Where to See Panda Bears in China: Top Destinations for Panda Lovers

Chengdu is not only a hub of culture and history but also a sanctuary for panda lovers. Home to some of the world’s most beloved creatures, this city offers numerous opportunities to witness giant pandas in their natural habitat or in conservation centers dedicated to their protection. From the lush landscapes of Sichuan to the serene panda reserves, Chengdu invites visitors to get up close and personal with these adorable animals, all while exploring the rich traditions and landscapes of the region. This guide will take you through the best places to see pandas in Chengdu and beyond, along with tips for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Explore Chengdu: Tailored Experiences for Every Traveler! 

Step into the heart of Chengdu, where history, nature, and flavors collide! Whether you're wandering through ancient temples, meeting the famous giant pandas, or tasting the city's fiery Sichuan dishes, our handpicked tours let you soak in the essence of this vibrant city. Designed for your interests, each itinerary promises an unforgettable journey, full of culture, cuisine, and local secrets.

2 Days Best Chengdu Food Tour with City Sightseeing Sichuan Food Tour: Uncover Flavors at Sichuan Cuisine Museum, Kuanzhai Alley, and Jinli Street

Overview
Chengdu, formerly romanized as Chengtu, is a sub-provincial city which has served as capital of China's Sichuan province. It is one of the three most populous cities in Western China (the other two are Chongqing and Xi'an). As of the end of 2024, Chengdu's permanent population is 21.474 million.

The surrounding Chengdu Plain is also known as the "Country of Heaven" and the "Land of Abundance". Its prehistoric settlers included the Sanxingdui culture. Founded by the state of Shu prior to its incorporation into China, Chengdu is unique as a major Chinese settlement that has maintained its name (nearly) unchanged throughout the imperial, republican, and communist eras. It was the capital of Liu Bei's Shu during the Three Kingdoms Era, as well as several other local kingdoms during the Middle Ages. After the fall of Nanjing to the Japanese in 1937, Chengdu briefly served as the capital of China. It is now one of the most important economic, financial, commercial, cultural, transportation, and communication centers in Western China. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is one of the 30 busiest airports in the world, and Chengdu Railway Station is one of the six biggest in China. Chengdu also hosts many international companies and more than 12 consulates. More than 260 Fortune 500 companies have established branches in Chengdu.

 Name & Background
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is one of China’s oldest cities, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. Originally known as "Chengdu" (??), the city has maintained its name and location through the imperial, republican, and communist eras. It was briefly called Xijing in the 17th century, but its legacy as a cultural and economic hub in southwest China remains unshaken. Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, Chengdu is renowned for being the home of giant pandas, its spicy cuisine, and rich historical sites.

Home of the giant panda
The Giant Panda, a Chinese national treasure, is one of the rarest animals in the world. The total number is estimated to be 1,500, including those living in the wild, 80 percent of which are in Sichuan Province.

A breeding center for giant pandas called Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding was founded in the north suburbs of Chengdu. It is the only one of its kind in the world that's located in a metropolitan area. In order to better protect wild giant pandas, Chengdu has established nature reserves in Dujiangyan City, Chongzhou City, and Dayi County. Sichuan Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, the biggest of its kind in the world, is only 130 km (81 mi) outside Chengdu. After the Wenchuan earthquake, most of it was moved to Ya'an.

The western world came to know giant pandas only after a French missionary named David first encountered this species in Sichuan in 1869. Now, the somewhat clumsy giant panda is a symbol representing the World Wildlife Fund. They are also a messenger of friendly communication between Chengdu and international cities. Currently, giant pandas are also reared in U.S.A, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Japan, Thailand as well as Mexico.

In 2008, after the release of the American animation movie Kung Fu Panda, DreamWorks CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg and other DreamWorks members visited the city of Chengdu. In addition to seeing live pandas, crew members learned about the local culture. Katzenberg has stated that Kung Fu Panda 2 incorporates many elements of Chengdu in the film. The film's landscape and architecture also found inspiration from those found at Mount Qingcheng, a renowned Taoist mountain. In an interview with Movieline, Berger stated that ‘we never really thought of this as a movie set in China for Americans; it's a movie set in a mythical, universalized China for everyone in the world'.

