🌿 Hongcao Lake Wetland Park

📍 Address: 312 Provincial Road, Pingqiao District, Xinyang City, Henan Province (near Tianze New Village)
📏 Area: Approximately 80 hectares
🕒 Opening Hours: Open year-round, daily 6:00–19:00

🏞 Historical Origins

Hongcao Lake Wetland Park was once a vital component of the ancient Huai River basin water network system, originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty. It served as the core site of one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Xinyang" — "Red Lake at Dusk." According to the Xinyang Prefecture Gazetteer, during the Ming and Qing dynasties, this area was renowned for its "rippling lake waters and red aquatic grasses woven like fabric." The name "Hongcao Lake" derives from the abundant growth of a distinctive red aquatic plant (Heteranthera limosa) in the lake. In the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty, a pavilion named "Guanlan Pavilion" was built on the central island; remnants of its stone foundation still exist today.

🌾 Natural and Cultural Landscapes

• Ecological Features: A typical subtropical freshwater marsh wetland, featuring reed beds, floating-leaved plant zones, and shallow grasslands, providing critical stopover habitat for migratory birds. Over 120 bird species have been recorded here.
• Key Attractions:
  • Guanyu Pavilion Ruins: The surviving stone base offers a glimpse into the poetic gatherings of past scholars and literati.
  • Red Grass Trail: A 2.3-kilometer winding wooden boardwalk encircling the lake, meandering through lush aquatic vegetation, offering ever-changing seasonal scenery.
  • Wetland Science & Education Center: Showcasing local biodiversity, achievements in wetland conservation, and ancient hydraulic wisdom.
• Cultural Relics: Two Ming Dynasty stone steles remain near the lakeshore, inscribed with the phrases "Clear Waves Reflecting Green" and "Water Blessing Farmland," serving as significant historical testimonies to the region.

🌱 Cultural Significance

Beyond its ecological role, Hongcao Lake embodies deep-rooted memories of agrarian civilization and nature veneration in the Xinyang region. Its symbiotic "water—grass—bird" ecosystem reflects the traditional Chinese philosophy of harmony between humanity and nature. In 2019, it was listed among the "Important Wetlands of Henan Province."

🚶 Visitor Information

• Admission: Free entry (some exhibition halls require prior reservation)
• Transportation: Take Xinyang Bus Line 102 to "Tianze New Village" stop, then walk about 500 meters
• Recommended Visit Duration: 2–3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early summer (peak red grass growth), autumn (migratory birds en route southward)

✅ Note: Please refrain from picking aquatic plants or fishing. QR codes for ecological guided tours are available throughout the park, supporting audio commentary.

🌿 A lake of emerald waters, a millennium of cultural heritage; every step taken is a verse in motion.