As autumn unfolds, Beijing transforms into a palette of vibrant colors, making mid-October to early November the ideal time for leaf-peeping.
The city’s outskirts, with their rolling hills and mountains, become a spectacular canvas of fall foliage. This “The 10 best places to see fall colors in Beijing” guide showcases the top spots in and around Beijing to experience the autumn’s splendid display.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a photography aficionado, these locations offer breathtaking views and a perfect escape to enjoy the season’s beauty.
1. Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park)
Fragrant Hills Park, or Xiangshan Park, is renowned as the pinnacle of autumn beauty in Beijing. The park’s vast landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of deep reds as the smoke trees change color. The spectacle peaks from mid-October to early November, attracting numerous visitors to its serene pathways and historic sites like the Biyun Temple and Jianxin Pavilion.
The park’s vibrant foliage is not only a treat for the eyes but also an opportunity for cultural exploration. However, its popularity means it can get crowded, particularly during weekends. For a more peaceful experience, plan a weekday visit. The park’s layout, with its meandering paths and scenic spots, makes it an ideal destination for a full day of exploration and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to early November.
Getting There: Accessible by subway line 4, getting off at Beigongmen Station, and then taking a bus or taxi to the park.
2. Beijing Botanical Garden
The Beijing Botanical Garden, near the Fragrant Hills, is a sanctuary of diverse plant species and autumn colors. Spread over a vast area, it features thematic gardens, like the Rose Garden, Peony Garden, and the Conservatory, each presenting a unique aspect of nature’s autumn palette.
The garden’s tranquility is a stark contrast to the city’s bustle, making it a favorite spot for leisurely walks and quiet reflection. The Cao Xueqin Memorial, dedicated to the famous Qing Dynasty writer, adds a historical dimension to your visit. The garden’s collection of exotic and native trees, including maples and gingkos, display a spectrum of golds, reds, and yellows, offering a splendid autumn experience.
Best Time to Visit: The entire autumn season, with October being particularly picturesque.
Getting There: Easily reached by subway, taking Line 4 to the Botanical Garden Station.
3. The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design but also a spectacular autumn destination. The harmony of its landscaped hills, open water, and elegant structures like the Long Corridor and Marble Boat is further enhanced by the autumnal hues. The Kunming Lake reflects the golden ginkgo and red maple leaves, creating a breathtaking view.
Walking through the palace grounds, visitors can experience both the grandeur of imperial China and the natural beauty of the season. The palace’s vantage points, like the Longevity Hill, offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a photographer’s paradise during autumn.
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November, when the foliage is at its peak.
Getting There: Accessible via subway, take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station and follow the signs to the palace.
4. Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park, directly north of the Forbidden City, offers a unique perspective of Beijing’s historical and natural beauty. The park is known for its artificial hill, the highest point in central Beijing, providing panoramic views of the city and the adjacent Forbidden City.
In autumn, the park’s variety of trees, including maples and locusts, don a spectrum of colors, offering a stunning contrast to the ancient imperial architecture. Visitors can climb the hill for a breathtaking view or enjoy a leisurely walk through the colorful avenues. The park is also a cultural hub, often hosting traditional music performances and local art displays, adding to the autumn experience.
Best Time to Visit: Mid to late autumn, when the foliage colors are most vibrant.
Getting There: Jingshan Park is easily accessible by subway, taking Line 5 to Dongsi Station and then a short taxi or bus ride.
5. Badaling National Forest Park
Badaling National Forest Park, located near the famous Badaling section of the Great Wall, is an ideal spot for those seeking both historical and natural wonders in one setting. The park’s undulating hills are covered with a mix of deciduous trees, including maples and oaks, which create a stunning display of golds and reds against the backdrop of the Great Wall.
The park offers numerous trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty at their own pace. The combination of the Great Wall’s majestic presence and the autumn foliage makes for an unforgettable experience, perfect for those who appreciate both nature’s artistry and historical grandeur.
Best Time to Visit: From October to early November, for the full display of autumn colors.
Getting There: Reachable by bus or a combination of subway and bus from Beijing city center.
