The Mid-Autumn Festival is a cherished holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese calendar. Traditionally, families gather to eat mooncakes and admire the full moon. But it’s also a great time to explore new destinations. If you’re looking for travel ideas, here are eight beautiful spots that could make your Mid-Autumn Festival unforgettable.
- Sunflower Fields, Sanmenxia, Henan Province
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Harvest Day, China’s countryside is bursting with ripe fruits and vegetables. The color gold symbolizes this abundance, making the sunflower fields along the Yellow River in Sanmenxia a perfect autumn destination for photos and enjoying nature. - Erhai Lake, Dali, Yunnan Province
Erhai Lake sits at 1,972 meters above sea level and stretches over 250 square kilometers, making it one of China’s largest highland lakes. You can explore this stunning area by horseback, cycling, or camping, enjoying the beautiful scenery and peaceful waters. - West Lake, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
Covering 5.6 square kilometers, West Lake is like a mirror reflecting the serene beauty of Hangzhou. The gentle ripples and lush surroundings have made this spot a year-round favorite for both local and international tourists, offering a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful holiday stroll. - Huangshan Mountain, Anhui Province
Huangshan Mountain is one of China’s top scenic spots, with an area of 1,200 square kilometers, including its famous Lotus Peak, which rises 1,864 meters above sea level. The unique granite formations and breathtaking views have long attracted tourists from around the world. - Dongting Lake, Hunan Province
China’s second-largest freshwater lake, Dongting Lake, is surrounded by majestic mountains. The lake’s appearance shifts with the seasons, sometimes even during the same day, as it acts as a flood basin for the Yangtze River. Its seasonal beauty makes it a perfect spot to catch a stunning sunset. - ShiLaoRen Beach, Qingdao, Shandong Province
Qingdao’s ShiLaoRen Beach is known for its large rock formation that resembles an old fisherman waiting for his daughter. This beach offers plenty of activities, from jet skiing to ATV rides, along with relaxing walks on the boardwalk. It’s an ideal spot to spend a sunny afternoon or a warm evening. - Mount Lushan, Jiangxi Province
Mount Lushan is steeped in history and culture, often described as a birthplace of Chinese civilization. The mountain is famous for its misty, mysterious beauty, inspiring poets and artists throughout history. If you’re looking for a scenic, historic destination, Lushan is the perfect choice. - Victoria Peak, Hong Kong
For breathtaking urban views, head to Victoria Peak in Hong Kong. From The Peak Tower observation deck, you can enjoy the iconic skyline of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon, especially during misty, foggy nights that add a magical atmosphere to the city lights.
These destinations offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and peaceful moments, making them ideal spots to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in a unique and memorable way. Whether you’re drawn to serene lakes, majestic mountains, or vibrant cityscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.