Yuexiu Park

Historical Overview

First developed during the Song Dynasty (960–1279), Yuexiu Park served as a military training ground and imperial hunting reserve. In 1921, it became China’s first municipal park, later expanding to include the Zhenhai Tower (1380) and Ming Dynasty City Wall (1368). Key events include the 1949 proclamation of the People’s Republic of China’s founding and the 1986 unveiling of the Five-Ram Statue.

Structural Layout

The park is divided into five zones:Five-Ram Plaza: The central area featuring the 11-meter-tall Five-Ram Statue.

Yuexiu Hill: A 70m-tall peak with pavilions, temples, and the Zhenhai Tower Museum.

Beixiu Lake: A scenic lake with boat rentals and a 1.5km jogging path.

Golden Well Garden: A classical Chinese garden with koi ponds and rock formations.

Sports Zone: Basketball courts, tennis courts, and a children’s playground.

Major Attractions

Five-Ram Statue: Guangzhou’s emblem, crafted from 130 pieces of granite in 1959.

Zhenhai Tower: A 5-story Ming Dynasty watchtower with exhibits on Guangzhou’s history.

Ming Dynasty City Wall: A 1,100m-long fortification, China’s oldest surviving city wall.

Zhongshan Monument: A 1929 tribute to Sun Yat-sen, featuring a 5m-tall bronze statue.

Guangzhou Museum: Housed in Zhenhai Tower, showcasing 3,000 years of local artifacts.

Beixiu Lake Pagoda: A 9-story Tang Dynasty-style tower illuminated at night.

Suggested Itineraries

• Classic Route (2–3 hours):

South Gate → Five-Ram Plaza → Zhenhai Tower → Ming Dynasty City Wall → Beixiu Lake → Return via Golden Well Garden.

Highlights: Iconic statues, historical towers, and lake views.

• Cultural Route (4–5 hours):

East Gate → Guangzhou Museum → Zhongshan Monument → Ming Dynasty City Wall → Yuexiu Temple → Sports Zone.

Highlights: Historical exhibits, temple visits, and recreational activities.

• Nature Route (Full Day):

West Gate → Beixiu Lake → Golden Well Garden → Yuexiu Hill Trail → Five-Ram Plaza → Zhenhai Tower.

Highlights: Hiking, gardens, and panoramic vistas.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via Yuexiu Park’s official website or WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).

Combo Deals: Zhenhai Tower + Guangzhou Museum: ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students).

• Prices:

Main Park: Free (some attractions require separate tickets).

Zhenhai Tower: ¥10.

Guangzhou Museum: ¥20.

Free: Children under 1.2m, seniors over 70.

Transportation

By Subway: Line 2 to Yuexiu Park Station (Exit B1), 5-minute walk to South Gate.

By Bus: Routes 5, 7, 21, or 24 to Yuexiu Park Stop.

By Taxi: Direct to “Yuexiu Gongyuan” (越秀公园) – specify South/North/East Gate.

From Guangzhou Railway Station: 10-minute taxi ride via Huanshi West Road.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid weekends/holidays; visit early (7 AM opening) or late (after 5 PM).

Crowds: Five-Ram Plaza is busiest 10 AM–12 PM; trails are quieter.

Weather: Spring (February–April) for cherry blossoms; autumn (October–December) for mild hikes.

• Essentials:

Wear comfortable shoes (trails can be steep).

Bring water and snacks (few vendors inside).

Photography allowed (tripods permitted).

Prohibited items: Drones, open flames, and loudspeakers.