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Princess Lake in Jiuzhaigou is a small lake located between the Shuzheng Lakes and Shuzheng Waterfall. Legend has it that the daughter of a certain god bathed here and named it Princess Lake. Later, during the filming of Journey to the West, Zhu Bajie watched the spider spirit bathe here as well.
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Recommended play time: 10-20 minutes
Tickets are included in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket
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Princess Sea, or Gongye Lake, is a beautiful alpine lake located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It holds cultural significance in Tibetan folklore, with stories about its serene waters and the legend of a Tibetan princess who is said to have visited the lake. The lake is an important site for local Tibetan communities and draws visitors for both its beauty and spiritual significance.
Princess Sea is located in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. To get there, you can take a long-distance bus or taxi from Chengdu to the town of Aba, then continue by taxi or local transport to the lake. There is no metro service in the area.
The lake is open year-round, though the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant, and the lake's surroundings are lush and green. The autumn months also offer a beautiful display of changing foliage. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography.
There is no official entrance fee for visiting Princess Sea. However, some tours or boat rides may have a fee. Tickets for these can typically be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.
Booking in advance is not typically required, except during peak tourist seasons (such as summer or holidays) when tours or boat rides may get booked up. Booking a few days in advance is advisable if you're traveling during these busy periods.
You can explore the area in about 3-4 hours. If you plan to take a boat ride and hike around the lake, consider allocating a full day to enjoy the area at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour guides may speak English. Audio guides are not typically available, so it's recommended to book a guided tour if you're unfamiliar with the area or local culture.
Start by visiting the lake's main viewpoint and take a boat ride around the lake. Afterward, hike along the trails that circle the lake to explore the surrounding scenery and Tibetan villages. Consider visiting a local monastery or cultural site if you have additional time.
Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no light shows or special tours at Princess Sea. The natural beauty of the area is best experienced during daylight hours, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The area can become crowded during weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, visit during the weekdays or in the early morning, particularly during the shoulder seasons in late spring or early autumn.
Basic facilities such as toilets and small food stalls are available near the lake. There are no major shops or rest areas, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking.
The area is accessible for elderly and children, but the hiking trails around the lake may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check the terrain in advance if you or your travel companions have specific accessibility needs.
Cash is generally used in the area, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted in all locations.
There are small local Tibetan restaurants and eateries near the lake offering traditional dishes such as yak meat, Tibetan bread, and butter tea. For more dining options, you may need to travel to Aba or nearby towns.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local Tibetan cuisine, including vegetable stews and bread. Halal options may be limited in this area.
There are basic guesthouses and hotels in the nearby town of Aba, about 1-2 hours away from Princess Sea. For more luxurious accommodations, you would need to stay in Chengdu and take a day trip to the lake.
Nearby attractions include the Tibetan monasteries and scenic areas around Aba, including the Yala Snow Mountain. You could also visit local Tibetan villages to experience traditional culture.
Local souvenir shops offer traditional Tibetan handicrafts such as jewelry, textiles, and religious items. You can also find items like Tibetan tea, incense, and carved wooden artifacts.
After visiting Princess Sea, taxis or buses are the best options to return to Aba or Chengdu. From Chengdu, you can continue your journey by bus or train to other destinations in Sichuan or Tibet.
