China’s cherry blossom season turns parks, lakes, and temple grounds into dreamy pink landscapes from late February through April. From Beijing’s grand festivals to Kunming’s early temple blooms, these destinations offer diverse hanami-style experiences across the country. Whether you’re planning a spring getaway, photography trip, or romantic stroll, here are the top 10 cherry blossom spots in China, each with peak bloom timing, entry details, and what makes them unique.
1. Yuyuantan Park, Beijing
Yuyuantan Park is northern China’s largest cherry blossom destination, featuring more than 3,000 trees across 25 hectares. Blooming from early to late April, it hosts Beijing’s famous Cherry Blossom Festival, attracting visitors for lakeside picnics and paddle boat rides surrounded by pink petals. The urban setting makes it easily accessible, yet the vast grounds provide plenty of scenic viewpoints. Festival entry fees may apply during peak season, so arrive early for fewer crowds and ideal photography conditions. It’s the ultimate spring highlight for visitors exploring Beijing in April.
2. East Lake Cherry Blossom Garden, Wuhan
Wuhan’s East Lake Cherry Blossom Garden boasts over 10,000 cherry trees, making it one of central China’s most impressive sakura sites. Blooming from mid-March to early April, the lakeside scenery becomes even more magical with evening illuminations reflecting on the water. A moderate entry fee applies, especially during peak bloom. Many visitors combine their trip with nearby Wuhan University for extended flower viewing. The expansive lake views, soft spring weather, and night lights create a romantic, festival-like atmosphere perfect for couples and photographers alike.
3. Turtle Head Isle (Yuantouzhu), Wuxi
Often called China’s top sakura destination, Turtle Head Isle on Taihu Lake in Wuxi showcases around 30,000 cherry trees. From mid-March to early April, the peninsula transforms into a sea of blossoms overlooking tranquil waters. The International Cherry Blossom Festival features cultural performances and spectacular nighttime lighting. Visitors purchase festival tickets during peak bloom. Scenic viewpoints across the lake, combined with floating petals and illuminated trees after sunset, create an ethereal experience. It’s a must-visit spring destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and vibrant celebrations.
4. Gucun Park, Shanghai
Shanghai’s Gucun Forest Park spans 400 hectares and becomes a pink paradise during its mid-March to mid-April Cherry Blossom Festival. With affordable entry (around 20 RMB), it’s a family-friendly destination offering spacious lawns, picnic areas, and countless photo spots. Compared to central Shanghai parks, Gucun feels less crowded and more relaxed. Wide walking paths lined with cherry trees make it ideal for casual strolls and spring outings with children. If you’re visiting Shanghai in spring, this park provides the city’s most expansive and accessible sakura experience.
5. Longwangtan Cherry Blossom Park, Dalian
Longwangtan Park in Dalian features around 2,000 cherry trees originally gifted in the early 20th century. Blooming in late April, it offers one of northern China’s latest cherry blossom displays. Entry is free or low-cost, making it an easy day trip destination with coastal charm. The combination of ocean breezes and pastel blossoms creates a romantic atmosphere ideal for couples. The annual festival adds cultural events and local celebrations. For travelers exploring Liaoning Province, this scenic park provides a relaxed and picturesque spring retreat.
6. Prince Bay Park, Hangzhou
Prince Bay Park in Hangzhou is famous for blending cherry blossoms with over 30,000 tulips, creating colorful floral layers from late March to mid-April. Free to enter, it’s one of China’s most photographed spring parks and a popular wedding backdrop. Garden pathways curve through floral tunnels, offering peaceful lakeside views near West Lake. The combination of tulips and sakura makes it uniquely vibrant compared to other blossom-only parks. Visitors seeking a romantic, scenic walk in Zhejiang Province will find Prince Bay Park an unforgettable spring highlight.
7. Xuanwu Lake Park, Nanjing
Xuanwu Lake Park in Nanjing combines historic charm with cherry blossoms blooming from late March to mid-April. Sakura trees line scenic causeways, traditional pavilions, and lakeside paths, offering postcard-worthy views framed by Ming Dynasty city walls. Entry fees vary depending on the sections visited. Boating on the lake during peak bloom is especially popular, allowing visitors to glide beneath falling petals. The park’s blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it one of eastern China’s most poetic hanami spots for photographers and history lovers alike.
8. Nanshan Botanical Garden, Chongqing
Chongqing’s Nanshan Botanical Garden offers mid-March to early April cherry blossoms set against misty hills and subtropical greenery. A modest entrance fee applies. Elevated trails provide panoramic views of blooming trees layered across rolling terrain, creating a more natural, forested experience compared to urban parks. Diverse cherry varieties bloom at slightly different times, extending the viewing season. Nature lovers appreciate the peaceful hiking paths and cooler hillside air. This garden is ideal for travelers seeking a scenic escape from Chongqing’s busy city center.
9. Zhongshan Park, Qingdao
Zhongshan Park in Qingdao is famous for its 600-meter Cherry Blossom Road lined with over 20,000 trees. Blooming in mid-April, it’s one of northern China’s most photogenic sakura promenades, and entry is free. The coastal setting adds refreshing sea breezes, enhancing the spring atmosphere. Visitors stroll beneath dense pink canopies while enjoying the park’s 75 hectares of gardens and greenery. Its accessibility and dramatic blossom tunnel make it a favorite among photographers and families visiting Shandong Province during peak cherry blossom season.
10. Yuantong Temple, Kunming
Kunming’s Yuantong Temple offers China’s earliest cherry blossoms, blooming from late February to mid-March. Located in Yunnan Province’s mild climate, the sakura beautifully frames ancient Buddhist architecture, creating a serene spiritual atmosphere. Entry fees are low, and the early bloom period means fewer crowds compared to northern cities. Visitors can enjoy peaceful temple courtyards decorated with delicate pink petals under sunny skies. For travelers seeking an early spring escape in China, Yuantong Temple provides a tranquil and culturally rich cherry blossom experience.
Final Travel Tips for Cherry Blossom Season in China
Cherry blossom peak dates vary yearly depending on the weather, so always check local bloom forecasts before planning your trip. Weekdays and early mornings offer the best chance for fewer crowds and perfect photos. From southern temple blossoms in February to northern festivals in April, China’s sakura season offers diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Plan ahead, pack your camera, and enjoy one of Asia’s most beautiful spring spectacles.