As the end of the year draws near, we find ourselves in a late autumn ambience. The wind blows with coldness. Leaves gradually turn yellow and float from the branches. Flowers, once in full bloom, wither in the cold. However, nature is not mercilessly killing beauty and lives. This is the season for chrysanthemums in various colors and shapes to bloom and rekindle our happiness.

Renowned for its 20 chrysanthemum exhibitions since 1984, Donghu Park in Shenzhen's Luohu District has kicked off its month-long chrysanthemum exhibition, which will run till Dec. 24. Now the flowers are at their best and the exhibition is free to citizens all day long.

The main gate of the park gives visitors a quick peak at the abundant varieties and sculptings of chrysanthemums. Flowers of red, yellow, purple, white and mixed colors are put here and sculpted into different shapes. Along both sides of the entrance path, chrysanthemums of different varieties and sizes are placed in flowerpots to indicate the direction to the venue of the exhibition, which is the open land beside the fishing pool.

This year's exhibition presents about 30,000 pots of chrysanthemums with the theme of flourishing in the golden autumn. The exhibition features rich sculpting techniques.

The first feature is animal sculptures. Chrysanthemums are formed in peacocks, dragons, elephants and butterflies. They are in bright colors against the green background of grassland and trees and are very vivid in appearance. To show the delicacy of different parts of the animals, thin bamboo sticks have been bundled together to support each flower. Different varieties of chrysanthemums are selected for different sculptures. Manual techniques are in perfect harmony with blooming flowers. Kids are very excited to see the animal images and are busy running here and there for a closer look.

Two chrysanthemum dragons are very eye-catching. Positioned at the far end of the fishing pool, the colorful dragons facing each other are vividly reflected on the water, as if they are preparing to start a fierce war. A waterfall flows from a rock just on the other side, creating an effect of roaring water, which is assumed to be the environment for dragon fights. On the near shore are fishermen, who sit casually on both banks despite the quiet confrontation nearby. They are absorbed in fishing and a half-day's fishing might be very productive.

Another feature of the exhibition is the presence of 24 Chinese solar periods, whose names are written in 24 Chinese drums, forming a flower circle. These periods, used by ancient Chinese to indicate 24 divisions of the lunar year, actually indicate 24 climate phenomena. This presentation enhances the cultural and traditional touches.

A highlight of the exhibition is the globes sculpted from numerous flowers. The largest globe in the exhibition is composed by 3,977 red, yellow and purple flowers in 36 parallel circles. This marks the biggest sculpture the park has ever made.

In addition to the bundled sculptures, independent chrysanthemums are also an important part of the exhibition. In more than 200 varieties and 2500 flowerpots, these independent flowers show the beauty of each variety.

The exhibition has attracted many people and families, who find the park an ideal place for casual ambience, beautiful scenery and fresh air, which are vital for city dwellers. People enjoy their weekends by taking photos, fishing, hill walking or enjoying other park facilities. Many people stay for a whole day in the park.

At present, most of China is a gray color for the coldness, which is not only felt in the air but also in people's mind. But here in Shenzhen, we do not have the time to feel sorry for the change of seasons as we have the chrysanthemums, a visual feast offered by nature after almost a whole year's preparation.

Travel tips

To go to Donghu Park, take buses 1, 3, 17, 29, 106, 211, 300, 320, 351, 365, 401, 413, 424, 438, 440, 454, 483, 447 and 471 to the main gate.

In addition to the exhibition, many other facilities in Donghu Park are worth visiting. There is a small zoo in the park, where you can find bears, deer, ostriches, monkeys and many kinds of birds. There are also many amusement facilities, such as grass sleighs, boats, rovers, and electronic game machines for children.

There is plenty of hiking space in the park and you can get a view of the Shenzhen Reservoir along a trail to a dyke.

The Shenzhen Art Museum is also inside the park, where you can see paintings or other artistic works.

 
Editor: Catherine