The annual Chrysanthemum Fair has kicked off in the Hongluo Temple. [Photo: poco.cn]

The annual Chrysanthemum Fair has kicked off in the Hongluo Temple which rests at the foot of the Hongluo Mountain in Huairou District, northern Beijing.

In the exhibition area, more than 4 thousand pots of chrysanthemums repesenting 30 different varieties are on display. Tourists can enjoy both the ordinary chrysanthemum flowers as well as newly cultivated species, all in full bloom. Chrysanthemums in various colors and shapes make the temple a fantastic sea of flowers that attracts large number of tourists.

The chrysanthemum, also known as the "Autumn Flower", together with plum, orchid and bamboo are regarded as the four "noble plants" in China's traditional culture.

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as the Chong Yang Festival, is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Climbing the hills and appreciating chrysanthemums are traditional customs during the festival.

The Chrysanthemum Fair will last two months and entrance is free.