Shanghai's Magnolia Reaches New Heights of Beauty

Here is a guide to enjoying the magnolia blossoms in Shanghai:

Blooming Time

According to the Shanghai Botanical Garden's monitoring, this year the magnolia's initial blooming period is delayed by 10-15 days compared to usual, with the peak bloom around mid-March.

Viewing Locations

- Lujiazui Central Green Space: You can capture the magnolias alongside the iconic Lujiazui skyline. The magnolias are planted in large clusters, and photos under the "Returning Oasis" public sculpture are especially beautiful.

- People's Square: There is a row of magnolias here, perfect for framing with the landmark buildings and the church at People's Square. It’s easily accessible from Exit 20 of the People's Square Station on Metro Lines 1, 2, and 8.

- Longhua Temple: The thousand-year-old ancient temple complements the magnolias beautifully, creating a poetic atmosphere. After entering Longhua Temple, walk along the left side deeper inside to see them.

- Minhang Cultural Park: This park has the largest area of magnolia planting in Shanghai, including white and purple magnolias. You can also capture tulips here. The areas near Gates 2 and 3 are great spots for photos.

- Yanzhong Green Space: There is a lush magnolia tree here, and you can create mirror-like reflection effects at the nearby seaside palm grove.

- Shanghai Exhibition Center: Magnolias can be photographed alongside tulips and historic buildings. The West Friendship Hall front, West Garden, and East Garden are all excellent photo spots.

Photography Tips

- Choose the right time: Early morning or late afternoon light is soft and can highlight the translucency of the petals, avoiding harsh shadows caused by strong midday sunlight.

- Find a simple background: Use blue sky or building walls as backgrounds to make the pure white magnolia flowers stand out and reduce distractions.

- Try different angles: Shoot upwards with the sky as the background to showcase the flower’s posture; shoot downwards to capture the tops and stamens of the flowers; close-ups can highlight intricate details.