Laoshan Mountain (崂山) is one of China’s most scenic and culturally significant mountains, offering stunning views year-round. However, autumn is a particularly special time to visit. As the leaves change colors, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of gold, red, and orange. This guide will walk you through the top scenic areas for enjoying the best autumn foliage in Laoshan, with each location offering its unique charm. Whether you’re hiking the trails, visiting ancient temples, or simply soaking in the beauty of the natural surroundings, this guide will help you make the most of your fall visit.
1. Jufeng Scenic Area (巨峰游览区)
Jufeng, the highest peak in Laoshan, is one of the earliest areas to showcase the beauty of autumn. As the temperature drops, the trees begin to display their vibrant red and golden hues. The landscape turns into a patchwork of colors, and the leaves dance in the wind, offering a perfect autumn spectacle.
- Best viewing time: Late October to early December
- Recommended areas: The hiking route from the lower to the upper cable car stations and the circular trail around the Bagua Gate (八卦门)
- Key spots: Fengye Garden (枫叶苑) and the hiking trail are best for viewing red leaves, with the peak season falling in mid-November.
2. Taiqing Scenic Area (太清游览区)
Taiqing Scenic Area is home to one of Laoshan’s most iconic autumn attractions: a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree. Its golden leaves provide a striking contrast to the surrounding red maple leaves and the traditional Taoist temples. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the breathtaking scenery, makes this area a must-visit during the fall season.
- Best viewing time: Late October to early December
- Recommended areas: Taiqing Palace (太清宫), Shangqing Palace (上清宫), Laozilu (老子路), Bashui River (八水河) to Shangqing Palace, and the cable car route to Mingxia Cave (明霞洞)
- Key spots: Taiqing Palace and Mingxia Cave are ideal for viewing the golden ginkgo leaves, while Laozilu and the Moon Walkway (步月廊) at Taiqing Palace are best for red maple leaves. November is the prime time for leaf-peeping in this area.
3. Yangkou Scenic Area (仰口游览区)
Unlike other areas in Laoshan, Yangkou Scenic Area is filled with evergreen plants that retain their lush green beauty throughout the year. While the autumn foliage is less prominent here, the clear blue skies, crisp air, and views of the sea and mountains create a picturesque backdrop for an autumn adventure. The mix of blue skies, green mountains, and golden autumn hues offers a unique and refreshing contrast.
- Best viewing time: Late October to early December
- Recommended areas: Taiping Palace (太平宫), the Yangkou cable car, and the hiking trails
- Key spots: The area around Taiping Palace is particularly scenic, with red leaves peaking around mid-November.
4. Huayan Scenic Area (华严游览区)
Huayan Temple (华严寺) is known for its tranquil beauty, especially in late autumn. The ancient ginkgo trees surrounding the temple turn a brilliant gold, carpeting the ground with their fallen leaves. The temple, with its serene atmosphere and golden backdrop, becomes a peaceful haven, perfect for quiet contemplation amidst the vibrant autumn colors.
- Best viewing time: Late October to early December
- Recommended areas: Huayan Temple and the hiking route from the temple to Naluoyan Cave (那罗延窟)
- Key spots: The hiking trails and the temple grounds are best for viewing golden ginkgo leaves, with the prime time being mid-November.
5. Jiushui Scenic Area (九水游览区)
Jiushui Scenic Area is famous for its autumn display of red maple leaves. Every year, the mountains are covered in a sea of red, creating a dreamy and enchanting atmosphere. The fiery red of the maple trees is balanced by the misty mountain air, making it a perfect destination for autumn lovers. Visitors can take Metro Line 11 to Beijiushui Station and transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus for a seamless experience.
- Best viewing time: Late October to early December
- Recommended areas: Weizhu Temple (蔚竹观), Maple Leaf Avenue (枫叶大道), and the hiking trails
- Key spots: Weizhu Temple is best for viewing golden ginkgo leaves, while Maple Leaf Avenue and the hiking paths are ideal for red maple leaves, with the peak season extending into late November.