'Green hikers' in an ocean of flowers

Peonies in Luoyang, Henan province

Henan

Peonies have been planted in the ancient imperial city since the Sui Dynasty (AD 581-618) and were most popular in the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907). Millions of tourists visit Luoyang in spring, just for a glimpse of the regal flower.

Luoyang boasts of more than 40 million peonies, comprising an incredible 1,000 species, which are scattered over more than 10 scenic spots, such as Luoyang National Peony Park, China National Flower Park and Suitang Arboretum.

The China Luoyang Peony Cultural Festival has been inscribed as a State-level intangible cultural heritage, and will be held from April 5 to May 5.

Aside from flower exhibitions, there will be a series of cultural events such as pageant performances, art exhibitions, Chinese chess competitions and group wedding ceremonies. Some intangible cultural heritage shows like Ruyang puppetry will also be performed at the festival.

During the Luoyang Peony Cultural Festival a pageant performance featuring “Tang Dynasty emperors” and their consorts on a spring outing is held.