Jiuzhaigou Dining

Located at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters (about 9843 feet), Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Area faces special difficulties with dining. Many goods and materials have to be transferred from nearby towns and villages, resulting in high prices and a limited variety of foods.

Near the scenic spot are several small restaurants that offer different styles of Chinese cuisine. A simple dinner can be found there at a reasonable price. The Xiaobu Snack, a popular restaurant, is located at Bianbian Street to the right of the entrance gate to Jiuzhaigou Valley. Most of the restaurants in the area can be reached easily on foot; however, taking a taxi will save time. Since the area has been inhabited by a large number of Tibetans for a long time, the authentic local food offers unique Tibetan flavors, such as the famous buttered tea and highland barley wine. The strong flavor of the Tibetan food might not please everyone.

Apart from the above choices, the restaurants affiliated with star-rated hotels around Jiuzhaigou provide better-tasting foods in a comfortable atmosphere. Jiu Zhai Paradise and Sheraton Jiuzhaigou Resort are two five-star restaurants that supply various kinds of good quality Chinese and Western food, especially the authentic Tibetan specialties. However, neither of them is the ideal choice for a budget-conscious traveler. Don't worry, for there are several lower grade hotels around the valley that serve some delicious food at reasonable prices.

It can take an entire day to tour this large scenic spot, so lunching in the valley is a practical option. Currently, there are four restaurants along Heyezhai, Shuzhengzhai, Nuorilang and Zechawa that serve several grades of buffet dinners. Another alternative is the tourist service center of Nuorilang, which offers various grades of buffet dinners, as well as a series of banquets which include Tibetan specialties and other Chinese cuisines.

However, during the peak tourist season, the restaurants are always very crowded. One way to escape the crowds is to take food with you. In fact, it will be cozier eating in the charming natural beauty of the area than in the bustling restaurants. The prices of goods sold around the tourist attractions are higher in China, so buying food and beverage before coming to Jiuzhaigou Valley will save money. Some Tibetans in the valley sell their simple food to visitors at reasonable prices. Travelers who are looking for more interesting experiences might enjoy trying the Tibetan food.