Jiuzhaigou
©
Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou

Northern Sichuan valley of turquoise lakes, Tibetan villages, waterfalls, and forested snow peaks.

Jiuzhaigou Valley is one of China's most spectacular natural landscapes — a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Sichuan Province where turquoise lakes, multi-tiered waterfalls, and snow-dusted peaks are set in dense forests of spruce, fir, and birch. The name means "Nine Village Valley," after the Tibetan settlements scattered along the valley floor.

The park covers a Y-shaped system of three valleys, each with its own character. Mirror Lake, Five Flower Lake, and Pearl Shoal Waterfall are among the highlights. The water's extraordinary colours — vivid blue-greens caused by calcium carbonate deposits and algae — are real, though they still look improbable in photographs. Autumn, when the surrounding forests turn gold and red, is the most popular season.

Guide

Getting Around

The park has an extensive network of wooden-plank trails winding past the lakes and through the forest — walking is the best way to take it in. A shuttle bus also runs through all three valleys, stopping at the major sights. Bus passes are sold at the entrance alongside admission tickets.