In ancient times, there was no term for "peony"; all were referred to as "shao yao" (medicinal herb). It wasn't until the Tang Dynasty under Wu Zetian that the term "peony" began to be used for tree peonies. During the Kaiyuan period of the Tang Dynasty, peonies flourished in Chang'an, while in the Song Dynasty, Luoyang was deemed the best, and Tianpeng was considered the top in the Former Shu. On July 15, 2019, the China Flower Association issued a vote titled "national flower in my heart" on the Chinese Forestry website and the association's site, inviting the public to express their views on the national flower. The response was enthusiastic, with nearly 80% voting for the peony, highlighting its deep emotional connection with the public.
As an ornamental plant, peonies have been cultivated in China for at least 1,400 years, with abundant historical records. In China, there are the Heze peonies in the north and the Luoyang peonies in the south. So, where in Beijing can you find the most storied peonies? Where can you enjoy them with the richest cultural atmosphere? Today, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism recommends three great spots.
Recommended viewing period: From the last week of April to mid-May
Recommended viewing locations: Jingshan Park, Jietai Temple, and Garden of Compassion and Tranquility (Cining Garden)
Jingshan Park
April is the most beautiful time of the year in sunny Beijing. During this month, Jingshan Park hosts an annual "Peony Flower Exhibition." It is said that the history of peony cultivation in Jingshan Park dates back to the Yuan Dynasty. When the capital city was established during the Yuan Dynasty, Jingshan was already a royal garden where a large number of peonies were planted. This peony garden features renowned varieties traditional to imperial gardens, including the famous Luoyang peony, Heze peony, and rare types such as Gansu peonies, Jiangsu-Zhejiang peonies, and even Japanese peonies. It is celebrated for its "tall plant shape, long tree age, large flower size, and brilliant colors," making it a highlight of Beijing.
Currently, Jingshan Peony Garden has around 7,000 peony plants, including treasured varieties. When in full bloom, the garden is "filled with an ocean of heavenly fragrance, with flowers of every hue competing in vibrant display." It truly embodies the essence of beauty, captivating anyone who encounters it.
In recent years, Jingshan Park has also introduced nighttime peony viewing during the blooming season. Gardeners have installed 350 LED wall-wash lights and 36 colored lights to illuminate the park, creating a dynamic display of colors that change in a moment. The lighting enhances the beauty of the peonies' shapes, and the park has added signage for premium peonies, showcasing traditional Chinese elements such as peonies, koi fish, and poetry. The classic peony poems, along with the surrounding ancient architecture, red walls, old trees, and famous flowers, create a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere.
Jietai Temple
The best time to view peonies at Jietai Temple is from late April to early May. The peonies here are precious varieties, mostly with vibrant colors and large blooms. The layered peonies come in shades of pink, white, yellow, and red. During the blooming season, the peonies at Jietai Temple are in full splendor, filling visitors with beautiful prayers for wealth, good fortune, and happiness as they enjoy the flowers and pay their respects.
The ancient peonies at Jietai Temple exude a rich cultural heritage. Not only do they bloom beautifully and release a delightful fragrance, but they also display a captivating array of forms. Peonies were planted here as early as the Qing Dynasty. Historical records state that in the 29th year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1764), he gifted peonies to Jietai Temple, which were planted in the northern courtyard. In the 10th year of the Guangxu Emperor's reign (1884), due to internal power struggles, Prince Gong, Yi Xin, was dismissed by Empress Dowager Cixi and came to Jietai Temple to recover from illness. He funded extensive renovations of the northern courtyard and brought in several precious peony varieties from Gongwangfu, including a rare specimen—black peony. As the courtyard became filled with peonies, it became known as the peony courtyard.
Cining Garden in the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City in Beijing features four gardens. Compared to the dignified Imperial Garden, the compact and beautiful Ningshou Garden, and the splendid Jianfu Garden, the Cining Garden is noted for its "elegant charm and serene tranquility." This large garden, established during the Ming Dynasty, was originally a place for the Empress Dowagers, Empresses, and Imperial Concubines of the Ming and Qing Dynasties to relax and pray.
Covering an area of 6,800 square meters, the garden is approximately 130 meters long from north to south and 50 meters wide from east to west. The northern part includes 11 structures, such as the Linxi Pavilion and the Xianruo Pavilion, while the southern area is lush with flowers and trees. Surrounding the Linxi Pavilion and the front yard of the Xianruo Pavilion, peonies are densely planted in flower beds. The peonies bloom in splendid grandeur, beloved by Chinese courts and scholars throughout history. They are not only an important subject in painting but also often used to adorn various crafts. The Palace Museum once held an exhibition titled "Peony-themed Cultural Relics of the Palace Museum," showcasing 186 pieces of cultural artifacts. The displayed decorative items varied widely in style, fully highlighting the peony's graceful beauty and charm. The interplay of cultural relics and flowers brings together vibrant colors and exquisite craftsmanship.
