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

Chengdu 1.5h direct to 20℃ cloud secret realm | Complete summer resort guide to Jiuhuang Mountain (about 1500 words) Chengdu stays above 30℃ in midsummer. If you want a short drive, diverse activities, and natural air conditioning, Mianyang’s Jiuhuang Mountain is an underrated treasure. Take a 1-hour high-speed train to Jiangyou, then a 30-minute drive straight to the mountains. The average temperature stays steady at 20℃, with caves at a constant 18℃. You can enjoy summer snow fun at the 0℃ snow park while immersing yourself in Qiang ethnic customs. Cloud sea camping, mountain activities, and live performances are all available in one place, perfect for families, couples, or friends. This detailed guide covers transportation, attractions, lodging, food, and a two-day itinerary all in one. 1. Convenient travel guide, easy 1.5h from Chengdu High-speed train (recommended, hassle-free and no traffic) Take the high-speed train from Chengdu East to Jiangyou Station. The fastest trip takes 1 hour. Trains run frequently from 7 AM to 6 PM. Second-class tickets cost about 40 yuan. After arrival, there are two ways to get up the mountain: 1. Ride-hailing/carpool: Direct taxi to the visitor center takes about 30 minutes. Carpool costs 40 yuan per person, private car 80 yuan, available on demand; 2. Shuttle bus: Take the bus from Jiangyou Bus Station toward Pingwu for 7 yuan directly to the scenic entrance. Buses depart hourly and offer better value. Self-driving From Chengdu, take the Chengwan Expressway. The whole trip takes about 2 hours. The scenic area has a large parking lot with a 10 yuan fee per 12 hours. It’s convenient for luggage and supplies, ideal for families and campers. Internal transportation The scenic area is divided into front and back mountains with many stairs, so full hiking is not recommended. Prioritize cable car packages: · Cloud Qiang Village cable car (front mountain round trip 60 yuan): Direct to West Qiang Square, leading to Lover’s Bridge and Ape King Cave; · Qiang Culture Park cable car (back mountain round trip 100 yuan): Direct to Qiang Culture Park and Cloud Farm; · Lazy full mountain cable car package pre-purchased online for 280 yuan includes all cable cars on front and back mountains, with unlimited entry within 3 days. Ticket reference: Peak season (April–November) main gate ticket 90 yuan, online advance purchase 85 yuan, valid for 3 days; children under 1.3 meters and seniors over 65 are free; full-time students half price 45 yuan. 2. Six must-try core activities, all cool and refreshing 1. Fantasy Forest 0℃ snow park | Summer snow fun Step from 40℃ heat into a 0℃ indoor snow park, a real-life Wizard of Oz. The whole area is covered with soft real snow, with simulated ice waterfalls and mushroom snow decorations, perfect for photos. Activities include snow tube slides, snowman building, snowball fights, and a daily 2:30 PM snow treasure hunt with chilled drinks hidden in the snow. The park features scheduled parrot shows and the children’s live drama "Ancient Qiang Love." Actors interact with guests and give gifts. Kids can play all day. The indoor temperature is very low. The park rents anti-slip shoe covers, but bringing a light jacket is recommended to avoid catching cold. 2. Qiang Culture Park Qiang wedding show | immersive intangible cultural heritage experience A full Qiang wedding ceremony is performed daily at 12 PM, faithfully recreating the bride’s welcome, offering Qiang red, drinking Zaji wine, and singing competitions. Visitors can join in and fully experience the ethnic wedding atmosphere. After the show, guests can sit down for a Qiang specialty feast with smoked cured meat, buckwheat dough with pickled soup, and wild vegetable hot pot, fully immersing in Qiang food culture. 3. Cloud sea starry sky camping | lie back and watch the mountains and Milky Way Cloud Farm is located on a high mountain platform in the back mountain. The tent has three walls of floor-to-ceiling windows facing the endless mountains. During the day, open the tent door to see the boundless cloud sea, rice fields, and forests. At dusk, watch the sunset over the hills. At night, lie in bed and gaze at the star-filled Milky Way. You can bring your own tent or rent one on site for 150 yuan per night, including a sleeping bag. The campsite offers outdoor barbecue and iced tea by the fire pit. At night, join the wild mountain bonfire party and dance the Salang dance with Qiang brothers and sisters, healing all city fatigue. At 5:30 AM, climb the viewing platform to catch the mountain sunrise and cloud sea, with mist wrapping Qiang watchtowers like a fairyland. 4. Cloud Farm mountain family interaction The 60 yuan ticket includes a full countryside experience. Feed rabbits, peacocks, and goats in the petting zoo. Collect free-range eggs in the forest (3 per person). There’s a popular photo spot called the sky mirror, with free props like straw hats and oil-paper umbrellas. Along the way, participate in the "Qiang Spear Battle" NPC interactive quest. Completing checkpoints earns shell tickets to catch geese or exchange for special gifts. Both adults and kids can relax and have fun. 5. Billion-year Ape King Cave natural karst cave | 18℃ natural air conditioning The front mountain’s core geological attraction is a karst cave with a constant 18℃ temperature year-round. Step inside to instantly escape the summer heat. The stalactites have various shapes, beautifully lit for stunning shadows. The cave path is flat and easy for elderly and children. The heart-shaped lawn and Lover’s Bridge at the entrance are perfect photo spots. The suspended glass walkway overlooks the entire valley with a wide, breathtaking view. 6. Summer-only mountain rafting The 2-kilometer mountain river has an 80-meter drop. The water is icy cold and clear, with nonstop thrills. The park provides free raincoats. It’s perfect for cooling off in the afternoon. After rafting, head to Fantasy Forest to rest, enjoying a hot and cold contrast experience. 3. Complete lodging guide, choose without risk 1. West Qiang Hotel (front mountain top choice) Prices start at 400 yuan. Located near the bonfire square and hot springs, convenient for travel. Rooms have mountain-view balconies. Guests can join the free Salang bonfire party at 8 PM every night. Ideal for visitors who prefer comfort without hiking. Soak in the mountain hot springs in the evening to relieve hiking fatigue. 2. Cloud Farm starry sky tents (romantic camping) Starting at 150 yuan per night, immersive mountain experience with no light pollution and clear Milky Way views. Suitable for couples and young travelers. The campsite has public restrooms and hot water, with barbecue ingredient rentals. 3. Foot of the mountain Qiang King Villa (budget family) Affordable homestay at 100–200 yuan, self-driving friendly, with a farmhouse restaurant. Suitable for families on a budget who want to get an early start hiking. 4. Qiang ethnic specialty food, must-try mountain flavors 1. Qiang three treasures: cypress branch smoked cured meat, buckwheat dough with pickled soup, wild mushroom Qiang hot pot, available at almost every restaurant; 2. Specialty snacks: freshly baked bitter buckwheat honey cakes, sweet and crispy; Qingke Zaji wine 25 yuan per pot, low alcohol and slightly sweet, a banquet staple; 3. Mountain fresh vegetables: stir-fried bracken, high mountain dried bamboo shoots, handmade tofu, all ingredients picked fresh daily in the mountains, light and refreshing. Groups can order whole roasted lamb for a full bonfire feast atmosphere. 5. Classic two-day one-night itinerary, relaxed and unhurried Day 1 front mountain cool exploration · bonfire night chat Arrive at Jiangyou by Chengdu high-speed train → taxi up the mountain and enter the park → take the front mountain cable car to West Qiang Square → visit Lover’s Bridge and glass walkway → explore the constant temperature Ape King Cave → afternoon snow fun at Fantasy Forest and parrot show → dinner at West Qiang Square with Qiang broom feast → join the free Salang bonfire party at 8 PM; stay at West Qiang Hotel or Cloud Farm tent. Day 2 back mountain folk countryside · cloud sea return Early morning sunrise and cloud sea at Cloud Farm → take Qiang Culture Park cable car up the mountain, watch the 12 PM Qiang wedding show, and taste the specialty Qiang feast → feed animals, collect eggs, and complete NPC quests at Cloud Farm → try grass skiing and mountain rafting → take the cable car down in the afternoon and return to Chengdu by high-speed train. 6. Practical travel tips to avoid pitfalls 1. Clothing: Mountain temperature difference between day and night is 8–10℃. The caves and snow park are very cold, so bring a light jacket. There are many stairs, so wear anti-slip sports shoes. Prepare mosquito repellent and sun hats for summer. 2. Time planning: The park is open 8 AM–6 PM, with last entry at 6 PM and cable cars stopping at 5:30 PM. Arrive early to avoid afternoon heat. The Qiang wedding show is only at noon daily, don’t miss it. 3. Budget reference: Two-day solo trip including round-trip high-speed train, tickets, cable cars, lodging, and meals costs about 550–700 yuan per person, offering great value compared to other popular spots near Chengdu. 4. Folk customs: When visiting Qiang Culture Park, do not touch the sacrificial white stones. Follow the rules during the wedding show and respect ethnic culture. Escape Chengdu’s summer heat without traveling far west. Jiuhuang Mountain, just 1.5 hours away, packs snow, cloud seas, caves, Qiang customs, and countryside fun all in one. Experience the refreshing contrast of 0℃ snow play and lie in a mountain tent watching the stars. Whether family trips, couple getaways, or friends’ weekend escapes, it’s a perfect summer retreat.

Who would have thought! Escape the summer heat with kids by heading straight to Jiuhuang Mountain The mountain stays around 20°C year-round, a natural air-conditioned room that's super comfortable✨ Family hiking + Qiang ethnic customs + goose and chicken catching all in one place for a full day of fun ▫️Two hiking trails, families can easily choose Trail A with no hassle for moms Trail A is the lazy cable car option|Three cable car segments, only 1.65km hiking Route: Visitor Center → Ape King Cave → Erma Ancient Path → Cloud Farm The path is gentle and easy, kids can easily check in at 4 spots Complete the check-ins to receive an exclusive starry sand medal🏅 The blingbling starry medal is so loved by kids they won’t let go ▫️Lots of Qiang ethnic interactive mini-games along the way to earn shell tickets Erma Ancient Path is full of NPCs, with Flower Flying Orders, Shibi Blessings, and Red Ribbon Tree Hanging At Qiangqing Garden, there’s a full Qiang wedding performance You can join Qiang songs, folk competitions, and wine tasting finger-guessing games Play games to collect shell tickets, which come in handy at the final stop, Cloud Farm! ▫️Cloud Farm’s goose and chicken catching is the ultimate joy for kids Use shell tickets to exchange for rings, catch a big goose and take it home! The lively atmosphere is amazing, kids chasing geese make for great photos Down-to-earth farm fun, city kids get hooked on their first experience Explore caves, walk ancient paths, watch live Qiang ethnic performances No harsh sun, surrounded by green trees and misty clouds, every snap looks like a fairyland scene In the evening, catch the stunning mountain sunset, the ultimate summer family outing 📍Jiuhuang Mountain

Tired of the city's hustle and bustle and bored with the same old trendy homestays? If you want to find a quiet secret spot around Sichuan to experience the true slow life in the mountains and countryside, you must check in at Yiban Huyuan deep in Beichuan Wahu Valley. After more than ten years of dedicated craftsmanship, this mountain residence breaks away from the assembly-line vacation model. It stands out with four unique features: unparalleled natural scenery, local intangible cultural heritage, pet-friendly throughout the area, and exclusive wellness experiences. It is a highly recognizable boutique homestay in Beichuan, perfect for high-end leisure, nature lovers, or traveling with pets, offering exclusive enjoyment for everyone. 1. Four Unique Features Unlock a Different Mountain Experience 1. Unparalleled Pristine Scenery, Private and Tranquil Space The homestay is deeply nestled in original forests with a high vegetation coverage rate. Open the window to see green mountains and hear mountain springs nearby, with mist lingering all year round. The entire courtyard is built according to the terrain without excessive commercial renovation, preserving the natural mountain landscape to the greatest extent. It is far from crowded tourist spots, offering a private and quiet environment, ideal for those wanting to escape the noise and relax peacefully. 2. Local Intangible Cultural Heritage Flavors, Experience Rural Craftsmanship The mountain residence is built with local materials and full of ancient charm, featuring local specialty cuisine. Traditional intangible cultural heritage smoked cured meats, wild mountain vegetables, and home-style dishes cooked with mountain spring water use natural and healthy ingredients. Every bite delivers the unique fresh aroma of the mountains, immersing guests in authentic rural life. 3. Pet-Friendly Throughout the Area, Joy for Both Pets and Owners This is a rare highlight! Many quality homestays restrict pets, but Yiban Huyuan allows pets throughout the entire courtyard and surrounding forest trails. The spacious lawns and open mountain fields provide plenty of room for pets to run and play freely. No more worries about where to leave your beloved pet during trips—enjoy a relaxed vacation with your furry friends. 4. Exclusive Wellness Experiences to Relieve Body and Mind Stress Combining the mountain environment, the residence offers special wellness and leisure activities. Relax by the stove brewing tea, take forest walks, or try various leisure and wellness programs. The slow pace is healing and refreshing. Leave behind work and life fatigue, nurture your body and mind amidst green mountains and clear waters, and enjoy your exclusive moments of relaxation. 2. Suitable for Different Travelers · Quality Vacationers: Private environment and elegant courtyard, perfect for small gatherings and leisurely rest, a private backyard away from the city noise; · Nature Lovers: Immerse yourself in pristine forests, watch morning mist and evening glow, suitable for hiking and exploring, fulfilling the dream of rural retreat; · Pet Families and Pet Lovers: A rare high-end pet-friendly mountain residence, perfect for families traveling with pets to enjoy a warm holiday together. 3. Travel Tips 📍Address: Beichuan Wahu Valley 🚗 Travel Advice: Recommended to drive yourself; the mountain roads offer beautiful scenery and more flexible travel 💡 Tips: The homestay emphasizes a slow life experience, so it is recommended to reserve 1-2 days to slowly enjoy the mountain pleasures. Among many homestays in Beichuan, Yiban Huyuan stands out with its unique differentiated experience, becoming the preferred choice for high-net-worth travelers. Not chasing the crowd, but staying true to oneself—come here and live the mountain life you long for.

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Jiuhuang Mountain, a hidden treasure of the Western Qiang people just a 2-hour drive from Chengdu, is definitely the perfect choice for a reverse trip during the May Day holiday! You can immerse yourself in the rich Qiang culture while being healed by the mountain breeze and magnificent scenery. A two-day, one-night trip here is both fulfilling and relaxing. Transportation is very convenient. You can drive directly to the Jiuhuang Mountain Visitor Center; take a high-speed train to Jiangyou Station in 1 hour, then a 30-minute taxi ride to the destination. Whether driving or using public transport, it’s very easy. It’s recommended to stay inside the scenic area for a more relaxed itinerary without the hassle of back-and-forth travel. Day 1: Unlock Mountain Thrills and Folk Festivities After arrival, take the Yunzhong Qiang Village cable car up the mountain and check in at the Western Qiang Square. After a short rest, start exploring. The aerial slide easily weaves through the forest, with attractions like Guanyin Cliff, Glass Bridge, Lover’s Bridge, and Cloud Walk—each step offers scenic views with thrilling fun. The karst landscape of Ape King Cave is fantastically beautiful, and the Sarang evening party at night is full of atmosphere. Gather around the bonfire to dance the Sarang dance together—lively and healing. Day 2: Deeply Experience the Qiang Slow Life Start from Western Qiang Square and take the Qiangqingyuan cable car to the back mountain. Stroll through the Sacred Forest and Erma Ancient Trail to enjoy the pristine Qiang mountain scenery. Don’t miss the 11:30 Qiang wedding performance—drink Zaji wine, offer Qiang red, and taste the Qiang feast. Immerse yourself in the intangible cultural heritage and folk charm. Yunzhong Farm is a treasure spot for photos with its sky ladder, and you can also enjoy wild activities like catching mountain chickens, collecting mountain eggs, and boiling eggs in hot springs. You can even take home the mountain goods you catch—full of fun. Hiking enthusiasts can challenge the Qiang Mountain Special Forces route: Visitor Center → Ape King Cave → Cliff Plank Road → Yunzhong Farm. Complete the check-in before May 31 to receive a custom medal! The physical medal is recognized by hiking and marathon events worldwide and can be used to offset tickets, dining, accommodation, and other expenses in the scenic area. Hiking lovers definitely don’t want to miss this. Travel Tips: The mountain area has a big temperature difference between morning and evening, so remember to bring a windbreaker and sun protection clothing; wear comfortable sports shoes as the scenic area is large with many walking sections; accommodation options include the Western Qiang Hotel at Western Qiang Square or the tent camp at Yunzhong Farm, each offering a unique experience. This May Day, avoid the crowds and come to Jiuhuang Mountain to feel the freedom of the mountains and the intangible cultural heritage of the Western Qiang secret realm. Easily unlock a healing and fun two-day trip~

Here’s the motivation you need for hiking this spring!! All three spring-limited medals for Jiuhuang Mountain in Mianyang are now available. Whether you’re going solo or bringing the whole family, there’s a route for you. The magnolia flower season is counting down— If you want to see the blossoms, don’t wait! 【Three Medal Options • Choose as You Like】 Route A | Easy Cable Car Version Suitable for: Hiking beginners and families with kids Route: Visitor Center → Ape King Cave → Erma Ancient Trail → Cloud Farm Duration: Take the cable car directly, about 1.65 km one way, 3–4 hours round trip, very easy on the legs Tip: Multiple cable car options available, saving energy and fun Route B | Hiking Challenge Version Suitable for: Hiking enthusiasts Route: Visitor Center → Ape King Cave → Cliffside Plank Road Midpoint → Cloud Farm Duration: About 6.5 km one way, 6–7 hours Tip: Recommended to hike up and take the cable car down, easier on the knees Route C | Huaxi Scenic Flower Viewing Line Suitable for: Families and flower lovers Route: Huaxi Scenic Visitor Center → Main Viewing Platform → Yuanbao Mountain Duration: About 4 km one way, 3–5 hours round trip Tip: Take the sightseeing bus uphill, no scenery along the way, hiking not recommended 【Practical Tips】 Stay overnight to easily check in at both scenic spots and earn two medals Day 1: Morning from Chengdu to Jiuhuang Mountain, afternoon hiking and flower viewing at Huaxi Scenic (Route C), overnight at Xiqiang Hotel (direct cable car access), enjoy a bonfire party and dance the Salang with the Qiang people Day 2: Explore Jiuhuang Mountain main scenic area (choose Route A or B based on your stamina), return to Chengdu in the afternoon 【Transportation Guide】 By car: Navigate to “Jiuhuang Mountain Scenic Area,” after the highway exit switch to the national road, road conditions are good and friendly for new drivers, park at either parking lot near the visitor center Public transport: Take high-speed rail from Chengdu to Jiangyou Station, then carpool or shuttle bus directly to the scenic area; return by waiting for shuttle or carpool at the visitor center back to Jiangyou Spring hiking + limited medals + mountains full of magnolia flowers—this combo is truly worth it! Grab your buddy and start planning~ Follow Xiao Pang’s steps to unlock more: Hidden gem routes × seasonal stunning views × easy and fun ways to play

[Mianyang 3 Days 2 Nights] 800 RMB per person 💰 Unlock the dual-faced city of "Technology + Ancient Charm"! Full guide to eating and exploring ✨ 🌶️ "Trip Highlights" ✔️ Poetic check-in at Li Bai’s hometown × Futuristic vibes at the Sci-Fi Museum ✔️ Intense Northern Sichuan snack attack, 8 meals a day with no repeats ✔️ Perfect family trip spot for parents and kids ✔️ Budget-friendly city, no pressure on expenses! 📝 "Itinerary" Day 1⃣️: Travel back to the Tang Dynasty → Foodie feast ▫️ 14:00 Check in at [Mianzhou Hotel], a well-established star-rated hotel in a super convenient location ▫️ 15:30 Visit [Li Bai Memorial Hall], see authentic stone inscriptions and shoot ink-wash style photos ▫️ 18:00 Start snacking at [Majiagang Snack Street] with cold zhan zhan, spring rolls, grilled brain flower! ▫️ 20:00 Night view at Yuewang Tower 🌃 Capture stunning silhouettes with seven floors of light and shadow Day 2⃣️: Sci-fi fans’ dream day ▫️ 09:30 Visit [Mianyang Science and Technology Museum], see the real "Two Bombs, One Satellite" exhibits, full of awe ▫️ 12:00 Lunch at [June Snow Dry Pot], must-try sticky duck feet + ribs combo ▫️ 14:00 [Jiuhuang Mountain], take the cable car to see Qiang village sea of clouds (optional) ▫️ 18:30 Night tour at [Sanjiang Wharf], watch the light show on Fujiang River ▫️ 21:00 Relax with a hot spring soak at the hotel ♨️ Day 3⃣️: Panda therapy to end the trip ▫️ 09:00 Breakfast tea party in Jiangnan garden style at [Fule Mountain Park] ▫️ 11:00 Bike around [Xianhai Lake], enjoy claypot fish head ▫️ 14:00 Chill at [126 Cultural and Creative Park], a coffee shop in a renovated old factory ▫️ 16:00 Buy Zitong crispy cakes and Zhongba soy sauce as souvenirs 🍜 "Food Highlights and Warnings" ✅ Breakfast star: Mianyang rice noodles (clear or red soup, your choice!) ✅ Snack king: Cold zhan zhan (50 cents per skewer for freedom to snack) ✅ Hidden delicacy: Jiangyou pork intestines (amazing with vinegar soup) ⚠️ Note: If you can’t handle Sichuan peppercorns, remember to say “no green”! 💰 "Cost Breakdown" Accommodation: 2 nights x 2 rooms = 800 RMB (267 RMB per person) Meals: 8 main meals at 40 RMB/person + snacks = 350 RMB/person Transport: City taxis + buses = 150 RMB/person Tickets: Science Museum free / Jiuhuang Mountain combo ticket 120 RMB (optional) Total: ≈ 767-887 RMB/person (flexible budget) 📌 "Local Insider Tips" Get rice noodles early! Many shops close in the afternoon Science Museum closed on Mondays, remember to book in advance 126 Park has a creative market on weekends Bring an umbrella! Mianyang weather is “random play” 💬 Frequently asked tips: ▫️ Photo spot: 3rd floor of Yuewang Tower frames the confluence of three rivers ▫️ Must-visit for families: Science Museum’s Children’s Science Playground ▫️ Souvenir shopping: Yonghua rice noodles available in vacuum packs "Where Li Bai looked up at the moon, Meet the starry sea full of futuristic vibes" Save this guide and set off this weekend 🚄

