Location & How to Get There

Longdong Reservoir, nestled along Guangshan Road in the eastern part of Guangzhou, feels like a hidden gem tucked away from the city’s hustle. It’s super easy to reach! If you’re taking the metro, hop on Line 6 and get off at Longdong Station. From there, it’s just a 15-minute walk (or a quick bike ride) through a shady path. By bus? Routes 39, 84, or 282 will drop you right near the reservoir’s entrance. Driving? Punch in “Guangshan Road, Longdong” into your map—there’s free parking by the roadside, but weekends get packed!

Natural Scenery: A Breath of Fresh Air

The first thing you’ll notice at Longdong Reservoir is how green it is. Think turquoise water surrounded by lush hills, with a winding bike path that loops around the lake. Early mornings are magical—mist hovers over the water, and dragonflies dart across the surface. Bring your camera! The reservoir’s edges are dotted with reeds and wildflowers, especially after a rain. On weekdays, it’s quiet enough to hear birds chirping, but weekends bring families picnicking under banyan trees. Fun fact: The reservoir is actually a man-made lake, built in the 1950s, but it looks so natural now!

Cultural Touches: Local Life in Action

Don’t miss the tiny villages nearby! Just a 5-minute walk from Longdong Reservoir, you’ll find old houses with red brick walls and laundry hanging in the sun. Elders play cards under tree shades, and vendors sell sugar cane and grilled squid by the road. There’s also a tiny temple, Longdong Ancestral Hall, where locals burn incense on holidays. It’s not a tourist attraction, but peeking inside gives you a glimpse of Guangzhou’s laid-back village vibe.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

Longdong Reservoir isn’t fancy, so come prepared! Wear comfy shoes—those hills are great for hiking, but the paths can be rocky. Bring sunscreen, even in winter (those rays bounce off the water!). For snacks, there’s a small shop near the entrance selling ice cream and bottled water, but it’s cheaper if you pack your own. And yes, there’s a clean restroom by the parking lot, but bring tissues just in case.

Things to Do: More Than Just Photos

• Ride or Stride: The 3-kilometer path around the reservoir is perfect for biking (rent one nearby) or a leisurely walk.
• Fishing 101: See local anglers cast their lines—it’s relaxing to watch, though you’ll need a permit to fish yourself.
• Sunset Spot: The western bank has the best views as the sky turns pink. Bring a blanket!
• Weekend Vibes: On Saturdays and Sundays, food stalls pop up near the reservoir selling sticky rice cakes and sour plum soup. Try them!

Why You’ll Love It

Longdong Reservoir isn’t about grand temples or shopping—it’s about escape. Within an hour from downtown Guangzhou, you’ll forget you’re in a city. Families love it for picnics, couples for quiet chats, and solo travelers for people-watching. Trust me: coming here feels like pressing “pause” on your busy life. Just remember to pack your trash—this spot’s too special not to keep clean!