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Magnolia at Dajue Temple [Photo/sina.com]
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The magnolias at Dajue Temple in Beijing's western suburbs is widely known for its charming colors and smells. One of the magnolia trees, said to be transported from Sichuan, is famous for its large petals and inviting smells. During the Qianlong period (1736- 1796) of the Qing dynasty, the abbot of Dajue Temple died in Sichuan, and left a will to bring this flower to the capital. Since then the tree has an age of more than 300 years, renowned as the oldest of the magnolias in Beijing, and because of the location on a mountain, the blooming period of the magnolia in Dajue Temple is around 10 days later than the rest of the city. Flowers will bloom in early April and the blossom will last for about one week or longer in sunny days.
Best watching time: April 2 until April 9
Admission: 20 yuan
How to get there: bus 346, 903, or a tourist coach.
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Peach at Beijing Botanic Garden [Photo/sina.com]
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Here visitors can enjoy tens of thousands of peach blossoms varying in more than 70 brands. Besides the classic brands, the highlight will be the first manual cross breed brand solely produced by the Botanic Gardens. At the scenic attraction on the foot of Fragrant Hill, tourists can enjoy a fragrant and jolly tour amidst peach blossoms.
Best time to watch: March 22 until May 11
Admission: 10 yuan
How to get there: bus 634, 360, 331, 318, 737, 733.
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Clove at Temple of Heaven [Photo: sina.com]
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This top tourist attraction has got another reason to pay a second visit, as it's the largest area of clove trees in the capital city. In the west of Qiniandian, or the Altar of Prayer for Good Harvests, there is a clove wood taking up 6,300 sqm, with 240 clusters of clove trees with a history of 50 years. The aroma of the clove is believed to have the function of relaxing oneself and delighting the hearts.
Best time to watch: middle until late April
Admission: 15 yuan
How to get there: take bus 6, 15, 17, 20, 35, 120, 122, 803 and get off at Tiantan.