On 11 January 2012, six captive-bred pandas were released to a "semi-wild" environment in Dujiangyan, Chengdu. Scientists believe that success in the reintroduction project would potentially help save the endangered giant panda. Retired NBA basketball star and animal activist Yao Ming attended the ceremony.    

Where to See Panda Bears in China
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
A world-renowned panda breeding center dedicated to the conservation of giant pandas. The base offers the opportunity to see pandas at various stages of their life.

Address: No. 1375, North Panda Avenue, Chenghua District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Phone: +86-28-83510033
Opening hours: 
· Mar 1-Oct 31 every year: 7:30 AM-12:00 AM; 12:00 AM-5:00 PM (Latest entry time: 5:00 PM; Tickets available until:5:00 PM)
· Every year from Nov 1 to Feb 28 of the following year: 8:00 AM-12:00 AM; 12:00 AM-4:30 PM (Latest entry time:4:30 PM; Tickets available until:4:30 PM)
Highlights: 
· See panda cubs and adults in a naturalistic setting.
· Participate in panda volunteer programs (e.g., feeding, cleaning enclosures).
· Educational exhibitions on panda conservation.
Location & Accessibility: Located just 10 km from downtown Chengdu, easy to access via public transport or guided tours.
Website: https://www.panda.org.cn/

2. Shu JiuXiang Hot Pot (Yulin Branch)
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful broths, Shu JiuXiang offers a modern take on traditional hotpot. The Yulin branch is particularly popular for its late-night dining options.

Address: Yulin Community, Nijiaqiao Road 11-2, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Phone: +86 28 8557 0362
Opening / Closing Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 AM
Must-Try Dishes: Lamb skewers, spicy chicken, and Sichuan-style mushrooms.

B. Street Food & Local Snacks
1. Chen Mapo Tofu
This is one of the most famous Mapo Tofu restaurants in Chengdu, known for its authentic spicy tofu dish. Word has it that this century-old shop is the true original source of this numbing, spicy dish, invented by Lady Chen. Silky tofu, ground beef and spices are cooked in a stone pot that stays hot for a long time, perfect with a bowl of steamed rice. 

Address: No.10-12, 10 Qinghua Road, Qingyang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Phone: +86 28 8731 7216
Opening / Closing Time: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Zhong dumplings, lotus leaf-wrapped steamed pork in spiced rice flour.

2. Long Chao Shou
Long Chao Shou is famous for its "Chao Shou" (Sichuan dumplings) and "Dan Dan noodles," with a flavorful spicy broth.

Address: No. 63, Chengshou Street, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Phone: +86 28 8665 3668
Opening / Closing Time: 9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Chaoshou, Dan Dan noodles.

C. Fine Dining & Modern Fusion
1. The Temple House - Shu's Dining
Combining traditional Sichuan flavors with international culinary techniques, The Temple House offers a refined dining experience. The Brasserie & Tea Lounge provides a serene ambiance, perfect for afternoon tea or evening cocktails.

Address: 81 Bitieshi Street, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Phone: +86 28 6292 8888
Opening / Closing Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Sichuan-style foie gras, tea-infused desserts, and fusion cocktails.

2. Noble House Chengdu
Known for its innovative approach to Sichuan cuisine, Noble House blends traditional flavors with modern presentation. The restaurant’s elegant setting and upscale service make it a top choice for both locals and international guests.

Address: No. 188, Yizhong Street, Chenghua District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Phone: +86 28 8777 3888
Opening / Closing Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Contemporary Sichuan dishes with a modern twist, signature lobster dishes, and innovative appetizers.

D. Vegetarian & Vegan Dining in Chengdu
1. Mengding Mountain Vegetarian Restaurant
A place that offers authentic Sichuan vegetarian cuisine made from natural ingredients, ideal for vegetarians and those looking for healthy dining options. The vegetarian hotpot is rich in flavor with the signature spicy Sichuan taste.

