Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide
Highlights, History & Visitor Information
Jiuzhaigou is one of China's most beautiful waterscapes, hailed as a "fairytale world" and a "human paradise." It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, and its name comes from the nine Tibetan villages ("zhai") that once stood here. The vast valley, covering a total area of approximately 720 square kilometers, is dotted with 114 lakes ("haizi") and countless waterfalls. The landscape, woven with a multitude of water colors that leave you speechless, including crystal clear blue, emerald green, and cobalt blue, is truly a miracle of nature. Its appearance changes with the seasons, bringing overwhelming beauty and inspiration to all who visit.
1. Main Highlights
🏞️ Scenic spots by area
The highlights of Jiuzhaigou are concentrated in three valleys that form a Y shape.
• Norikusakubodomizo:
Changhai: The largest and highest lake in Jiuzhaigou. In winter, it freezes over, creating a magnificent landscape.
Five-Colored Lake: Jiuzhaigou's smallest and most colorful lake. Despite its depth, the travertine and algae on the bottom give it vibrant blue and green colors, making it sparkle like a jewel.
• Nisori Mizo:
Five Flower Lake: Known as the essence of Jiuzhaigou, this lake is the most colorful. Travertine deposits on the dead trees at the bottom of the lake, combined with the aquatic plants, create a fantastical scene of blue, green, yellow, and other colors.
Mirror Sea: As its name suggests, this lake perfectly reflects the surrounding mountains and sky like a mirror. It is most beautiful in the early morning when there is no wind.
• Shuzhengoo:
Nuorilang Waterfall: The widest waterfall in Jiuzhaigou. Its abundant waterfall and majestic scale are impressive. It was once featured on the back of China's old 20 yuan banknote.
A sea of trees: A complex landscape of more than 40 lakes, large and small, connected by waterfalls and steps. You can stroll along the "water corridor" where clear streams flow through the trees.
2. Historical Stories
📜 Myths and Legends of Jiuzhaigou
• Legend of the Goddess and the Mirror: Once upon a time, a mountain god fell in love with a goddess and gifted her a mirror made of clouds and wind. However, a demon interfered and the mirror fell from the goddess's hand. It was scattered across the valley and broke into 114 pieces, which became the 114 lakes (Haizi) of today.
• A sacred place for the Tibetan people: Jiuzhaigou has been inhabited by the Tibetan people (Amdo Tibet) since ancient times. They believe that spirits reside in the mountains and lakes, and have worshipped nature. Even today, their culture and beliefs live on in the villages.
3. Useful Information Before Your Visit
Address：Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province
Opening Hours：4/1-11/15：8:00-17:00
11/16-3/31：8:30-17:00
Closed：None (Open daily throughout the year).
Admission Tickets：Prices vary greatly depending on the season (e.g., approximately 190 yuan during peak season, approximately 80 yuan during off-season). Advance online reservations are essential.
Moving around the park：Use of the special Kanpo bus (Green Bus) is mandatory, and you can get on and off freely at each stop.
4. Visiting Etiquette and Important Notes
• Best season:
Autumn (late September to late October): This is the perfect season to see the mountains turn red with autumn leaves, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue of the lake.
Summer (July to August): Vivid greenery and abundant water. Ideal as a summer escape.
• Altitude sickness precautions : Jiuzhaigou is at an altitude of 2,000m to 3,100m. On the first day after arrival, avoid strenuous exercise and drink plenty of fluids. If you are concerned about altitude sickness, we recommend carrying an oxygen tank.
• Environmental Protection: Jiuzhaigou is a strictly protected nature reserve. Rubbish must be disposed of in designated areas and trespassing on lakes and in designated areas is strictly prohibited.
5. Pandaland Trip's Original Tour Services
Pandaland Trip, offers a unique service that allows you to efficiently navigate the complex access and vast grounds of the park, allowing you to experience the true essence of Jiuzhaigou.
• Professional photography guide: We will guide you to the best time and spot to take the most beautiful photos, taking into consideration the angle of light and crowds, to ensure you get the best shots to capture lasting memories.
• Optimal route suggestions to avoid crowds: Guides who are familiar with the characteristics of tourist bus routes will plan efficient sightseeing routes that cleverly avoid crowded times and spots.
• Comfortable transportation arrangements from Chengdu: It takes about 8 hours by car from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou. With a dedicated vehicle accompanied by our staff in your native language, you can reduce travel fatigue and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.
• Attentive considerations for altitude sickness: We provide support that puts your physical condition first, including advice on changes in altitude during the trip and preparing oxygen tanks if necessary.
• Complete support in your native language: From the complex process of online ticket booking to how to take the buses inside the park and explanations about Tibetan culture, our staff will assist with every step in your native language.
To fully enjoy the vast and intricate beauty of Jiuzhaigou, the perfect choice is Pandaland Trip’s guided tour in your native language.Our guides, who are knowledgeable about the terrain and photography, will guide you on a journey to this fairyland that will be an unforgettable experience. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
