Chengdu Giant Panda Sanctuary: A Complete Guide for New Zealand Visitors

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地) is the world's leading giant panda conservation and breeding facility. Established in 1987 with just six rescued pandas, it has grown to house more than 200 giant pandas and red pandas across 3,500 acres of bamboo forest habitat in northern Chengdu.

For New Zealand travellers, a morning visit to the panda base is the single most emotionally resonant experience available in any China itinerary. Giant pandas are most active during their morning feeding session — typically between 8:00am and 10:00am — when they can be observed at close range eating bamboo, climbing, and interacting. After 10am, pandas retreat to shade and sleep for much of the day.