Jiuzhai Valley: A Fairy Tale World Hidden in Western Sichuan, Waiting for You to Explore

Here's a detailed travel guide to Jiuzhai Valley to help you better plan your trip: I. Best Time to Visit • Summer (June–August): Jiuzhai Valley is in its high-water season, with abundant waterfalls, lush greenery, and a cool respite from the summer heat. • Autumn (September–November): This is the most beautiful season in Jiuzhai Valley, especially around October, when the colorful forests and pools complement each other, creating a vibrant spectacle. • Winter (December–February): The snow scenery is picturesque, but some attractions may be closed due to weather conditions. II. Transportation • By Air: Fly to Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport, about a 1.5-hour drive from the scenic area. Shuttle buses run between the airport and the scenic area. • By Bus: There are multiple buses daily from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Jiuzhai Valley, taking about 8–10 hours. • By Car: The scenery along the way is beautiful, but pay attention to road conditions and high-altitude driving safety. III. Tickets • Peak Season (April 1–November 15): Entry ticket: CNY 220; sightseeing bus: CNY 90. • Off-Season (November 16–March 31): Entry ticket: CNY 80; sightseeing bus: CNY 80. • Tip: Book tickets in advance on the official website or related platforms. Book several weeks in advance during peak season. IV. Accommodation • Inside the Scenic Area: More expensive, but saves time and is convenient for early morning sightseeing the next day. • Outside the Scenic Area: Many hotels and guesthouses are near the entrance of Jiuzhai Valley, ranging from tens to thousands of yuan. Book in advance during peak season. V. Recommended Routes Jiuzhai Valley is Y-shaped, consisting of three main trenches: Shuzheng, Rize, and Zechawa. Plan at least two days for sightseeing. One-Day Itinerary • Morning: Take the sightseeing bus from the entrance to Long Lake or the primeval forest, enjoying the scenery along the way. • Noon: Have lunch at Nuorilang Service Center. • Afternoon: Walk back along the boardwalk, visiting the Five Flower Lake, Nuorilang Waterfall, Shuzheng Lakes, and other attractions. Two-Day Itinerary • Day 1: Explore Shuzheng Valley (Shuzheng Lakes, Nuorilang Waterfall, etc.) in the morning and Rize Valley (Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall, etc.) in the afternoon. • Day 2: Explore Zechawa Valley (Long Lake, Five Flower Lake, etc.) in the morning and visit the primeval forest or return to the area outside the scenic area in the afternoon. VI. Important Notes • Altitude Sickness: Jiuzhai Valley is at an altitude of 2,000–3,000 meters. Serious altitude sickness is rare, but bring oxygen and Rhodiola. • Temperature Fluctuations: There are large temperature differences between day and night. Bring warm clothes, preferably a hiking jacket. • Sun and Rain Protection: The plateau has strong UV rays, so take sun protection measures. Also, bring a light raincoat in case of weather changes. • Environmental Awareness: Drones are prohibited in the scenic area. Protect the environment and do not litter. VII. Food Recommendations • Local Specialties: Yak meat, Tibetan yogurt, barley cakes, fish with pickled vegetables, and potato cakes. • Dining Locations: Food is expensive inside the scenic area. Bring your own snacks and water. There are many Tibetan restaurants outside the scenic area with better value. VIII. Nearby Attractions • Huanglong Scenic Area: Known for its colorful pools and calcified landscapes, about a 2-hour drive from Jiuzhai Valley. • Songpan Ancient City: With a long history and unique Tibetan customs, it's suitable for a short stay. We hope this guide will make your trip to Jiuzhai Valley even better!