Nanjing locals sure know how to keep a secret. Such a beautiful place, and no one talks about it!

Just returned from Liuhe, and the aftertaste is still lingering! Here, you'll find windmills, reservoirs, reed marshes, pond cypress forests, and sunsets. It fulfills all my autumn fantasies. 📷 The photos are simply stunning! By the side of Daquan Lake, set up a tent ⛺️ and bask in the sun—it's pure bliss! For a moment, I felt like I was in the Greater Khingan Range! The pond cypress at Zhimaling has turned red, entering its prime viewing period. These are semi-developed free attractions, perfect for a weekend stroll. ⭕️ One-day self-drive itinerary Daquan Lake Road ➠ Daquan Lake (reservoir camping) ➠ Zhimaling Forest Park (pond cypress forest) 1⃣️ Daquan Lake (Free 🆓) ⛰️ Surrounded by mountains, with giant sunset windmills—super romantic. Autumn at Daquan Lake is its highlight of the year! 🍁 Layers of pond cypress and maple leaves, the autumn colors of the mountains reflected in the lake, vibrant and colorful. ▪️ Daquan Lake Road: The maple avenue is stunning from late October to early November each year [now ended]. ▪️ You can camp by the Daquan Lake Reservoir. Find a path, and you can drive your car directly to the water's edge. ▪️ On the mountain by the reservoir, the windmill sunset is breathtaking. 2⃣️ Zhimaling Forest Park (Free 🆓) No need to squeeze with the crowd at Yanque Lake; Liuhe has a free pond cypress forest. 🍂 Late autumn at Zhimaling is indescribably beautiful! Straight pond cypress trees reflect in the clear lake, creating a stunning mirror image 🪞. A gentle breeze ripples the lake, swaying the reflection of the pond cypress. ▪️ Local villagers sell snacks, local specialties, and vegetables 🥬 at the entrance. ▪️ After entering, follow the path on the left. There's a reservoir with a great view, where you can see the windmills on the opposite mountain. ▪️ Follow the boardwalk straight ahead to reach the pond cypress forest, which is now fully red. ▪️ For a deeper experience, you can plan a one-day hiking trip to Zhimaling. ▪️ It's especially crowded on weekends, and there might be traffic jams at the entrance. It's recommended to go early or visit on a weekday. 📍 Location: Zhuzhen, Liuhe 🚗 Transportation: It's far from the city center, so self-driving is recommended. 🏠 There are farmhouses and homestays nearby.