Escape the City: Two Days in Jiuzhaigou & Huanglong

Escape the City: Two Days in Jiuzhaigou & Huanglong

If you're looking for a place to unwind and forget the hustle and bustle of urban life, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong should definitely be on your list. This two-day tour takes you to some of the most breathtaking landscapes you can imagine.

Planning Your Trip

Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Chengdu, the perfect starting point for your journey north into Sichuan province. I recommend catching the earliest train around 6:15 AM from Chengdu East Station, which takes approximately two hours to reach Huanglong–Jiuzhai Station. Be sure to book your train tickets and entrance tickets at least three days in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly!

Day One - Discovering Jiuzhaigou

Upon arriving at the station, you can hop on a bus to Jiuzhaigou, which takes about two hours and costs 51 CNY. This stunning location is filled with countless natural wonders just waiting for you to explore. Don’t forget to bring your passport, as it’s required for park entry and your ticket is linked to your name.

Once inside the park, I recommend taking the right branch of the Y-shaped path, starting at Swan Lake. The emerald green waters of the lake, combined with the surrounding scenery, truly captivated me.

Stunning Lakes That Take Your Breath Away

After enjoying Swan Lake, you can take a scenic walk to Bamboo Shoot Lake. Here, you'll be treated to beautiful waterfalls and can immerse yourself in the serene beauty without any barriers separating you from nature.

Continuing your journey, you'll arrive at Five Flower Lake, often considered the most beautiful lake in Jiuzhaigou. Its waters are a magical blend of calcium carbonate deposits, algae, and underwater plants, creating an irresistible natural masterpiece.

Enjoying the Tranquil Landscape

After admiring Five Flower Lake, I decided to walk back to Nuorilang Waterfall to fully appreciate the natural beauty and escape the crowds.

Nuorilang Waterfall left a strong impression on me from the first sight. Standing on the observation platforms next to the waterfall, you can feel the cool mist and hear the thunderous sound of the cascading water.

Day Two - Conquering Huanglong

The next morning, prepare your energy for a mountain hike to Huanglong. This location is famous for its stunning limestone terraces and colorful pools.

Don’t forget to wear good hiking shoes and bring some snacks to keep your energy up. The trail to Huanglong takes you through breathtaking landscapes and fresh, crisp air.

These were two sweet and unforgettable days that I will always cherish. I hope you have an equally wonderful trip to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong!