Laobiangou Scenic Area7.1
Best Things to Do
Located in Nanyingfang Village, Dongyingfang Township, Benxi Manchu Autonomous County, Benxi Laobiangou Scenic Spot consists of three tourist areas: Yongluo…
Laobian Gutter, Benxi, China
Benxi Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Benxi
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About Benxi
5℃
5°Clear
6° / -1°
- 11/1Tomorrow
Light rain11° / -5° - 11/2Mon
Cloudy11° / 0° - 11/3TueClear13° / 2°
- 11/4WedCloudy17° / 5°
- 11/5ThuLight rain9° / -5°
- 11/6FriClear5° / -5°
Recommended length of visit
2-3 days
Local currency
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Must-visit attractions in Benxi
Looking for things to do in Benxi? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Best Things to Do
Family-friendly
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Hot Springs
Recommended stays in Benxi
Discover the most popular places to stay in Benxi, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Sam and Lee: Room standards are the same but breakfast has improved. Great stay!
No. 29 Jiefang North Road
From RUB 1,078
Guest User: Very reasonable and good service It also allows foreigners to stay
No. 4 Shengli Road
From RUB 2,277
Guest User: The hotel is right next to the high-speed rail station, just a few steps away. The room is clean and sanitary, worth recommending. There are buses to the water cave and the small market nearby, which is very convenient. There is also a pedestrian street opposite with many snacks.
No. 1 Jiefang South Road
From RUB 1,599
Guest User: The room was very clean and spacious. The staff were very welcoming and friendly. I had a great stay
No. 1 Jiefang Road Middle Section, Zhanqian Street
From RUB 1,841
Must-try food in Benxi
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Traveller photos and experiences
Skip the crowds this National Day and check out this autumn spotChina's Maple LeafCapital❤️
#chinaitinerary Northeast China's autumn is seriously underrated! My Benxi maple leaf trip during last year's National Day holiday was just perfect~ The maple leaves were gorgeous, flights were super affordable, and no crazy crowds!! Traffic-free itinerary reference Day 1 Afternoon: Shenyang — Da'binggou - Guanmen Mountain (Stay at the entrance of the scenic area Day 2 Morning: Guanmen Mountain Afternoon: Dashihu - Laobiangou (Stay inside the scenic area Day 3 Morning: Laobiangou Afternoon: Dashihu A Heads up! Benxi's maple leaf forecast is for specific spots within each scenic area, not the whole place. Make sure to hit up those spots with the highest forecast ratings for the best views. Recommended routes for each scenic area 1. Laobiangou Xiaoyue Pond → Chenxing Pond → Yingfeng Pond → Maple King Tree → Songcui Ping → Yilian Pavilion Time reference: 3.5h 2. Dashihu Tongxin Island → Liudan Lake → Wulong Lake → Xiangshui Lake → Tiannü Flying Waterfall → Xianzhi Lake → Return the same way Time reference: 3.5h 3. Dadi Forest Park Round trip to the Thousand-Meter Gallery at the entrance Time reference: 2h 4. Guanmen Mountain Sightseeing bus → Lüyin Villa → Maple King → Longmen Gorge, return by sightseeing bus Time reference: 2h 5. Da'binggou Visitor Center → Doudou Ranch → Longkou Lake → Fengshan Dadao Time reference: 2h Best photo spots for maple leaves 1. Dadi Forest Park - Thousand-Meter Gallery 2. Laobiangou - Xiaoyue Pond 3. Laobiangou — Feihua Island 4. Laobiangou - Jingfeng Island 5. Guanmen Mountain - Maple King 6. Guanmen Mountain - Fenghou 7. Dashihu — Tiannü Flying Waterfall 8. Dashihu - Wulong Lake 9. Dashihu - Liudan Lake #BenxiMapleLeaves #GuanmenMountain #Laobiangou #Dashihu #ChinaMapleLeaves #MapleCapitalOfChina #NortheastChina #AutumnInChina #BenhuanHighway #FallColors #NationalDayTrip
You know what I mean!! Autumn in Northeast China is just breathtaking
It’s home to the Lesser and Greater Khingan Mountains and Changbai Mountain, yet people only think of it in winter. But autumn in the Northeast is truly speechless-level beautiful 🤯 Plus, it’s uncrowded and affordable! Can you believe that the cost of one night in a popular tourist spot can cover a whole week here? 💰 If you’re tired of the crowds at viral photo spots, save this road trip route! Just pull over in any forest, and the whole world is yours 🏔️ 🚙 7-day autumn chasing route: D1 Harbin – Yichun D2 Yichun – Jinshan Deer Park – Daliangzihe Forest Park – Tangwang River – Tangyuan County D3 Tangyuan – Aoqiwan – Hengdaohezi D4 Hengdaohezi – Changbai Mountain Loop – Lushuihe D5 Lushuihe – Songjianghe – Tonghua D6 Tonghua – Benhuan Highway – Qingman Fenglin – Yanghugou – Benxi D7 Benxi – Guanmen Mountain – Shenyang 🍁 Best viewing period: Late September – mid-October Autumn colors don't wait! Hesitate for a few days and the leaves will all be gone 😱 🔻 Yichun Jinshan Deer Park 🔻 The only tourist spot I recommend on the whole trip! You must get there early in the morning! Go before the deer head up the mountain. It’s freezing in the morning 🥶, but seeing the deer in the morning mist makes it all worth it! 