Even as temperatures drop and sycamore leaves carpet the streets, Hangzhou's colors are far from fading. Early winter brings a softer, quieter beauty — subtle, calm, yet incredibly rich. Here's your photo guide to the season's final blossoms and colors.

The lotus of West Lake enters its most poetic moment in winter as the summer's lush greens retreat, revealing a sculptural, quiet elegance. [Photo/VCG]

Chrysanthemums are the true stars of early winter. At the Hangzhou Botanical Garden, grand displays feature bold colors, diverse varieties and intricate shapes. [Photo/VCG]

Ginkgo leaves reach peak golden brightness in November. Zhaohui Park's ginkgo path turns into a glowing corridor of color, while ancient trees on Wuyun Mountain and Yunqi Bamboo Trail create tranquil, timeless scenes. [Photo/VCG]

Red leaves ignite the city's hillsides. At Lingyin Temple and along Lingyin Road, sweetgum and Japanese maple paint the landscape in fiery hues, as if stepping into an oil painting. [Photo/VCG]

Reeds bring a gentle, windswept romance to early winter, creating the city's best "snowy" scenery. [Photo/VCG]

Goldenrain trees brighten winter with pink lantern-like seed pods. [Photo/VCG]

The hibiscus continues blooming bravely into winter. Known as the Three-Change Flower, its color shifts throughout the day — soft white, pale pink, then deep rose. [Photo/VCG]