Ginkgo Avenues Autumn Colors in Beijing 2024

Beijing is colored in a yellow palette by ginkgo trees in autumn

Best time: mid-October–mid-November

Chinese novelist Lao She once wrote, "In autumn, you must live in Peking, nothing here would let you down." The autumn of Beijing is a mesmerising world of red and yellow. Red leaves are famous at Fragrant Hill, while the yellow colors prevail in the iconic Ginkgo Avenues. Ginkgo leaves start to turn yellow from mid-October and usually fall off the trees in mid-November. A few days before falling is the best time for you to view the yellow autumn of Beijing.

Activities and Attractions

Beijing's Ginkgo Avenues, renowned for their golden hues, offer more than just picturesque scenery. Visitors can stroll along Diaoyutai Ginkgo Avenue, where the ancient ginkgo trees turn a brilliant yellow from mid to late October. This historic boulevard, flanked by ancient ginkgo trees with a legacy spanning centuries, attracts numerous photography enthusiasts eager to capture the stunning autumnal display. The carpet of fallen leaves creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for leisurely walks and capturing memorable photos.

Best Places to See Ginkgo Trees

For a quieter experience amidst the embassy district, Sanlitun Xiwu Street East offers a serene backdrop, though less greenery compared to Diaoyutai, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Meanwhile, Beijing's Temple of Earth Park also boasts ginkgo trees dating back to ancient times. Similarly, Peking University's campus, bustling with students immersed in academia against a backdrop of golden ginkgo trees, provides a charming setting from mid-October to mid-November. For those seeking a historic ambiance, Eight Great Sites Park offers ginkgo trees over a century old, particularly striking near the Temple of Great Mercy, making it an ideal visit from mid-October to mid-November. Additionally, the ginkgo avenue at Ditan Park, established in the late 1950s with over 200 ginkgo trees, presents Beijing's oldest ginkgo avenue. These locations not only showcase Beijing's natural beauty but also offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage through its autumnal splendor.

Tickets, Hours, and Parking

Access to most ginkgo avenues in Beijing is free of charge, including Diaoyutai Ginkgo Boulevard. It's advisable to visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the tranquil beauty. Parking availability varies, so public transportation or early arrival is recommended.

Location and Infrastructure

Diaoyutai Ginkgo Boulevard is conveniently located near the Diaoyutai State Guest House on the east side, accessible by subway Line 5 or several bus routes.

Practical info

What time of the year do ginkgo trees turn yellow in Beijing?

The yellow autumn of Beijing happens between mid-October and mid-November when the ginkgo trees display their yellow leaves before falling off. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the golden leaves a few days before falling, when the leaves turn into a shade of golden yellow.

Which location in Beijing is the best for viewing yellow ginkgo leaves?

Diaoyutai Ginkgo Avenue is where you can enjoy the magnificent yellow ginkgo leaves in Beijing. The avenue is covered with a bed of golden yellow leaves, creating a spectacular view for visitors. Other exciting locations include Ditan Ginkgo Avenue, Peking University, and Tsinghua University, which are unique due to their traditional or modern architecture against the backdrop of the yellow leaves.

When is the recommended time to visit Diaoyutai Ginkgo Avenue?

Mid- to late-October is the recommended time to visit Diaoyutai Ginkgo Avenue when the ginkgo leaves start to turn golden yellow and fall. Visitors can capture excellent photos and enjoy walking through the golden blanket of yellow leaves covering the avenue. To avoid missing out, it's recommended you visit before the leaves start falling off completely.

What is the historical significance of the ginkgo trees in Peking and Tsinghua Universities?

The ginkgo trees in Peking and Tsinghua Universities have significant historical importance and are popular tourist destinations. One interesting fact is that the Peking University ginkgo trees are over 300 years old and located right in front of the university. At Tsinghua University, the ginkgo trees form an avenue, looking incredible against the backdrop of traditional or modern architecture of the institutions.

How can tourists enjoy the yellow ginkgo leaves without the crowds in Beijing?

Tourists can avoid crowds and best capture photographs of yellow ginkgo leaves by planning their visit. Visiting the Diaoyutai Ginkgo Avenue mid-week during mid- to late-October when the leaves start to turn golden yellow is ideal. At Peking University, the best time to avoid the crowds would be in the morning when there are fewer people around. Additionally, visiting Ditan Ginkgo Avenue before 7 am will enable tourists to capture the best photographs and avoid the morning commuters.

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