Jiuzhaigou / Dzitsa Degu གཟི་ཚ་སྡེ་དགུ།

Jiuzhaigou is a national reserve of natural beauty with spectacular jagged alpine mountains rising above cedar forest around a picturesque landscape of crystal clear, various coloured ponds, lakes, waterfalls, caves and other beautiful features. Jiuzhaigou means Nine Settlement Valleys and its from Tibetan name Dzitsa Degu. The nine settlements are located along the valley. It is located in Ngawa Tibetan autonomous prefecture the of Sichuan Province in the southwestern region of China. The site was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1992 and a World Biosphere Reserve in 1997. The tourism area is classified as a AAAAA scenic area by the China National Tourism Administration.

Dzitsa Degu is part of the Min Shan mountain range on the edge of the Tibetan Himalayan Plateau and stretches over 720 sq km. The Min Mountains are one of South West China’s most important biodiversity type-zones. The elevation of the national park ranges from almost 2,000m at the entrance to over 4,500m on the mountain peaks and the series of forest ecosystems are stratified by elevation. The remote region was inhabited by various Tibetan and Qiang peoples for centuries. The main religion practiced by the Dzitsa Degu locals is the Bon religion.

Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area

Jiuzhaigou Valley is the county’s crown jewel and one of China’s most celebrated natural reserves. Known for its mesmerizingly clear lakes, unique karst landforms, and diverse ecosystems, this area is a haven for nature lovers and photographers.

Five Flower Lake (Wuhua Hai): This is the most famous lake in the valley, known for its strikingly colorful waters that range from deep blue to emerald green. The lake’s clear waters and surrounding forests create a mesmerizingly vibrant scene.

Pearl Shoal Waterfall: A broad, multi-layered waterfall where water cascades down across a rocky slope, creating a white “pearl-like” effect. It’s especially beautiful in autumn when surrounded by colorful foliage.

Mirror Lake (Jinghai): Early in the morning, this lake reflects the surrounding mountains and forests with mirror-like clarity, making it a favorite for photographers.

Shuzheng Lakes: A series of connected lakes with dramatic shades of blue, turquoise, and green, lined with wooden pathways.

Best Time to Visit: Jiuzhaigou Valley is stunning year-round, but each season offers a unique experience. Autumn (October) is particularly spectacular, with the leaves turning red, orange, and yellow, providing a brilliant contrast to the blue lakes. Winter, though cold, sees the valley dusted with snow, giving it a surreal and magical atmosphere.

Nuorilang Waterfall

Nuorilang Waterfall, located in Jiuzhaigou Valley, is one of the widest waterfalls in China and a must-see spot in the park.

The falls span over 300 meters, and in spring and summer, it gushes with water, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring sight. In winter, the waterfall freezes, transforming into an ice spectacle.

Zharu Temple and Zharu Valley

Zharu Valley offers an opportunity to experience the local Tibetan culture and less-traveled hiking routes.

The valley is home to the sacred Zharu Temple, a site of pilgrimage for local Tibetans. There are several trails in the valley, including a challenging hike to the summit of Zhaga Mountain. Hiking in Zharu Valley also allows visitors to see various plant and animal species in a quieter part of Jiuzhaigou.

Local Tibetan Villages

Jiuzhaigou County’s Tibetan communities add a rich cultural element to the region, with several Tibetan villages located within the Jiuzhaigou Valley and its surroundings.

Traditional Tibetan homes, colorful prayer flags, and Buddhist stupas are common in these villages. Some popular villages include Shuzheng Village and Heye Village, where visitors can experience Tibetan customs, try Tibetan food, and buy local handicrafts.

Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley

These two valleys are branches within the Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area and contain many of the reserve’s most famous lakes and waterfalls.

Practical Tips for Visiting Jiuzhaigou County

1. Tickets and Transportation: Access to Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area requires a ticket, and visitors typically use park shuttle buses to get around. Buses from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou take around 8-10 hours, but there are also flights from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from the park.
2. Accommodations: Jiuzhaigou offers various accommodations, from luxury hotels to local guesthouses. Staying within the Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area is not allowed, so most visitors stay in nearby Jiuzhaigou Town or Zhangzha Town.
3. Weather and Clothing: Weather in Jiuzhaigou is unpredictable, so bring layers, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes. It can get cold in higher elevations, especially in autumn and winter.
4. Local Cuisine: Tibetan and Sichuanese influences shape the cuisine in Jiuzhaigou. Yak butter tea, barley flour dishes, and Tibetan hotpot are common, along with Sichuan-style spicy food. There are also snacks like grilled yak meat and barley wine available near popular sites.
5. Altitude: The altitude in Jiuzhaigou is moderate, though some areas like Huanglong are higher (around 3,000 meters). Take it easy if you’re sensitive to altitude changes and stay hydrated.
6. Respect for Local Culture: Many Tibetans live in Jiuzhaigou, and visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local customs, especially in Tibetan villages and sacred sites. Always ask permission before photographing people or religious sites.
7. Environmental Conservation: Jiuzhaigou is a protected area, so be mindful of littering, stay on designated paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Jiuzhaigou County is an enchanting destination with its blend of awe-inspiring natural landscapes and unique Tibetan culture. From its famous turquoise lakes and vibrant autumn scenery to its ancient temples and welcoming communities, Jiuzhaigou offers a memorable experience that attracts travelers worldwide.