Pathways bring nature to big cities

Cycling or walking along the system of urban pathways in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, offers Zhao Qingyan evidence of the changing seasons.

"When I see the colorful leaves and flowers in full bloom along the road, I think it's time to go for a spring outing," said Zhao, a manager in a local foreign-funded company.

Zhao was cycling leisurely with her husband and young daughter on a path near Dafushan mountain, a scenic spot in Guangzhou's Panyu district.

"The beautiful blossoming trees of golden trumpet, oriental cherry, Chinese redbuds and other colorful flowers makes me feel good and relaxed," Zhao said, adding that it has become a family routine to cycle or walk every weekend.

She is among the millions of people enjoying the network of paths in Guangzhou that snake through parks or along lakes.