Visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding isn’t just about seeing cute pandas—it’s also a great place to pick up fun, panda-themed souvenirs! With several official shops on-site, you’ll find plenty of creative and high-quality gifts for friends, kids, or yourself.
This guide rounds up the most popular souvenirs at the Chengdu Panda Base, complete with price references and practical tips—so you can shop with confidence and avoid buyer’s regret!
1. Plush Toys: The Most Popular Panda Gift
For both kids and adults, nothing represents a panda trip better than a fluffy plush toy. The shops here offer not only the classic black-and-white design but also pandas dressed in Sichuan opera costumes, Tang or Han outfits, and even “Kung Fu Panda”-inspired versions. You’ll find everything from mini keychain plushies to life-sized cuddly companions.
- Why buy: Soft, cuddly, and irresistibly cute—these are perfect for all ages. Limited-edition seasonal or collaboration versions are also worth collecting.
- Reference Price: CNY 20–300 depending on size and craftsmanship.
2. Cultural & Creative Souvenirs: Stylish, Practical, and Lightweight
In recent years, the Panda Base has elevated its design game by launching a variety of creative and practical panda-themed items:
- Tote bags / Canvas bags: Featuring fun panda illustrations or panda + Chengdu landmark mashups.
- Notebooks / Postcards / Folders: Great for students and office workers.
- Phone cases / Keychains / Pins: Compact, stylish, and flight-friendly.
- Fridge magnets / Stickers / Hand fans: Budget-friendly and ideal for gifting in bulk.
- Reference Price: CNY 10–80.
- Tip: Look out for “Baby Panda Limited Edition” items based on actual cubs at the base—check the tags!
3. Clothing & Accessories: Wear the Panda Love
Want to take the panda vibes back into your daily life? Consider some panda-themed apparel:
- T-shirts, hoodies, caps with fun slogans like “I’m from Panda Nation”
- Panda-patterned scarves, gloves, socks—subtle yet playful
- Matching couple’s sets or parent-child outfits for family travelers
- Reference Price: CNY 50–200.
- Shopping Tip: Sizes tend to run small—try them on or size up. For gifting, go with looser fits for safety.
4. Cultural Crafts: For Those Seeking Tasteful Souvenirs
For a more refined or collectible souvenir, these cultural items might be just what you’re looking for:
- Bamboo-carved panda figurines or tea pets
- Ceramic mugs or porcelain ware with panda motifs
- Chinese-style panda paintings or scrolls
- Panda-themed bookmarks or silk embroidery pieces
- Great for giving to elders or as a lasting memory for yourself.
- Reference Price: CNY 100–500+, depending on material and craftsmanship.
- Tip: For fragile or bulky items, ask staff for proper packaging. Consider whether to carry them or check them in.
Recommended tourist routes：
7-Day 6-Night Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou & Mount Emei Tour – Giant Pandas, Leshan Buddha & More
5. Panda Snacks & Local Treats: Cute and Delicious
Foodies, rejoice! The souvenir shops also offer edible panda-themed goodies:
- Panda-shaped cookies, chocolates, candies
- Snacks with panda packaging—nougat, spicy strips, milk tea
- Seasonal specialties like panda mooncakes or panda gift box pastries
- These snacks are not only cute but also quite tasty—perfect for sharing with friends back home.
- Reference Price: CNY 15–50.
- Pro tip: Shop about 30 minutes before leaving the base to avoid carrying snacks around or melting/damage.
Recommended tourist routes：
2-Day Chengdu Panda & Food Tour: Panda Base, Jinsha Museum & More
6. Where to Buy & How to Pay
There are several souvenir outlets inside the Chengdu Panda Base. The main ones include:
- Large official shops near the main entrance: Most comprehensive selection
- Shops near Sunshine Nursery House and Moonlight Nursery House: Unique, themed merchandise
- Pop-up stalls or vending machines near panda enclosures or exit paths
- Payment methods: Cash, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Some shops also offer e-invoicing or QR code receipts.
7. Shopping Tips for Travelers
- Shop early: Popular items may sell out by afternoon. Shop right after visiting key enclosures.
- Go lightweight: Choose items that are small, light, and easy to carry.
- Buy from official shops: Avoid roadside vendors or unlicensed stalls—quality is not guaranteed.
- Bring your own eco-bag: The base supports sustainability and doesn’t automatically provide plastic bags.
Take the Panda Memory Home
A trip to the Panda Base isn’t just about seeing China’s beloved national treasure—it’s about creating warm and fuzzy memories. Choosing the right souvenir isn’t just “buying something”—it’s about giving your trip a tangible presence in your everyday life. Whether it’s a huggable plush, a stylish notebook, or a piece of elegant panda artwork, each item will remind you of that joyful moment: when you met a panda in Chengdu and smiled like a kid.
So next time you visit the Chengdu Panda Base, set aside at least 30 minutes to explore the gift shops—and bring home a bit of panda magic and Chengdu charm in your suitcase!
