Lots of greens, a not-so-high hill and a wide array of flowers--the lotus-shaped hill park is no stranger to most Shenzhen citizens. Located in Shenzhen's Futian District and covering a total area of 166 hectares, the park is now among the city's top eight scenic spots.

Although a public park, it still has many sites deserving a closer look. The Peak Square is located on the main peak of the park with an elevation of 106 meters and area of 4,000 square meters. At the center of the square stands the statue of Deng Xiaoping, without whom there would be no Shenzhen nowadays. The statue, unveiled Nov. 14, 2000, is made of bronze and is six meters high and seven tons in weight.

Standing at Peak Square, the highest outdoor square in Shenzhen, you can see a beautiful scene of the city. Buildings of various shapes, busy roads and endless greens with a contrast of the blue sky all form an amazing scene. It is impossible not to marvel at how quickly Shenzhen has developed over the last two decades.

In the southern part of the park, where many species of palm trees are planted, people can appreciate the fantastic tropical and subtropical scenery. An enthusiast of trees and flowers cannot afford to miss this park. It is regarded as a huge natural showroom of plant species and during the summer tens of thousands of flame trees, which are planted in southeastern part of the park, blossom and the hill wears a red face. Bread trees, fountain trees and many other rare species of trees are planted in the northeastern and northwestern areas of the park, making the park more attractive and valuable.

At the foot of the hill, the Lotus Lake covers an area of 30,000 square meters. It is an ideal place for fishing and boating.

The well-known Kite Square is located in the southeastern corner of the park. It is a splendid view that citizens fly varieties of kites on weekends and at festivals.

Green, nature and harmony are the best descriptions of this picturesque public facility. Some citizens call it a walking place, some call it a kite playing field, some say it is city-sight-seeing destination and others depict it as a morning exercise mecca.

They are quite right. The Lotus Hill Park does not boast a unique and eccentric landscape but it is a Shangrila-like place in the bustling downtown of Shenzhen.

Early in the morning, many senior citizens and sport-loving people will jog in the park and climb the hills. The climbing is absolutely a relaxing activity there, as it takes about 10 minutes and the height of 532 meters is not very challenging.

Later in the day, if it is clear, kite flying occurs over the Kite Square. A dazzling selection of kites completes a wonder in the sky. Flying kites with family members has become a top choice as a holiday activity for many locals.

You do not have to worry even if it rains, as the rainy day will not dampen the scenery but instead fill the park with a romantic ambience. The Lotus Lake in the rain creates many crystal-like pearls.

As planning begins for the next travelogue, do not always flock to the nationally acclaimed and undoubtedly crowded destinations. Check out the hidden gem nearest to you!

Editor: Catherine