Xi'an Chanba National Wetland Park

Historical Overview
The park’s development began in 2004 as part of Xi’an’s urban renewal plan, transforming a former floodplain into an ecological haven. In 2008, it gained national wetland park status, followed by inclusion in the “National Sponge City” initiative in 2016 to enhance flood resilience. The 2021 Chanba Eco-Forum established it as a hub for sustainable development research. Recent milestones include the 2023 completion of a 15km smart greenway and the 2025 discovery of a rare freshwater mussel species, underscoring its biodiversity value.

Structural Layout
The park is divided into four functional zones:

1. Wetland Conservation Zone: A protected area with observation towers and 8km of wooden boardwalks for birdwatching.
2. Eco-Tourism Zone: Features Chanba Lake, cycling paths, and the Wetland Museum showcasing regional flora/fauna.
3. Cultural Experience Zone: Includes the Chanba Grand Theater (host of the Silk Road Film Festival) and traditional tea houses.
4. Recreational Zone: Offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a 3km-long lotus pond boardwalk.
   Key landmarks include the “Moon Bridge” and the “Eco-Island” research station.

Major Attractions

1. Bird Observation Tower: A 30-meter tower with telescopes for spotting migratory birds (October–March peak season).
2. Chanba Lake Cruise: 40-minute boat tours past reed beds and lotus fields.
3. Wetland Museum: Interactive exhibits on wetland ecology, including a 4D theater simulating monsoon seasons.
4. Smart Greenway: Electrically assisted cycling paths with real-time air quality displays.
5. Lotus Festival: Annual July–August event featuring nighttime light-up displays and traditional dance performances.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Half-Day (3–4 hours):
   Main Entrance → Wetland Museum → Bird Observation Tower → Chanba Lake Cruise → Moon Bridge
   Highlights: Core ecological and cultural attractions.
2. Active Full-Day (6–7 hours):
   Add cycling on the Smart Greenway, a guided birdwatching tour, and a visit to Eco-Island.
   Highlights: Physical activity and in-depth nature exploration.
3. Family-Friendly Route (Full Day):
   Include the Recreational Zone’s playgrounds, lotus pond boardwalk, and a picnic at Sunset Point.

Ticket Purchase

• Admission: Free entry to public zones. Fees apply for boat tours (¥50), cycling rentals (¥30/hour), and museum admission (¥40).
• Combo Tickets: ¥100 includes boat tour, museum, and cycling.
• Online Booking: Available via Trip.com or the official WeChat account (ID: ChanbaPark2025).

Transportation

• By Subway: Line 3 to Xianghuwang Station (Exit D), then 15-minute walk or shuttle bus.
• By Bus: Routes 336 or 338 to Chanba Park Stop.
• By Taxi: ¥40–¥60 from Xi’an city center.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: October–March (migratory bird season) and July–August (lotus bloom).
• Avoid: Midday summer heat; visit mornings for bird activity.
• Essentials: Bring binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Wear waterproof shoes for boardwalks.
• Prohibited: Fishing, littering, and disturbing wildlife.
• Local Dish: Try “Chanba Fish hotpot” using locally caught carp.