March is here, and soon spring will be as well. It's time to start thinking about a getaway. If you have no clue where to go, CGTN recommends four destinations to consider this month.
Natural landscapes dotted with spring flowers and a healthy dose of ancient Chinese architecture are all on order.
Nyingchi, Tibet Autonomous Region, SW China
Some say the spring of Tibet is Nyingchi, a prefecture-level city in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Situated at the lower reaches of Yarlung Zangbo River, with mountains and valleys aplenty. Its unique geographical features have attracted many tourists.
Yarlung Zangbo River is the top attraction here. It's the longest river of the autonomous region and locals often call it the "River from Heaven." They consider it their mother river that has cultivated the Tibetan culture.
Don't miss the annual Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival when you come in March. Peach blossoms mark the beginning of spring in Nyingchi, and the festival takes place in late March, lasting for about a month.
There are several places to appreciate blooming flowers during the festival: Gala Village, Bomi, Suosong Village and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon. Gala Village, for instance, is a typical peach-growing village where several ceremonies of the flower festival take place.
You can book a sightseeing tour or enjoy a self-guided road trip. Either way, come and immerse yourself in the fragrance and festivities together with friendly local Tibetans.
Hongcun, Anhui Province, east China
Next, head to Hongcun Ancient Village, located at Yi County, Huangshan City in east China's Anhui Province. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts well-preserved original Anhui architecture and is often called an "old village in a painting" for its excessively traditional look.
Several scenes of the classic Chinese movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon were filmed here in Hongcun.
The unique Anhui architecture often leaves a lasting impression on visitors. The buildings are decorated in simple colors, yet they are furnished with delicate carvings.
It normally takes a day or two to wander around the village, admire the landscape and try local delicacies. In March, visitors will find blooming rapeseed flowers bringing a pop of yellow to the already beautiful village.
Zhangping, Fujian Province, SE China
Japan may seem like the only place to admire cherry blossoms in spring, but it's not. China has its own destination. Consider visiting Yongfu Town in Zhangping, southeast China's Fujian Province.
Hailed as the "town of flowers", Yongfu is home to cherry trees that are in full bloom during springtime.
Just like Nyingchi, Yongfu Town holds an annual flower festival as well, except it features multi-color cherry blossoms. Each year, large crowds of visitors from all over China swarm to the small town where blooming cherry blossoms and fresh tea leaves make a perfect spring outing.
Wuyuan, Jiangxi Province, SE China
Wuyuan in east China's Jiangxi Province boasts one of the most beautiful countrysides in China, featuring natural scenery and ancient Huizhou architecture.
In March, it turns into a paradise of rapeseed flowers, attracting thousands who visit the yellow fields.
There are three major tour routes, the East Line, North Line and West Line. The East Line features beautiful ancient villages, including Jiangling Village and Huangling Village that offer picturesque views of rapeseed flowers.
The North Line leads you to Qinghua Town where you can see the Rainbow Bridge and Wolong Valley. Along the West Line, you'll enjoy more secluded scenery as well as the Jinshan Ecological Tea Garden where you can enjoy a pot of local tea.
Now all that's left is to decide which destination you'll visit before the month ends.
