Songshan Lake
Songshan Lake Ecological Scenic Area is located in Jinju Village, Songshan Lake, Dalingshan Town, Dongguan City, Guangdong Province. Situated in the heart of Dongguan and the golden hinterland of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, it borders towns like Dalang, Dalingshan, and Liaobu. It is a national AAAA-level scenic spot and a national urban wetland park.
Here are the detailed introductions about the scenic area:
Overview of the Scenic Area
- Basic Information: The scenic area was developed on the foundation of the Songshan Lake High-Tech Industrial Development Zone. As of January 2019, it covers an area of 103 square kilometers, including an 8-square-kilometer lake, 6.5 square kilometers of wetlands, and 14 square kilometers of ecological green space. It features a subtropical maritime climate with distinct seasons—mild winters, cool summers, abundant rainfall, and ample sunshine.
- Historical Background: Originally named "Songmu Mountain Reservoir," construction began in 1958. In July 2001, the proposal to establish a large industrial park was approved, leading to the official naming of the Songshan Lake Science and Technology Industrial Park. In September 2015, it was approved by the State Council to become part of the Pearl River Delta National Independent Innovation Demonstration Zone.
- Ecological Resources: The park boasts a diverse range of garden plants, such as white orchids, bald cypresses, and lychee trees, as well as rich wildlife, including rare species like the black-eared kite, greater coucal, and common kestrel.
Main Attractions
- Misty Rain over Song Lake: As the core attraction and the "top of Dongguan's new eight scenic spots," the 8-square-kilometer Songshan Lake is surrounded by rolling hills and features crystal-clear waters with birds singing softly. At dawn or in light rain, the lake resembles a veiled maiden, serene and graceful. After rain, rainbows emerge, and the lake shimmers under the mist. In the evening breeze, boats glide across the lake, and fishermen sing their songs.
- Sunshine Beach: A perfect spot for running on sandy shores, playing in the water, or enjoying ball games. Visitors can also go boating or have a barbecue party for endless fun.
- Taoyuan Park: This park offers a colorful utopia. Climbing to the highest viewing point of Song Lake provides a unique perspective and breathtaking scenery.
- Songshan Lake Wangye Museum: Focused on collecting, exhibiting, and researching ancient art, the museum has hosted numerous high-quality cultural and art exhibitions since its opening in 2019, attracting many visitors and history enthusiasts.
- Songshan Lake Science Park: Integrating the natural ecological features of Songshan Lake, such as forests, meadows, wetlands, and lakes, the park is divided into five themed zones—Rhythmic Song Lake, Green Wilderness Nine Realms, Song Lake Bay, Pine Wind Ridge, and Fragrant Dongguan—allowing visitors to experience the charm of science while enjoying waterfront recreation.
Activities
- Cycling and Hiking: Follow the winding lakeside paths amidst falling petals and lush grass for a leisurely hike or bike ride, embracing the serene wilderness. The scenic area features over 30 kilometers of meandering waterfront trails, dotted with attractions like Lotus Fragrance Pavilion, Misty Rain Pavilion, Rainbow Bridge, Lovers' Bay, Crescent Bay, Water Lily Pond, Golden Bamboo Sea, Taoyuan Park, Sunshine Beach, Yellow Bellflower Forest, and Three Friends of Winter Park.
- Boating: Glide across the clear waters and admire the picturesque lake and mountain views.
- Barbecue Parties: Organize barbecue gatherings at Sunshine Beach and other areas to enjoy quality time with friends and family.
- Flower Viewing: Songshan Lake offers year-round flower viewing. In spring, Hong Kong orchid trees, yellow bellflowers, and kapok blossoms bloom in succession. Summer brings vibrant flame trees and enchanting lotuses. Autumn showcases the delicate pink blossoms of the silk floss tree, while winter features the warm, romantic hues of bald cypresses, creating a fairy-tale forest ambiance.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: Open all day, year-round.
- Admission: Free.
- Transportation: Take a bus to Songshan Lake Station or Songshan Lake Central Park Station, or drive there—multiple parking lots are available within the park.
- Nearby Amenities: The area around the scenic spot includes commercial centers like Songshan Lake MixC, offering dining, shopping, and entertainment options. High-quality hotels such as the Banyan Tree Dongguan Songshan Lake are also available for accommodation.