
Chengdu bear sanctuary China
A sanctuary of healing and hope
Our sanctuary in Chengdu, southwest China, is Animals Asia’s first – and China’s only – rescue centre for bears formerly farmed for their bile.
Hidden among peaceful bamboo forests, it’s a safe haven where hundreds of bears now live free from suffering.




Healing from pain
Many of the bears arrive traumatised and in poor health, suffering the long-term effects of bile extraction: tumours, organ damage, blindness, broken teeth, amputated limbs. Yet thanks to our vet and bear care teams’ expertise and their own extraordinary resilience, most bears go on to thrive.
Here, they can rediscover what it means to be a bear – playing in the grass, napping in hammocks, and climbing trees.

'It really touches the heart to see these big black bundles of fur… and know they have been saved from the most horrendous existence they had on a bear farm.'
Key facts about our Chengdu sanctuary
- Located in Sichuan province, China
- Home to dozens of rescued bears
- 15 semi-natural enclosures
- Onsite bear hospital
- Herbal medicine garden
- World-class bear carers and behaviouralists
- Education Centre and guided visit program
- Experienced local and international staff.




Inspiring change
Though not open to the public, the sanctuary welcomes a limited number of visitors each year – journalists, students, researchers and school groups – who come to learn about bear bile farming and witness the bears’ recovery.
Our Education Centre features powerful displays and recovered farm equipment. We also run outreach programs, workshops and summer camps that promote bear protection and ethical alternatives to bear bile.
Every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding of what these animals endure – and the hope that change is possible.
Help us put an end to animal cruelty
Animals are being captured and exploited every day. Animals Asia has helped thousands, but there is always another animal in need of our help. Please donate today.
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