Chengdu Panda Tour|Travel Guide As China ’ s National Treasure, the giant panda is one of the rarest animals in the world. The total number is estimated to be 1,500, including those living in the wild, 80% of which are in Sichuan Province.A breeding center for giant pandas was founded in the north suburbs of Chengdu. It is the only one of its kind in the world that ’ s located in a metropolitan area. In order to better protect wild giant pandas, Chengdu has established nature reserves in Dujiangyan City, Chongzhou City, and Dayi County. Sichuan Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, the biggest of its kind in the world, is only 130 kilometers outside Chengdu.The western world came to know giant pandas only after a French missionary named David first discovered this species in Sichuan in 1869.Now, the somewhat clumsy giant panda is a symbol representing the World Wildlife Fund. They are also a messenger of friendly communication between Chengdu and international cities. Currently, giant pandas are also reared in U.S.A, Germany, Austria, Japan, Thailand as well as Mexico.Chengdu has established the world renowned breeding and research base for giant pandas, which attracts almost 100,000 visitors each year. Covering tens of hectares with bamboo groves and a native-like habitat, the base is the only one of its kind located in an urban area. A museum is open to the public throughout the year. Panda Story Cinema The growth of giant panda is full of secret; we can get some knowledge on their life through a wonderful growth documentary in Panda Story Cinema. We can appreciate many valuable scenes on birth, growth and procreation of giant panda. Giant Panda Sunshine Nursery Giant Panda Sunshine Nursery is located in Core Giant Panda Breeding Area and the place where the expectant, newly born and juvenile giant pandas live in; it is called the kindergarten of giant panda.