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Jiuzhaigou truly is a fantastic destination for nature lovers. It boasts some of the most beautiful lakes in China. This scenic spot is well-known among both domestic and international travelers. Many liken Jiuzhaigou to a heavenly paradise, and they're not wrong. To learn more about this fascinating destination, follow along with the article below!
Introduction to Jiuzhaigou
Jiuzhaigou can be understood as 'Valley of Nine Villages'. It's one of China's most famous scenic spots, attracting a large number of tourists every year. Jiuzhaigou is always highly sought after in China tours.
1. Where is Jiuzhaigou? Ticket Prices
Jiuzhaigou is a natural reserve located in Nanbin District. It is an autonomous prefecture of the A Ba and Qiang ethnic groups in the northern part of Sichuan, China. This area is formed from a sedimentary limestone mountainous region. The destination boasts breathtaking natural scenery.
The scenery of Jiuzhaigou is stunningly captivating (Image Source: Collection)
During peak season, the ticket price for this place can go up to 300 yuan, equivalent to about 1 million Vietnamese dong. The period from November onwards is considered the low season. Therefore, the ticket prices become cheaper, ranging from 80 to 100 yuan, approximately 270,000 to 330,000 VND per person.
2. Brief Overview of Jiuzhaigou
The entire conservation area covers an area of 60,000 hectares. This destination is situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level. Here, there are three main valley areas formed in an inverted Y shape. These include Shuzheng Valley, Zechawa Valley, and Rize Valley. Jiuzhaigou is also a national scenic spot listed on UNESCO's World Natural Heritage list.
It is named Jiuzhaigou because of the nine Tibetan villages within this conservation area. These include Zechawa Village, Shuzheng Village, Hejiao Village, Zechawa Village, Haidi Village, Alap Village, Ban'na Village, Nuoergai Village, Tianbao Village, and Guduo Village. Among them, only three villages are preserved for tourism. These are Zechawa Village, Shuzheng Village, and Haidi Village.
It's no coincidence that this tourist destination is so beloved (Image Source: Collection)
This place is often likened to a fairyland. Jiuzhaigou boasts 114 mountain lakes, 1978 conservation areas, 2,000 species of plants... All of these have formed a breathtaking natural landscape. It also contributes to scientific, cultural, and historical research efforts.
On August 8, 2017, a strong earthquake measuring 7 on the Richter scale occurred. This caused severe damage to Jiuzhaigou. After six months of closure, the conservation area was reopened. However, due to concerns about potential risks, the management continued to close until September 27, 2019. At that time, the conservation area had recovered 85% of its original state and has been open since.
Best Time to Visit Jiuzhaigou
You can visit Jiuzhaigou at any time of the year. Each season, the natural scenery here wears different garments. Located in high mountains, the climate here is humid continental. The temperature in the conservation area is cool and comfortable with fresh air.
In spring, the blossoms begin to bloom, bringing life to the landscape after the cold winter. At this time, the temperature is still quite low. The ground is not yet thawed, and snow remnants may linger until April. Gentle sunlight starts to illuminate the forest.
The scenery of Jiuzhaigou is as beautiful as a painting (Image source: Collection)
Summer here is relatively hot, but it's also the rainy season. When visiting Jiuzhaigou during this time, it's advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand. The lakes in summer shimmer with blue-green hues. Sunny days bring warmth to the air, painting the landscape with golden hues.
Autumn is considered the most beautiful season in Jiuzhaigou. During this time, the scenery transitions to yellow and red as the leaves change. This picturesque scene captivates visitors. The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for exploring.
During winter, the temperature in Jiuzhaigou drops to 0 degrees Celsius, sometimes even reaching -10 or -11 degrees Celsius. During this time, the lakes freeze over, and the landscape is covered in snow, adding a poetic touch.
What makes Jiuzhaigou special?
The beauty of Jiuzhaigou is encapsulated in the phrase 'Once you visit Jiuzhaigou, you won't find water as beautiful anywhere else.' Here, some lakes are so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom. Depending on the natural scenery and minerals in the lake, each lake possesses its own unique beauty. Let's explore some of the iconic sights here!
1. Shuzheng Lake
Shuzheng Lake is considered the main sightseeing route of Jiuzhaigou. This route stretches for 14.5 km with many fascinating stopping points. Your tour will move around by bus.
Bonsai Beach
At the entrance to Shuzheng Lake, after passing through Hà Diệp village, visitors will encounter Bonsai Beach. This is a dried-up lake covered with pine, fir, willow, and other trees. These tree-lined beaches are located at an altitude of 2,190 meters above sea level. They are 218 meters long, 98 meters wide, and about 0.8 meters deep.
Unique natural scenery at Bonsai Beach (Photo Source: Collection)
Looking down from above, you will see the trees below like a cool bonsai forest. Previously, visitors could freely walk down to the lake for a stroll or to soak their feet. But since it became a natural scenic spot, this activity has been prohibited. The reason for this is to protect the natural landscape. Currently, visitors can only stand and admire the view from the shore.
