A view of the once-barren Heidaigou coal mine. [Photo/Nuan News]

The Heidaigou Open-Pit Coal Mine, once a symbol of heavy industry under CHN Energy Zhunneng Group, has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a new model for green tourism and ecological restoration.

Utilizing technology, systematic management, and industry integration, the mine has turned from a "black industrial landmark" into a "green tourism icon". According to Wang Tao, manager of the coal mine's production technology department, the site developed a three-tiered technical system focusing on erosion control, ecological reconstruction, and standardized reclamation. This enabled a unique path of "simultaneous mining, governance, and restoration".

By the end of 2024, the mine had restored 99,500 mu (6,633 hectares) of green land – equal to more than 8,600 soccer fields. Vegetation coverage has risen from 25 percent at the beginning of operations to over 80 percent. In the past five years alone, the ecosystem's gross value has increased by 1.4 billion yuan ($195.3 million). The number of plant species has grown from a dozen to more than 240, with over 30 new species of wild animals returning to the area.

On one of the reclaimed dumping grounds, over 1,000 mu of eco-orchards now thrive, bearing plums, apricots, apples, and more. "During harvest season, we invite staff to pick fruit, and we plan to develop processed products like jam and dried fruit to realize the true economic value of ecology," said Wang.

What was once an industrial zone is now home to parks, a Party education base, and the Shuangbai Square featuring a giant mining truck model – now a popular science attraction among children.

So far, the site has welcomed more than 50,000 visitors, including students and corporate groups, becoming a hands-on learning ground that blends ecological education with science outreach.