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

Start in Qufu – visit the Three Confucian Sites (Confucius Temple, Mansion, and Forest) . Enjoy Kong Family Cuisine for lunch . Drive to Nishan Sacredland for the massive Confucius statue and the "Golden Sound and Jade Vibration" night show . Day 2: Head to Jining City – stroll the Grand Canal Core Scenic Area at sunset, then climb Taibai Tower to honor the poet Li Bai . Tips: Book a guide at the San Kong for deeper insights . May–October is best . Try Weishan Lake fish soup and braised pork with rice . Zàijiàn (再见)!

Apricot blossoms in many parts of Shandong have entered their peak blooming period, with the best time for flower viewing from late March to mid-April. The Zhangxia Ten-Thousand-Mu Imperial Apricot Garden in Jinan stretches for thirty miles, with a sea of pink and white flowers creating a poetic scene of "thirty miles of apricot blossoms in one color." In Shixia Village, apricot blossoms cover the hills and wrap around rustic farmhouses, offering a quiet and healing atmosphere. Qianfoshan Mountain, Laiwu Woyunpu, and Shanghe Huairenwa Licun ancient apricot forests each have their unique charm. In Qingdao's Chengyang Shaoshan Community, 100,000 apricot trees are scattered across the mountains, with special varieties like "Shaoshan Red" adorning the green hills; Laoshan apricot blossoms bloom along the mountains, reflecting the lush greenery and streams; places like Chaoran Village in Xifu Town and Laohushan Park bloom in succession. In Zibo, Boshan Jiulongyu, Nanlu Town, and Tanxi Mountain Scenic Area feature elegant apricot blossoms fluttering, harmonizing beautifully with the unique mountains and waters. In Yantai, the Ten-Mile Apricot Blossom Valley in Muping winds along the valley for dozens of miles, while General Valley and Longkou Nanshan Scenic Area paint a pastoral picture with apricot blossoms and smoke from farmhouses. In Weifang, Qingzhou Apricot Blossom Village and Linqu Songshan Beihuanggu Ancient Apricot Forest bloom like clouds and rosy clouds, with red and pink gradually blending like drifting snow. In Jining, the apricot blossoms at Qufu Xingtan and Nishan Sacred Site complement ancient buildings, blending Confucian culture with floral shadows; Liangshan’s "Ten-Mile Apricot Blossom Village" and Zoucheng Shanwo Village fully display the cultural spring atmosphere. Rizhao Wulian Tuoshigou hosts flower viewing season events, where apricot blossoms are arranged with varying density among mountain villages and farmhouses. In Linyi, Datianzhuang in Feixian, Zhugé Town in Yishui, and Bianqiao’s thousand-mu apricot forest spread across the Yimeng Mountains and waters, with apricot blossoms along Wenhe Road resembling animated clouds and rosy clouds. Come to Shandong for a gentle "apricot snow" rendezvous and start your unique journey!

enjoy your journey through peaceful atmospheres.

#tripaway Beautiful place, great food, adventure like non. such a great place to be. #maldivestravel #tripaway

This city with spiritual characteristic is called Jining. It is very interesting to see the temple and the praying site as well as some old texts. You can instantly feel the cultural atmosphere of this city which is heavily influenced by the buddhism. #merrychristmas #merrychristmas

