Bao Ink Garden - Bao Ink Hall sits in the village of Zini, Shayuan Town, Panyu District, Guangzhou. It’s a hidden gem in the Pearl River Delta, about an hour’s drive from downtown Guangzhou. If you’re coming from nearby cities like Zhongshan or Jiangmen, it’s easy to reach by car or bus. The garden is tucked beside a river, surrounded by lush trees and traditional villages, giving it a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel. To get there, take the metro to Shiqi Station (Line 4) and switch to a taxi or local bus—it’s worth the short trip for a taste of old Cantonese culture!

Natural Scenery

The garden blends water, plants, and ancient architecture like a painting. You’ll walk past lotus-filled ponds, arched bridges, and winding pathways lined with banyan trees. In summer, pink and white lotus flowers cover the lakes, and koi fish swim below the surface. There’s also a mini “Lishi Mountain” with rockeries and waterfalls that look straight out of a Chinese ink drawing. The best part? The gardens change with the seasons—autumn brings red maple leaves, while winter mornings coat the pavilions in mist.

Cultural Highlights

Bao Ink Hall itself is the heart of the garden. Built in the late Qing Dynasty and rebuilt in 1995, it’s a masterpiece of Lingnan architecture. The hall’s wooden beams and carved windows use old-school techniques (no nails!), and inside, you’ll find exhibits of calligraphy, antique porcelain, and photos of Guangzhou’s history. Don’t miss the Qing Dynasty-themed pavilions—they show how scholars and officials lived back then, with rooms filled with scrolls and tea sets. The garden also hosts traditional dance performances (like lion dances) and calligraphy workshops for visitors.

Architecture & Design

Every corner of Bao Ink Garden screams old Canton charm. The buildings mix gray roofs, colorful sculptures, and intricate wood carvings. One standout is the Thousand Mile Gallery—a long corridor covered in paintings of historic Guangzhou. There’s also a mini version of the Forbidden City’s Hall of Supreme Harmony, built to scale, complete with dragon motifs. Even the trash bins and lampposts are designed to match the ancient theme—it’s like stepping into a time machine!

Amenities for Visitors

The garden is tourist-friendly. You’ll find clean restrooms, souvenir shops selling local snacks (try the egg tarts!), and shaded resting areas with fans. Rent a bike to explore faster, or grab a map at the entrance. There’s a small tea house serving Cantonese dim sum by the lake, perfect for a break. If you get hot, there are mist fans and covered pavilions to escape the sun.

What to Expect During Your Visit

A visit to Bao Ink Garden feels like a mini-vacation. Spend hours wandering the paths, taking photos of the bridges and lotus ponds, or sitting by the water listening to birdsong. Families love the interactive exhibits, while couples enjoy the romantic亭台楼阁 (pavilions and towers). Go early to beat the crowds, and bring insect repellent if you visit in summer. At night, the garden lights up with lanterns, casting a magical glow over the water—it’s totally worth staying for dusk!

Whether you’re into history, nature, or just snapping pretty photos, Bao Ink Garden - Bao Ink Hall has something for everyone. Pack comfy shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to explore a slice of old Canton that feels worlds away from the city!