A Golden Autumn Date

Known as the "Hometown of Ginkgo in the World," the Ten-Mile Ancient Ginkgo Corridor in Changxing is located in Baduga, Xiaopu Town, Changxing County, Huzhou. Scattered across a 12.5-kilometer-long narrow valley are more than 30,000 native ginkgo trees, including over 3,000 ancient trees more than a hundred years old. The golden scenery in late autumn is considered the pinnacle of autumn views in southern China[__LINK_ICON]. This guide will immerse you in unlocking this golden secret realm, experiencing the autumn romance where nature and culture intertwine. 1. Essential Pre-Trip Information - Best Time: Mid-November to early December is the prime viewing period, especially from November 20 to December 5, when the ginkgo leaves turn fully golden. Sunlight shining through the leaves creates a golden glow, and a gentle breeze causes a "ginkgo rain" to fall, creating a perfect atmosphere[__LINK_ICON]. Early morning or afternoon with soft light is the best time for photography and hiking. Avoid rainy days as wet leaves are slippery and the light effects are poor. - Tickets and Transportation: Basic tickets purchased online cost about 60 RMB; on-site tickets are slightly more expensive, and some platforms often offer discounts. Additional fees apply for experiences like the glass bridge and sightseeing train. Electric cart round-trip costs 40 RMB (highly recommended to save energy)[__LINK_ICON]. For self-driving, navigate to "Baduga Scenic Area Wumendong Parking Lot." It takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. After arriving at Changxing High-Speed Rail Station, a taxi ride of 30 minutes or transfer to the Baduga tourism shuttle bus will get you there[__LINK_ICON]. - Practical Tips: Wearing white or red clothing makes photos stand out more; comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. Weekends are crowded, so entering before 7 AM is advised to avoid congestion. Shaking the trees is prohibited with a 200 RMB fine for violations. Drones must be reported in advance[__LINK_ICON]. 2. Recommended Highlights Itinerary (Two-Day Immersive Tour) Day 1: Stroll the Golden Corridor - Morning: Upon arrival, visit the Ancient Ginkgo Park to check in with the 1,300-year-old "Ginkgo King," a massive tree that requires four people to embrace and serves as the soul landmark of the corridor. Over a hundred century-old ginkgo trees around it create a unique "village in the forest" scene. Then take the sightseeing train through the golden tunnel, immersing yourself in the soothing waves of ginkgo trees on both sides. - Noon: Dine at farmhouse restaurants like "Xingfu Renjia" in Fangyi Village. Must-try dishes include ginkgo stewed native chicken and dried bamboo shoots with braised pork. For about 40 RMB per person, you can savor authentic local flavors. The fragrant ginkgo scrambled eggs are also a must-try[__LINK_ICON]. - Afternoon: Hike to Kongwang Temple and take photos with the 1,500-year-old "Ginkgo Queen." The ancient temple’s yellow walls complement the golden leaves beautifully, full of Zen charm. Then climb the Longtoushan Glass Bridge to overlook the entire corridor, which winds through the valley like a golden dragon[__LINK_ICON]. In the evening, stroll along the original ancient path in Shiwushan Village, stepping on leaves several inches thick while listening to the rustling sounds as the sun sets. Day 2: Cultural and Countryside Exploration - Morning: Head to Guzhu Village to trace the footsteps of Lu Yu, enjoying the morning mist and ginkgo scenery in the tea gardens. Then visit the Tang Dynasty Tribute Tea House to taste a cup of thousand-year-old Zisun tea and experience the profound tea culture of the Tang Dynasty[__LINK_ICON]. - Noon: Experience private Jiangnan cuisine at Wei Yi Yi or return to your guesthouse to try specialty staples like bamboo tube rice and black rice[__LINK_ICON]. - Afternoon: At Fangyi Village workshop, try traditional ginkgo leaf papermaking and create your own travel souvenir; or visit Xiangwang Coffee, a space renovated from a century-old residence, to enjoy afternoon tea with the scent of ginkgo before heading back[__LINK_ICON]. 3. Accommodation and Food List - Accommodation Options: For poetic ambiance, choose Huajiantang·Yishui, nestled among mountains and waters with elegant charm; for cost-effectiveness, Ginkgo Hometown Guesthouse offers views of ancient trees from the window at 300 RMB/night including breakfast; families with children are recommended Changxing Fangcaodi Resort Hotel, which has facilities for kids to play freely. - Must-Try Foods: The core recommendation is the "Ginkgo Feast," including ginkgo stewed native chicken and ginkgo shrimp; Changxing’s specialty dry noodles with eel shreds and Taihu hairy crabs (autumn seasonal) are also worth trying; freshly baked ginkgo pastries at the scenic area entrance cost 20 RMB/box and make great souvenirs. 4. Nearby Attractions Recommendations If time permits, visit the Changxing Taihu Museum to experience Taihu’s historical culture; or take children to Longzhimeng Animal World, which offers pedestrian and vehicle viewing areas suitable for family interaction. This golden secret realm hidden in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai combines natural grandeur with rich cultural heritage, making it a romantic autumn destination worth your journey.