The 24th Sichuan Guangwu Mountain International Red Leaf Festival is set to take place from October 1 to November 18 at the Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area in Bazhong, Sichuan Province, China. This annual event celebrates the region's breathtaking autumn colors, drawing travelers from around the world to witness one of Asia's most vibrant seasonal displays. With a forest coverage rate of 97%, Guangwu Mountain is often called a "natural oxygen bar," and each autumn, its 680 square kilometers of mountain forests transform into a dazzling palette of reds, oranges, and golds. Over 40 tree species, including Fagus pashanica, maples, and lindens, contribute to what is known as "Asia's longest natural red carpet."
The festival's significance extends beyond its visual appeal; it represents a strategic effort to position the region as a premier destination for slow-paced, in-depth travel. The tourism area caters to international visitors seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, and the newly launched Yanziling Loop Boardwalk, opened in May 2026, offers a unique perspective. This cliffside path allows visitors to walk among rolling seas of clouds with brilliant foliage unfolding alongside, creating an immersive feeling of "stepping into a painting." Such infrastructure developments are crucial for attracting discerning travelers and extending their stay, thereby boosting the local economy.
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. It reduces a previously four-hour drive to just one hour, significantly enhancing accessibility and allowing visitors to explore more of the region's offerings. The avenue is lined with continuous stretches of colorful forest and layered peaks, providing a scenic drive that itself becomes part of the attraction. This improved connectivity is expected to increase visitor numbers and distribute tourism benefits across a wider area.
Beyond natural beauty, the festival features a range of activities designed to enrich the visitor experience. 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 nighttime experience. Visitors can also enjoy welcome performances and interactive robot activities, adding modern touches to the traditional autumn charm. For thrill-seekers, the 1,888-meter Red Leaf Coaster and a Guinness World Record-certified glass water slide combine excitement with stunning natural scenery.
The festival will also host 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. These events aim to engage a global audience and foster cultural exchange. Additionally, 31 scenic attractions and 18 museums and cultural venues across Bazhong will offer special ticket offers and visitor benefits during the festival, making it more accessible to a broader range of tourists.
For more information about the festival and the Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area, visit the official website at https://www.guangwushan.com. Across mountains and seas, Guangwu Mountain invites visitors from around the world to witness one of China's most vibrant red-and-gold autumn displays.
