Capital: Chengdu

Population: 84.3 Million

One of the largest Provinces in the People's Republic of China and the most heavily populated. Sichuan is roughly the size of France and is rich in natural resouces.

Wild, mountainous terrain and fast rivers kept it relatively isolated through out hstory. This has made it key place at certain times in history as a breakaway kingdom.

Sichuan means "four Rivers" and refer to four of the more than 80 mighty rivers that run through the province. In the remote mountain areas bordering Gansu and Shaanxi is the habitat of the Giant Panda.

Chengdu is Sichuan's capital, it's administrative, educational and cultural centre and a major industrial base. It is also without doubt the economic, political and military centre for south-west China.

Climate: November is Autumn and as such is cool enough to warrant bringing a jacket and sweater. Rainfall is sparse during this month however some years can experience a fair amount of rain at this time of year. Come prepared with a suitable waterproof jacket/coat. Umbrellas are of course plentiful and cheap as well as raincoats.