Top 28 things to do and attractions in Songpan County

Here is truly stunning with its colorful travertine pools, mountains, and natural beauty. The walk takes time and can be quite challenging due to the altitude, so it’s best to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for the visit. The views at the top are absolutely worth it!

Huanglong is a beautiful place to visit and definitely worth the journey. The natural scenery is stunning, with unique landscapes and clear pools that make the trip memorable. However, be prepared for a good amount of stair climbing, as the paths involve many steps and some steep sections. The hike can be challenging, especially for those not used to high altitudes, so pacing yourself is important. The weather at the top can be quite cold, so bringing warm clothing is a must. Despite the effort, the views and fresh mountain air make the experience rewarding and unforgettable for visitors

Huanglong National Park is a must see if you are planning a trip to Jiuzhaigou National Park. You can say that it is quite similar to Yellowstone National Park minus the bears and the geysers, but with respect to colourful ponds, this is way superior. The Wucai (Five-Colour) Pond is definitely the highlight, but walking down from there you keep seeing literally hundreds of ponds of different shapes, sizes and colours, as well as vast areas of travertines. At one point you would be so amazed and wonder if it is ever going to end. Altitude sickness is a concern as the most popular areas are 3500 metres above sea level. A good strategy will be to allow yourself to adapt to the altitude gradually. Our group spent a couple of days in Jiuzhaigrou before coming here. Medication or supplements have to be taken a week before the trip. We also purchased oxygen cans just in case we need them. A large size can only costs 20 RMB and should lasts one day for 2 people. They can be purchased at local shops before the visit. Just be aware that they are not allowed on the high speed trains.

It's a must see national park if you happen to travel en route to Jiuzhaigou National Park from the train station. Allocate at least 1/2 day touring this area. The travertine landscape reminds me of the Mammoth Hot Springs at Yellowstone National Park. September weather is perfect for sightseeing. You won't notice that you've walked 7.5 km trail because the entire trail is too beautiful to complain of the 4 hrs walk! Tour route starts from the top by taking a cable car up.

Huanglong sits at high altitude (3,100–3,600 m), so start your visit early to avoid crowds and afternoon weather changes. Acclimatize in Songpan or Jiuzhaigou the day before to reduce altitude sickness. Bring warm layers, rain gear, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The main boardwalk is about 7 km one way; many visitors ride the cable car up and walk down to save energy and enjoy the best views of the travertine pools, waterfalls, and temples. Move slowly, rest often, and photograph from designated platforms to protect fragile formations. Finish with snacks or tea at the visitor center before departing.

I went there in mid-November, and it was quite cold there, and it was on a high hill. If you have breathing problems, you can bring oxygen. The walk was beautiful, with a view of the soft snow, but the walk down was a long one. You have to be prepared for the body, as it takes a long time to get there due to the distance

Be sure to book both the cable car and shuttle kart in advance because at 3100m, you will want to save your energy so that your can reach the top so you can see the five colour pond. It was snowing when I visited so the colours were not as vibrant but the snow covered mountains in the background was still a view worth visiting.

Visited in winter, good boots recommended because the pavements get very icy and slippery. Not very much to see, it is just interesting wooden buildings and the city gate. When we visited in the evening most shops were already shut, so its recommended to come earlier in the day. Toilets in this part of China unfortunately are grim. Lots of stalls, but many have no locks, no flush, and doors that don't close. Very dirty and smelly.