Address: 3 Wenmiao Street, Qingyang District, Chengdu
Phone: +86 28 1234 5678
Opening / Closing Time: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Vegetarian Hotpot, Tofu dishes, Vegetarian Dumplings.

2. Zaozishu Vegetarian Restaurant
One of the most popular vegetarian restaurants in Chengdu, Qinglian offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes with exquisite presentation. It's especially loved by vegetarians and health-conscious diners.

Address: 27 Qinglong Street, Qingyang District, 4th Floor, Platinum Age City, Chengdu China
Phone: +86 28 8628 2848
Opening / Closing Time: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Yam puree, Steamed Vegetarian Dumplings.

E. Luxury & Fine Dining Experiences
1. Lixuan Chinese Restaurant(The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu)
A Sophisticated Sichuan Restaurant In Chengdu Discover innovative interpretations of classic Cantonese and Sichuan fare at Li Xuan, the signature Chinese restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu. Colorful decor features vibrant flowers and brocade, inspired by the ancient Shu civilization. Here, contemporary sensibilities blend seamlessly with a deep appreciation for China’s millennia-old culinary culture; flavorful dishes include double-boiled sea conch and Dan Dan noodles with pork.

Address: 26/F, Ritz Carlton Hotel, No. 269 Shuncheng Avenue, Qingyang District, Chengdu, China
Phone: +86 28 8359 9207
Opening / Closing Time: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Lobster Spicy Hotpot, Dry-Fried Cauliflower, Steamed Osmanthus Fish.

2.The Bridge
A Michelin-recognized restaurant that blends traditional Sichuan ingredients with contemporary dining techniques. The interior is chic and modern, offering a fine dining experience with a focus on local produce and seasonality. Known for its combination of fine dining and local flavors, it’s a great place to indulge in gourmet Sichuan cuisine with a modern flair.

Address: No.66 Binjiang East Road, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, China
Phone: +86 28 84443888
Opening / Closing Time: Daily, 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM (Lunch), 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner)
Must-Try Dishes: Kung Pao Chicken, Sichuan-style Lobster.

F. Best Cafes and Dessert Spots in Chengdu
1. Common Sense (Mofun)
For all the coffee lovers out there, PY Common Sense Coffee is here to offer you a warm welcome every day. Whether you’re in the mood for an Americano, a flavored latte, a refreshing soda, or a comforting hot tea, they’ve got you covered. Plus, don’t miss out on their delicious pound cake and Cannelés—perfect treats to complement your drink.

Address: 106, Block A, Huanfeng Yujian, Wanxiang Nan Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu, China
Phone/WeChat: +86 17764987807
Opening / Closing Time: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Cream raisin latte, Pound cake, Cannelés.

2. one Plate (D10)
A popular artisan bakery and café with multiple locations in Chengdu, renowned for its premium bread, pastries, and specialty coffee. Offering a cozy, sun-drenched atmosphere and a strong focus on community and lifestyle, it has quickly become a go-to spot for brunch, coffee, and freshly baked treats.

Address: 111, Building 1, 136 Hongji Lane, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, China
Phone: +86 13880999854/ 13689016654
Opening / Closing Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Fish roe croissants, Sourdough.

3. Little Travel (Kuanzai)
Little Travel Coffee in Chengdu is a cozy, charming spot designed for those who appreciate a peaceful atmosphere paired with exceptional coffee. With a passion for high-quality beans, the café serves a range of specialty coffee, from rich espressos to creamy lattes, as well as a selection of artisanal pastries. Its minimalist décor, comfortable seating, and soft lighting create a warm environment perfect for both work and relaxation. 

Address: 24 Bin Sheng Street, Qingyang District, Chengdu, China
Phone: +86 18190826169
Opening / Closing Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Must-Try Dishes: Marbled Chiffon Cake.

