search for a Trip
Xianghai National Nature Reserve
Located in Tongyu County of Baicheng City, Jilin Province, Xianghai National Nature Reserve is one of China’s most important wetland and wildlife conservation areas. Known as a paradise for birds, the reserve is recognized as an internationally important wetland and is especially famous for its large populations of cranes and rich biodiversity.
Situated on the edge of the Songliao Plain and the eastern Horqin Grassland, Xianghai features a unique combination of wetlands, grasslands, lakes, reed marshes and woodland. Covering an area of approximately 105,467 hectares, the reserve stretches about 45 kilometers from north to south and around 42 kilometers at its widest point from east to west.
About 39 percent of the reserve consists of marshes, open water areas, reed wetlands and naturally regenerated forests. The diverse landscape provides an ideal habitat for hundreds of species of birds, as well as various mammals, fish, amphibians and reptiles.
A World-Class Wetland
Xianghai National Nature Reserve was originally established by the Jilin Provincial Government in 1981. In 1986, it was approved by the State Council as a National Forest and Wildlife Nature Reserve, and in 1992 it was included in the list of internationally important wetlands.
The reserve represents one of the most valuable wetland ecosystems in northeastern China. Its combination of grasslands, wetlands, lakes and forests creates a rare natural environment where wildlife can thrive.
The landscape of Xianghai is shaped by meadow grasslands, semi-desertified areas, sand dunes, swamps and numerous lakes. Small and large shallow lakes, locally known as “blisters,” are scattered throughout the reserve, creating a unique wetland landscape.
The region has a temperate continental climate, with an average annual temperature of around 4.9°C, annual rainfall of approximately 400–450 millimeters and a frost-free period of about 170 days.
A Paradise for Birds
Xianghai is widely known as the “Hometown of Cranes” because of its remarkable diversity of crane species. The reserve provides an important breeding and migration habitat for many rare birds.
More than 290 species of birds have been recorded in Xianghai, including six of the world’s fourteen crane species:
* Red-crowned crane
* White crane
* Common crane
* Hooded crane
* Demoiselle crane
* White-naped crane
Among them, the red-crowned crane is the most famous and is considered a symbol of conservation in China. The sight of cranes flying over the vast wetlands and grasslands is one of the most impressive experiences for visitors.
Besides cranes, the reserve is home to many other rare and protected birds, including white storks, golden eagles, vultures, falcons, fish hawks, bustards and various species of geese.
The large areas of reed marshes create an endless “sea of reeds,” providing important nesting and feeding grounds for numerous water birds.
Rich Wildlife and Natural Ecosystems
In addition to its birdlife, Xianghai supports a wide range of wildlife. The reserve is home to various mammals, including roe deer, Mongolian rabbits and wolves.
Its rivers, lakes and wetlands provide habitats for many fish species, including carp, grass carp, herring and mandarin fish. Amphibians and reptiles are also commonly found throughout the reserve.
The vegetation of Xianghai is equally diverse. Vast meadow grasslands, wetlands and woodland areas are connected by sand dunes covered with rare Mongolian yellow elm forests. These unique forests growing among the dunes create one of the most distinctive landscapes in the region.
A Destination for Nature Lovers
With its peaceful environment, abundant wildlife and spectacular wetland scenery, Xianghai National Nature Reserve is an ideal destination for birdwatching, photography and nature exploration.
During migration seasons, visitors can observe large numbers of cranes and other birds gathering in the wetlands. The combination of clear lakes, endless reed marshes, grasslands and forests offers travelers an opportunity to experience one of northeastern China’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
For those seeking close contact with nature, Xianghai provides an unforgettable journey into a world of birds, wetlands and untouched wilderness.
Related Tours:
China Attractions Guide
- Anhui Attractions
- Beijing Attractions
- Chongqing Attractions
- Fujian Attractions
- Gansu Attractions
- Guangdong Attractions
- Guangxi Attractions
- Guizhou Attractions
- Hainan Attractions
- Henan Attractions
- Hongkong Attractions
- Hubei Attractions
- Hunan Attractions
- Heilongjiang Attractions
- Inner Mongolia Attractions
- Jiangsu Attractions
- Jilin Attractions
- Jiangxi Attractions
- Liaoning Attractions
- Manchuria Attractions
