Dongguan Songshan Lake "European Town": A Romantic Check-in Guide Without Leaving the Country
When mentioning Dongguan's "European Town," most people immediately think of the grand architectural complex that cost billions and replicates the styles of twelve classic European cities. This place is actually Huawei's global R&D base—Xiliubeipo Village. Although the interior is an office area not open to the public, this does not stop it from becoming the most famous "pretend you're in Europe" check-in spot in the Pearl River Delta region.
Here is a detailed nearby sightseeing and photo guide to help you experience this unique exotic charm.
🏛️ The Truth and Current Status of the "European Town"
This park, called "Xiliubeipo Village," covers 1,900 acres and consists of 108 European-style buildings modeled after classic European cities such as Oxford, Paris, and Verona. The park even features a vintage red train that shuttles between the different "cities," as if a fairy tale has come to life.
⚠️ Important Notice:
This is a key Huawei office area, and the interior park is generally not open to the public. Unless Huawei employees make an appointment in advance through the internal system (iAdmin) and accompany visitors throughout, it is not possible to enter the park to ride the train or visit the library.
But this does not mean we cannot appreciate its beauty! There are still excellent viewing and photo spots around the park’s perimeter, and they are completely free.
📸 Best External Check-in Spots
Although you cannot go inside, with the right angle, you can still capture stunning shots.
Songhu Smoke and Rain University Road Entrance Parking Lot
This is the most popular "affordable" viewing spot. Navigate here, park, then walk about 10 minutes to the left or follow the lakeside greenway to find the perfect angle. From here, you can view the town’s silhouette across the lake, especially on clear days when the blue sky, lake water, and European-style spires complement each other beautifully—ideal for wide-angle landscape photos.
Huawei Xiliubeipo Village Kangqiao
Navigate to the "Kangqiao" area, where you can get closer to some building facades. Red brick walls, clock towers, and exquisite sculptural details can all be captured here. It’s recommended to wear solid colors (such as white or light yellow) and stand by the lake or on the lawn for romantic, exotic-style photos.
Along the Lakeside Road
The Songshan Lake scenic area is quite large. You can rent a bicycle or electric scooter and ride along the lakeside road. During your ride, you will occasionally encounter sections of the town’s walls or towers unexpectedly. This sense of discovery on the road, combined with the gentle breeze and greenery of Songshan Lake, is a healing experience in itself.
🚗 Nearby Linked Attractions Recommendations
Since you are in the Songshan Lake area, besides admiring the European Town from afar, there are many other worthwhile places nearby to enrich your itinerary.
Yulan New World (City Center Direction)
If you prefer close-up European-style street photography, "Yulan New World" located in Area C of Dongguan Municipal Center Plaza is a hidden gem. It also features authentic European design with fresh and unique architecture. Although most shops are not yet open, this means fewer tourists, making it perfect for shooting clean, empty street scenes.
· Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to Hongfu Road Station, Exit C3, then walk or take a taxi.
· Tip: The location is somewhat hidden; you need to find the stairs with the large "Yulan New World" sign to see it.
Songhu Smoke and Rain (Lakeside Tour)
Right next to the European Town, it is one of Dongguan’s famous eight scenic spots. It’s perfect for cycling, picnicking, and flying kites. Around 4 to 5 PM, find a spot on the grass by the lake to relax or wait for a stunning sunset—an ideal way to unwind.
🗺️ Itinerary and Practical Tips
Recommended itinerary: Half-day / full-day leisure tour
· 2:00 PM: Arrive at Songshan Lake, head to the "University Road Entrance Parking Lot" or near "Kangqiao" to find angles for photographing the European Town exterior.
· 4:00 PM: Rent a bike and ride along the greenway at Songhu Smoke and Rain, feel the lake breeze, and check in to the natural scenery along the way.
· 6:00 PM: Watch the sunset by the lake or at an open viewpoint to end your romantic trip.
Practical Information
· Admission: Songshan Lake Scenic Area and external check-in spots are free.
· Transportation: It is recommended to drive or take a taxi. Navigate to "Songshan Lake Scenic Area" or the specific check-in spots mentioned. Parking is relatively convenient and reasonably priced.
· Weather: Be sure to visit on a sunny day! Blue skies and white clouds are key for great photos of European architecture; cloudy weather will greatly reduce the effect.
· Dress code: Recommended French vintage dresses, light-colored shirts, or simple solid-color T-shirts, paired with a straw hat or sunglasses to maximize the atmosphere.
Although you cannot truly enter that castle-like office, by the lakeside of Songshan Lake, feeling the breeze and gazing at those dreamy spires from afar, you can still sense that unique tranquility and beauty.