I spent an unforgettable September day at Fangshan Motorsports Base just outside Nanjing, where the crisp autumn air replaced summer's heat and outdoor adventures awaited. From the moment I arrived, surrounded by rolling hills and the sound of engines echoing through the valley, I knew this would be a different kind of day—one filled with adrenaline, natural beauty, and the simple joy of being outdoors with good friends.
Trip Overview
When: September (Early Autumn)
Duration: 1 day
Travelers: With friends
Budget: ~150 RMB (~$21 USD) per person
Transportation: Subway + Taxi
A Perfect September Morning in Nanjing
When the summer heat finally breaks and September arrives in Nanjing (南京, Nánjīng), something magical happens. The city that once sweltered under the blazing sun transforms into one of China's most pleasant urban destinations. I had heard from locals that this was the perfect time to explore the outdoors, so my friends and I decided to head to Fangshan (方山, Fāngshān) Motorsports Base for a day of adventure.
The drive out to Fangshan was already a preview of what awaited us. As we left the urban sprawl of Nanjing behind, the landscape gradually opened up into rolling hills covered in lush greenery. I rolled down the window and felt the cool autumn breeze on my face—a welcome change from the humidity that had lingered all summer.
When we arrived at the base, I was immediately struck by the energy of the place. Unlike the quiet temples and historical sites that Nanjing is famous for, this was a place buzzing with activity. Families, groups of friends, and even corporate teams were gathering for their own outdoor experiences.
🎯 Practical Info
Location: Fangshan Motorsports Base, Jiangning District, Nanjing Best Time: September-November for ideal weather Entry Fee: Varies by activity (~100-300 RMB) Duration: Half day to full day recommended
Getting into the Action
The great thing about Fangshan Motorsports Base is that it caters to all levels of adventure seekers. My friends and I decided to start with something moderate—ATV riding through the mountain trails. As I climbed onto the all-terrain vehicle and gripped the handlebars, I felt a surge of excitement. The instructor gave us a quick briefing, and then we were off!
Riding through the dirt paths carved into the hillside was exhilarating. The engine roared beneath me as I navigated through twists and turns, climbing up small ridges and splashing through muddy patches left by recent rains. There were moments when I hit a bump and felt my stomach drop, followed by laughter as I regained control. My friends were ahead of me, whooping and cheering as they conquered each section of the trail.
What surprised me most wasn't just the adrenaline rush—it was the scenery. Every now and then, we'd emerge from a wooded section into clearings where we could pause and take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the distance, I could see the outline of Nanjing's skyline, a reminder that civilization wasn't far away, yet here in this moment, we felt completely immersed in nature.
Lunch and Local Flavors
By midday, all that excitement had worked up quite an appetite. The base has several dining options, but we opted for a local restaurant nearby that specialized in Jiangsu countryside cuisine. Sitting at a rustic wooden table with my friends, we shared dishes like braised pork with preserved vegetables and fresh mountain vegetables stir-fried with garlic.
As we ate, we traded stories about our morning adventures—who had almost tipped their ATV, who had taken the smoothest line through the curves, and who was already planning their next visit. There's something about outdoor activities that brings people together in a way that city outings rarely do.
🍽️ Dining Tips
Nearby Options: Local restaurants offer authentic countryside dishes Must-Try: Mountain vegetables and freshwater fish from the region Budget: ~50-80 RMB per person for a hearty meal
Afternoon Exploration
In the afternoon, we decided to slow things down a bit and explore some of the hiking trails around the base. Unlike the morning's high-octane activities, this was about appreciating the tranquility of Fangshan. Walking along well-maintained paths, we passed through groves of trees beginning to show hints of autumn colors.
I struck up a conversation with an elderly local who was walking his dog. He told me that Fangshan has been a popular destination for Nanjing residents for generations, especially in autumn when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. "September is the best month," he said with a smile. "Not too hot, not too cold—just right."
He was right. As the afternoon sun began to soften, casting long golden rays through the trees, I felt completely at peace. The combination of morning excitement and afternoon serenity made for a perfectly balanced day.
Reflections at Sunset
As evening approached, we found a vantage point overlooking the valley below. Watching the sun set behind the mountains, painting the sky in shades of orange and purple, I thought about how this day had unfolded. The summer regrets the Chinese text mentioned—those things we didn't get to do while the heat was unbearable—had indeed been transformed by September's gentle breeze.
Fangshan Motorsports Base offered us more than just outdoor activities. It provided a space to reconnect with nature, challenge ourselves physically, and strengthen our friendships through shared experiences. As the last light faded and we packed up to head back to the city, I carried with me not just photos and memories, but a renewed appreciation for how a single day of adventure can recharge the spirit.
If you find yourself in Nanjing during September, I can't recommend this experience enough. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful mountain walks, Fangshan delivers in ways that will surprise and delight you.
Quick Reference Guide
Location: Fangshan Motorsports Base, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province
Best Season: September-November (Autumn)
Getting There: Take Nanjing Metro Line 1 to Nanjing South Station, then taxi (~30 mins)
Activities: ATV riding, hiking, team-building activities
Budget: 150-300 RMB (~$21-42 USD) depending on activities chosen
Chinese Address: 南京市江宁区方山汽摩基地 (for taxi drivers)