China: Hunting for the first snow of the season amidst the golden autumn colors

Many mountainous areas in northern China unexpectedly received early snow, creating a rare scene where yellow and red leaves blended with white snow in Harbin, Beijing and Sichuan.

Rare scene of changing seasons

In mid-October, a strange weather phenomenon occurred in many areas of northern China when the first snow of the season suddenly fell, nearly a month earlier than usual. The white snow covered the forests that were still turning yellow and red, creating a spectacular picture of the changing seasons, a rare natural moment that attracts tourists and photography enthusiasts.

This phenomenon, explained by a strong cold front combined with high humidity, has turned many familiar destinations into wonderlands overnight, providing unique experiences for visitors.

Impressive destinations for viewing autumn snow

From major cities to nature reserves, the first snow of the season has left its mark on a wide swath of the country. Here are some of the best places to witness this special moment of change.

Harbin: "Ice City" welcomes early snow

Famous for its International Ice and Snow Festival, Harbin (Heilongjiang Province) is usually covered in white snow only in winter. However, this year, residents and tourists witnessed snowfall as early as October 19. The scene of pedestrians holding umbrellas in the snow in the middle of autumn brings a strange and poetic feeling. This early snowfall is like a gentle invitation, signaling the coming winter and opening up a different perspective of this icy city.

People holding umbrellas walk in the snow in autumn in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, October 19. Photo: IC

Huanglong, Sichuan: Snow-covered fairyland

The Huanglong Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan, is already famous for its emerald green lakes that cascade like terraced fields. The first snow of the season fell on October 21, further enhancing its beauty. The pristine white snow blanketed the wooden walkways, framed the clear lakes, and enveloped ancient temples, creating a surreal, fairy-tale-like scene. It was the perfect time to admire the magical contrast between the white snow, the blue water, and the yellow of the surrounding trees.

Drone photos taken on October 21 captured the scene of Huanglong Scenic Area, Sichuan covered in the first snow of the season. Photo: Sun Jiapeng/Xinhua

Beijing Suburbs: Ancient Features of the Seasonal Change

Not only remote areas, but also the suburbs of Beijing also received snow on October 22, earlier than usual. In mountainous areas such as Yanqing, a thin layer of snow covered the slopes of Yudu Mountain and the ancient roofs of Jiangshuihe Village. The image of the quiet, curved tiled roofs dotted with the white color of snow in the midst of the autumnal mountain scenery brought a quiet and nostalgic beauty.

Other destinations

Early snow was also reported in many other places. In the Ningxia Autonomous Region, Guyuan and Zhongwei cities also saw snow covering the roads, with the Liupanshan Observatory measuring 5 cm thick. In the far north, Mohu City, known as the "North Pole of China", also saw heavy snowfall since early October.

Notes for the first snow hunting trip of the season

Experiencing snowfall in the middle of autumn is a rare opportunity, but visitors need to prepare carefully due to the unpredictable nature of the weather.

• Keep an eye on the weather forecast: Temperatures can drop dramatically, as much as 4-5 degrees Celsius below average. Checking the forecast regularly will help you be more proactive in your schedule.
• Dress appropriately: Bring warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket, sweater, gloves, hat, and snow boots. Layering is the best way to adjust to the temperature.
• Check traffic conditions: Bad weather could affect flights, trains and long-distance bus routes. The cold front will also bring strong winds to coastal areas, which could disrupt ferry and boat services.
• Be flexible with your plans: The first snow of the season melts quickly. Be prepared to change your schedule to catch the best moments.

Despite the early arrival of snow in some areas, the average temperature this winter across the country is not expected to be too severe, according to the China Meteorological Administration (CMA). However, tourists should still be prepared for strong and unusual temperature fluctuations.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/trung-quoc-san-tuyet-dau-mua-giua-sac-vang-mua-thu-398014.html