Songzhou Ancient City, located in Songpan County within the Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, China, is a place rich in history and cultural significance. Known historically as Songzhou, this ancient city was originally built during the Tang Dynasty and further developed in the Ming Dynasty. It served as a crucial military stronghold and a vibrant trading hub on the China-Tibet border, facilitating exchanges between the Han Chinese and Tibetan peoples. The city is renowned for its well-preserved Ming Dynasty city walls, which stretch about 6.2 kilometers in length, rise 12.5 meters high, and are made of sturdy green bricks with a thickness of up to 12 meters, making them among the largest and most solid in the country. These walls enclose both an inner and outer city, connected by seven gates, including the notable Jinyang Gate and Yanxun Gate. Walking through the city, visitors can sense the layers of history embedded in its architecture and streets, reflecting the mingling of Tibetan, Hui, Yi, and Han cultures over centuries. Songzhou Ancient City is also famous for its historical episodes, such as the conflict involving the Tubo King Songtsen Gampo and the Tang Dynasty, which culminated in the marriage alliance between Princess Wencheng and the Tibetan king, a story symbolizing peace and cultural integration. This narrative is commemorated by statues at the city entrance, highlighting its significance as a site of diplomacy and military importance. Situated at an elevation of about 2,850 meters, the city serves as a gateway to the scenic wonders of the region, including Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou, making it a strategic relay station for travelers. The architecture predominantly features Hui and Han styles, characterized by colorful and intricate decorations, which add to the city's aesthetic appeal. Visitors can explore the ancient city on foot or by rickshaw, climb the city tower for panoramic views, and immerse themselves in the quiet, historic atmosphere. Despite its ancient origins, the city offers convenient accommodation and is accessible via nearby high-speed rail stations. Travelers should be prepared for the high-altitude climate, which can be cold and changeable. Overall, Songzhou Ancient City stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry and turbulent history of this border region, offering a unique glimpse into China's ethnic diversity and historical legacy.

An ancient city with historical and remarkable cultural significance and heritage.

A beautiful giant statue represents China's first cross-nationality married couple! This is a stunning old town.

Historical significant trade hub between Tibetan and Han, Greeting town to welcome Princess Wen Cheng of Tang Dynasty from King of Tibet for interracial and kingdom marriage to promote peace between the 2 Kingdoms. A well known story in China to remember Princess Wen Cheng for her sacrifice. The town does not have much to see, other than the 3 city gates still left or rebuilt. Just a lot of commercial stores and food stood.

Small town nearby Jiuzhaigoa. Clean and not crowded. Good to experience local community.

Very cool, it remains genuine of historic items and buildings

A very decent doemstic airport, just under an hour from Chengdu. An engineering marvel how they managed to carve basically straight into a mountain to build this 3,500ft up. Landing in is quite the experience as you expect to decline substantially in altitude but all of a sudden the airport appears underneath you. This airport has become crucial in ferrying tours in and out from other regions (they used to do it by bus and that was a full day of driving!).

Decent small airport. It takes a second to acclimate to the altitude. They have cold weather clothing in case you arrive without any. It get very cold here during the winter. Some taxi services available to take you down to Jiuzhaigou town. Beautiful drive there.

Highest located airport in the world I have been. The views from the sky are magnificent. Make sure you have a window seat. Once landed you can feel the air is thin.

Amazing, you're above the mountains then BUMP, you've landed. I was told this was a military airport open to the public, and the runway was excavated right off the top of the mountain. I enjoyed my travels through this area

Its a functioning airport. Plane flies in and out. Not much more than that. The airport security people seemed pretty bored.

3 stars compared to the airports of the world, 4 compared to the rest of China

Excellent

Super cool remote & dramatic cascade with a very well maintained (but steep!) walking path.

As with the waterfalls here, it's a wonder of nature.

Nice and beautiful place

Spacular! 🥰👍

Very nice and scenic place.

Cool waterfall. Not much there but a waterfall. Nice to take a stroll there.

(Translated by Google) medium sized waterfall It takes no more than 1 hour to visit. From the parking point, it's not very far to walk. The walkway is convenient. The bathrooms have not yet been renovated. (Original) น้ำตกขนาดกลาง ใช้เวลาในการแวะเที่ยวไม่เกิน 1 ขั่วโมง จากจุดจอดรถเดินเท้าเข้าไปไม่ไกลมาก ทางเดินสะดวก ห้องน้ำยังไม่ได้รับการปรับปรุง

A long valley running north to south, Jiuzhaigou was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1992 and a World Biosphere Reserve in 1997. Jiuzhaigou (literally "Nine Settlement Valley") takes its name from the nine Tibetan settlements along its length. Be prepared to see pretty lakes, and mirror lakes peppering all the major sighting areas. Better to have a chartered bus, so that you can make the trip in comfort and all sight seeing stops in 1 day.

