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Jinchuan Red Leaf Valley includes Shenxianbao, which is located in Jinchuan Shaer Township, Anning River Valley, and Kaer Township.
Jinchuan Red Leaf Valley is a vast area stretching over a hundred kilometers from Danba up the Jinchuan River to the outskirts of Jinchuan County. The crimson leaves of one million pear trees are a breathtaking spectacle, whether viewed from close up or far away. The leaves alternate between red and yellow, varying in depth from light to dark, creating a vibrant riot of color.
Jinchuan has distinct four seasons, with spring and autumn being short.
The best viewing time for Jinchuan Red Leaf Valley is only 15 days, which is around the beginning of November, roughly from late October to early November. Due to climate differences each year, the time for the red leaves to change color may be advanced or delayed by up to a week, so November is the safest time to visit.
Recommended play time: about 1 day
Jinchuan Red Leaf Valley is a well-known autumn destination in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The valley is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, especially the vibrant red maple leaves that cover the valley during autumn. The area holds significance for its natural beauty and as a cultural site for local Tibetan and Qiang communities.
Located in Jinchuan County, in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan, it can be reached by car or taxi from the nearby towns. There is no metro or bus that directly serves the area, so driving or hiring a taxi is the best option for visiting the site.
The valley is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from October to early November, when the red leaves are at their peak. The valley is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
The entrance fee is typically around 50-80 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some local tourism websites may offer tickets for advance booking during peak seasons.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most of the year. However, during the peak autumn season, booking tickets a few days in advance is recommended to avoid long lines.
You will need around 2-4 hours to explore the valley fully, including hiking and taking in the views. If you plan to do longer hikes or visit nearby cultural sites, you may want to allocate more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may also speak basic English. Audio guides in Mandarin are available, though they may be limited in other languages.
The valley's entrance and the highest points of the hiking trails offer the best views for photography. The contrast between the red leaves and the snow-capped peaks in the distance is especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset.
Start at the entrance, explore the valley along the main walking path, and stop at the viewpoints for photography. If time permits, take a longer hike to explore the surrounding mountains for panoramic views.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available. The site is best explored during the day, especially in the morning when the light enhances the autumn foliage.
The valley can get crowded during the autumn foliage season, especially on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays in the morning, particularly in the early weeks of October.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls selling snacks and drinks. There are also souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and items related to the red leaf valley.
The valley is partially accessible for elderly and children, though some of the hiking paths may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The main areas are paved and accessible by car, but certain spots may require more strenuous walking.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at most shops and food stalls. Cash is still widely accepted, especially in smaller stores or stalls.
Vegetarian food options are available at most local restaurants, though vegan options may be limited. Halal food may be found at specific restaurants catering to Muslim travelers in the area.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling Tibetan handicrafts, red leaf-themed items, local textiles, and traditional Qiang and Tibetan jewelry.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or private car to nearby towns. Public transportation options are limited, so arranging a ride in advance is recommended for longer trips.
