2026 Alxa Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Alxa Tengger Desert Travel Notes When it comes to the vast deserts of Northwest China, the Tengger Desert in Alxa is unavoidable. This sea of sand, whose name means "sky," is the fourth largest desert in China, spanning across Inner Mongolia, Gansu, and Ningxia. It is not an extreme wasteland; instead, it hides a gentle harmony of sand and water, making it the most suitable healing secret spot in northern Xinjiang travel for relaxing and letting loose. The core scenic area of the Tengger Desert is located in Alxa Left Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. Driving from Bayannur, you pass through gobi and desert landscapes with wide-open views and vast skies. Before entering the desert, you are already enveloped by the vast and desolate atmosphere of the Northwest. Simply search for the Tengger Desert Tourist Resort or major desert camps on your navigation, and you can reach it easily; transportation is very convenient. Unlike the monotony of other deserts, the most captivating feature of Tengger is the hundreds of natural lakes scattered throughout. The sand dunes roll continuously with delicate wave-like sand patterns. The golden sea of sand contrasts with the emerald lakes, dotted with oases, reeds, and waterfowl. Half barren, half vibrant, it sketches a unique desert landscape. When visiting Tengger, you must experience desert off-road dune bashing. Hop into a professional off-road vehicle and speed through the undulating dunes, plunging and climbing hills. The wheels kick up clouds of yellow sand, and the sensations of weightlessness and speed hit you—thrilling and exciting, it’s the wild joy unique to the desert. Screams of excitement fill the air, releasing all your stress. For a slower, romantic desert experience, ride a camel to stroll through the sea of sand. Accompanied by the melodious sound of camel bells, walk leisurely on the dunes, watching sunlight glisten on the sand grains with tiny golden sparkles. In the distance, lakes look like embedded jewels, and time seems to slow down. Evening is the best time, when the sunset dyes the sky orange-red. The grandeur of the desert sunset is breathtaking, and every photo you take is atmospheric and cinematic. Desert camping is an unmissable experience. At night in Tengger, you are completely free from city light pollution. Look up to see a sky full of stars, the Milky Way clearly visible. The stars hang low as if you could reach out and touch them. Lie on the dunes, watch the starry river flow, and listen to the wind—your heart fills with peace. Late at night, gather around a bonfire, enjoy authentic roasted whole lamb, sip milk tea, and feel the unique warmth of the Northwest. If you love tranquil scenery, explore the lakes in the desert. Wulan Lake, Swan Lake, and Emerald Lake each have their own charm. The water is clear, surrounded by yellow sand, with water birds playing, full of life. Standing by the lakeshore, watching the sand sea merge with the water completely overturns the stereotypical image of the desert. The photo opportunities are stunning. When traveling in Tengger, remember these practical tips: the best travel seasons are May to June and September to October, when the climate is mild and you avoid the intense heat; desert UV rays are very strong, so be sure to bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a magic scarf, and sand-proof shoe covers; the temperature difference between day and night is large, so bring a thick jacket; there is no unified ticket for the scenic area, and activities like off-roading and camping are charged separately, so it’s recommended to book camp packages in advance. The romance of Tengger is the grandeur of rolling yellow sand, the gentle coexistence of sand and water, and the healing starry sky. Here, leave behind worldly worries, embark on a desert rendezvous, feel freedom and vastness, and encounter the most captivating desert scenery in the Northwest.

Girls! Who knows about this! In the vast sands of Alxa, there’s a group of lakes as red as a heart and as pink as first love! 🚙 Five-lake crossing route: Ulan Lake, Camel Lake, Swan Lake, Hailuoqi Lake, Guitar Lake—see the ultimate clash of desert and colorful lakes all at once! 💓 Ulan Lake — "Heart of the Earth" The drone view is stunning! The water looks like flowing bright red blood, shaped like a beating heart, tightly wrapped by golden sand dunes. No filters needed; nature itself is the master colorist! 💗 Camel Lake — "Pink Secret Realm" To the naked eye, it’s strawberry milk color! Wearing a white dress squatting by the lake, the reflection plus pink water feels so dreamy it’s like you’re not on Earth. Every snap looks like a magazine cover! 🐫 How to play? Start from Yinchuan, 2 hours to the desert entrance, then transfer to an off-road vehicle to climb sand peaks and rush sand ridges—screams all the way! Local guides take you deep into the heart safely and thrillingly. Carpooling costs about 300-400 RMB per person. The lake colors are most vibrant from May to September, don’t miss it! 👗 Outfit Tips White/bright long dress + high-top Martin boots + sand-proof shoe covers. The desert has big temperature swings and strong winds, so bring a windbreaker too! While the lake water is bright red and the pink lake is vivid, let’s go! Tengger Desert

⛰Zhongwei-Alashan-Yinchuan Travel Guide🔥Super Comprehensive Guide, all your winter break activities are here⬇️ ✨Recommendation Index: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 ✨Suitable for: Families with children, luxury travelers, family trips, couples ✨Destinations: Zhongwei-Alashan-Yinchuan ✨Trip Duration: 5 days 🔥Product Highlights: Camp guide-led desert trekking, watching desert sunrise, astrophotography class, five-lake crossing to find Ulan Pink Lake ✅Itinerary Description: ✨Suggested Itinerary✨ 🎈DAY1: Nationwide → Yinchuan, stay at Yuehai or Hyatt, explore the night market, watch the sunset 🎈DAY2: Yinchuan, cross the five lakes by off-road vehicle, admire the red waters of Ulan Lake 🎈DAY3: Yinchuan → Tengger Hotel, camel riding at Shapotou, enjoy the scenery 🎈DAY4: Zhongwei, watch the desert sunrise, visit Beichangtan and Route 66 🎈DAY5: Zhongwei → Western Xia Imperial Tombs → Airport drop-off, explore the Western Xia Kingdom 🔅【Travel Preparations】🔅 🌟Winter Travel Essentials (Clothing, Accessories, Documents, etc.) 1️⃣Thermal underwear and socks: Pay attention to warmth 2️⃣Outerwear: Bring a down jacket or thick coat 3️⃣Hat + gloves: Prevent frostbite 4️⃣Power bank + data cable: Charge electronic devices 5️⃣Passport/ID card: Don't forget to bring them ⛳️Recommended Attractions⛳️ 📍Tengger Desert🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟: Majestic sand peaks, lakes like glaciers against the backdrop of the sand sea 📍Ulan Lake🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟: Red lake water like a gemstone 📍Shapotou🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟: Combines desert, Yellow River, and grassland scenery 🔥Activity Guide🔥 📍Tengger Desert Activities: The 2025 Ningxia Outdoor Sports Tourism Season will be held in Zhongwei. The National Desert Frisbee Invitational in September, the National Beautiful Desert Flag Football Sub-station Tournament in late July, and the 2nd Desert Ten Thousand-Person Trek in August – experience the grandeur of the Gobi and the beauty of competition. 📍Ulan Lake Activities: Ulan Lake, deep in the Tengger Desert, is known as the "Heart of the Earth," with water as vibrant red as a beating heart. Step on the sand and gaze at it to find tranquility. 📍Shapotou Activities: The Shapotou Winter Carnival is in full swing. Hetan Village Ice and Snow Carnival creates a rural happy valley ice and snow park; Yunshangge Northwest Snow Village offers photo opportunities and a non-powered snow play area; Xianglong Bay Ice and Snow World is perfect for kids. ‼️Independent travel, hassle-free👍 Don't just dream it, do it👇! Click the card below to book in advance

Alxa (Alashan) is a sparsely populated region in Inner Mongolia, known for its deserts, salt lakes, and vast open landscapes. This is not a classic tourist destination but rather an experience. Everything here feels almost alien: deserts, rocks, dried trees, salt flats, a sky free of visual noise, absolute silence, and a sense of isolation. It's a powerful place, but certainly not for everyone. This destination caters to niche tourism and is primarily focused on the domestic Chinese market. 🏜️ Key natural attractions: · Tengger Desert (腾格里沙漠, Tengger Desert) — one of China's largest deserts · Badain Jaran Desert (巴丹吉林沙漠, Badain Jaran Desert) — home to the tallest sand dunes in the country · Salt and semi-salt lakes within the deserts · Rocky plateaus and arid landscapes The region is characterized by minimal vegetation and vast distances between locations. 🦅 Tourism format: · Desert safaris · Photography tours · Watching sunrises and sunsets · Camping and overnight stays in the desert · Slow-paced itineraries without tight schedules This is not a place for active urban entertainment or classic sightseeing tourism. 🚗 How to get there: · Fly to Alxa Left Banner (阿拉善左旗) or Alxa Right Banner (阿拉善右旗) · Usually with a transfer via Hohhot or Lanzhou · Then, transfer by private driver or organized tour Independent travel without a car is challenging. ⛺️ Infrastructure: · Small hotels and guesthouses · Limited selection of cafes and shops · English is rarely spoken · Most routes require a guide Comfort level is basic. 💰 Costs (approximate): · Tour or driver per day: 600–1200 yuan · Accommodation: $30–70 per night · Entry fees to natural areas — minimal or none ☀️ Best time to visit: · September–October — the optimal season · Spring: possible sandstorms · Summer: very high temperatures · Winter: cold, minimal tourist flow 💎 Who it's for: · Those seeking an unconventional China · Desert and minimalism enthusiasts · Solo, mindful travelers · Photography and videography without crowds Alxa is not a tourist attraction but a space. If you want to see China without decorations, without crowds, and without noise, this is one of the most profound destinations. However, you should visit with awareness, understanding the conditions and travel format.

Planning a trip to Alxa this Lunar New Year? This 5-day travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Alxa and avoid any pitfalls! . 🌟 Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Beijing West Railway Station 🚄 and arrive in Yinchuan, ready to start your desert adventure! Day 2: Head deep into the Tengger Desert 🏜️ and experience the vastness and mystery of the desert. Day 3: Continue your adventure in the Tengger Desert and head to Ulan Lake 🌊 to admire the beauty of the lake and desert. Day 4: Visit the Alxa Desert Stone Museum 🏛️ and head to the Helan Mountain Guangzong Temple (South Temple) Ecotourism Area 🌳 to experience the combination of nature and culture. Day 5: Take the train 🚂 and arrive in Beijing in the morning, marking the end of your desert adventure! . Travel essentials: 👗 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, sweater, windproof and warm clothing. 👒 Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, windproof and sun protection. 🧴 Skincare: Sunscreen is a must, and don't forget lip balm. 🎒 Personal items: Water bottle, staying hydrated is key. 📸 Photography equipment: Camera, phone, capture beautiful moments. 🪪 Documents: ID card, cash, travel with peace of mind. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, painkillers, just in case. . Alxa, a mysterious and beautiful place, is waiting for you to explore and make your trip a spiritual adventure 🌄.

The two things I fear most when traveling during National Day are crowds and running out of money. This year, I tried an off-the-beaten-path approach for you: picking lesser-known cities where you can enjoy a "private" experience on a CNY 500 budget. No rushing to tourist traps, no fighting crowds—just taking the holiday back for yourself. 01 Yangzhou | Jiangsu 🍜 At 7:00 AM, head to Pishi Street in the south of the city. Find an old-school shop for a bowl of dry-mixed noodles and kidney soup. It costs just over CNY 10, which is way more authentic than those viral spots. After eating, walk down the alley to He Garden. It's quiet and uncrowded, and the interplay of light and shadow in the corridors and the Pishi Mountain Villa is perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⏰ Visit Ge Garden after 3:00 PM to avoid the peak tour group hours. The garden isn't huge, but the Four Seasons Rockery is the highlight. You can walk through it in under 2 hours. Don't rush out. Sit on a stone bench under the Baoshan Pavilion and enjoy the breeze—it's much more relaxing than rushing from place to place. 📍 You don't need a combo ticket for Slender West Lake; just buy a general admission ticket. Enter from the South Gate, walk along the lake to the Twenty-Four Bridge, and head back. Two hours is plenty. If you want to save money, bring your own water and snacks. Things inside the scenic area are ridiculously expensive. 02 Luoyang | Qinghai ⚠️ A quick heads-up: You must get to the Longmen Grottoes early. Go in as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM. You can see the main grottoes in 2 hours by walking from the West Hill to the East Hill. After 10:00 AM, once the tour groups arrive, the boardwalks get so crowded you'll question your life choices. 📍 Don't leave right after the grottoes. Take a bus to Guanlin Temple. The ticket is cheap, and the courtyard with its ancient cypress trees is incredibly peaceful. In the afternoon, head to Wangcheng Park, where the locals hang out. The peony season is over, but the park is lush and shady. If you're tired of walking, pay CNY 5 to sit for a while. 🚄 Laojun Mountain and Jiguan Cave are in Luanchuan County, a 2-hour bus ride from the city center. If you're short on time, I suggest skipping them. These 3 spots in the city are enough for a day and a half, and the money you save on transport is enough for 2 extra bowls of beef soup. 03 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Zhaoqing was my biggest surprise this trip. Seven Star Crags and Dinghu Mountain are famous, but I recommend the Xinghu Greenway, where the locals go. Rent a shared bike in the evening and ride along the lake. The evening breeze blows away all the daytime heat. 📍 Start from Archway Square and ride east to Yanqian Village—this stretch has the best scenery. There are plenty of small bars and cafes in the village. Find one by the lake, order a CNY 10 lemon tea, and watch the lights of Seven Star Crags on the opposite shore turn on one by one. ⏰ Go to Dinghu Mountain the next morning. The trail to Feishuitan is great for an early start; the negative ion concentration is so high it feels like a spa for your lungs. There's a shuttle bus at the foot of the mountain, but I recommend hiking. You can reach the top in 2 hours, and the scenery is just as good as what you'd see from the bus. 🍜 For food, you must try the Danjia cake and wrapped sticky rice dumplings. 04 Changji | Xinjiang If you have a full 3 days, I highly recommend saving your budget for Changji. The most valuable thing here is the scenery, not the admission tickets. The wheat fields in Jiangbulake have turned yellow. When the wind blows, the whole hillside ripples like waves. Looking down from the observation deck, you'll realize autumn in Xinjiang is even more vast than you imagined. 📍 The ticket for Tianshan Tianchi is definitely not cheap, but if you enter the scenic area after 4:00 PM, there are half as many people. Take the shuttle to the top and walk west for 10 minutes to lose the crowds. Under the row of spruce trees by the lake, the sound of the wind and the water blend together—you could sit there all afternoon. Wucaiwan is better as a quick stop. If you're driving, arrive before sunset. The red and yellow rock layers look amazing in the slanting sunlight—they look great without any filters. ⚠️ The temperature difference at night is significant, so remember to bring a fleece jacket. 05 Chongqing Don't go to Hongya Cave; you'll get your shoes trampled off during National Day. Dazu Rock Carvings is the most solid "hidden gem" answer around Chongqing. Take the high-speed train from the city to Dazu South Station, then it's just a 10-minute taxi ride. The rock carving complex is massive. Every niche in Baoding Mountain has a story. I recommend hiring a guide, or you won't really understand the significance of the flying apsaras and the sutra illustrations. 📍 Wulong Karst is perfect if you like walking. The trail at the Three Natural Bridges takes about 1.5 hours. You'll be walking through the canyon the whole time, with sinkholes above you and underground rivers below. ⏰ It's best to go in the morning when the light reaches the bottom of the valley, so you don't need a flash for photos. 🍜 There's no need to stay at Jiefangbei. Choose somewhere near Xiejiawan or Daping subway stations; you can stay at a decent chain hotel for CNY 60–70 per person. 06 Haixi | Qinghai Haixi is the most unearthly place I visited on this trip. Chaka Salt Lake is famous, but honestly, if the weather is bad, it's just a patch of gray water. I was lucky enough to catch a sunny day. Walking into the center of the lake, with clouds under my feet and clouds above my head, it felt like I was walking on the sky. Qarhan Salt Lake is the real treasure. It's dozens of times larger than Chaka, but has far fewer tourists. The green brine pools look like giant emeralds in the sunlight. 📍 Walk 2 kilometers deeper, and you can see the salt mining ships at work. The combination of industrial vibes and desolation is truly stunning. 📍 Emerald Lake is near Mangya. It takes over 4 hours to drive there from Golmud. The road conditions are average, so it's better for experienced drivers. 07 Shenyang | Liaoning Autumn in Shenyang is golden. The Zhaoling Tomb in Beiling Park is hidden among the yellow leaves. Enter from the main gate, and a straight stone path leads to the tomb, flanked by ancient pine trees that block out the sky. ⏰ Go at 8:00 AM. The locals are all out exercising—dancing with fans, walking their birds, kicking shuttlecocks. The local vibe is even better than the attraction itself. The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda is in the north of the city. Few people know about it. The pagoda is weathered, surrounded by old residential buildings. Standing under the pagoda, you can hear the wind chimes. That feeling of traveling through time is worth more than any travel guide. Beita Falun Temple is right next to the relic pagoda, a 5-minute walk away. The temple isn't big and isn't crowded with incense smoke, but the architecture is well-preserved, and the paintings on the eaves are still colorful. 🍜 After visiting the temple, stop by the nearby Muslim Quarter. Have some shumai and lamb offal soup—you'll be stuffed for CNY 30 per person. 08 Alxa | Inner Mongolia The golden period for the Populus euphratica forest is only 20 days, and National Day is right at the tail end. If you only go to Ejina once in your life, go during the first 10 days of October when the leaves are at their yellowest. 📍 The reflection forest in the Erdaoqiao area is a must-see. In the early morning when there's no wind, the tree shadows and the sky reflect in the water—it's unbelievably beautiful. Badain Jaran Desert is the cleanest desert I've ever seen. The lines of the sand dunes are so clean they look like they were sculpted by the wind. If you're not an off-road enthusiast, don't try to cross it yourself. Rent a car with a local driver to take you to the highest Bilutu Peak for sunset. It costs CNY 200 round trip, and it's worth every penny. ⚠️ Accommodation in Ejina triples or quadruples during National Day. Even if you book 2 months in advance, you might not get a room.

Avoid the crowds at popular tourist spots during the National Day holiday! These places offer beautiful scenery, fewer people, and lower costs – the smart way to travel is to go against the grain. I've laid out the itinerary, expenses, and pitfalls for you, so you can just copy my advice. 01 Suizhou | Hubei 📍 Dahongshan Scenic Area: Entrance fee plus shuttle bus is around 100 yuan, almost half the price of many similar mountain scenic areas. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 8 am. Before the fog clears, walking on the mountain ridge trails feels like walking on cotton; every snapshot is like a traditional Chinese ink painting. 🍜 At the farmhouses in Lulin Town at the foot of the mountain, the signature dish is braised yellow catfish with cured pork; you can eat your fill for around 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't buy water or instant noodles at the top of the mountain; the price is double. Bringing your own thermos is the most practical. Signal is weak in the mountains, so cache offline maps beforehand for your navigation system, otherwise you might get lost at intersections. There aren't many steps along the way, so even the elderly and children can complete the core section. 02 Shanghai Don't just think of the Bund and Lujiazui when you think of Shanghai; going there during the National Day holiday is just seeing crowds. If you want to save money but still have a quality experience, I've planned two routes for you to choose from. Route 1: From the Expo Park to the Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site. The Expo Park is now a public space, free to enter, and the pavilions and cafes converted from old factories are particularly photogenic. The Guangfulin Underwater Museum is worth half a day; tickets are around 30 yuan. Watching the buildings emerge from the water is much more meaningful than many trendy exhibitions. ⚠️ Guangfulin is closed on Mondays, so don't waste your time. 🚄 Taking Metro Line 9 and then a bus is the cheapest option. Taking a taxi from the city center will cost over 100 yuan, which is not cost-effective. Route 2: For Yu Garden and the Disney area. Yu Garden itself isn't expensive, but the surrounding food stalls have a very high chance of being disappointing. A bowl of noodles can cost 40 yuan and isn't even good. It's better to walk a few steps deeper into the alleyways and find the local-style pan-fried dumpling stalls with long queues. If you don't buy a ticket to enter the Disney resort, you can visit the surrounding Disney Town and Wishing Star Park for free, and you can still enjoy half the atmosphere of the evening light show. 🍜 Have lunch at Chuansha Old Street; the local dishes are plentiful and reasonably priced, much more affordable than restaurants inside the park. 03 Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajue Mountain isn't widely known, but the scenery is absolutely stunning. 🚄 You can take a dedicated bus from Fuzhou city center; the ticket is only around ten yuan, much cheaper than hiring a car. ⏰ In the morning, go rafting to see the canyon; the water is crystal clear. During the National Day holiday, you can even catch the tail end of the autumn harvest season; the corn and chili peppers hanging on the cliffs are particularly photogenic. The cable car costs 80 yuan round trip; if you're fit, I suggest buying a one-way ticket, as the walk down the mountain offers views of waterfalls not visible from the cable car. 🍜 The Zixi bread and sesame cakes in the ancient town at the foot of the mountain cost only two or three yuan each, and they smell especially delicious fresh out of the oven. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring enough water. Sunscreen is a must; the UV rays are stronger than you think. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Visiting the Populus euphratica forest and the Badain Jaran Desert together is the ultimate budget-friendly desert adventure. ⚠️ First and foremost, the Populus euphratica forest is at its peak golden color during the National Day holiday, but accommodation prices in Ejin Banner will skyrocket. Booking a month in advance can save you under 300 yuan, but prices will basically double before the holiday. 📍 Don't just follow the electric carts in the scenic area. Walk a bit towards Erdaoqiao; it's less crowded, and the reflections of the Populus euphratica in the water are even more stunning than in the main scenic area. Driving an off-road vehicle into the Badain Jaran Desert is a huge expense; sharing a ride among four people is the most cost-effective. Remember to find a reputable carpooling company. 🍜 A meal of hand-pulled mutton in town costs around 50 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. ⏰ The desert gets windy and cold after 7 PM, so leave quickly after taking sunset photos; a windproof jacket is a must. 05 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Many people assume that Jiuzhaigou, Siguniang Mountain, and Huanglong will cost several thousand yuan, but with proper planning, you can have a very comfortable trip for under 3,000 yuan. Entrance fees to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are mandatory, but the shuttle bus is essential; walking is simply impractical. ⚠️ The Nuorilang Restaurant in Jiuzhaigou is expensive and mediocre; bringing your own self-heating meal and eating in the rest area is much better. For Siguniang Mountain, I recommend only visiting Shuangqiao Valley, which involves both sightseeing buses and boardwalks, requiring less physical exertion, and you'll see about 70-80% of the scenery. 🍜 Yak meat hot pot in Rilong Town costs just over 100 yuan for two people; it warms you up completely. ⏰ Enter Huanglong after 2 PM to avoid morning tour groups; the lighting at the Five-Colored Pool is perfect. Altitude sickness varies from person to person. It's recommended to start taking Rhodiola rosea three days in advance; don't wait until you arrive to try and treat it. 06 Turpan | Xinjiang The route through the Flaming Mountains, Kumtag Desert, and Turpan city is surprisingly affordable, unlike typical Xinjiang destinations. 🔥 You can see the iconic reddish-brown Flaming Mountains from the roadside outside the scenic area; you don't necessarily need to buy a ticket to enter. If you want to take pictures of the Journey to the West statues, just look up at them from the entrance; inside, it's mainly just a thermometer and sculptures. The Kumtag Desert is in Shanshan County, 🚄 a 20-minute high-speed train ride. The entrance fee plus shuttle bus fare is a few dozen yuan, and renting a sandboard costs 20 yuan—enough for an afternoon of fun. 🍜 In Turpan city, you can find anywhere: noodles for just over 20 yuan, lamb skewers for 6 yuan a skewer, and raisins by the kilogram are half the price of those at the scenic area. ⚠️ In early October, Turpan can still reach 30 degrees Celsius at midday, but there's a large temperature difference between day and night. Short sleeves and a jacket are the safest bet. 07 Tianshui | Gansu The Maijishan Grottoes aren't as famous as Dunhuang, but their artistic value and value for money are far superior. Tickets are around 80 yuan, with further discounts for students and seniors. ⏰ It's best to enter the mountain early in the morning, when the sunlight shines obliquely on the statues, making the details of their clothing crystal clear. The plank road is suspended, so those with a fear of heights should prepare themselves mentally, but the awe-inspiring experience is worth it. Wushan Water Curtain Cave is a bit further from the city center, but it's cool inside, perfect for escaping the afternoon sun. Fuxi Temple is in the city center, with tickets at 20 yuan. The ancient cypress trees inside are over a thousand years old; touching them can supposedly bring some divine energy. 🍜 Tianshui's "Guagua" and "Ranran" are must-try local specialties, 6 yuan a bowl, spicy and fragrant without being overly hot. ⚠️ An audio guide is necessary within the Maijishan Scenic Area; otherwise, you'll just be looking at the sights without really experiencing it. 08 Ankang | Shaanxi This small city in southern Shaanxi hides scenery that is least like Shaanxi itself. The Qianceng River cascades down in layers, like a natural tiered swimming pool. During the National Day holiday, the water level was perfect, and the sound of the rushing water was so pleasant you could sit and listen for an entire afternoon without getting tired of it. ⏰ After 3 PM, the sunlight filters through the trees, turning the water a golden-green hue – perfect for photos without filters. The Fengyan Ancient Terraces are located in Hanyin County. In October, after the rice harvest, the terraces are exposed, their layered beauty even more geometric than when they were lush and green. 🚄 There are buses from Ankang city, a journey of a little over an hour, with good road conditions. 🍜 In the county town, you can enjoy a hearty meal of pickled cabbage stir-fried with konjac and Hanyin kangkang buns for about 20 yuan per person. ⚠️ It gets cool in the mountains in the mornings and evenings, so bring a fleece jacket. Driving or hiring a car is recommended, as the attractions are far apart, so be sure to time your public transportation carefully. Of these eight places, Ankang and Suizhou surprised me the most. Despite their stunning scenery and reasonable prices, they are often overlooked. Instead of queuing for two hours at popular tourist attractions during the National Day holiday, why not choose a destination and go in the opposite direction? Tell us in the comments which one you'd most like to visit! Avoid the crowds at popular tourist spots during the National Day holiday. These places are beautiful, less crowded, and cheaper. Going against the grain is the smart way to travel. I've laid out the route, expenses, and pitfalls for you, so you can just copy my advice. 01 Suizhou | Hubei 📍 Dahongshan Scenic Area: Tickets plus shuttle bus cost around 100 yuan, almost half the price of many similar mountain scenic areas. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 8 am. Before the fog clears, walking on the mountain ridge trails feels like walking on cotton; every snapshot is like a traditional Chinese ink painting. 🍜 At the farmhouses in Lulin Town at the foot of the mountain, the signature dish is braised yellow catfish with cured pork; you can eat your fill for around 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't buy water or instant noodles at the mountaintop; the price will double. Bringing your own thermos is the most practical solution. Signal is weak in the mountains, so cache offline maps for your navigation system beforehand, otherwise you might get lost at intersections. There aren't many steps along the way, so even the elderly and children can manage the core section. 02 Shanghai Don't just think of the Bund and Lujiazui when you think of Shanghai; going there during the National Day holiday is just seeing crowds. If you want to save money but still have a quality experience, I've planned two routes for you to choose from. Route 1: From the World Expo Park to the Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site. The World Expo Park is now a public space, free to enter, and the pavilions and cafes converted from old factories are particularly photogenic. The Guangfulin Underwater Museum is worth spending half a day at; the ticket price is around 30 yuan. Watching the buildings emerge from the water is much more meaningful than many trendy exhibitions. ⚠️ Guangfulin is closed on Mondays, so don't waste your time. 🚄 Taking Metro Line 9 and then a bus is the cheapest option. Taking a taxi from the city center will cost over 100 yuan, which is not worthwhile. Route two is reserved for Yu Garden and the area around Disneyland. Yu Garden itself isn't expensive, but the surrounding food stalls are notoriously bad; a bowl of noodles can cost 40 yuan and isn't even good. It's better to walk a few steps deeper into the alleyways and find the local pan-fried dumpling stalls with long queues. If you don't buy a ticket to enter the Disneyland resort, you can visit the outer Disney Town and Wishing Star Park for free, and you can still enjoy half the atmosphere of the evening light show. 🍜 Have lunch at Chuansha Old Street; the local dishes are plentiful and reasonably priced, much more affordable than the restaurants inside the park. 03 Fuzhou|Jiangxi Not many people know about Dajue Mountain, but the scenery is absolutely stunning. 🚄 You can take a dedicated bus from downtown Fuzhou; the ticket is only around ten yuan, much cheaper than hiring a car. ⏰ In the morning, go to the rafting section to see the canyon. The water is so clear you can see the bottom. During the National Day holiday, you can even catch the tail end of the autumn harvest season; the corn and chili pepper strings on the cliff face are particularly photogenic. The cable car ride to the mountain costs 80 yuan round trip. If you're physically fit, I recommend buying a one-way ticket; the walk down the mountain offers views of waterfalls not accessible from the cable car. 🍜 The Zixi bread and sesame cakes in the ancient town at the foot of the mountain cost only two or three yuan each, and they smell especially delicious fresh out of the oven. ⚠️ Supply points are scarce on the mountain, so bring your own water. Sunscreen is a must; the UV rays are stronger than you might expect. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Visiting the Populus euphratica forest and the Badain Jaran Desert together is a budget-friendly option for desert enthusiasts. ⚠️ Important note: the Populus euphratica forest is at its peak yellow during the National Day holiday, but accommodation prices in Ejin Banner will skyrocket. Booking a month in advance can get you a deal under 300 yuan, but prices will basically double before the holiday. 📍 Don't just follow the electric carts in the scenic area. Walk a short distance towards the Second Bridge; it's less crowded, and the reflections of the Populus euphratica in the water are even more stunning than in the main scenic area. Driving an off-road vehicle into the Badain Jaran Desert is a significant expense; sharing a ride with four people is the most cost-effective option. Remember to hire a reputable tour group. 🍜 A meal of hand-pulled mutton in town costs around 50 RMB per person, and the portions are generous. ⏰ The desert gets windy and cold after 7 PM, so leave quickly after taking sunset photos. A windproof jacket is a must. 05 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Many people assume that Jiuzhaigou, Siguniang Mountain, and Huanglong will cost several thousand RMB, but with proper planning, you can enjoy a comfortable trip for under 3,000 RMB. Entrance fees to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are mandatory, but you must buy the shuttle bus; walking is simply impractical. ⚠️ The Nuorilang Restaurant in Jiuzhaigou is expensive and mediocre; bringing your own self-heating meal and eating in the rest area is much better. For Siguniang Mountain, I recommend only visiting Shuangqiao Valley, which involves both sightseeing buses and boardwalks. It requires less physical exertion and allows you to see about 70-80% of the scenery. 🍜 Yak meat hot pot in Rilong Town costs just over 100 yuan for two people; it warms you up completely. ⏰ Enter Huanglong after 2 PM to avoid morning tour groups; the lighting at the Five-Colored Pool is perfect. Altitude sickness varies from person to person; start taking Rhodiola rosea three days in advance, don't wait until you arrive to try. 06 Turpan | Xinjiang This route—Flaming Mountains, Kumtag Desert, and Turpan city—is surprisingly cheap for Xinjiang. 🔥 You can see the iconic ochre-red mountains from the roadside outside the Flaming Mountains scenic area; you don't necessarily need to buy a ticket to enter. If you want to take pictures of the Journey to the West statues, just look up at them from the entrance; inside, it's mainly just a thermometer and sculptures. Kumtag Desert is in Shanshan County, 🚄 a 20-minute high-speed train ride. The entrance fee plus shuttle bus is a few dozen yuan, and a sandboard rental is 20 yuan—enough to spend an afternoon there. 🍜 In Turpan city, you can find a restaurant where noodles cost just over 20 yuan, lamb skewers are 6 yuan a skewer, and raisins are half the price of those at tourist attractions when bought by the kilogram. ⚠️ In early October, Turpan can still reach 30 degrees Celsius at midday, with a large temperature difference between day and night. Short sleeves and a jacket are the safest bet. 07 Tianshui|Gansu The Maijishan Grottoes are not as famous as Dunhuang, but their artistic value and value for money are far superior. Tickets are around 80 yuan, with further discounts for students and seniors. ⏰ It's best to enter the mountains early in the morning during the first wave. The sunlight shines obliquely on the grotto statues, making the details of their clothing crystal clear. The plank roads are suspended, so those with a fear of heights should prepare themselves mentally, but the awe-inspiring experience is worth it. The Wushan Water Curtain Cave is a bit further from the city center, but it's cool inside, perfect for escaping the sun in the afternoon. The Fuxi Temple is in the city center, with tickets costing 20 yuan. The ancient cypress trees inside are over a thousand years old; touching them can supposedly bring some divine energy. 🍜 You absolutely must try the "Guagua" and "Ranran" restaurants in Tianshui! A bowl costs six yuan, and the spiciness is fragrant but not overpowering. ⚠️ You need to rent an audio guide inside the Maijishan Scenic Area, otherwise you'll just be watching the spectacle. 08 Ankang | Shaanxi This small city in southern Shaanxi hides scenery that's least like Shaanxi itself. The Qianceng River cascades down in layers, like a natural stepped swimming pool. During the National Day holiday, the water level was perfect, and the sound of the rushing water was so pleasant you could sit and listen for an entire afternoon without getting tired of it. ⏰ After 3 pm, the light filters through the trees, turning the water a golden-green hue—perfect for photos without filters. The Fengyan Ancient Terraces are in Hanyin County. In October, after the rice harvest, the terraces are exposed, their layered beauty even more striking than when they were lush and green. 🚄 There are buses from Ankang city center; the journey takes a little over an hour, and the road conditions are good. 🍜 In the county town, you can eat your fill of pickled cabbage stir-fried with konjac and Hanyin kang kang mo (a type of flatbread) for just 20 yuan per person. ⚠️ It gets cool in the mountains in the mornings and evenings, so bring a fleece jacket. Driving or hiring a car is recommended here, as the attractions are far apart, so be sure to time your public transportation carefully. Of these eight places, Ankang and Suizhou surprised me the most. Despite their stunning scenery and reasonable prices, they are often overlooked. Instead of queuing for two hours at popular tourist spots during the National Day holiday, why not choose one and travel in the opposite direction? Tell us in the comments, which one appeals to you the most?

