ChinaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Jiuzhaigou Valley

1. What are the most common modes of transportation for tourists to reach Jiuzhaigou Valley?

The most common modes of transportation for tourists to reach Jiuzhaigou Valley are by air, bus, and private car.

2. How can I get to Jiuzhaigou Valley by air?
You can reach Jiuzhaigou Valley by flying into the nearest airport, Jiuhuang Airport (JZH). From there, you can take shuttle buses or taxis to the valley.

3. Are there any direct flights to Jiuzhaigou Valley?
As of now, there are no direct flights to Jiuzhaigou Valley. Most flights with multiple stops from major cities in China are available.

4. How long does it take to travel from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Valley?
It takes around 8 hours to travel from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Valley by bus or private car. By flight, it takes around 1.5 hours.

5. Is there a train station near Jiuzhaigou Valley?
The nearest train station to Jiuzhaigou Valley is at Chuanzhu Temple Station in nearby Huanglong Park, but it is not connected to the national railway system. The closest major train station is in Chengdu.

6. Can I drive my own car into Jiuzhaigou Valley?
Private cars are not allowed in the scenic area of Jiuzhaigou National Park. However, visitors can park their cars at the entrance and then take the tourist buses or electric sightseeing vehicles inside the park.

7. Are there any bus tours available for traveling between Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou Valley?
Yes, there are several bus tours available from Chengdu that include transportation and entry tickets for Jiuzhaigou National Park.

8. What is the best time of year to visit Jiuzhaigou Valley?
The best time of year to visit Jiuzhaiguo Valley is during autumn (September to November) when the foliage is colorful, or in spring (March to May) when the flowers are in bloom. Avoid visiting during the peak tourist season of July and August.

9. Can I visit Jiuzhaigou Valley on a day trip from Chengdu?
It is possible to visit Jiuzhaigou Valley on a day trip from Chengdu, but it would be very rushed and not ideal as the drive alone takes around 8 hours round-trip. It is recommended to spend at least one night at or near the valley.

10. Are there any accommodations available inside Jiuzhaigou Valley?
Yes, there are several accommodations available inside the scenic area of Jiuzhaigou National Park, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. It is also possible to stay in nearby villages outside of the park entrance for a more budget-friendly option.

2. Are there any direct flights to Jiuzhaigou or do I have to go through a connecting airport?


There are currently no direct flights to Jiuzhaigou. Passengers typically need to connect from major cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, or Chongqing. The most common connecting airports for flights to Jiuzhaigou are Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG).

3. How long does it take to travel by road from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou?


The travel time by road from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou depends on several factors such as weather and traffic conditions. On average, it takes around 8-9 hours to drive the 454 km distance between the two cities. However, the journey can take longer during peak tourist seasons or in adverse weather conditions.

4. Is it necessary to hire a guide or can I navigate the valley on my own?


It is not necessary to hire a guide for navigating the valley, but it can be helpful if you are unfamiliar with the area. A guide can provide a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the valley as well as point out interesting sights and landmarks. If you are comfortable navigating on your own and have done proper research beforehand, you should be able to navigate the valley on your own.

5. Are there any shuttle services available within Jiuzhaigou Valley?

Yes, there are shuttle buses and minibuses available within Jiuzhaigou Valley that run between the different scenic areas. These shuttles are included in the entrance fee to the park. There is also a hop-on, hop-off bus system that allows visitors to customize their own route within the park.

6. Can I rent a bicycle to explore the valley?


Yes, there are rental shops or companies that offer bike rentals for visitors to explore the valley. It is a popular activity and a great way to see the sights at your own pace. Prices may vary, so it is best to do some research beforehand.

7. Are there any restrictions on driving within the valley?


There are no specific restrictions on driving within a valley, such as a speed limit or designated lanes. However, drivers should still follow all traffic laws and regulations, including posted speed limits, yield signs, and traffic signals. Additionally, some valleys may have narrower roads or tighter turns that may require extra caution while driving. It is always important to drive safely and attentively in any location.

8. What is the best time of year for navigation in Jiuzhaigou Valley in terms of weather and road conditions?


The best time of year for navigation in Jiuzhaigou Valley in terms of weather and road conditions is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is mild and the roads are usually clear of snow and ice, making it easier for navigation. However, it is also peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and longer wait times at popular attractions. Spring (April and May) and autumn (September to early November) are also good seasons for navigation as the temperatures are pleasant and the scenery is stunning with blooming flowers or fall foliage. Winter can be challenging for navigation due to heavy snowfall and icy roads, but some tourists still choose to visit during this time for a unique winter wonderland experience.

