Rize Valley

日则沟

Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area is laid out in a Y-shape, with Rize Valley on the right branch (the left branch is Zechawa Valley, and the lower branch is Shuzheng Valley). This 18-kilometer stretch, from Nuorilang Waterfall to the primeval forest, is the essence of Jiuzhaigou. Its scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and varied.
The main attractions of Rizegou include: primeval forest, Jianyan Hanging Spring, Swan Sea, Grass Sea, Eagle Claw Cave, Arrow Bamboo Sea, Panda Sea, Panda Sea Waterfall, Five-flower Sea, Peacock River, Golden Bell Sea, Pearl Beach, Pearl Beach Waterfall, Mirror Sea, and Nuorilang Sea.

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景区日则沟)

  • History: Rize Valley is one of the three main branches of Jiuzhaigou Valley. The valley has been shaped over millennia by glacial and river activity, creating cascading lakes, waterfalls, and diverse alpine landscapes. Local Tibetan and Qiang people have lived in the surrounding areas for centuries, adding cultural significance to the natural beauty.
  • Architecture: Minimal structures within the valley, mainly eco-friendly walkways, observation platforms, and small wooden shelters designed to blend with the natural scenery.
  • Cultural Value: The valley preserves rich biodiversity and Tibetan-Qiang heritage. Visitors may notice prayer flags, traditional dwellings along the outskirts, and local legends associated with the lakes and peaks.
  • Other Information: Known for its dense forests, pristine lakes, and seasonal variations—spring and autumn provide particularly stunning colors. Popular for nature photography, birdwatching, and ecological tourism.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

  • Ticket Price: Jiuzhaigou National Park ticket: 190 CNY (high season), 120 CNY (low season)
    Eco-bus within park: 90 CNY round-trip

  • Best Photo Spots: Rize Lake (日则湖) observation deck
    Small waterfalls along Rize stream
    Reflection points near alpine meadows

  • Time Reference: 1–2 hours to explore main Rize Valley sights; allow 3–4 hours including connecting trails to nearby lakes

  • Other Information: Early morning provides mist and soft lighting, perfect for photography. Wear sturdy walking shoes for uneven wooden trails.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: Sheraton Jiuzhaigou Resort (九寨沟喜来登度假酒店)
    InterContinental Jiuzhaigou (九寨沟洲际酒店)
  • Mid-range: Jiuzhaigou Holiday Hotel (九寨沟假日酒店)
    Shuzheng Village Guesthouse (树正村民宿)
  • Budget & Boutique: Small lodges near park entrance (景区入口小旅馆)
    Family-run inns in Shuzheng Village (树正村家庭旅馆)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: Tibetan barley cakes (青稞饼)
    Yak meat stew (牦牛肉炖汤)
    Local trout (本地淡水鱼)
    Qiang-style noodles (羌族面食)
  • Famous Spots: Shuzheng Village local eateries (树正村餐馆)
    Lakeside Cafeteria (湖边餐厅)
    Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area restaurants (景区内餐厅)

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Tibetan prayer flags (藏族祈福旗)
  • Handcrafted wooden carvings (手工木雕)
  • Local herbal teas and medicinal products (当地草药及茶叶)
  • Tibetan and Qiang handicrafts (藏羌手工艺品)

Transportation

  • From Jiuzhaigou Airport (九寨黄龙机场): ~1.5 hours by taxi or shuttle bus to park entrance
  • From Chengdu: ~9–10 hours by bus or 1-hour flight to Jiuzhaigou Airport, then taxi/shuttle
  • Eco-bus system inside the park connects main attractions including Rize Valley

Nearby Attractions

  • Shuzheng Lakes (树正群海) – 1.5 km, accessible via eco-bus
  • Reed Lake (芦苇海) – 2 km, reachable by eco-bus and walking trails
  • Nuorilang Waterfall (诺日朗瀑布) – ~1.8 km, take eco-bus and short walk

