If you’re planning an adventurous trip to southwestern China, Jiuzhaigou’s emerald lakes and snow-capped mountain scenery must be on your list. But as an American traveler, you may be wondering: is this UNESCO-certified World Heritage Site open to foreigners? Does it require a special permit? Don’t worry – this guide will tell you all the answers in the most straightforward way possible, with exclusive practical tips!
I. Is Jiuzhaigou open to foreigners? The answer is yes!
Yes, Jiuzhaigou has been open to international travelers since it reopened in 2017. Whether you are traveling freely or with a group, you only need to carry a valid passport to enter the scenic area. According to the latest policy in 2025, foreign visitors** do not need to apply for special permits** and the ticketing process is exactly the same as for local visitors.
Real Case: Mike, a photographer from California, who successfully entered the scenic area in February 2025, shared, “There are signs in English at the entrance, and the staff quickly verifies the passport, and the whole process takes less than 5 minutes!”
II. Ticketing Tips: Prices, Deals and Hidden Traps
1. Ticket Prices
- Peak Season (April 1-November 15): 190RMB (approx. 27 USD) for admission + 90RMB (approx. 13 USD) for sightseeing bus ticket
- Off Season (November 16 – March 31): 80RMB (approx. 11 USD) for admission + 80RMB (approx. 11 USD) for sightseeing bus ticket
Saving Tip: Off-season is not only less crowded, but you can also save almost 60%!
2. Discounts
Although most of the discounts are for Chinese citizens (e.g. students, seniors), foreigners can also enjoy discounts in the following cases:
- Children under 6 years old: free admission and bus tickets (passport required)
- Military/Disabled: free admission with an internationally recognized ID (tickets still need to be purchased)
Avoid the pit reminder: Zhejiang 7 cities household registration visitors have free ticket benefits, but only for Chinese residents, foreigners need to buy tickets at full price
III. Transportation Full Analysis: 3 ways to get from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou
1. High-speed rail + shuttle bus (latest recommendation!)
- Opened in 2024, the Chuanqing Railway will shorten Chengdu to Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station to 2 hours!
- After leaving the station, you can directly take the scenic spot shuttle bus (included in the “Three Tickets in One” package).
- Cost: High-speed rail ticket about $30 + shuttle bus $15
2. Airplane
- Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) has 3-5 flights daily from Chengdu
- Note: 15% of flights may be canceled due to weather, travel insurance is recommended.
3. Self-drive
- Certified copy of International Driving License + China Temporary Driving License is required.
- Some roads may be icy in winter, 4WD rental is recommended.
IV. 5 Issues of Great Concern to U.S. Travelers
1. Payment methods
- The scenic area supports credit card (Visa/Mastercard), but some small stores only accept WeChat/Alipay
- Cash Backup: It is recommended to carry 300-500 RMB (about $42-$70).
2. Language barriers
- Official ticket offices, 4-star hotels and above provide English service
- Necessary APP: Google Translate (download Chinese offline package) + Tencent Maps (English version)
3. Highland Reaction
- Jiuzhaigou is 2000-3100 meters above sea level, it is recommended:
- Take Rhodiola Rosea 3 days in advance
- Avoid strenuous exercise and hot baths on the first day.
4. **Network Signal
- China Mobile has the best coverage in the scenic area, and Unicom only has 4G at the entrance.
- Solution: Rent Walkman WiFi (available at Chengdu Airport, $5/day)
5. Cultural Taboos
- Ask permission before photographing Tibetans
- Need to rotate the scripture roller clockwise
- Avoid pointing fingers at temples or sacred mountains
V. Exclusive Experience: Play Jiuzhaigou Like a Local
1. Hidden spotting
- The Sea of Reeds: golden reeds contrast with the turquoise blue water of the lake in autumn.
- Shuzheng Qunhai: in the early morning mist, you can capture the “reflection of the fairyland”.
2. Specialty Activities
- Tibetan Home Visit: Drink ghee tea and learn how to make tsampa (about $20/person).
- Night Stargazing: professional telescope rental at B&B outside the ditch (best in winter)
3. Recommended souvenirs
- Handmade Yak Bone Jewelry (Haggling Tip: Start at 40% of the quoted price)
- Songbei (Szechuan shellfish mother of pearl, good for relieving plateau cough)
VI. Safety and Environmental Protection: Rules You Must Know
- Prohibited Behavior:
- Smoking (500 RMB fine)
- Feeding wild animals
- Trampling on Calcifer Beach (may permanently damage the geological layer)
- Emergency contact:
- Scenic Rescue Tel: 0837-7739753
- U.S. Consulate in Chengdu: +86-28-8558-3992
VII. Best Travel Time and Trip Suggestions
- Prime Time: Mid-September – Late October (peak of fall scenery)
- 3 Days Classic Route:
Day 1: Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou (acclimatize to the altitude)
Day 2: full day excursion to core scenic spots
Day 3: experience Tibetan culture → return to Chengdu
Jiuzhaigou is not only open to foreign tourists, but also provides increasingly convenient services for international travelers. From multi-payment to multi-language guides, the place is welcoming global explorers in a more friendly manner. Take this guide with you and book a flight to the “heaven on earth” – the sapphire lakes and Tibetan atmosphere among the snow-capped mountains will be memories to last a lifetime!
(Tip: All toilets in the scenic area are equipped with bidets and provide free toilet paper, so you don’t have to worry about the “squatting challenge”!)
