Travel Tips for Visiting Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, often simply known as the Chengdu Panda Base, is one of the top attractions in Sichuan Province and a must-visit for animal lovers traveling to China. This renowned conservation center is home to more than 100 pandas, including giant pandas, red pandas, and panda cubs.
To make the most of your visit, here are some essential travel tips and visitor information.
Where Is the Panda Base?
The Chengdu Panda Base is located approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) from downtown Chengdu. It’s easy to reach by taxi, ride-hailing apps like Didi, or public transportation.
Address: 1375 Panda Avenue, Chenghua District, Chengdu
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry: 5:00 PM)
Best Time to Visit
Go early in the morning, ideally between 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM, when pandas are most active. This is feeding time, and the cooler temperature keeps the pandas playful and visible.
In the afternoon, many pandas nap or retreat indoors, especially during hot summer days.
Tickets & Booking
Adult Ticket: approx. ¥55 RMB (~$8 USD)
Children under 6 or below 1.3 meters: Free
Tip: Book tickets online in advance, especially during weekends or holidays. WeChat, Fliggy, Trip.com, and Ctrip offer ticket services.
What You’ll See
Giant Pandas: From playful adults to adorable cubs.
Red Pandas: Lively and smaller, often roaming near the trees.
Nursery & Cub Enclosures: Watch baby pandas (if open).
Panda Museum: Learn about conservation efforts and panda biology.
Swan Lake: A peaceful area with birds and greenery.
Photography Tips
Use zoom lenses — visitors are kept at a respectful distance from the pandas.
No flash photography, especially near baby pandas.
Morning light is best for photos before the crowds arrive.
Important Travel Tips
1. Avoid Chinese National Holidays
Holidays like Golden Week (Oct 1–7) and Chinese New Year bring large domestic crowds. Visit on weekdays if possible.
2. Don’t Expect to Hold a Panda
The panda-hugging program was suspended in 2018 due to disease prevention and hasn’t reopened. While you can’t touch them, close viewing is still very rewarding.
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes
The base is large, with lots of walking involved. Expect to walk for 2–3 hours or more if you explore every section.
4. Bring Water & Snacks
There are a few cafes and vending machines on-site, but prices are higher. Bring your own water, especially in summer.
5. Respect the Rules
Stay quiet near enclosures
No feeding or teasing the animals
Do not cross barriers for better photos
How to Get There
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Recommended)
From city center: ~30–40 minutes
Fare: ¥30–50 RMB
Use Didi app (English version available)
By Metro + Bus
Take Metro Line 3 to Panda Avenue Station (熊猫大道)
Transfer to Bus 198A/198B or 87 to the main gate
Tip: During peak season, shuttle buses may run directly from metro stations.
Suggested Panda Tour Itinerary
7:00 AM: Depart from hotel
7:30–10:30 AM: Explore panda enclosures, catch feeding time
11:00 AM: Visit red panda areas & Swan Lake
12:00 PM: Exit the park, lunch nearby or return to city center
Conservation Reminder
The Chengdu Panda Base is not a zoo — it’s a research and breeding center focused on protecting endangered species. By visiting, you’re supporting their work. Please be a respectful guest.
A trip to Chengdu isn’t complete without visiting its most famous residents. Seeing pandas up close in a natural, peaceful setting is a truly unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.
Plan ahead, go early, and bring your curiosity — the pandas are waiting for you!
