Autumn Colors at Mogan Mountain, a Unique Charm

Late autumn and early winter at Mogan Mountain truly have a special allure! Visiting this month, you can see the tail end of the maple leaves alongside the still lush bamboo sea, creating a vibrant picture. There are fewer tourists than in peak season, making it perfect for a relaxing trip. Please keep this freshly prepared guide! 🍁 ✨ Trip Overview (3 days 2 nights) * Budget reference: About 1200-1800 RMB per person (flexible). * Weather and attire: Temperatures in the mountains are quite low at the end of November, especially in the mornings and evenings. It is recommended to wear warm autumn and winter clothes such as sweaters and down jackets, and be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes. * Overall impression: Bamboo sea secret realm, Republic of China style, red maple accents, and heartwarming hot springs. 🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions and Activities 1️⃣ Jianchi (Sword Pool) - Highlights: The origin of the name Mogan Mountain, where the legendary swordsmiths Ganjiang and Moye forged swords. Features four-tiered waterfalls and cliff inscriptions, a core must-see spot. - Photo spots: Take photos in front of the waterfall and the Ganjiang and Moye sculpture, stand on the Sword Testing Stone to feel the martial arts atmosphere. - Tips: The trail has some steps, so wear comfortable shoes when touring. 2️⃣ Explore Autumn Colors and Republic of China Villas - Highlights: November is the tail end of the red maple season. The ancient maple trees at No. 62 Maple Azalea Valley and No. 92 Yiyuan still display brilliant colors, contrasting beautifully with the 256 uniquely styled Republic of China villas, making an excellent photo backdrop. - Photo spots: * Xuguang Terrace: The best place to watch the sunrise, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Mogan Mountain. The bamboo sea and villas in the morning mist are very dreamy. * Wuling Village: Visit historical buildings such as Chiang Kai-shek’s official residence "Songyuelu" to feel the historical atmosphere. - Tips: You can take the scenic area shuttle bus (35 RMB per person round trip) to visit main attractions and save energy. 3️⃣ Yucun Cultural Market - Highlights: A small town full of Republic of China style, with an old train station, library, café, and creative shops, perfect for leisurely strolling and taking photos. - Photo spots: Feed pigeons in the plaza under the phoenix trees, and take a vintage artistic photo by the old windowsill of the Republic of China library. - Tips: It can be lively on weekends; for a quieter experience, visit on weekdays. 4️⃣ Dadouwu Reservoir - Highlights: Known as "Little Jiuzhaigou," the lake remains clear and blue in autumn and winter, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding bamboo forest. - Photo spots: Find the best angle by the reservoir to capture the symmetrical beauty of the lake and its reflection. - Tips: Currently free to visit, it is a cost-effective natural scenic choice. 🚗 Comfortable 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary Day 1: Getting to Know Mogan, Cultural Stroll * Morning: Depart from Hangzhou or Shanghai, arrive at Mogan Mountain Tourist Distribution Center, then transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus up the mountain. * Afternoon: Visit Jianchi, then go to Xuguang Terrace to wait for sunset and enjoy the changing mountain scenery. * Evening: Stay at a guesthouse near Yucun, after dinner take a stroll around the cultural market to experience the peaceful night atmosphere. Day 2: Deep Nature, Autumn Exploration * Morning: Head to Mogan Mountain Scenic Area, stroll through Dakeng Scenic Area, see the strange rock formations, and overlook the bamboo sea panorama. * Afternoon: Visit scattered Republic of China villas in the mountains, such as the place where Chairman Mao stayed, and take photos with red maples and old buildings as the backdrop. * Evening: Taste authentic local cuisine, relax at the guesthouse, and if there is a hot spring or private bath, enjoy a soak to relieve fatigue. Day 3: Leisure Experience, Satisfying Return * Morning: Visit Yiyuan Organic Farm (if open) to enjoy feeding small animals, or go to Dadouwu Reservoir to enjoy the tranquil lake and mountain scenery. * Afternoon: Take a final stroll in Yucun, buy some special souvenirs like Mogan yellow bud tea and dried bamboo shoots, then happily return home. 🍜 Food Recommendations (Mountain and Wild Flavors Not to Miss) - Must-try dishes: * Bamboo Forest Free-Range Chicken Pot: The soup made from free-range chicken is very delicious and a local specialty. * Braised Pork with Dried Bamboo Shoots: Mogan Mountain’s bamboo shoots are famous; this dish is suitable all year round and goes well with rice. * Farmhouse Pickled Cabbage with Chicken Giblets: Sour and spicy, very appetizing with a farmhouse flavor. - Restaurant choices: You can choose the Yucun Cultural Market or the guesthouse’s own restaurant to taste local specialties. 💡 Essential Tips Before You Go 1. Transportation: Driving is most convenient but you need to park at the distribution center and transfer to the shuttle bus. You can also take the high-speed train to Deqing Station and then transfer to the tourist shuttle. 2. Accommodation: It is recommended to book guesthouses in advance; Yucun has convenient transportation and many options. 3. Touring: Mountain weather is changeable, remember to bring rain gear. Some trails are slippery, so be careful when walking. 4. Off-peak: November is relatively off-season, offering a better travel experience, but it is still recommended to plan your trip in advance. Hope this guide helps you plan a perfect trip to Mogan Mountain this month! Wishing you a joyful time surrounded by bamboo seas and autumn colors! ✨