Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture
Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture
Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture
Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture
Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture
Aba Prefecture
Jiuzhaigou

2025Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture|trip.com

Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture
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No. 3 of Activities in Aba Prefecture

Introduction Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture

Introduction
Some information may have been translated by Google Translate

In the heart of Sichuan's highlands, Aba's Tibetan culture offers an immersive journey into one of China's most authentic ethnic experiences. Here, ancient traditions remain vibrantly alive - from the morning prayers echoing through whitewashed stupas to the rhythmic kneading of tsampa in sunlit courtyards. Visitors can trace centuries of history at the Tibetan-Qiang Heritage Museum, then step into the present by donning elaborately embroidered chubas (traditional robes) to join locals in seasonal festivals. The culture reveals itself through everyday moments: sharing butter tea with nomadic herders, learning the symbolic meanings behind fluttering prayer flags, or witnessing the sacred cham dances performed by red-robed monks. This is not museum-piece culture, but a living tradition where every ritual, garment, and flavor carries the wisdom of highland life - inviting travelers not just to observe, but to participate in the enduring rhythms of Tibetan civilization.


Trip Moments Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture

Tibetan Cultural Experiences in Aba Prefecture Trip Moments
Breathtaking Fairyland of  China 🇨🇳
wecreate
jiuzhaivalley
mytripvlog
tripblazers
nationalpark
explorechina
sichuan

Breathtaking Fairyland of China 🇨🇳

#wecreate We've been all around and so far Jiuzhai Valley is one of the best places I have ever visited and seen. The water is serene with majestic mountains that surround the lakes. Whereever you are in China, I suggest that this must be and should be in your list to visit before you leave this country. This place is such a feast in the eyes. So go and experience it yourself. HOW TO GET HERE: 1. Take a long distance bus from Xinnamen Bus Station in Chengdu. It will take you around 8-10 hours travel time and if it is during holiday time then prepare for longer hours on the bus. 2. Take the plane. It will only take you approximately an hour to reach Jiuzhai Huanglong Aiport. Note‼️ 1. If you're weak in dealing with altitude then I suggest you prepare yourself by taking some altitude sickness a week before you explore this fairyland. You have to be in your best health to totally enjoy everything. 2. It is cold there and misty so bring a raincoat and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. #jiuzhaivalley #mytripvlog #tripblazers #nationalpark #explorechina #sichuan
FilipinaTraveler
FilipinaTraveler
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Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, take shelter from the storm! Take shelter!!

Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, take shelter from the storm! Take shelter!!

Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, take shelter from the storm! Take shelter!! Clickbait, random thoughts on Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou, with itinerary and hotel recommendations at the end! Total cost 4000 yuan A child from the plains visiting the plateau for the first time, Jiuzhaigou is really too beautiful~ Any random shot can be used as wallpaper, any filter would be disrespectful to it! Must go again once the high-speed rail is connected From Wuxi to Chengdu Tianfu, actually Tianfu Airport is not as demonized as said online, took the subway Line 18 at 5 pm, arrived at the hotel near Hongxingqiao Subway Station at 6 pm! Great location🉑, right out of the subway station, recommended for budget travelers! Chengdu citywalk is very convenient by subway~ Sanxingdui Museum: Take the high-speed train to Guanghan Station, a 15-minute taxi ride for 20 yuan (seems to be a fixed price) takes about 3 hours to tour, remember to buy tickets in advance for holidays!!!!!! Chengdu Giant Panda Base: Wanted to see the pandas, two hours was too rushed, just followed the crowd to see other pandas, caught a little one sleeping on the job Jiuzhaigou: Took the 10:30 am high-speed train to Zhenjiang Pass, booked a direct bus on Ctrip, arrived at Jiuzhaigou around 4 pm, took a taxi to the hotel (be sure to ask the price in advance, starting price of 15 for 1 kilometer), the hotel is located at the mouth of the valley, within walking distance, there's a McDonald's, Book also, the popular Tomato Yak Pot restaurant is nearby within walking distance, many people recommended it, no queue if you arrive early, but it's not particularly delicious (compared to the restaurant on the second day it's considered good) The next morning, went straight into the scenic area, there are buses inside, followed the route to visit, there are stops to take the bus, walked about 13 kilometers in total, must wear comfortable shoes!! The scenic area has everything it should have (here I want to complain about the Kudi, one cup sold for 35, I have never seen such expensive Kudi, I understand it's expensive in the scenic area~ but this is a bit too much, the neighboring Xuewang is only 1 yuan more expensive hahaha, long live Xuewang! Luckin Coffee is under renovation inside the scenic area, waiting for it to open and outcompete Kudi) For dinner, Himalayan Music Tibetan Restaurant, really avoid this place! Ordered stir-fried wild vegetables, got a pot of stir-fried lettuce leaves... counts as wild vegetables??? On the third day, the return trip was still a direct bus from Ctrip, high-speed train from Zhenjiang Pass to Chengdu East, direct high-speed train from Chengdu East to Tianfu Airport, Chengdu East Station has transfer instructions, follow them for 5 minutes to the next train's ticket gate, Tianfu Airport exit is a 5-minute walk, directly to self-service check-in and baggage drop, go upstairs for security check, very fast! The whole process can be done in 20 minutes!
3l34n0r Cl@rk
3l34n0r Cl@rk
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Jiuzhaigou-Huanglong 3-day tour, a complete guide to the scenic area.