🔻 Changbai Mountain North Slope Loop Road 🔻 A stunning section of G331! From Erdaobaihe to Songjianghe, the colorful forests along the way are layered with gold, as rich in color as a palette 🎨 You can also see the snow-capped peak of Changbai Mountain from a distance—you can take blockbuster photos without even entering the scenic area. 🔻 Benhuan Highway 🔻 The legendary China Maple Leaf Avenue!! The best parts are at Qingman Fenglin and Yanghugou; they’re free and even more beautiful than the scenic areas. When the maple leaves turn bright red on both sides of the stream and the colorful forest reflects in the water, it’s truly beyond words 😭 🔻 Heda Highway 🔻 On the way from Songjianghe to Tonghua along G201, I stumbled upon a fairytale-like forest. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, just like walking into a movie scene 🎬 💡 Autumn chasing tips: ✅ Don't go into the scenic areas! They’re crowded and have fewer leaves; aunties pluck the red leaves to make wreaths 😅 ✅ The autumn sun in the Northeast is gentle, perfect for taking photos all day long 📸 ✅ It gets dark after five! Start early while it’s light out! ✅ Self-driving is recommended! The scenery on the road is way, way more beautiful than in the scenic areas. ✅ Be decisive when chasing autumn! If you see fallen leaves, change locations; the autumn colors a few hundred kilometers away might be just right. Autumn in the Northeast is truly stunning and off the beaten path. Go for it before too many people discover it! 🏃♀️
Benxi's secret autumn leaf hiking spot
Stunning red maples, babbling brooks, cascading waterfalls, boardwalks along the stream, and reflections in the water create a series of gorgeous scenes. This place brings together natural landscapes such as maple leaves, lakes, valleys, and caves—this is the most beautiful Benxi. Visit Guanmen Mountain to see the Maple King and Maple Queen, Longdaogou for waterfalls and pristine red maples, Laobiangou for red maples reflected in the stream, Huli Painter's Village for giant rocks in the lake, and the Water Cave to explore the underground river by boat...
Here is autumn,
an autumn that belongs to the Northeast🍂 It is the crisp, clear morning after the rain in Laobiangou, Benxi, Liaoning, where the red leaves in the forest are soaked in the morning mist🌫️ It is the sunrise at Wunü Mountain in Huanren, with a sea of clouds surging over the mountains⛰️ It is the Linjiang Valley in Jilin, where a winding road cuts through the colorful valley🛣️ It is the Songhua River Bridge at Huayuankou, Jingyu, a long bridge resting quietly on the Songhua River, known to everyone as the "water highway"🌉 It is also the Sanjiaolongwan in Huinan, a serene, deep blue volcanic lake in the morning light🏞️ At sunset by the snowy cabin, the mountains are so quiet that only the wind can be heard❄️ That feeling of being gently wrapped by autumn, I mean, who gets it!😭 In seven days, rising with the stars and walking through the dew, I captured the mountains, the sea of clouds, the long rivers, and the lake views one by one in my lens📸 Sharing this with you, who happened to come across this note and love the mountains and rivers✨ What does autumn look like through your lens? Have you gone to chase a fairy tale that belongs to autumn this year?🍁
Seriously, autumn in Jilin is breathtaking—every shot looks like a fairy tale! National Day
📸 [Divine destination recommendations] ✨No. 1 Huamei Resort (p1-5) Top-tier autumn scenery in Changbai Mountain! Manjiang Grand Canyon is truly breathtaking 😱 The best spot is on the bridge leading to the visitor center. You can see the whole canyon, full of vibrant colors. Every shot is wallpaper-worthy! No exaggeration, as an autumn-chaser, I'm officially obsessed 🏆 ✨No. 2 Sifangding Scenic Area (p6-10) The most beautiful ancient tree cluster in Northeast China, it's amazing! Climb the observation tower to take in the panoramic views. Ancient trees towering with gradient autumn leaves—breathtaking 🍂 The downside is you can't drive up; you have to take a shuttle bus. The ticket is a bit pricey at 75, and it's about a 3-hour walk, so travel light~ ✨No. 3 Xianren Valley (p11-13) The "Xinjiang" of Northeast China! Free admission is the best! 