Zhalong Nature Reserve

Welcome to the Ja-loong Nature Reserve, a 210,000-hectare expanse of pristine wetlands located approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Qi-qi-ha-er in Hei-long-jiang Province. Often referred to as the 'Home of the Cranes,' this…

We begin our exploration by boarding the eco-buggy, the primary mode of transport designed to minimize our footprint on this delicate ecosystem. As the buggy hums quietly along the paved path, look out over the vast mosaic of…

We have arrived at the Bird Observing Zone, a designated area where enthusiasts from around the world congregate with binoculars and long-lens cameras. From this vantage point, you can witness the incredible biodiversity of the…

This is perhaps the most iconic spot in the reserve: the area where the 'Fang-fei' or flight demonstration takes place. Three times a day, a flock of captive-bred red-crowned cranes is released to fly over the marshes, providing…

As we walk along the quieter boardwalks, we come across a memorial that tells a poignant 'true story' deeply embedded in the park's history. This is the story of Xu Xiu-juan, known as the 'First Crane Girl of China.' Born into a…

To truly immerse yourself in the wetland, you must leave the boardwalks and take a boat tour through the narrow channels of the reed beds. As the boat glides silently through the water, the reeds rise up like walls on either…

Our final stop within the reserve is the Conservation Center, where the scientific work of Ja-loong is documented. Here, you can learn about the complex challenges facing the cranes, from the decline of natural marshlands to the…

As we conclude our tour of the Ja-loong Nature Reserve, the image of the red-crowned crane taking flight likely lingers in your mind. This is more than just a park; it is a vital breath of life for a species that has symbolized…