9. Are there any special permits required for entry into the valley?


It depends on which valley you are referring to. Some valleys may require permits for entry, depending on things like whether they are in a national park or designated wilderness area. It’s always best to check with the appropriate authorities before entering any specific valley to see if there are any necessary permits or fees.

10. Is it possible to book transportation and navigation packages through tour companies?


Yes, it is possible to book transportation and navigation packages through tour companies. Many tour companies offer a variety of packages that include transportation to and from destinations as well as guided navigation throughout the trip. These packages often also include accommodations, activities, and meals. Some tour companies specialize in specific types of transportation, such as train or boat tours, while others offer a combination of different modes of transportation. It is important to research different tour companies and their offerings to find the best package for your travel preferences and budget.

11. Do I need to purchase tickets in advance for the shuttle buses inside the park?


It depends on the specific park and its policies. Some national parks require advance reservations for shuttle buses, while others allow on-site ticket purchases. It is recommended to check the park’s website or contact them directly for more information.

12. How frequent are the bus schedules from one attraction to another within the valley?

The bus schedules within a valley can vary, depending on the specific location and local transportation services. In some popular tourist destinations, buses may run every 30 minutes to an hour between attractions. In more remote areas, bus service may be less frequent and may only run a few times per day. It is important to research local transportation options in advance to plan your travels within the valley.

13. Can I bring my own car into Jiuzhaigou National Park or is it more convenient to use public transportation?

You can bring your own car into Jiuzhaigou National Park, but it is not always convenient. The roads are narrow and winding, and there is often heavy traffic within the park. It may be more convenient to use the public transportation provided within the park, such as shuttle buses or sightseeing buses. These options allow you to relax and fully enjoy the scenery without having to worry about navigating the roads.

14. What kind of accommodations are available near the park entrance for travelers without private transportation means?


Near the park entrance, there are several accommodations available for travelers without private transportation means. These accommodations include:

1. Hotels: There are a few hotels located near the park entrance, which offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities like WiFi, parking, and on-site restaurants.

2. Guesthouses/B&Bs: There are also several guesthouses and bed & breakfasts in the area that offer cozy rooms with shared facilities, such as kitchen or bathroom.

3. Campgrounds: For budget travelers or those who enjoy camping, there are campgrounds near the park entrance that offer facilities like toilets, showers, and picnic areas.

4. Homestays: Some local families may offer homestay options for travelers without private transportation means. This is an opportunity to stay with a host family and experience their culture and way of life.

5. Hostels: There may be a few hostels near the park entrance that cater to backpackers and budget travelers. These usually offer dorm-style accommodation with shared facilities.

6. Vacation rentals: In recent years, vacation rental options have become popular near national parks. These can range from cottages or cabins to apartments or entire homes for rent.

It’s always best to research and book accommodations in advance to ensure availability during peak travel seasons.

15. Can I visit multiple sections of the park in one day, or should I plan for multiple days?


It depends on how much time you have and what sections of the park you want to visit. It is possible to visit multiple sections in one day if you plan your itinerary carefully. However, keep in mind that Yellowstone National Park is a large and vast area, so it may be more enjoyable to spread out your visit over multiple days if possible. This will give you more time to fully explore each section and take in all the sights and activities.

16.Can foreigners easily navigate and communicate with drivers and guides in this area?


Yes, in most cases foreigners can easily navigate and communicate with drivers and guides in this area. Many drivers and guides are multilingual and have experience working with international tourists. In addition, English is widely spoken in business and tourist areas in this region. However, it is always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local language to make communication easier.

17.How do I get from one scenic spot to another within Jiuzhaigou Valley if I am not using shuttle buses?

In order to get from one scenic spot to another within Jiuzhaigou Valley without using the shuttle buses, you can either walk between the spots or take a taxi. Walking is a popular option as it allows you to experience the natural beauty of the valley and also saves money. However, some distances between certain spots may be quite far, so taking a taxi may be more convenient if you are short on time. Just make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in. Additionally, there are also tour companies that offer private car or bus services within the valley for a fee.

18.Are there any scenic viewpoints that are only accessible by certain modes of transportation?


Yes, there are some scenic viewpoints that can only be accessed by certain modes of transportation. For example:

1. Aerial viewpoints: Some viewpoints, such as mountain peaks or skyscrapers, can only be accessed via aerial transportation, such as a helicopter or cable car.

