Chengdu’s Panda Base offers a unique opportunity to witness the captivating behaviors of these iconic, endangered creatures. Complementing the wildlife viewing is a hands-on culinary experience, where visitors can learn to prepare authentic Sichuan dishes under the guidance of a skilled local chef. This immersive five-hour tour provides a seamless experience, with round-trip transfers and all necessary admissions included. Whether you’re a panda enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a culturally enriching adventure, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable glimpse into the treasures of Chengdu.
This experience made our list of the 12 Best Cooking Classes In Chengdu.
Key Points
- This tour combines a visit to the Chengdu Panda Base with a hands-on cooking class, allowing participants to experience both the natural and culinary aspects of Chengdu.
- The tour is priced at $175.00 per person and includes round-trip transfers, entrance fees to the panda base, and a guided cooking class.
- Visitors can observe giant pandas and red pandas for approximately 3 hours at the panda base as part of the itinerary.
- The cooking class features instruction from an English-speaking Chinese chef, where participants learn to prepare authentic Sichuan dishes like Gongbao Chicken and Mapo Dofu.
- The tour offers a hassle-free experience, with private transfers, entrance fees, and the cooking class all included in the package.
Tour Overview
The Chengdu Panda Base tour offers visitors an immersive experience to see the iconic giant pandas and learn the art of Sichuan cuisine.
Priced from $175.00 per person, this 5-hour private group tour includes round-trip transfers, entrance fees to the panda base, and a cooking class with a Chinese chef.
Guests can expect to spend approximately 3 hours at the panda base, observing the fascinating creatures, including baby pandas and red pandas.
The cooking class follows, where you will prepare local Sichuan dishes such as Gongbao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Mapo Dofu under the guidance of an English-speaking chef.
This tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Chengdu’s natural and culinary wonders.
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Inclusions
This tour includes private transfers to the Panda base and cooking school, ensuring a seamless experience.
The entrance fee to the Panda base is covered, allowing visitors to spend approximately 3 hours observing the pandas, including the adorable baby pandas and the red pandas.
The cooking class with a Chinese chef who speaks simple English is a highlight, where participants can prepare and cook authentic Sichuan dishes like Gongbao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Mapo Dofu.
Drinks are provided during the cooking class, and the return transfer to the hotel is included, making this a convenient and all-inclusive tour.
Itinerary
Pickup from the hotel lobby in Chengdu by a driver holding a name card kicks off the tour.
After the transfer, visitors will spend approximately 3 hours at the Panda Base to see pandas, including baby pandas, and red pandas.
Once the park visit concludes, the group will walk to the parking area to meet the driver, who’ll then transport them to a cooking class school.
At the school, you will follow a Chinese chef who speaks simple English to prepare and cook real local Sichuan dishes such as Gongbao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Mapo Dofu.
After the cooking class, the driver will return the group to their hotel.
Cooking Class Details
A Chinese chef with a basic command of English guides participants through the hands-on cooking class.
Guests will learn to prepare local Sichuan dishes like Gongbao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, Mapo Dofu, and dumplings. The chef demonstrates each step, providing clear instructions and explanations.
Participants then replicate the techniques, cooking alongside the chef. Throughout the class, they’ll sip on drinks as they enjoy the vibrant flavors and cooking methods of Sichuan cuisine.
With the chef’s expertise and the interactive format, guests leave the class with newfound skills and an appreciation for traditional Chinese culinary arts.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Full name and passport number are required when booking tickets to the Panda base. This is to ensure the proper identification and documentation of each guest.
Plus, it’s important to check availability for the tour’s starting times, as slots may be limited.
The tour offers a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and intimate exploration of the Panda base and cooking class.
The 5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and the cooking class, providing a comprehensive and convenient way to experience Chengdu’s iconic pandas and local cuisine.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can book with confidence.
Want to bring Chengdu's flavors home? More hands-on cooking experiences we cover
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- Chengdu: Sichuan Cuisine-Themed Museum Cooking Experience
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Panda Base Visit
The tour begins with a transfer to the renowned Chengdu Panda Base, where visitors can witness the captivating antics of these beloved creatures.
At the base, they’ll have the opportunity to observe the pandas, including the adorable baby pandas, as well as the distinctive red pandas. Guests are allotted approximately 3 hours to explore the park and take in the pandas’ unique behaviors and habitats.
After the visit, the group will reconvene at the parking area to continue on to the cooking class portion of the experience.
Cooking Class Experience
After the captivating visit to the Panda Base, the tour continues with a hands-on cooking class where participants can learn to prepare authentic Sichuan dishes.
Guided by a Chinese chef who speaks simple English, the class teaches guests to cook local favorites like Gongbao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, Mapo Tofu, and dumplings.
Participants actively engage in the preparation and cooking process, gaining valuable insights into Sichuan cuisine.
The cooking class provides a unique opportunity to take in the vibrant culinary culture of Chengdu.
Drinks are included, and the session lasts for the duration of the class before the group is transferred back to the hotel.
Transportation Arrangements
A private driver is provided to pick up participants from their hotel lobby in Chengdu. The driver will be holding a name card, making it easy to identify them.
After the panda base visit, which lasts around 3 hours, the driver will meet the group at the parking area to transfer them to the cooking class location.
Following the cooking class, the driver will then take the participants back to their hotel. This seamless transportation arrangement ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing the tour-goers to focus on the panda encounter and culinary adventure without worrying about logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos With the Pandas?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos with the pandas, but direct physical contact is typically prohibited to protect the pandas’ wellbeing. Photography policies may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for specific guidelines.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cooking Class?
The cooking class doesn’t have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages can join the class and learn to prepare local Sichuan dishes under the guidance of a Chinese chef.
Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The cooking class accommodates vegetarian and vegan diners. Participants can learn to prepare traditional Sichuan vegetarian dishes like mapo tofu and dumplings under the guidance of the Chinese chef.
Can I Learn to Make More Than One Sichuan Dish?
The cooking class allows guests to learn how to prepare multiple Sichuan dishes, not just one. Participants will make several local specialties like Gongbao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Mapo Tofu during the hands-on lesson.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring a moderate amount of luggage, such as a small backpack or handbag, on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider for specific guidelines on luggage size and quantity.
The Sum Up
The Chengdu Panda Base Tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to observe the adorable giant and red pandas before seeing the flavors of Sichuan cuisine. With round-trip transfers, entrance fees, and an English-speaking chef guiding the cooking class, this tour offers a seamless and unique cultural exploration in Chengdu. It’s a must-do activity for those seeking an unforgettable combination of wildlife and culinary experiences.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tickets in Chengdu
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