I've always known that Merlin Reservoir is a hotspot for stunning photos🔥
Especially during the height of summer
Where cartoon-like clouds float across the azure sky☁️
Up close, vast swathes of silver grass🍃 stretch out, lush and vibrant with life
Hence, Shenzhen netizens have dubbed this place
“Summer in a Miyazaki Anime”
Previously, I'd either pass by Meilin Reservoir on my way to hike the Meilin Greenway
or stop here after hiking to enjoy the evening breeze and night views🌃
I finally found time to visit a few days ago
Honest take: It's gorgeous, but blazing hot🥵
While taking photos, I encountered cosplayers and girls in JK uniforms.
The photo opportunities are plentiful—perfect for photography enthusiasts!
Visiting Tips
✔️ Shenzhen's summer typically runs from late April to late September. Visiting during this period ensures green grass 🍃 and a more pronounced forest-themed atmosphere.
✔️The sloped grassy area is located southeast of [Meilin Reservoir]. Arriving before 10 AM is ideal, 🌞 as the light is soft. Sitting on the lawn facing the sun ensures your face won't be in shadow. Visiting in the afternoon means backlighting—finding the right angle is tricky, and the glare makes it hard to keep your eyes open. Don't ask how I know 😂.
✔️ The lawn has no large trees for shade. If you plan to stay long for photos, be sure to apply sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes gather near the base of the banyan tree, and ants crawl on the trunk—stay alert if you sit down.
✔️ Popular photo spots include the entrance's “Meilin Reservoir” sign fence, 3️⃣ lush banyan trees🌳, benches between the lawn and dam, 🌴 Palm Tree Avenue, and the reservoir's reflection of green mountains.
✔️If you have time, find a shady spot to sit and wait for sunset🌆. Or visit nearby attractions like the Ancient Litchi Grove at Meilin Park, Apark, Meilin Greenway, and Meilin Hill Country Trail.
(The first three photos are from the Ancient Litchi Grove in Meilin Park; the last photo is from the winding mountain road in Meilin Park)
Travel Guide
📍Address: Slope Meadow, Meilin Reservoir, Futian District, Shenzhen
🚇Subway: Exit D from Xiaomeilin Station (Line 9), 17-minute walk
🚌Bus: Take Route 324 | 60 | 216 to Meilin Yicun Station
⏰Hours: Open all day
🎟️Admission: Free