The ginkgo leaves on each tree turn golden under the autumn breeze, harmonizing with the weathered ancient temple. The temple, far from the noise of the world, is filled with tranquility and Zen. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn.
1 Cheng'en Temple
As the autumn breeze rises, the leaves turn yellow, and Beijing's autumn unfolds in its most vibrant form. It is a poetic picture woven from red walls, black tiles, and golden ginkgo trees. The tranquility of the ancient temple becomes even more serene as ginkgo leaves flutter down from the sky.
After its establishment, Cheng'en Temple has been shrouded in the "Three Mysteries" since the Ming Dynasty: it does not receive incense offerings, it does not serve as a place for religious gatherings, and its temple gates remain closed. Yet, this mysterious ancient temple is now making its most captivating appearance, joyfully embracing the rich offerings of nature in the autumn season.
Starting from Thursday, November 7, the "Cheng'en Has 'Ginkgo'" autumn viewing event at Cheng'en Temple is now open with limited-time free entry. The temple has further upgraded its offerings, featuring expansive ginkgo views, ancient temple coffee, and public exhibitions... providing visitors with a variety of delightful experiences. Additionally, from November 16 to November 17, there will be creative ginkgo interactions, cultural and creative activities from the temple, and a series of special weekend events. More surprises await your discovery.
2 Fahai Temple
Not far from Cheng'en Temple is Fahai Temple. Take a stroll through Fahai Temple on an autumn day and experience the zen atmosphere of this ancient temple.
The Ming Dynasty murals inside Fahai Temple have amazed the world. After nearly 600 years, they still shine with golden brilliance, showcasing the wisdom and aesthetic of the ancients. The autumn sunlight filtering through the windows further accentuates the passage of time, adding to the temple's timeless beauty.
Outside the courtyard, the fallen leaves transform into golden butterflies, dancing gracefully in the breeze. Inside the temple, the white pines remain evergreen throughout the seasons, while the red walls and yellow tiles stand solemn and dignified, exuding a sense of tranquility and reverence.
Admire the intricate carvings on the beams and columns, the flying eaves and bracket sets — the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient architecture. Gently knock on the courtyard door and step into the world of captivating murals. With a fleeting glance, one is forever captivated by their beauty.
Then, step into the Fahai Temple Mural Art Center, where it feels as if you've traveled through 600 years of time. The delicate gold leaf and dynamic lighting fill your vision, while digital display technology breathes new life into these artistic treasures.
Nearby Sightseeing
When you are immersed in the autumn scenery of Cheng'en Temple and Fahai Temple, why not take a stroll around the nearby Moshikou Historical and Cultural Block? Experience the historical charm of Moshikou and the autumn atmosphere. You might even discover some unique little shops that will add more fun to your autumn adventure.
Stroll along the autumn path painted in rich, vibrant hues, where you'll experience the unique autumn relaxation that belongs solely to the people of Shijingshan.
The soothing music drifting from the street-side shops makes your steps unknowingly lighter and more lively.
Wanquan Temple Site Park and Moshikou Park connect the mountains and the world. Amidst the hustle and bustle of traffic, you can enjoy endless autumn views. These are perfect spots for tourists to appreciate the autumn scenery, daydream, wander, or even exercise.
The Shijingshan District Stone Carving Relics Park and the China Quaternary Glacial Vestige Exhibition Hall are also nearby. Visitors can admire exquisite stone carvings and explore the fascinating traces left by ice and time.
When you're hungry, indulge in the local specialties. Various restaurants offer you a taste of cuisine and scenery from around the world.
3 Wuta Temple (Five Pagoda Temple)
Wuta Temple, also known as the Beijing Stone Carving Art Museum, is at its best during late autumn. The ginkgo trees in the courtyard have turned golden, reaching their peak viewing period.
Two ancient ginkgo trees, nearly 600 years old, stand beside the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne). Their trunks are sturdy, and their branches lush with leaves. The golden foliage shines brightly, contrasting with the ancient pagoda that has withstood the passage of time. This beautiful scene draws visitors who stop to take photos beneath the trees or gather around to feel the sunlight filtering through the gaps in the ginkgo leaves.
Nearby Sightseeing
The Beijing Zoo is right next to Wuta Temple, with its vibrant colors and rich layers, exuding a strong autumn atmosphere. It's a perfect place to visit with children on the weekend, offering both fun and a chance to enjoy the beauty of the season.
