Shunde Qinghui Garden

Historical Background

1503: Originally built as a private residence by Huang Xishan, a high-ranking official, and named "Taoyuan."

1593: Renamed "Qinghui Garden" by Huang Shijun, who expanded its layout and added literary halls.

1805: Restored and enhanced by scholar Long Yingtian, incorporating Lingnan-style carvings and gardens.

1959: Opened to the public after government-led renovations.

1990s–2020s: Underwent multiple preservation projects, including the 2013 restoration of the "Eight Scenes of Qinghui" pavilions.

Architectural Features

The garden’s layout emphasizes symmetry and fluidity, divided into three main sections:

Residential Area: Features the "Shipin Hall," a wooden structure with exquisite Lingnan-style carvings, and the "Penjing Garden," showcasing miniature bonsai landscapes.

Water Garden: Centered around the "Lotus Pond," with bridges, pavilions, and rockeries reflecting in the water.

Hill Garden: Highlights include the "Fenglai Peak," a man-made hill with winding paths and hidden grottos.CulturalHighlights

Eight Scenes of Qinghui: Iconic vistas like "Pavilion by the Pond" and "Moonlit Bamboo Grove," inspired by classical Chinese poetry.

Literary Inscriptions: Over 100 stone carvings and couplets by Ming-Qing scholars, including calligraphy by Kangxi Emperor.

Penjing Collections: A dedicated gallery displaying centuries-old bonsai trees, some over 300 years old.

Gardensand Pavilions

Penjing Garden: A showcase of Lingnan penjing art, with trees trained into intricate shapes.

Bamboo Grove: A serene pathway lined with bamboo, leading to the "Lotus Pavilion."

Eight-Diagram Pavilion: An octagonal structure offering panoramic views of the garden.

Shipin Hall: A grand reception hall with carved wooden beams and gilded decorations.

Seasonal Charm

spring: Cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom, painting the garden in pinks and reds.

Summer: Lotus flowers float on the pond, while water lilies add vibrant hues.

autumn: Osmanthus trees emit a sweet fragrance, and maple leaves turn golden.

Winter: Bamboo and pine trees remain evergreen, symbolizing resilience.

Visitor Experiences

Guided Tours: 1-hour tours in English/Chinese (¥80–150), exploring the garden’s history and design.

tea Ceremonies: Traditional Lingnan tea tastings in the "Pavilion of Fragrant Herbs."

Cultural Workshops: Hands-on activities like calligraphy, seal carving, and bonsai styling.

Night Illuminations: Seasonal light displays transforming the garden into a magical wonderland.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM); closed Mondays.

Ticket Prices: ¥15 (adults), ¥7 (students/seniors), free for children under 1.2m.

How to Get There:

By Subway: Line 3 to "Daliang Zhongxin Station," then a 15-minute walk.

By Bus: Routes 301, 303, or 309 to "Qinghui Garden Stop."

By Taxi: Direct to "Qīnghuì Yuán".

Tips for Visitors:

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

Photography: Allowed (no flash); tripods prohibited in some areas.

Essentials: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and respect cultural sites.