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In March, everything comes back to life and the weather warms up. The most beautiful thing about spring is to enjoy the flowers when they are in full bloom and experience a different nature.
Spring is about vitality, exuberance, and a force of growth. When it comes to springtime flower viewing in Wuhan, most people think of cherry blossoms. In Wuhan, the combination of Wuhan University's cherry blossoms and the century-old cultural heritage creates a captivating atmosphere; the vast expanse of cherry blossoms in the East Lake Cherry Garden resembles a paradise on earth; and even in Wuhan's ancient, rustic streets and alleys, the occasional cherry tree, its wind-blown petals scattering in the warm sunlight, creates a breathtaking spectacle. Spring isn't just about cherry blossoms; it also boasts rapeseed blossoms, peach blossoms, azaleas, and more. So, what other lesser-known and delightful flower-viewing destinations are there around Wuhan? Let's wait and see.
Design@Radish
"The fertile fields are covered with mulberry leaves in the evening, and the plains are covered with rapeseed flowers in the spring." - Wen Tingyun, Tang Dynasty
Rapeseed flowers may seem ordinary, but they actually possess immense power. If we were to compare a rapeseed flower to a young man, it would undoubtedly represent someone with a dream, constantly striving to achieve it. His spirit is like this seemingly ordinary rapeseed flower: he doesn't become proud of the sun-like golden glow of his bloom, nor does he lament the vast expanse of breathtaking blossoms. Instead, he possesses a heart that perseveres, striving for his ideals.
When it comes to rapeseed flowers, the first thing that comes to mind is Wuyuan. With the arrival of spring, rapeseed blossoms blanket the mountains, creating a stunning scene alongside the whitewashed, black-tiled, old houses. Wuyuan, known as "China's Most Beautiful Countryside," is a historic county in Jiangxi Province. In spring, when the rapeseed blossoms bloom in Wuyuan, stroll along the country's cobblestone paths, cross the stone arch bridges over the streams, and experience the comfort and warmth of these Hui-style farmhouses.
Moon Bay
Moon Bay is a free attraction not far from Wuyuan County. Nestled in the center of a river, it's shaped like a moon, earning it the nickname "Moon Bay." Nestled between mountains and water, Moon Bay is a vibrant scene in March, where fields of golden rapeseed flowers, emerald green tea leaves, and quaint Hui-style houses embellish the moon with a vibrant, colorful display, creating a scene reminiscent of a Chinese ink painting. Climbing the hillside, one can gaze upon a crescent-shaped lake, a miniature island, emerald green water, and golden rapeseed blossoms—everything is breathtakingly beautiful. The undulating mountains on the opposite side contrast beautifully with the ancient village below, its black tiles, white walls, and golden rapeseed blossoms.
Image from China-TravelNote
【Huatian Township】
This is a hidden gem even the local Wuyuan tour guides don't know about. It boasts 200 mu of rapeseed fields, the largest in northwest Wuyuan. Everything is pristine and natural, and even when the flowers are in bloom, there are few tourists. But now, the angelic tourists are arriving. We're going to take a photo-taking spree here, explore the ancient mountain village, Wuyuan's most beautiful water source, and discover Wuyuan's most beautiful bench bridge, the clear riverbanks, and the refreshing, ethereal flower fields. No one will dislike this place.
Image from Wuyuan Tourism
【Jiangling】
In Wuyuan, there's a kind of spring called Jiangling. As one of China's four largest rapeseed flower fields, this is Wuyuan's premier destination for spring viewing. Ten thousand acres of terraced rapeseed flowers stretch across the mountains, undulating in rows and rows, dotted with peach, pear, and plum blossoms. Nestled among them are several small villages, where whitewashed, black-tiled Hui-style houses are nestled among the golden expanses, creating a picturesque scene.
