2024 Taihu International Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off on March 12 at Yuantouzhu Scenic Area in Wuxi, Jiangsu province. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Dotted with earlier blooming flowers, the 2024 Taihu International Cherry Blossom Festival at Yuantouzhu Scenic Area in Wuxi, where the cherry blossoms are expected to enter their best viewing season in next week, officially kicked off on March 12.

Reputed as the "top cheery blossom admiring spot" in China, the area is home to over 30,000 cherry trees of about 100 species, enthralling the world with the cherry blossom spectacle every year and allowing its visitors to enjoy the floral beauty in romantic spring.

A cherry tree is in full bloom at Yuantouzhu Scenic Area. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Culture, art and sports will feel alive in this year's festival, with the innovative concept of "Tourism Plus" having been introduced and an extravaganza of activities and events set to be held to empower the city's and even the province's tourism economy, according to the officials.

Also, as 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between China and France, the city will join hands with French travel agencies, airlines and media to present a more real and comprehensive "cherry blossom wonderland" to the world.

Guests take photos among blooming cherry trees. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Together with the cherry blossom admiration, a series of international exchanges, cooperative activities and interactive experiences will be staged during the event.

There is much to look forward to with the delicacies offered this year as car-shaped stalls alongside the trees promise to witness a bustling and joyful scene of treating their diners with delectable foods. Among these, the cherry-themed ice cream with three unique flavors, including strawberry marshmallow, is the highlight.

Tourists taste the themed ice cream while enjoying the spectacular scenery of cherry blossoms. [Photo provided by Chen Min for wuxi.gov.cn]