🐂🐴 Herds of cattle and horses + vast cedar forests + fairy-tale cabins—it's like walking into Hemu Village! But the road up is gravel, and it takes half an hour to drive there, but it's totally worth it! ✨No. 4 Benhuan Highway (p14-16, recommended arrival Oct 7) Navigate to "Qingman Fenglin," but don't drive into the scenic area! When you see cars parked along the road, that's the spot! Red maples + clear streams, the whole screen is cinematic 🍁 ✨No. 5 Tiechang Line (p17-18) A hidden gem of an autumn scenic road! Drive south from Jianchang Town all the way to Kuandian. It's over 90 km and takes 2 hours. There's almost no traffic, and the whole way is full of surprises! 🚙 🗺️ [Complete 8-day itinerary] D1 Changchun → Sifangding Scenic Area → Jingyu County D3 Jingyu County → Lushuihe National Forest Park → Huamei Resort → Songjianghe Town D4 Songjianghe Town → Xianren Valley → Linjiang City D5 Linjiang City → Ji'an City (G331) D6 Ji'an → Qinghe Maple Leaf Valley → Donglai Township → County Road 040 → Tonghua City Tongjiajiang Tourist Resort D7 Tonghua City → Hualai Town → Benhuan Highway → Tiechang Line → Kuandian County D8 Kuandian County → Shenyang 📌 Quick tips: The sunset at the snow-view cabins is absolutely stunning, and the quiet mountain atmosphere is top-notch 🌄 Hurry up and go for the National Day holiday to experience the romantic overload of autumn in the Northeast!
8 small cities for an autumn getaway | Practical travel guides, beginner-friendly
Every autumn, I want to get away, but I never know where to go and worry about travel pitfalls. I've compiled 8 cities perfect for autumn, all based on my own real-life travel experiences. The content is simple and practical, covering outfits, road conditions, and tips—a great reference for your autumn trips. 📍Baishan, Jilin · Changbai Mountain 🌡Outfits: September–October: Large temperature difference between day and night. We recommend bringing a light down jacket and a windbreaker to stay warm and protected from the wind. ⏰Activities: The view of Heaven Lake is highly weather-dependent, so don't rush your itinerary. The scenic area is vast; we recommend entering early and bringing your own snacks to save money. ⚠Tips: Stay on the designated scenic trails throughout your visit. Open flames are prohibited in the forest area. 💡Off-peak tip: It gets crowded on holidays. Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed pace. 📍Benxi, Liaoning 🍂Time: Red leaf season is concentrated from late September to mid-October. Weather conditions will affect the foliage. 🚗Traffic: The Benhuan Highway gets heavy traffic on weekends and is prone to congestion. The mountain roads have many curves, so drive slowly and carefully. 📸Safety: Rocks by the stream can be slippery; watch your step when taking photos. Park in designated spots and follow traffic rules. 🧥Outfits: Temperatures in the mountains are lower in the morning and evening; bring a windproof jacket. 💡Off-peak tip: For a quieter red leaf viewing experience, travel on weekdays to avoid weekend traffic. 📍Altay, Xinjiang (Kanas, Hemu) 🧥Outfits: Nighttime temperatures in September are low. We recommend wearing a windbreaker and fleece to stay warm. 🚙Traffic: Attractions are far apart, and driving times are long. Check your fuel level before setting off. Signal can be weak in some mountain areas, so plan your route in advance. 🏡Accommodation: Autumn is peak travel season, and lodging can be limited. We recommend booking your accommodation in advance. 🙌Customs: Respect local customs and do not trample on grassland vegetation. 💡Off-peak tip: It gets crowded around National Day. If your schedule is flexible, choose to visit in September to avoid the crowds. 📍Yi County, Anhui (Tachuan, Hongcun) 🍂Time: Tachuan's autumn scenery is at its best in early November. Wake up early if you want to see the morning mist. 👟Tips: The stone paths in the ancient villages are damp and slippery; wear non-slip shoes. It gets crowded on holidays, so take your time while exploring. ☔Details: Mountain weather is changeable; carry rain gear. Some farmhouses do not allow photography; ask before entering. 💡Off-peak tip: There are fewer people in the ancient villages on weekdays, making for a better experience for strolling and taking photos. 📍Longji Rice Terraces, Guangxi 🌾Time: The rice terraces are golden yellow from September to October. The landscape changes after the harvest, so check the current conditions before you go. 🚗Traffic: There are many curves on the mountain roads; drive slowly and carefully. The villages are scattered, so allow plenty of time for your visit. 💪Physical: There are many steps in the terraces; wear comfortable sneakers. It's humid in the mountains, so bring a light jacket. 