A Hidden Autumn Fairy Tale on the Anhui Southern Sichuan-Tibet Route! This Touch of Red is Breathtaking

When it comes to autumn in Jiangnan, the Ningguo Bald Cypress Wetland is definitely a secret realm that can’t be kept hidden. This over 3,000-acre water forest spanning the upper reaches of Qinglong Lake transforms into a fairy tale world woven with gold and red in late autumn. Known as the "Kanas of Southern Anhui," it is also certified as a creative base by the China Photographers Association. Whether you’re driving to chase the autumn colors or capturing light and shadow through photography, this place will fulfill all your autumn imaginations.

1. When to Go? Catch That Fleeting Touch of Red

The color change of the bald cypress is a precise time magic show. The best viewing period is from late October to early December, with mid to late November being the peak of color — at this time, the cypress leaves turn fully reddish-brown, clashing with the blue lake water to create a strong visual impact. This "prime state" usually lasts only about a week, making it especially precious.

The light and shadow throughout the day are treasures: from 6 to 8 a.m., a mist like a light veil rises over the water, and sunlight filters through the cypress forest creating dreamy light spots — this is recognized as the "killer moment"; from 3 to 5 p.m., the slanting sunset edges the leaves with gold, and backlit shots come with a natural warm filter. Be sure to avoid weekend peaks; the tranquility and light on weekdays are the "hidden perks" of this wetland.

2. How to Get There? Step-by-Step Transportation Guide

Self-driving (Recommended)

This is the best way to experience the bald cypress wetland, as the winding mountain roads along the way are scenic in themselves. Departing from Hangzhou, Nanjing, or Shanghai, navigate to "Ningguo Fangtang Bald Cypress Forest," about 3-4 hours away. Some road sections are narrow, so an SUV is more comfortable. There is a parking lot at the scenic area entrance; plenty of spaces are available on weekdays, but it’s recommended to arrive early on weekends to secure a spot. Parking fees usually cap at 15 yuan.

Public Transportation

Take the high-speed train directly to "Xuancheng Station" or "Ningguo South Station," then rent a car and drive 1.5 hours to reach the site — the most flexible and efficient option. If you have more time, you can transfer to Ningguo Bus Route 602 to Fangtang Township, then take a taxi to the scenic area.

3. What to Do? Immersive Exploration of the Water Forest

Must-try Core Activities

1. Bamboo Rafting Through the Painting: Spend 40-60 yuan to take a bamboo raft deep into the cypress forest. The sound of oars splashing water accompanies bird songs; looking up reveals layers of red cypress, looking down shows clear tree shadows reflected in the water. Every shot captures the feeling of "a boat traveling through the forest, people wandering in a painting." The first bamboo raft in the morning is especially popular, offering a chance to encounter a fairyland of mist swirling around the red cypress.

2. Viewing Platform Overlooking the Panorama: The second viewing platform near the entrance is the best "God’s eye view," where you can take in the vast panorama of the red cypress forest and Qinglong Bay. It’s especially suitable for shooting scenes with morning mist and egrets together. There is also a free hidden viewing platform: drive along the Anhui Southern Sichuan-Tibet route near the scenic area, turn right at the large power pole to park, then hike up the trail to reach it. The view here is even more expansive than the paid area.

3. Boardwalk Stroll to Find Shadows: Walk along the water forest boardwalk for close-up views. Find a quiet water area to shoot symmetrical reflections from a low angle. Wearing white or beige outfits against the red cypress backdrop makes for stunning forest-themed photos, instantly turning you into the star of a nature blockbuster.

4. Aerial Photography for Stunning Shots: Drones are allowed in the scenic area. From a spiraling ascending perspective, the red cypress forest looks like a red carpet spread over the blue water, forming a breathtaking painting with the surrounding mountains and water — definitely a "like magnet" on social media.

More to Explore Nearby

The bald cypress wetland is located in the middle section of the Anhui Southern Sichuan-Tibet route. It’s strongly recommended to plan a 2-day, 1-night trip: spend the first day exploring the wetland and watch the sunset at Chujia Beach in the evening; on the second day, challenge the winding mountain road of Taoling Liudaowan, then take a boat tour on Qinglong Bay, and stop by Hulesi Ancient Town to experience Huizhou-style charm.

4. Where to Stay and Eat? Local Specialties All Covered

Accommodation Recommendations

- Enlong World Wooden Cabin Village: Quiet environment, cost-effective wooden cabin accommodation (about 100 yuan/night), with dining available, suitable for family travelers.
- Fangtang Township Homestays: Mostly Huizhou-style courtyard houses with mountain and water views from the windows. They often sell out on weekends, so book in advance.
- Banqiao Village Homestays: Located centrally on the Anhui Southern Sichuan-Tibet route, convenient for visiting multiple attractions and for next-day travel.

Food and Supplies

There are very few dining facilities inside the scenic area, so it’s recommended to bring snacks and drinking water in advance. Local specialties not to miss: Ningguo Baba, crispy outside and fragrant inside, a perfect snack for the road; dried bamboo shoots with braised pork and Jixi stir-fried vermicelli, both flavorful and aromatic, available at homestays or township restaurants. You can also bring some hickory nuts as souvenirs on your return.

5. Pitfalls to Avoid and Tips! Even Beginners Can Have a Great Time

1. Clothing and Gear: The ground in the scenic area is muddy and slippery, so non-slip sports shoes are essential; autumn mornings and evenings have large temperature differences, so bring a warm jacket for morning mist viewing, and be sure to protect yourself from the wind when on the bamboo raft.

2. Practical Reminders: The scenic area has no entrance fee; only the boardwalk (about 40 yuan) and bamboo raft (about 60 yuan) have charges; restrooms are scarce, so it’s best to use facilities at the entrance beforehand.

3. Real-time Information: The timing of the red leaf color change depends on temperature. Before traveling, check the "Ningguo Culture and Tourism" or "Yan Yu Fangtang" WeChat public accounts for live updates to avoid missing the peak.

4. Ecological Protection: Please cherish the environment, do not break branches or litter, so this secret realm remains beautiful forever.

The late autumn Ningguo Bald Cypress Wetland is a natural palette. Take advantage of the best season in November, bring your camera and good mood, and go on this autumn date — after all, such red only amazes once a year.