8 Must-Visit Spots for Autumn Viewing in Beijing 2025 | Encounter the Autumn of the Capital City

Described by Lao She as "the earthly paradise of Beiping in autumn," Beijing hides the most splendid limited-time scenery of the year. From late October to mid-to-late November, Beijing is painted in flowing hues of golden yellow, orange-red, and deep green. We've gathered 8 stunning autumn viewing spots to help you unlock the poetic charm of Beijing in fall~ 1. Zhongshan Park: The "waterside pavilion" and "Ginkgo Avenue" inside the park are the essence of autumn! Golden ginkgo leaves fall softly, covering the base of the red walls, instantly enhancing the classical atmosphere. Take Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen West Station, Exit B; entering from the west gate offers a smoother route. Early to mid-November is the best viewing period, when the ground is covered with ginkgo leaves like a "golden carpet." Tickets are only 3 yuan, and when tired, you can enjoy a hot tea at "Laijin Yuxuan Teahouse" for a cozy experience~ 2. Beiluoguxiang: Quieter than Nanluoguxiang but full of local life! Golden ash leaves cover the stone-paved alley, and cafes along the street display pumpkins and maple leaf decorations, creating a strong autumn vibe. It’s recommended to start from the Lao She Memorial Hall and walk along Wusi Street to here, making a convenient stop. Take Metro Line 6 to Nanluoguxiang Station; from late October, the leaves gradually turn yellow, perfect for sipping hot coffee while strolling slowly. 3. Wusi Street: The blend of Republican-era architecture and golden ash trees makes the whole street look like it’s under an "autumn filter," perfect for vintage-style photos. This street connects the Corner Tower of the Forbidden City, the National Art Museum of China, and Peking University Red Building, ideal for a city walk. The floor-to-ceiling windows of street-side cafes make excellent photo frames. Take Metro Line 8 to National Art Museum of China Station, Exit A; it’s free to enter~ 4. Ditan Park: The "Me and Ditan" described by Shi Tiesheng hides a stunning golden ginkgo avenue! Ancient trees and red-green tiles complement each other beautifully, offering great value. Tip: The ginkgo avenue at the north gate is crowded, while the west gate and outside the west gate are less busy and free to enjoy the scenery. Take Metro Line 2 to Yonghegong Station, Exit A; early November is perfect to catch the peak ginkgo season. 5. Summer Palace: The clear waters of Kunming Lake reflect maple leaves and ginkgo, known as the "top-tier scenery of clear water and red leaves." Rear Lake, Longevity Hill, and Seventeen-Arch Bridge are popular photo spots. From mid-to-late October to early November, the rear lake is ablaze with colors, as beautiful as a landscape painting. Take Metro Line 4 to Beigongmen Station; when tired, you can take a boat tour to immerse yourself in the autumn lake and mountain scenery. 6. Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan): "The whole garden wears golden armor" perfectly describes this place! The dry rice ginkgo avenue beside the Western-style ruins is as golden as an oil painting. From late October to mid-November, ash and ginkgo trees bloom simultaneously, blending historical depth with autumn brightness for a unique charm. Take Metro Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit A; the south or east gates are convenient entrances. Tickets are 10 yuan, definitely worth a visit~ 7. Forbidden City: Red walls and golden tiles set off the golden ginkgo, creating a cinematic atmosphere! Yanxi Palace, Hongyi Pavilion, and the Eighteen Sophora Trees are classic photo spots. Ginkgo leaves falling on the vermilion palace walls make every shot a traditional-style masterpiece. Late October to early November is the best viewing time; remember to book tickets in advance to experience the grandeur of the imperial garden in autumn. 8. Beihai Park: Golden yellow, orange-red, and deep green intertwine, with ginkgo trees reflecting on the lake, each frame a "wallpaper-worthy scene." The White Pagoda reflected on the autumn lake is gentle and healing. Take Metro Line 6 to Beihai North Station; the north gate entrance is more convenient. The park is open until 9 PM, so you can catch the beautiful autumn sunset in the evening~ Beijing’s autumn is brief but brilliant. Choose a sunny day to visit these places and capture the "golden romance" of the capital city. Don’t miss this once-a-year limited beauty!