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Jiuzhaigou is a wonderful and major deatination in Sichuan Province which is located in the north of Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou County, previously known as Nanping County, is part of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Since the opening of the Jiuzhai Valley National Park in 1984, visitors have flocked to the region year by year, and the prosperous tourist industry accounts for a large proportion of local revenue...More

Facts of Jiuzhaigou

Chinese Name: 九寨沟县 (jǐu zhài gōu xiàn)
Population: 67,945
Area:  5,290 square kilometers ( 2,042 square miles)
Nationalities: Qiang, Tibetan,Han,Hui
Administrative Division: 2 towns (Nanping, Zhangzha); 13 townships (Yonghe, Baihe, Lingjiang, Heihe, Yuwa, Dalu, Shuanghe, Baohua, Luoyi, Wujiao, Majia, Guoyuan, Caodi); 10 communities; 120 Administrative Villages

History of Jiuzhaigou
Part of the area was protected as a nature reserve after heavy logging which began in 1975. The State Council issued its approval document for the Report on Strengthening the Works of Conservation and Domestication of Giant Pandas, and the report on establishing the Nanping-Jiuzhai Valley Nature Reserve.
1982: The site was proposed as an area of Scenic Beauty and Historic Interest (National Park) by the State Council of the Chinese Government.
1998: Jiuzhai Valley National Park was issued with the Man and Biosphere credential by UNESCO.
2002: Jiuzhai Valley National Park passed the authentication of the Green Globe 21.

What to see in Jiuzhaigou?
With some of the most beautiful and inspiring scenery on earth and some of the reserves scenic spots considered holy by the local Tibetan and Qiang people, it is no wonder a number of mysterious legends surround the wonderful landscape of Jiuzhaigou. Many people are drawn to the area for these reasons, and with the park open all year round the authorities have ensured that the fragile environment is sufficiently protected with a range of comprehensive facilities.  

Jiuzhaigou National Park	Huanglong National Scenic Reserve	Mounigou Valley
Jiapan Ancient Town	Jiuzhai Eternal Love	Taoping Qiang Ethnic Village

When to visit Jiuzhaigou?
The biggest characteristic of Jiuzhaigou's weather is the sharp temperature difference between day and night, due to its plateau climate. In all seasons, it is mostly cool but the ultraviolet radiation is strong, so it is suggested to take a coat to keep warm, and take sun-blocking protections to avoid sunburn. 

Traveling in autumn especially in mid and late October is the best. Although the views are beautiful in each season, that in autumn is most colorful, with trees in red, yellow and green along with the clear water all forming an attractive painting. More to read: Jiuzhaigou Climate

How to get to Jiuzhaigou?
In previous years it had been difficult for visitors to get there due to its isolated location, however this is no longer a concern due to the construction of the Jiuzhaigou Ring Way which links the reserve with Chengdu and the Jiuhuang Airport, and has made gaining access to the park a great deal easier. Jiuhuang Airport operates direct flights to/from Chengdu and Chongqing at present. About the transportation inside the county, there were sightseeing buses in the Jiuzhai Valley. However, the buses are suspended because the scenic area is closed now due to the earthquake. There is no train service now. However, Jiuzhaigou Railway Station, which is under construction, will open in 2019 along with the operation of the Jiuzhaigou - Chengdu Train.More to read: Jiuzhaigou Transportation

Jiuzhaigou Travel Tips
Lying on the highest tableland in the world between the Sichuan Basin and the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Jiuzhaigou covers altitudes ranging from 2,000 meters (6,561 feet) to about 4,300 meters (14,107 feet). With a large number of lake groups, waterfalls and a rich variety of endangered plants and fauna, it was awarded the status of UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1997 and was also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
Historically, the region has been home to small population of Tibetan and Qiang people, and provides a good opportunity to get to know more about the locals' unique life and culture. The highlight of any visit to these areas are special performances laid on by the Tibetan and Qiang people which are also a popular form of the local nightlife.
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