Jiuzhaigou was founded in 1978. It is a protected valley, a national park and a World Heritage Site, near Zhangzha Town.
Booking comes first. Every visitor needs a real-name reservation made in advance and must bring original ID to the gate. Students, seniors, active military and people with disabilities who have valid ID pay a reduced price. Students and seniors must book that ticket type in advance and show the original concession ID at entry, or they will not be let in.
Inside, a sightseeing bus runs on its own ticket. That ticket is valid only while you stay in the valley, so it no longer works if you leave and come back in. The main sightseeing points all have toilets and bins. Food is centered on Nuorilang, where the visitor service center sells a range of dishes and a large restaurant offers buffet or table service at different price levels. You can also bring your own dry food, so packed snacks are fine.
The trade-off is timing. Midsummer into early autumn is the valley’s peak tourist season, while winter brings very few visitors.
Family FAQ
How much does Jiuzhaigou Valley cost?
Off-season admission (16 Nov-31 Mar) is CNY 80 per person; peak-season (1 Apr-15 Nov) prices differ between official listings, so confirm the price when you book.
Do you need to book Jiuzhaigou Valley in advance?
All visitors must make a real-name reservation in advance and bring original, valid ID to enter.
Can you bring your own food to Jiuzhaigou Valley?
You may bring your own dry food, and the Nuorilang Visitor Service Center also sells food.
Where are the toilets at Jiuzhaigou Valley?
Every main sightseeing point in the valley has toilets.
