Located in the west of Sichuan Basin and in the center of Chengdu Plain, Chengdu covers a total area of 12.3 thousand square kilometres (4,749 square miles) with a population of over 11 million.

Benefiting from Dujiangyan Irrigation Project which was constructed in 256 B.C., Sichuan Province is reputed as "Tian Fu Zhi Guo", literally a place richly endowed with natural resources. Chengdu, as the capital, is extremely productive. The Min and Tuo Rivers, two branches of the Yangtze River, connected to forty other rivers, supply an irrigation area of more than 700 square kilometres (270.27 square miles) with 150-180 million kilowatts of water. Consisting of abundant mineral resources, the land is extremely fertile.

Rugged Sichuan has always been remote from the power centers in eastern China, and its distinct culture is a joy to experience. Try to catch a Sichuan opera performance, characterized by amazingly rapid "face changing" tricks, fire breathing and earthy humor. The region's natural beauty is not to be missed—take a trip into the nearby mountains and forests, home of the famous bamboo-munching giant pandas, some of which can be seen at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base just outside of town.

For a taste of Sichuan culture, join the locals in a Chengdu teahouse. Don't rush it—the idea's not to grab a quick pick-me-up, but to unwind and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Of course, Sichuan cuisine is famous the world over for its tongue-numbing pepper, fiery chili and steamy hot pot, making the province's capital a delicious place to be (those who don't care for spicy fare shouldn't worry—there are plenty of milder alternatives among Chengdu's restaurants).