A behind-the-scenes look at a Chinese beekeeper
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Real honey should not come from a factory but from bees. Since lychee flowers are in full bloom, professional beekeepers are flocking into south China’s Haikou City. /VCG Photo

Real honey should not come from a factory but from bees. Since lychee flowers are in full bloom, professional beekeepers are flocking into south China’s Haikou City. /VCG Photo

Gong Zhiguo is one of them. Almost 20 years of experience helps Gong know when and where he should head to for rare nectars in China. /VCG Photo

Gong Zhiguo is one of them. Almost 20 years of experience helps Gong know when and where he should head to for rare nectars in China. /VCG Photo

Gong hails from northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, where he became a beekeeper for the local linden honey. At age of 28, Gong started to travel across the country to follow the flowers – sophora flower in May, buckwheat flower in August and pumpkin flower in December. /VCG Photo

Gong hails from northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, where he became a beekeeper for the local linden honey. At age of 28, Gong started to travel across the country to follow the flowers – sophora flower in May, buckwheat flower in August and pumpkin flower in December. /VCG Photo

The man’s 700 beehives house is an everlasting family treasure. Joined by his wife and son, the honey produced by the bees has provided the family an income that enabled them to afford an apartment and a car. /VCG Photo

The man’s 700 beehives house is an everlasting family treasure. Joined by his wife and son, the honey produced by the bees has provided the family an income that enabled them to afford an apartment and a car. /VCG Photo