
In the summer, the lake is embedded in a valley with lush flowers and grass. In the autumn rainy season, the lake water rises and the lake color is azure blue. In the summer, the water is shallow and emerald green. After early winter, the lake dries up and the lake bed is covered with green grass. The lake has become a grazing grassland. On the grassland grows the United Nations first-class protected plant - Roshivichi.
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
Temporarily closed
Next Season Sea, located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, holds cultural and natural significance for the Tibetan people. It is a sacred site known for its serene beauty and is often associated with Tibetan religious traditions and beliefs. The area serves as a peaceful retreat for both locals and travelers, offering a glimpse into the spirituality and traditions of Tibetan culture.
Next Season Sea is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, China. The most common way to reach the site is by taxi or private car from the nearest town. Public transportation may be limited, so it is best to arrange for a private vehicle or tour. Walking is not recommended due to the distance from major cities.
Next Season Sea is accessible year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring or early autumn months, when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. The site remains open throughout the day, from sunrise to sunset, with fewer visitors early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥50-100. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and online bookings may not be available due to the remote location of the site.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for Next Season Sea. However, during the peak tourist season or festivals, it is recommended to book a tour or tickets in advance if possible.
A visit to Next Season Sea typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on how much time you wish to spend exploring the surroundings or engaging in outdoor activities. If you plan to hike or camp, you may want to spend an entire day or more in the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English. These tours provide insights into the natural beauty, Tibetan culture, and religious significance of the site. Audio guides may not be available due to the remote location of the site.
Start your visit by walking around the shoreline to appreciate the beauty of the lake. Then, explore the surrounding trails that lead to higher viewpoints. End your visit by stopping at the Tibetan shrines and prayer flags to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the site.
Night visits are generally not available due to the remote location and lack of infrastructure. Light shows are also not a feature of the site. However, special tours or cultural events may be available during Tibetan festivals.
The site can get crowded during peak tourist seasons and festivals. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during the off-peak season, or early in the morning and late in the afternoon on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and small rest areas are available at the site. There are no large shops or restaurants, but small local vendors may sell snacks and drinks.
The terrain around Next Season Sea can be challenging, with uneven paths and steep inclines. It may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility impairments. However, children can enjoy the area with supervision, as long as they are careful on the trails.
Cash is preferred for ticket purchases and transactions at the site. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted at some locations but should not be relied upon in more remote areas.
There are no major restaurants or cafes at Next Season Sea. However, you can find small local eateries in nearby towns or villages offering Tibetan cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at some local restaurants, especially Tibetan dishes based on grains, vegetables, and dairy. Halal options may be available in larger towns like Aba, but they are limited in the remote areas surrounding the lake.
There are a few basic guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns such as Aba, offering simple accommodations for visitors. More comfortable hotels can be found in larger cities like Chengdu, although they are farther from the site.
Small souvenir shops near the site sell Tibetan crafts, prayer beads, traditional Tibetan clothing, and other cultural items. These make great keepsakes from your visit.
Private cars or taxis are the most convenient options for continuing your trip after visiting Next Season Sea. Public buses or long-distance coaches can be taken from nearby towns to reach larger cities like Chengdu.