Image from China-TravelNote
Image from China-TravelNote
Tips:
Flowering period:
Rapeseed blossoms bloom early in Wuyuan's southwestern towns, around early March. Northeastern towns (such as Qinghua and Jiangwan Town) reach peak bloom from early March to early April. Areas like Jiangling and Qingyuan in Duanzi Township, due to the high altitude and cool water, will bloom a few days later than surrounding areas. By then, a profusion of golden rapeseed blossoms and tender pink peach blossoms, along with lesser-known wildflowers, Hui-style architecture, small bridges and flowing streams, and stone slabs and stone bridges, embellish the beauty of Wuyuan's spring. The beauty of Wuyuan's spring lies not only in the vibrant blossoms but also in the stunning blend of mountains, water, and villages.
transportation:
Wuyuan doesn't have an airport. If you choose to fly, you can transfer in Jingdezhen, Nanchang, Huangshan, or other places before taking a train or bus. Many places offer direct train access to Wuyuan High-Speed Railway Station. If there's no direct connection, it's recommended to transfer in Jingdezhen or Jiujiang. Long-distance buses from both cities are available to Wuyuan, and the journey takes about two hours.
Attractions:
You can enjoy the rapeseed flowers in Wuyuan in Xiaoqi, Jiangling, Qingyuan, Wangkou, Sixi Yancun, Rainbow Bridge, Zheyuan, Chapingtan and other places. You can wander in the sea of flowers and breathe the breath of spring.
"The clear stream clears my heart, and the color of the water is different from other waters. Let me ask about the Xin'an River, why is the bottom so clear? People walk in the mirror, and birds fly in the screen." This is the description of the Xin'an River landscape gallery by the great poet Li Bai. Walking in it, you will see lush green everywhere, as if you are in a painting.
The spring scenery in southern Anhui is so beautiful. The Hui-style buildings with white walls and black tiles are located by the water. China's unique Hui culture is combined with natural scenery and ancient villages. You can take a boat trip on the Xin'an River, stroll along the Xin'an River, walk in the Shitan Ancient Village, and see a sea of rapeseed flowers. It feels like you are in a dream.
In March and April, when rapeseed, peach, and pear blossoms are in full bloom, the beauty of Shitan and Xin'an River is breathtaking. This is a classic Jiangnan spring scene. Until you've visited Huangshan, you don't know how magnificent the mountains are; until you've visited Xin'an River, you don't know how beautiful the waters are. A boat trip along the Xin'an River reveals picturesque green mountains and a riverside village, creating a breathtaking landscape painting.
Image from Photo Network
Image from Photo Network
The Xin'an River can be explored by boat or on foot. For a boat trip, take a bus to Shenhu Town Wharf and follow the Xin'an River all the way to Kengkou, enjoying the scenic landscape along both sides. Along the way, there are three or four smaller attractions: the Hongzhuang Pavilion, a thousand-year-old camphor tree, Jiangjunbu, where villagers perform Huangmei Opera, small boat fishing, and an indoor ice sculpture museum. The round trip takes about 3.5 hours. For a hike, take a bus to Xiong Village and then hike along the river, crossing the river several times along the way. The route passes Pukou, Nanyuankou, Kengkou, Zhangtan, and Miantan, ultimately reaching Shenhu Town. A total of 20 to 30 kilometers is covered by shuttle buses from Kengkou to Shenhu Town, or you can hike just the section from Xiong Village to Nanyuankou, where there are fewer tourists and where you can admire the sea of rapeseed flowers along the riverbank.
Shitan is located in an unassuming little village in Huizhou. For hundreds of years, it has been hidden deep in a valley in Xiakeng Town, She County. The winding mountain roads here make transportation very inconvenient. Because of this, most people don't know about this secret place. Every March, pear blossoms bloom on the branches, peach blossoms illuminate the mountain village, and rape flowers bloom all over the hillside.
Image from Photo Network
Image from Photo Network
Tips:
Flowering period: late February to early April
Transportation: Take the high-speed rail to Huangshan Station or Shexian Station
Dining: You can enjoy Huizhou specialties in Xin'an River and Shitan
As spring arrives and flowers bloom, I have a date with the scarecrow. Golden rapeseed blossoms peek out from the spring breeze, shivering to scatter sunlight across the landscape, filling the air with warmth. In March, the thousand-acre rapeseed field in Xiaosi, one of Wuhan's top ten flower-viewing destinations, is in full bloom, a sea of golden color.
