Xianzi Lake lotus flowers in full bloom

The 17th Xinmin Lotus Flower Tourism and Culture Festival was unveiled at Xianzi Lake scenic spot on July 21, and is scheduled to run until August 20.

Activities during the festival include appreciating lotus flowers at Xianzi Lake, various cultural performances, a marathon track around the Xianzi Lake and a camping activity, providing tourists with a fabulous opportunity to sample the joys of the pastoral lifestyle.

Inaugurated in 1993, the festival has been successfully conducted 16 times. It’s a platform for Xinmin to promote its natural scenery, local customs and practices, as well as its rich culture and long history, bringing benefits for the local tourism industry.

Xinmin city has a reputation for being “the hometown of lotus flowers” which was an official slogan granted by the Ministry of Agriculture in 1995.

Xianzi Lake in Xinmin is the best place in the city to appreciate lotus flowers. The whole lake covers an area of 10,000 mu (666.67 hectares); and lotus flowers area in the lake reaches 6,000 mu.

Lotus flowers in Xianzi Lake commence their best viewing season in late July, progressing to  the full-bloom stage, which will last until mid August.

Lotus flowers in full bloom in Xianzi Lake of Xinmin city. [Photo/Xinhua]

Tourists appreciate lotus flowers in Xianzi Lake by boat. [Photo/Xinhua]

Lotus flowers in full bloom in Xianzi Lake of Xinmin city. [Photo/Xinhua]