Jiuzhaigou in July 2026: Weather, What to Wear & Crowds

July is the high-water season in Jiuzhaigou, and one of the best times to visit. But it's also the peak of the summer holidays and rainy season, so you'll expect more crowds and rainfall.

However, July isn't the most expensive time yet. Prices rise a bit but stay reasonable. And summer is also cool and pleasant here, perfect for a summer escape with your family and friends.

What's the Weather Like in July in Jiuzhaigou

• Daytime (sunny): 23–30°C (73–86°F)
• Morning & night: 14–20°C (57–68°F)
• Rainy days: 16–24°C (61–75°F)
• Rainfall: 552.4 mm (21.7 in)

With an elevation difference of about 1,000 meters across the scenic area, you may experience all kinds of weather in July. Hot, cool, sunny, or rainy, is all possible.

Still, it's much cooler than Chengdu's 35°C (95°F) summer heat. But you'll still need to keep warm in the mornings and evenings, as it can get a bit chilly then.

Although it rains more often in July, most showers are scattered and brief, with sunshine in between. But remember to bring a light coat, as when it rains, it's a bit cold around 14-20°C (57–68°F).

Overall, the rain makes Jiuzhaigou even more beautiful with fuller water. Though it's less convenient for photos and the boardwalks can get slippery, the scenery isn't much affected, and road closures are rare. Just bring some waterproof gear and you'll be fine.

What to Wear in July

Light shirts like shorts, skirts, T-shirts, light trousers, caps, and a light coat are recommended to pack for your Jiuzhaigou trip in July.

Also, prepare some waterproof and sun protection stuff like an umbrella, a raincoat, waterproof shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Best Spots to Visit in Jiuzhaigou in July

In July, during the high-water season, Jiuzhaigou's landscape is dominated by lush greens, dotted with blue-green lakes and spectacular waterfalls.

Every spot is beautiful, especially the following locations:

• Primeval Forest: Perfect for you to trek on the flat and tranquil trails across the verdant forests, and watch the birds.
• Grass Lake: In July, vast patches of yellow flowers bloom among the green grass, then you'll enjoy a scene like an oil painting.
• Arrow Bamboo Lake: You can watch wild ducks swim freely across the green grasslands.
• Five Flower Lake: The lake with the most fish, and you might even spot an otter.
• Pearl Shoal Waterfall: In July, the waterfall is at its fullest. It will recreate scenes from the 1986 version of Journey to the West in front of your eyes.
• Shuzheng Lakes: You're strongly recommended to climb up to Shuzheng Village's viewing platform for a full panoramic view.
• Sparkling Lake & Reed Lake: Around 3 pm, the sunlight hits just right, and you'll capture a sight that the water sparkles like diamonds.

Explore Beyond Jiuzhaigou: Hidden Gems Nearby

If you're spending 2–4 days in Jiuzhaigou, you can extend your trip to explore several nearby scenic spots.

We can tailor a private itinerary to your pace, arranging private transport and a guide. So you'll experience the layered beauty of this area, from terraced lakes to ancient towns and meadows.

1. Huanglong National Park

Huanglong National Park

In July, Huanglong also reaches its high-water season, making the scenery even more spectacular.

As you hike down the mountain, you'll walk through lush forests, spot playful squirrels, and see many waterfalls and terraced colorful pools with abudnant flowing water.

However, the cable car can have long lines in July and August, around 1-2 hrs. To avoid the wait, enter the park around 8:30 AM, and you can get on the cable car in about 20 minutes.

2. Songpan Ancient Town

Songpan Ancient Town

In summer, the hills around Songpan Ancient Town turn lush green, much better for your viewing and photos.

Besides experiencing Tibetan and Qiang culture, you can also enjoy the fresh mushroom hotpot. The rainy season brings many fresh and soft mushrooms, ready for you to taste.

3. Zhongcha Valley

If you enjoy short hikes, horseback riding, or even visiting a Tibetan family, you can spend 2–3 hours exploring Zhongcha Valley, just a 20-minute drive from Jiuzhaigou.

Zhongcha Valley is at its most beautiful in July. Besides the rolling green meadows, you'll see yellow wildflowers in bloom, herds of cattle and sheep, and scattered traditional wooden Tibetan houses along your hiking route (around 30-60min).

What about the Crowds and Cost? (with Travel Tips)

Although July isn't as expensive as the autumn leaf season, it can get crowded. 

In the first half of the month, daily visitors range from 20,000–30,000, and in the second half, 30,000–40,000. But don't worry, we've got easy solutions for you.

1. Jiuzhaigou in July isn't as crowded as you might think

Jiuzhaigou is very well managed. Shuttle buses take just 10–25 minutes to get you from the entrance to the park, unlike other places where you might wait 1–2 hours in line.

The park also assigns visitors to three different routes based on crowd levels. Except for the Five-Color Pools and bus stops, you won't feel overly crowded in most spots.

2. How to Handle the Lunch Rush?

Nuorilang Center is the only restaurant in Jiuzhaigou, and also a transit hub, so it gets very busy during lunch.

It's best to eat early or late (around 11 am or after 1 pm), or bring your own light meal.

3. How to Avoid the Entrance Rush around 7:30 am?

7:30 am is the rush hour to enter Jiuzhaigou, so there will be a traffic jam on the road to the scenic area.

We recommend staying at a hotel near the park entrance to walk in, or adjusting your schedule to arrive earlier at 6 am or later around 8–9 am.

4. Book Tours, Tickets, and Guides in 1-2 months Advance

We recommend booking train tickets at least 15 days in advance, or arranging a private tour 1–2 months ahead.

If you prefer something hassle-free, we recommend booking a private tour. We'll arrange everything for you, from transportation, hotels, a guide, an itinerary, to tickets. It's especially convenient for family trips, as everything will be well taken care of.

5. How much cost in July in Jiuzhaigou?

The ticket and shuttle bus cost is 280 RMB (160 RMB in the low season). If you or someone in your group is over 60 years old, you can save 190 RMB on the entrance ticket and only need to pay 90 RMB for the sightseeing bus.

Although hotel prices may increase by around 50%, it's still relatively moderate compared with the National Day holiday and the peak season for autumn foliage in October. You can refer to the following prices:

Jiuzhaigou Climate Information by Month

• Jiuzhaigou Weather in January
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in February
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in March
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in April
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in May
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in June
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in July
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in August
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in September
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in October
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in November
• Jiuzhaigou Weather in December