The 500-Year-Old White Magnolia at Faxi Temple Has Taken Over Everyone's WeChat Moments

Within the morning bells and evening drums of Shangtianzhu, Hangzhou, lies a tree more persistent than time itself. For five hundred springs, it has woven Buddhist serenity and earthly delights into each of its petals. Starting in early March, this ancient tree blooms again, its blossoms lasting only about ten days. Miss it, and you'll have to wait another year. This is the Ming Dynasty magnolia of Faxi Temple, Hangzhou, a floral spectacle that has endured for half a millennium. 📍Location: Faxi Temple (Many people can't find the magnolia; see my homepage video for directions). Driving is recommended if you go early. If departing later, public transport is advised as traffic gets heavy after 10:00 am. 🎫Tickets: 10 CNY, free with a temple annual pass. Three incense sticks are included. ⏰Time: 6:30 am - 6:00 pm 📸Photography Tips: 1️⃣ Sunny weather is ideal, but cloudy days work too. The best light angles are between 7:00 and 8:00 am and around 4:00 pm. 2️⃣ To photograph monks, position yourself near the dining hall next to the magnolia around 6:30 am and 10:30 am when they go for meals. 3️⃣ Choose angles with the yellow walls as a backdrop for a striking composition. Use the flowers as the foreground and the buildings as the background. 🌃Suggested Itinerary: After photographing the magnolia, explore the beautiful Faxi Temple. They offer delicious, all-you-can-eat vegetarian meals for 5 CNY at noon and around 4:00 pm. Afterward, visit nearby temples or enjoy the February orchids at Maojiabu.