Maple Nature Reserve

　　   The Maple Nature Reserve is one of the most representative areas of the Horqin Grassland, with a rich diversity of ecological types, integrating sparse forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It possesses a pristine, naturally diverse, and structurally complex ecosystem.

　　   The reserve is located at the southern foot of the Greater Khingan Mountains, on the northern edge of the Horqin Wetlands, with geographical coordinates between 45°00′50″N to 45°18′28″N and 121°20′30″E to 121°45′00″E. It is a nature reserve primarily dedicated to protecting the five-angled maple, elm sparse forest systems, and habitats of rare birds, covering a total area of 6,1641 hectares.

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

　　   The reserve boasts beautiful surroundings, with 10 large and small lakes; it also features the ruins of the Tushetu Wang Mansion and a Wang Mansion Park. The area is rich in wildlife resources. Its unique geographical location and superior ecological environment provide an ideal habitat for numerous migratory birds. In particular, the elm sparse forests growing in swamps and sandy plains have become the perfect nesting sites for white storks.

　　   Located in the catchment area of the Greater Khingan Mountains, the reserve has abundant underground water flow and widespread swamps and lakes. The Emut River runs through the reserve, forming large areas of wetlands that offer ideal feeding and resting grounds for many bird species. When summer arrives, the endless swamps and meadows are adorned with red, yellow, blue, purple… colorful flowers that wave and smile at you, allowing you to fully enjoy the enchanting scenery filled with birdsong and floral fragrance.

　　   The ancestors of various ethnic groups who have lived here for generations have created a splendid ancient civilization and left behind a wealth of historical sites. In addition to the Tushetu Wang Mansion, there are many temple ruins, ancient tomb clusters, the Jin Dynasty border fortifications, as well as unearthed silver ingots, boundary patrol plaques, stone tools, and more.

　　   The thousand-year-old trees within the reserve remain vibrant, allowing visitors to leisurely sense the call of ancient times. Vast stretches of elm sparse forests take on countless shapes—some resembling birds, some beasts, some like a mantis catching a cicada, others like a swan spreading its wings, or a tiger descending a mountain, even like a golden boy practicing martial arts with flying kicks. Strolling among them naturally stirs the visitor’s imagination.

　　   The five-angled maples in the reserve either grow in clusters or stand alone, arranged in an elegant and graceful manner, some shaped like pyramids, others like green parasols. Especially in early autumn, the mountains and forests are dyed in a riot of colors. At sunset, when the sky is ablaze with red clouds, the fiery maple leaves blend with the sky in color. As you stroll in the cool evening breeze, you will deeply feel as if you are inside a painting. Botanists have asserted that with proper promotion, marketing, and development, the five-angled maples of the Horqin Sandy Land will surely become another natural wonder following the desert poplar forests.