As summer deepens, Dongguan's lotus blossoms are blooming earlier than usual, painting the city with vibrant hues. From urban oases to historic lakesides, here's your guide to three must-visit lotus sanctuaries—each offering a unique escape into nature's artistry.
1. Caotang Park (草塘公园)
Tucked beside Jinniu Road in Guancheng District, Caotang Park is a compact yet charming retreat near Caotang Community and the Senior Cadre Activity Center. Despite its size, the park packs a punch:
10-Minute loop: Stroll around the lake, crossing stone bridges and pausing at pavilions, while kids enjoy modern playgrounds.
Alfresco delights: Set up a picnic by the lakeshore, sip tea or coffee, and soak in the breeze under a canopy of trees.
Photography hotspot: A circular platform beside the lotus pond offers dreamy shots—frame it with emerald leaves, water lilies, and willows for a "life-defining" photo.
Pro tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to capture the lotuses at their most radiant, before petals close in the midday heat.
2. Qiaotou Lotus Lake Scenic Area (桥头莲湖风景区)
A beloved favorite, Qiaotou Lotus Lake is full of blooms with 300 acres of lotuses. Highlights include:
Plank road over lotus lake (Photo: Yuedu Qiaotou)
Winding boardwalks: Meander along curved bridges and pavilions, where pink-and-white blossoms contrast with azure skies.
Twin lotus flowers bloom side by side, ushering in a string of good "lotus" fortunes. (Photo source: Yuedu Qiaotou)
Stone plank road over lotus lake (Photo: Yuedu Qiaotou)
Hanfu photography: Dress in traditional attire and pose amidst the lotuses—a perfect fusion of grace and nature.
The charm of lotus in Hanfu (Photo: Tan Binlin)
Sunset magic: Stay till dusk for golden-hour light reflecting on the water, creating a painterly scene.
The most enchanting sunset glow over the lotus lake. (Photo: Yuedu Qiaotou)
Fun fact: The lake's golden lotus sculpture is a beloved landmark, symbolizing purity and resilience.
3.Daojiao Beidao Park (道滘北岛公园)
Daojiao Beidao Park (Photo: Chen Jinfu)
Just a 10-minute drive from Guangdong Intercity Railway's Daojiao Station, Daojiao Beidao Park offers a tranquil escape in Dongguan's water town.
Daojiao Beidao Park (Photo: Chen Jinfu)
Lotus-topped corridors: Snap photos from arched bridges and pavilions overlooking the pond.
Wildlife spotting: Bring binoculars to observe kingfishers, dragonflies, and fish darting through the reeds.
Daojiao Beidao Park (Photo: Chen Jinfu)
Family-friendly: With shaded picnic spots and play areas, it's ideal for camping, barbecues, and kid-friendly adventures.
Daojiao Beidao Park (Photo: Chen Jinfu)
Best time: Early mornings or late afternoons avoid the midday sun and offer softer lighting.
Witness a dragonfly hunting at Daojiao Beidao Park. (Photo: Chen Jinfu).
Plan your visit
When to go: Lotuses peak in summer, but early mornings or late afternoons yield the best photos and cooler temperatures.
What to bring: Sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, and a long-focus lens for wildlife or portrait shots.
Respect nature: Avoid picking flowers or disturbing wildlife—let beauty bloom for all to enjoy.
Various bird species flit and dart among them. (Photo: Chen Jinfu).
Author | Jiang Chang
Source | Dongguan Fabu, Cultural Guancheng, Yuedu Qiaotou, and local photographers
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James, Shen He
