Xinshuikeng Park sits in the Panyu District of Guangzhou, just a 30-minute metro ride south from downtown. The park is nestled next to Xinshuikeng Village Committee, making it easy to find once you’re in the area. If you’re coming from Guangzhou City, take Metro Line 3 to Shiqi Station, then hop on a local bus (like Bus 310) or grab a quick taxi—it’s only about 5 kilometers away. For those driving, there’s free parking near the entrance, and the park’s signage is clear enough even if you don’t read Chinese.

Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis

Xinshuikeng Park is all about nature. The centerpiece is a massive lake surrounded by willow trees that look like they’re straight out of a painting. On sunny days, the water sparkles, and you’ll see locals fishing or paddling small boats. There’s also a bamboo grove that’s perfect for photos, especially when the wind rustles the leaves. If you visit in spring, the cherry blossoms near the lake create a pink canopy, which is a big hit on Instagram. Bird-watchers will love the heron statues by the water—they attract real birds, so keep your eyes peeled!

Cultural Touches

Don’t miss the traditional Cantonese village vibes at Xinshuikeng Park. Near the main gate, there’s a reconstructed village house with wooden beams and brick walls, giving you a peek into old Guangzhou life. On weekends, locals sometimes set up stalls selling snacks like zongzi (sticky rice wrapped in leaves) or sugar-coated peanuts. There’s also a small temple tucked in the corner, where you might catch a glimpse of people lighting incense—a gentle reminder of the area’s spiritual side.

Family-Friendly Facilities

Xinshuikeng Park has everything you need for a hassle-free day. Shaded pavilions with benches are scattered around, so you can rest while watching kids play. For families, there’s a sandpit area with swings and a mini “mountain” made of rocks (great for climbing photo ops). The park is clean, with trash bins everywhere, and public bathrooms are modern—no squats here. If you get hungry, a few snack stands sell ice cream, bottled water, and light bites like grilled corn.

Activities & Experiences

At Xinshuikeng Park, it’s all about slowing down. Rent a paddle boat for ¥30 an hour and glide across the lake while ducks waddle by. The walking paths loop around the park, taking about 40 minutes to complete—easy for strollers or wheelchairs. For a unique shot, head to the red bridge at sunset; the golden light reflecting on the water makes it feel like a scene from a movie. If you’re visiting on a hot day, the lotus pond in the east is a must-see. The flowers bloom in summer, and the smell is amazing!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time: Mornings are peaceful, but evenings are magical when the lights illuminate the bridges.
  • Avoid Crowds: Weekends get busy, so weekdays are better for quieter walks.
  • Language Help: Signs are mostly in Chinese, but staff at the snack stands often speak basic English.
  • Combine Trips: After visiting Xinshuikeng Park, hop on a bus to nearby Baomo Garden (a larger park) or the ancient town of Sandou.

Xinshuikeng Park isn’t as famous as Guangzhou’s top tourist spots, but that’s exactly why it’s special. It’s a hidden gem where you can escape the city rush and soak in both nature and local life. Bring comfy shoes, a camera, and a sense of curiosity—you’ll leave with some great memories!