Beijing Autumn 2025: Where Every Leaf Tells a Story in the City’s Most Beautiful Season

Beijing Autumn

Some say Beijing slips into autumn without fanfare — half the warmth of summer, half the chilliness to come. The air grows crisp, the light becomes honeyed and an aroma of roasted chestnuts wafts through tree-lined streets. There is gin-splashing related activity when the ginkgo leaves rain down golden in the hutongs, or a maple grove up on Fragrant Hills that burns more fiercely than any sunset.

It’s the season poets described, the type that demands you pause without trying. Take a stroll through the Olympic Forest Park or the old hutongs around Shichahai and you'll feel it as well -- the sweet spot where endings meet beginnings.

The Best Time to Visit Beijing for Autumn Foliage

The optimal time to see fall foliage in Beijing is from late September to early November. Early fall (late September through mid-October) brings cooler temps, which are ideal for outdoor exploring. But the fall colors are just starting, so now is ideal for those who want to beat the crowds and get a jump on the changing season. The actual magic happens in mid- to-late October when Beijing’s parks and forests are saturated in red, orange and gold. For the best of Beijing autumn 2025, time your visit to this peak for leaf spottings and warm colors with a backdrop of vibrant sheets on trees as predicted by fall foliage in Beijing 2025.

It is nice and cool during this time of the year, so if you are traveling in early morning or after sunsets then carry a light sweater or jacket. If you plan your visit towards the end of October, you’ll experience some of the city’s most dramatic scenes, with less rain and clear skies that make it ideal for sightseeing and photography.

Peak of Autumn: When Does Fall Reach Its Peak in Beijing?

Beijing’s second half of October is the best time for its autumn leaves. It is then when the city’s renowned parks, such as Fragrant Hills and the Summer Palace, erupt like a Roman candle of color. The peak season usually ranges from mid to late October, which is when the colors reach the brilliant golden, orange and red hues of autumn. It is not cold in winter with a temperature of 15°C -20°C range during daytime and about 10 degrees lower at night and early mornings. If you hope to snag the best of Beijing’s autumn colors in full splendor, this is the time to visit.

What to Expect from Beijing's Autumn Weather in 2025

The autumn weather in Beijing should favour fast times, with cool temperatures and low humidity expected for the 2025 event. At the height of foliage season, temperatures during the day should float between 18°C to 20°C with the nights feeling cool at around 10°C.Powder blue skies and a light breeze are also likely so it will be great weather for outdoor adventures. Rain is rare at this time, making it great for sightseeing and leaf peeping. But remember, the temperature will likely change, so wearing layers will allow you to keep cool in the heat and warm when it gets chilly. Under such great circumstances, the Beijing autumn will be a nice time to visit and enjoy both their art and natural beauty.

4 Best Places to See Autumn Foliage in Beijing

Autum of Xiangshan

Beijing Botanical Garden

Olympic Forest Park

Autumn Scene of Beijing Hutong

Xiangshan Park: Where Fall Colors Paint the Sky

Xiangshan Park: is undoubtedly one of the most famous spots for autumn foliage in Beijing. On the edges of the city, it provides a beautiful showcase of fall foliage between mid and late October. The park is famous for having beautiful maple and ginkgo trees whose bright colors transform into various shades of gold, thereby providing picturesque scenery well-suited for photography. You shouldn’t miss this place if you are visiting during the autumn period of Beijing. You can book Xiangshan Park tickets on Trip.com for easy online access before your visit.

For fewer crowds, visit early in the morning—on weekdays if possible. The park is known to get crowded on weekends and holidays, so you’ll want to time your visit accordingly. For the nicest views and photos, go to the top of hill for a panoramic perspective of the autumnal hues billowing out across the park. Another wonderful place is the Silver Tower, where you can really see the fall foliage from far away. Fragrant Hills (the TCM) is also fragrant with the smell of pine trees mixed in the crisp air of autumn making it an olfactory sensation. Want to learn more about Xiangshan Park’s attractions? Check out this detailed guide on Xiangshan Park in Beijing for everything you need to know before your visit.

Beijing Botanical Garden: A Hidden Autumn Paradise

The Beijing Botanical Garden in the western suburbs of Beijing is unknown to many tourists, and as a result one of the best kept secrets for autumn aficionados. The garden is planted with various types of plants and in the fall, it is a wonderland of autumn leaves. The ginkgo trees here are especially gorgeous, their golden leaves covering the ground under them. It’s also a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, as changing leaves will set you up for an idyllic day in nature.

The Beijing Botanical Garden station on Line 4 of the Beijing Subway also provides direct access to the garden. You can either walk or take a brief bus ride from there to the entrance. Park entrance fee is about 40 RMB, which is not expensive at all. The best time to visit for fall foliage is from mid- to late October, when colors are at their most brilliant. Be sure not to miss the rose garden, as it isn’t just for spring blooms; the deep fall colors will still make a lovely background.

