Red maples in Daocheng

    Daocheng, in the southwestern province of Sichuan, is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery.

    At this time of year, the sky is blue, the maples red and the poplar forests golden. It is said that it is impossible to take a bad photograph here at this time of year.

    If you travel from Riwa Village to Echushan Mountain, you can feast your eyes on mountains of red maples for much of the six-hour trip.

    A Red Glass Lake, which is popular among photographers, is located half way between Daocheng and Sangdui, a peaceful Tibetan village. Autumn is the best time to sit by the cool lake encircled by red bushes.

    If you like hiking, you can go and discover the area’s monasteries and hidden Tibetan villages surrounded by pastoral scenery.

    Transport: Fly to Chengdu in Sichuan Province from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, take a bus to Kangding and then take a bus to Daocheng.

    Accommodation: There are hostels and inns in and outside the scenic spots, or stay with the locals. It is better to book accommodation in advance for those planning to go during the National Day holiday.

    Cuisine: Try the Sichuan-style dishes, snow fish, yogurt and wine.

    Diverse forests of Miyaluo

    Miyaluo Scenic Spot is also located in Sichuan Province. Its autumn scenery is characterized by its colorfulness thanks to the abundance of maples, birches, larches and pine trees.

    Autumn is said to be the time of year at which the area is most picturesque, with snowy mountains and bubbling hot springs adding to its charm.

    Apart from the colorful autumn scenery, the locals, including members of the Tibetans and Qiang ethnic groups, are known for their warmth and humor. Hidden in the mountains and forests are their stone villages and ancient villas, where you can enjoy a rare cultural experience far away from this metropolis.

    Transport: Fly to Chengdu in Sichuan Province at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport and take a bus to Miyaluo Scenic Spot.

    Accommodation: There is a selection of hotels and hostels, or stay with the locals.

    Cuisine: Rice wine, bamboo rice, Suyou Tea, and Sichuan-style dishes are recommended. The roadside barbecue is also excellent.

    Red euphorbia flowers in Shangri-La