8️⃣ Guangzhou | Guangdong The essence of budget travel in Guangzhou isn’t in Zhujiang New Town but in the alleys of the old city. Go to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall at 8 AM. The ticket is 10 yuan. You can spend an hour admiring the brick carvings and gray sculptures. Remember to bring your ID card; no entry without it. Afterward, walk along Zhongshan 7th Road to Longjin West Road and pick any rice roll shop. A 6-yuan vegetarian rice roll with a 2-yuan soy milk is much more satisfying than the 30-yuan dim sum in malls. In the afternoon, take the subway to Canton Tower but don’t go up. Walking along the Pearl River at the tower’s base is free. After 5 PM, the lighting is perfect to capture the tower’s color changes. Chimelong tickets are expensive; if your budget is tight, don’t force it. For water fun, go to Dafu Mountain Forest Park, which is free, shady, and cool after 3 PM. Stay in chain hostels in Liwan or Yuexiu districts. Beds cost 50 to 70 yuan, and the subway makes getting around easy. ⚠️ Guangzhou subway is packed during rush hour, making you question life. Avoid 8–9 AM if traveling with kids. 1️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan–Central Plains Buddha Scenic Area tickets plus shuttle bus cost just over 100 yuan but are worth every penny. The Buddha is 208 meters tall. Looking up from its feet will strain your neck but is awe-inspiring. It’s best to visit the Buddha in the morning. For lunch, have a bowl of huimian noodles at the entrance for 15 yuan—enough for two people. In the afternoon, hike Yaoshan. Don’t take the cable car. The shaded trail takes two hours to reach the summit. It’s windy at the top, feeling about 5 degrees cooler than the base, making summer visits especially pleasant. 🚄 Taxi from Pingdingshan West Station to the scenic area costs about 40 yuan. Carpooling is cheaper. ⚠️ Ignore incense sellers inside the park. At the entrance, 10 yuan for three bundles; inside, prices double. For elderly or kids, the round-trip cable car is 120 yuan. It saves effort but costs more. Decide accordingly. 2️⃣ Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area tickets plus ferry cost 65 yuan. Student ID gets half price. The best activity on the island is renting an electric scooter for 30 yuan an hour. Ride along the coastline where the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. The Mazu ancestral temple opens at 7 AM. Arrive early to avoid crowds. The mix of incense and sea breeze is unique. For lunch, try seafood noodles near the pier for 20 yuan a bowl, with more toppings than noodles. In the afternoon, visit Ewei Shenshi Park, free entry. The sea-eroded rocks form various shapes, making better photo spots than the beach. ⚠️ Accommodation on the island is expensive. Stay in Putian city, where budget hotels cost about 150 yuan, then return to the island the next day. Summer UV rays are strong; reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Don’t skip it. 3️⃣ Haidong | Qinghai Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park and Youning Temple are close and can be visited in one day. The Homeland Park ticket is 60 yuan and includes Tu ethnic song and dance shows. When the wheel of autumn spins, the whole audience applauds. Honestly, it feels a bit commercial. To save money, just visit Youning Temple, which is free. It’s a Tibetan Buddhist temple so quiet you can hear the wind blowing prayer flags. Spin the prayer wheels clockwise. Don’t get it wrong. For lunch, have yak beef noodles in Huzhu County for 12 yuan. The broth is rich and meaty. In the afternoon, visit Beishan National Forest Park, free entry. At 2,800 meters elevation, you’ll need a jacket even in summer. It’s perfect for cooling off. ⚠️ Haidong is high altitude. Don’t shower on the first day to avoid altitude sickness. Stay in Huzhu County. Standard rooms cost 120 yuan and are clean. 4️⃣ Anshun | Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall tickets plus shuttle bus cost 180 yuan. It’s the priciest stop on this trip but worth it. Enter the park at 7:30 AM. Start at Duopotang, where it’s less crowded. The waterfall is wide, the mist refreshing. Then walk Tianxing Bridge. The second half is the highlight. The Silver Chain Waterfall hidden deep inside is often missed by visitors who turn back halfway. Finally, visit the main waterfall. You’ll have to queue for the Water Curtain Cave, but passing through it is thrilling. The roar is deafening, and you’ll get soaked. ⚠️ Raincoats cost 5 yuan at the entrance but 20 yuan inside the park. In the afternoon, visit Dragon Palace. Tickets are 100 yuan. Take a boat into the karst cave. Stalactites lit with lights make it feel like an underground world. Accommodation in Anshun city is cheap. You can find good places for 100 yuan. At night, go to Gufu Street for luoguo hot pot. It costs about 30 yuan per person. The crispy potato slices dipped in chili powder are amazing. 5️⃣ Fangchenggang | Guangxi Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is free and not fully commercialized yet. The houses are built with bluestone slabs, and the alleys are narrow. At the end is the sea. Go at 6 AM to watch fishermen haul in their nets. You can buy freshly caught crabs for 10 yuan per pound and have them cooked at a nearby food stall for 15 yuan. The freshness is unbelievable. In the afternoon, visit Fangchenggang coast. Avoid Bailang Beach because it’s crowded. Go to Monster Rock Beach instead. It’s free. The black rocks shine, and waves splash up to 2 meters high. ⚠️ The sun is strong at the beach. Avoid direct sun from 2 to 4 PM. Find shade and relax. Stay in the port area. Homestays cost about 150 yuan. At night, try Vietnamese rice rolls at the night market for 8 yuan a serving, served with fish sauce for a sweet and sour taste. 6️⃣ Jining | Shandong Qufu Ming Ancient City and the Three Confucian Sites combined ticket is 140 yuan. Students get half price. The Confucius Temple opens at 8 AM. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Ancient cypresses tower overhead, and the light and shadow on the ground look like paintings. You can visit the Confucius Mansion and Temple together in two hours. The Confucius Cemetery is outside the city and can be skipped. Its ticket is included but not worth it. For lunch, try braised pork with rice and pickles in Qufu city for 15 yuan. The pork belly is tender and filling. In the afternoon, visit Weishan Lake, free entry. Boat rides cost 30 yuan. When the lotus flowers bloom, the lake is full of pink and white, and the air smells of lotus leaves. ⚠️ Ignore tour guides soliciting at the Three Confucian Sites entrance. Just explore on your own. Accommodation in Jining city costs about 130 yuan. At night, go to Yunhe City for jia bing pancakes. They cost 6 yuan with egg and pork tenderloin filling and are a great value. 7️⃣ Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia Hulunbuir Grassland is free, but transportation is the main expense. Renting a car in Hailar costs 200 yuan a day plus fuel. It’s best to share with four people. There’s no signal on the grassland, so download offline maps in advance. Leave Hailar in the morning and drive two hours to the Jinzhanghan tribe. Don’t go inside; just take photos at the entrance. Keep driving and stop wherever the grass looks green. That’s true freedom. Have a picnic on the grassland for lunch. Bring bread and sausage with milk tea. The breeze will relax you completely. In the afternoon, visit Morigele River, free entry. The river winds like a ribbon. Climb a small hill for a wide view that makes you want to shout. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are abundant on the grassland. Wear long pants and sleeves and bring insect repellent. Stay in Hailar city. Hostel beds cost 60 yuan. At night, try hand-held mutton for 50 yuan per person. The meat is so tender you don’t need a knife. After visiting these eight cities, the cheapest are Putian and Fangchenggang, and the most impressive are Huangguoshu and Hulunbuir. A budget of 1,000 yuan is enough if you avoid impulse spending in scenic spots, choose hostels or budget hotels, and eat where locals do. Got any budget travel tips? Share them in the comments.