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes; paths may be slippery when wet
  • Bring water and light snacks; limited options along the trail
  • Morning is best for mist and calm reflections; afternoon provides golden lighting
  • Respect local Tibetan and Qiang customs
  • Weather can change rapidly—carry rain gear
  • Use eco-bus to save energy; walking is optional for photography enthusiasts
  • Protect nature; do not pick plants or litter

Recommended Itineraries

  • Half-Day Trip: Rize Valley → Rize Lake → Waterfall points → Return via eco-bus
  • Full-Day Jiuzhaigou Highlights: D1: Shuzheng Lakes → Rize Valley → Reed Lake → Overnight at Shuzheng Village
  • Two-Day Scenic Adventure: D1: Shuzheng Lakes → Rize Valley → Overnight at Jiuzhaigou lodge
    D2: Reed Lake → Long Lake → Five Flower Lake → Mirror Lake → Return to park entrance

User Reviews

By scholar's spirit |

Jiuzhaigou, a 50km-deep valley, gets its name from the nine Tibetan villages within it: Shuzheng, Heye, and Zechawa. The scenic area is composed of three ravines, forming a "Y"-shaped route. Zechawa Ravine is on the left, Rize Ravine is on the right, and Shuzheng Ravine is near the ravine entrance. The fork in the "Y" is the Nuorilang Transfer Station.

By Rising from the Fire |

The 16-kilometer Rize Valley Scenic Area, between Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is the highlight of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. Its breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes make it the climax of Jiuzhaigou's landscape. Unfortunately, Jiuzhaigou is not yet fully open to the public, and the section from Panda Lake to the primeval forest is still closed.

By Tiger Bai |

The scenery is very beautiful, it is worth the trip, the motherland has great mountains and rivers

By Blue Shirt |

A ravine with dense attractions and unique scenery. After driving to the center of Nuorilang, you will usually visit Rize Valley first.

By fincen |

The first place I went to in Jiuzhaigou was to take a bus directly to Jinghai, then to the primitive forest, and then to Jianzhuhai. The rest of the way was to Nuorilang. It is definitely worth the walk, the whole way is so beautiful.

By babyyang |

The Rize Valley scenic area, nestled between Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is the essence of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. Its breathtaking scenery, diverse in its beauty, is the climax of Jiuzhaigou's landscape. Some lakes here are vibrantly colored, like a kaleidoscope of ever-changing colors; others are pristine and natural, like a fairyland; and still others are deep and tranquil, like a captivating mirror. Along the way, there are dramatic waterfalls, cornucopia-like rapids, and primeval forests filled with towering ancient trees. The scenic spots are arranged in an orderly manner, staggered in height, and seamlessly transition into a natural landscape, offering a powerful sense of beauty and a thrilling experience.

By Doudoudoudoudou |

The colors are so beautiful in autumn. You must see the beautiful scenery given by God.

By Big Bad Wolf |

The 18-kilometer stretch from Nuorilang Waterfall to the primeval forest is the essence of Jiuzhaigou.

By DrZou |

Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area is laid out in a Y-shape, with Rize Valley on the right branch (the left branch is Zechawa Valley, and the lower branch is Shuzheng Valley). This 18-kilometer stretch, from Nuorilang Waterfall to the primeval forest, is the essence of Jiuzhaigou. Its scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and varied.

The main attractions of Rizegou include: primeval forest, Jianyan Hanging Spring, Swan Sea, Grass Sea, Eagle Claw Cave, Arrow Bamboo Sea, Panda Sea, Panda Sea Waterfall, Five-flower Sea, Peacock River, Golden Bell Sea, Pearl Beach, Pearl Beach Waterfall, Mirror Sea, and Nuorilang Sea.

By Li travels all over the world |

The 16-kilometer-long Rize Valley Scenic Area, running between Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is the essence of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. Its breathtaking scenery, with its diverse and varied features, is the climax of Jiuzhaigou's landscape. Here, some lakes are vibrantly colored, like an ever-changing kaleidoscope; others are pristine and natural, like entering a fairyland; and some are deep and tranquil, like a captivating mirror. Along the way, there are also dramatic waterfalls, cornucopia-like rapids, and primeval forests with towering ancient trees. The scenic spots are arranged in an orderly manner, with varying heights and transitions flowing naturally, creating a strong sense of beauty and a thrilling experience.

