The preserve of Naoli River's wetlands is among the top 10 wetlands in Heilongjiang province.[Photo provided to China Daily]

The second route includes Khanka Lake, which truly looks like a sea of reeds traced by the country's longest beach. It also features Mudanjiang, and Jixi's Hulin and Mishan, plus Jingpo Lake. It crosses Sanjiang, Zhenbaodao and Qianniao Lake's wetlands.

Visitors can explore the ruins of Hutou Fort, a Japanese military base during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1937-45).

Nanwenghe Wetland is taking its offerings to new heights by offering overviews from helicopters, viewing towers and hot-air balloons.

Its hot-air balloon program took off on June 22.

Visitors enjoy sunrises from its sightseeing tower, and they can view wildlife from elevated decks.

Health and science popularization tours have been developed.

The island of Zhenbaodao has also built a viewing tower and temple.

Dazhanhe also started offering hot-air balloon and helicopter rides this year.

The preserve of Naoli River's wetlands has developed historical routes arranged according to events' chronology. That's not to mention yachting and boating experiences.

The proliferation of new offerings makes Chen want to return, he says.

"I'd like to try other new summer routes," he says.