Nestled in Heshan, Jiangmen, within the Greater Bay Area, OCT Gulou Waterfront is a traditional Lingnan water village, dotted with fishponds, villages and stone bridges. After an investment of RMB 5 billion, this historic area to the west of the Pearl River Delta has been transformed into an eco-cultural tourism resort, spanning approximately 10sq km, with the main tourist area covering about a third of that area. It preserves the traditions of ancient villages over 700 years old, blending rural life with contemporary attractions.
Gulou Waterfront is perfect for family outings, as it encompasses four main areas: Drifting in Dream Boat Tour, Children’s Dream Paradise, Countryside Time and Gulouxu Waterfront Commercial Street. Spend a day wandering through ancient banyan trees and embankments as you explore this unique open-air water town museum.
Credit: Elvis Chung
Credit: Elvis Chung
Credit: Elvis Chung
No visit to Gulou Waterfront is complete without joining a Drifting in Dream Boat Tour. You’ll cruise along on a canopy-covered boat, feeling the gentle breeze and watching playful egrets skimming the water. The 6km-long route takes about 35 minutes to complete and passes through Children’s Dream Paradise, Countryside Time and the commercial street. As you enter the village, you’ll spot locals washing oars by their home docks and dragon boats on the waterways – a charming window into the leisurely water town lifestyle.
Credit: Elvis Chung
Credit: 古劳水乡
Credit: Elvis Chung
As well as its fishponds and long history of fish farming, Gulou Waterfront is known for its many bridges, which connect the areas segmented by water. The most famous of these is its wooden bridge, or Qiao Yi Bridge, designed by Luo Studio, a 25m-wide timber structure completed in 2022 that connects the commercial street and Children’s Dream Paradise. The bridge’s is both stylish and practical, with an arched structure that allows boats to pass underneath. At night, the reflection of its lights on the river creates a very romantic scene.
Credit: 古劳水乡
Credit: Elvis Chung
Children’s Dream Paradise is a favourite among younger visitors and features themed recreation zones, including Longxi Village, Mud Island and Fishing Island, with games inspired by the childhood of fishing village youths. The area also features numerous amusement park rides, such as a pirate ship and a popular Flying Fish Train that travels through lawns and waterways – be prepared to get splashed.
Credit: 古劳水乡
Adjacent to Children's Dream Paradise, Countryside Time, which covers over a hectare and comprises a large lawn, a campsite and a fish and vegetable farm. The campsite offers air-conditioned tents for two to four people, with public bathrooms, toilets and self-service laundry facilities. This tranquil camping location is relatively free from light pollution – perfect for great stargazing at night.
Credit: Elvis Chung
Credit: Elvis Chung