Located in Dafeng District, Yancheng City, Jiangsu Province, China Milu Park is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and nature reserve covering 78,000 hectares (core area 2,667 hectares). As the world's largest Pere David's deer nature reserve, it hosts over 60% of the global wild population, earning titles like "Pearl of Eastern Wetlands" and "Homeland of Milu Deer".
History and Culture
Pere David's deer, a rare species endemic to China, are nicknamed "sibuxiang" (four unlikes) for their unique appearance - antlers like deer but not, head like horse but not, body like donkey but not, hooves like cow but not. Once widespread in eastern China, they nearly went extinct due to habitat loss and overhunting.
In 1986, with WWF assistance, 39 deer were reintroduced from UK to Dafeng Reserve. After 30+ years of conservation, the population has rebounded to over 6,000 - a wildlife protection miracle.
Main Attractions
Deer Observation Area
Spanning 1,000+ hectares with wild and semi-wild zones. Visitors can observe deer via electric carts or boardwalks, best at dawn/dusk when most active.
May-June features rutting season with dramatic antler duels; September-October brings antler shedding - remarkable natural spectacles.
Wetland Ecological Park
Showcases Yellow Sea tidal wetland ecosystem hosting 200+ bird species including red-crowned cranes and Saunders's gulls. Birdwatching towers and Wetland Science Center make ideal ecological education sites.
Seasonal views: reed shoots (spring), lotus blooms (summer), reed flowers (autumn), migratory birds (winter).
Milu Cultural Park
Through exhibits and multimedia, presents deer biology, cultural significance, and conservation history. The "Milu Return Monument" commemorates their 1986 reintroduction.
Interactive VR zone lets visitors "walk with deer" virtually.
Cuisine
Seafood
Coastal Dafeng yields clams, swimming crabs, prawns etc. Nearby restaurants specialize in "clear-water boiled clams" preserving original flavors.
Wetland Wild Vegetables
Local specialties like asparagus, water bamboo, and water chestnuts shine in stir-fries or salads. "Asparagus with shrimp" is spring's freshest delight.
Venison
Limited legal supply includes braised venison and venison hotpot, sourced only from naturally culled deer.
Tickets
Peak season (Apr-Nov): 80 yuan; Off-season: 60 yuan (includes cart rides). Seniors 60-69: half price; over 70 & children under 1.4m: free. Guided tour: 100 yuan; cart charter: 300 yuan/hour.
Recommended Itinerary
One-day tour: Morning - Cultural Park → Deer observation by cart; Afternoon - Wetland Park → Birdwatching tower. Extended tours add Yellow Sea tidal flat adventures.
Transportation
- Driving: From Yancheng via Shenhai Expressway North Dafeng Exit; from Shanghai via Hushan Expressway Dafeng Exit
- High-speed rail: Take tourist shuttle from Yancheng Station
- Bus: Milu Park shuttle from Dafeng Bus Terminal
- Internal transport: Electric carts and bike rentals available
Must-Visit Spots
- Deer Observation Area: Close wild deer encounters
- Birdwatching Tower: Panoramic wetland views
- Milu Return Monument: Conservation history
- Wetland Science Center: Ecological education
- VR Experience Zone: Virtual deer interactions
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: spring-autumn; April-May for antler shedding, September-October for rutting
- Bring binoculars/telephoto lenses for wildlife viewing
- Wear comfortable waterproof shoes - some damp areas
- Maintain quiet to avoid disturbing animals
- Photographers should capture misty morning deer scenes
Important Notices
- Do not feed or disturb wildlife
- No smoking or open flames in reserve
- Stay on designated paths - easy to get lost
- No picking plants or catching insects
- Obtain approval for drone operations
- Some areas may close in rainy season - check ahead