Runners dash out from the starting line at the 2026 Cherry Blossom Run in Binjiang district. [Photo/Tide News]

The annual Cherry Blossom Run kicked off in Hangzhou's Binjiang district on March 28, drawing 3,000 runners to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Set along a 13.14-kilometer riverside route lined with blooming cherry trees, the race started at Haichuang Base and finished at the Olympic Sports Center. Petals drifted across the course, creating a picturesque spring backdrop for participants.

The event featured multiple categories, including public, family, and team races, and attracted runners from tech firms, universities, and research institutions. For many, the run has become a cherished yearly tradition.

To mark the decade milestone, organizers installed archways along the route, each highlighting a year from 2016 to 2026. The event has grown with the district, evolving into a signature city brand since its launch after the G20 Hangzhou Summit.

This year also showcased Binjiang's tech edge, with robots assisting along the course — from delivery robots and robotic dogs to humanoid machines greeting runners at the finish line.

Blending sport, technology, and spring scenery, the Cherry Blossom Run continues to embody the spirit of a fast-growing, innovative Hangzhou.

A bird's-eye view of runners along the cherry blossom route. [Photo/Tide News]