Jiuzhaigou - Primeval Forest

九寨沟 - 原始森林

The primeval forest is the pinnacle of the Rize Valley scenic route, at an altitude of 3,060 meters. The trees block out the sun, and standing in the woods, you feel incredibly relaxed, stepping on the thick, soft moss and fallen leaves, smelling the fragrant, moist air, and listening to the rustling of pines and the chirping of birds. It's important to note that this area is closed in winter and can only be accessed after May Day.

Attractions Location: Jiuzhaigou Valley (southwest corner), Zhangza Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province

Tickets:
Included in the Jiuzhaigou scenic area ticket

Opening hours:
08:00-17:00 (Monday to Sunday, May 1st - October 31st)
07:30-17:00 (Monday to Sunday, November 1st - March 31st of the following year)

Official phone number: Ticketing Inquiry
0837-7739753

Transportation:
The scenic area can be reached on foot

Time reference: 1-3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Jiuzhaigou - Primeval Forest tours

1-Day Itinerary: Explore Jiuzhaigou Primeval Forest

Spend a focused day exploring the lush, untouched landscapes of Jiuzhaigou’s Primeval Forest, a stunning area known for ancient trees, rich biodiversity, and tranquil trails.

  • Morning: Arrive at Jiuzhaigou National Park entrance by shuttle or taxi from Jiuzhaigou town (~30 minutes).
  • Take the park shuttle bus to Primeval Forest stop.
  • Hike the well-marked trails through the forest, enjoying rare flora and fauna.
  • Return to the park exit by shuttle in late afternoon.

Accommodation/Food: Stay overnight in Jiuzhaigou town with access to Tibetan and Sichuan dishes such as yak stew and spicy noodles.

Souvenirs: Local Tibetan handicrafts, herbal teas, wooden carvings, and natural honey.


2-Day Itinerary: Primeval Forest and Jiuzhaigou Highlights

Combine the natural splendor of the Primeval Forest with other key Jiuzhaigou attractions for a more complete experience.

  • Day 1: Visit Primeval Forest as per the 1-day itinerary.
  • Day 2: Explore Five Flower Lake, Long Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall via park shuttle bus routes.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Jiuzhaigou town. Enjoy Tibetan butter tea and local Sichuan hotpot.

Souvenirs: Tibetan textiles, prayer beads, and traditional masks.


3-Day Itinerary: Jiuzhaigou Immersion Including Primeval Forest

Relaxed exploration of Jiuzhaigou’s scenic and cultural richness, with extra time to enjoy Primeval Forest and nearby attractions.

  • Days 1-2: Follow the 2-day itinerary.
  • Day 3: Visit Pearl Beach, Mirror Lake, and smaller scenic spots accessible by park shuttle bus.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in local guesthouses or hotels. Try yak cheese, barley wine, and Tibetan pancakes.

Souvenirs: Handwoven rugs, Tibetan silver jewelry, and local fruits.


4-Day Itinerary: Primeval Forest and Tibetan Village Experience

Explore Jiuzhaigou’s Primeval Forest and connect with local Tibetan culture through village visits.

  • Days 1-3: Follow the 3-day itinerary.
  • Day 4: Visit nearby Tibetan villages like Shuzheng or Zechawa by local taxi or bus (~30 minutes from Jiuzhaigou town).

Accommodation/Food: Stay in guesthouses or homestays. Sample yak butter tea and traditional Tibetan noodles.

Souvenirs: Tibetan prayer wheels, woven scarves, yak wool products, and handmade jewelry.


5-Day Itinerary: Jiuzhaigou with Huanglong Scenic Area

Combine the forest and lakes of Jiuzhaigou with the colorful travertine pools of nearby Huanglong for a diverse natural experience.

  • Days 1-4: Follow the 4-day itinerary.
  • Day 5: Travel by taxi or car (~2-3 hours) to Huanglong Scenic Area; tour pools and temples; return to Jiuzhaigou town.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Jiuzhaigou town. Enjoy Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine.

Souvenirs: Tibetan prayer flags, natural mineral water, herbal products.


