Qingdao West Coast New Area's 2nd maple fest unwraps autumn's grandeur

The 2nd Red Maple Festival commenced on Oct 19 in Qingdao West Coast New Area, with Zhangjialou's maple forest serving as its breathtaking backdrop.

The maple leaves in Zhangjialou sub-district in Qingdao West Coast New Area turn a vibrant cinnabar red. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]

The festival, a celebration of 10 miles of red maples, offers a wealth of cultural activities including artistic performances, traditional opera, and exhibitions of intangible cultural heritage, providing a rich cultural tourism experience for visitors.

At the Red Maple Cultural Festival's opening ceremony, female artists perform traditional Chinese songs and dances. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]

The Zhangjialou Red Maple Forest Park, spanning over 1,000 acres (approximately 66.67 hectares), boasts more than 6,000 red maples, which peak in mid-to-late October.

A children's playground is set up around the red maple forest. [Photo/WeChat account: xihaianwenlv]

The park also showcases Yoshino cherry blossoms and a variety of flowering trees, providing a scenic experience from spring to autumn. It has become a cultural tourism landmark for Zhangjialou sub-district, drawing a significant number of visitors each year.