The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Centre is the primary reason for many people travelling to this region on their China tours. In total there are fewer than 1,000 giant pandas currently alive and of this number 80% live in the Sichuan province. The breeding centre recreates their natural habitat in the best possible way so that the pandas have the best possible environment for breeding. On your China tour here you will spot many more endangered animals from the elusive red pandas to the black necked cranes. However, it's obvious that the giant pandas are the main emphasis for this centre and with 500 acres of land on which they can roam around, the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Centre is the perfect environment to prep these pandas for their release into the wild.
Whilst on your China holidays in Chengdu be sure to visit the 'Yellow Dragon Valley' which has been nicknamed both 'The World Wonder' and 'Fairyland on Earth'.
This UNESCO world heritage site includes breathtaking scenery of snow-capped peaks coupled with crystal clear streams. The valley gets its name from the layered calcium deposits which resemble a golden dragon winding its way through the forests and glaciers of the region. You will discover on your China tour that the valley is littered with many caves and waterfalls and the longest of these is the Zhaga Waterfall which stretches for more than three miles.No China holiday in the Sichuan Province is complete without sampling the incredible food of the region and Sichuan food is said to be the best in China. Tour the many restaurants of the region but be sure to try the Ma Po Tofu, Sichuan food is typically hot and spicy and this dish cooked with mince meat and chilli peppers is one of the best.
Visiting a traditional tea-house is a definite must do whilst on holiday in China and the Shunxing Teahouse located on the Shawan Road is a great place to start. Whilst here you will find that the friendly locals will take the opportunity to practice their English with you and you're sure to meet many interesting characters.On your China tour be sure to visit the famous Wenshu Monastery. This ancient temple was built in the Tang Dynasty and is the oldest and largest in the Chengdu region. The monastery attracts local Buddhists who gather here to worship, whilst an on-site museum details everything that you need to know about this ancient temple whilst on your China holiday.
The People's Park is another great place to experience every day life whilst on your China holidays and whilst in the mornings you can join the locals for early Tai Chi lessons, you are likely to catch many games of Mah Jong taking place during the evenings. The park also has a boating lake and you can while away a lazy day on your China holiday by renting a rowing boat and taking to the river.
Exploring Chengdu - From People's Park to Pandas