During the opening ceremony, representatives from the event’s major sponsors, predominately leading Wuxi tourism institutes and associations, gathered to launch the festival. These included Wuxi Culture and Tourism Development Group, Wuxi Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Wuxi Yuantouzhu Scenic Spot Administration.

Zhang Zhongyun, chairperson of Wuxi Culture and Tourism Development Group presides over the ceremony. [Photo from China Daily]

"More than 30,000 cherry trees have been grown in an area of 650,000 square meters, which ranks Yuantouzhu as China’s most enchanting destination to experience the unparalleled beauty of being surrounded by tens of thousands blooming cherry trees", said Shi Mingdong, director of Yuantouzhu scenic spot in his keynote speech.

Shi then briefed the audience on the major activities upcoming, which involved a tour through the wafting smell of cherry blossom evening, illuminated night time walks, the chance to play with cute furry animals such as alpacas, a wide range of exciting games, and palatable eateries.

Liu Xia, deputy mayor of Wuxi, Jiangsu province, announces the grand opening of 2017 Wuxi (Taihu) Yuantouzhu International Cherry Blossom Festival. [Photo from China Daily]