Founded by the Kingdom of Shu in the 4th century, Chengdu and the Jinjiang River served as a crucial intersection to three trade corridors for the Silk Road. In 316AD it was established as the Capital under the Qin Dynasty and was not only a key centre for trade but became renowned for its music, poetry and cuisine.

One of the world’s most respected facilities for panda conservation and research is the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Established in 1987, the base was created to increase the wild panda population and ensure their survival, at a time when only around 1,000 remained. Over the years, it has become a symbol of scientific study and wildlife preservation.