The Forbidden City in autumn is as beautiful as the Purple Forbidden City!

Every autumn, Beijing's Forbidden City transforms directly into the Purple Forbidden City! With red walls, glazed tiles, and ginkgo trees all in one frame, it's hard not to get great shots! I've just finished a ginkgo viewing route in the Forbidden City a few days ago and gathered some of my favorite photo spots for you.

Walking route:
Meridian Gate - Eighteen Pagoda Trees - Ice Cellar - Cining Palace Garden - Yanxi Palace.

Eighteen Pagoda Trees
This is undoubtedly the largest ginkgo forest in the Forbidden City. The intertwined golden ginkgo leaves complement the carved beams and painted rafters of the ancient buildings, creating the classic scene of red walls and yellow leaves!

Tips: Eighteen Pagoda Trees is best for shooting at noon, not only because the lighting is suitable but also because you can capture the mottled tree shadows cast on the red walls.

Ice Cellar
The Ice Cellar Restaurant now was once a genuine royal ice cellar. Alongside the restaurant is a row of tall persimmon trees, already full of round, plump fruit!

Tips: You can also find many persimmons at Shoukang Palace, but the persimmon trees there are noticeably shorter than those by the Ice Cellar.

Cining Palace Garden
Two large ginkgo trees are hidden on the south side of Cining Palace Garden. The red walls and golden tiles under the trees also make for great photos.

Tips: Many ladies love to take palace-style photos here, so try to shoot during less crowded times to avoid waiting.

Yanxi Palace
Among the six eastern and western palaces, the two ginkgo trees at Yanxi Palace are said to be the most beautiful. You can also capture photos with both ginkgo and persimmons in the frame—so beautiful!

Tips: Visit Yanxi Palace in the morning or afternoon for better lighting, and try to avoid the strong midday light.

With autumn scenery and winter temperatures, Beijing’s autumn atmosphere is growing deeper these days. If you want to check in to enjoy the autumn beauty, you better hurry up. The Palace Museum