Lotus flowers in full bloom in Sanmenxia

( chinadaily.com.cn )

Updated: 2016-07-15

As summer is at its peak, the lotus flowers in Canglong Lake at the Swan Lake Wetland Park in Sanmenxia, Henan province are in full bloom. The picturesque lotus ponds have attracted flocks of visitors with their heavenly fragrances and beauty.

The lotus is an iconic flower in Chinese culture, and has been portrayed in Buddhism for thousands of years. It is said that the lotus symbolizes purity of heart and mind, as well as honor and tranquility.

An area of more than 100 mu (6.67 hectares) of lotuses on the Canglong Lake, a scenic spot at the Swan Lake Wetland Park. [Photo/Sanmenxia Daily]

Rising up from the muddy pond, the lotus is a symbol of purity. [Photo/smxe.cn]

Many admirers savor the lotus for its smell, color and shape. [Photo/smxe.cn]