As the high summer settles in Kunming, lotus flowers come into bloom. Slowly unfurling one after another, the flowers help give the city its "Spring City" reputation. To see the spectacle, there are several parks in Kunming where people can feast their eyes on the blooming lotus plants.

Daguan Park

Lotuses at Daguan Park begin blooming in July. [Photo/kunming.cn]

Daguan Park added eight new lotus plant areas this year by planting lotuses along its two-kilometer lakeshore. Approximately 30 percent of the plants are now blooming in the park.

Ticket: 10 yuan ($1.61)

Open time: 7:00 – 18:00

Address: Daguan Road No 72

Transportation: Bus 4, 22, 54, 52, and 100

Cuihu Lake Park

The tradition of planting lotuses at Cuihu Lake Park can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). "Fishes swim in ten-acre lotus pond" is the true portrayal of the park given by ancient Chinese people.

The park has the largest variety of lotus species in Kunming, with more than 100. Water-grown lotuses occupy a water area of 26,667 square meters. There are also 500 potted lotuses of over 80 species.

Ticket: Free

Open time: 7:00-22:00

Address: Cuihunan Road No 67, Wuhua district

Transportation: Bus 1, 85, 100, 101, 125, 139, 133, 235

Wujiatang Wetland Park

Lotuses bloom at Wujiatang Wetland Park. [Photo/kunming.cn]

Wujiatang is Kunming's first wetland park. It is comprised mainly of a water area and wetland and intertidal zone. It occupies a total area of 86.67 hectares, four times the size of Cuihu Lake Park.

When summer comes, the lotuses will fully bloom in the ponds, creating a picturesque view capable of inspiring the least imaginative artists. Strolling on gallery bridges or rowing in the lake, visitors can find bliss in the fragrant air and summer breeze.

Ticket: 30 yuan

Open time: 9:00-17:00

Address: Liujia village, Guandu town

Transportation: self-driving