The giant panda is high on the endangered species list; only a few thousand of these unique animals remain, all in Gansu, Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces. The Chinese government is making great efforts to increase their numbers. The Chengdu Panda Breeding Center constitutes one such effort. The 92 acre center is dedicated to providing pandas, and many other endangered species, with natural surroundings so that they can multiply. Plans are in place to add over 500 acres to the enclosure

If you are one of those people who think that all zoos are the same, a visit to the Beijing Zoo will change your opinion. Located in the Xicheng district in west Beijing, the zoo encompasses vast stretches of land, beautifully maintained flowerbeds and a stream, and houses some of China’s most exquisite animals.