I just recently finished researching all the modes of transportation from Xi’an to Jiuzhaigou and found that there are quite a few doors!
To help you save time, I’ve put together a super-detailed guide covering all the information on planes, trains, buses and chartered buses, and I’ll also tell you which mode is best for people with different needs.
Xian to jiuzhaigou flight
This is the fastest way, but a bit expensive.
If you’re in a hurry, airplanes are the way to go.
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) has 2 direct flights to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) every day, departing at 8:30am and 3:20pm respectively, with a flight time of 1 hour and 20 minutes. Fares vary greatly depending on the season – about 800 RMB for economy class in the low season (November-April), rising to more than 1,500 RMB in the high season (May-October).
But be careful: Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport is 3448 meters above sea level and you may have a slight plateau reaction after landing. In addition, there is a 1.5-hour drive from the airport to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Spot (about 200 RMB/car by taxi).
Suitable for: People who have enough budget and don’t want to toss and turn
Drawbacks: Flights are highly affected by weather and may be delayed at plateau airports
Xian to jiuzhaigou Train + Bus
Moderately priced but time-consuming, cost-effective and suitable for people who love to see the scenery.Please click to view the specific train timetable.
At present, there is no direct train from Xi’an to Jiuzhaigou, you need to take a high-speed train to Guangyuan Station (2 hours, fare 150 RMB) or Chengdu East Station (4 hours, fare 260 RMB) first, and then transfer to a bus:
- Guangyuan→Jiuzhaigou: 3 buses per day (8:00/10:30/13:00), 6 hours drive, fare 120 RMB
- Chengdu→Jiuzhaigou: Bus departs from Xinnanmen Station at 7:30 every day, 8 hours’ drive, fare: RMB 170.
The total time for the whole journey is about 10-12 hours, and the total cost is 300-400 RMB. It is recommended to choose a window seat, and you can see the scenery of Minjiang River Canyon along the way!
Suitable for: Student party, people who like slow traveling
Drawbacks: Multiple transfers required, bumpy mountain roads in Daba
Xian to jiuzhaigou bus
Cheapest but most tiring for people, suitable for backpackers.Click here to view the bus guide.
Xi’an Textile City Bus Station has a direct sleeper bus to Jiuzhaigou that departs at 18:00 every day and arrives at 7:00 the next morning for 280 RMB. Blankets and charging ports are provided on the bus, but the 13-hour ride is not very back-friendly.
Good for: People who aren’t afraid to stay up late and want to save a night’s stay
Drawbacks: Risky nighttime driving on mountain roads, low comfort level
Xian to jiuzhaigou taxi or carpool
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive way to travel for families and groups.
You can find chartered car service in Xi’an Youth Hostel or travel platforms (such as Ctrip), 7-seat commercial car one-way about 4,000 yuan (can sit 4-6 people), 10 hours of driving, the driver will stop and take pictures in Wenchuan, Songpan and other attractions. If you carpool, it is about 600-800 RMB per person.
Suitable for people: Family trip, small group who want to play while traveling
Drawbacks: High cost, uneven service quality of drivers
Which is the most cost-effective way?
Based on my real-world experience, this is the recommended choice
1️⃣ Time Priority→ Airplane (total time consumed 4 hours, budget ￥2000+)
2️⃣ Budget Priority → Train + Bus (total cost ￥300, but allow 1 day)
3️⃣ Comfort priority → chartered bus (￥600 per person, free to control the trip)
Another reminder: Jiuzhaigou tickets have to be booked in advance on the official website (flow restriction in peak season), and you have to take a sightseeing bus in the scenic area (RMB 90/person). If there are other questions, welcome to leave a message to ask me!
Data updated to March 2025, please refer to airline/station announcements for specific information.
