Early summer in Shanghai is painted in hydrangea colors: dreamy blue and purple, soft pink and white, and soothing pure white. Here are some recommended spots to enjoy the blooms.

Fudeli Park

Address: No 30 Alley 7, North Laochengdu Road, Jing'an district

Tucked away in the bustling city center, Fudeli Park feels like a hidden wonderland. Amid the early summer breeze, the park turns into a sea of hydrangeas. Stepping inside is like walking into a Monet painting, with rockeries, streams, and flowers all coming together in a lively display.

Suzhou Creek waterfront

Address: Yinghuagu Service Station, No 186 Nansuzhou Road, Huangpu district

The hydrangeas along Suzhou Creek are now in full bloom. The densest cluster can be found east of Yinghuagu Service Station, where a large stretch of pink hydrangeas stands alongside historical buildings on both sides of the creek. A platform above the flower beds offers a great spot for an overhead view of the blooms.

Xujiahui Park

Address: No 889 Zhaojiabang Road, Xuhui district

Xujiahui Park brings visitors face to face with clusters of plump hydrangeas. Century-old plane trees provide shade along the paths, where flowers burst with pink, white and light purple. The colors are especially vivid against the green backdrop.

Lu Xun Park

Address: No 2288 North Sichuan Road, Hongkou district

Fully-bloomed hydrangeas line the park's pathways, their colors blending with the greenery to create a dreamlike scene. Along the willow-fringed banks, the flowers grow close to the water. Blue skies and white clouds are mirrored on the lake's surface, while boats drift slowly by, adding to the picturesque view.

North Bund

Address: North Bund Riverside Green Space, Hongkou district

The North Bund has recently turned into a flower garden, making it a perfect time to catch the hydrangeas. The riverside steps near the maritime tower offer a hidden photo spot away from the crowds. The hydrangeas there are densely planted, creating a dreamy scene.

Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, Shanghai Landscaping & City Appearance Administrative Bureau