Siguniang Tours , Leshan Giant Buddha Tours , Mount Emei Tours , and Jiuzhaigou Tours to meet your needs and desires. Whether you prefer flexible private tours or cost-effective that don't compromise on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has got you covered to ensure a pleasant holiday during your Chengdu tour.

If you want to extend your Chengdu tour into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China tour packages from Chengdu . Our professional travel consultants are always ready to help you customize your Chengdu tour at the most favorable local prices. Contact us now to start planning your dream Chengdu trip!

When you're planning your ideal trip to Chengdu, I hope the following links will be helpful to you:

Related Article: How to Plan A Chengdu Tour: Useful Chengdu Planning Guide

Related Article: Top 15 Things to Do in Chengdu - Chengdu Attractions & Places to Visit

Related Article: Chengdu Itineraries: How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Chengdu

Related Article: Best Time to Visit Chengdu: Seasonal, Monthly Weather & Climate Guide

Related Article: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Facts, Attractions & Route)

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

Ask Us for More Information

Recommended Related Trips

The Best Places to See Pandas in Chengdu

Updated: March 26, 2019

A trip to Sichuan is not complete without seeing China’s cuddly national icon, the giant panda. There are three main options for panda viewing in Chengdu, each with its unique draws. Read on and find out which panda reserve is the best choice for your trip.

A Pandas at the Chengdu Panda Base. Photo by Dai Luo  

RELATED READING: The 4 Most Romantic Places in China

Wherever you decide to go, remember that the best time to visit pandas is in the morning – before 9am if you can manage it. This is when pandas are most active and playful.

A quick comparison of Chengdu’s panda centers

1. Chengdu Panda Base

Just minutes from downtown Chengdu, the Chengdu Panda Base attracts thousands of visitors every year. This is the best option if you only have an afternoon to spare for your panda visit.

The base began with 6 giant pandas rescued from the wild and after years of successful breeding programs, they now have more than 150 pandas. Visitors will find large, outdoor enclosures which make the center feel a bit less like a zoo. Admittedly, the pandas near the entrance seem a little gloomy under the constant gaze of large groups of tourists, but walk further into the park away from the crowds and you will find contented looking pandas enjoying in their favorite pastimes: sleeping, eating, and occasionally exerting some energy to cheekily push their brother or sister off the branch of a tree.

A rainy afternoon at the Chengdu Panda Base. Photo by M. Perdix

RELATED READING: What to Do in Chengdu: Pandas, Hot Pot, and Lazy Days in the Park

The animals here are well looked after, and once you have taken more than enough pictures of giant pandas doing cute things, you can also visit some of the other endangered animals that the base cares for including red pandas, golden monkeys, and many species of birds. The center promotes the importance of educational tourism, so as you wander around the base and enjoy the on-site museum, you will learn hundreds of interesting panda facts to amuse your with friends when you get home. You can even taste the special, high-protein cakes that the pandas are fed each day.

2. Bifengxia Giant Panda Base  

The Bifengxia Giant Panda Base opened in 2003 and is a two-hour drive outside of Chengdu. You will need to leave a whole day free to make this trip, but it is one of the best places in the world to see this beautiful animal. What awaits you at Bifengxia is a reserve of natural forest coverage and beautiful waterfalls. The pandas are relaxed and happy – getting to chew on bamboo, undisturbed and safe in their own habitat.

Many of the Wolong Reserve pandas were relocated here after the 2008 earthquake, so Bifengxia now has the largest collection of giant pandas in the world. This site’s main focus is on research. As such, there is much more going on behind the scenes at this base to learn about and care for the pandas. If you enjoy hiking and want to find out more about efforts to reintroduce pandas into the wild then this is panda reserve is an excellent choice. There is also an adorable panda kindergarten where visitors can spend hours enjoying the young panda’s mischievous antics.

Map of Chengdu’s Panda Centers:

3. Dujiangyan Panda Center

Dujiangyan is the newest panda center in the area and is located about 1.5 hours outside of Chengdu city at the foot of Qingcheng Mountain. The base is smaller than the other two, but its natural environment is similar to the Bifengxia reserve, making it a great location to see giant pandas enjoying their day. The site is closer to Chengdu city than Bifengxia too, so it is a good alternative if you are on a tighter schedule.

Dujiangyan has restarted its volunteer program and visitors over the age of six can now pay to become a Panda Keeper for the day. Participants get to prepare food for the pandas, help clean out their cages, and learn more about these furry friends up close.

RELATED READING: Why Are China’s Giant Pandas So Lazy?

If becoming a panda keeper isn’t enough reason to visit, Dujiangyan is now the home to some movie stars too. Fans of Kung Fu Panda may get the chance to see the panda behind the animated hero.

This reserve is only a leisurely bicycle ride away from the brand new Six Senses Resort and Spa . You could spend your days feeding the pandas and then relax in the evenings with a lovely massage in the spa. Qingcheng Mountain is a beautiful place to do some hiking and the small ancient town of Jiezi is close by. It might be worth spending a couple of days exploring the area and enjoying some time away from the city.

Whichever base you choose to visit, the best tip is to make sure your camera has a fully charged battery. Even people who think they have no interest at all in giant pandas will have changed their minds once they have seen this cheeky creature up close. Also, remember that the main objective of these reserves is to protect these beautiful creatures from extinction. Getting the chance to see a giant panda looking happy and relaxed in its natural environment really is an honor and a memory you will treasure.

RELATED READING: China’s Hidden Gems for Rest and Relaxation

Last Updated: March 26, 2019

More interesting reads

We’re on hand to help you get the information you need about travel in China, whenever you need it. We’re not robots; we’re real people, travel designers here to help you.

As COVID-19 restrictions and regulations change, we want to make sure that you can travel in a safe and responsible way. Let us know your China travel questions and, within one business day, we’ll personally get in touch via email, phone call, or WeChat (whichever method you’d prefer) to help you answer it.

Beijing Address:

803 Oriental Place, 9 East Dongfang Rd, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100027

Shanghai Address:

A12, 3rd Floor, SIP, No. 1318, North Sichuan Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai

Chengdu Address:

26th Floor, No. 1-2 Hangkong Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan

Yangshuo Address:

No. 26 Furong Road, Yangshuo, Guangxi

+86 10 6465 6602

+1 888 902 8808 (Toll Free)

[email protected]

• Saving Money & Budgeting
• Packing & Travel Gear
• Accommodations
• Transportation
• Safety Tips
• Long Term Travel
• South Africa
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Czech Republic
• Israel and Palestine
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• New Zealand
• Travel Resources
• Must-Have Items
• Travel Inspo Books
• Why The Cure for Curiosity?

Visiting the Giant Pandas in Chengdu, China: Everything You Need to Know

Julia October 20, 2022 China Leave a Comment

Learn the ins and outs of visiting the giant pandas near Chengdu, China.

If you’re headed to Chengdu, chances are good seeing the giant pandas of China are on your itinerary. If they’re not, add them now! The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the best things to do in Chengdu and is a must-visit for those in the area.

In fact, the giant pandas are one of the best reasons to go to Chengdu, in my humble opinion, but maybe I’m just a panda lover. How can you not be? Anyway, let’s get started by taking a look at Chengdu and then dive into how to get to the Panda Research Center from Chengdu and learn what to expect while you’re there.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

About Chengdu, China

Chengdu, located in southwestern China, is a historic city with a modern twist. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and the Sichuan province’s distinct culture. With a population of millions, Chengdu offers a blend of tradition and urban development, making it a fascinating destination to explore.

Its most famous for Sichuan cuisine, teahouses, and historic landmarks as well as being the base for some of the most famous sites of China, like the Leshan Buddha and the Giant Panda Sanctuary .

What to See in the Chengdu Region

While we’ll be focused on the giant pandas near Chengdu, there are a few other key places to visit while you’re in the area. Add these to your China itinerary!

• Jinli Ancient Street: A historic street with traditional architecture, shops, and local snacks. It’s a great place to soak in the local atmosphere.
• Wuhou Shrine: A historical memorial that honors Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist from the Three Kingdoms period.
• Du Fu Thatched Cottage: A park preserving the former residence of the Tang dynasty poet Du Fu. It offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese literary life.
• Sichuan Opera Face-Changing Show: Witness a unique performance where artists change their colorful masks quickly to create a mesmerizing show.
• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: See adorable giant pandas in a semi-wild environment, dedicated to the preservation and study of these beloved animals.
• Leshan Giant Buddha: A massive stone Buddha statue carved into a cliff, near Chengdu. It’s an impressive example of ancient engineering. Learn all about taking a day trip to Leshan Buddha.
• Mount Qingcheng: A sacred Taoist mountain with beautiful scenery, temples, and hiking trails. It’s a place of both natural beauty and cultural significance.
• Emei Mountain: Another significant mountain in the area, known for its Buddhist monasteries, hiking trails, and panoramic views.
• Sanxingdui Museum: Explore an archaeological site that provides insights into an ancient civilization that existed in the region over 3,000 years ago.
• Jiuzhaigou Valley: A bit further away, but known for its stunning natural beauty, including colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks.

10 Reasons to Visit the Giant Pandas near Chengdu

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding aligns the efforts to conserve a species that holds both cultural and ecological significance. It also offers a unique and meaningful experience for several reasons. Let’s dive into those.

1. See Giant Pandas Up Close

The research base is one of the best places to see giant pandas in a semi-natural environment. You’ll have the opportunity to observe these adorable creatures eating, playing, and going about their daily activities.

2. Support Panda Conservation

The research base is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas, a species that is endangered. Your visit contributes to the ongoing efforts to protect and increase the panda population.

3. Learn about Pandas

The research base provides educational information about pandas, their behavior, habitat, and the challenges they face in the wild. It’s a chance to learn more about these fascinating animals and the conservation work being done.

4. Witness Breeding Programs

The base has successful breeding programs that have resulted in the birth of panda cubs. Depending on the timing of your visit, you might have the chance to see baby pandas, a truly heartwarming sight.

5. Enjoy Beautiful Surroundings

The research base is situated amidst lush greenery and scenic landscapes. It offers a serene environment where you can relax, enjoy nature, and take in the picturesque setting away from the bustling cities in China.

6. Photography Opportunities

Giant pandas are photogenic creatures, and the research base provides numerous photo opportunities. Take your time to capture moments that you can cherish and share with friends and family.

7. Cultural Experience

The Giant Panda Research Base also showcases traditional Sichuan architecture and design elements, providing a cultural context to your visit.

8. Escape the City

It’s a great opportunity to step away from the city of Chengdu and spend time in a more peaceful and natural setting. This is particularly important if you’re spending a lot of time in China as it can be overwhelming with all the city life.

9. Support Research

The base conducts scientific research on pandas, their behavior, and their needs. By visiting, you indirectly contribute to these research efforts.

10. Family-Friendly Adventure from Chengdu

The panda sanctuary near Chengdu is an attraction that appeals to people of all ages. It’s an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.

How to Get to the Giant Panda Research Base from Chengdu

There are a few transportation options for getting from the city of Chengdu to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Here are the best ways to reach the sanctuary.

Take Public Transit from Chengdu to the Giant Pandas

This was the route I took as I was on a tight budget when I traveled. It will take between an hour and an hour and a half to get to the Giant Pandas on public transit, so if you want to get there early – factor that into your timing.

To visit the giant pandas from Chengdu, head to the bus station. Then take Bus 1 going North to the end of the line at Zhaoju Temple Bus Station. Inside the bus station find Bus 87, which for me was sitting waiting, and take it to the Panda Base stop.

If you look foreign, chances are good the driver will tell you when you’re there. Each bus costs ¥2, so it costs a total of ¥4 – under a dollar! Just board the bus and put the exact fare in the metal box by the driver.

Book a Tour to the Giant Pandas

If you aren’t keen on navigating the public transit around Chengdu, don’t worry, there’s another option. -take a tour to the giant pandas in Chengdu! Here are some of your best bets.

• Private Half-Day Chengdu Panda Breeding Center Tour with Optional Volunteer: Meet your English-speaking guide in your hotel lobby and set off for the Chengdu Panda Breeding Center. Spend your morning in the company of China’s most endearing creatures, exploring the baby and adult panda areas during a 3-hour guided tour. Check availability now.
• Private Day Trip to Chengdu Panda Breeding Center and Leshan Buddha: Get picked up by your private tour guide and leverage private transit and railway with your guide to get to two of the. most amazing sites in the Chengdu area – Leshan Buddha and the Giant Panda Research Center. Check availability now.

Alternately, some hotels and hostels offer transportation or a tour if you’ve failed to book anything in advance.

The Giant Panda Research Base

Established in 1987 with a mission to safeguard rescued wild pandas, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding has evolved into a cherished Chinese national asset.

Encompassing 165 acres (67 hectares) of open-air sanctuary, this destination has gained widespread popularity in southern China. Its emphasis on breeding, conservation, and reintroducing pandas to their natural habitats has solidified its reputation as a beacon of dedicated conservation efforts.

Arrive at the Chengdu Giant Panda Research Center

Upon arrival at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding , purchase a ticket at the ticket office out front and make your way through the park following the “This way to the pandas” signs. Yes, it’s really that easy. The park opens at 7:30am and the earlier you get there the less crowded it is as you beat the giant tour groups.

Pro Tip: Go see the pandas when you get there and then come back to the museum by the entrance/exit afterwards. This will let you visit the pandas before it gets crowded and also, the air conditioning in the museum will feel good.

I was fortunate in that it was really empty when I arrived, the pandas were active, and it was overcast. There are many areas in the park to see adult giant pandas, sub-adult giant pandas, giant panda cubs, and the nursery for baby giant pandas (Is baby giant pandas an oxymoron?).

As a bonus, there’s also red panda enclosures and a red panda nursery. And of course, don’t forget the giant panda museum and the research center. I must say, I was in awe as I walked around the park. I mean, I was really geeking out over the pandas.

Start at the Panda Cubs

In the morning I was walking on an empty path and saw four panda cubs eating and playing. It was pretty much magical to watch their clumsy gestures as they rolled around. I might have taken a video…

Visit the Red Pandas

Thinking it couldn’t get any better than that, I was wrong. The red panda nursery as it is labeled is not a nursery in the sense that I think (that or I missed that part). It’s a habitat where the red pandas wander freely through the enclosures, along the sidewalks with you, and into the trees overhead. I stepped foot in and saw a little guy scurrying away down the path ahead of me.

The fences actually have giant holes built into them so the red pandas can wander freely! As I walked further, two red pandas came along and walked within a few inches of me, no worries, it’s on video too. (Told you I geeked out!)

I was astounded at how freely they let the red pandas wander and honestly how much they trust people to not harass them. It creates an awesome experience. Also, they’re pretty darn cute!

Admire the Giant Pandas

The giant pandas sadly are out of reach from people, but have excellent viewing as there’s a fence with a ditch on the other side and then the pandas.  Sometimes the pandas even wander into the ditches making them quite close to you.

The only part of the park that irked me is they have quiet signs everywhere and people were literally screaming. In other words, human error, nothing to do with the park. The park is awesome.

It is breeding these adorable giant pandas hopefully away from the endangered level. Other than taking in all the cute I could handle for one day, I also learned a few things, like I could be friends with the pandas as we both eat 16 hours per day.

Anyway, if you are ever near Chengdu, visiting the giant pandas is a must. They’re worth it. And if I can’t convince you, maybe they can:

When to Visit the Giant Panda Sanctuary

The best time to visit the Giant Panda Research Base in Chengdu is during the cooler months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is more pleasant, and the pandas are generally more active and playful.

Additionally, this is when temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable to explore the park without the extreme heat or cold of summer and winter.

To avoid the crowds, try not to visit during peak tourist seasons and holidays. If possible, you’ll also want to visit during weekdays or earlier in the day. Larger crowds and tourist groups tend to arrive later in the day.

If you’re interested in seeing baby pandas , the months of August and September are the best time to go see the giant pandas. This is typically when newborn pandas are more visible to the public.

Other posts you might like

Join the conversation cancel reply.

Chengdu Panda Tour – Half Day

A short visit to chengdu panda breeding and research base to see the cute pandas including baby pandas and red pandas a perfect panda visit for travelers with limited time.

New born baby pandas in Chengdu Panda Base.

Young pandas playing in trees at Chengdu Panda Base.

Chengdu Panda Base Tour.

Tour Review

Highlights:.

-Chengdu Panda Base

-Giant Pandas

-Red Pandas

Detailed Itinerary:

First you will start from your hotel in the morning by 7:30 and drive to the panda base in the northern suburb of Chengdu for about 30 minutes. It is better to be at the panda base earlier than later as this panda base is usually crowded with visitors after 9 o’clock especially on weekends.

You will start by the enclosures with adult pandas kept in separated places. Each enclosure you will have enough time to take photos and look at the pandas.

You will be on foot while visiting the panda base in Chengdu. However there is also golf car inside the base you can take. The walking is between each enclosure is about 2-5 minutes with steps but also accesses for wheel chairs too.

