Where can I see giant pandas in China?

The giant panda is one of China’s most iconic symbols. Wild giant pandas are found only in China, primarily in the mountainous regions of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces. These areas offer humid climate, dense forests, and abundant bamboo that giant pandas rely on for survival. To protect and breed giant pandas, China has established several specialized research bases and nature reserves. While the wild habitat is limited to certain regions, visitors can see captive giant pandas in research centers and zoos across the country, not just in their native range.

Here are some of the best places in China to see giant pandas up close:

1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu, Sichuan province
2. China Panda Valley (Chengdu Field Research Center for Giant Pandas), Chengdu, Sichuan province
3. Dujiangyan Panda Valley, Dujiangyan, Sichuan province
4. Ya'an Bifeng Xia Panda Base, Ya'an, Sichuan province
5. Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve (Shenshuping Base), Wenchuan, Sichuan province
6. Qinling Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center, Zhouzhi, Shaanxi province
7. Foping Panda Valley, Hanzhong, Shaanxi province
8. Chongqing Zoo, Chongqing
9. Beijing Zoo, Beijing
10. Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park, Guangzhou, Guangdong province