Autumn in Xi’an, from October to November, is a fleeting yet breathtaking season, showcasing stunning landscapes painted in gold and red. If you’re in Xi’an during the fall, here’s a guide to the top 10 best places to enjoy autumn foliage, from golden ginkgo trees to vibrant red maple leaves. Plan your autumn activities now and immerse yourself in the beauty of Xi’an’s fall season!
Golden Ginkgo Trees
1. Gu Guanyin Temple (古观音禅寺)
A historic gem in Xi’an, the ginkgo tree planted by Emperor Li Shimin over 1,400 years ago continues to stand tall, offering a spectacular golden display in the late autumn. The ginkgo trees are at their peak in mid to late autumn, creating a poetic and picturesque setting.
- Best Viewing Time: Mid October to Mid November
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Entry stops at 4:30 PM)
- Admission: Free (Reservation required due to popularity)
- Location: Luohandong Village, Dongdajie Street, Chang’an District.
2. Daci’en Temple Ruins Park (大慈恩寺遗址公园)
Adjacent to the Daci’en Temple, this open-air park is themed around Buddhist culture and offers a serene atmosphere perfect for a peaceful autumn stroll. Enter through the south gate, where a cluster of ginkgo trees greets visitors, offering a perfect backdrop for photos.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free, no reservation needed
- Location: Daci’en Temple Ruins Park, South Gate.
3. Hanyangling Ginkgo Forest (汉阳陵银杏林)
Hanyangling boasts an impressive collection of over 10,000 ginkgo trees. The late autumn scene here is nothing short of spectacular, with the entire tomb complex painted in vibrant golden hues.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Admission: ¥40
- Location: Hanyangling Museum, near the Airport Expressway entrance.
4. City Wall Park (环城公园)
Located beneath the historic Xi’an City Wall, this park features a large collection of ginkgo trees. The golden ginkgo leaves against the backdrop of the ancient city wall create a stunning atmosphere that’s perfect for autumn photography.
- Opening Hours: All day
- Admission: Free
- Location: Beilin District, Jianguo Alley, City Wall Park.
5. Bai Ta Temple (百塔寺)
A temple with a rich history and a beautiful courtyard, Bai Ta Temple is home to an enormous ginkgo tree that has stood for centuries. Its sprawling branches form a canopy of golden leaves in autumn, adding a touch of timeless beauty to the surroundings.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Admission: Free
Red Maple Leaves
1. Taiping National Forest Park (太平国家森林公园)
Nestled in the Qinling Mountains, Taiping National Forest Park is known for its vibrant autumn colors, with maple trees turning fiery red. The park is a paradise for autumn lovers, offering a panoramic view of the forested hillsides painted with fall foliage.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: ¥60
- Location: Qinling Mountains, Taiping.
2. Guifeng Mountain (圭峰山)
A short distance from Xi’an, Guifeng Mountain is a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy autumn colors. The mountain is known for its dense maple forests, which turn brilliant shades of red and orange in October and early November. It’s a great spot for a family outing.
- Best Viewing Time: October to Early November
- Opening Hours: All day
- Admission: Free
3. Tianziyu Valley (天子峪)
In Tianziyu Valley, the hillsides are lined with clusters of red maple leaves, creating a stunning natural display that looks like clusters of colorful clouds. The valley is peaceful and perfect for a leisurely autumn walk.
- Opening Hours: All day
- Admission: Free
4. Yan Nan Park (雁南公园)
A hidden gem in the heart of Xi’an, Yan Nan Park is a great place to see vibrant red maple leaves, especially in the fall. The park spans several acres, offering winding paths and rolling hills covered in brilliant red and gold hues, making it perfect for a peaceful autumn escape.
- Opening Hours: All day
- Admission: Free
- Location: Xifeng Road, opposite Jindi Central Park, Yanta District.
5. Jin Si Gorge (金丝峡)
Jin Si Gorge is famous for its breathtaking views of fiery red maple leaves that blanket the mountain slopes. The gorge is a blend of steep cliffs, narrow valleys, and cascading waterfalls, offering a spectacular contrast against the vibrant autumn foliage.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Admission: ¥120 (Peak Season), ¥100 (Off-Season)