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Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan, China, is often described as "Heaven on Earth," with its vibrant red and yellow foliage reflected in 108 lakes of varying sizes. Jiuzhaigou means "nine Tibetan villages," a name derived from the fact that this scenic area is located in the Aba Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in northern Sichuan Province, China. A Chinese saying goes: "Once you've been to Huangshan, you won't need to see any other mountains; once you've been to Jiuzhaigou, you won't need to see any other lakes," meaning that those who have visited Huangshan in Anhui Province will no longer need to see any other mountains, and those who have visited Jiuzhaigou will not need to see any other lakes.
Jiuzhaigou is beautiful in all four seasons. In spring, vibrant peach blossoms adorn the primeval forest, their petals fluttering gently over the clear blue water. In summer, the clear blue sky reflects on the calm, mirror-like surface. In autumn, carpets of red and yellow leaves create a breathtaking natural landscape. And in winter, the white of the snow and the delicate blossoms drift in the tranquil afternoon, the reeds swaying in the cold wind.
By the lake, ginkgo trees donned a brilliant golden cloak, and red maple branches mingled against the endless blue sky. The sound of trickling water, the unintentional footsteps on the decaying leaves. Occasionally, schools of fish flicked their tails in the shimmering water. The lake's surface resembled a giant, transparent mirror reflecting the deep blue sky and the magical colors of autumn.
Each lake possesses its own unique beauty, naturally arranged into exquisite landscapes, including Princess Lake, Liu Mao Lake, Huo Hua Lake, Gui Jie Lake, Wu Hua Lake, Panda Lake, and Jian Zhu Lake… Panda Lake is 2,587 meters long and 14 meters deep, nestled beneath a lush green bamboo forest.
At this time of year, the forests turn a brilliant golden hue, and the shimmering water reflects lush green moss. The scenery is so beautiful that even if you just point a small camera and randomly click, you'll get a great photo thanks to the vibrant backdrop. You'll also spot many animals like squirrels, rabbits, woodpeckers, and pandas frolicking in the forest.
Some people come to Jiuzhaigou because they are captivated by the pristine and enchanting natural beauty, others because of the vast bamboo forests swaying in the wind, and many also come specifically to see the beautiful lake that was featured in "Hero" and "The Return of the Condor Heroes."
In the evening, you can stay overnight in Jiuzhaigou, under the simple and cozy roof of the local people's houses. Be sure to sample the fragrant mushroom hotpot and the delicious, piping hot milk tea of this region.
