Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide: Start with Altitude

Jiuzhaigou is a high valley in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of northern Sichuan. The first thing to plan for is altitude and acclimatization.

The valley runs from about 2000 to 3100 meters, so managing your first day matters if you are used to low elevations. Below we cover altitude, how Huanglong fits in, internal transport, and seasons.

Jiuzhaigou in short

Jiuzhaigou is a valley at 2000 to 3100 meters, while Huanglong is a separate area higher still, at 3000 to 3600 meters.

If you want both, do not cram them into one day. Acclimatize at lower ground, then move higher.

Where it is and how high it goes

The valley forks into a Y shape: Shuzheng at the bottom, Zechawa on the left arm, and Rize on the right. Its name comes from nine Tibetan villages once in the valley.

• The entrance sits around 2000 meters.
• Main lakes lie between 2400 and 3000 meters.
• The highest sections reach about 3100 meters.

Water color shifts between lakes, so the same day looks different section by section.

Jiuzhaigou versus Huanglong

The two are linked by road, and the nearby airport sits high, so moving right after landing can be taxing.

Altitude preparation

Altitude affects people differently. Some feel symptoms at the same height where others feel fine.

• Keep your first day light, with only a short walk.
• Drink water often, and avoid heavy drinking or eating.
• If you feel a cold coming on, delay going higher.
• If headache or nausea worsens, descend and rest.

If you have existing conditions, consult a doctor before departure.

Getting around inside

Shuttle buses link the main stops. The valley is long, so walking alone rarely covers it in a day.

• Ride to the far end, then walk sections on the way back.
• Wooden boardwalks connect the lakes and are easy to walk.
• Stops differ by route, so check the shuttle signage.

Waterfall and multi-colored pond sections get crowded, so visit them in the morning.

Getting there and when to go

From Chengdu you can fly or go by road. The road has long mountain stretches, while the flight lands you at a high airport.

• September to October: the best mix of autumn color and vivid water.
• April to June: clear water and lighter crowds.
• July to August: lush but rainy.
• Winter: some sections may close, so confirm in advance.

Because of the altitude, pack sunscreen and a warm layer in any season.