A popular place in Heze to appreciate peonies is Caozhou Flower Garden, which is located in the Peony district of Heze and home to 120,000 peonies of more than 800 varieties over its six-hectare growing area. [Photo/Caoxian News]

Boasting bright colors and an elegant appearance, the peony is called "king of the flowers" in China and has become an auspicious symbol. [Photo/Caoxian News]

April is the best time to admire blooming peonies in Heze, Shandong province. [Photo/Caoxian News]