Wudalianchi Global Geopark boasts unique volcanic geological relics and natural cold mineral spring resources, earning it the reputations of an open textbook of volcanology and a natural museum of volcanoes. Beyond welcoming hordes of tourists, the geopark attracts a large number of college students and teenagers from home and abroad every year for study activities, cementing its status as a veritable international science popularization and education base for volcanic geology.

From May 10 to 11, 80 primary and secondary school students from the Khabarovsk Children's Palace in Russia crossed the border to visit Wudalianchi Global Geopark and participate in a themed study tour. The program enabled these Russian teenagers to gain an in-depth understanding of the geopark’s distinctive volcanic landforms, rich biodiversity and time-honored volcanic holy water culture, further promoting cultural exchanges and friendship between the youth of China and Russia.

Olga, the leader of the Russian study tour group from Khabarovsk, said, “I want to tell everyone that the relationship between China and Russia is currently very friendly, strong and of paramount importance. We hoped to visit many places in China and ultimately chose Wudalianchi because of its numerous volcanoes and unique natural resources that we can showcase to our children. This destination can also help our children embrace better health. Our short stay here is extremely precious and heartwarming for us.”

During their stay at Wudalianchi Global Geopark, the Russian teenagers visited scenic spots including Erlongquan Spring, the Volcanic Geology Museum and Wenbo Scenic Area. They tasted the natural mineral water, climbed ancient volcanoes, felt the unique charm bestowed on this land by nature, and expressed profound interest in the natural wonders here.

Oli, a member of the study tour group, commented, “Overall, the mineral water here is absolutely fantastic. Since we arrived, we have seen many people fetching water here and washing their eyes with it, which offers numerous health benefits. I also gave it a try and felt that it is good for my health and energizes my body.”

At the Volcanic Geology Museum, the abundant exhibits and vivid explanations allowed the Russian children to deepen their knowledge of Wudalianchi’s unique volcanic landforms, mineral spring resources and ecosystem, leaving them in awe of nature’s extraordinary craftsmanship. At Wenbo Scenic Area, the bonsai-style volcanic wonders captivated the children, who strolled along the plank roads, admired the rippling blue waters and took photos to capture these unforgettable moments.

Jim, another group member, shared, “I’m thrilled to visit this museum. I’m fascinated by all the interesting stories it tells. This is a very fascinating place, housing extraordinary equipment, a wide variety of exhibits, and diverse specimens of animals and plants, including different types of insects that look incredibly lifelike. It’s hard not to love this place—it’s simply incredible. Through this visit, I also learned about the powerful efficacy of many traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. I want to seize this opportunity and come here to study pharmacy in the future.”
Su Xin, manager of Heihe Youth Travel Service, stated, “In Russia, people already have a basic understanding of Wudalianchi Global Geopark. This time, the group mainly came to take advantage of the vacation to deeply experience the magic of the medicinal springs and the scenic volcanic landforms of our geopark. After arriving at Wudalianchi Global Geopark, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the local environment, culture and cuisine, and spent a wonderful vacation here with great joy.”