International journalists charmed by Nianhua Bay’s Cherry blossom
By Uaueza Kanguatjivi (Wuxi, China)
During a special event on March 22 this year, foreign journalists representing 32 developing countries embarked on an exclusive excursion to explore the picturesque Nianhua Bay.
These journalists were participants in an international media program titled “Travelogue of China,” co-hosted by Global Times Online (huanqiu.com) and the China Public Diplomacy Association (CPDA), following their recent tour of the ecological project at Taihu Lake.
Renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms during the springtime, Nianhua Bay captivates crowds with its breath-taking scenery, particularly during the International Cherry Blossom Festival. Promising an unforgettable experience for travellers, Nianhua Bay is a vital part of the Lingshan Buddhist cultural complex, embodying the essence of “Zen” as its overarching theme.
Located at the convergence of clouds and waters on the edge of Taihu Lake, Nianhua Bay Zen Town resembles a lotus with five petals, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Opened to the public in 2015, Nianhua Bay introduced the concept of “Zen” living, reflecting a contemporary desire for a slower pace of life and inner peace.
During their walk the journalist experienced joy and comfort. Nianhua Bay swiftly became one of the most appealing features of the area. In 2023, Nianhua Bay was recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism as one of the first national-level night-time culture and tourism consumption clusters.
During their exclusive tour, journalists experienced joy and comfort as they strolled through the Cherry Blossom Valley. Wuxi-based tour guide, Gao Shelly, highlighted the diverse array of cherry blossom trees, with over 100 styles of Sakura trees adorning the landscape.
“Sakura,” a term for cherry blossoms, signifies the delicate beauty and transient nature of these flowers.
Gao elaborated on the distinct shapes of cherry blossoms, noting that some display a single layer while others boast multiple layers, creating a visually captivating display. She emphasized the romantic symbolism associated with cherry blossoms, attributing their heart-shaped petals to their allure as a symbol of love and romance.
“There is a large group of cherry blossom trees here. There are more than 100 styles of Sakura trees here,” Gao said.
Journalists enjoyed different styles of the lotus flower. Gao explained the Turtle Head Peninsula and the name for the private villa garden was Heng Yun Villa has been in existence since 1916.
According to Gao the International Cherry Blossom Festival, which commenced on March 8th, showcases the enchanting beauty of these blossoms, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant colours and fragrant blooms.
As the festival progresses and the middle flowers bloom, the night park will open to tourists, offering a magical ambiance illuminated by the soft glow of cherry blossoms.
“Once the, middle flowers bloom, the night park will open to tourists. We have more than 100 styles. The flowers colour, most of them are pink or white.
“Even red, even red. However, if you compare, look carefully, you can see there are some of them because 100 styles. Most of them, most of time, look similar.”
“Nonetheless if you look carefully, you can see a little bit different. The heart shape means each petal, the shape is a little bit like a heart) shape. This is why the flower is considered as a romantic flower.
“We say heart shape because it can be compared to a heart, flowers,” she added.
What makes the Cherry Blossoms differ in shape Gao says is that some of the flowers, they are a single layer. Single layer. One can find several layers.”
Nianhua Bay, with its breath-taking natural scenery and rich cultural legacy, is a monument to the eternal beauty of cherry blossoms and their lasting significance in Chinese culture.
During their visit to Nianhua Bay, the journalists were delighted and captured the beauty of the cherry blossom valley, sharing expressions of admiration and love.
They enthusiastically took photographs, documenting their memorable experience amidst the stunning scenery. Additionally, they seized the opportunity to take pictures with their hosts, marking the conclusion of their enriching journey.