6-Day Itinerary: Extended Jiuzhaigou & Aba Tibetan Culture

Immerse yourself deeper into Jiuzhaigou’s natural wonders and the cultural richness of the nearby Aba Tibetan region.

  • Days 1-5: Follow the 5-day itinerary.
  • Day 6: Visit Aba city (~2 hours by car from Jiuzhaigou) to explore monasteries, markets, and crafts.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Jiuzhaigou or Aba city. Sample Tibetan butter tea, tsampa, and yak dishes.

Souvenirs: Monastery prayer beads, Tibetan hats, woven fabrics, dried fruits.


7-Day Itinerary: Full Jiuzhaigou Experience Focused on Nature & Culture

A comprehensive week-long trip exploring the natural beauty of Jiuzhaigou including the Primeval Forest and cultural immersion in Tibetan villages.

  • Days 1-6: Follow the 6-day itinerary.
  • Day 7: Leisure day revisiting favorite spots like Primeval Forest or enjoying local hot springs and cultural shows.

Accommodation/Food: Comfortable hotels or guesthouses in Jiuzhaigou and Aba. Enjoy a mix of Tibetan and Sichuan specialties.

Souvenirs: Tibetan silverware, herbal teas, handicrafts, traditional musical instruments.


User Reviews

By Li travels all over the world |

The primeval forest lies at the southernmost tip of Jiuzhaigou, marking the end of the sightseeing bus route. Here, the air is fresh and dense with dense trees, towering mountains, and misty clouds. Centuries-old trees are densely packed throughout the forest. Breathing the fresh, rain-soaked air, the primeval forest truly lives up to its reputation as a natural oxygen bar. The vibrant pine trees dancing in the trees come alive before our eyes, creating a beautiful picture of harmonious coexistence between man and nature.

By fincen |

From the beginning, you will reach the end of the journey, which is the primeval forest and the highest point of Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. Please be careful of altitude sickness.

By Big Bad Wolf |

The trees cover the sky, and you are in the forest, with thick and soft moss and fallen leaves under your feet.

By Through wind and rain |

It was snowing when we went there, and we walked into the forest and snow.

By narcisssust |

The primeval forest is a large forest with a high oxygen content... Of course, it would be best to see it, but we have a limited day, so we got off at Jianzhuhai. After all, we came to Jiuzhaigou to see the water...

By Jenny |

The primeval forest is located in Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province, adjacent to the Jiuzhaigou National Scenic Area. It lies between the World Heritage sites of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, 13 kilometers east of Jiuzhaigou, 65 kilometers south of Huanglong, and 20 kilometers from Jiuzhaigou Huanglong International Airport. It lies at the heart of the "Greater Jiuzhaigou" international tourist area. The vast park is one of China's ten national parks.

By Dream |

The photo taking effect is pretty good

The scenery

Nothing special

By Kéνǐη |

The feeling here is really relaxing, and I feel like I want to stay and not leave.

By A simple name is easier to find |

It's not interesting, it's at the top. It was very cold in the morning, so cold that you'd need a down jacket. The air was really fresh.

The scenery is nothing special, so if you only stay in the scenic area for one day, you can give up.

By Hua Jieyu |

The Jiuzhaigou primeval forest, located at the summit of the Rize Valley scenic area, sits at an altitude of 3,060 meters and covers an area of 540 hectares. With its dense trees, fresh air, towering mountains, and billowing clouds and mist, the Jiuzhaigou primeval forest is a natural oxygen bar. Entering this primeval forest offers a true immersion in the harmony of nature.

The primeval forest's dark foliage obscures the sky, blotting out the sun. The air is filled with the aroma of resin, and the ground is strewn with the footprints of wild animals. Entering the forest offers a sense of returning to nature and escaping from the world. Jiuzhaigou's vegetation is characterized by lush pine, oak, and spruce trees on the sunny lower slopes, while hemlock, sycamore, birch, and fir trees grow on the shady lower slopes. The upper slopes are dominated by alpine shrubs and meadows.

