Autumn (September-November) in China: The Season of Harvest
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and a profusion of red and yellow foliage. During this season, there are several incredible places to visit:
Recommended Autumn Travel Destinations
Beijing, China's Capital:
Highlight: In autumn, the yellow ginkgo trees, red maple trees, and the fragrance of roast duck and Beijing hotpot wafting through the air make Beijing an enjoyable destination. Tourists can stroll through the city’s parks and streets, admiring the vibrant autumn colors while soaking up the rich cultural atmosphere. The Summer Palace and Fragrant Hills Park are excellent spots for viewing autumn leaves, particularly at Fragrant Hills, where the vivid red foliage attracts countless photography enthusiasts.
Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan Province
Highlight: National Geographic magazine has named Jiuzhaigou the most beautiful place in China during autumn. During this season, Jiuzhaigou National Park, located in Aba Autonomous Prefecture, transforms into a riot of colors, with greens, oranges, reds, and yellows set against emerald-blue lakes. Visitors can choose to hike through the park to experience its unique water features and breathtaking natural scenery.
Ejin Banner, Inner Mongolia:
Highlight: Ejin Banner is home to one of the three major poplar forests remaining in the world. In autumn, the golden and fiery red hues of this desert forest make it a popular place for photographers. The picturesque scenery, especially under sunlight, creates a stunning contrast with the blue sky, attracting numerous visitors to admire the beauty of nature.
Yuanyang, Yunnan Province:
Highlight: The Hani Terraces in Yuanyang are China’s 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site. At sunrise, when the water-filled terraces reflect the sunlight, they shimmer with a magnificent golden glow, resembling a beautiful painting. This time of year, visitors can appreciate the unique agricultural landscape and experience the traditional culture and lifestyle of the Hani people.
To help you plan an exciting autumn trip, here are some suggested travel routes that cover these beautiful destinations:
Beijing > Qingdao > Shanghai > Suzhou > Hangzhou (10 days)
Itinerary Highlights: Start in Beijing, exploring historical sites and enjoying the autumn scenery. Then travel to Qingdao to savor seaside delicacies and experience the autumn sea breeze. Next, head to Shanghai to experience the charm of a modern metropolis, followed by a visit to Suzhou to appreciate the elegance of classical gardens, and finally admire the beautiful landscapes of West Lake in Hangzhou during this refreshing season.
Beijing > Lanzhou > Zhangye > Ejin Banner > Jiayuguan > Dunhuang > Beijing (11 days)
Itinerary Highlights: Depart from Beijing and head to Lanzhou to taste local specialties, then visit Zhangye to admire the Rainbow Mountains, marveling at the wonders of nature. Continue to Ejin Banner for capturing the autumn colors of the poplar forest, then head to Jiayuguan to witness the grandeur of the ancient Great Wall, and finally explore the magnificent Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, completing a wonderful cultural journey.
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