Location & Transportation

Yuanboyuan Ginkgo Avenue lies in Beijing’s Fengtai District, nestled inside the sprawling Yuanboyuan Park (No. 15, Shejichang Road). It’s a bit off the beaten path but easy to reach. If you’re coming from downtown, hop on Subway Line 14 and get off at Yuanboyuan Station—the park’s main entrance is a short 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, buses like 327 or 385 drop you near the park’s gates. Driving? Plop “Yuanboyuan Park” into your GPS; free parking is available, though weekends get crowded.

Natural Magic: The Ginkgo Spectacle

Let’s talk about the star attraction: Yuanboyuan Ginkgo Avenue. Imagine a golden tunnel! Over 1,000 ginkgo trees line a 1km-long road, their leaves turning buttery yellow every autumn (peak time: late October–mid-November). On sunny days, sunlight filters through the canopy, creating a dreamy, dazzling effect. Even on gray days, the golden hue stands out—perfect for Instagram shots! Bonus: The avenue is flanked by lush lawns and ponds, so you can snap reflection photos or catch ducks swimming alongside the foliage.

Cultural Gems Beyond the Trees

Yuanboyuan Park isn’t just about nature. The area hosts remnants of the 2013 International Garden Expo, so you’ll find quirky mini-gardens from around the world. Wander into Traditional Chinese Courtyards with red lanterns and rock gardens, or explore Xinjiang-style pavilions with desert-inspired decor. For a laugh, check out the “Foreigner Gardens”—some countries went all-out with tacky statues and colorful mosaics. My favorite? The Dunhuang Garden, which recreates Mogao Cave’s Buddhist art (minus the crowds).

Practical Perks for Visitors

The park is surprisingly tourist-friendly. Near Yuanboyuan Ginkgo Avenue, you’ll find cafes with heaters (lifesavers in fall), clean restrooms, and plenty of benches for people-watching. Families can divert to the children’s playground near the south entrance. Pro tip: The Metro Station’s convenience store sells snacks and hot drinks—stock up before your walk!

Immersive Experience Tips

Visiting Yuanboyuan Ginkgo Avenue feels like stepping into a painting. Go early (before 8 AM) to beat the crowds and catch the morning light. Wear comfy shoes—those 1km paths are lined with fallen leaves, which can be slippery. Bring a blue scarf or hat; the golden backdrop makes bold colors pop in photos. If you’re here on a weekday, you might even snag a swing on the tree-branch swings installed near the avenue. Trust me, it’s worth the trip just for that!

P.S. After your visit, combine it with nearby Lugou Bridge (a 15-minute drive) for a full Fengtai day trip. Happy exploring!