Jiuzhaigou, March 2025: A Sorry Sight!

Jiuzhaigou Featured Attractions Located in Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou is renowned worldwide for its unique natural scenery and rich Tibetan culture. The scenic area is Y-shaped, divided into three valleys: Zechawa, Rize, and Shuzheng. It boasts numerous stunning attractions: 1. Five Flower Lake: With its brilliantly colorful waters, Five Flower Lake is the most vibrant lake in Jiuzhaigou and is known as the "Essence of Jiuzhaigou." 2. Long Lake: The highest and widest lake in Jiuzhaigou, Long Lake features dark blue water surrounded by mountains. The reflection of distant snow-capped mountains creates a dreamlike landscape. 3. Nuorilang Waterfall: The widest waterfall in China, Nuorilang is magnificent, with water cascading down like a charging army. 4. Pearl Shoal Waterfall: Featured in the 1986 version of *Journey to the West*, this majestic waterfall sends water plummeting from a height, creating splashes that resemble pearls under the sunlight. 5. Five Color Pool: The smallest but most colorful lake in Jiuzhaigou, Five Color Pool's water changes hues with the light and angle, earning it the name "Eye of Jiuzhaigou." 6. Mirror Lake: Featured in the movie *Hero*, Mirror Lake offers stunning reflections on windless mornings, making it a paradise for photographers. 7. Panda Lake: This reopened scenic spot offers captivating views of the sky reflected in its still waters. Other attractions include the primeval forest, Arrow Bamboo Lake, and Shuzheng Lakes, each with its own unique beauty. Local Customs Beyond its natural beauty, Jiuzhaigou is steeped in Tibetan culture. Local Tibetan villages preserve traditional architecture, clothing, and customs. Visitors can admire the exquisite headdresses, necklaces, and other ornaments worn by Tibetan women, and savor authentic Tibetan cuisine, such as butter tea, tsampa, and roasted lamb. They can also participate in Tibetan festivals and events, such as Tibetan New Year and Shoton Festival, to experience the unique charm of Tibetan culture. Itinerary Morning: • Take the sightseeing bus directly to the primeval forest in Rize Valley and hike to Arrow Bamboo Lake. • Admire the scenery of Arrow Bamboo Lake and Panda Lake along the way. • Take the bus to Five Flower Lake for photo opportunities. • Continue by bus to Pearl Shoal Waterfall and walk along the boardwalk to Mirror Lake. Noon: • Have lunch near Nuorilang Center Station and enjoy local specialties. Afternoon: • Take the bus from Nuorilang Center Station to Long Lake in Zechawa Valley. • Walk to Five Color Pool and admire its colorful waters. • Return to Shuzheng Valley in the afternoon to visit Sparkling Lake, Double Dragon Lake, and Shuzheng Lakes. • Finally, take the bus back to the scenic area exit. Recommended Local Cuisine 1. Jiuzhaigou Yak Beef Hot Pot: A flavorful and nutritious local specialty. 2. Tibetan Butter Tea: A rich, flavorful, and nourishing drink with a unique Tibetan taste. 3. Potato Tsampa: A traditional Jiuzhaigou snack with a smooth and delicious texture. 4. Dried Cheese Buns: A local snack with a slightly sour and savory flavor. Essential Packing List 1. Documents: ID card, bank card, student ID (or other discount cards). 2. Toiletries: High-SPF sunscreen, shower gel/shampoo, towel/toothbrush, moisturizer, lip balm, hand cream. 3. Accessories: Eye mask/earplugs, U-shaped pillow, sunglasses, hat. 4. Electronics: Headphones, power bank, charging cable, selfie stick/gimbal, digital camera (if you enjoy photography). 5. Health: Cold medicine, band-aids, disinfectant wipes, face masks, glucose (to prevent altitude sickness). 6. Shoes: Non-slip athletic shoes are recommended to prevent foot discomfort from long walks. Also, pack a warm jacket and rain gear due to the large temperature difference between day and night in Jiuzhaigou.