For the most enchanting views of pomegranate blossoms, visit the square at the palace's entrance, the Second Gate of the palace, and Chenghuai Xiexiu during the optimal period from May to June.
The Second Gate leads to a unique area that was historically labeled as the "Cross-shaped Courtyard" ("Shizi yuan" in Chinese) on maps dating back to the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).