Fairy Lake Botanical Garden
Located in the eastern suburbs of Shenzhen, Fairy Lake Botanical Garden is a natural sanctuary away from the bustling city. Nestled at the foot of Wutong Mountain, Shenzhen's highest peak, and bordered by Shenzhen Reservoir to the west, this 6.68-square-kilometer garden serves as both a peaceful retreat and a vital botanical research center.
Overview
Established in 1983 and opened to the public in 1988, the garden houses approximately 12,000 plant species, making it one of China's largest living plant collections. As Shenzhen's only key botanical research facility, it plays a crucial role in plant conservation and research while welcoming nearly 2 million visitors annually.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours and Tickets
- Opening hours: 6:00 - 21:30
- Free entry: 6:00 - 8:00 and 18:00 - 21:30
- Regular hours (ticketed): 8:00 - 18:00
- Adult admission: 15 CNY
Getting There
- By Metro: Take Line 2 or Line 8 to Xianhu Station, Exit C2
- By Bus: Routes M182, M526, M102, or 220 to Fairy Lake Botanical Garden Bus Station
Garden Highlights
Heaven and Earth Area
This picturesque area features vast green lawns reminiscent of the Swiss countryside. The expansive grassland, dotted with wildflowers, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. It's an ideal spot for picnics and photography, particularly during golden hour.
Bauhinia Lake and Dawn Redwood Forest
From December to February, the Dawn Redwood forest transforms into a spectacular display of autumn colors. The trees surrounding Bauhinia Lake turn golden and reddish-brown, creating stunning reflections in the water. The Water Garden area offers the best views of these magnificent trees.
Specialized Gardens
Cactus and Succulent Garden
This section showcases an impressive collection of desert plants from around the world. The diverse shapes and sizes of cacti and succulents create an otherworldly landscape, demonstrating nature's adaptability to harsh environments.
Cycad Garden
Home to rare cycad species, this garden preserves these "living fossils" that have survived since the age of dinosaurs. These protected plants, with their distinctive palm-like appearance, offer visitors a glimpse into Earth's prehistoric past.
Cultural Attractions
Hongfa Temple
Built after 1949, Hongfa Temple is the first Buddhist temple constructed in post-revolution China. The temple complex spans over 30,000 square meters and features traditional Chinese architectural elements including the Mountain Gate, Hall of Heavenly Kings, and Grand Hall. Visitors can experience Buddhist culture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, though photography inside temple buildings is not permitted.
Paleontological Museum
The museum houses an extensive collection of fossils that tell the story of Earth's biological evolution. Highlights include dinosaur skeletons and various prehistoric plant and animal specimens, making it an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Recommended Routes
Full-Day Visit (6-8 hours)
- Morning: Start at Hongfa Temple, then explore the Palm Garden
- Midday: Visit the Cactus Garden and Cycad Collection
- Afternoon: Tour the Paleontological Museum
- Evening: Enjoy sunset views at Heaven and Earth Area
Half-Day Visit (3-4 hours)
- Begin at Heaven and Earth Area
- Visit the Cactus and Succulent Garden
- Explore Bauhinia Lake
- End at Hongfa Temple
Photography Tips
- Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography
- The Dawn Redwood forest is most photogenic from December to February
- Heaven and Earth Area provides excellent landscape photography opportunities
- Use macro lenses for capturing detail in the Cactus and Succulent Garden
Essential Information
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Water and snacks
- Insect repellent
- Fully charged camera/phone
Rules and Etiquette
- No smoking allowed in the garden
- No pets permitted
- Protect plants and maintain cleanliness
- Respect temple customs and dress code
- Stay on designated paths
Nearby Attractions
Dining
- Taste Bao Garden Offal (味宝园牛杂): Famous for traditional Cantonese offal dishes
- Jiayu Rice Noodle Roll (佳瑜腸粉): Specializes in authentic Cantonese rice noodle rolls
Places to Visit
- Wutong Mountain: Shenzhen's highest peak at 943.7 meters
- East Lake Park: A comprehensive park featuring various recreational facilities
The Fairy Lake Botanical Garden offers a perfect escape from urban life, combining natural beauty, botanical science, and cultural heritage. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, photography lover, or seeking a peaceful retreat, this garden provides a refreshing experience in the heart of Shenzhen.