“Only the peony truly captivates the realm with its beauty—when it blooms, it sets the whole city alight.” With these lines, Tang dynasty poet Liu Yuxi perfectly captured the regal elegance of the “queen of flowers.” As spring settles in, Hangzhou locals feel their floral obsession stirring once more. According to the West Lake Scenic Area authorities, the city’s most anticipated spring spectacle—the peonies beneath Six Harmonies Pagoda—will make their grand return on March 25.

From March 25 through April 13, the Six Harmonies Pagoda Peony Show will be back with the theme “Heavenly Fragrance for Harmony.” The thousand-year-old pagoda and its luxurious peonies form a springtime tradition that is unmistakably Hangzhou’s—and one that’s sure to dominate social media feeds once again.

Staying true to past editions, this year’s flower show is divided into ground-planted and potted sections, featuring nearly 80 ground-planted peony varieties and close to 130 potted ones. Whether you’re drawn to the untamed beauty of nature or prefer an up-close, personal encounter, there’s a way to enjoy them that’s just right for you.

The potted section has already unveiled its early bloomers—a lovely mix of pinks and purples, offering the first glimpses of spring. And of course, the classics are back: the yellow-hued “Yao Huang” and the dark, dramatic “Black Sea Sprinkled with Gold” are both on display.

But the real buzz this year comes from a few newcomers. With their distinctive forms and hues, varieties like “Peach Blossom Embroidery,” “Flower Minister,” and “Sky-high Pink” have names that already spark curiosity. Want to see them for yourself? Take a stroll around the base of the pagoda or along the riverside—you might just stumble upon these exquisite beauties.

To add a touch of vibe to this gathering, the show has also introduced several curated photo spots. At the Six Harmonies Pagoda Square and in front of “Jingyu Jiangtian” Memorial Archway, visitors will find thoughtfully designed landscape installations.

Whether you’re snapping the spring shot or simply soaking in the poetic flowers around the pagoda, you’ll expect a visual feast that’s nothing short of breathtaking.