2. Water access: Some viewpoints may only be reached by boat, such as lakeside viewpoints or coastal cliffs.

3. Off-road vehicles: There are also some remote and off-the-beaten-path scenic spots that can only be accessed by off-road vehicles like jeeps or ATVs.

4. Hiking trails: Many hiking trails lead to beautiful scenic viewpoints that cannot be reached by any other form of transportation.

5. Bicycles: In some areas, biking may be the most efficient way to reach a scenic viewpoint, especially in bike-friendly cities with designated bike paths and lanes.

6. Train rides: Some scenic viewpoints can only be accessed via train rides through mountain passes or along coastlines.

7. Ziplining: For adrenaline-seekers, zipline courses may take them to aerial viewpoints that are not accessible by foot or vehicle.

8. Scenic drives: In certain locations, driving on specific roads may lead to breathtaking panoramic views that are not visible from any other angle.

9. Boardwalks and bridges: In nature reserves and national parks, there may be boardwalks or suspension bridges leading to secluded scenic overlooks that cannot be reached otherwise.

19.How long does it take to trek between different attractions within Jiuzhaigou Valley?


The amount of time it takes to trek between different attractions within Jiuzhaigou Valley varies depending on the specific routes and distances. Generally, it can take anywhere from 20 minutes to a few hours to trek between different attractions. It is recommended to allow at least a full day to explore the main attractions in Jiuzhaigou Valley.

20.What precautions should be taken while navigating in and around Jiuzhaigou Valley to ensure safety and minimize impact on the natural environment?


1. Follow designated trails: Stick to designated trails and do not wander off into restricted areas to avoid disturbing the natural environment.

2. Respect local rules and regulations: Jiuzhaigou Valley has specific rules and regulations in place to protect the natural environment. It is important to abide by them to ensure safety and minimize impact.

3. Do not litter: Be sure to carry your trash with you and dispose of it properly at designated waste bins. Littering can harm the fragile ecosystem of Jiuzhaigou Valley.

4. Avoid feeding or touching animals: While it may be tempting to feed or touch the wildlife, it is important to remember that these are wild animals and interactions with humans can cause harm to both parties.

5. Use eco-friendly transportation options: To reduce the impact on the environment, opt for eco-friendly transportation options available within Jiuzhaigou Valley, such as electric buses or bicycles.

6. Do not disturb natural formations: The crystal clear lakes, waterfalls, and other natural formations in Jiuzhaigou Valley are delicate and easily damaged. Avoid climbing on them or throwing objects into them.

7. Be prepared for changing weather conditions: The weather in Jiuzhaigou Valley can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack appropriate gear for rain or cold weather.

8. Carry enough food and water: There are limited food options within the park, so bring enough supplies to sustain yourself throughout your visit.

9. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness, as Jiuzhaigou Valley is located at a high altitude.

10. Consult with a local guide: If you are unfamiliar with the area or unsure about certain routes, it is advisable to hire a local guide who is familiar with the terrain and can help keep you safe.

11. Respect cultural sites and artifacts: Many parts of Jiuzhaigou Valley hold cultural significance for local communities. Be respectful of these sites and artifacts, and do not touch or remove anything from them.

12. Notify others of your whereabouts: Inform a friend or family member of your plans and whereabouts when exploring Jiuzhaigou Valley, especially if you are traveling alone.

13. Bring necessary medication: If you have any medical conditions, be sure to bring the necessary medication with you.

14. Purchase necessary permits in advance: Certain areas within Jiuzhaigou Valley require permits for entry. Make sure to purchase them in advance to avoid any delays or issues at the entrance.

15. Respect cultural norms and customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions while visiting Jiuzhaigou Valley, such as dressing modestly and respecting religious sites.

16. Stay on designated paths during outdoor activities: If engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking or camping, stay on designated paths to minimize impact on the natural environment.

17. Avoid smoking in the park: Smoking can pose a fire hazard in a natural area like Jiuzhaigou Valley, so it is best to avoid it altogether while exploring the park.

18. Be prepared for limited internet connection: Due to its remote location, internet connection within Jiuzhaigou Valley may be limited or unavailable. Plan accordingly by downloading offline maps or important information beforehand.

19. Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms: Jiuzhaigou Valley is located at a high altitude which can cause altitude sickness in some individuals. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms and seek medical help if needed.

20. Adhere to COVID-19 safety measures: During the ongoing pandemic, it is important to follow all safety measures put in place by local authorities to protect yourself and others while visiting Jiuzhaigou Valley.