
The Seasonal Sea is divided into the Upper and Lower Seasonal Seas. The Upper Seasonal Sea is adjacent to the Five-Colored Pool. Surrounded by cliffs like screens and green trees like barriers, the lake is quiet and the mountains are empty. Legend has it that this is the hiding place of dragons, hence the name "Hidden Dragon Sea".
The lake bottom has become a meadow for grazing cattle and sheep, and a protected plant - Zhoshvić - also grows.
The amount of water in the lake varies with the seasons. In autumn, there is abundant rainfall and the lake is full. In winter and spring, the water level gradually decreases. Until early summer, the lake is even completely dry, and the lake bed is covered with grass, making it a blessed place for grazing cattle and horses.
Recommended play time: 10-20 minutes
Tickets are included in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket
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The Last Season Sea is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan. The area is significant for its natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the traditional Tibetan way of life. It is an important location for both tourists and Tibetan pilgrims seeking peace and spiritual reflection.
The Last Season Sea is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan. To reach the lake, you can take a bus or taxi from the nearest city, Chengdu, or from nearby towns. It’s recommended to travel by private vehicle, as public transportation may not be readily available. The final stretch may require walking or hiking along designated trails.
The site is open year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is milder and the scenery is lush. Winter months can be cold and challenging due to snow and freezing temperatures. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
The entrance fee is generally low, around ¥20-30. Tickets can be purchased on-site upon arrival. There is no online booking system for the entrance fee.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as tickets are available for purchase at the entrance. However, if you're visiting during peak seasons, it's recommended to check availability or make arrangements with local tour operators.
It typically takes 2-3 hours to explore the lake and the surrounding area, depending on how much time you want to spend hiking and taking photographs. If you wish to visit nearby Tibetan villages or explore longer trails, it can take up to half a day.
Guided tours in Chinese are available. There may also be some English-speaking guides depending on the time of year. Audio guides are not typically available, so it’s best to arrange for a local guide if you want a more informative experience.
The best photography spots are along the lake’s edge, where you can capture the reflection of the mountains in the water. The surrounding hills offer great viewpoints, especially for capturing panoramic views of the lake and the Tibetan landscape.
Start by walking along the lake to get a feel for the landscape, then hike up nearby trails to enjoy panoramic views of the area. Afterward, you can visit the surrounding Tibetan villages or explore nearby wildlife-rich areas. If time allows, consider a sunset visit for beautiful views of the lake.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Last Season Sea. However, the area is ideal for stargazing at night due to its remote location and low light pollution. Special tours may be arranged, particularly for photography or spiritual experiences.
The area can be crowded during the summer months and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays or early mornings. The best time for a quieter experience is in the spring and autumn months.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and small rest areas. There are no large restaurants or shops around the lake, but local vendors may offer simple food and snacks. It’s advisable to bring your own water and supplies, especially for hiking.
The attraction may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the rugged terrain and lack of proper accessibility features. Children can visit, but it’s important to monitor them closely due to the outdoor environment and hiking trails.
Cash is generally accepted for entrance fees and purchases at local shops. Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in the area, but it's a good idea to carry cash as backup.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the area, but nearby Tibetan villages have small food stalls offering traditional Tibetan dishes such as momo (dumplings) and tsampa (roasted barley flour). You can also find some basic eateries in nearby towns.
Vegetarian options, such as vegetable momo, are available at the local food stalls. However, halal options may be limited due to the Tibetan cuisine's focus on meat dishes. It's best to check with local vendors.
There are basic guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns or Tibetan villages. Options include simple, traditional accommodations with basic amenities. For more comfort, consider staying in larger towns like Chengdu and making a day trip to the Last Season Sea.
Small souvenir shops in Tibetan villages offer items such as Tibetan prayer beads, Thangka paintings, and other handmade crafts. Traditional Tibetan scarves and clothing are also popular souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or bus to nearby towns. You can also take a long-distance bus or train to Chengdu or other cities in Sichuan for further travel.