Chongqing - The 19th Chongqing Yangtze River Three Gorges (Wushan) International Red Leaf Festival will commence on November 22, 2025, running through December 31. This year's festival introduces a "playable, touchable, participatory" experience, moving beyond traditional sightseeing to offer integrated cultural tourism activities.
The 19th Chongqing Yangtze River Three Gorges (Wushan) International Red Leaf Festival will take place from November 22, 2025, to December 31. (Photo: Wushan County)
As Asia's largest red leaf destination, Wushan features approximately 80,000 hectares of red leaf landscapes currently at their seasonal peak. "The beauty of Wushan's red leaves lies in their vibrant colors across the mountains and their perfect harmony with the river, clouds, and valleys," said Liu Benwan, Deputy Party Secretary of the CPC Wushan County Committee.
As Asia's largest red leaf destination, Wushan features approximately 80,000 hectares of red leaf landscapes currently at their seasonal peak. (Photo: Wushan County)
The festival offers diverse viewing perspectives through water, land, and air-based activities. Visitors can cruise the Little Three Gorges, drive along the Goddess Sky Road, or hike certified routes, including the Three Gorges Ridge and Goddess Peak. New options include hot air balloon rides over the gorges and a via ferrata climbing course at the Goddess Scenic Area.
Chongqing currently has 31 Three Gorges cruise ships, including 20 five-star ships, ranking first in China. (Photo: Wushan County)
From November 1 to December 31, the ancient town of Dachang hosts immersive cultural activities, including traditional banquets and tea ceremonies. Photography enthusiasts can join a dedicated cruise from Chongqing's Chaotianmen Pier between December 1 and 5. Weekend hiking challenges across three key locations offer collectible medals.
The festival offers free admission to the Three Gorges Ridge and Goddess Scenic Area, along with $ 14,000 worth of vouchers for grilled fish consumption available through the "Wushan Release" WeChat platform. Stamp collection activities at major sites reward participants with local specialty gifts.
Wushan's grilled fish is a nationally renowned delicacy. (Photo: Wushan County)
"The Red Leaf Festival has transformed Wushan's autumn-winter period into a peak tourism season," said Hou Yufeng, Level II Bureau Rank Official of Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development. In 2024, the Three Gorges reservoir area welcomed 12.1 million overnight tourists, representing a 14.3% year-over-year growth.
It is also the harvest season for Wushan navel oranges; visitors can enjoy picking fresh fruits and savoring local delicacies. (Photo: Wushan County)
Wushan has established cross-provincial tourism collaborations through the "Red Leaf Alliance" with Sichuan counterparts, creating integrated cultural routes. During the recent National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival period, visitor numbers in Sichuan increased by 21% compared to 2024.
Wushan's red leaves. (Photo: Wushan County)
Following viral attention from a local soccer player's remarkable goal in the "Chongqing Football League (CQFL)", Wushan launched targeted promotional campaigns. These include special ticket packages and enhanced visitor services such as welcome stations and increased shuttle bus frequency to improve the tourist experience.
Wushan's red leaves. (Photo: Wushan County)
The festival continues to drive regional tourism development through innovative offerings and cross-regional cooperation, thereby strengthening the brand, "Magnificent Yangtze River Three Gorges."