Avoid the Crowds! These 8️⃣ Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities Hold the Most Authentic Chinese Charm 01 Bijie | Guizhou In short: If you want to see karst landscapes but don't want to be crammed into popular caves, head straight to Bijie. Zhijin Cave is among the largest in China, with a nearly two-kilometer walking path inside. Looking down and up, every step is a real-life geology lesson. ⚠️ The cave is dimly lit and the steps are slippery. Those with elderly people or children must wear non-slip shoes. Don't wear high heels; you'll only make things difficult. The breathtaking beauty of Baili Rhododendron lies in its sheer scale, not just a few trees, but an entire hillside stretching to the horizon in a sea of ​​flowers. ⏰ Mid-April is the peak blooming season. After that, the petals start to fall and the color fades. There are sightseeing buses in the scenic area, but it's recommended to at least hike a part of the way. The paths among the flowers are the secret to taking photos without the crowds. In terms of transportation, taking the high-speed train from Guiyang North Station to Bijie Station takes about an hour, and then a taxi from there to Zhijin Cave takes another hour and a half. If you're short on time and can only choose one destination, I'd recommend Zhijin Cave; the Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is more suitable for those who come specifically to admire the flowers. 02 Panjin | Liaoning The name "Red Beach Scenic Corridor" sounds like a trendy filter, but the actual scenery is even more vibrant than a filter. In autumn, the Suaeda salsa transitions from light pink to deep red in layers, paired with reeds and waterbirds on the mudflats, making the entire coastline a natural oil painting. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 PM; the red is most saturated when viewed with front lighting, and silhouettes are also beautiful when photographed against the light. The corridor is quite long; those with average stamina shouldn't try to walk the entire length. Renting an electric scooter and stopping in sections is more comfortable. ⚠️ The mudflats are slippery before and after high tide; don't leave the boardwalk and step into the mud, or your shoes will be ruined. Seafood restaurants in the scenic area are relatively expensive. I recommend going back to the city to eat Panjin river crabs, which are plump and full of roe in September and October. One crab with a bowl of rice is enough to satisfy. Driving is the best option here. Get off at Panjin Station and rent or hire a car. For those wanting to see the Red Beach, late September to mid-October is the best time. Later in the month, the wind picks up and the grass dries, causing the colors to fade. 03 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The Populus euphratica forest and the Badain Jaran Desert offer completely different experiences, but both are worth allowing ample time for. The Populus euphratica forest is most stunning in early October when the leaves are a deep yellow but haven't fallen yet. Sunlight filters through the canopy, making the entire forest look like it's been gilded. ⚠️ During the National Day holiday, there will be large crowds. To capture clean, empty shots, it's recommended to enter the park before 8:00 AM and head directly towards Erdaoqiao (Second Bridge). The dunes of the Badain Jaran Desert have sharper lines than those of other deserts. At sunset, standing on high ground, the light and shadow cut the dune ridges into two halves, one bright and one dark. When the wind blows, the sand grains roll along the ground like ripples. Off-road driving is a signature activity here, but those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand and not try to tough it out. 🚄 The nearest airport is in Alxa Left Banner, but flights are infrequent. It's more common to fly to Yinchuan first and then drive, a journey of about three hours. The temperature difference between day and night in the desert is significant; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. Don't just bring a light jacket. 04 Yili | Xinjiang The Yili River Valley is like a green corridor, stitching together snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and seas of flowers. In spring, visit the Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley. When the wild apricot trees on the hillsides bloom, the pink and white petals cover the dark brown branches, falling like a rain of blossoms when the wind blows. ⏰ The flowering season lasts only about ten days, from early to mid-April. If you miss it, you'll have to wait another year. The three-dimensionality of the Kalajun Grassland is unparalleled; the undulating grassy slopes are dotted with cattle and sheep, perfect for a leisurely horseback ride. The Gongnaisi Grassland is better suited for self-driving; the roads are in good condition, and the scenery is along the way, not at the destination. If you only plan to stay for a day or two, focus on Kalajun and Xinghua Valley. Don't try to see everything on the grassland; you'll be exhausted. ⚠️ Accommodation in Yili is in high demand during peak season, especially near the Kalajun scenic area. Booking two weeks in advance is essential. 🚄 Yining Station is the railway terminus. After exiting the station, hire a car or rent a vehicle to enter the grassland. Don't expect public transportation to reach the depths of the scenic area. 05 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Kanbula National Geological Park is an underrated place. Danxia landforms and reservoirs and lakes overlap, the mountains are a deep red, and the water is a jade-green; the two colors collide, creating a strong visual impact. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the fog hasn't dissipated, and the lake reflects the surrounding scenery, making it the best time for photography. Within the scenic area, you'll need to transfer to a shuttle bus. The roads are winding and steep, so those prone to motion sickness should prepare accordingly. ⚠️ The altitude here is close to 3,000 meters. When you first arrive at high altitude, don't run or jump; walk slowly to acclimatize. For those driving, be aware that some sections are one-way streets; follow the signs and don't drive against traffic. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Xining. A day trip from Xining is recommended; there's plenty of time. If you brought a telephoto lens, remember to bring it; it's essential for capturing the Danxia landforms and lake details. 06 Linzhi | Tibet Linzhi is the first stop on your journey to Tibet. Its relatively low altitude and high oxygen content make it a good place to acclimatize before heading to Lhasa. The waters of Basum Tso are an unrealistically blue; on a sunny day, the lake resembles a giant gemstone. The small villages along the lake are so quiet you can hear the prayer flags fluttering in the wind. ⏰ May and June are the clearest months for the lake. The forests around Bomi are dense and shrouded in mist, like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting. The Yunnan-Tibet Highway from Nyingchi to Bomi has good road conditions, but the scenery is extremely beautiful. Snow-capped mountains, pine forests, and rivers appear alternately along the way, making this section a highlight of the road trip. You can see Namcha Barwa Peak from the viewing platform in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, but luck plays a big role; if there are many clouds, you may not see the full view even after waiting for a long time. ⚠️ It's windy inside the canyon, so bring a windproof jacket. 🚄 There are direct flights from Nyingchi Airport to Chengdu, but ticket prices fluctuate greatly, so it's more cost-effective to buy in advance. Be aware of rockfalls during the rainy season if you're driving, and try to avoid entering the canyon in July and August. 07 Jinzhong | Shanxi The highlights of Jinzhong are concentrated in the Shanxi merchant courtyards and ancient city, but if time is limited, I recommend choosing either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound. The Qiao Family Compound is famous, with a compact layout and a clear tour route, making it suitable for first-time visitors. The Wang Family Compound is larger, with more intricate brick and wood carvings, but walking around it will leave your legs sore. ⚠️ Both compounds are less crowded in the morning, but become popular with tour groups in the afternoon, so go early rather than late. Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu offers a different experience, with steep cliffs and temples nestled in the rock face. The view from the summit is expansive. Those with average stamina can take the cable car up and down, saving their energy for the mountaintop walkways. Pingyao Ancient City is worth staying overnight. After the city walls are lit up at night and the tourists have dispersed, strolling through the ancient streets and alleys allows you to truly appreciate its charm. 🍜 The bowl-shaped rice cakes and kaolaogong (a type of steamed bun) in the ancient city are worth trying, but avoid the main street. Walk a few steps into the alleys for better prices and taste. 🚄 There's a high-speed train from Jinzhong Station, only half an hour from Taiyuan. You can choose Taiyuan as your base and concentrate your Jinzhong itinerary there. 08 Enshi | Hubei The cliffside walkway in Enshi Grand Canyon is the biggest highlight. Walking on the edge of the cliff, with a deep valley below and layered mountain peaks opposite, the wind blows up from the valley floor—few people can resist the urge to walk. ⚠️ The walkway takes about two hours in total. People with knee problems should be cautious. The cable car only goes halfway up the mountain; the second half still requires walking. ⏰ The best lighting is in the morning; in the afternoon, the backlight makes the mountain patterns blurry. The Shennong Stream Boatmen Cultural Tourism Area focuses more on the cultural experience. Boating through the canyon, the boatmen's chants echo from the banks, creating a feeling of traveling through time. The architecture of Enshi Tusi City is well-preserved; the layout and carvings of the nine-hall complex are worth examining closely, but a guided tour is recommended, otherwise, you'll just be rushing through the sights. Enshi Qingjiang River is perfect for a boat tour. With verdant mountains lining the river and crystal-clear waters, waterfalls and karst caves appear alternately along the way. The entire trip takes about three hours, ideal for a leisurely experience if you don't want to walk. 🚄 There are direct high-speed trains from Enshi Station to Wuhan, taking about four hours. The Grand Canyon is about an hour's drive from the city center; you can get there by chartered car or tourist bus. Eight places, each with its own unique character. Personally, I can't forget the Apricot Blossom Valley in Yili and the canyon boardwalk in Enshi. One is so gentle it's breathtaking, the other so thrilling it's invigorating. Which have you been to? Or which one got you hooked? Share your thoughts in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some disappointments. Avoid the crowds! These 8️⃣ off-the-beaten-path cities hide the most authentic China 01 Bijie|Guizhou In short: If you want to see karst landscapes but don't want to squeeze into the queues at popular caves, come directly to Bijie. Zhijin Cave is among the largest in China, with a nearly two-kilometer walking path inside. Looking down and up at the ceiling, every step is a real-life geology lesson. ⚠️ The cave is dimly lit and the steps are slippery. Those with elderly people or children must wear non-slip shoes. Don't wear high heels; you'll only make things difficult. The breathtaking beauty of Baili Rhododendron lies in its sheer scale, not just a few trees, but an entire hillside stretching to the horizon in a sea of ​​flowers. ⏰ Mid-April is the peak blooming season. After this time, the petals begin to fall and the color fades. There are sightseeing buses in the scenic area, but it's recommended to at least hike a portion of the way. The paths among the flowers are the secret to taking photos without the crowds. Regarding transportation, 🚄 take the high-speed train from Guiyang North Station to Bijie Station (about an hour), and then take a taxi to Zhijin Cave (another hour and a half). If you're short on time and can only choose one place, I'd recommend Zhijin Cave; Baili Rhododendron is more suitable for those who come specifically to admire the flowers. 02 Panjin | Liaoning The name "Red Beach Scenic Corridor" sounds like a trendy filter, but the actual scenery is even more vibrant than a filter. In autumn, the Suaeda salsa transitions from light pink to deep red in layers, complemented by reeds and waterbirds on the mudflats, making the entire coastline a natural oil painting. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 PM, with the red appearing most saturated when viewed with the light from the side, and silhouettes taken against the light also turn out beautifully. The corridor is quite long; those with average stamina shouldn't attempt to walk the entire length. Renting an electric scooter and stopping at designated sections is much more comfortable. ⚠️ The mudflats are slippery before and after high tide. Don't leave the boardwalk and step into the mud; one step will ruin your shoes. Seafood restaurants within the scenic area are relatively expensive. I recommend returning to the city to eat Panjin river crabs, which are plump and full of roe in September and October. One crab with a bowl of rice is enough to satisfy. Driving is recommended here. 🚄 Get off at Panjin Station and rent or hire a car for the most convenient option. For those wanting to see the Red Beach, late September to mid-October is the best time. Later, the wind picks up and the grass dries, causing the colors to fade. 03 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The Populus euphratica forest and the Badain Jaran Desert offer two completely different experiences, but both are worth allowing ample time for. The Populus euphratica forest is most stunning in early October, when the leaves are a deep yellow but haven't fallen yet. Sunlight filters through the canopy, making the entire forest appear gilded. ⚠️ During the National Day holiday, there will be large crowds. To capture clean, empty shots, it's recommended to enter the park before 8 AM and head directly towards the Second Bridge. The dunes of the Badain Jaran Desert have sharper lines than other deserts. At sunset, standing on high ground, the light and shadow cut the dune ridges into two halves of light and dark. When the wind blows, the sand grains roll along the ground like ripples. Off-road driving is a signature activity here, but those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand and not try to push themselves. 🚄 The nearest airport is in Alxa Left Banner, but flights are infrequent. It's more common to fly to Yinchuan first and then drive, a journey of about three hours. The temperature difference between day and night in the desert is significant; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. Don't just pack a light jacket. 04 Yili | Xinjiang The Yili River Valley is like a green corridor, stitching together snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and seas of flowers. In spring, visit the Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley. When the wild apricot trees on the hillsides are in bloom, the pink and white petals cover the dark brown branches, and a gust of wind can create a shower of blossoms. ⏰ The flowering period lasts only about ten days, from early to mid-April. If you miss it, you'll have to wait another year. The Kalajun Grassland has a unique three-dimensional feel, with undulating grassy slopes dotted with cattle and sheep, perfect for a leisurely horseback ride. The Gongnaisi Grassland is best explored by car; the roads are good, and the scenery is along the way, not at the destination. If you only plan to stay for a day or two, focus on Kalajun and Xinghuagou. Don't try to explore the entire grassland; you'll be exhausted. ⚠️ Accommodation in Yili is in high demand during peak season, especially near the Kalajun scenic area. Booking two weeks in advance is essential. 🚄 Yining Station is the railway terminus. After exiting the station, hire a car or rent a vehicle to enter the grassland. Don't expect public transportation to reach the depths of the scenic area. 05 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Kanbula National Geological Park is an underrated place. Danxia landforms and reservoirs/lakes overlap, with the mountains a dark red and the water a jade-green, creating a striking visual impact. ⏰ Before 10 AM, when the fog hasn't dissipated and the lake reflects the surrounding scenery, it's the best time for photography. Within the scenic area, you need to transfer to a shuttle bus. The roads are winding and steep, so those prone to motion sickness should prepare accordingly. ⚠️ The altitude here is close to 3,000 meters. When you first arrive at high altitude, don't run or jump; walk slowly to acclimatize. For those driving, please note that some sections of the road are one-way; follow the signs and avoid going the wrong way. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Xining. A day trip from Xining is recommended; there's plenty of time. If you brought a telephoto lens, remember to bring it—it's essential for capturing the Danxia landforms and lake details. 06 Nyingchi | Tibet Nyingchi is the first stop on your journey into Tibet. Its relatively low altitude and high oxygen content make it a good place to acclimatize before continuing to Lhasa. Basum Tso Lake has an unrealistically blue color; on sunny days, the lake surface resembles a giant gemstone. The small villages along the lake are so quiet you can hear the prayer flags fluttering in the wind. ⏰ May and June are the clearest months for the lake. The forests around Bomi are dense and shrouded in mist, like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting. The section of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway from Nyingchi to Bomi has good road conditions but extremely beautiful scenery. Snow-capped mountains, pine forests, and flowing rivers appear alternately along the way; this is where the joy of driving lies. The viewing platform in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon offers a view of Namcha Barwa Peak, but luck plays a significant role; with heavy clouds, you might wait for ages and still not see the full view. ⚠️ It's windy inside the canyon, so bring a windproof jacket – don't be lazy! 🚄 There are direct flights from Linzhi Airport to Chengdu, but ticket prices fluctuate greatly; buying in advance is more cost-effective. If driving, be aware of rockfalls during the rainy season and try to avoid entering the canyon in July and August. 07 Jinzhong | Shanxi The highlights of Jinzhong are concentrated in the Shanxi merchant courtyards and the ancient city. If time is limited, I recommend choosing between the Qiao Family Compound and the Wang Family Compound. The Qiao Family Compound is more famous, with a compact layout and a clear tour route, suitable for first-time visitors; the Wang Family Compound is larger, with more intricate brick and wood carvings, but your legs will be sore after walking around it. ⚠️ Both courtyards are less crowded in the morning, but become packed with tour groups in the afternoon, so go early rather than late. Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu offers a different experience altogether. Its steep slopes and temples nestled into the cliff face provide expansive views from the summit. Those with average stamina can take the cable car up and down, saving their energy for the mountaintop walkways. Pingyao Ancient City is best enjoyed overnight. After the city walls are lit up at night and the tourists have dispersed, strolling through the ancient streets and alleys allows you to truly appreciate its charm. 🍜 The bowl-shaped steamed buns and kaolaogong (a type of steamed bread) in the ancient city are worth trying, but avoid the main street. Walk a few steps into the alleys for better prices and taste. 🚄 There are high-speed trains from Jinzhong Station to Taiyuan, taking only half an hour. Consider using Taiyuan as your base and concentrating your Jinzhong itinerary there. 08 Enshi | Hubei The cliffside walkways of Enshi Grand Canyon are the biggest highlight. Walking on the edge of the cliff, with a deep valley below and layered mountain peaks opposite, the wind blowing up from the valley floor is sure to make your legs weak. ⚠️ The entire boardwalk takes about two hours. People with knee problems should be cautious. The cable car only goes halfway up the mountain; the rest of the way requires walking. ⏰ The best lighting is in the morning. In the afternoon, the backlight will make the mountain patterns blurry. The Shennong Stream Boatmen Cultural Tourism Area focuses more on the cultural experience. Boating through the canyon, the boatmen's chants echo along the banks, creating a sense of time travel. The architecture of Enshi Tusi City is well-preserved; the layout and carvings of the nine-hall complex are worth examining closely, but a guided tour is recommended, otherwise you'll just be rushing through. Enshi Qingjiang River is best enjoyed by boat. With green mountains on both sides and clear water flowing between them, waterfalls and karst caves appear alternately along the way. The entire trip takes about three hours, perfect for a leisurely trip if you don't want to walk. 🚄 There are direct high-speed trains from Enshi Station to Wuhan, taking about four hours. It's about an hour's drive from the city center to the Grand Canyon; you can hire a car or take a tourist bus. Eight places, each with its own unique character. If you ask me, the places I miss most are the Apricot Blossom Valley in Yili and the canyon boardwalk in Enshi. One is so gentle it's breathtaking, the other so thrilling it's sobering. Which one have you been to? Or which one got you burned by? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid these places.

Autumn colors wait for no one. From September to November, the golden hues move from north to south. We picked 4 fall-viewing spots that make you want to just stare, each with its own shade of gold, none the same ✨ 📍 Xinjiang · Kanas + Hemu Address: Provincial Highway 232, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture (Kanas scenic area)/Hemu Village, Hanasi Township Itinerary: Day 1 Urumqi→Beitun→Burqin; Day 2 enter Jiadengyu→Kanas Lake→hike to Shenxian Bay/Moon Bay/Wolong Bay; Day 3 Guan Yutai observation platform for the panorama→stay in a cabin in Hemu Village; Day 4 Hemu morning-mist viewing platform→Baihaba (optional) In mid to late September, birches turn golden and the lakes go emerald, Tuva smoke curling against snow‑capped peaks—it's no exaggeration to call it the pinnacle of autumn scenery 📍 Inner Mongolia · Ejina Banner Address: east of Yidaoqiao, Dalaihubu Town, Ejina Banner, Alxa League (Populus euphratica forest scenic area)/Juyan Lake, 40 km north Itinerary: Day 1 transfer from Yinchuan or Jiayuguan→Dalaihubu Town; Day 2 reflections at Erdao Bridge in the poplar forest→hero grove at Sidao Bridge→desert sunset at Badao Bridge; Day 3 sunrise at Juyan Lake→Heishui City→sunset at the strange forest They only turn golden for about 20 days a year (late September–mid October). The desert's golden poplars are a once‑a‑year show 📍 Sichuan · Jiuzhaigou Address: Zhangzha Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Prefecture (Jiuzhaigou scenic area) Itinerary: Day 1 Chengdu/Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport→valley entrance; Day 2 Rize Valley (Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal)→Zechawa Valley (Long Lake, Five Color Pool)→Shuzheng Valley; Day 3 Huanglong→return via Songpan ancient town From mid October to early November, colorful forests and lakes appear together. The water is clearer than in summer, and strolling the boardwalk is easy 📍 Yunnan · Tengchong (Ginkgo village + Heshun) Address: Gudong Town, Tengchong City, Baoshan (Ginkgo village)/Heshun Town (Heshun ancient town) Itinerary: Day 1 Tengchong station→settle in Heshun ancient town; Day 2 Heshun→Rehai great boiling pot→soak in hot springs; Day 3 Ginkgo village (mid November–early December all yellow)→Beihai Wetland return Autumn arrives here last and most gently. Golden leaves cover courtyards, cats nap on stone steps—perfect for slow stays and no rush 💡 Autumn color timing checkpoints: aim for Kanas before Sept 20, Ejina peak Oct 5–15, Jiuzhaigou is richest at the end of Oct, Tengchong turns yellow in mid Nov. Mountain areas have big temperature swings between morning and night. A lightweight down jacket is always more important than how it looks.

01 Lianyungang | Jiangsu If you’re visiting Lianyungang, I advise you not to just head straight to Huaguo Mountain. The mountain is worth climbing, but a smarter plan is to go there early in the morning before the tour groups arrive. The area in front of Water Curtain Cave is almost empty, so you can get clean shots. ⏰ Arrive at the mountain gate before 8:30 AM for the best experience. After coming down at noon, take a taxi directly to Liandao. Don’t eat seafood at the scenic area entrance—it’s expensive and average. 📍 At Dashawan Beach on the east side of Liandao, the light is best after 3 PM, and the waves are gentle. If you just want to see the sea, you don’t need to buy the scenic area’s shuttle ticket. It’s a 20-minute walk to the reef area, where the breeze is much more pleasant than waiting in line. ⚠️ Return trips on weekend afternoons are prone to traffic jams. It’s best to leave the island before 5 PM. 02 Xiangyang | Hubei The best money spent in Xiangyang is on the ticket to Gulongzhong, which costs just a few dozen yuan. The whole scenic area isn’t large but is quiet, perfect for a slow walk. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid school groups. Focus on the Three Visits Hall and Caolu Pavilion. Don’t rent an audio guide at the entrance—just listen in on a group for a bit. 📍 Enter through the north gate and exit through the south gate, where you can catch a bus back to the city. For lunch, try a bowl of beef noodles on Beijie Street under the ancient city wall. It’s 15 yuan a bowl, and you can adjust the spiciness yourself. ⚠️ Gulongzhong is closed for half a day on Monday mornings, so don’t make a wasted trip. If you only have one day, don’t try to squeeze both Tang City and Gulongzhong in—you won’t finish. 03 Bijie | Guizhou Bijie is an underrated place, especially Zhijin Cave. Once inside, you might wonder if you’re still on Earth. The cave maintains a constant temperature year-round, so bring a light jacket if you visit in summer. ⏰ Enter the cave after 2 PM when there are fewer people and the lighting is more dimensional. 📍 Don’t rush to finish the plank road at the cave exit. Look back once—the reflection of the stalactites on the water is the real highlight. If you visit in mid to late April, the Hundred-Li Azalea will be in full bloom. Don’t drive into the scenic area yourself; the traffic jams are maddening. Taking the shuttle is much easier. ⚠️ The cave is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. Two days and one night is just right. Staying in Zhijin County is half the price of staying in the scenic area. 04 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayingolin is one of those places where you want to stay once you arrive and want to come back after you leave. The sunset at Bayinbuluke Grassland and the winding Nine Bends River truly live up to their reputation, but be prepared—the viewing platform is so windy it can blow you silly. ⏰ Secure your spot before 7:30 PM. The sunset around 9 PM is the most stunning. Don’t try to cross the Taklamakan Desert; just walk along the edge to feel the sensation of walking on shifting sand. 📍 Visit the Tarim Poplar Forest Park in mid to late October when the golden leaves are breathtaking. ⚠️ Cell phone signals in the desert are spotty, so download offline maps in advance. If you’re traveling alone, don’t stay overnight in Bayinbuluke—the accommodations are basic and expensive. 05 Heihe | Heilongjiang What surprised me most about Heihe was the volcanic landscape of Wudalianchi. Standing on the edge of the Laoheshan volcano crater, you’ll feel like the Earth is alive. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 7 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared. The volcanic dam lake looks like a mirror. 📍 After descending Laoheshan, go to Beiyinquan to get a cup of natural mineral water. It tastes a bit rusty and strange, but locals say it’s good for you. ⚠️ Don’t rush to buy the volcanic mud face masks sold inside the scenic area. The same products at the shop near the exit are half the price. Summer is the most comfortable time to visit, but the temperature difference between morning and night is large, so bring a light jacket. If you’re short on time, just visit Laoheshan and Beiyinquan. The other spots are similar. 06 Tianshui | Gansu Tianshui is an outlier in northwest China—moist, quiet, and spiritual. The Maijishan Grottoes are worth the ticket price, but don’t expect to see details up close. The plank road is suspended, and looking down can make your legs weak. ⏰ Go up after 3 PM when the light hits the Buddha statues at an angle, softening their expressions. 📍 The cliff carvings at Wushan Water Curtain Cave are wilder than Maijishan and less crowded, so you can quietly enjoy them for half an hour. Fuxi Temple is in the city. After visiting, head to the nearby Fuxi Temple pedestrian street for a bowl of Tianshui guagua noodles. They’re spicy and have a texture like cold noodles but chewier. ⚠️ The Maijishan plank road is not for those afraid of heights. Know your limits. Two days is enough, and staying in Qinzhou District makes it convenient to get around. 07 Alxa | Inner Mongolia Autumn in Alxa is the most surreal scene in all of Inner Mongolia. The Ejina Poplar Forest Tourism Area is only a golden sea for about 20 days in early to mid-October. Miss it, and you’ll have to wait until next year. ⏰ Arrive at Erdaoqiao before 8 AM. Morning light shines through the poplar leaves, and the water reflections create two worlds. The Badain Jaran Desert is wilder. Off-road driving on the sand is a must-try, but those prone to motion sickness should be cautious. 📍 Miaohai Lake deep in the desert has water so blue it doesn’t look like it belongs in Inner Mongolia. ⚠️ The desert has extreme temperature differences—short sleeves during the day and down jackets at night. Don’t push yourself. This area is best explored by car, but gas stations are few and far between. Fill up whenever you see one; don’t gamble on the next. 08 Anyang | Henan Anyang is a city where the underground is more exciting than the surface. The Yin Ruins Museum holds Shang Dynasty bronzes and oracle bones. ⏰ Enter right at 9 AM when it opens to avoid crowds. You can slowly examine the turtle shells engraved with divination inscriptions behind glass. 📍 Don’t miss the new Yin Ruins Museum building. The museum’s treasure bronze is so detailed it takes your breath away. In the afternoon, visit the Taihang Grand Canyon. Don’t hike the whole way—just the Peach Blossom Valley section is stunning. ⚠️ The Yin Ruins Museum is closed on Mondays. Also, don’t buy so-called oracle bone souvenirs at the scenic area entrance—they’re mostly cheap Yiwu goods. A day and a half is enough. Stay in Anyang’s old town and try fenjiang rice at Cangxiang Street at night. It’s sour and might be an acquired taste for outsiders, but worth trying. Each of these eight cities holds half of Chinese history. Lianyungang has the sea, Heihe has volcanoes, Alxa has deserts, and Tianshui has grottoes. Ask me which I recommend most? I’d say Maijishan and Yin Ruins are must-visits for history lovers, while Bayinbuluke and the poplar forest are the ultimate scenic spots. The rest are for your feet to explore. Share in the comments how many you’ve been to?

