Wolong Lake

卧龙海

Wolong Lake, located at 2,215 meters above sea level and 22 meters deep, is a small and exquisite example of a blue lake, its rich, intoxicating hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm, tranquil, and serene, like a crystal-clear sapphire.
Wolong Lake is surrounded by a vibrant array of flowers, plants, and trees. In spring and summer, it's a vibrant green. When the autumn wind blows, the embankment is ablaze with autumn colors, with red leaves and green trees reflected in the lake and mountains, creating a breathtaking beauty. A milky yellow calcium carbonate deposit lies at the bottom of the Wolong Sea, resembling a giant dragon submerged in the water.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, China (四川省阿坝藏族羌族自治州九寨沟县九寨沟景区)

  • History: Wolong Lake is one of the many stunning alpine lakes in Jiuzhaigou, formed by natural damming of rivers in a glacial valley. The area has been inhabited by Tibetan and Qiang communities for centuries, giving it rich cultural and ecological significance.
  • Architecture & Cultural Value: The site is primarily natural, with wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms built to minimize environmental impact. The lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped mountains and lush forests, often described as a mirror of nature. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jiuzhaigou National Park (九寨沟国家公园), known for its biodiversity and preservation of endemic species.
  • Other Information: Wolong Lake is especially famous for its turquoise-blue water, seasonal color changes, and tranquil surroundings. It is a favorite spot for photography, bird watching, and experiencing the Tibetan and Qiang culture through nearby villages.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00 (08:00–17:00)

  • Ticket Price: 220 CNY (Peak season, 4/1–11/15) (220元/旺季)
    180 CNY (Off-season, 11/16–3/31) (180元/淡季)

  • Best Photo Spots: Lakeside boardwalks (湖边栈道), reflection points for mountains (山影倒影点), autumn foliage viewpoint (秋景观景点), snow-capped peaks in winter (冬季雪景)

  • Time Reference: 1–2 hours for Wolong Lake; 3–4 hours if exploring the surrounding lakes and trails.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: InterContinental Jiuzhaigou Resort (九寨沟洲际度假酒店)
    Mid-range: Jiuzhaigou Holiday Hotel (九寨沟假日酒店)
    Budget & Boutique: Jiuzhaigou Tibetan Guesthouse (九寨沟藏式民宿)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: Tibetan Barley Beer (青稞酒), Yak Meat Stew (牦牛肉炖菜), Local Cheese (酥油奶酪)
    Famous Spots/Restaurants: Wolong Guesthouse Restaurant (卧龙宾馆餐厅), Tibetan-style local eateries near Jiuzhaigou Valley (九寨沟藏式餐馆)

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Tibetan handicrafts (藏式手工艺品), Prayer flags (经幡), Incense sticks (香), Local honey and herbs (本地蜂蜜及草药)

Transportation

  • - From Chengdu: Take a flight to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (九寨黄龙机场), then taxi or shuttle bus (~1.5 hours) to Jiuzhaigou Valley.
    - From Jiuzhaigou County town: Shuttle buses or taxis are available to the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area entrance (~30–40 minutes).
    - Within Jiuzhaigou: Electric buses connect major scenic spots, including Wolong Lake.
    - Walking: Boardwalk trails around Wolong Lake are pedestrian-only.

Nearby Attractions

  • - Five-Flower Lake (五花海), 1.5 km, walkable via scenic trail
    - Long Lake (长海), 1.8 km, connected by Jiuzhaigou park shuttle
    - Panda Lake (熊猫海), 2 km, accessible via shuttle bus and short walk

Tips for Visitors

  • - Arrive early to avoid peak crowds and capture morning reflections.
    - Wear comfortable walking shoes; trails can be slippery.
    - Carry water and light snacks; food inside the park is limited.
    - Respect wildlife and local culture; do not feed animals.
    - Check seasonal accessibility: winter may have snow-covered paths.
    - Bring a camera with wide-angle lens for lake reflections and landscapes.

Recommended itineraries

  • Route 1: One-Day Jiuzhaigou Classic
    D1: Wolong Lake → Five-Flower Lake → Pearl Shoal Waterfall (珍珠滩瀑布) → Return to park entrance
    Transportation: Electric bus between lakes, walking on boardwalks.

    Route 2: Two-Day Scenic Immersion
    D1: Wolong Lake → Panda Lake → Long Lake → Stay near park
    D2: Shuzheng Village (树正寨) → Shuzheng Waterfall (树正瀑布) → Nuorilang Waterfall (诺日朗瀑布) → Exit
    Transportation: Park shuttle buses + walking trails.

