Today, we are planning to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for an up-close observation of these fascinating animals! Sichuan is renowned worldwide as the habitat of giant pandas, and the Chengdu Research Base plays a crucial role in their research and conservation efforts. Unlike traditional zoo settings, this facility offers a more natural environment for the pandas, allowing visitors to enjoy watching them in spacious, open-air enclosures. It promises to be a delightful and memorable experience interacting with these adorable pandas.
Optional Program: Sichuan Opera cultural show at $59 per person.
Sichuan Opera has a history spanning 300 years and your evening's entertainment celebrates the music, voice, dance and humor of the region.
The show begins with the classic 'Nightmare of Shi Huaiyu,' which is part ghost story and part love song, featuring famous characters from Chinese fiction. Next the performance features two soloists on traditional Chinese instruments. First is the Ehru, the Chinese violin with a haunting sound that you'll never forget. Later on in the opera, a solo will be performed on the Guqin, the Chinese zither. The Guqin is associated with wisdom and nobleness and is used for only the most traditional and sentimental music. Between the two soloists will be the 'Singing of Cuckoo,' performed in classic Sichuan surd singing style. Surd singing is one of the most difficult techniques in all Chinese music, and the Cuckoo is one of the best-known folk songs among Sichuan people. The show's finale will be the joyous 'Wild Dance of Golden Snake.' This traditional folk music is full of humor, merriment, and the personality of the West Shu country people who perform the dance.
Overnight: Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast
