ALTHOUGH an urban landscape of Shenzhen being blanketed by white snow will never happen, the city is now adorned with the breathtaking sight of plum flowers, with white plums currently in full bloom in many locations in the city. The delicate blossoms, characterized by their vibrant shades of pink and white, create a stunning contrast against the crisp winter air, ushering in the city’s romantic winter flower-viewing season. The iconic Shenzhen Plum Garden in Futian District is the largest and most diverse plum blossom viewing site within Shenzhen’s urban area. Covering an area of 15,000 square meters, the garden is home to nearly 2,000 plum trees, offering a captivating atmosphere where people can stroll along the winding paths which are enveloped by the sweet fragrance of the blooming flowers. So far the flowers at Shenzhen Plum Garden have reached their peak bloom, with the best flower-viewing period lasting till the end of this month. The Maluan Mountain Plum Garden within Sanzhoutian Forest Park in Pingshan District is said to be the largest plum blossom viewing location in Shenzhen with a large collection of plum trees, which offers a spectacular display during the blooming season. Numerous other scenic spots throughout the city also offer great views of the exquisite plum flowers. Places like Shenzhen Central Park, Litchi Park, and Meilin Reservoir Greenway are ideal to appreciate the seasonal charm. The Meilin greenway features 2,507 plum trees of three different types along 5 kilometers, providing an idyllic backdrop for leisurely walks and photography. White plums at Litchi Park in Futian District have been known for their delightful fragrance, while the elegant hues of pink and pure white at Central Park in Futian District add a touch of grace to the urban environment. The sequential blooming of various plum varieties not only enhances the visual splendor but also extends the viewing period, allowing flower enthusiasts to enjoy the spectacle from mid-January to March. In addition to the plum blossoms, Gazania flowers create a stunning tapestry of colors, brightening the landscape with striking hues of orange, yellow, white, red and pink. Gazania flowers are in full bloom at Xili Ecological Park in Nanshan District. White, pink and red flowers create a vibrant sea of colors, with pathways winding through the flower field for visitors to get closer to the blossoms. The Gazanias’ distinctive, broad petals open wide under the sun and close at night, showcasing a lively display that changes throughout the day. Visitors to Xili Ecological Park can enjoy leisurely strolls along winding paths adorned with these cheerful flowers. Flower-viewing sites: Shenzhen Plum Garden Add: Intersection of Beihuan Boulevard and Antuoshan 9th Road, Futian District Metro: Line 2 to Qiaoxiang Station, Exit C, and walk for about 800 meters Maluan Mountain Plum Garden Add: The eastern section of Sanzhoutian Forest Park, Pingshan District Transport: It is advised to drive there. Central Park Add: No. 1002 Huanggang Road, Futian District Metro: Line 1 to Huaqiang Road Station, Exit B; or Line 3 or 7 to Huaxin Station, Exit F Litchi Park Add: No. 1001 Hongling Road Central, Futian District Metro: Line 3 or 9 to Hongling Station, Exit F Meilin Reservoir Greenway Add: Meilin 2nd Road, Futian District Metro: Line 9 to Xiameilin Station, Exit D Xili Ecological Park Add: Intersection of Tongle Road and Dashi 1st Road, Nanshan District Metro: Line 5 to Liuxiandong Station, Exit A (Claudia Wei) | 