After visit at Sunshine Delivery House you will go to the Moonlight Delivery House where you will see the panda toddlers with age of about 1 year old, the most active and playful age of pandas. These toddlers are kept together that you will often see them climbing trees, playing. This is the highlight of the panda base in Chengdu.

After worth you will go to see the red pandas. Some of the red pandas are not kept in enclosures but rather free to walk on the visitors boardwalk.

The visiting time is about 2-3 hours in total at Chengdu Panda Base.

After the visit, say goodbye to the pandas and drive back to your hotel. You will be dropped off to your hotel or anywhere in the city that you prefer.

You will be fully guided throughout your program today.

Travel Tips:

1.You are recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the crowd at the panda base especially in the summer time for another reason is the pandas don’t like hot weather. Morning is their active time when you can see them eating and playing outside of their house.

2.You can get probably the closest 2-3 meters away from pandas. Chengdu Panda Base serves as a research and breeding center of pandas. It is a very nice room and enclosures for pandas.

3.The pandas have babies from July to October each year. By this time of traveling you will often see some fresh born babies. Although the older toddlers are there throughout the year at Moonlight Delivery House.

4.Chengdu Panda Base is a very well facilitated park that can be accessed by anyone including the elders, children and the physically-challenged.

Availability: Every Day

Price details:.

A. Price Inclusions:  Private Transfer;  Private English-speaking Guide;  Entrance Fees;  Service Charge and Tax;

B. Price is based on 3 people.

    No Hidden Fees.

    Private Tour.

Thanks! Message sent.

• 86-19138970032 (GMT+8 18:00~09:00)

• Beijing Xian Tours
• Shanghai Beijing Tours
• Hong Kong Guilin Tours
• Hangzhou Suzhou Tours
• Kunming Lijiang Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Tours
• Chengdu Tibet Tours
• More Short Stay Tours
• China Tours in January
• China Tours in February
• China Tours in March
• China Tours in April
• China Tours in May
• China Tours in June
• China Tours in July
• China Tours in August
• China Tours in September
• China Tours in October
• China Tours in November
• China Tours in December

• High Speed Trains
• China Yangtze Cruise Tour
• Photography
• Desert Adventure
• Ethnic Villages
• Biking Tours
• Kung Fu Tours
• Heritage Sites Exploration
• China Spring Tours
• China Summer Tours
• China Autumn Tours
• China Winter Tours

Notice! 2024 available cruise routes include 4~5 days Chongqing-Yichang(most classic) and 11~12 days Chongqing-Yichang-Shanghai(limited).

• Best-value Yangtze Cruises
• Top Family-friendly Cruise Ships
• Top 3 Luxury Yangtze River Cruises
• Yangtze River Highlights
• Yangtze River Cruise Routes
• Upstream or Downstream?
• Dining & Drinking
• Accommodations
• On-board Activities
• Yangtze Cruise Booking Steps

• Inner Mongolia

• Fanjingshan
• How to Plan Your First China Tour
• How to Plan Beijing Tour
• How to Plan Xian Tour
• How to Plan Shanghai Tour
• How to Plan Guilin Tour
• How to Plan Sichuan Tour
• How to Plan Family Tour
• 2024 China Travel Ideas
• Best Time to Visit China
• What to Pack for Your China Journey
• Make Payment in China
• Updated China Travel News
• Ultimate Chinese Visa Guide
• Chinese Visa Types
• Chinese Visa Requirements
• Do I Need a Visa for China
• Chinese Visa Application
• Chinese Visa Exemptions
• 144-hour Visa Free
• Shenzhen Visa on Arrival
• Hainan 30-day Visa Free
• Embassies & Consulates
• Invitation Letter
• Useful Visa FAQs & Tips
• Entry Regulations
• Baggage Allowance
• Customs Declaration
• Exit Regulation
• How to Book Train Tickets
• How to Collect Train Tickets
• How to Cancel & Alter Train Tickets
• How to Read Train Tickets
• China High Speed Train Types
• Seats Class & How to Choose
• Friendly Facilities on the Train
• The Train Station Departure Process
• Available Food and Drinks on the Train
• Western Toilets on the Train
• Luggage Racks & Baggage Allowance
• Beijing Train Stations
• Shanghai Train Stations
• Guilin Train Stations
• Xian Train Stations
• Chengdu Train Stations
• Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station
• Beijing - Xian
• Beijing - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Shanghai
• Shenzhen - Shanghai
• Chengdu - Xian
• Shanghai - Hangzhou
• Shanghai - Xian
• Chengdu - Chongqing
• Kunming - Lijiang
• Beijing Capital International
• Beijing Daxing International
• Shanghai Pudong International
• Shanghai Hongqiao International
• Guangzhou Baiyun International
• Hangzhou Xiaoshan International
• Chengdu Tianfu International
• Chengdu Shuangliu International
• Xian Xianyang International
• Shanghai - Beijing
• Hong Kong - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Beijing
• Chengdu - Lhasa
• Shanghai - Guilin
• Shanghai - Sanya
• Travel in Spring Season
• Travel in Summer Season
• Travel in Autumn Season
• Travel in Winter Season
• Weather in January
• Weather in February
• Weather in March
• Weather in April
• Weather in May
• Weather in June
• Weather in July
• Weather in August
• Weather in September
• Weather in October
• Weather in November
• Weather in December
• Top 10 China Destinations
• Top 15 Things to Do
• China World Heritage Sites
• Top 10 Best Natural Beauties
• Top 10 Museums in China
• Top 10 Old Towns & Villages
• Five Great Mountains in China
• Top 10 Monasteries & Temples
• Top 10 Ski Resorts
• Top 10 Beautiful Lakes in China
• 7 Best Beaches in Sanya
• Top 6 Beautiful Waterfalls
• Panda Volunteering
• Having fun on Ice and Snow Festival
• About Us Who We Are Our Team Why Travel with Us Feedback & Reviews Travel Stories Travelers' Gallery Payment Guide Customer Support Contact Us
• Tour Experiences

Destinations

• Travel Guide

How to Get to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Chengdu is located on the west part of China, known as the hometown of panda, visited by countless domestic and foreign tourists every year. One of the main object for both domestic and foreign tourists travel to Chengdu is to see cute pandas. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the closest and best base to see pandas, very suitable for short-break travelers in Chengdu.

Now let’s find out together how to get to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding from Chengdu City Center , Airport and Railway Stations by multiple means of transportation.

Where is Chengdu Panda Base

Address: 1375 Panda Avenue, Chenghua District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China, 610081 (中国四川省成都市成华区熊猫大道1375号)

Map of Chengdu to Chengdu Panda Base

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding , also known as Chengdu Panda Base, is located in the north suburb of Chengdu on the Futou Mountain and is 16km from the city center, 18km from Chengdu East Railway Station, 37km from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport. Here is some useful transportation information for your reference.

>> Learn more about Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Get from City Center to Chengdu Panda Base

Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province with 11 districts. Most travelers would choose to stay at the city center of Chengdu - the area around Chunxi Road, Tianfu Square and Renmin Park etc.

>> Learn more about Things to do in Chengdu

By Private Car or Taxi

The most convenience and time-saving way for tourists to travel from attractions nearby city center to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu is by taking private car or taxi . The distance between Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and attractions in downtown area is about 16-22km, takes about 30-40mins by car or taxi. Based in Chengdu, we China Discovery could provide you the comfortable licensed private car service included in our Chengdu Tour package.

For independent travelers who are taking taxis, the estimated cost is around 40-60CNY. Check the following frequent used start locations to Chengdu Panda Base with detailed distances and price for reference.

( Note: The above prices are for reference only and the taxi fares/length may changed based on the real situation.)

By Panda Express Bus

If you are a independent travelers and stay in the hotels near Wuhou Temple , Kuanzhai Alley or Chunxi Road , you can take Panda Express Bus to get to Chengdu Panda Base directly. Please check the route and timetable of Panda Express Bus:

By Metro + Local Bus

If you have enough time and energy, wanted to try public transport in Chengdu, you can go to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding by metro and local buses . There are six metro lines in Chengdu, only Metro Line 3 head to the direction of Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, however you need to get off at Chengdu Zoo Station (动物园) or Panda Avenue Station (熊猫大道), walk hundreds meters to bus station to transfer to local buses.

A. If you take Metro Line 3 and arrive at Chengdu Zoo (动物园) Station , you should get out from Exit A and walk about 250 meters to get to Metro Chengdu Zoo Bus Station and take Bus 198/198A, and get off at Panda Base Bus Station.

B. If you take Metro Line 3 and get off at Panda Avenue (熊猫大道) Station , walk out from exit A to Metro Panda Avenue Bus Station to take Panda Express Line 3/D025/198/198A and get off at Panda Base Bus Station.

