Jiuzhaigou

This autumn, you must visit the fairy tale world of Jiuzhaigou🍁🌿. September to October is when it truly reaches its peak beauty, with colorful forests, alpine lakes, and waterfalls that are absolutely breathtaking! ✨How to spend a 3-day itinerary: Day1: 📍Jiuzhaigou Entrance Gate: Arrive before 7:30 am to avoid the first wave of tour groups 📍Rize Valley: Primeval Forest - Arrow Bamboo Lake - Panda Lake - Five Flower Lake. It's recommended to walk 1.5 km slowly to appreciate these stunning lakes 📍Zechawa Valley: Long Lake - Five Color Pond. Have lunch at Nuorilang Restaurant (the only dining option inside the scenic area) Day2: 📍Shuzheng Valley: Rhinoceros Lake - Tiger Lake - Shuzheng Lakes - Sparkling Lake, perfect for capturing reflections 📍Reed Lake: The reeds turn golden in autumn, making it a fantastic photo spot 📍Mirror Lake: Visit early in the morning when the water surface is mirror-calm Day3: 📍Huanglong Scenic Area: Don't miss the Five Color Pond. Take the cable car up and walk down (altitude 3500m+, remember to bring oxygen) 📍Chuanzhu Temple: Stop by for authentic Tibetan cuisine on your way back 💡My personal tips: 1. October is peak season - book tickets and hotels at least 1 month in advance! We almost couldn't get a room😂 2. Large temperature variations - dress in layers (moisture-wicking base + warm middle + windproof outer) 3. Wear comfortable hiking shoes as there's considerable walking between attractions 4. Best photography light is after 3 PM when sunlight creates changing colors on the lakes 🍴Food recommendations: ✔ Tibetan hotpot (best paired with barley wine) ✔ Yak jerky (buy individually packaged as vacuum-sealed ones can't be brought back) ✔ Butter tea (helps with altitude sickness) 🚗Transport tips: 1. Direct buses from Chengdu Xinnanmen Station (8-hour ride) 2. Shuttle buses are mandatory inside the park (included in ticket price) 3. Those flying directly to Huanglong Airport can hire private cars