Standing in the woods, with deep, soft moss and fresh fallen leaves underfoot, the fragrant, moist air inhaled, the rustling of pines and the chirping of birdsong heard, the wild mountain breeze brushing against your body, and the lush greenery of the trees in your eyes, you feel as if you have entered another world, a feeling of transcendence. Everything around you resembles a harmonious painting, with a primitive, unadorned beauty.

By His Royal Highness Wang Jiuye |

The primeval forest is located at the highest point of Jiuzhaigou, the last stop on the right-hand side of the bus. Primeval forest refers to undeveloped forests. It's a rare highland oxygen bar! The scenery changes with each season, and it's truly amazing! A must-see when visiting Jiuzhaigou!

By Poseidon bottle |

We went in November and it felt like early winter.

By Maomao's Little Life |

The towering trees in the primeval forest block out the sky.

By Puppet~Lian Si |

There is nothing to see in the primeval forest. It is just a forest. But my girlfriend didn’t think so. She spent half an hour chasing a squirrel, which made me laugh and cry. But there is no way. This is my goddess. Finally, with my help, I finally took a picture of the squirrel that successfully seduced my girlfriend.

By Yuka Shimizu |

The first stop is the primeval forest, dense forest and busy tourists.

By 77 |

There is nothing special about the primeval forest. It is just a natural oxygen bar. The trees are very tall. If you have time, it is also great to hike in it.

I have to emphasize that it takes half an hour to drive from Nuorilang Central Station to the primeval forest. Every minute and every second in the scenic area is precious. If you come to Jiuzhaigou just to see the lake, it is recommended not to go, because the time is wasted on the way back and forth.

By China-TravelNote users |

Jiuzhaigou primeval forest, a natural oxygen bar, is a very surprising place; especially when the sun comes out, the light and shadow are beautiful, it is a great place to take photos; there were 12 of us in the group, and only 3 went. It was a pity that the friends who didn’t come, and we also enjoyed a pleasant picnic here.

By A lone sail in the distance |

It is a very primitive forest. Dead trees are lying on the ground in all directions. There are many mosses growing on them, which makes people feel what is the endless life.

By Stone as Pure as Pristine Jade |

The top of Rize Valley is a natural oxygen bar. However, since it is the terminal of this valley, there are many people there. Just take a walk around.

By Western Travels |

The trees in the primeval forest are very tall and straight, and walking into it gives you the feeling of returning to primitive society.

By blue sky |

Jiuzhaigou boasts a vast expanse of primeval forest, part of which lies at the very tip of Rize Valley. Standing amidst the forest, with deep, soft moss and fresh fallen leaves beneath your feet, the fragrant, moist air inhaled, the rustling of pines and the chirping of birdsong swaying in your ears, the wild mountain breeze caressing your body, and the lush greenery of the trees in your eyes, visitors feel as if they have entered another world, a feeling of transcendence.

By Seven |

At the farthest stop in Rize Valley, you can wear Tibetan clothing and take photos in the primeval forest. The price is 20 yuan per photo, including a headdress and pendant, and there's no time limit. A Tibetan woman will help you get dressed.

By Bashan and Shushui |

Jiuzhaigou primeval forest is located at the highest point of Rize Valley, with an altitude of nearly 3,000 meters. It is a free oxygen bar and a real primeval forest. Look at the sky blue like a gem. It is closed every winter and will not open until after May Day of the following year. It would be a pity to come to Jiuzhaigou and not appreciate the beauty of the primeval forest.

By East Flow |

The primeval forest is beautiful, but it's also quite cold going there early in the morning. There are trees of varying heights and mountains all around. Although the most beautiful thing about Jiuzhaigou is the water, it's also a pleasure to see the lush forest.

By Tyreke |

Very average, if you are short on time, I strongly do not recommend going there

By Happy Ranger |

Jiuzhaigou National Forest Park is located in Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province, adjacent to the Jiuzhaigou National Scenic Area. It lies between the World Heritage sites of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, and is at the core of the "Greater Jiuzhaigou" international tourist area. The park is vast and is one of China's ten national parks.