📍Address: Ping'an Village, Heping Township, Longsheng Various Nationalities Autonomous County, Guilin ⏰Hours: Open all day, year-round 💡Off-peak tip: Avoid peak holiday times. Traveling on weekdays means you won't have to rush, making for a more relaxing trip. 📍Arxan, Inner Mongolia 🧥Outfits: Temperatures cool down in September. Prepare thick jackets and warm clothing. UV rays are strong in the mountains, so remember to use sun protection. 🚙Traffic: Attractions in the forest park are spread out; driving yourself or hiring a car is more convenient. 🥪Supplies: Some shops close early; stock up on snacks and drinking water in advance. 💡Experience: The autumn atmosphere on the grasslands is comfortable and perfect for a relaxing getaway. 💡Off-peak tip: There are fewer tourists in early September, perfect for a leisurely stroll through the scenic area. 📍Nanjing, Jiangsu 🍂Time: November is great for viewing ginkgo and red leaves. Scenic areas get crowded on weekends. 📍Address: Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: Southern foot of Zhongshan Mountain, Xuanwu District | Qixia Mountain: No. 88 Qixia Street, Qixia District ⏰Hours: Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: 6:30 AM–6:30 PM (Feb–Nov); Qixia Mountain: 5:30 AM–9:30 PM 👟Tips: The Zhongshan Scenic Area is large; wear comfortable shoes. We recommend entering early to avoid the crowds. 💧Climate: The weather is dry in autumn; remember to stay hydrated. 💡Off-peak tip: Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more comfortable experience. 📍Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan 🎫Tickets: Peak season tickets must be booked online in advance; there are limited tickets available on-site. ⛰Health: The altitude is high; avoid strenuous activity and adjust your pace based on how you feel. There is a large temperature difference between day and night; always keep a jacket handy. 🚌Activities: Take the scenic area sightseeing bus throughout your visit, stick to the official trails, stay away from dangerous areas near the lakes, and carry rain gear. 💡Off-peak tip: Crowds are concentrated during National Day; traveling in mid-to-late October offers a better overall experience. 📝General autumn travel tips 1. Autumn scenery is affected by weather and temperature; check recent photos from other travelers before you go. 2. Layering is best for high-altitude and northern mountain areas, making it easy to adjust to temperature changes. 3. Popular autumn spots are crowded on weekends; if possible, travel on weekdays to avoid the crowds. 💬Interactive question: Of these 8 autumn destinations, do you prefer mountain forest scenery or exploring rural ancient villages for your autumn trips?
Enjoying the autumn leaves in Benxi
Benxi Autumn Foliage Viewing 3-Day, 2-Night Trip A trip to Benxi in autumn is all about experiencing the most breathtaking autumn foliage. This itinerary focuses on two top autumn foliage viewing spots: Guanshan Lake and Laobiangou. Escape the hustle and bustle and quietly appreciate the beauty of the autumn mountains and waters. Day 1: Arrive in Benxi and head straight to Guanshan Lake. Surrounded by mountains and water, this is Benxi's poetic secret spot for autumn foliage viewing. In late autumn, the mountains and forests are painted with frost, the red, golden, and green hues of the maple leaves layered upon each other, creating a rich, oil painting-like landscape. The lake is clear and serene, reflecting the entire colorful forest along the shore. The gentle ripples and the shadows of the maple leaves move with the water, making a boat ride on the lake feel like entering a painting. The maple leaves in the forest are of various shapes and sizes, the branches ablaze with red, and the falling leaves create a gentle autumn path, every view a stunning autumn scene. Day 2: Stroll through the tranquil and beautiful Laobiangou, renowned for its valley-side maple scenery. The valley is deep and tranquil, with a clear spring meandering through the entire forest area, its babbling water flowing around the rocks. The maple forests on both banks are lush and verdant, their red leaves falling onto the stream, blending with the clear water and blue stones, creating a serene and healing atmosphere. Strolling along the wooden boardwalk, the air is crisp and clean, the forest ablaze with color, every step revealing autumn's beauty, every view a picturesque scene, offering a panoramic view of Liaodong's most pristine autumn landscape. Two days of maple viewing each offer their own unique charm: the vibrant lakes and mountains, the serene valleys. Completely immersed in the limited-time autumn romance of Benxi, we return home laden with gentle autumn sentiments and beautiful memories.
