Heady scent of wintersweet beckons all this season

As a cold snap sweeps the nation, dusting even southern cities such as Shanghai and Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, with snow, the tradition of braving the chill to search for wintersweet blossoms has captured the imagination of many this season.

Known for its sweet-smelling yellow flowers, the hardy bloom thrives from December through March annually, providing a fragrant respite from the harshness of winter.

At the Summer Palace in Beijing, golden-glazed roofs crowned with snow create a majestic backdrop as clusters of wintersweet burst forth in brilliant yellow against the iconic vermilion walls. The contrast created is striking — a living painting of imperial red, pure white and vibrant floral gold, embodying elegance and endurance.

Classical Chinese gardens in the south also offer exquisite settings. The Humble Administrator's Garden in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, features delicate pavilions and winding corridors that frame the blossoms, while Shanghai's Guyi Garden boasts ancient architecture with ornate towers and terraces that reflect the blooms' subtle beauty.