On a sunny spring day, the pink peach blossoms that stretch as far as the eye can see and the floral-scented air can lull a visitor into believing they've somehow slipped into another dimension - a world so picturesque it can't be real.
But it is.

Visitors can experience the fairyland scene in Nanhui District with a trip to the Shanghai Peach Blossom Festival, which began last Friday and ends on April 12.
Peach blossoms bud at the end of the month and will reach their peak beauty soon. The first 10 days in April is the best time to view the district's 2,700-hectares of peach blossoms.

Nanhui has hosted the annual event since 1991. About 500,000 visitors flock to experience the pink vision annually. "The festival has built up a reputation in the city's tourism market," said Nanhui District Director Dai Haibo.

As usual, the festival will also feature traditional folk performances along with delicious local delicacies.

Huinan township government has spent 12 million yuan (US$1.45 million) rebuilding the Chengbei Folk Peach Orchard.

The orchard, now covering 22.66 hectares, contains more than 20 species of peach trees and more than 6 million yuan worth of newly planted shrubs and trees.

It is one of the best places to learn and experience first-hand what the area's culture is about. People can watch a farmer's wedding, view pig races, go boating on a 30,000-square-meter artificial lake, as well as enjoy folk singing and dances.

A folk art show, including paper-cutting works, will also be displayed. Apart from the activities, another big attraction is the chance to try different foods. Local delicacies such as sanhuang chicken with pot herbs is on the menu.

The chengbei orchard isn't the only spot to view the blossoms however. Luchaogang Port, Xinchang Ancient Town and Seaside Peach Orchard are also worth a visit.

Luchaogang port's peach orchard will enable sightseers to sneak a peek at Lingang New City, now under construction. Donghai Bridge and the circle-shaped Dishui Lake are among the other attractions.

Near luchaogang Port, Shanghai Flower Port is another highlight at this year's festival. One need not travel to the Netherlands to enjoy bright colored flowers.
The 18-hectare park, which cost 100 million yuan, is a complete duplicate of Keukenhof Park, the Netherlands' famous tulip garden. About 3.2 million tulips, including more than 300 varieties, will perfume the air and delight the eye. The floral display will run to the end of April.

Nanhui has been known for its peach blossoms since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Residents have always been enamored with peaches for their sweet fruit and abundant juice.