In late autumn, scenic areas in east and southwest China have been lit up by eye-catching red-leaved trees across the hills and valleys.  

In the southern mountainous area of Jinan City, east China's Shandong Province, the leaves covering more than 4,000 mu (about 267 hectares) of wild smoke trees are turning red in the sun and have a bright gloss. 

Jinan City is famous for its spring water resources, which also nourish the trees.  

In the past, villagers used to chop firewood in the mountains. As people gradually became aware of the need to protect the environment, the vegetation coverage in the region reached 98 percent.  

Meanwhile, in the Red Maple Mountain scenic area in Shifang City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, the leaves of nearly 50,000 maple trees have changed into a fiery red, making this the best time to embrace nature.

(Cover image via VCG)

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