Jiuzhai Valley: A Must-See Paradise

Jiuzhai Valley, a place hailed as a "paradise on earth," is renowned for its colorful lakes, cascading waterfalls, pristine forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. If you're planning a trip to Jiuzhai Valley, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive travel plan. 1. Best Time to Visit Jiuzhai Valley is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is autumn (late September to late October), when the forests are ablaze with color, making it the ideal season to admire the autumn scenery. Spring (April to May) offers blooming flowers, summer (June to August) provides a cool escape from the heat, and winter (November to March) showcases a world draped in silver, each with its own unique charm. 2. Transportation By Air: Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport (JZH) is approximately 88 km from Jiuzhai Valley. Direct flights are available from Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, and other cities. By Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station or Chadianzi Bus Station to Jiuzhai Valley. The journey takes about 8–10 hrs. By Car: Drive from Chengdu along National Highway G213, passing through Dujiangyan, Wenchuan, Maoxian, and other places. The drive takes about 7–8 hrs. 3. Ticket Information Peak Season (Apr 1–Nov 15): Entry ticket: CNY 169/person; sightseeing bus ticket: CNY 90/person Off Season (Nov 16–Mar 31): Entry ticket: CNY 80/person; sightseeing bus ticket: CNY 80/person 4. Recommended Itinerary Jiuzhai Valley is shaped like a "Y," consisting of three valleys: Shuzheng, Rize, and Zechawa. It is recommended to spend 2–3 days exploring the area. Day 1: Explore Shuzheng Valley, with its main attractions including Penjingtan, Reed Lake, Spark Lake, Shuzheng Lakes, Shuzheng Waterfall, Tiger Lake, and Rhinoceros Lake. Day 2: Explore Rize Valley, with its main attractions including Nuorilang Waterfall, Mirror Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall, Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake, Swan Lake, and the primeval forest. Day 3: Explore Zechawa Valley, with its main attractions including Long Lake and Five Color Pool. 5. Accommodation Recommendations Numerous hotels and guesthouses are available both inside and outside the Jiuzhai Valley Scenic Area. Inside the Scenic Area: Convenient for sightseeing, but more expensive and requires advance booking. Outside the Scenic Area: More options and relatively cheaper, but requires transportation to the scenic area. 6. Food Recommendations Tibetan Cuisine: Tsampa, butter tea, barley wine, yak meat, etc. Sichuan Cuisine: Hot pot, Chuan Chuan Xiang, Dan Dan Noodles, Fuqi Feipian, etc. Local Snacks: Potato cakes, buckwheat noodles, Jiuzhai Valley tofu, etc. 7. Important Notes Jiuzhai Valley is located at a high altitude, so take precautions against altitude sickness. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the scenic area, so dress warmly. Protect the environment and do not litter. Respect local customs and traditions. Book tickets and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. 8. Travel Tips It is recommended to purchase a sightseeing bus ticket to save energy. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and other sun protection items. Prepare some snacks and water, as food and drinks are more expensive inside the scenic area. Bring your camera to capture the beautiful moments of Jiuzhai Valley. Jiuzhai Valley is a place worth experiencing with your heart. We hope this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip. Have a wonderful journey!