panda house

Introducing Panda House

Panda House is a well-regarded shop in Chengdu selling high-end panda-themed toys and gifts. With several locations across the city, the one in Kuanzhai Alley is the most popular. It offers a wide variety of panda-themed souvenirs, including clothing, shoes, hats, backpacks, keychains, ornaments, and stationery. It's a haven for adorable pandas. Keeping the items for yourself or as gifts for friends is a great option, though prices are a bit high. Photography is not permitted inside the shop.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Attraction opening hours

09:00-22:00

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Most Popular FAQs for panda house

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Panda House in Chengdu is part of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a world-renowned facility dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas. The base is a key player in the global effort to protect the species, serving as both a sanctuary for pandas and a research hub to study their behavior and habitat needs.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Panda House is located at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, about 10 miles (16 km) north of Chengdu city center. You can reach the site by taxi, which takes about 30 minutes, or by public bus (bus 198 or 87). If you're coming by metro, take Line 3 to the North Railway Station, then switch to a taxi or bus.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Panda House is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning when the pandas are most active and feeding. Weekdays, particularly in the off-season, tend to be less crowded than weekends and public holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets for the Chengdu Panda Base cost around ¥58 for adults. Tickets can be purchased onsite or online via the official website or other local ticketing platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or public holidays. Booking a day or two in advance is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Panda House and the surrounding Chengdu Panda Base typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend watching the pandas and exploring the exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The panda enclosures, where you can see pandas of all ages, from infants to adults.
• The breeding center, where visitors can learn about the breeding efforts for conservation.
• The educational exhibitions showcasing panda research and the history of panda conservation.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, and can be booked at the entrance or in advance. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, for a more self-paced tour.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The viewing platforms near the panda enclosures offer great views for photography.
• The outdoor areas where pandas play and interact are perfect for capturing candid moments.
• Look for areas with bamboo forests for a more scenic backdrop when taking photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and head towards the Panda House where the pandas are housed. After that, explore the breeding center and the educational exhibits. If you have extra time, take a walk around the base’s nature trails to see more pandas and enjoy the surroundings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available at the Panda House as it closes at 6:00 PM. However, the Chengdu Panda Base offers special tours during the day where you can get close to the pandas, and these tours can be arranged in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Panda House can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The Chengdu Panda Base has well-maintained toilets, a food court offering snacks and drinks, water refill stations, and a few rest areas where you can relax. There are also souvenir shops where you can buy panda-themed items.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Panda House and Chengdu Panda Base are accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The pathways are paved, and there are wheelchair rentals available. There are also shaded rest areas throughout the site.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at the Panda House, as well as credit cards at most shops. Cash is also accepted, though it is less commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The food court inside the Chengdu Panda Base offers a variety of snacks and beverages.
• Nearby, you can find local Sichuan restaurants offering hotpot and traditional dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While the food court has a selection of snacks, most dishes are not vegetarian or vegan. However, local restaurants around Chengdu offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Halal options may be available at specialized eateries in the city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Nearby hotels include the Chengdu Panda Hotel, offering convenient access to the Panda Base.
• The Holiday Inn Chengdu Xindu is another nearby option for visitors.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Sichuan Museum offers more insights into the culture and history of the region.
• The Wuhou Shrine is another historical site worth visiting, located not far from the Panda Base.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops within the Chengdu Panda Base selling panda-themed merchandise such as plush toys, clothing, and snacks. Local handicrafts from Sichuan are also available in shops nearby.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the Panda House, you can take a taxi or bus back to the city center. Alternatively, you can use public transportation like the Chengdu metro for further exploration of the city.