Sichuan Province in southwestern China contains some of the country's most important natural areas and cultural sites. Visitors will find major Buddhist temples on Mount Emei, the 233-foot (71-meter) Leshan Giant Buddha carved in the 8th century, and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System that has operated for over 2,000 years. The provincial capital of Chengdu serves as a base for exploration and hosts the primary giant panda breeding facility, along with historic streets and temples. The province is also known for its mountain landscapes, including the 24,790-foot (7,556-meter) Mount Gongga and the national parks of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, with their limestone formations and waterways. Wolong Nature Reserve and the research base in Chengdu allow observation of pandas in protected facilities. In Danba, traditional stone watchtowers stand in valleys, while Tagong Monastery represents the Tibetan heritage of the western region. The area provides a combination of natural attractions and historical sites with infrastructure for travelers of different interests. From temples and museums in Chengdu to mountain trails in the west, the territory spans different elevations and climate zones.