THE 16.2-kilometer-long Greenway Around Xili Lake has recently opened to the public, offering a serene escape within the bustling city. This greenway seamlessly connects surrounding villages, urban areas, forests, and river landscapes, featuring nine scenic destinations and five rest stations. It’s the perfect place for citizens to embrace a poetic lifestyle amidst nature. Wenshan Dieshui 問山疊水 This is the first phase of the Greenway Around Xili Lake that opened in April 2023. Located east of Xili Lake, this section earned the gold prize in the park and open environment category at the 2024 MUSE Design Awards in the United States, marking Shenzhen’s only award-winning project in this category. Daoxiang Chi’an 稻香尺案 Situated north of Xili Lake, Daoxiang Chi’an was once barren farmland and silted river channels. It has now been transformed into a picturesque landscape of streams and vegetable gardens. The area is surrounded by vast fields of sunflowers and rapeseed blossoms, exuding natural charm. Xieyi Sanhe 寫意三河 Named after the convergence of three streams south of Makancun, Xieyi Sanhe is located northeast of Xili Lake. The riverbanks are lined with country roads, green woods, and flower fields. Visitors can relax on swings, take breaks at rest stops, or simply enjoy a peaceful weekend getaway. Hengtang Chuiyan 橫塘垂硯 Adjacent to Xieyi Sanhe, Hengtang Chuiyan was once a fishing area on the northeastern side of Xili Lake. It has been revitalized using an “underwater forest” technique, turning polluted artificial fishponds into an ecological blue island capable of purifying water. In the future, this area will host arts festivals, offering creative experiences such as painting, flower arranging, tea brewing, and handicrafts. Tips for visitors ● The greenway is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. ● The greenway is currently under trial operation, with facilities, especially lighting, still being improved. ● Shared bicycles are allowed on the greenway but are prohibited during holidays and weekends. ● From April to October, snakes are frequently seen in Shenzhen. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and high-top shoes for outdoor activities. ● Most parts of the greenway lies within secondary water source protection zones and forested areas. Visitors are encouraged to protect the environment. ● The water is deep, and the banks are high. Fishing, angling, swimming, or playing in the water is prohibited. ● Picnics are allowed, but setting up tents or canopies is not permitted. ● Do not pick or consume any wild mushrooms you may encounter along the greenway. ● The nearest Metro station is Xili Lake Station on Line 7 (Exit B). (Wang Jingli) | 