Hefei Botanical Garden

What are the most recommended things to do in Hefei Botanical Garden?

  • Explore the vast plant collections, which include native and exotic species.
  • Take a peaceful stroll through the well-maintained themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and Water Lily Garden.
  • Visit the tropical greenhouse to experience a variety of plants from warmer climates.
  • Relax by the serene ponds and lakes scattered throughout the garden.
  • Enjoy seasonal flower festivals, especially during spring and autumn when the gardens are in full bloom.

Introducing Hefei Botanical Garden

Hefei Botanical Garden is located in the Shushan Scenic Area of ​​Hefei City. It is surrounded by Shushan Lake in the northwest. It is a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. It is also the natural oxygen bar and green lung of Hefei City. You can go there to enjoy flowers, go for an outing, and have a barbecue.

Hefei Botanical Garden has only one entrance. When you enter the botanical garden, you will see a straight and wide road with Hefei's city tree - Magnolia grandiflora planted on both sides. Then you will enter the waterscape garden, where swamp, wetland plants and aquatic plants are planted, as well as rockery waterfalls, pavilions and other landscapes. There are many varieties of lotus here, such as Bing Xin, Yu Lu Fen Zhu, Buddha Lotus Seat, etc.

To its south is the Garden Plant Demonstration Area, where you can see a variety of plants trimmed into unique shapes on the lawn, which is very interesting. To its west is the Bamboo Garden, where bamboo plants such as spotted bamboo, golden jade bamboo, and filial bamboo grow; to its north is the Plum Garden, where hundreds of varieties of plum and wintersweet are planted.

To the west of the Plum Garden lies the Osmanthus Garden. During the fragrant osmanthus season, the garden's scent of golden osmanthus, silver osmanthus, red osmanthus, and four-season osmanthus fills the air, leaving the heart brimming with intoxicating fragrance. There are also specialized gardens like the Magnolia Garden, Pomegranate Garden, Autumn Garden, and Bonsai Garden, each showcasing a variety of flower species. Other scenic spots include the Triple Spring, the First Chime in the World, the Lakeside Green Corridor, and the Plum Art Pavilion.

Climate and best time to travel

Hefei Botanical Garden boasts " flowers to see every month and flower exhibitions every season ." Whether you choose to visit at your own whim, you'll find plenty of floral opportunities. Each month features a featured flower, and each season offers a flower exhibition.

Spring Flower Show ( February - April ): Plum blossoms, azaleas, tulips, and magnolias

Summer Lotus Garden Party ( June - August ): Lotus, water lily, and water lily

Autumn Flower Show ( September -October ): Osmanthus , Chrysanthemum

Winter Flower Show ( November -January ) : Narcissus, Wintersweet

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-4 hours

Tickets

10 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00


Most Popular FAQs for Hefei Botanical Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Opened in 1982, Hefei Botanical Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in China. It serves both as a public park and a research facility for plant conservation and education. The garden features a wide range of plant species from around the world, offering a peaceful escape and a place for scientific study.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hefei Botanical Garden is located in the southern part of Hefei, Anhui Province. It is accessible by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. Public transport options include buses that go directly to the garden. Walking is also an option if you are staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and the flowers are in full bloom.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately ¥20 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the garden's entrance or online via the official website. Discounts are available for students and senior citizens.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended to do so during peak seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the garden and enjoy the different themed sections, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours. If you are particularly interested in the botanical collections, you may want to allocate additional time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The Tropical Greenhouse, which houses plants from tropical regions.
  • The Rose Garden, famous for its variety of rose species.
  • The Water Lily Pond, which is particularly beautiful in summer.
  • The Medicinal Plant Area, featuring plants used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides can also be rented at the entrance in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The Rose Garden, offering beautiful photo opportunities among the colorful flowers.
  • The Water Lily Pond, especially stunning in the early morning or late afternoon light.
  • The elevated walkways that provide panoramic views of the entire garden.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Tropical Greenhouse, then head to the Rose Garden and Water Lily Pond. Afterward, explore the Medicinal Plant Area and take a leisurely stroll through the park’s main pathways. Finish your visit with a relaxing break at one of the garden's lakeside areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Hefei Botanical Garden, as it closes at 6:00 PM. However, the garden offers special seasonal events such as flower festivals, which are usually during the daytime.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings, particularly outside the peak seasons of spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The garden has clean and accessible restrooms throughout the park. There are also a few cafés and water stations, and benches are provided for visitors to relax. Small gift shops are located near the entrance for souvenirs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, Hefei Botanical Garden is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. The pathways are well-paved, and wheelchairs are available on request. It is also family-friendly, with plenty of spaces for children to explore and play.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and card payments are accepted at the entrance and for purchases within the garden. Mobile payment options, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, are also widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few cafés inside the botanical garden offering light snacks and drinks. For more dining options, you can explore restaurants near the entrance or in the nearby city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the cafés in the garden, but halal food options may be limited. It is best to check in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • There are several hotels near Hefei Botanical Garden, including budget options and mid-range hotels in the city center.
  • Luxury hotels such as the Hyatt Regency Hefei are within a short drive from the garden.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Hefei Swan Lake, a popular park with scenic walking paths.
  • The Hefei Wildlife Park, which is a short distance away from the botanical garden.
  • Hefei Mingjiao Temple, a historic Buddhist temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling a variety of items, including local handicrafts, plant-related products, and postcards.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the garden, taxis and public buses are readily available. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Didi for more convenience. The Hefei Railway Station is a short taxi ride away if you're continuing your journey by train.