As the early winter sets in, 

the verdant foliage of the metasequoia gently fades, 

narrating the passage of time. 

This ancient and rare species of tree, 

known as the "living fossil" of the plant kingdom, 

is globally regarded as a precious relic. 

It holds the distinction of 

being among the first batch of plant species in China 

to receive first-level national protection.

Kunming's metasequoia has entered 

its prime viewing season 

under the warm winter sun. 

These tall metasequoia forests stand proudly, 

surrounded by vibrant hues of green, yellow and red. 

Take advantage of the clear winter days 

and join the crowd to capture stunning photos 

amidst these magnificent metasequoia forests.

Haihong Wetland Park 

One such spot is the Haihong Wetland Park. 

In the winter city of Kunming, 

the metasequoia in the park turn gradually red, 

creating a breathtaking sight 

as the green, yellow, and red colors 

complement each other in the sunlight.

Photo by Yang Zheng and Gao Wushuang  

Visitors can navigate through 

the metasequoia forest in boats, 

feeling as if they have stepped into 

a fairy tale world. 

Listening to the melodious birdsongs 

and the whispering of the wind, 

one can quietly indulge in the blissful moments.

Photo by Yang Zheng and Gao Wushuang  

Take a leisurely stroll 

along the wetland trail, 

embracing an intimate connection with nature. 

Sometimes life requires us to slow down.

Photo by Yang Zheng and Gao Wushuang  

Dianwei Village Metasequoia Wetland

In the Dianwei Metasequoia Forest 

of Dianyuan Sub-district, Panlong District, Kunming,

The sunbeams gently fall,

radiant yet not scorching, warm but not overwhelming.

Dianwei Village Metasequoia Wetland 

is located upstream of Dianchi Lake,

within the Songhua Dam Water Source Protection Area.

Image source: "Weiguan Panlong" WeChat Official Account

From above, 

nature skillfully utilizes a myriad of colors,

presenting a picturesque scene of colorful forest.

It evokes a sense of enchantment,

as if capturing the essence of the timing.

As a seasonal phenomenon,

each frame and every step 

allow us to experience

the poetic and artistic landscapes in winter.

Image source: "Weiguan Panlong" WeChat Official Account 

Cailian River 

The Cailian River stretches 

approximately 9.5 kilometers.

The most beautiful section spans 

three to four kilometers along Guangfu Road.

The reflection of metasequoia on the 

bright, mirror-like water surface 

creates a stunning display of vivid colors.

Photo by Yang Zheng 

The lush green lawn, 

the flowing clouds in the sky, 

and the vibrant metasequoia forests

compose the most beautiful colors of early winter.

Photo by Zhang Xiaohui 

Laoyuhe Wetland Park

In winter, the metasequoias 

of Laoyuhe Wetland Park 

gradually don colorful "coats":

fiery red, orange-red, pale yellow, deep green.

The collision of different colors 

creates a unique scenery.

Image: "Kunming Dianchi National Tourist Resort" WeChat Official Account 

On the long promenade,

chats, bike rides, or slow jogs,

sunlight filters through the metasequoia forest, 

casting colorful shadows.

Image: "Kunming Dianchi National Tourist Resort" WeChat Official Account 

Sanjia Village Reservoir 

Recently, the metasequoia forest of 

Sanjia Village Reservoir in the 

western outskirts of Kunming

has quietly changed into its "winter attire."

Photo by Cui Yongjiang from Xinhua News Agency 

Photo by Cui Yongjiang from Xinhua News Agency 

From an aerial perspective,

the crimson metasequoias resemble blooming flowers,

accentuating the blue lake,

adding a hue of vibrant color to Kunming.

Photo by Cui Yongjiang from Xinhua News Agency 

Jinning Nandianchi National Wetland Park 

In early winter, 

at Jinning Nandianchi National Wetland Park,

tens of thousands of metasequoias 

amidst the blue sky and clear water

resemble a colorful watercolor painting.

The magnificent beauty brings joy to the heart,

with herons and black-headed gulls 

nesting among the trees.

Nandianchi Wetland is the largest 

estuarine wetland in Kunming,

with rich deciduous trees, shrubs and aquatic plants,

forming an ecological community at the estuary

and creating a natural wetland ecosystem 

of rivers, ditches, ponds and lakes.

It has also become a home 

for numerous bird species to breed and thrive.

Alluring metasequoias,

enchanting winter landscapes,

captivating colorful clouds,

shades of brown, golden yellow, and orange-red

create a trendy, "Melad" style unique to Kunming

...

Seize the opportunity,

come to Kunming!

Explore the nearest metasequoia forest,

and experience the essence of Yunnan's lifestyle! 

(Editors: Rachel, Amy)