Visit to Shenzhen Botanical Gardens

Shenzhen Xianhu Botanical Garden, also known as the Fairylake Botanical Garden, is in the eastern suburbs of the LoWu district. It is a large park of almost 350 acres, which opened in 1988. Since then, it has expanded to include several dedicated areas, such as the desert plant and cyclad areas. The park was rated as a national AAAA-level scenic spot by the National Tourism Administration in 2007. One of the main attractions is the lake which is surrounded by bald cypresses. At this time of year the leaves have turned red and are reflected in the lake- great photo op!.

![img]()

The park includes an amazing collection of cacti of all shapes and sizes and is the home of the National Cyclad collection. There are also orchid. Azalea, and rose gardens.
Most of the park is flat and easy to walk, but those feeling more energetic may climb up to the Hongfa Temple, which overlooks the park. This temple is very popular at Chinese New Year.

![img]()

The park is within easy walking distance of the Metro station. After the visit, you may return to the Metro and back to Hong Kong or continue to the flower market. This is laid out in a small park with a Dutch style windmill, tulips (in season) and wooden clogs. It is also possible to visit one of the many shopping malls for late lunch or an early dinner.

The event is suitable for any reasonably fit hiker who enjoys an easy stroll and seeing a wide range of plants in a beautifully landscaped park.

Not allowed:
Anyone without a valid travel visa into China.
If you want to bring friends, ask them to signup themselves.
Please ensure you have a clear photo in your meet up profile so you can be easily identified.

Hike and Park Itinerary:
9.30 am - meet at Sheung Shui MTR Exit A near Maxim's. We will take the Mini bus to Heung Yuen Wai and go through immigration.
10. 30 am - Take MTR Line 2 to Xianhu 10 min walk to the garden
11:15am - Arrive at the garden. Admission fee $15. Seniors aged 60 or over are "free". There is a shuttle bus to the lake (“Heavenly pond”) $3, Seniors free
You are then free to explore the lake, visit the Cacti and succulent and cyclad gardens, the Shenzhen Museum of palaeontology, the Temple, and other gardens along the lakes
Find a scenic spot to eat your lunch
Those wishing to visit the flower market can travel to Daxin (45min journey) (Line 2 then line 1)
Head home - you can take either line 1 to Lowu or line 2 to Liantang or line 4 to Futian Checkpoint
Photos from Shenzhen Botanical Garden Information site.
What to bring:
Decent walking shoes, sunscreen, umbrella, your phone, and a smile. RMB for transportation in China (under 60’s), Octopus for the bus, snacks or light lunch, drinks.
Other information: You must have a visa or valid home return card and HK ID.
Holders of passports from Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, and Malaysia DO NOT need a visa, just bring your passport
Meeting Place:
Sheung Shui MTR Sation near exit A2. 9.30 a.m. Please be on time!