In the pursuit of freedom and the exploration of the unknown, I was fortunate to step into Jiuzhaigou, known as the "Heaven on Earth." Here, nature's generosity is at its peak, a mecca for photographers, and a dream destination for every traveler. Today, let me take you on a journey through Jiuzhaigou, where you can experience the authenticity and stunning beauty that requires no filter.
Located in Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, Jiuzhaigou is the only natural scenic area in China that holds both the "World Natural Heritage" and the "World Network of Biosphere Reserves" titles. It takes its name from the nine Tibetan villages within its borders and boasts 108 colorful lakes, forming a dreamlike celestial pool. The emerald waters, cascading waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, Tibetan culture, and crystal-clear ice are known as Jiuzhaigou's "Six Wonders," each scene captivating visitors.
Entering Jiuzhaigou is like stepping into a moving painting. In September, Jiuzhaigou is even more enchanting, with a blend of summer and autumn. The autumn wind rustles, painting the forests in layers of color, and wooden houses, mountains, red leaves, colorful forests, and streams intertwine to create stunning scenes. The lakes mirror the colors of a painter's palette, deep blue, intense green, and a kaleidoscope of colors that are simply breathtaking.
The three main valleys of Jiuzhaigou—Shuzheng Valley, Ri Ze Valley, and Zecha Valley—each have their unique charms. Shuzheng Valley, the main valley, stretches about 13.8 kilometers and features highlights such as Shuzheng Group of Lakes, Rhinoceros Lake, and Tiger Lake. Ri Ze Valley is the most beautiful, spanning 16 kilometers, with highlights including Mirror Lake, Pearl Shoal Waterfall, and Five-Flower Lake. Zecha Valley is the longest, spanning 18 kilometers, with highlights such as Long Lake and Five-Color Pool, the latter known as "The Eye of Jiuzhaigou," for its vibrant colors and crystal-clear water, leaving visitors in awe.
Among the must-see attractions in Jiuzhaigou are the reed sea with its "Jade River" meandering through the reeds, the Shuzheng Group of Lakes, a collection of over 40 lakes offering panoramic views, the Nuorilang Waterfall, the widest waterfall in China and a filming location for "The Condor Heroes," the Pearl Shoal Waterfall, the largest calcareous waterfall in Jiuzhaigou with the most beautiful water and the loudest roar, and the Five-Flower Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Jiuzhaigou, with a dazzling array of colors.
Regarding travel to Jiuzhaigou, during peak season (April 1st to November 15th), the entrance fee is 190 RMB per person, with an additional 90 RMB for the shuttle bus; during off-peak season (November 16th to March 31st), the entrance fee is 80 RMB per person, with an additional 80 RMB for the shuttle bus. Operating hours are from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm. A recommended two-day itinerary includes exploring the Primitive Forest, Swan Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake, Panda Lake, and more on the first day, and visiting Long Lake, Five-Color Pool, Nuorilang Waterfall, and more on the second day. In terms of transportation, you can fly to Jiuhuang Airport, then take an airport shuttle bus to Jiuzhaigou; or first take a train to Chengdu and then transfer to a bus. Around Jiuzhaigou, there are many hotels and homestays to choose from, with the Self-Drive International Youth Hostel in Pengfeng Village near the entrance of Jiuzhaigou, just a few minutes' walk away, making it very convenient.
In Jiuzhaigou, in addition to admiring the stunning natural scenery, you can also savor local delicacies. Yak mushroom soup hotpot, hand-picked yak meat, and Tibetan roast lamb chops are some of the local specialties that will leave you longing for more. Additionally, be mindful of the significant temperature difference in high altitude areas
