Dawn redwoods brighten Kunming's early winter

In the western suburbs of Kunming, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, lies the Sanjiacun Reservoir, a hidden gem that transforms into a dazzling palette of colors in late autumn and early winter. The metasequoia (dawn redwood) forest surrounding the reservoir gradually turns shades of golden yellow and fiery red. Their reflections shimmer gently on the reservoir’s crystal-clear waters, creating a mesmerizing interplay between reality and its mirrored image.

The best time to capture this natural spectacle is during the misty mornings or at sunset. Sunbeams streaming through the tree trunks form crepuscular rays, often referred to as “god rays,” which add a magical touch to the reservoir in early winter.