Jiuzhaigou, world heritage site north of Sichuan, on the edge of the Tibetan plateau

Enter the magificent sites of Jiuzhaigou, into a sea of mountain ranges, rushing streams and waterfalls of crystal-clear water at every turn, ice-capped mountains, plunging valleys, and the most tightly-packed tourist site ever known to men! For a site that accommodates 7,000-8,000 tourists, there were over 23,000 on the day I was there. Thousands of steps to climb, and miles of mountain paths to walk--and I came out alive!

Multi-colored lake--absolutely magical!

Pagoda in a the distance.

A couple of local centenarians--what better advertisements to promote tribal medicine from herbs gathered locally and sold to tourists, right? Natives also invited tourists to join in a group dance. Then see the cutest little boy and girl that you will ever see--absolute dolls!

Site of giant Buddha carved from a sheer mountain-face overlooking a vast lake. Very misty because it's so high up in the mountain. Lots of step climbing and trailing along narrow paths packed with tourists!

Buddha's left hand on his left knee, and then his foot.

Close-up of Buddha's foot, then view down the path leaving the site.