Shaanxi’s autumn is a vibrant masterpiece. As summer’s heat fades and a cool breeze sets in, the Qinling Mountains and surrounding plateaus burst into a symphony of colors. To celebrate the National Day holiday, we’ve handpicked ten breathtaking autumn destinations around Xi’an, inviting you to experience the golden charm of Shaanxi’s landscapes.
1. Taibai Mountain in the Qinling Range
Highlight: At 3,767 meters, Taibai Mountain, the highest peak in the Qinling Range, showcases a unique phenomenon: “four seasons in one day, different skies every ten miles.” Snow crowns the summit, colorful forests adorn the slopes, and greenery thrives at the base.
What to See: In early October, the larch forests turn golden, contrasting beautifully with blue skies and white clouds. High-altitude lakes like Daye Hai and Erye Hai reflect the vibrant forest, creating a fairy-tale scene.
2. Mount Hua
Highlight: Known for its rugged cliffs, Mount Hua, the Western Sacred Mountain, softens in autumn with colorful foliage.
What to See: Ride the West Peak cable car for a bird’s-eye view of red leaves dotting jagged peaks, often shrouded in mystical clouds. The sunrise from the East Peak, framed by autumn hues, paints a majestic picture.
3. Zhongnan Mountain
Highlight: Dubbed the “Immortal Capital,” Zhongnan Mountain in autumn is veiled in mist, with ancient temples peeking through.
What to See: By late October, the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at Guanyin Zen Temple glows golden, its leaves carpeting the ground. Maple and oak trees add vibrant red and yellow hues, blending perfectly with the temple’s rustic architecture.
4. Xiangshan in Zhaojin, Tongchuan
Highlight: One of Shaanxi’s largest red leaf areas, known as the “Top Red Leaf Mountain in Northwest China.”
What to See: From mid-October to early November, 30,000 acres of red leaves blanket the hills, especially around Xuejiazhai, where the fiery foliage contrasts with Danxia landforms for a bold, vivid display.
5. Huangbaiyuan Scenic Area
Highlight: Nicknamed “Little Jiuzhaigou of the Qinling,” this area boasts dense virgin forests and crystal-clear streams.
What to See: In autumn, places like Hetaoping and Dajiangou burst with red, yellow, and green hues reflected in streams, creating a mesmerizing water-and-forest tableau.
6. Xiangshan in Hancheng
Highlight: Rivaling Beijing’s Xiangshan but wilder, this area features vast red leaf landscapes.
What to See: After mid-October, smoke trees transition from green to yellow, then to deep red, resembling a fiery sunset. The expansive, glowing vistas are awe-inspiring.
7. Niubeiliang National Forest Park
Highlight: The highest peak in the eastern Qinling, with well-preserved virgin forests and rich biodiversity.
What to See: Autumn brings a spectrum of red, orange, yellow, and green as various tree species change color. Climb to the summit for a panoramic view of rolling, multicolored forests.
8. Liping National Forest Park
Highlight: Nestled in the Ba Mountains, Liping is hailed as “Shaanxi’s Premier Scenic Gem.”
What to See: Autumn transforms Zhonghua Longshan with red leaves, while Jinsha Lake and Yunv Peak shimmer in vibrant hues. The maple-lined waterfall area, where red leaves meet cascading water, is particularly enchanting.
9. Nangong Mountain National Forest Park
Highlight: Located in Langao County, this park blends rugged beauty, wild charm, and glacial landforms unique to the Ba Mountains.
What to See: In mid to late October, oak and maple trees turn vibrant, complementing the golden peaks and cloud-draped forests, creating a dreamlike “autumn mountain in the clouds.”
10. Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River
Highlight: While not known for foliage, Hukou Waterfall in autumn exudes raw power.
What to See: During the National Day period, the Yellow River’s autumn flood season amplifies the waterfall’s roar. Scattered red leaves on the cliffs contrast with the yellow river and white foam, showcasing the mighty beauty of China’s Mother River.
Travel Tips
- Autumn in Xi’an’s mountainous areas brings large temperature swings—pack warm clothing for mornings and evenings.
- The best viewing period is mid-October to early November, with some high-altitude areas peaking during National Day.
- Check scenic area opening hours and reservation requirements in advance to avoid holiday crowds.
- Mountain roads can be winding and steep—drive cautiously if self-driving.
Shaanxi’s autumn blends the bold grandeur of the north with the delicate beauty of the south. This National Day, escape the city and immerse yourself in the colorful splendor of the Qinling and Ba Mountains, embracing the seasonal gifts of Shaanxi’s landscapes.
