Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou, meaning Nine Village Valley, is a nature reserve and national park in the northern part of Sichuan province, China. It lies within the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture and is administered as part of Jiuzhaigou County. The park encompasses a high‑altitude valley system renowned for multilevel waterfalls, a sequence of vividly colored lakes, and the snow‑capped peaks of the Min Mountains.

Jiuzhaigou was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992 as Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area, recognized for its exceptional landscape and ecological value. In 2006 it became part of the serial UNESCO World Heritage Site Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, linking it with other protected areas in the region.

Ecology and landscape: The area protects diverse forest habitats at elevations roughly between 2,000 and 3,000 meters, including broadleaf and conifer communities with species such as rhododendrons and firs. The lakes are noted for their clear water and range of colors, often reflecting surrounding scenery and light. The reserve supports a variety of wildlife and is integrated into broader biodiversity and conservation networks in Sichuan.

Culture: The valley contains historical Tibetan villages and reflects the cultural heritage of local Tibetan communities, contributing to the region’s ethnographic significance.

History and access: The park sustained damage in the 2017 Sichuan earthquake, with reconstruction of trails and facilities and a partial to gradual reopening for visitors. It is commonly accessed from Songpan and remains a major destination for domestic and international tourists, especially in spring and autumn.