>> Learn More about Chengdu Metro

Get from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to Chengdu Panda Base

Address: Jinchang Road. Shuangliu District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China (中国四川省成都市双流区机场路)

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is about 16km from Chengdu downtown area, 37km from Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

>> Learn More about Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

If you are looking for a time saving way to get to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding from the airport, it’s suggested to take a taxi which will take about ¥120 and regardless of traffic jam, which will only take about 40 minutes.

There is no direct bus line to get to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and travelers will need to transfer once in the way and this will take about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

You can get on Metro Line 10 at Terminal 2 of Shuangliu International Airport (双流机场2航站楼) Station, transfer to Line 3 at Taipingyuan (太平园) Station, passing 14 or 15 stations get off from Chengdu Zoo (动物园) Station or Panda Avenue (熊猫大道) Station to change to local buses 198/198A.

Get from Chengdu Railway Stations to Chengdu Panda Base

Chengdu East Railway Station is the the largest high speed railway station and the most common used railway station in Chengdu. Currently there are 3 main railway stations including Chengdu North Railway Station (also named Chengdu Railway Station), Chengdu East Railway Station (the largest high speed train station in Chengdu) and Chengdu South Railway Station.

>> Learn More about Chengdu Railway Stations

Click to Enlarge From Train Stations to Chengdu Panda Base

By Private car or Taxi

You are recommended to choose taxi or private car as your way of travel, it can save you a lot of time and energy.

There is no direct bus lines to get to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding from Chengdu North Railway Station and Chengdu South Railway Station. However if you arrive at Chengdu East Railway Station and plan to go to Chengdu Panda Base directly, you can take Panda Express Bus Line 4 from Chengdu East Railway Station to Panda Base, departure time is from 9:00 to 15:00, shuttle at about 1.5h interval.

If you decided to take metro, here are the recommended transit routes from each railway stations to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

How to Plan Your Chengdu Panda Tour

Visiting the cute giant panda in China would be the once in a lifetime experience. If you have limited time you can take 1 or 2 days enjoy the leisurely and comfortable local life in Chengdu, visit some famous attractions downtown and spent half a day to meet cute pandas at Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding .

>> 1 Day Chengdu Relaxing Panda Highlights Tour

>> 2 Days Chengdu City Break

Wanted to know more about pandas’ protection and have a personal experiences to take care of pandas, join a one-day Panda Volunteer Program to make your trip in China becomes more meaningful.

>> 1 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour

>> 2 Days Dujiangyan Panda Tour

Travel Chengdu Panda Base with China Discovery

Travel with China Discovery and let us take care of everything for you! Our local drivers will escort you to Chengdu Panda Base from your hotel in Chengdu directly. And our English-speaking tour guide will accompany you all the way, showing you the best travelling route and telling you information and stories about pandas.

The tour can be tailor-made according to your group size, time, physical condition, plan, interest, budget and every special need. If you have any other ideas about the trip or you have other places or cities wanted to visit such as Beijing, Shanghai or Xian, our experienced travel consultants are very glad to offer their help. Please feel free to contact us !

Panda Bases & Volunteer Experience

• Dujiangyan Panda Base
• Chengdu Panda Base
• Wolong Panda Reserve
• Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Program
• Dujiangyan Panda Holding
• Bifengxia Panda Volunteer Program
• Panda Volunteer Program 2024
• Latest Panda Experience & Community

Useful Articles to Plan Panda Tours

• How to Plan a China Panda Tour
• Where to See Pandas in China?
• 15 Interesting Facts about Giant Pandas
• Chengdu to Dujiangyan Panda Base
• Chengdu to Wolong Panda Reserve
• Red Panda Volunteer Program
• Panda Photo Gallery
• Hold a Panda 2024
• Giant Panda Maps 2024
• Giant Panda FAQs & Travel Tips
• All Panda Tours

Recommended Chengdu Tours

Top 3 Chengdu tours chosen by most customers to explore Chengdu in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

2 Days Best Chengdu Leshan Giant Buddha Tour

Chengdu / Leshan Giant Buddha / Chengdu

1 Day Chengdu Relaxing Panda Highlights Tour

3 Days Chengdu Highlights Tour plus Leshan Giant Buddha

Chengdu: Chengdu Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha, Jinli Street

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

Have a question? Get answers from our travel experts or guests

• Your Question:
• Your Email:
• Affordable and valuable price
• 100% tailor-made packages
• Highly rated customers reviews
• Efficient customer support

China Tours

• Top 10 China Tours
• Classic China Tours
• China Tours from Beijing
• China Tours from Shanghai
• China Tours from Hong Kong
• China Tours from Chengdu
• Short China Trips
• Customize China Tour
• China Panda Tours
• Family Tour with Kids
• High-Speed Train Tour
• Silk Road Travel
• Yangtze River Cruise
• Hiking & Trekking Tours
• Photography Tours
• China Minority Travel
• Beijing Shanghai Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Tours
• Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Tours
• Chengdu Lhasa Tours
• Suzhou Hangzhou Tours
• Guilin & Yangshuo
• Zhangjiajie

“Very good experience”

“WONDERFUL 25 DAYS IN CHINA - PRIVATE TOUR”

“Awesome China tour from northeast to southwest”

Any questions, please email us at: [email protected] or call us at: 86-19138970032 (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. GMT+8)

• Terms & Condition
• Privacy Policy
• Customer Support

Copyright © 2011-2024. All rights reserved.

Cookie policy

We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue using our website means you agree with our cookie policy. For more info, please read here .

The 5 Best Places to See Giant Pandas in Chengdu

The hometown to giant pandas, Chengdu, is no doubt the most popular destination for visiting cute panda bears. However, do you know which panda base you should pick among the following panda bases? In this article, we have listed the main discrepancies of each panda base. Read on it and find your most suitable place and meet lovely pandas in Chengdu.

Highly Recommended Places to See Giant Pandas

1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — Home to 50 Adorable Pandas

• Location: 1375 Panda Avenue, Chenghua District; 40 minutes from downtown Chengdu
• Entrance fee: 55 yuan
• Opening hours: 7:30am to 6pm
• Visiting duration: half a day
• Fun facts: You can see cubs in September, watch breeding movies, and send postcards with a panda postmark
• How to get there: Take bus 87, 198, 198a, or 867, and get off at Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

2. Dujiangyan Panda Base — Quiet and Easy to Access from Chengdu

• Location: Shiqiao Village, Qingcheng Town, Dujiangyan; 1½ hours from Chengdu
• Entrance fee: 60 yuan
• Opening hours: 7:30am to 4:30pm in summer; 9am to 5pm in winter
• Visiting duration: 1 day
• Fun facts: There are many panda activities to join in with.
• How to get there: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Qingchengshan Railway Station, and then take bus 102 and get off at Dujiangyan Panda Base and Center for Disease Control.

3. Panda Valley — Amazing Landscape with Cute Panda Bears

• Location: Baima Village, Yutang Town, Dujiangyan; 50 kilometers away from Chengdu
• Entrance fee: 58 yuan
• Opening hours: 8:30am to 5pm
• Visiting duration: about 3 hours
• Fun facts: This is a research base that trains pandas to live in the wild.
• How to get there: Take a train to Qingchengshan Railway Station and then take a taxi to the panda base.

Highlights and Features of 3 Different Panda Bases

Other places to see pandas in chengdu, wolong national nature reserve — habitat experience for major panda fans.

• Location: Wolong Town; 3 hours from Chengdu
• Entrance fee: 15 yuan for the entrance fee, CNY for Wolong Panda Museum, 60 yuan for the giant panda gardens, 98 yuan for Wolong Valley, 360 yuan for the “searching for wild giant pandas” program, 120 yuan for hiking in Zhenghe Valley
• Opening hours: all day
• Fun facts: It offers fresh air, lush forests, and an abundant amount of giant pandas.
• How to get there: Take a bus from Chengdu’s Chadianzi Bus Station to Wolong (about 40 yuan) and then take a bus or taxi to the panda center.

Bifengxia Giant Panda Base — Excellent Natural Views and Fun Activities

• Location: Bifengxia Scenic Area, Yucheng District, Ya’an
• Entrance fee: 150 yuan
• Opening hours: 8:30am to 11:30am and 1:30pm to 4pm
• Fun facts: This panda base has a large area of mountain forests.
• How to get there: Take a bus from Chengdu to Bifengxia at Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station

Related Tours

One-Day Panda and Chengdu Lifestyle Highlights Tour

Half-Day Chengdu Pandas Tour

Private Day Tour: Dujiangyan Panda Base and Irrigation Project

Emergency Call

• +86-18807734970

Email Address

[email protected]

Social Media

ABOUT Trippest

CERTIFIED ON

American Society of Travel Advisors ID: 9001-64756

International Air Transport Association ID: 083-01996

United States Tour Operators Association ID: 114

Pacific Asia Travel Association ID: 621

IN THE MEDIA

Frugal Travellers

Join us as we wander the globe, visiting the giant panda research centre, chengdu.