6-Day, 5-Night Liaoning Loop Itinerary | A Beginner's Guide
Many people visiting Liaoning aren't sure how to plan their route. This region offers autumn mountains covered in red leaves, the endless Red Beach, Dalian's coastal scenery, and Shenyang's historical sites. This loop route avoids backtracking, has a well-balanced pace, and covers transportation, accommodation, budget, and tips to avoid tourist traps. If you're planning an autumn trip to Northeast China, save this guide. 📌 Overall Route: Shenyang → Benxi → Dandong → Panjin → Dalian 💡 Quick Tip: High-speed rail is convenient between cities. Public transport to scenic spots in the Benxi mountains is limited, so chartering a car or driving yourself is recommended for a stress-free trip. 🗓 Day 1 Shenyang | Explore the Imperial City and experience the local vibe of old Shengjing ✅ Itinerary Shenyang Imperial Palace → Zhang Xueliang's Mansion → Beiling Park → Liaoning Provincial Museum. In the evening, visit the Xita or Laobeishi night markets. · Shenyang Imperial Palace: The only royal palace outside the Great Wall. The red walls are great for photos. Plan for about 2 hours. It is closed on Mondays, so remember to book in advance. · Zhang Xueliang's Mansion: Located next to the Imperial Palace, the Big and Small Qing Buildings have a strong sense of history and offer insight into modern Northeast Chinese history. · Beiling Park: The pine trees turn golden in autumn, making it a very comfortable place for a walk. · Liaoning Provincial Museum: Free, but requires a booking. Be sure to see the "Court Ladies Wearing Flowered Headdresses" painting. Allow 2 hours to explore at a leisurely pace. 🍜 What to eat: Smoked chicken rack, old-style guobaorou (sweet and sour pork), Laobian dumplings, Li Liangui smoked meat pancakes, Korean cold noodles, and Korean BBQ. 🏨 Accommodation & Budget Reference We recommend staying near Zhongjie or Qingnian Street, where subway access makes it easy to get anywhere. Budget hotel: CNY 220–350/night; Quality chain hotel: CNY 380–550/night 💡 Tip: There is a large temperature difference in Shenyang, so bring a jacket for the evening. The museum, Imperial Palace, and Zhang Xueliang's Mansion are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. 🗓 Day 2 Benxi | Maple Leaf Capital, a must-visit in autumn (best from late September to mid-October) ✅ Itinerary Benxi Water Cave → Guanmenshan National Forest Park → Laobiangou/Dashihu. On the way, stop by the Benhuan Highway (China Maple Leaf Avenue). · Benxi Water Cave: A cave with a constant temperature of 12℃. Take a boat through the underground river. It's suitable for both summer and autumn, and the scenic area provides light jackets. · Guanmenshan: A popular spot for viewing red leaves. The reflection in the Five-Color Lake is particularly beautiful, and the hiking difficulty is low. · Laobiangou and Dashihu: Fewer crowds than Guanmenshan. The streams paired with red leaves and the morning mist create a perfect atmosphere. A favorite for photography enthusiasts. · Benhuan Highway: Free roadside colorful forests. You can briefly park in safe areas to take photos. 🍜 What to eat: Xiaoshi lamb soup, grilled rainbow trout, and Benxi pancakes. We recommend staying in Xiaoshi and having a bowl of hot lamb soup in the evening. 🏨 Accommodation & Budget Reference There are many accommodation options in Xiaoshi town. Budget guesthouse: CNY 180–300/night; Scenic guesthouse: CNY 320–500/night 💡 Tip: Check the red leaf index before you go, as the leaves are heavily influenced by temperature. The mountain paths can be wet and slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes. Visit after October 8 to avoid the crowds for a better experience. 🗓 Day 3 Dandong | Border town, enjoy the scenery of the Yalu River ✅ Itinerary Yalu River Broken Bridge → War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea Memorial Hall → Hushan Great Wall → Andong Old Street · Yalu River Broken Bridge: An old bridge marked by history. We recommend visiting after 3:00 PM for beautiful sunset photos. You can also take a boat tour on the river. · War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea Memorial Hall: Free, but requires a booking. Please remain quiet and respectful during your visit. We recommend allowing 2 hours. · Hushan Great Wall: The eastern starting point of the Ming Great Wall. Climb the wall for a bird's-eye view of the Yalu River. · Andong Old Street: A Republic of China-style district with many Korean-style snacks. 🍜 What to eat: Grilled yellow clams, clam noodles, Korean rice cakes, and kimchi. 🏨 Accommodation & Budget Reference We recommend staying near the Yalu River or in the Zhenxing District for convenient travel. Budget hotel: CNY 200–320/night; River-view room: CNY 350–550/night 💡 Tip: Drone photography is restricted in border areas, so please follow local regulations. It is very windy by the river, so bring a windbreaker. 🗓 Day 4 Panjin | Romantic Red Beach (peak season from mid-September to mid-October) ✅ Itinerary Red Beach National Scenic Corridor → Rice Dream Space · Red Beach: Vast stretches of red seepweed paired with golden rice paddies. It is most beautiful at sunset. Private cars are not allowed in the corridor, so you will need to take the sightseeing bus. Enter in the afternoon to avoid the harsh sunlight. · Rice Dream Space: Giant rice paddy art, full of Northeast Chinese autumn countryside scenery. 🍜 What to eat: Rice paddy crabs and Panjin rice. The crabs are plump and delicious in autumn and are worth a try. 