Jiuzhaigou’s hidden gem is legendary! After the reopening of Shenxian Pool, I finally avoided the crowds and entered a fairyland

Stop squeezing into Jiuzhaigou! The "Nenen Sangcuo Shenxian Pool" hidden deep in western Sichuan has reopened, blending Huanglong’s calcified colorful pools and Jiuzhaigou’s emerald sea into reality. The best part? You can enjoy this tranquility for just over 100 RMB per person. This is a must-go!

🔥 Why should you prioritize the reopened Shenxian Pool?

Known in Tibetan as the "place where fairies bathe," this spot holds many surprises. In terms of scenery, it packages Jiuzhaigou’s vibrant waters and Huanglong’s terraced colorful pools into one, truly a "condensed essence of western Sichuan"; in terms of experience, the daily visitor count is less than one-tenth of Jiuzhaigou’s, so you can take photos on the boardwalk without dodging crowds; in terms of accessibility, the average altitude is 2800 meters, with a gentle 3-kilometer boardwalk suitable for elders and children to easily complete. Just reopened, it still retains the most pristine fairyland vibe. Hurry before it becomes a crowded check-in spot!

📸 Must-visit secret spots: every corner is a fairy-level photo opportunity

1. Lotus Platform Colorful Pools: Nature’s gradient palette

As the iconic landscape of Shenxian Pool, 2,600 calcified pools of various sizes layer upon layer, resembling a lotus throne. The water color transitions from Tiffany blue to emerald green to amber. Sunlight on the calcite textures even gives the ripples golden edges. Arrive before 9 AM for the best light; from the prayer flag viewing platform, you can capture the five-colored prayer flags and colorful pools in one frame—every shot looks like a magazine cover.

2. Qinglong Sea: The sapphire hidden in the forest

At 3,500 meters altitude, this alpine lake hides an "underwater dragon"—an ancient tree covered in calcification lying quietly at the bottom. When the water is calm, the reflections of snow-capped mountains and fir trees blend seamlessly with the real scene. When mist swirls, it looks like a set from a fantasy martial arts drama. After drone registration, you can capture stunning footage of the underwater fossilized ancient trees.

3. Jin Yin Tan Waterfall: A secret curtain of water perfect for silhouette shots

Three-tiered waterfalls cascade down calcified steps like silk falling through the forest. At the bottom behind the waterfall, backlit silhouette photos come with a natural soft light filter. Remember to wear non-slip shoes as the boardwalk is wet and slippery. Using long exposure photography, the water turns into flowing veils, instantly enhancing the atmosphere.

4. 28 Hairpin Turns & Prayer Wheel Corridor: Surprising highlights on the way

The must-pass road to the scenic area features the famous "28 Hairpin Turns." From the viewing platform, looking back at the winding mountain road is breathtaking. Inside the park, a 200-meter-long golden prayer wheel corridor, bathed in slanting evening light, creates a halo effect with the forest—every snap is a healing scene.

🚗 Practical guide: transportation, accommodation, and tips to avoid pitfalls

Basic Information

• Address: Near Z127, Dalu Township, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture

• Opening Hours: 6/1–12/15 8:00–18:00; 12/16–5/31 9:00–17:00 (last shuttle at 17:30, don’t miss it!)

• Tickets: 92 RMB/person in peak season, cheaper in off-season, much better value than Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong

Transportation

• Self-drive: About 7 hours from Chengdu, winding mountain roads; beginners should go with experienced drivers. Navigate to "Shenxian Pool Scenic Area."

• Charter/Group tours: About 1.5 hours from Jiuzhaigou entrance; can be combined with Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong for a 3-day tour, convenient and direct.

Accommodation Recommendations

• Budget-friendly: Tibetan family inns at the park entrance, around 100 RMB per person, offering Tibetan-style hospitality and evening gatherings around the fire.

• Quality choice: If budget allows, stay in boutique hotels in Chuanzhusi Town, combining Tibetan decor with modern facilities, about 1 hour drive from the park.

Food Tips

• Must-try: Yak meat hot pot at the Tibetan family inns near the park entrance, served with wild mushrooms and barley cakes; fresh broth and tender meat help with altitude sickness.

• Avoid: Limited and expensive dining options inside the park; bring your own snacks and water. Be cautious ordering "wild mushroom soup" at the entrance—high price but low quality.

⚠️ High-altitude travel precautions

1. At about 3200 meters altitude, avoid strenuous exercise; bring oxygen bottles and motion sickness medicine (mountain roads can cause nausea).

2. UV rays are very strong; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are essential to avoid sunburn.

3. During rainy season (June–August), check road conditions in advance due to possible landslides; some spots close in winter, so consult the park before traveling.

Now Shenxian Pool features colorful forests and clear waters, combining the essence of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong without the crowds. With the scenery just reopened and perfect, quickly save this "fairyland guide" and go enjoy the secret romance of western Sichuan~