About the Chengdu, China Program

The Chengdu program is a USAC specialty program. Learn more about on-site program elements and the city itself below.

About Chengdu

Population: approx. 16 million
Distance from Beijing: 1,130 miles
Distance from Tibet: 777 miles

An ancient capital, Chengdu has grown into the modern economic, transportation, and cultural hub of Southwest China. It is known for its ethnically diverse culture, incredible cuisine, and relaxing lifestyle. This modern city is rapidly growing while maintaining a wonderful balance of history and modernity. With new subway lines expanding every day, as well as an extensive urban and regional transportation network, you can easily explore surrounding areas. Sichuan's culture is diverse and inclusive with festivals from all ethnic groups in China as well as many heritge sites, such as Buddhist and Daoist mountians, wonderful museums, and beautiful temples. Surrounding Chengdu is some of China's most beautiful scenery, including Juizhaigou, a stunning national park. Sichuan is also home to China's famous ambassador, the Giant Panda, with a research station in Chengdu, and the Wulong Nature Reserve 40 miles to the north.