How to Get to Jiuzhaigou National Park?
Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park is located in the north of Sichuan Province, China. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, the park is a mesmerizing destination with colorful lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Reaching this paradise is an adventure in itself, with options for travel by air, rail, and road.
Getting to Jiuzhaigou
You can get to Jiuzhaigou by flights from other main cities in China, or by high-speed train and by overland from Chengdu.
By Flight
Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) is the main airport serving Jiuzhaigou. It's about 43 km from Huanglong Scenic Area and 88 km from Jiuzhaigou National Park.
| Starting City | Airlines | Flight Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Chengdu (CTU) | Air China, Sichuan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines | About 1 hour |
| Chongqing (CKG) | Sichuan Airlines, Air China | About 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Xi'an (XIY) | China Eastern Airlines, Juneyao Airlines | About 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Beijing (PEK) | Air China, China Southern Airlines | About 3 hours |
From the airport, you can take the airport shuttle bus or a taxi to Jiuzhaigou Valley, which takes around 1.5-2 hours.
Tips
- Book your flights in advance, especially during peak seasons (July-August, September-October), as prices tend to increase closer to the date.
- Consider flying to Chengdu and then taking a high-speed train or bus to Jiuzhaigou. This can sometimes be a more budget-friendly option.
- Check for any baggage restrictions or additional fees when booking flights.
By High-Speed Train
Although there isn't a train station directly in Jiuzhaigou, you can take a high-speed train to Chengdu and then continue your journey by bus or taxi. The high-speed train journey from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou takes about 8-10 hours.
Here are the train stations you can choose from:
- Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站)
- Chengdu South Railway Station (成都南站)
Tips
- It is recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season. You can book tickets online via websites like Trip.com, Qunar, or directly through the China Railway website.
- Be aware of the luggage restrictions on the high-speed train.
By Overland from Chengdu
Traveling overland from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is a popular choice, offering scenic views along the way. The journey takes about 8-10 hours by car or bus.
Here's how to travel overland:
- By Bus: Regular buses depart from Chengdu's Xinnanmen Bus Station (新南门车站) and Chadianzi Bus Station (茶店子车站) to Jiuzhaigou. The journey takes about 8-10 hours.
- By Private Car/Taxi: Hiring a private car or taxi offers more flexibility and convenience. This option is ideal for families or groups.
- Join an Organized Tour: Many tour operators offer guided tours from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou. This hassle-free option includes transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing.
Tips
- If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand, as the road can be winding in some areas.
- Break up the journey with stops at interesting towns or viewpoints along the way.
FAQs
How much does it cost to enter Jiuzhaigou National Park?
The entrance fee to Jiuzhaigou National Park varies depending on the season. During peak season (April 1st - November 15th), the entrance fee is CNY 220 per person. During the off-season (November 16th - March 31st), the entrance fee is CNY 80 per person.
What is the best time to visit Jiuzhaigou?
The best time to visit Jiuzhaigou is during autumn (September-October) when the foliage transforms into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Spring (April-May) is also a beautiful time to visit, with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
How many days do I need to explore Jiuzhaigou National Park?
It is recommended to allocate at least two full days to fully appreciate the beauty of Jiuzhaigou National Park. This allows ample time to explore the different valleys, hike to scenic viewpoints, and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.