Taking parents out isn't about the money, it's about walking until your legs are sore and having to force a smile. I've tried these 8 places one by one; they're slow-paced, have plenty of rest stops, and the scenery is impressive—perfect for taking elders during the National Day holiday. 1️⃣ Wuhu City | Anhui Province Fantawild Adventure sounds like a young person's paradise, but it's actually quite friendly to elders. I took my parents to the Dream Kingdom. Upon entering, we took a mini-train for a quick tour to familiarize ourselves with the park. ⏰ Entering at 9:30 AM meant fewer crowds and better lighting, perfect for starting with indoor rides like "Soaring Over the Horizon." You can enjoy panoramic views from the rides without moving, and my mom didn't complain of being tired at all. 🍜 Don't rush around at lunchtime. The Chinese fast food stalls in the park have hot noodle soup, much better than bread. In the afternoon, head to the outdoor area and choose two or three gentle rides—don't try to do too many. ⚠️ The most important thing to avoid is the afternoon rush hour on holidays. Popular rides can easily take an hour or more, and older people can't stand it. It's recommended to download the Fantawild Tourism App in advance to check real-time queue times. For those with limited stamina, renting a mobility scooter is a good option. Although it's more expensive, it allows parents to enjoy the ride for an extra two hours, which is worthwhile. 2️⃣ Jingmen City | Hubei Province Mingxian Mausoleum isn't the kind of attraction that makes you crane your neck and your legs get tired; instead, it feels like a quiet, large park. If you're bringing your parents, focus on the Sacred Way and the Ming Tower. The path is smooth, with a gentle slope, making it comfortable to walk around at your own pace. 📍 Enter the scenic area from the direction of Mochou Lake. You'll first pass the Outer Ming Pond, where the water is wide and the breeze is refreshing, perfect for sitting down and resting. ⏰ After 3 pm, the light softens, and the red walls and yellow tiles look particularly photogenic in the slanting sunlight. My mother took over twenty photos there. ⚠️ A word of caution: dining options within the scenic area are limited, so it's best to have lunch in Zhongxiang city before coming, or bring your own snacks and water. Keep your visit within two hours, avoid backtracking, and exit directly from the back gate to take the shuttle bus back to the parking lot to avoid unnecessary travel. The entrance fee to the Mingxian Mausoleum is not expensive, but remember to book in advance through official channels, as there can be long queues when buying tickets on-site during holidays. 3️⃣ Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The combination of poplar forests and desert sounds hardcore, but with proper route planning, parents can easily manage. In the Ejina Poplar Forest Tourist Area, the key attractions are the Second Bridge and the Fourth Bridge, where the poplars are densest and the reflections are clearest. ⏰ Early October is when the leaves are at their yellowest. The best light is two hours after sunrise and one hour before sunset each day. Avoid going at midday, as it will be too sunny and leave you looking pale. 🍜 There are vendors selling roasted naan and lamb skewers at the scenic area entrance. Naan keeps well, so buy a few to keep as snacks. Don't let your parents climb the sand dunes in the Badain Jaran Desert. The ride in an off-road vehicle is too bumpy, and those with back problems won't be able to handle it. ⚠️ The correct way to experience it is to just look at the viewpoints at the edge of the desert, take a few pictures of the dune lines, and then leave. The temperature difference between day and night is extreme, so bring an extra thick jacket for your parents to wear as soon as the sun sets. For accommodation, I recommend staying in Dalaihob Town, as it's close to the scenic area and offers many dining options. 4️⃣ Zhanjiang City|Guangdong Huguangyan is an underrated destination for leisurely travel. The entire scenic area is a loop around the lake, mostly flat paths with dense shade, and stone benches everywhere. When bringing your parents, don't rush through the sights; just stroll along the lake at a leisurely pace. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and first visit the Volcano Museum by the lake to learn about the formation of maar lakes. Older people often find this kind of educational information very interesting. ⏰ Early morning and evening are the most comfortable times. When a thin mist rises from the lake, it's like a fairyland. At midday, when the sun is strong, find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the breeze. 🍜 There are only small shops in the scenic area, so it's recommended to bring some fruit and snacks. Eating them by the lake is very pleasant. ⚠️ Don't take the scenic area's electric shuttle bus. A loop is only five or six kilometers, but if your parents have knee problems, they can take the bus halfway and walk the other half. Near the exit, there are vendors selling Zhanjiang's specialty clam-shaped rice dumplings, which taste good; you can buy a couple to try. The pace here is very slow, suitable for families who don't want to rush through the sights and just want to find a quiet place to relax. 5️⃣ Jingdezhen City|Jiangxi Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative Zone is best visited at night. The street, converted from an old porcelain factory, has a special charm when lit up. If you're bringing your parents, don't rush to buy anything; first, visit the free ceramics museum section to learn about the production process. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and walk along the main street to the Water Feature Plaza. The old kilns and chimneys along the way are well-preserved and have a strong sense of history. ⏰ The best time to visit is between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM. It's not completely dark yet, the shop lights are just coming on, and the light is gentle for taking photos. The Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area is best visited during the day. You can see master craftsmen throwing clay and painting porcelain on-site. My mom watched for half an hour straight. 🍜 Lunch can be had at a farmhouse restaurant near the Expo Area. Order alkaline rice cakes and clay-baked chicken, both local specialties. ⚠️ Remember to bargain when buying porcelain at Taoxichuan. Getting half price is not an exaggeration; don't be ripped off. If you're traveling with parents, I suggest visiting the Ancient Kiln in the morning and Taoxichuan in the evening, with a two-hour nap at the hotel in between – a perfect pace. 6️⃣ Nanjing City|Jiangsu Nanjing has many attractions, but don't be greedy when traveling with parents. The Presidential Palace is worth visiting, but it has many rooms and winding routes, so walking around for a while can be disorienting. 📍 My recommended route: Enter directly along the central axis, visit the main hall, the Eight-Character Hall, and the Xuyuan Garden, then leave. You can skip the buildings in the West Garden. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM for a quieter experience. After 10:00 AM, tour groups will flood in, making it difficult to navigate. The Confucius Temple-Qinhuai Scenic Area is best visited in the evening when the lights are on. 🍜 Have dinner near the Confucius Temple area. Avoid the large, mixed restaurants that advertise "Nanjing specialties." Look for the duck blood soup and beef potstickers in the alleyways—cheap and authentic. Xuanwu Lake is for my parents to relax; taking a boat is more comfortable than walking. It can be windy on the lake, so remember to bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Niushou Mountain is magnificent, but it has many steps and is quite large. Consider carefully if you are traveling with elderly people who have mobility issues. If you absolutely must go, be sure to take the scenic area shuttle bus; don't skimp on the 20 yuan. Split these stops over two days, visiting two each day, and resting at the hotel at noon each time. Don't treat your parents like special forces soldiers. 7️⃣ Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture|Xinjiang This area is vast, so you need to cut back when traveling with your parents. Bayinbuluke Grassland is the main attraction for watching the sunset over the winding mountain roads, but the shuttle bus ride is long and involves a lot of mountain roads. Parents prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. ⏰ Enter the scenic area from the Nalati direction around 6:30 PM. Arrive at the viewing platform just in time for the sunset around 9 PM. Don't go too early; it's windy and there's nowhere to hide. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is much easier; there's a mini-train that takes you through the poplar forest without having to walk a single step. 🍜 There are stalls selling Korla fragrant pears at the park entrance. They have thin skin and are very juicy; buy a few to eat on the way. Don't drive into the Taklamakan Desert yourself. Just find a reliable off-road driver to take you for a drive around the edge. The sand dunes along the desert highway are enough to take stunning photos. ⚠️ The area is sparsely populated, and gas stations are far apart. Fill up your tank every time you see one; don't gamble on how far the next one will be. Choose accommodation in Korla city; the conditions are better, and dining is convenient. Don't try to save time by staying in a basic guesthouse in the scenic area. 8️⃣ Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Kanbula was the most surprising place for my parents on this trip. The Danxia landform combined with the Yellow River reservoir creates a vibrant, oil painting-like scene. The main activity for parents is taking a boat trip on the lake and visiting several viewpoints from the dock. 📍 Enter the scenic area from the Lijiaxia Reservoir side. First, take a boat to the other side, then walk up to the viewpoints. There aren't many steps; it only takes about ten minutes to walk. ⏰ The best light is around 9 or 10 am, when the red color of the Danxia landforms is most saturated. Afternoon light can be backlighting-prone. ⚠️ The scenic area is at an altitude of over 2,000 meters. While not particularly high, if your parents have cardiovascular issues, please slow down and avoid excitement. 🍜 There aren't many decent restaurants within the scenic area. Bring your own food, or eat in Tongren County after your visit. Tibetan milk tea with yak meat buns is very filling. There are far fewer tourists here than at Qinghai Lake, making it possible to find quiet spots even during the National Day holiday, which is a significant advantage. After visiting these eight places, the biggest takeaway is: when traveling with parents, comfort is paramount, not just scenery. Focusing on one key attraction per day, allowing ample time for rest and meals, is far more meaningful than trying to visit multiple places. Where are you planning to take your parents during the National Day holiday? Share your suggestions in the comments! The worst thing about traveling with parents isn't the cost, but having to walk until your legs are sore and still have to force a smile. I've tried all 8 of these places; they're slow-paced, have plenty of rest stops, and offer decent scenery—perfect for taking elders during the National Day holiday. 1️⃣ Wuhu City | Anhui Province Fantawild Adventure Park might sound like a young person's paradise, but it's actually quite friendly to seniors. I took my parents to the Dream Kingdom. Upon entering, we took a mini-train for a quick tour to familiarize ourselves with the park. ⏰ Entering at 9:30 AM is ideal—less crowded and with better lighting, perfect for starting with indoor rides like "Soaring Over the Horizon." You can enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of your seat, and my mom didn't complain of getting tired at all. 🍜 Don't rush around at lunchtime. The park has hot noodle soup stalls—much better than bread. In the afternoon, head to the outdoor area and choose two or three gentle rides; don't try to do too many. ⚠️ The most important thing to avoid is the afternoon rush on holidays. Popular rides can easily take an hour or more, which can be difficult for seniors to stand. I recommend downloading the Fantawild Tourism App beforehand to check real-time queue times. For those with limited stamina, renting a mobility scooter is a good option. Although it's a bit pricey, it allows parents to enjoy the park for an extra two hours, making it worthwhile. 2️⃣ Jingmen City | Hubei Province Mingxian Mausoleum isn't the kind of tourist attraction that requires strenuous walking; instead, it feels like a quiet, large park. With parents, focus on the Sacred Way and the Ming Tower. The paths are smooth, with gentle slopes, making for a comfortable stroll. 📍 Enter the scenic area from the direction of Mochou Lake. First, pass the Outer Ming Pond, a wide expanse of water where a cool breeze makes it a perfect spot to sit and rest. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light softens, and the red walls and yellow tiles look particularly photogenic in the slanting sunlight. My mother took over twenty photos there. ⚠️ A word of caution: dining options within the scenic area are limited. It's best to have lunch in Zhongxiang city before coming, or bring your own snacks and water. Keep your visit within two hours, avoid backtracking, and exit from the back gate to take the shuttle bus back to the parking lot to avoid unnecessary travel. The tickets for the Mingxian Mausoleum aren't expensive, but remember to book in advance through official channels, as buying tickets on-site during holidays can involve long queues. 3️⃣ Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The combination of poplar forests and desert sounds hardcore, but with proper route planning, your parents can totally handle it. In the Ejina Poplar Forest Tourist Area, the key attractions are the Second and Fourth Bridges, where the poplars are densest and the reflections are clearest. ⏰ Early October is when the leaves are at their yellowest. The best light is two hours after sunrise and one hour before sunset each day. Avoid going at midday, as it will be too sunny and leave you looking pale. 🍜 There are vendors selling roasted naan and lamb skewers at the scenic area entrance. Naan keeps well, so buy a few to keep as snacks. Don't let your parents climb the dunes in the Badain Jaran Desert; the ride in an off-road vehicle is too bumpy, and those with back problems won't be able to handle it. ⚠️ The correct way to experience it is to just look at the viewpoints on the edge of the desert, take a few pictures of the dune lines, and then leave. The temperature difference between day and night here is extreme, so bring an extra thick coat for your parents to wear as soon as the sun sets. For accommodation, I recommend staying in Dalaihob Town; it's close to the scenic area and offers many dining options. 4️⃣ Zhanjiang City|Guangdong Huguangyan is an underrated destination for leisurely travel. The entire scenic area is essentially a loop around the lake, mostly flat paths with dense shade. There are stone benches everywhere if you get tired. If you're bringing your parents, don't rush through the sights; just stroll along the lake at a leisurely pace. 📍 Enter from the East Gate. First, visit the volcano museum by the lake to learn about the formation of maar lakes; older people are very interested in this kind of educational content. ⏰ Early morning and evening are the most comfortable times. When a thin mist rises over the lake, it looks like a fairyland. At midday, when the sun is strong, find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the breeze. 🍜 There are only small shops inside the scenic area, so I suggest bringing some fruit and snacks to eat by the lake – it's very pleasant. ⚠️ Don't take the electric shuttle bus in the scenic area. A complete loop is only five or six kilometers, but if your parents have knee problems, they can take the shuttle bus for half and walk for the other half. Near the exit, there are vendors selling Zhanjiang-style clam-shaped rice dumplings (铌粽), which taste quite good; you can buy a couple to try. The pace here is very slow, suitable for families who don't want to rush through the sights and just want to find a quiet place to relax. 5️⃣ Jingdezhen City|Jiangxi Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative Zone is best visited at night. The area, converted from an old porcelain factory, has a unique charm when lit up. If you're bringing your parents, don't rush to buy anything; first, visit the free ceramics museum section to learn about the production process. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and walk along the main street to the water feature square. The old kilns and chimneys along the way are preserved, giving it a historical feel. ⏰ 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM is the best time to visit. It's not completely dark yet, the shop lights are just coming on, and the light is gentle for taking photos. The Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area is best visited during the day. You can see master craftsmen throwing clay and painting porcelain on-site; my mom watched for half an hour straight. 🍜 Lunch can be had at a local farmhouse restaurant near the expo area. Order alkaline rice cakes and clay-baked chicken—both local specialties. ⚠️ Remember to bargain when buying porcelain at Taoxichuan; getting half price is not an exaggeration—don't be ripped off. If you're traveling with parents, I suggest visiting the Ancient Kiln in the morning and Taoxichuan in the evening, with a two-hour nap at the hotel in between—a perfect pace. 6️⃣ Nanjing City|Jiangsu Nanjing has many attractions, but don't be greedy when traveling with parents. The Presidential Palace is worth visiting, but it has many rooms and winding routes; walking around for a long time can be disorienting. 📍 My approach: Enter directly along the central axis, visit the main hall, the Eight-Character Hall, and the Xuyuan Garden, then leave. You can skip the buildings in the West Garden. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM for a quieter, less crowded experience. After 10:00 AM, tour groups flood in, making it difficult to navigate. The Confucius Temple-Qinhuai Scenic Area is best visited in the evening when the lights are on. 🍜 Have dinner near the Confucius Temple area. Avoid the large, mixed restaurants advertising "Nanjing specialties"; instead, look for the duck blood soup and beef potstickers in the alleyways – cheap and authentic. Xuanwu Lake is for your parents to relax; a boat ride is more comfortable than walking. It can be windy on the lake, so remember to bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Niushou Mountain is magnificent, but it has many steps and is quite large. Consider carefully if you're traveling with elderly people who have mobility issues. If you must go, definitely take the scenic area shuttle bus; don't skimp on the 20 yuan. Split these visits over two days, including two per day, and return to the hotel to rest at noon each time. Don't treat your parents like special forces soldiers. 7️⃣ Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang This area is vast; you need to be selective when traveling with your parents. Bayinbuluke Grassland is best viewed from the Nine Turns and Eighteen Bends at sunset, but the shuttle bus ride is long and winding, so parents prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. ⏰ Enter the scenic area from the Nalati direction around 6:30 PM. Arrive at the viewing platform just in time for the sunset around 9 PM. Don't go too early; it's windy and there's nowhere to find shelter. Tarim Poplar Forest Park is much easier; there's a mini-train that takes you through the poplar forest without having to walk. 🍜 There are stalls selling Korla pears at the park entrance; they're thin-skinned and juicy, so buy a few to eat on the road. Don't drive into the Taklamakan Desert yourself. Find a reliable off-road driver to take you for a drive around the edge; the sand dunes along the desert highway are enough to take stunning photos. ⚠️ The area is vast and sparsely populated, and gas stations are far apart. Fill up your tank every time you see one; don't gamble on how far the next one is. Choose accommodation in Korla city center; the conditions are good, and dining is convenient. Don't try to save time by staying in a basic guesthouse in the scenic area. 8️⃣ Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Kanbula was the most surprising place for my parents on this trip. The Danxia landform combined with the Yellow River reservoir creates a vibrant, oil painting-like scene. The main activity for my parents is taking a boat trip on the lake and visiting several viewpoints from the dock. 📍 Enter the scenic area from the Lijiaxia Reservoir side. First, take a boat to the other side, then walk up to the viewpoints. There aren't many steps; it's a leisurely ten-minute walk. ⏰ The light is best around 9 or 10 am, when the red of the Danxia mountains is most saturated. Afternoon light can be backlighting. ⚠️ The scenic area is at an altitude of over 2,000 meters. Although not very high, if your parents have cardiovascular disease, please move slowly and avoid getting excited. 🍜 There aren't any decent restaurants in the scenic area, so bring your own food, or eat in Tongren County after your visit. Tibetan milk tea with yak meat buns is very filling. There are far fewer tourists here than at Qinghai Lake, and even during the National Day holiday, you can find quiet corners, which is the most valuable thing. After visiting these 8 places, the biggest takeaway is: when traveling with parents, scenery is secondary; comfort is paramount. Planning only one core attraction per day, allowing sufficient time for lunch and rest, is much more meaningful than trying to visit multiple places. Where are you planning to take your parents during the National Day holiday? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll give you some specific suggestions.

01 Sanya City | Hainan In September, the heatwave in Sanya has mostly subsided, but airfares and hotel prices are still at their lowest. Don't rush to Yalong Bay right away; I suggest you combine your trips to Xiaodongtian and Tianya Haijiao on the same day. Both are on the western coast, making it convenient and less hassle-free. Xiaodongtian's entrance fee is a few dozen yuan, and the seaside rocks and lighthouse offer great photo opportunities, but don't expect any spectacular "heaven and earth" wonders; a leisurely stroll and enjoying the breeze are the main attractions. Tianya Haijiao is basically just two rocks, but the sunset light is indeed impressive. Going in after 4 PM is ideal to avoid the scorching sun. Wuzhizhou Island has incredibly clear water and offers a wide range of diving activities, but the ferry ticket plus the tour bus isn't cheap. Budget travelers can explore the area around the pier instead of going to the island. For accommodation, I recommend staying near Dadonghai. Hostel beds are only a few dozen yuan per night, and there are public buses right outside, making it convenient to reach various attractions. ⚠️Don't trust the "sea activity packages" offered by roadside vendors; the prices are often double and you're likely to be disappointed. Buying tickets through official channels is the safest bet. 02 Heihe City | Heilongjiang Province Heihe starts to feel like autumn by the end of September, with golden leaves and old Russian-style buildings creating a scene reminiscent of an old movie. Wudalianchi is the core destination, but don't try to see it all in one day; the scenic area is vast. Focus on two or three pools at a leisurely pace. The Laoheishan volcano crater is a must-see. Standing on the edge and looking down, the dark volcanic rocks stretch to the horizon; the silent, oppressive feeling is something photos can't capture. 📍The boardwalk on the Bailong Lake side is almost deserted in the early morning. The water is so still it's like a mirror, and the reflections are even clearer than the real scenery. Heihe city itself is also great for exploring. The old houses along Central Street still retain some of their century-old appearance. Watching the lights of Blagoveshchensk, Russia, on the opposite bank of the river at dusk is particularly exotic. 🚄The train journey from Harbin takes an overnight trip, but a hard sleeper berth is just a short nap away, saving both money and time. ⚠️In early October, temperatures can drop to freezing in the mornings and evenings, so bring a thick coat; don't push yourself. 03 Changzhi City | Shanxi The Taihang Grand Canyon in Changzhi boasts the most underrated autumn scenery I've seen this year. Baquan Gorge is the heart of the area. Upon entering, you first take a boat through a stretch of emerald green waterway, flanked by sheer cliffs. The sounds of water and wind blend together, giving you goosebumps. ⏰Enter before 10 AM, when the sunlight shines perfectly into the depths of the canyon, making the water at its clearest. The entire journey takes about three to four hours. The boardwalk is well-maintained, but there are many steps, so those with knee problems should proceed with caution. Hongdou Gorge is relatively less crowded; in autumn, the mountains are ablaze with red leaves against the backdrop of deep pools, making it less touristy and suitable for those seeking a peaceful retreat. ⚠️The self-heating rice sold in the scenic area is expensive and unpalatable. Bring your own food and water; the money you save can be used to buy a proper bowl of Shanxi noodles when you get back down the mountain. For accommodation, just stay at a farmhouse near the scenic area entrance; it's only a few dozen yuan a night and includes breakfast, saving you time compared to traveling back and forth from the city. The wind is strong in the valley in autumn, so wear a windproof jacket, don't try to brave it in short sleeves. 04 Haidong City | Qinghai Haidong is a place that's easily skipped when visiting Qinghai, but the Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is definitely worth a day's stay. It's not a cold, impersonal museum; Tu women will pull you into dancing the Anzhao dance, golden wheat ears are drying in the courtyard, and the aroma of barley wine wafts in with the autumn breeze, making you feel completely relaxed. The entrance fee is inexpensive, and the park isn't large; two hours is enough to slowly explore it. Youning Temple is located in the nearby mountains; compared to the crowds at Ta'er Monastery, it's as quiet as another world. The temple is built on a hillside. Climbing the steps, prayer flags flutter overhead in the wind, and occasionally a red-robed monk hurrys by, his footsteps echoing on the stone steps. 📍Standing at the temple entrance and looking down, the entire valley's autumn colors unfold before your eyes; that sense of openness is something no amount of money in the city can buy. ⚠️Some halls inside the temple do not allow photography. Check the signs at the entrance before entering, and don't be reckless. Accommodation in Haidong is cheap; you can find a clean standard room for just over 100 yuan. As a transit point to Qinghai Lake, it offers excellent value. 05 Bazhong City | Sichuan Bazhong itself isn't particularly well-known, but Guangwu Mountain becomes the pinnacle of autumn colors in Sichuan from mid to late October. The entire mountain is ablaze with red leaves, from the foot to the summit—not just individual patches of red, but the whole mountain changing color. I took the classic Black Bear Gully route. The stream flowed down through colorful forests, and red leaves swirled on the water's surface; you simply couldn't bear to walk too fast. ⏰Entering the mountains at 7 AM, before the morning mist dissipated, the sunlight slanted through the treetops, creating a layered effect that's impossible to capture at midday. The view of the sea of ​​clouds from Xianglu Mountain at the summit is also breathtaking, but it involves a winding mountain road, so those prone to motion sickness should prepare medication beforehand. ⚠️The shuttle bus queues within the scenic area are quite long; it's recommended to take the first bus for a less crowded and better experience. There are no proper restaurants in the mountains; self-heating meals and thermos flasks are essential. Accommodation in Bazhong city is very cheap; you can find decent budget hotels for just a few dozen yuan, but don't expect much from the nightlife. Get some sleep early to have the energy for hiking the next day. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Autumn in Alxa can be summed up in two words: Poplar trees. The Populus euphratica forest tourist area is located in Ejin Banner. It's a golden sea of ​​trees for only about twenty days each year, from late September to mid-October; after that, only bare branches remain. The scenery varies from the first bridge to the eighth bridge, but I highly recommend the second bridge. The golden Populus euphratica trees are reflected in the water, and the sunrise and sunset are breathtaking. The fourth bridge was a filming location for the movie "Hero," and the tall trees are perfect for portrait photography. The eighth bridge connects to the Badain Jaran Desert, where you can also catch a glimpse of camel caravans. ⚠️Accommodation in Ejin Banner is ridiculously expensive during peak season, so be sure to book in advance. Alternatively, stay in Dalaihob Town, dozens of kilometers away, which can save you a significant amount of money. The sun is strong during the day, and the temperature difference between day and night is extreme. You can wear short sleeves at midday, but you'll need a down jacket as soon as the sun sets. 📍The stalls selling Hami melons at the entrance of the scenic area offer samples; they're incredibly sweet and much cheaper than the grilled sausages inside the area. 07 Baiyin City | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest in Baiyin isn't the gentle, tranquil landscape you might expect; it's a stark, desolate spectacle of western China. The stone pillars and stalagmites resemble giant sculptures rising from the earth. The Yellow River makes a bend in the canyon, and at sunset, the entire stone forest is bathed in a reddish-brown hue, almost unreal, like the surface of Mars. You can take a donkey cart into the scenic area, its creaking clatter along the sandy paths. The driver will sing Northwest folk songs; the rough, authentic tone is more captivating than any sound system. ⏰Enter the scenic area after 4 PM for softer light, when the stone's textures are most defined, and to avoid tour groups. Those with good stamina can climb to the viewing platform for a panoramic view, but the steps are quite steep, so it's not recommended for the elderly or children. ⚠️Avoid the photography services within the scenic area; the photos will be worse than those taken with your own phone. Accommodation in Baiyin city is cheap, but getting back to the city after sunset can be rushed. Consider staying at a guesthouse near the scenic area; the conditions are basic, but the convenience is a plus. 08 Yichang City | Hubei Province Autumn in Yichang is perfect for a boat trip through the Three Gorges. The Qingjiang Gallery is my top recommendation; the water is emerald green, with verdant mountains rising on both banks. As the boat glides along, the misty breeze is so refreshing you'll want to take a nap on the deck. The entire trip takes about three hours, and the ticket price is reasonable, offering great value. The Three Gorges Waterfall is also a must-see. You can wear a raincoat and walk under the falls; the spray will soak you instantly—a refreshing coolness you won't feel even in summer. ⚠️Remember to buy raincoats outside the scenic area; they're twice as expensive inside. The stilted houses and Tujia folk dance performances at the Three Gorges Family Scenic Area are worth seeing, but don't have too high expectations; it's quite commercialized, so a quick visit is sufficient. For accommodation, I recommend staying near Yichang East Railway Station. It's convenient for high-speed rail travel, and there are many local eateries nearby. 🍜In the evening, head to the street near the Three Gorges University for grilled fish—cheap and plentiful, a popular spot for local students. ⏰The boats on the Qingjiang Gallery depart early in the morning, so check the schedule a day in advance. Missing one means waiting until the afternoon, wasting your whole day. The sea breeze in September, the red leaves in October, the starry sky in the desert, the sound of water in the canyons—these places are waiting for you. Pick the one that catches your eye, buy a ticket, and set off! The joy of budget travel is truly addictive. Let's chat in the comments: which one do you most want to go to? 01 Sanya City | Hainan In September, the heatwave in Sanya has mostly subsided, but airfares and hotel prices are still at rock bottom. Don't rush straight to Yalong Bay. I suggest you visit Xiaodongtian and Tianya Haijiao on the same day. Both are on the western route, making it convenient and less hassle. Xiaodongtian entrance fees are only a few dozen yuan, and the seaside reefs and lighthouse are great for photos, but don't expect any spectacular "heaven and earth" wonders. Taking a walk and enjoying the breeze is the main thing. Tianya Haijiao (End of the Earth) is basically just two rocks, but the sunset light is really impressive. Going in after 4 PM avoids the scorching sun. Wuzhizhou Island has incredibly clear water and offers a full range of diving activities, but the boat ticket plus the tour bus isn't cheap. Budget travelers can explore the area around the pier instead of going to the island. For accommodation, I recommend staying near Dadonghai. Hostel beds are only a few dozen yuan a night, and there are buses right outside, making it convenient to get to various attractions. ⚠️ Don't trust the "water activity packages" offered by street vendors. The price is double, and you're likely to be disappointed. Buying tickets through official channels is the safest bet. 02 Heihe City | Heilongjiang Heihe starts to feel like autumn by the end of September. The city is full of yellow leaves against the backdrop of old Russian-style buildings, making walking the streets feel like stepping into an old movie. Wudalianchi is the core destination, but don't try to see it all in one day. The scenic area is huge; just pick two or three pools to explore at your own pace. The Laoheishan volcano crater is a must-see. Standing on the edge and looking down, the dark volcanic rocks stretch all the way to the horizon; the silent oppressive feeling is something photos can't capture. 📍The boardwalk on the Bailong Lake side is almost deserted in the early morning. The water is as still as a mirror, and the reflection is even clearer than the real scenery. Heihe city itself is also great for exploring. The old houses around Central Street still retain some of their century-old appearance. Watching the lights of Blagoveshchensk, Russia, on the opposite bank of the river at dusk is particularly exotic. 🚄The train ride from Harbin takes one night. A hard sleeper is enough to get you there overnight, saving both money and time. ⚠️In early October, temperatures can drop to freezing in the mornings and evenings, so bring a thick coat; don't push yourself. 03 Changzhi City | Shanxi The Taihang Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the most underrated autumn scenery I've seen this year. Baquan Gorge is the core attraction. Upon entering, you first take a boat through a stretch of emerald green waterway, flanked by sheer cliffs. The sounds of water and wind blend together, giving you goosebumps. ⏰Enter before 10 AM, when the sunlight shines perfectly into the depths of the gorge, making the water at its clearest. The entire trip takes about three to four hours. The boardwalk is well-maintained, but there are many steps, so those with knee problems should proceed with caution. Hongdou Gorge is relatively less crowded. In autumn, the mountains are ablaze with red leaves against the backdrop of deep pools, making it less crowded and suitable for those seeking a peaceful retreat. ⚠️The self-heating rice sold in the scenic area is expensive and unpalatable. Bring your own food and water; the money you save can be used to buy a proper bowl of Shanxi noodles on your way down the mountain. For accommodation, just stay at a guesthouse near the scenic area entrance. It costs only a few dozen yuan per night and includes breakfast, saving you time compared to traveling back and forth from the city. The wind is strong in the gorge in autumn, so wear a windproof jacket; don't try to brave the elements in short sleeves. 04 Haidong City | Qinghai Haidong is a place easily skipped when visiting Qinghai, but the Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is definitely worth a day's stay. It's not a cold, impersonal museum; Tu women will pull you into dancing the Anzhao dance, golden wheat ears are drying in the courtyard, and the aroma of barley wine mingles with the autumn breeze, making you feel completely relaxed. The entrance fee is inexpensive, and the park isn't large; two hours is enough to leisurely explore it. Youning Temple is located in the nearby mountains. Compared to the crowds at Ta'er Monastery, it's as quiet as another world. The temple is built on a hillside; as you walk up the steps, prayer flags flutter overhead, and occasionally, red-robed monks hurry by, their footsteps echoing on the stone steps. 📍Standing at the temple entrance and looking down, the entire valley's autumn colors unfold before your eyes; that sense of openness is something no amount of money in the city can buy. ⚠️Some halls inside the temple do not allow photography. Please check the signs at the entrance before entering, and don't be impulsive. Accommodation in Haidong is cheap; you can find a clean standard room for just over 100 yuan. As a transit point to Qinghai Lake, it offers great value. 05 Bazhong City | Sichuan Bazhong itself isn't particularly well-known, but Guangwu Mountain becomes the pinnacle of autumn scenery in Sichuan from mid to late October. The mountainsides are ablaze with red leaves, not just individual patches, but the entire mountain changing color. I took the classic Black Bear Gully route; streams flowed down through colorful forests, and red leaves swirled on the water's surface—you simply didn't want to walk fast. ⏰Entering the mountain at 7 am, before the morning mist dissipated, the sunlight slanted through the treetops, creating a layered effect that's impossible to capture at midday. The view of the sea of ​​clouds from Xianglu Mountain at the summit is also spectacular, but it involves a winding mountain road; those prone to motion sickness should prepare medication beforehand. ⚠️The shuttle bus queues within the scenic area are quite long; it's recommended to go in on the first bus for a less crowded and better experience. There are no proper restaurants in the mountains, so self-heating meals and thermos flasks are necessities. Accommodation in Bazhong city is cheap; you can find decent budget hotels for just a few dozen yuan. But don't expect much from the nightlife; get to bed early so you'll have the energy for hiking the next day. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Autumn in Alxa can be summed up in two words: Poplar trees. The Poplar Forest Tourist Area is located in Ejin Banner. It's a golden sea of ​​trees for only about twenty days each year, from late September to mid-October. After that, only bare branches remain. From the First Bridge to the Eighth Bridge, each section offers different scenery, but I highly recommend the Second Bridge. The golden Poplars are reflected in the water, and the sunrise and sunset are breathtaking. The Fourth Bridge was a filming location for the movie "Hero," with its tall trees perfect for portrait photography. The Eighth Bridge connects to the Badain Jaran Desert, where you can also catch a glimpse of a camel caravan. ⚠️Accommodation in Ejina is ridiculously expensive during peak season, so be sure to book in advance. Alternatively, stay in Dalaihob Town, dozens of kilometers away, to save a significant amount of money. The sun is strong during the day, and the temperature difference between day and night is extreme. You can wear short sleeves at midday, but you'll need a down jacket as soon as the sun sets. 📍The stalls selling Hami melons at the scenic area entrance offer samples; they're incredibly sweet and much cheaper than the grilled sausages inside the scenic area. 07 Baiyin City | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest in Baiyin isn't the gentle, tranquil landscape you might expect; it's a desolate, bone-chilling western wonder. The stone pillars and stalagmites resemble giant sculptures growing from the earth. The Yellow River makes a bend in the canyon, and at sunset, the entire stone forest is dyed a reddish-brown, looking almost unreal, like the surface of Mars. You can take a donkey cart into the scenic area, creaking along the sandy road. The old man driving the cart will sing Northwest folk songs; his rough, authentic style is more captivating than any sound system. ⏰Enter the scenic area after 4 PM for softer lighting, when the stone forest's textures are most defined, and you can also avoid tour groups. Those with good stamina can climb to the viewing platform for a panoramic view, but the steps are quite steep, so it's not recommended for the elderly or children. ⚠️Avoid the photography services within the scenic area; the photos will be worse than those taken with your own phone. Accommodation in Baiyin city is cheap, but getting back to the city after sunset can be rushed. Consider staying at a guesthouse near the scenic area; the conditions are basic, but the convenience is a plus. 08 Yichang City | Hubei Autumn in Yichang is perfect for a boat trip through the Three Gorges. The Qingjiang Gallery is my top recommendation; the water is emerald green, with verdant mountains on both banks. As the boat glides along, the wind carries the moisture, making you want to nap on the deck. The entire trip takes about three hours, and the ticket price is reasonable, offering great value. The Three Gorges Waterfall is also not to be missed. You can wear a raincoat and walk under the falls; the spray soaks you instantly—a refreshing feeling that even summer can't provide. ⚠️Remember to buy raincoats outside the scenic area; they're twice as expensive inside. The stilted houses and Tujia folk dance performances at the Three Gorges Family Scenic Area are worth seeing, but don't have high expectations—it's quite commercialized, so a quick visit is sufficient. For accommodation, I recommend staying near Yichang East Railway Station. It's convenient for high-speed rail travel, and there are many local snacks nearby. 🍜In the evening, go to the street near the Three Gorges University for grilled fish—cheap and plentiful, a popular spot for local students. ⏰The boats on the Qingjiang Gallery depart early in the morning, so check the schedule a day in advance. Missing it means waiting until the afternoon, wasting your whole day. The sea breeze in September, the red leaves in October, the starry sky in the desert, the sound of water in the canyon—these places are waiting for you. Pick the one that catches your eye, buy a ticket, and set off! The joy of budget travel is truly addictive. Let's chat in the comments: which one do you most want to visit?

