The Magnificent Huanglong: A Different Beauty from Jiuzhaigou

1. Tour Routes and Transportation Huanglong Scenic Area is about 2 hours by car from Jiuzhaigou. Direct buses or private car hire are recommended. Within the scenic area, take the cable car (80 yuan one-way) to an altitude of 3,500m, then walk to explore the calcified pools and snow-capped mountains. For those physically fit, hiking up and down is an option, passing highlights like the Welcome Pool and Competing Beauty Pool. 2. Key Attractions 1) Five-Colored Pools As Huanglong's crown jewel, the Five-Colored Pools consist of 693 calcified pools. The water displays blue, green, yellow, and other colors due to light and minerals, earning it the name "Fairyland on Earth." In winter, some pools freeze over, with ethereal blue hues still visible beneath the ice, creating a stunning contrast with the snowy mountains. 2) Calcification Landscapes - Golden Sand: A 1,300m-long golden calcified terrace, shimmering like flowing golden sand under sunlight, is the world's longest travertine terrace. - Washing Body Cave: Located beneath the travertine waterfall, legend says it was the True Dragon deity's bathing place. The cave features mysterious stalagmites. - Huanglong Temple: A Ming Dynasty temple dedicated to the True Dragon deity. Its couplet reads "Jade barriers reach the sky, ancient pines welcome white snow; Golden sand covers the ground, thousand layers of jade water guide the yellow dragon," perfectly describing the landscape. 3) Snow Mountains and Forests Along the way, you can see the 5,588m Xuebaoding Peak. In winter, snow coverage creates a striking contrast with the yellow calcified formations in Huanglong Valley. The high-altitude pristine forest features pines, cypresses, and rhododendrons alongside calcified pools in crisp, fresh air. 3. Personal Experience and Practical Tips - Altitude Sickness: Be cautious above 3,500m. Some visitors may experience chest tightness and headaches. Oxygen bottles are recommended (available at scenic area shops). - Physical Demands: The full tour takes 4-6 hours. Travel light and rest when needed. Wear anti-slip shoes in winter. - Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall on clear days are ideal. Summer rains may affect pool views. Winter requires warm clothing, and some areas may be closed. - Food and Accommodation: Limited dining options in Chuanzhu Temple Town; bring snacks. Staying in Jiuzhaigou or Chuanzhu Temple Town is recommended for convenient return travel. 4. Culture and History Beyond natural scenery, Huanglong embodies Tibetan and Qiang cultures. The Red Army Long March Memorial Garden at the entrance commemorates the Fourth Front Army's 1935 passage. Local Tibetan guides often share legends, like the myth of "Yellow Dragon helping Yu control the floods." Summary: Huanglong is famous for its "four wonders" (colorful pools, snow mountains, valleys, and forests), perfect for travelers seeking natural wonders and cultural depth. If time is limited, focus on the Five-Colored Pools, Golden Sand, and Huanglong Temple to experience nature's masterpiece.