Xundian Black-necked Crane National Nature Reserve in Kunming

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📍 Location & Overview

Xundian Hengheliangzi (寻甸横河梁子) is a highland plateau located at the junction of Liushao Township (六哨乡), Diansha Township (甸沙乡), and Jinsuo Subdistrict (金所街道) in Xundian County, Kunming. Nestled inside the Xundian Black-necked Crane Provincial Nature Reserve (寻甸黑颈鹤省级自然保护区), this vast area covers over 7,200 hectares, averaging 2700 meters in elevation.

This region is a vital provincial wetland spanning more than 370 hectares, primarily dedicated to protecting the nationally first-class protected Black-necked Crane (黑颈鹤), alongside rare species such as the Golden Eagle (金雕) and White-shouldered Eagle (白肩雕). 🦩🦅

🦩 Unique Highlights

Black-necked Crane Wintering Ground

Every year from the 9th lunar month through March, this area becomes a winter sanctuary for black-necked cranes. In 2021, a record 79 cranes were spotted—a 15-year high! Conservation efforts like farmland-to-wetland conversion and improved food sources help protect their habitat.

⚠️ Please note: Starting June 2025, access to the core zone is strictly prohibited without permits to avoid disturbing these majestic birds.

Natural Wonders

• Alpine Meadows: Spanning over 310,000 acres, the lush summer meadows are carpeted in green with wildflowers blooming everywhere. In winter, the landscape transforms into a pristine snowy wonderland. 🌸❄️

• Giant Stone Formations: Scattered naturally across the meadows, these jagged boulders look like scenes from Zelda’s secret realms on clear days or the Game of Thrones frozen north during foggy weather. 🪨🌫️

• Seasonal Splendors:

  • Mid to late June: Fields of blooming potato flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white.

  • July: Harvest season for wild golden cloudberry (黄泡果), a unique picking experience!

  • Autumn & Winter: Red-hued bald cypress forests, snowy meadows, and layered sunsets create unforgettable views. 🌅

Wind Turbines & Wetlands

The ridge hosts a cluster of wind turbines, creating an iconic landscape along with red earth and flower fields. Eight subalpine swampy meadows, such as Diaodong Yakou and Shuicheng Daqing, have been restored to improve water retention, easing drought conditions. 💨🌾

🚶‍♂️ Recommended Activities

Hiking Trails

• Classic Loop: Starting from Qiujiawan in Henghe Village (横河村邱家湾), cross the alpine meadows, explore the giant stone formations, and return. The 15-km trek takes about 6-7 hours.

• Crane Watching Alternative: For lighter hiking, stick to the outskirts. Navigate to the “Black-necked Crane Nature Reserve Public Forest Management Station” and explore along firebreaks or streams—steering clear of the core zone.

Best Seasons to Visit

• Summer (June–September): Enjoy cool temperatures, green meadows, and colorful wildflowers.

• Winter (November–March): Ideal for crane observation—remember to respect reserve rules and maintain quiet.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Core protected zones are off-limits without authorization, with strict penalties for violations.

• Visitors must keep noise to a minimum outside the core to avoid disturbing the cranes.

🚗 Getting There & Gear

• By Car: Set GPS to “Gaigou Village, Liushao Township” (六哨乡改沟村) or “Hengheliangzi” (横河梁子). The drive from Kunming takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via narrow, winding mountain roads—an SUV is recommended.

• Essentials: High-SPF sunscreen (UV is strong), sturdy hiking shoes, windproof jacket (temperature swings are large), and trash bags (no bins available).

• Facilities: No shops inside the reserve, so bring your own food and water. Simple snacks are available in Henghe Village (横河村).

💎 Summary

Xundian Hengheliangzi is a jewel of northeastern Yunnan’s ecology, blending black-necked crane conservation with stunning alpine meadows and geological marvels. Summer visitors can enjoy flower-filled hikes, while winter offers peaceful crane watching on the reserve’s outskirts—an experience that truly captures Kunming’s “Little New Zealand” wild charm. 🌼🦩🏞️