-
Beijing, China
Spend September exploring Beijing deeply — visit the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Wander hutongs in Nanluoguxiang and eat Peking duck at Quanjude. October 1st Golden Week is ideal for nearby day trips while locals travel far.
-
Chengde, China
Just 4 hours from Beijing by train, Chengde holds the magnificent Imperial Summer Villa and Eight Outer Temples. Autumn foliage in October makes it especially stunning. A perfect first weekend escape from Beijing.
-
Xi'an, China
High-speed rail from Beijing takes about 4.5 hours to reach the home of the Terracotta Army. Walk the ancient City Wall and feast on lamb rou jia mo and biangbiang noodles in the Muslim Quarter. Best done over a long October weekend.
-
Shanghai, China
A 4.5-hour bullet train ride connects Beijing to Shanghai for a vibrant contrast. Stroll the Bund, explore Xintiandi, and indulge in Shanghainese xiaolongbao and shengjianbao. November weather is still pleasant and crowds are thinner.
-
Mount Tai, China
Mount Tai in Shandong is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China's Five Sacred Mountains. Take an early train from Beijing (2.5 hrs) and hike or cable car to the summit for sunrise. October golden light makes the views absolutely breathtaking.
-
Zhangjiajie, China
The surreal sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. Fly from Beijing (2.5 hrs) and spend a long November weekend exploring the glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Bridge. Cooler autumn temperatures make hiking very comfortable.