As early summer settles over Kuliang, a charming resort nestled in the suburbs of Fuzhou, Fujian, a soft sweetness drifts through the air. Strolling through its leafy paths, one can't help but wonder: Where does this gentle fragrance come from?

It's the scent of Ligustrum, the understated "fragrance master" of the season.

Delicate Ligustrum blossoms in full bloom. [Photo provided to bondwithkuliang.org.cn]

Belonging to the Oleaceae family, Ligustrum is a semi-evergreen shrub or small tree, often found lining campuses, parks, and roadside greenbelts. With its graceful form and year-round greenery, it also plays an important role in purifying the air by capturing dust—nature's own environmental guardian.

Delicate Ligustrum blossoms in full bloom. [Photo provided to bondwithkuliang.org.cn]

Tiny white blossoms cluster tightly together, resembling snowflakes from a distance and delicate lace upon closer view. Look even closer, and you'll notice each bloom shaped like a miniature trumpet.

Its scent doesn't cling to the petals but drifts lightly in the air—subtle and refreshing, reminiscent of the "faint scent of mountain herbs" often evoked in classic Chinese poetry. A quiet joy, it perfumes the breeze and paints the landscape with serenity.

Best spots to see Ligustrum in bloom:

Along the winding mountain roads

King Cryptomeria Park

Huaxi Valley at Changtianxi

Azalea Valley in the Zhuli Scenic Area

Local campgrounds

Tung flowers: A white canopy over the hills

White Tung blossoms scattered across the layered mountains. [Photo provided to bondwithkuliang.org.cn]

From late April to early May, the Tung tree joins the early summer symphony. Tall and slender with dense foliage, this deciduous tree produces flowers that last for about a month before bearing fruit—later processed into tung oil.

Tung flowers in bloom [Photo provided to bondwithkuliang.org.cn]

Clustered among verdant hills, the Tung blossoms resemble a soft snowfall blanketing the landscape. Their pure white petals sway gently in the breeze, drifting down to form a floral carpet along the roadside.

Best spots to enjoy Tung flowers:

Along the winding mountain roads

Near Fenglin Mountain Villa

Zhuli Scenic Area

Now is the perfect time to experience this mountain romance.

In the peaceful days of early summer, come to Kuliang and follow the trail of floral fragrance. Let the delicate Ligustrum, the poetic Tung blossoms, and soon, the golden blooms of Acacia trees guide your steps.

As May ushers in summer, the hills will glow in golden hues—an ideal time to "check in" beneath the blossoming Acacia canopy.