Five Flower Lake is one of the crown jewels of Jiuzhaigou Valley. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, the lake reveals an enchanting view of submerged ancient tree trunks and mineral deposits that paint the bottom in shades of blue, green, and golden yellow. The stunning mix of colors is why it’s called the “Five Flower Lake.” 🌸💧 The water is so clear that it feels almost surreal, like looking into a natural painting. Surrounding forests and mountains reflect beautifully on the surface, adding even more depth to the scenery. 🌲🏔️ This lake is often considered the most picturesque spot in Jiuzhaigou, perfect for photography, quiet reflection, or simply soaking in nature’s artistry. Truly a breathtaking wonder you can’t miss. ✨

Absolutely gorgeous. Fewer colours in winter, but a different sort of beauty with the snow on the mountains. Was completely worth the trip here.

Wuhua Lake is also known as five flowers lake or five colours lake due to the variation in the colour of the water that can be seen in a single frame. The water is clear, you can see right to the bottom of the deep lake and the colours range from Light green, turquoise, light blue through to deep dark blue.

It is named after its multicolored water. The fallen tree trunks at the bottom are clearly visible, looking like fossils embedded in crystal, which makes it very unique. Sunken logs and aquatic plants covered with algae reflect green and yellow under sunlight. The water is rich in calcium carbonate, creating white or milky areas at the bottom. Deep water looks dark blue or dark green, while shallow water appears light blue or turquoise. Depending on sunlight and angle, golden, emerald green, and dark blue tones appear.

Five-Flower Lake (五花海) is our second destination at Jiu Zhai Gou Valley National Park. It is also one of the top 5 scenic areas in Jiu Zhai Gou. We were given about 40 minutes from 1030am to 1110am to explore this area. In fact, if you’re fast enough, you can do an entire round around the Five-Flower Lake (五花海). However, we decided to take it slow, take some really nice shots with reflections and autumn leaves while taking a break at the pretty clean toilet nearby. Love the deep emerald green colour of the Five-Flower Lake and the water is SO clear! This reminded us of our visit to Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe as well. The view to the mountains too reminded us of Tunnel View at Yosemite National Park. For more details, visit 2bearbear today!

Super crystal clear lake with grey fishes living inside. I wish everyone can keep their trashes so the place remains clean.

Went here around late-June and the place was so refreshing. The main attraction was the falls and it was certainly a sight to see.

It's too beautiful to describe. No words to describe the lovely sound of the water.

Awwsome! 🎊🥰

Love this nature place, fantastic view, fresh air, beautiful scenery

Beautiful!

(Translated by Google) 🍁 [Muni Valley] It is more than 300 kilometers away from Chengdu, covering an area of ​​160 square kilometers. The highest altitude is 4070 meters, the lowest altitude is 2800 meters, and the annual average temperature is 7℃. The natural scenery is charming, the ethnic customs are rich, and it brings together the charm of the primeval forest. The scenery of Muni Valley is mainly composed of primeval forests, mountain lakes, hot springs, giant Calcified waterfalls, ring waterfalls, and calcified colorful pools are the main features. The scenic spot consists of Zhaga Waterfall and Erdaohai. Mountains, water, and forests are all wonderful here The ground merges into one. The main attractions are: Zhaga Waterfall, Muni Forest, Hundred Acres of Rhododendron, Emerald Hot Spring, Baihua Lake, Moon Lake, Swan Lake and caves, etc. (Original) 🍁 【牟尼溝】 距成都三百多公里，占地 160 平方公里，最高海拔 4070 米，最低海拔 2800 米，年平均氣溫 7℃， 自然風光迷人、民族風情濃鬱、彙聚了原始森林之神韻，牟尼溝風景主要以原始森林、高山湖泊、溫泉、巨型 鈣化瀑布、環形瀑布、鈣化彩池為主要特色，景區由紮嘎瀑布和二道海兩部分組成。山、水、林、在這裡巧妙 地融為一體。主要景點有：紮嘎瀑布、牟尼森林、百畝杜鵑、翡翠溫泉、百花湖、月亮湖、天鵝湖和溶洞群等

(Translated by Google) Even in the snowy winter, you can still enter the Munigou Scenic Area, and the trails are well-preserved. We only walked to the Zhaga Waterfall. (Original) 牟尼溝風景區即使是下雪的冬天，仍然可以進入景區，步道做的很完善。我們只走札嘎瀑布。