🏨 Accommodation & Budget Reference Dawa District is closer to the scenic area. Standard hotel: CNY 160–280/night 💡 Tip: The boardwalk is very long, so wear comfortable shoes. There are many mosquitoes by the sea, so bring repellent. The seepweed withers after November and you won't be able to see the Red Beach, so you can skip Panjin during that time. 🗓 Day 5–Day 6 Dalian | Coastal leisure, enjoy the sea and ocean breeze ✅ Itinerary Xinghai Square → Binhai Road → Golden Pebble Beach → Lushun Taiyanggou → Russian Style Street · Xinghai Square: A massive seaside square with a great view of the coastline. · Binhai Road: Nestled between mountains and the sea, the wooden boardwalk is perfect for walking. We don't recommend walking the entire route; just do it in sections. · Golden Pebble Beach: Coastal rock formations, perfect for viewing the sea and taking photos. · Taiyanggou: In autumn, the old houses paired with colorful leaves make for unique photos, and it's not very crowded. 🍜 What to eat: Seafood menzi, sea urchin dumplings, and various fresh seafood. 🏨 Accommodation & Budget Reference We recommend staying near Xinghai or Shahekou for convenient sightseeing and sea views. Budget hotel: CNY 240–380/night; Sea-view hotel: CNY 400–700/night 💡 Tip: The seafood quality is excellent in September and October. It is windy by the sea, so keep warm. 💰 Estimated Budget per Person (6 days, 5 nights, excluding round-trip transportation) Budget-friendly version: CNY 1,600–2,100, including budget accommodation, simple meals, and public transport; some scenic spots not included. Comfort version: CNY 2,600–3,400, including chain/scenic guesthouses, all local specialties, and most scenic spot admission tickets and shuttle buses. ✨ General Travel Tips for Liaoning ✅ Clothing: September–October has a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring long sleeves and a windbreaker. November–December is very cold, so bring a thick down jacket, scarf, gloves, and non-slip shoes. ✅ Transportation: High-speed rail connects major cities. For the Benxi mountain area, chartering a car or driving yourself is preferred. ✅ Avoiding traps: Be cautious with low-priced one-day tours for Red Beach, maple leaves, and border areas. Book tickets through official channels and be rational when purchasing high-priced local specialties at scenic area entrances. ✅ Alternatives: If you get tired on the road, you can plan a hot spring visit. Yingkou and Anshan have well-regarded hot springs that are great for relieving fatigue. One loop route, all the red leaves, red beach, ocean, and ancient cities in one trip. Are you more excited to see the red leaves in Benxi or the Red Beach in Panjin this autumn?
Benxi Maple Viewing: Laobiangou vs. Guanmenshan—Which to Choose for Your First Visit?
Before heading to Benxi to see the maple leaves, I struggled for three whole days deciding between Laobiangou and Guanmenshan. I wanted to visit both, so I bit the bullet and did both. My only takeaway upon returning: they aren't competitors; they offer two completely different weekend experiences. 🏠 Guanmenshan is like a seasoned host who knows how to entertain. It was developed earliest and has complete facilities. The Maple King, Colorful Lake, and Mingcui Valley are all famous names. The sightseeing bus takes you directly to Mingcui Valley, where you can walk down along the boardwalk. However, its "largeness" is real—the main route is 9km one way. If you don't take the sightseeing bus, you'll exhaust yourself. The old tree at Maple King Square is truly impressive when it turns red, but in peak season, the crowds will make you wonder if everyone in Liaoning is there. 💧 Laobiangou has a different personality. It doesn't talk about "grandeur"; it talks about "delicacy." The boardwalk follows the Yongge River, with red maples hanging low over the water and fallen leaves lingering to keep you company for a while. The entire route is flat, with no mountain climbing required. For an adult just looking to escape the city and catch their breath, this "non-strenuous" vibe is healing. Furthermore, because of its higher altitude, Laobiangou turns red 3–5 days earlier than Guanmenshan. Many people get the order wrong, visiting Guanmenshan first, only to find the leaves have already fallen by the time they reach Laobiangou. ✅ A few honest, heartfelt judgments: 🔸 First time, traveling with elderly or children, want convenient facilities → Guanmenshan. Take the sightseeing bus to the top and walk down. The Maple King and the reflection in Colorful Lake are classic scenes—you can't go wrong. However, try to avoid weekends, as peak season crowds will ruin half the experience. 🔸 Photography enthusiast, enjoy slow walks, don't want to be pushed by "must-visit" spots → Laobiangou. Take the sightseeing bus to Qicaiping, then walk down along the stream. The area near Heyanwan is the most photogenic, and the sound of the water is like white noise. Fenghuang Peak requires climbing 700+ steps; if you don't want to climb, skip it—the river valley route is beautiful enough. 🔸 If you only have one day, don't be greedy and try to do both. There is a drive between them, and rushing will just waste time on the road, leaving you unable to settle down and enjoy either. Pick one and walk slowly—it's much more worth it than "stamp-collecting" spots. 🔸 Staying in Xiaoshi Town is a smart choice 🏠. It's located between the two. At night, a bowl of Xiaoshi lamb soup—milky white, sprinkled with green onions and cilantro—warms you from your stomach to your toes. The farm-style grilled fish and stews in the scenic area... The red leaf window is only about 10 days, so pick the place that matches your current state of mind. If you want to be well taken care of, go to Guanmenshan; if you want to be quietly alone with yourself, go to Laobiangou.
