Bifengxia Panda Base in Yaan
Bifengxia Panda Base (碧峰峡大熊猫基地), located in the Bifengxia Scenic Area (碧峰峡风景区) of Yaan City (雅安市), Sichuan Province, is one of China’s most renowned conservation and research centers for giant pandas. The base covers an area of over 6,000 acres and is dedicated to the protection, breeding, rescue, and education related to giant pandas. The base was officially completed in October 2003 and is open to visitors daily from 09:00 to 16:00, with a break for the pandas’ rest time from 11:30 to 13:30.
Location and Accessibility
Geographical Location:
The Bifengxia Panda Base is located within the Bifengxia Scenic Area (碧峰峡风景区) in Yaan City (雅安市), about 150 kilometers from Chengdu (成都) and approximately 15 kilometers from downtown Yaan (雅安).
Coordinates:
The base is situated between 102°57′37.02″ and 103°00′0.94″ East Longitude, and between 30°03′25.47″ and 30°04′43.75″ North Latitude.
Transport:
It takes around 1.5 hours by car from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (成都双流国际机场) to the panda breeding base. Visitors can also take public transport or self-drive to the scenic area from Yaan (雅安) or Chengdu (成都).
History and Development
The Bifengxia Panda Base was approved by the National Forestry Administration (国家林业局) in 2001, with construction starting in 2002. By October 2003, the base was completed, with investment totaling 27.6 million yuan from the National Forestry Bureau, and the Yaan City (雅安市) government providing 5,747 acres of land for its development.
The base includes various facilities such as a panda research center, hospital, breeding center, and educational display center. By 2012, more than 70 captive giant pandas were living happily at the base, and over 300 wild pandas were residing in the Yaan region.
Layout and Facilities
The Bifengxia Panda Base is divided into several functional areas:
Breeding Area: For panda breeding activities.
Research Area: Includes the panda research center and various laboratories.
Hospital: For the medical care and treatment of pandas.
Nursery: A dedicated area for panda cubs and young pandas.
Bamboo Plantation: Several species of bamboo, a panda’s primary food source, are cultivated here.
Visitor Area: For public education and interaction with pandas.
The base also features a “panda kindergarten,” where panda cubs are raised, and a large panda enclosure that is 10 times the size of the one at the Wolong Panda Center (卧龙中心). This design allows the pandas to roam freely in a natural environment with lush bamboo, mountains, and water.
Educational and Research Significance
The Bifengxia Panda Base is not just a conservation center but also an important research hub for the protection and breeding of giant pandas. The primary mission is to ensure the survival of this endangered species, increase their population, and promote the global conservation of giant pandas. The base also plays a key role in scientific research related to panda behavior, genetics, and habitat restoration.
In addition, the base contributes to the development of eco-tourism in the Yaan (雅安) region and helps raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. By integrating the panda base with the Bifengxia Scenic Area (碧峰峡风景区), it creates a well-rounded tourism experience, attracting both tourists and researchers.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours:
The base is open from 09:00 to 16:00, with a break from 11:30 to 13:30 when the pandas rest. The latest time for entry is 16:00.
Ticket Price:
Admission to the Bifengxia Panda Base is included in the entrance ticket for the Bifengxia Scenic Area (碧峰峡风景区). The base itself is free to visit.
Location:
The panda base is located within the Bifengxia Scenic Area (碧峰峡风景区), in Yaan City (雅安市), Sichuan Province.
Things to See and Do
Panda Viewing:
Visitors can observe giant pandas in their natural habitat, including both adult pandas and cubs in the nursery. There are designated viewing areas where you can see the pandas up close.
Educational Exhibits:
The base has informative displays on the life and conservation of giant pandas, as well as interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Panda Encounters:
Visitors can engage in educational programs that allow them to learn more about panda conservation efforts and the challenges faced by the species.
Nearby Attractions
Bifengxia Scenic Area (碧峰峡风景区):
The scenic area is home to beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear rivers. It offers hiking, sightseeing, and opportunities to explore nature.
Wolong National Nature Reserve (卧龙国家级自然保护区):
A short drive from the Bifengxia Panda Base, Wolong is another significant panda conservation site with research facilities and panda viewing opportunities.
The Bifengxia Panda Base in Yaan (雅安碧峰峡大熊猫基地) is one of the leading panda conservation centers in China, offering visitors an up-close experience with these beloved creatures while promoting global panda conservation efforts. It is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, animal lovers, and anyone interested in wildlife protection. Whether you’re observing pandas in their natural habitat or learning about their conservation, the Bifengxia Panda Base is a place that inspires awe and fosters appreciation for the world’s most iconic endangered species.
