Soft white dusts the vibrant hues of pale pink and scarlet red dotting the wizened branches of trees that seem to stretch on endlessly. Further off lies the lush green of Jade Spring Hill, perfectly framing the plum trees before your eyes. The sight of the 5,000 odd plum trees of Lingfeng Tanmei laden with the pink blossoms in the midst of winter is guaranteed to astound the visitors of the Hangzhou Botanical Garden.

Yet the garden’s beauty is not exclusive to winter. Sprawled over 230 hectares, nature’s jewels bedazzle visitors year round with 6 sections open to public. With spring comes the white tide of the Yulan trees while the pagoda roofed shelters provide respite from the heat of summer, surrounded by the calming hues of the lotus drifting atop the small lakes and ponds. Let the scents of herbs and spices exalt you in fall at the Medicinal garden which features a diverse array of medicinal plants, some of which are endemic to the Hangzhou region. For the avid botanist, half the gardens have been dedicated to research where visitors learn more about plant cultivation and preservation. A feast for the senses, the Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a must for those looking for a relaxing day amidst the fruits of nature.