Spring awakening: A day in SZ's seas of flowers

As winter reluctantly released its grip, spring breathes new life into the world around us. A vast expanse of rapeseed flowers is now blooming in the central field area of OCT Farm in Guangming District. With free admission and a promise of sunshine, this is an opportunity too delightful to pass up Shenzhen’s latest spectacle.

Rapeseed flowers are in full blossom at OCT Farm in Guangming District. File photos unless otherwise stated

The bright yellow flowers seem to stretch endlessly in the central field area, creating a golden ocean that shimmers under the sun. It feels as if one has stepped into a colorful animated movie, where every corner invites exploration, and every angle is Instagram-worthy.

For those who prefer a leisurely glide through the fields, a cute retro train will take visitors through the blooming flowers, allowing them to savor the beauty of the landscape.

This year’s rapeseed flowers have been planted in batches, with the overall blooming period expected to last from late February to early March.

Visitors enjoy the rapeseed flowers at OCT Farm in Guangming District. Shenzhen Special Zone Daily

Not far from the OCT Farm is the well-known Hongqiao Park, which is worth a stroll. The park is linked to the Dadingling Greenway, which features three uniquely designed bridges. Each bridge provides the perfect backdrop for photos.

Further along the Dadingling Greenway, there are two more attractions: the Guangming Farm Grand View Garden and the Guangming Grass Ski Resort. Both require an entrance fee but promise more adventures for those eager to explore.

Add: OCT Farm, 168 Zhenyuan Road, Guangming District

Metro: Spur line of Line 6 to Zhenmei Station, Exit A; then walk for 800 meters to reach the west entrance

Meanwhile, a field of tulips are blooming at the Fairy Lake Botanical Garden in Luohu District. The Tianshang Renjian (Heaven on Earth) Lawn features multiple varieties of tulips in a dazzling array of colors, including white, pink, red and yellow. In addition to the tulips, visitors can also enjoy lilies, hyacinths, daffodils, amaryllis, and other bulb flowers.

Blooming flowers at the Fairy Lake Botanical Garden in Luohu District.

The lawn also has several height-changing scenic walls in a gentle purple hue, perfect for stunning photos.

Besides enjoying the flowers, the Fairy Lake Botanical Garden offers several other attractions to check out!

Hongfa Temple: a serene place for blessings of peace and prosperity.

Fern Garden: Just a two-minute walk from Hongfa Temple, the Fern Garden is open to the public on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk to admire various climbing plants and large ferns that are rarely seen.

Bitter Cress Garden: a five-minute walk from the Fern Garden leads to the Bitter Cress Garden, which hosts over 500 species of the Bitter Cress family.

Buddhist Pine Garden: Opposite the Bitter Cress Garden, this area features a large stone with Buddhist inscriptions and an ancient-style pavilion, perfect for relaxing on the spacious lawn and finding tranquility amidst the bustle.

Cactus and Succulent Garden: Don’t miss the popular Cactus and Succulent Garden, which is a must-visit spot that showcases massive cacti and a variety of tropical succulent plants.

Add: Fairy Lake Botanical Garden, 160 Xianhu Road, Luohu District

Metro: Line 8 to Xianhu Road Station, Exit C3

Blooming flowers at the Fairy Lake Botanical Garden in Luohu District.