By Through wind and rain |

The main attractions of Rizegou include: primeval forest, Jianyan Hanging Spring, Swan Sea, Grass Sea, Eagle Claw Cave, Arrow Bamboo Sea, Panda Sea, Panda Sea Waterfall, Five-flower Sea, Peacock River, Golden Bell Sea, Pearl Beach, Pearl Beach Waterfall, Mirror Sea, and Nuorilang Sea.

By Xixi Zetian |

It is very beautiful and unique and worth visiting.

By Mars User |

There is a Y-shaped double ditch on the east side, with concentrated scenery. The original forest will open in the peak season. It seems very good. This is the best ditch with great scenery.

By Xiaolian |

The scenic spots are numerous and densely packed. Walking along the plank path is a picturesque journey. The wooden walkway is framed by mountains and forests on one side, and the ever-so-sighted Jiuzhaigou Water on the other. Although autumn hasn't quite arrived, golden leaves already blanket the trail in patches, creating a stunning spectacle. Moss-covered tree trunks can often be seen along the roadside, likely due to the humid highland climate. The ecology here is complex and diverse, and despite the crowds, the air remains fresh and comfortable. If you pay close attention, you'll discover that every part of Jiuzhaigou is a painting: every pool of water, every mountain, even the spreading tree roots and falling autumn leaves—their beauty is worth savoring.

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 pale |

The main attractions in Rize Valley include: the primeval forest, the Jianyan Hanging Spring, the Swan Sea, the Grass Sea, the Eagle Claw Cave, the Arrow Bamboo Sea, the Panda Sea, the Panda Sea Waterfall, the Five-Flower Sea, the Peacock River, the Golden Bell Sea, the Pearl Beach, the Pearl Beach Waterfall, the Mirror Sea, and the Nuorilang Group of Seas.

By Silkroadca |

There is nothing much to see, just the Changhai Lake and the Five Color Pool, and it takes half an hour by car.

By Rui Rui Rui sharp |

Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area is laid out in a Y-shape, with Rize Valley on the right branch (the left branch is Zechawa Valley, and the lower branch is Shuzheng Valley). This 18-kilometer stretch, from Nuorilang Waterfall to the primeval forest, is the essence of Jiuzhaigou. Its scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and varied.

By GG |

Every scenic spot in Jiuzhaigou is 5 points for me, it is so beautiful

By Angel |

I like this place very much. There are not so many people. It's very nice.

By His Royal Highness Wang Jiuye |

Rize Valley, the right-hand section of Jiuzhaigou, boasts the densest and most beautiful attractions. Take the scenic area's eco-friendly shuttle to the area. The most photographed attractions here are Pearl Beach, Five Flower Lake, Panda Lake, and Peacock Lake, reminiscent of a fairytale world! The dense concentration of attractions and the variety of attractions will leave you wanting to linger!

By Encore. |

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

By Bizarre |

Unified reply, the scenery is picturesque, and every shot is a blockbuster

By The sun and the moon in the painting |

Jiuzhaigou has the most scenic spots, and most of the most beautiful attractions are here.

By Stone as Pure as Pristine Jade |

Jiuzhaigou Valley is a valley on the right side of the Y-shaped valley. The top is the primeval forest, and the bottom is Mirror Lake. The most famous Five Flower Lake is in this valley. There are also Fangcao Lake, Swan Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake, Arrow Bamboo Lake Waterfall, Panda Lake, Jinling Lake, Pearl Beach, Pearl Beach Waterfall, and Mirror Lake. It is the most essential valley in Jiuzhaigou.

By Elephant |

It's beautiful. The scenery of Jiuzhaigou is beautiful, very quiet and beautiful.

By Infinite True Love |

It can only be described as very beautiful. It is especially worth going. It is also very beautiful in winter.

By Autumn Shadow |

Jiuzhaigou Valley is mainly composed of three valleys: Shuzheng Valley, Rize Valley, and Zezhawa Valley, with a total length of 49 kilometers. Rize Valley is the main place to see waterfalls, including the most beautiful Pearl Beach.

By ^.^Banana Pig^.^ |

It's a must-see attraction. I think it's okay.

By Mars User |

To explore the essence of Jiuzhaigou, you must walk if you have enough time. Walk around the various plank roads, take pictures from all angles. Don’t limit yourself to the most crowded places. Every two steps forward, you will see scenery.

By Mai's Divination |

The forest and the lake complement each other beautifully, and it is also a place where scenic spots are concentrated!

By sandfish |

Jiuzhaigou's scenery is truly stunning, and the tourist facilities are well-equipped. Be sure to breathe in the fresh air! It cleanses your lungs, haha!

By Fish Flower |

The Rize Valley Scenic Area is 18 kilometers long, between the Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest. It is the essence of the Jiuzhaigou scenic area. The scenery is beautiful and varied, and it is also the climax of the Jiuzhaigou landscape.

By Brother Xiqi |

Rize Valley, one of Jiuzhaigou's three main valleys, stretches 18 kilometers between Nuorilang and the primeval forest. It offers some of Jiuzhaigou's most beautiful and essential scenery. We recommend taking a bus to Jianzhuhai and then hiking all the way to Jinghai. The scenery along the way is breathtaking!

By Happy Ranger |

The 16-kilometer Rize Valley Scenic Area, running between Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is the highlight of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. With breathtaking scenery and diverse forms, it's the climax of Jiuzhaigou's landscape. This route boasts numerous scenic spots, including Pearl Beach, Golden Bell Lake, Peacock Lake, Five-Flower Lake, Panda Lake, and Arrow Bamboo Lake.

By Anne519 |

Among the three tourist valleys in Jiuzhaigou, this one has the most concentrated attractions and the most colorful scenery.

One day is not enough to fully appreciate her beauty.

You can spend a whole day looking at Mirror Lake and Five Flower Lake without getting tired of it.

By lid3921 |

The most scenic and most essential valley in Jiuzhaigou is the Wuhua Lake.

By ONEsD |

A recommended route, the scenery of this ditch is better, Mirror Sea, Panda Sea, Pearl Beach, and Wuhua Sea are all on this line!

By Applehead |

Recommend to go, recommend to go, recommend to go, recommend to go, reasonable arrangement

By Qingxin Candy💋 |

Rize Valley is the upper right fork of the Y-shaped Jiuzhaigou, which is the direction of the primeval forest. There are many highlights and attractions. It is recommended to walk from Jianzhu Lake to Wuhua Lake.

By wn196111 |

It's so beautiful! Every vantage point offers breathtaking views. I spent two days in the ditch and still haven't seen it all. I'll definitely go back when I have time.

By Yueyue |

Very unique, worth a visit, beautiful, great

By Xiao Hei |

The water is crystal clear, it's amazing, the environment is great, it's comfortable to walk and watch, most of the lakes are similar

By Joyful Heart |

Beautiful, but generally speaking, the primeval forest line is more distinctive.

By Jerry Bag |

The 16-kilometer-long Rize Valley Scenic Area, running between Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is the highlight of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. Its breathtaking scenery, with its diverse and varied landscapes, is the climax of Jiuzhaigou's landscape. Here, some lakes are vibrantly colored, like a kaleidoscope of ever-changing colors; others are pristine and natural, like entering a fairyland; and some are deep and tranquil, like a captivating mirror. Along the way, there are also dramatic waterfalls, cornucopia-like rapids, and primeval forests with towering ancient trees. The scenic spots are arranged in an orderly manner, with varying heights and transitions between natural elements, creating a strong sense of beauty and a thrilling experience.

By Young |

Rize Valley is the highlight of Jiuzhaigou. You must see it, especially the Five Flower Lake inside, which is the essence of the essence. The most beautiful Jiuzhaigou you can think of can be found here.

By SU_SueBusy |

It's so pretty, go for blue, it's blue. I love blue!

By Happy Life |

The most scenic and beautiful section of Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area is known as the fairy tale world.