Just great

Many different sceneries along the way

(Translated by Google) Ride the longest cable car in the world Went to play in the snow and faced strong winds at a height of 4,860 meters. Even with 3 layers of winter clothes, my face was shivering. But the top is beautiful and the snow is very fluffy. People who are afraid of heights Prepare yourself for altitude sickness medication. And carry canned oxygen and travel comfortably. Even though we have high blood pressure, we still travel and chill. (Original) นั่งกระเช้าที่ยาวที่สุดในโลก ไปเล่นหิมะปะทะลมแรงๆ ที่ความสูง 4,860 เมตร เสื้อหนาว 3 ชั้นก็ยังหนาวหน้าสั่น แต่ข้างบนสวยและหิมะฟูสะใจสุดๆ คนที่กลัวความสูง เตรียมตัวเองให้พร้อมกอนยาแก้แพ้ความสูง และพกอ๊อคซิเจนกระป๋องก็เที่ยวได้แบยสบายๆๆ ความดันสูงอย่างเราก็ยังเที่ยวชิลๆ

(Translated by Google) The atmosphere is very good. At first I was worried about the height and the air was thin but it went smoothly and was okay. (Original) บรรยากาศดีมาก ตอนแรกกังวลเรื่องความสูงอากาศเบาบางแต่ก็ราบรื่นดีไม่เป็นไรเลย

Absolutely stunning destination! The views of the snow-covered mountains are breathtaking, and there’s plenty of snow to play in, which makes it a fun experience for all ages. You can rent costumes—either traditional local outfits or even astronaut-style suits—for some unique photos! To reach the glacier, you’ll need to take a ropeway. The ride itself is an experience, as you watch the scenery transform from lush green forests to a magical snowy landscape. It's truly a journey worth taking. There are restrooms available at the top, but be aware they’re squat-style, which might be challenging for some visitors. Tip: Make sure to dress warmly (layers are key!) and consider taking altitude sickness medicine if you're sensitive to high elevations. The cold and high altitude can catch you off guard.

I enjoyed my time here 😀

(Translated by Google) While walking, it was snowing at -4 degrees, cold and windy. It was a very beautiful glacier. I was very impressed. (Oct 19, 2015) (Original) ขณะเดินหิมะตก -4องศา หนาวและมีลม เป็นธารน้ำแข็งที่สวยมาก ประทับใจสุดเลย❤️ (19ต.ค.68)

(Translated by Google) Erdaohai Scenic Area is one of the two major scenic spots in Muni Valley. It consists of a series of lakes (lakes) with crystal clear water, emerald green and blue, primitive dense forests, exotic flowers and plants, and under the sunlight, the scenery is colorful and pleasant. (Original) 二道海景區是牟尼溝兩大風景區之一，由一連串海子(湖泊)組成，湖水清澈見底，翠綠碧藍，原始密林，奇花異草及陽光照耀下，繽紛多變，景色宜人。

(Translated by Google) There are much fewer people than Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou, and the scenery is not bad either. (Original) 人比黄龙、九寨沟少多了，风景也还不错

(Translated by Google) The calcified wood in the lake looks a bit like Jiuzhaigou. (Original) 湖中的钙化木看上去有点九寨沟的味道。

Everything is pleasant, but 70 yuan for the ticket seems a bit pricey for this small place. If you are planning to visit Jiuzhaigou or Huanglong, I do not recommend this place.

I came here on 1 May 2025 and the left route has been closed for mainternance. If you've travelled to Jiuzhaigou, i don't recommend this place

Super cold in the winter, -16C. Waterfall is beautiful. And there is spring water to drink.