In late autumn, the water areas of the Beijing Zoo become the best spots for viewing colorful foliage. The wide lake reflects the trees' silhouettes, while the lively waterfowl add to the charm, creating beautiful autumn scenes that feel like a series of stunning paintings.
The gray tiles, red corridors, and green pillars of the historic buildings, bathed in sunlight and contrasted against the golden autumn leaves, highlight the timelessness and grandeur of history.
The gray tiles, red corridors, and green pillars of the historic buildings, bathed in sunlight and contrasted against the golden autumn leaves, highlight the timelessness and grandeur of history.
4 Wanshou Temple
Every year, mid-November marks the best time to view the ginkgo trees at Wanshou Temple. The two ginkgo trees, with the female tree on the west side turning yellow first, followed closely by the male tree on the east side, create a stunning autumn display.
Wanshou Post Office has launched a new collection of autumn-themed fridge magnets, inspired by the iconic architecture within the museum. These magnets capture the essence of autumn at Wanshou Temple in a compact, artistic form.
Admire the ginkgo trees, explore exhibitions, participate in colorful activities... You might even encounter some cats along the way. This autumn, come to Wanshou Temple and experience the beauty of traditional culture.
Nearby Sightseeing
After enjoying the autumn scenery at Wanshou Temple, you can take a walk to Purple Bamboo Park (Zizhuyuan Park) and admire the beauty of the chrysanthemums.
After over a year of renovation and maintenance, the Zizhuyuan Palace opened to the public on November 1st.
At this time, the second Chrysanthemum Exhibition is being held at Purple Bamboo Park (Zizhuyuan Park). Chrysanthemum bonsai are displayed along the long corridor, perfectly blending with the ancient architecture, showcasing the classical beauty of chrysanthemums. The park's diverse floral arrangements in various shapes capture the attention of many photography enthusiasts and flower lovers.
Passing through the screen wall, two ancient ginkgo trees, planted during the Ming Dynasty under Emperor Wanli, stand in the courtyard. Surrounded by the old architectural complex, they radiate a sense of timelessness and majestic beauty.
As the sunlight pours down, the golden leaves brighten the autumn landscape, adding a touch of deep, elegant ancient charm to the scene.
5 Dazhong Temple Ancient Bell Museum
The Dazhong Temple Ancient Bell Museum is located on the North Third Ring Middle Road in Haidian District. Originally named Juesheng Temple, it was built in the 11th year of the Yongzheng Emperor's reign during the Qing Dynasty. It is also known as the "Dazhong Temple" because it houses a giant bell cast during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty.
The Yongle Bell is the crown jewel of the museum, cast during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty. Each strike produces a melodious, lingering sound that echoes beautifully, leaving listeners in awe.
In late autumn, the ginkgo trees in the courtyard glow with golden light under the sun, contrasting beautifully with the ancient bell's solemn presence. The scene is mesmerizing, enchanting all who witness it.
Nearby Sightseeing
From Dazhong Si Station, it's just one stop to Nanchanghe Park. In autumn, the park becomes a vibrant, colorful canvas, as if painted by nature.
Nanchanghe Park integrates the history of the Nanchanghe, with 11 scenic spots distributed across the green spaces on both banks. This creates a spatial layout of "one river, two corridors," featuring a "Cultural Corridor" on the south bank and a "Health Corridor" on the north bank.
Sunlight filters through the treetops, casting shimmering reflections on the water's surface. A walking greenway connects the north and south banks of the Nanchanghe, with trees and vegetation forming a natural barrier that shields the area from the city's hustle and bustle.
Walking east along the riverside path of the Nanchanghe, the buildings on both banks cast reflections on the water, blending the old with the new to create a beautiful scene. In this season, strolling through ancient temples and soaking in the tranquility and relaxation is a delightful way to enjoy the autumn.
[Image source: Shijingshan District People's Government of Beijing Municipality, Shijingshan District Culture And Tourism Bureau, Xiaohongshu @TaoTao, Xiaohongshu @LuoXiaoYao, Xiaohongshu @HappyScavenger, Beijing Zoo, Xiaohongshu @ThreeMinuteEnthusiasm, Xiaohongshu @XiaoYangEr, Beijing Art Museum, Xiaohongshu @Sakoo]
Translator: BAI Jing
