Peacock River

孔雀河道

From the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, ascend the mountain road and follow the descent. A river in a deep valley on the left is the Kongque River. The Kongque River meanders, flanked by flowering trees. In autumn, the trees on both sides are stained with frost, and the river is blanketed in fallen leaves. The vibrant colors of the forests on both sides, from above, reveal a shimmering torrent of color, like the vibrant hues of a peacock's unfurled tail.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China (四川省阿坝州九寨沟孔雀河道)

  • History: Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and alpine forests. Peacock River, named for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant reflections reminiscent of a peacock’s tail, has been part of the valley’s ecosystem for thousands of years. Local Tibetan and Qiang communities historically settled nearby, integrating the river into their cultural stories and rituals.
  • Architecture / Natural Features: Peacock River is a natural formation, featuring turquoise and green pools, small waterfalls, and shallow cascades. Wooden boardwalks and observation decks have been built for visitors to safely admire the scenery without disturbing the fragile ecosystem.
  • Cultural Value: The river is integral to local folklore, symbolizing purity and harmony with nature. It also serves as a key site for ecological education and sustainable tourism. Photographers and nature enthusiasts value its reflective waters and vivid colors.
  • Other Information: Peacock River is part of the larger Jiuzhaigou loop trail. The water clarity is highest in spring and early autumn. It is a relatively short stop, often included in half-day walks along the river and nearby lakes.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 06:00 PM (April – November, depending on season)

  • Ticket Price:
    - Adults: 310 CNY (high season), 220 CNY (low season)
    - Children (1.2–1.5 m): 150 CNY (high season), 110 CNY (low season)
    - Seniors (60+ with ID): 150 CNY (high season), 110 CNY (low season)
    - Electric shuttle bus: 90 CNY for full loop
  • Best Photo Spots:
    - Peacock River cascades and turquoise pools
    - Early morning reflection shots
    - Adjacent small waterfalls along wooden walkways
  • Time Reference: Early morning or late afternoon for best light; spring and autumn for vibrant colors. Avoid heavy rain season (July–August) for clearer water and safety.
  • Other Info: The trail is well-marked with wooden platforms; wear comfortable shoes. The river is fragile; do not step into water or remove stones. Guided tours provide cultural and ecological context.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury:
    - InterContinental Jiuzhaigou Resort (九寨沟洲际度假酒店) – Modern luxury, scenic mountain views
    - Pullman Jiuzhai Hotel (九寨普尔曼酒店) – High-end amenities, 5-minute drive from park entrance
  • Mid-range:
    - Jiuzhaigou Grand Hotel (九寨沟大酒店) – Comfortable, convenient location
    - Hotel Jiuzhai Paradise (九寨天堂酒店) – Moderate pricing, traditional décor
  • Budget & Boutique:
    - Jiuzhaigou Hostel (九寨沟青年旅舍) – Affordable, good for backpackers
    - Tibetan-style Guesthouse (藏式民宿) – Local flavor, cozy rooms

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes:
    - Tibetan Butter Tea (酥油茶)
    - Yak Meat Stew (牦牛炖肉)
    - Local Mushroom Hotpot (本地蘑菇火锅)
    - Barley Tsampa (青稞糌粑)
  • Famous Spots:
    - Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area Cafeterias (景区内餐厅) – Quick meals, snacks
    - Local Tibetan Family Kitchens (藏民家庭小厨) – Authentic dishes
    - Small snack kiosks along the trail (景区小吃亭) – Tea and light bites

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • - Jiuzhaigou postcards (九寨沟明信片)
  • - Miniature waterfall figurines (小瀑布工艺品)
  • - Tibetan handicrafts and scarves (藏族手工艺品)
  • - Local herbal teas (本地草茶)

Transportation

  • - From Chengdu: Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (九寨黄龙机场, ~1 hour flight), then taxi or shuttle (~1 hour to park)
  • - Long-distance bus: Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou (approx. 8–10 hours), then local shuttle to park entrance
  • - Inside Jiuzhaigou: Electric shuttle buses and walking trails connect Peacock River to other lakes and waterfalls
  • - Taxi or tour: Available from nearby hotels and towns

Nearby Attractions

  • - Long Lake (长海) – 1.5 km, walk or shuttle bus
  • - Pearl Shoal Waterfall (珍珠滩瀑布) – 1 km, walk along wooden trail
  • - Five Flower Lake (五花海) – 1.8 km, walk or shuttle bus

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on wooden boardwalks.
  • Bring rain gear; weather in Jiuzhaigou can change quickly.
  • Early morning or late afternoon gives best lighting for photography.
  • Do not step into rivers or lakes; the water ecosystem is fragile.
  • Electric shuttle bus tickets are limited; buy early in high season.
  • Respect local Tibetan and Qiang culture; follow signage.
  • Bring water and snacks; food options along trails are limited.
  • Check seasonal opening hours; some areas may close in winter due to snow.

Recommended Itineraries

  • Half-Day Route:
    D1: Peacock River → Pearl Shoal Waterfall → Five Flower Lake → Return
    Transportation: Walk and shuttle bus within park
  • One-Day Route:
    D1: Entrance → Peacock River → Long Lake → Pearl Shoal Waterfall → Five Flower Lake → Lunch along trail → Return to entrance
    Transportation: Walk and electric shuttle bus
  • Two-Day Route:
    D1: Entrance → Peacock River → Pearl Shoal Waterfall → Five Flower Lake → Overnight at nearby hotel
    D2: Long Lake → Five-Color Pond → Return to Jiuzhaigou town
    Transportation: Walking and shuttle bus

User Reviews

By Blue Shirt |

From the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, ascend the mountain road and follow the descent. A river in a deep valley on the left is the Kongque River. The Kongque River meanders, flanked by flowering trees. In autumn, the trees on both sides are stained with frost, and the river is blanketed in fallen leaves. The vibrant colors of the forests on both sides, from above, reveal a shimmering torrent of color, like the vibrant hues of a peacock's unfurled tail.

By Useless young people |

From the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, we climbed up the mountain road, went downhill along the road, and saw a river in the deep valley on the left.

By babyyang |

From the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, we ascended the mountain road and descended along the descent. The Peacock River, a river flowing through a deep valley on the left, snaked along its banks. In autumn, the trees on both sides were stained with frost, and the river was covered in fallen leaves. The vibrant colors of the trees on both sides, from above, made the view a vibrant world, like a peacock's vibrantly spread tail. Our hearts were deeply at peace watching this.

By Big Bad Wolf |

From the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, you can climb onto the mountain road. Then, you can see the Peacock River in the deep valley on the left.

By DrZou |

From the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, ascend the mountain road and follow the descent. A river in a deep valley on the left is the Kongque River. The Kongque River meanders, flanked by flowering trees. In autumn, the trees on both sides are stained with frost, and the river is blanketed in fallen leaves. The vibrant colors of the forests on both sides, from above, reveal a shimmering torrent of color, like the vibrant hues of a peacock's unfurled tail.

By Li travels all over the world |

The Peacock River is a river in the deep valley on the left side of the mountain road that you can reach by climbing up the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake and then going downhill along the road.

By Light and Shadow |

It's very beautiful. Climb up to the Tiger's Mouth to see the whole view.

By Guo Chenxiao |

The scenery is beautiful, it is still beautiful, but the distance is too close, so it is not easy to take portraits

By Rui Rui Rui sharp |

An important part of Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, very beautiful, but I came here before the earthquake, I don't know what it looks like now

By pale |

Walk from Wuhua Lake to Laohuzui to view the Peacock River - this must be done in autumn - and you will understand how appropriate it is to describe these colorful colors as peacocks.

By Jenny |

Not far from Wuhua Lake is the Peacock River, which got its name probably because the water in the river is colorful, just like a peacock.

By Silkroadca |

It is the most representative of the scenic features of Jiuzhaigou. After seeing the water of Jiuzhaigou, the lakes in other places will pale in comparison and there will be nothing to see.

By Ding Qimiao |

One of the most beautiful attractions in Jiuzhaigou, the lake has different sediments and several beautiful colors.

By Wandering Photographer |

The Peacock River is so beautiful, so beautiful!

By His Royal Highness Wang Jiuye |

After exiting Wuhua Lake, we walked a short distance to the Peacock River Trail. It's a truly beautiful stretch, and the stunning scenery always draws visitors to stop and admire, taking photos. It's a must-see destination.

By Insomnia dog |

Jiuzhaigou in autumn is like a palette of colors, this description couldn’t be more appropriate

By Yumiweiwei |

Beautiful landscapes, great for taking photos, a must-visit place.

By Shark |

There is no point in saying more. If you have never been to Jiuzhaigou, you must arrange to go there once in your life. The lakes here are all must-sees, without a doubt. If you don’t see them enough, you will feel like you are missing out.

By Encore. |

It's not as pretty as the pictures online, maybe I went there in the wrong season

By Aimee Mommy |

Every scenic spot in Jiuzhaigou is beautiful, with beautiful water, beautiful mountains and beautiful trees.

By As light as water |

Looking at Wuhua Lake from Laohuzui, the river channel of Wuhua Lake looks like a peacock spreading its tail, so beautiful!!!

By Tonne |

This also needs to be viewed from a high and far distance. It is too big to see the peacock's half-open tail from close up.

By Seven |

I feel that every place in Jiuzhaigou is particularly beautiful no matter whether it is cloudy or sunny, and no matter whether it is spring, summer, autumn or winter.

By ^.^Banana Pig^.^ |

The Peacock River looks a bit like the Five-Colored Pool. It is also one of the colorful scenic spots and is considered to be more beautiful.

By A shit |

It's so beautiful! My first feeling when I arrived at Jiuzhaigou was that I wanted to just lie there in the beautiful scenery. When I saw the lake, I wanted to soak in the water! It's so beautiful!

Please refer to the reviews for other attractions in Jiuzhaigou! Thank you

By Jojo80 |

The water is very clear and the creatures under the water are colorful and beautiful.

By Bashan and Shushui |

Not far from Wuhua Lake is the Peacock River. It's so named because the waters there are a dazzling array of colors, reminiscent of a peacock. Indeed, the aquatic plants are clearly visible, and combined with the surrounding scenery, it's truly breathtaking. I'll mainly describe the route to the Peacock River. After arriving at Wuhua Lake, you'll typically cross the road and descend the steps to the lake's edge. However, after crossing the road, there's a plank road on the left. After walking up the 400 steps, you'll reach the roadside. Another 50 meters along the road leads to Tiger's Mouth. From this wooden observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Peacock River.

By Mars User |

The water here is dreamy blue and crystal clear, and the dead trees at the bottom of the water are clearly visible.

By Heavy rain causes flooding |

Jiuzhaigou, Peacock River.

You can get to the mountain road from the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake, go downhill along the road, and there is a river in the deep valley on the left.

The most beautiful season is autumn, when the colorful forests are reflected in the beautiful water, forming the most beautiful picture.

By Chubby |

The Peacock River meanders through the forest, its banks awash with flowers and trees, birdsong echoing in the clear blue. The water's vibrant colors, surging and surging, resemble a peacock spreading its feathers – a breathtaking sight. The best photo spot: a few meters long wooden bridge, where the rushing water creates whirlpools that create a beautiful peacock pattern.

By Lao Cai |

The best time to go is in the golden autumn, when you can see the colorful forests. Many places in Sichuan are very beautiful in the golden autumn.

By Josh |

Very beautiful, very nice to look at, even better when there are fewer people.

By Juice |

The most beautiful place is the plank road along the way. The water of Wuhua Lake is printed with it, and the colorful forests among the trees are particularly gorgeous.

