Activities and Experiences
1. Tibetan Barbecue Banquet
Some local Tibetan households offer visitors a “Tibetan Family Night” with a dinner and cultural performance. This experience costs around ¥100–200, depending on the scale. Promoters often advertise this at the entrance of the scenic area.
The banquet includes a mix of Tibetan and Qiang dances, folk songs, religious rituals, traditional costumes, musical instruments, Tibetan wedding customs, and the Guozhuang dance (a lively group circle dance). It’s a fun and vibrant experience, complemented by the chance to taste authentic Tibetan cuisine.
2. Songpan Horseback Tour
Featured in the renowned travel guide Lonely Planet, the Songpan horseback tour has gained international fame despite being less well-known domestically.
• Each visitor is paired with a guide who provides a horse for the guest and rides another horse carrying supplies such as food, tents, and blankets.
• Guides handle all tasks like camp setup, cooking, and horse care, while visitors simply enjoy the scenic ride.
• Warm Tibetan robes and raincoats are provided for comfort.
3. Mazi Fair
The Mazi Fair is the most grand festival in Jiuzhaigou, celebrated annually on the 15th day of the 3rd lunar month. On this day, locals of all ages dress in festive attire to attend the fair at Zaru Temple. Activities include:
• Offering incense and prayers.
• Circling sacred mountains.
• Presenting khata (traditional scarves) to elders, friends, and monks.
• Folk performances, Tibetan opera, and dances.
The fair is also a time for young men and women to meet and form connections.
4. Tibetan-Qiang Dance Performances
Jiuzhaigou offers large-scale performances akin to a Tibetan-Qiang “Spring Festival Gala.” Ticket prices range from ¥150 to ¥300, but discounts through agents can bring prices as low as ¥100.
Recommended shows include:
• “Tibetan Riddle”: A renowned stage drama co-directed by Yang Liping and Rongzhong Erjia, featuring an authentic display of Tibetan culture through dance and music.
• “Red Plateau” and “Jiuzhai Paradise” .
5. Watching Tibetan Riddle
This is a grand theatrical performance centered around a devout Tibetan grandmother’s pilgrimage journey. The show vividly portrays Tibetan life, customs, and religious rituals while preserving the raw and authentic essence of Tibetan culture.
• Showtime: Every evening at 7:30 PM, lasting for 120 minutes.
• Venue: Tibetan Riddle Theater at the entrance to Jiuzhaigou Valley.
6. Exploring Local Markets
Near the Jiuzhaigou Valley entrance, there is a lively market featuring stalls selling local specialties. This bustling hub offers a great chance to pick up souvenirs and authentic Jiuzhaigou products. It’s an excellent spot to browse and find unique items to take home.
These activities and events provide visitors with a rich cultural experience, making a trip to Jiuzhaigou much more than just a scenic adventure.