    Route 3: Multi-Day Photography Tour
    D1: Wolong Lake sunrise shoot → Five-Flower Lake → Pearl Shoal Waterfall
    D2: Long Lake → Panda Lake → Autumn foliage points or snow scenes depending on season

User Reviews

By scholar's spirit |

They say that after visiting Jiuzhaigou, you won’t want to see water. The most amazing thing about Jiuzhaigou is its water. When I reached Laohuhai, I believed it. When there is no wind, the water in Jiuzhaigou is as still as a mirror and full of colors.

By Blue Shirt |

Wolong Lake, situated at an altitude of 2,215 meters and 22 meters deep, is a small and exquisite example of a blue lake, its intense blue hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm and tranquil, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire. Through the mirror-like surface, a long, milky white travertine causeway stretches across the lake, resembling a dragon snorkeling beneath the sea.

By hyydr |

Through the mirror-like water surface, a milky white travertine embankment lies across the center of the lake, like a dragon swimming on the seabed.

By Black Whirlwind___Shadow |

The water is blue-green, bright and beautiful, and crystal clear

By Non-remainder czj |

Wolong Lake, situated at an altitude of 2,215 meters and 22 meters deep, is a small and exquisite example of a blue lake, its intense blue hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm and tranquil, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire. Through the mirror-like surface, a long, milky white travertine causeway stretches across the lake, resembling a dragon snorkeling beneath the sea.

By Useless young people |

At 2,215 meters above sea level and 22 meters deep, the petite Wolong Lake exemplifies the blue of lakes, its intensely rich hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm and tranquil, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire. Through the mirror-like surface, a long, milky-white travertine causeway stretches across the lake, resembling a dragon snorkeling beneath the sea.

By babyyang |

The petite Wolong Lake is a classic example of a blue lake, its rich, refreshing blue hue refreshing. Its surface is calm and tranquil, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire.



At the bottom of Longhai Lake in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, a milky yellow calcium carbonate deposit lies, resembling a giant dragon lying submerged. Legend has it that in ancient times, the Black Dragon of the nearby Heishui River required 99 days of annual offerings from the people of Jiuzhaigou before it would bring rain. The White Dragon of the Bailong River, sympathetic to the people, attempted to deliver Bailong River water to Jiuzhaigou, but was blocked by the Black Dragon. The resulting struggle left the White Dragon exhausted and sank into the lake. The God of Ten Thousand Mountains arrived to subdue the Black Dragon. However, the White Dragon, unable to return to the Bailong River, transformed into a yellow dragon, which now rests at the bottom of the lake. In memory of the White Dragon, the people call this lake "Wolong Lake."

By Numb Pigeon |

Wolong Lake is surrounded by a vibrant array of flowers, plants, and trees. In spring and summer, it's a vibrant green. When the autumn winds blow, the embankments are ablaze with autumn colors, with red leaves and green trees reflected against the backdrop of the lake and mountains, creating a breathtaking spectacle. A milky yellow calcium carbonate deposit lies at the bottom of the Wolong Lake, resembling a giant dragon submerged in the water, a truly lifelike sight. When the lake is calm, the clear water reveals the Wolong Lake, seemingly dormant beneath the surface, inviting visitors to admire it. A gentle breeze creates ripples, and the dragon seems to wriggle. A stronger breeze creates waves, and the Wolong Lake appears as if awakened, shaking its head and tail. A strong mountain breeze shatters the tranquil surface, and the Wolong Lake vanishes without a trace. The petite Wolong Lake exemplifies the blue lake, its rich, captivating blue hue captivating the senses. Its surface, calm and tranquil, is like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire, captivating visitors' attention.

By Big Bad Wolf |

Wolong Lake is surrounded by various flowers, plants and trees, and it is green in spring and summer.

By DrZou |

Wolong Lake, located at 2,215 meters above sea level and 22 meters deep, is a small and exquisite example of a blue lake, its rich, intoxicating hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm, tranquil, and serene, like a crystal-clear sapphire.

Wolong Lake is surrounded by a vibrant array of flowers, plants, and trees. In spring and summer, it's a vibrant green. When the autumn wind blows, the embankment is ablaze with autumn colors, with red leaves and green trees reflected in the lake and mountains, creating a breathtaking beauty. A milky yellow calcium carbonate deposit lies at the bottom of the Wolong Sea, resembling a giant dragon submerged in the water.

By Li travels all over the world |

Wolong Lake, located 1,000 meters above sea level and 22 meters deep, is a quintessential example of a blue lake, its intensely rich hue captivating the senses. The lake's surface is calm and tranquil, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire. Through the mirror-like surface, a long, milky-white travertine causeway stretches across the lake's center, resembling a dragon swimming beneath the seabed. A gentle breeze ripples the water, and the dragon's body slowly wriggles, its scales shimmering faintly. A sudden mountain breeze stirs the water, and the Wolong Lake shakes its head and tail, as if about to soar, leap, or fly. But when the wind blows, the shimmering waves blur, and the dragon's shadow vanishes, a mysterious and breathtaking sight.

By Through wind and rain |

The clear water is so clear that you can see the bottom, and the emerald green is so intoxicating.

By Doraemon |

A milky yellow calcium carbonate deposit lies at the bottom of Wolong Lake, resembling a giant, lifelike dragon reposing beneath the waters. When the lake is calm, the clear water reveals the dragon, seemingly dormant, ready for visitors to admire. A gentle breeze sweeps across the surface, creating ripples and the dragon's body seemingly wriggling. A stronger breeze creates waves, and the dragon appears to have been awakened, shaking its head and tail. A strong mountain breeze shatters the tranquil surface, and the dragon vanishes without a trace. The petite Wolong Lake exemplifies the blue lake, its rich, captivating hue. Its surface, calm and tranquil, is like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire, captivating visitors' attention.

By Mars User |

The water is calm, the colors are beautiful, and I feel I am at a loss for words.

By Wind Shadows Dancing |

It feels similar to Panda Lake. In fact, the lake is also very peaceful, with a bright blue-green color and the water is very clear.

By PARA275 |

A very famous lake in Jiuzhaigou. It is neither big nor small. Five shades of blue are reflected in the lake, which is very beautiful.

By REA_Xu Xiaodou |

Jiuzhaigou has a unique charm in winter, but many of the plank roads are closed.

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 Xia Yan |

The scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou are all passing by, and you are not allowed to stop and take pictures. It is best to go there in autumn.

By Mushroom Mushroom I am a big head |

One of my favorite photos, great lighting.

By Jenny |

Located at the intersection of Rizegou and Shuzhenggou, close to the Nuorilang Service Station, it is a beautiful lake that combines clear water, colorful forests and a canopy. Autumn is the most beautiful season here.

By Rui Rui Rui sharp |

Wolong Lake, located at 2,215 meters above sea level and 22 meters deep, is a small and exquisite example of a blue lake, its rich, intoxicating hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm, tranquil, and serene, like a crystal-clear sapphire.

By Mars User |

The color is like a dreamy green (blue), it is beautiful when viewed from different angles!

By GG |

The scenery along the way in Jiuzhaigou is five stars, and it is a place I want to go again after visiting it.

By Angel |

I really like the natural scenery, and it is really beautiful in August.

By Wandering Photographer |

The scenery of Wolong Lake is charming, with waterfalls emerging from the trees.

By Winter velvet flowers |

The scenery is very nice, and the water in Jiuzhaigou is unique in the world!

By num3333 |

A scenic spot in Jiuzhaigou, not leaving a deep impression

By His Royal Highness Wang Jiuye |

Wolong Lake is a scenic spot in Shuzheng Valley within the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. From Shuzheng Village, you can walk all the way to Shuzheng Group Lake, and then to Wolong Lake, Sparkling Lake and Shuanglong Lake. It is really hard to tell these lakes apart, they all look very similar and are very beautiful.

By Eliti's Sugar Cube |

The water in Jiuzhaigou is truly beautiful, either azure blue or crystal clear, incredibly clean. In my next life, I want to be a fish or a tree in Jiuzhaigou...

By Yumiweiwei |

We went there in July and it was beautiful, a must-see. Beautiful photos.

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 fox |

It's breathtakingly beautiful, the water is so beautiful, you can see the bottom...

By Bizarre |

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

By Looking up at the sky |

The characteristic is that there is a particularly obvious calcified dam in the middle of the lake, which is the Wolong

By Yee |

The water is very blue, and there is a dragon-shaped calcification group in it.

By One meter of sunshine |

The name of the lake is Wolonghai because of the milky yellow calcium carbonate sediment under the water, which looks like a dragon lying in the water.

By As light as water |

Wolong Lake, situated at an altitude of 2,215 meters and 22 meters deep, is a small and exquisite example of a blue lake, its intense blue hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm and tranquil, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire. Through the mirror-like surface, a long, milky white travertine causeway stretches across the lake, resembling a dragon snorkeling beneath the sea.

By Mu Ziying |

Beautiful, in fact, this section is more suitable for walking, walking along the plank road and looking at the beautiful scenery, it is comfortable

By Western Travels |

After passing the Sparkling Lake, you will reach Wolong Lake. You can get off at Shuzheng Village and walk back, but be careful about your time arrangement, because there are more beautiful lakes above than Wolong Lake.

