Seasonal Flower Watching Guide in Kunming
Spring (March - May)
Highlights:
Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early April marks the peak bloom for cherry blossoms, particularly in the Western Hills and around Dianchi Lake.
Rapeseed Flowers: Late March to late April sees vibrant fields of rapeseed flowers, with the best displays found in the nearby villages.
Peonies: In April, peonies open in gardens such as the Kunming Botanical Garden, showcasing their rich colours and fragrant blooms.
Tips:
Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Take a stroll around the Flower and Bird Market for local floral varieties.
Summer (June - August)
Highlights:
Lotus Flowers: The lotus ponds in the Kunming Green Lake Park come into full bloom during June and July, offering a serene atmosphere.
Sunflowers: Sunflower fields bloom in July and August, especially in Yanglin, providing a spectacular vista of golden blooms.
Tips:
Cool your visits around early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Bring a camera to capture the vast sunflower fields, as they make for stunning photographs.
Autumn (September - November)
Highlights:
Chrysanthemums: September through November is chrysanthemum season, particularly at the Kunming Flower Exhibition Centre. Expect a wide variety of colours and shapes.
Maples: October brings beautiful autumn foliage, with vibrant red and orange maple leaves in areas like the Western Hills.
Tips:
Enjoy the local chrysanthemum festival that often occurs in October, featuring exhibitions and flower displays.
Take advantage of the clearer skies for panoramic views of the changing foliage.
Winter (December - February)
Highlights:
Camellias: From December to February, camellias bloom in various parks, including the Yuantong Temple and the Botanical Garden.
Pansies and Violas: These hardy flowers thrive during the cooler months and can be seen in many public gardens, providing a splash of colour throughout the winter.
Tips:
Dress warmly while exploring outdoor gardens as the temperatures can drop.
Visit local flower markets to see potted winter blooms and add a touch of colour to your home.
A florist’s viewpoint
Kunming offers a spectacular floral display throughout the year, with each season presenting its own unique beauty. Plan your visits accordingly to witness the diverse blooms and enjoy the engaging garden displays that this charming city has to offer.