Xiaosi Township, a purely agricultural township within the Dujiatai flood diversion area, is known as the "Land of Fish and Rice" and the "Three Treasures of the Three Rivers." Its low-lying terrain makes it a lakeside township at the tail end of the Jianghan Plain, encompassing the renowned Chenhu Wetland Reserve. Visiting the rapeseed fields in Xiaosihu Township reveals a delicate beauty distinct from that of Luoping, Yunnan, and a broad, pure beauty unlike that of Wuyuan, Jiangxi.
Xiaosi Township remains an untapped tourist gem, a niche destination. The roadside is lined with vibrant rapeseed flowers, a dazzling sea of golden blossoms stretching as far as the eye can see. Let's revel in the lush green and vibrant yellow.
Image from Li Bai
Every March, Xiaosi Township becomes like Wuhan's "back garden." Due to its proximity and short driving distance, the vast sea of flowers in full bloom makes it a popular destination for spring outings. During this period, there are five events: temple fair displays, small-stage performances, folk performances on the main stage, a "Flower Sea Seeking Soulmates" matchmaking party, and the Shenhu Internationally Important Wetland Birdwatching Photography Competition. While enjoying the flowers, you can also participate in the folk activities of the local people of Caidian, experience the warmth and simple customs of the people, and appreciate the beautiful scenery of Caidian.
Image from Li Bai
Ten thousand acres of rapeseed flowers are in full bloom in Xiaosi. Looking around, you can see a golden ocean and the air is filled with intoxicating floral fragrance. Surrounded by the sea of rapeseed flowers, you can walk along the plank road deep into the flowers, get close to the rapeseed flowers, and watch the windmills turning in the wind.
Image from China-TravelNote
Tips:
Driving time: about 2 hours from Wuhan, navigation address is rapeseed flower in Xiaosi Township, Caidian District
Flowering period: early to late March, with peak flowering in mid-March
Dining: There is a farmhouse next to the sea of flowers, where you can enjoy authentic farm meals and there are also many local specialties to choose from.
What can you miss when admiring rapeseed blossoms near Wuhan? This beautiful village nestled deep in the mountains offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Wandering amidst a ten-mile sea of flowers, this picturesque spot is a feast for the eyes and a delight for the senses. March is the perfect time for rapeseed blossoms, and the vibrant golden blossoms, juxtaposed with the vibrant greenery and red roof tiles, create a truly idyllic scene.
Entering the village, a small river flows through it, spanned by a stone bridge, the White Horse Bridge, covered in lush greenery. Beside the bridge stands a sturdy, lushly leafed honey locust tree. Experts estimate that both the bridge and the tree are over 460 years old. Walking along the village's stone paved paths, you'll occasionally spot tall, horse-head-shaped rooftops. The houses generally maintain the Huizhou architectural style. The residents of Zhuoshan Village love to plant flowers, plants, and fruit trees in front of and behind their homes. Peach, willow, plum, camphor, citrus, and pomelo trees offer a fragrant display of blossoms and fruits year-round.
Image from China-TravelNote
Rich in natural resources, Zhuoshan Village is known as the "Little Wuyuan of Hubei." Zhuoshan Greenery, one of Daye's Eight Scenic Spots, is a focal point of the village. Small bridges, flowing water, houses, ancient bridges, ancient trees, and traditional dwellings—"pink peaches, white plum blossoms, yellow rapeseed flowers"—are adorned with blooming peach blossoms, complementing the vibrant rapeseed blossoms. Walking through Zhuoshan Village feels like stepping into a paradise.
Image from Baoyu
Tips:
Flowering period: early March to early April
Driving time: about 2.5 hours, located in Daye Zhuoshan Village, Huangshi
Clothing: Brightly colored and contrasting clothes, suitable for taking beautiful photos
Catering: Specialty food, farmhouse, ask the price first
In Hubei and its surrounding areas, Wuhan residents who can't leave might visit Huazhong Agricultural University to see the rapeseed flowers, appreciating their closeness to the land and nourishing life. Those seeking fame might visit Wuyuan, admiring its pristine natural beauty against the backdrop of whitewashed walls and green tiles. Those who appreciate grandeur might visit Jingmen, witnessing its broad embrace and fields of hope. However, if you're looking for a balance between spaciousness, naturalness, and closeness to the local countryside, the best place to enjoy rapeseed flowers is still Wuxue.
