Heavenly Yaochi, Earthly Jiuzhaigou: Inspired by a Song, I Journeyed to a Town

“Magical Jiuzhaigou, paradise on earth, you sprinkle warm light across the mountains.” Li Na's song, "Magical Jiuzhaigou," planted a seed of longing in my heart for the beauty of Jiuzhaigou. In March, I finally embarked on this journey to Jiuzhaigou. Now, let me share my travel tips with you 😎 Preparation In March, the temperature difference between day and night in Jiuzhaigou is significant. Thick coats and warm clothing 🧥 are essential. Sports shoes or hiking boots will ensure comfortable sightseeing. Book tickets and bus passes in advance through the official Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area WeChat public account or major travel platforms to avoid delays. Also, pack sunscreen, as the UV radiation is strong at high altitudes. My Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive at Jiuzhaigou entrance - Zhangzha Town Upon arrival at Jiuzhaigou, settle in near the entrance and then head to Zhangzha Town. This town is full of Tibetan charm, with Tibetan-style buildings lining the streets. Here, you can savor authentic Tibetan cuisine, purchase unique souvenirs 🎁, and immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture. • Day 2: Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area Day Trip Enter the scenic area early in the morning and take the sightseeing bus to the primeval forest. Stroll along the boardwalk, breathe in the fresh air, and encounter lively small animals in the mountains. Then, proceed to Arrow Bamboo Lake and Panda Lake to admire the crystal-clear water and surrounding snowy scenery, as if stepping into a Frozen wonderland. After lunch at the Nuorilang Service Center, visit Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall, Mirror Lake, and other attractions in the afternoon. The magnificent Pearl Shoal Waterfall was a filming location for *Journey to the West*. The surface of Mirror Lake is as smooth as a mirror, reflecting the mountains on both sides, a breathtakingly beautiful sight. About the Surrounding Attractions • Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area: “Look at the people of the world, yearning deeply.” Jiuzhaigou is renowned for its six wonders: turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, Tibetan culture, and blue ice. In March, the ice and snow have not completely melted, offering a blend of winter tranquility and spring vitality. • Zhangzha Town: As the gateway town to Jiuzhaigou, it's a great place to experience Tibetan folk culture and savor local cuisine. It's filled with a vibrant atmosphere. Accommodation Guide I recommend staying in hotels or guesthouses near the entrance of Jiuzhaigou. They offer convenient access for quickly entering the park and starting your tour, with a wide variety of choices and price ranges 🏨. Food Guide • Yak Beef Hot Pot: Warm and delicious, the tender yak beef is stewed to perfection and paired with vegetables. One sip of the soup will warm you up 🥘. • Barley Cakes: Filled with the aroma of wheat and a firm texture, these cakes are best enjoyed with butter tea for a truly Tibetan experience. • Jiuzhaigou Mushroom Stew: A combination of various local wild mushrooms, this soup is fresh, flavorful, and nutritious, a must-try delicacy of the mountains. Jiuzhaigou in March, with its interplay of ice, snow, and spring greenery, is a dreamlike wonderland. Accompanied by the melody of "Magical Jiuzhaigou," step into this earthly paradise and embark on a soul-stirring journey! 💖