First plum blossom blooms in Hangzhou

A man takes photos of a plum tree at Qianwang Temple. [Photo/IC]

The first chimonanthus praecox, also known as the wintersweet, recently bloomed at Qianwang Temple in Hangzhou, flaunting its abundant golden-yellow flowers.

Although only one tree has blossomed, the fragrance of the plum flowers is still wafting through the air. As for the famous red plum blossoms at Qianwang Temple, they are still in bud, with everybody eagerly awaiting their arrival.

Where else in Hangzhou can you enjoy the beauty of plum blossoms? Here is a guide to some of the best places:

Gushan Hill

File photo: Plum blossoms on Gushan Hill. [Photo/WeChat account: jtlydb]

Plum blossoms on Gushan are mainly located in areas along the back hill by West Lake, with the highest concentration of around 300 plum trees found near Fanghe Pavilion, beside the Lu Xun sculpture, and around the Zhongshan Memorial Pavilion.

Hangzhou Botanical Garden (Lingfeng Plum Garden)

File photo: Plum blossoms at the Hangzhou Botanical Garden. [Photo/WeChat account: jtlydb]

The Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a top destination for admiring plum blossoms, boasting a spectacular sea of plum trees. With over 100 varieties and more than 5,000 plum trees, it is the largest plum garden around West Lake.

Xixi Wetland

File photo: Plum blossoms at Xixi Wetland. [Photo/WeChat account: jtlydb]

Xixi Wetland boasts 20 hectares of plum forests and over 20,000 plum trees, featuring a variety of species. Most of the plum trees are located along the water, offering spectacular scenery. Visitors can also take electric or rowing boats to admire plums from the water.

Recommended viewing time

January to Early February: Exploring plums, discovering the charm of buds about to bloom.

Late February to March: Admiring plum blossoms in full bloom, reveling in the splendor of flowering.