Panjin, prefecture-level city in Liaoning, China
Panjin is a major city in southwestern Liaoning surrounded by extensive wetlands and rivers that define its landscape. The flat terrain is dominated by rice paddies, while the famous Red Beach features red marsh grasses that grow naturally in salty soil and cover approximately 100 square kilometers.
The area served as an important trade center starting from 195 BC during the Han Dynasty and was later controlled by various dynasties including the Tang. In modern times, the region became a major center for oil and chemical industries due to the Liaohe Oilfield, one of China's largest.
Panjin's identity is rooted in agriculture and fishing, which still shape daily life for local residents. Visitors can observe farmers and fishermen working the rice paddies and waters, while local restaurants serve traditional meals featuring river crabs and regional rice varieties.
The best time to visit is September through October when the red marsh grasses display their most vibrant color. Access is convenient via trains or buses from nearby cities like Shenyang and Dalian, which are typically less than one hour away.
The red marsh grasses grow spontaneously in salty soil and are not cultivated, making this landscape one of the few naturally occurring red wetlands in the world. The area is also a crucial stopover for migrating red-crowned cranes and rare bird species during migration seasons.
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