Chengdu Uncovered: Your Gateway to Authentic Sichuan! 

Unlock the hidden gems of Chengdu! From its rich heritage to its cutting-edge art scene, and mouth-watering street food, this city has something for everyone. Wander through tranquil parks, savor local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the laid-back yet lively atmosphere. Let us guide you through a Chengdu experience like no other, tailored just for you.

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Practical Tips for Chengdu Dining
1. Reservations
Popular restaurants can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. It’s best to make reservations in advance to avoid long waits.

2. Spice Level
Sichuan cuisine is known for its spiciness. If you’re new to the heat, you can always ask for a milder version of your dish.

3. Dining Etiquette
In Chengdu, sharing dishes is common. Be prepared to enjoy communal dining, where you and your companions share a variety of dishes at the same time.

4. Payment
Most restaurants in Chengdu accept mobile payments, such as Alipay or WeChat Pay, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller places.

Suggested Food + Travel Combos
1. Street Food and Historic Sights
Wander through Kuanzhai Alley, where you can sample Chuan Chuan, Sichuan dumplings. After the food adventure, explore the nearby Wuhou Temple, a historical site dedicated to the Three Kingdoms period. It’s a place to understand the cultural backdrop of Chengdu while enjoying the street food atmosphere.

2. Vegetarian Feast and Green Spaces
Enjoy a nourishing and delicious vegetarian meal, such as vegetarian hotpot, mock meats, and spicy tofu, at Wen Shu Yuan Vegetarian Restaurant, which specializes in Sichuan vegetarian cuisine. After the meal, take a peaceful stroll through People's Park, where you can enjoy the natural surroundings and see local life in action. Alternatively, Mengding Mountain offers a more serene experience with breathtaking views of Chengdu’s countryside.

3. Brunch and Tea Culture
Start the day with a cozy brunch at Little Travel Coffee, where you can enjoy specialty coffee, artisan pastries, and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a slow morning. After brunch, head to a traditional tea house like Shu’s Tea House to experience the local tea culture of Chengdu. Watch a traditional tea ceremony and sample local teas such as Longjing or Baihao Yinzhen.

Chengdu Night Markets Suggested Routes
If you have time and want to experience as much of Chengdu's night market culture as possible, here’s a recommended route to explore a few of the best areas in one night:
1. Start at Wenshu Monastery Night Market for some peaceful temple vibes and enjoy Sichuan dumplings and cold noodles.
2. Move to Kuanzhai Alley for a more lively, historic experience—don’t miss trying the spicy skewers.
3. Head to Jinli Street for a more cultural vibe near Wuhou Shrine, with mapo tofu and sweet longan.
4. Finish up at Chunxi Road for some late-night shopping and a drink in one of the bars, or if you want a more relaxed end, try the Chengdu People's Park Night Market for a less touristy, laid-back experience.

How to Navigate Chengdu’s Food Scene
1. Language Tips: Basic Chinese food-related phrases.
2. Best Times to Visit Chengdu for Food: Explore seasonal foods and festivals, such as the Sichuan Food Festival.
3. Dining Etiquette in Chengdu: Understanding Chengdu’s dining etiquette is key to navigating the local food scene successfully. Chengdu dining culture emphasizes sharing, politeness, and respect.
4. Finding the Best Restaurants and Food Spots: Use Local Apps like Dianping and Meituan are widely used in China for finding restaurants, reading reviews, and making reservations. In addition Chengdu residents are extremely proud of their city’s food culture, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from locals.

