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The name “Jiuzhaiguo” first came to my attention when by coincidence watching a documentary on
the Chinese television autumn 2006. The second time the name of Jiuzhaigou was mentioned when
at work discussing with my colleagues the subject of sightseeing areas in China. Further research
increased the interest and gradually the decision was taken to visit the area.
Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area are located in Jiuzhai County. Some 400
kilometres north from Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou has an unusual ecosystem with dozens of pristine lakes,
waterfalls, forests and rare animals. The site has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Going west, visitors can explore Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area. This is located in
Songpan County, which is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Colourful waters, lakes,
hot springs, snow-capped mountains, valleys and forest can be seen.
Going further southwest one reaches Songpan. This is an ancient Tibetan town from where visitors
can explore the surrounding area on horseback. There are two scenic spots: Zhaga Waterfalls and
Erdaohai Lake.
Jiuzhaigou airport can be reached mainly via Chengdu, capital of the province of Sichuan. The flight
requires approx. 45 minutes. When leaving the aeroplane one is immediately confronted with the
situation that the airport lies approx. 3,500 m above sea level.
Note: there are other possibilities to reach the area.
During the trip there were reminders of the earthquake not far south from Jiuzhaigou on 12th May
2008. Many hotels, restaurants and shops were still closed due to absence of visitors.
The trip consisted of visits to the three areas mentioned above. The holiday was completed by
attendance to the F1 race in Shanghai on Sunday 19th October with a good friend.
In total some 700 photographs were taken: below are a few of them to support the sometimes
breathless views of the beautiful spots.
Visit to Jiuzhaigou Valley on 12th and 13th October.
The area was really worth visiting and the photographs speak for themselves.
Visit to Jiuzhaigou-Jiapo Tibetan Town on 14th October.
Visit to Huanglong Valley on 15th October.
Visit to Erdaohai and Songpan on 16th and 17th October.
Erdaohai was reached via horse ride across the mountains from Songpan. The first stretch was steep
and the horse preferred to walk on the edge of the ravine. Erdao Lake was reputed to be even more
beautiful than Juizhaiguo or Huanglong but when arrived, the scenery was somewhat disappointing.
The horseman indicated that there have been changes in the water levels due to the May
earthquake. Nevertheless, the scenery was enjoyable and the accommodation a bit unique.
F1 Shanghai on 19th October.
It was a hectic week, worthwhile remembering.
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