Local in the heart of Guangzhou, Dongshan Lake Park (东山湖公园) is more than just a green escape—it’s a vibrant showcase of the city’s daily rhythms. Built in 1958 through a collaborative effort between local residents and PLA soldiers, this beloved park officially opened on May 12, 1959, and has since become a cherished retreat for both nature lovers and culture seekers. Spanning 31.7 hectares (with 18.5 hectares of glistening water), it seamlessly blends recreational charm, ecological beauty, and flood-control functionality.
A Landscape Straight from a Postcard
Centered around a tree-lined causeway and a picturesque islet, the park dazzles with its mirror-like lake, lush greenery, and seasonal blooms. Recognized as one of Guangzhou’s “Eight New Sights,” it’s a photographer’s dream—especially in spring when flowers burst into color.
Where Nature Meets Local Culture
What truly brings Dongshan Lake Park to life, however, is its role as a social and fitness hub for Guangzhou residents. Wander here in the early morning or just before sunset, and you’ll witness a lively slice of local life:
Tai Chi & Qigong: Silent, graceful movements by the lakeside, often accompanied by soft traditional music.
Group Dancing: From ballroom to folk dances, locals gather for synchronized routines—sometimes with fans or ribbons.
Badminton & Ping-Pong: Impromptu matches pop up along pathways, with laughter and friendly competition filling the air.
Morning Runs & Evening Strolls: Joggers weave through the park while elders walk briskly, chatting with neighbors.
Karaoke & Choral Singing: Open-air singing groups (sometimes with portable speakers!) add a joyful soundtrack to the scenery.
Why Visitors Love It
Boating: Rent a paddleboat and drift past willow-draped shores.
Flower Walks: Spring brings camellias, azaleas, and magnolias—perfect for photos.
Fishermen’s Nook: Join locals feeding koi or try your luck with a fishing rod.
Cultural Immersion: Simply sit on a bench and watch Guangzhou’s community spirit unfold.
A Local’s Tip: Visit between 6–8 AM or 4–6 PM to see the park at its most active. Bring your camera—and maybe join a dance!
📍 ADDRESS & TRANSPORT
🏠 Address:
中文: 广州市越秀区东湖北路123号
English: 123 Donghu North Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
How to get to Guangzhou Dongshan Lake Park (Donghu Park)
🚇 By Metro (Most Recommended):
Take Line 6 to Donghu Station (东山湖站), Exit B. The park entrance is a 5-minute walk straight ahead.
🚖 By Taxi/Didi:
Show the driver this Chinese text:
“请带我去东山湖公园正门”
(pronounced: “Qǐng dài wǒ qù Dōngshān Hú Gōngyuán zhèngmén”)
🎫 TICKET & HOURS
💰 Admission:
FREE (no ticket required)
Children under 1.2m must be accompanied by adults
💳 Payment:
Not applicable (free attraction)
For boat rentals (¥40-60/hour): Cash or mobile pay (WeChat/Alipay with China-linked bank card)
⏰ Opening Hours:
6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily (last entry at 9:30 PM)
Best lighting for photos: 7-9 AM or 4-6 PM
🚶 SUGGESTED ITINERARY
⏱️ Short Visit (1-2 hrs):
Stroll the lakeside path → Nine-Arch Bridge photo spot → Quick tea at Lakeside Pavilion
🌅 Half-Day Trip (3-4 hrs):
Morning version:
Tai Chi watching → Boat rental → Visit Donghu Art Museum (inside park) → Brunch at nearby “Lingnan Impression”
Evening version:
Sunset photos → Join square dancing → Dinner at “Bingsheng Pinwei” (5-min walk)
🌍 NEARBY HIGHLIGHTS
✨ If you have extra time:
5-min walk: Guangdong Museum of Art (free, closed Mondays)
10-min walk: Historical Sinan Road cafes
15-min taxi: Canton Tower for city views
Pearl River Night Cruise (珠江夜游) 🚢
Just a 10-minute walk to Dashamen Wharf (大沙头码头) from the park’s east gate!
- 🕒 Best Time to Go: 7:00 PM–9:30 PM (sunset & city light views)
- 💰 Ticket Tips: ~¥98-¥180 (buy on-site or via WeChat mini-program “珠江夜游”)
- 🌟 Why Go? See Guangzhou’s skyline (Canton Tower, Guangzhou Bridge) from the water!
🍽️ Local Dining Recommendations:
Bingsheng Pinwei (炳胜品味)
中文地址: 越秀区东湖路128号
Must-try: Cantonese dim sum, roasted goose
Lingnan Impression (岭南印象)
中文地址: 越秀区东湖西路56号
Specialty: Traditional claypot rice
Starbucks Reserve (Sinan Road)
Historic mansion setting, great for coffee breaks
Pro Tip: Download AMAP (高德地图) or Baidu Maps for real-time navigation help in China!