Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide
Jiuzhaigou Facts
Chinese Name: 九寨沟县 (jǐu zhài gōu xiàn)
Population: 81,500
Area: 5,286 square kilometers (2,041 square miles)
Location: in the north of Sichuan Province, southwest China
Area Code: 0837
Zip Code: 623400
GDP (2018): CNY 2.54 billion (USD 0.384 billion)
Nationalities: Han, Tibetan, Hui, Qiang
Famous for Stunning Natural Scenery in Jiuzhaigou National Park
Located in the north of Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou County, previously known as Nanping County, is part of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Since the opening of the Jiuzhaigou National Park in 1984, visitors have flocked to the region year by year. The distance from Jiuzhaigou county to Jiuzhaigou National Park is about 48 km (30 mi). Up to now, over 100 hotels and restaurants are available in the county.
Jiuzhaigou is famous for green lakes, waterfalls, colorful forests, snow peaks, Tibetan customs and blue ices. April to November is the peak season of Jiuzhaigou tourism. Around April, Jiuzhaigou is covered with red, purple, blue and yellow flowers. From June to August, it is a good place for summer vacation because the cool climate brought by the high altitude can keep tourists away from the heat. Also it is the best time to watch the green lakes and waterfalls due to the abundant water supply. October and November sees the most brilliant Jiuzhaigou scenery as the forests are dressed in beautiful colors and all reflected in the bright lakes. Besides, visitors can experience strong Tibetan customs through Tibetan performances, traditional buildings, monasteries and Tibetan custom parks.
With some of the most beautiful and inspiring scenery on earth and some of the reserves scenic spots considered holy by the local Tibetan and Qiang people, it is no wonder a number of mysterious legends surround the wonderful landscape of Jiuzhaigou. Many people are drawn to the area for these reasons, and with the park open all year round the authorities have ensured that the fragile environment is sufficiently protected with a range of comprehensive facilities.
From December 1 to 25, 2024, the cable way of Huanglong National Scenic Reserve will stop its service for maintenance; at the same time, sightseeing buses will also be out of service.
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In previous years it had been difficult for visitors to get there due to its isolated location, however this is no longer a concern due to the construction of the Jiuzhaigou Ring Way which links the reserve with Chengdu and the Jiuhuang Airport, and has made gaining access to the park a great deal easier. Jiuhuang Airport operates direct flights to/from Chengdu and Chongqing at present. About the transportation inside the county, there were sightseeing buses in the Jiuzhaigou Valley. However, the buses are suspended because the scenic area is closed now due to the earthquake. There is no train service now. However, Jiuzhaigou Railway Station, which is under construction, will open in 2019 along with the operation of the Jiuzhaigou - Chengdu Train.
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Local Highlights:
Historically, the region has been home to small population of Tibetan and Qiang people, and provides a good opportunity to get to know more about the locals' unique life and culture. The highlight of any visit to these areas are special performances laid on by the Tibetan and Qiang people which are also a popular form of the local nightlife. Special Local Products:
Trying some of the typical local foods and picking up a number of the reasonably-priced, locally-produced goods of the Tibetan and Qiang groups are something of a must during your visit. This area has been blessed with some of the most captivating landscapes on earth and words simply do not do it justice, and so you are encouraged to visit at the earliest opportunity. Physical Features:
Lying on the highest tableland in the world between the Sichuan Basin and the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Jiuzhaigou covers altitudes ranging from 2,000 meters (6,561 feet) to about 4,300 meters (14,107 feet). With a large number of lake groups, waterfalls and a rich variety of endangered plants and fauna, it was awarded the status of UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1997 and was also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The reserve has received a string of other titles including that of a National Geological Park, a AAAAA Class Scenic Spot in China and a Green Globe 21.
Further Reading: Dining & Nightlife Shopping
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