[A ChaoZhou Native's Backyard Garden | A Half-Day Stroll Through Xihu Park Guide]

ChaoZhou, a city known as "half city landscape, half city god," hides an underrated gem of a park—Xihu Park. This isn't a mini version of Hangzhou's West Lake, but a pearl of eastern Guangdong with a thousand years of cultural heritage. 🏯[A Thousand Years of Cultural Heritage] Xihu Park, originally excavated during the Northern Song Dynasty to protect against floods, once served as the moat of the ancient city of ChaoZhou. Su Dongpo inscribed a plaque here, a stone tablet stands where Han Yu landed, and even the pavilion in the center of the lake holds the story of "Xihu Fishing Rafts." Strolling along the lakeshore lined with ancient steles, you can almost hear history whispering among the green bricks and black tiles. ☕[Trendy Leisure Activities] Today's Xihu Park is far from your grandpa's park! The teahouses on the south bank are filled with the honeyed fragrance of Phoenix Dancong tea. Rent a bicycle and circle the lake, or sit in the central pavilion and watch the elderly practice calligraphy and painting. The vibrant atmosphere blends perfectly with the cultural ambiance. 🛶[Boating in the Heart of the Lake] You must experience rowing a boat! For 15 yuan/hour, you can rent a colorful awning boat and steer yourself through the metasequoia forest. Early morning, when the mist hasn't yet dispersed, is the most magical time. Your oars push through the emerald green water, startling egrets as they fly past the shadows of ancient banyan trees. Remember to bring breadcrumbs; they'll attract schools of koi that will chase your boat and leap out of the water. 💡[Insider Tips] ✅ Wear Hanfu or modern Chinese clothing! The arched bridges, pavilions, and red cotton trees make for spontaneous, stunning photos. ✅ The light is softest after 5pm, and you might even encounter the "Chao Opera Disco"—square dancing by the lake.