Location & How to Get There

Qiushui Mountain Park sits in the Nanwan neighborhood of Longgang District, Shenzhen. It’s a bit off the city’s main tourist track, which makes it perfect for avoiding crowds. To reach here, take Shenzhen Metro Line 3 to Dafen Station (大芬站), then grab a quick taxi or bus (like Bus 372) for about 10 minutes. If you’re driving, punch “Nanwan Street, Longgang” into your GPS—there’s free parking near the entrance.

Natural Scenery: Hills, Lakes, and Fresh Air

The park wraps around a low hill with a small lake at its foot, called Qiushui Lake (求水湖). The name “Qiushui” means “seeking water,” which makes sense—the lake is the heart of the park. Walk up the stone steps, and you’ll find shady trees, wildflowers, and spots where you can pause to watch dragonflies skimming the water. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the trails, and mornings often have a light mist over the lake. It’s a great place for casual hikes or picnics by the water.

Cultural Spots: Temples and Art Vibes

At the top of the hill, there’s an old temple called Qiushui Yunfu (求水芸府), which mixes Buddhist and Taoist styles. Even if you’re not into religion, the colorful roofs and mountain views make it worth a photo stop. Nearby, local artists sometimes set up stalls to paint calligraphy or sell handmade crafts. On weekends, you might catch traditional dance performances by the lake—a fun way to get a taste of Chinese culture without feeling too touristy.

Family-Friendly Extras

Qiushui Mountain Park isn’t just about nature. There’s a children’s playground with swings and slides, plus a pavilion where parents can chill while kids run loose. For food, there’s a cluster of snack stands near the entrance selling dumplings, grilled squid, and sugar-coated fruit (try the lychel ice!). If you get tired, rent a bike or a swan-shaped paddle boat on the lake. Pro tip: Come on weekdays to snag a quiet spot by the water.

A Day in Qiushui Mountain Park

Start your visit early! Arrive before 9 AM to beat the heat and crowds. Hike the main trail to the temple, then loop back down toward the lake. Pack snacks (or buy them cheap at the stands) and bring sunscreen—there’s limited shade in the afternoon. End your trip with a boat ride or a coffee at the lakeside café. It’s less famous than places like Xiaomeng or Overseas Chinese Town, but that’s exactly why it feels so relaxed.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Unlike Shenzhen’s skyscraper-filled areas, Qiushui Mountain Park lets you breathe. It’s got everything a local guide would recommend: easy access, zero entry fee, and enough variety to fill a few hours. Whether you’re stretching your legs, snapping Instagram shots of the lake, or just people-watching, it’s a slice of “real” Shenzhen life. Plus, since most tourists head to coastal spots, you’ll have this gem all to yourself.