Each of the 12 Flower Deities represents a different flower. [Photo provided by Xixi Wetland]

Hangzhou is celebrating the beauty of spring with the Huazhao Festival, which opened on March 24 at Xixi Wetland.

The event, featuring a stunning Twelve Flower Deities parade in traditional Song Dynasty-style (960-1279) attire, marks the 20th anniversary of Xixi National Wetland Park and will run until May 11.

At the opening, Hangzhou's cultural and tourism authorities released the Floral Hangzhou Top 10 Scenic Routes, showcasing the city's vibrant flower landscapes, from iconic spots like West Lake and Xixi Wetland to cultural districts, ancient towns, and urban parks.

The festival's theme, "A Dream of Water Margins, A Song-Style Huazhao", blends wetland ecology with cultural heritage, offering visitors a wondrous springtime retreat. Over 200,000 potted flowers of more than 40 varieties create a colorful floral spectacle, with poppies, cherry blossoms, begonias, and rapeseed flowers in full bloom, followed by peonies, azaleas, and roses in April.

Two Flower Deities take a boat ride at Xixi Wetland. [Photo provided by Xixi Wetland]

In addition to the stunning scenery, the festival offers immersive experiences, including the chance to meet the Flower Deities, try on Song Dynasty-style floral hair accessories, and witness a picturesque water-town wedding.

Adding to the cultural charm, Xixi Wetland has launched Blossoms by the Pond, a 24-episode short drama series, which will be streamed throughout the festival. Meanwhile, the Flower Deities will make special appearances at city landmarks like Guozhuang Park, Xianghu Lake, and Gaoting Mountain, bringing the beauty of Huazhao Festival to more people.

Flower Deities walk across a rapeseed flower field. [Photo provided by Xixi Wetland]