Dafeng

Introducing Dafeng

Dafeng is located in the central coastal area of ​​Jiangsu Province and is the largest urban area in Jiangsu Province. Dafeng has a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful ecological environment. It is home to the world's largest wild elk reserve and is also one of China's oldest and largest salt fields.

Dafeng is the hometown of elk, a port city on the Yellow Sea, an "enclave" of Shanghai, an old revolutionary base, and a town of longevity. It has a long history and currently has more than 1,600 elk. It is also a wetland capital, with more than 1,000 square kilometers of tidal wetlands and more than 1,000 square kilometers of radiating sandbars - Dongsha Island, which is the largest tidal wetland in eastern Asia.

Climate and best time to travel

Dafeng District is a transition zone between the subtropical zone and the warm and humid zone, with distinct four seasons, moderate temperatures and abundant rainfall.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Chinese Elk Park

Located on the shores of the Yellow Sea in Dafeng, eastern Jiangsu, the Dafeng Milu Deer Reserve covers an area of ​​40,000 mu (approximately 16,000 hectares). To date, the Dafeng Milu Deer Reserve has a population of 45% of the world's total Milu deer population and has established three world records: the world's largest Milu Deer Reserve, the world's largest wild Milu deer population, and the world's largest Milu deer gene bank.

Yancheng Dafeng Dream Maze

Located in Caoyan Town, Dafeng District, Yancheng City, Jiangsu Province, the scenic area creatively proposes a new rural leisure tourism concept of "maze, paradise, and garden." It is a comprehensive maze park that integrates parent-child experience, leisure and educational games, competitive entertainment, and research and education.

Dutch flower sea

Located north of the intersection of Qingfeng Road and Huaihai Road in the Chengbei New District, the park is divided into four functional areas: Lotus Peninsula, Colorful Lake, Waterfront Impression, and Smart Manor. It features a sea of ​​flowers, mounds, water features, green belts, windmills, an old river gate, boulders, and a ginkgo forest.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Dafeng

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dafeng is known for its ecological conservation efforts, particularly the successful reintroduction of the endangered Milu deer. The area highlights China's wetland preservation and wildlife protection initiatives.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dafeng is in Yancheng, Jiangsu Province. Visitors can reach it by bus or taxi from Yancheng city center. Private cars are convenient for direct access to the nature reserve.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The nature reserve is open daily, usually from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets cost around 80–100 RMB. They can be purchased at the entrance or online via official tourism websites or travel platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is recommended during weekends and holidays, ideally 1–2 weeks in advance, to secure entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for a half-day to a full day to explore the main reserve areas comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Milu Deer Viewing Zone
• Wetland Birdwatching Areas
• Scenic walking trails and lakes

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese; some English guides may be arranged by appointment.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best spots include the deer feeding areas, lakesides, and elevated observation towers for panoramic shots of wetlands.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the visitor center, proceed to the deer zone, continue along wetlands trails, and finish at birdwatching platforms.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available. Special guided tours can be requested during peak seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays are least crowded. Holidays and weekends see higher visitor numbers.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include toilets, picnic areas, food stalls, water points, and a small souvenir shop near the entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main paths are accessible for elderly and children. Wheelchair access is limited in some wetland trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay) and cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash is advisable.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants near the reserve offer Jiangsu cuisine and simple snacks; few cafes are available nearby.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; halal options are limited, mainly in local restaurants outside the reserve.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses in Dafeng town or Yancheng city provide convenient access, ranging from budget to mid-range options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Yancheng Wildlife Park and Dafeng Coastal Wetlands, which are ideal for combining in a nature-focused day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include wildlife-themed items, local crafts, and postcards.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Private car, taxi, or bus to Yancheng city or other nearby attractions is recommended for onward travel.