Peak foliage season is one of the most beautiful times of the year. If you haven't ever had the privilege of driving through the mountains in New England when the leaves are at their most colorful, put that on the top of your priority list for next year!
The rolling mountainsides look like detailed paintings, and even the greyest, gloomiest of days will still put you into a good mood. The dusty sky as a backdrop to the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows can sometimes add to the cozy fall feeling. It just makes you want to put on your bulkiest sweater and wrap a nice, soft scarf around your neck.
But there is one tree in China that might trump every tree in the Northeast this fall. Its a 1,400-year-old gingko tree that stands tall above a Zen Buddhist temple. Its leaves turned the loveliest golden color and covered the grass around the wide-spread branches, creating a sea of gold.
You have to see it for yourself.
This tree was planted in Luohandong village in the city of Xi'an in the beginning of the Tang Dynasty.
The legend behind this specific tree says that it was planted in honor of Emperor Li Shimin, the founder of this era, which spanned from the years 629 to 649.
Its golden leaves fall onto the courtyard of a Zen Buddhist temple.
This ancient tree has been attracting many tourists to the area.
Wouldn't you want to see this in person, if you had the chance?
The gingko tree species has been around since before the dinosaurs, and it's the last to survive in its particular group of trees.
It must be so moving to see one so old and tall against the green backdrop of the mountains in a peaceful temple.
This tree is a remarkable piece of history...
And an incredibly beautiful one, at that.
This is not just a tree, it's an outstanding part of our natural world. It's a reminder of how breathtaking and beautiful nature is, and of how we need to hold a greater appreciation for it. I hope that this tree continues to shed its golden leaves for another 1,400 years.
Please SHARE this if you wish you could have seen this tree in person this year!
