In the months of April and May every year, the blue jacaranda trees in various parts of Yunnan start blooming, one after another.
The sea of blue flowers inundates the land, covering the roads in a blanket of blossoms.
In the streets and alleys of Kunming, by the lakes and rivers, the blue-purple flowers quietly come to life on the branches.
These elegant bell-shaped wonders are arranged in clusters and layers, creating a beautiful dreamlike blue. The flowers dance in the wind, creating a breathtaking sight, as some of the petals float to the ground.
They resemble patches of purple smoke that envelop the Spring city of Kunming, making it dreamlike and serene. As the morning light gradually rises, the colours of the flowers become more and more ethereal, and it's true what they say: "Kunming, a painting in Spring, a poem in ten thousand volumes.”
In the early morning, the first rays of sunlight shine on the blue jacaranda trees, and purple mist rises, painting the sky like a dream. The streets are covered in a blue and purple sea of flowers, creating a surreal atmosphere. Looking up at the trees, layers of blue and purple flowers converge to form a beautiful blue flower sea. Focusing on the ground, the purple flowers drift lightly and slowly. The falling blue jacaranda flowers, carried by the wind, enchant time and create the romantic purple atmosphere of Kunming in this season.
During the blooming period of blue jacaranda, from mid-April to early May, you can capture the spectacular sight of trees covered in layers upon layers of purple blossoms.
Best to stay 1-2 days, to ensure you get the best light and photography opportunities.
1. Jiaochang Middle Road
The most famous Blue Jacaranda avenue, with a canopy of flowers weaving over the tree crowns, is unparalleled in its romance. This stretch of road is about two kilometres long, with 249 Blue Jacaranda trees planted on both sides. The trees are sturdy and lush, and during the flowering period, they bloom in clusters. When the breeze blows, the blue flowers fall like rain, making it the best place to enjoy Blue Jacaranda in Kunming.
Best viewing spots: the three-way intersection near the kindergarten entrance on Jiaochang Middle Road, where there are no cars, or areas around the Blue Jacaranda Theme Park.
2. Chuncheng Road
Next to the Tai Long Hong Rui Hotel on Spring City Road, there is a short wall that is perfect for snapping photos of people and flowers together.
3. Panlong Riverside
Standing on the bridge and looking across, even to the other side of the river, there is still a vast expanse of blue and purple. The entire riverbank is enveloped in this romantic atmosphere unique to Kunming. The reflection of the blue jacaranda in the river is a beautiful sight to behold, whether viewed from afar or up close. Taking a stroll along the riverbank to admire the flowers is also a great option.
Best shooting location: There is a large blue jacaranda tree beside the railway track. A perfect spot for a photographer to position themselves on the railway bridge, while a model stands by the riverbank to strike a pose.
1. Jiaochang Middle Road: You can drive to "Jiaochang Middle Road Kindergarten.” There is parking available on the roadside for five yuan per hour.
Alternatively, you can take bus routes 104, 168, 187, or 65 and get off at Jiaochang West Road intersection.
2. Chuncheng Road: You can drive to the Tai Long Hong Rui Hotel.
3. Panlong Riverside: You can drive to No. 18 Lijiang Road, Wuhua District, then walk towards Biguang Primary School. Parking is available on the roadside for five yuan per hour.
There are many hotel options in Kunming. You can book a hotel near Gulou Road.
Blue jacaranda ice cream, crossing-the-bridge rice noodles and various Kunming local cuisines are recommended experiences not to be missed.
