Olympic Forest Park – Crab Apple Blossoms
The spring atmosphere in the capital continues to intensify. Outside the Olympic Park subway station, hundreds of meters of crab apple blossom pathways have reached their peak blooming period. The pink and white crab apple trees, heavy with clusters of flowers, create cascading canopies that transform the walkways into dreamlike floral corridors. Visitors can take the popular escalator at the corner, where the elevated vantage point reveals an expansive sea of blossoms. Amid this floral display stands the majestic Olympic Tower, its strong structure gently framed by delicate flower-laden branches, creating a breathtaking harmony between nature and architecture.
Ditan Park – Magnolias
Historically serving as an imperial altar where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties paid homage to the Earth Deity, Ditan Park now offers a serene setting for appreciating magnolia blossoms. As the spring breeze rustles the copper bells adorning the eaves, magnolia trees near the vermilion walls bloom with porcelain-like white flowers, casting delicate shadows over the ancient bricks used in past rituals. Afternoon sunlight filters through the canopy, casting impressionistic light patterns on the petals. These blossoms evoke the ethereal beauty seen in Van Gogh’s "Apricot Blossom," with their graceful forms contrasting against the blue sky.
Yonghegong Lama Temple – Lilacs
As April breezes sweep over the golden rooftops of Yonghegong, the first signs of spring emerge in the form of elegant lilac blooms located to the left of the northern archway. Against the backdrop of red temple walls, the purple petals exude a refined charm. Along both sides of the main hall, the pale purple flower spikes harmonise beautifully with intricately carved beams and gilded pillars, complementing the ornate roofline. This scene resembles a meticulously painted court artwork, capturing a poetic and vivid expression of spring in the heart of Beijing.
About Marco Polo Parkside, Beijing
Centrally located in the prime business district of Asian Olympic Village, the 312-room Marco Polo Parkside, Beijing is easy access to some of the city’s most vibrant and recognizable landmarks, such as the China International Convention Centre, the Olympic Park, the Bird’s Nest Stadium and the Water Cube Aquatics Centre. Accessible by a quick 25-minutes’ drive from the Beijing International Airport and Beijing International Exhibition Centre. Room categories range from Superior to the exclusive Marco Polo Presidential Suite offering a balance of contemporary flair and the technology expected of a modern business hotel. Café Marco and Lobby Lounge offer a diverse range of eateries for your culinary enjoyment. The superbly equipped fitness centre or indoor heated swimming pool with sky windows offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
About Marco Polo Hotels
Marco Polo Hotels’ premium hotels in Hong Kong SAR, Mainland China and the Philippines reflect the adventurous ethos of their namesake – Marco Polo. Located in key destinations, each property is active in their community, committed to sustainability, and a central hub for gatherings and meaningful local experiences. The brand is part of Wharf Hotels’ portfolio and a member of Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. Visit marcopolohotels.com, Instagram or LinkedIn.
About GHA and GHA DISCOVERY
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands with 45 brands and 850+ hotels in 100 countries. Its award-winning loyalty programme—GHA DISCOVERY—provides 30 million members recognition, D$ rewards and exclusive experiences across its hotels and partners, both with and without a stay. GHA DISCOVERY generated US$2.7 billion in revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning.
For more information, visit globalhotelalliance.com or ghadiscovery.com.