Visiting Jiuzhaigou during the Spring Festival? You must heed this advice

❄️ Jiuzhaigou in the Spring Festival is a glassy world wrapped in silver, where blue ice waterfalls and rime-covered forests weave a fairy-tale secret realm. But low temperatures, road conditions, and visitor limits require advance caution. This local guide will help you enjoy your trip with peace of mind. 🌡️ Climate & Warmth: Staying warm is the top priority Temperatures in Jiuzhaigou during the Spring Festival are extremely low, ranging from -13℃ to 4℃ in the core areas, with large day-night temperature differences and dry air💨. Follow the "three-layer rule" for clothing: a moisture-wicking base layer to lock in sweat, a fleece or cashmere mid-layer for warmth, and a windproof, waterproof down jacket as the outer layer to block cold winds; for pants, choose fleece-lined outdoor pants paired with high-top, non-slip snow boots. Ice cleats are essential (there is a lot of hidden ice on the plank roads and can be rented on site). Don’t forget wool hats, thick scarves, touchscreen gloves (for easy photo-taking), hand warmers (focus on waist, abdomen, and knees), and a thermos filled with hot water to prevent frostbite and dehydration. 🚗 Traffic & Road Conditions: Avoid restrictions and icy risks Roads around the scenic area may have odd-even license plate restrictions during the Spring Festival (7:00 AM to 7:00 PM). If driving yourself, check the license plate rules in advance. It’s recommended to park in the county town and transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus to avoid being turned back at the valley entrance🚫. Some highway sections from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou are prone to icing; prioritize official tourist direct buses or 4x4 vehicles equipped with snow chains, and ensure drivers are experienced with icy roads. Only sightseeing buses are allowed inside the park, with fixed stops. Although visitor numbers are lower than peak season, it’s still best to take early buses to avoid queues. 🎫 Ticket Booking: Secure your spot in advance Jiuzhaigou operates a reservation system during the off-season (November 16 to March 31), and the Spring Festival is a minor peak period with tickets sometimes sold out⚠️. Book 3-7 days ahead via the official WeChat account, bring your original ID card for entry, and check which areas are open (some attractions and plank roads may be closed for rotation, per official announcements). Sightseeing bus tickets are bundled with park tickets; keep your tickets safe, as you must re-scan them if you get off midway. 👣 Safety Tips: Slow down to enjoy the scenery The park is about 2,500 meters above sea level, with lower oxygen levels in winter. Those with weaker constitutions should avoid strenuous exercise, refrain from alcohol and staying up late, and on the first day, avoid washing hair or bathing to prevent colds🤧. Plank roads can be icy and slippery, so walk slowly, avoid running or horseplay, and keep away from lake edges and unclosed areas when taking photos. The recommended highlight route is the "Y-shaped core area": Changhai Lake → Five Flower Lake → Nuorilang Waterfall, focusing on the blue ice spectacle. Enter early in the morning to enjoy the tranquil snowy scenery and avoid afternoon crowds. 🏨 Accommodation & Dining: Prioritize warmth and convenience Choose lodging in Zhangzha Town at the valley entrance, and confirm the hotel has 24-hour floor heating (air conditioning is less effective in low temperatures). Book 1-2 months in advance as prices rise significantly during the Spring Festival. Dining mainly features Sichuan and Tibetan cuisine; the Nuorilang Service Center offers lunch options, with Tibetan hot pot and butter tea recommended to warm you up🍲. Carry high-calorie snacks like chocolate and candy to replenish energy. The valley entrance has pharmacies and supermarkets stocked with cold medicine, altitude sickness remedies, bandages, and other emergency supplies. 📸 Photography & Local Customs: Unlock unique experiences Cold temperatures can cause camera batteries to fail, so bring 2-3 spare batteries kept warm on your person. Prevent lens fogging by acclimating your camera in a sealed bag when moving between indoors and outdoors📷. A polarizing filter reduces snow glare and captures the pure blue ice texture. Nearby Tibetan villages host song and dance performances and bonfire parties during the Spring Festival, offering a chance to experience Tibetan New Year customs. When visiting, bring small candies to share with children and respect local traditions. ⚠️ Other Reminders Purchase travel insurance covering altitude sickness and accidents, inform family of your itinerary, and travel with companions as some park areas have weak signal. Avoid low-cost shopping tours to prevent hidden expenses. Protect the environment by not trampling plants or feeding animals, and practice civilized tourism to preserve this icy wonderland. Community Creation Center Benefits Local Guide Dandan