My secret for 3 years! Lu Lake Park is the "spiritual recharge station" for Guangzhou locals on weekends, with a guide to avoid pitfalls

Every time friends ask me, "Where in Guangzhou can I go on weekends that's not crowded and healing?" I always enthusiastically recommend Lu Lake Park—I first went there in 2021, and since then, whenever the weekend is sunny, I just put on a pair of comfortable shoes and rush there. My phone album is full of its spring cherry blossoms, summer lotus, autumn maple, and winter sunshine. Calling it "the most beautiful park in Guangzhou in my heart" is no exaggeration.

1. Why do I always run to Lu Lake? It’s more than just "beautiful"

The first time I went to Lu Lake was because a colleague tricked me—she said, "It's just 3 kilometers, a walk around is very easy," but I followed her from Lu Lake Monument to Jufang Garden, my legs were weak and I still didn’t want to leave. Later I understood that the charm of Lu Lake is not a "stunning first impression," but the relaxed feeling that makes you not want to rush once you enter.

In spring, go to Honghu Mountain; halfway up, you’ll be hit by a sea of pink and white little flowers. Even though you’re out of breath climbing, standing halfway up watching the wind blow petals onto the lake instantly makes you feel "the tiredness was worth it." In summer, crouch by the lake watching water droplets roll on lotus leaves, occasionally a little fish jumps out of the water, and even the 30°C heat seems to cool down a bit. In autumn, the trees by the lake slowly turn yellow; walking the yellow trail at dusk to watch the sunset, the setting sun dyes the lake golden red, and photos taken with your phone need no editing. In winter, even if it’s cold, find a wind-sheltered bench to sit for a while, watch the elderly stroll by the lake and children chase pigeons, even zoning out feels comforting.

Now I don’t deliberately "check in" at Lu Lake anymore. Sometimes I just bring a thermos, start from Lu Lake Monument, and when tired, find a pavilion to rest and watch the boats slowly drift on the lake—honestly, spending an afternoon here is more refreshing than sleeping at home all day.

2. Nanny-level walking route: How to walk 3 kilometers without tiring your legs or hitting pitfalls?

I’ve tested all the pitfalls for you. Follow this route for an easy walk that covers all the highlights:

Core route (tested and most comfortable version): Start from [Lu Lake Monument] → walk clockwise along the lake → pass by Luming Restaurant (don’t stop, keep going) → reach the entrance of Jufang Garden (go in if you want to picnic, if not, continue along the lake) → walk to the foot of Honghu Mountain (climb if you have good stamina, or walk around the foot if not) → finally return along the yellow trail segment (if you want to watch the sunset, time this segment for dusk). The whole route is 3 kilometers, a slow walk takes about 1.5 hours, and won’t tire your feet.

Pitfall warnings! Avoid these 3 ways:

1. Don’t believe "take the subway to Xiaobei Station and walk"! I did this the first time—after exiting the subway, I walked over 900 meters, sweating with a backpack, and was too exhausted to explore when I arrived. Instead, take the bus to [Lu Lake Park Station], which drops you right at Lu Lake Monument, saving effort;
2. Be cautious driving! There are very few parking spots by the lake. I’ve seen people circle for 20 minutes without finding a spot and had to park far away and walk. Also, traffic police often issue tickets on the small roads by the lake, so don’t gamble on luck;
3. Don’t force yourself to walk the entire route! I once accompanied my mom who got tired after 1.5 kilometers. Actually, there are bus stops along the lake at intervals. Just open navigation, search for the "nearest bus stop," and take the bus two stops back to the start. No need to push yourself.

3. My secret little details: Don’t miss these "hidden experiences"

1. Picnic on the lawn at Jufang Garden, avoid noon: The lawn in Jufang Garden is very flat, perfect for bringing a picnic mat and a box of fruit. But don’t go at noon! The sun is blazing and it’s too hot. After 3 PM is best—the shade just covers the lawn, and the lake breeze makes eating there so comfortable you won’t want to leave. But remember to take your trash with you. Last time I saw someone throw a takeout box on the grass, which really ruined the mood.
2. To climb or not to climb Honghu Mountain? Depends on your stamina: The first time I climbed Honghu Mountain, I thought it was "just a small hill," but after 10 minutes I was already out of breath. The five-story tower at the top offers a panoramic view of Lu Lake, worth seeing, but if your stamina is poor, don’t force it! You can walk around the foot of the mountain and see small flowers and streams by the side, and still take beautiful photos without climbing.
3. Luming Restaurant morning tea: don’t expect too much: As a "morning tea lover," I’ve been to Luming Restaurant three times. Honestly, the quality is "hit or miss." The first time I had shrimp dumplings, thin skin and lots of fresh filling; the second time I had chicken feet, which were a bit cold. If you happen to be there at mealtime and want to experience the "garden morning tea" atmosphere, you can go, but don’t make a special trip just for the morning tea. There are many cars at the entrance, so be careful crossing the street.
4. Don’t go straight home after visiting Lu Lake! Taogold is right next door: Every time I finish the whole route, I take a taxi to Taogold (just the starting fare away). There are a few niche coffee shops there where you can sit by the window, drink coffee, and watch the street scene. It doubles the weekend happiness. Last time I found a shop selling Basque cheesecake, which paired with an Americano perfectly balanced the tiredness from climbing. You guys should check it out after your walk.

4. Finally, a heartfelt tip: Don’t be bound by "guides"

I used to worry about "whether to follow the online route" or "if missing a photo spot means the trip was wasted." Later I realized the most comfortable way to enjoy Lu Lake is to "go with the flow." You can walk for 10 minutes and then sit on a bench all afternoon, or skip climbing Honghu Mountain and morning tea, and just stroll along the lake.

Oh, one more reminder: Lu Lake has been undergoing small repairs these past two years. The lotus pond I photographed last year was half fenced off this year, but it’s okay—the lakeside scenery hasn’t changed, and every visit brings little surprises—like last time I found a new flower bed by the lake planted with my favorite hydrangeas.

If you go, and encounter anything new or hit new pitfalls, be sure to come back and share with me!