Limited to autumn — Ginkgo leaves falling with the wind usher in Beijing’s golden fans and golden avenues

▲ The unique leaf shape and color changes are what make ginkgo the most attractive. (Photo / Provided by netizen Ye Qianxun)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

Many say that among the four seasons in Beijing, summer is hot, winter is cold, autumn is the shortest, yet also the most beautiful. When autumn arrives, besides the maple woods at Fragrant Hills gradually turning a splash of red to form a magnificent sight, now as deep autumn sets in, the ginkgo trees in Beijing also slowly change from green to golden yellow — the best time for appreciation. Watching the little golden fans flutter down with the wind to become a grand golden carpet is a unique view not found elsewhere.

▲ The ginkgo leaves fall with the wind, forming a shining golden avenue. (Photo / Provided by netizen Ye Qianxun)

Since Beijing’s climate is suitable for ginkgo growth, it has become an excellent destination for ginkgo enthusiasts. Among them, Diaoyutai, Lama Temple, and Ditan Park are the three most famous ginkgo avenues.
Upon entering Lama Temple, you’ll see sturdy ginkgo trees lining both sides. Compared with the other two spots, Lama Temple not only allows you to enjoy the golden ginkgo trees but also offers views of Lama Temple, Guozijian (Imperial College), Confucius Temple, and Nanluoguxiang. It has the best thematic appeal among the three, and with numerous shops nearby and many authentic Beijing snacks, it’s ideal for a morning visit that can also cover lunch.
Another ginkgo-viewing spot — Ditan Park — features convenient transportation and a tranquil environment, with the beauty of classic Chinese architecture; paired with the golden-yellow ginkgo leaves, it has a distinctive charm.

▲ The ginkgo avenue near Diaoyutai is a beloved spot for many to admire the ginkgo. (Photo / Provided by netizen Ye Qianxun)

Although the ginkgo avenue at Diaoyutai is still about a 10–15-minute walk from the nearest subway station and has fewer dining options around, the ginkgo avenue here is well-planned with pure tree species, making it the favorite spot for many locals. When the ginkgo turns golden in autumn, every morning and dusk, the gentle sunlight decorates the ginkgo leaves splendidly, always attracting many photography enthusiasts and couples taking wedding photos to shoot here.
Such naturally beautiful scenery requires perfect timing and conditions to be fully appreciated. To enjoy the beauty of ginkgo, if you go too early, only the windward side shows slight golden hues while the rest remain green like little emeralds; sometimes if you go too late, or encounter a strong autumn wind, you might only see a carpet of golden foil, and have to wait until next year. But now is the best time to see Beijing’s ginkgo trees at their most beautiful — are you tempted?

Transportation information:

Lama Temple: Buses 13, 62, 116, or the subway to Lama Temple Station.

Ditan Park:
Ditan West Gate:Buses 18, 27, 104, 108, 113, 119, 124, 201, 328, 358, 407, 417 (branch), 758, 803, 850, 858, 912, 415, 847, 849.
Ditan South Gate:Buses 44, 62, 13, 116, 406, 606, 807. Subway to Lama Temple Station.

Diaoyutai:Buses 114, 102, 103, Special Line 6, 320, or the subway to Muxidi Station.