Formerly known as “Sanbaozhu” (Three Clumps of Bamboo), Zhu’an is located along the coast and exposed to strong sea winds, prompting early settlers to establish a village among three clumps of bamboo, hence the name. In 1950, the three-character name (San-bao-zhu) was simplified to two characters, giving birth to the name “Zhu-an,” poetically conveying the meaning of “bamboo bringing peace and safety.” The geographical environment of Zhu’an is quite unique. Facing the vast Pacific Ocean, it has access to abundant marine resources; to the rear, the Zhu’an River basin provides a steady supply of freshwater fish. In between the front and rear lies a stretch of sandy dunes and tall windbreaks that shield the area. These features have enabled the land to yield a rich supply of both seafood and agricultural products, for which Zhu’an is well known.
The Zhu’an estuary possesses a wide riverbed and is home to freshwater marshes with numerous rice paddies and fish ponds. During the southward migration season, migratory birds often choose the expansive wetlands of Zhu’an as a stopover or wintering site. Tens of thousands of waterbirds—including those under the Anatidae, Scolopacidae, Ardeidae, and Laridae families—bring life and vibrant colors to these marshlands. In the past, the area’s rich water sources, abundant food, safe cover, and ample space had attracted numerous waterbirds to settle here.