Photos and TV programs just can’t capture that feeling when you see your first Giant Panda in real life… especially when there are 187 of the incredibly cute black and white creatures to see in the 160-acre Chengdu Research Centre for Giant Panda Breeding, or the Chengdu Panda Reserve for short.

How to get to the Chengdu Panda Research Centre

It’s now so much easier to get to the Panda Research Centre with the extension of the red Line 3 and the construction of the new Panda Avenue metro station. You can tell that you’ve arrived at the Panda station as there are panda images everywhere!

We paid 4Y each from Xinnanmen metro station, conveniently also on Line 3 and right beside the Xinnanmen Tourist Bus Terminal.

It is marked clearly on Maps.Me – A great app for travel anywhere in the world!

Where to buy tickets and how much does it cost?

We’d received advice from friends, so knew to buy the tickets once we’d arrived at Panda Avenue Metro station – just come out at Exit A and buy from the Hi Panda centre.

The tickets were 55Y each , cheaper than the 58Y mentioned in guide books, and included a free bus to the Centre – we wanted the black and white bus with the panda seat covers but had the last 2 seats on the yellow bus instead. Note  – it is 2Y for the return trip and that the last Panda bus returns at 4 pm , even though the Chengdu Panda Research centre is open until 5:30 pm.

Check XE.COM for the latest exchange rates

Wear comfortable walking shoes and be ready for hills

We arrived at the Chengdu Panda Research centre at 8:30 am . It was forecast to reach 30C that day so we knew that we needed to see the youngest cubs outside first, as the pandas are put inside in air-conditioned rooms when the temperature reaches 26C.

We picked up a free English map from the desk inside the entry and started walking to #12 – the Giant Panda Cub enclosure, beside the Sunshine Nursery House for Giant Pandas… passing a very long queue waiting for the Panda train. We realised why after climbing up and down the many inclines as the Research Centre is quite hilly and the roads don’t always connect from one area to another. Wear sensible shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking.

Try to avoid weekends and public holidays

Arriving at the Sunshine enclosure we realised everyone else had had the same idea, and that it was a terrible mistake to come to the Panda Research Centre on a Sunday!

This is where patience, determination and the ability to calmly sidle sideways and forward comes in handy. Otherwise you’ll be stuck at the back viewing a sea of screens! The Chinese are masters at manuevering to the front of a queue so we watched and learnt.

It took around 15 minutes to get to the front, and we spent 10 minutes there to take videos, photos and to just watch these bundles of joy. They are so photogenic and the danger is of taking 50+ photos of the same group. Yep – I did that and am still struggling to delete photos as they’re all so adorable!

Don’t let the crowd put you off as it’s so worth it to see the panda cubs chomp away on their bamboo breakfast and engaging in playfights with each other.

Panda feeding time was at 8 am in April. This does change throughout the year as they’re not well equipped to deal with the heat of summer.

After that we headed to No# 24, the Moonlight Giant Panda cub enclosure, which was at the far end of the Research Centre. It was up quite a hill. We stopped a couple of times to see some of the adult Giant Pandas. Our main goal was definitely to see the panda cubs!

Who are the Frugal Travellers?

Take food and a water bottle

It was getting warm by 10:30am so the many drinking fountains at the different enclosures were a lifesaver. I would definitely recommend carrying a bottle and refilling when you can as it’s so important to stay hydrated.

Another important tip is to take snacks. We really dropped the ball there and didn’t take any food along, even though we had peanuts, plain biscuits and chilli dried broad beans in our room.

There are drink vending machines everywhere but not a single snack vending machine, and the food areas are all the way back down the hill towards the entrance.

We managed to see the Sub-adults at the enclosures No. 14 and No. 15 before hunger got the better of us and we went back down the hill, arriving at the food kiosks around Swan Lake by 12:30 – thankfully there was virtually no queue as most of the locals had (sensibly!) brought picnics.

Food and drink available at the Research Centre kiosks

We were very happy about the reasonable prices at the food kiosks at Swan Lake. Guilin noodles were 10Y and a sausage on a stick rolled in chilli powder was only 5Y. I had 2 ice creams as a pick-me-up for the return climb as they were only 5Y each. We had expected food to be so much more expensive!

After lunch we wandered through the rose garden. It was fun watching people climb through bushes and over low fences to get photos of themselves amongst nature. Some sections of the garden look slightly battered as a result.

Pandas put in aircon rooms when the heat rises

After a highly enjoyable one-hour lunch break we ventured back into the foray. We were stymied by the fact that the pandas had all been moved inside due to the heat.

As soon as the temperature rises to 26C, the pandas go into aircon. Those thick coats were meant for the snow and cold, not the heat of the lowlands! Signs were posted, advising which pandas could still be viewed.

What about the Red Pandas?

I must admit that we didn’t give the Red Pandas much of a look-in. We decided to concentrate on the Giant Pandas instead. We did attempt to take photos of one enclosure but the two Red Pandas were constantly moving. Not like their black and white namesakes who seemed happiest whilst lying back and eating.

Watch a movie to rest those weary feet

A great way to rest those aching feet is to stop and watch one of the many videos running at various locations in the Research Centre. We saw an interesting video on the birth and life of a Giant panda. It had some gorgeous footage of the newborns from 2017.

Many details are given. Such as the amount of bamboo the average adult Giant Panda consumes per day at the Chengdu Panda Reserve, which is 45-50kg. Also the amount that comes out the other side… between 150 pellets per day!

Important points to keep in mind:

• Panda Research Centre opening hours: 8am until 5:30pm
• Go as early as possible to catch feeding time first thing. That’s when pandas are most active and it is less hot
• Tickets can be bought from the HyCentre at Panda Avenue metro station. They include the Panda bus to the Research Centre
• Return ticket is 2Y but service finishes at 4pm
• Bus#198 or #198a  are also 2Y and go to Panda Avenue Metro station
• Take snacks as the only cafes/restaurants are way down the bottom of the hill at the (??) Lake near the entrance
• Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking for between 4-10kms depending on how much you want to see and if, like us, you need to hike down the hill for lunch
• Carry a water bottle to refill at the different enclosures
• Be prepared for crowds and try to go on a normal working day

Check out our onward travels in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

Leave us a comment.

Please contact us with comments or questions in the box below. We’d love to hear from you!

Like this post?  Pin It

Share and Enjoy !

You might also like:.

Why we put our travel plans on hold in Krakow, Poland

Our Current Journey

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone – what it is like to visit in 2020

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Copy short link

• Get close to China’s most treasured animal – Giant Pandas!
• Watch more than 100 pandas, including the newborn pandas and the little panda babies.
• It is only 10 km (6.2 miles) away from Chengdu downtown with convenient transportation.
• Adult: Age 18-60
• Admission Ticket CNY55 - 0 +
• Junior: Age 6-17
• Discount Admission Ticket CNY27 - 0 +
• Child: Age under 6
• Free Ticket CNY0 - 0 +
• One Day Chengdu Private Tour to Research Base of Giant Panda, Broad and Narrow Alleys, & Jinsha Site Museum from $109
• One Day Chengdu Private Tour to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda and Leshan Giant Buddha from $159
• 2 Days Chengdu Private Tour to Jinsha Site Museum, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wide and Narrow Alley, and More from $309

Best Times to Visit Chengdu & Pandas 2024/2025: Travel Tips

A summary of the weather of Chengdu might read "an early spring, a hot summer, a cool autumn and a warm (relative to surrounding areas) winter".

The average mid-winter temperature (January is the coldest month) lies between 3–8°C (37–46°F), while the average summer temperature (July being the hottest month) lies between 22–29°C (72–84°F).

Sometimes likened to the city of London as regards the fog and the drizzly weather, Chengdu gets about 250–300 foggy, cloudy or rainy days each year.

Content Preview

• Best Times for Pandas
• Best Times for Families & Couples
• Spring Weather
• Summer Weather
• Autumn Weather
• Winter Weather

The Best Times to See Pandas in Chengdu

The best seasons: Spring and autumn are the best times to see giant pandas . They are lazy on hot days and like to cool off in air-conditioned rooms.

