The maples of Kuliang are turning red, with a beautiful mix of green and crimson leaves. [Photo/fznews.com.cn]

As temperatures begin to drop and the hills turn vibrant, the maple and sweetgum trees of Gushan Mountain and Kuliang in Fuzhou have welcomed a dazzling leaf-viewing season.

Kuliang is the heart of maple viewing in Fuzhou. Around Yingyue Lake and the Zhuli Scenic Area, layers of crimson leaves glow like a warm hearth, dispelling the chill of early winter. Beyond these iconic spots, visitors can also enjoy fiery-red maples along the Kuliang Highway and near the historic Kuliang Church.

With winter's arrival, the centuries-old sweetgum trees in the Meili Scenic Area and around Lingyuandong on Gushan Mountain have also become popular destinations. These sweetgum trees rise tall and straight with expansive crowns. Around Lingyuandong alone, more than a dozen trees are over a hundred years old, including two that are over 300 years old.

Early winter marks the sweetgum trees' most stunning season. Their leaves transition from green to yellow, then gradually shift to shades of orange and red. At present, the color change has only just begun, and the hues evolve every few days. The best viewing period is expected to continue until late December.

Whether you are seeking a peaceful stroll amid nature or a vibrant spot for photography, Gushan Mountain and Kuliang promise an unforgettable early-winter escape.