Pearl Shoal Waterfall

珍珠滩瀑布

In Rize Valley, water splashes into countless 'pearls' on a sloping travertine shoal, then drops over a crescent-shaped waterfall about 160 meters wide. It is the most dynamic stretch of Jiuzhaigou, and the filming location for the opening credits of the 1986 Journey to the West.

Pearl Shoal lies downstream of Five Flower Lake and upstream of Mirror Lake. It is a travertine shallow about 160 meters long, 200 meters wide and sloping at about 20 degrees. Water flowing over the uneven surface throws up countless droplets that look like rolling pearls in the sunlight. At the end of the shoal, the water plunges about 40 meters into the valley to form Pearl Shoal Waterfall. The falls are crescent-shaped, about 160 meters wide and drop about 20 meters, with a roaring sound. The opening scene of the 1986 Journey to the West, in which the four pilgrims lead their horse through the water, was filmed at Pearl Shoal. Ways to see it: follow the boardwalk down from Five Flower Lake. First you cross the wooden walkway on the shoal, where the water flows right by your feet and you can see the 'pearls' up close. Then descend the trail along the side of the waterfall to the valley viewing platform for a face-on view. The trail continues downstream to Mirror Lake. This section (Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal, Pearl Shoal Waterfall, Mirror Lake) is the most popular hiking trail in Jiuzhaigou. It is about 2 km and takes about an hour, all downhill. Sightseeing buses stop at the Pearl Shoal Waterfall station, and you can also board here. Tips: the boardwalk is close to the water, so it is slippery after rain and in winter, so wear non-slip shoes. The waterfall viewing platform is very misty, so bring warm clothes in autumn and winter. Swimming in the shoal is forbidden. In peak season this trail is crowded, so it is quieter before 8 a.m. or after 3 p.m.

Pearl Shoal Waterfall

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