Exploring Jiuzhaigou - Day One

Early in the morning, I mustered the courage to leave Chengdu and set off for Jiuzhaigou on the fastest train at 6:15 AM. I had heard this was the most convenient way to reach this enchanting destination. After about two hours on the train, I arrived at the Huanglong-Jiuzhai station, and my exciting journey began.

As soon as I stepped off the train, I was greeted by the bus drivers waiting for passengers. All I had to say was, "Jiuzhaigou," and they directed me to the right bus. After a two-hour bus ride costing 51 CNY, I found myself at the entrance of the famous Jiuzhaigou Valley.

I chose to stay at a nearby hotel, like the Jiufeng Holiday Hotel, to save on costs and to make it easy to explore the park from the early morning. As always, remember to book your Jiuzhaigou entrance ticket at least three days in advance. Don’t forget to bring your passport, as it’s essential for entry into the park!

Must-See Highlights in Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou is shaped like a Y, with each branch showcasing its own unique beauty. Starting from the right branch, I visited Swan Lake, where the crystal-clear water reflects the lush greenery and distant snow-capped mountains.

Next, I strolled along Swan Lake to fully appreciate the stunning scenery before boarding the bus to Arrow Bamboo Lake. This lake sits at an elevation of about 2,629 meters and its waters remain stable, never freezing even in the cold winter months. This destination truly felt like a slice of paradise.

Day Two - Conquering Huanglong

The next morning, I set off for Huanglong. Although not as famous as Jiuzhaigou, its landscapes are equally breathtaking. The scenery is picturesque, with bubbling streams and cascading waterfalls all around.

Huanglong is renowned for its emerald green ponds interspersed with wooden walkways. Walking on these bridges, listening to the gentle flow of water, and breathing in the fresh air was a true gift.

I recommend renting a private car to get around the area, as the distances can be quite far and navigating by motorcycle could take up a lot of time.

Tips to Avoid Crowds

The best time to visit is in the fall, when the foliage is at its most vibrant. However, to dodge the crowds, you should aim to arrive early or choose weekdays instead of weekends.

Don’t forget to prepare your gear thoroughly, from comfortable shoes and warm clothing to snacks. Remember to immerse yourself and savor every unique moment in this incredible place!

Exploring Jiuzhaigou - Day One