China's spring blooms draw tourists, boost local economies

The vibrant bloom of flowers across China not only delights the eyes but also fuels economic prosperity as the blossoms are drawing flocks of tourists to stimulate local business.

In southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Taigong Mountain has become a popular tourist destination with its vast blankets of plum trees each March. Locals have nurtured these plum trees for over 30 years, attracting numerous visitors to admire the blossoms.

"We come to Taigong Mountain every year to enjoy white plum blossoms. Flowers are everywhere, and we feel very comfortable," said a tourist.

In Wuxi City of east China's Jiangsu Province, the Yuantouzhu scenic area has become a popular destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts since mid-March.

Known as one of the world's three sakura viewing resorts, the 850-square-kilometer area is home to more than 30,000 cherry trees. The arrival of the cherry blossom season has attracted a steady stream of tourists to the scenic spot.

It has received over 8.2 million visitors this year alone, a 5.6 percent year-on-year growth, generating over 6 billion yuan (about $833 million) in tourism revenue, a 9.6 percent year-on-year increase.

In east China's Jiangxi Province, colorful rapeseed flowers have bloomed in various places, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The colorful rapeseed flowers are the scientific research achievements of Professor Fu Donghui and his team at Jiangxi Agricultural University in Nanchang City over the past decade.

These flowers not only have high aesthetic value but also produce a high oil yield, contributing to increased income for the local people.

Currently, the number of flower colors has reached 70 thanks to the persistent efforts of Fu and his team, further enhancing the ornamental value and economic benefits of rapeseed cultivation.

Fu is leading his team to collaborate with well-known tourist destinations, ensuring that these vibrant blooms refresh tourism products in Jiangxi.