Location & How to Get There

Qilin Fishing is tucked away in a peaceful corner of Guangzhou, located 450 meters east of Chonghe Garden in Yongning Street. This hidden gem sits in the suburban area of Guangzhou, surrounded by lush greenery and quiet neighborhoods. To reach Qilin Fishing, you can take the metro to Yongning Station (Line 13 or 16) and then hop on a local bus (Bus 345 or 369) that drops you right near the entrance. If you’re driving, just follow Yongning Avenue and keep an eye out for the “Qilin Fishing” sign—there’s free parking available, which is a nice bonus!

Natural Scenery: A Breath of Fresh Air

The first thing you’ll notice at Qilin Fishing is how calm and green it feels. The area is wrapped around a small lake with crystal-clear water, perfect for families or solo travelers who want to escape the city buzz. On one side, there’s a hill that looks like a giant qilin (a mythical creature symbolizing good luck in Chinese culture) standing guard over the lake. Locals say it’s named after this natural shape, which adds a fun touch of legend to your visit.

During spring and autumn, the trees around the lake burst into color, making it a top spot for photos. You’ll see ducks swimming lazily, dragonflies dancing over the water, and sometimes even small fish jumping—hence the name “fishing” in the title! Even on busy weekends, it never feels crowded, so you can truly unwind.

Cultural Touches: More Than Just Nature

While Qilin Fishing isn’t packed with historic sites, it’s full of little details that show off local life. Near the lake, you’ll find a traditional pavilion where elders play chess or chat in the shade. There’s also a small bridge shaped like a qilin’s tail, which kids love running across. If you visit on a Sunday morning, you might catch a group practicing tai chi by the water—it’s a great chance to see how Guangzhou residents relax.

Don’t miss the tiny temple tucked behind the pavilion. It’s not a famous tourist spot, but locals leave offerings here for good fortune. The statue of a qilin inside is worth a quick peek if you’re curious about folk beliefs!

Practical Stuff: What to Expect

Qilin Fishing is super visitor-friendly. There’s a clean restroom near the parking lot, plus a few snack stands that sell ice cream, lemonade, and light bites. Bring your own picnic, though—there are plenty of grassy spots under the trees. For families, there’s a small playground with swings and slides, so kids can burn energy while parents enjoy the view.

If you’re into fishing (the real kind!), you can rent gear from a vendor by the lake. They’ll even teach beginners how to cast a line. Just be prepared for friendly competition with local anglers—they’re all very chill about it.

My Visit: A Day to Remember

I visited Qilin Fishing on a sunny Friday afternoon, and it felt like stepping into a different world. The lake was so still it looked like glass, and the only sounds were birds chirping and wind rustling the leaves. I rented a paddleboat (super cheap!) and spent an hour exploring the lake, which gave me a cool view of the “qilin hill” from the water.

Later, I joined a group of retirees playing Mahjong under the pavilion. They didn’t mind my terrible skills, and we laughed over mistranslated rules. By sunset, the sky turned pink, and the whole place lit up like a painting. It was the perfect ending to a day well spent.

Tips for Your Trip

  • Best time to visit: Mornings for quiet walks, evenings for golden-hour photos.
  • What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, snacks (though there are vendors), and comfy shoes.
  • Avoid: Weekdays if you want to meet more people; weekends are lively but still relaxed.
  • Fun fact: The “qilin” hill changes shape depending on where you stand—try viewing it from the bridge!

Qilin Fishing isn’t a loud tourist attraction, but that’s why it’s special. Whether you’re here to fish, snap photos, or just breathe fresh air, it’s a slice of Guangzhou’s slower-paced side that’s worth discovering.