Visitors heading to the osmanthus flowers are attracted by the cherry blossoms by West Lake. [Photo by Chen Tianhuai/tidenews.com.cn]

Visitors recently to West Lake's Gushan Park — located in Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province — were recently treated to a rare autumn sight: Cherry blossoms blooming out of season alongside fragrant osmanthus flowers.

The unusual pairing drew crowds eager to take photos of the white blossoms set against clusters of golden and ivory hued osmanthus flowers.

Off-season cherry blossoms create a beautiful contrast with the osmanthus flowers. [Photo by Chen Tianhuai/tidenews.com.cn]

Normally, cherry trees at the park bloom from mid-March to early April, while osmanthus flowers peak from late September to October. This year, three cherry trees at the park's entrance unexpectedly blossomed in late September, creating a scene of spring freshness and autumn fragrance on the lakeside.

Residents and tourists described the encounter as surprising and special, noting the blend of autumn richness with spring charm. Though the osmanthus flowers have not yet reached full bloom, the off-season cherry blossoms are already attracting lots of visitors.

Now is a great time to see the Osmanthus flowers. [Photo by Chen Tianhuai/tidenews.com.cn]

The off-season cherry blossoms are a big draw for visitors. [Photo by Chen Tianhuai/tidenews.com.cn]