A One-Day Guide to Autumn Scenery in Tachuan, Hongcun, Lucun, and Qishu Lake

The autumn scenery in Tachuan is praised as one of the most beautiful autumn views in China. This time, I specially came to check it out and was deeply amazed. I must share this wonderful and detailed guide with everyone. 🌄 Itinerary: - Sunrise Viewing at Lucun: It is recommended to stay near Lucun or Hongcun the day before, and be sure to get up early in the morning. We woke up at 5 AM and arrived at the Lucun sunrise viewing platform by 6 AM, where many people were already waiting. The best viewing time is 20 minutes before sunrise and at the moment of sunrise. If you have a drone for filming, the effect will be even more stunning. Of course, most photos online have heavy filters (like in picture 1), but seeing it with your own eyes is truly breathtaking and no camera can fully capture it. - Morning Mist at Qishu Lake: After watching the sunrise, quickly take a three-wheeled vehicle from the Lucun viewing platform to Qishu Lake. The morning mist at Qishu Lake usually appears within an hour after sunrise, so if you want to experience it, you must hurry. Strolling and photographing in the dawn mist at Qishu Lake will definitely be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip. - Autumn Viewing in Tachuan: After leaving Qishu Lake, you can have breakfast near Hongcun and then leisurely stroll to Tachuan. It is recommended not to take the main road or taxi, but to walk along small paths through the fields to feel the unique comfort of autumn. Remember the line "One must remember the good scenery of the year, especially the orange, yellow, and green times"? Walking on the small path to Tachuan will fully bring this poem to life. Many say that the entrance fee for Tachuan is a bit of a rip-off, and apart from the man-made scenic spots, the autumn scenery outside is not much different. But since you are here, it is still recommended to go in and see. Hikers know the free routes; beginners are not advised. After touring Tachuan, it will be around noon, so it is recommended to take a taxi back to Hongcun. - Exploring Hongcun: After lunch in Hongcun, tasting local delicacies, you can rest at the hotel before going out again. Although Hongcun is not large, it is recommended to hire a guide; listening to explanations helps you better appreciate the charm of the ancient architecture. The guide’s explanation lasts about an hour, after which you can wander around the village and enjoy Hongcun’s rich cultural and creative atmosphere. The two-story terrace by Moon Pond is highly recommended; having afternoon tea there while watching the bustling handsome men and beautiful women is very pleasant. - Special Experience: On weekends, Hongcun has a fish lantern parade at 6:30 PM, starting from South Lake. You can join the parade and have fun together. - Additionally, near Hongcun, there are activities like helicopter rides and paragliding, allowing you to overlook the entire valley’s autumn scenery from the sky. It is sure to be stunning. Those with the means can give it a try. 💖 Travel Tips: Check the weather forecast before traveling and choose a sunny day; bring warm clothing as autumn mornings and evenings can be chilly; book accommodation and tickets in advance to avoid no availability during peak season. I hope everyone can have a wonderful autumn trip in Tachuan and Hongcun.