Gnarled ancient plum branches bloom quietly against red walls, while pink and white blossoms on the Dianchi Lake greenway dance in harmony with soaring black-headed gulls—a scene that captures Kunming’s distinctive sense of winter.

While snow still blankets northern lands, the branches of Kunming, known as the “Spring City,” are already in bloom. In a city where flowers can be found year-round, mid-January to early February is considered the prime season for viewing plum blossoms.

Heilongtan Park: A Showcase of Hundreds of Plum Varieties

For plum blossom viewing in Kunming's winter, Heilongtan Park is undoubtedly the top choice. The 30th Plum Blossom Exhibition has officially kicked off, with over a hundred varieties of plum blossoms blooming in succession across the garden, painting a poetic picture of "winter branches braving the cold to greet spring breezes."

The plum blossoms here come in diverse forms and rich colors—ranging from pure white to deep pink—weaving a vivid winter floral scene. Right now, it’s the peak viewing period: wandering through the garden, you can feast your eyes on the countless graceful postures of different plum blossom varieties in one go, and soak up the transitional beauty between late winter and early spring.

Daguan Park: Plum Blossoms Framed by Historic Pavilions

The beauty of plum blossoms in Daguan Park lies in their perfect integration with historic architecture. Against the backdrop of classic pavilions and halls such as Lansheng Pavilion, Ranweng Pavilion, and Cuigeng Pavilion, the quietly blooming plum blossoms exude an enduring elegance.

Admiring plum blossoms here is like gazing at a living Chinese freehand painting. The plum blossoms breathe life into the ancient buildings, while the upturned eaves and dark tiles frame a poetic backdrop for the flowers—creating a unique charm that transcends time.

Huating Temple: Ancient Plum Trees and a Sense of Serenity 

For those seeking tranquility and history, Huating Temple on the Western Hills is a must-visit. The temple grounds are home to an ancient plum tree estimated to be around 250 years old. Its gnarled, twisting branches bear blossoms that release a subtle fragrance on the breeze, blending with the quiet temple architecture to create a profound sense of Zen.

Here, admiring plum blossoms is more than just a visual delight—it is a moment of spiritual repose. Having stood the test of time, the ancient plum tree blooms in serene silence, accompanied by the sound of bells and chants, everything falling into perfect balance.

Dianchi Greenway: Strolling by the Lake as Spring Awakens

For the most authentic Kunming-style plum blossom experience, head to Dianchi Greenway. Amid the gentle January breezes and gull cries, the plum blossoms on the Chenggong section of the greenway have already unfurled their first blooms.

Cycling or strolling here, you’ll find the boundless blue water of Dianchi Lake on one side and newly bloomed plum blossoms on the other, with black-headed gulls flitting gracefully overhead. Together, they form a vivid "ink painting of early spring", capturing the vibrant energy of winter in the Spring City.

Kunming’s delightful plum blossom days are a vivid slice of Yunnan: A Many-Splendored Life. It is this unique warmth and beauty that draw countless visitors from other provinces to slow down and extend their stay in Kunming during winter.

Here, winter is not the end of all things, but a gentle prelude to another splendid floral feast.

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: Vivian, Rachel)