Altay of Shanghai: This Metasequoia Forest Is Breathtakingly Beautiful, Full of Winter Healing Vibes

There's no need to travel all the way to northern Xinjiang to experience "Altay-style" winter romance—in Shanghai, you can encounter it right here. The vast metasequoia trees shed their green coats and don splendid orange-red and ochre hues. Mist lingers in the forest, fallen leaves form a golden carpet, and strolling through feels like stepping into an oil painting, where every snapshot is a mood-filled masterpiece. Here are 3 hidden gem metasequoia forests that are less crowded, beautiful, and budget-friendly: 1. Qingxi Countryside Park 🌲 Highlights: The "top spot" for metasequoia forests in Shanghai. Large patches of pond cypress reflect on the lake, harmonizing with reed marshes and egrets. When shrouded in winter mist, it looks like a fairyland. The park also features pristine wetlands for an immersive natural experience. 📍 Tips: Free admission. It’s recommended to take the park’s electric cart (10 RMB/person) directly to the core metasequoia area. Best visiting time is mid-December to early January, with the most beautiful light and shadows on sunny afternoons. 2. Dongping National Forest Park (Chongming Island) 🌲 Highlights: The largest plain artificial forest in East China. The metasequoia-lined paths are straight and long, with fallen leaves forming a thick "golden carpet." Perfect for cycling, hiking, camping, and picnicking, offering a strong sense of healing. 📍 Tips: Tickets cost about 40 RMB. You can bring your own tent. Accessible by car or ferry plus bus to Chongming Island. Weekends are not too crowded, allowing you to enjoy the entire forest in peace. 3. Gongqing National Forest Park 🌲 Highlights: A "natural oxygen bar" within the city. The metasequoia forest interweaves with lakes and lawns, so you don’t have to travel far to visit. There’s also a vintage little train in the forest, perfect for fairy-tale-like photos. Great for family outings or dates. 📍 Tips: Tickets cost about 15 RMB. Direct access via Metro Line 8. On weekend afternoons in December, the soft light is perfect for stunning portrait shots. 🎬 Photo Tips - Outfit: Wear white, beige, or brown coats, or knit sweaters to create a gentle color contrast with the red and yellow metasequoia leaves. - Props: Bring a cup of hot coffee, a book, or a scarf to instantly boost the atmosphere. - Timing: Early morning or evening when the light is soft and not harsh, making the metasequoia forest photos more dreamy and beautiful.