Ergun wetland in Inner Mongolia, one of the largest in Asia

The Ergun wetland in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region is one of the largest in Asia. Belonging to Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia, it takes about 3 hours' driving from the city to Ergun wetland. In spite of the huge importance in terms of ecology, Ergun Wetland was little known by the rest of the country until 2000, when a natural reserve was formed.

Wetland is considered the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems, serving as home to a wide range of plant and animal life, such as migratory birds. Covering an area of 126,000 hectares, this wetland is known for its space, but also for its astonishing views. Nature has the best color palette. Summer in Ergun wetland means the verdant green has given way to sparkling golden willows, bushes, poplars and birches spread along the slopes as well as both banks of the zigzagging Genhe River, which flows into the nearby Ergun River.

The Ergun River has bordered China and Russia since 1689, also the source of the Heilongjiang River (also known as Amur River). A backdrop of rolling hills is topped with layers of clouds. Everything looks like it was taken from a fairy tale. Walking along the wooden path to seek out different vantage points to take in the view, lucky tourists could see squirrels suddenly jumping out of the bushes, running past their feet and disappearing among the branches.

Ergun wetland turns into a colorful paradise in autumn. Even if you pay little attention to the various tags given to scenic spots, when you stand on the hill 720 meters above the sea level and look out at the panoramic view over what claims to be the "No 1 wetland in Asia", you will be immediately convinced.

The place is a paradise for animals. There are 268 varieties of terrestrial mammals living in this area. As a crucial stop on the route of migratory birds flying from Australia to Siberia, more than 20 million birds rest or nest here every year. It is estimated that 45 pairs of red-crested cranes, one of the country's most endangered bird species, choose to rest here. A big swan flock often includes 5,000 birds during migration season, usually in April and October.

Ergun wetland was recently listed as a candidate for national wetland park status. The Chinese Academy of Sciences also plans to set up 10 surveillance stations to keep a closer eye on this wetland.