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The entrance of Jiuzhaigou Valley is located in Zhangza Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is home to the Jiuzhaigou Ticket Office, the entrance to the scenic area, and a large square at the entrance to the valley that can accommodate many tourists. It also has shopping stores, cafes, and hotels, making it the closest place to the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in late autumn
free
All day
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rare and pristine natural landscapes. The valley is deeply connected to Tibetan culture, with ancient Tibetan villages and traditions still preserved in the area. The valley's colorful lakes, stunning waterfalls, and rich biodiversity make it one of China's most significant natural landmarks.
Jiuzhaigou Valley is located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, China. The closest airport is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, which is about 88 kilometers from the entrance. You can take a bus or taxi from the airport to the entrance. Alternatively, buses from Chengdu take about 8 hours to reach Jiuzhaigou.
Jiuzhaigou Valley is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is from mid-spring to early autumn (April to October), when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is most vibrant. Autumn (September to November) is especially beautiful due to the changing foliage.
The entrance fee is around ¥220 (Chinese Yuan) during the off-season and ¥80 for the shuttle bus inside the park. Tickets can be purchased online through official Jiuzhaigou Valley platforms or offline at the park entrance.
Yes, especially during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to book tickets in advance. Tickets can typically be booked online 1-2 days before your visit. During the high season, it is recommended to book at least a week in advance.
You will need at least one full day to explore the main attractions within Jiuzhaigou Valley. If you want to take your time and explore all the scenic spots and hidden corners, a two-day visit is recommended.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tour operators offer tours in English. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, to help visitors understand the significance of various spots in the park.
A recommended itinerary is to start at the entrance and take the shuttle bus to the uppermost point of the park. From there, walk down to the lower points, visiting major sites like Five Flower Lake, Mirror Lake, and Long Lake. This route allows you to enjoy both the natural beauty and the various scenic spots at your own pace.
Night visits are generally not available within Jiuzhaigou Valley. However, some special tours are organized around Tibetan culture, offering insights into the local traditions, especially during festivals.
Jiuzhaigou can get quite crowded, especially during holidays and peak seasons. The least crowded times are during the off-season (November to March) and weekdays, particularly early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
There are toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls along the main routes. You can also find souvenir shops and places selling bottled water. It is advisable to bring some snacks and drinks for the longer trails.
Jiuzhaigou Valley has wheelchair-accessible areas, but some parts of the park may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with limited mobility due to steep paths and stairs. Shuttle buses are available to help navigate the valley, making it easier for elderly and disabled visitors to enjoy key spots.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted in most areas. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash in case you visit smaller stalls or areas that don't accept digital payments.
Inside Jiuzhaigou, there are a few restaurants offering local Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine. Nearby, there are several hotels and eateries serving traditional dishes such as yak meat, Tibetan hot pot, and barley-based foods.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available, particularly in restaurants offering Tibetan or Sichuan cuisine. Halal options are available, especially in restaurants catering to Muslim tourists.
There are several hotels near Jiuzhaigou Valley Entrance, including mid-range options like Jiuzhaigou Hotel and more luxurious options such as InterContinental Resort Jiuzhaigou. Budget accommodations are also available in nearby towns.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops selling Tibetan crafts, including thangkas, jewelry, traditional textiles, and handicrafts made from yak wool. You can also find local herbal teas and spices.
You can continue your trip by taking a bus to nearby towns or the airport. Taxis and private car hires are also popular options for tourists. The area is well connected to major cities like Chengdu, with buses offering convenient routes.
