Four Seasons in Nanjing · The Golden Splendour of Autumn

Nanjing, with its quintessential subtropical monsoon climate, enjoys a full cycle of four distinct seasons. While spring and autumn are brief, summer and winter are more prolonged, creating vivid seasonal contrasts. Spring is breezy and bright, the plum rains bring lingering drizzles, summer is scorching, autumn offers cool dryness and winter is cold and brisk.

A Tapestry of Colours

Autumn in Nanjing unfolds like a magnificent painting, showcasing unparalleled natural beauty under the blue skies and soft clouds. Starting in early September and lasting until late November, the season brings gradually cooling temperatures and a crisp, dry climate, with averages ranging between 15°C and 24°C. With significant temperature differences between day and night, early autumn calls for light jackets and long-sleeved T-shirts, while late autumn necessitates sweaters, thermal trousers and warm coats. This mild and refreshing season is ideal for exploration and travel.

The Scenic Splendour of Autumn

Autumn in Nanjing is not only comfortable but also visually enchanting. As the season progresses, maple leaves blaze into fiery reds, and ginkgo trees don brilliant gold, cloaking the city in a golden mantle painted by nature itself. Among the city's autumn gems, Qixia Mountain is renowned for its breathtaking foliage. The hillsides covered in crimson leaves resemble a sea of flames, evoking the feeling of being surrounded by a radiant sunset. From its summit, the golden-red panorama of Nanjing sprawls below, leaving visitors awestruck.

Zhongshan Scenic Area is another autumnal treasure. The iconic avenue of plane trees leading to Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum becomes particularly captivating in the fall. Rows of golden foliage glow under the gentle autumn sun, complementing the grandeur of the historic architecture. This unique combination of natural beauty and solemn elegance creates a setting of serene dignity.

Autumnal Flavours and Festivities

Autumn is also a time for culinary delights in Nanjing. As the cool breezes sweep through the city, the tantalizing aroma of osmanthus duck fills the air - an iconic seasonal dish cherished by locals. The roasted sweetness of candied chestnuts, a street food staple, offers a nostalgic taste of autumn, their soft, nutty texture a perfect companion to the season's charm. Enjoying these delicacies amid Nanjing’s radiant autumn landscapes is an experience that lingers long in memory.

A Season of Poetic Tranquility

Autumn in Nanjing is not merely a feast for the eyes and palate, it is a time to savour tranquility and reflection. This golden season invites people to revel in the bounty of harvest, immerse themselves in nature’s splendour and embrace moments of peace and introspection. Whether wandering among the scarlet leaves of Qixia Mountain or strolling under the golden canopy of Zhongshan’s plane trees, autumn in Nanjing offers a poetic and serene escape.

The Soul of a City

With its clearly defined seasons, Nanjing evolves in harmony with nature’s cycles, each period imparting a distinct character to the city. Nanjing's residents embody a blend of northern boldness and southern grace, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity as they cherish the transformations of the natural world. In autumn, the city's profound historical culture merges with its vibrant landscapes, offering an irresistible charm that captivates all who visit.

An Invitation to Autumn in Nanjing

In conclusion, autumn is undeniably one of Nanjing’s most enchanting seasons. Its cool, pleasant weather pairs with a stunning array of natural and cultural wonders to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hiking through fiery hillsides, enjoying the glow of golden leaves, or savouring the city’s unique flavours, autumn in Nanjing is a time to treasure - a golden chapter in the city’s ever-changing story.