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The Wangyu Haizi Mountain Alpine Wetland in Ya'an City is the largest ecological wetland in Ya'an. It is located in Wangyu Township and Yanchang Town, Yucheng District, Ya'an City. It is more than 1,300 meters above sea level and covers an area of more than 1,000 acres.
The wetland landscape changes significantly with the seasons, with a variety of landforms concentrated in the area, including lakes, waterfalls, gullies, and swamps. The quiet mountains, separated by Yanu Lake, appear and disappear among the leaves and flowers, perfectly highlighting the charming and shyness of the season. It is rare to find such a truly pristine alpine wetland in the city.
Because of its beautiful natural scenery and biological resources, every holiday, it attracts hikers from Chengdu, Ya'an and other places to come camping. The sky is so blue, the mountains are so green, the water is so clear, life - it turns out to be so beautiful and peaceful.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes spring and autumn the best time to travel.
1-3 hours
free
All day
Wangyuhaizi Mountain Wetland is an important ecological site in Sichuan, known for its rich biodiversity and its role in supporting migratory bird populations. The area is significant not only for conservation but also for its contributions to local agriculture, as the wetland plays a key role in water regulation for surrounding communities.
Wangyuhaizi Mountain Wetland is located in Ya'an, Sichuan, approximately 2 hours from Chengdu by car. There is no metro service directly to the site, so the best way to reach it is by taxi or private car. Buses may also be available from Ya'an, but it's recommended to check local schedules for availability.
The wetland is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn, as the weather is mild and you can witness migratory birds. The wetland is most vibrant during these seasons. It is advised to visit during the day to fully explore the trails and observe the wildlife.
The entrance fee for Wangyuhaizi Mountain Wetland is generally CNY 20-50. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and in some cases, online booking through local tourism platforms may be available, particularly during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) or on weekends, especially if you plan to join a guided tour. Booking a few days in advance is ideal during these busy times.
It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to explore Wangyuhaizi Mountain Wetland, especially if you plan to take a walk along the trails and observe the wildlife. For a more leisurely visit, a half-day could be enjoyable.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, providing valuable insight into the ecological importance of the wetland and its wildlife. Audio guides are less common, but a local guide can be arranged at the entrance for a more informative experience.
Start your visit by exploring the main boardwalk and taking a leisurely walk around the wetland to enjoy its natural beauty. Then, head to the birdwatching areas to observe the wildlife. If you have time, take a short hike up the nearby mountain for panoramic views of the wetland.
There are no light shows or night tours available at the wetland. The area is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural surroundings and wildlife. If you're keen on night photography, it may be possible to capture the wetland at dusk, but guided night visits are not typically offered.
The wetland tends to be less crowded on weekdays and during the off-season (winter months). The busiest times are on weekends and during public holidays, particularly in spring and autumn, when birdwatching is at its peak.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, water stations, and rest areas along the trails. There are a few local food vendors offering snacks, but more extensive dining options are available in Ya'an city. Small souvenir shops may sell local crafts and eco-friendly products.
The wetland trails are generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, but some parts of the terrain may be uneven. The boardwalks are suitable for visitors with limited mobility, though it’s recommended to check specific trail conditions in advance for accessibility concerns.
Cash is commonly accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted in the area. Credit cards are not typically used in rural areas, so it's advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
There are a few local restaurants in nearby towns that serve traditional Sichuan dishes like hotpot and noodles. For more dining options, Ya'an city offers a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in local restaurants, particularly in the form of vegetarian Sichuan dishes. Halal food may be available in larger cities like Ya'an but is less common in rural areas.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the wetland selling local crafts, handmade textiles, and eco-friendly products. Tea from the surrounding mountains is a popular souvenir, as well as bamboo products.
After visiting the wetland, you can return to Ya'an by taxi or private car. From Ya'an, there are various transportation options including trains to Chengdu or buses to other parts of Sichuan.
