Record of Danxia Mountain's Autumn Spectacle! A Visual Explosion of Red Rocks, Maple Leaves, and Sea of Clouds

When the red cliffs meet the mountains covered in red leaves, autumn at Danxia Mountain becomes a stage for geological wonders and a colorful celebration! This place is not only the namesake of the global Danxia landform but also hides a magical light and shadow show that can only be unlocked in autumn. ​🌄 Three Must-Experience Highlights​ ​Miracle Moment at Yangyuan Stone​: Around the autumnal equinox (mid-September to early October), the morning sunlight casts a "lion/phoenix" silhouette on the stone, a limited daily spectacle lasting only 20 minutes. ​Maple Leaves and Danxia Rocks in Harmony​: From October to December, the maple and Chinese tallow trees dye the hiking trails red, especially at the Candle Peak section where red rocks and red leaves create a double visual impact. ​Zen Sea of Clouds Secret Realm​: The sunrise platform at Elder Peak often features a sea of clouds on autumn mornings, with red peaks floating like islands; inside Jinshi Rock Cave, the chameleon-like stone scales change color with the light. ​📌 2-Day Itinerary​ ​Day 1: Yangyuan Stone - Xianglong Lake Route​ Focus on the Yangyuan Stone viewing platform in the morning (best light before 9 AM), then challenge the Jiujue Ladder (a vertical iron ladder requiring hands and feet); for lunch, try stir-fried mountain snails and Renhua tofu. In the afternoon, take a boat tour on Xianglong Lake, where the maze-like islands are perfect for reflection photos; in the evening, climb Elder Peak to wait for the sunset. ​Day 2: Jinjiang Gallery - Museum Route​ In the morning, boat on Jinjiang River for water-level views of the elephant crossing the river and Teapot Peak; in the afternoon, visit the Danxia Mountain Museum interactive exhibits to learn about landform evolution, and join the fossil rubbing workshop with kids. ​🍁 Off-the-Beaten-Path Photo Spots Recommended​ Backlit side of Monk’s Hat Peak: After 3 PM, the cliff turns ochre red, ideal for silhouette shots. Heart Island of Xianglong Lake: Accessible by kayak, the old maple trees on the island carpet the ground with golden leaves. Tongtai Bridge Gap: Frame-style composition shooting autumn leaf arches. ​💡 Practical Tips​ Transportation: Take the Danxia Mountain shuttle from Shaoguan Station (1 hour); for self-driving, navigate to "Danxia Mountain Outer Gate," parking is free. Tickets: 150 RMB (including shuttle bus), cable car one-way 40 RMB; free admission for seniors and children.