Hanzhong Red Leaf Festival, a two-day trip to encounter the autumn colors of Qinba

Every year from late October to late November, the grand Hanzhong Red Leaf Festival opens, with thousands of mountains covered in red and forests dyed in layers, creating the most splendid painting between the Qinling and Bashan Mountains. We recommend a two-day autumn viewing route in Hanzhong to take you through the breathtaking autumn scenery. On the first day, depart from downtown Hanzhong and head to the Shimen Plank Road Scenic Area. This place is not only an important ancient passage through the Qinba Mountains but also rich in historical and cultural heritage. In autumn, the slopes on both sides are dyed in layers of red, yellow, and green, intertwined like an oil painting. Strolling along the ancient-style plank road, you can learn about the story of "building plank roads openly while secretly crossing Chen Cang," feel the heroic talents of Emperor Gaozu of Han and the bittersweet helplessness of Bao Si, adding cultural depth to your journey. Next, head to the Liping Scenic Area, known as the "Jiuzhaigou of Qinling." In autumn, the red leaves resemble rosy clouds, reflecting beautifully with the mountains and waters, making it the "colorful kingdom of the Qinba Mountains." The Chinese Longshan geological wonder looks even more mysterious under the autumn colors, with the red rock walls of Jianxia Gorge and golden red leaves forming a warm tone. The maple forest waterfall flows gently with red leaves falling like poetry and paintings, and climbing to the top of Yunu Peak offers a panoramic view of the mountains covered in red. On the second day, after breakfast, head to Guangwu Mountain, one of China's top ten red leaf destinations, famous for its vast scale, rich colors, and long viewing period. The red leaf scenery along the way is also breathtaking. Come to Hanzhong and encounter this beautiful autumn in Qinba!

Post by Trip.Pulse | Oct 23, 2025