By Jian Ge |

This attraction can only be seen from the car when passing by, and it seems that the car does not stop here.

By Sarah |

I really like every attraction, but I feel that there is not enough time.

By Yellow circle |

It's so beautiful, it's like a paradise on earth. If I have the chance, I will come again.

By SgrEpsilon |

If it is sunny, go in the morning, before the sun is at its highest at noon.

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 Sagittarius Cat Classmate |

The 18-kilometer-long Rize Valley scenic route, between the Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is the essence of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. Its scenery is breathtaking and varied.

By Feihuo "Star" |

Haha, the scenery of Jiuzhaigou is worth the trip~

By Travel around the world |

One of the four valleys in Jiuzhaigou, it is also an important valley, but the scenery is not as good as the other valleys.

By Lin San |

At first you will be amazed by the clarity of the water, but after looking around you will become numb because all the lakes are similar.

By Little Prince of Milan |

The lake water is crystal clear and turquoise all year round, and with the change of light and seasons, it presents different tones and water patterns.

By A cat named 胐朏 |

It's beyond imagination, very beautiful! ~~~~

By scale |

The essence of Jiuzhaigou. If you don't have enough time and energy, you can give up other valleys, but you must visit this valley.

By Traveler |

Rize Valley is one of the three main valleys in Jiuzhaigou. I feel that the scenery of this valley is the most beautiful in Jiuzhaigou.

The farthest scenic spot in Rizegou is the primeval forest. We did not go there due to time constraints when we were playing there. There was nothing there but forest, so there was no need to go there.

I think if you want to have a good time in this ditch, you have to walk the whole way, so everyone needs to have good physical strength, otherwise it will be very tiring to walk more than 20 kilometers a day.

Regarding the time arrangement of the tour, in order to avoid the peak period, it is best to go in the afternoon when there will be fewer people.

The scenic area's service is in Nuorilang, so there is only a small service point here, which is okay for emergencies.

By Anthony29 |

Very beautiful, very beautiful, very beautiful...

By roy_a |

The three dogs are each worth visiting, with different scenery.

By Seed Jade |

Each ditch has its own characteristics, some are big, some are small, and some are high.

By Drifting Bottle |

Rize Valley, an 18-kilometer scenic route between Nuorilang Waterfall and the primeval forest, is a highlight of Jiuzhaigou's scenic route. Its various lakes and waterfalls are breathtakingly beautiful and varied, and the scenery changes dramatically with each season.

By Heavy rain causes flooding |

Located in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, it is the most beautiful area in Jiuzhaigou.

By poppy |

Jiuzhaigou. Beauty beyond words!

By Star |

The ditch with the most attractions is worth a visit. It's pretty good.

By Cat Food |

The scenery is beautiful, very beautiful, I really want to see it again!

By |

Jiuzhaigou has only three valleys, and each valley has its own unique scenery. It is really hard to describe such a large scenic spot.

By yangde 1019 |

Our tour guide told us that Rize Valley is arguably the most worthwhile of Jiuzhaigou's three valleys, and it's best viewed in the morning. After entering the Jiuzhaigou scenic area, everyone boarded a sightseeing bus, which randomly decided which valley to visit first based on the number of visitors entering each valley. We were incredibly lucky; the bus turned right at the Nuorilang Central Station and entered Rize Valley. Everyone on the bus cheered! Since we'd stayed at the Jiuzhaigou entrance the previous day, we woke up early the next morning and lined up to enter the scenic area around 8:00 AM. Fortunately, it wasn't overly crowded.

By pp |

Midea is a scenic spot with transportation. I don't feel tired while walking and looking at the scenery, but there are too many people.

By Barney Sauce |

There are many beautiful sights along the Y-shaped line, and the main attractions are located here.

By ivyz32 |

I went to Jiuzhaigou twice... but I didn't get to see Rize Valley properly...

By Walking leisurely |

Compared to the lake, its water is not as green or blue, but it is clear and clean. You can see the reflections of the ancient tree trunks at the bottom of the lake and the trees on the shore. It is very beautiful.


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