Sunrise Glory! Trace-Free Exploration and Benefit Guide of Nanhui Dongtan Wetland

Located in Nanhui New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, Nanhui Dongtan Wetland is a core part of the Yangtze River Estuary coastal wetland. It is an important stopover for migratory birds in the Asia-Pacific region and a rare pristine "natural secret" in the metropolis. Here, far from the city's hustle and bustle, the reeds sway with the wind, and the tidal flats merge with the sky. You can immerse yourself in birdwatching, encounter breathtaking sunrises, explore mangroves, and learn ecological knowledge. It is an excellent choice for family science education, photography creation, and outdoor leisure, perfectly suited for the brand-new experience after ecological restoration in 2025! 1. Core Highlights: A Dual Feast of Nature and Ecology 1. Bird Kingdom: Habitat for 449 Bird Species As one of the areas with the richest bird species in Shanghai, Nanhui Dongtan Wetland has recorded 449 bird species, accounting for 30% of China's bird species, earning the title of a "mobile bird museum." It is home to 21 national first-class protected animals such as the Red-crowned Crane and Oriental Stork. In winter, you can encounter raptors like the Rock Bunting, Hen Harrier, and Peregrine Falcon soaring low, while in spring, large numbers of plovers and sandpipers stop here to rest and refuel. The sight of flocks flying together is spectacular. 2. Mirror of the Sky: Shanghai’s Earliest Sunrise Viewing Spot This is one of the easternmost areas in Shanghai and the earliest place in the city to witness the sunrise. On clear mornings, the tidal flats reflect the colorful sky, from pink-purple fiery clouds to the golden sun rising from the sea, making it easy to capture stunning "mirror of the sky" photos with a full atmospheric vibe. 3. Mangrove Secret Realm: A Living Classroom of Ecological Restoration The wetland features a 100-acre mangrove experimental base, planting native mangrove species such as Kandelia, Phoenix tree, and Avicennia. Their intertwined roots serve as habitats for fish and shrimp and are vivid examples of ecological restoration. Along the embankment road, detailed educational signs with illustrations introduce the growth characteristics of mangroves and the role of wetland ecosystems, making it ideal for learning while strolling with children. 4. Reed Beds and Tidal Flats: Pristine Outdoor Experience Vast reed beds ripple in the wind, forming a natural green barrier. Walking through them feels like entering a movie scene. When the tide recedes, the flat muddy tidal flats are exposed, allowing close observation of benthic creatures like small crabs and mudskippers, offering a genuine coastal ecological experience. 2. Best Time to Visit: Accurate Check-ins to Avoid Missing Out - Birdwatching Peak Season: November to March of the following year, when migratory birds peak in number and variety. Early mornings from 5 to 10 AM and afternoons from 4 PM to dusk are the most active feeding times, with the highest birdwatching success rate. - Sunrise Viewing: Suitable year-round, preferably on clear, low-cloud days. Arrive at the best viewing spot one hour early. In summer, start around 4 AM; in winter, adjust to 5-6 AM to witness the full sunrise transition. - Mangrove Science Education: Spring and summer (April to August), when mangroves grow lush and leaves are bright green, enhancing viewing and making it easier to spot small animals living in the mangroves. - Caution Tips: The plum rain season (June to July) brings heavy rain, making tidal flats muddy and difficult to walk on; typhoon season (July to September) requires attention to weather warnings and avoiding visits; strong midday summer sun calls for sun protection and cooling measures. 3. Transportation Guide: Convenient Access to the Pristine Secret - Public Transport: Take Metro Line 16 to Dishui Lake Station, exit from Exit 2, then transfer to the Dishui Lake New Energy Sightseeing Line or Pudong Bus No. 33. Get off at the "Dongtan Wetland" stop and walk about 15 minutes to enter the park. The whole trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. It is recommended to check bus schedules in advance and plan your trip accordingly. - Self-Driving: Navigate to "400 meters north of the intersection of Diding Road and Donggang Avenue, Nanhui New Town, Pudong New Area." Park in the designated parking lot about 1 km from the entrance, then walk into the park. Parking fee is 10 RMB per visit (no time limit). Arrive early to secure a spot and avoid weekend peak parking shortages. 4. Preparation and Practical Tips - Clothing Suggestions: Wear non-slip, durable sports or hiking shoes. Bring a pair of slippers for the tidal flat area to wash off mud easily. In summer, wear breathable, quick-dry clothes with a sun hat and sun-protective clothing. In winter, temperatures are low and winds strong, so wear thick coats, scarves, and gloves for warmth. - Essentials: Birdwatchers must bring binoculars (8-10x magnification recommended). Photographers can bring tripods for sunrise and bird time-lapse shots. Bring enough snacks and drinking water, as there are very few food stalls nearby. Energy bars, biscuits, and fruits are recommended. Carry trash bags, wet wipes, band-aids, and other common items. - Photography Tips: Use a wide-angle lens for sunrise to capture the panoramic view of tidal flats and sky. Use a telephoto lens for birdwatching to avoid disturbing the birds. Wear light or earth-tone clothing to blend with the natural environment and increase the chance of great shots. 5. Hidden Benefits: Unlock Exclusive Wetland Surprises 1. Free Science and Cultural Souvenirs: Find the sign labeled "Ecological Guardian" in the mangrove science area, scan the QR code, and fill out a simple wetland protection questionnaire. You can then collect a limited edition science handbook and bird-themed fridge magnet at the visitor center (30 sets daily, first come, first served). 2. Photography Check-in Gift: Take 3 original photos of the wetland (including any of sunrise, migratory birds, or mangroves), post them on social media with the hashtag and send a screenshot to the park’s official WeChat account. You will receive an electronic "Wetland Birdwatching Guide" (including bird distribution maps and best observation times) to help with precise birdwatching. 6. Safety and Etiquette Notes - The tidal flat area has many muddy paths, some with sinking risks. The outer side of the seawall is slippery. Do not enter the sea, climb over embankments or wire fences. Children must be accompanied by adults. - When birdwatching, do not use flashlights, loudspeakers, or other devices. Do not feed or chase birds. Keep a distance of over 10 meters to avoid disturbing their natural habitat. - Follow ecological protection rules: do not pick or damage native plants like reeds and mangroves, do not catch tidal flat creatures, and take all trash with you to ensure "trace-free" visits. - There is no artificial lighting in the park. After sunset, it gets dark quickly. Plan your return time in advance to avoid staying in the tidal flat area at night. Nanhui Dongtan Wetland is an ecological treasure gifted by nature. Here, there is no commercial noise, only the sound of wind, birdsong, and waves. Whether exploring nature with children, gently encountering migratory birds, seeking a healing sunrise alone, or unlocking hidden benefits for small surprises, you can feel the unique charm of the pristine wetland. Take advantage of good weather and embark on this date with nature to immerse yourself in the "poetry and distance" of the metropolis!