IMAGINE strolling along a breezy lakeside trail when, with a deep rumble that vibrates beneath your feet, a vintage freight train emerges from the landscape. It chugs slowly past, a powerful slice of industrial nostalgia set against nature’s calm.

This is the appeal of the Tangkengbei Reservoir Loop Greenway — the only path in Shenzhen where you can watch old‑fashioned trains roll by. It remains a relatively undiscovered local gem.

A date with a vintage train

The railway that intersects the greenway is the Pingyan Line, one of only two still‑operational freight lines in Shenzhen (the other is the remnants of the Pingnan Line). These are not sleek high‑speed trains but traditional diesel locomotives pulling long freight cars. They thunder past just meters away, offering a raw, visceral encounter with industrial power that’s rare in modern Shenzhen.

The prime viewing spot is where the tracks meet the trail at a crossing known by the rustic name “牛屎窝” (Niushiwo, cow dung cote). Local lore says the area was once roaming grounds for wild buffalo. Maps now often use the more formal “牛始窝” (original place for buffalos) but residents still prefer the earthier name.

Up to eight or nine freight trains can pass through daily, with weekends typically busier. The spot has become popular with rail enthusiasts and families introducing children to a bygone era.

A scenic lakeside escape for all ages

Beyond train‑spotting, the Tangkengbei Reservoir Loop is a destination in its own right. Linking three reservoirs — Nanfeng’ao, Tangkengbei and Niushiwo — the full loop stretches about 5-6 km.

The trail features viewing platforms, a bird‑watching hut, rest areas and a large lawn with swings for children. It’s ideal for a gentle hike, a run or a family outing, and it generally stays pleasantly uncrowded even on weekends.

The most photogenic sections are the boardwalks around Niushiwo and Tangkengbei reservoirs, which offer open, sweeping views. Nanfeng’ao Reservoir is smaller and makes for a quick warm‑up loop.

Highlights of the trail

The floating bridge: A crescent‑shaped floating bridge on Niushiwo Reservoir lets you step out onto the water. It gently sways with the waves; on clear days the reflection of the surrounding hills is stunning.

The elevated walkway: Skirting Nanfeng’ao Reservoir, a winding elevated boardwalk provides panoramic views of the opposite hills, the distant skyline and the emerald water below. It offers little shade, so sunscreen is recommended.

The lychee grove path: A shaded trail through a lychee grove connects the reservoir views. Cool and peaceful, it’s filled with birdsong. The environment is natural and occasionally wild — sightings of small snakes have been reported — so stay observant.

Visitor information

Main entrances

Niushiwo Reservoir (Fukang Road entrance — main)

Metro: Line 3 to Henggang Station (横岗站), Exit A (about 1.5 km walk)

Niushiwo Reservoir (Lijia Road / Eco‑Trail entrance)

Metro: Line 3 to Henggang Station (横岗站), Exit A (about 1.5 km walk)

Nanfeng’ao Reservoir (Jinquan 3rd Road entrance)

Metro: Line 3 to Tangkeng Station (塘坑站), Exit D (about 1.4 km walk)

Important notes

Opening hours: 6 a.m.–9:30 p.m. (last entry at 9 p.m.)

Prohibited: tents, canopies, pets, bicycles, scooters and fishing

Facilities: No convenience stores on site, but drinking water stations are available.

Train schedule (freight, approximate): Trains commonly pass during windows such as 11 a.m.–noon, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. and 2 p.m.–3 p.m., often at roughly hourly intervals. (Tang Li)