FROM December to February, Shenzhen turns into a canvas of warm, autumnal hues during its unique “Maillard season.” Bald cypress trees shift from golden yellow to rich russet and deep burgundy, creating a layered, painterly winter palette. Here’s a curated guide to the best places in Shenzhen to experience this seasonal spectacle.

Xili Lake Greenway 环西丽湖绿道

Xieyi Sanhe Park along the greenway is where you’ll find a truly poetic bald cypress forest, resembling a living oil painting. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk deeper into the grove. With rustling fallen leaves underfoot and a canopy of crimson overhead, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped right into a masterpiece — with yourself as the focal point.

Location: Xieyi Sanhe Park, Xili Subdistrict, Nanshan District (南山区西丽街道写意三河公园)

Metro: Line 5 or 7 to Xili Station (西丽站), Exit C; then take a taxi or ride a bicycle

Sihai Park 四海公园

This longtime Shekou park offers a Chinese aesthetic version of the bald cypress scenery. Surrounding the Nine-Arch Bridge, Crescent Corridor, and Lotus Pond, the red-brown branches complement the classic architecture perfectly. Listen for the gentle sounds from the forest’s “Bayin Terrace.” The Lotus Pond is a particular treasure, with red trees encircling the water and ancient pavilions reflected in it. Capture the moment a leaf lands on the surface for an instant classical-style wallpaper shot.

Location: No. 82-2, Gongyuan Road, Nanshan District (南山区公园路82-2号)

Metro: Line 12 to Sihai Station (四海站), Exit A

Jiuwei Wetland Park 九围湿地公园

For an “autumn-limited” romance hidden within the city, this is the place. Brick-red wetland boardwalks wind through the bald cypress grove, passing orange-red foliage that seems to spring directly from the water. The scenic bridge is a photographer’s dream, where the reflections of red trees blend seamlessly with the sky, creating a surreal, artsy scene perfect for solving your “wallpaper indecision.” If you’re lucky, you might even spot an egret flying by.

Location: Jiuwei Wetland Park, Bao’an District (宝安区九围湿地公园)

Metro: Line 12 to Zhongwu South Station (钟屋南站), Exit E1; then take a taxi

Fairy Lake Botanical Garden 仙湖植物园

An ideal destination for a crisp autumn hike. Simply wander and let each step reveal a surprise from the season. Crimson bald cypresses recline comfortably against the verdant hillsides like nature’s own spilled paint palette. Lakeside pavilions, like commas hidden within a poem, offer perfect rest stops for photos. With luck, sunlight filtering through the branches dances on the water’s surface, amplifying the romance.

Admission: Adult 15 yuan; student 5 yuan (with valid ID). Tickets can be purchased via the “仙湖植物园入园预约” (Fairy Lake Botanical Garden Booking) WeChat miniprogram.

Location: No. 160 Xianhu Road, Luohu District (罗湖区仙湖路160号)

Metro: Line 2/8 to Xianhu Road Station (仙湖路站), Exit C2/C3

Honghu Park 洪湖公园

One of the most popular spots for bald cypress viewing, thanks to its convenient location. The southern section of the park is a top-tier area for appreciation. For a sweeping view of the scarlet foliage, head to Fulong Bridge — a prime vantage point you shouldn’t miss.

Location: No. 2023 Wenjin North Road, Luohu District (罗湖区文锦北路2023号)

Metro: Line 7 to Honghu Station (洪湖站), Exit A

Lianhua Hill Park 莲花山公园

Here, the bald cypress experience is on another level. Not only can you immerse yourself in the autumn ambiance they create, but the surrounding scenery of Lianhua Hill Park guarantees a full-score experience. Whether you’re strolling under the autumn colors, exploring the park, or gazing at the sprawling skyline of Futian CBD, this is the place to find that lazy and relaxed vibe you’ve been longing for.

Location: No. 6030 Hongli Road, Futian District (福田区红荔路6030号)

Metro: Line 3 to Lianhua Village Station (莲花村站) or Children’s Palace Station (少年宫站); Line 4 to Lianhua North Station (莲花北站) or Children’s Palace Station (少年宫站); Line 2 to Lianhua West Station (莲花西站)

(Tang Li)