A fairy sits atop a lotus leaf, balanced as if it were a boat on a calm pond. Sunlit ripples shimmer around her, while summer breezes lift her flowing dress.
The fairy-on-a-lotus scene may sound like fantasy, but it’s actually possible — thanks to the South China National Botanical Garden in Guangzhou, which has announced the return of its annual “Lotus Leaf Boat” experience. Visitors will be able to sit atop giant Victoria water lily leaves for a seasonal attraction unlike anything else.
The Victoria water lily, native to South America, is famous for its exceptional buoyancy. Its thick, sturdy leaves can support an adult’s weight, forming a natural floating platform on the water’s surface. These giant, circular leaves can grow up to two meters in diameter, making for an eye-catching photo opportunity.
From August 1 through September 30, the garden will host the limited-time event every Saturday and Sunday, with two daily sessions: morning (10 am–12 pm) and afternoon (4–6 pm).
No advance reservation is required. For 38 yuan per person, visitors can sit on the leaf and take photos for 5 minutes, with garden staff providing assistance and supervision. All participants must weigh under 60 kilograms.
A Guide to the South China National Botanical Garden
The South China National Botanical Garden (华南国家植物园), formerly the South China Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is a premier botanical destination in Guangzhou. Established in 1929 by renowned botanist Chen Huan-yong, the garden includes three sections — spanning Guangzhou and Zhaoqing — covering a total area of 1,474.3 hectares.
The two adjacent Guangzhou sections cover 319.3 hectares. As of the end of 2025, the garden conserved 19,766 plant species.
Opening Hours & Admission
The garden’s exhibition area is open year-round, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. The greenhouse complex has slightly different hours: 8 am–5:30 pm (November to April) and 8 am–6 pm (May to October).
Ticket prices:
- Garden entrance ticket: 20 yuan per person
- Greenhouse ticket: 50 yuan per person
- Combo ticket (garden + greenhouse): 50 yuan per person
Location
The garden has two main entrances:
- Main Gate (North Gate): No 1190 Tianyuan Road, Tianhe District
- West Gate: No 723 Xingke Road, Tianhe District
Getting there
- By Metro: Take Metro Line 6 to “Botanical Garden” station, exit A, then walk 370 meters west to the main gate.
- By Bus: Routes B12, 30, 39, 83, 84, 345, 346, 494, 564, and 775 all stop at “Botanical Garden Main Gate” station. Route 775 also stops at “Botanical Garden West Gate.”
- By Car: Parking is available at both entrances. However, the main gate parking lot is small, so on weekends and holidays, visitors are advised to use the West Gate parking lot after 10 am.
