Cherry blossoms a rite of spring

Gucun Park in Shanghai's Baoshan district hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival from March 30 to April 20, when more than 10,000 cherry trees bloom.[Photo/China Daily]

Late March and early April is the time for cherry blossoms, when the white, pink and peachy petals make a powerful dance on a thousand trees in the gentle breezes of Gucun Park in Shanghai's Baoshan district.

The largest forestry park in the city hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival from March 30 to April 20, when more than 10,000 cherry trees, many more than half century old, bloom across 130,000 square meters.

Matchmaking is usually a theme of the spring season, especially under the cherry trees.

Shows of folk arts are another highlight in the park. The Baoshan International Folk Museum has an exhibition hall and folk craft lounge with displays and interactive exhibitions of intangible cultural heritage.

During the Cherry Blossom Festival, the museum hosts displays of Yuepu gongs, Luodian dragon boats, Yanghang row prints, Luojing cross crochet, Dachang folk instruments and Nantong whistle kites.

Taking a stroll through the trees promises to be a refreshing experience, followed by boating on the lake and a close-up look at water birds. Bicycles are also available for rent.

The Hengshan Beijiao Hotel and a barbecue grill house beside the river offer hearty fare for a day outside. Visitors can also enjoy sports including football, tennis and basketball. Winners receive a free membership at a gym in the park.

Carnival trains are available for children along with a pirate ship and mini drama theater. Five wooden cottages beside river offer a place for parties with their friends.

Visitors who wish to bring a bit of green home can pick up Bonsai plants, vegetables and fruits grown in Baoshan district.