5.10 I've returned from Jiuzhaigou, let me share some harsh truths...

Warning! Warning! When visiting Jiuzhaigou in summer, never wear flip-flops or sandals👡. The paths in the scenic area are slippery, some places even have moss, and you can easily slip if you're not careful. You'll need to walk cautiously, let alone enjoy yourself properly. Also, don't trust those "helpful people" on the roadside offering so-called "insider routes" - they're most likely scams where you'll spend money and still not have a good experience😤. However, these minor pitfalls can't overshadow Jiuzhaigou's beauty. Once you're there, you won't want to leave. Summer in Jiuzhaigou is like nature's spilled palette of colors🎨. Below is my summer travel guide - save it quick🐴! Travel Preparation - Clothing: Summer temperatures in Jiuzhaigou range from 15-22°C. You can wear short sleeves and shorts👚👖 during the day, but bring a light jacket🧥 for the significant temperature drops in mornings and evenings. If you're sensitive to cold, pack a thin sweater too. Choose comfortable, non-slip sneakers👟 that won't tire your feet after a full day of walking. - Sun protection: UV rays are strong in highland areas, so bring sunscreen🧴, sun hats👒, sunglasses🕶️, and UV-protective clothing. Otherwise, you'll get sunburned and tanned in minutes. - Altitude sickness prevention: Jiuzhaigou's elevation ranges from 2,000-4,000 meters. If you're prone to altitude sickness, prepare oxygen bottles in advance and avoid strenuous activity when you first arrive - give yourself time to acclimate. - Other essentials: Power banks🔋, rain gear☂️, tissues, and common medications (cold medicine, digestive medicine). Transportation Guide - By air: Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, then take the airport shuttle or taxi to Jiuzhaigou scenic area. It's convenient and fast, though tickets might be a bit expensive✈️. - By bus: Buses run from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou. The journey is long but offers nice views of western Sichuan landscapes along the way🚌. - Self-driving: If you prefer independent travel, driving is a good option, though the distance is far. Drive safely and plan your route in advance🚗. Exploring the Scenic Area - Opening hours: Generally 7 AM to 7 PM. I recommend entering early when there are fewer people and better views - no lines for photos⏰. - Suggested routes: The scenic area is vast with three valleys. Follow the classic route: First, visit Rize Valley to see Five-Colored Pool and Pearl Beach Waterfall - both are stunning, especially Five-Colored Pool with its jewel-like water colors💎 that photograph beautifully. Next, visit Zechawa Valley to see Long Lake and Five-Color Pond. Finally, explore Shuzheng Valley with Shuzheng Waterfall and Shuzheng Lakes Group. Take your time to appreciate nature's wonders🌊. Shuttle buses serve all scenic spots if you don't want to walk🚍. Food Recommendations - Outside the scenic area: Try local yak meat hotpot🥘 - the meat is tender and the broth flavorful and satisfying. Also sample Tibetan hotpot, highland barley cakes, and butter tea - all local specialties🍞. - Inside the scenic area: There are restaurants at Nuorilang Service Center, though prices are a bit high. Consider bringing snacks or self-heating rice meals to eat at rest areas when hungry🍱. Accommodation Advice - Valley entrance: Many hotels and guesthouses with various options. Transportation and dining are convenient, and you can explore the nearby commercial streets in the evening🏨. - Inside the scenic area: If you want to catch the morning mist or sunrise, consider staying inside the scenic area. However, accommodations are relatively basic and not cheap🌄. Important Notes - Jiuzhaigou weather changes quickly - sunny one moment, rainy the next. Bring rain gear🌤️ - No smoking in the scenic area🚭 - use designated smoking areas only - Protect the environment, don't litter - let's preserve this earthly paradise together🌿