Beautiful scenic views & popular spot for tourists

Wonderfull 🤩👍

(Translated by Google) Munigou is mainly divided into two major scenic spots: Zhaga Waterfall and Erdaohai. You need to take a bus to the entrance of the two scenic spots and then walk into the scenic spots. The hiking time in the two scenic spots is not too long, and the trails are also well-constructed, making it easy for tourists to handle. The scenic area is about 3,000 meters away and the humidity is high. Visitors should wear sports or non-slip shoes and pay attention to safety. Munigou is a calcified pool waterfall, and the temperature is low, so the scenery in the scenic area is special and changeable, with each season having its own characteristics. (Original) 牟尼溝主要分為扎嘎瀑布及二道海兩大景區，需要乘車到兩景區入口再步行進景點，兩景區徒步時間不算太長，步道亦修建很完善，遊人也很容易應付，唯景區在三千米左右，而且濕度高，遊人應穿著運動或防滑鞋及注意安全 牟尼溝為鈣化池瀑布，而且氣溫較低，所以景區內之景色特別而多變，四季各具特色。

(Translated by Google) If you have been to Jiuzhaigou, there is no need to go to Munigou. It is just a waterfall and because it is high up, it is very cold. (Original) Nếu đã có đi cửu trại câu rồi thì không cần thiết đi mâu ni câu đâu, chỉ là dòng thác và do trên cao nên rất lạnh.

A wonderful nature creation of a beautiful landscape that offers a breathtaking view to those who are willing to walk a bit more than ones usually do. But don't be desperate, there is a cable car and a battery car to bring you close to its main attraction at the top, the colorful pond. From there, it is recommended to walk down a 3.9 kilometers path to the main entrance. The view along the way is worth the exercise. There are a number of rest stops, the Mingjing Daoying Pool is the must stop to enjoy the valley view. The national park is at an elevation of some 3,000+ meters and there are a lot of steps, to enjoy the hiking does require some physical fitness. Toilets are strategically located throughout the park and are well maintained.

Must visit region. Not easy as a foreigner to travell too. Tourist bus from Huanglong trainstation, do not expect english to be used. If you want to use the ropeway you need a ticket for it. Best to be booked in advance. They have a seperate scan for your passport if you are a foreigner. Mine did not scan, they just then seem to show you to the side outside the gates. You are meant to go down the stairs and get a ticket when they check your passport, with which you then can access. If you booked the scenic busride you will have to do the same again once you are just out of the ropeway.

Can drop luggage off to the left of the visitor center. Though it’s not very well sign posted in English. Take the cable car then bus to the top and then walk down. Stunning views with lots of food and toilets on the way back down the mountain

Be really prepared to climb up to 400m and trek 2.7km up this trial. The views are worth it!! Huanglong was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1992 because of its outstanding travertine formations, waterfalls and limestone formations as well as its travertine terraces and lakes rating among the three most outstanding examples in the world.

every seasons have their own beauty and temperature, this winter season see more is like snow n less oxygen, not easy for if you like to excise or a hot bath.... all different illnesses will catch up with you

Definitely not a place to miss if you are a nature lover. It is god gifted natural beauty

The autumn temperature is around 0C-3C. Snow cap mountain. Need to pace the walking as you may get altitude sickness. No worries O2 stops are here and there. The sceneries are breath taking. Recommended a go to place.

(Translated by Google) It is at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, so it will be a bit hard! (Original) 在海拔3000多的地方，所以會有一點辛苦！

(Translated by Google) Chuanzhu Temple is not very big, not as big as expected. (Original) 川主寺不是很大，没有想象中的那么大。

(Translated by Google) The name is quite domineering, it is the meeting point of Jiuzhaigou and Ruoergai. (Original) 名字比较霸气，九寨沟和若尔盖的集合点

(Translated by Google) Turn left to Ruoergai and turn right to Jiuzhaigou Valley (Original) 左转若尔盖右转九寨沟

no public traffic. Have to take taxi from railway station to the valley

(Translated by Google) Xueshan Liangzi is the only way to Huanglong, with an altitude of about 4,000 feet. Although it takes seven or eight hours to drive, the beautiful scenery along the way is also exciting. (Original) 雪山梁子是到黃龍必經之路，海拔約四千多呎。雖然經歷七、八小時車程，沿途美景也令人為之興奮。

(Translated by Google) This observation deck overlooks Seoboding, the main peak of the Minshan Mountains, on the way from Chuanji Temple to Huanglong. (Original) 川主寺から黄龍へ向かう途中にある、岷山山脈の主峰である雪宝頂を望む展望台。