![[Photo courtesy of Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve Administration ]](./W020101106541483383059.jpg)
[Photo courtesy of Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve Administration ]
![[Photo courtesy of Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve Administration ]](./W020101106541483696223.jpg)
[Photo courtesy of Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve Administration ]
The northwestern Sichuan Plateau is noted for its picturesque natural beauty. One of its best scenic areas is Jiuzhaigou, or Jiuzhai Valley, located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture.
Eulogized as a world of magical fairytales, Jiuzhai Valley has for years enchanted tourists with its mountains and luxuriant forests, colorful lakes, gushing waterfalls and abundant wildlife. In 1992, it was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List.
It is said that the Jiuzhai Valley ("jiuzhai" means nine villages) was named after the nine villages contained in the vast nature reserve. Lots of rare species inhabit the area, including pandas and golden monkeys. The three main gullies --- Shuzheng, Rize and Zechawa --- form a Y-shape with 108 mysterious lakes scattered around and a plethora of connecting waterfalls and brooks.
Autumn is the best season to visit Jiuzhai Valley when the leaves turn color and strike a lively contrast with its clear and emerald waters.
