Jiuzhaigou National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its stunning turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant forests. It’s a true natural wonder in China’s Sichuan province. If you’re starting your trip from Chengdu, the bustling capital of Sichuan, you’re in for an exciting journey. The distance between Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou is roughly 400 to 450 kilometers (about 250 to 280 miles). Depending on how you choose to travel, your trip can take anywhere from about 4 hours to a full day.
Planning your transport from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is key to a smooth trip. Think about what’s most important for you: Is it saving money? Getting there fast? Or enjoying a comfortable ride? This guide will walk you through the best options so you can pick the perfect one for your adventure.
4 Routes to Travel from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou
You have several good choices for getting from Chengdu to the magical landscapes of Jiuzhaigou. Let’s explore each one.
Option 1: High-Speed Train + Bus – The Smart Choice
This combination has quickly become a favorite for many travelers. It offers a great mix of speed, comfort, and affordability, especially since the Chengdu-Jiuzhaigou high-speed rail link became fully operational.
The Journey Explained
- You’ll take a high-speed train from Chengdudong Railway Station(Chengdu East Railway Station) to Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station. This modern train ride is smooth and typically takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Once you arrive at Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station (which is about 90km from the park entrance), you’ll hop on a connecting bus directly to Jiuzhaigou National Park. These buses are timed to meet arriving trains. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours.
Why It’s a Winner
- Efficient: The total travel time is around 4 to 4.5 hours.
- Cost-Effective: The combined cost is roughly CNY 200, making it much cheaper than flying.
- Comfortable: High-speed trains are clean and offer scenic views. The bus transfer is straightforward.
- Reliable: Train schedules are generally dependable.
Option 2: Direct Long-Distance Bus – The Budget-Friendly Route
If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a longer travel day, taking a direct bus from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou is a solid option.
What to Expect
Buses depart from several stations in Chengdu, including Xinnanmen Coach Station, East Railway Station Coach Station, and Chadianzi Coach Station. The journey is quite long, taking about 8 to 10 hours. The roads wind through mountainous terrain, offering some beautiful, albeit sometimes bumpy, scenery.
Good for Savers
- Cheapest Option: Ideal if you’re on a tight budget.
- Direct Travel: No need for transfers, as the bus usually goes straight to the Jiuzhaigou area.
- Scenic Views: You’ll see a lot of the Sichuan countryside, though the ride can be tiring.
Option 3: Flying – The Speediest Path
For those short on time, flying is undoubtedly the fastest way to get from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou.
How It Works
You can catch a flight from either Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) or Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) to Jiu Zhai Huang Long Airport (JZH). The flight itself is very short, only about 1 hour.
Jiu Zhai Huang Long Airport is located about 88 kilometers from Jiuzhaigou Park. From the airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus (around CNY 45, 1.5 hours) or a taxi (CNY 200-260, about 1-1.5 hours) to reach the park entrance or your hotel.
When to Fly
- Fastest: Total travel time, including airport procedures and transfer, can be around 4-5 hours.
- Convenient for Tight Schedules: If you have limited days, flying maximizes your time in Jiuzhaigou.
Option 4: Private Car or Taxi – The Flexible Journey
Hiring a private car or join in guided private Jiuzhaigou tours offers the most flexibility but is also one of the pricier options.
Your Own Pace
Driving allows you to stop at scenic spots along the way. The journey by car takes approximately 5 to 5.5 hours, covering a distance of around 380-400 km.
Pros and Cons
- Flexible: Stop where and when you want.
- Comfortable: Especially if you hire a spacious vehicle.
- Expensive: The costliest option, particularly for solo travelers or small groups.
- Requires Planning: You’ll need to arrange the driver or vehicle in advance.
Quick Comparison: Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Travel
Here’s a simple table to help you compare the main travel options at a glance:
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What's the absolute cheapest way to get to Jiuzhaigou from Chengdu?
The direct long-distance bus is generally the cheapest option. However, it’s also the longest journey, taking 8-10 hours.
Is the road from Huanglongjiuzhai Station to Jiuzhaigou scenic?
Yes, the road from Huanglongjiuzhai Railway Station to Jiuzhaigou National Park passes through mountainous areas and offers some beautiful views. However, it is a winding mountain road, so if you are prone to motion sickness, you might want to take precautions.
Are there English signs at the train stations and airports?
Major transport hubs like Chengdu East Railway Station and airports generally have signs in both Chinese and English. Staff at information desks may have some English proficiency, but it’s always helpful to have your destination written down in Chinese or use a translation app.
