Autumn in Southern Anhui: Capturing the Deepest Autumn in the Mountains

Autumn in Southern Anhui: Capturing the Deepest Autumn in the Mountains

Who says autumn is only about crimson leaves? Here, you can hear, smell, and taste the colors of autumn—a feast for all the senses.

At six in the morning, I arrived at Meiganling in Jiapeng Township, where the terraced fields were gently enveloped in morning mist. Walking up the stone steps onto the ancient path, the rustling of fallen leaves beneath my feet was more soothing than any white noise. In Shang Village, I met 80-year-old Grandpa Cheng drying chili peppers. I helped him spread them out, and he cheerfully handed me two freshly baked sesame cakes. The warm, sweet aroma instantly dispelled the mountain chill.

At noon, we had a picnic in the ancient woods, and locals pointed us to a farmhouse restaurant with no signboard. The aroma of the dried bamboo shoots and duck stewed on a wood-fired stove wafted through the alley. The owner explained that they used only this year's newly dried autumn bamboo shoots. The ultimate surprise after lunch was discovering a 500-year-old Castanopsis sclerophylla tree by the stream. Its golden leaves reflected in the water, a breathtaking beauty that left me speechless.

Autumn Guide:

· 🚗 We recommend a one-day itinerary from Jiapeng Township to Shang Village to Chaigoulangjian.
· 📸 The morning mist is at its most beautiful between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and the afternoon light is perfect for photography.
· 🍂 Must-do: Chat with the elderly who dry their autumn leaves and try freshly made sesame candy.
· 🍁 Hidden gem: Ask the locals for the Castanopsis sclerophylla trees, which are at their golden peaks in early November.

As the setting sun paints the ancient trees amber, I suddenly realize that autumn in southern Anhui isn't found in the scenic areas, but in the fragrant fingers of the elderly drying chilies, and in the comforting bowl of old duck soup—these are the most precious autumn souvenirs.

Post by TY GLOVER | Oct 21, 2025