Spots for lotus flower viewing in Shenzhen

Lotus flowers, growing out of the muddy bottoms of ponds and lakes, have long been associated with purity and noble character in Chinese culture. A delightful scene of summer, their unique scents, pink and white colors, and delicate shapes are an eternal draw for shutterbugs and common folk alike. Discover the best spots to admire these elegant blooms.

Honghu Park

The most well-known spot for lotus viewing is perhaps Honghu Park in Luohu District, where a month-long event devoted to flower viewing will run until July 15.

Upon entering the park through the east gate, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking sea of lotus flowers, with various species from Guangdong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.

Covering an area of 12,000 square meters, the Pinheyuan section showcases a diverse range of lotus species from Lingnan, Thailand and other regions. Lingnan refers to the geographical and cultural region in the southern part of China, specifically associated with Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan.

Due to frequent rainfall, this year’s lotus flowers are late bloomers, which means that now and the following fortnight are the best times to enjoy their beauty.

Metro: Line 7, Honghu Station (洪湖站), Exit A

Fairy Lake Botanical Garden

Not as spectacular as those in Honghu Park, the lotus flowers here occupy but a corner of the aquatic plant garden within Fairy Lake Botanical Garden. Nevertheless, set against the backdrop of a forest of slender bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), these blossoms appear exceptionally dreamy. With lush greenery around, the garden is an ideal destination for your summer hiking.

Metro: Line 2 or 8, Xianhu Road Station (仙湖路站), Exit C

Wanjing Tower

Nestled in the Shajing area of Bao’an District, the Wanjing Tower, or Panorama Tower, is a hidden gem for lotus viewing. This architectural marvel combines the aesthetics of Ming-Dynasty city walls with the grace of Suzhou gardens. Surrounded by a tranquil lotus-filled pond, the setting is like an ink painting brought to life.

People enjoy lotus blossoms at Wanjing Tower in Bao’an District.

Metro: Line 11, Shajing Station (沙井站), Exit C

Guanlan Printmaking Village

Guanlan Printmaking Village in Longhua District is home to not one but two enchanting lotus ponds. The sweet fragrance of the blooming flowers fills the air, providing a welcome respite from the summer heat.

In addition to the lotus ponds, the village boasts historic Hakka houses that offer a glimpse into Shenzhen’s past.

A lotus pond in Guanlan Printmaking Village in Longhua District.

Metro: Line 4, Niuhu Station (牛湖站), Exit A

Minghu Park

For those seeking solace away from the crowds, Minghu Park in Guangming beckons. Its lotus pond may not be large, but it boasts a variety of lotus species, each with its own unique charm.

Metro: Line 6, Fenghuang Town Station (凤凰城站), then take a bus to Minghu Park Station

Guangming Fun Farm

Occupying 3.8 square kilometers, this scenic area in Guangming District is a place of pastoral serenity and rural fun.

It offers various views for different seasons: golden rape flowers for spring, lotus blossoms for summer, sunflowers for late summer, and rice paddies ready for harvest in autumn.

The huge lawn at the foot of a lookout tower also attracts many families with kids to camp, have picnics and fly kites.

Metro: Line 6, Zhenmei Station (圳美站), Exit A1