Over 8,000 peony blossoms have burst into color at Yongzuo Temple within the Shuangta Museum in Taiyuan, Shanxi province. Among them, seven extraordinary "Zixia Xian" peonies – each over 400 years old and dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) – have captivated locals and tourists alike.

Visitors admire the Ming Dynasty peonies "Zixia Xian" at Yongzuo Temple. [Photo by Zhuxingxin/chinadaily.com.cn]

The peony blooming season marks the opening of the 43rd Taiyuan Shuangta Peony Cultural Month. This year's festival highlights Yongzuo Temple's rich heritage of century-old peonies and its profound historical and cultural significance. It features a variety of unique activities, including art performances, folk gatherings, intangible cultural heritage displays, peony sketching sessions, and a cultural and creative fair. 

Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of these ancient blooms while experiencing the deep-rooted traditions and artistic expressions that define Taiyuan's cultural landscape.

Over 8,000 peony blossoms are in full bloom at Yongzuo Temple. [Photo by Zhuxingxin/chinadaily.com.cn]

Yongzuo Temple is crowded with tourists. [Photo by Zhuxingxin/chinadaily.com.cn]