By make a sightseeing tour |

It is said that there is a calcified landform in the center of the lake that looks like a sleeping dragon, but I didn't see it.

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 ^.^Banana Pig^.^ |

The lake was very blue, and was surrounded by a variety of flowers, plants, and trees. I didn't notice where the dragon was.

By Bashan and Shushui |

Wolong Lake is very small, deriving its name from a calcified zone at its bottom that resembles a sleeping dragon. From a high vantage point, it resembles a turquoise blue gem. Surrounding the lake are lush greenery in spring and summer, while in autumn, the reflections of crimson leaves and green trees in the lake and mountains create a breathtaking spectacle.

By Mars User |

A milky white travertine embankment lies across the lake, like a giant dragon lying on the bottom of the water. However, this lake is quite small...

By Mai's Divination |

It is the representative of Jiuzhaigou's blue lakes, taking you into a fairy tale world!

By Cappuccino |

Wolong Lake, located at an altitude of 2,220 meters, is 253 meters long, 216-255 meters wide, and 24 meters deep, with a reservoir capacity of 930,000 cubic meters. The exquisitely designed Wolong Lake exemplifies the blue lake, its intense blue hue captivating the senses. Its surface is calm, tranquil, and serene, like a crystal-clear sapphire. Surrounding Wolong Lake are a vibrant array of flowers and trees. In spring and summer, it shimmers in lush greenery. In autumn, the embankment is bathed in vibrant colors, with crimson leaves and green trees reflected against the backdrop of the lake and mountains, creating a breathtaking spectacle. A milky yellow calcium carbonate deposit adorns the seabed, resembling a lifelike dragon submerged in the water.

By Tanggu©Grand Commander |

Each of the lakes in Jiuzhaigou has its own unique characteristics and beauty!

By Rabbit |

The water is clear and blue, and the mineral rocks underneath are like a yellow dragon.

By Pirate ambitions |

Below Shuzheng Village, the reflection in the water is quite beautiful.

By T--may |

It's true that after returning from Jiuzhaigou, I didn't see the sea. The weather was great when I went there, which was very suitable for seeing the colorful scenery.

By Josh |

It is recommended to go in summer, it is very beautiful and suitable for taking pictures

By Josie_f |

It was pretty good. Then we walked out.

By Happy Ranger |

Wolong Lake is exquisitely small, and its rich blue color is captivating. The lake is calm and peaceful, like a smooth, crystal-clear sapphire.

By Anne519 |

There are several relatively large lakes in Shuzhenggou.

You may think it’s pretty good when you see it for the first time, but after you see the beautiful scenery of Rize Valley and then look at Wolong Lake, Tiger Lake and Rhino Lake, you will feel that the scenery is very ordinary.

By Applehead |

Recommend to go, recommend to go, recommend to go, recommend to go,

By Qingxin Candy💋 |

In Shuzhenggou, we walked along the plank road from Rhino Lake to Spark Lake. There are many lakes, each one is different and each one is very beautiful. The scenery changes with every step. It is very beautiful and worth seeing.

By My name is Shishui, okay? |

The scenery is very beautiful. Locals call these lakes Haizi. There are many such lakes, and each one has its own unique beauty. I forgot which Haizi this photo is of.

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 Senior |

The price is very reasonable and it is a shopping paradise. Come and

By ws Leilei |

The scenery is beautiful, it is really beautiful beyond words.

By Any kind of pie |

The lakes are so beautiful that I just kept taking pictures along the way.

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

I went there 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 was really beautiful.

By child |

Every lake in Jiuzhaigou is very beautiful, with a new view at every step.

By Gan Le |

Wolong Lake is incredibly beautiful. Jiuzhaigou isn't very far by car, so hiking is highly recommended. But it's neither far nor near, so for those who don't enjoy walking or are in a hurry, taking a car is still faster!

By Young |

It is a relatively small lake, not very noticeable among the many lakes, so it is easily overlooked.

By Johnny |

It's a beautiful place, I will come again if I have the chance! 1

By ivyz32 |

I didn't have time to take a closer look, so I just took a quick look. I hope I can come to Wolonghai again if I have the chance.

By gtgrgtgrdo |

The water is so clear that you can see schools of fish swimming freely.

By Unruly madman |

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

By Sung |

Beautiful, beautiful, the scenery is so good, it's worth coming

By Jeremy Jiangzi |

It’s so beautiful, the water is so blue and clear that it makes people linger, great!

By Zhang Zhigang. |

I went to Jiuzhaigou three years ago. I can’t remember the specific names of the attractions, but I still have an impression that every attraction in Jiuzhaigou is fascinating.

By Little bee who loves traveling |

Wolong Lake is part of the scenery in Jiuzhaigou and is well worth a visit!


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