Giant Panda Conservation in China

This is the oldest and only surviving no-dam irrigation system in the world, and a wonder in the development of Chinese science. The project consists of three important parts, namely Yuzui, Feishayan and Baopingkou scientifically designed to automatically control the water flow of the rivers from the mountains to the plains throughout the year. These three parts interact with each other perfectly to form an effective water conservancy project.

Hanging Bridge, Shidian Temple, Old Town

This afternoon we will hike up Mount Qingcheng, one of the most famous Taoist mountains in China. Along the hike we will see several large and important temples and palaces. Mount Qingcheng has been called 'the most peaceful and secluded mountain under heaven'.

Ya'an is a city in the western part of Sichuan province, located just below the Tibetan Plateau.

Today will be spent at the Bifengxia Panda Base. The Ya'an Bifengxia Giant Panda Base of China Conservation and Research Center focuses on the reproduction of the Giant Panda as well as wild animal rescue and education. Bifengxia has become a popular destination for visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of these famous animals, since the May 2008 earthquake displaced all of the Giant Pandas in the Wolong nature reserve. We'll spend the day with a ranger to gain a better understanding of daily life at Bifengxia for this endangered species. Then take a leisurely one to three-hour hike on paved paths through beautiful Bifengxia Gorge. The gorge is complete with flowing waterfalls and bamboo groves, and provides a gorgeous backdrop to our hike. We'll also pass the area where a westerner first spotted a panda in the 19th century.

We will take a leisurely one to three-hour hike on paved paths through beautiful Bifengxia Gorge. The gorge is complete with flowing waterfalls and bamboo groves, and provides a gorgeous backdrop to our hike. We'll also pass the area where a westerner first spotted a panda in the 19th century.

Today we will visit Shangli Ancient Town, located in Yucheng District of Ya'an City of Sichuan Province. In history the old town was the important entrance of the South Silk Road and it is believed by the local that the town is a cornucopia because of its location at the intersection angle of two rivers. Embraced by mountains and rivers, the wooden houses in Shangli Ancient Town scatter amidst the fields and gardens, with the paths paved with slabstones.

The morning will be spent hiking along the mountains of Emeishan where we will enjoy the temples and stunning scenery. Emei Shan is one of China's four sacred Buddhist Mountains. We will ascend the mountain via cable car. Atop the mountain, we will see the many temples and monasteries situated on the slopes, as well as the haunting and beautiful scenery of gnarled trees and mist-shrouded peaks.

Participate in a handicraft making lesson in a local Tea House. Options could include handmade papermaking and sugar painting.

Enjoy a special Hotpot Dinner. Over dinner, we can hear stories about Chengdu history and customs.

Throughout the program, we will set time aside time for discussion, guided reflection, and time to write reflections on self-discovery and what we have learned. "We do not learn from experience, we learn from reflecting on experience" - John Dewey