Guangwu Mountain: Home to China's most spectacular autumn foliage-Natural Wonders-Travel China

Nestled in Bazhong on the border of Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces, Guangwu Mountain is a UNESCO Global Geopark. Each autumn, its sweeping slopes blaze with vibrant red foliage, earning it the reputation as "China's Premier Red Leaf Destination." From a distance the mountain resembles a reclining Buddha. Perennially shrouded in mist, it takes its name—Guangwu, or "Radiant Mist"—from the enchanting play of light when sunlight pierces the clouds.

Recommended core attractions

Guangwu Mountain Tourist Area

Yanyan Stone Forest: More than 30 stone peaks rise like bamboo shoots, the tallest—the "Dinghai Needle"—soaring over 200 meters. Often veiled in mist, this area was a key stop along the historic Micang Ancient Road.

Qinv (Seven Maidens) Peaks: Seven graceful peaks that evoke celestial maidens, especially when cloaked in clouds, creating an ethereal, fairy-tale landscape.

Taiji Sinkhole: An S-shaped river mirrors the surrounding emerald hills, forming a natural Taiji (Yin-Yang) symbol—a photographer's dream.

Feiyun Cliff Walkway: A sky-high trail clinging to steep cliffs, offering breathtaking canyon views and a thrilling "walk above the clouds."

Feiyun Cliff Boardwalk | Photograph by Cheng Yonghong

Micang Mountain Scenic Area

Natural Gallery: A one-kilometer tunnel of red foliage formed by more than 300 long-petiole beech trees, at its most brilliant in late October. Sunlight filtering through the leaves creates a dappled, dreamlike scene.

Heixiong (Black Bear) Gully: A babbling stream reflects the fiery red leaves like an oil painting. Best visited in mid to late October, it's a classic spot for capturing "red leaves reflected in water."

Xianglu Mountain: Take the cable car to the 2,507-meter summit for panoramic views of crimson-clad ridges and rolling seas of clouds. Sunrise and sunset here are particularly magnificent.

Eighteen Moon Lake Scenic Area

Eighteen Moon Lake: A series of 18jade-green poolsarelinked by streams and cascading waterfalls, creating a stunning contrast with surrounding red leaves in early November.