Guangwu is ablaze with red! Encounter Nanjiang, unlock the secret autumn scenery of Northern Sichuan, certified by National Geographic

In October, Nanjiang's mountains and forests are ablaze with color, like an overturned palette, breathtakingly beautiful. Strolling along the wooden boardwalks of Black Bear Valley, with babbling streams beneath your feet and red leaves filling the sky above, it's like stepping into a secluded fairy tale world. Here, there's no urban hustle and bustle, only the tranquility and beauty of nature. Guangwu Mountain, a place rated as one of "China's Top Ten Autumn Sceneries" by Chinese National Geographic, is now entering its most magnificent season of the year. --- 01 Asia's Largest Red Leaf Area: A 580-square-kilometer Visual Feast In late autumn, Nanjiang transforms into a sea of red. Guangwu Mountain's red leaf area spans 580 square kilometers, making it Asia's largest red leaf scenic belt. From late October to early November each year, over 40 species of red-leaf plants here, such as maple, acer, and Fagus, gradually turn red from higher to lower elevations, creating a red leaf viewing period that lasts for about a month. "See the water in Jiuzhai, see the mountains in Guangwu; if you don't see both, you haven't truly been to Sichuan." This local saying vividly describes Guangwu Mountain's important position in Nanjiang's tourism landscape. Guangwu Mountain is not only a national 5A-level tourist attraction but also a World Geopark, holding titles such as National Scenic Area, National Forest Park, and National Eco-tourism Demonstration Zone. 02 Essential Attractions: Step into a Dream Woven with Colors Nanjiang's autumn scenery is distributed across several scenic areas, each with its unique charm and breathtaking beauty. Micang Mountain National Forest Park: This is the essence of Nanjiang's autumn scenery. The "Natural Gallery" within the park is a must-visit, where red and yellow maple leaves form a charming corridor. Ascending to the Xianglushan Observation Deck, the spectacular sight of a sea of clouds coexisting with colorful forests makes one marvel at nature's craftsmanship. Eighteen Moon Pools (Shibayue Tan): Located in the southwest of Micang Mountain National Forest Park, within the approximately 3.5-kilometer-long Pearl Valley, there are 18 fairy pools named after the moon. The pools, waterfalls, rocks, and fallen leaves complement each other, earning it the reputation of "Jiuzhaigou of Northeast Sichuan" among visitors. In the early morning, the Eighteen Moon Pools are shrouded in mist, adding a touch of mystery and tranquility. Black Bear Valley (Heixionggou): This hidden gem, a blend of red leaves, clear streams, unique rocks, and boardwalks, is a highlight of Guangwu Mountain. Walking on the boardwalk, listening to the soothing murmur of the stream, admiring the springs cascading from above, and enjoying the endless charm of red leaves along the way – it's a beauty that can be heard, touched, and truly moves the heart! 03 Ancient Trails: A New Scene and Story at Every Step Nanjiang boasts not only natural beauty but also a rich historical and cultural heritage. The Micang Ancient Road, which began in the Xia and Shang dynasties and flourished during the Qin and Han dynasties, traverses the entire Nanjiang region and is China's earliest "national highway." Walking on the ancient road, one can almost hear the echoes of history: the Jiexian Post Station by the Hanxi River guards the thousand-year-old imprint of Xiao He chasing Han Xin under the moonlight; Muyang City at the foot of Micang Mountain resonates with the Three Kingdoms era, where Zhuge Liang reviewed his troops in autumn. Nanjiang is also an old revolutionary base area, where red culture has left a deep mark. Revolutionary battle sites such as the Bashan Guerrilla Memorial Hall, Hongsimen, and Zhongkuishan bear witness to the glorious years when revolutionary predecessors like Xu Xiangqian and Li Xiannian fought valiantly. 04 Travel Guide: Encounter the Most Beautiful Nanjiang Best time to visit: Mid-October to mid-November is the best period for viewing Nanjiang's red leaves. Transportation: From Chengdu or Chongqing, you can take a direct bus (approx. 4 hours) or choose to drive; the mountain road scenery along the way is absolutely stunning. Recommended itinerary: · Day 1: Arrive in Nanjiang County, head to Guangwu Mountain Micang Mountain Scenic Area after lunch, visit the Natural Gallery and Xianglushan, and check into a guesthouse in the scenic area. · Day 2: Wake up early to photograph the morning mist at Eighteen Moon Pools, take a light hike in Black Bear Valley, experience local farm dishes, and in the afternoon, explore Xiaowu Gorge or experience Guangwu Mountain Hot Springs. · Day 3: Visit Nanjiang morning market to buy local specialties, visit the Bashan Guerrilla Memorial Hall, and return. Local Delicacies: Nanjiang Yellow Goat is a must-try specialty, along with Changchi Mabing (sesame cake) and Zhengzhi Dasurou (crispy pork). Photography Tips: Bring a 70-200mm telephoto lens; the best time to shoot is before 10 AM. --- In the early morning, when the first ray of sunlight falls on the sea of clouds at Xianglushan, the mountains of red leaves seem to ignite; as night falls, China's first Bashu culture sci-fi stage play "Fantasy Micang Road" showcases the collision of Bashu culture and modern technology. On that thousand-year-old Micang Ancient Road, one can still seem to hear the hoofbeats of past merchants and travelers. Nanjiang, this secret realm of Northern Sichuan at 32° North latitude, awaits your arrival with its beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons and its cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.