As autumn deepens, Hongluo Temple in Beijing’s Huairou district has entered one of its most beautiful seasons for autumn viewing. Recently, the two ancient male and female ginkgo trees in front of the temple’s Mahavira Hall have gradually turned golden, entering their prime viewing period and attracting many visitors.
The two ginkgo trees are more than 1,100 years old and over 30 metres tall. Standing together, one to the east and the other to the west, they are known as the “couple ginkgo trees.” The female tree on the eastern side has graceful foliage and bears abundant fruit in autumn, while the male tree on the western side stands tall with sturdy branches.
Every late autumn, the golden ginkgo leaves complement the red walls, ancient halls and blue-grey roof tiles, creating a scene rich in historic charm. As the breeze blows, golden leaves fall, seeming to lay a golden carpet over the ancient temple.
Hongluo Temple was founded during the Eastern Jin dynasty and has a history of more than 1,600 years. Today, its ancient ginkgo trees and historic buildings form a scenic setting that has made it a popular destination for viewing autumn leaves in Beijing.
