Lush wetlands and forests abound in Inner Mongolia's Ergun City, but none of them trump Ergun National Wetland Park in terms of enduring popularity.

The park, which covers more than 12,000 hectares (29,653 acres), ranks as the largest wetland in China. It encompasses the Genhe River and its surrounding wetland, marshes, flood land, forests and some scattered lakes.

Blessed with rich fauna and flora, the park is home to over 283 species of plants, 252 species of mammals, reptiles and other vertebrates, and 230 species of birds, including a number on the endangered list such as the red-crowned crane. If tourists are lucky enough, they can even spot wild boars in the forest.

A 23-hectare (56-acre) island covered with bird cherry trees (Prunus padus) in the southwestern part of the park is a haven for migratory birds to stop over and breed on their East Asia-Australia flyway. Three large observation platforms have been set up so tourists can enjoy a spot of birdwatching and take in panoramic views of the wetland, which also serves as a transitional zone between the Greater Khingan Mountains and the Hulunbuir Grassland.

While enjoying the natural beauty of the wetland, tourists can also try various entertainment activities such as feeding deer, drifting on the lake and taking a hot air balloon trip.