Autumn in Hangzhou: A New Perspective

For the longest time, I believed that spring was the most beautiful season in Hangzhou. Each year, it filled me with an irresistible urge to head outdoors—whether to enjoy the natural scenery or explore cultural landmarks, spring always seemed to call for admiration. Compared to it, I used to think that autumn, winter, and summer had far less to offer.

But this autumn, something changed. It’s my last autumn at Zhejiang University—my last autumn in Hangzhou—and for the first time, I’ve come to realize how much this season truly means to me. There’s a quiet urgency to savor every moment, to hold on to as many autumn memories of this city as I can. Suddenly, it all feels more precious than ever before.

Autumn arrived early in Hangzhou this year—by the end of September, a subtle crispness had already crept into the air. Taking advantage of the October holiday, my friend and I set out to explore the city’s autumn beauty. Starting from the Zijingang campus, we made our way through the heart of Hangzhou, heading south. Along the route, traces of summer’s lush greenery still lingered, but the refreshing autumn breeze added a gentle charm, making everything feel perfectly balanced and serene.

We made our way to Qianjiang Century Park and strolled along the banks of the Qiantang River. The landscape was calm and serene, with hints of autumn beginning to color the trees and ripple across the water. In that moment, I began to think—perhaps autumn is just as wonderful as spring, if not more so. The cool breezes, golden leaves, and soft, slanting sunlight came together in perfect harmony, grounding the city in a quiet, peaceful beauty.

Autumn in Hangzhou has a way of making you appreciate both the quiet beauty of the city and the fleeting nature of time. It’s a season that invites you to pause and reflect, to slow down and notice the small details that so often slip by. Maybe, after all, it’s not just spring that holds a special place in my heart. Autumn—with its subtle charm and quiet grace—has earned its place as one of the most beautiful seasons in this city.