Jiuzhaigou Valley

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Attraction Introduction

Jiuzhaigou Valley is renowned for its “six wonders”: turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, Tibetan culture, and blue ice. Here, there are 108 lakes, each displaying unique colors and shapes, earning it the titles of “Fairy Tale World” and “Fairyland on Earth”. The scenic area, located at an altitude ranging from 2000 to 4500 meters in the plateau region, has an annual average temperature of 7.3℃, exhibiting a typical three-dimensional climate.

The beauty of Jiuzhaigou lies in its distinctive geological features and hydrological landscapes. The lakes here exhibit various colors such as emerald green, turquoise blue, and deep purple, resulting from the combined effects of calcium carbonate precipitation and algae growth. Waterfalls, lakes, snow-capped mountains, forests, and Tibetan folk culture complement each other, forming a natural landscape painting. The geological evolution of Jiuzhaigou is considered a natural wonder, as the Quaternary glacial movement shaped its unique landforms. The scenic area preserves a complete primitive forest ecosystem and is a habitat for rare animals like the giant panda and golden monkey. Every autumn, the multicolored forests reflect off the turquoise lakes, creating a unique “Jiuzhaigou Blue” scenery that attracts countless photography lovers.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Nuorilang Falls
    • The largest calcified waterfall in Jiuzhaigou, 320 meters wide and 24.5 meters high
    • The waterfall is fan-shaped from top to bottom, exuding a magnificent aura
    • Multiple viewing platforms offer different perspectives
    • Surrounded by red leaves in autumn, the scenery is most spectacular
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes.

Scenic Spot Introduction

  1. Five-Colored Pond
  • The most gorgeous calc-sinter deposit pond group in Jiuzhai Valley, exhibiting various colors such as blue, green, and yellow.
  • The calc-sinter deposits at the bottom of the pond are distributed in a stepped manner, forming unique color layers.
  • Different seasons and lighting conditions present various color changes.
  • The best time for photography is from 9-11 am when the lighting is optimal.
  • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes. Visitors need to wait patiently for the best photo opportunity.
  1. Changhai Lake
  • The largest lake in Jiuzhai Valley, approximately 7.5 kilometers long.
  • Surrounded by virgin forests, providing clear reflections.
  • Located at an altitude of 3100 meters, it is a glacial erosion lake in the mountains.
  • Wildflowers can be seen everywhere in spring and summer, while the forests are ablaze with colors in autumn.
  • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes. Visitors can enjoy the sunrise and sunset here.
  1. Shuzheng Lakes
  • A group of lakes consisting of 18 lakes of various sizes.
  • The lake water is crystal clear, and the reflections are like a mirror.
  • The mountains are filled with flowers in spring, and the forests are ablaze with colors in autumn.
  • There is a walkway around the lake, which is convenient for visitors to take photos while touring.
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes. It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening.
  1. Pearl Beach Falls
  • A 162-meter-wide calcified waterfall group.
  • Composed of thousands of small waterfalls, resembling scattered pearls.
  • There are observation platforms around it, providing excellent viewing angles.
  • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes.
  1. Panda Lake
  • Named for its panda-like shape.
  • The lake water is bluish-green, and the scenery varies in different seasons.
  • Surrounded by virgin forests, the ecology is intact.
  • Suggested visiting time: 40 minutes.

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Optimal Touring Route
  • Day 1: Shuzheng Valley (visit Shuzheng Lakes - Nuorilang Falls - Pearl Beach Falls).
  • Day 2: Rize Valley (visit Changhai Lake - Five-Colored Pond - Panda Lake).
  • Day 3: Zechawa Valley (virgin forests and mountain scenery).
  • It is recommended to adjust the itinerary based on physical strength and not to be greedy.
  1. Visiting Schedule Arrangement
  • It is suggested to head to the scenic area at 6 am to avoid large crowds.
  • Visit key scenic spots in the morning when the lighting is optimal.
  • Take precautions against heat or cold during noon.
  • Adjust the visiting time according to the season, especially in winter, when it’s crucial to grasp the illumination time.
  1. Practical Tips
  • Precautions for high altitude: Take it step by step and avoid strenuous exercise.
  • Photography advice: It is recommended to bring wide-angle and telephoto lenses.
  • Clothing advice: Bring sun-protective clothing and prepare rain gear.
  • Physical strength allocation: Control the touring speed and take rests.

Transportation Guide

  1. External Transportation
  • Airplane: Chengdu Shuangliu Airport - Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (1 hour), advance booking is required.
  • Automobile: Chengdu Xin’nanmen Passenger Transport Station - Jiuzhai Valley (8 hours), it is recommended to choose daytime shifts.
  • Chartered vehicle: Chengdu - Jiuzhai Valley (8-10 hours), allowing sightseeing along the way.
  • It is recommended to choose flying to save time.

景点介绍

Visiting Suggestions

Avoid long and tiring journeys.

  1. Transportation within the scenic area:
  • The sightseeing bus takes about 2 hours one way and operates on a fixed route.
  • There are multiple stops for easy boarding and alighting.
  • Please note that the departure intervals vary during peak and off-peak seasons.
  • It is recommended to check the operating hours beforehand and arrange your itinerary accordingly.
  1. Tibetan-style Earth Pot:
  • Made with local specialty ingredients.
  • The Tibetan-style Earth Pot at the entrance of Jiuzhaigou is highly recommended.
  • Per capita consumption: 80-120 yuan.
  1. Hand-grabbed Lamb:
  • A local delicacy, slaughtered and cooked on the spot.
  • Jiuzhai Paradise’s hand-grabbed lamb is recommended.
  • Per capita consumption: 60-100 yuan.
  1. Qingke Wine:
  • A traditional Tibetan beverage with moderate alcohol content.
  • Small bottles are available for purchase to take home.
  • Price range: 30-200 yuan.
  1. Buttered Tea:
  • A traditional Tibetan beverage that warms the body and refreshes the mind.
  • It is recommended to experience authentic buttered tea in a Tibetan household.
  • Per capita consumption: 20-30 yuan.

Special Reminders

  1. Plateau Safety:
  • The average altitude of the scenic area is over 3000 meters.
  • Take anti-altitude sickness medications like Hongjingtian beforehand.
  • Prepare an oxygen tank in case of discomfort.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol consumption.
  1. Weather Preparedness:
  • Daily temperature fluctuations are large, so prepare both thick and thin clothing.
  • Sun protection measures are essential.
  • Carry rain gear at all times.
  • Follow the weather forecast and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
  1. Photography Tips:
  • The best light is in the morning and evening.
  • It is recommended to bring a tripod.
  • Take care to protect your camera from moisture.
  • Be patient and wait for photogenic moments in key scenic areas.
  1. Environmental Awareness:
  • Touching or throwing objects into the water is strictly prohibited.
  • Keep the scenic area clean and tidy.
  • Follow the scenic area’s rules and regulations.
  • Cherish the ecological environment.
  1. Other Precautions:
  • Book tickets early as prices are higher during peak seasons.
  • Prepare sufficient cash as some places do not accept cards.
  • It is recommended to purchase travel insurance.
  • Respect local customs and culture.