South China Botanical Garden
A sprawling botanical paradise in Guangzhou, home to over 20,000 plant species, diverse themed gardens, and impressive greenhouses.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, vibrant blooms
South China Botanical Garden
Best Time
Pleasant weather, vibrant blooms

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling botanical paradise in Guangzhou, home to over 20,000 plant species, diverse themed gardens, and impressive greenhouses.
"One of the best greenery places in Guangzhou, offering a vast and beautiful escape."
🎟️ Separate Greenhouse Tickets
Budget for separate greenhouse entry fees; they're worth it for the diverse plant exhibits!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Themed Gardens
Various sections throughout the park
Explore diverse landscapes, from tropical jungles to desert flora, showcasing over 20,000 plant species.
Orchid and Magnolia Pavilions
Greenhouses
Marvel at exquisite collections of orchids and magnolias, a vibrant display of delicate beauty.

Scenic Lake and Pagodas
Central lake area
Stroll by the serene lake, dotted with traditional pagodas and charming bridges, offering picturesque views.

Bougainvillea Varieties
Specific garden sections
Admire a stunning array of bougainvillea in various vibrant colors, a favorite among visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to South China Botanical Garden
Tickets and Greenhouse Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Separate Greenhouse Tickets
Budget for separate greenhouse entry fees; they're worth it for the diverse plant exhibits!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera! The diverse flora and traditional architecture make for stunning photos.
🚗 Consider Electric Taxis
If your legs get tired, electric taxi vans are available to help you navigate the large park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Separate Greenhouse Tickets
Budget for separate greenhouse entry fees; they're worth it for the diverse plant exhibits!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The garden is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera! The diverse flora and traditional architecture make for stunning photos.
🚗 Consider Electric Taxis
If your legs get tired, electric taxi vans are available to help you navigate the large park.
📅 Check Holiday Hours
The garden is closed on December 25th. Always check ahead for holiday schedules.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the South China Botanical Garden's immense size and stunning diversity, calling it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. While the separate fees for greenhouses are noted, most agree the experience is well worth the cost. It's praised as one of Guangzhou's best green spaces, offering a peaceful retreat.
"For the price of about 6 Euros 70 one can enjoy the pleasures of this vast botanical gardens and park.......plenty to see - from the green houses, to the lovely trees by the lakes - the park is pretty big and you can easily spend a good few hours here enjoying the scenery and the nature.
Well worth a visit
Hopefully I can return."
Rob Nesbit
"Very tidy and huge garden. Tickets for adults are RMB20 for the park and RMB50 for park+greenhouse."
Arkent Nathanael
"It's really nice place. Park with theme section and place unmarked on the maps, what sometimes can nicely surprise. I wish to give 5 stars but unfortunately I don't like one things. We have to pay for entrance to this garden and later again pain for entrance to glasshouse (what's worth, but not cheap if we have to pay twice). For me the best greenery place in Guangzhou what I've visited.
I added price "board" photo."
Szymon K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South China Botanical Garden is accessible by public transport. You can take the Guangzhou Metro Line 3 to the Panyu Square Station and then transfer to a bus or taxi. Many visitors also opt for ride-sharing services for convenience.
Yes, there is parking available at the South China Botanical Garden. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended if you are driving.
Absolutely! Taxis and ride-sharing services like Didi are readily available in Guangzhou and can take you directly to the South China Botanical Garden. This is a convenient option if you're coming from further afield.
The garden is quite large. While walking is the best way to experience it, electric taxi vans are available for hire to help you cover more ground if needed.
The main paths are generally well-maintained, but the sheer size and some uneven terrain might pose challenges. The electric taxi vans can be a great help for those with mobility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main park area is typically around RMB 20 for adults. However, there's an additional fee for entry into the greenhouses, which can be around RMB 50.
While not always strictly necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can save you time, especially during peak seasons or holidays. You can usually buy them at the entrance or through official online platforms.
Yes, you can purchase a ticket for the park only, or a combined ticket that includes access to the park and the greenhouses. Reviewers suggest the greenhouse ticket is well worth the extra cost.
The garden generally opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's important to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally and may have holiday exceptions (e.g., closed on Dec 25th).
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors can vary. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official website for any available concessions.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the diverse themed gardens, the impressive greenhouses showcasing tropical and desert plants, the serene lake with its pagodas and bridges, and the vibrant bougainvillea displays.
To fully appreciate the vastness and variety, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you want to explore the greenhouses thoroughly and relax by the lake, a full day is ideal.
While there might be some snack vendors or small cafes, it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend the whole day. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake!
Yes, photography is widely encouraged! The garden's diverse flora, scenic landscapes, and traditional architecture offer countless beautiful photo opportunities.
You'll find an extensive collection of over 20,000 plant species, including tropical plants, desert flora, orchids, magnolias, and a wide variety of seasonal flowers like bougainvilleas and chrysanthemums.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The lake area with its pagodas and bridges offers classic scenic shots. The greenhouses provide dramatic backdrops for plant photography, and the themed gardens offer unique compositions. Look for the vibrant bougainvillea and seasonal blooms.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the garden's beauty without harsh shadows. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create magical lighting.
The bougainvillea varieties are a huge hit for their vibrant colors.
In autumn, the fiery red leaves and golden ginkgoes are stunning. The delicate orchids in the greenhouses are also highly photogenic.Drone usage is typically restricted in botanical gardens and public parks to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. It's best to check the garden's specific regulations before visiting with a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general shots. A macro lens can be useful for capturing the intricate details of flowers and plants. A wide-angle lens is perfect for sweeping garden vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the lake, and utilize the electric taxi vans if little legs get tired. The sheer variety of plants and the chance to see different ecosystems can spark curiosity and wonder in children of all ages. Just be sure to check for any specific family-friendly events or activities happening during your visit.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Take advantage of the electric taxis if you want to cover more ground without exertion, or simply find a quiet bench by the lake to read or meditate. The garden's vastness ensures you can find your own secluded corner to enjoy the serenity.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different lighting conditions, especially during the golden hours, and don't shy away from macro photography to capture the intricate beauty of individual plants. The garden's size means you can spend hours finding the perfect shot without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Greenhouses
Reviewers consistently praise the greenhouses for their variety and the immersive experience they provide. It's a fantastic opportunity to see plants you might only read about in books, from towering cacti to delicate orchids. The separate entrance fee is often considered a worthwhile investment for the unique botanical journey offered within.
When visiting the greenhouses, remember they can be humid and warm, so dress accordingly. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of each plant and the effort that goes into maintaining these specialized environments. It's a stark contrast to the outdoor gardens and a highlight for many visitors.
A Journey Through Themed Gardens
This thoughtful organization allows for a more educational and engaging visit. You might find yourself strolling through a garden that mimics a specific landscape or celebrates the beauty of a particular flower. The element of surprise is also a delight, as some unmarked areas can lead to unexpected discoveries, adding a sense of adventure to your exploration.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of botany or simply seeking a more curated experience, exploring these themed gardens is highly recommended. It’s a chance to appreciate the vastness of the plant kingdom and the horticultural expertise that brings these diverse collections to life.
Photography Opportunities
To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – when the light is soft and warm, casting a beautiful glow over the scenery. Early mornings also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more relaxed composition and fewer people in your shots.
Don't forget to explore the less obvious corners of the garden. Sometimes, the most captivating photos come from unexpected angles or close-ups of unique plant textures and patterns. A good zoom lens can help capture distant details, while a macro lens is perfect for revealing the hidden beauty of small flowers and insects.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit