The remote region was inhabited by various Tibetan and Qiang peoples for centuries. Until 1975 this inaccessible area was little known. It is known for its many multi-level waterfalls, colorful lakes, and snow-capped peaks. 7 of the 9 Tibetan villages are still populated today. But only Tibetans from the villages can stay inside the park. In 2003, the permanent population of the valley was about 1,000 comprising 112 families, and due to the protected nature of the park, agriculture is no longer permitted so the locals now rely on tourism and local government subsidies to make a living.

When I first saw photos of Jiuzhaigou when in 1984, I was totally in awe. When my Melissa told me it was in China, I almost laughed because I could not believe that saw a paradise could ever exist in China. Back then, it was difficult to get to to Jiuzhaigou because there was no proper road and sudden flash floods would strand all visitors until the water receded.

My dream became a reality in the Fall of 2014. What a trip it was. However, in August 2017 Juizhaigou was the epicenter of a 7.0 earthquake in Sichuan. I almost cried when I saw photos of the aftermath of Jiuzhaigou. It was reopened to the public on a very limited access in 2019. Since then, more of the park has been opened but due to COVID, access is extremely limited at the moment and more often than not, foreigners are not allowed in. While the present Jiuzhaigou is not the same, the beauty has returned and will be as beautiful as before, albeit a bit different. I hope to make a second trip some time soon.

Explore the Beauty of Jiuzhaigou 探索九寨沟的美丽

Please click or tap on the rectangles to browse through galleries of photos from those areas as if you are on a walking tour.