Five-pointed Maple Nature Reserve

Five-pointed Maple Nature Reserve

Five-pointed Maple Nature Reserve

The Five-pointed Maple Nature Reserve is one of the most representative areas of the Horqin Grassland, featuring a rich variety of ecological types that integrate sparse woodland, grassland, and wetlands. It is a pristine ecosystem with diverse natural types and a complex structure.

The reserve is situated at the southern foothills of the Greater Khingan Mountains, on the northern edge of the Horqin Wetlands, with geographic coordinates between 45°00′50″–45°18′28″ north latitude and 121°20′30″–121°45′00″ east longitude. It is a nature reserve primarily dedicated to protecting the five-pointed maple, elm sparse woodland systems, and habitats of rare birds, covering a total area of 6,1641 hectares.

The reserve lies within the territory of Daqintala Sumu, situated between the Holin River and the Emut River. National Highway 111 runs through the reserve, making transportation very convenient.

The reserve boasts a beautiful environment with 10 large and small lakes. It also features the ruins of the Tushetu King’s Palace and a palace park. The area is rich in wildlife and plant resources. Its unique geographical location and superior ecological environment provide an ideal habitat for many migratory bird species. In particular, the elm sparse woodlands growing in marshes and sandy dunes have become the perfect nesting sites for white storks.

Located within the catchment area of the Greater Khingan Mountains, the reserve has abundant underground water flow and widespread marshes and lakes. The Emut River flows through the reserve, forming extensive wetlands that offer ideal feeding and resting grounds for numerous bird species. When summer arrives, the endless marshes and meadows are dotted with red, yellow, blue, purple... colorful flowers that beckon and smile at you, allowing you to fully enjoy the enchanting sights of birdsong and floral fragrance.

The ancestors of various ethnic groups who have long thrived here have created a splendid ancient civilization and left behind a wealth of historical sites and relics. In addition to the Tushetu King’s Palace, the area also features many temple ruins, ancient burial grounds, the Jin Dynasty border fortifications, as well as excavated silver ingots, border patrol plaques, stone tools, and more.

The millennia-old trees within the reserve remain vibrant to this day, allowing visitors to leisurely sense the call of ancient times. Vast stretches of elm sparse woodlands, with their diverse and peculiar shapes—some resembling birds, beasts, mantises catching cicadas, swans spreading their wings, tigers descending mountains, or even young warriors practicing martial arts—naturally spark boundless imagination as you stroll through them.

The five-pointed maples in the reserve either grow in clusters or stand alone, arranged in an elegant and graceful manner. Some resemble pyramids, while others look like emerald-green parasols. Especially in early autumn, the mountains and forests are dyed in layers of brilliant colors. As the sun sets and crimson clouds fill the sky, the fiery red maple leaves blend with the heavens, creating a scene where you feel as though you are walking inside a painting amidst the gentle evening breeze. Botanists have asserted that, with proper promotion, marketing, and development, the five-pointed maples of the Horqin Sandy Land will become another biological wonder following the desert poplar forests.