The pinnacle of autumn colors in Lingnan! This secret spot in Guangdong is as beautiful as a fairy tale world, with a detailed guide included

When it comes to autumn in Guangdong, many people think there’s not much to see. But I have to tell you, Dinghu Mountain in Zhaoqing will definitely change your perception! As the green gem on the Tropic of Cancer, autumn here is not the intense red that blankets northern mountains, but a gentle, jade-like, richly layered gradient of green and yellow, fresh and elegant in its beauty.
🌳 In-depth analysis of key attractions
Feishuitan (Flying Water Pool) is Dinghu Mountain’s signature spot, but most people just glance over it. My suggestion is to arrive before 10 a.m., when the sunlight just perfectly shines into the valley, creating dreamy beams in the mist. The pool water is crystal clear, showing a charming blue-green color. Standing on the viewing platform and taking a deep breath, the air rich in negative ions refreshes your spirit.
Qingyun Temple is another highlight. This Ming Dynasty ancient temple is hidden deep in the mountains, bustling with incense yet maintaining a rare tranquility. The vegetarian meals inside are famous, especially the Dinghu-style vegetarian dishes, made with carefully selected ingredients and a light, fresh taste—you must try them. The tea garden behind the temple is also worth a visit; autumn is the tea harvest season, and you can see tea farmers picking leaves.
🚶 Perfect route planning
Easy version (suitable for elderly and children): Main gate → sightseeing bus to Baoding Garden → walk to Feishuitan → sightseeing bus to Qingyun Temple → return. This route is the least strenuous and covers the core attractions.
In-depth version (recommended): Main gate → walk to Feishuitan (passing several small waterfalls along the way) → Qingyun Temple → Butterfly Valley → Baoding Garden. Although more tiring, this lets you experience the essence of Dinghu Mountain.
📸 Photo tips
To capture the beauty of Dinghu Mountain, don’t miss these spots:
Feishuitan viewing platform: Use a slow shutter speed to shoot the water flow, creating a silky, dreamy effect.
Qingyun Temple red walls: In the afternoon, sunlight casts dappled tree shadows on the red walls, full of ancient charm.
Butterfly Valley suspension bridge: Stand in the middle of the bridge with green water and mountains as the background, spreading your arms to embrace nature.
Baoding Garden: Use the huge bronze ding (ancient cauldron) as the foreground to shoot grand, majestic photos.
🍵 Special experiences
Besides sightseeing, Dinghu Mountain offers several unique experiences worth trying:
Oxygen absorption tour: According to monitoring, Dinghu Mountain’s negative ion content reaches up to 125,000 per cubic centimeter, a natural "air vitamin" treasure.
Tea tasting: Enjoy authentic Dinghu Mountain tea at Qingyun Temple’s tea room or the tea houses at the foot of the mountain.
Rafting (seasonal): Autumn has moderate water levels and comfortable temperatures, making it the golden season for rafting.
🏨 Accommodation suggestions
For a deep experience, it’s recommended to stay overnight on the mountain. Two hotels are recommended:
Dinghu Mountain International Youth Hostel: Cost-effective, great atmosphere, suitable for young people.
Qingyun Temple Guesthouse: Located inside the temple, peaceful environment, experience the life of morning bells and evening drums.
💡 Practical information
Best visiting time: Late October to early December
Tickets: 78 RMB (includes some attractions)
Sightseeing bus: 30 RMB/person (recommended to buy)
Essentials: Non-slip shoes, rain gear, drinking water, camera
Autumn at Dinghu Mountain is beautifully gentle and lasting. It’s not as passionate and bold as northern autumn colors, but it has a magic that calms the heart. Coming here is not just about sightseeing, but a healing journey for both body and mind.