The group is staying in the capital of the Sichuan Province, Chengdu. A bustling city of over 14 million, all the group find the language barrier difficult and Miriam in particular struggles with the regional cuisine. A swim in a high-tech pool in one of the world's biggest buildings makes a bad situation worse, as Miriam discovers a modern China at odds with her memory of it from a trip 30 years ago.

After experiencing city life, the group opt for an overnight stay in a country retreat. A ride on a high speed Bullet Train takes them up into the mountains surrounding the city.

At a local sanctuary, home to the Giant Panda, a feeding session leads to an emotional moment for Miriam, while Rosemary can't quite understand what all the fuss is about. Back in Chengdu a final night at the Sichuan Opera gives the group an opportunity to reflect on their bewildering and dazzling time in China.