The best time of day: Morning is the best time to see giant pandas because this is when they are most active. You will probably see them climbing trees, playing on the ground, and eating at about 9:30 am.

The best time to see baby pandas : March to May is the "falling in love" period for pandas. If you visit Chengdu between late August and December, you will have a greater chance of seeing tiny newborns and cuddly babies in the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

For a unique panda experience that is not heavily affected by the weather , we are pleased to present our exclusive Panda Volunteer Program . In this program, you will have the opportunity to prepare panda-friendly meals, maintain clean panda enclosures, observe their feeding sessions, and receive an official volunteer certificate.

See the Top 4 Places to See Giant Pandas in Chengdu .

The Best Times for Families & Couples

The best times to visit Chengdu are during the periods from March to June (excluding the first week of May) and from September to November (excluding the first week of October).

From March to June, you can revel in the refreshing spring colors that envelop the city, while September to November offers pleasant temperatures. Additionally, this time frame guarantees fewer crowds.

However, for families traveling with school-age children, the summer months are the most popular choice. June, in particular, can be a quieter option during the summer holidays.

Don't let the summer rains and crowds deter you, though. Our Chengdu itinerary is thoughtfully designed to account for peak season crowds and not-so-ideal weather conditions. Arrange suitable activities such as Sichuan cooking classes, interesting face-changing performances, and visits to less crowded wild panda bases.

Regardless of the season you choose for your visit, rest assured that we will manage all logistical aspects, including transportation and accommodation, to provide you with a stress-free travel experience. Just contact us .

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Spring: Shoulder Season

Spring is from March to May. While winter can be cold and summer can get muggy, spring in Chengduisa happy medium, with average temperatures hovering between 10–20°C (50–70°F). Prepare shirts, thin sweaters, and a coat for the weather.

There are not too many tourists in Chengdu at this time. So you can enjoy a quieter environment to see pandas, start food hunting, etc.

It is also a good time to witness Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong in full of vigor. Remember that early May is especially busy due to the Labor Day holiday.

Summer: High Season

July and August are the hottest months in Chengdu, with average lows and highs of 22°C (70°F) and 30°C (85°F). Half of the annual rainfall is concentrated in July and August. Prepare summer clothes and an umbrella.

Vacationing families make the summer months one of the most popular times to visit Chengdu. Expect airfare and hotel rates to be at their peak and availability to below. Book 3 months in advance.

Some towns and villages in western and northern Sichuan areas are good places to escape the heat and the crowds. See the  9-Day Panoramas of Western Sichuan Tour

Jiuzhaigou Valley,  Mt. Qingcheng , and Mt. Emei are also ideal places to escape the summer heat.

Autumn: Best Season

Autumn is from October to November. This is a season with sharp and frequent temperature changes. A few chilly days could be followed by relatively hot weather.

The average low and high temperatures are respectively 15°C (59°F) and 21°C (70°F) in October, and 9°C (50°F) and 16°C (61°F) in November. Prepare a shirt, sweater, and jacket to cope with the weather.

This is one of the best times of the year to visit Chengdu due to the comfortable weather and the drop in Chinese tourists.

The autumn scenes at Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are among the most beautiful in China. See the  best places to see fall foliage near Chengdu .

Winter: Low Season

Winter is from December to February. Chengdu is at its quietest during these cold winter months when it is usually cold, damp, and grey, with little rainfall.

The average low and high temperatures are around 2–10°C (36–49°F). It is good to enjoy hot pot on cold days. Prepare a sweater and down jacket for winter.

The drop in temperature means a drop in both airfare and hotel rates, which makes this a great time to visit the city if you're looking for a bargain and are not bothered by a little cold.

Pandas are also very active in winter.  Xiling Snow Mountain  and Bipenggou are great places for skiing. 

Our Popular Chengdu Tours

All of our tours can be adjusted or customized based on your requirements. Just contact us if you have a good idea about what you want to do. You could also start from one of our popular itineraries including Chengdu:

• 13-Day Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, Pingyao and Beijing
• 12-Day Beijing, Chengdu, Yangtze River Cruise, and Shanghai Tour
• 15-Day Kunming–Dali–Lijiang–Chengdu–Jiuzhaigou–Dunhuang–Jiayuguan

Chengdu Climate Information by Month

• Chengdu Weather in January
• Chengdu Weather in February
• Chengdu Weather in March
• Chengdu Weather in April
• Chengdu Weather in May
• Chengdu Weather in June
• Chengdu Weather in July
• Chengdu Weather in August
• Chengdu Weather in September
• Chengdu Weather in October
• Chengdu Weather in November
• Chengdu Weather in December
• 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
• 12-Day China Silk Road Tour from Xi'an to Kashgar
• 11-Day China Classic Tour
• 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
• Best (& Worst) Times to Visit China, Travel Tips (2024/2025)
• How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
• 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
• China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Central Asia
• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty & Referral Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

• Blog Contact

Name * Email Address * Whatsapp / Wechat / Mobile Message

Contact Me Directly

Drop me a message.

Email : [email protected]

Our Student Advisor Team

Please contact me if you wish to come and study with us!

Email :  [email protected] WeChat ID : Mojca_LTL

Discover the Pandas in Chengdu || Where Can You Find Them in 2024?

Pandas in chengdu || your complete guide to visting china’s national treasure.

Want to know the best way to visit pandas in Chengdu, then you’ve come to the right place!

When our students come to Chengdu to study Chinese , one of the first things they ask is…

Where can I find the pandas of Chengdu?

No joke… it’s probably one of the most commonly asked questions across all our schools!

Because of that, we wanted to prepare a go-to guide for all your panda lovers out there 😍

In this article, we will:

• Learn some interesting panda facts
• Get to know the main places there are to visit pandas in Chengdu
• Find out how to be a Panda Volunteer
• Discover what Panda Diplomacy is

Pandas in Chengdu || Introduction Pandas in Chengdu || Fun Facts Pandas in Chengdu || Top Tips When Visitings Pandas in Chengdu || Where To Find The Pandas Pandas in Chengdu || Panda Diplomacy Pandas in Chengdu || FAQs

Pandas in Chengdu || Introduction

Giant Pandas or literally “large bear cats” (大熊猫 Dà xióngmāo) have to be the ultimate symbol of Chengdu city – and with good reason!

Known as China’s “national treasure” in recent years pandas have become synonymous not only with Chengdu but with China as a whole.

Pandas have become world famous, known for their clumsy behavior, love of napping, and never-ending hunger for bamboo they are definitely up there with the world’s cutest animals.

FUN FACT || They are so adorable that when WWF was formed in 1961 they chose the panda for their logo, making it the number one symbol for animal conservation.

Pandas in Chengdu || Fun Facts

Before we tell you where you can find the pandas in Chengdu, here are some fun facts about them we know you’ll love!

• Pandas are often referred to as “living fossils” because they have been around for over three million years!
• There are two types of panda: Giant pandas and red pandas (小熊猫 xiǎoxióngmāo) literally translating to “small bear cat”
• Wild pandas can now only be found in Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces
• In the wild 99% of a panda’s diet consists of bamboo
• Due to the low nutrition of bamboo pandas spend over 12 hours eating each day.
• As of 2023, there are just over 1800 giant pandas living in the wild
• Pandas are the most expensive animals to keep in captivity
• In China pandas are a symbol of peace, in ancient China warring tribes would fly a panda flag to call a truce

How To Travel in China: The 7 Methods To Move

Your Complete Guide on How to Travel in China✈️ When coming to China for the first time a common question is – How to Travel in China? What’s the deal? There are numerous ways to get around China but a…

Pandas in Chengdu || Top Tips

First of all, here are some top tips to make sure you know how to make the most out of your trip to visit pandas in Chengdu.

Firstly and most importantly…

GET THERE EARLY!

Ideally for feeding time because this is when the pandas will be most active. If you visit in the afternoon then you can expect to see pandas enjoying their favourite pastime – sleeping!

DON’T FOLLOW THE TOURISTS!

If you have enough time make the effort to go to one of the less popular panda bases.

They take longer to get there but are way less busy!

CHOOSE YOUR TIME WISELY!

Try to avoid visiting the pandas in summer.

TOP TIP || The best time is September to the following June .

In summer the pandas tend to stay inside where there is air-con – if you’ve lived through a Chengdu summer you’ll understand why!

Pandas in Chengdu || Where To Find Them

Given the fame of the giant panda it goes without saying that no visit to Chengdu is complete without seeing the pandas.

Here are four places you need to go to visit our friends 🤩

Where to find Pandas in China || Chengdu Research Base Where to find Pandas in China || Dujiangyan Panda Base Where to find Pandas in China || Woolong Panda Base Where to find Pandas in China || Bifengxia Panda Base

Chengdu Research Base

This is Chengdu’s most famous panda breeding center and the easiest to get to. About 10km from downtown Chengdu.

