Huanglong Scenic Area

The Welcoming Guest Ponds, alternatively known as Yingbin Ponds, are a significant attraction of the Huanglong Scenic Area. Positioned near the entrance of the travertine pond area, they form the first large cluster of ponds that greet visitors in the valley. This cluster consists of approximately 350 ponds nestled at an elevation of around 3,230 meters or 10,600 feet. The ponds display a variety of colors from shades of green to aqua, with some ponds teeming with vegetation. The beauty of the Welcoming Guest Ponds is especially pronounced during spring when they are encircled by verdant trees, blossoming flowers, fluttering butterflies, and chirping birds. The interplay of light, trees, mountains, and snow reflecting on the water surface results in a vibrant and occasionally iridescent display.

A short stroll from the Welcome Guest Ponds leads visitors to the Flying Waterfall, also known as Feipu Liuhui. This name aptly describes the waterfall’s appearance as it cascades down the mountain, giving the impression of water taking flight. Numerous mini waterfalls emerge from the forest and descend the slope, creating a series of tiered waterfalls due to the multiple layers of the slope. On sunny days, the sunlight illuminates the waters, causing them to reflect a spectrum of colors.

The Washing Cave, measuring approximately 1.5 meters in width and a meter in height, is a component of a travertine subsidence that stands 10 meters tall and spans 40 meters wide. This subsidence holds the distinction of being the world’s longest wall of travertine. The cave earned its name from its historical use as a bathing spot. A waterfall graces the cave, created by travertine that cascades from the Golden Beach and abruptly forms a wall.

Perched at an elevation of 3,320 meters, the Bonsai Ponds consist of approximately 330 vibrant, small ponds that span an area of over 20,000 square meters. These ponds are linked and shaped by tree rhizomes. The pond bottoms showcase a variety of travertine colors, presenting a breathtaking natural display. The combination of the ponds, trees, flowers, and rhizomes creates a natural tableau reminiscent of a Chinese bonsai.

Also recognized as Jinsha Pudi, the Golden Sand Pavement is a striking feature of Huanglong. It’s a stretch of golden travertine shoal that spans 1300 meters, dotted with hundreds of ponds and numerous smaller terraces. This section of Huanglong gives the impression of the scales of a mythical golden dragon. It has an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters. It’s believed to be the world’s most expansive travertine shoal.

Known as Mingjing Daoying Chi, the Mirror Ponds are a group of over a hundred turquoise ponds nestled in the heart of Huanglong at an elevation of 3,431 meters (11,257 feet). The name translates to ‘Bright Mirror Inverted Reflection Pools’, which captures their charm. The ponds’ allure is in the reflections they cast due to their clear water and vibrant colors. The water in the Mirror Pond pools is so clear that it reveals the bottom and transforms each pond into a mirror reflecting the sky above, the towering Minshan mountain range, and the lush forest surrounding them.

Situated at an elevation of 3,420 meters or 11,200 feet, the Flamboyant Ponds, also referred to as the Zhengyan Ponds, are a significant feature of Huanglong Valley. They represent the second largest collection of ponds in the valley, with over 500 pools of varying dimensions. The water in these ponds is incredibly transparent, allowing for a clear view of the flora and fauna at the bottom. What truly sets these ponds apart is their remarkable color palette. Depending on factors such as the season, weather conditions, and time of day, the water can exhibit a range of hues including yellow, white, blue, green, and serpentine. This kaleidoscope of colors is not static but changes as the pond surfaces mirror the colors of the sky and surrounding environment. Each pond has its own unique coloration and shading, thanks to the distinct mix of chemicals and bacteria present in it.

The Huanglong Temple, a notable historical site nestled in Huanglong Valley, once comprised three distinct temples located at the front, middle, and rear of the valley. The Front Temple, however, has been reduced to ruins over time. The Middle Temple, with its five halls, now functions as a rest stop for visitors. Adding to the historical richness of the area is the Huanglong Back Temple, a Taoist sanctuary that is over 600 years old and situated near the Five-Color Pool.

Also known as Wucai Chi, the Five-Color Ponds are a spectacular sight and the largest group of travertine ponds in Huanglong Valley. Situated at a height of 3,576 meters, these ponds hold the distinction of being the world’s highest outdoor colorful travertine ponds. The Five-Color Ponds are a collection of nearly 700 ponds and small pools. The crystal-clear waters mirror the colors of the surrounding environment and sky, resulting in a dynamic color palette. Each pond, with its unique mix of chemicals and bacteria, exhibits distinct colors and shades. The varying depths of the ponds cause them to refract sunlight in different ways, much like prisms of different shapes, creating a mesmerizing rainbow effect.