By lid3921 |

In winter, the gully is covered in ice and snow, leaving only three colors: black, white, and blue. The dry branches, the white snow, and the piercing blue of the lake. The scenery is similar. I didn't pay attention to the names of some places, but they are beautiful.

By Heart rises with the wind |

The beautiful scenery 'depicted' in the photos is exactly the same as in reality. I still remind you to avoid the peak tourist season, otherwise you won't be able to appreciate the beauty quietly.

By pony |

Jiuzhaigou is a place you will never forget once you visit it. It is different in every season.

By Yueyue |

It is very blue and very clear. You can see the trees in the lake.

By LBJ4ever |

Jiuzhaigou, a world from fairyland, the scenery is so beautiful!

By Boss, give me a bottle of Nutri-Express. |

I went there on a tour group in 2011 when I was still in school. I was so poor that I didn't even have a camera or a phone that could take pictures. But the scenery is really beautiful. There aren't many people there in May, so it's best to go during National Day.

By The ocean of hurt |

The Peacock River is very short, but due to geographical factors, it has become the bluest part of the water in the entire Jiuzhaigou Valley.

By Young |

It is the most stunning section of Wuhua Lake, as colorful as peacock feathers.

By Kite Path |

The essence of Jiuzhaigou, Wuhua Lake, is very crowded. From a distance, it looks like a peacock's tail, with green water and quiet creatures under the water. This is also the place with the most tour groups. As I said, the lake is more beautiful on a sunny day.

By Consumption |

I can't figure it out, is it this picture? As time goes by, people's memory becomes worse, hahahaha

By FLH Dayao |

Beautiful, beautiful, my eyes can't take it all in, it's so beautiful

By ivyz32 |

This is a very beautiful river, located between Panda Lake and Five Flower Lake in Shuzheng Valley, Jiuzhaigou. It is a great place to stop and enjoy the scenery.

By Unruly madman |

Like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like

By Northern Girl |

Very beautiful and worth a visit. I hope to go again if I have the chance.

By WhistlerLll |

There are many lakes in this area. They are so beautiful that I can’t remember which one is which.

By Sung |

It's still worth a visit, the sea water is very clear, nice

By Zhang Zhigang. |

I went there three years ago and I don’t remember the details very clearly, but anyway, the attractions in Jiuzhaigou are all good and worth visiting.

By Glamorou$ |

I went there on November 1st, and the leaves were still green. Maybe I can take pictures of the red leaves in autumn if I go there in November.

By L🐰w🐰w |

My favorite water in Jiuzhaigou is the Peacock River.

By Butterfly |

I'd like to highlight Tiger's Mouth. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Wuhua Lake and the Peacock River. Take the shuttle bus from Panda Lake to Wuhua Lake Station, then go under the tunnel and cross the road. After the tunnel (the culvert), don't cross the bridge. Instead, turn left. Remember not to cross the bridge. You'll find a plank road. Follow it for 10-15 minutes and you'll reach Tiger's Mouth. It's said that in the past, only senior executives would be brought here to see the full view of Wuhua Lake when they visited Jiuzhaigou. There are almost no tourists here, so don't squeeze in the crowds and enjoy the photo ops!

By Johnny |

It's a beautiful place. I took a lot of photos while walking here! ! !

By Drunk alone |

The Peacock River is located in a deep valley on the left side of the Wuhua Lake outlet. The river meanders along with flowers and trees on both sides. In autumn, the trees are covered with frost and the fallen leaves in late autumn cover the entire river. Although it was winter when I went there, it was still beautiful.

By Jian Ge |

The water quality in this scenic spot is also dreamy and it is very comfortable to walk.

By Warm |

This attraction is a must-see, the blue is so beautiful. I just regret that my camera lens is so ineffective.

By Beautiful alone |

The Peacock River is located between Wuhua Lake and Jinling Lake. The reflections of the mountains and trees are reflected in the water, which is very beautiful.

