While the internet is busy making memes about pumpkin spice latte season, here in Beijing – where we’re sorely deprived of the iconic autumnal beverage – we’ve got something else that we can share online, announcing to friends far and wide that fall is upon us: ginkgo leaves!
That’s right, we’re currently in the midst of that short window of time when the capital’s ginkgo leaves turn a golden shade of yellow. So without further ado, here’s our list of where to snap the best photos before the trees take on their barren, winter look.
Sanlitun Dong Wu Jie 5 aka Embassy Street (三里屯东五街)
Throughout the rest of the year, this is the serene street where many embassies are housed, but every October and November this area becomes an unofficial tourist destination for photography enthusiasts. The street is open to the public and only requires a Health Kit scan to enter. What’s more, it’s a particular favorite for parents thanks to its minimal traffic.
Fragrant Hills Park (香山公园 xiāng shān gōng yuán)
The best time to visit the annual Fragrant Hills Red Leaves Festival is mid-week or early in the day to avoid the crowds. Put another way, it’s a veritable tourist magnet, so weekends and peak times can get uncomfortably crowded. Years ago, the government planted maple trees, blanketing the area with warm reds, oranges, and golds. Pro tip: Snag a couple of leaves from the ground and bring them home for fun crafts. Oh, and if you have time, check out the nearby Jingcui Lake, Heshun Gate, Fragrant Hill Temple, and Yuhua Villa.
40 Maimaijie, Haidian District, Beijing
北京市海淀区买卖街40号
Ditan Park (地坛公园 dì tán gōng yuán)
This well known Temple Fair location is a hidden gem brimming with golden leaves and ginkgo trees. The park has spacious tree-lined paths, which are wide enough to push a stroller and capture some really nice family photos. The whole nearby Gulou neighborhood is great for a day out as well, with plenty of charming hutong shops and restaurants.
A2 Andingmenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District
t东城区安定门外大街甲2号
Yuyuantan Park (玉渊潭公园 yù yuān tán gōng yuán)
The park boasts nearly 1,000 ginkgo trees painting the area with stunning golds and yellows. What’s more, it’s rich in history, as this was a favorite spot of royals and now hosts heads of states and other high level foreign dignitaries at its Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. Local families particularly enjoy the two play areas within the park, followed by a visit to the nearby Military Museum.
10 Xisanhuan Zhonglu, Haidian District
海淀区西三环中路10号
Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城 mù tián yù cháng chéng)
A much better alternative to the super crowded Badaling Great Wall section, Mutianyu provides a peaceful setting where you can soak in the vivid colors of the changing leaves. The area is home to more than 280,000 different species of trees and its panoramic views are breathtaking. Pro tip: The Brickyard Inn and Resort offers comfortable accommodations and activities making this place a great weekend getaway spot.
Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District
怀柔区渤海镇慕田峪村
KEEP READING: Pics or It Didn’t Happen! Family-Friendly Photographers in Beijing
Images: Mina Yan
