Jiuzhaigou: My 2-Day Trip That Broke the Bank! A Foolproof Guide to Avoiding Tourist Traps

The following itinerary is for reference only. Specific arrangements can be adjusted based on personal interests and physical condition. 🟠🟠Recommended Jiuzhaigou Attractions ✅Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area 💷Tickets: Peak Season (Apr 1–Nov 15) CNY 190 (some sources say from CNY 160), Off-Season (Nov 16–Mar 31) CNY 80; sightseeing bus fare separate. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★★ 🎈Tips: Jiuzhaigou is a must-see. Plan to spend at least a full day exploring. Take the sightseeing bus between attractions, but also schedule time to walk and enjoy the scenery up close. ✅Nuorilang Waterfall 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★★ 🎈Tips: This is the largest waterfall in Jiuzhaigou, offering spectacular views perfect for photos. Visit in the afternoon for better lighting and capture the changing light and shadows. ✅Five Flower Lake 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★★ 🎈Tips: Considered one of Jiuzhaigou's highlights, Five Flower Lake boasts vibrant, multicolored waters ideal for photography. Stroll along the boardwalk to admire the scenery from different angles. ✅Pearl Shoal Waterfall 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★☆ 🎈Tips: Featured in *Journey to the West*, Pearl Shoal Waterfall is a powerful cascade with misty spray. Wear light clothing for taking photos and exploring near the waterfall. ✅Shuzheng Waterfall 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★☆ 🎈Tips: Though not large, Shuzheng Waterfall is impressive and perfect for close-up viewing. Visit in the morning or afternoon to avoid the strong midday sun. ✅Reed Lake 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★☆ 🎈Tips: Reed Lake is most beautiful in autumn, when golden reeds contrast with the emerald lake. Walk along the boardwalk and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature. ✅Five Color Pool 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket (some platforms sell separate tickets, such as the Fairy Pool Scenic Area ticket from CNY 100). 🔥Recommended: ★★★★★ 🎈Tips: Five Color Pool is a small but exquisite Jiuzhaigou attraction with richly varied water colors. Visit in the afternoon when the light is soft for stunning photos. ✅Long Lake 💷Tickets: Included in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket. 🔥Recommended: ★★★★☆ 🎈Tips: Long Lake is one of Jiuzhaigou's highest and most open lakes. Visit after seeing other attractions to enjoy the lake and mountain views, including distant snow-capped peaks. 🟠🟠Jiuzhaigou Travel Tips 🌈Book tickets in advance: Jiuzhaigou has daily visitor limits. Book tickets in advance on the official website or authorized platforms to avoid delays. 🌈Plan your time wisely: Jiuzhaigou is large. Plan your time effectively and avoid peak hours when visiting attractions. 🌈Dress comfortably: Some areas require walking. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. 🌈Bring essentials: Pack necessities based on the season and weather, such as sunscreen, rain gear, and warm clothing. 🌈Respect local culture: Jiuzhaigou is home to Tibetan, Qiang, and other ethnic minorities. Respect local culture and customs to avoid misunderstandings or conflicts. 🟠🟠2-Day Jiuzhaigou Itinerary 🚗Day 1: 8:00–9:00am: Arrive at Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area and complete entry procedures. 9:00am–12:00pm: Explore Shuzheng Valley (Bonsai Shoal, Reed Lake, Sparkling Lake, Sleeping Dragon Lake, Shuzheng Waterfall, Rhinoceros Lake, etc.). 12:00–1:00pm: Lunch and rest in the scenic area. 1:00–4:00pm: Continue exploring Rize Valley (Pearl Shoal Waterfall, Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake, etc.). 4:00–6:00pm: Return to the hotel, unpack, and rest. 🚗Day 2: 7:30–8:30am: Breakfast and travel to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. 8:30–11:30am: Explore Zechawa Valley (Lower Season Lake, Five Color Pool, Long Lake, etc.). 11:30am–12:30pm: Lunch and rest in the scenic area. 12:30–3:30pm: Visit Nuorilang Waterfall and any missed attractions. 3:30–4:00pm: Depart the park, concluding your Jiuzhaigou trip.