01 Taizhou | Jiangsu Autumn at Zhenhu Lake begins on the water. On a late September morning, a thin mist shrouds the lake. Rowing boats glide by, the sound of oars startling egrets, their wings fluttering across the reeds. At this time, the Zhenhu Wetland is incredibly quiet; the boardwalk is only for you and the reflections of the dawn redwoods. 🍜 Don't rush off at noon. Zhentong Ancient Town isn't far away. Find a small restaurant along the street and order a plate of Zhenhu Eight Delicacies. Pond crabs are the star; the female crabs are bursting with roe, each bite bursting with the sweetness of the lake water. ⚠️ Remember to tell the owner in advance how many crabs you want, and they'll weigh them individually, otherwise you might exceed your budget. In the afternoon, take a walk deeper into the wetland. In early October, the pond redwoods are turning from green to red, their color changing daily. Rent a bicycle and ride along the lake; the wind is filled with the fresh scent of aquatic plants. 🚄 It takes about 50 minutes by taxi from Taizhou Station. It's recommended to leave early and arrive before 9 AM for the best light and birdwatching. 02 Bayingol | Xinjiang Autumn in Bayingol is crisp and cold. By the end of September, the grasslands are already turning yellow, and the winding roads resemble a melting golden ribbon in the sunset. ⏰ Be sure to secure a good spot on the viewing platform before 6:30 PM. Around 7 PM, when the sun is directly behind the bend, you can see the legendary reflection of nine suns. Even a strong wind makes the wait worthwhile. Autumn in the Taklamakan Desert, on the other hand, is gentle. ⚠️ Don't enter the desert at midday; the surface temperature will soften your shoes. Choose a time after 4:30 PM. The dunes cast long shadows, and the sand, baked by the sun during the day, still retains its warmth when you walk barefoot. If you're lucky, you might see a camel caravan passing by, their silhouettes breathtakingly beautiful. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is the grand finale of autumn colors in southern Xinjiang. In mid-to-late October, the poplar forest turns a dazzling golden yellow. Driving through it, every few hundred meters you'll find a different shape of poplar trees, some twisted like old men, others standing tall like young boys. 🍜 After leaving the park, head to Luntai County for a bowl of mutton pilaf. The meat is tender and the rice is fragrant, enough to wash away all the day's fatigue. 03 Hezhou|Guangxi Gupo Mountain and Huangyao offer completely different autumn experiences; I recommend you try both. Huangyao feels like a vessel forgotten by time. At six in the morning at the end of September, only locals carrying vegetable baskets adorn the stone-paved streets, the aroma of fermented black beans wafting from the cracks in the doors. At this time, the sunlight slants across the arches of Dailong Bridge, allowing you to capture a perfect reflection without any tourists in the frame. Gupo Mountain, on the other hand, presents a completely different scene. In early October, the maple leaves on the mountain begin to change color, and the waterfall still has plenty of water. Reaching the section near Xiangu Waterfall, the spray is refreshing and invigorating. ⏰ 2 PM is the best time to climb the mountain; you'll reach the summit just in time for sunset. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so even if it's 30 degrees Celsius at the foot, remember to bring a light jacket. Dongtanling is great for watching the sunrise, but be prepared—you'll have to leave Huangyao at 4:30 AM. The mountain roads are winding and narrow; even experienced drivers will need at least 40 minutes. But when the sea of ​​clouds surges beneath your feet and the sunlight illuminates the distant mountains layer by layer, you'll feel that the sleepiness was absolutely worth it. 04 Jingmen|Hubei Xianming Mausoleum isn't the kind of place that immediately wows you, but it's the kind of place that leaves you speechless for a long time after you've walked through it. In late September and early October, the cypress trees lining the sacred path are a deep green, and the stone statues stand silently in the morning light. As you walk along the middle, you can hear your own footsteps echoing on the stone path. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM, first walk along the outer Mingtang (outer embankment), then follow the Sacred Way inwards. At this time, there are fewer tourists, and the entire mausoleum area feels like it's open only to you. ⚠️ Don't just explore the central axis; the ruins on the east and west sides have more character. The wild grass growing from the cracks in the bricks is the most honest testament to time. 🍜 Afterwards, head to Zhongxiang city for a plate of Panlongcai (a local dish), the first course served to guests. The fragrant meat wrapped in egg skin, paired with a bowl of hot rice tea, will instantly dispel the drowsiness of an autumn afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jingmen West Station. It's recommended to allow half a day; this place is worth exploring at a leisurely pace. 05 Chuzhou|Anhui The autumn of Langya Mountain is the autumn described by Ouyang Xiu. Entering Zuiweng Pavilion in late September, the pavilion is still the same, the brewing spring is still the same, but now that the tourists have dispersed, you can finally hear the mountain breeze rustling through the bamboo forest. ⏰ The most comfortable time to enter the mountain is after 3 PM. The sun is setting, and the light filters through the trees, falling on the stone steps like scattered gold. Don't just stick to the main road; turn onto the side road towards Shenxiu Lake. This section is almost deserted, and the wild chrysanthemums on the hillside are in full bloom, filling the air with the fragrance of sun-dried grass and trees. Climbing to Nantianmen takes about forty minutes; the steps are a bit steep, but the view from the summit overlooking the entire city of Chuzhou is well worth it. ⚠️ Langya Temple at the foot of the mountain closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to the city center for a bowl of Guanba beef. The broth is rich and the meat tender, served with a piece of Langya crisp candy—a sweet and savory combination, a traditional way to enjoy this area. 06 Nanping | Fujian Autumn in Wuyishan is the taste of rock tea and morning mist. Enter the scenic area at the end of September, but don't rush to climb the mountain. Take a bamboo raft downhill for a while. The water of the Nine Bend Stream is exceptionally clear in autumn; you can see the pebbles and fish at the bottom, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are bathed in a warm, gentle red by the autumn sun. ⏰ The 8:00 AM bamboo raft trip is the most comfortable, with a thin mist on the water, and the mountain shadows shimmering like ink paintings. Tianyou Peak is a physical challenge, with over 800 steps, but when you look back halfway up, the Nine Bend Stream draws a perfect arc in the valley, and the bamboo rafts look like tiny ink dots. At that moment, you'll feel that getting up early was worthwhile. ⚠️ Remember to bring enough water; the supply points at the summit are expensive and have limited choices. 🍜 In the afternoon, take the path to the Da Hong Pao scenic area. Walk to the rock face where the mother tree is located, and you can smell the faint aroma of tea in the air along the way. After descending the mountain, find a teahouse near the south entrance of the scenic area, sit down, and enjoy a pot of this year's Rougui tea. The autumn colors of the entire mountainside are captured in this amber-colored cup. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Wuyishan North Station. 07 Shanghai September in Shanghai is the most comfortable time of year. The riverside promenade around the Expo Park is quiet and breezy. At 5:30 pm, the sunset paints the reeds of Houtan Park golden, and the Lupu Bridge on the opposite bank lights up in the twilight. At this moment, the Huangpu River is a hundred times quieter than the Bund. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is an unexpected surprise. The rooftops built underwater have a special charm in autumn; the sunset paints the water bronze, making the buildings seem to float in time. ⏰ It's recommended to go in the afternoon, so you can catch the lighting ceremony after you've finished exploring. ⚠️ Less crowded on weekdays, more crowded with families on weekends. Choose a weekday if you want to take some empty shots. I recommend choosing between Yu Garden and Disneyland. Yu Garden is perfect for those who love the old city; the osmanthus blossoms along the Nine-Turn Bridge fill the garden with their sweet fragrance. Disneyland is for those who want to completely relax; the Halloween season just begins in early October, and there's a special version of the evening parade. 🍜 Near Yu Garden, try Lao Song Sheng; their crab roe xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) paired with a bowl of chicken and duck blood soup are much more substantial than the trendy restaurants. 08 Alashan | Inner Mongolia Autumn in Alashan is a grand, golden farewell. In mid-to-late October, the poplar forest tourist area is ablaze with color; from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge, every tree bids farewell to the year in its most vibrant hues. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 7 am; the morning light casts long shadows on the poplars, and there are few tourists at this time. You can hear the leaves rustling in the wind. The Badain Jaran Desert offers a different kind of breathtaking experience. ⚠️ To enter the desert, you must hire a local guide and hire an off-road vehicle. Don't drive in yourself; the sand dunes are much more treacherous than they appear. But when you stand atop Bilutu Peak, looking at the endless sand dunes like solidified ocean waves, and the lake below as blue as a teardrop, you'll understand that all the bumpy ride was worth it. 🍜 After leaving the desert, return to Ejin Banner and enjoy a meal of hand-pulled mutton with brick tea. The meat is sweet from the grassland, and the tea is bitter yet refreshing. 🚄 The nearest airport is in Alxa Left Banner. Flights are limited in autumn, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. The best viewing period for the poplar forest is only half a month, so check the degree of yellowing of the leaves before you go to avoid disappointment. Autumn is too short; a single rain can take away the golden hues. These eight places are my personal autumn landmarks. Which one would you most like to visit? Or do you also have an autumn corner in your heart that you don't want to share? Let's chat in the comments. 01 Taizhou|Jiangsu Autumn at Zhenhu Lake begins on the water. On a late September morning, a thin mist shrouded the lake. A small boat glided by, the sound of oars startling egrets whose wings fluttered across the reeds. At this time, the Zhenhu Wetland was incredibly quiet; only your reflection and the cypress trees swayed on the boardwalk. 🍜 Don't rush off at noon. The ancient town of Zhentong is nearby. Find a small restaurant along the street and order a dish of Zhenhu Eight Delicacies. Pond crabs are the star; the female crabs are bursting with roe, each bite bursting with the sweetness of the lake water. ⚠️ Remember to tell the owner in advance how many crabs you want, as they will be weighed individually, otherwise you might exceed your budget. In the afternoon, take a walk deeper into the wetland. In early October, the pond cypress trees are turning from green to red, their color changing daily. Rent a bicycle and ride along the lake, the air filled with the fresh scent of aquatic plants. 🚄 It takes about 50 minutes by taxi from Taizhou Station. It's recommended to leave early and arrive before 9 AM for the best light and birdwatching. 02 Bayingol | Xinjiang Autumn in Bayingol is crisp and cold. By the end of September, the grasslands are already turning yellow, and the winding roads resemble a melting golden ribbon in the sunset. ⏰ Be sure to secure a good spot on the viewing platform before 6:30 PM. Around 7 PM, when the sun is directly behind the bend, you can see the legendary reflection of nine suns. Even a strong wind makes the wait worthwhile. Autumn in the Taklamakan Desert, on the other hand, is gentle. ⚠️ Don't enter the desert at midday; the surface temperature will soften your shoes. Choose a time after 4:30 PM. The dunes cast long shadows, and the sand, baked by the sun during the day, still retains its warmth when you walk barefoot. If you're lucky, you might see a camel caravan passing by, their silhouettes breathtakingly beautiful. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is the grand finale of autumn colors in southern Xinjiang. In mid-to-late October, the poplar forest turns a dazzling golden yellow. Driving through it, every few hundred meters you'll find a different shape of poplar trees, some twisted like old men, others standing tall like young boys. 🍜 After leaving the park, head to Luntai County for a bowl of mutton pilaf. The meat is tender and the rice is fragrant, enough to wash away all the day's fatigue. 03 Hezhou|Guangxi Gupo Mountain and Huangyao offer completely different autumn experiences; I recommend you try both. Huangyao feels like a vessel forgotten by time. At six in the morning at the end of September, only locals carrying vegetable baskets adorn the stone-paved streets, the aroma of fermented black beans wafting from the cracks in the doors. At this time, the sunlight slants across the arches of Dailong Bridge, allowing you to capture a perfect reflection without any tourists in the frame. Gupo Mountain, on the other hand, presents a completely different scene. In early October, the maple leaves on the mountain begin to change color, and the waterfall still has plenty of water. Reaching the section near Xiangu Waterfall, the spray is refreshing and invigorating. ⏰ 2 PM is the best time to climb the mountain; you'll reach the summit just in time for sunset. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so even if it's 30 degrees Celsius at the foot, remember to bring a light jacket. Dongtanling is great for watching the sunrise, but be prepared—you'll have to leave Huangyao at 4:30 AM. The mountain roads are winding and narrow; even experienced drivers will need at least 40 minutes. But when the sea of ​​clouds surges beneath your feet and the sunlight illuminates the distant mountains layer by layer, you'll feel that the sleepiness was absolutely worth it. 04 Jingmen|Hubei Xianming Mausoleum isn't the kind of place that immediately wows you, but it's the kind of place that leaves you speechless for a long time after you've walked through it. In late September and early October, the cypress trees lining the sacred path are a deep green, and the stone statues stand silently in the morning light. As you walk along the middle, you can hear your own footsteps echoing on the stone path. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM, first walk along the outer Mingtang (outer embankment), then follow the Sacred Way inwards. At this time, there are fewer tourists, and the entire mausoleum area feels like it's open only to you. ⚠️ Don't just explore the central axis; the ruins on the east and west sides have more character. The wild grass growing from the cracks in the bricks is the most honest testament to time. 🍜 Afterwards, head to Zhongxiang city for a plate of Panlongcai (a local dish), the first course served to guests. The fragrant meat wrapped in egg skin, paired with a bowl of hot rice tea, will instantly dispel the drowsiness of an autumn afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jingmen West Station. It's recommended to allow half a day; this place is worth exploring at a leisurely pace. 05 Chuzhou|Anhui The autumn of Langya Mountain is the autumn described by Ouyang Xiu. Entering Zuiweng Pavilion in late September, the pavilion is still the same, the brewing spring is still the same, but now that the tourists have dispersed, you can finally hear the mountain breeze rustling through the bamboo forest. ⏰ The most comfortable time to enter the mountain is after 3 PM. The sun is setting, and the light filters through the trees, falling on the stone steps like scattered gold. Don't just stick to the main road; turn onto the side road towards Shenxiu Lake. This section is almost deserted, and the wild chrysanthemums on the hillside are in full bloom, filling the air with the fragrance of sun-dried grass and trees. Climbing to Nantianmen takes about forty minutes; the steps are a bit steep, but the view from the summit overlooking the entire city of Chuzhou is well worth it. ⚠️ Langya Temple at the foot of the mountain closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to the city center for a bowl of Guanba beef. The broth is rich and the meat tender, served with a piece of Langya crisp candy—a sweet and savory combination, a traditional way to enjoy this area. 06 Nanping | Fujian Autumn in Wuyishan is the taste of rock tea and morning mist. Enter the scenic area at the end of September, but don't rush to climb the mountain. Take a bamboo raft downhill for a while. The water of the Nine Bend Stream is exceptionally clear in autumn; you can see the pebbles and fish at the bottom, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are bathed in a warm, gentle red by the autumn sun. ⏰ The 8:00 AM bamboo raft trip is the most comfortable, with a thin mist on the water, and the mountain shadows shimmering like ink paintings. Tianyou Peak is a physical challenge, with over 800 steps, but when you look back halfway up, the Nine Bend Stream draws a perfect arc in the valley, and the bamboo rafts look like tiny ink dots. At that moment, you'll feel that getting up early was worthwhile. ⚠️ Remember to bring enough water; the supply points at the summit are expensive and have limited choices. 🍜 In the afternoon, take the path to the Da Hong Pao scenic area. Walk to the rock face where the mother tree is located, and you can smell the faint aroma of tea in the air along the way. After descending the mountain, find a teahouse near the south entrance of the scenic area, sit down, and enjoy a pot of this year's Rougui tea. The autumn colors of the entire mountainside are captured in this amber-colored cup. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Wuyishan North Station. 07 Shanghai September in Shanghai is the most comfortable time of year. The riverside promenade around the Expo Park is quiet and breezy. At 5:30 pm, the sunset paints the reeds of Houtan Park golden, and the Lupu Bridge on the opposite bank lights up in the twilight. At this moment, the Huangpu River is a hundred times quieter than the Bund. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is an unexpected surprise. The rooftops built underwater have a special charm in autumn; the sunset paints the water bronze, making the buildings seem to float in time. ⏰ It's recommended to go in the afternoon, so you can catch the lighting ceremony after you've finished exploring. ⚠️ Less crowded on weekdays, more crowded with families on weekends. Choose a weekday if you want to take some empty shots. I recommend choosing between Yu Garden and Disneyland. Yu Garden is perfect for those who love the old city; the osmanthus blossoms along the Nine-Turn Bridge fill the garden with their sweet fragrance. Disneyland is for those who want to completely relax; the Halloween season just begins in early October, and there's a special version of the evening parade. 🍜 Near Yu Garden, try Lao Song Sheng; their crab roe xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) paired with a bowl of chicken and duck blood soup are much more substantial than the trendy restaurants. 08 Alashan | Inner Mongolia Autumn in Alashan is a grand, golden farewell. In mid-to-late October, the poplar forest tourist area is ablaze with color; from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge, every tree bids farewell to the year in its most vibrant hues. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 7 am; the morning light casts long shadows on the poplars, and there are few tourists at this time. You can hear the leaves rustling in the wind. The Badain Jaran Desert offers a different kind of breathtaking experience. ⚠️ To enter the desert, you must hire a local guide and hire an off-road vehicle. Don't drive in yourself; the sand dunes are much more treacherous than they appear. But when you stand atop Bilutu Peak, looking at the endless sand dunes like solidified ocean waves, and the lake below as blue as a teardrop, you'll understand that all the bumpy ride was worth it. 🍜 After leaving the desert, return to Ejin Banner and enjoy a meal of hand-pulled mutton with brick tea. The meat is sweet from the grassland, and the tea is bitter yet refreshing. 🚄 The nearest airport is in Alxa Left Banner. Flights are limited in autumn, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. The best viewing period for the poplar forest is only half a month, so check the degree of yellowing of the leaves before you go to avoid disappointment. Autumn is too short; a single rain can take away the golden hues. These eight places are my personal autumn landmarks. Which one would you most like to visit? Or do you also have a secret autumn corner in your heart that you don't want to share? Let's chat in the comments.

Want a luxurious experience on a budget of 3000? These 8️⃣ places are perfect for visiting in August and September 01 Beijing Late August and early September in Beijing offer the most comfortable window of opportunity, with the summer heat just fading and the skies clear and bright. Let me break it down for you: Forbidden City tickets are 60, Summer Palace 30, Temple of Heaven 15, and Beihai Park 10, totaling just over 115 yuan. Transportation is by subway and shared bikes. For accommodation, choose a budget hotel near Nanluoguxiang, costing just over 200 yuan per person per night. A three-day, two-night trip can be kept under 1200 yuan. ⏰ Arrive at the Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City before 8 am to avoid the tour groups. Walk from the Donghua Gate along the moat to the entrance, enjoying the shade of willow trees – ten times more comfortable than queuing in Tiananmen Square. After visiting the Forbidden City, don't rush off. Exit through the Shenwu Gate and take bus 103 directly to Beihai Park. The white pagoda against the red walls, bathed in the slanting sunlight around 4 pm, makes for stunning photos. ⚠️ The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, and the Temple of Heaven's Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests closes at 5 PM. I've already experienced these two pitfalls for you. Don't enter the Summer Palace through the main gate; instead, go up the mountain via the North Palace Gate, cross Longevity Hill, and then descend to the Long Corridor. The path is less crowded and offers more scenic views. The breeze from Kunming Lake is so refreshing it makes you sleepy; sit on a bench by the lake for a while, and all the drowsiness will dissipate. 02 Huangshan City | Anhui For this Huangshan stop, I strongly recommend focusing on Xidi and Hongcun, rather than trying to climb Huangshan itself. Tickets are 104 RMB, Hongcun is 94 RMB, and there are discounts for combined tickets. A shared ride between the two villages costs 20 RMB. Staying in the Hongcun scenic area, even a standard room in a guesthouse only costs 180 to 260 RMB during peak season. Opening the window reveals a picturesque view of the horse-head walls, and at night you can hear the rain pattering on the bluestone slabs—it's better value than staying in the city. 🍜 At 6 AM, before the tour groups arrive, head to the Moon Pond to find a spot. The water reflects the old houses and the sky; those few minutes are surprisingly peaceful, unlike any other tourist area. After visiting Moon Pond, head to South Lake Academy. On the way, grab a preserved vegetable pancake at the village entrance – freshly baked, 3 yuan each, incredibly flaky. In the afternoon, take a bus to Xidi; it's quieter there, with narrow alleys and beautiful light and shadow effects, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⚠️ Don't buy "Huangshan Maofeng" tea at the scenic area entrance; it's almost certainly last year's stale tea. If you want to bring tea back, go to Tunxi Old Street and find a shop that fries tea on-site. Pre-Qingming Maofeng is 50-80 yuan per 50 grams, and you can taste its freshness. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is scattered, so if you're short on time, just visit Chengkan, known as "The First Village South of the Yangtze River." Its Bagua (Eight Trigrams) layout is interesting. Tickets are 107 yuan, half price for students. 03 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei Enshi is the most ridiculously overpriced scenic destination I've seen in recent years. The Grand Canyon entrance fee plus shuttle bus is 155 yuan, Tusi City is 45 yuan, and the Qingjiang River cruise is 120 yuan, totaling 320 yuan, cheaper than a high-speed rail ticket. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse near the train station; it's about 150 yuan per person, and the downstairs are full of small restaurants frequented by locals; you can eat your fill for 40 yuan per person. 📍 Don't take the cable car right away at the Grand Canyon. First, walk along the cliffside walkway; that section clings to the precipice, with a sea of ​​clouds below—your legs will be sore, but it's worth it. Walk to the first section (likely a place name) and then take the elevator down; it saves energy and allows you to see all the highlights. Choose the 2 PM Qingjiang River cruise; the sunlight shines on the river, and the mountains on both sides appear layered, like a living ink painting. ⚠️ The Shennong Stream Boatmen Cultural Area is now a bit too commercialized. The boat-pulling performances are only half an hour long, and after watching, you'll feel like, "Oh, that's it." It's better to spend your time at the Grand Canyon. There are regular hand-waving dance performances in Tusi City; try to join in, and the aunties will enthusiastically teach you—don't be shy. The temperature difference in the mountains is significant, so bring a light jacket. The evening wind can be so cold it'll make you question your existence. 04 Suzhou City | Jiangsu Province September is the perfect time to visit Suzhou. The osmanthus flowers are in bloom, filling the city with sweetness. The Humble Administrator's Garden costs 80 yuan, the Lingering Garden 55 yuan, Tiger Hill 70 yuan, and Hanshan Temple 20 yuan. Choose two to visit; I chose the Humble Administrator's Garden and Tiger Hill – one for its exquisite garden design, the other for its rustic charm. Stay in a hostel bed near Pingjiang Road for 80 yuan a night. There's a Pingtan (Suzhou storytelling and ballad singing) hall downstairs; spend 30 yuan for a cup of tea and listen to an hour of soft Suzhou dialect. ⏰ It's best to rush into the Humble Administrator's Garden as soon as it opens at 8 am. When it's less crowded, you can see the authentic Suzhou gardens – reflections in the water, artificial hills, and latticed windows – all meticulously designed. After visiting, walk north along Pingjiang Road. The street is lined with shops converted from old houses. Buy a cup of sweet osmanthus taro for 10 yuan; it's soft, chewy, and sweet. 🍜 Tiger Hill is best visited in the afternoon. Enter from the south gate and exit from the north gate, climbing uphill to Yunyan Temple Pagoda. From the pagoda, you can see the entire Suzhou skyline. Afterward, take a boat to Shantang Street (tickets are 50 yuan). The riverbanks are lined with white-walled, black-tiled houses, and the evening lights make it more beautiful than any travel guide. Hanshan Temple's night tour is also open; the bell tolls through Maple Bridge, suddenly bringing to life the line "The midnight bell tolls to the passenger boat." 05 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia At the end of September in Alxa, the poplars haven't fully turned yellow, but the Badain Jaran Desert is already breathtakingly beautiful. Desert off-road vehicles enter the scenic area (entrance fee plus vehicle fee 240 yuan), and camping in the scenic area costs 200 yuan per night, including breakfast and dinner. This stop is suitable for hardcore adventurers, but not for elderly people or children, as the dunes are undulating and you'll get tired after just a few steps. 📍 The Badain Jaran Desert's lakes are its biggest attraction. The world's highest sand dune, Bilutu Peak, is located here; the climb takes three hours round trip. Standing atop it, the dozens of lakes below resemble scattered blue sapphires—the breathtaking view is indescribable in a phone camera. If you don't want to climb, you can take an off-road vehicle for a dune bashing experience. The drivers are experienced; it's a rollercoaster ride, but if you're easily scared, don't sit in the front. ⚠️ Cell phone signal is practically nonexistent in the desert, so download offline maps beforehand. The temperature difference between day and night exceeds 15 degrees Celsius; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. The poplar forest tourist area doesn't turn completely yellow until early October. Going in late September allows you to see the poplars displaying a gradient of colors, with fewer crowds and less competition for photo spots—a real steal! 06 Songyuan City | Jilin Songyuan is such an off-the-beaten-path place that it breaks my heart. Chagan Lake is free to enter, but the boat ticket to Jinchan Island is 60 yuan. A night's stay at a lakeside farmhouse is 150 yuan, and a whole fish feast costs 60 yuan per person – a bighead carp stewed until bubbling, the meat so tender you can barely pick it up with chopsticks. This stop is best visited by car; it's a two-hour drive from Changchun, the road conditions are good, and the route is lined with cornfields. ⏰ The best time to visit Chagan Lake is at 5:30 am, when the lake is shrouded in mist and flocks of waterbirds fly by – I still remember that scene vividly. After watching the sunrise, head to Jinchan Island and take a boat there. There's a small temple on the island; it's not very popular, but the view of the lake from the high point is stunning, with the water and sky blending seamlessly – perfect for photos. For lunch, return to the farmhouse for fish and homemade salted duck eggs with runny yolks, served with corn porridge – so comforting! ⚠️ There are still quite a few mosquitoes at Chagan Lake in September, so bring mosquito repellent. Don't stand too close to the lake when taking photos; some areas have soft soil where you'll sink in. There are no trendy shops or fancy coffee shops here, only the authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere of Northeast China. Those who like it will love it, those who don't will find it boring—you decide for yourself. 07 Haikou City | Hainan Haikou is half the price of Sanya, yet much more charming. The entrance fee to Wugong Temple is 20 yuan, the Crater Park is 35 yuan, and the Qilou Old Street is free; the whole trip won't cost more than 100 yuan. Stay at a design hotel near Qilou Old Street for 200 yuan a night; the view of the weathered, Nanyang-style Qilou buildings downstairs is perfect for photos. 🍜 The spicy soup rice in Qilou Old Street is the soul of the place, 10 yuan a bowl, containing pork offal, pickled vegetables, and chili peppers. Served with a bowl of rice, it's incredibly satisfying, leaving you sweating profusely. In the afternoon, go to Crater Park and climb to the highest point in Haikou for a panoramic view of the city and the horizon. Before visiting Wugong Temple, do some research on its history, otherwise you'll just be looking at a few empty buildings, which isn't very interesting. ⚠️ Haikou's UV rays are even stronger than Sanya's; you can get sunburned even on cloudy days, so sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours. Avoid the food stalls near tourist attractions; locals go to the Dingcun Seafood Market, buy your own seafood and have it cooked, and you'll eat your fill for about 70 RMB per person. Haikou also experiences occasional typhoons in September, so check the weather forecast a week in advance to avoid stormy days. 08 Hengyang City | Hunan Hengshan is the most accessible of the Five Sacred Mountains I've ever seen. The entrance fee is 110 RMB, and the round-trip shuttle bus is 78 RMB. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse near Banshanting for 130 RMB per night; you'll see a sea of ​​clouds when you open your window in the morning. This stop is suitable for those with average physical fitness; the cable car and shuttle bus will take you to the closest point to Zhurong Peak, and you can walk the rest of the way, reaching the summit in about two hours. ⏰ If you only want to see the sunrise, get up at 3 AM, arrive at Nantianmen at 4 AM, and wait for the sun to emerge from the sea of ​​clouds at 6 AM. At that moment, you'll feel that getting up early was all worth it. Don't rush down the mountain after watching the sunrise. The Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain; the entrance fee is 40 yuan. It's one of the largest temples in southern China, with thriving incense offerings. Its red walls and green tiles are particularly photogenic. Find a corner to sit for a while, listen to the bell tolling, and your heart will find peace. 🍜 The rice noodles in the Nanyue area at the foot of the mountain are exceptional. Hand-cut noodles, beef broth, and a poached egg—8 yuan is a satisfying meal. ⚠️ Prices are double on the mountain. A bottle of water costs 8 yuan, so bring your own snacks. September in Hengshan is cool in the mornings and evenings, and the wind is strong at the summit. Bring a windproof jacket; don't wear shorts up—you'll be blown away! These 8 places are definitely within a budget of 3000 yuan. The key is to avoid overpriced entrance fees and choose areas frequented by locals for food and accommodation. Which one would you most like to visit? Let's chat in the comments; maybe we'll bump into each other on the road. Can you have a high-end experience on a 3000 yuan budget? These 8️⃣ Places Are Perfect to Visit in August and September 01 Beijing Late August and early September in Beijing offer the most comfortable window of opportunity, with the summer heat just receding and the skies high and clear. Let me break it down for you: Forbidden City tickets are 60 yuan, Summer Palace 30 yuan, Temple of Heaven 15 yuan, and Beihai Park 10 yuan – a total of just 115 yuan for all four. Transportation is by subway and shared bikes. For accommodation, choose a budget hotel near Nanluoguxiang; it will cost just over 200 yuan per person per night, keeping the total cost for three days and two nights under 1200 yuan. ⏰ Arrive at the Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City before 8 am to avoid the large tour groups. Walk from the Donghua Gate along the moat to the entrance; the path is shaded by willow trees, ten times more comfortable than queuing in Tiananmen Square. After visiting the Forbidden City, don't rush off. Exit through the Shenwu Gate and take bus 103 directly to Beihai Park. The white pagoda against the red walls, bathed in the slanting sunlight around 4 pm, makes for stunning photos. ⚠️ The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, and the Temple of Heaven's Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests closes at 5 PM. I've already experienced these two pitfalls for you. Don't enter the Summer Palace through the main gate; instead, go up the mountain via the North Palace Gate, cross Longevity Hill, and then descend to the Long Corridor. The path is less crowded and offers more scenic views. The breeze from Kunming Lake is so refreshing it makes you sleepy; sit on a bench by the lake for a while, and all the drowsiness will dissipate. 02 Huangshan City | Anhui For this Huangshan stop, I strongly recommend focusing on Xidi and Hongcun, rather than trying to climb Huangshan itself. Tickets are 104 RMB, Hongcun is 94 RMB, and there are discounts for combined tickets. A shared ride between the two villages costs 20 RMB. Staying in the Hongcun scenic area, even a standard room in a guesthouse only costs 180 to 260 RMB during peak season. Opening the window reveals a picturesque view of the horse-head walls, and at night you can hear the rain pattering on the bluestone slabs—it's better value than staying in the city. 🍜 At 6 AM, before the tour groups arrive, head to the Moon Pond to find a spot. The water reflects the old houses and the sky; those few minutes are surprisingly peaceful, unlike any other tourist area. After visiting Moon Pond, head to South Lake Academy. On the way, grab a preserved vegetable pancake at the village entrance – freshly baked, 3 yuan each, incredibly flaky. In the afternoon, take a bus to Xidi; it's quieter there, with narrow alleys and beautiful light and shadow effects, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⚠️ Don't buy "Huangshan Maofeng" tea at the scenic area entrance; it's almost certainly last year's stale tea. If you want to bring tea back, go to Tunxi Old Street and find a shop that fries tea on-site. Pre-Qingming Maofeng is 50-80 yuan per 50 grams, and you can taste its freshness. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is scattered, so if you're short on time, just visit Chengkan, known as "The First Village South of the Yangtze River." Its Bagua (Eight Trigrams) layout is interesting. Tickets are 107 yuan, half price for students. 03 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei Enshi is the most ridiculously overpriced scenic destination I've seen in recent years. The Grand Canyon entrance fee plus shuttle bus is 155 yuan, Tusi City is 45 yuan, and the Qingjiang River cruise is 120 yuan, totaling 320 yuan, cheaper than a high-speed rail ticket. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse near the train station; it's about 150 yuan per person, and the downstairs are full of small restaurants frequented by locals; you can eat your fill for 40 yuan per person. 📍 Don't take the cable car right away at the Grand Canyon. First, walk along the cliffside walkway; that section clings to the precipice, with a sea of ​​clouds below—your legs will be sore, but it's worth it. Walk to the first section (likely a place name) and then take the elevator down; it saves energy and allows you to see all the highlights. Choose the 2 PM Qingjiang River cruise; the sunlight shines on the river, and the mountains on both sides appear layered, like a living ink painting. ⚠️ The Shennong Stream Boatmen Cultural Area is now a bit too commercialized. The boat-pulling performances are only half an hour long, and after watching, you'll feel like, "Oh, that's it." It's better to spend your time at the Grand Canyon. There are regular hand-waving dance performances in Tusi City; try to join in, and the aunties will enthusiastically teach you—don't be shy. The temperature difference in the mountains is significant, so bring a light jacket. The evening wind can be so cold it'll make you question your existence. 04 Suzhou City | Jiangsu Province September is the perfect time to visit Suzhou. The osmanthus flowers are in bloom, filling the city with sweetness. The Humble Administrator's Garden costs 80 yuan, the Lingering Garden 55 yuan, Tiger Hill 70 yuan, and Hanshan Temple 20 yuan. Choose two to visit; I chose the Humble Administrator's Garden and Tiger Hill – one for its exquisite garden design, the other for its rustic charm. Stay in a hostel bed near Pingjiang Road for 80 yuan a night. There's a Pingtan (Suzhou storytelling and ballad singing) hall downstairs; spend 30 yuan for a cup of tea and listen to an hour of soft Suzhou dialect. ⏰ It's best to rush into the Humble Administrator's Garden as soon as it opens at 8 am. When it's less crowded, you can see the authentic Suzhou gardens – reflections in the water, artificial hills, and latticed windows – all meticulously designed. After visiting, walk north along Pingjiang Road. The street is lined with shops converted from old houses. Buy a cup of sweet osmanthus taro for 10 yuan; it's soft, chewy, and sweet. 🍜 Tiger Hill is best visited in the afternoon. Enter from the south gate and exit from the north gate, climbing uphill to Yunyan Temple Pagoda. From the pagoda, you can see the entire Suzhou skyline. Afterward, take a boat to Shantang Street (tickets are 50 yuan). The riverbanks are lined with white-walled, black-tiled houses, and the evening lights make it more beautiful than any travel guide. Hanshan Temple's night tour is also open; the bell tolls through Maple Bridge, suddenly bringing to life the line "The midnight bell tolls to the passenger boat." 05 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia At the end of September in Alxa, the poplars haven't fully turned yellow, but the Badain Jaran Desert is already breathtakingly beautiful. Desert off-road vehicles enter the scenic area (entrance fee plus vehicle fee 240 yuan), and camping in the scenic area costs 200 yuan per night, including breakfast and dinner. This stop is suitable for hardcore adventurers, but not for elderly people or children, as the dunes are undulating and you'll get tired after just a few steps. 📍 The Badain Jaran Desert's lakes are its biggest attraction. The world's highest sand dune, Bilutu Peak, is located here; the climb takes three hours round trip. Standing atop it, the dozens of lakes below resemble scattered blue sapphires—the breathtaking view is indescribable in a phone camera. If you don't want to climb, you can take an off-road vehicle for a dune bashing experience. The drivers are experienced; it's a rollercoaster ride, but if you're easily scared, don't sit in the front. ⚠️ Cell phone signal is practically nonexistent in the desert, so download offline maps beforehand. The temperature difference between day and night exceeds 15 degrees Celsius; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. The poplar forest tourist area doesn't turn completely yellow until early October. Going in late September allows you to see the poplars displaying a gradient of colors, with fewer crowds and less competition for photo spots—a real steal! 06 Songyuan City | Jilin Songyuan is such an off-the-beaten-path place that it breaks my heart. Chagan Lake is free to enter, but the boat ticket to Jinchan Island is 60 yuan. A night's stay at a lakeside farmhouse is 150 yuan, and a whole fish feast costs 60 yuan per person – a bighead carp stewed until bubbling, the meat so tender you can barely pick it up with chopsticks. This stop is best visited by car; it's a two-hour drive from Changchun, the road conditions are good, and the route is lined with cornfields. ⏰ The best time to visit Chagan Lake is at 5:30 am, when the lake is shrouded in mist and flocks of waterbirds fly by – I still remember that scene vividly. After watching the sunrise, head to Jinchan Island and take a boat there. There's a small temple on the island; it's not very popular, but the view of the lake from the high point is stunning, with the water and sky blending seamlessly – perfect for photos. For lunch, return to the farmhouse for fish and homemade salted duck eggs with runny yolks, served with corn porridge – so comforting! ⚠️ There are still quite a few mosquitoes at Chagan Lake in September, so bring mosquito repellent. Don't stand too close to the lake when taking photos; some areas have soft soil where you'll sink in. There are no trendy shops or fancy coffee shops here, only the authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere of Northeast China. Those who like it will love it, those who don't will find it boring—you decide for yourself. 07 Haikou City | Hainan Haikou is half the price of Sanya, yet much more charming. The entrance fee to Wugong Temple is 20 yuan, the Crater Park is 35 yuan, and the Qilou Old Street is free; the whole trip won't cost more than 100 yuan. Stay at a design hotel near Qilou Old Street for 200 yuan a night; the view of the weathered, Nanyang-style Qilou buildings downstairs is perfect for photos. 🍜 The spicy soup rice in Qilou Old Street is the soul of the place, 10 yuan a bowl, containing pork offal, pickled vegetables, and chili peppers. Served with a bowl of rice, it's incredibly satisfying, leaving you sweating profusely. In the afternoon, go to Crater Park and climb to the highest point in Haikou for a panoramic view of the city and the horizon. Before visiting Wugong Temple, do some research on its history, otherwise you'll just be looking at a few empty buildings, which isn't very interesting. ⚠️ Haikou's UV rays are even stronger than Sanya's; you can get sunburned even on cloudy days, so sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours. Avoid the food stalls near tourist attractions; locals go to the Dingcun Seafood Market, buy your own seafood and have it cooked, and you'll eat your fill for about 70 RMB per person. Haikou also experiences occasional typhoons in September, so check the weather forecast a week in advance to avoid stormy days. 08 Hengyang City | Hunan Hengshan is the most accessible of the Five Sacred Mountains I've ever seen. The entrance fee is 110 RMB, and the round-trip shuttle bus is 78 RMB. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse near Banshanting for 130 RMB per night; you'll see a sea of ​​clouds when you open your window in the morning. This stop is suitable for those with average physical fitness; the cable car and shuttle bus will take you to the closest point to Zhurong Peak, and you can walk the rest of the way, reaching the summit in about two hours. ⏰ If you only want to see the sunrise, get up at 3 AM, arrive at Nantianmen at 4 AM, and wait for the sun to emerge from the sea of ​​clouds at 6 AM. At that moment, you'll feel that getting up early was all worth it. After watching the sunrise, don't rush down the mountain. Nanyue Grand Temple is just at the foot. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. It's one of the largest temples in southern China, with thriving incense offerings. Its red walls and green tiles are particularly photogenic. Find a corner to sit for a while, listen to the bell tolling, and your heart will find peace. 🍜 The rice noodles in the Nanyue area at the foot of the mountain are exceptional. Hand-cut noodles, beef broth, and a poached egg—8 yuan is a satisfying meal. ⚠️ Prices are double on the mountain. A bottle of water costs 8 yuan, so bring your own snacks. September in Hengshan is cool in the mornings and evenings, and the wind is strong at the summit. Bring a windproof jacket; don't wear shorts up—you'll be blown away! These 8 places are definitely within a budget of 3000 yuan. The key is to avoid overpriced entrance fees and choose areas frequented by locals for food and accommodation. Which one would you most like to visit? Let's chat in the comments; maybe we'll bump into each other on the way!

