Ctrip: Summer fades, autumn arrives—seek the most enchanting autumn hues

    Autumn is a wonderful season. The sweltering heat of summer fades away, making way for the crisp coolness of autumn, along with breathtakingly beautiful autumn scenery. Autumn landscapes are truly not to be missed—each scene tells its own story, and the footsteps of autumn bring dreamlike vistas. For travelers seeking a unique autumn experience, this is the perfect time not to be overlooked. Find the most stunning autumn display, and immerse yourself in it with family or friends. Then seek out a cozy accommodation as warm as home, chat and laugh with loved ones, enjoy leisurely moments, and most importantly, meet your need for great value. Now, let us take you on a journey to discover the most enchanting autumn hues, adding a splash of color to your travel plans this year.

    Qixia Mountain is located in Qixia Town, about 22 kilometers northeast of Nanjing. In late autumn, Qixia is ablaze with red leaves, as forests turn vibrant shades of crimson. There’s a local saying: “Visit Niushou in spring, and Qixia in autumn.” The mountain features three peaks—East, South, and Central—and is covered with maple trees, liquidambar trees, and occasionally lush green pines and cypresses, creating a uniquely charming atmosphere. During frostfall season, the mountainside is covered in fiery maples, displaying vivid reds, crimson hues, pinks, and peach tones in rich, distinct layers. The contrast between the maple trees and the evergreen pines adds to the colorful spectacle. The Taixu Pavilion on the East Peak lies deep within the maple forest, surrounded by maple trees, making it the best spot to admire them on Qixia Mountain. The main peak, Fengxiang Peak, stands at an elevation of 286 meters and was referred to by Emperor Qianlong as the “Foremost Scenic Beauty of Jinling.” As you enter the mountain gate, you’ll find several maple trees, no taller than a person, their leaves completely red, scattered in clusters among flower beds. They’re small and delicate, resembling cheerful, festively dressed children during the New Year.

Best time to view autumn foliage: November

Best spots to admire autumn colors: Frost Red Garden, Peach Blossom Fan Pavilion, Peach Blossom Lake, Maple Forest Lake, Taixu Pavilion

 

    Recommended accommodation: Hangzhou Tujia Sweetome Vacation Apartments (Vision IBC). The apartment is right next to Jingsha Lake Station on Hangzhou Metro Line 1, just a 20-minute ride to bustling central areas like Wulin Square. The increasingly well-developed commercial facilities nearby cater to your business needs, and after work, you can hop on the metro to enjoy the beautiful sights of West Lake, adding variety to your otherwise routine trip. The rooms feature a simple yet elegant design and offer more space for your travel life. Well-equipped kitchen facilities add a homely touch to your stay. Room rates are available at two price points: 328 yuan and 346 yuan.