Jianhu Jiulongkou: A Wetland Treasure Where Nature and Culture Meet

Jianhu Jiulongkou National Wetland Park is located in Jianhu County, Yancheng City, Jiangsu Province. It is known for its rich wetland ecosystem and long history. The park covers an area of about 240 square kilometers and is an important part of the coastal plain wetlands in Jiangsu. It is named after the unique landscape of nine natural rivers converging into one lake, resembling nine dragons playing with a pearl, hence the name "Jiulongkou" (Nine Dragon Mouth). The wetland park is home to a rich biodiversity, with many rare plants and animals. The park is especially rich in bird resources, attracting tens of thousands of migratory birds to stop and breed each year, including national first-class protected animals such as the black-headed gull and red-crowned crane. In addition, the wetland is home to large areas of reed marshes, lotus ponds, and fish ponds, providing a good environment for the growth of aquatic plants and animals. Jiulongkou Wetland Park is not only a beautiful natural landscape, but also has a rich cultural heritage. It is said to be the birthplace of the ancient "Dragon King Temple Fair" and still retains rich folk activities, such as dragon boat races and fishermen's songs and dances, which show a strong local flavor. Visitors can take a boat ride through the crisscrossing waterways to experience the original charm of the wetland up close. The park also has a science museum, bird-watching tower, and eco-tourism boardwalk, providing people with the opportunity to explore the mysteries of nature and get close to the ecology. It is a comprehensive wetland scenic area integrating ecological protection, leisure tourism, and cultural heritage, and is an ideal place for people to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and return to nature.