Fairylake Botanical Garden

Fairylake Botanical Garden Shenzhen: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Fairylake Botanical Garden (Xianhu Botanical Garden) is one of Shenzhen’s premier natural and cultural landmarks. Established in the 1980s, it now spans nearly 590 hectares between Wutong Mountain and Shenzhen Reservoir. The garden features over 7,800 plant species in 17 specialized zones, rare tropical and subtropical collections, desert plants, fossil forests, and significant cultural sites like Hongfa Temple. As a national research institution affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fairylake leads conservation, plant genomics, and urban ecology initiatives.

Visitors enjoy tranquil lakeside strolls, vibrant flower exhibitions, and family-friendly facilities, all at affordable prices. The garden is known for its accessibility, environmental education programs, and community events that raise awareness about biodiversity and sustainable urban landscapes.

This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, accessibility, nearby attractions, and the garden’s scientific mission. Whether you seek peaceful nature, education, or cultural enrichment, Fairylake Botanical Garden is an unparalleled destination in Shenzhen. For the latest details, refer to the official resources (SZBG History, BGCI Profile, SZBG Science).

Origins and Development of Fairylake Botanical Garden
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Getting There: Transportation Guide
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Garden Highlights and Must-See Attractions
Institutional Significance and Scientific Mission
Role in National and International Botanical Networks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit: Tips and Recommendations
References

Origins and Development of Fairylake Botanical Garden

Fairylake Botanical Garden was conceived in the early 1980s during Shenzhen’s rapid urbanization. Construction began in 1983, guided by renowned landscape architects like Prof. Meng Zhaozhen and Mr. He Fang. Officially opening to the public in 1988, it occupies a strategic location between Wutong Mountain and Shenzhen Reservoir, covering 546 hectares (SZBG History). The vast grounds enabled the creation of diverse thematic gardens, research facilities, and conservation centers, making Fairylake one of China’s largest and most ambitious botanical gardens (BGCI Profile).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Opening Hours:
- General: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
- Early Morning (6:00–8:00 AM): Free entry, fewer crowds
- Extended hours (to 11:00 PM or 24-hour access) on special Buddhist festival days
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 20–30 RMB
- Seniors/Children: 10–15 RMB (discounted)
- Children under 1.2m: Free
- Group rates available for schools and large parties
How to Buy Tickets:
- Onsite at the entrance
- Online via the official website and authorized travel platforms

(SaysChing Travel Blog, East China Trip)

Getting There: Transportation Guide

By Metro:
- Line 2 to Luohu or Xianhu Road Station (closest stops)
- Line 3 to Fairylake Botanical Garden Station (Exit A)
- Short bus/taxi ride or 10-minute walk from metro stations
By Bus:
- Multiple city bus routes serve the main entrance on Xianhu Road
By Car:
- Onsite parking available
Onsite Mobility:
- Electric shuttle buses connect major attractions
- Rental bikes and well-marked walking paths

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Fairylake Botanical Garden is designed for universal accessibility:

Paved paths, ramps, and shuttle buses for visitors with mobility challenges
Accessible restrooms and frequent seating areas
Clear bilingual signage (Chinese and English)
Clean restrooms, cafes, and snack kiosks throughout the park
Navigation maps and visitor rules ensure a safe, enjoyable visit

Garden Highlights and Must-See Attractions

Thematic Areas

Heaven & Earth Area:
Ornate floral displays, photogenic entrance, seasonal exhibitions
Fairylake Area:
Central man-made lake with bridges, pavilions, and scenic walkways; offers boating and serene vistas
Hongfa Temple:
Major Buddhist temple, cultural hub with traditional architecture and frequent festivals
Desert Plant Area:
Over 1,000 species of cacti and succulents in large greenhouses; one of China’s largest desert plant collections
Fossil Forest Area:
Features petrified wood specimens and interpretive signage about ancient flora
Conifers Azalea Area:
Diverse conifer and azalea collections, especially vibrant during the blooming season

Specialized Plant Collections

Shade Plant Section: Rare ferns, tropical aroids, and endangered species
Aquatic Plant Garden: Water lilies, lotuses, and aquatic plant displays in classical Chinese style
Fruit Collection: Mango, jackfruit, longan, and litchi cultivars
National Cycad Conservation Center: Second in the world for cycad diversity

Additional Attractions

Shenzhen Paleontological Museum: Fossil and dinosaur exhibits for families and science lovers
Butterfly and Orchid Valley: Ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers
Seasonal Flower Shows: Cherry blossoms in spring, bougainvillea in autumn

Institutional Significance and Scientific Mission

Research & Conservation

Fairylake is a leading institution in plant conservation, research, and education:

Affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences since 2009 (SZBG Science)
Hosts the Systematical and Evolutional Botany National Key Laboratory
Focuses on ex situ conservation of tropical and subtropical plants, plant genomics, and urban ecology
Houses over 70,000 specimens in its herbarium and a 12,000-volume plant library

Education & Urban Greening

Offers exhibitions, science trails, and interactive programs to foster public environmental awareness
Develops urban greening technologies and guides Shenzhen’s landscape innovation

Role in National and International Botanical Networks

Member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI Profile)
Collaborates globally on plant conservation, invasive species, and climate change resilience
Maintains living collections and seed banks as genetic reservoirs for threatened species

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily, with extended or 24-hour access during major Buddhist festivals.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: 20–30 RMB for adults; discounts for seniors and children; children under 1.2m free.

Q: How do I get there by public transit?
A: Metro Line 2 or 3, plus a short walk or bus/taxi ride.

Q: Is the garden accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with paved paths, ramps, and shuttle bus services.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: No, to protect wildlife and maintain cleanliness.

Q: Are guided tours and educational programs available?
A: Yes, bookable at the visitor center or online.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, onsite parking is provided.

Plan Your Visit: Tips and Recommendations

Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection and mosquito repellent.
Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
Bring snacks and water, as food options are limited.
Download the Audiala app for interactive maps, updates, and guided experiences.
Check the official website for updates on ticketing and events.

Conclusion

Fairylake Botanical Garden is a vibrant blend of nature, culture, and science—a must-visit destination in Shenzhen. Its extensive plant collections, accessible facilities, and engaging programs make it ideal for families, researchers, and tourists. Plan ahead, take advantage of the garden’s amenities, and enjoy a day immersed in one of China’s leading botanical institutions.

For the latest updates, ticketing, and event information, visit the official Fairylake Botanical Garden website.