Exploring Huanglong: A Magical Journey to the Fairyland on Earth

Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area is located in Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, just 100 kilometers from Jiuzhaigou. It is the only well-preserved highland wetland in China. Attractions Introduction 1. Five-Color Pools: As the largest and highest open-air travertine pool group in the world, the Five-Color Pools resemble a magnificent jewel embedded in the mountains. The water in the pools changes colors with the angle of sunlight and surrounding scenery, displaying brilliant hues of azure, emerald, orange, and yellow, as if nature has painted a vivid masterpiece. Viewed from above, the pools layer upon layer, arranged in a charming and breathtaking pattern. 2. Golden Sand Beach: One of the three world records of Huanglong, this is a golden beach formed by deposits of calcium carbonate. Under the sunlight, the entire beach sparkles with golden light, resembling a giant golden dragon winding through the valley, majestic and imposing. The water flows gently over the golden sand, creating unique ripples and patterns that complement the surrounding green mountains and trees, forming a wonderful natural landscape. 3. Flying Waterfalls and Shimmering Light: Waterfalls cascade from great heights, reflecting various colors under the sunlight, looking like colorful clouds descending from the sky, dazzling and magnificent. The water crashes against the rocks, splashing layers of water droplets and producing crisp, pleasant sounds, as if performing a symphony of nature. Mirror Reflection Pool: The pool surface is smooth like a mirror, with clear and bright water. The surrounding peaks, trees, blue sky, and white clouds are all reflected in the pool, creating beautiful mirrored images. When a breeze passes, ripples appear on the water, causing the reflections to sway dreamily, making visitors feel as if they are in a fairyland. 4. Huanglong Temple: Huanglong Temple has a long history, consisting of front, middle, and rear temples with halls facing each other. The architectural style is unique, blending Tibetan, Han, and other ethnic features. The temple houses Buddha statues and religious artifacts, filled with a mysterious religious atmosphere. Legend says this is where the Huanglong Immortal cultivated to become a deity, adding rich cultural heritage to the scenic area. Food Recommendations 1. Butter Tea + Zanba: Around Huanglong Temple, you can taste freshly made butter tea and zanba. Zanba is hand-pressed from highland barley flour and eaten dipped in butter tea. It has a unique flavor, helps resist cold and altitude sickness, and is a traditional local delicacy. 2. Yak Meat Hot Pot: The yak meat hot pot at the Serchuo International Hotel restaurant is worth trying. The broth is rich and is served with wild mushrooms, making it delicious. A small pot costs about 88 yuan, with generous portions. The yak meat is tender and nutritious. 3. Potato Zanba: This snack is made by mixing mashed potatoes with highland barley flour and frying it until crispy outside and sticky inside. It can be purchased at the Huanglong Visitor Center convenience store and is a distinctive snack. 4. Jiuzhai Persimmon Cake: Vendors at the scenic area entrance sell Jiuzhai persimmon cakes, which are soft, slightly sweet, and cost 10 yuan per bag. They are a good snack choice, convenient to carry and eat. Yogurt: Homemade yogurt by herders has a golden milk skin on top and tastes sweet and sour when eaten with honey. It costs 18 yuan per cup and can be bought at the entrance of Munigou. Travel Tips Opening Hours: 07:30-18:00. Ticket Prices: Peak season full ticket 170 yuan/person (June 1 - December 15); off-season full ticket 60 yuan/person (December 16 - May 31 of the following year); Hongyanguan cableway uphill 80 yuan/person, downhill 40 yuan/person (the cableway is closed from December 16 to March 31 of the following year). Transportation Guide By Air: Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, then take the airport shuttle bus to Huanglong Scenic Area, about a 1-hour drive. By Bus: Take a bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station or Chadianzi Bus Station to Songpan County, then transfer to a bus to Huanglong Scenic Area. By Car: Drive from Chengdu along National Highway G213. The road condition is good, but some sections have many curves, so drive carefully. Other Notes The scenic area is at a high altitude, averaging between 3,100 and 3,900 meters. Visitors may experience altitude sickness, so prepare altitude sickness medication such as Rhodiola in advance and avoid strenuous exercise during the visit. The climate is changeable with large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, bring warm clothing such as down jackets and windbreakers, as well as rain gear and sun protection. The walking distance within the scenic area is long, so it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots.