A wooden boardwalk winds through an expansive sea of lotus plants. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]

Xinghua's renowned lotus wetland scenic area reopened to visitors on June 18 with upgraded attractions, immersive cultural experiences and a wide range of family-friendly activities, just in time for the annual lotus season.

A blooming lotus flower. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]

Visitors entering the scenic area are greeted by a wooden boardwalk winding for more than a kilometer through an expansive sea of lotus plants. Nearly 100 varieties of lotus are cultivated across the wetland, with budding blossoms and vibrant pink and white flowers creating a picturesque summer landscape.

The reopening celebration featured a series of live performances throughout the park. Dancers performed on a floating stage, while guzheng musicians filled the lakeside with traditional melodies. Performers dressed as lotus fairies strolled through the wetlands, reciting classical poetry and presenting lotus flowers to visitors.

Visitors take photos at the lotus wetland. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]

The scenic area also offers a variety of interactive experiences. Adults can explore the lotus fields aboard transparent boats or traditional black-canopy boats, while families with children can pick lotuses, hunt for shrimp, play fish-catching games, and feed koi.

Visitors can also sample a selection of lotus-inspired treats, including lotus jelly desserts, lotus leaf beverages and fresh lotus seed pods, alongside local specialties such as stuffed lotus root and Xinghua-style fish balls. Cultural souvenirs, including lotus-patterned fans, mugwort sachets and lotus-themed bookmarks, are also available.

According to the scenic area's management, most lotus flowers are currently in the budding stage. Peak blooming season is expected to begin in late June and last for around two months.