The 2026 Fragrant Hills Red Leaf Festival kicked off on October 16. So far, about 10 percent of the park's foliage has changed color, and the autumn hues are gradually spreading across the landscape. This year's festival features a range of cultural experiences, including traditional Chinese music performances, science and technology exhibitions and performances, open-air film screenings, markets and study tours.
The leaves at Fragrant Hills Park are gradually changing color.
[Photo by Xue Jun]
The park has introduced five autumn routes to suit different fitness levels and interests.
Route 1: Climb to the Summit for Panoramic Views
Enter through the East Gate → Qinzheng Hall → Jingcui Lake → Shuangqing Villa → Fragrant Hills Temple → Yuxiang Hall → Xiangwu Cave → Incense Burner Peak (summit).
For the descent, you can take the Central Route back down. Exiting through the North Gate also gives you the option to visit Biyun Temple. The route takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want to see historic sites, autumn foliage and panoramic views from the summit.
Route 2: A Stroll Through Historic Architecture
East Gate → Qinzheng Hall → Zhiyuan Hall → Zhao Temple → Jianxin Hall → North Gate → Biyun Temple.
The route takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and is suited to history and culture enthusiasts, educational groups, and visitors who prefer a less strenuous walk.
Route 3: A Dedicated Route for Photography
Biyun Temple → enter the park through the North Gate → Glasses Lake → Qiyue Cliff → Senyuhu → Xiyang'e → Fragrant Hills Temple → Cuiwei Pavilion → Jingcui Lake → exit through the East Gate.
The route takes about 4 hours. It is a good choice for photography enthusiasts looking for lesser-known photo spots and hoping to avoid crowds on the main paths.
Route 4: An Easy Outing for Families and Older Visitors
East Gate → Qinzheng Hall → Zhiyuan Hall → Zhisong Garden → Fenglin Village → Jiari Garden → Glasses Lake → Jianxin Hall → Zhao Temple → exit through the East Gate.
The route takes about 2 hours. It is suitable for families with children and older visitors who want to enjoy the autumn atmosphere of the gardens at a relaxed pace.
Route 5: A Journey for Revolutionary History and Autumn Foliage
Enter through the East Gate → Qinzheng Hall → Jingcui Lake → Shuangqing Villa → Laiqing Pavilion → Fragrant Hills Temple → Langfeng Pavilion → Heshun Gate → Yutai Gate → Incense Burner Peak. You can also take the Central Route on foot back down to the East Gate. This route is suitable for autumn foliage enthusiasts and hikers who want to experience the mountains blanketed in autumn colors.
Visitors take photos by the flower beds.
[Photo by Xue Jun]
The park expects peak visitor numbers on October 24, 25 and 31, and November 1, 7 and 8. The cable car is temporarily out of service for a system upgrade. Please check traffic control notices, opt for green transportation where possible, and visit outside peak hours.
(Source: The Beijing News)
