Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide: A Fairytale Landscape in Sichuan

Nestled in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a 5A-rated national park. Known for its breathtaking turquoise lakes, colorful pools, cascading waterfalls, and pristine forests, Jiuzhaigou is often described as a “fairyland on earth.” This Sichuan travel guide will help you explore one of the most stunning Sichuan attractions, offering practical tips and insights for an unforgettable journey.

Getting to Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou is approximately 430 kilometers from Chengdu, with several transportation options available:

By Air
Fly from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (approx. 1 hour, CNY 500-1500 depending on the season). From the airport, take a shuttle bus (CNY 45) or taxi (approx. CNY 200) to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area (90 kilometers, 1.5-2 hours).

By Bus
Take a long-distance bus from Chengdu’s Chadianzi or Xinnanmen Bus Station to Jiuzhaigou (approx. 8-10 hours, CNY 140-200). This is a budget-friendly option.

By Car
Drive from Chengdu via G213 or the Jingkun Expressway (approx. 7-9 hours). The roads are well-maintained but mountainous, so drive carefully. Parking is available near the scenic area (CNY 10-20/day).

Within the Scenic Area
Private vehicles are not allowed inside the park. Visitors must use the eco-friendly shuttle buses (included in the ticket price) or walk along well-maintained trails.

Top Attractions and Activities

Jiuzhaigou is shaped like a “Y,” with three main valleys: Shuzheng Valley, Rize Valley, and Zechawa Valley. Each offers unique natural wonders:

Five-Flower Lake (Wuhua Hai)

• Highlights: Located in Rize Valley, this lake is famous for its vibrant colors caused by mineral deposits and algae. It’s often called the “crown jewel of Jiuzhaigou.”
• Tip: Visit in autumn (October) for the most vivid colors, perfect for photography.

Long Lake (Chang Hai)

• Highlights: The largest and highest lake in Jiuzhaigou (3,100 meters above sea level), surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Its serene beauty is awe-inspiring.
• Tip: Walk to the viewing platform for panoramic views.

Nuorilang Waterfall

• Highlights: A majestic waterfall in Shuzheng Valley, 270 meters wide and 24 meters high. Its powerful flow is a sight to behold.
• Tip: Visit after rainfall for the most impressive water volume.

Pearl Shoal (Zhenzhu Tan)

• Highlights: A unique calcified terrace where water flows like scattered pearls. The nearby Pearl Shoal Waterfall was featured in the opening scene of Journey to the West.
• Tip: Walk along the boardwalk for close-up views.

Mirror Lake (Jing Hai)

• Highlights: On calm mornings, the lake’s surface reflects the surrounding mountains and forests like a mirror.
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the perfect reflection.

Suggested Itineraries

One-Day Trip: Nuorilang Tourist Center → Shuzheng Valley (Nuorilang Waterfall, Shuzheng Lakes) → Rize Valley (Five-Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal) → Return.

Two-Day Trip:
Day 1: Shuzheng Valley (Nuorilang Waterfall, Rhinoceros Lake) + Rize Valley (Five-Flower Lake, Mirror Lake).
Day 2: Zechawa Valley (Long Lake, Five-Color Pond) + revisit any missed spots.

Food Recommendations

Jiuzhaigou’s cuisine blends Tibetan and Sichuan flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

Yak Meat

• Try: Grilled yak meat or yak meat soup, tender and flavorful (CNY 30-50/dish).

Tibetan Barley Wine (Qingke Jiu)

• Try: A traditional Tibetan drink, slightly sweet and aromatic (CNY 10-20/glass). Drink in moderation due to the high altitude.

Butter Tea

• Try: A staple of Tibetan breakfasts, often paired with tsampa (roasted barley flour) (CNY 10-15).

Sichuan Snacks

• Try: Spicy hot pot or skewers near the park entrance (CNY 20-40/person).

Wild Mushroom Soup

• Try: A hearty soup made with locally foraged mushrooms (CNY 40-60/pot).

Accommodation Options

Near the Park Entrance: Hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of the ticket office (CNY 100-500/night).

In Jiuzhaigou Town (Zhangzha Town): A wider range of accommodations, 10 minutes by car from the park (CNY 50-300/night).

Luxury Options: Jiuzhai Paradise InterContinental Resort or Hilton Hotel (CNY 800-2000/night), offering hot springs and upscale amenities.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn (September-November): The most colorful season, especially mid-October.
• Summer (June-August): Cool and refreshing, ideal for escaping the heat.
• Winter (December-February): Snowy landscapes, but some areas may be closed.

What to Pack

• Comfortable hiking shoes (the park has many walking trails).
• Warm clothing for high-altitude areas (temperatures can drop significantly).
• Sunscreen and rain gear for summer visits.

Costs

• Peak season (April 1-November 15): Entrance fee CNY 169 + shuttle bus CNY 90 = CNY 259/person.
• Off-season (November 16-March 31): Entrance fee CNY 80 + shuttle bus CNY 80 = CNY 160/person.
• Total budget (including meals): CNY 300-600/person.

Safety Tips

• Be mindful of altitude sickness; carry an oxygen bottle (available at the park entrance for CNY 20).
• Respect the environment: Do not litter or disturb wildlife.
• Check weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly.

Sample One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Depart Chengdu (by air or bus) → Arrive at Jiuzhaigou → Take the shuttle bus to Nuorilang → Explore Nuorilang Waterfall and Shuzheng Lakes.
Midday: Lunch at a park restaurant or with packed snacks.
Afternoon: Take the shuttle to Rize Valley → Visit Five-Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal, and Mirror Lake → Return to Nuorilang.
Evening: Dinner near the park entrance (try yak meat or wild mushroom soup) → Stay overnight or return to Chengdu.

Jiuzhaigou’s dreamlike landscapes, from its shimmering lakes to its thundering waterfalls, make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant colors of Five-Flower Lake or soaking in the tranquility of Long Lake, this Sichuan travel guide ensures your journey to Jiuzhaigou will be nothing short of magical.