2 Days Itinerary: Huanglong & Jiuzhaigou from Chengdu by train

Introduction

If you’re short on time but eager to experience the golden travel route Chengdu – Huanglong – Jiuzhaigou by train, then here is a 2-day itinerary for you.

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,
Huanglong National Park (entrance ticket, cableway)
Flights to or from Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH)

Day 1: Chengdu to Huanglong and Onwards to Jiuzhaigou

Morning Departure from Chengdu to Huanglongjiuzhai

Start your journey early from Chengdu East Railway Station (Chengdudong). The earliest high-speed train departs at 6:45 AM and arrives at Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station at approximately 8:24 AM.

Huanglongjiuzhai to Huanglong Scenic Area by Bus

Upon arrival at Huanglongjiuzhaigou Station, take a through bus outsite the station directly to Huanglong Scenic Area. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes and costs 28 yuan.

Afternoon: Huanglong Exploration

Spend approximately 3-4 hours exploring this magical place. Don’t miss the famous Yellow Dragon Temple and the vibrant pools that seem to flow with every color of the rainbow.

After your Huanglong visit, make your way to Jiuzhaigou Valley by bus, then check in your hotel and rest up for the next day’s adventure.

  • Visit: Spend 3-4 hours exploring the terraced pools and waterfalls of Huanglong.
  • Departure: In the afternoon, catch the shuttle bus to Jiuzhaigou for your overnight stay.

Day 2: Jiuzhaigou Valley Exploration & Return to Chengdu

Full Day in Jiuzhaigou

  • Visit: Spend the day discovering Jiuzhaigou Valley’s key sights: Pearl Shoal Waterfall, Nuorilang Waterfall, Long Lake, and Five-Flower Lake.
  • Departure: Leave Jiuzhaigou around 5-6 PM and take the through bus back to the Huanglong Jiuzhaigou Station.
  • Return Train: Catch the 9 PM train back to Chengdu East Railway Station, arriving just before midnight.

Alternative Itinerary: Afternoon Train Departure from Chengdu

  • Afternoon Train: If you choose to take an afternoon train from Chengdu East, just head directly by through bus to Jiuzhaigou Valley upon arrival at Huanglongjiuzhai Station.
  • Accommodation: Stay overnight in Jiuzhaigou and explore the valley the next day. Visit Huanglong on the third day before returning to Chengdu.

Trusted Online Ticket Agents:

Option 1: China Highlights is a reliable online agency  for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.

Option 2: Trip.com  is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc