Jack’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
“Five-Flower Lake is my favorite lake in Jiuzhaigou — Don’t miss it!”” – Jack
Five-Flower Lake (Wuhua Hai) 🌊
📍 Location: Middle Section of Rize Valley | Altitude: 2,472m
Dubbed the ”Essence of Jiuzhaigou”, this lake is a natural marvel. Its colors—turquoise, emerald, gold—result from mineral-rich travertine deposits and algae on the lakebed. Submerged calcified trees resemble a peacock’s tail, creating an ethereal “underwater forest.” From Tiger Mouth, the lake mirrors a peacock spreading its feathers—a dazzling fusion of color and light that epitomizes Jiuzhaigou’s fairy-tale beauty.
🎒 Jack’s Personal Journey
“After visiting Arrow Bamboo Lake & its waterfall, I took the sightseeing bus to Panda Lake – famous for its dramatic water-level changes and panda-shaped rock. But the real magic began when I walked down the 1.5km trail to Five-Flower Lake. My first glimpse was underwhelming, but as I explored different angles, this ‘Crown Jewel of Jiuzhaigou’ exploded into a kaleidoscope! In a single view, I saw turquoise, crimson, emerald, and sapphire swirling around ancient submerged trees. Pro tip: Don’t judge it from the entrance – walk the full loop!”
🔄 Connecting Attractions
- Upstream: Panda Lake
- Walk: 15 mins (1.5km boardwalk) – Pass small waterfalls en route.
- Sightseeing Bus: 5 mins.
- Downstream: Pearl Shoal Waterfall
- Walk: 20 mins (1.2km boardwalk along the “Peacock River Channel”).
- Sightseeing Bus: 8 mins.
Read: How to get from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou by train
 | Chengdu to Huanglongjiuzhai train (nearest station to Jiuzhaigou & Huanglong). Bus from Huanglongjiuzhai Station to Jiuzhaigou Valley (Through bus, carpool, Book online). |
 | 253 Hotels in Jiuzhaigou for foreign tourists, Hotels near Chengdu East Station |
 | Huanglong National Park (entrance ticket, cableway), Jiuzhaigou Park (entrance ticket, sightseeing bus, shuttle bus) |
 | Flights to or from Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) |
⭐ Must-See Highlights
- Tiger Mouth Overlook: Highest vantage point for panoramic lake views.
- Lakeside Boardwalk: Close-up views of submerged ancient trees (“underwater forest”).
📸 Photography Tips
- Best spot: Tiger Mouth Overlook (captures the entire lake’s gradient colors)
- Golden Hour: 9:00–11:00 AM – Direct sunlight intensifies the water’s brilliance
- Jack’s Insight: “Shoot from multiple elevations – the colors transform completely!”
📝 Why It’s Special
Dubbed the “Crown Jewel of Jiuzhaigou”, its surreal hues come from calcium deposits, algae, and minerals. Submerged calcified trees create a “peacock tail” illusion.
⏰ Visiting Tips
- Time Needed: 50–80 mins (includes photos + boardwalk stroll)
- Golden Hour: 9:00–11:00 AM – Direct sunlight intensifies the water’s brilliance
🍃 Seasonal Magic
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | April–May | New leaves contrast with turquoise water; snow-capped peaks. |
| Summer | June–August | Vivid, saturated colors; mirror-like reflections. |
| Autumn | September–October | PEAK SEASON! Fiery forests + mineral hues create a “double rainbow” effect. |
| Winter | November–March | “Ice-water duet”: Cobalt-blue ice patterns blend with unfrozen jade pools. |
💡 Did You Know?
The lake’s “underwater forest” consists of 1,200+ year-old calcified trees – preserved like natural sculptures!
🚶 Transport Advice
- Panda Lake → Five-Flower Lake: Walk (15 mins) or Sightseeing Bus (5 mins) to photograph cascades
- Five-Flower Lake → Pearl Shoal: Bus (5 mins) or walk (20 mins) along the chromatic Peacock Channel
“This isn’t just a lake – it’s nature’s stained glass cathedral. Worth planning your entire Jiuzhaigou day around!” – Jack
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