Wuxue's rapeseed flowers may not boast the largest area in the country or province, but they boast the richest and brightest colors. This is the primary production area for "double-low" rapeseed in southeastern Hubei, and its high-quality, high-tech rapeseed flowers have an inscrutable charm.
Image from pxhere
Wuxue rapeseed flower viewing spots are located in Dafasi, Dajin, and Meichuan towns. The eight best viewing spots are Matianfan, Ganshafan, Zhouganfan, Liuyuan Aqueduct, Chongshanfan, Tuanshanhe, Luhefan, and Qishifan.
Image from Bieyang.com
Tips:
Flowering period: early March to early April
Driving time: about 3 hours, about 170km from Wuhan City. Whether you exit from Dajin Expressway or Huaqiao Expressway, you can enjoy the Wuxue's 10,000-acre rapeseed flower countryside scenery along Yuchuan-Dajin-Dafasi-Wanzhang Lake.
Delicious food: Wuxue bean curd, Dajin pig intestine rice noodle, Dajin pressed duck, braised green fish tail
"I have newly planted a red cherry tree in my small garden, and it is easy to stroll around the blossoms." - Bai Juyi
When mentioning cherry blossoms in Wuhan, the first things that come to mind are the cherry blossoms in Wuhan University and the East Lake Cherry Garden, but in addition to these, there are also many places to enjoy cherry blossoms around Wuhan. They are spread all over the mountains and fields, with wild cherry blossoms stretching for dozens of miles. Wandering among them is like a fairy tale world.
The wild cherry blossoms of Gexian Mountain, located in Guantangyi Town, Chibi City, grow on the top of a mountain that stretches 20 kilometers from Suiyang Mountain Area to Gexian Mountain. The wild cherry blossoms of various colors that appear sporadically on the mountain tops are like treasures, like clouds inlaid on the mountain tops and floating among the green bamboos.
Wild cherry blossoms in red, pink, and white are scattered across the landscape, with the highest concentrations on Gexian Mountain. Gexian Mountain's wild cherry blossoms are considered Hubei's most beautiful, covering the entire mountain. In spring, the surrounding area is ablaze with blossoms, and the forests are filled with birdsong. To reach Gexian Mountain from Wuhan, exit the Quankou Expressway, then take the Guansui Highway to Guantangyi Town. After 19 kilometers, turn right. There's a sign warning about wild cherry blossom management. Passing Suiyang Village and Laohuyan Village, you'll reach a three-way intersection with another sign warning about wild cherry blossom management. Turn left at this point. Continue straight ahead until you reach a three-way intersection with a downhill slope. From there, a cement road continues forward, and you'll reach the mountain gate, where you'll arrive at Gexian Mountain.
Picture from the Internet
Picture from the Internet
Tips:
Flowering period: early March to late March
Driving time: about 3 hours
Clothing: Choose brightly colored, contrasting clothes
Catering: There is a temple on the mountain where you can eat vegetarian food for 15 yuan per person
Chongyang boasts 100,000 mu (approximately 1,000 acres) of wild cherry blossoms, spread across the townships of Jinsha, Qingshan, Tongzhong, and Gangkou. The mountain range from Xitingyan in Gangkou to Baiyan Mountain in particular boasts tens of thousands of mu (approximately 1,000 acres). These wild cherry blossoms are single-petaled, with either white or pink flowers. Xitingyan, part of the Longquan Mountain Range, lies 5 kilometers south of Gangkou Township. Its main peak is 696.7 meters above sea level, and its total area covers approximately 9 square kilometers. From a high point, the view is breathtaking, with clusters of pink and white covering the entire mountainside. Like a sky filled with stars or rustling snow, the blossoms shimmer in the gentle spring breeze, adorning the hillside with a pristine beauty.
Image from pxhere
To enjoy wild cherry blossoms in Chongyang, head to Daling Mountain. Follow the Mufu Mountain Tourist Highway to Daling Village. The Daling Ten Thousand Mu Wild Cherry Blossom Orchard is located at the southeast foothills of Daling Village. Spread across the mountains, at an average altitude of 800 meters, it covers an area of approximately 14,000 mu. From March to April, the white and pink cherry blossoms bloom, attracting a constant stream of visitors.
