Early winter is when the ginko trees found at Dai Temple come to life and are at their golden yellow best.

The ancient temple is the largest and best preserved architectural complex at Mount Tai, and recently the temple has received even more visitors than usual as people come from miles around to admire the fluttering falling leaves and the golden carpet they weave at Dai Temple.

The fragrance of early winter enveloping Mount Tai is providing another twist to the iconic location's tranquility. The ginger tones and golden leaves contrast with the crimson halls of the temple, as the warm sunshine bathes mountain climbers in a picturesque scene.

Crimson walls, ever-green pines and yellow gingko leaves form a colorful scene at Dai Temple. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Fallen golden gingko leaves weave a thick carpet at Dai Temple. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]