Jianzhuhai [Must-visit places in Jiuzhai Valley National Park]

At the upstream of Rize Valley is where Jianzhuhai (Arrow Bamboo Lake) is. This is one of those larger lakes found in Jiuzhaigou National Park. Notable features and highlights of Jianzhuhai scenic area are elaborated as below. It is shallow at the upstream but deep downstream. One could see waters from light blue in the shallows, and different shades of turquoise to darker greens at deeper spots. There are many different types of vegetation found in the shallow upstream, mainly of grassy appearances. The waters here also have aquatic plants. Red roots of unknown plants can be vividly seen in the shallows. There are two walkways, one is outside beside the main road, while the other is inside by the foothill. From beside the main road, a series of mountains form the western barrier of the valley, and these mountains are especially scenic together with the lake. Most of these mountains are forested especially nearer to the water edges, with bare surfaces seen nearer to the peaks and steep slopes. The lake is often frequented by wild ducks. Sighting of wild ducks here by me was once per visit out of 2 visits. They were seen between the shallow and the deep transition area. The walkway beside the main road which is along the eastern edge of the lake, is about 700 m long, and there is enough space for everyone to find more than a spot to take photos. Not to forget the walkway by the foothill along western edge of the lake. So plenty of photo shoot opportunities here. To get here, take a sightseeing bus and get down at Jianzhuhai (upstream) bus stop (can only get down). From here walk downstream along the lake until Jianzhuhai (downstream) bus stop. One may choose to board a sightseeing bus here to transfer to other scenic area, or walk further downstream into the next scenic area. Further downstream from the Jianzhuhai (downstream) bus stop is a stretch of dainty waterfalls, signaling the border between Jianzhuhai scenic area (upstream) and Panda Lake scenic area (downstream). There is a walkboard to walk to and view the waterfalls from near, which is recommended (see photos to know more). #china #travel #naturalwonders #thingstodo