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A paradise on earth in China
Jiuzhaigou, a name that evokes a yearning for exploration, is a precious gem that no traveler should miss. It's not just a destination, but an experience that spans all four seasons, each moment adorned with its own unique and captivating beauty. Whether it's the bright sunshine illuminating the crystal-clear lakes or the sudden downpours bringing a mystical mist, Jiuzhaigou always manages to enchant visitors with its magically ever-changing beauty.
Bearing a name deeply rooted in Tibetan culture – Sicadegu, meaning "Valley of Nine Villages" – Jiuzhaigou is also affectionately known by the Chinese as the "King of Water Landscapes." This title is entirely deserved, with its pristine mountain lakes, majestic waterfalls cascading from above, ancient forests ablaze with seasonal colors, and snow-capped peaks year-round. All these elements combine to create a magnificent natural landscape that captivates all the senses. Beyond its natural beauty, Jiuzhaigou also preserves the unique traditional customs of the Tibetan people, offering visitors a profound cultural experience.
Jiuzhaigou definitely deserves to be on your list of must-visit travel destinations in your lifetime. The scenery here is unique in all four seasons.
Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, also known as Jiuzhaigou National Park, is located in the south of Nanping County, in the Qiang and Aba Autonomous Prefecture of northern Sichuan Province, China. Spanning a vast area of 60,000 hectares, this land was once home to the harmonious lives of Tibetan and Qiang people for centuries, nestled among limestone mountain ranges bearing the imprint of the majestic Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
The exceptional value of Jiuzhaigou was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1992, a testament to its beauty and global importance. In 2013, the China Tourism Quality Assessment Committee awarded Jiuzhaigou the AAAAA (5A) rating, the highest criterion for tourist areas, affirming its leading status. The name "Jiuzhaigou" originates from the presence of nine ancient Tibetan villages that once existed there, including: Shuzheng Village, Zechawa Village, Heijiao Village, Heye Village, Panya Village, Ala Village, Jianpan Village, Rexi Village, and Guodu Village. However, due to the passage of time and the development of tourism, the scenic area now only preserves and opens to visitors three main villages: Shuzheng Village, Heye Village, and Zechawa Village.
Jiuzhaigou, whose Tibetan name means "Valley of Nine Villages," is known by the Chinese as the "King of Water Landscapes."
Among them, the most outstanding is undoubtedly the Tacha Oa Village, one of the iconic scenic spots that has become the "brand" of Jiuzhaigou. It boasts the Five Flower Lake, also known by the beautiful name "Xianchi," meaning "the place where fairies bathe." The crystal-clear lake reflects the vibrant colors of the trees, creating a magical and breathtaking scene.
With a total scenic area of 60,000 hectares, it was formerly inhabited by the Tibetan and Qiang people.
However, in 2017, a historic earthquake caused significant damage to the landscape, leaving many regretting the loss of a once-famous landmark. Anxiety gripped those who had never had the chance to admire the beauty of Jiuzhaigou. But good news arrived after two years of tireless efforts in restoration and renovation: Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area has officially reopened, welcoming visitors to explore its revived attractions.
Jiuzhaigou is a vast natural area located at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level.
Geographically, Jiuzhaigou comprises three main valleys, arranged in a unique Y-shape. Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley are two valleys located on the southern branches, converging at the center, where Shuzheng Valley begins heading north. The first branch that visitors usually start their exploration of is Rize Valley, which opens up a series of fascinating attractions, promising unforgettable experiences.
A paradise hidden among humankind
Travel enthusiasts often say that Jiuzhaigou is a land of breathtaking beauty in all four seasons, with impressive scenery. However, to fully appreciate this picture, you should visit Jiuzhaigou at its most beautiful in spring or autumn.
Each season here brings a different kind of beauty.
Spring in Jiuzhaigou brings a breathtaking landscape of vibrant colors that captivates any travel enthusiast. The weather becomes warmer after the long winter, creating a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. Summer in Jiuzhaigou offers a magnificent scenery with sparkling sunshine. This is typically the busiest time of year for visitors. However, a major drawback of visiting Jiuzhaigou in the summer is the unpredictable weather, especially during the rainy months of July and August.
In spring, the scenery is bright and vibrant, with flowers and plants displaying their colors.
Autumn is considered the most beautiful season in Jiuzhaigou. During this time, the leaves begin to change color to shades of red, creating a dreamy, poignant, and slightly melancholic atmosphere. Against this backdrop, the gray-green of the bamboo and coniferous trees provides a perfect setting for the lakes, adding to their vibrant blue hues. Winter in Jiuzhaigou also offers breathtaking scenery. The water surfaces begin to freeze, creating a stunning landscape. However, temperatures are quite low during this period, making access to the area by road more difficult due to the weather.
In autumn, the ancient forest is full of color, elegance, and charm.
Jiuzhaigou is a vast nature reserve with countless beautiful landscapes. Jiuzhaigou is divided into three parts with impressively beautiful scenery: Shuzheng Valley, Zechawa Valley, and Rize Valley.
Shuzheng Gou boasts many beautiful landscapes.
Shuzheng Valley is the northern branch of Jiuzhaigou, boasting breathtaking scenery. You should arrive early to have ample time to explore the impressive natural beauty of this area. The Shuzheng Valley region has many beautiful scenic spots that are a popular choice for many travelers.
Zechawa Gou possesses an impressive surreal beauty.
Tacha Oa Gou is the southeastern branch of Jiuzhaigou, stretching up to 18 km. It boasts picturesque scenery with serene, clear blue lakes, which we've compiled in the photos below.
Rize Gou - A landmark deeply imbued with the spirit of primeval forests.
Rize Valley is a branch located to the west of Jiuzhaigou. This beautiful 18-kilometer-long valley is the most visited destination when traveling to Jiuzhaigou. Furthermore, this valley also boasts the most beautiful lakes and waterfalls in Jiuzhaigou.
If you have even a fleeting opportunity, seize it and visit Jiuzhaigou, because if you miss it, you may forever carry a deep regret in your heart. Here, the ethereal beauty is not just flowery words, but a tangible reality, a magnificent landscape like a gateway to paradise on earth. Only by seeing it with your own eyes can you truly feel the wonder that nature has bestowed upon this land, a beauty that surpasses all imagination and words.
