Heze City, China's renowned 'peony capital,' welcomed global attention as the 2025 World Peony Conference and 34th International Peony Culture Festival opened on April 8. Amid vibrant blooms, the event showcased how this iconic flower transcends borders as a cultural ambassador.
Peonies, long celebrated in Chinese art and poetry as symbols of prosperity, are now fostering international dialogue. South Korean vlogger Kim Jeong-won explored Heze's Caozhou gardens, immersing herself in peony-inspired traditions. Dressing in intricately embroidered hanfu resembling classical court attire, she recreated scenes from China's artistic heritage, blurring lines between historical homage and modern cultural exchange.
Experts highlighted peonies' global horticultural significance, with Heze cultivating over 1,280 varieties exported to 30+ countries. The festival's cross-cultural programming – from garden tours to fashion exhibitions – underscores China's efforts to share its botanical legacy while embracing international perspectives.
