“Among the peonies in the Central Plains, those in Luoyang rank first; in Shu, those in Tianpeng are unmatched.” — Lu You, renowned poet of China’s Song Dynasty

During his official tenure in Shu (present-day Sichuan), the celebrated poet Lu You was deeply captivated by the majestic beauty of Tianpeng peonies. He documented his admiration in one of China’s earliest extant monographs on peonies —Tianpeng Peony Register, praising 65 varieties from “Zhuangyuan Hong” (Champion Red) to “Zui Xishi” (Drunken Beauty), each entry imbued with poetic awe.

Today, this poetic legacy lives on in Pengzhou, Chengdu — the very site of ancient Tianpeng. The 42th Sichuan (Pengzhou) Tianpeng Peony Festival will open on March 20 and run through May 5, themed “Tianpeng Peony Register: The Secrets of Lu You.” It invites visitors on a cultural journey weaving heritage exploration, China-chic trends, and scenic leisure.

As one of China’s top three peony festivals, a benchmark of southern peony culture, and a Sichuan provincial intangible cultural heritage event, this year’s fair breaks geographical boundaries with a “3+N” citywide blossom-viewing layout. It transforms the three chapters of Lu You’s Tianpeng Peony Register into immersive real-life experiences, guiding visitors from merely “viewing flowers” to “stepping into a painting.”

At Bailiyi · Longxingji, the “Flower Grading” chapter comes alive in a vibrant “Peony Carnival” where China-chic meets modern flair. Highlights include giant peony art installations, themed parades featuring Lu You and floral goddesses, and a calligraphy and painting exhibition titled “Dreaming of a Scarlet Blossom.” Hanfu culture, creative products, coffee, and peony heritage merge seamlessly, injecting youthful energy into the traditional fair.

The Tianpeng Peony Conservation and Development Center opens its 38,000-square-meter viewing area under the “Interpretation of Flower Names” theme, showcasing over 450 rare peony varieties such as “Pengzhou Zi” (Pengzhou Purple) and “Yulouzi” (Jade Pavilion). This integrated base combines landscape display with scientific cultivation, while the “National Beauty Elegant Gathering” study camp invites hands-on participation, allowing visitors to truly feel “amidst flowers, with flowers before their eyes.”

Meanwhile, sub-venues including Gexian Mountain, Haiwozi, and Bailu offer over 30 interactive activities across six themed experiences: “Mystery of Flowers, Mystery of Ancient Towns, Mystery of Mountains, Mystery of Cuisine, Mystery of Accommodation, and Mystery of China-chic.” Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a city connoisseur, or an adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in this panoramic spring landscape.

Adding to the springtime allure, Pengzhou will also host a series of cultural, sports, and tourism events such as the 2026 Panda Shushan Super Trail Challenge and the Chengdu-Aba High-Quality Outdoor Sports Industry Ecosystem Co-building & 2026 First Summit. These activities ensure visitors can immerse themselves in the boundless charm of the “Pengzhou Lifestyle” beyond the blossoms.

Spring has arrived, and the peonies are about to bloom. Come to Tianpeng and meet your very own “Peony Fairy”!