GINGKO trees are also known as one of the tree species with the longest lives. The oldest gingko trees can be dated back 5,000 years. It is not too late to see the golden leaves across the country, so why not take a journey to experience the magic of life.Haiyang Township, GuangxiHaiyang Township is located in Guilin, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. When the autumn comes, the town becomes a romantic golden painting thanks to its hundreds of thousands of gingko trees.

    The gingko forest has more than 17,000 gingko trees, which is the world’s densest gingko forest.

    The area has the oldest ginkgo tree in water, which was planted in the beginning of the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The tree was hollow, but still flourishes with fruit. The largest tree can be found in Qi Village, which requires five people to encircle.

    The area also has many other places to explore. Recommended places include Elephant Trunk Hill, Ludi Cave, Qixing Cave and Lijiang River in Guilin.

    For older travelers, Lijiang River is an ideal option. As one of the local highlights, the river is seen as a sort of pearl among China’s most famous mountains and rivers and can be seen on the back of the Chinese 20-yuan note.

    For thousands of years, scholars and artists have been inspired by this landscape. There are several famous peaks along the river, such as Shutong Mountain, Zhuobi Peak, Lions Mountain, Zhuangyuan Peak and Nine Horse Mountain — some of which are seemingly shaped like animals.

    Transport: Fly to Guilin from Shenzhen airport and take a coach to Haiyang.Lianzhou, Guangdong ProvinceLianzhou is a small town near Qingyuan that borders Hunan Province on the north side.

    With a history of over 4,000 years, Lianzhou has been the heart of Taoism in South China since ancient times. The Jinfu Mountain Taoist Temple can be traced back to the Southern and Northern Dynasty (386-589).

    Lianzhou is known for its flowers in the spring and gingko leaves in the fall. However, unlike Nanxiong, there are fewer visitors in the town for the gingko trees, which is ideal for those looking for a quiet and relaxed getaway.

    Yanxi Garden and Huiguang Tower are the best two places to appreciate the golden leaves.

    Huangchuan Three Gorges is another must-visit place in Lianzhou. About 20 kilometers away from downtown Lianzhou, it includes Longquan Gorge, Lengjia Gorge and Yangtiao Gorge. The three gorges are famous for their waterfalls. Traveling along the river in a boat, you will be stunned by their beauty as well as the mountains and forests that surround you.

    Other must-go spots include Maniang Gorge, the ancient paths left by boat trackers, Lengjia Ancient Gorge, an ancient stage for opera performances and Lianjiang Underground River.

    Passing the 11 ship locks along Lianjiang River is also an unforgettable experience.

    On the way to Lianzhou, it is better to stop in Qingyuan City to enjoy a big portion of Qingyuan chicken.

    Transport: Drive to Lianzhou via the Guangzhou-Shenzhen Expressway, the Guangzhou-Qingyuan Expressway and the Qingyuan-Lianzhou Expressway. (Wang Yuanyuan)