Spring romance loading for 2025. Yulan magnolias and cherry blossoms are coming soon to Jiuzhuanggou❗ · ✅Cherry Blossoms: 🌸Cherry Blossom Season: February 25 – early March Location: Cherry blossoms are mainly distributed in the front mountain area of the scenic spot. You can take the Cloud Qiang Village cable car (the first section of the cable car uphill) to enjoy the view—there are also scattered cherry blossoms along the alpine slide. (💛Mainly wild cherry blossoms, most of which can only be viewed from the cable car) · ✅Yulan Magnolias: Yulan magnolias are in full bloom in the Huaxi Scenic Area of Jiuzhuanggou. Mainly concentrated from mid-March to early April · 1️⃣First Stage: Location: Mainly concentrated around the Wang Family Courtyard at lower altitudes 📆Time: Expected from mid-March to late March · 2️⃣Second Stage: Location: Mainly concentrated on Yuanshan Mountain at higher altitudes 📆Time: Expected from mid-to-late March to early April · 3️⃣Third Stage: Location: Near the Qiangqing Garden in the back mountain area of the main scenic spot of Jiuzhuanggou 📆Time: Expected early April · In addition to flower viewing, Jiuzhuanggou has more interesting activities waiting for you⁉ 🔆Change into Qiang or Hanfu clothing and take photos in Huaxi Scenic Area; 🔆Watch Qiang embroidery performances and experience the charm of traditional culture; 🔆Enjoy tea brewed over a brazier under the yulan magnolias, savoring the wonderful blend of floral and tea aromas. ps: Flash mob events are held every day at 11:00 am and 2:30 pm at the main viewing platform of Huaxi Scenic Area and the Wang Family Courtyard. · 🍃 Fun in the Wild ✅At Cloud Farm, you can also experience fun activities such as collecting wild eggs🪺, cooking eggs in stone crevices, and digging wild vegetables, allowing children to get close to nature and experience the joy of labor. ✅At the same time, feeding small animals and learning about their habits and living environments is also a rare experience. · 🎢 Other Activities Front Mountain: Ape King Cave, Lover's Bridge, Glass Bridge, Glass Slide, Qiang Zipline, Cloud Walk... Back Mountain: Qiangqing Garden, Erma Ancient Road, Glass Plank Road, Sacred Tree Forest, Qiang Watchtower, Sky Ladder, Bird Park... · 👣Tips ✅Ladies and gentlemen with Hanfu must wear them. The yulan magnolias in the scenic area are 100% compatible with Hanfu, making for amazing photos! ✅There are Qiang embroidery performances in the scenic area. Qiang girls in traditional costumes demonstrate their skills with nimble fingers, showcasing the charm of traditional culture. ✅A special snack in the scenic area—deep-fried yulan magnolia flowers. The taste is not particularly amazing, but you can buy a portion to share with friends. ✅There will be flash mob performances of Qiang folk songs and dances at noon and in the afternoon, which are wonderful. · 🚗Advantages of chartering a vehicle: Exclusive vehicle, attentive service, no need to worry about transportation transfers. Flexible arrangements, service based on customer itinerary. Professional driver and tour guide to ensure a safe journey. 🚗How to choose a chartered vehicle: 1⃣~For 1-4 people, choose a 5-seater vehicle. 2⃣~For 5-6 people, choose a 7-seater vehicle. 3⃣~For 6-8 people, choose a 9-seater vehicle. ⏬ - ⏬ - ⏬ ✅Chartered vehicle fees include: vehicle usage fee, driver's labor fee, fuel fee, parking fee, toll fee, and highway fee. ❎Chartered vehicle fees do not include: meals, scenic spot tickets, and internal transportation. 

🌟Highlights: 🎎Cultural experience: The Qiang Tea Art Museum vividly showcases Qiang tea culture, immersing you in its rich cultural heritage🎊. At Tianxiang Workshop, you can experience the joy of tea frying under the guidance of local tea farmers and feel the charm of traditional crafts🔥. 🍲Gourmet experience: Xisigu Tea and Food Life Museum is like a treasure trove of food, offering you local Qiang food, paired with fresh wild vegetables and unique local products from the mountains. Every bite is a perfect blend of nature and tradition🥰. 🎶Leisure and entertainment: The fire pit seating area is a gathering place for joy and warmth. Everyone sits around the bonfire, participates in "ice-breaking" activities, dances Sarang and Guozhuang, and experiences the rich ethnic customs💃. There are also many leisure spaces such as Boyunjian Guanshan Tangshe, Yinshan Courtyard, Tianya Courtyard, Wangxingkong, Lovers Tree, and Lazy Slope. Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery or relax, you can find your favorite place🌈. 🛏️Rooms: There are 10 rooms in total, covering 4 types, such as Mountain View Private Hot Spring King Room and Cloud View Private Hot Spring King Room🛏️. Each room cleverly integrates Qiang culture and natural elements to create a unique living atmosphere🌳. Not only is there an exclusive tea space for you to enjoy the fragrance of tea at any time, but there is also an independent hot spring pool for you to enjoy the ultimate relaxation experience🛀. There are also thoughtful configurations such as B&O Bluetooth speakers and Dyson hair dryers, showing quality and luxury🌟. 🗺️Nearby attractions: · Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area: 31 km from the homestay, about 1 hour by car🚗. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of the Qiang people and feel the unique charm of the ancient ethnic group📚. · Yaowang Valley: 4A scenic spot, 49 km from the homestay, about 1 hour by car. Entering here is like stepping into a world full of mystery and poetry🌼. · Xunlong Mountain: 25 km from the homestay, about 0.4 hours by car. Here, you can explore the wonderful karst cave wonders and appreciate the magic of nature🕳️.

No need to go abroad or to Kunming. I saw red-billed seagulls that flew back from Siberia in Mianyang, a hidden gem near Chengdu. I also visited the Luohan Temple and Shengshui Temple, which are even more impressive than those in Southeast Asia. [Itinerary] It takes about 2 hours to drive from Chengdu to Mianyang. We recommend a 2-day trip. Day 1: Chengdu → Mianyang → Tieniu Square/Renmin Park → Sanjiang Peninsula → View Yuewang Tower from a distance → Majiang Lane Food Street → Stay at Tieniu Hotel Day 2: Luohan Temple/Shengshui Temple → Return to Chengdu (If you have time, you can also visit Jiuhuang Mountain to enjoy the snow) [Accommodation] We recommend staying in the city center when visiting Mianyang. We stayed at Tieniu Hotel near Tieniu Square. Tieniu Hotel (Tieniu Square Branch) offers great value for money and includes breakfast. Renmin Park, Tieniu Square, Sanjiang Park, and Yuewang Tower are all within walking distance. Although the hotel is located on a busy street, the rooms are well soundproofed. The bedding is comparable to that of a star-rated hotel. Free parking is also available. [Must-visit Attractions in Mianyang] 1️⃣ Sanjiang Peninsula Sanjiang Peninsula Square You can enjoy the scenery and feed the seagulls. It is located just down the river from Tieniu Square. No ticket is required. You can take a boat ride from the pier for a fee. 2️⃣ Shengshui Temple Luohan Temple Shengshui Temple and Luohan Temple are located together. We recommend visiting both. Shengshui Temple is known for its clay sculptures, while Luohan Temple is known for its colorful Buddha wall. If you don't want to climb uphill, we recommend starting at Shengshui Temple and ending at Luohan Temple. 3️⃣ Yuewang Tower Yuewang Tower You can view Yuewang Tower from a distance at Tieniu Square and Sanjiang Peninsula. 4️⃣ Majiang Lane Food Street There are many local snacks to try. You can eat while you shop. Hankou Yijue is also worth a try. [Transportation] We recommend staying at Tieniu Hotel. It is a 15-minute drive from the hotel to Luohan Temple/Shengshui Temple, a 20-minute drive to Mianyang Railway Station, and a 20-minute drive to Mianyang Nanjiao Airport. It is 150 m from Renmin Park and Tieniu Square, and a 5-minute walk to Sanjiang Peninsula. [Food] Mianyang rice noodles and Hankou Yijue are must-try foods in Mianyang. There are many snacks to try on Majiang Lane Food Street. [Travel Tips] Yuewang Tower: It is more beautiful at night than during the day. You can view it from a distance at Tieniu Square. If you have time, you can also visit Jiuhuang Mountain to experience the unique Qiang culture.

Mianyang is a charming city with rich tourism resources and diverse attractions. Here are some recommended attractions and activities: ‌Douchuan Mountain‌: Located on the east bank of the Fujiang River, it is known for its unique peaks, thrilling iron chains, and ancient temples. The main attractions include Tongtian Road, Yunyan Temple, and Feitian Cang, and it is known as "the world's unparalleled scenery, the world's first peak"‌. ‌Qiqu Mountain‌: Located north of Zitong County, Mianyang City, it is known as the "ninth famous mountain in the world." It has ancient Shu roads, ancient cypress trees, and ancient buildings, with main attractions including Wenchang Temple and Yingmeng Xiantai‌. ‌Jiuhuang Mountain‌: Located on the edge of the Sichuan Basin, it is known for its steep peaks, clear streams, and dense forests. The main attractions include Yuanwang Cave, Yanyun Cave, and Erma Ancient Road, making it a great place for leisure, sightseeing, scientific research, and vacation‌. ‌Fantawild Oriental Heritage‌: Located in Jiangyou City, it is a large high-tech cultural theme park. The park has a festival square, many restaurants, and other facilities, making it suitable for family visits‌. ‌Yuewang Tower‌: Located in Mianyang City, it was first built in the Tang Dynasty and was rebuilt as an ancient-style building. It was a place where great poets left their poems and is known as the "world's first poetry building"‌. ‌Li Bai's Former Residence‌: Located in Qinglian Town, Jiangyou City, the scenic area has attractions such as Taibai Memorial Garden and Qingfeng Mingyue Garden, making it an important place to learn about Li Bai's life and poetry‌. ‌Yaowang Valley‌: Located in Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County, it is known for its traditional Chinese medicine culture, and April is a good time to enjoy the flowers‌. ‌Mianyang Science and Technology Museum‌: Located on the banks of the Fujiang River, it is themed around "Two Bombs and One Satellite" and is suitable for youth science education‌.

The hidden gem around Chengdu is a great place to escape the city's exhaust fumes and smog. Whether you want to take a walk or just relax, you always need to be healed. Fortunately, I found a beautiful homestay. Both the service and the scenery are great. Shangshan Shang·Yari Sa·Yuquan Tea House 3rd Group, Shiyi Village, Qushan Town, Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County, Mianyang City It takes about 3 hours to drive from Chengdu. The altitude is over 1,000 meters. It's still a bit cold in the morning and evening this season, so it's recommended to bring a coat. The homestay service is very good, everyone is very enthusiastic, the environment and facilities are complete, and the quality of various supplies is good. The homestay has a cooperation with a tea garden, but it is not the tea picking season and you can't visit the tea garden. The homestay has a strong sense of design and aesthetics, which is very much to our liking. The three of us stayed in the suite with the best view, and the room was very photogenic both inside and outside! It was raining when we set off the day before, and we didn't have much hope for the next day. But!! It cleared up unexpectedly!! The camera kept clicking and couldn't stop at all. Keep taking deep breaths, as if your whole body is being purified from the inside out. The lunch and dinner provided by the hotel need to be booked in advance, and the butler will contact you via WeChat after booking. You can choose between hot pot and Sichuan cuisine. We chose hot pot. The breakfast is the standard of Ligongge Mountain White Fresh Milk Homestay.

One by one travel strategy Location: Navigate to Jiuhuang Mountain, Mianyang, Sichuan Transportation: Take the high-speed rail to Jiangyou Station, then take a taxi to get there Tour route √Day1:(Front mountain) Cloud Qiang Cableway→Slide→Glass Bridge→ Lovers Bridge→Cloud Walk→Monkey King Cave→Stay at West Qiang Hotel √Day2:(Back mountain) Qiangqing Garden Cableway→West Qiang First Fortress→Participate in Qiang wedding in Qiangqing Garden→Cloud Farm→Glass Plank Road→Take the cableway→Return About the attractions: 1. Front mountain attractions Monkey King Cave: The cave entrance is built on a cliff hundreds of meters high, inside there are rare calcified colorful pools, and natural stalactites, very beautiful Glass Bridge: Built hundreds of meters high in the air, the view is very open Qiang Zip Line: Right next to the glass bridge, a long zip line connects to the other side of the mountain, sliding over quickly, very exciting Lovers Bridge: There is a very beautiful love story here, it is very suitable for couples to take pictures and check in for memory, very fun 2. Back mountain attractions Cloud Farm: Walking on the ladder as if strolling in the clouds, very photogenic There are also fun rainbow slides and off-road vehicles, as well as projects suitable for children, picking wild eggs, picking fruits, feeding cute pets, etc. Qiangqing Garden: Be sure to watch a Qiang wedding once, the girls and boys here hold weddings in local ethnic costumes, the whole process is lively and happy Colorful Glass Plank Road: The glass plank road built on the edge of the cliff, hanging in mid-air, with a deep abyss under your feet, is very spectacular West Qiang First Fortress: Built more than two thousand meters above sea level, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of Jiuhuang Mountain, with a sense of 'I will be on top, overlooking all the small mountains', very shocking About food and accommodation: It is recommended to stay here for one night, so that the two-day itinerary will not be rushed, during the National Day there will be the annual Sarang Carnival, during the Mid-Autumn Festival there will be wonderful intangible cultural heritage performances, Qiang ethnic cultural performances, as well as Qiang ethnic wedding performances, bonfire parties, and food feasts such as roast whole lamb, roast rabbit, etc., this holiday is super value for 2 days of full schedule, let you relax for a moment here Tips: There are many mosquitoes here, bring insect repellent and sunscreen and rain gear, the temperature difference here is large in the morning and evening, bring a thick coat when you go

I love to travel in China there are so many places to visit one of my favorite is JiuHua Mountain and staying at MAO resort. The swimming pool is incredible has a beautiful view of the mountain. It’s peaceful and quite you can find connection with nature and yourself. There are also many outdoor sports to do during the day as paragliding, raftings and hiking. #merrychristmas

