Jiuzhaigou Valley

The following is a detailed one-day tour guide for Jiuzhaigou Valley, combining essential information from multiple sources to help you efficiently explore the core scenic spots within a limited time, while ensuring comfort and safety: --- ### **Itinerary** 1. **Morning (7:00-8:30)** - **Arrive at the Scenic Area**: It is recommended to arrive at the entrance of Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area as early as possible (before 7:00). Purchase tickets online in advance (peak season tickets + sightseeing bus approx. CNY 280/person) to avoid queuing. - **First Stop: Mirror Lake**: Take the scenic sightseeing bus directly to Mirror Lake. In the early morning, the lake's surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the surrounding mountains, making it the best time for photography. 2. **Morning (8:30-12:00)** - **Nuorilang Waterfall**: Walk or take the bus from Mirror Lake to Nuorilang Waterfall. This is the widest travertine waterfall in Jiuzhaigou Valley, with a magnificent flow of water. You can experience the water mist up close along the boardwalk. - **Five Flower Lake**: Take the bus to Five Flower Lake. The lake water displays a multi-colored interweaving of blue, green, yellow, and red due to calcified sediments and algae, earning it the reputation of being the "Essence of Jiuzhaigou". - **Shuzheng Lakes**: Stroll along the boardwalk to explore the Shuzheng Lakes, which are composed of multiple terraced lakes with clear water and vibrant colors. You can take classic panoramic photos here. 3. **Noon (12:00-13:30)** - **Lunch**: Return to Nuorilang Service Center for lunch. It is recommended to try Tibetan and Qiang specialties such as yak beef hot pot, tsampa, and butter tea. The average cost is about CNY 50-80 per person. 4. **Afternoon (13:30-17:00)** - **Long Lake**: Take the bus to Long Lake, the highest altitude lake in the valley. The lake surface is vast, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it suitable for viewing the distant scenery. - **Five Color Pool**: Walk to Five Color Pool, one of the smallest lakes in Jiuzhaigou Valley, but with the richest colors. On sunny days, the lake water displays a gem-like blue-green color. - **Rhinoceros Lake and Shuzheng Waterfall**: Walk down the boardwalk to visit Rhinoceros Lake, Shuzheng Waterfall, and Shuzheng Village, experiencing the Tibetan and Qiang cultural customs. 5. **Evening (17:00-18:30)** - **Pearl Shoal or Spark Sea**: If time permits, return to Pearl Shoal to appreciate the flowing water under the setting sun, or visit Spark Sea to experience the changing light and shadow on the lake surface in the evening. - **Tibetan and Qiang Song and Dance Performance**: In the evening, you can choose to watch folk performances such as "Tibetan Mystery" to experience the local culture (requires additional ticket purchase, approx. CNY 150/person). --- ### **Important Notes** 1. **Altitude Sickness Prevention** - Jiuzhaigou Valley has an average altitude of 2,500 meters, and some visitors may experience mild headaches and shortness of breath. It is recommended to take Rhodiola rosea one week in advance, avoid strenuous exercise, and carry an oxygen bottle (available for purchase in the scenic area). 2. **Clothing and Equipment** - There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so wear a windproof jacket and comfortable hiking shoes. Bring rain gear and sun protection items (hat, sunglasses, SPF50+ sunscreen). 3. **Transportation and Time Management** - Sightseeing buses within the scenic area operate on a loop. Make reasonable use of them to save energy. The walking time between major scenic spots is about 15-30 minutes. It is recommended to plan your route according to the map to avoid backtracking. 4. **Environmental Protection and Etiquette** - Follow the regulations of the scenic area, do not step on the travertine beaches, and do not litter. Respect Tibetan culture, and obtain consent before taking photos of locals. --- ### **Cost Reference** - **Tickets + Sightseeing Bus**: CNY 280/person (peak season), book 1-2 days in advance on the official website. - **Meals**: CNY 50-100/meal per person (restaurants in the scenic area or bring your own dry food). - **Other**: Oxygen bottle approx. CNY 30/can, folk performance tickets CNY 150/person. --- ### **Useful Tips** - **Staggered Visits**: Visit Rize Valley (Mirror Lake, Five Flower Lake) in the morning and Zechawa Valley (Long Lake, Five Color Pool) in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist crowds. - **Photography Suggestions**: Mirror Lake is windless before 9:00 am, offering the best reflections;