Just found this Yinchuan-Alxa 1-day trip guide! Experience the 5-lake crossing, capture stunning drone shots of Ulan Lake, and enjoy unlimited sand sliding. Save this guide now. / Must-visit attractions: 🏯 Western Xia Imperial Tombs: The royal mausoleums of the Western Xia Dynasty. The 9 imperial tombs hold a thousand years of history. There are also super interesting new Western Xia script chess sets—combining Western Xia script and chess culture, so you can learn about history while getting some cool cultural souvenirs ✨ 🏰 Sanguankou Ming Great Wall: With its strategic terrain and sturdy walls, this was one of the 4 major defense points of Yinchuan during the Ming Dynasty. Visit to touch the history of border defense. 🌾 Tengger Desert: So many lakes and sand dunes that look like waves! Visit in midsummer to enjoy super sweet desert Kirin melons and Juyan honey melons. There are luxury campsites to stay at, plus endless sand sliding and camel riding. At night, you can even watch the Milky Way in the 37°N golden stargazing belt 🌌 ❤️ Ulan Lake: The "Heart of the Earth" hidden deep in the Tengger Desert. The red lake water looks like a beating gemstone. Stepping on the soft sand and gazing at it will instantly soothe all your worries. / Tips: 1. Local specialties like milk tablets and goji berries are reasonably priced, so don't get fooled by overpriced stalls 🥛 2. Be sure to pair hand-grabbed lamb with garlic to cut the grease, and the sand onion scrambled eggs are also a super local specialty 😋 3. The temperature difference between day and night is large in August, so wear sunscreen during the day and bring a light jacket for the evening 🌞🌙 4. Don't tease the sheepdogs in the desert pastoral areas, and remember to ask for permission before taking photos 🐑 / That's it for this Yinchuan-Alxa group tour guide. Save it and start your journey 🥳

Encounter the boundless wonders of golden waves in the Tengger Desert 🏜; bathe in the fiery, poetic light of autumn in the Populus euphratica forest 🍂; enjoy the harmonious rhythm of the singing sands in Badain Jaran 🎶; and let the tranquil reflections of Moon Lake mesmerize you 🌙... . No matter what kind of trip you want, Trip.com local guide Liu Yanlong can customize it for you ✅! Our studio has a solid team size and strong service capabilities. To enhance your experience and provide greater peace of mind, every staff member is dedicated to serving you wholeheartedly, ensuring a worry-free journey! . 👭👬 Traveling with friends? Choose 👉 · *Comfort 5-seater**, which accommodates 4 passengers and 2 pieces of luggage. Similar to the BYD Han, it is perfect for those seeking comfort and a premium ride experience. Enjoy the journey all the way 🚙! 👩‍👩‍👦‍👦 Traveling with family? Choose 👉 · *Economy 5-seater**, which accommodates 4 passengers and 2 pieces of luggage. Similar to the BYD Qin L, it is economical, fuel-efficient, and eco-friendly. It not only saves money but also ensures a comfortable trip for the whole family 🌱! Users can choose different vehicle models based on their needs and enjoy a worry-free journey! ✨ . 🌟 Our service commitment All drivers are locals of Alxa Left Banner, familiar with road conditions, and have extensive driving experience, ensuring on-time departures and arrivals ⏰ Covers 9 must-visit attractions, offers diverse route options, and can be customized to your needs to create a unique travel experience Exclusive guide provides 24-hour attentive online service, ready to answer your questions at any time and safeguard your journey 🙋‍♂️

01 Wuxi | Jiangsu The Lingshan Grand Buddha ticket is a bit pricey, but the free night view area of ​​Nianhua Bay is enough to keep you entertained for two hours. Enter after 5 PM; the lights are just coming on, and the reflections in the water and the Tang Dynasty-style architecture create stunning photos even without a night ticket. 📍 The path west of Miaoyin Terrace in Nianhua Bay is less crowded, allowing you to avoid tour groups. ⏰ The light is softest between 4:30 PM and 6 PM, perfect for taking photos. In Huishan Ancient Town, you don't need to enter the paid ancestral hall area; the main street is free, and the freshly baked sesame cakes are the most fragrant. 🍜 The Huishan sesame cakes at "Zhu Shunxing" at the old street entrance are 5 yuan each; eat them while they're hot. The back gate of Xihui Park is at the end of the ancient town; if you have the stamina, you can hike up a small hill along the way. ⚠️ Many ancestral halls are closed on Mondays, so don't make a special trip for that day. The Three Kingdoms and Water Margin Film City is more suitable for film enthusiasts; tickets are not cheap. If you're not particularly interested in the film sets, you can skip it. A taxi ride between the Lingshan Grand Buddha and the film city takes about 15 minutes, but sharing a ride is more cost-effective. 🚄 There's a tourist bus from Wuxi Station to Nianhua Bay, costing 10 yuan one way, saving you over 40 yuan compared to a taxi. 02 Shannan | Tibet Yamdrok Lake doesn't charge an entrance fee, but most visitors stop at the viewing platform. At an altitude of 4441 meters, it's windy, so don't run or jump. 📍 Enter from the direction of Langkazi County, drive along the lake for half an hour, and you'll encounter almost deserted lakeside meadows, much quieter than the main viewing platform. The lake's color changes with the cloud shadows; it's more blue in the morning and more green in the afternoon. ⏰ It's best to arrive before 10 am, when the wind hasn't picked up and the reflections are perfect. If driving, the round-trip cost to Lhasa, including fuel and tolls, is about 200 yuan; sharing a ride costs around 150 yuan per person. ⚠️ There are no supply points by the lake; bring your own water and snacks, and be sure to take your trash with you. If you're worried about altitude sickness, acclimatize in Lhasa for two days before going to Yamdrok Lake. 🚄 There are no direct buses; it's recommended to hire a car or share a ride. The one-way trip takes about 2.5 hours. This place is great for taking photos, but not suitable for lingering; it's windy and sunny, so don't skimp on sunscreen and sunglasses. 03 Aksu Prefecture|Xinjiang The entrance fee to the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon is 40 yuan. Walking the entire canyon and back takes about two hours. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM when the sunlight shines obliquely into the reddish-brown rock walls, creating the most vibrant color. 📍 About 500 meters from the canyon entrance, there's a narrow sliver of sky visible above, offering better photo opportunities than the main scenic area. The path inside is entirely gravel; wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. ⚠️ The afternoon sun is intense, and there's no shade in the canyon. Wearing a hat is more practical than using an umbrella. 🍜 There are stalls selling baked buns at the entrance of the scenic area. They cost 3 yuan each, filled with mutton. Eat them before entering the valley. A taxi ride from Kuqa city takes about 40 minutes and costs about 100 yuan round trip. If you're short on time, you can just hike the first half; the second half has similar scenery but requires more physical exertion. 🚄 There's no direct bus from Kuqa train station to the scenic area. Sharing a ride is recommended, costing around 25 yuan per person. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The entrance fee to the Populus euphratica forest scenic area is 240 yuan, which is honestly not cheap, but the golden poplars from late September to early October are definitely worth the price. ⏰ The light is best within two hours after sunrise, making the leaves translucent. 📍 The pedestrian path between the Second and Fourth Bridges is half the size of the main scenic area, and the reflections in the water are cleaner. A must-do experience in the Badain Jaran Desert is off-road driving, costing approximately 300 yuan per person, including driver and lunch. ⚠️ Those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand, as the dunes are more turbulent than a roller coaster. 🍜 Lunch in the desert is simple: hand-pulled rice and mutton soup. Don't expect too much; just eat until you're full. The two places are far apart, so it's recommended to separate them over two days. Accommodation near the Populus euphratica forest scenic area is around 200 yuan in the off-season; overnight stays at desert campsites are more expensive, but the starry sky is worth the price. 🚄 There are buses from Alxa Left Banner to Ejina Banner, a journey of about 6 hours, costing 80 yuan. 05 Anshan|Liaoning The entrance fee to Qianshan Mountain is 80 yuan, but if you only hike the section from Wuliang Temple to Longquan Temple, you don't actually need to buy a full ticket. ⏰ Arrive before 7 am; there aren't many people in the mountains yet, the dew on the stone steps is still wet, and the air is filled with the scent of pine trees. 📍 The narrow crevice on the west side of Wuliang Temple, known as the "One Line Sky," is so narrow you can only pass sideways; a slimmer person has a clear advantage. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps. If you're with elderly people or children, don't aim to reach the summit; turn back after reaching the Five Buddha Peak. The round trip takes about three hours. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, and bottled water is sold at double the price. Bring two bottles; that should be enough. 🍜 There's a restaurant called "Lao Bian Dumpling Restaurant" at the foot of the mountain, serving sauerkraut dumplings. It costs about 30 yuan per person; a hot meal after descending the mountain is very comforting. 🚄 A taxi from Anshan Station to the main entrance of Qianshan Mountain costs about 25 yuan, while bus route 8 goes directly there for 2 yuan. If you want to save money, stay near the train station; it's half the price of staying at the scenic area entrance. Enter the mountain early the next morning. 06 Shaoxing|Zhejiang Lu Xun's Former Residence is free; you can enter by scanning your ID card, but remember to make a reservation one day in advance through the official WeChat account. ⏰ Rush in as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM, before the crowds arrive, allowing you to leisurely explore the Hundred Herbs Garden and Sanwei Study. 📍 Turn right after exiting the former residence and walk to the street near Xianheng Hotel; the stinky tofu stalls there are half the price of those inside the scenic area. The Lanting Pavilion costs 70 yuan; you can skip it if you're not interested in calligraphy. However, if you want to experience the atmosphere of "winding stream party," this is truly irreplaceable. 🍜 Anchang Ancient Town is free to enter. Its signature dishes are sausage and braised duck. A good meal at a riverside restaurant costs around 40 yuan per person, cheaper than in the city. ⚠️ Tour groups leave Anchang Ancient Town after 4 PM. Seats are available at the riverside teahouses; order a pot of tea, sit for an hour, and watch the awning boats drift by – this is the proper way to experience Shaoxing. 🚄 A taxi from Shaoxing North Station to the city center costs about 30 yuan, while Metro Line 2 goes directly to Lu Xun's Former Residence for only 4 yuan. 07 Anqing | Anhui Tianzhushan entrance fee is 130 yuan, but half price is available if you have a teacher's certificate or student ID. ⏰ Go in early October when the maple leaves are just turning red, creating a picturesque scene against the backdrop of granite peaks. 📍 Enter from the South Gate and walk from Xiguanzhai to Liandan Lake; this is the most scenic route, taking about four hours. 🍜 Near the Sanzu Temple at the foot of the mountain, there's a restaurant called "Tianzhushan Local Cuisine Restaurant," famous for its braised pork with sweet potato starch balls; the average price is 35 yuan per person. ⚠️ It's windy on the mountain; even in October, you'll need a light down jacket, not just a light coat. 🚄 There's a direct bus from Anqing Station to Tianzhushan Scenic Area; the fare is 25 yuan, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. If you're not physically fit, you can take the cable car to the halfway point and then hike for an hour; the cable car costs 80 yuan one way. This itinerary is suitable for families with parents; it's not tiring and still allows you to see the core scenery. 08 Weihai | Shandong Chengshantou entrance fee is 170 yuan, which is honestly a bit expensive, but if you just want to see the sea, the free Xianghai Beach is more worthwhile. ⏰ Arrive after 3 pm; the sunlight shines obliquely on the sea, making the waves look golden. 📍 At the end of the boardwalk on the east side of Chengshantou is the easternmost point of the Shandong Peninsula. On a clear day, you can see the opposite shore towards South Korea. Liugong Island boat ticket plus entrance fee is 138 yuan. It has a strong historical atmosphere, but prices on the island are relatively high; bring your own water and snacks. 🍜 Huaxia City entrance fee is 120 yuan. If you're not interested in the large-scale live performance, you can skip it and use the saved money to eat seafood at Weigao Plaza. ⚠️ At seafood stalls in Weihai, ask beforehand whether the price is by weight or by portion to avoid being surprised at the bill. 🚄 There's a tourist bus from Weihai Station to Chengshantou, costing 15 yuan one way, half the price of a taxi. For accommodation, choose Huancui District; it's convenient for visiting various attractions, and guesthouses average around 200 yuan, much cheaper than seaside resorts. In September and October, avoid the crowds and enjoy great scenery on a budget. Choose two of these places to visit. Which one do you plan to go first? Let's discuss in the comments. 01 Wuxi|Jiangsu The Lingshan Grand Buddha ticket is relatively expensive, but the free night view area of ​​Nianhua Bay is enough to keep you entertained for two hours. Enter after 5 pm; the lights are just coming on, and the reflections on the water and the Tang Dynasty-style architecture create stunning photos without needing a night ticket. 📍 The path west of Miaoyin Terrace in Nianhua Bay is less crowded, allowing you to avoid tour groups. ⏰ The light is softest between 4:30 pm and 6 pm, perfect for taking photos. In Huishan Ancient Town, there's no need to enter the paid ancestral hall area; the main street is free. Freshly baked Huishan pastries are the most fragrant. 🍜 The "Zhu Shunxing" pastry stall at the old street entrance sells Huishan pastries for 5 yuan each; eat them while they're hot. At the end of the ancient town is the back gate of Xihui Park; if you have the stamina, you can hike up a small hill along the way. ⚠️ Many ancestral halls are closed on Mondays, so don't specifically go that day. The Three Kingdoms and Water Margin Film City is more suitable for film buffs; the tickets are not cheap. If you're not particularly interested in the film sets, you can skip it. A taxi ride between Lingshan Grand Buddha and the film city takes about 15 minutes; sharing a ride is more cost-effective. 🚄 There's a tourist bus from Wuxi Station to Nianhua Bay; it costs 10 yuan one way, saving you over 40 yuan compared to a taxi. 02 Shannan | Tibet Yamdrok Lake has no entrance fee, but most visitors stop at the viewing platform. At an altitude of 4441 meters, it's windy; don't run or jump. 📍 Starting from Langkazi County, drive along the lake for half an hour. You'll find almost deserted lakeside meadows, much quieter than the main viewpoint. The lake's color changes with the clouds; it's more blue in the morning and more green in the afternoon. ⏰ It's best to arrive before 10 AM, when the wind hasn't picked up and the reflections are perfect. Driving yourself, the round-trip cost to Lhasa (including fuel and tolls) is about 200 yuan; sharing a ride costs around 150 yuan per person. ⚠️ There are no supply points by the lake; bring your own water and snacks, and be sure to take your trash with you. If you're worried about altitude sickness, acclimatize in Lhasa for two days before going to Yamdrok Lake. 🚄 There are no direct buses; it's recommended to hire a car or share a ride. The one-way trip takes about 2.5 hours. This place is great for taking photos, but not for lingering; it's windy and sunny, so don't skimp on sunscreen and sunglasses. 03 Aksu Prefecture|Xinjiang The entrance fee to the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon is 40 yuan. Walking the entire canyon round trip takes about two hours. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the sunlight shines obliquely into the reddish-brown rock walls, creating the most vibrant color. 📍 About 500 meters from the canyon entrance, there's a narrow sliver of sky visible above, offering more photogenic views than the main scenic area. The path inside is entirely gravel; wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. ⚠️ The afternoon sun is intense, and there's no shade in the canyon. A hat is more practical than an umbrella. 🍜 There are stalls selling baked buns at the entrance, 3 yuan each, filled with mutton. Eat them before entering the canyon. A taxi ride from Kuqa city takes about 40 minutes and costs around 100 yuan round trip. If you're short on time, you can just hike the first half; the second half offers similar scenery but is more physically demanding. 🚄 There's no direct bus from Kuqa train station to the scenic area; sharing a ride is recommended, costing around 25 yuan per person. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The entrance fee to the Populus euphratica forest scenic area is 240 yuan, which is honestly not cheap, but the golden poplars from late September to early October are definitely worth the price. ⏰ The light is best within two hours after sunrise, making the leaves translucent. 📍 The walking path between the Second and Fourth Bridges is half the size of the main scenic area, and the reflections in the water are cleaner. Off-road driving into the Badain Jaran Desert is a must-do experience, costing about 300 yuan per person, including driver and lunch. ⚠️ Those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand, as the dunes are more turbulent than a roller coaster. 🍜 Lunch in the desert is a simple meal of hand-pulled rice and mutton soup; don't expect too much, just enough to fill you up. The two places are far apart, so it's recommended to spend two separate days there. Accommodation near the Populus euphratica forest scenic area entrance is a little over 200 yuan in the off-season; overnight stays at desert campsites are more expensive, but the starry sky is worth the price. 🚄 There are buses from Alxa Left Banner to Ejina Banner, the journey takes about 6 hours, and the ticket price is 80 yuan. 05 Anshan|Liaoning The entrance fee to Qianshan Mountain is 80 yuan, but if you only hike the section from Wuliang Temple to Longquan Temple, you don't actually need to buy a full ticket. ⏰ Arrive before 7 am, there aren't many people in the mountains yet, the dew on the stone steps is still wet, and the air is full of the scent of pine trees. 📍 The "One Line Sky" crevice on the west side of Wuliang Temple is so narrow that you can only pass sideways; it's a clear advantage for slim people. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps. If you're with elderly people or children, don't try to reach the summit; turn back after reaching the Five Buddha Peak. The round trip takes about three hours. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, and bottled water is sold at double the price. Bring two bottles yourself; that should be enough. 🍜 There's a "Lao Bian Dumpling Restaurant" at the foot of the mountain, serving sauerkraut dumplings. It costs about 30 yuan per person; a hot meal after descending the mountain is very comforting. 🚄 A taxi from Anshan Station to the main entrance of Qianshan Mountain costs about 25 yuan, while bus route 8 costs 2 yuan directly. If you want to save money, stay near the train station (half the price of staying at the scenic area entrance) and enter the mountain early the next morning. 06 Shaoxing|Zhejiang Lu Xun's Former Residence is free; you can enter by scanning your ID card, but remember to make a reservation a day in advance via the official WeChat account. ⏰ Go in as soon as it opens at 8:30 am, before the crowds arrive. You can take your time to explore the Hundred Herb Garden and Sanwei Study. 📍 After exiting the former residence, turn right onto the street in front of Xianheng Hotel. The stinky tofu stalls there are half the price of those inside the scenic area. The Lanting Pavilion costs 70 yuan. If you're not interested in calligraphy, you can skip it. But if you want to experience the atmosphere of "winding stream party," this is truly irreplaceable. 🍜 Anchang Ancient Town is free to enter. Sausage and braised duck are its specialties. You can eat very well at a riverside restaurant for about 40 yuan per person, cheaper than in the city. ⚠️ Tour groups leave Anchang Ancient Town after 4 PM. Seats are available at riverside teahouses; order a pot of tea, sit for an hour, and watch the awning boats drift by – this is the proper way to experience Shaoxing. 🚄 A taxi from Shaoxing North Railway Station to the city center costs about 30 yuan. Metro Line 2 goes directly to Lu Xun's Former Residence for only 4 yuan. 07 Anqing|Anhui Tianzhushan Mountain entrance fee is 130 yuan, but half price is available if you have a teacher's certificate or student ID. ⏰ Go in early October when the maple leaves on the mountain are just turning red, creating a picturesque scene against the backdrop of granite peaks. 📍 Enter from the South Gate and walk from Xiguanzhai to Liandan Lake – this is the most scenic route, taking about four hours. 🍜 Near the Sanzu Temple at the foot of the mountain, there's a restaurant called "Tianzhushan Local Cuisine Restaurant," whose signature dish is braised pork with sweet potato starch dumplings. The average price is 35 yuan per person. ⚠️ It's windy on the mountain; even in October, you'll need a light down jacket, not just a light coat. 🚄 There's a direct bus from Anqing Station to Tianzhushan Scenic Area, costing 25 yuan and taking about 1.5 hours. If you're not physically fit, you can take the cable car to the halfway point and then hike for an hour. The cable car costs 80 yuan one way. This option is suitable for families with parents, as it's less strenuous and still allows you to see the core scenery. 08 Weihai | Shandong Chengshantou's entrance fee is 170 yuan, which is honestly a bit expensive, but if you just want to see the sea, the free Xianghai Beach is more worthwhile. ⏰ Arrive after 3 PM; the sunlight shines obliquely on the sea, making the waves look golden. 📍 At the end of the boardwalk on the east side of Chengshantou is the easternmost point of the Shandong Peninsula. On a clear day, you can see the opposite shore towards South Korea. Liugong Island's boat ticket plus entrance fee is 138 yuan. It has a rich historical atmosphere, but prices on the island are relatively high, so bring your own water and snacks. 🍜 Huaxia City tickets are 120 yuan. If you're not interested in the large-scale live performance, you can skip it and use the money to eat seafood at Weigao Plaza. ⚠️ When choosing seafood stalls in Weihai, ask beforehand whether they charge by weight or by portion to avoid being surprised at the bill. 🚄 There's a tourist bus from Weihai Station to Chengshantou, costing 15 yuan one way, half the price of a taxi. For accommodation, choose Huancui District; it's convenient for visiting various attractions, and guesthouses average around 200 yuan, much cheaper than seaside resorts. In September and October, avoid the crowds and see great scenery on a budget. Choose two of these places to visit. Which one do you plan to go first? Let's chat in the comments.

