Exploring Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan: A Forest Secret with Temperatures from 17 to 25℃

Highlights: A Cool Fairy Tale World at 17 - 25℃ The average summer temperature in Jiuzhaigou ranges between 17 and 25℃, with forest coverage exceeding 80%, making it a rare natural summer resort in western Sichuan. Here, emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, and colorful forests intertwine to create a vivid painting. From June to August, the rainy season peaks, and the waterfalls reach their fullest flow. Nuorilang Waterfall spans 320 meters wide, with the roar of water deafening; Five Flower Lake’s water shifts from blue to green, resembling a brilliant oil painting; Snow-capped mountains reflect beautifully in Chang Lake. Additionally, in June, alpine rhododendrons contrast with green trees, and from July to August, wildflowers bloom along the plank roads, adding a romantic atmosphere to Jiuzhaigou. Recommended Itinerary 3-Day Classic Version (Family/Photography Friendly) Day 1: Full Jiuzhaigou Panorama Tour - 8:00 - 17:00: Take the park shuttle bus directly to the primeval forest and start a hiking trip. Depart from Arrow Bamboo Lake, pass Panda Lake, and finally reach Five Flower Lake. This section is the essence of Jiuzhaigou, about 2 km in total. - 14:00: Have lunch at Nuorilang Center Station; the self-heating yak beef rice is highly recommended. - 15:00: Visit Chang Lake and Five Color Pool. Chang Lake is the largest lake in Jiuzhaigou, with ice up to 60 cm thick in winter and a deep blue color in summer; Five Color Pool is the smallest but most colorful lake, with the best light and shadow effects in the afternoon. - 17:00: Explore the Shuzheng Valley lakes; the sunset view at Rhino Lake is especially charming, around 18:30. - Accommodation: Choose a Tibetan-style guesthouse in the valley entrance, such as Zhaxi, where you can experience butter tea and bonfire parties, immersing yourself in rich Tibetan culture. Day 2: In-Depth Cultural and Natural Experience - Morning: Visit Jiabian Ancient Town for a Tibetan home visit, learn Thangka painting, and make tsampa by hand to deeply understand Tibetan culture and life. - Afternoon: Go to Ganhaizi for a light hike in the alpine meadow, with horse riding available for about 2 hours. - Evening: Watch the "Jiuzhai Eternal Love" performance; tickets should be booked in advance during peak season. This show combines Tibetan and Qiang songs and dances, letting you experience local folk customs. Day 3: Return or Nearby Exploration - Morning: Visit Fairy Pool, home to a secret calcified pool; the ticket includes a sightseeing bus. - Afternoon: Visit the Red Army Long March Memorial Park in Chuanzhusi, then return to Chengdu. 5-Day In-Depth Version (For Outdoor Enthusiasts) - Day 4: Visit Huanglong Scenic Area, located at 3,500 meters altitude. It is recommended to take the cable car up and hike down to enjoy the beauty of the calcified pools. - Day 5: Explore Muni Valley, featuring Zaga Waterfall and Erdao Lake. It is less crowded and very scenic, perfect for visitors who prefer tranquility. Food Recommendations Valley Entrance Cuisine - Nine Big Bowls: The signature dish here is yak beef hot pot, with fresh broth and tender meat, rich in nutrition. - Tibetan-Style Earth Hot Pot: Recommended is the "Tibetan King Feast Dance," with abundant ingredients and rich flavors. Chuanzhusi Cuisine - Chef Zhang’s Yak Beef: Yak beef here can be vacuum-packed for easy takeaway. Warm Tips Eating is prohibited inside the scenic area; visitors can bring their own dry food or dine at Nuorilang Center Station. Accommodation Recommendations Budget - Jiulv Holiday Hotel: Located at the valley entrance, a 10-minute walk to the scenic area, convenient transportation. Comfort - InterContinental Jiuzhai Paradise Hotel: Featuring Tibetan architectural style and forest hot springs, allowing you to enjoy comfort and relaxation during your trip. Luxury - Luneng Shengdiying Indigo Hotel: Equipped with family facilities and snow mountain views, ideal for family travel. Transportation Guide By Air - Jiuhuang Airport: 88 km from the scenic area, with direct flights from Chengdu, Chongqing, and other cities. Shuttle cars are available to the scenic area upon arrival. By Car - Route: Depart from Chengdu, passing through Wenchuan, Maoxian, Songpan, Chuanzhusi, and finally arriving at Jiuzhaigou. Take the G4217 Rongchang Expressway, approximately 9 hours. By Bus - Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station: Direct buses to Jiuzhaigou depart daily at 7:30 and 8:00, with a travel time of about 10 hours. Important Notes Altitude Sickness Jiuzhaigou’s altitude ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 meters. Visitors should avoid strenuous exercise and prepare some glucose oral solution just in case. Sun Protection and Warmth The UV rays in Jiuzhaigou are strong; prepare SPF50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and a windbreaker. Due to large temperature differences between morning and evening, even in summer, keep warm. Scenic Area Rules - Ticket Reservation: Visitors must book tickets 1 to 3 days in advance on the "Aba Tourism Network." During peak season, the daily visitor limit is 23,000. - Prohibited Actions: Smoking is forbidden inside the park; do not feed wild animals; carry out all trash. Photography Tips - Five Flower Lake: Best shooting time is 10:00 - 12:00, when side backlighting makes the lake colors more vivid. - Nuorilang Waterfall: Shoot with front light in the morning to clearly capture the water flow; afternoon backlighting creates artistic photos. The coolness and vitality of Jiuzhaigou’s summer are worth exploring step by step to discover every poetic corner. Check the weather before departure, prepare sun protection gear, and let’s embrace this 20℃ fairy tale world together!