Huanglong, the "Pool of the Fairies"
by Madison Foster Luna-17
Mar 3, 2025
Songpan's Xuebao Ding, a hidden treasure in the clouds🏔️ This main peak of the Min Mountains is not only a paradise for mountaineers but also a photographer's dream, where every shot looks like a masterpiece!
✨Must-See Highlights
1️⃣ Xuebao Ding Viewing Platform
At 5,588 meters above sea level, you can witness the spectacular sight of year-round glaciers. Best visited at dawn for breathtaking sea of clouds and sunrise! Remember to bring oxygen tanks—altitude sickness is no joke~
2️⃣ Colorful Pools
Natural travertine pools on the mountainside that change colors with the light. The best time for photography is between 10 AM and 2 PM when direct sunlight makes the colors most vibrant🌈
3️⃣ Primitive Forest Hike
A 3-kilometer wooden trail through ancient pine forests. The best season is from May to October, where you can spot various wild mushrooms and rare birds🌲
🍽️Dining in Songpan
▫️Snowland Tibetan Restaurant: Authentic yak meat hotpot and butter tea, right at the scenic area entrance
▫️Songpan Ancient Town Snack Street: A hub for traditional Tibetan snacks like barley cakes and tsampa
🏨Accommodation Recommendations
▫️Xuebao Ding International Youth Hostel: Best value, beds at 80 yuan/night
▫️Songpan Minjiangyuan Hotel: Four-star facilities with oxygen-supplied rooms (book half a month in advance during peak season)
🚗Transport Tips
✔️4 daily direct buses from Chengdu's Chadianzi Bus Station (about 6 hours)
✔️SUV recommended for self-driving as parts of National Highway 213 are steep
✔️Eco-friendly shuttle available in the scenic area (60 yuan/person round-trip)
💡Pro Tips
1. Highland weather is unpredictable—windbreakers and fleece are must-haves
2. The mountain closes after October, so check accessibility before traveling
3. Respect local Tibetan customs, like turning prayer wheels clockwise
📸Photography Advice:
Use telephoto lenses for snow peaks, wide-angle for colorful pools, and polarizing filters to saturate pool colors!
Post by SophiaParrish32 | Jul 31, 2025

















