Local Specialties
1. Qiang Embroidery
Qiang embroidery is deeply rooted in ancient folk culture, with simple designs rich in symbolic meaning. The “Yunyun Shoes”, a signature item, are embroidered cloth shoes shaped like small boats with slightly upturned toes, thick soles, and cloud-patterned designs on the sides. They are both durable and beautiful.
2. Mao Wen Apples
The Mao Wen apple is highly nutritious and valued for its therapeutic properties. It is recognized for its health benefits, as confirmed by experts using disease prevention and vitality indexes. These apples are both tasty and good for maintaining wellness.
3. Medicinal Herbs (Fritillaria, Cordyceps, Musk, etc.)
• Musk: Extracted from the glands of male musk deer, it is dried into granules or blocks with a distinctive fragrance and bitter taste. Musk is used in perfumes and medicines, functioning as a central nervous stimulant or for pain relief and swelling reduction when applied externally.
• Fritillaria (Beimu): A perennial herb used to relieve coughs, clear heat, and dissolve lumps. Varieties include Sichuan Fritillaria, Zhejiang Fritillaria, and local Fritillaria, differing by region and species.
4. Yak Meat
Known as the “king of beef,” yak meat is widely available in Jiuzhaigou. It is easy to transport, has a long shelf life, and is rich in flavor. Prices range from ¥70–80 per jin (500g) for standard quality to over ¥100 for premium varieties. Many shops use a “weighted pricing” tactic, offering double the requested amount to increase the total price, so it’s wise to sample and confirm quantities before purchasing.
5. Tibetan Handicrafts
Tibetan handicrafts, such as jewelry, rings, and prayer beads, are exquisite and make meaningful souvenirs. However, purchasing Tibetan knives is discouraged due to their sharp edges (posing safety risks) and restrictions on carrying them through airport security.
6. Jiuzhaigou Morel Mushrooms
Morel mushrooms, a highly prized edible fungus, are known for their benefits to digestion and respiratory health. They are semi-cultivated in Jiuzhaigou at elevations above 3,000 meters and are named for their honeycomb-like structure. Morels can be used to prepare soups, particularly with duck.
7. Jiuzhaigou “Dao Dang”
Also known as “Pattern Dang” or “Knife Edge Dang”, this is a locally cultivated medicinal herb used to treat indigestion, weakness, shortness of breath, and internal heat. As a culinary ingredient, it pairs well with ingredients like angelica root, astragalus, chicken, or duck for hearty stews.
8. Bracken (Fern Shoots)
Jiuzhaigou’s bracken is prized in Japan and South Korea for its superior quality. With a tender texture and rich flavor, it is known for its cooling properties, diuretic effects, and anti-aging benefits.
9. Black Fungus (Wood Ear Mushroom)
This famous edible fungus is rich in nutrients and has a delicate texture with a unique flavor. It contains sugars, proteins, fats, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Black fungus is believed to replenish energy, reduce hunger, stop bleeding, and improve circulation. It also has potential cancer-preventative and cardiovascular health benefits.
Tips for Buying Local Products
When shopping for local specialties, especially medicinal herbs and food products, be cautious about authenticity and quality. If you are unsure, buy in moderation or seek recommendations from trusted sources.