September off-peak travel: these 8 places are beautiful and uncrowded. If you've been to 3, it's worth it. 01 Weifang, Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City isn't one of those newly renovated faux-antique streets. The stone paths are polished smooth, and the old shops on both sides sell freshly baked crispy cakes and hot tofu pudding. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the city at 7:00 AM, before the tourists flood in, when you can hear the shopkeepers starting their fires. 📍 The pan-fried bun shop by the old locust tree in the middle of Ouyuan Street serves juicy beef buns for CNY 2 each, which go perfectly with a bowl of millet porridge. ⚠️ Don't buy the fresh sliced spiced beef outside Fucai Gate. They don't tell you the price before weighing it, and the bill might shock you. The ancient city is free to enter, but the small gardens inside charge separate admission. I only bought a ticket for Ouyuan Garden for CNY 20; it took 20 minutes to walk through, but it was quiet and uncrowded. In the afternoon, head to Yunmen Mountain. It takes half an hour to reach the summit, where you can see the entire outline of the ancient city—much more interesting than squeezing through the streets. 02 Nanyang, Henan Xixia Laojieling and the Dinosaur Relics Park are not close to each other. Trying to do both in one day will wear you out, so I suggest choosing one. If you have kids, go to the Dinosaur Relics Park; the giant skeletons and realistic dinosaurs will keep them excited for half a day. ⏰ There's a guided tour at 10:00 AM, which is better than wandering around aimlessly. If you're just here for the scenery, head straight to Laojieling. After taking the cable car up, walk the loop trail; it takes two hours and offers views of the layered ridges of the Funiu Mountains. 📍 The stone tablet at the watershed is worth a photo—you can stand with one foot in the Yangtze River basin and the other in the Yellow River basin. It's quite a ceremonial experience. ⚠️ The kiosks on the mountain only accept cash, and the signal is poor, so remember to bring some small change. The ticket and cable car combo costs a little over CNY 200. Booking online in advance can save you a dozen yuan or so, but you need to book at least one hour before it becomes valid. 03 Alxa League, Inner Mongolia In September, the Populus euphratica forest hasn't turned fully yellow yet, but the number of tourists in Ejina has already dropped by more than half, which is actually my favorite time to visit. You must experience the off-road sand bashing in the Badain Jaran Desert. The drivers drift on the dunes, and the feeling of weightlessness is more intense than a roller coaster—if you get motion sickness, take medicine beforehand. 📍 Miaohaizi, located deep in the desert, features blue lake water against golden sand dunes. The colors are so clean they look fake. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called desert rose stones at the entrance; most are just dyed gypsum. Erdaoqiao and Sidaoqiao in the Populus euphratica forest scenic area are the most photogenic spots, but it takes most of the day to walk through the entire area. If you're not up for that much walking, just take the shuttle bus to Qidaoqiao and walk back. The golden season is from late September to early October. If you want to photograph the yellow leaves, wait another two weeks, but keep in mind that hotel prices will double then. Weigh your options. 04 Shigatse, Tibet Not everyone can handle the Everest Base Camp. At an altitude of 5,200 meters, I lay awake all night, but the starry sky was bright enough to see the core of the Milky Way. ⏰ You must arrive at Rongbuk Monastery before 4:00 PM. If you're late, the sightseeing buses stop running, and you'll have to stay at the foot of the mountain. 📍 Rongbuk Monastery is the highest monastery in the world. You can capture the silhouette of Mount Everest next to the prayer wheels—much better than the crowded background at the base camp monument. ⚠️ Oxygen tanks cost CNY 200 to rent at the foot of the mountain and CNY 600 to buy on the mountain, so prepare in advance. Tashilhunpo Monastery is in the city, where the altitude is much lower, making it a good place to acclimatize. The bronze Buddha in the Maitreya Chapel is 26 meters high—your neck will ache from looking up. There are fewer tourists on the prayer path after 5:00 PM. Follow the local Tibetans for a walk, and you can smell the scent of butter tea mixed with highland barley. 05 Foshan, Guangdong Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain—one is in the city, the other in the suburbs. I suggest visiting the garden in the morning and the mountain in the afternoon. Qinghui Garden is a masterpiece of Lingnan gardening, with rockeries, lotus ponds, and hollowed-out wooden windows—every detail is exquisite. ⏰ Get there right when it opens. It's less crowded before 9:00 AM, and you can hear the birds and the sound of flowing water. 📍 In the corridor next to the Chengyi Pavilion, light shines through the patterned windows onto the blue bricks, making for great photos with high contrast. Allow at least four hours for Xiqiao Mountain. Take the sightseeing bus to Baofeng Temple, then walk to the Nanhai Guanyin statue. There aren't many stairs, so it's accessible for seniors too. ⚠️ Don't trust the touts at the foot of the mountain who say they can take you through a shortcut to save on admission. Ticket checks are strict, and paying for a missed ticket is more expensive. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Guanshan Market for a bowl of double-skin milk. It's made with Shunde buffalo milk, and the milk skin is thick enough to lift in one piece. 06 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu It's a three-hour drive between Zhagana and Langmusi, but the scenery along the way is worth taking your time. The morning in Zhagana is the most breathtaking; clouds and mist flow through the waist of the rocky mountains, and smoke rises from the wooden roofs of the Tibetan village—it's like living in a painting. 📍 The viewing platform in Yeri Village is the best spot for panoramic photos; don't crowd into the throngs at the entrance of Dari Village. Langmusi actually consists of two temples, one in Sichuan and one in Gansu, separated by the Bailong River. I recommend visiting the Sertri Monastery on the Gansu side. You can see the sky burial site from the hill behind it, but please don't take photos of it—respect local customs. ⚠️ You can add Yeliguan and Gahai Lake if they're on your route, but by September, the birds at Gahai Lake have already migrated south, leaving only the water and sky. If you're short on time, you can skip them. The altitude is 3,500 meters, so walk slowly and avoid running or jumping. 07 Xianning, Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield is more impressive than I imagined; it's not just a monument. 📍 The Chibi characters carved into the cliff are from the Tang Dynasty. Standing below them, you can feel the river breeze on your face. ⏰ Enter the park after 3:00 PM. The light hits the river at an angle, so you won't be shooting against the light, and most tour groups have left by then. There's a replica of Zhou Yu's command platform in the scenic area; it's a bit cheesy, but kids love it. ⚠️ Don't buy the prop weapons sold at the Three Kingdoms Specialty Store at the exit; they smell strongly of plastic and are overpriced. 🍜 The Chibi fish cake in the city is worth a try. The fish is mashed into a paste, steamed, and sliced—it's fresh, sweet, and bouncy. Pair it with a bowl of hot dry noodles for breakfast, and you can eat your fill for CNY 20. Admission to the ancient battlefield is CNY 80; booking online in advance saves you CNY 10, but you need to book two hours ahead. 08 Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai This stop is all about salt lakes, but don't be greedy—visit at most two in one day. Chaka Salt Lake is the most famous and the most crowded. ⚠️ If you want to photograph the mirror of the sky, you must arrive before 9:00 AM. After 10:00 AM, the lake surface gets churned up, and the reflection becomes blurry. Qarhan Salt Lake is near Golmud and is dozens of times larger than Chaka. With its green water and white salt flowers, there are so few tourists you could practically have the place to yourself. 📍 The Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge is a road paved entirely with salt. It makes a crunching sound under your tires as you drive over it—it's quite magical. Emerald Lake is in Dachaidan; its colors look like an overturned palette of blue and green, but it's windy, so tie your hat on tight. The Kunlun Mountain Pass is at an altitude of 4,700 meters, and it might snow in September, so buy oxygen tanks in Golmud before heading up. The lakes are far apart, so chartering a car costs about CNY 800 per day, but carpooling is more cost-effective. Traveling in September, the greatest luxury is the lack of crowds. No need to squeeze into crowds waiting for a photo op, no need to rush around listening to a tour guide's megaphone. The wind is cool, the sunlight is soft, and the road is yours. Of these eight places, I personally prefer Qingzhou and Zhagana—one is perfect for leisurely strolling and eating, the other for zoning out and relaxing. Where are you planning to go this September? Let's chat in the comments; maybe next time I'll write about the road you're traveling on.

No. 1 Guangyuan | Sichuan For the first stop of National Day I picked Guangyuan. Not because Jianmen Pass is famous, but because it’s perfect for low-cost yet hardcore fun. Take the high-speed train to Guangyuan station, then a taxi from the station to Jianmen Pass Scenic Area takes about 40 minutes, with a fare of about CNY 50; carpooling is more economical. Remember to reserve your ticket on the official account a day in advance to save queuing time. The most worthwhile route at Jianmen Pass is the bird path — so narrow you can only squeeze sideways, with a cliff under your feet. When the wind blows your legs go weak, but finishing it feels great. ⚠️ If you’re afraid of heights, don’t force it — take the plank road instead, the views are still good. The park is full of tofu banquets; don’t eat at the first place by the gate. Walk about 200 meters in and you’ll find a long-established shop where the price is about CNY 30 per person and the Jianmen tofu is tender and flavorful. After 4 PM the light is best; standing on the pass tower and looking north, the ridgeline slices through the clouds like the back of a knife, and every phone photo looks cinematic. Take it slow and five hours is enough. Stay overnight in the city; budget hotels are a little over CNY 100 and clean. No. 2 Baoding | Hebei Baoding is underrated. Qing Western Tombs, Baishi Mountain, Yesanpo, and Baiyangdian are spread in four directions — two days and one night means you have to choose. My plan: spend day 1 at Baishi Mountain and the morning of day 2 at Qing Western Tombs before heading back in the afternoon. The suspended plank path at Baishi Mountain is built along a kilometer-high cliff; walking on it feels like stepping on clouds. The glass walkway costs an extra CNY 20 if you want a thrill. It opens at 8 AM, so go in right at opening when it’s less crowded, the mountain breeze is cool, and you won’t wait for photo spots. Qing Western Tombs are much quieter than the eastern ones; the Yongzheng-era tomb’s underground palace is open and the temperature drops noticeably when you enter — the solemn atmosphere is hard to describe. ⚠️ Note that the tombs are far apart — don’t expect to walk between them; take the park shuttle, it’s a CNY 30 pass and worth it. At this season the reeds at Baiyangdian are just turning yellow; take a boat through the waterways, with the creak of the oars and water birds calling — perfect for zoning out. Food on the lake is pricey — a stewed mixed-fish dish can be CNY 80 — so bring snacks and save your budget for Baishi Mountain. No. 3 Shigatse | Tibet The Everest base camp in Shigatse is on many people’s must-go list, but going during National Day requires preparation. First, 5,200 meters altitude is no joke — you may experience hypoxia, headaches, and sleeplessness. I suggest spending a night in Shigatse to acclimatize and visit Tashilhunpo Monastery. The monastery’s white exterior is especially photogenic after 3 PM, and the circumambulation path is full of worshippers; join them for a lap and you’ll smell butter and Tibetan incense mixed together. You need a border pass to go to Everest base camp, which you can get for free at the Shigatse administrative hall with your ID. 🚄 The drive from the city to base camp takes about 4 hours, passing the Gaula Pass — with luck you can see five 8,000-meter peaks at once. ⚠️ The tent camp at base camp is basic. Dorm beds are CNY 100 per person, nights drop below freezing, and you must bring a warm sleeping bag. Everest permits are CNY 400 per vehicle plus CNY 180 per person — not cheap, but when you see the sun turning the peak golden for those few minutes you’ll think it was worth it. Weather during National Day is unstable; whether you see the summit depends on luck, so keep expectations even. No. 4 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forest in Ejina Banner turns golden for only about 20 days a year, and National Day usually hits the tail end of peak color. I went on Oct 2 last year and the leaves were about 70% yellow — under the sun the whole forest looked like it was on fire. Tickets are CNY 240, expensive, but the reflection forest between Second and Fourth Bridge is unforgettable, with poplars mirrored on the water. The Badain Jaran Desert is nearby; off‑roading in a 4x4 is CNY 300 per person — the drivers are fearless, and the ride up and down the dunes feels like a roller coaster, so don’t try it if you have heart problems. ⚠️ Accommodation in Ejina Banner is a weak point — during National Day a standard double room can go for CNY 700–800. I recommend booking a family guesthouse early; conditions are basic but can save you half the price. Desert temperatures vary greatly — short sleeves at noon, and a down jacket as soon as the sun sets, so don’t tough it out. The forest is most beautiful at around 6 PM when the low sun stretches the shadows and the gold is a color no palette can reproduce. No. 5 Qiannan | Guizhou Libo’s Little Seven‑Arch Bridge sounds small but will wear your legs out. The park is split into the Big Seven‑Arch and Little Seven‑Arch; here’s the truth: Little Seven‑Arch is the highlight — skip Big Seven if you’re short on time. Enter from the east gate, take the shuttle to Wolong Pool, then walk downstream. Wolong Pool is emerald green like a piece of jade in the valley; the boardwalk by the pool is quiet before 9 AM and the water is mirror‑calm. Further down at Cuigu Waterfall the spray hits your face and is refreshingly cool. The Seven‑Arch Bridge is the iconic photo spot — the best light is 11 AM–2 PM and the reflections are clear, but it’s also the most crowded; get there early for empty shots. ⚠️ Trails can be slippery, wear non‑slip shoes and avoid sandals. Tickets are CNY 110 including the shuttle; remember to reserve in advance. After Little Seven‑Arch, there’s a stall outside the gate selling yangmei soup for CNY 10 a cup — sweet and sour and revitalizing, better than any soft drink. No. 6 Anqing | Anhui I think Mount Tianzhu in Anqing is a hidden gem overshadowed by Huangshan. Tickets are CNY 130, half the price of Huangshan, but the scenery is just as good. Enter from the south gate; the cable car up is CNY 80 — fit hikers can skip it but the climb takes about 3 hours and the steps are steep, so don’t force it if your knees are bad. Tianzhu Peak is the core attraction — a massive rock shooting into the clouds; standing below and looking up will make your neck ache and you still won’t see the top. Liandan Lake sits mid‑mountain with green water and pine surrounds; sitting on a rock and eating a packed lunch there beats any fancy meal. After 2 PM fog is likely as clouds roll up from the valley and Tianzhu Peak appears and disappears like a living ink painting. ⚠️ Supplies are limited on the mountain — bring enough water. A bottle is CNY 3 at the base and CNY 10 at the top. Don’t descend the same way; go down via the West Gate Village route to see a sky fissure so narrow you have to squeeze sideways — bigger people might get stuck. No. 7 Shaoguan | Guangdong Danxia Mountain is Guangdong locals’ backyard garden. Yangyuan Stone and Yinyuan Stone are the two must‑see spots — one masculine, one feminine — nature doesn’t bother hiding its contrasts. Tickets are CNY 100 and valid for two days, so don’t rush. I recommend staying in a guesthouse outside the park for about CNY 150 a night; you can eat a farmhouse meal in the evening with local chicken and mountain snails as specialties — about CNY 50 per person is filling. The Yangyuan viewing platform is quiet before 8 AM; sunrise light hits the pillars and the contours pop. After seeing Yangyuan Stone, climb the steep steps of Ximei Fort — nearly vertical, you’ll need hands and feet, but the view at the top repays the effort: the whole Danxia landscape spreads below with red sandstone rolling like waves. In the afternoon head to Xianglong Lake and take a CNY 30 boat; the water is calm and the red cliffs reflect perfectly — great for a slow cruise. ⚠️ Danxia gets intense sun in summer; National Day is suitable but bring sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. No. 8 Huangshi | Hubei Huangshi isn’t a tourist hotspot, but Chengyue Island by Cihu is a place to slow down. The island sits in the middle of the lake and you cross by an arch bridge with no entrance fee. The island is full of osmanthus trees and National Day often hits their bloom, so the whole island smells sweet. Walking the lakeside path takes about 40 minutes and the lake breeze hits your face while the opposite skyline gets a golden rim at sunset. ⚠️ Drinks on the island are priced at a premium, so bring water. After Chengyue Island, you can visit Huangshi National Mine Park; the continent’s largest sinkhole there is shocking — tickets are CNY 30 and looking down from the edge you can’t see the bottom. 🍜 At night go to Huangshi port to try fish‑head rice soup at a local place packed with locals — the fish head is tender and the broth mixed with rice will fill you twice over. Expect about CNY 40 per person and great value. Spending CNY 500 over 5 days — the biggest secret is avoiding the popular spots in popular cities. Jianmen Pass in Guangyuan, Baishi Mountain in Baoding, and Little Seven‑Arch in Libo are typical spots with few people and great views. The other places offer flexible budgets for any taste. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Share in the comments and I’ll tell you if it’s worth it.

When traveling with parents, the biggest worry isn't the cost—it's wearing them out. I've vetted these 8 destinations for you: they feature flat paths, a slow pace, and accessible restrooms. The third city is especially perfect for a leisurely stroll with seniors. 1️⃣ Lingshui | Hainan Don't just rush to Sanya—Lingshui is the better way to vacation with parents. It’s just a 10-minute boat ride to Fenjiezhou Island, where electric carts can take you directly to the mountaintop, so you won't have to climb a single step. The sea breeze can be strong, so remember to bring a light jacket for your parents. The cable car at Nanwan Monkey Island crosses over fishing rafts; sitting back to watch the sea and the Danjia villages is much more comfortable than walking. 🍜 For lunch, order the steamed grouper at one of the island's seafood restaurants—the meat is tender and has few bones. ⚠️ Check the weather before heading to the island. If it's too windy, boat service may be suspended, so don't make a wasted trip. 2️⃣ Yantai | Shandong Yantai is perfect for a relaxed pace. The Penglai Pavilion scenic area may look large, but if you follow the central axis, the halls, pavilions, and corridors are all in a straight line, so there's no need to backtrack. Changdao requires a boat ride; if your parents get seasick, have them take motion sickness medicine beforehand. Once on the island, charter a small van—the driver will time it perfectly to show you the boundary line between the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Sea. Don't rush to climb the mountain at Longkou Nanshan; the religious culture park at the foot of the mountain is enough to explore for 2 hours, with plenty of shade and benches. The next morning, remember to visit the Penglai market for freshly cooked mackerel dumplings—the filling is generous and the skin is thin, which seniors are sure to love. 3️⃣ Guilin | Guangxi This is my personal top recommendation for a trip with parents. For the Li River cruise, a 3-star boat is sufficient. From Mopanshan Pier to Yangshuo, you can sit on the second deck for 4 hours and watch the landscape unfold like a scroll before your eyes without having to take a single step. In Xingping Ancient Town, just explore the main street; the stone path is flat, and it's lined with old houses. If you get tired, just find a shop and enjoy a bowl of oil tea. Reed Flute Cave is a must-visit; the cave has a constant temperature, the steps are gentle, and the lighting on the stalactites will have seniors saying "wow." For the Longji Rice Terraces, don't stay at the top of the mountain; stay at Ping'an Village halfway up. There's a sightseeing shuttle that takes you directly to the viewing platform, so you don't have to climb to watch the sunset. ⚠️ Rain in Guilin can start at any moment, so prepare disposable raincoats for your parents—they're more convenient than umbrellas. 4️⃣ Xishuangbanna | Yunnan When taking parents to Xishuangbanna, focus on the "slow" pace. You don't need a guide for the Dai Ethnic Park; there's a water-splashing performance at 2 PM. After the show, find a bamboo house to sit in, enjoy some coconut water, and wait for the sunset. You must buy a ticket for the electric cart at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden—the park is too large, and walking will lead to heatstroke. The peacock release at the Xishuangbanna Primeval Forest Park happens several times a day; plan your time, watch the show, and then head back—don't be tempted to venture too deep into the park. 🍜 You can try the lemongrass grilled fish at the night market—it's sour, spicy, and appetizing, but remember to ask the vendor to go easy on the spice. 5️⃣ Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is the most underrated yet most comfortable of these 8 cities. Shicheng isn't a mountain; it's an ancient village below Tongtianzhai. Walking through the village in the morning, the air is filled with the scent of osmanthus, and the stone paths are polished smooth, making them steady for seniors to walk on. The boardwalks in the Sanbai Mountain scenic area are exceptionally well-built and flat throughout. Walking along the stream at the source of the Dongjiang River, with the sound of rushing water, is cool and refreshing. There are "tangpi" (rice noodles) sold at the entrance of the scenic area for 5 yuan a bowl—a much better deal than the fast food inside. ⚠️ Sanbai Mountain stops admitting visitors at 4 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff time. 6️⃣ Alxa | Inner Mongolia When taking parents to Alxa, you need to change your approach. Don't schedule the Populus euphratica forest tour for noon; the sun is too harsh, and the tree shadows are flat. Go in after 3 PM when the light hits at an angle—the forest turns golden, and you won't need filters for your photos. There's a small train in the scenic area; get off at Erdaoqiao, as that section is the highlight. In the Badain Jaran Desert, don't have your parents ride camels; sand off-road vehicles are more stable. The driver will take you deep into the desert to see the lakes, which look like sapphires embedded in the sand dunes. ⚠️ The temperature difference in the desert is significant, and it gets chilly when the wind picks up in the evening, so bring a fleece jacket for your parents. 7️⃣ Anqing | Anhui Anqing is perfect for parents who enjoy culture and history. The Tianzhu Mountain scenic area is divided into two routes; Xiguan is the main peak with many steps, so skip it. Dongguan is relatively flat, and there are cliff carvings along the way that you can take your time to admire. The Sanzu Temple at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit—it's not crowded with incense offerings, so it's very quiet. 🍜 For lunch in Qianshan County, have a bowl of sweet potato starch balls with braised pork—the balls are chewy, and the meat is stewed until tender, so it's easy for seniors to eat. Don't rush to see attractions in the afternoon; instead, go to Yingjiang Temple by the Yangtze River to sit and watch the cargo ships go by—it's much more comfortable than climbing a mountain. 8️⃣ Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is the perfect city to explore on foot, but when traveling with parents, you have to learn to take it easy. Take the scenic shuttle to Laojun Rock on Qingyuan Mountain; just seeing the Song Dynasty stone statue is enough—there's no need to climb further. Quanzhou's cliff carvings are scattered throughout the city, so just pick a few near Kaiyuan Temple to see. Chongwu Ancient City is a bit far—a 40-minute taxi ride—but there's a sea breeze on the city walls; just walk a section and take some photos, no need to walk the entire length. Kaiyuan Temple is the main event; the East and West Pagodas are especially photogenic in the sunlight. The ancient trees in the temple provide plenty of shade, and there are many stone benches, so your parents can rest whenever they get tired. ⚠️ You can try the sipunculus jelly (tuzhundong) on West Street, but don't buy it from roadside stalls—look for a long-established shop for better hygiene. The secret to traveling with parents is simple: walk less, rest more. These 8 cities either have plenty of flat paths, offer convenient transportation, or are small and slow-paced. I highly recommend Guilin and Quanzhou—one is perfect for sitting back and enjoying the scenery, and the other is great for a leisurely stroll and food tour. Which of these have you taken your parents to? Share your experiences in the comments to help others avoid potential pitfalls.

Unlock desert wonders with the kids 🌍 See the "Heart of the Earth" Ulan Lake and lie back to watch the galaxy Step away from electronics and into the Tengger wilderness for a meaningful family adventure 👨‍👩‍👧 📅 Family itinerary ✅ Day 1: Yinchuan → View Western Xia Imperial Tombs → Alxa Heroes Meeting Square → Swan Lake → Dragon Eye Emerald Lake → Alien Planet Camp 🍚 Includes lunch and dinner | 🏕️ Stay: Alien Planet Camp Depart from Yinchuan and start a magical desert adventure! Tell the kids ancient stories about the Western Xia Imperial Tombs on the way, then arrive at the Alxa Heroes Meeting Square for photos 📸 Hop into a desert off-road vehicle 🚙 for some fun dune bashing—rolling over sand dunes with laughter all the way! Discover Swan Lake and Dragon Eye Emerald Lake hidden in the sea of sand. The kids will be amazed by the blue water and yellow sand. Check into the desert camp in the evening and chase a romantic desert sunset together 🌇 Chat by the campfire at night and look up at the brilliant, light-pollution-free starry sky ✨ ✅ Day 2: Alien Planet Camp → Ulan Lake → Suhaitu Lake → Sun Lake Camp 🍚 Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner | 🏕️ Stay: Sun Lake Camp Today, head to the famous "Heart of the Earth ❤️ Ulan Lake"! The rose-colored lake is hidden deep in the desert. The kids will be amazed when they see it with their own eyes! Stroll along Suhaitu Lake, observe the unique salt lake landscape, and learn some nature facts. Spend the day playing freely in the desert—sand play, running around, and enjoying quality time with your kids. Stay at Sun Lake Camp in the evening to quietly experience the desert night, far from the city's hustle and bustle. ✅ Day 3: Sun Lake Camp → Desert Everest → Desert Dream Road → Yinchuan 🍚 Includes breakfast and lunch Climb to the highest point of Desert Everest 🏜️ and overlook the endless sea of sand. Visit the popular Desert Dream Road and take great family photos 📷 After making wonderful memories, head back to Yinchuan to end this pleasant desert journey 💛 Helpful tips for parents ✔️ Outfit: Bright-colored clothes look great in photos, so be sure to pack long-sleeved sun-protective clothing for the kids ✔️ Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and face masks are all must-haves because the desert UV rays are very strong ✔️ Motion sickness: Dune bashing can be bumpy, so prepare motion sickness medicine in advance if your child is prone to it ✔️ Temperature difference: The temperature difference between day and night in the desert is large, so remember to bring a thick jacket for stargazing at night ✔️ Shoes: We recommend preparing sand-proof shoe covers to avoid getting sand in your shoes This desert trip is more than just a vacation; it's a rare nature study experience 🌱 Accompany your children to see lakes, sand dunes, and the starry sky, and harvest wonderful family memories 💫

Traveling during National Day, the biggest fear isn't spending money—it's the crowds. In popular cities, you're just staring at the back of someone's head, and you return more tired than when you were at work. If you also want to find some peace and quiet, these 8 places have fewer people, wilder scenery, and lower costs. I've already scouted the routes and pitfalls for you. 01 Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The First Bend of the Yellow River isn't in Gansu; it's in Golog. 📍 Near Laja Town in Maqen County, the river bends around a large expanse of grassland. In the evening, the light hits the water at an angle, turning the entire valley golden. ⏰ The light is best from 4:00 PM–6:00 PM, perfect for catching the sunset after taking photos. It's too foggy in the morning to see the bend. 🚄 It's about a 6-hour drive from Xining. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves, so beginners should be careful. Accommodation in town is average; if you want more comfort, you can stay in Xining on your return. ⚠️ The altitude is around 3,700 meters, so don't run or jump, and have an oxygen tank ready. It's not crowded during National Day, so you'll practically have the whole grassland to yourself. 02 Bijie | Guizhou I'll talk about Zhijin Cave and Baili Dujuan separately because they are completely different experiences. Zhijin Cave is best visited in the morning. The temperature inside is around 16°C year-round. It takes 2 hours to walk through, and you'll be out just in time for lunch. ⚠️ The lighting inside the cave is dim, so be sure to hold your children's hands. Remember to book your attraction ticket one day in advance via the official account, as it's easy to run out of tickets if you queue on-site. Baili Dujuan is better in the spring, but there's a surprise during National Day—the fields are covered in blooming Gesang flowers, a mix of pink and white, and it's much less crowded than during the rhododendron season. 🍜 After seeing the flowers, head to Dafang County to eat a bowl of shredded dried tofu with chili powder—it's delicious. 03 Ningbo | Zhejiang Autumn in Ningbo is very comfortable—not too cold or too hot—making it perfect for a slow two-day trip. On the first day, visit Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake. Spend the morning exploring the library and the afternoon relaxing by Moon Lake. ⏰ Tianyi Pavilion stops admitting visitors at 4:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff. The ginkgo trees by Moon Lake haven't turned yellow yet, but the sweet osmanthus is in full bloom, filling the air with its scent. On the second day, head to the Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area. If you can't hike up Xuedou Mountain, take the scenic shuttle bus; the Maitreya Buddha at the summit is worth seeing. ⚠️ There are vendors selling "premium Fenghua taro" at the foot of the mountain, but the prices are inflated; it's better to buy it at the local market in town. Qiantong Ancient Town is more atmospheric at night. 📍 The tofu pudding shop at the head of South Gate Bridge only sells until 5:00 PM, so if you go too late, it'll be gone. 04 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is a magical place, looking like an alien surface or a giant sand table. You have to take a donkey cart inside. 🐴 The local driver will sing a few lines of Qinqiang opera for you, and the sound echoing off the stone walls is more immersive than any scenic area broadcast. ⏰ It's best to arrive before 8:00 AM. The light hits the stone forest at an angle, maximizing the sense of depth, and since tourists haven't arrived yet, the entire canyon is yours. 🍜 The stone-baked buns sold at the entrance are freshly baked, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—worth buying one. ⚠️ Don't take the so-called "VIP sightseeing car" in the scenic area; the route is the same as the regular one, so you'd just be wasting money. 05 Xuzhou | Jiangsu Xuzhou is an underrated foodie city, and Yunlong Lake is just a bonus. In the morning, walk half a circle around the lake; entering from the East Gate and walking to the South Gate takes about an hour. The lake is as vast as the sea, and when the wind blows, the willow trees rustle. ⏰ The sun is too intense at noon, so it's recommended to finish your lake tour before 10:00 AM. For lunch, head straight to 📍 Fuguo Street. Whether it's braised pork belly, garlic-fried fish, or spicy soup, any old shop you walk into won't disappoint. 🍜 The spicy soup and potstickers at "Lianglaifeng" still have a line at 10:00 AM, but it's worth the wait. In the afternoon, explore the old courtyards at Hubu Mountain; they are more interesting than Yunlong Lake. ⚠️ Xuzhou cuisine tends to be salty and spicy, so remember to ask for less salt if you're traveling with elderly people or children. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia For the Populus euphratica forests and the Badain Jaran Desert, National Day happens to coincide with the time when the populus trees are at their yellowest—a whole golden world. It's recommended to enter the Populus Euphratica Forest Tourist Area from Erdaoqiao. At the Reflection Forest, the gold and red colors mix at sunrise, looking unrealistically beautiful. ⏰ Enter the park before 7:00 AM for fewer crowds and better light; tour groups arrive after 9:00 AM. After seeing the populus trees, head straight to the Badain Jaran Desert. Off-road sand bashing is a must-try experience; the driver will take you over several large sand dunes, and the feeling of weightlessness is even more thrilling than a roller coaster. ⚠️ If you get carsick, take medicine in advance; don't try to tough it out. 🍜 In the evening, eat roasted lamb chops in Ejina Banner town, paired with scrambled eggs with wild onions—the combination of savory meat and fresh sweetness is amazing. 07 Jinzhong | Shanxi Jinzhong is a collection of grand courtyards and ancient towns, but don't try to see it all in one day; I've made some choices for you. You only need to visit either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound. I choose the Wang Family Compound—it's larger, built against the mountain, and walking through it feels like climbing half a mountain, but the details are richer than at the Qiao Family Compound. ⚠️ The Qiao Family Compound is more famous but too crowded, with narrow passageways that make it impossible to move during National Day. Pingyao Ancient Town is worth staying overnight. After 9:00 PM, when the tourists have dispersed, the lanterns light up and the stone roads reflect the light—that's when you get the true feel of the ancient town. 📍 The "Tianyuan Kui" restaurant on South Street serves great kaolaolao and wantuo. Mianshan in Jiexiu is suitable for the second day. The mountain is steep, and the plank roads are suspended in mid-air, so those with a fear of heights should walk on the inner side. ⏰ It's most ethereal when it gets foggy in the afternoon, but it's also the most slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 08 Shangqiu | Henan Mangdang Mountain is so off the beaten path that even locals don't go there often, but it's definitely worth a special trip. It houses the Han Liang King Tombs, with underground palaces deep inside the mountain. Going inside feels like walking through a maze, and there are inscriptions from a thousand years ago on the stone walls. ⏰ The temperature in the underground palace is low, so bring a jacket if you go in summer; it's just right for National Day. There's also the site where Liu Bang slew the snake on the mountain. 📌 That monument is tied to the legend; whether you believe it or not is up to you, but after listening to the guide's explanation, it really gives you the chills. 🍜 There's a shop at the foot of the mountain selling "Mangshan braised chicken." It's braised for over a dozen hours, and while the chicken skin is black, the meat is so tender it falls off the bone. Pair it with a bowl of mung bean porridge—it's comforting. ⚠️ The scenic area isn't large, so half a day is enough. Don't plan a whole day for it; you can still head back to downtown Shangqiu in the afternoon to stroll along the ancient city wall. I've been to 5 of these 8 places, and the other 3 are on my bucket list. When traveling during National Day, instead of going to popular spots to see crowds, why not choose an off-the-beaten-path destination to spend less money and see wilder scenery? If you've been to any of these, share your thoughts in the comments section?

