I still remember the first time I walked through its ancient gates in late October. A golden breeze swept across the park, ginkgo leaves swirling at my feet like scattered gold. Nearby, red maples glowed against the deep blues of the sky and the timeless structure of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The contrast was breathtaking.
If you’re a foreign traveler with a camera in hand and a heart for hidden beauty, you’re in the right place. This guide is your invitation to slow down, explore, and discover the best fall color spots for Temple of Heaven autumn photography. From golden tree-lined paths to silent pavilions under fiery leaves, I’ll take you to the most magical corners — ones even many locals overlook.
For more tips on Temple of Heaven, check out my complete guide: How to Visit Temple of Heaven.
1. The Golden Window: Best Time to See Temple of Heaven Fall Colors
Timing is everything. Especially when it comes to Temple of Heaven autumn photography.
I’ve walked through the park in every season, but nothing compares to those crisp autumn days between late October and mid-November. That’s when this place truly glows.
By early November, the ginkgo trees burst into shades of brilliant gold. Their fan-shaped leaves flutter down like confetti, layering the stone paths in yellow. Around the edges of the temple grounds, flame-red maple trees light up the scene. Against the deep blue tiles and vermilion walls, the colors almost seem unreal.
Want the best shots? Come for the ginkgo trees in early to mid-November. For maples, aim for late October to early November. The window is short, but unforgettable.
If you’re lucky, you’ll catch that perfect blend of color, light, and history — all in one frame.
2. Best Ginkgo Viewing Spots at the Temple of Heaven
Most of the ginkgo trees in the Temple of Heaven cluster in the northeast, north, and northwest parts of the park. I always start my walk at the East Gate. From there, I follow the path toward the North Gate, then loop west. That route catches nearly every patch of autumn color. This loop is my go-to for exploring the best Temple of Heaven fall colors spots in one gentle stroll.
Spot 1: The Quiet Grove North of the East Gate
This little grove is one of my secret favorites.
Just north of the East Gate lies a fan-shaped patch of ginkgo trees. It’s a quiet corner, often missed by tour groups. That’s what makes it special. The trees here mix in different stages — some still green, others golden, and a few brushed red by nearby maples.
In one spot, a gardener had gently swept fallen ginkgo leaves into a soft golden pile. I knelt down and used it as a foreground for my shot — bright leaves below, trees behind, soft autumn light all around.
It’s not a dramatic location. No famous landmarks here. But that’s the charm — a peaceful green space where Temple of Heaven’s fall colors feel personal, almost secret.
And the best part? Not many people stop here. You’ll likely have the grove to yourself.
Spot 2: Ginkgo Avenue Inside the North Gate
This is where the magic peaks.
Just inside the North Gate, I found myself standing at the start of what looked like a golden river. Over 60 ginkgo trees lined both sides of a broad path, their branches reaching high and heavy with golden leaves. In the sunlight, the leaves shimmered like silk, glowing from within.
This stretch — often called the Ginkgo Avenue — is easily one of the best Temple of Heaven fall colors spots. It’s also the most photographed. And for good reason.
When the leaves start falling, the ground turns into a golden carpet. Every step crunches softly. Every corner glows. I came early one morning just after sunrise. The light was soft, almost dreamy. I stood beneath the trees and looked up. The sun filtered through the canopy like honey through glass. I couldn’t stop smiling — or snapping photos.
The most iconic angle? One where the golden trees frame the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests in the distance. That’s your postcard shot.
But there’s a catch.
This spot is always busy. Locals, tourists, photographers — everyone loves it. If you’re hoping for that empty-frame shot, arrive early. Or do what I do: skip the center and shoot through the side archways. Fewer people, same golden glow.
Spot 3: Hidden Ginkgo Grove in the Northwest Corner
Tucked away in the northwest corner of the park, far from the crowds and tour groups, is a peaceful ginkgo grove that most people miss. No grand temples. No famous signs. Just rows of golden trees and quiet earth.
Only the seasoned locals and photography lovers know about it. I stumbled upon it by accident, and now I return every fall.
This grove is perfect for Temple of Heaven autumn photography. The trees grow in tidy rows, creating a soft, almost enchanted forest vibe.
In the early morning, sunlight breaks through the leaves, casting long, dappled shadows on the grass. And in the late afternoon, when the sun begins to dip, the golden light slants through the trunks. Everything glows.
Spot 4: Baihuating Pavilion Area 百花亭区域
In the quiet Baihuating area, two giant ginkgo trees stand on either side of the pavilion. Their golden leaves fall gently in the breeze, swirling through the air like slow-motion snow. I stood under one of them, watching the leaves drift down, brushing past my camera lens.
This might just be the most poetic Temple of Heaven fall foliage best spot I’ve found.
The pavilion itself is delicate, with faded red beams and classic curved eaves. As the golden leaves pile up around it, the whole scene feels timeless — like a moment plucked from centuries ago.
