EVERY year between late November and December when North China is covered with fallen withered leaves, Dali at its lower latitude brims with vigor and vitality, as local winter cherry blossoms come out one after another.

When talking about winter cherry blossoms, the renowned cherry blossom sea on Wuliang Mountain in Dali always first comes to mind. However, Dali has plenty of additional choices for taking a gander at the pink-and-white flowers with a romantic scent.

Wuliang Mountain,

where spring arrives first

Located in Nanjian in Dali, Wuliang Mountain, reputed as “the place where spring arrives first,” is a renowned place for appreciating cherry blossoms.

The cherry blossoms valley on Wuliang Mountain covers an area of about 1.3 square kilometers. Planted in a tea plantation, the cherry trees here actually provide protection for the tea trees. Every year between late November and mid-December, a huge span of cherry blossoms are in full bloom, providing a perfect view for taking pictures.

The best time for shooting is during sunrise and sunset. You can photograph the sunrise and maybe even the cloud sea in the tea plantation in tourist site No.1 from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. After the sun rises at 8 a.m., a better site for photographing the sun against the light is tourist site No. 2. In the morning, you can shoot around the houses near viewing platforms 1 and 2. In the afternoon around sunset, viewing platform 1 is the place best for shooting.

Dali Ancient Town,

ancient trees along stone roads

Dali Ancient Town is a must-visit for every one that comes here. The cherry blossoms bloom a bit later than those on Wuliang Mountain. Though there is not a huge span of cherry blossom forest, cherry trees in unique shapes dot the ancient town, adding a special touch to the antique background.

Wuhua Building in the center of the old town and Cangshan Gate which faces Cangshan Mountain in the west are all landmark buildings of the old town. Roofs with gray tiles, cornices and bucket arches perfectly match the red cherry blossoms on both sides.

When you come here, don’t forget to check out Yeyu Road inside the old town. On this road gather different types of coffee shops, craft beer bars and vintage clothes stores. You can also hang around the Chaimiduo Farm Community under its canopy of cherry blossoms.

On Boai Road you will encounter many inexpensive snack bars and antique markets. At the end of Cangping Street lies the art area that was transformed from an abandoned sheet factory.

Dali University,

cherry blossoms along Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake

Dali University, lying next to Cangshan Mountain and facing the Erhai Lake, is the place with the most densely-grown cherry blossom trees in the downtown area of Dali. Winter cherry blossoms bloom from November to December, while spring cherry blossoms bloom from late February to March.

Every year in March there will be open days for spring cherry blossoms, which will be announced on the official website of the university. When the flowers are in full bloom, the whole campus turns into a pink ocean, and you will be taking nice photos no matter which angle you choose. The best time for shooting during the day is in the morning or at around four or five o’clock in the afternoon.

Xiaguan,

cherry blossom road in the city

In Dali, it doesn’t take much effort to reach a cherry blossom place. Dali mainly consists of two parts: the downtown area in Xiaguan and Dali Ancient Town. Since December, walking in Xiaguan where cherry trees are planted everywhere, you will easily encounter the romantic flowers just around the corner.

On the way to Taoxi Valley on the hillside, Cangshan Boulevard is known for its cherry blossoms. Standing on the boulevard and looking toward Cangshan Mountain, you will be stunned by the spectacular view.

At sunset, it’s recommended to drive around the east bank of Erhai Lake, where withered trees accompany the cherry blossoms, presenting an artistic view.  (Chen Xiaochun)