Lau Sậy Lake
After passing through Bonsai Beach, you will come across Lau Sậy Lake. True to its name, half of the lake is filled with reeds. The pink reeds gently sway in the wind, adding to the tranquil and poetic scenery. This is also one of the lakes with unique landscapes in Jiuzhaigou.
Lau Sậy Lake with its poetic and mystical beauty (Photo Source: Collection)
The reed-covered lake stretches for about 22 km. The emerald-colored river flowing in a zigzag pattern has made the scenery even more impressive. The flow of the lake has caused the reed clumps to split into two. In autumn, the reed beds turn into beautiful golden hues. Waterfowl often inhabit this reed bed, making it a habitat for aquatic creatures as well.
Song Long Lake
Song Long Lake in Jiuzhaigou boasts a clear and calm surface, resembling a mirror. The tranquil lake nestles amidst waterfalls and tree canopies. It's called Song Long (Twin Dragons) because if you look closely at the lake bottom, you'll see two underwater rock formations. Many people liken this image to two dragons skillfully hiding themselves.
Song Long Lake with its prominent white limestone rocks (Photo Source: Collection)
Fire Flower Lake (also known as Sparkling Lake/Flame Spot Lake)
Fire Flower Lake in Jiuzhaigou is also a unique destination not to be missed. In the morning, as the mist dissipates and the sun rises, the sunlight begins to reflect on the lake's surface. The scenery becomes truly beautiful and enchanting. Surrounding the lake is a dense forest, creating an incredibly unique ecosystem.
Fire Flower Lake is located at an altitude of 2,211 meters above sea level. The lake is 294 meters long and 232 meters wide. During the dry season, when the water level decreases, it forms small islands. The scenery becomes more diverse, adding to its allure. This natural landscape leaves visitors reluctant to leave.
Fire Flower Lake with its serene water surface (Photo Source: Collection)
The 2017 earthquake caused the collapse of the dam releasing water from Fire Flower Lake. This was one of the main reasons for the severe impact on this area. Subsequently, researchers used limestone, natural rocks, and mortar for repairs. The cracks and dam body, after being 'patched up,' helped restore the landscape of this area.
Thụ Chính Waterfall
Thụ Chính Waterfall is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Jiuzhaigou. This is a sightseeing spot that brings excitement to visitors. Although not large, the waterfall possesses a unique beauty. It is also the first waterfall that visitors see during the conservation area tour.
Thụ Chính Waterfall with its cascading waters (Photo Source: Collection)
The waterfall sits at an altitude of 2,295 meters above sea level. With a height of 11 meters and a width of 62 meters, the waterfall cascades into multiple tiers, creating a picturesque landscape. These are a cluster of interconnected waterfalls, with the surrounding foliage contributing to the unique ecosystem. The sound of flowing water echoes amidst the mountains and forests, creating a vibrant natural melody.
Thụ Chính Village (also known as Thụ Chính Camp)
Thụ Chính Village is considered the largest and most prosperous village in Jiuzhaigou. It is home to over 400 Tibetan people. In front of the village, you will see nine white temples, known as the Lotus Stupa. This imagery symbolizes the nine villages in Jiuzhaigou. The stupas also represent unity and prayers for the prosperity of this land.
The village embodies the rich culture of the Tibetan people (Photo Source: Collection)
This is also a great opportunity for you to explore the unique culture and lifestyle of the indigenous people. You will have the chance to admire vibrant paintings and the distinctive attire of the Tibetan people. These are truly valuable experiences during your visit to Jiuzhaigou.
2. Tắc Tra Oa Câu
Tắc Tra Oa Câu is an area located in the southeast of Jiuzhaigou. This attraction stretches for 18 kilometers with many captivating landscapes to explore.
Trường Hải Lake
Trường Hải Lake is the largest and deepest lake among the lakes in Jiuzhaigou. The lake stretches 8 km long and 4.4 km wide, resembling the shape of a sickle. Situated at an elevation of 3,101 meters above sea level, the lake's most distinctive feature is that its water never diminishes throughout the four seasons. This is because the lake's structure has no outlet to flow into other lakes.
Trường Hải Lake is vast and stretches just like its name suggests (Source: Collection)
This lake is formed from melted snow flowing down from the surrounding mountains. The water in the lake can only evaporate or seep through underground cracks. This makes Trường Hải Lake the core regulating lake of Jiuzhaigou. These factors alone make the lake truly special.
Ngũ Sắc Lake
Ngũ Sắc Lake may be the smallest in Jiuzhaigou, but it boasts an incredibly impressive beauty. Just mentioning the five colors, and you can somewhat imagine the scenery here. The natural landscape immersed in shades of emerald green, blue, yellow, or green...
The harmonious combination of colors creates an incredibly beautiful natural landscape. The sediment layers under the lake enhance the distinctive color palette here. That's limestone, aquatic plants, algae... lying quietly beneath the clear lake. As a result, it reflects fascinating colors. Above are the blue sky, white clouds, grass... casting shadows on the lake.
