As spring deepens, now is the perfect time to soak in nature's beauty. In April, Kunming's rhododendrons burst into bloom, painting the city in vibrant hues.

Known as the "Kingdom of Rhododendrons," China boasts over half the world's known species, and Kunming, With its uniquely favorable climate and achievements in scientific research and conservation, provides an unparalleled viewing experience.

To witness the rhododendron's splendor, consider visiting these prime viewing spots in Kunming and revel in spring's romantic gifts.

Kunming Black Dragon Pool Park

As the earth awakens, Black Dragon Pool Park in Kunming welcomes its annual Rhododendron Exhibition. From March 16th to April 28th, 2025, the 23rd exhibition unfolds, showcasing over 30 varieties and tens of thousands of rhododendron plants, creating a stunning visual spectacle for residents and visitors alike.

Photo from Culture and Tourism of Kunming WeChat Official Account 

Photo from Culture and Tourism of Kunming WeChat Official Account

The rhododendrons in the park display a rich palette of colors: fiery reds burning like flames, delicate pinks blushing like a young maiden, pristine whites as crystalline as snowflakes, and mysterious purples exuding unique allure. These colorful rhododendrons interweave, creating breathtaking scenes that leave visitors enchanted.

Photo from Kunming Black Dragon Pool WeChat Official Account

Black Dragon Pool Park's rhododendrons are a vibrant highlight. If you haven't yet experienced this sea of flowers, now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in its charm!

Photo from Kunming Black Dragon Pool WeChat Official Account

Kunming Botanical Garden

Step into Kunming Botanical Garden, and a feast for the senses is underway. The 3rd Rhododendron Exhibition is a living poem, awaiting every admirer.

Photo from Kunming Gardens (Kunming Yuanlin) WeChat Official Account

Running through April 30th, this exhibition transforms the Botanical Garden into a sea of rhododendrons. Stroll through the grounds, and every step is fragrant, every sight a wonder.

Photo from Kunming Gardens (Kunming Yuanlin) WeChat Official Account

Here, you can slow down and savor the nuances of each bloom, or capture the essence of spring with your camera.

Photo from Kunming Gardens (Kunming Yuanlin) WeChat Official Account

In addition, the Botanical Garden also offers children a chance to explore the wonders of nature with the 2025 "Extraordinary Rhododendron Messengers" scientific exploration activities. These activities delve into the natural mysteries of plant flower and leaf structures that have evolved since the age of dinosaurs, and explore multi-dimensional imaging of plants, biodiversity conservation, and the evolution of species interaction.

Photo from Kunming Gardens (Kunming Yuanlin) WeChat Official Account

Golden Temple (Jindian)

The Rhododendron Garden within the Golden Temple showcases a comprehensive collection, from common varieties to rare gems. April and May belong to the Rhododendron Garden, where dozens of species, each with unique textures, patterns, and colors, express and reveal their singular beauty.

Photo from  Kunming Golden Temple Scenic Area WeChat Official Account

In addition to the mid-to-high altitude rhododendrons that bloom in February, March, and April, the petite and exquisite Xijuan rhododendrons (Rhododendron hybridum Ker Gawl) will bloom until May or even June.

Photo from  Kunming Golden Temple Scenic Area WeChat Official Account

Jiaozi Snow Mountain

"One mountain divides into four seasons, each with distinct scenery." Located in Luquan Yi and Miao Autonomous County of Kunming City, Jiaozi Mountain is renowned for its sea of rhododendrons, primeval forests, alpine lakes, rime ice and snow, and the ethereal "Buddha's light" phenomenon.

If paradise has a blueprint, it is the sea of rhododendrons on Jiaozi Snow Mountain in spring and summer.

Photo from One Phone Travels Yunnan WeChat Official Accout

Each year from March to mid-April, Jiaozi Mountain, shedding its winter's "silver dress," reveals a captivating spring landscape. In lower elevations, the fiery rhododendron delavayi flowers bloom in abundance.

From early April to early May, the rhododendron impeditum flowers at Jiaozi Mountain's middle elevations are radiant and endlessly captivating.

From mid-May to July, the hundreds of rhododendron species at Jiaozi Mountain's higher elevations display a kaleidoscope of colors, particularly the elegant rhododendron lacteum flowers.

Photo from Shizai Yunnan WeChat Official Accout

Currently, the grasses and trees of Jiaozi Mountain are lush and green, and the streams are flowing gently, it's a cool and refreshing time to see the rhododendron sea.

This spring, immerse yourself in Kunming's rhododendron blooms and embrace the beauty of nature. Whether it's the vibrant scenes of Black Dragon Pool Park, the educational explorations of the Botanical Garden, the unique collections of the Golden Temple, or the cascading flowers of Jiaozi Snow Mountain, each location tells a story of the rhododendron's singular allure. Before spring fades and the blossoms wane, embark on a romantic rendezvous with Kunming's rhododendrons!