By Pirate ambitions |

A green paradise, take a deep breath of oxygen, fallen trees, straight woods, occasional small animals, a very textured place

By Chubby |

The primeval forest is the innermost scenic spot in Rizegou. It takes a long time to get there by car. It takes about an hour to walk from the primeval forest to the famous scenic spot below it - the reed sea. After coming out of the primeval forest, I think it is better to walk to the reed sea. There are almost no people along the way. If you have more time, you can still go and have a look.

By banana2028 |

Except for the squirrels, nothing is good to see. Boring, less walking saves energy

By Gracie |

Many people don't go there to save time, but there are very few people during the peak season, so it is definitely worth going.

By mosquito-H |

When you go to the primeval forest in the morning, you need to wrap up warm and be careful of the slippery roads. There is a lot of frost on the ground, leaves, and other places.

By Little Lazy |

Oxygen! You have to walk slowly when climbing up. If you walk too fast, you will easily get altitude sickness and chest tightness. But the scenery is beautiful and there are many little squirrels.

By Still today |

The primeval forest is about ten kilometers from the Jianzhu Sea. It's basically just about viewing trees, with birds and squirrels roaming the forest. If you have two days to spare, you can go there. It's not recommended for those with just one day, as it's a waste of time. The primeval forest station is far away, with many hilly roads, so it's not recommended for those prone to motion sickness. If you're also visiting the Huanglong Scenic Area, you don't have to go there, as it also has a primeval forest and is essentially the same.

By Dark Elf |

If you don't have enough time, don't go. There are only a few trees and there is really no special scenery.

By Anne519 |

The air is fresh and the trees are lush.

It is very pleasant to stroll on the plank road and breathe the fresh air.

By carol |

A natural oxygen bar with extremely high negative oxygen content. Friends who like to see trees can go there. If you are short on time, you can skip it.

By Azhe |

For those who don’t have enough time, it is recommended to take a look at the primeval forest and then turn back.

By GTX2050Ti |

Jiuzhaigou Primeval Forest is located at the highest point of Rize Valley. Take the bus to the primeval forest at the entrance of the scenic area, which takes two stops. It's 2,930 meters above sea level. Due to the lush vegetation and abundant oxygen, altitude sickness is largely avoided. In the morning, the forest is relatively deserted, making the walk very pleasant.

By Unicorn Knight |

There are fewer people here, and there is no beautiful water view at the foot of the mountain, but there are towering peaks and blue sky and white clouds.

By Monica |

The uninhabited primeval forest is extremely quiet. You can hear birds singing and water flowing, and the air is fresh, which makes you feel refreshed.

By Kanda Snow |

There is also a place known as a natural oxygen bar on the shore of Qiandao Lake in Zhejiang. Everything needs to be compared. I felt that Jiuzhaigou was inferior to that place after I went there. The primitive forest of Jiuzhaigou is really a super oxygen bar. The air is so good when we went there. There were few people there. It was so comfortable to stroll slowly inside!

By Qingxin Candy💋 |

The primeval forest is about ten kilometers from the Jianzhu Sea. It's basically just about viewing trees, with birds and squirrels roaming the forest. If you have two days to spare, you can go there. It's not recommended for those with just one day, as it's a waste of time. The primeval forest station is far away, with many hilly roads, so it's not recommended for those prone to motion sickness. If you're also visiting the Huanglong Scenic Area, you don't have to go there, as it also has a primeval forest and is essentially the same.

By circle |

The scenery of Jiuzhaigou's primeval forest is quite good. The altitude of more than 3,000 meters is completely different from the scenery of the lakes below.

By Bo Yisheng |

The primeval forest is located at the highest point of Jiuzhaigou. It takes 20 minutes to reach the scenic area by direct bus. The oxygen content is very high.

By tears |

I took a lot of hilarious photos here, which are truly memorable. It's a natural oxygen bar, and I encountered adorable little squirrels. My travelogue includes videos of squirrels and woodpeckers. They were all different than I expected. If you're interested, check out my travelogue at http://www.mafengwo.cn/i/5599055.html for more details. I also have a travelogue with thousands of pictures and words about Switzerland, so please support me at http://www.mafengwo.cn/i/5508607.html

By Walking Girl |

It will be cooler in the morning and there will be fewer people. It is nice to take a tour along the wooden plank road.