By Q |

The name is good, the scenery is also good, it is worthy of the name

By 13795797020 Travel |

The 310-meter-long Kongque River connects closely to the northern end of Wuhua Lake. The narrow river meanders through the forest, twisting and turning, its banks echoed with the chirping of birds. After exiting the forest, turn right along the plank path and continue eastward along the northern shore of Wuhua Lake. Passing through an open, gently sloping hillside, you'll soon reach the end of the plank path. This is where the Wuhua Lake's outlet meets the Kongque River, where a trestle bridge has been built. The lake south of the bridge resembles the colorful wings of a peacock; north of the bridge, the river bend resembles the peacock's head and neck, with three ancient trees resembling feathers. Hence, the area below is known as the Kongque River. The water here is a vibrant tapestry of colors: dark green, royal blue, and golden yellow intertwine. As the waves surge, the swaying reflections resemble a peacock spreading its feathers, a breathtaking sight. A gentle mountain breeze blew the various colors together, blending and immersing them, imbuing the Kongque River with life, a vibrant, pulsating vibrancy. The Peacock River has such a beautiful name, it really makes people want to go there! Looking down from a high place, a mottled torrent involves a world of colors, leaving people with a deep impression.

By Leopards of Kilimanjaro |

It's ok, it's just blue and green water

By Fanny |

Very beautiful, very very beautiful, the lake is very deep and clear, there are people on the opposite side, but it does not affect the beauty at all

By 蘰豘议 |

Walking down from Wuhua Lake, the Peacock River, a river in the deep valley on the left, is a river. Many unnamed flowering trees grow on both sides of the river. In autumn, the forests are covered in a sea of colors. From a high vantage point, the river looks like a peacock's gorgeous tail, which is probably how the attraction got its name.

By happy |

This is a very, very beautiful river!!!

By N+a |

I am proud to have been to Jiuzhaigou. I will definitely go there again if I have the chance. I want to go there in different seasons.

By Calling Somersault Cloud |

The trees under the water have been there for an unknown period of time. It is amazing that they do not rot.

By Sagittarius Cat Classmate |

The Peacock River is a river in the deep valley on the left side of the mountain road that you can reach by climbing up the trestle bridge at the outlet of Wuhua Lake and then going downhill along the road.

By A Chai is a big fat dog |

The water in Jiuzhaigou is a little aesthetically fatigued.

By Black leather and white shoes |

My personal advice to visitors in Jiuzhaigou is to avoid following the crowds at a fast pace. While crowded tourist spots are a given, stop and find a place to sit where you won't be in the way of others. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the natural scenery with your friends, family, and loved ones. Don't let the fleeting nature of today's travelers drag you away from the days of your junior high school days. Everything you encounter, anywhere, is gained through your own experience.

By Feihuo "Star" |

The blue sky, snow-capped mountains and green water form a very beautiful and harmonious scenery

By A wolf from the northwest |

The most beautiful scenic spot is the representative scenic spot of Jiuzhaigou

By Brilliant broken bicycle |

I will never regret going to Jiuzhaigou, the super beautiful Jiuzhaigou

By Island Mountain No. 17 |

The Peacock River connects closely to the tail end of Wuhua Lake. True to its name, the lake's interlaced sapphire, dark green, and golden hues resemble a peacock's blooming tail, drawing many young women donning Tibetan clothing to capture precious memories of this breathtaking scenery.

By Follow the wind |

The road is lush and green, the scenery is picturesque, and every step is a scene. It is really beautiful.

By keelyye |

Very beautiful! It really looks like a peacock when viewed from above.


The attractions mentioned in the left itinerary


More attractions in Jiuzhaigou


Popular attractions in Sichuan

Top attractions in Chengdu

Top attractions in Danba

Top attractions in Daocheng

Top attractions in Dujiangyan

Top attractions in Jiuzhaigou

Top attractions in Kangding

Top attractions in Leshan

Top attractions in Lixian

Top attractions in MianYang

Top attractions in Mount Emei

Top attractions in Ruoergai

Top attractions in Seda

Top attractions in Wenchuan

Top attractions in Xichang

Top attractions in Yaan

Top attractions in Yibin