Chrysanthemums in bloom at Donghu Park

While northern China is blanketed by blizzards and snow, Shenzhen remains a vibrant paradise of blooming flowers. This year marks the 41st edition of the Shenzhen Chrysanthemum Fair, now beckoning visitors at Donghu Park in Luohu District.

A scene from a previous edition of the chrysanthemum fair at Donghu Park. Photos by Sun Yuchen

A scene from a previous edition of the chrysanthemum fair at Donghu Park. 

More than 100,000 pots of chrysanthemums, encompassing nearly 300 different species, paint the landscape in shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, green, and white across a dedicated 5,000-square-meter display area.

Near the park’s West Gate, a chrysanthemum installation sits amidst bonsai trees and white arch gates, evoking the aesthetic of classical Chinese gardens and creating a perfect snapshot spot.

A particularly spectacular sight is the vast, nearly 1,000-square-meter sea of Klondike cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) and sunflowers in the Huamuyuan garden. This same area also features a whimsical childhood paradise with mushroom-shaped huts and a pony sculpture, surrounded primarily by pink and blue chrysanthemums.

On a huge central lawn, colorful chrysanthemums dot the grass, anchored by a tall “flower fairy” installation whose swirling skirt is crafted entirely from blooms. Elsewhere, a white path leading to a secondary gate is flanked by vibrant orange, red, and purple chrysanthemums.

Chrysanthemums are in full splendor at this year’s chrysanthemum fair at Donghu Park. 

The fair is further enlivened by a series of events, including a photo competition, creative flea market, tech showcase, tea party, costumed parade, and live band performances.

Interactive future-tech experiences await at Dajiale Plaza, while family-friendly games and flower markets are set up in Huamuyuan garden. Children can try maneuvering drones on the main lawn, and a pet show will be held at Zonglyuyuan garden. Throughout the park, food stalls, coffee stands, souvenir booths, and an AR game area cater to every need.

Donghu Park, whose construction began in 1961, opened to the public five years later. Centered around the Donghu Reservoir and Chigeng Hill, it houses various leisure and amusement facilities, and also an art gallery. The park is a daily destination for nearby residents, bustling with crowds at weekends. An annual tradition since 1984, the chrysanthemum fair is open to the public free of charge.

Dates: Until Jan. 4, 2026

Venue: Donghu Park, Luohu District (罗湖区东湖公园)

Metro guide:

West Gate: Line 5 or 7 to Tai’an Station (太安站) Exit C

West Side Gate: Line 5 to Yijing Station (怡景站) , Exit C

South Gate: Line 2 to Xinxiu Station (新秀站), Exit A; The park is a 20-minute walk from the nearest Metro stations for all three gates.

More photos on this year’s chrysanthemum fair: