Last week, we took a self-driving trip along the Anhui-Tibet Route in southern Anhui with the kids. As soon as we arrived at Chujia Beach, we were blown away by its beauty—morning mist enveloping Qinglong Bay, golden waves rippling through the reeds, and the kids chasing little fish in the shallows while I couldn’t stop snapping photos. Family travel photography masterpieces were created effortlessly!
📸 Top 3 family photo spots (with tips for taking pictures with kids):
1. Wooden boardwalk over the water (Navigate to "Xijin Yedu Parking Lot" and walk 8 minutes)
- The mist between 7-8 AM is breathtaking! The boardwalk floating on the lake looks like a fairyland. Let the kids stand in the middle of the boardwalk chasing bubbles while mom takes side-profile shots of their backs. The reflection of redwoods paired with white shirts creates an amazing atmosphere. Drone shots are even more stunning—have the whole family stand on the boardwalk and make heart shapes with your hands for a perfect autumn family portrait.
2. Shallow water play and candid shots (Ge Hong Xianju waters, ideal for kids aged 3+)
- After 4 PM, the sun isn’t too harsh! Let the kids wade in the shallow water and collect small stones. Bright-colored jumpsuits look great in photos! Squat down to capture close-ups of the kids playing in the water, and snap shots of water splashes for a lively vibe. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes!
3. Reed wetland and toy train (Wetlands on the west side of Chujia Beach)
- The reeds turn golden in autumn! Borrow a cartoon-style toy train as a prop, have dad push the kids forward while mom takes side shots. Use the reeds as a blurred foreground for a whimsical, storybook-like effect.
👗 Family outfit formula (camera-friendly and foolproof):
👩 Mom: Off-white trench coat + beige scarf + combat boots (perfectly matches the morning mist)
👶 Kids: Caramel-colored jumpsuit + brown boots (comfortable for running and jumping, and photogenic)
✅ Coordinated family color schemes look more harmonious; avoid dark colors that overshadow the autumn scenery.
🍜 Local food kids will love:
1. Qinglong Bay Fish Soup (a must-try!)
- Freshly caught lake fish simmered into a creamy white soup—absolutely delicious! The signature dish at Wangzhuyuan Inn, perfect for mixing with rice for kids to enjoy.
2. Ningguo Fried Noodles
- Stir-fried on a rustic stove, the noodles are chewy with a smoky flavor. Add a fried egg, and kids will love it. Only 15 RMB for a large portion that’s filling.
3. Ningguo Flatbread
- Available in sweet and savory flavors, with a crispy crust that crumbles. Great as a snack on the go—kids will devour it!
👉 Recommended farm stays: Wangzhuyuan Inn, Datourenjia Inn. Both offer baby chairs, and ingredients are homegrown vegetables and wild lake seafood.
⏰ Practical tips for traveling with kids:
🔸 Best time: Mid-October to mid-November (redwoods are vibrant, reeds are golden)
🔸 Transportation: Self-driving! Parking is convenient at the inns (free for guests), and they’re close to the attractions.
🔸 Handy tips:
1. Bring a fish net, spare clothes, and baby sunscreen (essential for shallow water play).
2. Bamboo raft experience—suitable for kids aged 3+, confirm availability in advance.
3. Stay at a lakeside inn to capture morning mist without rushing; some inns offer family-friendly rooms.
🍂 Chujia Beach is far less crowded than popular tourist spots, making it perfect for leisurely family outings.
Tag your travel buddies and plan a trip to this picturesque autumn wonderland with the kids!
Post by 寧國水林間·山野竹海360°觀景·野奢美墅（皖南川藏線儲家灘店） | Sep 29, 2025
