Chengdu

Pandas, scenery, gourmet, folklore & history – here are some of the reasons to visit ‘Kingdom from the Heaven.’ Marvel at the breathtaking, lush nature reserve; sip tea while you ‘Wow!’ over the amazing face-changing show at a bamboo tea house; enjoy an authentic world famous Sichuan feast; hold a dear panda so close you are face to face, hand to paw. This family-oriented destination has it all!

Panda Research Center – The research complex was first open to the public in 1995 and currently houses pandas of both the Giant and Red species. You will see baby pandas in the nursery first, and then take an escorted walk through the bamboo forest – the adult pandas’ habitat. You may even hold a baby panda or take photos with a big panda, in exchange for a donation to the research fund.



Teahouse Culture – Teahouses are popular throughout China, but the ones in Chengdu are most well known because of the distinct and unique atmosphere. These teahouses are hugely popular with locals, especially with the elderly who spend hours on end sitting around sipping tea and playing cards or games. Enjoy the moment by lounging around in the bamboo chairs and chewing seeds or nuts while sipping tea. Water is served from a copper kettle by skillful assistants, who fill the small bowls, at a considerable distance, right to the brim without splashing a drop. After dark, ‘Face-Off’ shows are performed at several teahouses, leaving audiences amazed at the talent and finesse of the entertainers!

Jiuzhaiguo Nature Reserve – Set in an alpine valley, this stunning unspoiled nature reserve includes curiously shaped snow-capped karst mountains, primitive forests, pure lakes and multi-layered waterfalls. ‘No water is worth seeing after your visit to Jiuzhai’ is a common Chinese saying that perfectly depicts the incredible water here. The lakes are rich in minerals which created the colors for the water. The water is so clear that it vividly mirrors the bright blue sky, dense green trees and snow-white peaks. It’s hard to believe scenes like these are completely natural and without a single trace of artificial production. Besides the glorious scenery, this valley is also home to several Tibetan settlements. The authentic minority cultures treasure all the natural elements around them, making the area a wonderful place to worship, and Tibetan prayer wheels and stupas can be found scattered across this remote region.