Jiuzhaigou-Huanglong 3-day tour, a complete guide to the scenic area.

Jiuzhaigou-Huanglong Scenic Area tour, this guide is enough! 3-day itinerary, take you to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, no detours! / Must-see attractions: 🏞️ Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area: Enter a fairy tale world, full of green forests and streams, like an ink painting. 💧 Huanglong Scenic Area: Be amazed by the clear calcified pools, snow-capped mountains, canyons, waterfalls, every scenery is unforgettable. 🌊 Dujiangyan Scenic Area: Explore the wisdom of ancient water conservancy projects, which are not only well-preserved but also an international scenic area. 🏮 Kuanzhai Alley: Enjoy a fashionable slow life in the ancient streets, at night, the lights of the houses reflect the ancient streets, with a unique charm. / Travel tips: 🌨️ The climate in Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong is cold in December, remember to prepare warm clothes~ 📸 Recommended photo spots are Wucai Pool and Changhai, the winter snow scene has a unique charm! 🎈 The local customs are unique, respect Tibetan culture, and avoid mentioning sensitive topics. 🛍️ Rich specialties, Songbei, Tibetan knives are moderately priced, don't forget to pick souvenirs~ 💡 Altitude sickness may occur, be prepared in advance, and keep your strength! / 🎉The water of Jiuzhaigou, the pool of Huanglong, waiting for you to discover! Don't miss this magical treasure of nature, come on a trip! 🌈
madeline0xtkpiq45ul
madeline0xtkpiq45ul
Jiuzhaigou! Goukou! Book this hot spring hotel!

Jiuzhaigou! Goukou! Book this hot spring hotel!

I went to Jiuzhaigou with my boyfriend on the weekend and was recommended a fairy homestay! 💕 Comfortable hot springs 💕 Smart home 💕 Special services If you plan to visit Jiuzhaigou in November, hurry up! - ♨ Comfortable hot springs There is a large bathtub in the room 🙌 Disposable bath bags are provided, clean and hygienic There is also an open-air hot spring on the fourth floor 😋 After a day of playing, taking a bath is so comfortable It was so comfortable that I extended my stay for another day. I will stay here again next time I come with my friends! - ♨ Smart home The room gives a particularly warm feeling as soon as you enter ✨ The room is particularly soundproof and comfortable to sleep in All the equipment in the room is smart 👏 You can ask Xiaodu to solve any problems There is a super large projector in the room 🤩 It is so comfortable to watch dramas while taking a bath - ♨ Special services The hotel front desk is very enthusiastic~ They are very proactive in carrying luggage and serving afternoon tea! There is also a special Tibetan restaurant on the first floor, which makes me so happy~~🤭 When I checked out, I was given a small local gift as a souvenir, which was so warm
Whimsical Evelyn~Hayes79
Whimsical Evelyn~Hayes79
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Jiuzhaigou— the ultimate dreamland of China ✨

Jiuzhaigou— the ultimate dreamland of China ✨

It’s a fairytale setting. The tranquil nature, the crystal clear turquoise and emerald color lakes, waterfalls and the lush greenery make it an ultimate dreamland landscape.🪽🦄🪽 Perhaps it’s the most beautiful place in China. It’s full of nature, each corner of this valley is a scenic spot. 🤩💕📸 There are 108 lakes in Jiuzhaigou. The beautiful colors of these lakes are due to ferns that grow in the water. It’s an UNESCO site due to its diverse forrest ecosystem, its superb landscape and spectacular waterfalls. Around 140 bird species also inhabit the valley, as well as a number of endangered plant and animals, including the giant panda.🐼 I spent 3 days there. For an in depth exploration it requires one week or so. Getting There - either by bus/car or flight from Chengdu. I took the flight as it’s time efficient. Attractions - Jiuzhaigou national park Hotels - there are many options. I stayed in Hilton garden due to its location. Food & Restaurants - try Tibetan hotpot in the Indigo hotel restaurant Shopping - Not many options. Some small local shops are there.
nitt_kat
nitt_kat
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3-Day Mao County Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

