Location & Transportation

Wintersweet Garden is nestled within the Zhongshan Mausoleum Scenic Area in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province—a UNESCO World Heritage site. To get there, take Metro Line 2 to Xiaoweixian station, then transfer to a scenic shuttle bus (Line L2) that drops you near the entrance. If driving, park at the main visitor center and walk 15 minutes through the forested path. The garden sits near Linggu Temple and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, making it easy to combine visits.

Natural Beauty: A Winter Wonderland

Wintersweet Garden bursts into life during December to February, when frost-resistant wintersweets (Chimonanthus praecox) bloom. Unlike other flowers, these hardy shrubs bloom before leaves appear, creating ghostly branches dusted with yellow, white, or gold flowers. Some varieties, like “Tibetan Tiger”, even bloom as early as October! After snowfall, the scene transforms into a painting: fluffy snow clinging to petals, with a crisp, sweet fragrance filling the air. For photography tips: Visit after light snow—the contrast of red temple roofs, white snow, and golden flowers is Instagram-perfect!

Cultural Stories: Poetry & Traditions

China’s love for wintersweet dates back 1,500 years. Tang Dynasty poet Li Shangyin called it “plup寒冬梅” (“winter plump”), while ancient texts nicknamed it “cold guest” (since it defies freezing weather). Locals say true fans should visit after snow, hence its alias “snow plump.” Fun fact: The flowers never fully open—they hang downward like tiny bells, which inspired the name “golden bell plump” for a famous variety. At Wintersweet Garden, you’ll spot rows of labeled plants, each with plaques explaining their history.

Highlights: Varieties & Colors

Over 165 cultivated types of wintersweet are grown here, divided into four groups. The stars include:

  • “Snow White”: Pure white petals with silver edges.
  • “Golden Bell”: Yellow flowers that dangle like chimes.
  • “Purple Heart”: Petals with reddish-purple streaks.
  • “Jade Ribbon”: Pale yellow with a delicate, layered look.

The Henan Yongle wintersweet (from Yanling County) is hailed as the finest, with a sweet, intense fragrance. Look for the “Silver Heart” variety—its closed buds resemble tea lights!

Facilities & Tips

  • Paths: Wheelchair-friendly stone trails loop through the garden.
  • Rest areas: Wooden pavilions offer heat lamps and hot tea stalls.
  • Photo ops: Red lanterns and traditional arches frame key viewpoints.
  • Best time: Late January, when most flowers peak. Avoid weekends for fewer crowds.
  • Combine with: Nearby Linggu Temple (a 1,500-year-old Buddhist site) and Music Valley (hiking trails with streams).

Why It’s Worth a Trip

Wintersweet Garden isn’t just about pretty flowers—it’s a window into Chinese resilience culture. These plants symbolize strength through adversity, much like Nanjing’s history of renewal. Strolling here feels like stepping into an ink-wash painting: snow-dusked pines, fragrant blooms, and the quiet hum of nature. Bring a thermos of hot tea and a sense of wonder—this hidden gem will make your winter trip to Nanjing unforgettable!