Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide

1. Scenic Area Overview Jiuzhaigou, located in Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is renowned for its "emerald lakes, layered waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, blue ice, and Tibetan culture," earning it the title of "Fairyland on Earth." The scenic area is shaped like a "Y," consisting of three main valleys: Shuzheng Valley, Rize Valley, and Zechawa Valley. It boasts 108 alpine lakes (known as "Haizi") and numerous waterfalls, with crystal-clear, multicolored waters. 2. Best Time to Visit - **Autumn (mid-October to November):** The colorful forests reflect on the turquoise waters, creating the most stunning scenery. - **Summer (June to August):** Cool climate, abundant water flow, and spectacular waterfalls. - **Spring (April to May):** Rhododendrons bloom, and there are fewer tourists. - **Winter (December to March):** Unique blue ice and frozen waterfalls, though some attractions may be closed. 3. Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Five-Flower Lake (Rize Valley)** - Known as the "Crown Jewel of Jiuzhaigou," the lake displays shades of blue, green, and yellow due to calcite deposits and algae. Submerged ancient trees are clearly visible, resembling an oil painting. 2. **Nuorilang Waterfall (Shuzheng Valley)** - China's widest travertine waterfall (270 meters wide), featured in the finale of *Journey to the West*. In summer, it roars with mighty currents, while in winter, it transforms into a frozen wonder. 3. **Long Lake (Zechawa Valley)** - The highest-altitude (3,100 meters) and largest lake in Jiuzhaigou. In winter, the frozen lake mirrors snow-capped peaks, offering serene grandeur. 4. **Five-Color Pond (Zechawa Valley)** - The smallest but most vibrant lake, unfrozen year-round, displaying gradient hues of blue and green under sunlight. 5. **Shuzheng Lakes (Shuzheng Valley)** - A series of 19 interconnected lakes with boardwalks winding through, allowing close-up views of terraced-like water formations. 4. Suggested Itinerary (2-Day Tour) - **Day 1:** Shuzheng Valley (Shuzheng Lakes, Rhinoceros Lake, Nuorilang Waterfall) → Rize Valley (Five-Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall). - **Day 2:** Zechawa Valley (Long Lake, Five-Color Pond) → Zharu Valley (Tibetan village cultural experience, requires a guided tour). 5. Practical Tips - **Transportation:** Take a bus from Chengdu (8–10 hours) or fly to Jiuhuang Airport (1.5-hour drive to the scenic area). - **Tickets:** Peak season (April–November) ¥169 + sightseeing bus ¥90; off-season ¥80 + sightseeing bus ¥80. Advance booking required. - **Accommodation:** Recommended hotels near the entrance (e.g., InterContinental Resort Jiuzhai Paradise) or Tibetan-style guesthouses. - **Altitude Sickness:** Avoid strenuous activity; prepare with Rhodiola rosea or oxygen cans. Jiuzhaigou is breathtaking year-round. Plan wisely to experience the magical beauty of this "heaven on earth"!