Autumn Classics · Zhinan Village | Hike the Linchuan Ancient Trail and enjoy the vibrant autumn colors for an extended period

Day 1 Hangzhou → Linchuan Ancient Road → Zhinan Village → Hangzhou

08:00

Gather and sign in at Hangzhou Huanglong Seafood Stall.

08:30

We set off on time! Along the way, the team leader introduced everyone to each other and made everyone laugh and chat.

10:30

Arriving at our destination, we spotted two golden ginkgo trees waiting for us at the intersection from afar, marking the entrance to the Linchuan Ancient Trail. We disembarked and crossed the bridge, where the Dongtiao River gently flowed beneath our feet. As we ascended, golden ginkgo leaves, fiery red sweetgum leaves, giant Torreya grandis trees, and golden terraced wheat fields swayed in the breeze beside the mountain path, offering a warm welcome. Along the way, we passed volcanic lava flow slopes, a spectacular and unique geological landscape.

Tourists can collect various fallen leaves along the way, string them onto tree branches or hemp ropes, hang bells on them, and make "fallen leaf wind chimes" to take home. Every gust of wind will bring back memories of nature and autumn colors.

12:00

Arriving at Zhinan Village, we enjoyed lunch at a farmhouse, which we devoured with relish! Afterward, we had an hour of free time. Zhinan Village is small, with a lake and surrounded by giant, fiery red maple trees. A few old houses remain, and walking through the corners and alleys, you'll stumble upon a cluster of autumn chrysanthemums in full bloom – a truly breathtaking sight. We regrouped, raised the flag, and took a group photo. Make sure to create some interesting poses, haha!

2:30 PM

We continued our journey and walked along the ancient trail.

4:00 PM

We followed a nice winding path down the mountain, where a lively stream meandered beside the road. The bus had been waiting here for a long time.

6:00 PM

Back to Hangzhou! Everyone is still not satisfied, looking forward to meeting next time!

Driving distance: 80 kilometers one way, about 2 hours

Hiking: A mixture of bluestone ancient roads and dirt roads, about 8km of hiking, with a cumulative climb of about 300 meters

Note: You can choose to hike up the mountain and then take a scenic bus down (please inform your tour leader in advance). The bus fare is approximately NT$30 per person.
Kindly note: The best time to view the autumn colors of Zhinan Village is from late October to early December each year. First, you'll see the golden rice fields, then the ginkgo trees and red maples. The various colors may not blend together. The specific viewing effect is greatly affected by natural factors such as weather. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by weather conditions on your trip date.

Zhinan Village lies at the foot of Tianmu Mountain east of Lin'an, on the banks of the Nanshao River at the source of Taihu Lake, 80 kilometers from Hangzhou. Hengdu to Zhinan Village is a particularly excellent leisurely hiking route.
In the late autumn of 1997, we stumbled upon Hengdu to reach Zhinan Village, 600 meters above sea level. Despite the still gloomy sky, we were struck by the vibrant foliage that blanketed the village: translucent yellow ginkgo leaves and fiery red maple leaves scattered freely throughout the village. Autumn, generously applying its vibrant colors, painted the village like a vibrant oil painting.

Zhinan Village boasts nearly 300 ancient trees over 200 years old, and eight ancient maple trees between 800 and 1,000 years old. These trees rest gracefully on the hillside, their leaves a vibrant crimson, enveloping the village like a blaze. Every day, groups of hikers and photographers, backpacks and cameras on their shoulders, descend upon the village to witness the romantic autumn scenery.