Winter jasmine, also known as Jasminum floridum subsp. giraldii, has a cultivation history of over 1,000 years in China. It blooms in early spring, flowering before the leaves appear, with bright yellow flowers. Its early bloom heralds the arrival of spring, which is reflected in its name. In Beijing, forsythia is widely planted; where can you find the most unique displays? Here are some culturally rich spots for flower viewing.

Recommended viewing period: early March each year

Recommended locations: Beihai Park, Zhongshan Park, Jingshan Park, Ming City Wall Ruins Park, and the Dong 2 Huan Lu (E. 2 Ring Road) City Greenway

Beihai Park

The "Spring Shade of Qiong Island" on Qiong Hua Island is one of the eight scenic spots of Beijing. The large white marble stele inscribed with these characters is written in the hand of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty.

In spring, Qiong Hua Island sees various flowers blooming amidst the gentle breeze and swaying pines, creating a vivid atmosphere. Early-blooming winter jasmine beautifully complements the unique Taihu stones, forming lifelike shapes. The forsythia near the park's north gate, with its backdrop of mountains and proximity to water, is particularly popular among photographers.

Zhongshan Park

Zhongshan Park is Beijing's first public garden and one of the earliest royal parks. Originally a site for sacrificial ceremonies during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, its ancient architecture is imposing. In spring, winter jasmine brings vibrant life to the red walls and green tiles. The southwest mountain area boasts the most striking clusters of forsythia, with the southern slope being the first to reach full bloom, resembling a cascading yellow waterfall.

The Zhongshan Music Hall in the park is a haven for music lovers, hosting the China Philharmonic Orchestra and the Beijing Symphony Orchestra's seasons, as well as the Beijing International Music Festival.

Jingshan Park

Jingshan Park is home to towering ancient trees, distinctive peaks, grand palaces, and a variety of flowers. The five pavilions are arranged on the mountain, with Wanchun Pavilion located at the highest point of Beijing's central axis, enjoying both natural beauty and favorable conditions. In 2020, Wanchun Pavilion and Shouhuang Palace were included in the list of popular check-in spots in Beijing. 

The winter jasmines are scattered throughout the park, with their graceful branches cascading and their golden blooms charming visitors. Qiwang Tower, situated at the foot of the front mountain, was originally built in the Ming Dynasty as a grand hall for emperors to host guests. The forsythia flowers in front of Qiwang Tower add a touch of spring to the ancient architecture, while those along the mountain path enhance the experience as visitors ascend. Climbing to Wanchun Pavilion offers a panoramic view of the entire city, showcasing both the ancient Forbidden City and the modern landscape of Beijing. Enjoying the playful winter jasmine and appreciating the grandeur of the palace architecture makes this flower-viewing journey truly fulfilling.

Ming City Wall Ruins Park

Stretching from the east of Beijing Station to Chongwenmen in the west, the winter jasmine here may not be more abundant than elsewhere, but against the backdrop of the ancient gray city wall, they appear even more exquisite. 

Capturing a photo of forsythia with the wall highlights the vibrant contrast of Pantone's 2021 color of the year: ultimate gray and bright yellow. The park is also home to many ancient trees, predominantly Chinese scholar trees. With ancient trees in the background and the beauty of spring in the foreground, it creates a stunning visual.

Dong 2 Huan Lu (E. 2 Ring Road) City Greenway

If you can't make it to the parks, walking or biking along the Dong 2 Huan Lu (E. 2 Ring Road) is a wonderful alternative. You don't need to search for blooms; you can encounter spring along the way. Winter jasmine grows in a band along the second ring road, particularly flourishing from Chaoyangmen Qiao (Bridge) to Dongbianmen Qiao (Bridge), spanning several kilometers. The delicate yellow winter jasmine looks even more charming against the backdrop of pines, their branches seemingly bowing to passersby.