Day 2 of our Chengdu adventure brought together three au pairs from around the world: Ellery from the United States, Cassy from South Africa, and William from the United Kingdom. This action-packed day featured wildlife encounters, historical marvels, a surprising culinary connection, and an unforgettable evening of art and culture.
Morning: Giant Pandas and Red Pandas
The day started at the renowned Giant Panda Base, where the trio enjoyed watching these beloved creatures in their natural habitat. Ellery and Cassy were captivated by the pandas’ playful interactions, while William snapped endless photos of a panda climbing a tree.
But the biggest surprise was meeting red pandas, whose agility and energy brought laughter and awe. The trio agreed that seeing both giant and red pandas was a highlight of their Chengdu journey.
Afternoon: Dujiangyan and a Culinary Encounter
The next stop was the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient engineering marvel. As they crossed the suspension bridge and admired the surrounding mountains, they were intrigued by the site’s role in shaping Chengdu’s prosperity.
While exploring the area, they stumbled upon a historical statue of Ding Baozhen, the governor credited with inventing Kung Pao Chicken (Gongbao Jiding). Known for his contributions to both governance and cuisine, Ding Baozhen’s legacy is cherished in Sichuan.
William, a self-proclaimed foodie, was particularly excited. “I can’t believe I’m standing in front of the man behind my favorite dish!” he exclaimed. With a playful grin, he bowed deeply to the statue, earning laughter from Ellery and Cassy. “This is definitely going on my Instagram,” he joked.
Evening: Sichuan Opera and Dressing Up
The day concluded with a dazzling Sichuan Opera performance, featuring the mesmerizing art of Bian Lian (face-changing). The trio marveled at the performers’ ability to change masks in an instant, leaving them spellbound.
The experience became even more magical when they were invited backstage to try on traditional Sichuan opera costumes. Dressed in intricately embroidered robes and elaborate headdresses, the trio embraced the theatrical spirit of the opera.
Ellery admired the intricate designs of her robe, saying, “I feel like I’ve stepped into another world.” Cassy added, “These costumes are a true work of art.” Meanwhile, William struck a dramatic pose and quipped, “I might just audition for the next show!”
Reflections on Day 2
Day 2 was an extraordinary blend of nature, history, and culture. From the charm of giant and red pandas to the brilliance of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and from paying homage to the creator of Kung Pao Chicken to the enchanting artistry of Sichuan Opera, Ellery, Cassy, and William deepened their understanding of Chengdu’s rich heritage.
What’s Next?
Stay tuned as the trio continues their Chengdu journey. Day 3 promises free exploration, hidden gems, and even more memorable experiences.
Inspired by their journey?
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