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Upon entering the Huanglong Scenic Area, the first thing you see is a group of exquisitely designed and vibrant pools – the Welcoming Pools. The pools vary in size, shape, and color, arranged in a vibrant, effective pattern. Surrounded by mountains and lush forests, wildflowers bloom, and butterflies flutter.
The winding stone paths in the mountains are dotted with viewing pavilions, adding to the interest.
Huanglong has a humid and cold climate, with long winters and a short summer, resulting in a continuous spring and autumn. The best time to visit Huanglong is from April to November; the park is closed during the rest of the year due to winter.
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Tickets are included in the Huanglong Scenic Area ticket
8:00-18:00
The Huanglong Welcoming Pool is part of the Huanglong Scenic Area in Aba Prefecture, famous for its unique geological formations and natural beauty. The area has been a spiritual site for the Tibetan people for centuries, and the pools themselves are known for their vivid colors and healing properties.
Huanglong Welcoming Pool is located in the Huanglong Scenic Area, in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The most common way to reach the area is by taxi or private car from nearby towns like Chengdu, which is around 5 hours away by road. Public transportation options include buses, though they may require transfers and are less convenient.
The Huanglong Scenic Area, including the Welcoming Pool, is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the colors of the pools are most vibrant. Avoid visiting during the winter months as snow and freezing temperatures may affect accessibility.
The entrance fee for Huanglong Scenic Area is generally around 200-300 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but online booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues.
Booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking a few days before your visit should be sufficient to secure tickets, but for busy periods like national holidays, booking at least a week ahead is recommended.
A visit to the Huanglong Welcoming Pool and the surrounding area typically takes 2 to 4 hours. If you plan to hike or explore the entire Huanglong Scenic Area, including the pools and hot springs, allow for a full day.
Guided tours are available at the Huanglong Scenic Area, with options for English-speaking guides. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English and Mandarin, are available for self-guided tours.
It’s recommended to start by visiting the Welcoming Pool and then take the scenic trails leading to the upper pools. Afterward, explore the hot springs and Buddhist temples. If time allows, walk the full circuit around the area to enjoy the natural beauty from different perspectives.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at the Huanglong Welcoming Pool. However, the area is serene and peaceful at night, making it a great spot for evening photography or quiet contemplation.
The Huanglong Scenic Area can get crowded during peak seasons, particularly during Chinese public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays, particularly in the off-peak months of spring or autumn.
Facilities within the Huanglong Scenic Area include public toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. It’s a good idea to carry your own water, especially if you plan to hike extensively in the area.
The Huanglong Scenic Area has some paved paths and boardwalks, but due to its mountainous terrain, certain areas may be difficult for elderly, children, or disabled visitors to navigate. It's advisable to check with the tour guides about accessible routes before visiting.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the Huanglong Scenic Area. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere, so it’s best to carry some cash as a backup.
There are small restaurants and cafes inside the Huanglong Scenic Area, offering basic local cuisine. For more dining options, you may need to travel to nearby towns such as Chengdu or Songpan.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants within the Huanglong Scenic Area, particularly those based on Sichuan cuisine. Halal food options are limited, but you may find them in nearby towns with larger Muslim populations.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Huanglong Scenic Area, ranging from basic accommodations to more comfortable stays. For a wider range of options, the town of Songpan, about 30 minutes away, offers more choices for lodging.
Souvenir shops in the Huanglong Scenic Area sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including jewelry, prayer beads, and colorful textiles. Local teas and herbal products are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Huanglong, you can take a bus or taxi back to Chengdu for further travel. Songpan is a nearby town that also offers bus services to other destinations, including Jiuzhaigou Valley.
