Getting ripped off is a real thing… so when's the best time to visit Jiuzhaigou?

✅Pre-trip Preparations 1️⃣Tickets: Jiuzhaigou uses a real-name ticketing system. There are no on-site ticket windows, so you must book in advance on official platforms such as the Aba Tourism Network. Ticket prices vary between the low season (generally Nov 16 - Mar 31⏰ of the following year) and the high season. Check the official website for details. 2️⃣Transportation: Driving is not recommended. Some sections have many curves, narrow roads, and speed limits. During the rainy season🌧️, there may also be mudslides. To avoid long bus rides, which can be tiring and time-consuming, take the high-speed train🚄 from Chengdu East Station to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station, then transfer to a shuttle bus. 3️⃣What to bring: Pack comfortable, non-slip shoes👟 as there's a lot of walking in the valley. Bring warm clothing, such as down jackets and windbreakers, as the temperature difference between day and night on the plateau is significant. Sunscreen (sunscreen🧴, sunglasses🕶️, sun hat👒) and rain gear are also essential. ✅Visiting the Valley 1️⃣Entry time: The valley is generally open from 7:30 am - 2:00 pm⏰. Make sure to enter before 2:00 pm. Plan your trip in advance to avoid disappointment. 2️⃣Route planning: The valley is "Y" shaped. It is recommended to take the sightseeing bus to the Primeval Forest at the top of Rize Valley, then visit the Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall, and other attractions. Next, head to the Long Lake and Five Color Pond in Zechawa Valley. Finally, visit Shuzheng Valley, including attractions such as Shuzheng Lakes and Rhinoceros Lake. 3️⃣Sightseeing bus: The valley is large, and the attractions are far apart. The main mode of transportation is the sightseeing bus. Buses are frequent, so don't worry about not getting a seat. Get on and off at designated stops; do not flag down the bus. 4️⃣Altitude sickness: The overall altitude is not extremely high, but some areas are above 3,000 meters. Avoid staying up late, strenuous exercise, smoking🚬, and drinking alcohol🍺 when you first arrive. Try not to wash your hair or bathe for the first two days to prevent altitude sickness. You can prepare anti-altitude sickness medication💊 and oxygen tanks in advance. ✅Accommodation and Dining 1️⃣Accommodation: Avoid staying in the county town, as it is far from the valley (over an hour's drive). It is recommended to stay at the entrance of Jiuzhaigou Valley. The core scenic spots are within walking🚶 distance, making it convenient for sightseeing. 2️⃣Dining: There are restaurants and snack streets at the Nuorilang Service Center in the valley, but prices are high. You can bring your own light snacks and water, but do not eat in restricted areas. Keep the environment clean🚮. When dining outside the valley, choose reputable restaurants and pay attention to the price and quality of the dishes to avoid being overcharged. ✅Other Tips 1️⃣Respect local customs: The local population is mainly Tibetan and Qiang. Respect their customs, such as avoiding donkey, horse, and dog meat. When encountering religious sites such as monasteries, mani stones, and stupas, walk around them from left to right. Do not touch other people's heads. Do not step on the threshold when entering a Tibetan tent. 2️⃣Shopping: When buying souvenirs and local products, do not believe exaggerated claims by vendors. Avoid buying overpriced, low-quality, or counterfeit goods. Choose reputable merchants and ask for receipts. 3️⃣Valley regulations: Smoking🚭 and using drones for aerial photography are prohibited. There are designated smoking areas. Protect the valley's environment and facilities. Do not climb over railings or damage plants and animals.