8️⃣ Cities Where Traveling with Parents Isn't Tiring, the 5th One Was a Surprise 1️⃣ Nanping City | Fujian If you're bringing your parents to Nanping, head straight to Wuyishan. Don't start by climbing; take a bamboo raft ride on the Nine Bend Stream first. The entire journey is gentle, allowing elders to sit and enjoy the scenery without straining their legs. ⏰ The 8 AM raft ride is less crowded, the water is calm, and you can hear the bamboo poles paddling. After disembarking, walk along a flat, shaded path. Rest on stone benches when you get tired. 📍 Don't force yourself to climb the slope at the foot of Tianyou Peak. If your parents aren't in great shape, they can just relax in a teahouse with a cup of Da Hong Pao tea and watch others climb. 🍜 For lunch, go to the Sangu Resort Area for Langu Smoked Goose. Specify the spiciness level beforehand; it's very comforting with a bowl of rice. In the afternoon, we went to the Dahongpao Scenic Area. The walk from the entrance to the mother tree was less than 20 minutes, with tea gardens and streams along the way, allowing for a leisurely pace. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets need to be booked a day in advance during peak season, as queuing on-site can be tiring. Throughout the entire Wuyishan trip, we kept our steps under 8,000, ensuring my parents wouldn't get tired. 2️⃣ Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture|Jilin In Yanbian, you can find unique local delicacies with minimal walking for your parents. The easiest way to explore the Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area is to take the shuttle bus directly to the foot of the Golden Buddha statue upon entering. ⏰ Before 10 am, the light is soft, and the Buddha statue looks particularly majestic under the blue sky; no filters are needed for photos. 📍 The gentle slope from the mountain gate to Zhengjue Temple is a 15-minute walk for seniors, with pine trees and birdsong along the way, and it's not sunny. 🍜 For lunch, head back to the city center for a bowl of Yanji cold noodles. The broth has ice crystals, and it's served with sweet and sour pork—a refreshing treat for Mom and Dad. In the afternoon, take a photo at the popular photo spot opposite Yanbian University; it's right by the roadside, no walking required. ⚠️ The Liudingshan entrance ticket includes transportation. Don't get ripped off by scalpers at the entrance and buy overpriced tickets. The pace here is slow; focus on one main attraction per day, and spend the rest of the time browsing the market and buying dried pollack—it's as relaxing as a stroll. 3️⃣ Wuhan City|Hubei Wuhan has many attractions, but when traveling with Mom and Dad, choose the easier ones. At Yellow Crane Tower Park, don't climb the steps from the main entrance; enter from the west gate, take the elevator to the main building, and leisurely explore the five floors. Each floor has a corridor where you can rest. ⏰ After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely on the eaves, making for better photos than at midday. After going downstairs, walk along the Yangtze River Bridgehead to watch the trains cross the bridge—Mom and Dad will find it interesting. The next day, we went to East Lake. Instead of climbing Moshan Mountain, we took a boat directly from Chufengyuan Wharf to Luoyan Island. The lake breeze was lovely, and we sat the whole way. 📍 Luoyan Island has a gentle wooden boardwalk; a complete walk takes about half an hour. The reeds and lake water create a picturesque scene. 🍜 For lunch, we had a bowl of hot dry noodles near Liyuan Square. The sesame sauce was rich, and it was served with eggnog—authentic! ⚠️ The elevators at the Yellow Crane Tower can have long queues, so it's recommended to avoid weekend mornings. During our three days in Wuhan, we only planned one main attraction per day, spending the rest of the time strolling along the riverbank. My parents had plenty of energy. 4️⃣ Xianyang City | Shaanxi Xianyang is close to Xi'an but quieter, perfect for a leisurely visit with my parents. Qianling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian. The best part is that the spirit path is a gentle slope, so there are no steps to climb. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds; the stone lions and the Shushengji Stele look especially charming in the morning light. 📍 Take a photo in front of the stele without inscription, with Liangshan Mountain in the background—a clean composition. The walk along the Sacred Way takes about 40 minutes; if you get tired, take an electric cart to the burial tombs. In the afternoon, visit the Yuanjia Village Guanzhong Impression Experience Area; the ground here is as flat as a chessboard, with no slopes on the bluestone paths. 🍜 The village's snack street stretches from one end to the other, offering tofu pudding, fermented rice cakes, and oil-splashed noodles. My parents could easily try seven or eight different things. ⚠️ It's windy at Qianling Mausoleum; remember to bring a light jacket if you visit in spring or autumn. You won't walk much in a day, but the content is plentiful; my parents will feel they've experienced both history and lively atmosphere. 5️⃣ Fuyang City|Anhui The fifth one is a complete surprise, and this isn't just clickbait. Before taking my parents to Balihe Park in Fuyang, I thought it would be just an ordinary park. However, the entire park, including the lake, covered bridges, and antique-style buildings, is on water, and the paths are all flat, without a single step. ⏰ We went in after 5 pm. The setting sun turned the water golden, and the lanterns on the covered bridges lit up, making it feel like stepping into an old movie. 📍 In the western area, the miniature "World Scenery" exhibit was so charming that my parents recognized the Arc de Triomphe and London Bridge, laughing as they looked. 🍜 At noon, we ate a bowl of Fuyang-style noodles at the park entrance. The noodles were thick and chewy, served with bean sprouts and sesame sauce—cheap and filling. ⚠️ The park is quite large. We took an electric cart to the innermost part of the park before walking out, saving us half the walking effort. What surprised me most about Balihe was how few people there were. Even on weekends, it wasn't crowded, allowing my parents to leisurely stroll around for three hours without any rush. 6️⃣ Dalian City | Liaoning Dalian is a great place to take your parents; the sea breeze will make you forget all your fatigue. At Jinshitan National Tourist Resort, first visit the Geological Park. Don't walk the entire boardwalk; take the sightseeing bus to the "Dinosaur Exploring the Sea" stop, get off to take some photos, and then get back on. You'll see all the highlights. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the sea is calm, and the rocks of Jinshitan shimmer in the sunlight. In the afternoon, go to Tiger Beach Ocean Park. Watch the dolphin show first thing at the entrance; there are seats available, so you can sit and watch. 📍 The coral aquarium is dimly lit and has a flat floor, so your parents can walk slowly without getting tired. The next day, go to Tangli Lake Park. This is a popular spot for locals; the lakeside path is made entirely of rubber, which is soft and gentle on the knees. 🍜 For lunch, have seafood stew near Xinghai Square, along with two plates of dumplings. It's a very filling meal for about 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ It's windy at Xinghai Square in the evenings, so bring a windproof jacket for your parents. The pace of life in Dalian is all about seeing the sea, taking walks, and eating seafood; after three days, their legs weren't sore at all. 7️⃣ Mianyang City | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area in Mianyang. Before taking my parents there, I was worried about climbing mountains, but the entire scenic area is designed with gentle plazas and walkways, even wheelchairs can be pushed. ⏰ We entered as soon as it opened at 9 am, starting with the Qiang watchtowers; the stone slabs on the outer walls gleamed in the morning light. 📍 The Gratitude Square area has a wide view, overlooking the green mountains, making for a clean backdrop for photos. There are many Qiang cultural exhibits in the scenic area; my parents will likely be interested in the embroidery and silver ornaments, so they can take their time looking at them. 🍜 We ate Beichuan cured pork outside the scenic area for lunch; the pork was perfectly marbled with fat and lean meat, and served with a bowl of corn porridge—very comforting. ⚠️ There's not much shade inside the scenic area, so remember to bring an umbrella in the summer. In the afternoon, we visited the earthquake ruins in the old county town. The road there is flat, but the atmosphere is somber, so I suggest my parents go when they are calm. Mianyang is generally inexpensive; accommodation is around 100 RMB per night, so it's comfortable and affordable for my parents. 8️⃣ Lingshui County | Hainan Bringing my parents to Lingshui is quieter than Sanya, the sea is bluer, and there's less walking. To get to Fenjiezhou Island, we first took a boat, a journey of about ten minutes, which was very stable when the waves were calm. Once on the island, we didn't climb the mountain; we took an electric cart directly to the mountaintop viewing platform for a panoramic view of the sea without having to climb a single step. ⏰ The light is best after 2 PM, and the seawater layers from light blue to deep blue, like jelly. 📍 The beach on the island is gentle, comfortable to walk on barefoot, and my parents can wade in the water. The next day, we went to Nanwan Monkey Island by taking the cross-sea cable car. The entire journey is by cable car, with fishing rafts and the azure sea below, which my parents will find fascinating. 🍜 We had seafood at the pier at noon, cooked freshly caught by the Tanka people. The steamed grouper was incredibly tender. ⚠️ The monkeys on Monkey Island can snatch things, so keep your backpack zipped up and don't reach for plastic bags in front of them. Lingshui is perfect for a two-night stay, spending only half a day each day exploring, and the rest of the time enjoying the sea view from your hotel balcony – this is the right way to take your parents on a vacation. Of these 8 cities, I personally recommend Nanping and Dalian the most. One is quiet, the other is expansive; my parents talked about them the whole way back. Which cities have you taken your parents to? Share your experiences in the comments to help others avoid common pitfalls. 8️⃣ Cities for a Relaxing Trip with Parents, the 5th One Was a Surprise! 1️⃣ Nanping City | Fujian If you're taking your parents to Nanping, head straight to Wuyishan. Don't start with a climb; take a bamboo raft ride on the Nine Bend Stream first. The entire journey is gentle, allowing your elders to sit back and enjoy the scenery without straining their legs. ⏰ The 8 AM bamboo raft trip is less crowded, the water is calm, and you can hear the sound of bamboo poles paddling. After disembarking, walk along a gentle path; the path is flat, shaded by trees, and you can rest on stone benches when you get tired. 📍 Don't force yourself to climb the slope at the foot of Tianyou Peak. My parents aren't very fit, so they just enjoyed a cup of Da Hong Pao tea at the teahouse and watched others climb. 🍜 For lunch, go to the Sangu Resort Area for Langu smoked goose. We asked for the spiciness level beforehand; it was very comforting with a bowl of rice. In the afternoon, we went to the Da Hong Pao Scenic Area. The walk from the entrance to the mother tree is less than 20 minutes, with tea gardens and streams along the way, allowing for a leisurely pace. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets need to be booked a day in advance during peak season; waiting in line on-site can be fruitless. Throughout the entire Wuyishan trip, we kept our step count under 8,000 steps, and my parents didn't complain of being tired. 2️⃣ Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture|Jilin Yanbian is a great place to take your parents; you can find unique local cuisine and walk very little. The easiest way to experience Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area is to take the shuttle bus directly to the foot of the Golden Buddha statue upon entering. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the light is soft, and the Buddha statue looks particularly majestic under the blue sky; no filters are needed for photos. 📍 The gentle slope from the mountain gate to Zhengjue Temple is a leisurely 15-minute walk for seniors. There are pine trees and birdsong along the way, and it's not sunny. 🍜 For lunch, head back to the city and have a bowl of Yanji cold noodles. The broth has ice crystals, and it's served with sweet and sour pork—a refreshing treat for your parents. In the afternoon, take a photo at the popular photo wall opposite Yanbian University; it's right by the roadside, no walking required. ⚠️ The Liudingshan entrance ticket includes the shuttle bus ticket; don't be fooled by scalpers at the entrance into buying overpriced tickets. The pace here is slow; you can visit only one main attraction a day, and spend the rest of the time browsing the market and buying dried pollack—it's as relaxing as a stroll. 3️⃣ Wuhan City | Hubei Province Wuhan has many attractions, but if you're with your parents, choose the easier ones. At Yellow Crane Tower Park, don't climb the steps from the main entrance; enter from the west gate, take the elevator to the main building, and leisurely explore the five floors. There are corridors on each floor where you can rest. ⏰ After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely on the eaves, making for better photos than at midday. After going downstairs, walk along the Yangtze River Bridgehead to watch the trains cross the bridge; your parents will find it interesting. The next day, go to East Lake. Don't climb Moshan Mountain; just take a boat from Chufengyuan Wharf to Luoyan Island. Enjoy the lake breeze and sit the whole way. 📍 Luoyan Island has a gentle wooden boardwalk; a complete loop takes about half an hour. The reeds and lake water create a picturesque scene. 🍜 Have a bowl of hot dry noodles near Liyuan Square for lunch. The sesame sauce is rich, and it goes perfectly with eggnog – authentic! ⚠️ The elevators at the Yellow Crane Tower can have long queues, so it's recommended to avoid weekend mornings. During our three days in Wuhan, we only planned one main attraction per day, spending the rest of the time strolling along the riverbank. My parents had plenty of stamina. 4️⃣ Xianyang City | Shaanxi Xianyang is close to Xi'an but quieter, perfect for a leisurely stroll with my parents. Qianling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian. The best part is that the Sacred Way is a gentle slope, so there are no steps to climb. ⏰ Arrive before 9 am to avoid tourists. The stone lions and the Shushengji Stele look especially charming in the morning light. 📍 Take a photo in front of the stele without inscription, with Liangshan Mountain in the background – a clean composition. The Sacred Way takes about forty minutes; if you get tired, you can take an electric cart to the accompanying tombs. In the afternoon, we went to the Guanzhong Impression Experience Area in Yuanjia Village. The grounds here are as flat as a chessboard, with no slopes on the bluestone paths. 🍜 The village's snack street stretches from one end to the other, offering tofu pudding, steamed buns, and oil-splashed noodles. My parents tried a small bowl of each, and they managed to sample seven or eight different things. ⚠️ It's windy at Qianling Mausoleum, so remember to bring a light jacket if you go in spring or autumn. You won't walk much here in a day, but the content is plentiful; my parents will feel they've experienced both history and lively atmosphere. 5️⃣ Fuyang City | Anhui The fifth place was a complete surprise, and this isn't just clickbait. Before taking my parents there, I thought Balihe Park in Fuyang was just an ordinary park, but the lake, covered bridges, and antique-style buildings are all on the water, and the entire path is flat, without a single step. ⏰ Go in after 5 pm. The setting sun turns the water golden, and the lanterns on the covered bridges light up, making it feel like stepping into an old movie. 📍 In the West District, the miniature "World Scenery" exhibit was so impressive that my parents recognized the Arc de Triomphe and London Bridge, laughing as they looked at it. 🍜 At noon, we had a bowl of Fuyang-style noodles at the entrance of the scenic area. The noodles were thick and chewy, served with bean sprouts and sesame sauce—cheap and filling. ⚠️ The scenic area is quite large. Take the electric cart to the innermost part of the area first, then walk outwards; this saves half the walking effort. What surprised me most about Balihe was how few people there were. Even on weekends, it wasn't crowded, allowing my parents to leisurely stroll for three hours without rushing. 6️⃣ Dalian City|Liaoning Dalian is a great place to take my parents because the sea breeze makes them forget all their fatigue. At Jinshitan National Tourist Resort, go to the Geological Park first. Don't walk the entire boardwalk; take the sightseeing bus to the "Dinosaur Exploring the Sea" stop, get off to take some photos, and then get back on—you'll see all the highlights. ⏰ Before 10 am, the sea is calm, and the rocks of Jinshitan gleam golden in the sunlight. In the afternoon, we went to Tiger Beach Ocean Park. The first thing we did upon entering was watch the dolphin show. There were seats available, so we just sat and watched. 📍 The coral pavilion was dimly lit, and the ground was flat, so my parents could walk slowly without getting tired. The next day, we went to Tangli Lake Park. This is a popular spot for locals; the lakeside walkway is all rubberized, soft to walk on, and easy on the knees. 🍜 For lunch, we had seafood stew near Xinghai Square, along with two plates of dumplings. It was a very filling meal, costing about 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ It gets windy at Xinghai Square in the evening, so I brought a windproof jacket for my parents. The pace of life in Dalian is all about seeing the sea, taking walks, and eating seafood. After three days, their legs weren't sore at all. 7️⃣ Mianyang City | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area in Mianyang. Before taking my parents there, I was worried about climbing mountains, but the entire scenic area is designed with gentle plazas and walkways, even wheelchairs can be pushed. ⏰ Enter the park as soon as it opens at 9 AM. Start by seeing the Qiang watchtowers; the stone slabs on the outer walls gleam in the morning light. 📍 The Gratitude Square area offers a wide view, overlooking the distant green mountains, providing a clean backdrop for photos. There are many Qiang cultural exhibits within the scenic area; parents will likely be interested in the embroidery and silver ornaments, so take your time to look. 🍜 Have lunch outside the scenic area with Beichuan cured pork, a perfect balance of lean and fat, served with a bowl of corn porridge – very comforting. ⚠️ There's not much shade inside the scenic area, so remember to bring an umbrella in summer. In the afternoon, visit the earthquake ruins in the old county town. The road there is flat, but the atmosphere is somber; it's recommended that parents visit when they are emotionally calm. Overall, Mianyang is not expensive; accommodation is around 100 RMB per night, so you can stay comfortably with your parents without worrying about the cost. 8️⃣ Lingshui County|Hainan Bringing your parents to Lingshui is quieter than Sanya, the sea is bluer, and there's less walking. First, take a boat to Fenjiezhou Island. The boat trip takes about ten minutes and is very stable when the waves are calm. Once on the island, don't climb the mountain; take an electric cart directly to the mountaintop viewing platform for panoramic sea views without having to climb a step. ⏰ The light is best after 2 PM, when the seawater displays layers of blue, from light to dark, resembling jelly. 📍 The island's beach is gentle and comfortable to walk on barefoot; parents can wade in the water. The next day, visit Nanwan Monkey Island by taking the cross-sea cable car. The entire journey is by cable car, with fishing rafts and the azure sea below – a novel experience for parents. 🍜 For lunch, enjoy local Tanka seafood at the pier. Freshly caught and cooked, the steamed grouper is incredibly tender. ⚠️ The monkeys on Monkey Island can snatch things, so keep your backpack zipped up and avoid taking plastic bags in front of them. Lingshui is best enjoyed for two nights, spending only half a day each day exploring, and the rest of the time relaxing on the hotel balcony enjoying the sea view – the perfect way to take parents on a vacation. Of these eight cities, I personally recommend Nanping and Dalian the most. One is quiet, and the other is spacious. My parents talked about them the whole way back home. Which of these cities have you taken your parents to? Share your experiences in the comments section to help others avoid some pitfalls.

01 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is the most pleasant free treasure I found this autumn. The whole area has no general admission fee and is accessible by public transport, perfect for those who don't want to drive but want to get out and get some fresh air. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. It's less crowded, and the smoke from the Qiang village chimneys hasn't dissipated yet. The stone paths shine in the morning light. Corn cakes at street stalls are fresh out of the oven, 3 yuan each, with the sweetness of whole grains in every bite. Inside, there's an intangible cultural heritage exhibition area where you can watch Qiang embroidery being done on the spot. The older ladies' hands move faster than your eyes can follow. If you want to try it, 20 yuan gets you a 30-minute workshop, and you can take your work home. ⚠️ Don't impulse buy on the "specialty street" at the entrance. You can find the same peppercorns and cured meat two alleys in for a third of the price. 02 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Zhoushan is a place where you should delete the words "rushing to attractions" from your mind. Putuo Mountain, Gouqi Island, Shengsi Islands—pick one and stay for two days; it's better than checking off all three. If you only go to one, I choose Gouqi Island. 🚄 Take a boat from Zhoushan main island. Grab tickets in advance on their official WeChat account; standard class is just over 100 yuan. The peak season for island accommodation is over, so you can get a sea-view room for 200–300 yuan. Open the window and you'll see the sea, blue to the point of gray. ⏰ Go to Dawang Beach at 5:30 PM. When the tide goes out, you can find small crabs and sea snails in the crevices of the reefs. Locals call this "tide pooling," and it's free to play until dark. Don't crowd into the paid attractions; that's not enjoying the sea, that's just people-watching. Putuo Mountain is good for taking elders. The admission ticket and boat tickets add up to about 180 yuan, but photography is not allowed inside the temples, so just walk around quietly once you're in. 03 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Autumn in Chifeng is that kind of golden yellow that stuns you the moment you look up. Hashatu Stone Forest is in Keshiketeng Banner, about a 3-hour drive from downtown Chifeng. The admission ticket plus sightseeing bus is about 120 yuan—worth it. ⏰ The light is best after 3:00 PM when entering the scenic area. The setting sun casts long shadows on the granite stone forest, making it feel like walking into an ancient sci-fi movie. The wind is strong and makes your jacket flap loudly. Remember to wear a hat, or your forehead will ache from the cold. The stone forest is divided into three areas. If your stamina is average, walking through Area 1 is shocking enough. Area 2 requires climbing some rugged steps; skip it if your knees aren't great, as the scenery isn't much different. Area 3 is for photography buffs. Wait until sunset, and the whole stone forest turns amber. 🚄 If you aren't driving, take a bus from Chifeng Bus Station to Jingpeng Town, then carpool into the scenic area. It's about 40 yuan one way. 04 Kaifeng | Henan Autumn in Kaifeng is best measured by foot. The old city isn't big, and the attractions are clustered together. I strung together the Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden, Iron Pagoda Park, Daxiangguo Temple, and Bao Gong Temple into a walking route that can be finished in two days. Admission to Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden is 120 yuan. The live performances are indeed good, but ⚠️ it's crowded on weekends, which cuts the experience in half. Go mid-week. Enter at 9:00 AM, watch the Bao Gong welcoming ceremony first, then walk along the Bian River. The "Defense of Tokyo" show in the afternoon is the best part. If you don't want to spend money, the Song-style street at the entrance is free to explore. Girls in Hanfu have already scouted the best photo spots for you. Iron Pagoda Park is quieter, with a 30-yuan admission fee. ⏰ Go in the evening. The sunset dyes the glazed pagoda amber. When the wind blows, the bronze bells on the eaves jingle. There are many locals taking a stroll in the park. No one rushes you, so you can sit under the pagoda, munch on a soup dumpling, and rest before moving on. 05 Xi'an | Shaanxi Autumn in Xi'an has more people than the Terracotta Warriors. But don't panic; change your approach and you can still have a comfortable trip. My advice: See the city wall and museums in the city, and save the Terracotta Warriors for the morning of your last day. Admission to the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum is 120 yuan. 🚄 Take Metro Line 9 from the city to Huaqingchi Station, then take a taxi for about 10 yuan. ⚠️ Don't listen to the touts on the side of the road offering to "take you on a shortcut." The official ticket office is right in front of the square. Scalper tickets are expensive and you're likely to get scammed. Pit 1 is the most impressive, and Pit 3 is the smallest. Two hours is enough to see it all. If you want an audio guide, renting one for 30 yuan is more cost-effective than hiring a tour guide. Admission to the Xi'an City Wall is 54 yuan. ⏰ Go up at 6:00 PM, rent a bike for 45 yuan, and ride the 14-kilometer loop—just in time to catch the sunset. The History Museum is free, but tickets are hard to get. Camp out on their official WeChat account seven days in advance. 06 Ma'anshan | Anhui Many people haven't heard of Ma'anshan, but the Yangtze River Caishiji Cultural Eco-Tourism Zone is worth a special trip. Admission is 80 yuan, half-price for students, which is a good value compared to surrounding attractions. 📍 The entrance is in Caishiji Town. It costs about 20 yuan to take a taxi from Ma'anshan East Station. When you enter, go to Taibai Tower first. Li Bai spent his later years here. The ink and rubbings displayed in the tower are a must-see for culture lovers. Behind the tower is the Yangtze River. The river is wide, and there's a fishy scent of water in the breeze. ⏰ Start climbing Cuiluo Mountain at 2:00 PM. It's not high, and you'll reach the top in 40 minutes. Overlooking the Yangtze River from Santai Pavilion at the top, the river boats look like ants, and the view is so expansive it makes you want to shout. Take a different path down the mountain, and you'll pass through a cedar forest. In autumn, the leaves are half-yellow, and photos come with their own filter. ⚠️ The convenience stores in the scenic area are expensive; a bottle of water costs 8 yuan. 07 Jinzhong | Shanxi In the Jinzhong area, there are clusters of courtyards and ancient cities. I'll help you make a choice: just visit either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound. Pingyao Ancient City is a must, and decide on Jiexiu Mianshan depending on your time. Admission to the Qiao Family Compound is 115 yuan. It's famous, but ⚠️ it's also crowded with tourists. In peak season, the courtyard is packed with people, and you can't take photos without anyone in them. Admission to the Wang Family Compound is 55 yuan. It's three times the size of the Qiao compound, and the brick and wood carvings are more intricate. I vote for the Wang Family Compound. 🚄 Take a bus from downtown Jinzhong to Lingshi County, then a taxi for 10 yuan. Transportation is convenient. Entering Pingyao Ancient City is free, but you need to buy a pass to get on the city wall and enter the attractions. It's 125 yuan and includes over 20 attractions—enough to explore for two days. ⏰ After 6:00 PM, the tour groups leave, and the ancient city reveals its true face—the stone paths are warmed by the sunset, the old vinegar workshops waft a sour fragrance, and an old man on the street plays the erhu with a long, lingering melody. 08 Xiangtan | Hunan For autumn in Xiangtan, I've listed two directions for you: go to the Shaoshan Tourist Area if you want something relaxing, or head to Caojia'ao Waterfall if you want something wilder. Admission to the Shaoshan Tourist Area is free, but ⚠️ you need to book in advance on the official WeChat account and swipe your ID card to enter. The scenic area is huge, so I recommend taking the sightseeing bus. It's 20 yuan per person and saves a lot of walking. ⏰ Arrive at 9:00 AM. Visit the former residence first, then walk to the Bronze Statue Square. You can finish in two hours. Have lunch at a farmhouse outside the scenic area. Chopped chili fish head is 48 yuan a serving—spicy and satisfying, with all-you-can-eat rice. Caojia'ao Waterfall is in Xiangtan County. Public transport isn't great, so driving is recommended. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from the city. Navigate to Caojia'ao Village, park at the village entrance, and walk 20 minutes into the mountains. The waterfall drop isn't huge, but it's secluded, and the pool is emerald green. In autumn, the yellow and green leaves are intertwined, like an overturned palette.

