Nestled on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, the Yellow River – often called the cradle of Chinese civilization – carves its first dramatic curve through Ruoergai County's sprawling grasslands in Sichuan Province. This natural masterpiece, where the Yellow River converges with the Baihe River, has evolved over millennia into a high-altitude wetland ecosystem teeming with biodiversity.
Geological shifts redirected the river's flow centuries ago, creating a labyrinth of winding waterways and islands across 3,000 square meters of pristine grassland. The area's unique hydrology supports rare species like black-necked cranes and Tibetan foxes, while serving as a crucial water conservation zone for northern China.
Since its official opening in April 2023, the Ruoergai National Wetland Park has welcomed eco-tourists to explore boardwalk trails and observation decks. Local authorities have implemented sustainable tourism measures, including visitor caps and electric shuttle services, to protect the fragile ecosystem.
For researchers, the wetland offers a living laboratory to study climate change impacts on alpine ecosystems. Business analysts note growing investment in Sichuan's eco-tourism sector, with Ruoergai positioned as a flagship project in China's ecological civilization initiatives.
Cultural enthusiasts can experience traditional Tibetan nomadic practices preserved by local communities, while travel bloggers rave about summer's wildflower blooms transforming the grassland into a 'color-wheel landscape.'
