Temperatures have seen a recent dramatic drop in northern China as if winter had already made its entrance. Before the season of autumn ends, don't miss the chance to enjoy the fall foliage of maple trees. Here are the four best places for stunning views of maple leaves in China.

Xiangshan Park, Beijing

If one had to name one site in Beijing that boasts the most beautiful maple leaves, it would be Xiangshan Park, also known as the Fragrant Hills. Mid-October signifies the start of the peak season when numerous visitors and shutterbugs would come and appreciate thousands of hectares of maple leaves. 

Best time to visit: Mid-October~mid-November

Opening hours: 6:00 a.m.~6:30 p.m.

Admission fee: 10 yuan (1.4 U.S. dollars)

Qixia Mountain, Nanjing

Nestled in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Qixia Mountain is swarmed with local residents and tourists in autumn. The large scale of red and golden maple leaves are the main attraction. There are various types of maple trees on the mountain, including the Japanese maples.

Best time to visit: Mid-November

Opening hours: 7:00 a.m.~5:30 p.m.

Admission fee: 40 yuan (5.6 U.S. dollars)

Yuelu Mountain, Changsha

Yuele Mountain sits in the west of Changsha, central China's Hunan Province. The towering maple trees provide dense shade, bringing refreshment to the environment. When you take the hour-long walk up the hill, you'll be accompanied by the colored trees. 

It's also recommended to stop by Yuelu Academy of Classical Learning at the foot of the mountain.

Best time to visit: Mid-November~early December

Opening hours: 8:30 a.m.~5:00 p.m.

Admission fee: Free

Tianping Mountain, Suzhou

Maple leaves have began coloring on Tianping Mountain in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. As winter approaches, the color of the mountain turns from green to yellow, orange, purple and then red. 

Apart from the maple trees, you'll also be able to find huge stones and crystal-clear springs on the mountain.

Best time to visit: October~mid-December

Opening hours: 7:30 a.m.~4:00 p.m.

Admission fee: 30 yuan (4.2 U.S. dollars)

(Cover: Xiangshan Park in Haidian District, Beijing. /VCG Photo)