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The Shuzheng Qunhai Scenic Area is the gateway to Jiuzhaigou's stunning scenery. The Shuzheng Qunhai Scenic Area stretches 13.8 kilometers and contains over 40 lakes (haizi), representing approximately 40% of all lakes in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. These 40 lakes, like shimmering mirrors, stretch along the ravine for five to six kilometers. The water shimmers, the waves ripple, birds sing, and reeds sway.
The entire group of lakes is distinctly layered, its hues of green set against blue, creating a natural, fairytale-like scene. Water from the upper lake overflows the embankment and spills through the trees, sending up white splashes that dance and dart through the verdant landscape. The water tumbles along the embankment, forming curtains of water that are graceful and ever-changing.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Best time of year: late autumn
Crystal Palace
The most breathtaking sight is the "Crystal Palace" at the lower end of the Shuzheng Lakes: a thousand acres of water, 40 to 50 meters deep, the vast expanse appears vast from afar, while the accumulated water appears clear up close. About ten meters below the surface, a milky yellow calcium carbonate embankment stretches deep into the lake, like a long dragon stretching across the lakebed.
Nuorilang Waterfall
At the end of the Shuzheng Qunhai Scenic Area is the majestic Nuorilang Waterfall. While tourists are still looking around and lingering on the winding mountain trail, the Nuorilang Waterfall in front of them has already roared with waves, spread water mist, and created rainbows, passionately welcoming guests from afar.
It is recommended to play for 3 to 4 hours
Included in the Jiuzhaigou scenic area ticket
Peak season (April to November): 190 yuan
Off-season (November-March): 80 yuan
Peak season: 06:30~18:00
Off-season: 06:30~17:00
Shuzheng Qunhai is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, and is known for its rich Tibetan culture, natural beauty, and the pristine lake. The area is significant for its traditional Tibetan villages and as a popular spot for eco-tourism, reflecting the harmony between the Tibetan people and their natural surroundings.
Shuzheng Qunhai is located in Aba Prefecture in Sichuan, China. The most common way to reach it is by car or bus from Chengdu, which takes about 7-8 hours. There is no metro, but buses and taxis are available from the main city hubs.
Shuzheng Qunhai is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and green. Winter visits are less popular due to colder temperatures.
The entrance fee is typically around 60-100 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tour agencies. Online platforms may also offer tickets during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons (July and August), especially if visiting as part of a group tour. For regular visits, buying tickets on-site is usually sufficient.
A visit typically takes 3 to 4 hours, but if you want to hike or explore surrounding areas, you might want to plan for a half-day trip.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour guides may offer basic explanations in English. Audio guides are not commonly available, but guides can be hired on-site.
The best viewpoints are around the shores of Shuzheng Qunhai Lake, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photography.
Start with a leisurely walk around Shuzheng Qunhai Lake, then head to the nearby Tibetan village for a cultural experience. Conclude with a visit to the monastery and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at Shuzheng Qunhai. Special tours may be available during festivals or special events in the region.
The area can get crowded during the summer months (July-August) and during local festivals. The least crowded times are in the early mornings or during weekdays outside of peak holiday seasons.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas at the site. Some small food stalls are available, offering traditional Tibetan snacks. For a larger meal or shopping, you will need to travel to nearby towns.
Shuzheng Qunhai is somewhat accessible, but due to its natural terrain, some areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. There are relatively easier walking paths near the lake for families with children.
Cash is still widely used in the area, although mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly common in the region. Credit cards are rarely accepted in remote areas, so it's best to carry cash.
There are a few small local Tibetan restaurants and cafes near the site, serving traditional Tibetan food like yak meat, butter tea, and barley bread. For more options, you can head to nearby towns like Aba or Songpan.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in the form of Tibetan vegetable dishes. Halal food may be more difficult to find, but it’s possible in some areas with a larger Muslim population.
There are basic guesthouses and inns near Shuzheng Qunhai. For more comfortable accommodations, you may want to stay in nearby towns such as Songpan or Aba, where you'll find more hotel options.
Local souvenir shops offer items such as Tibetan crafts, jewelry, scarves, and yak wool products. Hand-painted Thangka scrolls are a popular traditional souvenir.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Shuzheng Qunhai is by bus or taxi. You can also rent a car to explore nearby towns like Aba, Songpan, or head to the Jiuzhaigou Valley for more natural beauty.
