Planning a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Panda Breeding? To make the most of your time with the adorable pandas, here are some essential tips to enhance your experience. From buying tickets in advance to knowing the best routes and when to catch the cutest pandas, this guide will ensure your visit is smooth and memorable. Don’t miss out on the exclusive panda show or the delicious local hotpot afterward – read on for all the insider tips!
1. Ignore the Metro Street Vendors
When you arrive, don’t pay attention to the street vendors at the metro station. They may try to offer you services or goods, but it’s best to ignore them and head straight to your destination.
2. Buy Tickets in Advance
You can purchase your tickets in advance through the official WeChat account “Chengdu Research Base of Panda Breeding” (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地). Tickets cost 55 CNY for adults, 27 CNY for students, and children under 6 years old can enter for free but need to reserve a “free child ticket” ahead of time.
3. Choose the Right Entrance
The West Gate and South Gate of the panda base are about 10 kilometers apart. Make sure you choose the correct entrance before your visit to save time. If you’re specifically interested in seeing the panda Hua Hua (花花), enter through the South Gate to go directly to the Panda Villa 6. If you’re not in a hurry to see Hua Hua, you can enter through the West Gate to avoid crowds.
4. Start with the Panda Tour Bus
Once inside, head straight to the sightseeing bus to reach the Star Room (星星产房), where you can see young pandas in the morning when they’re most active and playful. Afterward, take the bus to the villa area, where you can take close-up photos of pandas along the path.
5. Get Up Close to Hua Hua
If you prefer not to line up early to see Hua Hua, consider waiting for her shift change around 4:00 PM. You’ll have a chance to view her for about three minutes; however, getting a clear view depends on luck.
6. Don’t Miss the Panda Musical
After exploring the panda base, be sure to check out the Panda Theater (熊猫剧院), where you can enjoy the musical “Panda”. The performances are held at 11:00-11:45 AM and 2:00-3:10 PM. It’s a wonderful way to experience panda-related stories and learn more about their natural habitats.
7. Visit Ma Ge Manor Hotpot for a Delicious Meal
After a long day of panda watching, head to Ma Ge Manor Hotpot (玛歌庄园火锅) for a satisfying meal. It’s about 10 minutes away from the panda base, and the restaurant features a wall covered in panda images, which makes for a great photo opportunity. The venue has a garden-style setting with plenty of panda elements, and you can even enjoy hotpot by the lakeside or on a boat. The flavors are authentic and the atmosphere is relaxed—perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.