Hanzhong Crested Ibis Nature Reserve

Written by Clementine | Updated July 03,2025

Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve is located in Hanzhong City, in the middle section of the southern slope of the Qinling Mountains, spanning about 37,549 hectares across Yang County and Chenggu County. Established in July 2005, this reserve is dedicated to the conservation of the Crested Ibis and its habitat.

With its main body lying within Yang County, the reserve is about 320 kilometers from Xi’an downtown. If you are planning a crested Ibis trip from Xi’an, it’s recommended to add the nearby Foping Panda Valley to your itinerary, too.

• Location: 348 Wenhua East Road, Yang County, Hanzhong City, about 3 kilometers north of Yang County town.
• Opening hours: 08:00-18:00

Climate & Best Time to Go

The reserve has a transitional climate from warm and humid to sub-tropical, featuring mild summers and winters without extreme heat or severe cold. The crested ibis can enjoy a comfortable environment here with its average temperature hovering around 12 to 14°C year round, and the precipitation ranging between 900 to 1000mm.

The best time to visit the reserve is from May to October. Crested ibises are breeding in May and visitors can see crested ibis flying on the water in October.

Things to See: Home to Crested Ibis & Various Plants

Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve is one of the few places in the world where one can possibly encounter the Crested Ibis in its natural habitat. Often referred to as the “Oriental Jewel”, Crested Ibis is one of the world’s most endangered bird species.

In May 1981, seven wild Crested Ibises were discovered in Yang County, which are the last survivors in the world. Through years of conservation, the total population of crested ibises in the reserve has increased to 500, with over 280 in the wild and 235 in captive breeding programs.

Additionally, the reserve boasts up to 2,560 plant species, including both subtropical and temperate varieties.

Related reading: Top 10 Nature Reserves in China