Shenzhen CityscapeShenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation
When talking about Shenzhen, you might think of keywords such as economic development, finance, high-tech, entrepreneurship, modernization, vibrant, etc. Have you ever spent time making a retreat to explore the ecological scenic places of the city?
Natural Environment in ShenzhenShenzhen Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation
As a "green city" with green space coverage rate of 45.1% in the built-up area, Shenzhen has more than 950 public gardens. The total length of urban greenways reaches 2,400 km. The total area of sustainable architecture in the city is over 60 million square meters.
"Just Shenzhen" Eco-Discovery Route consists of 12 representative sites, each specially chosen by the initiators to help you explore five main eco-systems of Shenzhen: Coastal Wetlands, Public Parks, Mountains & Forests, Sustainable Architecture, and Coastlines.
Ready? Let's get going!
The First Stop: OCT Wetland
OCT wetland is the green lung of Shenzhen. Come explore the diverse species here and learn wetland protection; visit mangroves and catch a glimpse of hundreds of migratory birds in spring, venture into the mangroves in summer, and join handwork classes using leaves in autumn.
The Second Stop: Shenzhen Bay Park
Shenzhen Bay Park is known as a habitat for migratory birds and for its mangroves. Here you will see thousands of migratory birds, including black-faced spoonbill. You can see creatures in tidal zone.You can also walk or bike on the multiple passages along the shore.
The Third Stop: Futian Mangrove Ecological Park
Converted from an abandoned dock, it is the first city park run by a NPO in China. The bordering estuary provides habitat for fish, shrimp and crab, where you can find mudskipper and black-faced spoonbill. The Outdoor Classroom is co-built by Nature Explore Classrooms.
The Fifth Stop: Honey Park
Honey Park is an example of sponge city with an ecological water system, garnished with flowers throughout the year. You can enjoy the view of a 100,000 square meters' lychee orchard or observe aquatic plants and insects by the lake, bringing you fun experiences of childhood.
The Sixth Stop: Gangxia 1980
It is transformed from an old village house. The metal structure on the roof contains 400 planter boxes which collect rainwater. The rooftop serves as a green space for the residents while also improving the overall environment. It opens on Tuesday and Thursday from 2-4pm.
The Eighth Stop: Fairy Lake Botanical Garden
It is a scientific research site. This natural oxygen bar comprises of nearly 12,000 species of plants. You can find China's rare plants. You can meander through cycads, shade plants, cactus and succulent plants. Besides, you can enjoy birds, flowers and butterflies.
The Eleventh Stop: Qiniang Mountain
Qiniang Mountain, formed by volcanic eruption, contains a variety of rock types. You could explore remains of ancient volcanoes, as well as visit the only geographic museum in Shenzhen. The verdant forest nurtures a rich eco-system which makes it perfect for excursions.
