Sichuan is located in southwest China on the upper reaches of the Yangzi River. The west part of Sichuan is a plateau that forms the gateway to Tibet and much of the province is fertile land traversed by numerous rivers. Since ancient times Sichuan has been reputed to have the most beautiful mountains and rivers under the heavens. Agriculture is well developed in Sichuan and it has long been known as the "land of abundance".

Outside of China, Sichuan is famous for its distinctive hot and spicy cuisine which can be enjoyed throughout the province - a chili fuelled tasty experience. The Giant Panda is Sichuan's most famous resident. Sightings of this popular bamboo munching native are rare and limited to the Chengdu zoo and wildlife reserves. Emei Shan is a sacred Buddhist mountain and has long been a place of pilgrimage for the devout as well as for nature lovers. The Three Gorges of the Yangzi River can be marveled at from a slow boat cruising through Sichuan.

Chongqing has traditionally been considered a Sichuan city, but has been an independent municipality since 1997.