Jiuzhaigou is famous for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains. The main attractions include Nuorilang Waterfall, Shuzheng Cluster Lakes, Pearl Shoal, and Five-Flower Lake, each with its own unique beauty and captivating scenery. Here is a detailed 5-day 4-night itinerary for a trip to Jiuzhaigou, covering the main tourist attractions and allowing you to fully experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of the area:

Day 1: Arrival in Jiuzhaigou—Shuzheng Valley Tour

• Morning: Depart from Chengdu and take a high-speed train or long-distance bus to Jiuzhaigou, which takes approximately 4-5 hours. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a short rest.
• Afternoon: Begin your tour of Shuzheng Valley, the entrance to Jiuzhaigou, which contains over 40 lakes of varying sizes. Start with the Shuzheng Lakes, a cluster of lakes with crystal-clear waters and vibrant colors. The surrounding trees and reeds sway gently in the breeze, creating a picturesque scene. Continue to Shuzheng Waterfall, one of Jiuzhaigou's four major waterfalls, featuring a multi-tiered cascade.
• Evening: Return to your hotel for rest. You may choose to take a leisurely stroll around the hotel to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Jiuzhaigou at night.

Day 2: Rize Valley Tour

• Morning: Head to Rize Valley, the essence of Jiuzhaigou. Start with Pearl Shoal, known for its clear waters and tiny water droplets on the riverbed that shimmer like pearls in the sunlight. Next, visit Pearl Shoal Waterfall, a crescent-shaped waterfall cascading from a cliff, offering a captivating view.
• Afternoon: Continue to Five Flower Lake, acclaimed as the "essence of Jiuzhaigou" and a "wonder of Jiuzhaigou," with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant colors. Proceed to Arrow Bamboo Lake, surrounded by lush arrow bamboo and featuring enchanting reflections in the water.
• Evening: Return to your hotel. You may opt to watch a performance of "Mystery of Tibet" to gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan culture.

Day 3: Zechawa Valley Tour—Huanglong Scenic Area

• Morning: Explore Zechawa Valley, home to Changhai (Long Lake) and Five Color Pond. Changhai is the largest lake in Jiuzhaigou, with azure waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering a serene and majestic landscape. Five Color Pond, though small, is the most colorful, with clear waters revealing a dazzling array of colors from the rocks and plants at the bottom under the sunlight.
• Afternoon: Travel to Huanglong Scenic Area, about a 2-hour drive. Huanglong is famous for its calcified pools, with the Five Color Pond's water displaying a spectrum of colors due to its rich mineral content, making it a signature attraction of Huanglong. Additionally, you can visit Huanglong Temple and other cultural sites.
• Evening: Return to Jiuzhaigou or choose to stay near Huanglong for the night.

Day 4: Nuorilang Waterfall—Rhino Lake—Sparkling Lake

• Morning: Visit Nuorilang Waterfall, the widest calcified waterfall in China, with water plunging from a great height, creating a spectacular sight. Next, head to Rhino Lake, with its expansive surface and clear waters surrounded by reeds and forests, offering a beautiful setting.
• Afternoon: Explore Sparkling Lake, named for the way sunlight reflects off the rippling waters, creating a sparkling effect like sparks. You can spend the rest of the day at leisure, hiking, taking photos, or experiencing local culture.
• Evening: Return to your hotel for rest and enjoy the hotel's specialty cuisine.

Day 5: Return to Chengdu—Chengdu City Tour

• Morning: Depending on your departure time, engage in brief activities in Jiuzhaigou or the surrounding area, such as shopping or tasting local delicacies.
• Afternoon: Take a bus or drive back to Chengdu, which takes approximately 9-10 hours. Enjoy the scenery along the way.
• Evening: Upon arrival in Chengdu, check into your hotel and rest. Depending on your departure time, head to the airport or train station to conclude your delightful trip to Jiuzhaigou.

This itinerary is well-structured, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of Jiuzhaigou while also experiencing its local culture. Enjoy your trip to Jiuzhaigou!