3-Day Mao County Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

Hey, travel lovers! Not sure what to do in Mao County? This 3-day itinerary will help you make the most of your trip. Don't miss out! -- Must-See Attractions: 🏞️ Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area: Step into a fairy tale world and enjoy the ink painting-like scenery, dense forests, and babbling streams. 💧 Huanglong Scenic Area: Marvel at the crystal-clear calcified pools and enjoy the beautiful scenery of canyons, snow-capped mountains, and waterfalls. ❄️ Dagu Glacier Scenic Area: Explore various types of ancient glacier relics and experience the magnificence of the Ice Age. 💦 Nuorilang Waterfall: Admire the majestic calcified waterfall and the beautiful scenery. -- Travel Essentials: 🎒 Going to Mao County? Don't forget to pack these! 👕 Clothing: Mao County is a bit cold in December, so remember to bring a warm coat and sweater. Want to take good photos? Bring some brightly colored clothes! 🎫 Documents: Don't forget your ID card, driver's license, and cash. Student IDs and senior citizen cards can get you some great discounts! 🎒 Accessories: Hats, scarves, and gloves are warm and stylish. Also bring a portable water bottle and umbrella for all weather conditions. 📸 Other: Bring a camera and phone charger to capture beautiful moments. Bring some common medicines just in case! -- Mao County's beautiful scenery is waiting for you! Don't forget to leave your travel footprints 👣 and share your wonderful journey with us!
_TI***iz
_TI***iz
Winter in Jiuzhai Valley: A great choice for snow viewing and hot springs

Winter in Jiuzhai Valley: A great choice for snow viewing and hot springs

Winter in Jiuzhai Valley has a unique charm. Here is a detailed travel guide for winter in Jiuzhai Valley. ⏰Travel time Winter (December to February) is the off-season in Jiuzhai Valley, with relatively fewer tourists, but the scenery is unique, and the snow-covered Jiuzhai Valley is like a fairy tale world. The temperature is low at this time, so keep warm. 🏞️Recommended attractions ✅Long Lake: Long Lake is covered with snow in winter, and the whole area is covered in silver, which is very spectacular. ✅Five Flower Lake: Although it does not have the colorful colors of autumn, Five Flower Lake under the snow is also unique. ✅Nuorilang Waterfall: The ice waterfall is stunning, like a white dragon hanging in the mountains. ✅Shuzheng Lakes: Some lakes will freeze, forming a beautiful picture with the surrounding snow. ✅Zechawa Valley: You can enjoy winter-specific landscapes such as ice lakes and snow peaks. ⚠️Notes ☑️1. Keep warm, and bring enough thick clothes, including down jackets, hats, gloves, etc. ☑️2. Be careful of slipping, wear non-slip shoes, and walk carefully. ☑️3. Some roads may have snow in winter, so pay attention to traffic safety. ☑️4. Bring a thermos cup and drink hot water at any time. ☑️5. Respect the local environment and do not litter. 🍱Food recommendations 🔴1. Yak meat: A specialty of Jiuzhai Valley, you can try yak hot pot or barbecue. 🔴2. Highland barley cake: A traditional local snack with a crispy texture. 🔴3. Butter tea: It has the effect of keeping warm. 🔴4. Wild vegetables: Taste the local fresh wild vegetables and feel the taste of nature. 🏠Accommodation options 💕1. You can choose to stay in a hotel or inn near the entrance of Jiuzhai Valley for easy travel. 💕2. You can also consider staying in a hotel in the scenic area, but the price may be relatively high. 🟣Itinerary 🎈Day 1: • Arrive at Jiuzhai Valley and check into the hotel to rest. • You can taste local food at night. 🎈Day 2: • Enter the Jiuzhai Valley Scenic Area and visit attractions such as Long Lake and Five Flower Lake. • Enjoy winter landscapes such as ice waterfalls and ice lakes. 🎈Day 3: • Continue to visit attractions such as Shuzheng Lakes and Zechawa Valley. • You can choose to take a sightseeing bus to save energy. 🎈Day 4: • Free activities in the scenic area and take photos. • Buy some local specialty souvenirs. 🎈Day 5: • End the trip and return. Although Jiuzhai Valley is cold in winter, the beautiful snow scenery and unique atmosphere will leave a deep impression on you. Before traveling, it is recommended to check the opening status and weather information of the scenic area in advance to ensure a pleasant trip.
Ruby Bouncy Nuzzle
Ruby Bouncy Nuzzle
Why is it recommended to travel to Jiuzhaigou in winter (January-February)?

