A Ginkgo Date in Nanxiong, Shaoguan: A Complete Two-Day, One-Night Autumn Viewing Guide

Entering October, it’s already the season when autumn approaches Guangdong. However, autumn in Guangdong is always so brief, seemingly fleeting in an instant. If you want to experience Guangdong’s autumn up close, Nanxiong in Shaoguan is definitely a choice not to be missed! Here, you’ll find not only spectacular natural scenery but also rich cultural heritage. Back in 2016, I drove with friends to Nanxiong, Shaoguan to see the ginkgo leaves, and it left a deep impression. The autumn there was truly beautiful, though at that time the area was relatively undeveloped. Now, after so many years, the facilities and infrastructure must have improved a lot. Whenever the autumn breeze gently blows, Nanxiong in Shaoguan quietly dons a golden robe. The ginkgo leaves sway gracefully on the branches, as if telling the unique autumn story of this city. Here, ancient ginkgo trees intertwine with long-standing historical culture, presenting visitors with a poetic and picturesque scene. Now, you can follow my travel guide to embark on this romantic ginkgo autumn viewing journey and explore the autumn charm of Nanxiong. 1. Past and Present: The Years Witnessed by Ginkgo Nanxiong, Shaoguan, located in the northeast of Guangdong Province, has a profound historical background. The history of ginkgo planting in Nanxiong dates back to the Tang Dynasty, over 1,300 years ago. The unique geographical environment and climate conditions have nurtured ginkgo trees with elegant shapes and plump fruits. Over the long years, ginkgo has not only been a characteristic agricultural product of Nanxiong, with its fruits rich in nutrients and medicinal value, but also a beautiful local landscape. The golden ginkgo leaves contrast with the blue sky, white clouds, and towering ancient trees, attracting countless tourists. Every golden autumn, the ginkgo leaves across the hills turn from green to yellow, as if the entire city has been splashed with golden paint, dreamy and enchanting, becoming a romantic paradise for photographers and visitors. 2. Best Viewing Time The best time to view the Nanxiong ginkgo is usually from mid to late November to early December each year. At this time, the ginkgo leaves change from green to dazzling golden yellow, covering the entire forest and villages in gold, creating a breathtaking sight. However, due to annual weather variations, the timing of the leaf color change may advance or delay, so visitors are advised to check local weather forecasts and real-time ginkgo conditions before traveling. 3. Main Attractions 1) Maozi Peak Tourist Area: This is one of the core viewing spots for Nanxiong ginkgo, covering a total area of 2,924.6 hectares, preserving the original forest landscape and serving as a natural forest oxygen bar. In late autumn, the ginkgo trees in the forest turn golden, coloring the woods like a fairy tale world. Golden Avenue: As the core scenic spot of Maozi Peak Forest, the ginkgo trees lining the road have golden leaves that look as if they have been carefully painted with oil colors. Walking here feels like being in a golden ocean. Luqigu Valley: Here you can see sika deer and a small train. Visitors can observe the deer up close and feel the vitality of nature. Note that the train tickets are relatively expensive, and if time permits, walking is also a good experience. Tickets and Transportation: Adult tickets are 40 RMB per person, children’s tickets 25 RMB per person. Private cars are not allowed inside the scenic area; vehicles must be parked at the ticket office, and visitors can take sightseeing buses within the park to visit various spots. 2) Pingtian Millennium Ancient Ginkgo Forest: Pingtian Town, located in the eastern part of Nanxiong City about 58 kilometers from the city center, is a famous “Ginkgo Hometown” in southern Guangdong. There are more than 5,000 ancient ginkgo trees over 100 years old here. In autumn and winter, these ancient ginkgo trees don golden attire, forming a spectacular golden sea. Main Viewing Points: Aobei Village has the “Ginkgo King” over 1,200 years old, 25 meters tall, with a trunk circumference of 7.6 meters and a crown width of 19 meters, highly valuable for viewing; Fengwu Village’s ginkgo trees grow beside old houses, complementing the rustic village architecture with a unique charm; Junyingzhai is an excellent spot to watch sunrise and sunset, where you can overlook layers of mountains and hundreds-of-years-old ginkgo trees scattered below. 4. Itinerary 1) Day One Morning: Depart from your location to Nanxiong. If driving, you can easily reach the destination following navigation; if using public transport, first arrive at Shaoguan Station or Nanxiong Station, then transfer to a shuttle or taxi to the scenic area. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, drop off your luggage, and rest briefly. Afternoon: Head to Pingtian Millennium Ancient Ginkgo Forest. First visit Aobei Village to see the ancient Ginkgo King and feel the traces of time on it, while strolling along country paths enjoying the golden ginkgo leaves. Then go to Fengwu Village, wandering among ancient ginkgo trees and old houses, taking photos. In the evening, if you have the energy, go to Junyingzhai to wait for a stunning sunset. Evening: Return to the city center or Pingtian Town to taste local specialties such as sauerkraut stir-fried with pig intestines and winter bamboo shoots stir-fried with cured meat, experiencing Nanxiong’s unique culinary flavors. 2) Day Two Morning: Visit Maozi Peak Tourist Area, take the sightseeing bus to tour Golden Avenue, Luqigu Valley, and other spots, taking photos among the golden ginkgo leaves to create beautiful memories. Afternoon: Continue exploring the scenic area or rest in the park’s rest area to enjoy the peaceful autumn time. Then pack up and prepare to return. 5. Accommodation Recommendations 1) City Hotels For example, Jiyue Hotel next to Dongfang Darunfa Plaza offers a quiet and hygienic environment with complete surrounding facilities, convenient for shopping and dining, suitable for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. 2) Scenic Area Homestays Xinglin Mountain Residence: Surrounded by lush greenery and natural atmosphere, the rooms are cozy, and some offer direct views of the ginkgo scenery. Here, you can wake up to the first rays of morning sunlight and enjoy the charming flowers in the courtyard. Maozi Peak Ginkgo Villa: Located in the middle section of Golden Avenue, the location is excellent, just a few minutes’ walk to the ginkgo viewing area. The rooms are fully equipped, and some have private hot tubs, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. 6. Food Recommendations 1) Ginkgo Stewed Chicken: Ginkgo nuts stewed with chicken, where the fresh aroma of ginkgo infuses the chicken, making a delicious and nutritious dish that is a distinctive nourishing specialty of Nanxiong. 2) Ginkgo Stir-fried with Cured Meat: The soft and glutinous ginkgo nuts combined with the rich aroma of cured meat create a unique taste that lingers. This dish is a common favorite on Nanxiong dining tables and worth trying. 3) Sauerkraut Stir-fried with Pig Intestines: Nanxiong’s sauerkraut is tangy and delicious, and the pig intestines are cleaned thoroughly without odor. Stir-fried together, it’s a sour and spicy dish that whets the appetite and pairs well with rice. 4) Winter Bamboo Shoots Stir-fried with Cured Meat: Fresh winter bamboo shoots are crisp and sweet, stir-fried with cured meat. The bamboo shoots absorb the meat’s savory oil, while the meat adds freshness to the shoots, making it a must-try autumn delicacy. 5) Stuffed Tofu: Tender tofu stuffed with minced meat, pan-fried and stewed, perfectly blending the bean fragrance of tofu with the savory meat filling, rich in texture and flavor. 7. Notes 1) Weather and Clothing: Autumn weather in Nanxiong is changeable with large temperature differences between morning and evening. Be sure to check the weather forecast before traveling and bring warm clothes such as windbreakers and sweaters to prevent catching a cold. Also, prepare an umbrella for possible rain. 2) Transportation: If driving to the scenic area, check road conditions and parking information in advance to avoid traffic jams or parking shortages affecting your trip. Roads inside the scenic area are narrow, so drive carefully. If using public transport, check shuttle schedules ahead and plan your trip accordingly. Public transport in Maozi Peak and Pingtian Town is not very developed, and some attractions are far apart, so taxis or local motorbike taxis may be needed. Choose legitimate transport to ensure safety. 3) Scenic Area Etiquette: Protect the environment by not littering and help maintain the beautiful ginkgo scenery. When taking photos, avoid climbing trees to prevent damage to branches and leaves. Since the viewing season attracts many visitors, try to visit popular spots early or during off-peak times for a better experience. 4) Food Hygiene: When tasting local dishes, choose reputable restaurants or food stalls to ensure hygiene. Some specialty dishes have strong flavors; visitors with sensitive stomachs should inform the restaurant in advance to adjust the taste accordingly. 8. Summary This two-day, one-night ginkgo autumn viewing trip in Nanxiong is enough to immerse you in a golden world, feeling the gifts of nature and the charm of history and culture. Stepping onto this land, you will gain not only beautiful scenery but also an unforgettable autumn memory. Looking forward to you spending a wonderful time in Nanxiong and creating your own autumn story.