It is said that those trees are hundreds of years old.

By Shi Xiaonvyy |

The primeval forest is nothing special, just some fir-dominated forests. It really does feel like the tropical rainforests you see on TV, as if an aboriginal would pop out and say "Wow wow wow~" at any moment O(∩_∩)O haha~

By Tiffany |

The trees in the primeval forest are said to be hundreds of years old. There is no special scenery, but it is still very good. The air is very fresh and it is worth a visit.

By Tony |

I went there in May and actually saw snow. It was so beautiful. It is definitely a place worth visiting.

Go down the plank road to Fangcao Sea and Tian'e Sea. There are few people along the way and the scenery is beautiful. If you look back occasionally, the scenery will amaze you again.

By wzp |

The primeval forest is the pinnacle of the Rize Valley scenic route, at an altitude of 3,060 meters. The trees block out the sun, and standing in the woods, you feel incredibly relaxed, stepping on the thick, soft moss and fallen leaves, smelling the fragrant, moist air, and listening to the rustling of pines and the chirping of birds. It's important to note that this area is closed in winter and can only be accessed after May Day.

By Big Cat |

The original forest is not original, but the facilities are very complete.

By Little Witch Rainy (Leprechaun) |

I loved it! Although the plank road isn't long, the sight of the lush trees filled me with longing. I felt incredibly relaxed, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, with squirrels and birds darting around. I vividly remember dropping one of my Cheetos and getting snatched up by a bird. So cute!

By Ah Qi Mama |

Hahahaha, my bestie who went there on National Day couldn't walk anymore, so I went in alone. I saw a lot of cute little squirrels jumping around on the road. The air was filled with a comfortable smell, which had a calming effect.

By ws Leilei |

Because we missed our stop on the bus, my husband and I simply walked down the wooden plank road through the primeval forest. Although it took a long time and we were quite tired, it was really worth it. The scenery was really beautiful. Because it was autumn, there were colorful leaves everywhere and clear streams. There were very few people on the road, so we could take pictures at will. When we were tired, we sat by the stream to rest and look at the water plants and small fish at the bottom of the water. We felt really relaxed.

By The ocean of hurt |

The end point of the Jiuzhaigou Zhongrizegou sightseeing bus is also the highest point that can be reached in the entire Jiuzhaigou scenic area, with an altitude of about 2,900 meters. Looking out of the car along the way, you will be deeply attracted by countless beautiful scenery. The air in the forest is very fresh and good for health.

By Ye |

Shuzhenggou is right inside Jiuzhaigou. You will naturally visit it if you visit Jiuzhaigou. Jiuzhaigou is still very beautiful. You can’t miss the water after visiting Jiuzhaigou.

By ccyyj925 |

I seem to have missed it... After I went there, I took a look around and left without looking closely. The air up there is really good.

By Ah Fei's Little Butterfly |

"Zhangjiajie's mountains, Jiuzhaigou's waters." For Jiuzhaigou, renowned for its waters, the primeval forests also possess a unique charm. The light green of spring, the dark emerald green of early summer, the vibrant colors of late autumn, and the pristine white of winter are all part of Jiuzhaigou's most beautiful landscapes.

By Photographs |

I feel like I was ripped off and I deserve it. Hey, don't go. Unless you leave the tourist area and climb up the mountain

By bean bb |

The dreamy primeval forest is like the place where the prince and princess' dreams in European and American stories begin.

By FLH Dayao |

What color are the trees in winter? Brown and white blend into each other, creating a harmonious beauty without feeling cold.

By memory of the wind |

The primeval forest is all about trees, but the air is very good. The plank road may be closed when it snows.

By Happy Life |

The highest scenic spot in Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area has a relatively lower temperature.

