Hongze Lake Wetland Scenic Area is located in Sihong County, Suqian City, Jiangsu Province, covering approximately 200,000 mu (13,333 hectares) as a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It boasts the largest and best-preserved freshwater wetland ecosystem in East China, renowned as the "Kidney of East China". Home to 194 bird species and 754 plant species, it's truly a biological gene bank.
History and Culture
The wetland formed over 600 years ago after the Yellow River changed its course during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It served as an important water transport route in ancient times, leaving behind rich cultural relics. During the Anti-Japanese War, the wetland became a crucial guerrilla base for the New Fourth Army, where General Peng Xuefeng led operations.
Local fishermen have lived on the lake for generations, developing unique fishing culture. Intangible cultural heritages like Hongze Lake drum performances and fishermen's work songs are still preserved today. Ancient fishing villages and traditional fishing methods around the wetland demonstrate harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.
Core Attractions
Reed Maze
The Reed Maze is Asia's largest artificial reed wetland, covering 50,000 mu (3,333 hectares). Its crisscrossing waterways offer bamboo raft rides for viewing rare birds. In autumn, the golden reed sea presents a spectacular sight.
Wetland Museum
As East China's first wetland-themed museum, this 8,000-square-meter facility uses multimedia technology to vividly showcase the formation and ecological value of Hongze Lake Wetland.
Water Forest
Composed of thousands of pond cypresses growing in shallow water, this unique "forest in water" creates the wonder of "trees growing in water, boats sailing through forest". It's an ideal habitat for egrets and night herons, with different scenery in each season.
Cuisine
Hongze Lake Hairy Crab
Famous for its "green back, white belly, golden claws and yellow hair", these crabs have plump roe and tender meat. September to November is the best season, with many restaurants in the area offering steamed, spicy and other preparations.
Stir-fried Whitebait with Eggs
Hongze Lake whitebait is transparent and boneless. Stir-fried with local eggs, it creates a golden dish with delightful aroma, representing the authentic flavor of wetland ingredients and a must-try for visitors.
Ticket Information
Entrance fee is 80 yuan/person, covering main attractions like the Wetland Museum and Reed Maze. Sightseeing car ticket costs 30 yuan, boat ticket 50 yuan. Free for children under 1.4m and seniors over 70, half-price for students with ID.
Recommended Tour Route
Suggested route: Entrance → Wetland Museum → Bird Watching Tower → Reed Maze (by boat) → Water Forest → Fishing Village Cultural Park → Aquatic Botanical Garden. The full tour takes about 4-5 hours, best started in the morning.
Transportation
- Driving: Exit at Sihong on Ning-Su-Xu Expressway, then 20km along Provincial Road 245
- Bus: Tourist shuttle from Sihong Bus Station
- High-speed rail: To Suqian or Siyang Station, then transfer to scenic area shuttle
Must-Visit Attractions
- Reed Maze boat tour
- Wetland Museum
- Bird watching at Water Forest
- Fishing village cultural experience
- Sunset viewing platform
Travel Tips
- Best seasons are April-June and September-November, avoiding summer heat
- Bring binoculars for bird watching
- Wear comfortable waterproof shoes as some areas are damp
- Respect wildlife by keeping appropriate distance
- Check weather forecast and prepare rain gear if needed
Precautions
- Protect wetland environment - no littering
- Strictly no plant picking or animal catching
- Wear life jackets and follow instructions when boating
- Some areas have weak signal - recommended to stay in groups
- No smoking to comply with fire prevention rules