Baomo Garden sits in the village of Zizhu, Shawan Town, Panyu District, Guangzhou. It’s about a 40-minute drive from downtown Guangzhou, near the intersection of Dong’an Road and S39 East New Highway. To get there:

  • By metro: Take Metro Line 3 to Shiq桥 Station, then transfer to bus Panyu 12 or 13 (tell the driver “Baomo”—locals know it).
  • By car: Plenty of free parking outside, but go early to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Pro tip: Combine it with a visit to nearby Doctor Mountain (a 20-min ride away) for a full day trip.

Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis

Baomo Garden feels like stepping into a traditional Lingnan waterscape painting. Wander through ancient trees like 1,000-year-old罗汉松(Chinese cedar), fragrant九里香(mile-fragrant tree), and towering银杏(gingko trees). In spring,玉堂春(magnolia) blooms fill the air with sweetness, while紫薇(crape myrtle) adds summer color. The garden’s centerpiece? A serene pond surrounded by大叶榕(banyan trees) and岭南盆景(Lingnan-style bonsai) that look like tiny forests in pots. Bring a picnic blanket—there’s shaded spots by the lake.

Cultural Highlights: History & Art

This isn’t just a park—it’s a tribute to Judge Bao Zheng, China’s Mr. Integrity from the Song Dynasty. The name “Baomo” combines his nickname (“Bao”) and “ink” (“mo”), symbolizing his scholarly wisdom. Must-see spots:

  • Bao Ink Hall: Filled with calligraphy works, including copies of Bao’s famous judgments.
  • Purity Heart Pavilion: A tranquil spot with carved poems about ethics.
  • Honesty Bridge: Literally walk the path of integrity—the bridge’s railings are carved with stories of Bao’s fair rulings.

The real showstopper? The folk art. Before you even enter, gaze up at two massive brick carvings depicting myths (look for the dragon-phoenix details!). Inside, every wall and roof is a masterclass in gray sculptures, stone reliefs, and purple sandalwood carvings. Don’t miss the Thousand-Image Corridor, where traditional palace lanterns hang alongside modern LED lights—perfect for Instagram.

Facilities for Travelers

  • Food: The on-site “Flavor Street” serves Cantonese snacks like shrimp dumplings and egg tarts. Try the herbal-infused tea—it’s a local specialty.
  • Guides: Rent an audio guide (¥20) for stories behind the carvings, or join a free English tour at 10 AM (check the info desk).
  • Souvenirs: Buy mini brick carving replicas or potted bonsai plants—they’ll wrap them for travel.
  • Accessibility: Most paths are flat, but some pavilions have steep stairs. Wheelchair rentals available.

What to Expect: A Day in Baomo Garden

Visiting Baomo Garden is like time-traveling to Qing Dynasty China, but with WiFi. Start at the Governance Hall to learn about Bao’s legacy, then lose yourself in the紫洞舫(Purple Cave Boat)—a boat-shaped pavilion with layers of carved wooden eaves. Spend an hour in the Dragon Gallery, where life-sized statues of historic figures line the hall. Families love spotting hidden details in the carvings (like a monkey holding a court verdict!).

Best moments:

  • Watching sunset by the lotus pond, as lanterns glow.
  • Hearing live guzheng music in the courtyard (weekends only).
  • Trying your luck at the “Justice Wheel”—a fun spin-the-wheel game that gives moral lessons in Chinese and English.

Whether you’re into photography, history, or just wanting a quiet escape, Baomo Garden blends nature and culture in a way that feels both grand and intimate. Wear comfy shoes, bring sunscreen, and prepare to be charmed by China’s craftsmanship and legends!