Location & How to Get There
Kowloon Eco-Agricultural Park is tucked away in the lush countryside of Shenzhen, specifically at Longtian Street, Jinjialing Road, Huagu Ping Reservoir Modern Agricultural Demonstration Zone. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Shenzhen, making it a perfect escape from the city buzz. To reach here, you can:
- Drive yourself: Use a map app to navigate. The park has free parking.
- Take a taxi/ride-hailing: Tell the driver “Huagu Ping Shui Li” (花古坪水库) for drop-off.
- Public transport: Take Metro Line 13 to Longtian Station, then grab a taxi for the final 10-minute ride.
Natural Scenery: Farms, Hills, and Lakes
At Kowloon Eco-Agricultural Park, nature takes center stage. The highlight is Huagu Ping Reservoir, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by rolling hills. You’ll see:
- Seasonal farmlands: Fields of strawberries, tomatoes, and herbs change color with the seasons.
- Fruit orchards: Pick your own dragon fruit, lychefs, or peaches (ask staff for seasonal guides).
- Mountain trails: Short hikes offer birdwatching and views of the reservoir.
- Sunflower fields: In spring, rows of sunflowers bloom like a golden carpet.
Cultural Experiences: Farm Life & Traditions
Kowloon Eco-Agricultural Park isn’t just about scenery—it’s a hands-on cultural adventure. Try:
- Farming activities: Plant vegetables, feed goats, or collect eggs from free-roaming chickens.
- Traditional tools: Learn to use old-school plows and baskets (staff will show you how).
- Local food: Cook lunch with fresh ingredients (think stir-fry veggies straight from the field).
- Craft workshops: Make soy milk, rice cakes, or herbal tea packets.
Facilities: Comfort Without Over-Polishing
The park balances rustic charm with modern conveniences:
- Restaurant: Serves farm-to-table dishes like grilled fish, stir-fried mushrooms, and homemade tofu.
- Picnic areas: Rent a BBQ grill or bring your own snacks (there are fridges and tables).
- Bike rentals: Pedal around the reservoir or through shaded paths.
- Clean restrooms: Western-style toilets and hot water for handwashing.
- Gift shop: Buy honey, dried fruits, or potted herbs to take home.
What to Expect: A Day in the Countryside
Visiting Kowloon Eco-Agricultural Park feels like stepping into a slower, simpler world. Here’s a typical day:
- Morning: Arrive early to avoid crowds. Start with a boat ride on the reservoir (¥50/person) or a tractor-pulled hayride through the fields.
- Midday: Lunch at the restaurant—try the “farmer’s combo” plate with rice, stewed pork, and steamed veggies.
- Afternoon: Join a fruit-picking tour (seasonal, ¥30/person) or relax under a thatched pavilion with tea.
- Evening: If you stay late, watch the sunset over the reservoir—magical!
Tips for Your Trip
- Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) for flowers, or fall (October–November) for harvests.
- What to wear: Comfy shoes, a hat, and light layers (it can get windy near the reservoir).
- Money tips: Most activities cost ¥20–¥80. Bring cash, as some vendors don’t take cards.
- Language: Staff speak basic English, but downloading a translation app (like WeChat’s) helps.
Kowloon Eco-Agricultural Park is all about connecting with nature and local life. Whether you’re a city slicker craving green space or a family looking for fun, it’s a refreshing change from Shenzhen’s skyscrapers. Pack your sunscreen, bring curiosity, and get ready to recharge!