Wintersweet, reputed as the "earliest herald of spring", has entered its prime viewing season. Over 80 percent of wintersweet flowers in some parks in Beijing are now blooming in profusion. 

Summer Palace

Lenong Pavilion's wintersweet blossoms are now at their best. Over ten trees planted there now have many buds and a strong scent, all with graceful figures.

About 80 percent of the wintersweet flowers at the Summer Palace are currently in bloom, with their blooming season lasting until the beginning of March.

Jingshan Park 

While the wintersweet flowers in the Science Popularization House (科普园) in the western area are currently at their peak, those on the east side of Qiwang Building (绮望楼) are just partially open, and those near the park's southwest corner and the entrance take longer to bloom.

Fragrant Hills Park

The Meigu (梅谷, which literally means "wintersweet valley") area is home to more than 200 wintersweet trees. Visitors may get up close with the blossoms along the wooden boardwalk or by the roadside. Even though there are only few flowers inside the area of Biyun Temple (碧云寺), they add a special appeal by blending in with the architecture.

China National Botanical Garden

The yellow wintersweet blossoms inside the Wofo Temple (卧佛寺) area complement the red walls, presenting a scene reminding every visitor of an antique Chinese painting scroll.

There are two ancient trees in front of Sanshifo Hall (三世佛殿). With a history spanning over three centuries, the east-facing one was planted during the reign of Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty and is regarded as Beijing's "No. 1 ancient wintersweet tree".

Beihai Park

Xitian Fanjing (西天梵境) and Jingqi Pavilion (静憩轩) in the Yong'an Temple (永安寺) area are excellent spots to observe wintersweet. The flowers with red stamen are must-see ones.

Zizhuyuan Park

The historic architectural murals are complemented by the wintersweet flowers that have mostly bloomed in the courtyard of the former imperial residence. The flowering season is anticipated to continue until the end of February.

Taoranting Park

The wintersweet flowers in Huaxia Mingting Garden (华夏名亭园) are waiting to greet everyone.

Ming City Wall Ruins Park

Tiny buds have already appeared on the branches of the wintersweet trees there, with some blossoming in the wind despite the cold air in early spring. Come and have a look!

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