Tourism GuideHaizhu Wetland Waterways
An urban oasis in the heart of Guangzhou where traditional Lingnan water town culture meets modern ecological conservation
Key Information
Best Time to Visit
October to April for bird migration and comfortable weather
Wetland Area
1100 hectares
Bird Species
Over 180 species recorded
Waterway Length
Over 40 kilometers of navigable waterways
Established
2000 as a protected wetland area
UNESCO Recognition
Part of Guangzhou's UNESCO Creative City Network for ecological design
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible boardwalks and boat ramps
Guided Tours
Available in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese
Haizhu Wetland Waterways is the largest urban wetland park in China located in the heart of Guangzhou. This remarkable ecological preserve spans over 1100 hectares and represents one of the most successful urban wetland conservation projects in the world. The park features a complex network of waterways, ponds, reed beds, and fruit orchards that have been carefully preserved and restored. What makes Haizhu Wetland truly special is its integration of traditional Lingnan water town culture with modern ecological principles. The wetland serves as the green lung of Guangzhou, providing crucial habitat for migratory birds while offering city dwellers a serene escape from urban life. The waterways follow ancient irrigation patterns that date back centuries, showcasing how traditional Chinese agricultural wisdom can coexist with modern urban development. Visitors can explore the wetland by boat, walking trails, or cycling paths, experiencing the harmonious balance between human activity and natural ecosystems.
Things to Do
- Take a traditional wooden boat tour through the winding waterways to see the wetland from water level
- Visit the Wetland Science Museum to learn about urban ecology and conservation efforts
- Walk along the elevated boardwalks that wind through reed beds and lotus ponds
- Join a guided birdwatching tour during migration seasons to spot rare species
- Explore the traditional fruit orchards that showcase Lingnan agricultural heritage
- Photograph the stunning sunset over the wetland waters with Guangzhou's skyline in the distance
- Attend seasonal cultural events like the Lotus Festival or Water Town Cultural Week
- Cycle along the specially designed wetland cycling paths that connect different ecological zones
- Visit the traditional fishing villages within the wetland to see authentic Lingnan architecture
- Participate in ecological education programs and workshops for all ages
