The 24th Sichuan Guangwu Mountain International Red Leaf Festival will take place from October 1 to November 18, 2026, at the Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area in Bazhong, Sichuan Province, China. The annual event celebrates the region's stunning autumn foliage and aims to attract international travelers seeking immersive nature and cultural experiences. With its expansive forests and diverse tree species, the festival underscores the area's growing reputation as a premier autumn destination in Asia.
Guangwu Mountain, located in southwest China, boasts a forest coverage rate of 97%, earning its nickname as a "natural oxygen bar." Each autumn, 680 square kilometers of mountain forests transform into a vibrant tapestry of colors. Over 40 tree species, including Fagus pashanica, maples, and lindens, contribute to what is known as "Asia's longest natural red carpet." This natural spectacle has made the mountain a top choice for backpackers, photographers, and travelers interested in off-the-beaten-path adventures, solidifying its status as one of western China's signature autumn attractions.
The tourism area is well-suited for international visitors who prefer slower-paced, in-depth travel. A key addition is the new Yanziling Loop Boardwalk, launched in May 2026, which winds along mountain cliffs and offers breathtaking views of a sea of clouds and brilliant foliage, creating an experience akin to "stepping into a painting." Beyond the boardwalk, Guangwu Mountain features a range of outdoor attractions, such as the 1,888-meter Red Leaf Coaster and a glass water slide certified by Guinness World Record, blending thrill with natural beauty. For evening entertainment, the large-scale immersive production "New Dream of Guangwu Mountain" combines cutting-edge light and visual technology with Bashan folklore, transforming the forest into an atmospheric nighttime experience. Visitors can also enjoy welcome performances and interactive robot activities, adding to the mountain's late-autumn charm.
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. The festival will also host cultural, sports, and international exchange activities, such as 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 offer special ticket deals and visitor benefits during the festival.
For more information, visit the Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area and Bazhong tourism websites. 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.
