Located in Deqing, Zhejiang, Moganshan was described by ancient poets as a place where “gentle breezes drift through, while mountain mist rises into the air.” Once a retreat for hermits and a summer haven for scholars and literati, Moganshan has now become one of China’s most atmospheric destinations for cycling and creative living.

Here, no one tells you where to start, nor does anyone ask how many kilometers you have ridden today. The pleasure of cycling in Moganshan lies not in pushing your limits, but in the freedom to wander and explore at your own pace.

If you enjoy riding alone and away from the crowds, head to the metasequoia forest in Wusi Village. Towering metasequoias form a tranquil canopy overhead, while sunlight filters through the branches, casting dappled shadows across the path. As your wheels roll over fallen leaves, the soft rustling becomes the only soundtrack accompanying your ride.

Autumn Rice Fields, Gathering Moments Together

If you’re looking to enjoy some quality time with family and friends, Yiyuan Organic Farm is an ideal stop. Golden waves of rice sway gently in the breeze, while the warm, earthy fragrance of ripening grain fills the air. Capture a photo with someone you love, or bring the kids along to meet the farm’s animals—feeding the grass, milking the cows, and enjoying a closer connection with the countryside. In autumn, the farm feels like a rich oil painting, filling your memories with warmth.

When it’s time for a break, make your way to Yucun. This charming little town is steeped in the distinctive elegance of old Shanghai. Beneath the plane trees, a vintage railway station and a red-brick clock tower evoke the graceful atmosphere of another era. When your legs need a rest, stop here for a coffee, feed the pigeons in the square, and recharge before setting off on your afternoon ride.

The Mountain Roads Are Not Meant to Be Conquered, but Gently Conversed With

As evening approaches, Tianquanshan Viewing Platform makes the perfect final stop. Perched high above the mountains, it offers an exceptional vantage point for watching the sunset. Climb to the lookout and watch the autumn mist roll across the landscape. Settle down with a warm cup of tea as the sun slips below the horizon, while layers of distant mountains gradually fade into the dusk.

It is the perfect ending to a day on the road.

Every autumn, when the first cool winds arrive, Moganshan dons its golden colors once again, quietly waiting for every cyclist to arrive and begin a poetic journey of their own.