Kanas Autumn Photography Guide: Capture China's Most Beautiful Autumn Scenery, Morning Mist/Starry Sky/Lake Monster Legend

Kanas' autumn has only a 21-day golden period (September 20 - October 10)! From Guanyu Terrace to Moon Bay, here is a summary of spots and schedules to avoid crowds and shoot stunning empty-frame shots.
⏰ Time-Segmented Shooting Plan
6:00-8:00: Morning Mist at Shenxian Bay
Spot: Highland on the east side of the river, use telephoto lens to compress the mist and the spatial sense of the forested mountains.
10:00-12:00: Panoramic View at Guanyu Terrace
Spot: East side railing on the terrace top, shoot the S-shaped bend of Kanas Lake with front light.
16:00-18:00: Reflections at Moon Bay
Spot: From the viewing platform down to the river beach, crouch to capture fallen leaves and clear water in the same frame.
After 21:00: Starry Sky Photography
Spot: Open space beside Tuva Village, the Milky Way hangs over Hemu rooftops (equatorial mount required).
🚗 Crowd-Avoiding Routes
Day 1: Jiadenyu → Guanyu Terrace (less crowded in the afternoon) → Kanas Lake boardwalk night shoot.
Day 2: Morning mist at Shenxian Bay → Hike from Moon Bay to Wolong Bay (3 km of highlights).
Day 3: Baihaba Village (border permit required) → China-Kazakhstan border marker.
🎒 Equipment List
Photography: Ultra-wide angle (for starry sky) + 70-200mm telephoto (for distant scenes) + drone (height limit 120 meters).
Protection: -10℃ sleeping bag (cold at night), crampons (frosty slippery roads in early morning), high-pressure oxygen tank.
Supplies: Self-heating rice (limited dining in scenic area), power bank (battery drains fast in low temperatures).
💡 Key Tips
Airfare drops after National Day, but snow may block roads; daily visitor limits require advance booking.
Stay in Tuva wooden cabins inside the scenic area for easy access to dawn and dusk shots; respect ethnic minority customs.