As the gentle spring breeze whispers through the city, Shanghai's early cherry blossoms are quietly unfurling their delicate pink flowers, signaling an end to winter and the start of a springtime fantasy. Here is a guide to the most stunning spots where cherry blossoms and urban charm converge.

Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden

In the Chunjing Garden of Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden, early cherry blossoms adorn the branches, framing the iconic cherry blossom avenue against lush green lawns.

Location: No 3888 Chenhua Highway, Songjiang district

Ticket price: 60 yuan per person

Shanghai Botanical Garden

Immerse yourself in early spring at the Shanghai Botanical Garden, where early cherry blossoms are expected to bloom by around March 10.

Location: No 1111 Longwu Road, Xuhui district

Ticket price: Free

Gucun Park

The Meixue cherry blossoms at Gucun Park have made an early appearance, with pink and white petals fluttering like snow, heralding the start of cherry blossom season. Over the next few weeks, more than 10,000 cherry blossoms are set to bloom gradually throughout the park.

Location: No 4788 Hutai Road, Baoshan district

Ticket price: 20 yuan per person

Lu Xun Park

Early cherry blossoms outside Lu Xun Park are now in bloom, with pink branches swaying gently to embrace the arrival of spring. Though not yet in full bloom, the flowers are nevertheless catching the eyes of many passersby.

Location: No 2288 North Sichuan Road, Hongkou district

Ticket price: Free

Cherry blossoms at Gongqing Forest Park, Jing'an Sculpture Park and Qiantan Leisure Park are also on their way, with a full bloom expected by mid-to-late March.

Tips to elevate your cherry blossom photo-taking experience

Composition

• Center subject against cherry blossoms with a medium telephoto lens
• Wear light colors for a pastel effect
• Adjust image settings for desired colors

Model poses

• Use props for dynamic shots
• Try universal posing techniques
• Encourage movement for authentic photos

Perfect moment

• Shoot in soft natural light in the morning or evening
• Consider rainy days or blue hour for unique shots
• Experiment with light and color temperature for a romantic mood

Sources: Shanghai Landscaping and City Appearance Administrative Bureau, chinadaily.com.cn, WeChat account of Gucun Park, WeChat account of Shanghai Botanical Garden