You can reach the center easily by bus or taxi.

Home to over 100 giant pandas this is the most  popular breeding centre to visit so be prepared for crowds!

The base has created a natural living environment for their pandas with large enclosures so sometimes the pandas might be hard to spot!

TOP TIP || If you want to make sure you get some great panda photos bring along a camera with a good zoom. Sometimes you’ll be a fair distance away.

Along with the giant panda, the base is also home to their smaller relation the red panda, so make sure to keep an eye out for them!

You can also use this opportunity to learn all about pandas by going to the Giant Panda Museum which is the only museum in the world that is completely dedicated to the giant panda.

GETTING THERE ||  You need to get the metro to Dong Wu Yuan Station and then take bus line 102 to Xiongmao Jikong Zhongxin .

Dujiangyan Panda Base

This is Chengdu’s newest panda base, only being established in 2014.

TOP TIP || If you want to avoid the crowds at Chengdu Panda Base and have a bit more time on your hands for travelling then we’d recommend you make the journey here.

There are currently over 30 giant pandas and 5 red pandas living at the base. It is located about 90 minutes from Chengdu and thanks to its 2,000-year-old irrigation system it is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site.

But by far the best thing about the base is it’s currently the only place where you can become a Panda Volunteer!

The volunteer program is typically for one day and includes feeding the pandas, cleaning their enclosures, learning about pandas, and many more great activities. The price is about 700 CNY.

BONUS || If you want to stay an extra day in this area you should definitely check out the nearby Mount Qingcheng which is one of China’s “Four Holy Mountains”.

GETTING THERE ||  You’ll need to take a high-speed train from Chengdu Railway Station and get off at Mt. Qingcheng Railway Station .

Chinese Proverbs: 9 of the Best Chinese Sayings // PLUS Bonus Quiz

While there are many sayings in English, Chinese proverbs are comparatively used much more frequently in everyday speech. These are called chéngyǔ 成语.

Woolong Panda Base

If you want to see pandas in their most natural environment then this is definitely the base for you. The Woolong Panda Base is located in the Woolong National Nature Reserve which is often referred to as “Panda Kingdom”.

It is the largest breeding centre for pandas in the world.

The original base in Woolong was called Hetaoping but was unfortunately destroyed by the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008, forcing their pandas to be relocated to other bases.

But in 2016 a new base called Shenshuping was opened and is now home to more than 30 pandas.

FUN FACT || About 60% of the entire world’s wild pandas live in Woolong National Nature Reserve

While getting to see some adorable pandas you will also get the chance to take in the stunning mountain scenery and bamboo groves. It takes about two hours to get to Woolong Panda Base so you’ll need to set aside at least 1 to 2 days for the trip.

The base also offer the unique opportunity to go trekking in the Panda Wild Training Area where you learn all about the natural habitat of the giant panda and panda conservation.

GETTING THERE ||  You need to get to Chadianzi Coach Station in Chengdu and then get a bus to Woolong Town .

Bifengxia Panda Base

The Bifengxia Panda Base (碧峰峡大熊猫基地 Bì fēng xiá dà xióngmāo jīdì) has over 20 giant pandas and focuses on trying to create the most natural environment for the pandas.

While visiting this base you will see how they simulate a wild environment to train the pandas how to survive on their own in the wild. The base has a forest, several waterfalls, and other beautiful scenery so is a great place for you to see pandas in the closest place to their natural habitat.

You can expect to see lots of panda babies at this base because it has one of the China’s top breeding programs

This is the base where many of the pandas from the Woolong Base were moved to after the Wenchuan earthquake. They were then moved back after the base reopened.

GETTING THERE ||  You can get a bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station in Chengdu to Ya’an Tourism Bus Station , the journey takes about two hours, and you then need to take a minibus to the base, which takes about 25 minutes.

Pandas in Chengdu || Panda Diplomacy

Yes, the idea does sound a little crazy but in actual fact the Chinese government has been using pandas as political tools since the 1950s, gifting pandas to countries to help cement ties.

One of the most famous instances is the two pandas Ling-Ling and Hsing-Hsing who were gifted to the USA after President Richard Nixon’s historical visit to China in 1972.

Now, things are going to sound even stranger, rather than gifting pandas in recent years China has instead been renting pandas out to countries.

DID YOU KNOW || These panda loans normally last 10-15 years and can include a whopping $1,000,000 per year!

You can find out more about panda diplomacy here .

Have you ever been to see the pandas in Chengdu before? Why not leave us a comment below and tell us about your experience.

Pandas in Chengdu || FAQs

The best time is September through to the following June .

We love Dujiangyan Panda Base.

The two pandas Ling-Ling and Hsing-Hsing were gifted to the USA after President Richard Nixon’s historical visit to China in 1972.

Want more from LTL?

If you wish to hear more from LTL Mandarin School why not join our mailing list? We give plenty of handy information on learning Chinese, useful apps to learn the language and everything going on at our LTL schools!

Sign up below and become part of our ever-growing community!

BONUS || Want to study Chinese with us in Chengdu? Why not check out our group courses or individual Chinese classes .

What is the Weather in Chengdu? Our Guide to Chengdu Weather

Live Streaming in China // A Huge Craze Unrivalled Worldwide

What is 面子 | A Guide to "Face" and Why it's So Important in China

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You will get a reply from us Your email address will not be published. Name and Email are required.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

'Toxic' panda fans in China call for keeping the bears at home

HONG KONG — A pair of gi ant pandas will soon be on their way to the U.S. from China , as Beijing resumes the “ panda diplomacy ” that has sent the beloved bears around the world for decades to boost foreign relations and project Chinese soft power.

But not everyone is happy about it.

A particularly passionate online community of panda fans in China and elsewhere has embraced the black-and-white bears, which are native to China and seen as a national symbol, with a fervor usually reserved for pop singers and other celebrities — an enthusiasm that can verge on toxic.

They have reacted harshly to announcements that China will send a pair of pandas to the San Diego Zoo — they are expected to arrive in the city this week — and another pair to the National Zoo in Washington by the end of the year, going so far as to release personal information about their human caretakers online.

Some cite worries about the animals’ well-being, claiming without evidence that they are at risk of mistreatment.

Others’ opposition is more nationalistic as the U.S. and China, the world’s two largest economies, clash over a variety of issues, including trade, technology and Taiwan .

Some Chinese social media users have called for an end to panda diplomacy altogether, saying the program is a sign of “weakness” that will result in “a loss of dignity.”

“Aren’t our relations with the U.S. strained right now? Why are we so eager to send our national treasure into the lion’s den?” a commenter wrote on Weibo last month.

A flurry of panda deals

The online concern over the well-being of pandas at U.S. zoos can be traced to the sudden death of Le Le, a male panda that had been at the Memphis Zoo in Tennessee since 2003.

Le Le died of heart disease in February 2023 at age 24 — the equivalent of his 60s in human years — drawing an outcry from Chinese internet users who questioned the cause of death and worried about the health of his partner, Ya Ya.

Officials in China and the U.S. denied claims that Ya Ya was suffering from malnutrition and excessive confinement and said her hair appeared patchy because of a chronic skin and fur condition. Many of her fans were not convinced and demanded her return to China , which had already been scheduled for last year as the zoo’s 20-year loan agreement for the pandas reached its end.

In November, the National Zoo returned its three pandas to China as its loan agreement also expired, leaving Zoo Atlanta with the only four pandas in the U.S. and raising fears that a program that had symbolized U.S.-China amity since 1972 might be curtailed.

Those fears were eased in November when Chinese President Xi Jinping hinted during a visit to California that more pandas were on the way.

Since then, as the U.S. and China try to improve relations, Beijing has announced panda agreements with the National Zoo, the San Francisco Zoo and the San Diego Zoo, which has not had pandas since 2019.

The pair going to the San Diego Zoo, 4-year-old male Yun Chuan and 3-year-old female Xin Bao, are the first new pandas to arrive in the U.S. in decades.

China has also announced plans to send pandas to zoos in Spain, Austria and Australia .

Extreme fandom

As in the U.S. and other countries that host the bears, pandas are wildly popular in China, where visitors crowd exhibits at zoos and panda videos rack up views online.

Some fans go further, joining virtual communities dedicated to individual pandas. For instance, He Hua, a 3-year-old panda born at the Chengdu Panda Base in Sichuan province, has amassed a Weibo community of more than 870,000 followers.

Such enthusiasts “sign in” to the community daily, sharing photos and videos of the panda captured through a 24-hour livestreaming channel called iPanda that is run by state broadcaster CCTV.

Some larger communities organize offline events, mobilizing followers to participate in fundraising drives and online voting campaigns. The idea is to generate hype around individual pandas, just as fans of boy bands and girl groups promote some members over others.

Sometimes that extends to disparaging other pandas.

In January, extreme panda fans got into a dispute over a video that showed He Hua falling repeatedly to the ground while she was playing on a wooden structure with her sister, He Ye.

He Hua’s fans said He Ye was “bullying” the other bear and demanded the panda base improve its facilities.

Extreme panda fandom is not limited to China.

Fu Bao, South Korea ’s first naturally bred panda, was born in 2020 to a pair of pandas in the city of Yongin. A single video of Fu Bao has over 26 million views on the Everland theme park’s YouTube channel, more than any other.

The 3-year-old bear left South Korea for China in April, in accordance with the rules for pandas born overseas. After her departure, allegations began to spread in the country that Fu Bao was being mistreated in her new home at a panda reserve in Sichuan province.

Though Chinese officials shared photos and videos showing Fu Bao in perfectly good health, Korean fans began a social media movement to “save Fu Bao” and “return Fu Bao,” even taking out an ad in Times Square in New York.

Some Fu Bao fans in China went to Sichuan to harass the panda experts and keepers, uploading their photos online to incite cyberbullying.

Gary Hsu, 24, a graduate student in Jiangsu province who loves pandas, told NBC News that he was sick of the “panda fandom.”

“I believe that toxic panda fans do not have the ability to think independently,” he said. “No matter which country’s zoo the pandas are sent to, they will say things that are beyond comprehension.”

Pandas’ cuddly nature triggers an instinctive human desire to nurture and protect them, said Chee Meng Tan, an expert in Chinese foreign policy and soft power at the University of Nottingham Malaysia.

That is heightened, he said, when the animals are viewed as an extension of the nation.

For some Chinese fans, a perceived slight against a panda “will be seen as an attack on the country and its people, as well,” Tan said. “So this becomes a very existential threat in some sense to the people who love or are big fans of pandas.”

But extreme fans’ efforts to keep pandas close to home are unlikely to affect China’s desire to build its international image, Tan said, “partly because the Chinese know that as far as soft power is concerned, nothing beats their furry ambassadors.”

Cheng Wong is an intern on NBC News’s Asia Desk.

Larissa Gao is an associate social newsgathering reporter based in Hong Kong.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Adorable diplomacy: Two new giant pandas are on their way to San Diego Zoo from China

An opening date for the panda exhibit will be revealed later this year, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday

Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the us, thanks for signing up to the evening headlines email.

Two pandas from China are finally on their way to California ’s San Diego Zoo.

Visitors will be able to visit with Yun Chaun and Xin Bao in several weeks, after the pandas acclimate to their new environment, the zoo said in a news release on Wednesday. An opening date to view the panda exhibit will be revealed later this year.

Dignitaries and US officials held a farewell ceremony for the bears near the Bifengxia Giant Panda Base in China’s southwestern Sichuan province on Wednesday, which was attended by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance President and CEO Paul Baribault and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria.

“This farewell celebrates their journey and underscores a collaboration between the United States and China on vital conservation efforts,” Baribault said in a statement. “Our long-standing partnership with China Wildlife Conservation Association has been instrumental in advancing giant panda conservation, and we look forward to continuing our work together to ensure the survival and thriving of this iconic species.”

Officials kept the event under wraps to avoid drawing a large crowd, NBC News reported. Following the ceremony, the pandas were transported to the airport in Chengdu and put on a truck.

The panda pair — which are on loan for 10 years — are the first to travel to the US in 21 years.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the San Diego Zoo,” Baribault said.

The collaboration between the San Diego Zoo and China’s Wildlife Conservation Association has helped downgrade the bears’ status from endangered to vulnerable, zoo officials noted earlier this year.

Yun Chuan’s mother was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007. A panda caretaker described the four-year-old male bear as “pretty outgoing and lively.”

“He likes interacting with the caretakers and often runs over when he hears their footsteps,” the caretaker added.

Xin Bao, the female panda accompanying Yun Chuan, is three and was described as “a bit more introverted, but she’s very smart and alert.”

The caretaker added: “She pays close attention to sounds like birds chirping and insects buzzing.”

The four panda bears at Zoo Atlanta are currently the only ones in the US. Three bears from the National Zoo in Washington, DC left last year.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

Hi, what are you looking for?

Capital News

Water project halted to protect nesting swallows: China Daily

A village that gives home to orphans affected by HIV/AIDS

(VIDEO) Police teargas and arrest “occupy parliament” protestors in Nairobi

PICTURE STORY: A Glimpse into the Tsavo National Parks

Kenya’s politicians continue to use ethnicity to divide and rule – 60 years after independence

Image shows road destroyed by underground explosion in South Africa, not Kenya

Posts falsely claim old video shows Kenyan protesters storming Kitale police station

How to identify AI-generated images that fool people

Anti-LGBTQ disinformation surges online in East Africa

Logo of Kenyan political party digitally added to cult leader’s T-shirt

WHO roots for increased funding for migrant-hosting African States

Nigeria’s national anthem change was a tactic to distract attention from the country’s real problems – analyst

Malema backs anti-finance demos, slams IMF, World Bank

Campaigns begin ahead of presidential, legislative polls in Rwanda

WWF partners with Zambia to implement 2 climate adaptation projects

Two scientists win China’s top science award – China Daily

Sino-French satellite launched – China Daily

China’s top meteorological authority issues first red alert of 2024 – China Daily

Screen saviors reboot role of social media – China Daily

Official who died of overwork ‘Model of the Times’ – China Daily

Gachagua Appeals for Patience on Capitation Funds, Highlights Government Commitment to Education

City Hall to bear morgue, hospital expenses from Tuesday riot as 12 lay dead

City Hall to complete Kihumbuini Stadium construction in 18 months

El Nino rains bring new life, challenges to Kenya’s dry regions

Call for People with Epilepsy to Seek Treatment in Kisii

2 former defense ministers expelled from CPC: China Daily

Carbon fiber metro train unveiled: China Daily

China’s space body reveals the weight of samples collected from moon’s far side: China Daily

2 Chinese giant pandas arrive in US California: China Daily

CPC meeting set to unveil package of key reforms: China Daily

A Closer Examination of the US Disinformation Campaign Against China

Generation Z: A Force That Cannot Be Ignored in Kenya

Lessons on the Jealous Protection and Preservation of Cultural Heritage

Human-centric, Hybrid AI Opens Up New Possibilities

Youth Could Hold the Key to Unlock Environmental Solutions

• Listen to Capital FM
• Dj Downloads

CHINA DAILY

Yun Chuan, a 5-year-old male, and Xin Bao, a 4-year-old female, were selected from the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda (CCRCGP).

About The Author

Fifth Estate

Netizens rally against Finance Bill with brief Ruto appearance at X forum

NATIONAL NEWS

Mount kenya university medical students to benefit from kutrrh partnership.

Any child of mine who will not go to the streets with other children will face DNA test – Kaluma

Top stories

How gen z literally #occupied parliament.

Kenyan Leaders Under Fire in Lengthy X-Space Debate Over Finance Bill 2024

County News

More on Capital News

These decisions were reviewed and approved at a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee held on Thursday, according to statements...

Developed by CRRC Qingdao Sifang and Qingdao Metro, the CETROVO 1.0 train boasts reduced weight and energy consumption, paving the way for a greener...

The decision was made on Thursday at a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, which was chaired by Xi Jinping,...

China, EU expedite talks on EV tariffs: China Daily

As China and the EU agreed last week to start consultations, He Yadong, spokesman for the Commerce Ministry, said the essence of China-EU cooperation...

22 die in S. Korea plant fire: China Daily

The blaze ripped through a factory run by primary battery manufacturer Aricell in Hwaseong, an industrial cluster southwest of the capital Seoul. It was...

Xi calls for strong sci-tech nation by 2035: China Daily

Xi presented medals and certificates for the country's top sci-tech award to Li Deren, an academician of the CAS and CAE from Wuhan University,...

Kenya forges ahead with China’s offer to aid construction of new MFA headquarters

The PS described Friday's meeting as productive, confirming Kenya's intent to forge ahead with the plan first announced in May 2021 when Chinese Ambassador...

Kenya eyes ripening avocado market in China

NAIROBI, Kenya May 12 – Kenya’s avocado sector is seeking improved cooperation with China in food safety to expand exports to the lucrative market....

Privacy Overview