October reverse travel | 4 hidden gem cities for budget-friendly autumn scenery
Avoid the crowds! God-tier autumn colors, budget-friendly off-peak travel, scenery that rivals popular destinations, and maximum value for money✅ 💧Jiuzhaigou | A fairytale world of colorful forests and turquoise waters 🚗Transportation guide Take the high-speed train from Chengdu East to Huanglongjiuzhaigou Station, then carpool directly to the scenic area. You need to take the sightseeing bus inside the park. It is recommended to stay in Zhangzha Town at the park entrance to save on travel time. 🌟Must-visit spots Wuhua Lake (Five-Flower Lake), Five-Color Pond, Long Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall. In mid-to-late October, the combination of lake water and colorful forests creates a stunning oil painting effect. 🍜Must-try food Yak beef hot pot, potato mochi (ciba), highland barley pancakes, yak yogurt, and Tibetan-style hot pot. 💰Average budget (3 days): 1,200–1,600 🏔️Kanas | The ceiling of autumn in Northern Xinjiang 🚗Transportation guide Fly to Altay Airport or take a train to Beitun via Urumqi, then carpool to Jiadengyu. Private cars are not allowed in the scenic area; you must transfer to the shuttle bus. Carpooling is recommended to split the fare and save money. 🌟Must-visit spots Kanas Lake, Guanyutai (Fish Watching Pavilion), Hemu Village, and Baihaba. Golden birch forests, snow-capped mountains, and lakes make for effortless, blockbuster-worthy photos. 🍜Must-try food Guoyourou (oily meat) mixed noodles, big plate chicken (dapanji), baked buns (kao baozi), milk tea with baursak, and hand-grabbed meat. 💰Average budget (4 days, excluding long-distance transport): 1,500–2,000 🍁Benxi | The maple leaf capital of China 🚗Transportation guide Take the high-speed train to Benxi Station, then transfer to a bus to Xiaoshi Town. The attractions are scattered, so carpool or charter a car to travel along the Benhuan Highway (China Maple Leaf Avenue) to enjoy the red leaves along the way. 🌟Must-visit spots Laobiangou, Guanmenshan National Forest Park, and Yanghugou. Streams reflecting red maple leaves create an incredibly atmospheric vibe. 🍜Must-try food Xiaoshi lamb soup, iron pot stew, grilled stream fish, Benxi barbecue, and iron plate potato slices. 💰Average budget (3 days): 700–1,000 🏡Wuyuan | Ancient Huizhou villages with autumn harvests 🚗Transportation guide High-speed train directly to Wuyuan Station. The villages are scattered; take the rural bus if traveling solo, or charter a car for more convenience if in a group. Staying in the county seat is much cheaper than staying in the scenic area. 🌟Must-visit spots Huangling autumn harvest (shaiqiu), Shicheng morning mist, Changxi, and Likeng. Red maples combined with the autumn harvest drying racks offer a unique, gentle autumn vibe of the Jiangnan region. 🍜Must-try food Tofu paste (hu doufu), steamed pork with rice flour, lotus-wrapped red carp, fermented fish, steamed cakes, and dried bamboo shoots with cured meat. 💰Average budget (3 days): 900–1,300 💡General budget travel tips ▪️The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains in October is huge; a thick jacket is a must. ▪️Prices in scenic areas are on the high side; buy snacks and bottled water in the county seat in advance. ▪️Try to travel on weekdays to avoid the peak crowds at the beginning and end of the National Day holiday, and accommodation prices will be halved. ▪️Book all scenic areas online with real-name registration in advance; some attractions offer student discounts. ▪️Carpooling, hostels, and staying in the county seat are the three magic weapons for saving money.