Take your wife to these 8 places, and she'll love you even more when you get back. 01 Meizhou | Guangdong 📍 Yannanfei Tea Garden. I suggest you enter after 3:00 PM. The sun is at a lower angle, which brings out the layers of the tea fields; the light at noon is too harsh, making everything look washed out. Take the shuttle from the scenic area entrance to the mountaintop tea house and walk your way down. There's no need to climb, so your wife won't get tired. Order a pot of Dancong tea in the tea house and sit for 30 mins. The breeze blowing in from the valley carries the scent of fresh tea leaves. 🍜 There's a "Weilong Shifu" in Qiaoxi Village at the foot of the mountain. The Hakka stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken are both solid, costing about ¥60 per person. ⚠️ Don't buy tea at the scenic area entrance; the price is doubled. The tea sun-dried by the farmers in the village is the real deal. If she likes quiet, stay one night at the Yannanfei Weilong Hotel. The tea fields in the early morning mist are 10 times more beautiful than during the day. 02 Xianyang | Shaanxi For Qianling and Yuanjia Village, I suggest splitting them into two days. Trying to cram them into one day will just make you tired enough to start an argument. On the first day, go to Qianling in the morning. The sacred way is very long, and it takes about 40 mins to walk through. The key is to climb to the top of Liangshan to see the panoramic view. It's windy, so bring a light jacket for her. ⚠️ There are people in the scenic area who will try to give you a "free tour" and then take you to buy souvenirs at the end. Don't fall for it. In the afternoon, head back to the city and have a bowl of biangbiang noodles with a Bingfeng soda for ¥20. Give the whole second day to Yuanjia Village. There's no admission fee for the Guanzhong Impression Experience Area. Don't rush to eat as soon as you get in; walk 300m inside, and the oil-splashed chili sandwich in the deep alley is the authentic one. 🍜 Yogurt, fried dough twists, and guokui—you'll be full just by snacking along the way. Don't buy the vacuum-packed ones to take home; the taste is nowhere near as good. This place is perfect for a leisurely stroll. If she likes taking photos, the old stage and the dirt-wall alleys are very photogenic. 03 Yuncheng | Shanxi For Yuncheng Salt Lake, I suggest going at 6:00 PM. When the sun is about to set, the lake surface turns pink, and half an hour later, it turns purplish-red. A phone camera can't capture that color; you have to see it with your own eyes. 📍 Navigate to the "Salt Lake Viewing Platform," park on the side of the road, and you'll be there in a few steps. No ticket required. If she likes taking photos, bring a pair of flip-flops. There are shallows along the lake where you can wade, but the water is a bit thick, so remember to wash your feet afterward. 🍜 After watching the sunset, go to the "Hedong Night Market" in the city for mutton paomo. The broth is rich and the meat is tender, costing about ¥30 per person. ⚠️ Don't go during the day. The sun reflects off the lake, which is blinding, and it's just barren with nothing much to see. This place is suitable for a half-day stopover. I don't recommend making a special trip for it, but if you're traveling between Xi'an and Luoyang, it's worth the detour. 04 Jingmen | Hubei For the Ming Xianling Mausoleum cultural area, I suggest arriving before 9:00 AM. It's less crowded, and you can hear the birds. The stone statues along the sacred way are lined up for a long distance. It takes about 40 mins to walk through, and there's plenty of shade, so you won't get sunburned. 📍 The core highlight is the "one mausoleum, two tombs" treasure top, which is unique in China. If she's not interested in history, just tell her, "This is a tomb the Ming emperor built for his parents," and she'll understand immediately. ⚠️ There's no proper place to eat inside the scenic area, only a few small stalls at the entrance, so I suggest bringing some snacks. 🍜 For lunch, go out to the Zhongxiang city area and eat "Zhangji Steamed Meat." The steamed pork with lotus root soup costs about ¥40 per person and is a place where locals gather. If you still have energy in the afternoon, take a walk around Mochou Lake. It's free, and the lake breeze is very comfortable. This place is suitable for couples who like quiet and don't like crowded attractions. 05 Lijiang | Yunnan For Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Black Dragon Pool Park, and Mufu, I suggest planning them over two days. Give the first day entirely to the Snow Mountain. 🚄 Take a taxi from the Old Town to the visitor center at 6:30 AM. It takes about 40 mins and costs around ¥80. Take the big cable car directly up to Glacier Park. It's at an altitude of 4,500m. If she's worried about altitude sickness, buy oxygen bottles at a pharmacy in the Old Town beforehand for ¥20 each, compared to ¥60 sold in the scenic area. Don't rush to leave after coming down the mountain; the water in Blue Moon Valley is blue-green and looks best under the light at 2:00 PM. ⚠️ You must grab the Snow Mountain admission and cable car tickets on the official account one day in advance. During peak season, they are basically sold out if you buy them on the day. Spend the morning of the second day visiting Mufu. The ticket is ¥40, and the guided tour inside is free. Follow along for 30 mins, and you'll understand the history of the Lijiang Tusi. In the afternoon, go to Black Dragon Pool Park. 📍 It's a 15-min walk from Mufu. The reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the park is even more beautiful than taking photos at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the Old Town and eat "Apo Lapaigu" (cured pork ribs). It costs about ¥50 per person. The broth is salty and fresh, and the mint leaves help cut the grease. Don't go to those "hookup bars" in the Old Town; the drinks are expensive and it's noisy. If you want to sit for a while, go to "Da Bing's Hut" on Wuyi Street, order a drink, and listen to music. It's quiet. 06 Zhumadian | Henan For Chaya Mountain and Old Leshan, I suggest choosing only one. If you climb both, your legs will be ruined. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West." The rocks are strangely shaped and suitable for those who like taking photos. 📍 Enter from the South Gate and take the Journey to the West cultural trail. It takes about 2 hours to reach the top. There's shade along the way, so it's not too tiring. 🍜 There's a "Chaya Mountain Farmhouse" at the foot of the mountain. The pot chicken is stewed to order, costing about ¥50 per person. Dip the pancakes in the soup—it's delicious. Old Leshan is better for scenery. There's a grassland at the top, and it's windy, making it suitable for picnics. ⚠️ Both scenic areas stop admitting visitors at 5:00 PM. Don't try to arrive at 4:50 PM, or you'll have made the trip for nothing. If you're short on time, choose Chaya Mountain for its fun factor; if you just want to find a place to sit and zone out, go to Old Leshan. 07 Xiangtan | Hunan For Caojia'ao Waterfall and the Shaoshan Tourist Area, I suggest splitting them into two days. Go to Shaoshan on the first day. 🚄 It takes about 40 mins by taxi from downtown Xiangtan, costing around ¥60. The scenic area is free, but you must make a reservation on the official account in advance and use your ID card to enter. 📍 The core area is the former residence and Nanan Private School. One hour is enough to walk around. Don't follow those "guides" who try to solicit customers; they will all take you to buy souvenirs in the end. 🍜 For lunch, eat "Mao-style braised pork" outside the scenic area. It costs about ¥40 per person. It's fatty but not greasy, and it goes well with chili stir-fried meat. Go to Caojia'ao Waterfall on the second day. This spot is relatively niche. Navigate to "Caojia'ao Village," park at the village entrance, and it's a 20-min walk along the mountain road to get there. The waterfall isn't big, but the water is very clear. You can wade in the water in summer, which is cool. ⚠️ The road is slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes and don't wear flip-flops. This place is suitable for couples who like nature and don't want to be in crowds. 08 Mianyang | Sichuan For the Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area, I suggest going in the morning. The light is good, and you can see the architectural details clearly. 📍 It takes about 1 hour to drive from downtown Mianyang, and the cost is about ¥100 one way. I suggest renting a car or hiring a driver. The scenic area is free, and it's mainly to see the Qiang watchtowers and traditional houses. Two hours is enough to walk around. 🍜 For lunch, eat cured meat hot pot at the "Qiang Family Fun" at the entrance. It costs about ¥50 per person. The cured meat is smoked, and the more you chew, the more fragrant it gets. ⚠️ Some stalls in the scenic area sell "Qiang silver jewelry" at inflated prices. Don't buy them. In the afternoon, you can go to "Xunlong Mountain" nearby for a walk. The stalactites in the cave are spectacular. The ticket is ¥60, and it's cool inside, making it perfect for escaping the heat in summer. This place is suitable for couples interested in ethnic minority culture. If she likes taking photos, the open space in front of the watchtowers is very photogenic. Take her to these places; you don't need to spend a lot of money, and you don't need to be deliberately romantic. It's just about walking together, eating local food, and seeing scenery you haven't seen before. After you get back, she will likely take the initiative to plan the next trip. Which stop do you want to go to the most? Let's chat in the comments section.

Budget travelers rejoice! These 8 places in Aug–Sep are uncrowded, beautiful, and affordable 01 Huzhou | Zhejiang Nanxun Ancient Town was my biggest surprise this summer. Enter the town after 4:00 PM when most tour groups have left, and the stone paths of Baijianlou will be bathed in a warm, golden sunset. 📍 Enter via the East Street entrance. Don't rush to take a boat; walk along the river toward the Zhang Shiming Former Residence. It's the least crowded area, where white walls and black tiles reflect in the water, and you can hear the sound of oars in the water. The combined ticket includes the Small Lotus Garden and the Jiayetang Library. Student tickets are half-price; remember to bring your physical ID. 🍜 For dinner, order a bowl of "double-topping noodles" at Xunxi Renjia with crispy fish and stir-fried eel toppings. It costs just over 20 yuan and is much better value than the trendy shops in the scenic area. ⚠️ Some old houses close after 7:00 PM, so see the wood-carved window lattices while it's still light out. Choose a homestay outside the ancient town for around 150 yuan a night. It's a 10-minute walk to the scenic area and half the price of rooms along the river. 02 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area has no general admission fee, which is great for budget travelers. The whole area is large, so I recommend visiting the Banaqia Commercial Street in the morning. The Qiang watchtowers and stone houses are very distinctive. You can sample the cured meat and corn wine at the street stalls—no pressure to buy. For lunch, have a bowl of buckwheat jelly at "Qiangjiale" for 8 yuan; it's sour, spicy, and appetizing. In the afternoon, rent a shared e-bike to ride to the Earthquake Ruins area. It takes 40 minutes to walk, but only 15 minutes by bike, and the rental is free for the first 30 minutes. ⚠️ The ruins area clears out at 5:30 PM, so don't arrive right at closing time. This place is better suited for those interested in ethnic culture and modern history; if you're only looking for natural scenery, you might find it monotonous. I suggest setting aside half a day to combine it with other attractions in downtown Mianyang. 03 Jinan | Shandong Jinan's springs are free, which is more generous than many other tourist cities. Go to the First Spring under Heaven Scenic Area at 7:00 AM. Baotu Spring admission is 40 yuan, but if you just walk along the moat from Quancheng Square to Black Tiger Spring, you can see locals drawing water without spending a penny. 📍 Go down the stone steps on the east side of Black Tiger Spring. The spring water is ice-cold; you can fill a bottle to drink—it's sweeter than bottled water. Thousand Buddha Mountain admission is 30 yuan. Head up after 4:00 PM when the light is just right. Hike to the Xingguo Chan Temple halfway up the mountain for a panoramic view of Jinan; it's most beautiful at sunset. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to "Youxuan Zhang" on Furong Street for a freshly baked, crispy youxuan (oil spiral pastry) for 2 yuan. ⚠️ There's no need to take the Thousand Buddha Mountain cable car; it's 60 yuan one-way, and the walk only takes half an hour. This route is suitable for those with average stamina, offering a slow pace and low costs. 04 Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Libo Zhangjiang is where I spent the most money on this trip, but it was absolutely worth it. The ticket for Xiaoqikong plus the sightseeing bus is 110 yuan. Student tickets are half-price; remember to book in advance via the official mini-program. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8:00 AM and take the bus to Wolongtan first. At this time, there's no wind on the water, and the blue-green water looks like glass—no filters needed for photos. Then, walk downhill all the way: Cuigu Waterfall, Water Forest, Laya Waterfall, and finally Xiaoqikong Bridge. It's all downhill and saves energy. 🍜 There are stalls selling grilled corn and fried small fish at the entrance for 5 or 10 yuan. Don't buy meals inside the scenic area; they are expensive and not good. ⚠️ You can skip Daqikong as the scenery is repetitive. Save time to go back to the county town for tofu grilled fish. Accommodation in Libo County is cheap; you can get a clean standard room for 120 yuan. Go to the food street in the evening for sour soup beef—you can eat your fill for 40 yuan per person. 05 Guilin | Guangxi Guilin's landscape is beautiful, but there are many tourist traps. I'll help you avoid a few. Xingping Ancient Town is free to enter. For the Li River bamboo raft from Xingping Pier to Nine Horses Mural Hill, it's 80 yuan one-way or 120 yuan round-trip. A one-way ticket is enough, as the best scenery is in the first half. 📍 After getting off the raft, walk back to the ancient town. There's a viewing platform on the way where the background for the 20-yuan banknote is located; don't pay for photos inside the scenic area. Reed Flute Cave admission is 90 yuan; if you've seen other karst caves, you can skip this and save the money. Longji Rice Terraces are worth visiting, but don't go during crowded peak-season weekends. It's most beautiful in late September when the rice turns yellow. 🚄 There are direct tourist buses from Guilin North Railway Station to Longji for 50 yuan one-way, which is half the price of a chartered car. ⚠️ Don't buy the bamboo rice in the terrace scenic area; it's expensive and mediocre. You can get a whole table of food at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain for 30 yuan. This route is suitable for those who love natural scenery, but be prepared for a hassle with transportation and pricey tickets. 06 Shannan | Tibet Yamdrok Lake is the bluest lake I've ever seen, bar none. Departing from Lhasa, a shared day tour costs about 200 yuan per person, including transport and lunch, which is much cheaper than chartering a car. ⏰ Depart at 6:30 AM and arrive at Gangbala Pass around 9:00 AM. At this time, the sunlight has just hit the lake surface, and the color transitions from deep blue to light green—it's breathtakingly beautiful. 📍 When you get down to the lakeshore, don't rush to take photos. Walk 500 meters east to an empty meadow; the sound of the lake water lapping against the shore is very healing. 🍜 Have your packed lunch by the lake at noon. The driver will prepare sweet tea, which is hot and warming. ⚠️ The altitude is 4,400 meters, so don't run or jump. Bring oxygen canisters and sunscreen. This is suitable for those who can handle altitude sickness. If it's your first time in Tibet, I suggest acclimating for two days before going. On the way back, you'll pass the Yarlung Zangbo River Valley viewing platform, where you can stop to take photos without extra cost. 07 Beijing Beijing's attraction tickets are reasonably priced, but it's truly crowded. Let me teach you how to avoid the crowds. The Palace Museum admission is 60 yuan. You must book 7 days in advance on the official WeChat account. Tickets are released at 8:00 PM, so set an alarm. ⏰ Rush in as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM. Walk the central axis first—Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony—to take photos without crowds. Then turn to the Western Palaces, which are less crowded and quiet. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of zhajiangmian at the Palace Museum Ice Cellar Restaurant for 30 yuan. The taste is average, but it's convenient. In the afternoon, go to the Summer Palace. Admission is 30 yuan. Enter from the East Palace Gate and walk along Kunming Lake to the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. At sunset, the golden light shining through the arches is stunning. ⚠️ The Temple of Heaven combined ticket is 34 yuan, but if you just want to take a photo of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, buy the 15-yuan general admission ticket. Enter from the North Gate, and you can see it over the wall, saving half the money. Beihai Park admission is 10 yuan; it's great for the evening. The White Dagoba with the sunset glow is a place where locals stroll, and it's not crowded. 08 Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain is the most off-the-beaten-path place on this trip, but it's surprisingly comfortable. Admission is 90 yuan, including the scenic area sightseeing bus, which is good value. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 9:00 AM. Take the bus to Lingguanya, then hike to the Golden Summit. The whole way is stairs, taking about 40 minutes. There's shade along the way, so you won't be exposed to the sun. The view from the top is expansive, with rolling mountains and a sea of clouds. The air is clear in September, and visibility is high. 📍 After coming down the mountain, go to Liangwang Cave. The cave isn't large, but the stalactites are well-preserved, and the lighting is good. It takes 20 minutes to walk around. 🍜 At the farmhouse restaurant at the entrance, order a Suizhou "Three Delicacies" stew—meatballs, egg dumplings, and fish cakes in one pot. It's 40 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference in the mountains, so bring a light jacket; it gets chilly after 4:00 PM when the wind picks up. This place is suitable for those who like hiking and quiet. If you're looking for thrilling activities, you might find it boring. I recommend staying one night; there are homestays at the foot of the mountain for around 150 yuan, and the stars are very bright at night.

⛰️Jiuhuang Mountain | Escape to a 21°C Qiang village in the clouds and unlock a forest-themed summer adventure⛰️ || Cool off in alpine karst caves, frolic with cute farm animals, and sleep under the stars. This is a hidden gem near Chengdu, offering "natural air conditioning and authentic Qiang culture" for your summer getaway🌠 ⛰️Jiuhuang Mountain highlights Located in Guixi Town, Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County, Mianyang, Jiuhuang Mountain is a national 4A-rated scenic area. With a peak elevation of 2,840 meters, the average summer temperature is only around 21°C. The scenic area is divided into two main sections: the front mountain (featuring thrilling sights like the Ape King Cave, Lovers' Bridge, and the glass bridge) and the back mountain (offering cultural experiences like the Qiang Culture Garden and the Cloud Farm). A two-day, one-night trip is recommended for an in-depth experience. The scenic area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (cable cars stop operating at 5:30 PM), with package tickets starting from around ¥280. Currently, there is a free admission offer for middle and high school graduates, valid until August 31. 🚗Recommended itinerary Classic two-day route (relaxed and unhurried): · Day 1 (Back Mountain): Take the Cloud Qiang Village cable car from the Visitor Center to Xiqiang Square → Transfer to the Qiang Culture Garden cable car → Watch the traditional Qiang wedding performance at the Qiang Culture Garden (starts at 11:30 AM) → Have fun at the Cloud Farm (feed small animals, collect eggs) → Take the cable car back to Xiqiang Square for your stay, and join the Salang bonfire party at 7:30 PM · Day 2 (Front Mountain): Depart from Xiqiang Square → Challenge the 200-meter-high glass bridge → Take photos at Lovers' Bridge → Explore the Ape King Cave, a natural karst cave millions of years old (the stalactites are fantastical and stunning, perfect for photos) → Take the cave entrance cable car (optional) back to Xiqiang Square → Descend the mountain and head home About the hiking medal: Complete the designated check-in points (Visitor Center → Ape King Cave → midpoint of the cliff plank road → Cloud Farm) to receive a limited-edition medal at Xiqiang Square. It's a great sense of achievement for those traveling with kids. 🏡Accommodation recommendations · Qiangyun Qingfeng Homestay: Located at the second cable car station on the front mountain, a 5-minute walk from the bonfire party venue. The landlady is welcoming, the food is delicious, and the cured meat is a signature dish. · Longyin Cangshanxiao Hotel: Features tent rooms in the clouds on the back mountain with stunning scenery, perfect for photos of the starry sky and sunrise. · Weijianshan Homestay: A secluded, idyllic-style homestay within the scenic area. Pet-friendly, with charging stations and free parking. · Jiuhuang Xinyi Homestay: A mountain-view courtyard within the scenic area, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Pet-friendly. ⚠️Safety and opening information · The scenic area is open as usual, daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. · There is a large temperature difference in the mountains. Wear short sleeves and sun protection during the day, and bring a light jacket or windbreaker for the evening. Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses. · There are many mosquitoes in the forest, so be sure to carry mosquito repellent. Wear non-slip sports shoes, as there are many steps and mountain paths in the scenic area. · Tickets are purchased using real-name registration; please be sure to bring your original ID card. Before you set off, check the weather and the operating status of attractions through the official "Jiuhuang Mountain Scenic Area" channel📱.

8 cities for stress-free travel with kids in September, a guide for a worry-free trip 1️⃣ Mianyang | Sichuan 📍 Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is much easier to walk than you'd imagine. The entire park has flat terrain, so pushing a stroller is effortless, and younger kids can ride the shuttle throughout the tour. For older kids, I recommend renting an audio guide so they can listen to Qiang stories while walking, which is more engaging than just looking around. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM for easy parking and soft light. When the sun gets strong at noon, it's the perfect time to hide in the indoor exhibition halls to rest. ⚠️ The stone paths in the park have wide gaps. Sandals with holes can easily get stuck, so it's safer to have kids wear sneakers. For lunch, head to Yuqiang Shifu outside the scenic area for Qiang-style cured meat with potato cakes. The kids will eat better than they do at home. 🚄 It's about a 30-min taxi ride from Mianyang Station, costing around CNY 40. 2️⃣ Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang I recommend visiting Jingpo Lake and downtown Mudanjiang on separate days. Dedicate the first day to Jingpo Lake. ⏰ The 2 PM diving show is the highlight, so arrive 30 mins early to grab a spot. The best view is from the platform facing the waterfall. It's windy on the lake, so bring a sun-protective jacket for the kids; it's more practical than an umbrella. Choose a speedboat for the lake tour; the kids will be excited, and it's less tiring for adults. Spend the second day strolling around downtown Mudanjiang. The riverside path in Riverside Park is full of shade, and if you go at 8 AM, the air is fresh and misty. 🍜 For lunch, try the lake fish at Laopaifang Fish Hotpot. It has few bones and tender meat, so elementary school kids can easily eat it themselves. ⚠️ The steps near Diaoshuilou Waterfall are slippery, so hold onto younger kids. 3️⃣ Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajue Mountain is suitable for elementary school kids, but wait a couple of years for toddlers. The cable car is a must, as it saves you from most of the climb. After getting off, you can see Dajueyan Temple after a short walk on the wooden boardwalk. ⏰ The light hitting the mountain wall after 3 PM is great for photos without filters. Prices in the scenic area are high, with bottled water costing CNY 8, so it's more cost-effective to bring your own. ⚠️ The cable car stops running at 4:30 PM, so don't get too distracted and miss the last ride. There is a Zixi Bread shop at the foot of the mountain where you can buy a few for the kids to snack on after the descent. If younger kids want to play in the water, they can splash in the shallow stream at the entrance, but adults must supervise them. 4️⃣ Yangjiang | Guangdong Hailing Island Dajiao Bay is perfect in September as you'll avoid the summer crowds. The Maritime Silk Road Tourist Area is best visited in the afternoon. ⏰ After 4 PM, the sun isn't as harsh. Rent an umbrella on the beach, and you can relax while the kids dig in the sand. The lazy river at the water park is slow, so even 3-year-olds can enjoy it with a swim ring. 🍜 In the evening, head to Zhapo Old Street to try Yiye Cheng salted fish with porridge; the kids can easily finish half a bowl. ⚠️ Don't let kids ride the jet skis on the beach; they are too fast and have scared several children. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour taxi ride from Yangjiang Station, costing around CNY 120. Carpooling is more comfortable than taking a bus for a family. 5️⃣ Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower, Dongting Lake, and Junshan Island make for a cultural route suitable for kids in middle school and older. Yueyang Tower itself isn't very tall, but the stairs are narrow, so younger kids will need help going up and down. ⏰ Arrive when it opens at 8 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a quiet view of Dongting Lake. For lunch, try the Huitou fish at Bianhe Street; you can ask for a non-spicy version. Take the boat to Junshan Island in the afternoon. ⏰ The 3:30 PM departure is the best, as you'll finish touring just in time for the 5 PM return boat. There is free tea tasting in the tea garden on the island; the kids might not like the tea, but they'll be fascinated by the tea-picking performance. ⚠️ The last boat from Junshan Island is at 5:30 PM. If you miss it, you'll have to stay on the island, which isn't worth it. You can get free admission to Yueyang Tower by reciting "Yueyang Tower" from memory, so have the kids memorize it beforehand to save CNY 70. 6️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou For the Chishui Danxia Tourist Area, here's my conclusion: choose Foguangyan, not Shizhangdong. The trail at Foguangyan is flat and takes about 2 hours to complete, which a 5-year-old can manage on their own. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM, when the sunlight makes the rock walls glow red, creating a stunning visual impact. Shizhangdong has a large waterfall, but there are too many stairs; if you carry your kids, your legs will be ruined the next day. 🍜 Try the Chishui tofu pudding at the entrance with chili sauce; the kids can eat the non-spicy portion, which is rich in soy flavor. ⚠️ Don't buy the dried bamboo shoots in the scenic area, as they are twice as expensive as in supermarkets outside. If you're driving, the mountain roads are curvy, so be sure to bring motion sickness medication. 7️⃣ Shuozhou | Shanxi Shahu Pass sounds intimidating, but it's actually an open pass ruin. It's great for taking kids to see the landscape and experience the scenery beyond the Great Wall. ⏰ The light at 5 PM is the best, turning the earthen walls golden and making for great photos. There aren't many commercial facilities here, so bring enough water and snacks. Kids can run around on the grass under the city walls, but don't let them climb the walls as the soil is loose. ⚠️ It's windy in the area, so make sure hats have straps, or they'll fly away in a second. The Youyu mutton in Youyu County nearby is worth trying; it's stewed until tender and easy for kids to chew. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Shuozhou Station. I recommend chartering a car so you can stop for photos along the way. 8️⃣ Turpan | Xinjiang The Flaming Mountains, Kumtag Desert, and downtown Turpan are suitable for all ages, but you need to visit each spot at the right time. Arrive at the Flaming Mountains ⏰ before 9 AM while it's cool; by noon, it's too hot to even get out of the car. Save the desert for after 5 PM when the sand is no longer hot, and the kids can walk barefoot on the soft sand. 🍜 In downtown Turpan, try the Kuoximakula baked buns for CNY 3 each; they're filled with lamb, and the kids will eat two in a row. ⚠️ Don't let kids wear sandals in the desert, as the fine sand will chafe their feet; sneakers with shoe covers are the safest bet. The mummy exhibit at the Turpan Museum is both scary and fascinating for elementary school kids, so parents should be prepared. September is the grape season in Grape Valley, and the 🍇 freshly picked seedless white grapes are incredibly sweet—the kids will end up with sticky faces. When traveling with kids, the route is more important than the attractions. I've planned these 8 cities with a "walk less, see more" approach, so just follow the guide. Which of these have you taken your kids to? Let's chat in the comments and help others avoid pitfalls.

Where to go for budget travel in August–September? These 8️⃣ places have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and low costs 01 Chuxiong | Yunnan Yuanmou Earth Forest: you may have heard the name, but you will still be stunned when you see it in person. The earth pillars are crowded together, looking like a ruined city gnawed by the wind. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, and the color of the Earth Forest burns from earthy yellow to orange-red. Anything you snap with your phone is wallpaper-worthy. The ticket is about 70 yuan, half price with a student ID. Wumou Earth Forest is more developed than Langbapu, the paths are easy to walk, and it is the right choice if you are bringing elderly people or children. Yi Ancient Town is livelier at night than during the day. 🔥 The bonfire party starts at 8:00 PM sharp; join in for a dance, and the atmosphere is incredible. For accommodation, stay at an inn in the ancient town for a little over 100 yuan a night, with the night market right downstairs. 🚄 A taxi from Chuxiong Station to the Earth Forest takes about 1 hour, and ride-sharing is about 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ The sun is harsh at noon, so remember to wear a hat; there is almost no shade in the Earth Forest. Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan 02 Wanning | Hainan When Sanya is crowded, Wanning still has room to breathe. The seawater at Shimei Bay is clearer than in Sanya, and the waves are gentle, making it perfect for soaking and relaxing. Riyue Bay is a surfer's paradise. You can rent a board for 200 yuan for the afternoon, and the coach will first teach you how to lie on the board and paddle; you will be able to stand up after falling twice. 🍜 The Qingbuliang sold by grandmas on the roadside has such a rich coconut milk flavor that it coats the bowl. It is 8 yuan a bowl, and you will want at least two a day. Stay in Xinglong Town, which is close to both bays; homestays are 60 yuan a night and even come with a small courtyard. 🚄 A taxi from Wanning Station to Shimei Bay is about 40 yuan. It is recommended to stay in Xinglong directly to save on travel costs between the two places. ⚠️ The waves get bigger after 3:00 PM, so beginners should not force it; listen to the coach. Wanning Station 03 Hengyang | Hunan Nanyue Hengshan Mountain is great value for budget travel. The ticket is 80 yuan, and the cable car round trip is 70, but hiking up the mountain is more interesting. ⏰ Start from the foot of the mountain at 6:00 AM and take the Fanyin Valley route. The sound of the stream follows you the whole way. It takes two hours to reach Banshan Pavilion to rest. Tea eggs are 5 yuan for two, half the price of those at the summit. Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain, and it is very popular for incense offerings. The ticket is 40 yuan; believe it if you want, or just visit it as an ancient building—it is worth it. 🍜 At the noodle shop on Zhusheng Road at the foot of the mountain, the freshly stir-fried toppings are delicious. A bowl is 12 yuan, and it is so spicy you will break a sweat but won't be able to stop eating. Book a farmhouse stay halfway up the mountain for 80 yuan including breakfast, so you don't have to rush through the night to see the sunrise the next day. ⚠️ Traffic at the foot of the mountain is bad on weekends, so start early or take the scenic area bus directly to the halfway point before you start hiking. Nanyue Hengshan Scenic Area, Hengyang 04 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Lushan Mountain has been serious about being a summer retreat for centuries. The average temperature on the mountain is in the 20s, and you still need a thin quilt to sleep at night. The ticket is 160 yuan, and the sightseeing bus is 90 yuan, but if you are only staying for one day, I suggest you buy a one-way sightseeing bus ticket and take the west line: Huajing, Jinxiu Valley, and Xianren Cave. It is all downhill, so it is not tiring and saves effort. ⏰ Arrive at Huajing at 8:00 AM. The fog has not yet cleared, and the lake looks like it is covered with a veil, which is very ethereal. Lushan West Sea is on the other side of the mountain, and the water is so clear you can see the stones at the bottom. A speedboat tour is about 60 yuan per person, which is more worth it than those small attractions on Lushan Mountain. 🍜 The stone fish with scrambled eggs on the mountain is salty, fresh, and goes well with rice. A small portion is 38 yuan, enough for two people. Stay in Guling Town, where a hostel bed is 50 yuan. At night, you can feel the breeze and watch the stars in the central park, which is very comfortable. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes quickly, so raincoats are better than umbrellas. They are 10 yuan each on the roadside, so don't overpay. Lushan Scenic Area 05 Longyan | Fujian Compared with Nanjing, Tulou (Yongding) has far fewer people, but I actually prefer it here. The ticket is 90 yuan. You have to follow a guide to understand the ins and outs of those round and square buildings. Chengqi Building is four stories high, surrounded by circles, and houses dozens of families. There are dried vegetables hanging in the patio, and elderly people weaving bamboo baskets at the door—it is full of life. Changting Ancient Town is free. The city wall runs along the Ting River, and the river surface glitters with gold at dusk, which is more atmospheric than many paid ancient towns. The ticket for Guanzhai Mountain is 105 yuan, but the mountain scenery is truly worth it. It takes two hours to climb up, and looking down from the top, the entire Danxia landform is spread out at your feet. 🚄 There is a direct bus from Longyan Station to Tulou, which costs 25 yuan and takes two hours. ⚠️ The "free guides" in the Tulou will try to take you for tea and then push you to buy tea leaves. Just politely decline. Longyan Station 06 Xuancheng | Anhui Chaji Ancient Village is much quieter than Hongcun. The ticket is 70 yuan, but it is hardly commercialized inside. On both sides of the stone road, you can see the lives of the original residents: grandmothers washing vegetables by the stream and children chasing dogs. ⏰ Enter the village at 7:00 AM. The morning mist has not yet cleared, and the white walls and black tiles against the cooking smoke create an ink-wash painting effect that cannot be achieved with post-processing. Jixi Longchuan is more refined, with a ticket of 75 yuan. The wood carvings in the Hu Family Ancestral Hall are worth a close look; the hollowed-out figures, flowers, and birds are truly exquisite craftsmanship. 🍜 The hairy tofu in the village is pan-fried until both sides are golden brown and eaten with chili sauce. It is 10 yuan a portion; it smells pungent but tastes delicious. For accommodation, stay at an inn in Chaji Village for 80 yuan a night. At night, it is so quiet that you can only hear the sound of the stream. 🚄 There is a bus from Xuancheng Station to Chaji, but there are no buses after 3:00 PM, so remember to start early. Longchuan Scenic Area 07 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourism Area is not a "scenic spot" in the traditional sense, but more like a living small town. Admission is free, but you need to register with your ID card. As you walk in, the Qiang watchtowers and stone houses are built along the mountain, and symbols of white stone worship can be seen everywhere. ⏰ At 10:00 AM, there is a Qiang song and dance performance. The girls wear embroidered long skirts with silver ornaments jingling, which is more interesting than watching an exhibition. 🍜 Qiang bacon is a must-eat. It is sliced thin and steamed thoroughly, served with pickled vegetable soup. It is 40 yuan for a meal that will fill you up. This place is suitable for walking slowly. You can finish touring in two hours, and then go to the earthquake ruins nearby. It is free, but it is very heavy, so bring tissues. 🚄 Take a bus from Mianyang Station to Beichuan, which takes 1.5 hours and costs 20 yuan. ⚠️ There is not much commerce in the scenic area, so bring your own water and dry food. Beichuan Qiang City Tourism Area 08 Anyang | Henan Taihang Grand Canyon is a natural air-conditioned room in summer. The ticket is 140 yuan, including the sightseeing bus, but the real fun is the hiking route in Peach Blossom Valley. ⏰ Enter the valley at 9:00 AM. The cliffs on both sides sandwich the flowing water. When you walk to the bottom of the waterfall, the water mist hits your face, and it is refreshingly cool. Shibanyan Town is at the entrance of the canyon. Pumpkin millet porridge with pancakes is 10 yuan and will fill you up. The Yinxu ticket is 70 yuan. Oracle bone inscriptions and bronzeware were unearthed here. People who like history will be moved to tears, while those who don't might think it is just ruins. 🍜 The Bianfen noodles in Anyang city are 5 yuan a bowl. Add an oil pancake—it is a carb bomb, but it makes you happy. Stay in a budget hotel in the city for 150 yuan a night, which is 15 minutes by taxi from Yinxu. ⚠️ There are many stairs in Taihang Grand Canyon, so be careful if you have bad knees, or just take the sightseeing bus to see the scenery without getting off. Taihang Grand Canyon Scenic Area

01 Chengde | Hebei The Chengde Mountain Resort is perfect for summer. The admission ticket isn't cheap, but it's worth it since one ticket covers a full day. ⏰ Arrive at 7:30 AM when it opens and head to the lake area first. It's less crowded then, and there's a light mist on the water. A walk around takes about 2 hours. When it gets hot at noon, head into the mountains, find some shade, and eat a shaobing—it's much more cost-effective than buying meals in the scenic area. The light in the palace area is harsh in the afternoon and can cause overexposure in photos, so save it for after 4 PM. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "combo tickets" at the entrance; many small attractions are actually free. After leaving, walk north along Wulie Road to see the red walls of the Outer Eight Temples; the evening light on the walls is truly beautiful. Jinshanling Great Wall is a bit far from the city center. 🚄 Take a shuttle bus from Chengde East Bus Station, which takes 1.5 hours. This section of the Great Wall is much wilder than Badaling, with uneven steps—be careful if you have bad knees. I turned back at the General Tower, which took about 3 hours total. It's windy, so remember to bring a light jacket. 02 Mianyang | Sichuan Mianyang isn't a traditional tourist city, but the Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is worth a special trip. The entire area was rebuilt after the disaster and is very well-planned, with clean streets and well-arranged Qiang watchtowers and stone houses. 📍 Take a direct shuttle bus from Mianyang Bus Station, which takes about 1 hour. There is no admission ticket for the scenic area, but the earthquake experience hall inside requires a separate ticket. ⚠️ Personally, I don't think it's necessary; seeing the actual site from the outside is enough. For lunch, eat at a farm stay in the Qiang City; the stir-fried bacon with ferns and corn paste are both good, costing just over CNY 30 per person. In the afternoon, you can visit the nearby old county ruins. The ruins are preserved in their original state, which is a sobering experience, but worth it. I don't recommend bringing very young children, as they might not understand. The last shuttle bus back is at 6 PM, so don't miss it. 03 Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City is, in my opinion, the most underrated ancient city in Shandong. It's free and open all day, but ⏰ it's best to go in the evening. During the day, there are tour groups one after another. After 5 PM, most tourists on the main street have dispersed, and the bluestone road reveals its true character. Enter from Fucai Gate and walk north along Ouyuan Street, lined with old Ming and Qing dynasty houses, some still displaying old shop signs. 🍜 The Longsheng pastries sold on the street, like honey cakes and peach cakes, are made fresh, and you can get a big bag for CNY 10. Walk to North Gate Street and turn into an alley called "Zhaode Ancient Street." There are almost no shops here, just residents, with elderly people sitting under the eaves fanning themselves—it's full of local life. ⚠️ Don't take the electric cart in the ancient city; it costs CNY 20 for a loop, but walking only takes half an hour. Stay at a homestay in the ancient city for just over CNY 100 a night. The soundproofing is average, but you get to hear birds chirping in the morning. 04 Diqing | Yunnan In the Shangri-La area, attractions are scattered, and transportation is the biggest expense. My route was: first to Baishuitai, then Pudacuo, and finally Songzanlin and Tiger Leaping Gorge. I chartered a car for the whole trip at CNY 500 a day, which isn't expensive when split among four people. Baishuitai is at the foot of Haba Snow Mountain, with calcified pools stacked like white terraces. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the sun shines at an angle, making the water look blue—it's the most beautiful time. Pudacuo costs over CNY 100 for the ticket and shuttle bus, but walking the Shudu Lake boardwalk, which features meadows, forests, and the lake, is worth it. The "Little Potala Palace" title of Songzanlin Monastery is well-deserved, ⚠️ but remember to respect local customs: remove your hat and do not take photos inside the main hall. Tiger Leaping Gorge is the most tiring; you have to walk down to the valley floor and climb back up, which will make your legs shake, but the sight of the Jinsha River roaring at your feet is something you can't see anywhere else. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Dukezong Ancient City to various attractions, but they are infrequent, so it's best to buy tickets one day in advance during peak season. 05 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is the "Green Valley" of Zhejiang, and coming here in summer is all about the mountains and water. Yunhe Terraces are in Chongtou Town. ⏰ The sunrise is the most stunning; stay at a farm stay in the scenic area, wake up at 5:30 AM, and walk to the Jiuqu Yunhuan viewing platform to see the morning mist rolling over the terraces. The ticket is CNY 80, but if you stay in the scenic area, you can ask the owner to help you buy it for a discount. Dinghu Peak in Jinyun Xiandu is an iconic photo spot, but ⚠️ don't shoot at noon when the overhead light is too harsh. After 4 PM, the light is slanted, and the mountain peak reflects in the Hao River, which makes for a great photo. Qingtian Shimen Cave is by the Ou River, with a CNY 60 ticket. It has waterfalls and an ancient path, taking 2 hours to walk the full route—it's suitable for the elderly and children as the road is flat. 🍜 At the Dayang Road night market in Lishui city, you can get a shaobing with a fried dough stick and a bowl of soy milk for CNY 10, enough to fill you up. 🚄 There are high-speed trains from Lishui Station to Yunhe and Jinyun, taking less than 30 minutes, which is very convenient. 06 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia The Hashhatu Stone Forest in Chifeng is the most unearthly landscape I've ever seen. The granite has been eroded by wind into various shapes—some look like mushrooms, others like castles. Standing among them makes you feel incredibly small. ⏰ Go between 3 PM and 4 PM when the low-angle light hits the stones, making the textures look especially three-dimensional. The ticket plus shuttle bus costs CNY 120. You must take the shuttle bus because it's 5–6 km from the entrance to the core area. ⚠️ There are no supply points inside, so carry your own water and dry food. To get there from Chifeng city, 🚄 take a train to Jingpeng Town first, then charter a car, which takes 2 hours one way and costs about CNY 300 round trip. If you have enough time, you can stop by Dalinor Lake on the way to watch the sunset. The lake is as huge as the sea, but it's also windy, so remember to bring a jacket. This place is suitable for those who like geology and hiking; the elderly and children might find it monotonous. 07 Chenzhou | Hunan Gaoyiling and Dongjiang Lake in Chenzhou are the coolest combination for a Hunan summer. Gaoyiling's Danxia landform, with its red rocks and green water, looks like a dragon's spine from a drone, but ⚠️ there is no shade along the entire route, so you must apply sunscreen. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM to avoid tour groups; it takes 2 hours to walk the whole loop, and it gets unbearably hot after 10 AM. Dongjiang Lake is most famous for the mist over Little Dongjiang. Arrive at the No. 2 Bridge viewing platform before 6 AM, and a thin layer of mist will rise over the lake. The fisherman casting his net is a performance, but it really does look good. The ticket plus boat ride costs over CNY 100. The boat takes you to Doushuai Island; the cave is average, but the lake breeze is comfortable. Mangshan Five-Finger Peak is at a high altitude, so you should wear long sleeves even in summer. After taking the cable car up, walk along the skywalk—there's a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds. 🍜 The Qifengdu fish noodles in Chenzhou city are spicy and satisfying; a bowl costs CNY 12 and will make you sweat. 🚄 There are tourist lines from Chenzhou West Station to various scenic spots, but they are infrequent, so I suggest driving yourself or chartering a car. 08 Bijie | Guizhou Bijie is most famous for the Baili Rhododendron, but that's a spring attraction. In summer, the focus is on Zhijin Cave. I would call this cave an "underground palace." It is 6 km long and takes 2 hours to walk the full length; the largest hall inside could fit a building. ⚠️ The cave is around 10°C year-round, so wear long sleeves when entering in summer. You can rent a jacket at the entrance for CNY 10. The ticket plus shuttle bus costs CNY 120; the shuttle bus takes you back to the entrance after you exit the cave, so you must take it. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when it's less crowded; the guide explains things in detail, and you can learn about the origins of the various stalactites. The Baili Rhododendron scenic area has no flowers in summer, but the greenery of Caohai and Yishan Flower Valley is also nice. If you are short on time, you can skip it. 🍜 The luoguo (iron plate grill) in Bijie city features potato slices, stinky tofu, and pork belly sizzling on an iron plate—dip them in chili powder to eat. It costs about CNY 40 per person to get full. 🚄 The high-speed train from Guiyang to Bijie takes 1 hour. Chartering a car from Bijie city to Zhijin Cave takes 1.5 hours one way and costs about CNY 200 round trip.

01 Jiayuguan | Gansu Summer in Jiayuguan is that dry kind of heat; the sun is fierce, but it's instantly cool in the shade. Go to the pass at 8:00 AM when it's less crowded and the light is good; you can see every brick on the city wall clearly. 📍 Exit the west gate of the pass, and there's a dirt road leading straight to the Taolai River Grand Canyon. A 20-minute walk brings you to the cliffs. The wind is strong enough to blow your hat off, but the view is absolutely worth it. 🍜 Head back to the city at noon for a bowl of apricot skin tea paired with lamb skewers. The apricot skin tea is sweet, tart, and refreshing—it works better than any other drink. ⚠️ Definitely don't go to the pass between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. It's exposed to the scorching sun with no shade, you won't be able to keep your eyes open for photos, and the admission ticket isn't cheap—don't waste your money. 02 Mianyang | Sichuan The coolness in Mianyang is the kind wrapped in mountain forests. The Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area isn't one of those artificial, fake ancient towns; real Qiang families live there. Walking into the village, you'll see rammed-earth walls on both sides of the stone paths, with strings of corn and red chili peppers hanging under the eaves. Sitting under the covered bridge in the Qiang village in the afternoon, the breeze carries the scent of grass and trees—it's much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 📍 You can visit the Qiang embroidery workshops in the village. The ladies will chat with you while they embroider, and that slow pace makes you reluctant to leave. ⚠️ Cured meat and mountain goods in the scenic area are 20% more expensive than outside. If you want to buy local specialties, it's more cost-effective to buy them in town. It's suitable for bringing parents along as the paths are flat and not tiring. The light is most beautiful after 4:00 PM, and the photos you take will look like they have a built-in filter. 03 Weifang | Shandong Summer in Weifang has been underestimated for too long. Qingzhou Ancient City isn't one of those cookie-cutter imitation ancient streets; it's a place where real residents live. Go to Beimen Street at 7:00 AM when the soy milk and fried dough stick stalls are just setting up. A steaming bowl of tofu pudding with a side of pickles will fill you up for CNY 5. 📍 Ouyuan Garden is the ancient city's hidden gem. The admission ticket is affordable, and the rockeries and ancient vines inside are over 400 years old. Sitting on a stone bench, you can hear the rustling of the wind through the bamboo leaves. 🍜 At noon, go to the time-honored Longsheng Pastry shop outside Fucai Gate. The honey-glazed pastries and mung bean cakes are freshly made, sweet but not cloying. Buying a box for afternoon tea is perfect. ⚠️ Nanmen Street in the evening is too commercialized and crowded to walk through. It's better to go to the entrance of the alley at the East Gate to eat a bowl of Chaotian Guo. Wrap the meat in a pancake with green onion—that's how the locals eat it. 04 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan in Anshan offers a majestic kind of coolness. It's a mountain made of rocks and pine trees; when the wind blows, your ears are filled with the sound of pine waves. For the hiking route, I recommend entering from Wuliangguan and taking the Yixiantian path up the mountain. The path is narrow but interesting, with split boulders on both sides and only a sliver of light visible overhead. It takes about 3 hours to climb to Wufoding. The wind is strong at the summit, and your sweat dries as soon as it blows—it's incredibly refreshing. 📍 Longquan Temple halfway up the mountain is worth a stop. The ancient pine in front of the temple is 600 years old. Sitting in the shade drinking tea and listening to the monks tapping wooden fish, all your restlessness just fades away. ⚠️ The admission ticket for Qianshan isn't cheap, but there's a half-price discount if you enter after 3:00 PM. Catching the mountain shadows before sunset makes it worth the price. It's suitable for people who like hiking; for seniors and children, I recommend taking the cable car halfway up before walking. 05 Lhasa | Tibet The coolness in Lhasa is a unique experience where you feel warm in the sun but chilled to the bone in the shade. Namtso is a 4-hour drive from Lhasa at an altitude of 4,700 meters. The wind is strong enough to blow you away, but the blue of the lake is so stunning it leaves you speechless. ⚠️ You must bring a thick jacket when going to Namtso. Even though Lhasa city is over 20 degrees, the temperature by the lake can drop below 10 degrees in the afternoon, and the wind will give you a headache. You need to book the Potala Palace one day in advance. It opens at 9:00 AM, so arriving at 8:30 AM to queue is just right. After walking up the steps to the White Palace, look back at the entire city of Lhasa—that sense of openness is something photos can't capture. 🍜 At the sweet tea house next to Jokhang Temple, it's CNY 5 per pot. Sitting at the entrance soaking up the sun and watching the flow of pilgrims, an entire afternoon just slips away. Lhasa isn't for rushing between attractions; you only really experience it when you slow down. 06 Nanning | Guangxi Summer in Nanning is muggy with occasional cool rain, and Qingxiushan is a great place to escape both the rain and the heat. The Qingxiushan scenic area is huge; I recommend entering from the North Gate, taking the sightseeing bus to Guanyin Zen Temple first, and then walking all the way down. 📍 The Tianchi section is the most comfortable. The pool water is emerald green, the flamboyant trees on the shore are in full red bloom, and the breeze blowing across the water carries a damp, cool feeling. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, find a Laoyou Fen shop in the ASEAN Business District. The sour bamboo shoots and fermented black beans are stir-fried until fragrant; add a portion of pork offal, and eating until you're sweating is the real satisfaction. Fubo Temple is by the Yongjiang River. The temple isn't big, but the river breeze is strong. It's best to go in the evening to watch the sunset dye the river water gold. ⚠️ The mosquitoes in Nanning are particularly vicious. You must spray mosquito repellent when by the river in the evening, otherwise, your legs will be covered in bites. 07 Baoding | Hebei The coolness in Baoding is the kind found in the mountains and wilderness, with one attraction after another, each worth staying a night for. Baishishan is the most worth visiting. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, the temperature on the mountain is 10 degrees lower than in the city, and you'll still need a blanket at night in summer. 📍 Walking on the glass skywalk, with a bottomless abyss beneath your feet and the wind rushing up from the valley, your legs will truly go weak. Bailixia in Yesanpo offers the coolness of a canyon, with a stream sandwiched between stone walls on both sides. Walking barefoot in the water for a while, the chill will shoot up from the soles of your feet. 🍜 You should set aside half a day for the Western Qing Tombs. The architecture is quieter than the Forbidden City, with towering pines and cypresses. Walking along the sacred path, the stone statues on both sides seem to be accompanying you on a stroll. Anxin Baiyangdian is suitable for a boat ride, traveling through the reed marshes where the lotus flowers are in full bloom. But ⚠️ make sure to negotiate the boat price first. Pay by the hour, not by the trip, otherwise, you're likely to get ripped off. 08 Nantong | Jiangsu The coolness in Nantong is the kind found in the river breeze—unhurried and calm. Haohe River is the moat of the ancient city, and it's most comfortable to visit in the evening. 📍 Starting from Huanxi Cultural Square, walk along the riverside path. The plane trees on both banks cut the sunset into fragments, scattering them on the river surface. Walking to Beihiao Bridge, watch the cruise ships pass under the bridge. The lights on the boats light up one by one, as if putting a necklace on the river. 🍜 When you're tired of walking, buy a piece of osmanthus cake at the time-honored Siyi Pastry shop by the river. It's soft, glutinous, and sweet. Pair it with a cup of mint tea and sit watching the grandpas playing chess and bickering by the river—that kind of simple, everyday joy is very healing. ⚠️ The ticket for the Haohe night cruise isn't cheap, but you can actually see the same scenery by walking a loop along the riverside path, and it's not crowded. It's suitable for strolling slowly by yourself or taking a walk with your partner. Eight places, eight different summers. The ones that surprised me the most were Mianyang and Baoding—they are genuinely cool and not crowded. Which one do you want to visit the most? Let's chat in the comments section.

01 Mianyang | Sichuan What moved me most about Mianyang wasn't its reputation as a "Science and Technology City," but its slow-paced, down-to-earth vibe. 📍 Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area: I recommend setting aside an entire morning. Enter from the visitor center, see the Qiang watchtowers first, then follow the trail to Yuwang Square. The whole way is paved with bluestone and filled with the sound of flowing water. This isn't one of those crowded internet-famous spots. Instead, it's better suited for a slow stroll, listening to the wind pass through the covered bridges. ⚠️ Tour groups flock here after 2:00 PM, which can dampen the experience, so try to arrive early. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Mianyang Station, costing around ¥60. Don't rush off after you're done; the Qiang-style cured meat and corn cakes at the entrance are worth picking up—they're much fresher than what you'll find in city supermarkets. 02 Shijiazhuang | Hebei For this trip to Shijiazhuang, I suggest heading straight to two spots—don't try to do too much. Go to Zhaozhou Bridge in the morning. 📍 The ancient stone railings at the east end of the bridge are the best photo spot. It's less crowded at 8:00 AM, and the sunlight slanting across the bridge reveals the details of the stone carvings. Admission is ¥40, but honestly, you can see the bridge itself in half an hour. What's more worth your time is the Xiaohe River trail beneath it; walking it lets you appreciate the wisdom of Sui and Tang dynasty craftsmen. Head to Xibaipo in the afternoon. ⚠️ It's closed on Monday afternoons, so don't make a wasted trip. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Zhaozhou Bridge. I recommend hiring a car; you can get it done for under ¥300 for the day. 🍜 For lunch, grab a bowl of ganglu shaobing (baked flatbread) with beef in Pingshan County—it's much more satisfying than the boxed lunches at the scenic spot. 03 Huangshi | Hubei I didn't have high expectations for Huangshi, but Chengyue Island proved me wrong. 📍 Enter the island from the east bank of Cihu Lake. The light at 5:30 PM is just right; the lake surface is dyed gold, and the city skyline in the distance looks like a silhouette. The island isn't big—it takes about 40 minutes to walk around—but it's wonderfully quiet. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so bring your own water. 🚄 It's about a 25-minute taxi ride from Huangshi North Station, costing a little over ¥20. If you have time, I recommend walking a bit more along the Cihu Lake trail. After 6:00 PM, locals come out for a stroll, and that sense of relaxation is something you won't find inside the scenic area. 🍜 Back in the city at night, braised pig's trotters on Laosimen Pig Trotter Lane paired with a bowl of hot dry noodles will fill you up for about ¥30 per person. 04 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang The essence of Mudanjiang is all on the water. 📍 Diaoshuilou Waterfall at Jingpo Lake is most spectacular before 10:00 AM. The mist hits your face, and you can see small rainbows when the sunlight shines through. ⚠️ The scenic shuttle bus is ¥10 one way, but if you're up for it, I recommend walking. The volcanic rock landscape along the way is more interesting than riding the bus. In the afternoon, head to the Riverside Park in downtown Mudanjiang. Walk two kilometers along the river trail to see the old Russian-style buildings on the opposite bank. 🍜 In the evening, find an iron pot stew restaurant by the river and order the catfish stewed with eggplant. It's about ¥50 per person—warm and refreshing. 🚄 There's a dedicated tourist bus from Mudanjiang Station to Jingpo Lake. It takes 2 hours one way and costs ¥25, which is more cost-effective than hiring a car. 05 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli is a city that makes you feel disoriented. The streets full of Russian-style spires and neon lights make it feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale. 📍 The giant matryoshka dolls at Matryoshka Square look completely different during the day and at night. Go in at 4:00 PM to photograph the colorful exterior walls during the day, then wait until 6:30 PM when the lights come on. The whole square turns golden—that's the most photogenic moment. ⚠️ Admission to the square is ¥100, but if you're just there to take photos and not ride the attractions, you can actually stroll around the pedestrian street on the perimeter and see most of the scenery for free. 🍜 In the evening, go to a Russian restaurant on Zhongsu Street and order a bowl of borscht and some large grilled skewers. It's about ¥80 per person—much more authentic than the fast food inside the scenic area. 🚄 It's only a 10-minute taxi ride from Manzhouli Station to Matryoshka Square, with a starting fare of ¥6. 06 Jilin Winter in Jilin City is the kind of place that's cold to the bone, but beautiful to the heart. 📍 You must arrive at Rime Island before 7:00 AM to see the rime. As soon as the sun comes out, the frost on the trees starts to fall. The owner of the guesthouse on the island will tell you the night before whether there will be rime the next day. Don't trust the weather forecast; trust their experience. ⚠️ Accommodation on the island is basic. The heating is sufficient, but the soundproofing is poor, so bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. In the afternoon, go to Songhua Lake. The frozen lake surface is like a giant mirror. You can rent an ice sled for ¥50 an hour. 🍜 For lunch on the island, have a bowl of hot sticky bean buns with millet porridge. It's about ¥15 per person—warming and filling. 🚄 There's a shuttle bus from downtown Jilin to Rime Island. It takes 1 hour one way and costs ¥10. 07 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Huguangyan in Zhanjiang is the least "scenic area-like" scenic area I've ever seen. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and walk around Maar Lake. The whole loop is 7 km, but don't be intimidated by the number; it only takes about two hours if you walk and stop along the way. The lake water is truly clear; you can see the volcanic rock at the bottom. ⚠️ The electric shuttle in the scenic area is ¥20 per person, but I don't think it's necessary. You can only truly feel the quiet by walking. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area in the afternoon, go to Huguang Town for a bowl of Zhanjiang chicken rice. The chicken is so tender it's practically juicy, served with a side of sand ginger dipping sauce. It's about ¥25 per person. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown Zhanjiang, costing ¥50. If you like geology, this place is more worth visiting than any attraction in the city. 08 Liuzhou | Guangxi In Liuzhou, besides snail rice noodles, there's so much underrated scenery. 📍 The Dong Wind and Rain Bridge in Chengyang Eight Villages is quietest at 6:00 AM. The morning mist hasn't cleared yet, and the sound of the stream under the bridge is as clear as if it were right in your ear. ⚠️ Villagers in the village will try to get you to experience the long-table banquet for ¥60 per person. Honestly, the taste is average, but the atmosphere is great—try it if you want to take photos. In the afternoon, go to Longtan Park. 📍 The lawn by Jinghu Lake is perfect for lying down; locals are always picnicking there. Take a walk along the Liu River in the evening; the river breeze carries moisture and is more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 🍜 Back in the city at night, just find any snail rice noodle shop in an alley. Get two liang of noodles with duck feet for about ¥15 per person—it's more authentic than the internet-famous shops. 🚄 There's a direct shuttle bus from Liuzhou Station to Chengyang Eight Villages. It takes 2 hours one way and costs ¥35. These eight cities each have their own personality. Mianyang's slowness, Shijiazhuang's depth, Huangshi's quietness, Mudanjiang's wildness, Manzhouli's uniqueness, Jilin's coldness, Zhanjiang's freshness, and Liuzhou's spiciness—together, they make up the most authentic side of China. How many have you been to? Let's chat in the comments; maybe we'll run into each other at the next stop.

Where to escape the summer heat in August and September? These 8️⃣ cities are highly recommended! 01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan August in Wenshan is summer dominated by lotus flowers. 📍The vast lotus ponds in Puzhehei Village are in full bloom. Take a small willow-leaf boat through the waterways; with a flick of the oar, the lotus leaves reveal their silvery-green undersides, and water droplets roll and splash into the lake. ⏰ Arrive at Qinglongshan Wharf before 7 am. The mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the lake surface looks like it's covered with a thin veil—no filters needed for photos. At midday, the sun is strong, so don't try to tough it out. Hide in a Yi ethnic courtyard in Xianrendong Village, have a bowl of chilled sour soup, and a plate of fried lotus flowers—fragrant and slightly oily, it's incredibly refreshing. ⚠️ The electric shuttle buses in the scenic area don't require a full ticket; a one-way ride to Qinglongshan is enough. The rest of the journey is on foot; the wooden boardwalks along the way are the highlight. 🚄 It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Puzhehei High-Speed ​​Railway Station to get to the village. Ride-hailing services are half the price of those soliciting passengers at the entrance. This place is best explored at a leisurely pace over two days; rushing around in one day will make you miss the real Puzhehei. 02 Zhenjiang City | Jiangsu Province Zhenjiang boasts three mountains and a ferry crossing, which can be explored in a day without getting too tired. Start by climbing Jinshan Mountain in the morning, not because of the legend of the White Snake, but because it's the shortest and perfect for a light meal. The yellow walls of Jinshan Temple are particularly photogenic on a sunny day, but ⚠️ don't have high expectations for the vegetarian food there—it's just average. In the afternoon, head to Jiaoshan Mountain. You need to take a ferry to get there. 🚄 A taxi from Jinshan to Jiaoshan Wharf costs about 15 yuan. Jiaoshan is much quieter than Jinshan. The Stele Forest is full of stone carvings by famous calligraphers from various dynasties; calligraphy enthusiasts could easily spend an afternoon there. Stay at Beigu Mountain until dusk. ⏰ Climb Beigu Tower after 5 pm, and the Yangtze River bends below you. The setting sun dyes the river surface bronze. At that moment, the phrase "Where can one gaze upon the Central Plains?" suddenly comes alive. Don't rush off in the evening. Go to Xijindu Ancient Street for pot-lid noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth is flavorful, and be sure to add braised pork as a topping. People in Zhenjiang eat breakfast in the evening, and it's still delicious. The entire day's itinerary is smooth, without backtracking or taking unnecessary detours. 03 Mianyang City | Sichuan I added Mianyang to my summer retreat list because the Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is truly cool. 📍 The earthquake ruins and the Qiang ethnic village are adjacent. Visit the ruins area first in the morning. Your mood might be a little somber, but it's a place you must remember. For lunch, have cured pork rib hot pot in a nearby Qiang village. The smoky flavor is strong, and the broth becomes more fragrant the longer it simmers. In the afternoon, head to the folk experience area in Qiang City. You can try pushing a Qiang watermill yourself and listen to an old craftsman explain how watchtowers are built. ⏰ There's a Qiang song and dance performance after 4 PM. Don't miss it; the performers will pull you into the dance—you can't escape it! ⚠️ Many of the handmade silver ornaments sold in the scenic area with beautiful designs are machine-made. For genuine handmade pieces, check the back for engraving marks. If it's your first time visiting, stay in Mianyang city. It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from there. There are also direct buses from the scenic area entrance, but the last bus leaves at 6:30 PM, so don't stay out too late. 04 Handan City | Hebei The ancient charm of Handan begins in Guangfu Ancient City. This city is surrounded by water, and the city walls are still intact. Rent an electric cart and drive around the city; the wind blowing through the crenellations carries the scent of water plants and earth. The most worthwhile place to visit in the ancient city is the former residence of Wu Yuxiang, where Tai Chi originated. The courtyard is shaded by ancient trees, and sitting there for a while brings peace of mind. In the afternoon, visit the Nuwa Palace, a cluster of ancient buildings perched on a mountainside. The stairs are steep, but after 3 PM, with fewer tourists, the sunlight shines obliquely on the glazed tiles, making the entire temple seem to glow. ⚠️ There are vendors selling "blessed" souvenirs at the foot of the mountain, but the prices are tripled; don't be fooled. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from Handan city to Guangfu Ancient City. It's recommended to hire a car or drive yourself; one day is perfect for visiting both attractions. The local specialty, Zengzhou pork knuckle, is a must-try. Buy vacuum-packed ones to take home; it's cheaper than eating at restaurants in the scenic area. This route is suitable for those who aren't afraid of history; those just looking for sightseeing might find it boring, but those who appreciate old architecture will find it fascinating. 05 Sanming City | Fujian Summer in Sanming is all about the waters of Dajin Lake and the nights of Taining Ancient City. Start your day with a boat trip on Dajin Lake. The Danxia landforms are a vibrant red, and the lake water is a jade-green. 📍 Ganlu Temple is nestled in the rock face, supported by a single pillar. Standing beneath it, you'll wonder how it was built. ⏰ Before 11 am, the boats are less crowded, but in the afternoon, tour groups flood in, and the decks are covered in selfie sticks. At noon, enjoy a whole fish feast by the lake. 🐟 One fish is used to make six dishes; the fish head soup is the most delicious. Don't order too much—the portions are generous. In the evening, explore Taining Ancient City. The stone slabs gleam from countless footsteps, and the aroma of peanuts and tea wafts from the Lei Cha (pounded tea) shops along the streets. The ancient city isn't large; you can walk through it in half an hour. But after the lights come on at night, sitting in front of the Shangshu Mansion, enjoying the breeze and listening to local folk songs, is far more enjoyable than whiling away the time in a bar. ⚠️ The "Zhuangyuan Cake" in the ancient city is a tourist-only treat; locals don't buy it at all. If you want to bring back local specialties, you're better off buying a few packs of Wuyi rock tea. 06 Jining City | Shandong Jining is a place where Qufu and Weishan Lake are distinctly different – ​​one is associated with culture, the other with nature. In the morning, visit the Ming Dynasty City of Qufu, where the Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Cemetery are connected. ⚠️ The "Ten Thousand Ren Wall" of the Confucius Temple has an opening ceremony every morning at 9:00 AM; if you miss it, you'll miss the most exciting part. The Confucius Mansion has many courtyards, and while the guide will tell you many stories, exploring on your own is more liberating. Sitting by the Apricot Altar for a while, imagining Confucius actually lecturing here is quite moving. In the afternoon, head straight to Weishan Lake. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Qufu East Station to Weishan Lake Station (about 40 minutes). From there, take a taxi to the pier. Rent a speedboat and plunge into the reeds. A flock of waterbirds takes flight, and the wind rushes through your clothes, making it feel surprisingly cool, unlike August. ⏰ After 6 PM, the lake is bathed in the orange glow of the setting sun. Fishermen haul in their nets, lights twinkling on their boats—a scene more authentic than any tourist attraction performance. The four-hole carp in the lake have firm flesh and are best steamed. However, ⚠️ restaurants in tourist areas may use farmed fish to sell "Weishan Lake fish," so make sure to choose stalls that serve freshly caught and killed fish. 07 Xiangyang City | Hubei Xiangyang's Ancient Longzhong is very famous, but once you actually go inside, you'll find it more tranquil than you imagined. 📍 Enter through the stone archway and walk along the mountain path. You'll be surrounded by greenery, with a thick layer of fallen pine needles carpeting the ground, soft and yielding underfoot. The Three Visits Hall, the Thatched Cottage Pavilion, and the Embracing-Knee Pavilion—each place is related to Zhuge Liang. But don't just look at the architecture; ⏰ Enter the park before 8 AM, when the mountain mist hasn't dissipated and the cobblestone paths are still damp—that's when Longzhong truly feels ethereal. For lunch, try Yicheng shrimp at a farmhouse restaurant near the park entrance. Spicy and fragrant, the shrimp meat is springy and delicious, perfect with an ice-cold beer. 🚄 A taxi from Xiangyang East Railway Station to Ancient Longzhong takes about half an hour. Bus 512 goes directly there, but the last bus back is at 5:30 PM, so don't linger. ⚠️ There's a "Bagua Maze" maze inside the scenic area; it's purely a filler attraction. You can get around it in five minutes, so don't waste your time. In the afternoon, return to the city and take a walk on the ancient city wall of Xiangyang. The Han River flows beneath your feet, and the river breeze is much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. This place is perfect for a leisurely stroll; those rushing to check off tourist spots will be disappointed. But you can spend an afternoon sitting in the thatched pavilion, watching the clouds drift by from the other side of the mountain. 08 Huizhou City | Guangdong Summer in Huizhou is half mountain tranquility, half sea saltiness. Start your day with a visit to Luofu Mountain. While not particularly high, the mountain paths are winding. 📍 Chongxu Ancient Temple is nestled halfway up the mountain, bustling with worshippers and surrounded by ancient trees. Stepping inside, you'll feel several degrees cooler. ⏰ Climb the mountain before 9 am, before the sun fully penetrates the forest. Reaching Feiyun Peak, the entire Huizhou Plain unfolds before you, with clouds flowing beneath your feet. After lunch, descend the mountain and find a long-established restaurant by Huizhou West Lake to try Dongjiang Salt-Baked Chicken. The skin is golden yellow, the meat tender, and the flavorful saltiness is irresistible. Pair it with a bowl of Hakka Stuffed Tofu—it's so comforting you won't want to move. After lunch, we strolled along the Su Causeway. The lake wasn't large, but the reflections of the Nine-Bend Bridge and Sizhou Pagoda were particularly clear in the afternoon, offering a more vibrant atmosphere than Hangzhou's West Lake. In the afternoon, we headed straight to Xunliao Bay. 🚄 It took about an hour by taxi from Huizhou North Station; the road conditions were good. The sand here is fine and white, gentle on the feet, perfect for swimming in the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the seawater is warmed by the sun, neither too hot nor too cold. ⚠️ The speedboat tours offered by touts on the beach are overpriced. Try to bargain down to half the price, or simply skip the tour and wait for the sunset at the beach – it's more worthwhile. In the evening, we ate seafood on a fishing raft, freshly caught and cooked. The clams and mantis shrimp were sweet, and the price was just over 100 yuan per person, cheaper than restaurants in the city. For accommodation, we chose a guesthouse towards Shuangyue Bay, where we could watch the sunrise the next morning – a perfect ending to our trip. Of these eight places, Wenshan and Huizhou are perfect for a three-day stay, Zhenjiang and Jining are just right for two days, and the remaining four days are enough for exploring. Which one are you planning to visit first? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some pitfalls. Where to escape the summer heat in August and September? These 8️⃣ cities have received rave reviews! 01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan August in Wenshan is summer dominated by lotus flowers. 📍The 10,000-mu lotus pond in Puzhehei Village is in full bloom. Taking a small willow-leaf boat through the waterways, a paddle stirs, and the lotus leaves reveal their silvery-green undersides, water droplets rolling down and splashing into the lake. ⏰ Arrive at Qinglongshan Wharf before 7 am; the mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the lake surface looks like it's covered with a thin veil—no filter needed for photos. The midday sun is scorching, so don't try to tough it out. Escape to a Yi ethnic courtyard in Xianrendong Village, enjoy a bowl of chilled sour soup with a plate of fried lotus flowers—fragrant and slightly oily, it's incredibly refreshing. ⚠️ The electric shuttle buses in the scenic area don't require a full-journey ticket; a one-way trip to Qinglong Mountain is enough. The rest of the way, you'll have to walk, as the wooden boardwalks along the way are the highlight. 🚄 A taxi ride from Puzhehei High-Speed ​​Railway Station to the village takes about 30 minutes. Online ride-hailing services are half the price of those soliciting passengers at the entrance. This place is best explored at a leisurely pace over two days; rushing around in one day will cause you to miss the real Puzhehei. 02 Zhenjiang City | Jiangsu Zhenjiang boasts three mountains and one ferry crossing, a perfect day to explore without getting too tired. Start by climbing Jinshan Mountain in the morning, not because of the legend of the White Snake, but because it's the shortest and a good appetizer. The yellow walls of Jinshan Temple are particularly photogenic on a sunny day, but ⚠️ don't have high expectations for the vegetarian food there—it's just average. In the afternoon, head to Jiaoshan. You need to take a ferry there; a taxi from Jinshan to Jiaoshan Wharf costs about 15 yuan. Jiaoshan is much quieter than Jinshan. The Stele Forest is full of stone carvings by famous calligraphers throughout history; calligraphy enthusiasts could easily spend an afternoon there. Stay at Beigushan until dusk. Climb Beigu Tower after 5 pm; the Yangtze River makes a bend below, and the setting sun dyes the river surface bronze. At that moment, you'll feel the phrase "Where can one gaze upon the Central Plains?" suddenly come alive. Don't rush to leave in the evening. Go to Xijindu Ancient Street for pot-lid noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth is flavorful, and you must add braised pork to the topping. People in Zhenjiang eat breakfast in the evening, and it's still delicious. The entire day's itinerary is smooth, without backtracking or taking unnecessary detours. 03 Mianyang City | Sichuan I included Mianyang on my summer retreat list because the Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is truly cool. 📍 The earthquake ruins and the Qiang ethnic village are adjacent. Visit the ruins area first in the morning; it might be a bit somber, but it's a place you must remember. For lunch, have a hot pot with cured pork ribs in a nearby Qiang village—the smoky flavor is rich, and the broth gets more fragrant the longer it simmers. In the afternoon, go to the folk experience area in the Qiang city. You can try pushing a Qiang watermill yourself and listen to an old craftsman explain how watchtowers are built. ⏰ There's a Qiang song and dance performance after 4 PM; don't miss it! The performers will pull you into the dance—you can't escape it! ⚠️ Many of the handmade silver ornaments sold in the scenic area with beautiful designs are machine-made. For genuine handmade pieces, check the back for engraving marks. If it's your first time visiting, stay in Mianyang city. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from there. There are also direct buses from the scenic area entrance, but the last bus leaves at 6:30 PM, so don't stay out too late. 04 Handan City|Hebei The ancient charm of Handan begins in Guangfu Ancient City. This city is surrounded by water, and its walls are still intact. Rent an electric cart and drive around the city; the wind blowing through the crenellations carries the scent of water plants and earth. The most worthwhile place to visit in the ancient city is the former residence of Wu Yuxiang, where Tai Chi originated. The courtyard is shaded by old trees; sitting there for a while brings peace of mind. In the afternoon, visit the Nuwa Palace, a cluster of ancient buildings perched on a mountainside. The stairs are steep, but after 3 pm, with fewer tourists, the sunlight shines obliquely on the glazed tiles, making the entire temple seem to glow. ⚠️ There are vendors selling "blessed" souvenirs at the foot of the mountain, with prices tripled; don't be fooled. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from Handan city to Guangfu Ancient City. It's recommended to hire a car or drive yourself; one day is perfect for visiting both attractions. The local specialty, Zengzhou pork knuckle, is a must-try; buy vacuum-packed versions to take home—it's cheaper than eating at restaurants in the scenic area. This route is suitable for those who aren't afraid of history; those just looking for a spectacle might find it boring, but those who appreciate old architecture will find it fascinating. 05 Sanming City | Fujian Summer in Sanming is all about the waters of Dajin Lake and the nights of Taining Ancient City. Start in the morning with a boat trip on Dajin Lake. The Danxia landforms are a vibrant red, and the lake water is a jade-green. 📍 Ganlu Temple is nestled in the rock face, supported by a single pillar. Standing beneath it, you'll wonder how it was built. ⏰ Before 11 am, the boats are less crowded; in the afternoon, tour groups flood in, and the decks are filled with selfie sticks. At noon, enjoy a whole fish feast by the lake. 🐟 One fish is used to make six dishes; the fish head soup is the most delicious. Don't order too much—the portions are generous. In the evening, explore Taining Ancient City. The stone slabs gleam from countless footsteps, and the aroma of peanuts and tea wafts from the Lei Cha (擂茶) shops along the streets. The ancient city isn't large; you can walk through it in half an hour. But sitting in front of the Shangshu Mansion after the lights come on at night, enjoying the breeze and listening to locals sing folk songs, is much more enjoyable than killing time in a bar. ⚠️ The "Zhuangyuan Cake" (状元饼) in the ancient city is a tourist-only treat; locals don't buy it at all. If you want to buy local specialties, you're better off buying a few packs of Wuyi rock tea. 06 Jining City | Shandong Jining is a place with Qufu and Weishan Lake, one representing culture and the other wilderness. In the morning, we went to the Ming Dynasty City in Qufu, where the Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Cemetery are connected. ⚠️ The "Ten Thousand Ren Wall" of the Confucius Temple has an opening ceremony every morning at 9:00 AM; if you miss it, you'll miss the most exciting scene. The courtyards of the Confucius Mansion are layered, and the guide will tell many stories, but exploring on your own is more liberating. Sitting by the Apricot Altar for a while, imagining Confucius actually lecturing here, is quite moving. In the afternoon, we headed straight to Weishan Lake. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Qufu East Station to Weishan Lake Station (about 40 minutes). After exiting the station, take a taxi to the pier. Rent a speedboat and plunge into the reeds; water birds are startled into flight, and the wind rushes through your clothes—it's surprisingly cool, unlike August. ⏰ After 6 PM, the lake is bathed in the orange glow of the setting sun. Fishermen haul in their nets, lights on their boats—a scene more authentic than any tourist attraction performance. The four-hole carp from the lake has firm flesh and is best steamed. However, ⚠️ restaurants in tourist areas may use farmed fish to sell "Weishan Lake fish," so make sure to choose stalls that serve freshly caught and killed fish. 07 Xiangyang City | Hubei Xiangyang's Ancient Longzhong is very famous, but once you actually go inside, you'll find it more tranquil than you imagined. 📍 Enter through the stone archway and walk along the mountain path. You'll be surrounded by greenery; fallen pine needles form a thick layer on the ground, soft and fluffy underfoot. The Three Visits Hall, the Thatched Cottage Pavilion, and the Embracing-Knee Pavilion—each place is related to Zhuge Liang. But don't just look at the architecture; ⏰ Enter the park before 8 AM, when the mountain mist hasn't dissipated and the cobblestone paths are still damp—that's when Longzhong truly feels ethereal. For lunch, try Yicheng shrimp at a farmhouse restaurant near the park entrance. Spicy and fragrant, the shrimp meat is springy and delicious, perfect with an ice-cold beer. 🚄 A taxi from Xiangyang East Railway Station to Ancient Longzhong takes about half an hour. Bus 512 goes directly there, but the last bus back is at 5:30 PM, so don't linger. ⚠️ There's a "Bagua Maze" maze inside the scenic area; it's purely a filler attraction. You can get around it in five minutes, so don't waste your time. In the afternoon, return to the city and take a walk on the ancient city wall of Xiangyang. The Han River flows beneath your feet, and the river breeze is much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. This place is perfect for a leisurely stroll; those rushing to check off tourist spots will be disappointed. But you can spend an afternoon sitting in the thatched pavilion, watching the clouds drift by from the other side of the mountain. 08 Huizhou City | Guangdong Summer in Huizhou is half mountain tranquility, half sea saltiness. Start your day with a visit to Luofu Mountain. While not particularly high, the mountain paths are winding. 📍 Chongxu Ancient Temple is nestled halfway up the mountain, bustling with worshippers and surrounded by ancient trees. Stepping inside, you'll feel several degrees cooler. ⏰ Climb the mountain before 9 am, before the sun fully penetrates the forest. Reaching Feiyun Peak, the entire Huizhou Plain unfolds before you, with clouds flowing beneath your feet. After lunch, descend the mountain and find a long-established restaurant by Huizhou West Lake to try Dongjiang Salt-Baked Chicken. The skin is golden yellow, the meat tender, and the flavorful saltiness is irresistible. Pair it with a bowl of Hakka Stuffed Tofu—it's so comforting you won't want to move. After lunch, we strolled along the Su Causeway. The lake wasn't large, but the reflections of the Nine-Bend Bridge and Sizhou Pagoda were particularly clear in the afternoon, offering a more vibrant atmosphere than Hangzhou's West Lake. In the afternoon, we headed straight to Xunliao Bay. 🚄 It took about an hour by taxi from Huizhou North Station; the road conditions were good. The sand here is fine and white, gentle on the feet, perfect for swimming in the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the seawater is warmed by the sun, neither too hot nor too cold. ⚠️ The speedboat tours offered by touts on the beach are overpriced. Try to bargain down to half the price, or simply skip the tour and wait for the sunset at the beach – it's more worthwhile. In the evening, we ate seafood on a fishing raft, freshly caught and cooked. The clams and mantis shrimp were sweet, and the price was just over 100 yuan per person, cheaper than restaurants in the city. For accommodation, we chose a guesthouse towards Shuangyue Bay, where we could watch the sunrise the next morning – a perfect ending to our trip. Of these eight places, Wenshan and Huizhou are perfect for a full three days, Zhenjiang and Jining are just right for two days, and the remaining four days are enough to explore. Which one are you planning to visit first? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some pitfalls.

