Location & Transportation

Eighteen Blessings Land is tucked inside the Dan Shuikeng Scenic Area at 1111 Dan Shuikeng Road, Huangpu District, Guangzhou. To get there, take the Guangzhou Metro Line 6 to Suyuanli Station (Exit A), then transfer to bus 395 or 943—tell the driver “Dan Shuikeng” and they’ll know. If driving, punch “Dan Shuikeng Scenic Area” into your GPS; there’s a free parking lot at the entrance. Pro tip: It’s near Guangzhou Science City, so perfect for a post-tech-tour nature break!

Natural Scenery: Hills, Lakes, and Fresh Air

The area feels like a mini escape from the city. Rolling hills, a calm lake, and winding trails make it great for casual walks. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the paths, and even on hot summer days, the tree cover keeps things cool. Bring sunscreen anyway—some spots are sunny, especially near the lake where people rent paddle boats. Fun fact: The name “Dan Shuikeng” literally means “Alchemy Water Ditch,” but don’t worry—it’s just a scenic spot, not a chemistry lab!

Cultural Highlights: The “Blessings” Hunt

Now, the main event: Eighteen Blessings Land! This isn’t just a pretty garden—it’s a giant scavenger hunt for good luck. Look for 18 carved “Fu” characters (they mean “blessing” in Chinese) hidden in rocks, archways, and pavilions. Even cooler: 8 bat sculptures (bats sound like “fu” in Chinese, so they’re good luck symbols) and a giant “Yuan” (meaning “fate”) carved on a cliff. Find all 27 symbols, and locals say you’ll unlock wishes like “lucky home,” “health,” and “prosperity.” It’s like a treasure trail with cultural bonus points!

Hidden Details in the Design

Every corner here screams intention. The “Fu” carvings come in all styles—some look like calligraphy, others like seals or paintings. The bats? Some are flying, some roosting, all super photogenic. The “Yuan” is tricky to spot—it’s high on a rock wall, so keep your eyes peeled. Locals say if you touch the symbols while thinking of a wish, it might just come true. (No harm in trying, right?)

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear comfy shoes: The area’s hilly, and you’ll do some light hiking.
  • Bring water: There are stalls, but staying hydrated beats overpaying for drinks.
  • Snacks: Pack a picnic! There are shaded tables near the lake.
  • Camera: Great for landscape shots, but also close-ups of the bat/Fu carvings.
  • Cash: Some vendors prefer it over digital payments.

Family-Friendly Vibes

Families love this spot. Kids can run loose on the grassy areas, older folks enjoy the peaceful lake, and everyone gets into the “hunt for blessings” game. There’s a kid’s playground near the entrance with swings and slides, plus a teahouse serving bubble tea and mooncakes. Pro tip: Rent a bike from the booth near the parking lot to cover more ground—paths are flat and shaded.

When to Visit: Timing Is Everything

Morning (8 AM–11 AM) is magic—fewer crowds, soft light for photos, and mist over the lake. Afternoons can get hot, but the trees help. Avoid rainy days (paths get slippery) or weekends (expect crowds). Plan for 2–3 hours to explore everything without rushing.

Bonus: Nearby Attractions

After visiting Eighteen Blessings Land, check out:

  • Guangzhou Science City (15-min drive): Quirky museums and futuristic buildings.
  • Huangpu Military Academy (30-min drive): A historic site with military exhibits.
  • Local farms: Seasonal fruit picking (like strawberries or dragon fruits) is a hit with kids.

In short, Eighteen Blessings Land is a chill mix of nature, culture, and good-luck charm. Whether you’re into hiking, photo ops, or just soaking up vibes, it’s worth the trip. Just don’t forget to count those bats—or you’ll have to loop back!