Fragrant Hill Red Leaves Festival

Situated in the east part of western hills, 17 miles (28 kilometers) northwest of Beijing City, Fragrant Hills Park was first built in 1186 in the Jin Dynasty and later extended to a large scale in the Yuan and Ming dynasties. In 1745, Emperor Qianlong ordered the addition of many new halls, pavilions and gardens. The most spectacular natural scenery in the Fragrant Hills Park is the red smoke tree leaves over the mountains. When autumn arrives, fiery red leaves blanket the entire mountain. Every year, thousands of tourists come to it.

Red Leaves Festival is held every Mid-October to early November. This hill is one the most famous places in China to see the red leaves. If you want to pay a visit during the time, you must be prepared to see crowded people at the mountain and jammed traffic at the high-way. Actually, there are also some other sights for autumn leaves in Beijing. For instance, Huluo Temple, Dajue Temple and Tanzhe Temple are three perfect options to visit in autumn. Hundreds or even thousands of year’s ginko trees were planted there in ancient times. Every autumn, the ginkgo leaves turn gold, and the harmonious match with the secluded, ancient temple forms a view that you will not easily forget. Another option is the Diaoyutai’s ginkgo avenue. It is located in the central of Beijing. The miniature forest is one of the capital’s most popular gingko-viewing areas and a nice place to enjoy fall colors without leaving the city center and no crowded. Besides, Nanhaizi Milu Park in the south, Olympic Green Park in the north, Baiwangshan Forest Park in the Haidian District and Jingshan Park in the center are all good options for visitor to enjoy autumn view in Beijing.