Chengdu East Station → Jiuzhaigou One-Day Express Guide

⏰ Suggested Timeline 06:45 Depart from Chengdu East Station by high-speed train (C-series intercity train) 08:24 Arrive at Huanglong Jiuzhai Station (formerly Chuanzhusi Station) 08:40 Exit the station and take the escalator to the second floor → Bus parking lot 09:00 Take a bus to Jiuzhaigou (book tickets in advance via the "Jiuyue Travel" mini-program, license plate info available) 10:30 Arrive at Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area entrance (grab a quick meal/store luggage) 11:00-17:30 Explore the park on foot (detailed route below👇) 18:00 Return to the scenic area entrance before closing 18:30 Take the bus back to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station (allow extra time for traffic!) 21:30 Take the high-speed train back to Chengdu East Station 🚌 Transportation Tips 1️⃣ Train tickets: Purchase round-trip tickets for "Chengdu East → Huanglong Jiuzhai" on 12306 (choose the latest 21:30 train for the return trip) 2️⃣ Return trip: You can opt for a chartered car or bus. The journey takes about 2 hours, but traffic congestion is common during peak season. It's recommended to book the 18:30 bus to match the 21:30 train. 🎒 Preparation Checklist ✅ Travel light: Lockers are available at the scenic area entrance (can fit luggage up to 21 inches) ✅ Snacks: There are small shops inside the park, but prices are high. Bring energy bars. ✅ Sun protection: The high-altitude UV rays are strong, so sunglasses and a hat are essential. ✅ ID card: Entry is quick with ID scanning. 🏞️ Suggested Route (Cheat Sheet Version) Jiuzhaigou is shaped like a "Y" with three main valleys: 1️⃣ Rize Valley (right branch): The most stunning highlights! Must-see: Five Flower Lake → Pearl Shoal Waterfall → Mirror Lake 2️⃣ Zechawa Valley (left branch): Higher altitude, fewer attractions Must-see: Long Lake → Five-Color Pond (can skip during dry season) 3️⃣ Shuzheng Valley (main route): Visit on your way out Must-see: Rhinoceros Lake → Shuzheng Lakes → Sparkling Lake 🔥 Priority for Exploration: Rize Valley > Shuzheng Valley > Zechawa Valley 🚌 Bus Tip: Upon entry, take the park bus directly to Five Flower Lake at the top of Rize Valley and explore downward to save time! ⚠️ Important Notes 1️⃣ Park buses are frequent, but walking distances are long, so wear comfortable shoes! 2️⃣ Spend 1-2 hours at each attraction. You won’t be able to see everything in one day, so plan ahead. 3️⃣ Return buses may be full. Head to the bus stop immediately after the park closes. 💡 Lazy Traveler Summary: High-speed train + chartered car for seamless connections, focus on Rize Valley, and allow extra time for the return trip! Jiuzhaigou is beautiful year-round, but a one-day trip is intense. If possible, consider staying overnight.