Where to escape the summer heat in August? These 6️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and directly accessible by high-speed rail 01 Mianyang City | Sichuan Summer in Mianyang is the kind of cool retreat you never want to leave once you've hidden in the mountains. The Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is intensely sunny during the day, but its true charm comes after 5 pm. 📍 Walking from the visitor center towards Yuwang Square, the wind blows in from the mountain valleys, carrying the dampness of the vegetation. Qiang women set up stalls in the square selling corn cakes for five yuan each—best enjoyed hot. I highly recommend spending time on the Qiang village trails halfway up the mountain. The stone path is completely shaded by trees; you might walk for half an hour and barely encounter anyone. The steps are a bit steep, so older people with knee problems might prefer to only explore the area around the folk museum at the foot of the mountain. The next morning, you can take a walk along the riverbank outside the old county town earthquake ruins. Before the morning mist dissipates, the entire valley looks as if it has been washed clean. ⚠️ Entry to the archaeological site closes at 4 PM, so don't arrive right on time. 🚄 The high-speed train from Chengdu East Station to Mianyang takes about 45 minutes. From there, a taxi to the scenic area takes about half an hour and costs around 40 yuan. Book accommodation directly in the new Beichuan town; there's a lively atmosphere with people dancing the Salang dance in the square at night. 02 Anshan|Liaoning Anshan Qianshan is, in my opinion, the backyard garden of Northeasterners. In summer, avoid the main entrance with tour groups; navigate directly to the "Jicui Gate" entrance—this is the route locals take for hiking. Entering the mountain at 7 AM, the air is still cool. Following the path from Longquan Temple, the sound of the stream is so loud it drowns out the cicadas. The flattened rocks halfway up the mountain act as natural air conditioners; sitting there to rest, the breeze seeping through the cracks is much more comfortable than air conditioning. For those with average stamina, climbing to the Five Buddha Peak and then turning back takes about four hours round trip. Stop at Puan Temple for a rest and a bowl of vegetarian noodles (15 yuan, all you can eat). ⚠️ Qianshan entrance fee is 80 yuan, but if you enter after 3 PM, you can enter again the next morning, suitable for those who want to explore over two days. 🚄 A taxi from Anshan West Railway Station to the main entrance of Qianshan costs about 30 yuan; sharing is cheaper, 10 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose near the station square. In the evening, have roast beef on Shengli Road; it costs around 50-60 yuan per person, with generous portions of meat. 03 Laibin City | Guangxi Laibin is often overlooked by Guangxi locals, but the Dayao Mountains are truly cool. Jinxiu Lotus Mountain and Panwangjie are in different directions; don't try to do them all in one day. I suggest choosing only one. The Lotus Mountain trail is built on the edge of a cliff, with a sea of ​​clouds below. In August mornings, the fog is thick; before 10 AM, you can see the entire valley floating in the clouds. The hike is physically demanding, with many steps, so it's not recommended for families with children. Panwangjie is relatively flat, and the scenic area's electric vehicles can take you directly to the mountainside. From there, you can walk along the boardwalk to see the Yao village and terraced fields. The whole trip takes about two hours. At the foot of the mountain, there are Yao grandmothers selling oil tea for five yuan a bowl. It has a strong ginger flavor, but it warms you up completely after drinking it. The mountain air is humid, so this bowl is more effective than anything else. ⏰ Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, and the rain comes and goes quickly, so a light raincoat is sufficient. 🚄 The high-speed train from Nanning East Station to Laibin North Station takes about 40 minutes. After exiting the station, hire a car to Jinxiu County. The one-way trip costs a little over 100 yuan. The roads are winding, so those prone to motion sickness should bring medication. Stay in Jinxiu County. There's a night market in the evening, and roast suckling pig is a specialty, but avoid eating at the entrance of the scenic area; it's expensive and not authentic. 04 Baoshan City | Yunnan In Tengchong, summer temperatures are in the low twenties Celsius, and you'll need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. I saved Yunfeng Mountain for the last day because I wanted to dedicate the first two days to Heshun Ancient Town and Beihai Wetland. Heshun Ancient Town is perfect for an overnight stay. After 6 PM, the tourists disperse, and the rice paddies are filled with the sounds of frogs. 📍 At the entrance to the ancient town, Wild Duck Lake is best viewed at sunset. The white walls and gray tiles of the opposite mountain are reflected in the water, making for beautiful photos even with a mobile phone. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse converted from an old house in the town; it's just over 200 yuan a night, and you can see the tiled roofs right outside your window. Beihai Wetland must be visited in the morning. The grass rafts float on the water, feeling like sponges underfoot. There are bamboo rafts in the scenic area, but I recommend walking along the boardwalk. A complete loop takes about an hour, and water birds flutter right at your feet. Yunfeng Mountain is a famous Taoist mountain. The cable car only goes halfway up; you have to climb the last few hundred steps yourself. It's windy at the summit, and sweat-soaked clothes dry quickly, but definitely don't wear shorts up there—the mosquitoes are unbearable. ⚠️ The giant boiling pot at Rehai Scenic Area is worth a look, but the hot spring pools are too crowded. It's better to find a private hot spring in town; it's 150 yuan per person, clean and quiet. 🚄 The high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Baoshan takes about 3.5 hours, then a transfer to a bus to Tengchong takes about 1.5 hours. If you're short on time, flying directly to Tengchong Airport is much more convenient. 05 Baiyin City|Gansu Places like the Yellow River Stone Forest are so breathtaking that photos can't capture even a fraction of their grandeur. In August, the midday sun at the Stone Forest is unbearable, so my suggestion is to enter the scenic area around 5 pm. 📍 After entering the scenic area, take an electric scooter down the mountain, then transfer to a donkey cart to enter the canyon. This bumpy ride will make your butt hurt, but it's worth it. The donkey cart driver will point out which rocks look like monkeys or camels; if you just look at the rocks without listening to the explanation, you'll get bored in ten minutes. The wind in the canyon is very strong, making it hard to open your eyes; remember to wear a hat. At the end of the path is the Yellow River. You can try taking a sheepskin raft for 80 yuan per person. The 20-minute ride on the Yellow River is quite thrilling when the waves are high. ⚠️ Food inside the scenic area is expensive and unpalatable; bring your own snacks and water. The entire tour takes about three hours. When you leave the scenic area at night, the sky is ablaze with orange-red sunset clouds—a desolate feeling unique to Northwest China. 🚄 The high-speed train from Baiyin South Station to the scenic area takes about an hour, and a round-trip car hire costs around 200 yuan. Accommodation in Baiyin city is basic but clean, with standard rooms around 150 yuan. 06 Jilin In Jilin City's summer, Songhua Lake is a popular weekend destination for locals, but I want to talk about Wusong Island. Although winter is the peak season for rime ice, Wusong Island in August is so quiet it feels like you have the place to yourself. The river breeze makes it several degrees cooler than in the city. 📍 From Jilin Station, take a bus to Wula Street, then a taxi to the ferry terminal on the island. The ferry fare is 10 yuan to cross the river. The island is full of farmhouses. If you stay overnight, you can hear the river lapping against the shore at night, and wake up to a misty river view outside your window in the morning – truly ethereal. Visit Songhua Lake Scenic Area during the day. A boat tour around the lake takes about an hour and a half, and the boat ticket is included in the entrance fee. The grove of trees on the island in the middle of the lake is very photogenic, but the boat stops for a short time, so don't get too caught up in the fun and miss your return trip. ⚠️ Wusong Island is a seasonal attraction; you won't see rime ice in summer. However, the sunrise over the river is incredibly beautiful. Around 5:30 am, the sun rises from the opposite bank, turning the entire river surface golden-red. 🚄 The high-speed train from Changchun Station to Jilin City takes about 40 minutes. From there, a taxi to Songhua Lake takes half an hour, and to Wusong Island takes about 40 minutes. For accommodation, I recommend staying on Songjiang Middle Road in Jilin City. A stroll along the riverside boardwalk at night, with the lights reflected in the water, is even more beautiful than during the day. 07 Baoji City | Shaanxi Taibai Mountain in Baoji is the main peak of the Qinling Mountains and, in my opinion, the place that most truly feels like a "mountain." In August, the temperature at the foot of Taibai Mountain is 30 degrees Celsius, while at the summit it's just over 10 degrees. If you want to experience all four seasons in one day, this is the place for you. Take the cable car to Xiaban Temple, and then you have to climb the rest of the way. The section with the "Heaven and Earth" path is a wooden boardwalk at an altitude of about 3,500 meters; you'll be out of breath after just a few steps. But standing on the viewing platform, with the clouds rolling beneath your feet, the feeling is worth the ticket price. Famen Temple and Taibai Mountain are in opposite directions, so don't plan to visit them on the same day. The He Shi Relic Pagoda at Famen Temple is magnificent, but if you're not interested in Buddhist culture, you can save the 120 yuan entrance fee. Guanshan Grassland is more suitable for families with children. The alpine meadow at an altitude of 2,000 meters is surprisingly green in summer, unlike anything you'd see in Shaanxi. Horseback riding costs 50 yuan per loop. It's recommended to go around 3 or 4 pm when the sunlight shines obliquely on the grass, creating beautiful photos. ⚠️ The entrance fee to Taibai Mountain plus the cable car is about 200 yuan. It's windy on the mountain, so renting a windproof jacket costs 30 yuan. Don't worry about the price; getting cold is not worth it. 🚄 The high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Baoji South takes about 1 hour. From there, a taxi to Taibai Mountain takes about 40 minutes. Stay in Tangyu Town for convenient access to hot springs; a standard room costs around 180 yuan. 08 Manzhouli City | Inner Mongolia In Manzhouli, the days are very sunny in August, but it gets cool at night, requiring a jacket. The Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area is a popular spot, but I recommend going in the evening; it's too hot and expensive during the day, making it less worthwhile. 📍 The Russian Grand Circus in the scenic area is worth seeing. There are shows at 4 pm and 7 pm. Arriving half an hour early will get you good seats. After watching the performance, we arrived just in time for the Matryoshka Square to light up, turning the entire square into a colorful wonderland, like stepping into a fairytale town. I highly recommend visiting the Border Gate Scenic Area. Standing on the border and looking at the Russian villages across the way is a truly magical experience. Tickets are 60 yuan, and half an hour is enough to explore. In the evening, head to the Sino-Soviet Golden Street for Russian food. I recommend "Russian Restaurant"—the cheese bread and borscht are authentic, and it costs just over 100 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't trust the "Russian day tours" soliciting customers on Golden Street; many just take you to a few shopping spots. 🚄 From Hailar, take the train to Manzhouli (about 2 hours). From the station, take a taxi to Matryoshka Square for 10 yuan. For accommodation, stay in the city center; you can walk to the main attractions. Standard rooms are around 200 yuan. Finally, of these six places, I highly recommend Tengchong and Mianyang. One is perfect for a leisurely stay of several days, and the other is ideal for a weekend getaway. If you only have two or three days off, head straight to Mianyang; if you have a week, Tengchong won't disappoint. Let's chat in the comments section, which place do you most want to visit? Where to escape the summer heat in August? These 6️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and directly accessible by high-speed rail. 01 Mianyang City | Sichuan Summer in Mianyang is the kind of coolness that makes you never want to leave the mountains. The Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is intensely sunny during the day, but its true charm comes after 5 pm. 📍 Walking from the visitor center towards Yuwang Square, the wind blows in from the mountain valleys, carrying the dampness of the grass and trees. Qiang women set up stalls in the square selling corn cakes for five yuan each; they're best eaten hot. I highly recommend spending your time on the Qiang village trail halfway up the mountain. The stone path is completely shaded by trees, and you might not encounter many people even after walking for half an hour. The steps are a bit steep, so older people with knee problems are advised to only explore the area at the foot of the mountain near the folk museum. The next morning, you can take a stroll along the riverbank outside the earthquake ruins in the old county town. Before the morning mist dissipates, the entire valley looks as if it's been washed clean. ⚠️ Entry to the ruins area closes at 4 PM, so don't arrive right on time. 🚄 The high-speed train from Chengdu East Station to Mianyang takes about 45 minutes. From there, a taxi to the scenic area takes about half an hour and costs around 40 yuan. Book accommodation directly in the new Beichuan county town; there are people dancing the Salang dance in the square at night, creating a great atmosphere. 02 Anshan|Liaoning Anshan Qianshan, I would call it the backyard garden of Northeasterners. In summer, avoid the main entrance with tour groups; navigate directly to the "Jicui Gate" entrance—this is the route locals take for hiking. Entering the mountain at 7 AM, the air is still cool. Walking up the road near Longquan Temple, the sound of the stream is so loud it drowns out the cicadas. The flattened rocks halfway up the mountain act as natural air-conditioned rooms. Sitting there to rest, the breeze seeping out from the cracks is much more comfortable than air conditioning. For those with average stamina, you can climb to the Five Buddha Peak and then turn back. The round trip takes about four hours, with a stop at Puan Temple for a bowl of vegetarian noodles (15 yuan, all you can eat). ⚠️ Qianshan entrance fee is 80 yuan, but if you enter after 3 PM, you can enter again the next morning, suitable for those who want to explore over two days. 🚄 A taxi from Anshan West Railway Station to the main entrance of Qianshan costs about 30 yuan, and sharing is even cheaper (10 yuan per person). For accommodation, choose a spot near the station square. In the evening, have some roasted beef on Shengli Road; it costs around 50-60 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. 03 Laibin City | Guangxi Laibin is often overlooked even by Guangxi locals, but the Dayao Mountains are truly cool. Jinxiu Lotus Mountain and Panwangjie are in two different directions; don't try to visit them all in one day. I suggest choosing only one. The trails at Lianhua Mountain are built on the edge of a cliff, with a sea of ​​clouds below. In August mornings, the fog is thick; before 10 am, the entire valley can be seen floating in the clouds. It's quite physically demanding, with many steps, so families with children should consider this option. Panwangjie is relatively gentler. The park's electric vehicles can take you directly to the mountainside. You can walk along the boardwalk to see the Yao village and terraced fields; the whole trip takes about two hours. At the foot of the mountain, there are Yao grandmothers selling oil tea for five yuan a bowl. It has a strong ginger flavor, but it warms you up completely. The mountain air is humid, so this bowl is more effective than anything else. ⏰ Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, and the rain comes and goes quickly, so a light raincoat is sufficient. 🚄 The high-speed train from Nanning East Station to Laibin North Station takes about 40 minutes. After exiting the station, hire a car to Jinxiu County. The one-way trip costs a little over 100 yuan. The roads are winding, so those prone to motion sickness should prepare medication in advance. Stay in Jinxiu County. There's a night market there, and roast suckling pig is their specialty, but avoid eating near the scenic area entrance—it's expensive and not authentic. 04 Baoshan City | Yunnan Summer in Tengchong is just over 20 degrees Celsius; you'll need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. I saved Yunfeng Mountain for the last day because I wanted to dedicate the first two days to Heshun Ancient Town and Beihai Wetland. Heshun Ancient Town is worth staying overnight. After 6 pm, the tourists leave, and the rice paddies are filled with the sounds of frogs. 📍 Wild Duck Lake at the entrance of the ancient town is best viewed at sunset. The white walls and gray tiles of the opposite mountain are reflected in the water; every photo taken with a phone looks beautiful. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse converted from an old house in the town; it's a little over 200 yuan a night, and you can see the tiled roofs right outside your window. Beihai Wetland must be visited in the morning. The grass rafts float on the water, feeling like sponges underfoot. There are bamboo rafts in the scenic area, but I recommend walking along the boardwalk; a complete loop takes only an hour, and water birds flutter right at your feet. Yunfeng Mountain is a famous Taoist mountain. The cable car only goes halfway up; you have to climb the last few hundred steps yourself. It's windy at the summit, and sweat-soaked clothes dry quickly, but definitely don't wear shorts up—the mosquitoes are unbearable! ⚠️ The Big Boiling Pot at Rehai Scenic Area is worth a look, but the hot spring pools are too crowded. It's better to find a private hot spring in town; it's 150 yuan per person, clean and quiet. 🚄 The high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Baoshan takes about 3.5 hours, then a transfer to Tengchong takes about 1.5 hours. If you're short on time, flying directly to Tengchong Airport is much more convenient. 05 Baiyin City | Gansu Places like the Yellow River Stone Forest are so breathtaking that photos can't capture even a fraction of their grandeur. In August, the midday sun at the Stone Forest is unbearable, so my advice is to enter the scenic area around 5 pm. 📍 After entering the scenic area, take an electric scooter down the mountain, then transfer to a donkey cart to enter the canyon. This bumpy ride will make your butt hurt, but it's worth it. The donkey cart driver will point out which rocks resemble monkeys and camels, but if you just look at the rocks without listening to the explanation, you'll get bored in ten minutes. The wind in the canyon is very strong, making it hard to open your eyes, so remember to wear a hat. At the end of the canyon is the Yellow River, where you can try a sheepskin raft ride for 80 yuan per person. It's a 20-minute ride on the Yellow River, and quite exciting when the waves are high. ⚠️ Food in the scenic area is expensive and unpalatable, so bring your own snacks and water. The entire tour takes about three hours. When you leave the scenic area at night, the sky is filled with orange-red sunsets; the desolate feeling is unique to Northwest China. 🚄 The high-speed train from Baiyin South Station to the scenic area takes about an hour, and a round-trip chartered car costs around 200 yuan. Accommodation in Baiyin city is basic but clean, around 150 yuan for a standard room. 06 Jilin In Jilin City in summer, Songhua Lake is a popular weekend destination for locals, but I want to talk about Wusong Island. Although winter is the peak season for rime ice, Wusong Island in August is so quiet it feels like you have the whole place to yourself. The river breeze is refreshing, and the temperature is several degrees lower than in the city. 📍 From Jilin Station, take a bus to Wula Street, then a taxi to the island's ferry terminal. The ferry fare is ten yuan to cross the river. The island is full of farmhouses. If you stay overnight, you can hear the river lapping against the shore at night, and wake up to a view of river mist outside your window – a truly ethereal experience. Visit Songhua Lake Scenic Area during the day. A boat tour around the lake takes about an hour and a half, and the boat ticket is included in the entrance fee. The grove of trees on the island in the middle of the lake is very photogenic, but the boat stops for a short time, so don't get too caught up in the fun and miss your return trip. ⚠️ Rime ice on Wusong Island is a seasonal phenomenon; you won't see it in summer. However, the sunrise over the river is incredibly beautiful. Around 5:30 am, the sun rises from the opposite bank, turning the entire river surface golden red. 🚄 The high-speed train from Changchun Station to Jilin City takes about 40 minutes. From there, a taxi takes half an hour to Songhua Lake and forty minutes to Wusong Island. For accommodation, I recommend staying on Songjiang Middle Road in Jilin City. A walk along the riverside boardwalk at night, with the lights reflected in the water, is even more beautiful than during the day. 07 Baoji City | Shaanxi Taibai Mountain in Baoji is the main peak of the Qinling Mountains and, in my opinion, the most authentically "mountainous" place. In August, the temperature at the foot of Taibai Mountain is 30 degrees Celsius, while at the summit it's just over 10 degrees. If you want to experience all four seasons in one day, this is the place for you. Take the cable car to Xiaban Temple, and then you have to climb the rest of the way. The section with the "Heaven and Earth" viewpoint is a wooden boardwalk at an altitude of about 3,500 meters; you'll be out of breath after just a few steps. But standing on the viewing platform, with the clouds rolling beneath your feet, the feeling is worth the ticket price. Famen Temple and Taibai Mountain are in opposite directions, so don't plan to visit them on the same day. The He Shi Relic Pagoda at Famen Temple is magnificent, but if you're not interested in Buddhist culture, you can save the 120 yuan entrance fee. Guanshan Grassland is more suitable for families with children. The alpine meadows at an altitude of 2,000 meters are surprisingly lush and green in summer, unlike anything you'd find in Shaanxi. Horseback riding costs 50 yuan per loop; it's recommended to go around 3 or 4 pm when the light shines obliquely on the grass, creating beautiful photos. ⚠️ The entrance fee to Taibai Mountain plus the cable car is about 200 yuan. It's windy on the mountain, so renting a windproof jacket costs 30 yuan. Don't worry about the price; getting cold is definitely not worth it. 🚄 The high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Baoji South takes about 1 hour. From there, a taxi to Taibai Mountain takes about 40 minutes. Stay in Tangyu Town for convenient access to hot springs; a standard room costs around 180 yuan. 08 Manzhouli City | Inner Mongolia In Manzhouli, the days are intensely sunny in August, but the evenings are so cool you'll need a jacket. The Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area is a popular spot for taking photos, but I recommend going in the evening. It's sunny and expensive during the day, so it's not very interesting. 📍 The Russian Grand Circus inside the scenic area is worth seeing. There are shows at 4 PM and 7 PM; arriving half an hour early will get you good seats. After the show, you'll arrive just in time for the Matryoshka Doll Square to light up, turning the entire square into a colorful wonderland. I highly recommend visiting the Border Gate Scenic Area. Standing on the border and looking at the Russian villages on the other side is a magical experience. Tickets are 60 yuan, and half an hour is enough to explore. In the evening, go to the Sino-Soviet Golden Street for Russian food. I recommend "Ruble Western Restaurant"—the cheese bread and borscht are authentic, and it costs just over 100 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't trust the "Russian day tours" offered on Golden Street; many just take you to a few shopping spots. 🚄 From Hailar, take the train to Manzhouli (about 2 hours). From the station, take a taxi to the Matryoshka Doll Square for 10 yuan. For accommodation, staying in the city center is fine; you can walk to the main attractions, and standard rooms are around 200 yuan. Finally, of these six places, I most recommend Tengchong and Mianyang. One is suitable for a leisurely stay of several days, and the other is perfect for a weekend getaway from the heat. If you only have two or three days off, head straight to Mianyang; if you have a week, Tengchong won't disappoint. Let's chat in the comments: which one would you most like to visit?