Why is it recommended to travel to Jiuzhaigou in winter (January-February)?

Buy one get one free for Jiuzhaigou tickets in winter Few people and beautiful scenery What are you waiting for if you have time now How should you play in winter? You'll understand after reading this✏ · 🌞Temperature: -5-15°C 👔Dress: thermal underwear + sweater + thick cotton clothes, storm jacket or down jacket, it's very cold in the morning and evening, it's even colder if it snows, keep warm . 🚌Transportation guide ✈Plane: Direct flight to Huanglong Airport, 2 hours away from Jiuzhaigou 🚗Self-driving: 400 kilometers from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou, 8 hours, many bends and ice, it is recommended to bring anti-skid chains, not for inexperienced drivers 🚞High-speed rail: Depart from Chengdu East, to Zhenjiang Pass, then join a group or take a shuttle bus 👫Join a group: If you don't want to make a strategy or drive, report a local group and play all the way, semi-free travel is easy and worry-free . 🧐Jiuzhaigou must-see attractions 📍Spark Sea (a sea with very rich color layers) Five Flower Sea (beautiful when the sun shines) Arrow Bamboo Sea (the shooting location of the old version of Journey to the West) Mirror Sea (pure blue, healing for the eyes) Long Sea (photo check-in, beautiful when frozen) Five Color Pool (beauty that cannot be described in words) Reed Sea (a must-see in winter) . 🚌Tour order: sightseeing car + walking 🔸Morning: Take a car from the mouth of the valley → Arrow Bamboo Sea → Panda Sea → Five Flower Sea → Mirror Sea 🔸Noon: Rest and eat at Nuorilang Central Station 🔸Afternoon: Nuorilang Central Station → Long Sea → Five Color Pool → Rhinoceros Sea → Shuzheng Waterfall → Shuzheng Group Sea → Spark Sea → Reed Sea → Bonsai Beach . ⭕Play suggestions There are fewer people in the morning, but the ultraviolet rays are strong, so sun protection is needed The prices in the scenic area are a bit expensive, you don't need to bring too many things, you can buy what you need on the way The wind is strong in Long Sea and other open places, you can bring a scarf, and there are cloaks for sale on the way The local yak hot pot is a special feature, with a large portion, you can try it
JUNIOR ANTHONY
JUNIOR ANTHONY
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Jiuzhaigou!!!

Jiuzhaigou!!!

⛰[Travel Guide] 📍Address: Jiuzhaigou is located in Zhangzha Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. 🚗Transportation: ‌High-speed rail‌: Depart from Chengdu East Railway Station, take the high-speed rail to Zhenjiangguan Station, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, then transfer to a bus to Jiuzhaigou, which takes about 3 hours. ‌Bus‌: There are direct buses from Zhenjiangguan to Jiuzhaigou, which take about 3 hours. You can buy tickets on Trip.com and other websites. ‌Self-driving‌: If you choose to drive, plan your route according to real-time road conditions and pay attention to driving safety on the plateau. 🕙Opening hours: Peak season (April 1 to November 15): 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. Off-season (November 16 to March 31): Opening hours may be adjusted, please check in advance. 💰Ticket prices: Peak season: CNY 190 per person for admission, CNY 90 per person for the sightseeing bus. Off-season: CNY 80 per person for admission, CNY 80 per person for the sightseeing bus. Students, children, seniors, and other specific groups can enjoy a half-price discount. 📝Tips: [One]‌Real-name ticket purchase‌: Jiuzhaigou implements real-name ticket purchase, please make a reservation and purchase tickets through official channels in advance. [Two]‌Altitude sickness‌: Jiuzhaigou is at a high altitude, and some tourists may experience altitude sickness. Please take precautions and prepare for it in advance. [Three]‌Eco-friendly travel‌: Please follow the rules of the scenic area, do not litter, and protect the natural environment. [Four]‌Clothing suggestions‌: The climate in Jiuzhaigou is changeable, please bring enough warm clothes and rain gear. I hope this Jiuzhaigou travel guide can help you with your trip. Have a nice trip!
LinneaLaine
LinneaLaine
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Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Direct Train! Ultimate Guide.

Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Direct Train! Ultimate Guide.

🚄 New Travel Option* With the opening of the Chenglan Railway, you can now travel directly from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou by train. ✅ Direct Train Stations: Huanglong Jiuzhai Station/Chuanzhusi Station (subject to the latest route) ✅ Travel time: about 3.5 hours, ticket price 150+💰 (twice as fast as the bus!) ⚠️ Tips: After getting off the train, it is recommended to take a chartered car or a direct shuttle bus to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area (about 1.5 hours) 🌟 Must-visit attractions: ❶ Wuhua Hai: The blue-green glaze under the sunlight, perfect for phone wallpapers! ❷ Chang Hai: The highest lake, with stunning snow-capped mountain reflections📸 ❸ Nuorilang Waterfall: Filming location of the 1986 version of 'Journey to the West', very impressive ❹ Shuzheng Qunhai: Walk along the plank road and see the clear water passing through the colorful forest 🍱 Lunch in Jiuzhaigou: Bring your own food or dine at Nuorilang Restaurant (buffet 60-98 yuan) ⚠️ No drones allowed in the scenic area, eco-friendly bus ticket is a must (included in the 280 yuan entrance fee) --- 🍜 Food Recommendations 🔸 Tibetan Cuisine: Qingke barley cake with butter tea, yak meat 🔹 Sichuan Cuisine: 'Chuan Yu Ren Jia' at the entrance of the valley, their boiled yak meat is super tender! 🔸 Snacks: Roasted potatoes, milk curd buns (surprises from street vendors) --- 💡 Notes ❶ Jiuzhaigou's altitude is 2000-3000 meters, avoid strenuous exercise ❷ Large temperature difference between morning and evening, bring a light jacket and sun hat even in July-August ❸ Wear comfortable sports shoes! Expect to walk at least 20,000 steps a day ❹ Buy tickets in advance! There are restrictions during peak season, you can book on the official public account --- Photo Tips ✔️ Take photos before 10 am at Mirror Lake for reflections ✔️ Capture the S-shaped coastline from the plank road at Wuhua Hai ✔️ Wear white/red dresses for better photos! --- 💌 Once you've seen Jiuzhaigou, no other water will compare. With the direct train now available, it's incredibly convenient! This summer, let's dive into the fairy tale world of western Sichuan together! 🌈
YOUFENG
YOUFENG
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Who knew Jiuzhaigou in March was such a wonderland?

Who knew Jiuzhaigou in March was such a wonderland?

Jiuzhaigou in March is so beautiful it leaves you speechless! Peach blossoms set against blue lakes make it feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Distant snow-capped mountains and rime ice, combined with the flowers and waterfalls in front of you, create an unparalleled view. No wonder National Geographic lists it as a must-see destination. So, ignore the online comments saying it's not worth visiting at this time of year. You have to see it with your own eyes to truly appreciate its beauty! Here's my itinerary, it was amazing! 1. Shuzheng Lakes: Take the sightseeing bus directly there. The 19 lakes shrouded in morning mist resemble sapphires, almost too beautiful to be real. 2. Shuzheng Waterfall: Walk there from Shuzheng Lakes and visit the filming location of the movie *Hero*. Standing by the boardwalk, you'll feel like a martial arts hero yourself! 3. Spark Sea: When sunlight hits the lake's surface, the water sparkles like flickering sparks. Aerial photography with a drone creates a truly stunning effect! 4. Five Flower Lake: The soft light before 10 am reveals a dreamy peacock-blue scene, created by the interplay of submerged dead trees and calcium-rich rocks. Absolutely breathtaking! 5. Pearl Shoal Waterfall: This is a filming location for the 1986 version of *Journey to the West*. Remember to wear non-slip shoes so you can get up close and experience the refreshing spray of the waterfall. 6. Mirror Lake: On a calm day, the reflection of the snow-capped mountains in the lake creates a perfect "sky mirror" effect. Simply turn your phone upside down to capture this stunning image. 7. Long Lake: The highest lake in Jiuzhaigou. Take silhouette photos against the backdrop of the reflected snow-capped peaks for an ethereal effect. 8. Five Color Pool: This small, colorful pool resembles an overturned artist's palette. Capture its vibrant beauty with a wide-angle lens from above. It's absolutely stunning! Here are some ways to get to Jiuzhaigou: 1. High-speed Rail: Take the Sichuan-Qinghai Railway from Chengdu East Station. It's a super convenient 2-hour journey to Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station. 2. Self-drive: Starting from Chengdu, the 8-hour journey passes through Dujiangyan, Wenchuan, and Songpan. Along the way, you can visit Qiang villages and Diexi Lake, enjoying the beautiful scenery throughout the trip. 3. Bus: Depart from Chengdu Xinnanmen or Chadianzi Bus Station. There are many buses every day, and tickets cost around CNY 150. Taking an overnight sleeper bus can also save you a night's accommodation.
Z1pp3r_3n1gm@t1c
Z1pp3r_3n1gm@t1c
Jiuzhaigou is stunningly beautiful right now~

