Martyrs Park in Changsha｜An autumn oil painting hidden in the city center, one step in and you’re enchanted!

You will truly be captivated by the autumn at Martyrs Park in Changsha! Although it’s tucked right in the heart of the city, it perfectly showcases the romance of autumn—the maple forest by Nianjia Lake looks as if nature has carefully blended its colors. The green leaves still carry the warmth of late summer, with edges quietly tinged in pale yellow; as you walk deeper into the maple forest, the leaves gradually turn orange-red, and at the most intense spots, they blaze with a dazzling deep red.

Sunlight filters through the interlaced branches and leaves, breaking into warm golden speckles that feel gentle on your face. When scattered on the lawn and lake surface, they become flowing light and shadow. When the wind blows, the maple leaves gently sway, and the light and shadows dance on the ground. Even your own shadow seems to be blended into a vivid oil painting, making every step cautious, afraid to disturb this autumn-only beauty.

Photo Spots & Tips ｜ Step-by-step guide to capturing stunning autumn shots

“Must-visit spots, each hiding a surprise”

1. Maple Forest near the Boat Dock: This is the most intensely red maple area in the entire park! The maple forest stretches along the shore of Nianjia Lake, with layers of leaves overlapping. Looking up, the sky is filled with a “red and gold weave,” and looking down, there’s a “maple leaf carpet” on the ground. Whether you shoot looking up among the maples or take side shots with the lake as the background, you’ll capture the feeling of “wandering in a painting.”

2. Pathway on the West Side of the Memorial Tower: A true “hidden gem”! The path is nestled between pines and maples beside the Memorial Tower, with a thin layer of fallen leaves on the bluestone path that rustle underfoot. There’s no crowd noise here, only the gentle sound of wind through the leaves. Standing casually in the tree shadows or slowly walking along the path, photographers can easily snap great shots without worrying about cluttered backgrounds.

3. Stone Steps by the Lake: The best spot for “atmospheric reflections”! The stone steps wind down along the lake shore. Sitting on the steps, you can capture the maple leaves overhead and frame the reflection of the maples on the lake surface—when the wind brushes the water, the red reflection gently ripples, as if the oil painting is flowing; on sunny days, the blue sky, white clouds, red maples, and clear water all appear in one frame, creating a clean and healing scene.

“Secrets to great shots, details that enhance quality”

- Choose the right light to double your beauty: Be sure to wait until after 3 PM! At this time, the sun hangs low in the west, and the light softens from the harsh midday glare into a warm golden hue—shining on the maple leaves, it makes the reds more translucent and the golds richer; on your face, it avoids harsh shadows, making your skin look clear and radiant.

- Pick outfit colors that blend perfectly: Wearing low-saturation colors like beige, camel, or light coffee is a safe bet! These won’t steal the spotlight from the maples but will harmonize with the warm autumn tones, making you look gentle and sophisticated beside the red maples; avoid bright reds or greens, which can clash with the background.

- Add props for a natural vibe: Don’t go empty-handed! Bring a vintage-cover magazine or a cup of hot coffee in a clear glass. Holding them casually or placing them on the stone steps as part of the scene instantly boosts the atmosphere; you can also bring a light-colored beret—when you lift your hand to touch the maple leaves, the hat adds movement and helps avoid awkward “lost hands” poses.

Right now is the best time to enjoy the autumn maples at Martyrs Park! The leaves are the reddest and brightest yellow, and even the breeze carries the sweetness of autumn. Quickly invite your most camera-savvy friend, pack your camera, bring your best mood, and capture this slice of autumn romance hidden in the city in your photo album~

Post by Daniel@123 Perry | Oct 18, 2025