Zhong Shan Park
In Zhong Shan Park, between the South Gate of Zhong Shan Park and Imperial Divine Temple, lies a ginkgo avenue. This avenue features 18 ginkgo trees, each around 50 years old with trunks measuring 30 to 40 centimeters in diameter. In late autumn, the leaves of these towering ginkgo trees turn a brilliant golden yellow. As the autumn wind blows, the leaves flutter like butterflies, spinning gracefully in the air before gently falling to the ground, creating a golden carpet. In Zhong Shan Park during autumn, the golden ginkgo leaves, silver maples, and horse chestnuts, as well as the red leaves of the Chinese maple and the silk cotton tree, create a vivid tapestry of autumn colors. Against the backdrop of the red walls and glazed tiles, the scenery is particularly enchanting.
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City has relatively few trees, but the few ginkgo trees present exude a regal aura. In the setting sun, the golden ginkgo leaves cast their shadows on the Forbidden City's red walls, creating a dappled, swaying effect. With autumn in full swing and the distant aroma of coffee wafting through the air—likely from the Forbidden City's Corner Tower—you can savor a cup of "Kangxi's favorite chocolate" while admiring the palace's bricks, tiles, and greenery. Capturing the essence of the Forbidden City through its many cultural and creative souvenirs, and using the city walls as a backdrop, you can snap photos with a "palatial" flavor without even stepping into the palace, experiencing the rich 600-year history of the Forbidden City.
Nearby Popular Spots:
Qianmen Street is a famous commercial street in Beijing, located on the city's central axis just like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. It stretches from Qianmen in the north to Liangguang Dajie(St) in the south. The architecture here reflects the historical charm of the ancient capital, offering a glimpse into old Beijing. Descriptions of the bustling commercial activity on Qianmen Street include lines such as: "The myriad colors dazzle the eyes, and countless goods are arrayed in rows. Looking up, the sky remains indifferent to sunshine or rain, and the narrow street is packed with people moving in a steady stream." "The capital's shops are known for their grandeur, with ornate red carvings, colorful window displays, and signage reaching up to ten meters high. At night, lamps are lit, casting a bright light that makes the streets glow as if it were daytime." Today, Qianmen Street is a bustling area filled with tourists, with attractions such as Yue Coffee, Page One bookstore, Madame Tussauds, and the iconic Qianmen ice cream. It’s a perfect day to explore.
