By Chuan-X Panda
Published: June 29, 2025 11:30 AM
Yesterday (June 28, 2025), amid the lively rhythm of the Qiang ethnic Salan dance, the Beichuan Giant Panda Flora and Fauna Park—a key cultural and tourism project in Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province—officially opened to the public. The park covers an area of 3,262 acres (≈1,320 hectares) with a total investment of 712 million yuan.
Returned Giant Pandas Make Debut
The star attractions on opening day were two giant pandas returned from abroad: "Wangwang" and "Shengyi". Their endearing antics captivated crowds of visitors. Leveraging the intact ecosystem along the 31°N latitude (66% forest coverage, home to 515 wildlife species), the park features integrated ecological spaces including giant panda enclosures, companion animal zones, and rare botanical gardens.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
From now until August 31, 2025, the "Beichuan Giant Panda Cultural Tourism Consumption Season" offers four signature experiences:
✅ Aerial Sightseeing: Departing from Yongchang Airport, the "Cloud Walk" tour provides a bird’s-eye view of panda habitats.
✅ Cultural Fusion: Qiang embroidery, Salan dance, and Yu-Qiang heritage blend with panda-themed IPs to create unique cultural scenes.
✅ Diverse Themed Routes: Four curated itineraries—including the "Exploration & Study Tour"—cater to varied interests.
✅ Generous Discounts: All tickets to the flora and fauna park enjoy 50% off, only 29 CNY.
Three-Phase Development Progress
The park’s future blueprint is clear:
- Phase I(completed after 23 months of construction) is now operational.
- Phase II (357 acres) will develop supporting facilities, including a 24,000 m² family entertainment zone.
- Phase III (2,500 acres), an outdoor mountain sports area, is slated for completion by late 2026.
Structured as "one park with three zones", the project aims to become a scientific research hub for rare species in Southwest China and an **ecological conservation showcase** for the Giant Panda National Park.
Why Beichuan? Culture and Ecology Synergy
Beichuan is a vital habitat for giant pandas, hosting the National Long-term Research Base for Endangered Species Biology in the Minshan Mountains. With its 3,262-acre expanse, 515 wildlife species, 66% forest coverage, and the ecological monitoring system of the Xiaozhaigou National Nature Reserve, the park integrates natural protection with Qiang cultural heritage—embodied in intricate embroidery and spirited dances.
The county is home to 74 wild giant pandas. Following their tracks through the forests along 31°N, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province, has embarked on a green transformation journey.