6. Yuanmingyuan Park (Old Summer Palace)
Yuanmingyuan Park, the Old Summer Palace, is a poignant reminder of China’s imperial past, with its ruins set amidst lush gardens. In autumn, the park becomes a tapestry of rich golds, ambers, and reds, as the trees change color around its lakes and ponds. The park’s blend of natural beauty and historic ruins makes for a reflective and tranquil experience.
The Western-style palaces and Chinese landscape gardening showcase an intriguing blend of architectural styles. Visitors can explore the extensive grounds, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the picturesque scenery, which is especially striking during the autumn months. The park’s vastness allows for leisurely exploration, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn, particularly in October, offers the most vivid foliage.
Getting There: Accessible via subway, taking Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Park Station.
7. Ditan Park (The Temple of Earth)
Ditan Park, known as the Temple of Earth, holds a special place in Beijing’s history and culture. As the site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies to honor the earth, the park combines historical significance with natural beauty.
In autumn, the park’s trees, including a variety of maples and pines, transform the grounds into a colorful landscape, providing a stunning backdrop to the historic altars and halls. The park’s layout encourages visitors to wander and explore, discovering hidden corners and serene spots ideal for relaxation or contemplation. The park’s central altar, an impressive architectural feat, is particularly striking amidst the autumn foliage.
Best Time to Visit: The fall season, especially October, for a vibrant display of colors.
Getting There: Conveniently accessible by subway, taking Line 2 or 5 to Yonghegong Station.
8. Purple Bamboo Park (Zizhuyuan Park)
Purple Bamboo Park, or Zizhuyuan Park, is a unique blend of natural and landscaped beauty. Famous for its bamboo groves, the park also features lakes, ponds, and a variety of trees that showcase the autumn season’s colors. Its three connecting lakes, with five bridges offering different views, create a picturesque setting for leisurely walks or boat rides.
The park’s peaceful atmosphere is accentuated by the rustling of bamboo and the gentle movement of water, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil paths, pavilions, and the traditional Chinese garden design, which is especially enchanting in the autumn months.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-autumn, when the foliage adds a colorful contrast to the green bamboo.
Getting There: Easily reached by subway, taking Line 4 to the National Library Station.
9. Beijing Olympic Forest Park
The Beijing Olympic Forest Park, created for the 2008 Olympics, is a testament to modern landscape design and natural preservation. This sprawling urban park features a variety of landscapes, from woodlands to meadows, all of which come alive with the colors of autumn. The park’s North and South areas are connected by a long corridor, allowing visitors to explore diverse environments.
The park offers numerous recreational activities, including cycling, boating, and bird-watching, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. The park’s design, which integrates water features, walking paths, and scenic viewing areas, provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment and a unique way to experience Beijing’s autumn hues.
Best Time to Visit: The entire autumn season, with the color transformation peaking in October.
Getting There: Accessible by subway, taking Line 8 to the Olympic Green Station.
10. Tanzhe Temple
Tanzhe Temple, nestled in the western hills of Beijing, is one of the region’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples. Surrounded by an ancient forest, the temple complex becomes a haven of peace and spirituality in autumn. The trees around the temple, including ancient gingkos and maples, turn magnificent shades of yellow and red, adding to the site’s serene and mystical ambiance.
The temple’s architecture, with its pagodas, halls, and courtyards, provides a fascinating glimpse into China’s religious heritage. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and experience a sense of timelessness amidst the changing leaves. The temple’s location, away from the city’s bustle, makes it an ideal destination for reflection and connection with nature.
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November, when the autumn colors are most vibrant.
Getting There: Details on reaching Tanzhe Temple can be found through local tourism resources or by inquiring at your hotel.
Beijing, in autumn, offers an array of mesmerizing spots to witness the fall foliage. Each location, with its unique charm and beauty, provides an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether it’s the historical elegance of the Summer Palace, the natural splendor of Fragrant Hills, or the serene tranquility of the Olympic Forest Park, Beijing’s autumn palette is a feast for the senses. Plan your visit to these spectacular sites and immerse yourself in the season’s vibrant colors.
