Haizhu Lake Park: A Hidden Oxygen Oasis in the Bustling City of Guangzhou

📍Address: Intersection of Xinjiao Middle Road and Luntou Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province Lately, I've been feeling irritable and restless. I didn't want to squeeze into crowded malls or visit overly popular photo spots packed with people, so I decided to check out Haizhu Lake Park—a hidden green oasis known mostly to locals in Guangzhou. After just one visit, I couldn't help but wonder: why didn't I come here sooner? Haizhu Lake used to be a wetland crisscrossed by river networks. In 2010, ahead of the Guangzhou Asian Games, the government decided to transform it into an ecological lake park to improve urban water quality and the environment, while also providing a recreational space for residents. Now, the entire lake area spans over 1.1 square kilometers—its sheer size left me in awe! I arrived via the Datang Metro Station and walked about 10 minutes to the northwest gate. As soon as I entered, I felt completely relaxed—the air was so fresh, the breeze cool and clean, and the endless lake reflecting the blue sky was utterly soothing. The best time to visit is in autumn and winter when the bald cypress trees change color, creating a scene so beautiful it feels like you're in Europe. That day, I strolled around taking photos, stopping every few steps to capture the stunning views. The park also features cherry blossoms, lotus ponds, and bird-watching spots. If you visit earlier in the day, you can hear a variety of birds chirping. The biggest surprise? Such a vast and gorgeous park is free to enter! Even renting a bike to cycle around the lake costs only RMB 20 per hour (about HK$22). Riding a bike, feeling the breeze, and circling the lake was perfect for someone like me who wanted to unwind without overexerting myself. The grassy areas by the lake are spacious, making it a great spot to relax alone or with friends. The facilities are excellent too: clean restrooms, drinking fountains, and even a family-friendly zone. I saw many families flying kites and cycling, with kids having so much fun they didn't want to leave. The atmosphere was incredibly heartwarming. While there aren't many dining options nearby, you can drive or take public transport to the center of Haizhu District for a meal. It's just a 10-minute ride, and you'll find plenty of affordable and delicious local Cantonese cuisine. In short, if you're looking for a scenic, tranquil spot to truly unwind, Haizhu Lake Park is absolutely the top choice.