Jiuzhaigou

What are the most recommended things to do in Jiuzhaigou?

  • Walk the scenic trails and view colorful lakes like Five Flower Lake and Mirror Lake
  • Visit Nuorilang Waterfall and Pearl Shoal Waterfall
  • Explore the Tibetan villages within the park
  • Take photos of the snow-capped mountains and dense forests
  • Enjoy short hikes and nature photography

Introducing Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou, located in Zhangza Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is named after the nine Tibetan villages there. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its "Six Wonders of Jiuzhaigou": emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, Tibetan sentiment, and blue ice.

Jiuzhaigou's scenery is so stunning it's been described as "unearthly beautiful." It boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, with pristine forests home to over a dozen rare and precious wildlife, including the giant panda. From afar, snow-capped peaks tower over the landscape, while up close, the waters are crystal clear, revealing the bottom. Add to this the cultural landscape of Tibetan wooden houses, prayer flags, trestle bridges, mills, and Tibetan customs and legends, and Jiuzhaigou is breathtakingly beautiful year-round, reminiscent of a fairytale. It's also a popular filming location for domestic television dramas.

Climate and best time to travel

Jiuzhaigou's scenery has its own unique characteristics in each season, but most people prefer to visit in late autumn. The colorful forests and the blue-green lakes create a vibrant world.

From November 16th to March 31st of the following year is the best time for winter tours in Jiuzhaigou. Snowflakes are flying and a winter fairy tale covered in silver is staged in Jiuzhaigou, which also officially ushers in Jiuzhaigou’s most grand winter festival - the Ice Waterfall Festival.

The Jiuzhaigou Folk Customs Month is held for one month in March and April to showcase the long-standing ethnic culture and charming folk customs of Jiuzhaigou. Tourists and friends are welcome to participate on their own and experience the most enthusiastic charm of the Tibetan compatriots.

Starting from the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, the senior monks in the temple chant sutras every day, which lasts until the fourteenth day of the fourth lunar month. On the fifteenth day of the fourth lunar month, rituals such as sacrifices and prayers for the Machi Festival are held for the public.

The Tibetan New Year in Jiuzhaigou not only has a grand festive atmosphere, but also allows every tourist who comes here to feel the unique charm of this land and experience the unique folk customs.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

In addition to the picturesque scenery and charming and mysterious Tibetan culture, Jiuzhaigou also offers a variety of unique entertainment activities, such as visiting Tibetan homes, experiencing roasted whole lamb, dancing Guozhuang, and enjoying Tibetan hot pot. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery while experiencing a variety of activities.

Recommended number of days for visiting: about 3 days

Tickets

April 1-November 15, peak season ticket price: ¥110/person

January 16th - March 31st of the following year, off-season ticket price: ¥40/person

Peak season sightseeing ticket: ¥90/person

Off-season sightseeing ticket: ¥90/person

Attraction opening hours

Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area will take temporary closure measures and stop receiving tourists from July 1, 2018.


Most Popular FAQs for Jiuzhaigou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its pristine lakes, waterfalls, and Tibetan culture. It showcases unique karst landscapes and biodiversity.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Sichuan Province, about 330 km north of Chengdu. Access via Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Airport flight or bus transfer; inside the park, electric buses shuttle visitors between key spots.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open 7:00–18:00. Best times: spring and autumn for mild weather and vibrant lake colors.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Peak season ticket: ~RMB 310, off-season ~RMB 200
  • Tickets can be bought online or at the park entrance

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Recommended during peak season; 1–2 weeks in advance for online booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2 full days to cover the main scenic areas comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Five Flower Lake
  • Mirror Lake
  • Nuorilang Waterfall
  • Shuzheng Valley
  • Rize Valley

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours and audio guides are available in Chinese and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Overlooking Five Flower Lake from the boardwalk
  • Nuorilang Waterfall viewpoint
  • Mirror Lake reflection shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Take the park bus to Shuzheng Valley, visit Nuorilang Waterfall, continue to Rize and Zechawa Valleys, ending at Mirror and Five Flower Lakes.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No night visits; park closes at sunset; special guided nature tours are occasionally offered.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak in summer and national holidays; weekdays in spring and autumn are quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Restrooms, small restaurants, vending areas, souvenir shops, and rest stops are available along trails.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Electric buses and boardwalks make it moderately accessible; some trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments widely accepted; some small vendors may require cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Restaurants at park entrances serving local Sichuan and Tibetan dishes
  • Small cafés in Jiuzhaigou town

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Limited; some Tibetan restaurants offer vegetarian options; halal options are sparse.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Jiuzhaigou Holiday Hotel
  • Tibetan-style guesthouses in the park vicinity
  • Budget hotels in Jiuzhaigou town

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Huanglong Scenic Area
  • Shangri-La Tibetan villages

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes; Tibetan crafts, local wool products, and postcards.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Return to Jiuzhaigou Airport or bus to Chengdu; car rentals for regional travel are also available.