The Colorful Dreamscape of Jiuzhaigou and the Fairyland of Huanglong

Both the colorful dreamscape of Jiuzhaigou and the fairyland of Huanglong are breathtaking natural landscapes bestowed upon Sichuan by nature. Geographical Location and Geological Features Jiuzhaigou: Located in Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, it sits at the transitional zone between the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Sichuan Basin. Its complex geological structure has created numerous karst landscapes, with extensive Quaternary glacial relics distributed throughout, laying the foundation for Jiuzhaigou's unique scenery. Huanglong: Situated at the southern foot of the Min Mountains in Songpan County, Aba Prefecture, it is China's only well-preserved highland wetland. The surface travertine formations in the scenic area are its distinctive geological feature, formed over thousands of years, resembling a yellow "giant dragon" lying in the snow-capped mountain valley, hence the name Huanglong. Natural Landscape Highlights Jiuzhaigou: Water is the soul of Jiuzhaigou, with its "Five Wonders" being the "Emerald Lakes, Layered Waterfalls, Colorful Forests, Snowy Peaks, and Tibetan Culture." 114 alpine lakes are scattered and connected among the snow-capped peaks, displaying vibrant and ever-changing shades of blue and green. For example, the Five-Flower Lake, under sunlight, resembles a spilled palette with its dazzling colors. Waterfalls like Nuorilang and Pearl Shoal showcase the dynamic and majestic forms of water. In autumn, the colorful forests, with red leaves swaying in the wind, contrast beautifully with the azure sky and emerald lakes, creating a dreamlike scene. Attraction: Jiuzhaigou Huanglong: Renowned for its "Four Wonders" of colorful pools, snow-capped mountains, valleys, and forests, later expanded to include "Seven Wonders" with the addition of shoals, ancient temples, and folk customs. The main scenic area, Huanglong Valley, features over 3,400 travertine pools, the largest and best-preserved group of its kind in the world. Viewed from above, it resembles a golden dragon winding through the lush valley. The Five-Color Pond is the highlight of Huanglong, with pools of varying sizes and shapes that shimmer in shades of light blue, milky white, sea blue, goose yellow, and emerald green under sunlight, creating a magical spectacle. Attraction: Huanglong Biodiversity Jiuzhaigou: It is one of China's core areas for biodiversity conservation, home to over 2,000 plant species and vast stretches of primeval forests. It provides habitat for more than ten rare and precious wildlife species, including giant pandas, forming a complete and unique ecosystem. Huanglong: The scenic area is also home to many rare animals, such as giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, clouded leopards, and takins. These rare species thrive in this unique ecological environment, complementing the magnificent natural scenery and adding to Huanglong's charm. Cultural Heritage Jiuzhaigou: The nine Tibetan villages here nurture a unique Tibetan and Qiang culture. Traditional Tibetan wooden houses, prayer flags, plank bridges, and mills, along with customs and myths, showcase the warm and robust ethnic character of the Tibetan and Qiang people, adding rich cultural depth to Jiuzhaigou. Huanglong: Beyond its natural beauty, the ancient temples and other structures in Huanglong carry profound historical and cultural significance. Additionally, local folk activities reflect the unique customs and traditions of ethnic minorities, harmonizing with the natural landscape.