Olympic Forest Park: A Scenic Escape from the City

And for a more relaxed autumn alternative, go to the Olympic Forest Park. The Ideal Location: This big urban park is a good spot for visitors who are looking to enjoy Beijing’s autumn colors without having to travel too far outside of the downtown area, as it's located near Olympic Village. In autumn, the park’s large lawns and tree-lined paths are carpeted with golden foliage; it is a tranquil haven from the busy city.To capture: Oct. to Nov.

It’s not only the foliage—Olympic Forest Park also features a variety of lakes and walking paths that make it an idyllic place for a relaxed walk or picnic. If you happen to be there in Beijing autumn, pack a light jacket and savor the cool air as the leaves elegantly come crashing down. It is an excellent place for families, couples or anyone wishing to enjoy the season’s beauty in a little more laid-back atmosphere.

Beijing Hutongs: Autumn Whispers in the Old Alleys

Autumn in Beijing’s hutongs is unlike anywhere else in the city. The narrow lanes, crowded with old grey brick walls and ancient scholar trees, are golden as the leaves fall in slow motion. The smell of osmanthus and of roasted chestnuts from street stalls is in the air, the silent hum of bicycles in the crisp cold air. (Unlike the grand parks, small moments are here’s charm: a cat stretching under a ginkgo tree, neighbors talking over tea, or the sound of broom sweeping up fallen leaves in morning light.)

Stroll through hutongs like Wudaoying, Nanluoguxiang or the quieter lanes by Shichahai and you’ll understand why locals consider it the most poetic side of Beijing autumn. The walls are a dusty amber color from the low afternoon sun, and every corner feels like a still frame from an old movie. You have time to drop by a courtyard café, sip hot jasmine tea and let autumn’s relaxed tempo wash over you.

Local Autumn Activities and Festivals in Beijing

Autumn in the Chinese capital is not just all about positive fall colors, but also lively cultural celebrations and activities. This time of year also sees Beijing reawaken with traditional festivals, local activities and plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the city. Whether you want to visit Beijing's historic imperial sites, join in the Mid-Autumn Festival or get to grips with the capital's burgeoning photography scene, there is something for everyone. The Beijing autumn is a season of opportunities to experience local traditions and celebrate the seasonal.

Autumn is the best time to catch up with Beijing’s festivals in person. Whether you are strolling through the parks or attending cultural events, this season offers a combination of history and traditions interspersed with seasonal beauty. Here we explore two of the top things to do during those fall months in Beijing.

Mid-Autumn Festival: A Night of Mooncakes and Lanterns

The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the biggest holidays in China, and when it comes to celebrating, Beijing does things in style. Observed on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar (typically late September or early October), it is a time to celebrate the harvest and family gathering. In Beijing, there’s an array of activities from mooncake tastings to lantern displays and cultural performances.

The favorite custom in the family is savoring mooncakes, a type of sweet pastry with red bean or lotus seed paste filling. You can purchase mooncakes from nearly every baker and a good many restaurants, and they frequently have inventive fillings that vary each year. For a really local experience, head to the Lantern Festival at the Summer Palace or Ditan Park – thousands of lanterns light up the sky and it’s magical. Many people in the city also flock to parks to appreciate the full moon, a symbol of reunion and peace. If you happen to be in Beijing during this period, engage with their celebrations and don’t miss out a mooncake—you may even receive one as a gift!

Autumn Photography: Best Locations for Fall Shots in Beijing

Beijing during Autumn is a dream for photographers with stunning fall colors, blue skies and cultural wonders to frame the perfect shot. If you’re into photography, why not take the opportunity to make use of the striking autumn city colours and capture what is increasingly becoming a unique vibe.

As for autumn photography, the hot spots in Beijing are Fragrant Hills, Summer Palace, and Beijing Botanical Garden. For the best images, try to shoot early in the morning or late afternoon when soft light creates long shadows and makes fall colors pop. Fragrant Hills in particular is well-known for its glowing red and orange maple leaves, providing countless photo-worthy moments. The Summer Palace’s classical buildings and serene lakes look all the more stunning as autumn hues are mirrored in the water. For a bit more of an urban backdrop, visit the Olympic Forest Park where the juxtaposition of being surrounded by modern buildings next to sweeps of nature in full bloom can make for interesting compositions. It doesn’t matter if you’re shooting wide landscapes or close-up details: autumn in Beijing serves up an endless smorgasbord of inspiration for any photographer.

The autumn weather in Beijing can be unpredictable, and temperatures vary widely throughout the season. From the refreshing, coolness of September through to the increasingly chilly evenings in November, knowing these temperature differences is going to be necessary for your trip. The temperature in September is still quite balmy, usually getting up to around 25°C during the day, but come October and November it can get pretty cold especially in the mornings or evening. Daytime high temperatures in mid-October tend to be between 15°C and 20°C, although the early mornings and late evenings can feel much colder with temperatures falling to below 5°C.

Between now and then, it's likely to have cold clear weather with no rain - always some of the best Beijing has to offer. But the temperature swing can be severe, and you’re going to need a plan. You could use a jacket in the morning, but by afternoon you’ll want to wear something lighter. You’ll want to pack layers as you prepare for your autumnal trip, including long-sleeve shirts and sweaters as well as a good jacket or coat for the nights. Furthermore, autumn in Beijing is low-humid, the air could be a bit dry so add some lotions and lip balms to keep moisturized. Check out this detailed guide on places of interest in Beijing for inspiration on your trip.

