Five-Day Autumn Charm Tour of Beijing: A Poetic Journey from Ancient City Center Architecture to the Layered Forests of the Suburbs

Autumn in Beijing is like the "paradise" described by Lao She, with red walls and golden leaves, distant mountains dyed in rosy clouds. This five-day itinerary connects the city's cultural heritage with the rustic charm of the suburbs, immersing you in the unique autumnal flavor of Beijing. Day 1: Autumn Dialogue Between Ancient Architecture and Hutongs Start early from the Bell Tower, enjoying the interplay of golden tree shadows and gray tiled eaves under the clear blue sky[__LINK_ICON]. Walk to Heizhima Hutong to explore creative shops blending old Beijing with new ideas, then head to Mao'er Hutong to experience the everyday scene of residents drying autumn clothes and fallen ginkgo leaves. In the afternoon, visit the Red Building of Peking University, touching history through the light and shadow of this century-old structure, and stop by Lao She's former residence to see the persimmon tree laden with orange-red fruit. In the evening, stroll into Caoyang North Alley, find a traditional Beijing restaurant in the charming hutong, order a serving of grilled meat on a brazier, paired with a chilled Beibingyang soda to end the first day. Day 2: Autumn Feast Beneath the Imperial City Walls Enter Zhongshan Park through the side gate in advance (only 2 yuan ticket), arrive at the Forbidden City at 8:30 am sharp to avoid crowds and capture the classic scene of red walls, green tiles, and golden ginkgo trees together. Key spots include the ginkgo forest at Cining Palace and the stained glass light effects in the Treasure Gallery. In the afternoon, climb to Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the city's autumn colors, with the Forbidden City and Beihai White Pagoda in full sight. At dusk, head to Beihai Park to watch the sunset cast a warm glow on Qionghua Island, with reeds swaying by the shore, savoring the autumn leisure evoked by "Let Us Paddle Our Oars." For dinner, try the time-honored restaurant near Shichahai for authentic Peking duck. Day 3: Hiking Through the Colorful Forests of Beijing Suburbs Choose the western mountain trail at Yanqi Lake to start your hike; the 8-kilometer gentle path built along the mountain offers a view from the No. 3 viewing platform that captures the lake, mountains, and the International Convention Center in one frame[__LINK_ICON]. In the afternoon, visit Hongluo Temple, where yellow smoke tree contrasts with red walls, the bell tolls echo through colorful woods, and climb to the top for a distant view of layered mountains. If time allows, explore vintage shops on Fanqi Road and enjoy mountain autumn scenery at Xianxiang Creek Coffee. For dinner, don't miss Huairou grilled rainbow trout, with fresh fish paired with wild mountain vegetables, experiencing the suburban flavors. Day 4: Dual Experience of Parks and Night Tours In the morning, visit Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park, watch the autumn sunrise at Feiyantai, accompany children playing by the stream, and relax on the lawn with a tent[__LINK_ICON]. In the afternoon, head to the North Garden of Olympic Forest Park, check in at the "Flower Field and Wild Fun" area with its sea of Kochia flowers, and enjoy the music fountain in the South Garden against the autumn blue sky. At dusk, rush to the Jingcai Lantern Festival to see 18-meter-high palace lanterns and the "Lugou Morning Moon" themed lanterns shining brightly, experiencing the visual impact of Zigong intangible cultural heritage lanterns. Afterward, visit the Moon River Night Market, searching among over 400 stalls for candied hawthorn and braised snacks. Day 5: Cultural and Local Life Finale In the morning, visit the National Museum of China; don't miss the "Benefiting the World with Heavenly Craftsmanship" stone carving exhibition and the immersive Notre-Dame de Paris exhibition, where artifacts appear even more profound under autumn daylight[__LINK_ICON]. In the afternoon, explore Sanyuanli Vegetable Market, known as the "luxury vegetable market ceiling," observe the rich ingredients of Beijing's autumn dining table, and buy some autumn pears and hawthorns as souvenirs. Finally, take a stroll along Liangma River, known as "Beijing's Seine," watch fishermen leisurely casting their lines, and stop by Hongxing Qianjin Bread and Milk Company to handcraft a fresh cup of milk, ending your journey on a warm note. Autumn Tips 1. Clothing: Large temperature difference between morning and evening, prepare a light down jacket and windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes are essential. 2. Transportation: Non-local vehicles are banned inside the 2nd Ring Road; for the Great Wall, take the high-speed train from Beijing North Station (30 minutes direct); prioritize subway travel in the city. 3. Reservations: Attractions like the Forbidden City and National Museum require online booking 3 days in advance; for Xiangshan and Pofengling red leaf season, it is recommended to visit during off-peak times.