The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China
Ready to see the world’s most adorable giants? This comprehensive guide will help you effortlessly plan your visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China. We cover everything from ticketing and routes to must-see activities, ensuring you have a wonderful experience and create lasting panda memories! 🐼 If you’re still wondering is Chengdu worth visiting, this panda base is the definitive answer.
Step 1: Essential Pre-Trip Planning
- Book Your Tickets in Advance
The park requires real-name registration for all visitors. You must reserve your time slot online beforehand. This is a crucial step for any Chengdu day trip focused on pandas.
Remember to bring your original ID card (passports are accepted for foreign visitors) for scanning at the entrance.
Ticket Purchase Link: [Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Official Mini Program]
- Utilize the Official Mini-Program
Beyond ticket purchases, the official mini-program is an invaluable tool. Use it to check:
The exhibit status of pandas at different locations
Real-time visitor traffic levels
Sightseeing bus operation status
Recommended tour routes to avoid crowds and optimize your time
Exploring the New District: A Blend of Nature and Technology
The New District seamlessly integrates technology with natural landscapes, offering diverse interactive experiences, art installations, and ample dining options.
🐻 The Panda Living Room Area
This area features four main halls: Yingri Hall, Xuri Hall, Yunri Hall, and Shengri Hall.
It’s a fantastic spot for families. Watch sub-adult pandas play in the outdoor playgrounds while adult pandas leisurely nibble on bamboo.
A spacious viewing platform and walking trails allow you to capture adorable panda moments from multiple angles.
Nearby, engaging educational exhibits provide fun learning opportunities for children.
Close by, the “Panda Panoramic Inn” and “Panda Walking Street” offer dining and rest areas. You can even enjoy a meal while watching pandas! Find cultural souvenirs and interactive performances here, ensuring fun for the entire family.
🌳 The Panda Jungle Area
This zone houses pandas of all ages, from tiny cubs to lively juveniles and calm adults.
Stroll along the elevated walkway for a bird’s-eye view of the pandas’ daily activities.
Afterward, visit the “Panda Museum” for artistic displays or browse the “Cultural and Creative Shop” for unique souvenirs.
🏞️ The Panda Valley Area
A boardwalk connects seven panda enclosures, allowing you to see sub-adult, adult, and senior pandas all in one go.
The trail is flat and spacious, with lounge chairs available, making it a relaxing walk for all ages.
Nearby, you’ll find a beautiful artificial lake and the iconic Panda Tower—perfect for photos!
Visiting the Old District: A Glimpse into Authentic Panda Life
🏡 The Panda Villa Area
Villas 1 through 7 are open for tours, showcasing the authentic lives of these beloved bears. You might see them munching on bamboo, sleeping soundly, climbing trees, or tumbling around—each with its own charming personality.
Take your time, observe quietly, and appreciate the unique character of every panda at this renowned Chengdu panda base.
🦝 The Red Panda Activity Area
Don’t miss the adorable red pandas! Recognizable by their fluffy tails, they can be seen leaping through trees or foraging on the ground.
❗Important Note: The red panda delivery room is a walk-through area. Please respect the rules:
No touching, feeding, or chasing the animals.
Always be courteous and maintain a safe distance.
🎨 Additional Experiences at the Panda Base
Chengdu Giant Panda Museum & Panda Science Discovery Center:
Learn about panda conservation and scientific research through engaging videos, models, and interactive exhibits.
✅ Note: The museum requires a separate advance reservation via the official WeChat account.
Natural Attractions:
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Bamboo Forest Corridor, watch waterfowl at Swan Lake, or admire the blooms in the Rose Garden.
Dining Options:
The Rose Garden Western Restaurant, Bamboo Rhythm Restaurant, and Time Café offer a variety of light Chinese and Western meals, along with special panda-themed beverages. For a deeper dive into local flavors, check out our guide on what is Chengdu famous for food.
Getting to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
🚇 To the West Gate (New District Entrance)
Take Metro Line 3 to “Military Region General Hospital Station,” Exit B.
Walk 280 meters to the Yulei Road Intersection.
Board the direct shuttle bus to the West Gate.
🚌 To the South Gate (Old District Entrance)
Take Metro Line 3 to “Panda Avenue Station,” Exit A or D.
Transfer to the scenic area direct bus.
It’s just a short walk to the entrance from the drop-off point.
Alternative: You can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service. The trip from Chunxi Road or Kuanzhai Alley typically takes 30–40 minutes and costs between 40–60 RMB. Figuring out where to stay in Chengdu can make this journey even more convenient.
Official Guided Tours
For a more in-depth visit, consider booking an official guided tour. A knowledgeable guide will:
Share fascinating panda facts and conservation stories.
Lead you to the best viewing spots.
Provide a richer experience by explaining the background of different pandas.
*👉 Reservations: Can be made through the official mini-program or at the on-site information desk.
Essential Visiting Tips
Best Viewing Time: Arrive early! Pandas are most active between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM.
Recommended Route: Sun Birthing Room → Moon Birthing Room → Baby Panda Villa → Adult Panda Villa → Swan Lake → Red Panda Activity Area.
Suggested Duration: Plan for 3-4 hours to see everything comfortably.
What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Use sunscreen in summer and wear warm clothes in winter.
Food & Drink: You are permitted to bring water and snacks into the park. Various food and beverage outlets are also available inside.
Visitor Guidelines: Please help protect the pandas by following these rules:
❌ Do not feed the animals.
❌ Do not tap on the glass enclosures.
❌ Do not use flash photography.
❌ Do not bring pets.
❌ No smoking or littering.
✅ Please keep noise levels down and queue orderly.
Useful Information
Address: 1375 Panda Avenue, Chenghua District, Chengdu, China
Opening Hours:
Summer (May – October): 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Winter (November – April): 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fees:
Adults: 55 RMB
Students: 50% discount
Children under 1.3 meters: Free
A visit to the Panda Base fits perfectly into any Chengdu 3 day itinerary and is often the highlight for many travelers. To make the most of your time in the city, be sure to explore our detailed chengdu travel itinerary. After your day with the pandas, discover the vibrant energy of the city with our list of things to do in Chengdu at night. For those who love unique photography subjects, the city also offers opportunities for industrial train photography.
Emergency Contacts:
Old District Clinic: 18080171553
New District Clinic: 028-83516808
Tourism Hotline: 028-83510033
We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China. For more help structuring your entire vacation, our chengdu itinerary step-by-step is a great resource. If you’re curious about life in the city, learn more about what is Chengdu like beyond the pandas.
One Comment