01 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Bringing kids to Xiangxi, the biggest fear is that the hiking will exhaust both adults and children. I suggest staying at a guesthouse by the Tuojiang River in Fenghuang Ancient Town. The cobblestone streets are right outside, and while strolling might be a bit bumpy, you won't have to rush. ⏰ The ancient town is quietest at 6:30 am. The mist under the Rainbow Bridge hasn't dissipated yet, so your kids can feed the fish on the bank while you enjoy a bowl of hot ginger tea. During the day, visit Dehang Grand Canyon. Don't force yourself to climb the Heavenly Ladder; take the scenic shuttle bus to the vicinity of Liusha Waterfall. It's only a 20-minute walk round trip. Kids can splash in the water and watch Miao girls sing, which is much easier than chasing after tourist attractions. ⚠️ Shibadong and Aizhai are more suitable for older children. The Aizhai Bridge viewing platform is windy, so remember to bring an extra jacket for your child. For meals, choose the blood duck restaurant in the ancient town; it's a good meal for around 50 yuan per person. After lunch, take a nap at your guesthouse, and then enjoy the night view in the evening—it's not tiring at all. 02 Shanghai Shanghai is the kind of city that "looks big, but is actually very convenient for taking kids." I recommend staying along Metro Line 10, such as near Yu Garden Station, for easy access to everywhere. On the first day, head straight to Disney Resort. ⚠️ Don't buy an early bird pass; let your child sleep in before entering the park. This will help you avoid the morning rush. In the afternoon, the queues for Dumbo and Buzz Lightyear rides are generally under 20 minutes. On the second day, explore the cultural aspects. The underwater museum at the Guangfulin Cultural Site is amazing; kids will keep asking why the "houses float on the water." The museum has elevators throughout, making it stroller-friendly. Yu Garden is better visited in the evening. Walk around the Nine-Turn Bridge, buy a basket of fresh pork dumplings from the Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop's takeout window, and sit by the lakeside pavilion to eat while watching the koi fish. The kids won't be tired, and you can relax too. 🚄 The World Expo Park is less crowded now, and the China Art Museum is free. You can take your kids to see the animated "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" scroll; it only takes ten minutes. The remaining time can be spent running along the riverbank and enjoying the breeze – much more comfortable than queuing for two pavilions. 03 Huanggang City | Hubei Huanggang is, in my opinion, an "underrated weekend family destination." The scenery of Luotian Tiantangzhai is comparable to Huangshan, but don't take kids to the main peak. 📍 Take the cable car directly up the mountain, stopping at the Philosopher's Peak viewing platform. The view is expansive, and children can see the sea of ​​clouds. The round trip takes less than half an hour on foot. After descending, eat at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of Tiantangzhai; the local chicken soup is freshly killed, and the kids can easily eat two bowls of rice. Macheng Guifeng Mountain is better visited in autumn. ⏰ In mid-October, the ginkgo leaves cover the steps, and children can play collecting leaves for half a day. ⚠️ The glass walkway on the mountain requires an additional fee. If your child is timid, don't force them; the adjacent path only takes about five minutes longer. For a two-day, one-night trip, choose a resort hotel near the scenic area entrance. There's a bonfire party in the evening, and the kids will be exhausted from jumping around and fall asleep immediately. You can even enjoy stargazing from the balcony – it's very relaxing. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Alxa sounds "hardcore," but it offers unexpected surprises for families with children. I chose a route that landed in Yinchuan, then took a two-hour chartered car to Alxa Left Banner. The road conditions were excellent, and my child didn't get carsick. Avoid visiting the Populus euphratica forest during the National Day holiday peak season. By mid-September, the leaves were already 70% yellow, so there were fewer people and you didn't have to fight for good photo spots. ⚠️ The wind and sand are strong in the scenic area, so make sure your child wears a windproof face mask and sunglasses, or they'll cry! Forget about dune bashing and off-roading with kids in the Badain Jaran Desert. Playing in the sand and riding camels at Badain Lake on the edge of the desert is perfect. The light around 5 pm is the most beautiful, turning the dunes golden. Let your kids walk barefoot in the sand while you sit and drink milk tea – an hour is enough to burn off energy. Before heading back, buy some camel milk products at the supermarket in town; they're half the price of what you'd find at the tourist area. Remember to bring plenty of wet wipes, as your kids will be covered in sand from head to toe after a day there. 05 Shaoxing City | Zhejiang Shaoxing is, in my opinion, the best-balanced Jiangnan town in terms of cultural flavor and everyday life. When bringing kids, don't rush to see all the attractions. Stay on the old street next to Lu Xun's Former Residence; you can explore right outside your door. Lu Xun's Former Residence and Shen Garden are connected. In the Hundred Herb Garden, kids can find crickets and look at soapberry trees. The desks in the Sanwei Study will pique their curiosity about "how ancient people wrote." The entire area is flat, making it easy to push a stroller. Lanting is better visited in the afternoon. The white geese in the Goose Pond are a favorite with children; a handful of breadcrumbs will keep them watching for ten minutes. At the winding stream, you can sit and rest, telling the children stories of Wang Xizhi—much better than rote memorization. Anchang Ancient Town is famous for its sausages and braised duck. Find a small restaurant along the river, order a bowl of yellow wine milk tea (or freshly squeezed lotus root juice for children), and sit under the covered walkway watching the awning boats glide by—a relaxing experience for both adults and children. ⚠️ The queue at Lu Xun's Former Residence is long on weekends, so it's recommended to arrive before 9 am to save time for visiting the Master's Residence. Shaoxing has a slow pace; two nights are just right, and you can even have a bowl of Ciwu noodles on the third morning before leaving. 06 Dongguan City | Guangdong Dongguan isn't a traditional tourist city, but it was surprisingly comfortable as a transit point for families with children. I mainly came for the Humen Bridge, but don't just focus on the bridge itself. 📍 The naval battle museum under the bridge is free and open to the public. It has many cannons and ship models; boys can easily spend half an hour watching. The indoor facilities are air-conditioned, making it a top choice for a summer outing with kids. After visiting the museum, head to the Weiyuan Fort ruins in the evening. ⏰ The sea breeze is very cool after 5:30 pm. Walk along the boardwalk to the fort and watch the sunset paint the river red. Kids can run around and burn off some energy. ⚠️ Be wary of overcharging at the surrounding food stalls. Follow the locals to the alley behind the "Humen E-commerce City" for roast goose rice noodles; it's only 15 yuan a bowl, and the goose skin is incredibly crispy. When traveling with kids in Dongguan, don't overschedule. An afternoon plus dinner is enough. Leave the rest of the time at the hotel pool—the kids can play while you relax—that's the true meaning of a vacation. 07 Bijie City | Guizhou Bijie is the kind of place with stunning scenery, but it's also suitable for families with children. Zhijin Cave is the absolute highlight. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 16 degrees Celsius year-round; even in summer, you'll need a light jacket. ⚠️ There are many steps inside the cave, so it's recommended to use a baby carrier for young children. Children over three years old can walk independently. The entire tour takes about two hours. Children will be captivated by the bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, constantly asking "What does this look like? What does that look like?" You just need to make up stories. After exiting the cave, there are electric carts to take you back to the entrance, so you don't have to backtrack. The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is best visited in April or May; the September blooming season is over, but the grasslands are still very green, and children can fly kites and chase grasshoppers. ⏰ After 3 pm, the sun isn't too strong, so you can easily spend the afternoon lying around on a picnic mat. 🍜 Weining buckwheat crisps and Zhijin rice cakes are local specialties. Buying them fresh from roadside stalls is much more delicious than the packaged ones from the tourist areas. For accommodation, choose Zhijin County, which is a half-hour drive from the scenic area, offering good value for money, and you can also visit the night market in the evening. 08 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture|Sichuan Autumn in Aba is the kind of beauty that's "worth the price of a flight just by looking at it." However, when traveling to Jiuzhaigou with children, it's essential to prioritize. I recommend staying at a hotel near the entrance and entering the park early the next morning at 8 AM. ⚠️ Don't try to visit all three valleys; take the sightseeing bus directly to the Primitive Forest Station and walk down to Arrow Bamboo Lake. This section is the easiest to walk, with gentle boardwalks and incredibly blue water. Children can easily spend twenty minutes glued to the railings watching the fish. Have lunch at the Nuorilang Central Station, where they offer hot boxed meals. Don't bring instant noodles, as the queues for hot water can be incredibly long. In the afternoon, just visit Five-Flower Lake and Tiger Lake; save the rest for another time. Siguniang Mountain is more suitable for older children. Shuangqiao Valley is accessible by bus; get off at the station and walk for ten minutes to get back on the bus, so children won't complain of being tired. ⏰ Late October is the peak season for Huanglong, but due to its high altitude, if your child has a history of altitude sickness, don't force them. Visiting the calcified pools at the foot of the mountain is just as enjoyable. Autumn in Jiuzhaigou is short, with the most beautiful season in mid-to-late October. Book your tickets in advance, as there are daily visitor limits, so don't expect to buy tickets on-site. 01 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Bringing kids to Xiangxi is risky because the hiking can be exhausting for both adults and children. I recommend staying in a guesthouse by the Tuojiang River in Fenghuang Ancient Town. The cobblestone streets are right outside, and while strollers might be a bit bumpy, you won't have to rush. ⏰ The ancient town is quietest at 6:30 am. The mist under the Rainbow Bridge hasn't dissipated yet, so your kids can feed the fish on the bank while you enjoy a bowl of hot ginger tea. During the day, visit Dehang Grand Canyon. Don't force yourself to climb the Heavenly Ladder; take the shuttle bus to the vicinity of Liusha Waterfall. It's only a 20-minute walk round trip, allowing kids to splash in the water and watch Miao girls sing. It's much easier than chasing after tourist attractions. ⚠️ Shibadong and Aizhai are more suitable for older children. The Aizhai Bridge viewing platform is windy, so remember to bring an extra jacket for your child. For meals, choose a blood duck restaurant in the ancient city; a meal for around 50 yuan per person is filling. After lunch, take a nap at your guesthouse, and then enjoy the night view in the evening – it's effortless. 02 Shanghai Shanghai is the kind of city that "looks big, but is actually very convenient for taking kids." I recommend staying along Metro Line 10, such as near Yu Garden Station, for easy access to everywhere. On the first day, head straight to Disney Resort. ⚠️ Don't buy an early bird pass; let your child sleep in before entering the park. This will help you avoid the morning rush. In the afternoon, ride Dumbo and Buzz Lightyear's rides; the queue time is generally under 20 minutes. On the second day, explore the cultural route. The underwater museum at the Guangfulin Cultural Site is amazing; kids will keep asking why the "houses float on the water." The museum has elevators throughout, making it stroller-friendly. Yu Garden is better visited in the evening. Walk around the Nine-Turn Bridge, buy a basket of fresh pork dumplings from the takeout window of Nanxiang Steamed Buns, and sit by the lakeside pavilion to eat while watching the koi fish – the kids won't be tired, and you'll get a rest too. 🚄 The World Expo Park is less crowded now, and the China Art Museum is free. You can take your kids to see the animated "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" scroll; it only takes ten minutes. The remaining time can be spent running along the riverbank and enjoying the breeze – much more comfortable than queuing for two pavilions. 03 Huanggang City | Hubei Huanggang is, in my opinion, an "underrated weekend family destination." The scenery of Luotian Tiantangzhai is comparable to Huangshan, but don't take kids to the main peak. 📍 Take the cable car directly up the mountain, stopping at the Philosopher's Peak viewing platform. The view is expansive, and children can see the sea of ​​clouds. The round trip takes less than half an hour on foot. After descending, eat at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of Tiantangzhai; the local chicken soup is freshly killed, and the kids can easily eat two bowls of rice. Macheng Guifeng Mountain is better visited in autumn. ⏰ In mid-October, the ginkgo leaves cover the steps, and children can play collecting leaves for half a day. ⚠️ The glass walkway on the mountain requires an additional fee. If your child is timid, don't force them; the adjacent path only takes about five minutes longer. For a two-day, one-night trip, choose a resort hotel near the scenic area entrance. There's a bonfire party in the evening, and the kids will be exhausted from jumping around and fall asleep immediately. You can even enjoy stargazing from the balcony – it's very relaxing. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Alxa sounds "hardcore," but it offers unexpected surprises for families with children. I chose a route that landed in Yinchuan, then took a two-hour chartered car to Alxa Left Banner. The road conditions were excellent, and my child didn't get carsick. Avoid visiting the Populus euphratica forest during the National Day holiday peak season. By mid-September, the leaves were already 70% yellow, so there were fewer people and you didn't have to fight for good photo spots. ⚠️ The wind and sand are strong in the scenic area, so make sure your child wears a windproof face mask and sunglasses, or they'll cry! Forget about dune bashing and off-roading with kids in the Badain Jaran Desert. Playing in the sand and riding camels at Badain Lake on the edge of the desert is perfect. The light around 5 pm is the most beautiful, turning the dunes golden. Let your kids walk barefoot in the sand while you sit and drink milk tea – an hour is enough to burn off energy. Before heading back, buy some camel milk products at the supermarket in town; they're half the price of what you'd find at the tourist area. Remember to bring plenty of wet wipes, as your kids will be covered in sand from head to toe after a day there. 05 Shaoxing City | Zhejiang Shaoxing is, in my opinion, the best-balanced Jiangnan town in terms of cultural flavor and everyday life. When bringing kids, don't rush to see all the attractions. Stay on the old street next to Lu Xun's Former Residence; you can explore right outside your door. Lu Xun's Former Residence and Shen Garden are connected. In the Hundred Herb Garden, kids can find crickets and look at soapberry trees. The desks in the Sanwei Study will pique their curiosity about "how ancient people wrote." The entire area is flat, making it easy to push a stroller. Lanting is better visited in the afternoon. The white geese in the Goose Pond are a favorite with children; a handful of breadcrumbs will keep them watching for ten minutes. At the winding stream, you can sit and rest, telling the children stories of Wang Xizhi—much better than rote memorization. Anchang Ancient Town is famous for its sausages and braised duck. Find a small restaurant along the river, order a bowl of yellow wine milk tea (or freshly squeezed lotus root juice for children), and sit under the covered walkway watching the awning boats glide by—a relaxing experience for both adults and children. ⚠️ The queue at Lu Xun's Former Residence is long on weekends, so it's recommended to arrive before 9 am to save time for visiting the Master's Residence. Shaoxing has a slow pace; two nights are just right, and you can even have a bowl of Ciwu noodles on the third morning before leaving. 06 Dongguan City | Guangdong Dongguan isn't a traditional tourist city, but it was surprisingly comfortable as a transit point for families with children. I mainly came for the Humen Bridge, but don't just focus on the bridge itself. 📍 The naval battle museum under the bridge is free and open to the public. It has many cannons and ship models; boys can easily spend half an hour watching. The indoor facilities are air-conditioned, making it a top choice for a summer outing with kids. After visiting the museum, head to the Weiyuan Fort ruins in the evening. ⏰ The sea breeze is very cool after 5:30 pm. Walk along the boardwalk to the fort and watch the sunset paint the river red. Kids can run around and burn off some energy. ⚠️ Be wary of overcharging at the surrounding food stalls. Follow the locals to the alley behind the "Humen E-commerce City" for roast goose rice noodles; it's only 15 yuan a bowl, and the goose skin is incredibly crispy. When traveling with kids in Dongguan, don't overschedule. An afternoon plus dinner is enough. Leave the rest of the time at the hotel pool—the kids can play while you relax—that's the true meaning of a vacation. 07 Bijie City | Guizhou Bijie is the kind of place with stunning scenery, but it's also suitable for families with children. Zhijin Cave is the absolute highlight. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 16 degrees Celsius year-round; even in summer, you'll need a light jacket. ⚠️ There are many steps inside the cave, so it's recommended to use a baby carrier for young children. Children over three years old can walk independently. The entire tour takes about two hours. Children will be captivated by the bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, constantly asking "What does this look like? What does that look like?" You just need to make up stories. After exiting the cave, there are electric carts to take you back to the entrance, so you don't have to backtrack. The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is best visited in April or May; the September blooming season is over, but the grasslands are still very green, and children can fly kites and chase grasshoppers. ⏰ After 3 pm, the sun isn't too strong, so you can easily spend the afternoon lying around on a picnic mat. 🍜 Weining buckwheat crisps and Zhijin rice cakes are local specialties. Buying them fresh from roadside stalls is much more delicious than the packaged ones from the tourist areas. For accommodation, choose Zhijin County, which is a half-hour drive from the scenic area, offering good value for money, and you can also visit the night market in the evening. 08 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture|Sichuan Autumn in Aba is the kind of beauty that's "worth the price of a flight just by looking at it." However, when traveling to Jiuzhaigou with children, it's essential to prioritize. I recommend staying at a hotel near the entrance and entering the park early the next morning at 8 AM. ⚠️ Don't try to visit all three valleys; take the sightseeing bus directly to the Primitive Forest Station and walk down to Arrow Bamboo Lake. This section is the easiest to walk, with gentle boardwalks and incredibly blue water. Children can easily spend twenty minutes glued to the railings watching the fish. Have lunch at the Nuorilang Central Station, where they offer hot boxed meals. Don't bring instant noodles, as the queues for hot water can be incredibly long. In the afternoon, just visit Five-Flower Lake and Tiger Lake; save the rest for another time. Siguniang Mountain is more suitable for older children. Shuangqiao Valley is accessible by bus; get off at the station and walk for ten minutes to get back on the bus, so children won't complain of being tired. ⏰ Late October is the peak season for Huanglong, but due to its high altitude, if your child has a history of altitude sickness, don't force them. Visiting the calcified pools at the foot of the mountain is just as enjoyable. Autumn in Jiuzhaigou is short; the most beautiful time is mid-to-late October. Book your tickets in advance, as there are daily visitor limits, so don't expect to buy tickets on-site.

01 Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan and the Zhongyuan giant Buddha together—I really didn't expect this combo to be so entertaining. Start with the mountain: the cable car opens at 7:30 AM in late September, and there are so few people you can hear birds flapping. Don't ride to the bottom; get off at Lansheng Platform and walk a bit. The clouds spread beneath your feet like cotton, and it's more stunning than the summit. Visit the Buddha after 4:00 PM. The slanting light hits the statue, and the gold leaf reflects without glare—perfect for photos. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Zhengzhou to Pingdingshan West, then a taxi of about 40 minutes. Don't linger in the city—save time for the mountain. ⚠️ People at the park entrance will try to get you to take the fast lane electric cart, but it's only a 15-minute walk to the Buddha's base—don't waste money. Check the official mini program for ticket and cable car prices in advance; they rise on holidays. 02 Tai'an | Shandong You have to pick the right time to climb Mount Tai. Early October can still be hot during the day, so I recommend the night climb: start from Hongmen at 10:00 PM, bring a light softshell jacket, use a flashlight on the stone steps, and stop at Zhongtianmen for a bowl of hot noodles—the broth tastes ten times better than during the day. Arrive at Nantianmen around 4:00 AM, find a sheltered spot to wait for sunrise; when the sea of clouds rises, strangers around you will shout "worth it." Don't take the cable car down—descend via Taohuayu where there are fewer people and the sound of the stream follows you; even if your legs shake, it's worth it. ⚠️ Summit coat rental is ¥60 each. Bringing your own fleece liner is enough—don't overpay. 🚄 Taxi from Tai'an station to Hongmen is about 20 minutes. For night climbs, check the weather in advance—rain makes the stone steps dangerously slippery. 03 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Come to Shijiazhuang looking for contrasts. At Xibaipo, don't just stare at the exhibition halls—walk deeper into the village. Under old locust trees you'll find millstones and earthen houses; the rough texture under your fingertips is far more interesting than any display panel. As for Zhaozhou Bridge, ten minutes is enough to view the bridge itself, but sit on the riverbank beneath it and watch the arch shadows stretch at sunset to understand the bridge's thousand-year stubborn beauty. These two spots aren't close—do Xibaipo in the morning and Zhaozhou Bridge in the afternoon, and stop at Zhengding ancient town in between for a bowl of hela noodles and a large baked flatbread to refuel. ⚠️ Xibaipo stops admitting visitors at 4:00 PM. Don't arrive at 3:30 PM and get stuck. 🍜 Eat the large baked flatbread while it's hot—once it cools it gets as hard as a brick. 04 Lijiang | Yunnan For Lijiang Old Town, I recommend staying in Shuhe, not crowded Dayan. At 7:00 AM Dayan's Sifang Street has just been washed by the street cleaners; with slanting sunlight you can shoot photos with no people in them. Go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the first cable car—arrive at Ganhaizi before 8:00 AM. When the sunrise turns the snowpeak pink for about 30 seconds, the cold is worth every ticket yuan. After descending, don't rush off—the Black Dragon Pool Park north of the old town is best at 3:00 PM, where the reflection shows the whole mountain more clearly than inside the scenic area. The Mu Mansion is worth visiting, but skip the guided tour group; slip around to the rear garden under the opera stage—the polychrome on the woodcarvings still shows Ming-dynasty pigments. ⚠️ Many "freshly baked flower pastries" in the old town are pre-made. Look for shops that roll the dough and fill the pastries on the spot. 🍜 At the gate of Zhongyi Market, the chilled chickpea jelly is sour and spicy, ¥5 a bowl—don't be put off by the stall's rustic look. 05 Ankang | Shaanxi Not many people know Ankang, but those who go are impressed. Qiancheng River is at its most beautiful in early October. The riverbed is layered shale, and water flows down like amber in motion under sunlight. Don't just stay on the boardwalk—follow the locals' footpaths upstream for 20 minutes. There's a shallow pool with water so clear you can count the veins on the stones; take off your shoes and the cold rushes from your feet to your skull. The Fengyan ancient terrace fields have just been harvested; the paddies are still dry and golden, and at dusk the hillside looks like it's dusted with gold. ⚠️ Villagers outside the Qiancheng River scenic area may try to charge an unofficial "parking fee." The official lot is 100 meters ahead—don't stop for the roadside collectors. 🍜 Han yin's baked flatbread has a sesame aroma mixed with wheat—eat it hot, it's hard to bite once cold. 06 Alxa | Inner Mongolia October in Alxa is made for the poplar forests. In Ejina, enter the park at 7:00 AM. Morning light through the golden leaves lights up the whole road. Don't linger at the first bridge—go deeper where there are fewer people. The reflection at the fourth bridge is the essence: the water is mirror-still, and tree shadows and sky overlap so you can't tell which is real. In the Badain Jaran Desert, you must take a 4x4. When the driver drifts over the dunes, hold on tight—scream if you must—but when you crest the highest dune and see a lake with herders' tents and smoke rising, that mix of desolation and life hits harder than any staged attraction. ⚠️ Mobile signal is often unavailable in the desert. Download offline maps in advance and carry about ¥300 in cash for emergencies; a bowl of milk tea at a herder's costs about ¥10. 🚄 The easiest way to reach Ejina is to fly to Jiayuguan and hire a car—public transport is unreliable, with only one bus a day. 07 Kashgar | Xinjiang Slow your pace to the local rhythm in Kashgar Old Town. At 10:00 AM the opening ceremony at the east gate fills with tourists, but slip into the nearby Kumudier Bazaar lane where Uyghur grandpas bake naan— the wheaty aroma mixed with charcoal is more authentic than any show. By noon head to the Khan Bazaar on the east side of Id Kah Square for pilaf with yogurt—lamb so tender it falls from the bone and rice grains glistening with oil; one bite explains why locals flock here at midday. In the afternoon don't rush to the Pamir Plateau; first walk among the ruined high-platform houses—shards of pottery embedded in the cracks of earthen walls tell untold stories. ⚠️ The stone city on the Pamir Plateau has an expensive ticket but is mostly ruins. Instead, view the site from outside Tashkurgan at the Jin caotan wetlands at sunrise—the stone city's silhouette reflects in puddles for a spectacular view with no cost. 🍜 Skip the grilled eggs at the old town night market—they're not fresh. The real treats are in the deep alley teahouses, eaten with naan. 08 Shennongjia | Hubei In Shennongjia forest region, October is all about layers. It can be 20°C at the foot of the mountain, foggy halfway up, and freezing at the summit where you’ll wish you had a down jacket. I suggest the Dajiuhu route—arrive before 6:00 AM. A thin mist floats over the lake, and as the morning light lifts the fog it reveals deadwood in the water like an ink painting coming to life. Don't try to see every spot—pick two: Shennongding for the sea of clouds, Dajiuhu for the morning mist. Stop at Pingqian ancient town between them for a bowl of smoked pork and potato rice; the pork is smoked with local pine and cypress, and its aroma soaks into the rice—hundreds of times better than the ¥30 boxed meals in the scenic areas. ⚠️ Self-driving into the mountains requires a fire-prevention registration in advance. Don't take shortcuts on wild tracks—no signal and easy to get lost. 🚄 The nearest train station is Yichang East. Hire a car from there for about a 3-hour drive—take motion-sickness medicine early; the mountain roads have so many turns you'll question your life choices. These eight places each have their own mood in September and October. Pingdingshan and Ankang suit those who want fewer crowds; Alxa and Kashgar are for extreme autumn colors; Tai'an and Shennongjia test your stamina; Lijiang and Shijiazhuang reward those who slow down. Where are you planning to go this year? Tell me in the comments and I'll tell you where to linger an extra day.

Amidst the golden sky, two women in red fought in the Populus euphratica forest, leaves swirling like golden snow from the force of their swords. I knew then that I had to see this place with my own eyes. Later, I learned that the forest is in Ejin Banner, Inner Mongolia, and it only turns golden for about 20 days in autumn. If you miss it, you really have to wait another year. So, this autumn, I added it to my itinerary. 3 days and 2 nights: My itinerary Ejin is in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. It's remote, but worth the trip. My plan was for 3 days and 2 nights, at a relaxed pace: Day 1: Arrive in Dalaihubu Town in the afternoon and head straight to the Erdaoqiao section of the Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area. The evening light hits the trees, making the whole forest look like it's on fire, with reflections in the water that blur the line between reality and illusion. Day 2: Head early to the Sidaoqiao "Hero Forest," the filming location for "Hero." In the afternoon, head to the Heicheng Ruoshui Populus Euphratica Scenic Area to see the Strange Tree Forest and the Heicheng Ruins. In the evening, wait for a desert sunset on the dunes of Badaoqiao. Day 3: Depart early in the morning for Juyan Lake to watch the sunrise, then head back. Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area: From Bridge 1 to Bridge 8 The Ejin Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area is right next to Dalaihubu Town and is accessible by walking or taxi. The scenic area is divided into sections from Bridge 1 to Bridge 8, each with different scenery. Three spots stood out to me: Bridge 2: The place for reflections. The Populus euphratica trees by the water and the blue sky are reflected in the lake. When the wind stops, the water surface is like a mirror, making it hard to tell which tree is real and which is a reflection. Many people set up cameras here to wait for the light; both dawn and dusk have their own charm. Bridge 4: The "Hero Forest." The trees here are old and have unique shapes. Zhang Yimou chose this forest to film that classic sword-fighting scene in "Hero." Looking up from under the trees, the branches are gnarled, like a group of silent elders. The sword energy in the movie was fake, but the impact of this forest is real. Bridge 8: The entrance to the desert. As you go deeper, the Populus euphratica trees gradually thin out, and the Badain Jaran Desert unfolds before your eyes. Climb the dunes to wait for the sunset. The distant forest is dyed a warm gold by the setting sun, and beneath your feet are rolling sand ridges. In that moment, you'll suddenly understand why so many people are willing to travel thousands of miles for this forest. Don't miss these two places: The Strange Tree Forest and Juyan Lake The Heicheng Ruoshui Populus Euphratica Scenic Area, located about 18 km southwest of the town, is a national 4A-level scenic spot, about a 20-30 minute drive away. It features the Ruoshui Populus euphratica forest and the "Strange Tree Forest"—a large area of dead Populus euphratica trees that remain standing, defying decay, with bizarre shapes. They look especially desolate and magnificent in the sunset. The nearby Heicheng Ruins are an ancient Western Xia city, with crumbling walls standing in the Gobi Desert; when the wind blows, you can almost hear history. If you want to see the sunrise, go to Juyan Lake. It's about 50 km from the Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area, about a 1-hour drive, so you'll need to get up early in the dark. But when the sky turns pale at dawn, the lake is dyed gold, and water birds fly out of the reeds, the early start is worth it. Transportation, accommodation, and dining: Let's get practical Transportation: There are no public shuttle buses inside the scenic area. If driving, it takes about 10 minutes from Dalaihubu Town to the scenic area entrance, and parking is convenient. If you don't want to drive, I recommend chartering a car or carpooling. You can connect the Populus Euphratica Forest, Heicheng, and the Strange Tree Forest in one day, which is worry-free and saves effort. Taxis in town are also convenient for getting to various attractions. Accommodation: Everything is concentrated in Dalaihubu Town. The Golden Autumn Populus Euphratica Festival (opening at the end of September) is the peak season of the year. Hotel and homestay prices in town generally rise, and rooms are in short supply, so be sure to book in advance. There is a big price difference between the off-season and peak season, so be prepared for that. Dining: Restaurants in town mainly serve Northwest-style cuisine, with lamb as the star. Hand-grabbed mutton, lamb noodles, and lamb offal soup are common. It's cold in the mornings and evenings in autumn, so a hot pot of lamb soup is very comforting. It's crowded during peak season meal times, so I suggest dining at off-peak hours. A few practical tips Time: The golden period for the Populus euphratica is usually from late September to mid-to-late October, lasting about 20 days, with a few days of fluctuation each year. Before you leave, you can check the phenological forecast for that year to time your trip for the week when they are fully golden. Temperature difference: The day-night temperature difference in Ejin exceeds 15°C. The sun is strong during the day, so thin long sleeves are fine; you must wear a windbreaker or a light down jacket in the morning and evening. Wind protection, sun protection, and moisturizing are all essential. Outfit: Red and white clothes contrast highly with the golden Populus euphratica, making for great photos. If you want your photos to look good, remember to pack one in your suitcase. Tickets: The ticket for the Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area, including the shuttle bus, is about 240 yuan. The Heicheng Ruoshui Populus Euphratica Scenic Area is about 170-210 yuan. Prices are subject to the scenic area's daily announcement, so confirm on a booking platform before you leave. Avoiding traps: During peak season, there are many traps involving low-priced local tours and hidden costs. Independent travel or booking through legitimate platforms is more worry-free. Don't trust the "super low-price one-day tours" offered by people soliciting on the roadside. On the day I left Ejin, I looked back at that golden expanse and remembered what the locals often say: The Populus euphratica lives for a thousand years without dying, stands for a thousand years without falling, and remains for a thousand years without decaying. Three thousand years of watching, and it only chooses to turn golden for 20 days each autumn. It is worth it for you to make the journey for it.

