The 24th Sichuan Guangwu Mountain International Red Leaf Festival is set to run from October 1 to November 18 at the Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area in Bazhong, Sichuan Province, China. The annual event celebrates the region's breathtaking autumn foliage, which transforms 680 square kilometers of mountain forests into a vibrant display of red and gold. With a forest coverage rate of 97%, Guangwu Mountain is often called a "natural oxygen bar" and is recognized as one of western China's signature autumn attractions.
The festival's timing aligns with the peak autumn season, when over 40 tree species, including Fagus pashanica, maples, and lindens, paint the landscape in brilliant hues. Known as "Asia's longest natural red carpet," the area attracts backpackers, photographers, and travelers seeking immersive cultural and nature experiences. The event caters to international visitors who prefer slower-paced, in-depth travel, offering a chance to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
A major highlight of this year's festival is the newly completed Micang Avenue. Stretching 85 kilometers, this route connects seven core scenic spots, including Guangwu Mountain, Micang Mountain, and Nuoshui River, reducing a four-hour drive to just one hour. Lined with continuous stretches of colorful forest and layered peaks, the avenue provides brand-new travel experiences for autumn foliage enthusiasts.
Visitors can also enjoy the new Yanziling Loop Boardwalk, launched in May 2026, which winds along mountain cliffs with a sea of clouds rolling beneath and brilliant foliage alongside the trail, creating the feeling of "stepping into a painting." Outdoor attractions include the 1,888-meter Red Leaf Coaster and a glass water slide certified by Guinness World Record, combining thrilling experiences with stunning natural scenery. For nighttime entertainment, the large-scale immersive production "New Dream of Guangwu Mountain" integrates cutting-edge light and visual technology with Bashan folklore and traditions, transforming the forest into an atmospheric experience. Welcome performances and interactive robot activities offer more ways to discover the mountain's late-autumn charm.
The festival will feature cultural, sports, and international exchange activities, including the third season of the "Sending You a Red Leaf" campaign, the China Micang Avenue International Road Cycling Race, and the "World Red Leaf Landmark" global collection campaign. Additionally, 31 scenic attractions and 18 museums and cultural venues across Bazhong will provide special ticket offers and visitor benefits during the festival.
This announcement matters for the travel and tourism industry, as it positions Guangwu Mountain as a premier autumn destination in Asia, potentially boosting local economies and promoting sustainable tourism. For international travelers, it offers a unique opportunity to experience one of China's most vibrant seasonal displays, with improved infrastructure making the region more accessible. The festival's emphasis on cultural exchange and outdoor activities may also inspire similar events globally, highlighting the growing trend of nature-based tourism. As the world seeks safer, outdoor-focused travel options, Guangwu Mountain's offerings could set a benchmark for immersive, seasonal experiences.
For more information, visit the official website: Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area.