Your Way Holiday’s Handpicked Chengdu Dining Delights Guide and Inimitable Travel Experiences

We design private and tailor-made Chengdu tours customized to your travel style at affordable local prices. You’ll enjoy the comfort of a private, spacious car and the company of a professional local guide with over 5 years of experience, dedicated exclusively to you or your group. From transportation and tickets to authentic dining experiences (we always recommend the dishes most loved by locals), everything will be arranged according to your preferences. Please take a look at some of our most popular Chengdu tours below:

Private Half Day: Chengdu Night Tour With Hot Pot Dinner & Sichuan Opera Chengdu Spicy Food Tour: Intangible Heritage Food & Craft Experience

Not exactly what you’re looking for? Don’t worry — all of our Chengdu tours can be fully customized based on your interests, schedule, and budget. We specialize in creating unique Chengdu experiences that go beyond the guidebook, giving you the chance to truly connect with the local culture and people. Our enthusiastic tour experts are always ready to provide detailed suggestions and will respond to your inquiry within 24 hours. Ready to explore Chengdu your way? Contact us today and let us design a Chengdu shopping experience that fits your style. Your Way Holiday looks forward to your message! We're ready to design an unforgettable Chengdu trip for you anytime.

Name & Background
The name Chengdu is attested in sources dating back to shortly after its founding. It has been called the only major city in China to have remained at an unchanged location with an unchanged name throughout the imperial, republican, and communist eras, although it also had other names, for example it was briefly known as Xijing in the 17th century. The Song-era geographical work A Universal Geography of the Taiping Era states that the ninth king of Shu's Kaiming dynasty named his new capital Chengdu after a statement by King Tai of Zhou that a settlement needed "one year to become a town, two to become a city, and three to become a metropolis". There are, however, several versions of why the capital had been moved from nearby Pi County and modern scholars sometimes theorize that the name was a transcription of an earlier name into Chinese characters.

Although the official name of the city has remained (almost) constant, the surrounding area has sometimes taken other names, including Yizhou (??). Chinese nicknames for the city include the Turtle City, variously derived from the old city walls' shape on a map or a legend that Zhang Yi had planned their course by following a turtle's tracks; the Brocade City, a contraction of the earlier "City of the Brocade Official", after an imperial office established under the Western Han; the Hibiscus City, from the hibiscus which King Mengchang of the Later Shu ordered planted upon the city wall during the 10th century.

Home of the giant panda
The Giant Panda, a Chinese national treasure, is one of the rarest animals in the world. The total number is estimated to be 1,500, including those living in the wild, 80 percent of which are in Sichuan Province.

A breeding center for giant pandas called Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding was founded in the north suburbs of Chengdu. It is the only one of its kind in the world that's located in a metropolitan area. In order to better protect wild giant pandas, Chengdu has established nature reserves in Dujiangyan City, Chongzhou City, and Dayi County. Sichuan Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, the biggest of its kind in the world, is only 130 km (81 mi) outside Chengdu. After the Wenchuan earthquake, most of it was moved to Ya'an.

The western world came to know giant pandas only after a French missionary named David first encountered this species in Sichuan in 1869. Now, the somewhat clumsy giant panda is a symbol representing the World Wildlife Fund. They are also a messenger of friendly communication between Chengdu and international cities. Currently, giant pandas are also reared in U.S.A, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Japan, Thailand as well as Mexico.

Chengdu has established the world-renowned breeding and research base for giant pandas, which attracts almost 100,000 visitors each year. Covering tens of hectares with bamboo groves and a native-like habitat, the base is the only one of its kind located in an urban area. A museum is open to the public throughout the year.

In 2008, after the release of the American animation movie Kung Fu Panda, DreamWorks CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg and other DreamWorks members visited the city of Chengdu. In addition to seeing live pandas, crew members learned about the local culture. Katzenberg has stated that Kung Fu Panda 2 incorporates many elements of Chengdu in the film. The film's landscape and architecture also found inspiration from those found at Mount Qingcheng, a renowned Taoist mountain. In an interview with Movieline, Berger stated that ‘we never really thought of this as a movie set in China for Americans; it's a movie set in a mythical, universalized China for everyone in the world'.

On 11 January 2012, six captive-bred pandas were released to a "semi-wild" environment in Dujiangyan, Chengdu. Scientists believe that success in the reintroduction project would potentially help save the endangered giant panda. Retired NBA basketball star and animal activist Yao Ming attended the ceremony.