With clear blue skies and a gentle breeze, some days just beg for an escape from work—a chance to unwind and let your imagination take flight. Here are some of Guangzhou's top spots to relax, let your mind wander, and fully immerse yourself in the city's natural beauty.
1. Jinshazhou Bridge (金沙洲大桥)
Take a stroll along the western branch of the Pearl River, where the setting sun bathes the area in a warm glow. As you head to Shabei Station on Metro Line 6, you'll experience an unforgettable moment as the train bursts from the tunnel into the light. Looking out the window, you'll see the flowing river below, with traffic moving steadily across the bridge and a spectacular sunset stretching across the sky—a peaceful moment for solo relaxation.
🚇Tips: Take Metro Line 6 from Shabei (沙贝) Station to Hesha (河沙) Station and enjoy this meditative scene.
2. Ba River Bank (巴江河)
For a leisurely morning or evening, head to the Ba River at the Hegang Ferry Dock. As the engine's hum becomes clearer, a ferry gradually docks, allowing you to cross with local villagers. Gazing at the water, you can soak in the village's unhurried pace of life, echoing the idyllic joy of ancient Chinese poet Tao Yuanming.
📍Location: Hegang Ferry Dock along the Ba River, near Hegang Village(巴江河鹤岗村鹤岗渡口)
3. Baiyun Lake (白云湖)
Lie down on the grass at Baiyun Lake Park and let the sky's tranquil colors take you in. Await the gentle chug of the green train passing by, a sound that might take you back to childhood. Watching the sky while hearing the train click along the tracks offers a timeless, peaceful retreat.
📍Location: No. 1 Baiyunhu Avenue, Baiyun District, Guangzhou (广州市白云区白云湖大道1号)
4. Mingzhu Lake in Baiyun Mountain (白云山明珠湖)
Let your mind rest and return to nature. Enter through the west gate of Baiyun Mountain, and follow a shaded path to reach Mingzhu Lake. Find a shaded spot where the mountains meet the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of birds and cicadas—a truly relaxing natural symphony.
📍Baiyun Mountain's location: No. 807 Guangyuanzhong Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou (广州市白云区广园中路801号)
5. Migang Barrage (米岗拦河坝)
Migang Barrage is also known as Lixi Barrage (李溪拦河坝). With its pristine grass, clear river, tidy buildings, and pastoral landscapes, this place is an oasis of calm. It's popular for sunset walks, fishing, and feeling the gentle breeze that makes time feel like it's standing still.
📍Location: Migang Barrage Bridge (米岗拦河坝大桥) in Baiyun District
6. Shakengchong (沙坑涌) in Dayuan Village (大源村)
In Dayuan Village, there's a hidden gem by the brook. Surrounded by a bamboo forest, blue skies, and lush grass, this peaceful spot is perfect for solo relaxation, with birds chirping and the sound of children playing nearby.
📍Location: Dayuan Village in Baiyun District (白云区大源村)
Author | Chen Longyan
Photo | Guangzhou Baiyun Fabu
Editor | Will, James
