I gave up on Dali because this place is even better. My suggestion…

Jiuzhaigou Two-Day In-Depth Travel Guide Day 1: Chengdu - Huanglong - Jiuzhaigou Entrance Itinerary Overview Depart from Chengdu, take the high-speed train to Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station, visit the colorful calcified landscapes of Huanglong Scenic Area, then head to the Jiuzhaigou entrance to rest and recharge for the in-depth tour the next day. Transportation Arrangements - Chengdu - Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station: It is recommended to take an early high-speed train, such as the 08:36 departure from Chengdu East Station, arriving at Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station at 11:11. The journey takes 2 hours and 35 minutes, with a second-class ticket priced at 133 RMB per person. Plan ahead and book tickets through official channels to ensure a smooth trip. - Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station - Huanglong Scenic Area: After exiting the station, walk to the visitor center and transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus to Huanglong Scenic Area. The ride takes about 35 minutes, costing 28 RMB per person. - Huanglong Scenic Area - Jiuzhaigou Entrance: After touring, take the shuttle bus from Parking Lot No. 3 in Huanglong Scenic Area to Zhangzha Town at Jiuzhaigou entrance. The ride takes about 2 hours, costing 51 RMB per person. Huanglong Scenic Area Tour Route - 12:15 - 12:30: Take the cable car up the mountain (80 RMB per person one way), then transfer to the sightseeing bus to reach Huanglong Temple, saving energy to better enjoy the scenery. - 12:30 - 14:00: From Huanglong Temple, hike to the Five-Color Pool at 3,900 meters altitude, the essence of Huanglong, where the lake water shows blue-green, cyan, yellow, and other colors under sunlight, dreamlike and magical; then visit the ancient Huanglong Temple to feel the historical charm; next, visit the Zhenyan Pool, where the colorful pools have various shapes and bright colors, perfect for photos. - 14:00 - 15:00: Walk down the plank road, passing the Golden Sand Ground, which looks like golden silk spread across the mountains; the Bonsai Pool resembles a natural bonsai garden with unique shapes. - 15:00 - 16:00: Continue to visit the Flying Waterfall, shining brilliantly under the sun; finally arrive at the Welcome Pool, ending the Huanglong Scenic Area tour, then return to the parking lot to take the bus to Jiuzhaigou. Accommodation Recommendations It is recommended to choose hotels near the Jiuzhaigou entrance for convenient travel. Some hotels also offer shuttle services to the scenic area. Accommodation styles vary, including cozy homestays and fully equipped resorts, allowing you to choose according to your preferences and budget. Day 2: Jiuzhaigou One-Day In-Depth Tour Itinerary Overview Spend the whole day exploring Jiuzhaigou, wandering among clear waters and green mountains, appreciating the stunning views of emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, and colorful forests. Park Entry Preparation Book tickets in advance (ticket + sightseeing bus fee). Use your ID card to enter the park directly for convenience. It is recommended to leave the hotel between 07:00 and 08:00 to avoid peak crowds and maximize sightseeing time. Jiuzhaigou Tour Route - Morning: Take the sightseeing bus from the entrance, heading first to the Primeval Forest to breathe fresh air and enjoy nature’s tranquility; then visit Grass Lake and Swan Lake, admiring the beautiful scenery of lakes and surrounding forests; next, visit Arrow Bamboo Lake and Panda Lake, one of the filming locations of "Hero," with crystal-clear waters; then proceed to Five Flower Lake, known as "Jiuzhaigou’s unique wonder" and "the essence of Jiuzhaigou," with colorful waters like a spilled palette; finally, visit Mirror Lake, where the water surface is like a mirror on windless mornings, perfectly reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests. - Noon: Take a break and have lunch at Nuorilang Center Station. There are various food options, including local specialties like yak beef rice bowls and Tibetan butter tea to replenish your energy. - Afternoon: From Nuorilang Center Station, head to Long Lake, the highest altitude and largest lake in Jiuzhaigou; then visit the Five-Color Pool, which is smaller and more delicate than Huanglong’s Five-Color Pool; next, visit Rhino Lake with its deep blue water and clear reflections; then see Shuzheng Waterfall, feeling the majestic power of the cascading water; explore the Shuzheng Lakes, dozens of lakes connected like strings of pearls; visit Sparkling Lake, where sunlight makes the water sparkle like dancing flames; Bonsai Beach, with flowing water and trees rooted in the water in various shapes; finally, visit Reed Lake, where golden reeds sway in the wind, contrasting with the green water to create a poetic scene. Food Recommendations - Yak Beef: The meat is firm and chewy. Try yak beef hotpot with rich broth and tender beef for full flavor; yak beef jerky is also available, easy to carry and a great souvenir. - Tsampa: A traditional Tibetan food made by roasting and grinding barley into flour, mixed with butter and curds, then hand-rolled into balls. It has a unique texture and rich highland flavor. - Butter Tea: Rich and creamy, it helps resist the cold of the plateau and relieve altitude sickness. It is a must-try specialty drink. Follow this guide to spend two days immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, savor local delicacies, and embark on an unforgettable plateau journey!