Standing on the boardwalk at Shishou’s Finless Porpoise Bay in Jingzhou, visitors are treated to a rare and magical sight—the playful leaps of the Changjiang finless porpoise. These sleek, round-bodied creatures with tiny flippers and perpetual grins, known as the “smiling angel,” are utterly adorable and heartwarming. With only about 1,200 left in the wild, these endangered porpoises are even rarer than pandas, earning them the nickname “aquatic pandas.”

Shishou’s Finless Porpoise Bay offers one of the best chances to spot them in their natural habitat. The bay’s clear, gently flowing waters and broad expanse create an ideal environment for the species, while its rich fish stocks and temperate conditions provide ample food and breeding opportunities. Thanks to intensified conservation efforts in recent years, the local porpoise population has stabilized—a rare success story for this critically endangered mammal.

Since the construction of the riverside boardwalk, visitors can now stroll along the sleek walkway, soaking in the river breeze and scanning the water for glimpses of the elusive porpoises. Educational displays along the path offer insights into their lives and the challenges they face. In the evening, the boardwalk transforms into a softly luminous ribbon, where local families gather after dinner to unwind amid the tranquil riverscape. Here, conservation meets community, offering hope for the future of these enchanting creatures.