Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide

Jiuzhaigou is a valley scenic area in the highlands of northern Sichuan, within the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Lakes, waterfalls and forests continue among the mountains, and the scenery has long been called a fairyland. In the high-altitude valley, lakes holding waters of many colors are scattered about.It is inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, and lakes shining emerald green and cobalt blue are dotted along the valley. The hues created by minerals and algae in the water captivate all who see them. Fallen trees lying on the lakebeds bring out the transparency of the water even more.Five-Color Lake, Mirror Lake and others offer different hues from one lake to the next. The multi-tiered waterfalls are splendid as well, and in autumn the forests by the lakes turn red and yellow, famed for the beauty of the autumn leaves reflected on the water. Tibetan villages are dotted through the valley, and scenes of prayer flags fluttering in the wind can be seen.Jiuzhaigou can be accessed from Chengdu by rail or bus. In recent years the rail line has been extended, improving access. Inside the scenic area, visitors move by dedicated shuttle bus. The color of the water changes with the weather and season, showing a different face with every visit. It is a leading scenic area of China, where nature and ethnic culture are in harmony.