East Lake Cherry Blossom Park, also known as 东湖樱花园 in Chinese, is a captivating natural wonder located in the heart of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Spanning an expansive 260 acres, this enchanting park is home to a breathtaking display of over 10,000 cherry blossom trees. This veritable sea of blossoms has earned East Lake Cherry Blossom Park its reputation as one of the most spectacular destinations for cherry blossom enthusiasts worldwide.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 7.00 – 17.00. During Cherry Blossom Festival, the time will be extended to 22.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-027-87510179 |
Location and Transportation
East Lake Cherry Blossom Park is located in the Hongshan District of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Its specific address is 118 Lumo Road, which is situated within the East Lake Moshan Scenic Area (东湖磨山景区内).
To get there, tourists can take bus 401, 420, 413, or 682 and get off at Lumo Road Lushan Stop (鲁磨路磨山站).
Origin
The origins of this mesmerizing cherry blossom haven can be traced back to a historical gift exchange between China and Japan. The first batch of cherry trees that now adorn the park was a generous gift from the former Japanese Prime Minister Tanaka Kakuei to China’s renowned stateswoman, Deng Yingchao. Deng Yingchao, in turn, presented these cherry trees to the city of Wuhan, where they found their new home at East Lake. The vast majority of the cherry trees, totaling 10,000, were planted in 1998 through a joint investment between China and Japan. This collaboration has created a stunning fusion of Japanese cherry blossom culture in the heart of China.
Cherry Blossom Varieties
The park, established in 1978, is home to over 30 different cherry blossom varieties, including the iconic Somei Yoshino, Sekiyama, Oshima cherry, and many weeping cherry varieties. The garden’s layout follows the principles of Japanese courtyard design, lending an authentic Japanese ambiance to the entire area. Within the park stands the “Seventy-Eight Cherry Blossom Pavilion,” which is adorned with 78 cherry trees. This remarkable number serves as a commemoration of the signing of the China-Japan Friendship Treaty in 1978.
East Lake Cherry Blossom Park boasts the largest and most concentrated collection of weeping cherry trees (Prunus subhirtella) in the country. Varieties such as the “Yuqing Weeping Cherry” and “Yae Kanzan Weeping Cherry” are among the cherished gems of the park, each with its unique charm and allure.
Breathtaking Sceneries
As you step into this magical garden, you’ll be greeted by thousands of cherry trees in full bloom. Their delicate, snow-white blossoms create a breathtaking spectacle against the backdrop of lush, green hills. With each gentle breeze, the branches sway gracefully, showering the ground with a blizzard of petals. The sight is truly captivating, and the fragrance in the air adds to the ethereal atmosphere. Strolling through the park, with the serene waters of East Lake and the scent of cherry blossoms in the air, is an experience that lingers in memory.
Cherry Blossom Festival
Every year from March 20th to mid-April, Wuhan hosts its renowned Cherry Blossom Festival. During this period, the park becomes a sea of blossoms, and the sight is nothing short of a breathtaking spectacle. Thousands of visitors, known as “cherry blossom chasers,” flock to the park to witness the floral extravaganza and partake in the joyous celebrations.