It’s not as large as the main ginkgo avenue, but that’s what makes it special. There’s no rush here. I sat on the stone bench inside the pavilion and watched the golden leaves dance. A soft wind blew through, and for a moment, it felt like the whole world had slowed down.
3. Best Red Maple Viewing Spot in Temple of Heaven
Everyone talks about the ginkgo trees at the Temple of Heaven. But if you’re like me and love a splash of red, there’s one little corner you shouldn’t miss.
Near the Shuanghuan Wanshou Pavilion (双环万寿亭), tucked between the classic rooftops and quiet courtyards, a few maple trees blaze bright each autumn. Their leaves turn a deep, fiery red — the kind that glows even on a cloudy day.
It’s subtle. There’s no grand avenue here. No sweeping views. But that’s what I love about it.
This may be the best place to see red maples in Temple of Heaven. Not because there are many — but because the few that are here feel perfectly placed. Framed by stone railings and aged pavilions, they make for quiet, almost intimate compositions.
So if you’re hunting for those deep reds, don’t skip this spot. It’s quiet, overlooked — and absolutely worth the detour.
4. Recommended Temple of Heaven Fall Foliage Walking Route
I usually start at the East Gate, stepping into the hush of the early morning park. Just a few minutes in, I reach that small grove in the northeast corner, where ginkgo trees glow like lanterns in the quiet.
Then I walk west toward the North Gate, where the famous Ginkgo Avenue stretches ahead like a golden tunnel. I always stop here a while — the light, the color, the crunch of leaves underfoot — it’s all perfect.
From there, I keep heading west into the northwest corner. This is where the crowds disappear. I breathe a little deeper here, moving slowly through that forest-like grove. It’s peaceful, shadowy, and ideal for more intimate shots.
Next stop? The Shuanghuan Wanshou Pavilion (双环万寿亭) , where a few fiery maples add rich red tones to my memory card. I shoot small details here — branches, pavilions, stonework.
Finally, I make my way to the Baihuating area (百花亭区域) , where the twin ginkgo trees drop their golden leaves around the quiet pavilion like confetti.
This Temple of Heaven fall foliage walking route takes me about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how often I stop to shoot (which is often). It’s the perfect way to feel the rhythm of autumn.
If it’s your first time here, I recommend circling back to the central axis before leaving — to see the grand temples and architectural heart of the park.
From there, exit via the West Gate (Line 8) or loop back to the East Gate (Line 5). Either way, your memory card will be full — and so will your heart.
5. Photography Tips for Temple of Heaven Autumn Photography
The best time to shoot? Early morning, between 7:00 and 9:00, or late afternoon, from 3:00 to 5:00. That’s when the sun sits low and soft. One morning, I caught the sun breaking through the ginkgo canopy — the golden leaves looked like stained glass.
Backlight is your best friend. Especially with ginkgo leaves. Shoot toward the sun and you’ll see the leaves glow, almost transparent, like they’re lit from inside.
For composition, I like to play with layers. Frame your shots so the temple architecture anchors the background. The red walls, the blue tiles — they add depth and contrast. And don’t be afraid to get low. I’ve crouched in the middle of a leaf-covered path to shoot upward. The result? Pure autumn magic.
As for gear, I usually carry two lenses: a wide-angle for the big scenes (like Ginkgo Avenue), and a telephoto for capturing details — golden leaves against rooftops, or a child chasing a leaf mid-air.
Planning a portrait session? Light-colored or red clothing pops beautifully against the yellow leaves. I once photographed a friend in a flowing red dress under the ginkgos — it felt like a movie still.
That’s the joy of Temple of Heaven autumn photography. Every detail — the light, the leaves, the history — comes together to create something timeless.
Autumn at the Temple of Heaven feels like walking through a golden dream — one that’s been unfolding quietly for centuries.
Each visit gives me something different. One time, it was the quiet hush under the ginkgo trees. Another, it was a single red leaf resting perfectly on a stone step beneath the temple wall. Sometimes, it’s not even the photo I take — it’s the feeling I carry home.
The Temple of Heaven fall colors aren’t just beautiful. They’re timeless. You’re not just photographing trees or buildings. You’re capturing a story — layers of color, light, and history in one frame.
I hope this guide helps you find your own moments of magic. Let it guide your steps, but don’t be afraid to wander.
With the right light and a little patience, your Temple of Heaven autumn photography journey might just become one of your favorite Beijing memories.
Happy shooting — and happy autumn. 🍁
🌟 Further Reading
How to Visit Temple of Heaven: Maps, Tickets, Routes & Tips
10 Best Places to See Fall Colors in Beijing
Fall Colors on the Great Wall: Best Time, Top Sections & Tips
Summer Palace Fall Colors: Best Photo Spots for Autumn Foliage
Forbidden City Autumn Photography: Best Fall Color Photo Spots