Image from pxhere
Image from pxhere
Tips:
Flowering period: mid-March to late March
Driving time: about 3 hours, you can navigate to Xitingyan, Gangkou Township, Chongyang County
Xitingyan Cherry Blossom Viewing Route: Hangrui Expressway (Chongyang Exit) - Tiangao Expressway - Provincial Highway S246 - Xiaodonggang Shenjiadun
Daling Wanmu Wild Cherry Garden Flower Viewing Route: Hangrui Expressway (Chongyang Exit) → Tiangao Expressway (4 km) → Mufu Mountain Tourist Highway → Chuanchongkou, Foling Village (4 km to the right) → Daling Village (Aoshang Village)
"Zhuangzi dreamed of butterflies in the morning, and King Wang placed his spring love on the cuckoo." - Li Shangyin
"In April, Macheng is the perfect place to see azaleas." Macheng is the perfect place to see azaleas near Wuhan. Macheng boasts over one million mu (approximately 1,000 hectares) of wild azaleas. Compared to rapeseed flowers and cherry blossoms, azaleas bloom later.
Guifeng Mountain boasts three unique attractions, the first of which is its vast sea of azaleas. Thanks to long-standing conservation efforts, Guifeng Mountain boasts an exceptionally healthy ecological environment, boasting over 100,000 mu (approximately 1,300 meters) of wild azaleas. At approximately 1,300 meters above sea level, most of the azaleas can be found at the summit, accessible via a cable car or hiking trails. Once at the summit, walk along the ridge, where azaleas blanket the mountainside on both sides. From the summit, overlooking the sea of blossoms, the breathtaking scene is beyond words.
Image from Baoyu
During peak season, we recommend against taking the cable car as long lines can significantly disrupt your itinerary. The trail ascends, passing Guishou, Baishoutai, the Anti-Japanese War Holy Land, Nengren Zen Temple, and a sea of azaleas. After enjoying the scenery, you can take the cable car back down. After descending, or before ascending, you can visit the Azalea Expo Park, located within the Guifeng Mountain Scenic Area. The park displays a variety of azaleas, including grafted and natural varieties and colors. While not as stunning as the natural azalea fields on the mountain, it offers a unique visual experience and is well worth a visit.
Image from China-TravelNote
Image from China-TravelNote
Tips:
Flowering period: mid-April to early May
Ticket price: 60 yuan/person in off-season, 120 yuan/person in peak season (peak season: April 1 to May 31)
Cableway: 60 yuan/person/time for upward travel, 60 yuan/person/time for downward travel, combined ticket 100 yuan/person/time
Transportation: 1. Drive. 2. Take a tourist bus from the Macheng Old Bus Station to the Guifeng Mountain Scenic Area.
Yunwu Mountain, renowned for its majestic peaks, forms the transition zone between the Dabie Mountains and the Jianghan Plain. Covering a total area of 25 square kilometers, the mountain boasts distinct seasons, abundant sunshine, plentiful rainfall, and a pleasant climate. Forest coverage exceeds 95%, creating a tranquil and tranquil atmosphere filled with a sense of wilderness. The mountain is also rich in water resources, with a crisscrossing network of rivers and streams, interspersed with springs and waterfalls, and dotted with shallows and pools.
The main scenic spots of Yunwu Mountain include: Shili Flower Mountain, Bali Liuxi, Buddhism and Taoism, and the thousand-year-old ancient village. The Shili Flower Mountain is especially famous for the rhododendrons that bloom in full bloom in March and April every year, with a riot of colour all over the mountain.
The scenic area has developed Dinosaur Valley, Ice Sculpture Hall, Yunwu Mountain Wax Figure Variety Hall, Animation Water World and Equestrian Club, all of which make visitors enjoy themselves.
Image from China-TravelNote
Image from China-TravelNote
{tips
Flowering period: early April to early May
Tickets: 80 yuan/person in peak season, 50 yuan/person in off-season (peak season is from March 20th to May 31st)
Driving route: Hankou - Huangpi - Dayi - Liji - Paulownia - Yunwu Mountain
{/tips}
White clouds and yellow cranes are timeless legends, while lofty mountains and flowing waters seek a soulmate. Come to Wuhan and step into spring, wander through a sea of flowers, and explore the surrounding hidden flower-viewing routes. There's always a flower you'll fall in love with!
