The Mother of Jiuzhaigou: Long Lake and the Legend of the Sapphire Mirror

The Supreme Sapphire of the Zechawa Valley

1.Located at the very end of the Zechawa: Valley, Long Lake (Changhai) stands as the crowning jewel of the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. Sitting at an altitude of 3,060 meters, it holds the distinction of being the highest, largest, and deepest lake within the entire scenic area, covering a vast area of approximately 300,000 square meters. Often referred to as the "Mother of Jiuzhaigou," this S-shaped expanse of water is renowned for its vastness and profound tranquility. Unlike the vibrant, multi-colored pools found elsewhere in the park, Long Lake presents a deep, dignified "ink blue" hue, reflecting the towering snow-capped peaks and the lush primitive forests that embrace its shores. It serves as a natural reservoir; despite having no visible surface outlet, it never overflows in summer nor dries up in winter, regulating the water for the lakes below through underground seepage, a geological marvel that sustains the life of the valley.

A Legend of Eternal Love

2.The beauty of Long: Lake is intertwined with the romantic folklore of the Tibetan people. According to legend, the lake was formed from the tears of the Goddess Wono Semo. In ancient times, the hero Dage gave the goddess a wind-and-cloud magic mirror as a token of his love. When a demon attacked, the mirror was broken into 108 pieces, creating the 108 colorful lakes (Haizi) of Jiuzhaigou. Long Lake is said to be the largest piece of that mirror, or in some versions, the lake formed by the goddess's tears itself, symbolizing eternal love and divine protection over the valley. To this day, the lake is revered as a "Holy Lake," and it is believed that the water possesses the power to wash away bad karma and grant blessings of new life.

A Masterpiece of Seasonal Aesthetics

Visually, Long Lake offers a stunning contrast of elements that defines "Highland Aesthetics." In late autumn (mid-to-late October), the surrounding forests transform into a tapestry of golden yellows and fiery reds, framing the deep blue water and the snow-dusted peaks in a breathtaking composition. The water is so still that it acts as a perfect mirror, duplicating the majestic mountains and the sky above. In winter, the scenery shifts dramatically; while the lake is known for not freezing entirely due to its depth and volume, surface ice can form, creating a "silver mirror" effect that reflects the pure, silent world of snow and ice, turning the valley into a fairytale landscape.

A Sanctuary for Photography and Contemplation

For photographers and nature lovers, Long Lake offers a grand perspective that differs from the intimate waterfalls found lower in the valley. The viewing platforms provide a panoramic vista where one can capture the imposing "Great Wall" of snow peaks reflected in the water. The best time for photography is generally in the morning or afternoon when the light accentuates the depth of the valley and the brilliance of the water. Walking along the boardwalks through the ancient cedar and birch forests, visitors can breathe in the high-negative-ion air and observe the rich biodiversity, feeling the weight of history and the serene power of nature that has earned this site the reputation of being a "celestial palace on earth".