Niushoushan Cultural Tourism Zone Hosts Autumn Foliage Viewing and Talks in Nanjing

Niushoushan Cultural Tourism Zone, a cultural tourism destination in the heart of Nanjing, People's Republic of China, launched its autumn tourism programme on 21 October 2026 to welcome travellers from around the world into a setting that blends nature with historical heritage. The event focuses on providing a relaxing experience amidst the mountains alongside learning about Eastern art and culture through outdoor activities and academic talks throughout the season. Visitors can take part in nature walks and use the smart tour guide system 24 hours a day, every day, free of charge.

Nature Viewing Trails and Relaxation Activities Amidst the Mountains

As autumn arrives with cool weather and clear skies, visitors can begin their journey from the foot of the mountain along Tianque Road, surrounded by the fragrance of seasonal flowers such as sweet osmanthus. This walking trail connects key landmarks within the zone, including Foding Palace, Foding Sacred Realm and Foding Temple, which are surrounded by forests turning golden. In addition, resting spots along both sides of the trail allow visitors to closely experience the tranquillity of the mountains and streams in line with Eastern philosophy.

Beyond sightseeing walks, the zone has also prepared physical and mental wellbeing activities for travellers as they explore the nature trails. Participants can choose to relax with Singing Bowl sound therapy or practise physical movement based on Baduanjin Qigong principles beneath the shade of the trees. For those who enjoy longer walks, a 3.6-kilometre autumn foliage hiking trail is also open during the Double Ninth Festival, allowing visitors to take in panoramic views of Nanjing.

Cultural Exchange and the AI Tour Guide System

In terms of sharing intellectual heritage, the zone is hosting the Niushou Mountain and Dunhuang Culture Week, inviting Fan Zaixuan, a mural restoration expert from the Dunhuang Academy, to share knowledge behind the conservation of ancient desert art. Alongside this, the Niushou Twelve Lectures series invites scholars in literature, history and philosophy to take turns exchanging perspectives on life, featuring Peng Kaiping delivering an in-depth lecture on positive psychology and emotional management for modern people. Meanwhile, the zone has partnered with 500px by Visual China to organise an international photography competition titled One Mountain, One World: Capturing Niushou Through Light and Shadow, as well as hosting immersive and interactive activities under the Seeking Autumn in Eastern Chan programme along ancient mountain paths.

To offer convenience for modern travellers, the zone provides a year-round audio tour guide service that users can access simply by scanning QR codes at various points. Furthermore, an AI tour guide system named Niu Xiaochan, developed using a Large Language Model, recounts the history and connects the stories of key sites including Foding Forecourt, Eastern Chan Spirit Path, Foding Temple and Foding Pagoda. This smart tour guide system is available 24 hours a day, every day, free of charge and without advance booking required.

Summary of Travel and Activity Information

This information is suitable for travellers planning a trip abroad to view autumn foliage and experience historical learning sites, as well as event organisers looking for concepts that blend cultural activities with natural settings. It also serves as a notable case study for hotel professionals and tourism operators on applying AI systems to enhance 24-hour information services for travellers.