Where to travel on a budget in September and October? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive 01 Nyingchi City | Tibet In September, Nyingchi's rainy season has just ended, and the sky is so clear it looks like it's been washed. You don't need to rush to see the sights; just wandering along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway is worth the price. The mornings in Bomi are the quietest, with snow-capped mountains reflected in the Parlung Tsangpo River. The aroma of yak butter tea wafts from the Tibetan courtyards along the roadside; you can buy a bowl for five yuan and sit on the doorstep drinking it until the sun rises over the mountains. Basum Tso's entrance fee is a bit expensive, so I recommend hiking the free section along the lake. Walk two kilometers east from Jieba Village; the lake water is unrealistically blue, and dead trees lie across the shore—perfect for spending an entire afternoon daydreaming. 📍 The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is better viewed from afar. Don't spend over two hundred yuan on the sightseeing bus; find a local in Pai Town to guide you to the riverbank to see the snow-capped mountains flanking the river—the breathtaking view is just as stunning as being inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Temperature differences between day and night are significant at the end of September. Wear short sleeves during the day, but a fleece and windproof jacket are essential at night. Don't push yourself. 🚄 There are high-speed trains from Lhasa to Nyingchi, costing just over 100 yuan, much cheaper than hiring a car, and you can enjoy the scenery along the way. 02 Guangyuan City | Sichuan Guangyuan is an underrated gem, perfect for budget travel. The entrance fee to the Jianmen Pass scenic area is a bit pricey, but you can easily save on the cable car fee. ⏰ Enter from the South Gate before 8 AM and climb the narrow, steep plank road. The entire journey takes about two hours, requiring both hands and feet. However, the view from the gate tower, where the entire Shu Road appears as a thin line draped over the cliff, is worth it. Don't backtrack on the way down; exit from the East Gate and visit Jiang Wei's tomb along the way (it's free). ⚠️ Avoid coming on weekends, as many locals will be hiking, and the queue for the narrow path can be as long as half an hour. The tofu feast at the foot of the mountain is a specialty. Just find any old shop and order Jianmen tofu; you'll be stuffed for about 30 yuan per person. 🚄 A taxi from Guangyuan Station to the scenic area takes about half an hour. Shared rides cost 10 yuan per person. Don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers at the entrance. Back in the city in the evening, take a walk along the Jialing River. The night view is free, and the breeze is refreshing. 03 Nanchang City | Jiangxi The core of budget travel in Nanchang can be summed up in one word: walking. The Tengwang Pavilion scenic area costs 50 yuan during the day, but don't rush to leave after 6 pm. You can see the lights come on from the square outside the pavilion, and the reflections of the buildings on the opposite bank of the Gan River are even more photogenic than inside the pavilion. ⏰ If you want to climb the pavilion but don't want to spend money, remember that Wednesday mornings are free. Book in advance on the official account one day in advance, or you'll miss out! 📍 From Tengwang Pavilion, walk directly for ten minutes to Wanshou Palace. A bowl of mixed noodles costs 3.5 yuan, and a clay pot soup costs 6 yuan. Add a white sugar cake and you'll be stuffed. ⚠️ Don't buy pre-cut watermelons at the scenic area entrance; a box costs five yuan and only has three slices. Go to the fruit shop across the street and buy a whole watermelon for only eight yuan. 🚄 Metro Line 1 goes directly to Tengwang Pavilion Station. It's just a 300-meter walk from the station exit, faster and less congested than taking a taxi. 04 Lianyungang City | Jiangsu Province The sea in Lianyungang isn't the saturated tropical blue, but it's incredibly cheap. Huaguoshan Scenic Area costs ninety yuan; I advise you to save that money and go directly to Lian Island. Dashawan Beach on Lian Island is free during the off-season. At the end of September, it's so quiet you can practically have the whole place to yourself. Walk barefoot on the fine sand, feel the cool waves lapping at you, and sunbathe for an entire afternoon without spending a penny. 📍 There's a free boardwalk on the island, from Dashawan to Sumawan, a two-kilometer walk. The rocks along the way are covered with seashells and sea roaches; you could easily spend half an hour just looking at them. ⚠️ Don't buy seafood barbecue at the scenic area entrance. A skewer of squid costs 15 yuan and is smaller than your palm. Take the bus back to Xugou town; there are processing shops next to the seafood market, and you can eat your fill for 50 yuan per person. 🚄 A taxi from Lianyungang East Station to Lian Island costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is more cost-effective. ⏰ The scenic area closes after 5:30 pm, so plan your departure time in advance and don't miss the last bus. 05 Jinhua City | Zhejiang Jinhua is suitable for those who don't want to rush and just want to find a place to relax. Hengdian World Studios has expensive tickets, but even if you don't enter the scenic area, strolling around the perimeter of Wansheng Street is quite interesting. The ancient-style buildings offer free photo opportunities, and there are food stalls selling film crew meals for 10 yuan a serving. You might even encounter extras while eating by the roadside. Shuanglong Scenic Area is my personal favorite. ⏰ Arrive before 9 am; the ticket and bus fare are 60 yuan in total. The temperature inside the cave is only 17 degrees Celsius, so remember to bring a light jacket. 📍 To enter Shuanglong Cave, you have to lie down. The rock wall presses low against your face, a thrilling and tense moment. Exiting the cave is the Ice Pot Cave, where a waterfall cascades down overhead, spraying water onto your face and sending shivers down your spine. ⚠️ Avoid weekends; there are too many family tour groups, and the queue to enter the cave can last an hour. After descending the mountain, head to Lutian Village at the foot of the mountain for a bowl of local chicken stew. It costs just over 100 yuan for four people, and the soup is incredibly delicious. 🚄 Take bus route 3 (Tourist Line 3) directly from Jinhua Station to Shuanglong. The fare is 3 yuan. Don't take an unlicensed taxi. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia From late September to early October, the poplar forests of Alxa are a golden spectacle. The entrance fee to the poplar forest tourist area is over 200 yuan, which isn't cheap, but it's worth the money. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 7 am. The sunlight slants through the treetops, making the entire forest look like it's on fire. The reflections in the puddles make every photo you take under the trees wallpaper-worthy. The scenic area is large, so don't try to see everything. The section from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge is the most densely populated; walking through it will be worthwhile. ⚠️ There are fewer water stalls inside, so bring two bottles with you; you can save 20 yuan by bringing them back. The Badain Jaran Desert is wilder, but you don't need to enter the scenic area. Find local herders outside the area; for 100 yuan, they'll take you in a pickup truck to the edge of the desert. The dune lines are even more beautiful than inside the scenic area. At sunset, the entire sand surface turns orange-red, and the wind blowing sand grains against your legs is both painful and exhilarating. 🚄 The cheapest way is to carpool after arriving in Zuoqi. Four people can share an off-road vehicle, costing 150 yuan per person. ⚠️ In early October, temperatures are close to zero in the mornings and evenings, and you'll get sunburned during the day. Sunscreen and a down jacket are essential. 07 Hanzhong City | Shaanxi Autumn in Hanzhong smells of osmanthus. The entrance fee to the Shimen Plank Road is 50 yuan. Walking on that wooden plank road suspended halfway up Shimen Mountain, with the Bao River flowing beneath your feet—a dark, almost blackish green—and the wind carrying moisture, you can't help but wonder how people two thousand years ago carved this path out. ⏰ The best light is after 3 PM, when the sun shines into the valley from the west, casting long shadows on the plank roads. The Ancient Hantai is free, but closed on Mondays. ⚠️ Don't go for nothing! Go Tuesday through Sunday. From the top floor of the Wangjiang Tower (turn right after entering), you can see the entire old city of Hanzhong, with its continuous rows of tiled roofs and wisps of smoke rising from the gaps in the chimneys. 📍 After leaving the Ancient Hantai, walk three kilometers along the Han River. At dusk, the river is like a mirror, with old men fishing motionless on the bank. You can sit on the stone steps and watch the lights on the opposite bank gradually illuminate. 🍜 A bowl of Hanzhong hot noodles costs 3.5 yuan, with side dishes, tofu, and porridge. Two people can eat their fill for 10 yuan. 08 Heyuan City | Guangdong Heyuan is a city where budget travel is practically free. The entrance fee to Wanlv Lake Scenic Area is over 100 yuan, but you really don't need to go inside. 📍 Drive or cycle along the lakeside road from Xingang Town to Xichang Town. There are free viewing platforms one after another. The lake water is emerald green, and boats leave a white trail as they pass. ⏰ After 4 pm, the light is softest, and the reflection on the lake is not glaring. Photos taken there don't need color correction. ⚠️ Don't buy boat tickets at the scenic area entrance. A 200 yuan ride is just a quick trip. Instead, spend 20 yuan to take a 40-minute ride on a local fisherman's wooden boat, drifting in the lake's inlets and listening to their stories about the old village at the bottom of the lake. 🚄 A taxi from Heyuan East Station to the lake takes about half an hour. Back in the city in the evening, have a bowl of pig's feet noodles for 10 yuan. The broth is so rich it sticks to your mouth. Add a side of Hakka stuffed tofu, and you'll be done for around 20 yuan per person. September and October are crisp and clear, but the wind can be strong by the lake, so remember to bring a light jacket. I've bet myself that going to these eight places in September or October will cut the crowds in half and save you 30% on expenses. Where are you planning to go this autumn? Let's chat in the comments, maybe next time we'll travel together! Where to go on a budget trip in September and October? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive. 01 Nyingchi City | Tibet In September, the rainy season in Nyingchi has just ended, and the sky is as clean as if it's been washed. You don't need to rush to see the sights; just wandering along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway is worth the price. The mornings in Bomi are the quietest, with snow-capped mountains reflected in the Parlung Tsangpo River. The aroma of yak butter tea wafts from the Tibetan courtyards along the roadside; you can buy a bowl for five yuan and sit on the doorstep drinking it until the sun rises over the mountains. Basongcuo Lake's entrance fee is a bit pricey. I highly recommend hiking the free section along the lake. From Jieba Village, walk two kilometers east; the lake water is an unrealistically blue, with dead trees lining the shore – perfect for spending an entire afternoon simply relaxing. 📍 The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is better viewed from afar. Don't spend over 200 yuan on the sightseeing bus. Find a local guide in Pai Town to take you to the riverbank to see the snow-capped mountains flanking the river; the breathtaking view is just as stunning as being inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Late September has a large temperature difference between day and night. Wear short sleeves during the day, but at night you'll need a fleece and a windproof jacket. Don't push yourself. 🚄 There are high-speed trains from Lhasa to Nyingchi, costing just over 100 yuan, much cheaper than hiring a car, and you can enjoy the scenery along the way. 02 Guangyuan City | Sichuan Guangyuan is an underrated gem, especially comfortable for budget travel. The Jianmen Pass scenic area on the Jianmen Shu Road has a slightly expensive entrance fee, but you can completely save on the cable car fare. ⏰ Enter from the South Gate before 8 AM and climb up the Bird Path. The entire journey takes two hours. The plank road section is narrow and steep, requiring both hands and feet, but looking down from the gate tower, the entire Shu Road looks like a thin line draped over the cliff—it's worth it. Don't backtrack on the way down; exit from the East Gate and stop by Jiang Wei's Tomb (free of charge). ⚠️ Avoid weekends. Locals flock to the mountain, and the queue for the Bird Path can be half an hour long. The tofu feast at the foot of the mountain is a specialty; just find any old shop and order Jianmen Tofu—it'll be a feast for about 30 yuan per person. 🚄 A taxi from Guangyuan Station to the scenic area takes about half an hour. Shared rides cost 10 yuan per person. Don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers at the entrance. Return to the city in the evening and take a walk along the Jialing River. The night view is free, and the breeze is refreshing. 03 Nanchang City | Jiangxi The core of budget travel in Nanchang can be summed up in one word: travel. The Tengwang Pavilion tourist area charges 50 yuan for daytime admission, but don't rush to leave after 6 PM. You can see the lights come on from the plaza outside the pavilion, and the reflections of the pavilions on the Gan River across the water are even more photogenic than inside. ⏰ If you want to climb the pavilion but don't want to spend money, remember that Wednesday mornings are free. Reservations must be made one day in advance through the official WeChat account, as they're limited. 📍 From Tengwang Pavilion, it's a 10-minute walk to Wanshou Palace. A bowl of mixed noodles in the alley costs 3.5 yuan, and a clay pot soup costs 6 yuan. Add a white sugar cake and you'll be stuffed. ⚠️ Don't buy pre-cut watermelon at the scenic area entrance; a box of three slices costs 5 yuan. Buy a whole watermelon for only 8 yuan at the fruit shop across the street. 🚄 Metro Line 1 goes directly to Tengwang Pavilion Station. It's just a 300-meter walk from the station exit, faster and less congested than taking a taxi. 04 Lianyungang City | Jiangsu Province The sea in Lianyungang isn't the saccharine blue of a tropical beach, but it's incredibly cheap. The entrance fee to Huaguoshan Scenic Area is 90 yuan; I advise you to save that money and go directly to Lian Island. The Dashawan Beach on Lian Island is free during the off-season, and at the end of September, it's so quiet you can practically have the whole place to yourself. Walk barefoot on the fine sand, feel the cool waves lapping at you, and sunbathe for an entire afternoon without spending a penny. 📍 There's a free boardwalk on the island, from Dashawan to Sumawan, a two-kilometer walk. The rocks along the way are covered in seashells and sea roaches; you could easily spend half an hour just observing them. ⚠️ Don't buy seafood barbecue at the scenic area entrance. A skewer of squid costs 15 yuan and is barely the size of your palm. Take the bus back to Xugou town; there are processing shops next to the seafood market, and you can eat your fill for 50 yuan per person. 🚄 A taxi from Lianyungang East Station to Lian Island costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is even cheaper. ⏰ The scenic area closes after 5:30 PM, so plan your departure time accordingly and don't miss the last bus. 05 Jinhua City | Zhejiang Jinhua is perfect for those who don't want to rush and just want to find a place to relax. Hengdian World Studios has expensive tickets, but even if you don't enter the main area, strolling around the perimeter of Wansheng Street is quite interesting. The ancient-style buildings offer free photo opportunities, and there are food stalls selling meals for 10 yuan a serving. You might even bump into extras while eating by the roadside. Shuanglong Scenic Area is my personal favorite. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM; the ticket price, including the bus fare, is 60 yuan. The temperature inside the cave is only 17 degrees Celsius, so remember to bring a light jacket. 📍 You have to lie down to enter Shuanglong Cave. The rock walls press low against your face—it's thrilling and exciting! After exiting the cave, you'll find the Ice Curling Cave, where a waterfall cascades down from above, spraying water onto your face—it's chilling! ⚠️ Avoid weekends; there are too many family groups, and the queue to enter the cave can last an hour. After descending the mountain, head to Lutian Village at the foot of the mountain for a bowl of local chicken stew. It cost just over 100 yuan for four people, and the soup was incredibly delicious. 🚄 From Jinhua Station, take bus route 3 directly to Shuanglong. The fare is 3 yuan. Don't take an unlicensed taxi. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia From late September to early October, the poplar forests of Alxa are a golden spectacle. The entrance fee to the poplar forest tourist area is over 200 yuan, which isn't cheap, but it's worth the money. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 7 am. The sunlight slants through the treetops, making the entire forest look like it's on fire. The reflections in the puddles make every photo you take under the trees wallpaper-worthy. The scenic area is large; don't try to see everything. The section from the second to the fourth bridge is the densest; walking through it will be worthwhile. ⚠️ There are few water stalls inside. Bring two bottles in; you can save 20 yuan when you come out. The Badain Jaran Desert is wilder, but you don't need to enter the scenic area. Find local herders outside the area; for 100 yuan, they'll take you in a pickup truck to the edge of the desert. The dune lines are even more beautiful than inside the scenic area. At sunset, the entire sand surface turns orange-red, and the wind blowing sand grains against your legs—it's both painful and exhilarating. 🚄 The cheapest way is to carpool after arriving in Zuoqi. Four people can share an off-road vehicle, costing 150 yuan per person. ⚠️ In early October, temperatures are close to zero in the mornings and evenings, and you'll get sunburned during the day. Sunscreen and down jackets are essential. 07 Hanzhong City | Shaanxi Autumn in Hanzhong smells of osmanthus. The Shimen Plank Road entrance fee is 50 yuan. Walking on that wooden plank road suspended on the mountainside of Shimen, with the Baohe River below a dark green, and the wind carrying moisture, you can't help but wonder how people two thousand years ago carved this path. ⏰ The light is best after 3 pm. The sun shines into the valley from the west, casting long shadows on the plank road. The Ancient Hantai Pavilion is free, but closed on Mondays. ⚠️ Don't go for nothing! Go Tuesday through Sunday. From the top floor of the Wangjiang Tower (turn right after entering), you can see the entire old city of Hanzhong, with its continuous rows of tiled roofs and wisps of smoke rising from the gaps. 📍 After leaving the Ancient Hantai Pavilion, walk three kilometers along the Han River. At dusk, the river is like a mirror, and old men fishing sit motionless on the bank. You can sit on the stone steps and watch the lights on the opposite bank gradually illuminate. 🍜 A bowl of Hanzhong hot noodles costs 3.5 yuan, with side dishes, tofu, and porridge. Two people can eat their fill for 10 yuan. 08 Heyuan City | Guangdong Heyuan is a city where budget travel is practically free. The entrance fee to Wanlv Lake Scenic Area is over 100 yuan, but you really don't need to enter the scenic area. 📍 Drive or cycle along the lakeside road from Xingang Town to Xichang Town. There are one free viewing platform after another. The lake water is as green as jade, and boats leave a white trail as they pass. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 PM, and the reflection on the lake is not glaring, resulting in photos that don't need color correction. ⚠️ Don't buy boat tickets at the scenic area entrance; it's 200 yuan for a quick round trip. Instead, spend 20 yuan to take a 40-minute ride on a local fisherman's wooden boat, drifting along the lake's inlets and listening to their stories of the old village at the bottom of the lake. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Heyuan East Station to the lake. Back in the city in the evening, have a bowl of pig's feet noodles for 10 yuan—the broth is so rich it's almost sticky—and a side of Hakka stuffed tofu; the average cost will be around 20 yuan. September and October are crisp and clear, but it can be windy by the lake, so remember to bring a light jacket. I bet myself that going to these eight places in September or October will cut the crowds in half and save you 30% on expenses. Where are you planning to go this autumn? Let's chat in the comments; maybe next time we'll be traveling together!

Limited budget for the Mid-Autumn Festival? These 8 places are beautiful, uncrowded, and easily accessible by high-speed rail. 01 Lianyungang | Jiangsu 🌊 Want to see the sea during the Mid-Autumn Festival without the crowds? Lianyungang offers great value. For Huaguoshan, I recommend taking the scenic bus directly to Yunu Peak, then walking down to the Water Curtain Cave. It saves energy and helps you avoid the large tour groups halfway up the mountain. ⏰ Arrive at 7:30 AM when the park opens. The light on the summit is clear before 10:00 AM, so you won't have to wait for people to clear out for photos. Liandao is better in the afternoon. Walking along the boardwalk from Dashawan to Sumawan with the sea breeze is much more comfortable than baking on the beach. 🍜 For lunch, pick live blue crabs at the Xugou Seafood Market and have a nearby shop cook them for you. It costs about CNY 60–70 per person to eat your fill. ⚠️ Don't buy shell crafts at the entrance; the price is doubled. They're only CNY 20 a string once you leave the market street. It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from the city to Liandao. If you're catching a high-speed train, leave at least an hour. 02 Haikou | Hainan Don't just think of Sanya when you hear Hainan; Haikou's prices and local vibe are the real deal. Qilou Old Street is great for an evening stroll. 📍 The Nanyang-style arcades around Zhongshan Road have a great atmosphere under the warm yellow streetlights. Just duck into a "laoba" tea shop, order a cup of partridge tea with a piece of coconut sticky rice cake, and sit on a plastic stool listening to the locals chat—it's more interesting than checking in at a trendy cafe. Visit Wugong Temple in the morning. The garden isn't large, but the light and shadows on the ancient trees and red walls are perfect for a slow walk. ⚠️ There's no need to rent an audio guide inside; reading the information plaques is enough. The Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark is a bit more physically demanding with many stairs. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, you can just walk the main crater loop, which takes about an hour. 🍜 Don't settle for food at the scenic spot. Take a taxi back to the city for a bowl of pickled noodles with beef brisket for just over CNY 20 per person. 03 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai To avoid the crowds at Qinghai Lake and Chaka, head south for a much quieter experience. The grass at Riyue Mountain starts to turn yellow during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and it's windy, so remember to bring a fleece jacket. ⏰ It's best to arrive around 10:00 AM. The sunlight slanting onto the Sun Pavilion and Moon Pavilion creates a great silhouette effect. Guide National Geopark is even more surprising; the Danxia landforms have incredibly intense colors in the light between 3:00 PM–4:00 PM. 📍 The Nuwa Gorge inside the scenic area is the highlight; it takes about two hours to walk the loop. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "Kunlun jade" at the entrance; it's hard to tell if it's real. 🚄 Chartering a car for a day trip from Xining is more flexible. Splitting the cost four ways comes to just over CNY 200 per person, which is much freer than joining a day tour group. The altitude here is nearly 3,000 meters, so you'll get winded easily if you run or jump. Just walk slowly. 04 Chuzhou | Anhui Langya Mountain is the least "touristy" scenic spot I've visited in recent years. There are no overly commercialized boardwalks or shops—just pure mountain trails and ancient architecture. Enter from the North Gate and follow the route past Zuiweng Pavilion, Tongle Garden, and Nantian Gate. The whole trip takes about three and a half hours. 🍜 Turn left after exiting the scenic area, and there's a small noodle shop that's been open for over a decade. A bowl of shredded pork noodles with preserved vegetables is only CNY 8, cheaper than the chain stores in the city. ⚠️ Bottled water is expensive inside the scenic area, so bring two bottles yourself. ⏰ The light is best after 2:00 PM when you head up the mountain, with dappled tree shadows. By the time you reach Nantian Gate, you can see the sunset gilding the city of Chuzhou below. If you're bringing children, the mountain isn't high and the stairs aren't steep, but a stroller isn't practical. I recommend using a baby carrier. 05 Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou The beauty of Libo Zhangjiang is that green that doesn't need a filter. Before 9:00 AM, the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge isn't crowded yet, and the water surface is as calm as glass. After taking photos, head upstream, where the mist from the Laya Waterfall hits your face—it's so cool you won't want to leave. The blue-green water of Wolong Pond paired with the curved dam is a screensaver-worthy shot. ⚠️ Buy your tickets online in advance and reserve a time slot; queuing on-site will waste at least 40 minutes. You must take the shuttle bus in the scenic area; the walking distance between stops is too long, so don't try to walk it. 🍜 For lunch, eat salt-pickled vegetable pork belly at a Buyei farmhouse outside the scenic area. It's sour, spicy, and appetizing, and you can eat your fill for about CNY 40 per person. This place is great for people who like playing in the water. Bringing non-slip sandals is more practical than sneakers. 06 Baicheng | Jilin Autumn comes early in Northeast China. By the Mid-Autumn Festival, the reeds in Nenjiang Bay are already turning yellow. When the wind blows, the whole reed marsh rustles, creating a vast, quiet feeling. Walking along the boardwalk in the Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area, you can see the river shimmering in the sunlight. ⏰ The light after 4:00 PM is best for photographing the water, and the reed tassels look gold-rimmed against the backlight. The scenic area is uncrowded; you might only run into three or five locals taking a walk in half an hour. 🌾 The rice paddies by the river are almost ripe, and the air is filled with a faint scent of rice—a smell you can't find in the city. 🚄 It takes about half an hour to take a taxi from Baicheng Station, costing around CNY 40. ⚠️ There are few dining options in the scenic area, so I suggest eating your fill in the city before setting off, or bringing some dry food. It's perfect for you if you like quiet and don't want to rush through sights. 07 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The Populus euphratica forest just starts to get its first touch of yellow during the Mid-Autumn Festival, which counts as getting a head start on the main Ejina crowds. The area between Bridge 1 and Bridge 2 is the highlight, with the Populus euphratica reflected in the water, creating a play of light and shadow like an oil painting. ⏰ After the park opens at 8:00 AM, head straight to Bridge 2. The leaves look their most transparent yellow when the sunlight slants in. The Badain Jaran Desert and the Populus euphratica forest are two completely different experiences. You must try the desert off-road vehicle sand bashing; the driver will intentionally drift on the sand ridges, and the feeling of weightlessness is gentler but more exciting than a roller coaster. 🍜 The camel meat pies at the small restaurants outside the scenic area are worth a try—thin crust, generous filling, and paired with brick tea to cut the grease. ⚠️ It's windy and sandy in the desert, so don't change your camera lens randomly. A mask and sunglasses are essential. 🚄 The nearest train station is in Left Banner, about a half-hour taxi ride to the Populus euphratica forest. The physical requirements aren't high, but it's not recommended for elderly people with limited mobility to go deep into the desert. 08 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is the kind of place where you have to stroll slowly to appreciate its flavor. Compared to Lijiang and Fenghuang, it has less of the noisy bar scene and more of the daily life of people washing clothes and vegetables by the river. Climb up from Guanghua Tower, and you'll see the Jialing River make a big turn at your feet, with blue-tiled roofs stretching out in one piece. ⏰ The light after 6:00 PM turns the ancient city a warm yellow, making it the golden hour for photos. 🍜 The Zhangfei beef noodles and Sichuan-style cold jelly noodles in the ancient city are both worth trying, but don't eat on the main street. Walk a couple of steps into the small alleys, and the same things are CNY 5 cheaper. ⚠️ Vinegar foot baths are a local specialty, but roadside shops will shout random prices. You can usually experience it for CNY 20; if it's over CNY 30, just walk away. It's suitable for older people and those who want to slow down. Two days and one night is just right. Walking along the river in the evening with the breeze blowing is very comfortable. Of these eight places, the ones I most want to visit again during the Mid-Autumn Festival are Lianyungang and Libo—one for the sea and seafood, the other for soaking in the water vapor. Do you have an answer in your mind? Let's chat in the comments section.

01 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia 🍂 From late September to mid-October, the Populus euphratica forests are at their most vibrant. At Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest Tourist Area, from Bridge 1 to Bridge 8, the leaves turn from green to golden yellow and then to caramel. The whole process takes about a week or so. If you time it right, it's a stunning sight; if you're too early, you'll only see green leaves. I recommend heading straight to the Reflection Forest at Bridge 2. In the early morning, the water is as flat as a mirror, reflecting the golden leaves and blue sky. Kids will love chasing the light and shadows. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "Populus wood carvings" at the entrance; most are just other types of wood that have been dyed. For authentic souvenirs, go to the state-run shops in town. Don't miss the desert, either. The dunes of the Badain Jaran Desert have incredibly clean lines. After 5:30 PM, the light hits at an angle, making it safe for sand walking and sand sliding. Remember to pack high-top shoes for your child; fine sand can get into regular sneakers and cause blisters. 02 Hefei | Anhui If you want to cover a destination in half a day with your kids on the weekend, Sanhe Ancient Town is the most stress-free choice around Hefei. 📍 It's about a one-hour drive from the city center. There's no admission fee for the ancient town. When you walk in, don't rush to take photos. Head into the deep alleys. The rice dumpling shop opposite the former residence of Yang Zhenning sells freshly fried rice dumplings with crispy shells. The filling is made of dried shrimp and tofu. They're CNY 3 each, and kids can easily eat two at a time. ⚠️ Most of the "handmade beef taffy" on the main street is factory-made, so don't fall for it. In the afternoon, visit the "One-Person Alley." It's so narrow that only one person can pass through at a time. Kids find it like an adventure, while adults have to walk sideways—it's quite fun. Two to three hours is enough to see everything. Afterward, head back to downtown Hefei for dinner; the pace is just right. If your child is still small, remember to bring a lightweight stroller. The bluestone roads are bumpy, and a large stroller will make you want to cry. 03 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang After the wheat harvest in late September, the wheat stubble fields in Jiangbulake turn into a patchwork of brown shades, which, paired with the snow-capped mountains in the distance, creates a visual depth even richer than in summer. 📍 In the Tianshan Wheat Sea area, the wind is filled with the scent of hay and earth. Kids can run along the wooden boardwalks while you just sit by the haystacks and watch the clouds. Wucaiwan is best visited after 4:00 PM. Under the low-angle sunlight, the Danxia landforms reveal red, yellow, and purple stripes—perfect for photos without any editing. If you're with kids, I suggest only taking the shuttle bus to the Queen Mother of the West Temple (Xiwangmu Temple) at Tianshan Tianchi. Don't try to hike Mount Maya; the altitude is high and the steps are steep. If the kids can't walk, you'll end up carrying them. 🍜 There's a "Hui-style meatball soup" shop in downtown Fukang at the foot of the mountain. The beef meatballs are large, the broth is flavorful, and it's served with "youtazi" (steamed twisted rolls). Kids can eat two bowls. ⚠️ The temperature difference in the mountains is significant, and it might suddenly snow in October, so everyone needs a windbreaker. 04 Guangzhou | Guangdong Autumn in Guangzhou is still 30°C, so traveling with kids means learning to "rest during the day and go out at night." During the hottest part of the day, duck into the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. This Lingnan architectural museum is air-conditioned. The roof ridges are densely packed with gray and ceramic sculptures. Kids can spend half an hour quietly counting the fish-like creatures (ao yu) on them. After 6:00 PM, head to the West Gate of Baiyun Mountain and take the gentle slope trail up to the vicinity of Nengren Temple. The wind starts to pick up in the forest, and there are fewer mosquitoes, making it much easier than walking up the main stairs. 🎡 For the Chimelong Tourist Resort, I suggest buying a two-day ticket—one day for the Safari Park and one day for the Paradise. Don't try to do it all in one day. Not only will your legs be exhausted from walking, but the average wait time for each ride is 40 minutes, which is too long for kids. As for Canton Tower, don't bother going to the top with kids. The tickets are expensive and it's crowded. It's better to watch it light up from Huacheng Square at night. Kids are much more interested in the "Little Waist" changing colors than being 400 meters in the air. 05 Qujing | Yunnan You think going to Luoping in September only means rapeseed flowers? Wrong, that's a spring scene. If you go in autumn, you'll see layers of freshly plowed red earth, which, paired with the distant mountains and morning mist, makes for even better photos. 📍 At the Jinji Peak Cluster Scenic Area, between 6:30 AM–7:30 AM, the mist rises from the peaks, and the sunrise illuminates the red earth. Kids will ask, "Why is the ground red?" It's the perfect time to explain the weathering of volcanic rock on the spot. The Jiulong Waterfall Group doesn't have the highest water volume this season, but the water is clear. Just take the kids along the flat boardwalk in the lower section; there's no need to climb to the top. 🍜 There are small stalls in Luoping County selling "steamed ersi" (steamed rice noodles) in the morning. The thin noodles are topped with meat sauce and pickled vegetables. Mix it up and eat—it's more kid-friendly than Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles. ⚠️ The UV rays are strong, so don't skimp on hats and sunscreen. The autumn sun in Yunnan is stronger than you think. 06 Hechi | Guangxi Autumn in Hechi is the season of water. The water temperature at the Jiudun Tianchuang (sinkhole) remains constant at around 20°C year-round. The surface is a blue-green, like jade, with extremely high visibility. Kids can lie on the boat and look down to see rocks and water plants over 10 meters below. 📍 In the Donglan landscape area, the Hongshui River takes a turn here, with bamboo forests and karst peaks on both banks reflecting on the calm water. Find a farmhouse to stop at, rent a small bamboo raft, and paddle slowly—it's much more comfortable than rushing between attractions. Xiangbei "Shangri-La" is more suitable for preschool kids. The village is small, the roads are flat, the rice fields are golden, and old cows graze on the ridges. Kids can spend the whole afternoon chasing chickens and ducks. There's a hiking trail in Sanli Yangdu that's about 2 kilometers long with gentle slopes, perfect for kids over 6 years old. ⚠️ Attractions in Hechi are scattered. If you're driving, keep your daily travel time within two hours. Don't be greedy; one spot a day is plenty. 07 Dandong | Liaoning The autumn in Dandong tastes like hawthorn. In October, Fenghuang Mountain is covered in red and yellow, but when traveling with kids, definitely avoid the Laoniubei section. The iron railings on the cliff edge are shaky; adults get weak knees and kids get scared. Take the cable car to the middle of the mountain and walk along a gentle forest boardwalk to see the red leaves—that's enough. You must visit the Yalu River Broken Bridge. When kids stand on the bridge and see the opposite bank, they'll ask all sorts of questions that will leave you stumped. Do some homework beforehand; don't just say, "I'll tell you later." 🍜 Find a restaurant with a terrace by the river and eat yellow clams. Autumn is when they are at their plumpest. Boiled in plain water and dipped in ginger vinegar, they are so fresh and sweet that kids will peel the shells themselves. There's a ginkgo forest in Kuandian Hekou where the leaves turn completely yellow in mid-to-late October, covering the ground—perfect for photos and for kids to pick leaves for crafts. The riverside autumn scenery in Lvjiang Village is like an oil painting, but the roads are narrow and winding. Think twice if your child gets carsick. ⚠️ It's cool in the morning and evening, so a thin down jacket is appropriate. 08 Yantai | Shandong Autumn is Yantai's most dignified season. The seafood is plump, the summer heat has faded, and the sea breeze is crisp. The Penglai Pavilion Tourist Area is famous, but to be honest, taking kids there is mainly about seeing the architecture and hearing stories. Kids will be fascinated by the legend of the Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea. After seeing the sea view, don't forget to walk along the Tianheng Mountain boardwalk. That cliffside road by the sea isn't long, but the sound of waves crashing against the rocks is very healing. Chang Island is better for an overnight stay. The "fishermen's guesthouses" include three meals, with plenty of crabs, mantis shrimp, and mackerel dumplings. In the evening, go to Crescent Bay to pick up "ball stones." The round stones are polished bright by the seawater, and kids can squat there for an hour without getting up. The Longkou Nanshan Scenic Area is large and tiring to walk around. I suggest just taking the electric cart to the foot of the Nanshan Giant Buddha to take a look, and save your energy for the Nanshan Theme Park at the foot of the mountain. ⚠️ If your child has a seafood allergy, prepare medicine in advance; don't wait until you're on the island to look for a pharmacy. 🦀 Seafood prices drop in October. When eating crabs, look for those from Laizhou Bay—they have thin shells and are full of meat.