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Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its blue lakes, waterfalls and pristine forests. There are many different ways to get to this fairytale world from Chengdu. With the latest information (as of February 2025), this article provides you with detailed transport guides, itinerary planning and travel tips to help you start your natural and cultural journey in Sichuan.
I. Full analysis of transport modes
1. Airplane: the fastest, but need to be flexible with the weather
Airline information: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport has several direct flights to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) every day, with a flight time of about 45 minutes and ticket prices ranging from 500-2000 RMB.
Transportation after landing: It takes 2 hours by car to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Spot after arrival, the airport bus fare is RMB 45 per person, and taxi charter is about RMB 300-500.
Pros and cons: suitable for tourists who are short of time, but the weather in the plateau is changeable and flights may be delayed or cancelled.
2. High-speed railway: a new and convenient option for 2025
Newest highlights: Chengdu-Lanzhou high-speed railway has been opened, from Chengdu East Railway Station to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station in 1 hour and 39 minutes, and after leaving the station, you can transfer to the scenic area through train (the fare and frequency can be found through the ‘Jiuzhuyuexing’).
Advantage: fast speed, high comfort, along the way through the magnificent canyons in western Sichuan, experience the ‘Chinese infrastructure miracle’.
3. Coach: affordable classic route、Frequency and Fare
Frequency and Fare: The bus leaves Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station at 8:30 every day and goes directly to Jiuzhaigou Goukou, with a journey time of 8-10 hours and a fare of about RMB 168.
Scenery along the way: The western route (via Dujiangyan, Wenchuan and Maoxian) allows you to enjoy the Minjiang River canyon and Tibetan-Qiang villages, while the eastern route (via Mianyang and Pingwu) is rich in humanistic landscapes.
Tips: It is recommended to choose a window seat and prepare a neck pillow and snacks.
4. Self-driving tour: free to explore the scenery of western Sichuan
Recommended Route:
Western Route (Chengdu→Dujiangyan→Wenchuan→Songpan→Jiuzhaigou): 420 kilometres in length, about 8 hours' drive, good road conditions.
Eastern Route (Chengdu→Mianyang→Jiangyou→Pingwu→Jiuzhaigou): 472 kilometres, suitable for tourists who like history and culture, passing by Sanxingdui and Li Bai's hometown.
Precautions: mountainous areas with many curves, need to prepare anti-skid chains in winter; petrol stations with long spacing, suggest to set off with full fuel.
5. Chartered bus/group tour: the choice that saves your heart and energy
Chartered bus cost: 5-seater car about 1000 RMB/day, including driver service fee; 19-seater Chinese bus charter price about 5200 RMB/car.
Advantages of following a tour: most of the itinerary covers attractions such as Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, Dujiangyan, etc., providing Tibetan family experience with special catering (e.g. copper pot hotpot).
II. Recommended itinerary: 5-7 days in-depth tour*
Classic 5-day itinerary (suitable for first-time visitors)
Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu, savour the snacks at Kuan Narrow Alley, overnight in the city.
Day 2: Chengdu → Dujiangyan (water conservancy project exploration) → drive to Jiuzhaigou, overnight in Goukou.
Day 3: Jiuzhaigou full day tour (Sea of Flowers, Pearl Beach Waterfalls, Shuzheng Qunhai), complimentary afternoon tea at Tibetan Village.
Day 4: Huanglong Scenic Spot (Five Coloured Pools, Snowy Mountain Canyon), return to Chengdu.
Day 5: Panda Base + Sanxingdui, immersion in Sichuan culture and ecology.
Advanced 7-Day Itinerary (Combination of Nature and Humanities).
Extend the itinerary to include Emei Mountain, Leshan Giant Buddha, or experience the tea-horse culture in Songpan Ancient Town.
III. Travel Tips: Key Information to Avoid Stepping on Potholes
1. Prevention of plateau reactions
– Jiuzhaigou is 2000-4500 metres above sea level, it is recommended to take Rhodiola Rosea in advance and avoid strenuous exercise upon arrival.
2. Best Travelling Season
– Autumn (September-October) : Layers of forests are in full bloom and the lake has the most brilliant colours.
– Winter (November-March) : Fewer tourists, pure snow, but some roads may be closed.
3. Tickets and Scenic Area Transport : Jiuzhaigou has a number of scenic spots, but some of them may be closed.
– Jiuzhaigou tickets need to be booked online in advance and cost RMB 190 in peak season (April-November) and RMB 90 for a sightseeing bus.
– The hiking trails in the scenic area are perfect, but some areas need to take a shuttle bus (1-2 hours wait during peak season).
4. Cultural respect and environmental protection
– When visiting Tibetan and Qiang villages, avoid randomly photographing local residents or religious sites.
– Jiuzhaigou is a smoke-free scenic area, littering is strictly prohibited.
Four, unmissable experiences around the area
1. Huanglong Scenic Area
– Calcified pools ‘colourful pools’ change colour with the light, cable car up and down can save energy.
2. Chuanzhousi Township and Tibetan Village Culture
– Visit the monument to the Red Army's Long March, experience thangka painting or take photos in Tibetan dress.
3. Chengdu Extended Play
– Giant Panda Breeding Base to observe the national treasures up close, Samsungdui to explore the ancient Shu civilisation.
V. Safety and Practical Information
– Documents: ID card must be brought (foreign tourists need to carry passports).
– Dress: There is a big temperature difference between day and night, it is recommended to wear onion style and prepare waterproof shoes.
– Communication: Signal coverage is good in the scenic area, but may be unstable in remote sections.
– Emergency Contact: Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area Rescue Phone Number 0837-7739529.
Conclusion
The journey from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is not only a path to natural wonders, but also an exploration through Tibetan and Qiang culture, history and modernity intertwined. Whatever mode of transport you choose, advance plann
ing and flexibility are key. Take this guide and embark on your adventure through western Sichuan, making the blue waters and blue skies of Jiuzhaigou an unforgettable memory of a lifetime!
