I always thought that chrysanthemum’s were sort of a lame birthday flower, but what could I do since that is the designated November blossom. However, China has given me a new perspective and appreciation for my birth flower because they have a whole festival celebrating chrysanthemums. I had no idea there were so many different varieties!
I was told that in Chinese the word for chrysanthemum sounds sort of like the word for a cat’s behind so cats are also associated with this festival – ha! Good thing I like cats too. I want to also point out that even what looks like bonsai trees are actually chrysanthemums!
In Beihai Park there is a new museum for the Liuli Pavilion that has not been opened to the public for 70 years. It shows how the lacquer art was created for the temple with 1400+ buddhas. This was a serene area the emperor would go to contemplate and write and enjoy nature. It is indeed beautiful!
The intricate Nine Dragon screen at Beihai Park is one of only two, the other being in the Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace Museum. As you can see I can’t even capture it all with a camera!
Are you ready to start planning your visit yet?
