Every autumn in the village of Iianda in Shigatse, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, a thousand black-necked cranes check into their plateau paradise. With their striking black-and-white "tuxedos," these elegant birds have made Iianda their exclusive wintering spot for generations.
Here, 75-year-old Tenzin has become the caretaker of this annual gathering. Under his watchful eye, the cranes stand guard as farmers till their fields and dance gracefully around grazing livestock. At sunset, the village’s chimneys puff out smoke to the chorus of crane calls, painting a scene where human and bird lives are perfectly in sync.
This model of human-crane cohabitation offers more than a breathtaking spectacle—it’s a lesson in sustainable coexistence. For travelers and nature enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Iianda shows how communities and wildlife can thrive side by side, turning daily routines into a living celebration of nature and culture.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
