Autumn (late September to October)
The season Jiuzhaigou is famous for. The forest turns red, gold and green and reflects in the lakes, giving the strongest colour of the year. It is also the busiest period — book tickets and accommodation well ahead.
Winter (December to February)
The quietest season. Frozen lakes glow deep blue — the "blue ice" that is unique to Jiuzhaigou — and the waterfalls freeze into icefalls. Off-season fares are lower, though some boardwalks may close temporarily for ice and snow.
Spring (March to May)
The snowline retreats, wild flowers and new leaves appear and the water is at its clearest. Mornings and evenings are still cold, so bring a warm jacket.
Summer (June to August)
Deep green throughout, with plenty of water and the waterfalls at their most powerful. It is also the rainy season, with frequent afternoon showers — bring rain gear and mind slippery boardwalks.
Best time to shoot
Between 9 and 11 in the morning the light comes in at an angle and the reflections and colours are at their clearest; at midday the water looks washed out. To photograph empty scenes, enter as soon as the park opens.
