PHOTOS: Shanghai in Bloom as Sakura Season Comes Early

Sakura season has arrived earlier than expected this year to Shanghai, owing to the warming weather and the early onset of spring. The fabled Cherry Blossom remains a highly sought after cultural export of Japan, inspiring poets, writers and budding photographers alike and providing the perfect excuse for trigger happy snappers to head out in seach of the perfect cherry blossom shot. 

The blossoms can be viewed at several places across the city. One of the best is often said to be Gucun Park, the largest cherry blossom park in the city, which houses thousands of trees from 28 different species, including both early and late bloomers. After the dreary greys of winter, it's time to get out and about, experience a little color and top up your Instagram. (Don't forget the #thatsshanghai hashtag when you do).

[Images via news.163, sh.eastday, @thatsshanghai]