Embark on a Golden Rendezvous Paved with Ginkgo Leaves: An In-depth Guide and Itinerary for Suizhou Millennium Ginkgo Valley

Embark on a Golden Rendezvous Paved with Ginkgo Leaves: An In-depth Guide and Itinerary for Suizhou Millennium Ginkgo Valley

I. Key Information You Must Know: Unlocking the Secrets of Ginkgo Valley

Best Travel Time

- Golden Viewing Period: Late October to early December, with mid-November being the peak. At this time, ginkgo leaves are fully golden, covering the ground like a "golden carpet," and a gentle breeze makes them flutter like butterflies.
- Off-peak Recommendation: If you want to avoid crowds, you can choose to visit in late October or early December. You'll still see the golden scenery and enjoy a more tranquil touring experience.
- Seasonal Features: In spring, admire the fresh green sprouts; in summer, enjoy the coolness of the forest; and in winter, witness a world of ice and snow, breaking the stereotype that it's "only worth visiting in autumn."

Transportation

- Self-driving: Accessible by driving 40 kilometers along Provincial Highway 212 from Suizhou city. There is ample parking around the scenic area, and a circular route is recommended for a more efficient tour.
- Public Transportation: Take a bus from Suizhou Bus Station to Luoyang Town, get off at the Ginkgo Valley Scenic Area stop. After getting off, you can walk or take a scenic shuttle bus.

Tickets and Precautions

- Scenic area tickets need to be booked online in advance. During peak season (November), crowd control measures may be implemented, so it is recommended to enter before 9 AM.
- Most roads in the scenic area are natural dirt paths, so wear comfortable, non-slip athletic shoes. The autumn sun is strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen and bring drinking water.

II. Must-Visit Attractions: A Double Feast of Nature and Culture

Core Scenic Area

- Millennium Ginkgo Cluster: One of the world's four largest dense ancient ginkgo clusters, with 5.2 million ginkgo trees, including 308 ancient trees over a thousand years old. The ancient trees in Wulaoshu Square are said to have witnessed Confucius asking Laozi for advice, possessing profound historical charm.
- Sunset Valley: A romantic secret hidden in the valley. The "Sunset Mirror Water Platform" is an excellent viewing spot. Pair it with a drink from the Sunset Outpost Cafe to capture the mountain's light and shadow feast, perfect for couples or photography enthusiasts.
- Stone Mill Tribe and Hu Family Ancestral Hall: The array of stone mills carries rural memories, while the exquisite wood and stone carvings of the Ming and Qing dynasty ancient building, Hu Family Ancestral Hall, showcase the beauty of traditional architecture.

New Experiential Offerings

- Ginkgo Museum and Longevity Pagoda: Newly built cultural landmarks that systematically display ginkgo ecology and history. Climbing the Longevity Pagoda offers panoramic views of the entire valley, forming the core landscape of "Five Realms and Twelve Sights."
- Panda International Outdoor Adventure Base: Includes an international standard pump track park and Outdoormix Adventure Park, offering mountain biking, high-altitude climbing, and other activities, suitable for thrill-seeking visitors. It has hosted UCI Pump Track World Championship qualifiers.
- Nighttime Special Experience: The metaverse natural theater at night is not to be missed. Digital human electronic music, light, and water shows, coupled with weekend fireworks displays, and tent camping allows you to sleep under the stars, experiencing the charm of the valley night.

Nearby Connected Attractions

- Suizhou Museum: Located 1 kilometer from the city center, it houses a rich collection of bronze ware. You can listen to ancient Chu music at the chime bell performance hall. It is recommended to visit together to experience Zeng-Sui culture.
- Dahongshan Scenic Area: Can be visited in conjunction. The scenic area features primitive caves, the Golden Summit, and other landscapes, also home to millennium ginkgo trees, forming a "double ginkgo" tour route with Ginkgo Valley.

III. Itinerary Planning: A 2-Day, 1-Night Immersive Trip

Day 1: In-depth Exploration of Ginkgo Valley

5. Morning (9:00-12:00): Enter the scenic area through the main gate, first stroll through Ginkgo Square, visit the millennium ancient tree cluster, and take close-up photos of the golden fallen leaves.
6. Noon (12:00-13:30): Enjoy local specialties within the scenic area, such as Ginkgo Stewed Chicken and Suizhou Paopaocai (bubble greens). The former features tender ginkgo and fresh chicken, while the latter is refreshing and delicious, showcasing local flavors.
7. Afternoon (14:00-17:30): Visit the Stone Mill Tribe and Hu Family Ancestral Hall, then head to Sunset Valley to watch the sunset. Along the way, you can browse the Friendship Store and purchase "Qianxing" and "Baiji" IP cultural and creative souvenirs.
8. Evening (18:30-21:00): Enjoy dinner at the scenic area's food market, watch the light and water show and fireworks display, and stay in a distinctive B&B to experience a night in the valley.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration and Return Journey

4. Morning (8:30-11:00): If staying at a scenic area B&B, take a morning stroll through the forest to observe the morning mist. Afterwards, head to Suizhou Museum to see precious bronze artifacts and listen to chime bell performances.
5. Noon (11:30-13:00): Enjoy local specialty dining in the city, such as Guaizi Rice and Guangshui Huarou (slippery pork).
6. Afternoon (After 13:30): You can briefly visit Dahongshan Scenic Area or drive directly back, concluding your trip.

IV. Accommodation and Cuisine: Savoring the Valley's Local Charm

Accommodation Recommendations

- High-end B&B: Dalezhino Ginkgo Valley Store. The treehouse duplex rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the ginkgo trees indoors. The lakeside glass cafe and private hot springs enhance the experience, showcasing natural aesthetics.
- Resort Hotel: Qingshan Yunqi Hotel. Smart voice control paired with panoramic glass windows, thoughtful family room designs, and proximity to animation art exhibition venues, making it suitable for families.
- City Options: Suizhou Country Garden Phoenix Hotel. The 180° viewing balcony offers lake views and light shows, close to the museum, with convenient transportation.

Must-Try Cuisine

- Signature Main Dishes: Ginkgo Stewed Chicken (local specialty), Guangshui Huarou (slippery pork), Suizhou Cured Meat.
- Flavorful Snacks: Suizhou Paopaocai (bubble greens, a winter-limited vegetable), Guaizi Rice, Anju Doupi (tofu skin).
- Drinks and Desserts: Ginkgo Tea, Wild Coffee, Local Chestnut Puree.