MInghe Bayberry Garden

MInghe Bayberry Garden

“In May, bayberries fill the woods; at first glance, each seems worth a thousand coins. Their flavor rivals the grapes of the north, their color deeper than lychees from the south.” Cixi’s bayberries boast the longest cultivation history, the largest planting area, the highest yield, and the greatest variety of cultivars in China. The hundreds of acres of contiguous bayberry orchards by Baiyang Lake in Minghe are a microcosm of Cixi’s tens of thousands of acres of bayberry plantations. The bayberries here mainly include three varieties: the Water Chestnut type, the Early Large type, and the Crystal type.

After the summer solstice each year, we can see clusters of bayberries hanging heavily from the branches, glistening red and purple. The fragrant aroma wafting through the mountains often attracts tens of thousands of domestic and international visitors eager to taste the fresh fruit. The hospitable local villagers offer their finest bayberries to guests, and those interested can even go up the mountain themselves to pick a few of these glossy jewels, adding a unique charm to the experience.

In the past, poor transportation meant that many locals who had been away from home for long periods often regretted not being able to enjoy the fresh bayberries. Nowadays, with improved transport links, whether they’ve been away for years or are overseas, many return home during this season to fulfill that long-held wish. Since 1989, Cixi has hosted vibrant Bayberry Festival events every year, drawing large crowds of guests, a testament to the allure of the bayberry.

In the past, poor transportation meant that many villagers who had been away from home for long periods often lamented not being able to enjoy their hometown's fresh yangmei (Chinese bayberries). Today, with the convenience of modern transport, both those who have been away for years and overseas Chinese return home during this season to fulfill their long-held wish. Since 1989, Cixi has hosted colorful Yangmei Festival events every year, attracting a gathering of distinguished guests and a full house of visitors, which speaks volumes about the allure of the fruit.