In Ningbo, the Most Beautiful Ancient-Style Lotus Pond I've Visited

On a misty summer weekend afternoon, I followed the fragrance of lotuses to Shanyuan Garden in Yinzhou, Ningbo. This charity-themed cultural park, blending Republic of China-era charm with Jiangnan garden aesthetics, becomes the lotus kingdom every midsummer. Ascending from the underground parking garage, a time-transcending lotus appreciation journey begins. Shanyuan's underground garage features ingenious design—after parking, you don't need to circle to the main entrance. Climbing up the ancient-style stone steps feels like traveling through a time tunnel. When reaching the top, a breathtaking view suddenly unfolds—an entire lotus pond appears unexpectedly before your eyes. The mist-veiled pond resembles an ink wash painting, with pink-and-white lotuses dotting among layered lotus leaves. Following the bluestone path forward, a three-arched stone bridge spans across the pond. Built during the Republic of China period, its railings are carved with simple vine patterns, and the arched reflections add visual weight to the water. Standing at the bridge center, you can admire dewdrops glistening on petals up close, while the Hongshan Pavilion's reflection shimmers in the distance. West of the bridge stands a majestic four-pillar bluestone memorial archway. The characters "Shanyuan" are powerfully inscribed, though the "Virtue Blessing the Village" inscription above has faded slightly. Looking back from the archway's shade, the pond, ancient bridge, and distant Republic-era buildings create perfect triple-depth scenery. Several qipao-clad ladies photograph under the archway and along the corridor, their silken elegance contrasting beautifully with the historic architecture. Passing through bamboo groves, the Western-style arcade of Hongshan Pavilion comes into view. This Sino-Western fusion building now serves as a public welfare exhibition hall, but its second-floor corridor offers the best lotus-viewing perspective. Leaning against the wrought-iron railings, the pond resembles a jade inlay among architectures, with swimming ducks adding lively charm. Circling counterclockwise from Hongshan Pavilion, every step reveals new compositions. The wooden platform at northwest corner offers ideal panoramic views, while the zigzag bridge northeast allows close-up lotus observations. 🌸Viewing Tips: 🚌Public Transport: - Take Bus 183 to "Shanyuan" Station (direct access) - Buses 102/127 to "Yinzhou Park" Station (800m walk) - Metro Line 8 to Yinzhou Park Station (10min walk) 🚙Driving & Parking: - Shanyuan underground lot (~30 spaces, first-come) - Alternatives: Yinhewan Parking (376m), Mingzhou Hospital Parking (482m) 👍Best Times: - Lotus viewing: 6-8am (peak bloom) - Photography: Before 9am or after 4pm (soft light) - Summer retreat: Evening (cool breeze) ❗️Notes: - No lotus picking/overfeeding - Republic-era buildings open irregularly (check official notices)