ALTHOUGH spring is the time when flowers bloom, summer is the best time to observe a sea of flowers as far as the eye can see. Here are some places to do just that.

Nyingchi, Tibet

Nyingchi Prefecture in Tibet is known as Tibet’s Jiangnan (Jiangnan refers to the fertile and prosperous area to the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River). The climate is warm and wet, which is conducive to plants growing. It is a perfect summer resort with moderate temperature, attractive lakeside views, forests, snow-covered mountains and flowers.

In June, azaleas thrive on Shergyla Mountain, forming one of the most evocative scenes in Nyingchi. The flowers bloom from mid-April to July. June is the best time of year to see them.

Zagon Groove is also a must-go place in June as the precious wild paeonias can be found anywhere along the groove. The flower, which is on the brink of extinction, can now only be seen in a few areas of Sichuan, Yunnan and Tibet.

Transport: Fly to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, from Shenzhen airport and transfer to Nyingchi.

Delicacies: Tibetan chang, buttered tea, roast beef, roast lamb and local fried rice.

Shangri-La, Yunnan Province

Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian, is a small town in Yunnan Province dotted with hills, flowers and alpine lakes. The region offers numerous opportunities for hiking, botanical exploration as well as the discovery of Tibetan culture.

Many of the Tibetan villages on the outskirts of Shangri-La maintain ancient customs and traditions, attracting tourists from around the world.

In June, the region is awash with wild flowers. You can enjoy a quiet and cool night camping on the grassland and be lulled to sleep by the scent of flowers.

There are nature reserves in the region such as Bita and Napa Lake Nature Reserve, Haba Snow Mountain Reserve. The Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

Transport: Fly to Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province, from Shenzhen airport and transfer via a flight or a coach to Diqing Prefecture. Take a coach to Shangri-La from Diqing.

Delicacies: Steamed chicken soup, tofu rice noodle, pot rice noodle, roast pork ear and green bean noodle.

Ili, Xinjiang

Ili Kazak region in the northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has been described as “the most beautiful place in Xinjiang.” There is a saying in China that you cannot fathom how large China is until you go to Xinjiang and you cannot know how beautiful Xinjiang is until you go to Ili.

The prefecture is home to China’s largest lavender cultivations. The climate of Ili is similar to Provence. And its lavender fields are about 90 percent of the total lavender planting area in China. Every June, Ili becomes a sea of lavender. With the crystal blue sky, white poplar and purple lavender, it is the most romantic location imaginable.

Related products can be easily found, such as lavender oil and water.

Other scenic spots include Sayram Lake, Fruit Valley, Baiyan Peak, Qiongbula Grasslands, Schattdecor Canyon and Kalajun Grassland.

Transport: Fly to Urumqi, capital of Xinjiang, from Shenzhen airport and take a flight or train to Ili.

Delicacies: Hami melon, watermelon, apple, grape and barbecue lamb.

(Wang Yuanyuan)