Autumn in the southern regions differs from that in the north. While frost-touched leaves fall elsewhere, Tianzhu Mountain in Xiamen still guards a stretch of lush green, with thriving plants and unopened blossoms, turning the autumn mood into a gentle poem. This mountain trek led me deep into the dense greenery, where I encountered a unique autumn charm of southern Fujian.
Walking slowly along the mountain path, the autumn light first seems faint, but as you go deeper, the green becomes so rich it seems to dissolve. Tall trees hold up a dense canopy, and sunlight filters through the leaves, casting scattered light spots on the bluestone path. The breeze rustles the treetops, filling the air with the soft sound of leaves brushing against each other, mingled with the crisp mountain mist, refreshing the soul. Plants grow wildly by the roadside; unknown shrubs raise tender green leaves, vines climb old trees, and even tiny grass blades sprout from cracks in the stones, all showing a stubborn vitality.
Even more delightful are the flowers hidden within the greenery. Some climb the cliff walls, blooming in clusters of pale purple spikes that sway gently in the wind; others lie in the grass, holding pink and white petals, especially fresh with morning dew; some shrubs bear tiny orange-yellow flowers, not as grand as peonies but possessing a natural mountain elegance. Ignoring the season, these flowers bloom freely in late autumn at Tianzhu Mountain, contrasting with the abundant green, as if all the vitality of spring and summer has been gathered and stored in this moment.
Reaching the mid-mountain viewing platform, leaning on the railing and looking afar, the entire Tianzhu Mountain resembles a jade piece splashed with thick ink. The endless greenery spills over the valleys, merging with the drifting clouds in the distance, making it hard to tell whether the mountain dyes the clouds green or the clouds soak the mountain in green. Occasionally, bird calls come from the forest, clear and melodious, adding a touch of tranquility, evoking the mood of Wang Wei’s poem “After fresh rain in the empty mountains, the weather in the evening is autumn,” except here there is no rain, only more vibrant greenery and stronger vitality.
After a day of hiking, as dusk deepens, I follow the path back down the mountain. If you want to find an elegant place to stay at this time, Jinjiang Inn Plus Airport T4 Jimei Aesthetic Village Hotel is an excellent choice. The hotel is adjacent to the mountain corner, and opening the door reveals tasteful decorations in the style of southern Fujian. Warm light flows around, easing away all fatigue. Outside the window, you might still see the faint green silhouette of distant mountains, and inside you can brew a pot of oolong tea, recalling the green leaves and blooming flowers seen during the day. This kind of comfort, where “the mountain air is beautiful at dusk, and living here feels naturally leisurely,” adds a warm and lasting charm to this autumn mountain trip.
Post by JASMINE GRIFFITH | Oct 25, 2025
