Red leaves are transforming Fragrant Hills as part of an autumn spectacular.

Up until the middle of November is the best time to enjoy the city's turning leaves.

The red of maples and the yellow of ginkgoes bring a vibrant colour to the outskirts and offers a relaxing day out -- if you can successfully avoid the crowds.

The Fragrant Hills (Xiangshan Park) were once regarded as the best place to watch the mountain trees turn red and yellow thanks to the large concentration of maple and smoke trees (Cotinus coggygria).

To go there,choose a working day if possible to avoid the crowded traffic and weekend visitors.

The days from October 23 to 29 are the best time to take in nature's gloryat Fragrant Hills.

Price: 10 yuan (US$1.2)
 
(Beijing Weekend October 24, 2003)