Budget 3,000 to enjoy August, these 8 cool hidden gems are uncrowded and beautiful 01 Guyuan | Ningxia Summer in Guyuan is that dry, refreshing kind of cool. It's hot in the sun, but you feel comfortable as soon as you step into the shade. Don't go to Xumishan Grottoes at noon. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the lines on the Buddha statues look very soft. Admission is a few dozen yuan, and student IDs get half-price tickets, so remember to bring your ID. 📍 It takes about 30 minutes to get there by taxi from the city center. It's hard to hail a car for the return trip, so keep a driver's number handy. There are many steps in the scenic area, so wear non-slip shoes. Don't wear flip-flops—don't ask me how I know. After seeing the grottoes, don't rush off. The road at the foot of the mountain is lined with old poplar trees that rustle in the wind, which is more pleasant than many paid attractions. 02 Zhoukou | Henan Zhoukou is a place suitable for a slow, two-day stroll. Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Zone opens at 7:00 AM. ⏰ Go early to avoid crowds and see locals bringing incense to pray, which is full of local life. There are many ancient cypress trees in the mausoleum area, many of which are hundreds of years old. Touch the trunks, and they feel cool. Taiqing Palace is not far away; a taxi between the two spots costs a dozen yuan. Don't take the electric carts soliciting passengers at the entrance of the scenic area; they take detours and are expensive. 🍜 For lunch, find a hulatang (spicy soup) shop in the old town of Huaiyang. It's CNY 5 a bowl, served with youmotou (fried dough), which is much more substantial than the CNY 30 set meals in the scenic area. ⚠️ Taiqing Palace clears out at 5:00 PM, so don't arrive right at closing time. 03 Wuhu | Anhui Fantawild Tourism Zone is the kind of place where you say it's "childish," but once you're inside, you have more fun than anyone. There are night tickets during the August summer season; enter at 4:00 PM and you can play until 9:30 PM, which is almost half the price of a daytime ticket. ⏰ After the night lights turn on, the lines for roller coasters are actually shorter, so you can ride them two or three times. Bottled water in the park is CNY 8 a bottle, so it's recommended to bring your own water bottle and use the free drinking water stations. 📍 After leaving the park, don't eat at the snack street at the entrance. Walk 500 meters north to the row of food stalls on Yinhu North Road. The grilled fish and stir-fried snails are both good, and you can eat until you're full for CNY 40 per person. ⚠️ Some attractions are under maintenance on Mondays, so check the official announcement before you go. 04 Yichun | Heilongjiang Summer in Yichun is the kind of cool that doesn't require air conditioning. Tangwanghe Forest Sea and Strange Stone Scenic Area takes two to three hours to walk through. The boardwalk is well-built, and it's accessible for both the elderly and children. ⏰ Enter the park at 8:00 AM when the mist in the forest hasn't cleared yet, and the sunlight filtering through the leaves looks like a filter. 📍 There is a "Yixiantian" (A Thread of Sky) in the scenic area, where two large rocks create a narrow gap. The narrowest part requires you to turn sideways to pass, so don't carry a large backpack. 🍜 After coming out, find an iron pot stew restaurant in Tangwanghe Town. The stewed chicken with mushrooms costs CNY 50 per person, and the soup is so delicious you'll want two bowls. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the forest area, so mosquito repellent is a must, and long pants are more practical than shorts. 05 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourism Zone is a place that can make you feel calm. There is no general admission fee; the venues charge separately, so just pick one or two to enter. ⏰ There are free guided tours after 2:00 PM. Following along is much better than wandering around blindly. 📍 The Yunyun shoes in the Qiang Folk Museum have astonishingly fine embroidery and are worth a closer look. 🍜 There is a stall at the entrance selling corn jiaotuan (corn paste), which is CNY 5 a bowl. It's salty and spicy, and eating it with pickled vegetables is very appetizing. ⚠️ The entire tourism zone is huge, so don't try to finish it in one day. Pick the core areas to visit and save some energy for the evening. It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from the city center, and carpooling is more cost-effective. 06 Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City is an underrated place. There is no general admission fee, and you can wander the streets and alleys freely, which is very generous. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, most tourists have dispersed, and the bluestone roads are dyed a warm yellow by the sunset, so you don't have to dodge people when taking photos. 📍 Walk to the end of Ouyuan Street and turn left to find the time-honored Longsheng Pastry shop. The misandao and taosu (peach blossom cakes) are freshly made and sold by weight; you can buy a big bag for CNY 10. The signs in the ancient city claiming to be the "imperial calligraphy" of Kangxi or Qianlong are just for show, so don't take them seriously. ⚠️ There are many tour groups on weekend mornings. If you want peace and quiet, avoid the time between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Stay in a homestay in the ancient city at night for a little over CNY 100 a night, and you can see the city wall lights from your window. 07 Enshi | Hubei Enshi is a place where the scenery is truly wild, and your legs will be truly tired. Enshi Grand Canyon is divided into two sections: Yunlong Ground Fissure and Qixingzhai. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM. Walk the fissure first while it's cool, then climb Qixingzhai. You can reach the summit before noon and avoid the midday sun. 📍 The Rainbow Waterfall in the fissure has a lot of mist; it's better to bring an extra quick-dry shirt than to wear a raincoat. The boat ticket for the Shennongxi Tracker Culture Zone is not cheap, but taking a boat to see the cliffs on both sides is worth the price. ⚠️ You can choose between Enshi Tusi City and Qingjiang. Tusi City is in the city center and convenient; Qingjiang requires a one-hour drive, so skip it if you're short on time. 🍜 Zhangguan Hezha in the city center is a place locals often visit. Hezha is free to refill, and the stir-fried bacon with potato slices is great with rice. The attractions in Enshi are far apart; chartering a car costs about CNY 300 per day, and carpooling is cheaper. 08 Hanzhong | Shaanxi In Hanzhong's summer, the banks of the Han River are the main place for locals to cool off. ⏰ After 6:00 PM, the riverside walkway is full of people taking a stroll. The breeze blowing from the water carries a bit of moisture and is more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Shimen Plank Road is by the Baohe River. The ticket is not expensive. The plank road hangs on the cliff, which makes your legs feel a bit weak when walking, but the scenery is truly unique. 📍 Guhantai is in the city center and free; you can finish visiting in half an hour. The ancient ginkgo tree inside is golden in autumn and beautiful green in summer. 🍜 You must eat Hanzhong hot rice noodles. It's CNY 3 a bowl, served with tofu, and the chili oil is fragrant but not dry. ⚠️ Shimen Plank Road stops selling tickets at 5:00 PM, so don't set off in the afternoon. There is a night market by the Han River in the evening, and the grilled fish and iced fermented rice are both good. You can eat until satisfied for CNY 30 per person. The heat of August isn't something you hide from in an air-conditioned room; you have to find a place where the wind blows to you. For these eight places, a budget of 3,000 is enough, and they are uncrowded with beautiful scenery. Which one do you plan to visit first? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid the pitfalls.

Jiuhuang Mountain 1-day itinerary, covering all core attractions⏰ Jiuhuang Mountain photo experience, check-in spot guide📸 👥 Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, cultural travelers 💰 Budget range: CNY 300–500 per person 🌸 Best season: All year round; enjoy flowers in spring, escape the heat in summer, see red leaves in autumn, and play in the snow in winter ✨ Trip highlights Features alpine caves, sea of clouds, and Qiang ethnic customs, with unique experiences in every season🌿 🚄 High-speed train: Take a high-speed train to Jiangyou Station (note: not Jiangyou North Station). After exiting, it takes about 40 mins by taxi to reach the scenic area directly, or about CNY 60 for a shared ride. 🚌 Bus: There are buses from Mianyang Pingzheng Bus Station that pass by Jiuhuang Mountain. The fare is about CNY 20, and the trip takes about 1 hour. Local taxi drivers say that taking the Jiumian Expressway frontage road during holidays avoids traffic jams and is about 20 mins faster than the main road. ⏰ 8:00 AM–10:00 AM: Arrive at the scenic area, enter, and take the cable car to the front mountain At 10:00 AM, walking on the forest path outside Ape King Cave, sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, and the air is filled with the scent of soil and plants. ⏰ 10:00 AM–12:00 PM: Visit Ape King Cave and Lovers' Bridge ⏰ 12:00 PM–1:30 PM: Lunch and rest at the front mountain service area ⏰ 1:30 PM–4:30 PM: Experience the glass bridge, then take the cable car to the back mountain At 3:00 PM, climbing to the hillside of the back mountain, the mountain breeze is very cool, and you can hear birds chirping in the distant forest. ⏰ 4:30 PM–6:00 PM: Stroll along the Er'ma Ancient Trail, visit the First Watchtower of Western Qiang, and watch the sunset over the sea of clouds ⏰ 11:30 AM–1:00 PM: Sightseeing at the Cloud Farm ⏰ 1:00 PM–3:00 PM: Free time for photos and strolling before returning 🍶 Qiang Zazha Wine: A traditional Qiang drink with a sweet and mellow taste; experience the authentic local customs. 🥘 Qiang-style meal: Local home-style flavors paired with various wild mountain vegetables; authentic taste. ⛺ Cloud Farm in the scenic area: Luxury glamping tents are about CNY 500–800/night, offering views of the alpine sunrise and sea of clouds for a great experience. 🏡 Around the back mountain Qiang village: Unique homestays are about CNY 300–500/night, allowing you to experience the local Qiang lifestyle up close. 🌟 Cloud Farm: An open alpine platform where you can easily take stunning, layered photos of the mountain landscape. 📸 First Watchtower of Western Qiang: Climb up for a panoramic view and capture the complete landscape of the valley and sea of clouds. 🌸 Huaxi Scenic Area: During the magnolia blooming season in spring, the mountains are covered in pink and white flowers, perfect for photos. ⏰ The scenic area is open from 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entry stops at 6:00 PM, and the cable car stops operating at 5:30 PM. Please plan your visit accordingly. 🐶 Visitors with pets should check the scenic area's policy in advance, as pets are prohibited in some areas. 🧴 Protection: UV rays are strong in the mountains, so bring sunscreen and a sun hat. 👟 Shoes: We recommend wearing comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes for easier climbing and walking. 🎫 Discounts: Visitors eligible for free or half-price tickets should remember to bring the original copies of their relevant documents. The overall experience in the scenic area is quite comfortable. We recommend planning your itinerary reasonably, paying attention to weather changes, and preparing for your trip.

Stunned by Jiangyou, Mianyang✨ Head to the City of Li Bai's Poetry | Eat pork intestines, visit Fantawild, and enjoy an immersive garden-style stay As summer heat fades and autumn slowly arrives🍂 With a gentle breeze blowing along the Fu River, early autumn in Jiangyou has just the right vibe. As the hometown of the legendary poet Li Bai for over a thousand years, this small city in northern Sichuan possesses both a long-standing poetic heritage and a vibrant, bustling local life🎇. Without excessive noise, the pace is relaxed and laid-back, making it perfect for short trips within Sichuan, family vacations, and light business travel. When you come to Jiangyou, why not keep a date with an autumn garden tour🌿? Taibai Park is lush with greenery, the river flows slowly, and strolling through it allows you to feel the comfort of autumn; the adjacent Li Bai Memorial Hall is full of ancient charm, where you can experience the cultural heritage of the "Poet Immortal" everywhere. A short trip away, you can unlock a variety of ways to play🎡: head to Fantawild for a fun time, check in at the Qinglian Li Bai Former Residence to read about human history; or head to Doutuan Mountain and Jiuhuang Mountain to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of northern Sichuan. A journey is incomplete without food😋. The city center is full of business districts and numerous street food options. Try the signature Jiangyou pork intestines, savory dry pots, and local clay pot dishes in turn to experience the authentic flavors of this small city. To have fun, you must also stay comfortably. We recommend this garden hotel hidden in the city center👉Jiangyou International Hotel (Jiangyou High-speed Railway Station Branch), which enjoys a piece of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle, making it a great choice for a stay in the City of Poetry. The hotel is located in a prime location in the city, with an elegant courtyard, dense greenery, and well-arranged scenery🌳. Walking into the grounds, the fatigue and irritability of the journey slowly dissipate, allowing you to enjoy the quiet time of autumn. There is a rich variety of room types to choose from🛏️. The rooms are spacious and transparent, with simple and elegant decoration, and are equipped with complete facilities such as high-speed WiFi. ▫️Garden View Room: Open the window to see the greenery of the courtyard, suitable for quiet rest ▫️River View Room: With an open view, you can see both sides of the Fu River and quietly enjoy the city twilight ▫️Family Themed Room: Anime themes such as Super Wings, Cars, and My Little Pony are available, with exclusive bedding and complete children's amenities, offering a great experience for family vacations. The hotel's dining facilities are complete🍽️. The buffet breakfast has a rich variety, and you can taste local specialties for lunch and dinner, satisfying different taste buds. It is also a great place for banquets and meetings. It has a grand multi-functional banquet hall that can host wedding banquets, birthday banquets, corporate annual meetings, and business conferences; private rooms are suitable for small private gatherings with friends and family. Leisure facilities are complete💪, including a gym, chess and card room, KTV, and business center, catering to both leisure entertainment and business office needs. It provides 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and laundry services; and is equipped with plenty of free parking spaces, making self-driving travel more worry-free. A city of poetic charm, a city full of life🏮. Stay in the city center to embrace the urban prosperity, and enter the garden to enjoy quiet happiness. This early autumn, meet in the hometown of Li Bai, stay at the Jiangyou International Hotel, and experience a cozy and comfortable stay amidst the mountains, rivers, and local life.