“Leaves turn golden, wild geese head south for autumn.” As the pleasant autumn arrives with its cool weather, it’s the perfect time to enjoy relaxing moments outdoors with family and friends. Though not as flamboyant as flowers, autumn leaves exude a deeper elegance. Watching the mountains turn crimson and forests drape in layers of color is the season’s unique melody; hiking up high to take photos amid the red foliage is the best way to commemorate the time. Combining leaf-peeping with a holiday adds an extra touch of comfort to this warmth. So where can you find the most beautiful autumn leaves this golden season? And what kind of lovely accommodation would suit them best? Don’t worry—Ctrip will take you there!
Admire Red Leaves at Fragrant Hills & Stay in a Traditional Courtyard
Beijing’s Fragrant Hills can be regarded as the origin of leaf-peeping. With leaves from eight families and 14 tree species, totaling over 100,000 trees, it’s known as a must-visit destination for autumn foliage. Every autumn, the mountains are covered with a blanket of red leaves, dotted with scattered pines and cypresses, creating a captivating mix of red, orange, yellow, and green. On a cool autumn day, gather a few friends and hike up Fragrant Hills. From the mountaintop, your eyes will be filled with dazzling red forests. When the autumn wind blows, the leaves sway gently, making you want to stay quietly in this world until the last leaf has fallen.
Best viewing period: October 16 to November 15, which also coincides with the Fragrant Hills Red Leaf Festival.
Best viewing spots: Yuhuaxiu, Kan Yunqi, Sen Yuhu, Shuangqing Villa, Chan Chu Peak, Jingcui Lake, Xianglu Peak, Xiangwu Cave, Heshun Gate, and Xunlu Slope. These spots are absolutely ideal for taking stunning photos. Additionally, in 2015, Fragrant Hills Park added five new viewing areas: Xuanqiu Forest, Qing Weiliao, Yun Chao Ting, Yan Yue Ting, and Xiao You Ting.
The superior location by the Xiangxi River in Shennongjia has been rated as one of the best leaf-viewing destinations, and the Ctrip Shennongjia Xiangxi Inn is built right along the river. From your balcony, you can not only admire the fairytale-like red leaf scenery but also see the flowing Xiangxi River beneath you and hear the gentle sound of the stream. The inn features a decoration style inspired by ethnic culture and nature—purple clay teapots, ceramic washbasins, linen sofas, and ink paintings on the walls. The simple decor gives the rooms a uniquely serene and elegant feel. Wake up to birdsong and floral scents, surrounded by natural beauty. Enjoy leaf-peeping while on holiday, and let this idyllic lifestyle begin here.
Log onto Ctrip (http://www.tujia.com/) right now to discover more exciting options, or download the Ctrip app—the joy of travel is waiting for you to uncover it.