Ginkgo season in Shanghai doesn't hang around. One week it's green, the next it's gold, and then it's gone. Right now, the city is right in that sweet spot — and these are the places where the yellow actually hits.

Jumen Lu (局门路) in Huangpu is still the classic. The stretch between Wuliqiao Lu and Quxi Lu is at peak color, with branches forming a golden tunnel and fallen leaves left unswept through mid-December. Old factories, creative parks, cafés, graffiti, and the occasional red phone booth make it feel less like a "scenic spot" and more like real Shanghai, just briefly dipped in gold.

Over in Changning, Huangjin Chengdao (黄金城道) remains one of the city's most photogenic ginkgo streets. When the leaves turn, the entire road glows gold, especially when viewed from above — the second floor of Manner Coffee offers what's probably Shanghai's most famous ginkgo window view.

For something quieter, Zhenru Temple (真如寺) in Putuo offers a single, show-stopping tree: a 650-year-old ginkgo planted in the Yuan Dynasty. When it turns, the temple courtyard fills with filtered light and fallen leaves — calm, minimal, and very un-Instagram-crowd-heavy.

If you want scale, Expo Park (世博公园) delivers rows of ginkgo trees, bridges with dramatic light, and a full ginkgo grove by the lawn. It gets busy, but shoot high or low and you'll escape the crowds — plus it's one of the best places to combine leaf-chasing with a long riverside walk.

Near the Bund, Holy Trinity Church (圣三一堂) pairs golden leaves with Gothic architecture. Elevated angles from nearby buildings offer the best views, while the church exterior alone makes the stop worthwhile.

These are just a few of the city's ginkgo highlights; others like Longhua Temple, Ruijin InterContinental, and hidden alleys around town are also worth a wander.

So, we have to ask: where have you gone to catch the ginkgo glow this year? Which spot was your favorite? Are you team golden leaves or team cozy indoor vibes? Share your snaps and tips below!