Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China? If you're planning to go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve
  2. Important essentials for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve
  3. Activities for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve
  4. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China

Based on the climate and weather in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China by month

January

If you go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in January, you will notice that it is very cold. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost almost every day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

February

If you are traveling to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in February, you will notice that it is frigid. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

Traveling to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in March, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

April

If you are traveling to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in April, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

May

May can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost 5-10 days this month. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in June, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

July

July is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

August

If you are traveling to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in August, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in September, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

October

If you go to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in October, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

November

If you are traveling to Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in November, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

December

December for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve is frigid. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

What to do in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China

Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, located in the Sichuan province of China, is a stunningly beautiful area known for its high-altitude lakes, waterfalls, and gorgeous forests. In Mandarin, Jiuzhaigou means “Nine Village Valley,” and the park is so named because it is made up of nine Tibetan villages each with their own unique culture and way of life. Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is easy to see why. If you’re planning a trip to this area, here are some top tourist attractions you won’t want to miss.

1. Nuorilang Waterfall

Nuorilang Waterfall is the most famous waterfall in Jiuzhaigou and is located near the entrance of the reserve. It is the widest waterfall in China, with a width of over 270 feet (82 meters). The water cascades down a series of steps, creating a dramatic and mesmerizing display of water and sound. The natural scenery around the waterfall is also breathtaking, with towering trees and mountains surrounding the area.

2. Five Flower Lake

Five Flower Lake (Wuhua Hai) is one of the most popular attractions in Jiuzhaigou. This serene high-altitude lake is known for its crystal clear waters, and visitors can see all the way to the bottom of the lake. The lake is surrounded by dense forest and mountains, and it is home to unique aquatic plants that give it a multi-colored appearance.

3. Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake (Jing Hai) is aptly named because of the clearness of its waters, allowing you to see a perfect reflection of the surrounding mountains and trees. The lake is only 23 feet (7 meters) deep and is much smaller than Five Flower Lake, but it is still a breathtaking sight to see. Visitors can walk around the lake on a wooden boardwalk that sits on the water’s edge.

4. Shuzheng Valley

Shuzheng Valley is an expansive sight-seeing area within the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. It is made up of several scenic spots, including Shuzheng Waterfall, Tiger Lake, Rhinoceros Lake, and Reed Lake. Each of these locations boasts unique features and stunning views that make it well worth a visit. Visitors can take a bus tour or walk through the valley at their own pace.

5. Long Lake

Long Lake (Chang Hai) is the largest lake in Jiuzhaigou and is located at the highest altitude of any of the lakes in the park. The lake itself is long and narrow, flanked by towering mountains on either side. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy the stunning scenery, and there is a wooden boardwalk that traverses the lake, allowing you to get up close and personal with the water.

Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve is simply breathtaking, with natural scenery that looks like it is straight out of a fairy tale. With its pristine lakes, waterfalls, and forests, it is no wonder that it is considered one of China’s top tourist destinations. Whether you’re an avid nature lover or just looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Jiuzhaigou has something for everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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