Chengdu 成都

Chengdu 成都 “Country of Heaven” 天府之国

Emblem of Chengdu

Homeland of giant pandas，Chengdu is one of the most historic cities in China, with a history of over 3,000 years. The region enjoys the name 'land of abundance' not only for its abundant grain products but also for its richness of stunning landscapes. The city logo adopted in 2011 is inspired by the Golden Sun Bird, an ancient relic unearthed in 2001 from the Jinsha Site.

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 mostly unchanged throughout the imperial, republican, and communist eras. Chengdu is now one of the most important economic, financial, commercial, cultural, transportation, and communication centers in Western China.

Tianfu Square 天府广场

Tianfu Square, the symbol of Chengdu, is located in the city center. Being the largest city square in southwest China, it enjoys similar position and fame in Sichuan as Tiananmen Square in Beijing. It is said that one who fails to visit Tianfu Square doesn’t even visit Chengdu. I can safely say that I have visited Chengdu!

Panda Research Park Area

We arrived just at sunrise on our first trip to the center. It was a little frosty on the ground but was gorgeous the rest of the day. Our second trip, very foggy, but still fun.

Giant Pandas

The pandas are very unique animals. Not too many in the wild and China is doing its best to increase their population.

Baby Pandas

The baby pandas are the highlight of the center. Photographers are like vultures, circling for them to come out in order to get that kill shot!

Red Pandas

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is a carnivoran native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. Despite its name, it is not closely related to the giant panda. It has previously been placed in the raccoon and bear families, the red panda is the only living member of the genus Ailurus and the family Ailuridae.

Jingli Old Street 锦里古街

It is recorded that as early as the Qin Dynasty (221 BC - 206 BC), Jinli Street was the most famous place for baldachin - a rich, ornate cloth. And it was one of the busiest commercial areas during the Shu Kingdom (221-263). Hence, it is known as 'First Street of the Shu Kingdom'.

Kuangxiang Alley

Kuan Zhai Alley is one of the top three historic preserve districts in Chengdu City. It is formed by three alleys called Kuan Alley (Wide Alley), Zhai Alley (Narrow Alley), and Jing Alley. The major buildings in this site are courtyards and ancient style streets. Our only visit was at night.

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