Jiuzhaigou Five-Colored Pool

Introducing Jiuzhaigou Five-Colored Pool

The Five-Colored Pond is the quintessence of Jiuzhaigou's lakes. It's the smallest and most colorful lake in the valley, with a turquoise upper half, orange-red lower half, sky blue on the left, and olive green on the right. The lake is home to aquatic plants such as Spirogyra, Chara, and small ferns, as well as herbs like reeds, knotweed, and water wick.

These aquatic communities contain different levels of chlorophyll, which creates different colors in the lake's calcium carbonate-rich water. In winter, when the surrounding area is covered in ice and snow, this colorful little pond remains frozen, which is quite amazing.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

September to December is the best time to visit

Tickets

Included in the Jiuzhaigou scenic area ticket

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

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

Attraction opening hours

Off-season (November 16th - March 31st of the following year) 08:30-18:00

Peak season (April 1st - November 15th): 07:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jiuzhaigou Five-Colored Pool

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

The Jiuzhaigou Five-Colored Pool is a unique natural wonder located within Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, known for its ethereal beauty. The pools are famous for their vivid colors, which are a result of algae and the minerals present in the water. The area holds cultural significance for the local Tibetan people, who consider it sacred, and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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

The Five-Colored Pool is located in the Jiuzhaigou Valley, in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. To get there, you can take a bus from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou, which is the most common route. Once in Jiuzhaigou, you can take a shuttle bus to the various scenic spots within the park, including the Five-Colored Pool.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park is typically open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the autumn months (September to November) when the foliage is at its peak, and the colors of the pools are most vibrant. Early morning visits help avoid the crowds.

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

The entrance fee to Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, which includes access to the Five-Colored Pool, is approximately ¥220 for a one-day ticket. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the park entrance. It's recommended to book online, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

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

It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons such as national holidays or weekends. Booking 1-2 days in advance should generally suffice, but during very busy periods, booking at least a week ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes around 3-4 hours to fully explore the Five-Colored Pool and its surrounding area, including some of the nearby scenic spots. If you plan to hike and enjoy other attractions in Jiuzhaigou Valley, you may need a full day.

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

• The Five-Colored Pool, with its breathtaking vivid colors.
• Nearby waterfalls and scenic spots like the Nuorilang Waterfall.
• The Shuzheng Valley, which offers a stunning view of the valley and other colorful pools.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides can be rented at the park entrance, offering explanations in both Chinese and English. You may also consider hiring a private guide for a more personalized experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Five-Colored Pool itself is the most iconic photography spot, especially for capturing the colorful reflections in the water.
• The nearby waterfalls and the surrounding lush landscapes also offer excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Five-Colored Pool, then continue along the main trail to explore other nearby scenic spots, such as the Shuzheng Waterfall and the Nuorilang Waterfall. If time allows, take the shuttle bus to further areas of Jiuzhaigou for additional views.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Five-Colored Pool. However, special cultural tours may be available in nearby areas, showcasing Tibetan culture and traditions.

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

The park tends to be crowded during Chinese public holidays, weekends, and the summer months. To avoid large crowds, visit during weekdays in the off-season (spring or autumn) or early in the morning.

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

• There are rest areas, food stalls, and shops within the park where you can buy snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
• Clean restrooms are available at key points throughout the park.

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

The park is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths and shuttle buses available for transportation. However, the steep terrain may be challenging for some visitors, and it’s best to check accessibility options upon arrival.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, and credit cards are also accepted in most places. It’s still advisable to carry some cash in case you visit areas where mobile payment options are unavailable.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Inside Jiuzhaigou Valley, there are several restaurants and food stalls offering Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot and yak meat dishes.
• Nearby, in the town of Jiuzhaigou, you will find more dining options, including international and Chinese restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available, especially in the park’s restaurants. Halal food may be more difficult to find, but there are some specialized restaurants in the nearby town of Jiuzhaigou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels and guesthouses within Jiuzhaigou Valley, ranging from budget to luxury options.
• In the nearby town of Jiuzhaigou, you can find additional accommodation options, including international hotel chains and local guesthouses.

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

• The Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park itself offers multiple scenic spots, including the Shuzheng Waterfall and the Nuorilang Waterfall.
• Consider visiting the Tibetan villages nearby to experience local culture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops inside the park and in the town of Jiuzhaigou. Typical souvenirs include Tibetan handicrafts, prayer beads, and traditional garments, as well as local artwork and jewelry.

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

After visiting the Five-Colored Pool, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi back to Jiuzhaigou town. From there, buses or private cars are available for travel to other nearby attractions or Chengdu.