Packing Tips for Beijing's Autumn: From Layering to Footwear

When dressing for Beijing’s second autumn, layering is your friend. The mornings and evenings are pretty cold, but the day time can be significantly warm, especially in early fall. Opt for a lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt with a sweater or lighter jacket to keep you comfortable in the daylight. (You’ll also want to layer on a heavy coat or scarf as the day gets colder.) Or if you plan to visit places like the Great Wall or Fragrant Hills, where you will do some walking, a good pair of shoes is vital. Comfortable, water-safe shoes or hiking boots will help you traverse uneven terrain, and keep you dry if the weather turns wet.

Just make sure to bring along an umbrella or rain jacket, as well. Autumn in Beijing is usually dry, but you never know when a shower will hit, so it’s best to come prepared. A wide-brimmed hat can also make a great addition to keep the sun at bay on those sunny days, especially when touring outdoor sights like Beijing Botanical Garden or Olympic Forest Park. And keep in mind that you’ll want to be comfortable as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Beijing’s autumn scenery – so preparing the essentials will help make sure you can enjoy all the season has to offer.

When to Expect the First Frost and How to Prepare for It

The season's first frost in Beijing usually occurs at the end of October or early November, signaling that colder weather is here. This can come as a surprise to some travellers because the days remain pretty nice in early fall. The frost is most likely to occur during the early hours of the morning, particularly in places with high elevations such as Fragrant Hills. If you happen to be visiting during this period, it might not so much as feel particularly cold.

Carry a heavier jacket, coat and stay comfortably away from cold. If you anticipate being out early for sunrise photos or hiking, be sure to layer with thermal wear and don gloves, as mornings can feel especially chilly. The cold air can also dry out your skin, so bring hydrating lotion or lip balm to prevent chapped skin. Check the beijing october weather forecast close to your trip because you may have to pack some specific items. It’s all very picturesque — frostbitten trees, houses so well insulated that smoke rises straight into the blue morning sky.

Beijing Autumn FAQ

Q: When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Beijing?

The peak time to appreciate the red leaves is from mid-to-late October in Beijing. That’s when the leaves are at their brightest—red and orange and gold in all of the city’s parks and gardens. If you hope to experience the best of Beijing autumn, then make sure that’s when you visit.

Q: What is the temperature like in Beijing in autumn?

The autumn weather of Beijing can be very changeable. Late summer (September) still gets warm in Beijing, with temperatures about 25°C; but by late autumn (October), it is cooler, ranging from 15–20°C.Children should be sent out with a zipper top and zipper jacket to keep against the morning and evening chill rather than scarf, gloves or pullover which might become too warm during the day of fluctuating fall temperature for Beijing.

Q: Is October a good month to visit Beijing for autumn foliage?

Yes, October is actually one of the best months to see fall color in Beijing. The leaves are in full color, and the weather is crisp and cool for all kinds of outdoor activities. For a glimpse of Beijing’s gorgeous autumn, October has the best chance of clear skies and fair weather for sightseeing and photography.

Q: What should I wear in Beijing during the autumn season?

If you’re visiting Beijing in the fall, bring those layers. For visits during the day, you’ll probably want at least a light sweater or long-sleeve T-shirt; evenings can be considerably chillier, so carry a warm jacket or softer coat. Walking shoes are needed, especially if you plan to explore the parks and hills. When doing so, be sure to check Beijing’s weather forecast in order to dress appropriately.

Q: Is Beijing crowded during the autumn season?

It can be crowded in Beijing during the autumn, especially on public holidays like National Day. But weekdays or coming as early in the morning as possible will get you out of big crowds. If you’d prefer a more serene experience, consider visiting the less-crowded places during Beijing autumn and find these gems that will allow you to appreciate the beauty minus all the tourists.

Q: How can I reach Fragrant Hills Park during autumn?

Get to Fragrant Hills Park in autumn by taking Beijing Subway's Line 4 and getting off at Beijing Botanical Garden Station. From here you can either take a bus or taxi up to the park entrance. If you are driving, on-street parking is plentiful. The Beijing fall foliage makes it a great location for photography and relaxing among nature.

Q: What cultural activities are held in Beijing during autumn?

Obscuring that sky in Beijing fall is packed with cultural activities. One of the biggest is Mid-Autumn Festival, which features moon cakes, lanterns and dinner with family. Traditional activities like calligraphy and cultural performances at sites such as the Temple of Heaven are also available. The weather is ideal for autumn activities in Beijing.

Q: Are there any autumn festivals in Beijing?

The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of Beijing’s major autumn festivals.” It is marked with mooncake tastings, lantern parades and outdoor gatherings, particularly around historical sites such as the Summer Palace and Ditan Park. If you’re coming to fall in Beijing, be sure not to miss these colorful cultural celebrations.