In peak summer, the 130 mu (21.42 acres) lotus pond in Zhangling Village, Zhensheng Town, Maonan District, Maoming, Guangdong, bursts into full bloom. Pink and white lotuses sway above lush green leaves, creating a stunning scene that draws thousands of visitors.
"I walked 40 minutes from the city just to see the flowers and enjoy a bowl of lotus seed syrup—it's so refreshing," said retired resident Uncle Chen. On weekends, the pond sees up to 2,000 visitors at peak times. Admission, parking, and flower viewing are all free. Visitors can stroll along boardwalks, pose on viewing platforms, or don traditional costumes for photos by the boats.
At the pond entrance, machines peel fresh lotus seeds under red tents, which are then sorted, packed, and sold on-site. Nearby food stalls offer local specialties like chilled lotus seed syrup. Zhangling Village Party Branch Secretary He Yayin announced that the "Lotus Bond Zhangling" creative works exhibition will take place on July 10, with facility upgrades underway to improve visitor services.
Just years ago, this land was barren. After expert guidance, the village turned to lotus farming for its combined ornamental and economic value. Today, the area has grown from 80 mu (13.18 acres) to 130 mu, transforming into an integrated agricultural, cultural, and tourism hub—boosting both the local economy and neighboring villages. What was once wasteland is now a vibrant "field of prosperity" driving rural revitalization.
Reporter | Yan Zhixiong
Video | Feng Jieyun, Yang Jianxiong
Photo | Feng Jieyun
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James, Shen He
