The annual Wuxi International Cherry Blossom Festival opened on March 14 at Yuantouzhu, or "Turtle Head Isle", China's top tourist resort for viewing cherry trees.[Photo by Fang Luofan/China Daily]

The annual Wuxi International Cherry Blossom Festival opened on March 14 at Yuantouzhu, or "Turtle Head Isle", China's top tourist resort for viewing cherry trees, located on the shores of Taihu Lake, Wuxi, Jiangsu province. The event will last for a month, ending on April 22.

The festival's main attractions each year are Turtle Head Isle's 30,000 cherry trees, which start blooming in late March. Many of the beautiful trees, prized in both Chinese and Japanese culture, were donated to the island by groups of Japanese visitors who have been coming to Wuxi since the 1980s to plant the trees as a gesture of friendship.

Shi Mingdong, director of Turtle Head Isle scenic spot, briefed the audience on major upcoming activities, which include an evening tour among the freshly-scented cherry blossoms, warmly lit night-time walks, opportunities to play with cute furry animals such as alpacas, a wide range of exciting games, and tasty meals.

The 2018 Wuxi International Cherry Festival opened on March 14 at Turtle Head Isle scenic spot in Wuxi, East China's Jiangsu province, and will run until April 22. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxifabu2013]

It is also worth noting that this year's event features a famous cartoon dog named "Dao Dao", in honor of the Year of the Dog. This marks the first time that this adorable pup, famous for his carefree lifestyle, is included at the event.

The cherry blossom night tour will be available from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m, March 23 to April 7. Colorful glowing lights will adorn the cherry blossoms, taking full advantage of the alluring night scenery.

This year's event will offer stimulating experiences in the form of a cherry-themed tea forum and a music festival starting March 23. Tourists will be able to enjoy tea and desserts mixed with cherry flowers.

Like last year, the night run will be held on March 30. Admiring the enchanting cherry blossoms in the moonlight while enjoying beautiful atmospheric music will surely be a sensory feast for runners.