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Shuzhenggou lies at the lower branch of the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area's "Y"-shaped layout (Zhechawagou on the left and Rizegou on the right). From its entrance to Nuorilang Waterfall, it stretches approximately 14 kilometers and boasts over 40 lakes (haizi) of various types, representing approximately 40% of all lakes in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. This is the entrance to Jiuzhaigou, and both entry and exit must pass through Shuzhenggou. During peak season, long lines form for tickets, so try to get up early.
The main attractions of Shuzhenggou include: Lotus Leaf Village, Bonsai Beach, Reed Sea, Shuanglong Sea, Sparkling Sea, Sparkling Sea Waterfall, Wolong Sea, Tiger Sea, Shuzheng Group Sea, Mill, Shuzheng Waterfall, Shuzheng Village, Rhinoceros Sea, Nuorilang Waterfall, etc.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Best time to visit in late autumn
Included in the Jiuzhaigou scenic area ticket
Peak season (April 1st to November 15th): Tickets 220 yuan, bus tickets 90 yuan
Off-season (November 16th to March 31st of the following year): Entrance fee 80 yuan, bus ticket 80 yuan
Temporarily closed, please pay attention to the official website for opening hours
Shuzhenggou is known for its striking natural beauty and Tibetan culture. The valley is significant to the local Tibetan community, both for its religious importance and as a center of natural conservation. It’s a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of culture, spirituality, and scenic landscapes.
Shuzhenggou is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. It is accessible by bus or private taxi from the nearby town of Maerkang. There are no metro services in this remote region, so taxis and buses are the most practical options.
Shuzhenggou is open year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and the valley is lush. The autumn months are also beautiful, with vibrant colors. Winter visits can be serene but cold.
The entrance fee typically ranges from ¥50 to ¥100. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of the valley, and it is also possible to purchase them through local travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons (summer and public holidays). A few days to a week in advance should be sufficient.
To fully explore Shuzhenggou, it is recommended to spend about 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and the areas you wish to explore. If hiking, you may need more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English, though these may need to be booked in advance. Audio guides may be available at certain locations, depending on the service provider.
Start with a visit to the Tibetan monasteries, then hike along the main trail to enjoy views of the valley and surrounding nature. End with a relaxing walk along the lakeside or riverbank for a peaceful conclusion to your visit.
Night visits are generally not available, but certain special tours may be offered during Tibetan festivals or cultural events. It’s best to check in advance if you're visiting during a holiday season.
The valley can be crowded during the summer months and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit in the early morning or during weekdays, particularly outside of peak holiday seasons.
There are basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. However, food options are limited, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking.
Shuzhenggou has some uneven terrain and challenging hiking trails, which may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, there are easier walking paths that children and elderly visitors can enjoy, especially near the temples and lakes.
Cash is commonly used in the area, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are becoming more widely accepted. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and areas where mobile payments may not be accepted.
There are limited food options inside Shuzhenggou. However, the nearby town of Maerkang has a variety of local Tibetan and Sichuan restaurants offering traditional dishes.
Vegetarian food options are available, especially Tibetan dishes such as momo (dumplings) and tsampa (barley flour). Vegan and halal options may be limited but can be found in certain restaurants in the area.
There are a few guesthouses and Tibetan-style hotels in Maerkang, which is a 2-3 hour drive from the valley. For a more immersive experience, you can stay in a local Tibetan guesthouse near the entrance to Shuzhenggou.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the area, selling traditional Tibetan crafts, jewelry, prayer flags, and woolen textiles such as scarves and blankets.
The best transportation options are private taxis or minibuses. From Maerkang, buses or taxis can take you to other destinations in the region, such as the Sichuan-Tibet Highway or nearby Tibetan areas.
