The paintings of water lilies created by Claude Monet in his twilight years embody his lifelong pursuit of light and color. Now, across Beijing, water lilies are quietly coming into bloom in a gentle breeze, making parts of the city like scenes from a Monet painting.

Yuyuantan Park

The water lilies in this park have recently bloomed. Floating on the lake's surface, these flowers contrast delightfully with the rhododendron bushes on the shore.

After admiring the flowers, visitors can head to Huaxi LIVE Wukesong, about 5 kilometers away, for dining, shopping, or concerts.

China National Botanical Garden

The water lilies here, blooming in various vibrant colors, are a true feast for the eyes.

After enjoying the flowers, visitors can also explore nearby Fragrant Hills Park for hiking, fresh air, and lush forest scenery.

Beijing Garden Expo Park

The gorgeous water lilies here thrive in early summer, and their fragrance adds a special touch to the season. Also, inside the park, phase one of the Dynamic Waterfront area is now open to visitors, with paddleboarding, kayaking and other popular water sports activities available.

Taoranting Park

Over 1,000 square meters of water lilies grow in Taoranting Park, scattered near scenic spots like Chuitai (吹台) and Jinyue Pavilion (浸月亭). 

After flower viewing, you can catch a wonderful show at the Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center, about 3 kilometers away. It is the only large-scale cultural and performing arts landmark located along Beijing's Central Axis, staging quality productions from around the world while serving as a platform for art-related exchanges between Chinese and foreign practitioners.

Xihai Wetland Park of Shichahai

Xihai (literally "West Sea", although it is technically a lake) is perhaps the most tranquil of the "Three Seas" of Shichahai. Here, you can walk the 1,450-meter trail surrounding the lake for splendid views of the wetlands. The aquatic plant area spanning about 20,000 square meters is dotted with over 50 species, including water lilies, sweet flags and common reeds.

Nearby Xinhua Department Store CCMall houses over 200 brands, offering premium retail, trendy dining, family activities, and life services. It makes for a convenient next stop after flower viewing.

Beijing Wenyuhe Park

Pink and white water lilies bloom in the morning sunlight. The dainty flowers and green leaves form a wonderful contrast. Inside the eastern part of the park's Chaoyang Demonstration Zone, Zhaohua Xishi Restaurant (朝花溪食) is worth a visit; its culinary surprises are a good match for the eye-catching natural surroundings.

Which of these spots would you visit to experience Beijing's real-life "Monet water lilies" this summer?

(Source: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)