What people are saying about Benxi
Laobiangou Scenic Area
The scenic area was fantastic! I explored two different routes. The shuttle bus service was excellent and very convenient; it's free after you buy your ticket. The tour guides were also very responsible, reminding me of weather changes and recommended tour times. Thumbs up! I would definitely recommend the shuttle bus service to other friends.
Anonymous userBenxi Water Cave
Benxi Water Cave is the most beautiful karst cave I've ever seen. The stalactites and stalagmites inside are diverse in style—some majestic, some precipitous, some graceful. Looking at them is truly captivating. However, you can only look; there's not much interaction involved—the entire experience is by boat. The Petrified Wood Geological Park mainly consists of petrified wood fossils, which adds a nice touch to the overall experience of the scenic area.
Anonymous userGuan Men Shan National Forest Park
First of all, the scenery is undeniably beautiful. However, we came specifically to see the autumn leaves, and surprisingly, there were very few at the time. Frankly, the "King of Maple Leaves" wasn't anything special; unless it's very close and convenient to get there, I wouldn't recommend making a special trip.
Kyle.CaiDashihu Scenic Area
The scenic area was fantastic! Because of the season, it wasn't too crowded, making for a very enjoyable visit. The tourist shuttle bus was especially convenient, and the tour guide was very responsible and friendly. Thumbs up to the scenic area, the tourist shuttle bus, and the tour guide!
230***66Benxi Grand Canyon
You can spend a whole day there. It is recommended to bring some food, as the food there is not very tasty. You can bring less water because there are a lot of people buying water. Anyway, it is very fun. I will come again next time. There are many places to take photos and check in, but there are a lot of people
_We***69Guanshan Lake
The scenery at the scenic area: The air was crisp after the rain, a sea of green, and the maple leaves on the mountain were quietly turning red. Enjoyments: There were many activities, but there were almost no signage. We took a lot of detours. The sightseeing bus charges a one-way fee, and you had to buy a new ticket after getting off. The line for the airship was long and not very interesting. The boat only boarded at pier 1 and disembarked at pier 2. 🚢 From the upper deck, you could stand by the fence to enjoy the scenery; sitting down, your view was blocked and you couldn't see anything. You had to row the bamboo raft yourself, which was a pleasant experience. The smell of the airplane was strange. The high-altitude glass rafting was fun, a bit thrilling, with many twists and turns, and a moderate incline. The flying magic carpet ascended slowly, and the rainbow slide descended quickly, which was very exciting. I didn't see the 9D because I didn't plan my route well. Hike Experience: The slopes were not very steep until the Savage Valley, so it was easy. Then the winding mountain road was very steep. The climb to the top was very refreshing.
M58***94Xiaoshi Yizhuang
Surrounded by mountains and water, this "Little Jiangnan of the North" boasts numerous photo-worthy spots, including a misty forest wonderland and a light-and-shadow old street. It combines local delicacies like mutton soup and Manchu farm cuisine with activities such as forest water slides, pet interactions, and bonfire and fireworks shows. Visitors can also experience Hanfu dress-up, interact with NPCs to win prizes, and enjoy a one-stop experience for family trips, friends' getaways, and more.
可爱的旅游生活89Wunvshan Scenic Spot
With the added prestige of a World Heritage Site, the ruins of the 2000-year-old Goguryeo capital city are nestled amidst the surrounding landscape of Huanlong Lake. The rammed earth city walls and narrow gorges offer a blend of historical grandeur and natural charm, while the free museum provides an immersive experience. Visitors can also explore the mountain trails, the mountaintop ruins, and the viewing platform, combining sightseeing with a sense of discovery.
可爱的旅游生活89Dabinggou National Geological Forest Park
During the May Day holiday, my partner and I took a road trip, spending four hours exploring. Overall, it was a great experience. The trees weren't fully green yet, and the icefalls on the mountain hadn't melted, giving us a glimpse of the spectacular waterfalls in summer. The attractions weren't crowded, the management was excellent, and the service center was busy but organized. The sightseeing bus covered about 2.5 kilometers, followed by a 2-kilometer hike uphill. The hike wasn't tiring, and the leisurely pace was quite pleasant. The downhill walk along the boardwalk, following the babbling brook, was also easy. Overall, it's worth a visit—a less-traveled spot with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.
M22***19Tiecha Mountain
Every year, when the autumn air is crisp and clear, it is the best time to visit Tiesha Mountain. I make sure to come here every year at this time to enjoy the fun of mountain climbing, appreciate the colorful scenery, and absorb the spiritual energy of this first sacred mountain outside the Great Wall. I immerse myself in the rich Taoist atmosphere and remember the clear and pure Taoist heart of the patriarch who secluded himself here and recited the Yellow Court Classic at night.
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