Visitors stroll through the Chenshan Botanical Garden. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]
Shanghai’s Chenshan Botanical Garden is set to welcome the upcoming Chinese New Year — the Year of the Snake — with its annual flower festival running from Jan 27 to Feb 16.
The event will showcase a vibrant array of peonies and alpine rhododendrons, with four distinct display areas highlighting different facets of these exquisite flowers.
The “Golden Snake’s Spring Dance” zone at the entrance hall features a stunning collection of golden and black peonies, set amidst intricately shaped tropical plants.
A vibrant floral display at the Chenshan Botanical Garden. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]
In the Quarry Garden, the “Peonies Bathed in Spring Dawn” exhibit showcases artificially cultivated peonies against the backdrop of the quarry’s picturesque landscape.
The “A Masterstroke Awakens Spring” section in Greenhouse A boasts over 30 varieties of alpine rhododendrons arranged to represent various historical periods and cultural styles.
Flowers bloom at the Chenshan Botanical Garden, creating a festive atmosphere for the Spring Festival. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]
The “Pavilion of Spring Scents” exhibit near Gate 2 offers a closer look at 60 individual peony cultivars, accompanied by detailed information boards and a display of peony-derived products.
Festive decorations and popular seasonal blooms at the Chenshan Botanical Garden usher in the Chinese New Year. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]
In addition to the floral displays, the festival will immerse visitors in a festive atmosphere with traditional decorations such as red lanterns and New Year-themed ornaments. Greenhouse C will showcase popular holiday plants like moth orchids, cymbidium orchids, and amaryllis, enhancing the celebratory ambiance.
Free entry for those born in Year of the Snake
To enrich the visitor experience, the botanical garden has curated a variety of engaging activities.
Those born in the Year of the Snake can enter for free during the Chinese New Year holiday from Jan 28 to Feb 4 upon presenting valid identification.
The Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac tradition begins on Jan 29 this year. This zodiac year occurs every 12 years, with past Years of Snake including 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965 and 1953.
A scenic view within the Chenshan Botanical Garden. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]
A “Five Blessings” scavenger hunt will invite participants to discover hidden treasures throughout the garden, while daily events including quizzes, craft workshops, and a lantern riddle event on the day of the Lantern Festival promise an immersive cultural experience.
Couples can avail themselves of a special offer on Feb 14, where one ticket grants admission for two individuals.
Furthermore, on Feb 3, or the sixth day of the Chinese New Year, guests donating used books in good condition (excluding textbooks) will receive free admission for the day.
These donated books will be shared with all visitors through mobile bookshelves strategically placed around the garden, fostering a spirit of generosity and knowledge-sharing among attendees.
Source: Shanghai Observer
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