With the air full of gentle breezes, parks across Beijing are welcoming visitors for a spring outing to enjoy the floral season.

The spring flower viewing period in Beijing's parks will last from early March to early May. For this spring, parks across the city are offering more family-friendly activities with diversified experiences, further enhancing the well-known "20-minute park effect" (that is, staying at least 20 minutes in a park has positive effects on your physical and mental health).

To help visitors avoid the crowds at popular spots and enhance their touring experiences, the Beijing Municipal Administration Center of Parks is recommending the following six selected routes, which combine spring blossoms, ancient architecture, and boating fun.

Plum Blossom Exploration Route at Summer Palace:

Avoid the rather crowded West Dike (西堤) and head to the Garden of Harmonious Pleasures (谐趣园) and the Gengzhitu (耕织图) scenic area. In mid-March, you can admire plum blossoms, followed by winter jasmine and weeping forsythia, and immerse yourself in the spring ambiance of this classical garden.

Peach Blossom and Willow Route at Beihai Park:

Besides the must-visit Jade Flower Islet (琼华岛), take a stroll along the west bank, and you'll find photogenic peach blossoms in full bloom by the pier. Standing on the bank, you can catch a splendid view of the flowers in front of you and the White Pagoda across the water.  

Mountain Wildflower Route at Fragrant Hills Park:

Deep into the Plum Valley (梅谷) on the south of Yanjing Lake (眼镜湖), you will find one of the best spots in the city for viewing plum blossoms. After that, follow the paths to admire Chinese wild peach and apricot blossoms.

Classical Ambiance Route at Zizhuyuan Park:

Visit the Plum Valley (梅谷) and the Changhe River (长河) banks on the south side of Chengbi Shanfang (澄碧山房) to appreciate the early spring plum blossoms. Then, head to Fuyin Zizhuyuan Palace (福荫紫竹院行宫) and the Cultural Square (文化广场) for magnolia flowers. This route presents the unique classical charm known as "Dual Serenity of Plum Blossoms and Bamboo" (梅竹双清).

Route for Mountain Hiking and Blossom Seeking at Baiwangshan Forest Park:

Enter the park, and turn right to bypass the crowds and choose Route 3. You'll be greeted by a "golden avenue" surrounded by blooming winter jasmine. Continuing onto Trail 351, wind your way up the stone steps flanked by gorgeous Chinese wild peach blossoms. At the trail's end, ascend to Wangjing Viewing Tower (望京楼) for a breathtaking panorama of Beijing's spring scenery and a vast expanse of flowers on the surrounding hills.

Mid-Spring Discovery Route at Beijing Zoo:

Tucked away along the road east of the Bird House (鸟苑) and in the green space west of the Tapir House (貘馆) lies a hidden gem exclusive to the zoo: a stunning sea of rhododendron blossoms. As hardy plants resistant to cold, these flowers with vibrant colors, known as "Rhododendron buxifolium" (黄杨杜鹃), are sure to boost your dopamine levels, making them hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

(Source: Official WeChat account of Beijing Daily)