By Wenwenpooh |

Jiuzhaigou National Forest Park is located in Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province, adjacent to the Jiuzhaigou National Scenic Area. It lies between the World Heritage sites of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, 13 kilometers east of Jiuzhaigou, 65 kilometers south of Huanglong, and 20 kilometers from Jiuzhaigou Huanglong International Airport. It lies at the heart of the "Greater Jiuzhaigou" international tourist area. The park is extensive and is one of China's ten national parks.

Jiuzhaigou National Forest Park is a national forest park established in 1995 with the approval of the Ministry of Forestry. It covers an area of 37,000 hectares and an actual operating area of 46,000 hectares, including the two major tourist attractions of Shenxian Pool (Nen Ensangcuo) and Ganhaizi.

By Sarah |

Aerobic breathing exercise is a great experience. I am a little tired due to lack of exercise.

By kakyoin |

Dad’s favorite primeval forest… Being able to travel and play with my parents is one of the happiest things, even though there are a lot of side stories…

By YOYO |

The first stop is the primeval forest. If you don’t have enough time, you can skip it. There is nothing to see here, just some trees.

By Starling |

The scenery is as its name suggests. If it were in other cities, the dense forest under the blue sky and white clouds would also be a nice view. Unfortunately, it is in Jiuzhaigou, next to such a magical and beautiful lake, so it is normal that it is neglected.

By Niu Xiaomomo |

We took the bus all the way to the primeval forest. It was not only very humid but also a little rainy. It felt damp. We took a lot of oxygen. It is said that the oxygen ion content is very high. Some people will get oxygen intoxication.

By Xiao Jingjing 521 |

The primeval forest is just okay. If your schedule is tight, you can consider giving it up.

By Warm |

You must walk the trail from the original forest to the Swan Sea Grass Sea. The way up is very good, with gurgling streams and mottled tree shadows. The distance is a bit far, but it is worth it.

By Mikiya |

Among the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou, the primeval forest is a relatively common one. It was cloudy when we went there, and we didn’t feel that it was different from other forests.

By She Dreamed 1991. |

Jiuzhaigou boasts vast expanses of primeval forest. Embarking amidst the trees, visitors feel as if transported to another world. Stepping on the soft, thick moss and fresh fallen leaves, inhaling the fragrant, moist air, and listening to the rustling of pines and the chirping of birds, one feels as if returning to nature, a world apart.

Earth's pristine forests are truly rich and diverse, found almost everywhere. They maintain the natural environment, storing vast quantities of carbon that contribute to climate stability and maintain the planet's ecological balance. Hence, they are often called the "lungs of the Earth." It's said that the formation of forest ecosystems like Jiuzhaigou requires millennia of evolution, making them exceptionally precious. This is why they are a must-see for tourists. Pristine forests, precisely because of their pristine nature, often seem mysterious and enigmatic. Only those who truly journey into this green world will be amazed and captivated by what they see, truly experiencing this unique, ancient beauty. Being in the midst of a pristine forest, gazing at the lush greenery, feels like being transported to another world, a sense of transcendence. The heart becomes serene, as if enchanted by this pristine atmosphere – a tranquility unseen in the bustling city.

The forest is filled with the aroma of resin. The ground is covered with the footprints of wild animals. Pristine forests provide ample habitat for wildlife, maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. They also purify the air, regulate the climate, conserve water and soil, enhance soil fertility, and mitigate natural disasters. Let's work together to protect the pristine forests and the vegetation of Jiuzhaigou!

By Magnificent mountains and rivers |

The primeval forest is the deepest and farthest attraction in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. Although it has been partially developed and a pedestrian trail has been built, you can still see some of the original flavor. The trees are tall and straight, growing naturally and disappearing naturally; the fallen leaves on the ground also fall to the ground naturally, decay naturally, and circulate naturally; you can imagine what it was like here as a real "primeval forest" before it was developed. Being deep in the dense forest, breathing natural oxygen, everyone who comes here will be intoxicated by this primitive beauty and don't want to return to the world of smog in the city.

By Overseas shopping e-tribe |

The magical Jiuzhaigou is indeed well-deserved of its reputation. One day is definitely not enough. The scenery is really amazing. The primeval forest is at the highest point, which is relatively boring.


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