Heilongjiang offers an escape from the summer heat, in style

Heilongjiang, the northernmost province in China, is aiming to boost its summer tourism market by luring tourists who want to beat the heat.

Tourist industry officials said it has to offer rich historical and cultural scenic spots, grand forests, numerous lakes, rivers, wetlands, volcanoes, various species of rare wild animals, as well as the cool weather.

Tourists can choose from a total of 10 travel routes launched by the Heilongjiang tourism authority.

Several travel themes are recommended:

1.Forest adventure

Heilongjiang has rich forest resources and the forest coverage rate in the province is currently around 47 percent. The number of national forest parks and the areas they occupy in Heilongjiang rank it first in the country, officials said. The region is also known as the “crown of the forest” -- as well as the “natural oxygen bar”.

Recommended site: Wuying National Forest Park
Wuying National Forest Park is a national 4A-level scenic spot in Wuying district in Yichun city. It is known for having the most complete original red pine forest in China, covering a total area of 14,141 hectares. The forest coverage rate in the park is an awesome 93 percent.

2.Wetlands tour

Heilongjiang is one of the provinces with the richest wetlands resources in China, accounting for one-eighth of the country's wetlands area. It is an important breeding habitat and migratory stop for rare waterfowl, including red-crowned cranes and oriental white storks.

Recommended site: Zhalong Natural Nature Reserve Area

Zhalong Natural Nature Reserve Area is a national 4A-level scenic area in Qiqihar city in Heilongjiang. It boasts the largest wetlands in Asia and is known as the “hometown” of the red-crowned crane. The best time to admire the red-crowned crane is from June to September.

3.Lake sightseeing

Heilongjiang province is dotted with more than 640 lakes. Jingpo Lake in Heilongjiang is the world’s second largest alpine dammed lake, and the Wudalianchi Scenic Spot features five connected volcanic lakes.

Recommended site: Jingpo Lake scenic area

Jingpo Lake scenic area is a national 5A-level scenic area in Mudanjiang city in Heilongjiang. It covers an area of 1,726 square kilometers, featuring lake scenery and geological wonders such as craters and underground lava tunnels.