Jiuzhaigou National Park, located in Jiuzhaigou County of Sichuan Province’s Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, is one of China’s most famous natural scenic areas and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Known for its emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, and Tibetan culture, it’s often called “a fairyland on Earth.” The park boasts over a hundred alpine lakes with crystal-clear waters that change colors through the seasons. Autumn is particularly breathtaking—red maple leaves contrast beautifully with turquoise lakes, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Opening Hours & Visitor Information
Opening Hours: Daily 07:30–17:30 (last entry at 15:00). Hours may vary depending on weather and season, so check Jiuzhaigou’s official website or WeChat account before visiting for updates.
Recommended Visiting Time: Plan 1–2 days to explore the three main valleys—Shuzheng, Zechawa, and Rize—for a full experience.
Best Time to Visit: September to November offers the most stunning scenery, with vibrant red leaves and blue waters. Spring brings blossoms, summer features rushing waterfalls, and winter showcases shimmering ice landscapes—each season offers its own charm.
Other Tips:
The park enforces a daily visitor limit, so tickets must be booked online in advance.
Due to the park’s vast area, taking the eco-friendly sightseeing bus is recommended.
The high-altitude climate changes quickly—bring warm clothes and rain gear.
Do not touch the water or throw objects into lakes to protect Jiuzhaigou’s fragile ecosystem.
Ticket Types & Prices
1-Day Admission Ticket + Sightseeing Bus Ticket (Adult)
Jiuzhaigou National Park enjoys an exceptional reputation among visitors, with over 98% rating it highly and calling it “a once-in-a-lifetime fairyland.” Tourists especially praise the stunning beauty of Five Flower Lake, Mirror Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall, saying the real views surpass any photo. Many also appreciate the park’s well-managed facilities and environmental protection measures. However, during peak season, crowds are common and some scenic spots may require waiting in line, so entering early and planning routes in advance is advised.
Related Guides & Recommended Tours
Planning your Jiuzhaigou trip made easy! Our complete travel guide covers transportation, suggested routes, and hotel recommendations. Combine your visit with Huanglong Scenic Area or Songpan Ancient Town to experience snow mountains, colorful pools, and vibrant Tibetan–Qiang culture—a perfect fusion of nature and tradition.
Q: Can I buy Jiuzhaigou tickets on-site? A: Tickets must be reserved online in advance through the official website or authorized platforms. On-site tickets are often sold out during peak season.
Q: How do I get around inside the park? A: Jiuzhaigou is managed as a closed scenic area. Visitors can take eco-friendly buses to main attractions and freely hop on and off at designated stops.
Q: Is Jiuzhaigou at a high altitude? What should I know? A: The park’s elevation ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 meters. Avoid strenuous activity and keep warm, especially if it’s your first visit.
Q: Are there hotels near Jiuzhaigou? A: Yes, many hotels and guesthouses are available in Jiuzhaigou Town near the entrance. For sunrise or early visits, staying nearby is ideal.
Q: Is Jiuzhaigou worth visiting in winter? A: Absolutely! With fewer visitors, frozen lakes and snowy forests create a serene winter wonderland—perfect for photographers.