A visit to Yangzhou is suggested in late March to mid-May, and in September. A tourist festival 'Going to Yangzhou in the Lovely Spring' is held at this time each year, and includes a river trip along the route the Qing Emperor Qianlong took during his inspections of Yangzhou. From the boat, visitors can enjoy a visual feast of beautiful scenery, admire the Qiong flower (a kind of hortensia which is said to prolong lifespan when eaten) indigenous to Yangzhou, and try various local snacks. September is the ideal season to come moon gazing. Sipping tea at the stem of a skiff with the reflection of the moon rippling on the water ahead, one may feel removed from all temporal matters.