Jiuzhaigou is stunningly beautiful right now~

Oh my god, Jiuzhaigou looks like this now It's really, really, really beautiful. This spring is my second time entering the valley, and staying inside the valley this time was very convenient and even saved me a ticket! Dining: 1. Breakfast included at a homestay in the valley: Baozi, eggs, corn, spicy cucumber, plain steamed buns, cornbread + the landlady also made authentic butter tea for tasting! 2. Breakfast at a restaurant outside the valley entrance: Intestine noodles for 15 yuan + 6 xiaolongbao for 13 yuan + plain rice porridge for 3 yuan 3. Dinner included at a homestay in the valley: Four dishes and one soup (two meat dishes, two vegetable dishes, and one soup) 4. Lunch at Nuorilang Restaurant: Hamburger set meal (35 yuan), Tea Hundred Ways (about 3-6 yuan more expensive than outside), boxed meals (35 yuan for two vegetables and one meat or 60 yuan for two meats and one vegetable), and many other choices (buffet for 60 yuan/person or instant noodles for 15 yuan per bowl) 5. Specialty food: Tomato yak hotpot outside the valley entrance (258 yuan for a four-person set meal + two men and two women eat all-you-can-eat beef) 6. Specialty food: Eating Sichuan cuisine in Guangyuan, Sichuan - spicy rabbit meat, grilled fish, tender chicken feet pot (three main dishes and two side dishes for 240 yuan for four people) Best spots for peach blossom viewing: 1. At the Sparkling Lake parking spot, get off and walk back a few dozen meters to find a huge peach tree with drooping branches, perfect for capturing the scene of peach blossoms shading the water (I got off at Rhino Lake and walked all the way to Reed Lake, which took 3 hours) 2. At the intersection of Shuzheng Waterfall and Shuzheng Group of Lakes: There are two walkways here, one above and one below. Walking on the upper one can give you a drone-like overhead view 3. Reed Lake: It's recommended to walk as there's no parking spot. You can only get there on foot. The tour guide on the sightseeing bus will introduce it, and there are peach blossoms along the way, which are also very beautiful (I feel Reed Lake is not as beautiful in spring as it was in winter of 2022) Transportation: Wuhan-Qianjiang high-speed train 1h Self-driving from Qianjiang takes 17h (including 1.5h rest at service areas) with 6h on mountainous national roads (4h of which are driven at night) Self-driving costs: Highway tolls 569 yuan one-way + 1278 yuan for fuel round trip = 1874 yuan Experience of self-driving vs. joining a tour group: Self-driving: Plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, rich dining options, leisurely lunch at Nuorilang Restaurant, buying pomelos from a Qiang uncle for 5 yuan per jin without rushing out of the valley, and getting plenty of sleep at night (Self-driving trip with four people from April 3 to 6, 2024) Joining a tour group: The time for sightseeing is also acceptable. You can stay in Jiuzhaigou for 4-5 hours, quickly tour one line of the Y-shaped route, and then take a bus for about 2 hours to the restaurant and accommodation. Joining a tour is also recommended, especially since the bus departs directly from Chengdu to the scenic area, allowing you to sleep and rest on the bus. I've joined two large groups before, and if you want to visit many attractions at once, I recommend joining a tour (Experience of joining a tour to Jiuzhaigou during the Chinese New Year in 2023) The western part of Sichuan is really suitable for all-season tourism, with different beauties in each season: snow-capped mountains in winter, peach blossoms in spring, and colorful forests in autumn. I'd like to call it a paradise on earth.
Noemie Casper
Noemie Casper