Ngũ Sắc Lake with all its colors (Source: Collection)
You must visit Jiuzhaigou to admire the masterpiece bestowed upon this place by nature. The locals affectionately call the lake the “eye of Jiuzhaigou”. The scenery, so realistic yet full of mystery, has mesmerized countless travelers from afar.
Valuable Essence Lake
Valuable Essence Lake lives up to its name, as the water here changes with the seasons. Surrounded by rocky cliffs on all sides, the lake's surface is remarkably tranquil. Valuable Essence Lake stretches 680 meters in length and 200 meters in width, with a depth of 3 meters. For most of the year, the lake remains dry, revealing lush green grass only during the rainy season.
This is the collective name for the system of three lakes—Upper, Middle, and Lower—that run along the Tắc Tra Oa Valley. Many liken the waters of Valuable Essence Lake in Jiuzhaigou to spilled green ink. They are deep and transparent. During the dry season, the lake appears dark green, while during the rainy season, the water level rises, and the lake takes on a pale green hue.
3. Sunlit Cascade
When visiting Jiuzhaigou, you can't miss Sunlit Cascade. This valley stretches 16 km and lies to the west of the conservation area. Compared to Thụ Chính and Tắc Tra Oa, this spot is equally enticing.
Five Flower Lake
Five Flower Lake, also known as the Multicolored Lake, is considered one of the most beautiful attractions in Jiuzhaigou. This lake is not too deep and displays various colors, created by the trees along its banks. The crystal-clear water reveals algae, geological features, and tree branches lying at the bottom.
Surrounding the lake are various types of trees. Visiting during autumn allows you to fully appreciate the lake's beauty. Some trees turn golden or red, while others retain their lush green foliage, casting shimmering reflections onto the lake. The interplay of colors creates a stunning natural painting.
Five Flower Lake is one of the hottest attractions in Jiuzhaigou (Source: Collection)
Walking along the wooden pathway to the end of the lake, you'll encounter petrified tree roots. These roots lie submerged in the water, appearing deeply embedded in the lakebed, resembling crocodile figures. This mesmerizing beauty will surely leave an unforgettable impression.
Primeval Forest
The primeval forest in Jiuzhaigou spans over 2,000 hectares. Stepping into this forest area, you'll experience a completely different atmosphere. The forest boasts a rich carpet of vegetation with diverse colors. It is primarily composed of fir and spruce trees.
Particularly fascinating are the ancient trees in the forest, some of which have been standing for thousands of years. This is an ideal habitat for both plants and animals, offering you a wonderful opportunity to get closer to the wilderness. You'll experience marvelous wonders that nature has bestowed upon us.
The natural ecosystem in Jiuzhaigou is truly diverse (Source: Collection)
You'll deeply inhale the pure, refreshing air of nature, feeling completely revitalized. It's indeed a serene place for you to immerse yourself in the mountainous soundscape. Somewhere, the melodic chirping of birds will echo softly. This magnificent natural scenery will provide you with unforgettable experiences.
Pearl Shoal Waterfall
Tran Chau Waterfall boasts a remarkably impressive and majestic beauty. Spanning 200 meters wide and cascading 40 meters down, standing nearby, you'll feel the resounding power of its roar. The swirling waves create vivid white foam.
Surely, many of us have seen images of this waterfall before. If you've watched Journey to the West, you'll recall the scene where Master Tang and his disciples pass by a waterfall. That very waterfall is Tran Chau in Jiuzhaigou. Rumor has it that merely by wishing upon arrival here, your wish will come true.
The magnificent beauty is beyond words (Source: Collection)
The rushing waters cascade vigorously and vigorously, curving down like a broadsword. This area is limestone, with a thin layer of water flowing over it. It's arguably the most beautiful waterfall in the Jiuzhaigou reserve. On crowded days, capturing a good photo is challenging due to the high number of visitors.
Essential Tips for Visiting Jiuzhaigou
When visiting Jiuzhaigou, there are some essential tips you should keep in mind. These will make your trip to the lakes more complete and enjoyable. Let's find out what they are!
Jiuzhaigou truly is a earthly paradise (Source: Collection)
- Following the earthquake, Jiuzhaigou limited the number of visitors to 5,000/day. Currently, this number has increased to 8,000. Additionally, group tours are prioritized over individual visitors.
- Due to its high altitude, the temperature in the reserve area can be quite cold. Therefore, it's advisable to bring a light jacket. In winter, it's essential to keep warm. As it's a mountainous area, prioritize wearing sandals or sports shoes. The UV rays are also high here, so wear protective clothing and sunscreen.
- The altitude of Jiuzhaigou varies across different areas, making altitude sickness common. If you have a history of heart disease or hypertension, be cautious when visiting this place.
In addition to the mentioned attractions, Jiuzhaigou also boasts other enticing destinations. It truly is a place worth stopping by. Exploring this natural reserve will provide you with valuable experiences. To book a tour to China, contact Mytour via the hotline Mytour!
