Canton Travel

  If you’re looking for a place near Guangzhou to breathe fresh air, enjoy open landscapes, and get close to nature, Baijianghu Forest Park (白江湖森林公园) in Zengcheng is an excellent choice. With its vast lake, rolling hills, and peaceful forest trails, the park is often called the “ green lung” of Zengcheng. A Park by the Water The highlight of the park is Baijiang Lake , a large reservoir surrounded by lush forests. The lake is calm and mirror-like, reflecting the blue sky and green hills. Whether you’re walking along the banks or taking in the view from a hilltop, the scenery feels serene and refreshing. Things to See and Do Hiking Trails – Well-paved paths and forested trails make the park perfect for a leisurely hike or a morning jog. Scenic Lookouts – Climb up to a viewing platform and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forests. Cycling – The wide roads around the lake are great for cycling, especially in the cool of the morning or...

When you think of Guangzhou, you might picture skyscrapers, busy markets, and the Pearl River. But in Conghua District , known as the “back garden of Guangzhou,” lies a breathtaking scenic spot called Tianren Landscape (天人山水) . With its clear streams, lush forests, and poetic atmosphere, Tianren is often described as a place where “heaven and man exist in harmony . A Natural Wonderland Tianren Landscape is tucked away in the mountains of Conghua, surrounded by fresh air and unspoiled greenery. Unlike urban parks or traditional gardens, it is more of a natural eco-scenic area , where visitors can enjoy the authentic beauty of Lingnan’s mountains and waters. Highlights include: Crystal-clear Streams – Flowing through valleys and stone steps, the water is so pure that you can see the pebbles at the bottom. Mountain Trails – Shaded paths wind through bamboo groves and ancient trees, perfect for hiking and nature walks. Waterfalls and Pools – Hidden cascades create natural po...

  When people think of Guangzhou, skyscrapers and bustling markets often come to mind. But hidden in the historic Liwan District , there’s a cultural gem where the city’s past and present harmoniously meet— Yongqing Fang (永庆坊) . This revitalized neighborhood has become a favorite destination for travelers and locals alike, blending Lingnan heritage, traditional architecture, and modern creativity . From History to Revival Yongqing Fang is located on Enning Road (恩宁路) , a historic area once filled with Xiguan mansions (西关大屋) —the traditional homes of wealthy Cantonese families. The neighborhood witnessed centuries of cultural life, from Cantonese opera performances to local handicrafts. In recent years, the old quarter underwent careful renovation and preservation . Instead of erasing its past, the city integrated modern cafés, creative shops, and cultural spaces into the restored historic houses. The result is a lively community where tradition and modern lifestyle coexist. Wha...

  If you are exploring Guangzhou and want to experience the elegance of Lingnan culture, Baomo Garden (宝墨园) in Panyu is a must-visit. Though younger than the famous classical gardens of Guangdong, Baomo Garden is a stunning blend of traditional architecture, waterways, and art—earning it the nickname “a modern masterpiece of Lingnan gardens.” A Garden with Roots in the Past The origins of Baomo Garden trace back to the late Qing Dynasty . It was originally built as a private garden but was destroyed during wartime. In the 1990s, the site was carefully rebuilt and expanded, drawing inspiration from Lingnan garden traditions. Today, Baomo Garden covers a vast area, combining historical relics, cultural displays, and scenic landscapes. Highlights of Baomo Garden What makes Baomo Garden special is its s cale and diversity —it is both a garden and an open-air museum. Lingnan Architecture : Traditional halls, pavilions, and bridges are decorated with colorful tiles, intricate carv...

  （picture from https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E6%A2%81%E5%9B%AD/5714268) Among the Four Famous Gardens of Guangdong , Foshan’s Liang Garden (梁园) stands out as one of the most extensive and historically significant. It is not just a showcase of Lingnan garden design but also a symbol of Foshan’s rich cultural heritage. A Legacy of the Liang Family Liang Garden was created during the Qing Dynasty by the prominent Liang family of Foshan, who were well-known for their wealth and cultural influence. Unlike smaller private gardens built by individual scholars, Liang Garden reflects the grandeur and refinement of a powerful clan. Over the centuries, it became a hub for poetry, painting, and gatherings of scholars and elites. Garden Highlights Covering a large area, Liang Garden combines traditional architecture, elegant landscaping, and cultural relics into one harmonious setting. Architecture : The garden contains ancestral halls, study rooms, pavilions, and winding covered...

  When it comes to classical Chinese gardens, Suzhou often steals the spotlight. But in southern China, the Lingnan region developed its own distinct garden style—compact, elegant, and full of artistry. Among the most famous is Yuyin Mountain House (余荫山房) , located in Panyu, Guangzhou. A Garden with a Story Yuyin Mountain House was built in 1867 during the Qing Dynasty by Wu Bin, a successful imperial scholar from Panyu. He constructed the garden both as a private retreat and as a symbol of cultural refinement for his family. The name “Yuyin” carries the meaning of “lingering fragrance,” evoking a sense of elegance and poetic charm. Lingnan Garden at Its Finest Though Yuyin Mountain House covers only about 1,590 square meters —far smaller than many famous northern gardens—it is celebrated as a masterpiece of Lingnan garden design . Every inch of space is used to create layers of scenery, giving visitors a sense of depth and variety despite its modest size. Architecture : ...

Nestled in the heart of Dongguan, Guangdong Province, Ke Yuan Garden (可园) is one of the Four Famous Gardens of Guangdong , along with Liang Garden in Foshan, Qinghui Garden in Shunde, and Yuyin Mountain House in Panyu. Though not as vast as some northern Chinese gardens, Ke Yuan is celebrated for its delicate design, cultural depth, and timeless elegance. A Glimpse into History Ke Yuan was first built during the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty by Zhang Jingxiu, a wealthy merchant and scholar from Dongguan. His vision was to create a private retreat for reading, leisure, and gatherings with friends. The name “Ke Yuan” carries the meaning of “a garden suitable for living, learning, strolling, and appreciating.” Garden Features Although relatively modest in size, Ke Yuan embodies the essence of Lingnan garden design —compact, refined, and full of surprises. Architecture – The garden features pavilions, towers, halls, and winding corridors, all adorned with elegant carvings and t...

Among the Four Famous Gardens of Guangdong , Qinghui Garden (清晖园) in Shunde is often praised as the most refined. With its poetic name meaning “Pure Sunshine Garden,” Qinghui is a stunning example of Lingnan garden design, blending elegance, culture, and artistry. A Glimpse into History Qinghui Garden was built during the Ming Dynasty and later expanded in the Qing Dynasty by Huang Shijun, a successful scholar from Shunde. He envisioned the garden as both a private retreat and a symbol of cultural accomplishment. Over time, it became known as a place where scholars, poets, and artists gathered, earning its place as one of Guangdong’s finest gardens. Garden Features Covering a large area, Qinghui Garden showcases the essence of Lingnan aesthetics —compact design, intricate details, and clever use of space. Architecture : Elegant pavilions, study halls, and winding corridors are decorated with exquisite carvings and colorful tiles. Water and Rockery : Ponds and artificial hills ...