🍲 More than 20 years of old-fashioned Lu cuisine restaurant refreshes the perception of a meal! I thought it was just an ordinary home-cooked dish! However, it directly made me eat to my heart's content! Each dish is so fragrant that it licks the plate. It's the light of Lu cuisine✨ 🌟 Signature must-try: 🍗 Salted egg yolk chicken wings What kind of fairy combination is this! The chicken wings have a slightly burnt crust, and when you bite them open, they are all filled with the smell of salted egg yolk! It's oily and not greasy at all. I ate half the plate by myself! 😋 🦑Lao Qianma stir-fried squid It smells so good that I lick my fingers! The pan is directly pulled full 🔥 Savory and slightly spicy with white rice I can eat three bowls! It is recommended that this dish must be paired with a bowl of white rice! 🥘Sea sausage with rice The broth is thick and fresh and the sea sausage is handled particularly cleanly Every grain of rice is covered with delicious broth I couldn’t stop eating one spoonful after another! 🌟: This shop children's meals are super rich, bring children must eat! If not limited stomach really want to order all the menu 💯 📍Shop address: Navigate directly to "Lu's pimple soup" Jining old shop ⏰Opening Hours: 10pm - 9pm It is recommended to go early to eat. Popular dishes are easily sold out after 7pm!

No early wake-ups or rushing through check-in lines Leisurely stroll through the ancient city and historic sites, enjoy the evening breeze by the canal, and savor local snacks The hometown of Confucius and Mencius is seriously underrated! This comfort-focused, low-effort itinerary is ready to copy✅ 📌Before you go|Summer tips July and August are hot during the day. Avoid outdoor sun exposure from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM Prioritize going out early in the morning, hide in museums in the afternoon, and take evening walks ✅Essentials: sunscreen, sun hat, comfortable sneakers, small fan ✅Where to stay ▪️For easy access to food and sights: stay in Rencheng District, Jining (near Taibai Tower and Zhugan Alley). Plenty of food downstairs and close to the canal night view ▪️For a Qufu pilgrimage: stay near the Ming Ancient City in Qufu. The Three Confucian Sites are within walking distance, and many guesthouses offer free Hanfu rentals ✅Transportation: taxis and bike rides are convenient in the city; take the intercity bus between Jining and Qufu for great value 🗓️3 days 2 nights comfortable route|Relaxed pace with plenty of rest Day 1 Jining city|Leisurely walk in the old canal town Focus on resting and adjusting, no rush Arrive in the afternoon and check in, then rest in your room to avoid the midday heat Head out for a city walk after 4:30 PM ▫️Taibai Tower: free reservation required. Climb the tower to overlook the canal and feel the poetic vibe of Li Bai’s stay in Jining. One hour is enough ▫️Zhugan Alley: old Jining street full of local life. Browse small shops and try street snacks ▫️Canal memory historic district: wait until dark, stroll along the river, enjoy the lights, and if time allows, take a night cruise on the canal Dinner nearby with a bowl of authentic braised pork rice—tender and flavorful, with unlimited rice refills and soup 💡Key for today: relax and soak in the old canal town atmosphere Day 2 Qufu day trip|Three Confucian Sites + Nishan night tour, avoid peak crowds No need to rush early in the morning! Leave around 9:00 AM for Qufu ▫️Three Confucian Sites (Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, Confucius Cemetery) Recommended order: Confucius Temple → Confucius Mansion → Confucius Cemetery The cemetery is huge. Take the sightseeing shuttle as walking the whole area is very tiring. You can rent an audio guide to slowly listen to the historical stories. Have lunch in Qufu city. Try smoked tofu and Qufu pancakes. ❗Avoid the afternoon heat by resting at your guesthouse or visiting the Confucius Museum to cool off ▫️Confucius Museum|Free reservation! Large indoor exhibition halls with plenty of air conditioning. The collection has over 700,000 artifacts, perfect for spending a relaxed afternoon. Leave for Nishan Sacred Land after 4:00 PM. Evening entry is most comfortable See the 72-meter Confucius statue, explore the grand university hall, and experience the intangible cultural heritage of hand-copying the Analects. When night falls and the lights come on, the atmosphere is incredible. If timing works, catch the drone light show. Stay overnight in Qufu. Day 3 Leisurely slow tour|Off-the-beaten-path options + return trip Choose one of two routes, no need to do both 👉Option A Cultural route: Zoucheng Meng Mansion and Meng Temple Much quieter than the Three Confucian Sites. The ancient courtyards are peaceful and rustic, with fewer visitors—great for those who enjoy historic architecture. 👉Option B Relax and unwind: Taibai Lake Scenic Area A large urban lake perfect for lakeside walks and breezes. In summer, lotus flowers cover the lake, ideal for pure relaxation. Afterward, pick up some local specialties and head back at your own pace. 🍜Must-try local foods|Favorites locals often eat without risk ▪️Braised pork rice: pork belly with rolled pancakes, filling and affordable at just a few dollars. The best value is found in old neighborhood shops ▪️Jining stuffed pancake: a street snack treasure, fried skewers wrapped in pancakes, priced at 7–10 yuan each ▪️San soup: top breakfast choice, bone broth with egg drop, paired with steamed dumplings for a comforting meal ▪️Frog fish: sweet and sour, refreshing summer snack, perfect for cooling down ▪️Confucius Mansion cuisine: try specialty dishes like Yipin tofu and Shili ginkgo, no need to eat them every meal ⚠️Tips for laid-back travelers to avoid pitfalls 1. The Three Confucian Sites, Confucius Museum, and Taibai Tower all require advance online reservations. Check for Monday closures. 2. Don’t trust scalpers selling cheap combo tickets at scenic entrances. Buy tickets through official channels for peace of mind. 3. For meals, head toward residential areas. Shops near scenic spots tend to be overpriced. 4. Feel free to cut or skip any part of the itinerary! If you don’t want to go out, just relax at your guesthouse. No need to check off every attraction. 5. Food and drinks inside Nishan Sacred Land are pricey. Bring some snacks and water with you. Overall impression: Jining is not overly commercialized, prices are reasonable, and the cultural heritage is rich. No intense rushing required. Take your time to enjoy the hometown of Confucius and Mencius and the charm of the canal. Perfect for students and friends traveling together.

People say August is only survivable with air conditioning, but there are actually many places in China where you need a quilt at night. After checking temperature records for half a month, I picked these 8 destinations with an average temperature below 25℃. They include the northeast, plateaus, islands, and even a small city in Hubei you wouldn’t expect. 01 Changchun | Jilin Changchun’s coolness is dry and fresh, with a pine needle scent. Going out around 7 or 8 AM feels just over 20 degrees, and short sleeves can even feel a bit chilly. 📍 The Puppet Manchurian Palace Museum is best visited in the morning before the sun gets too strong. The outdoor architecture is worth seeing first. The grounds are well landscaped, with apricot and pine trees shading the paths, making for a comfortable walk. Tickets are 70 yuan. ⚠️ Entry stops at 4 PM, so don’t arrive too late. At noon, when the sun is strongest, head straight to Changchun World Sculpture Park. It’s large and not crowded. Find a bench in the shade and lie down for half an hour. The breeze is so pleasant you won’t want to move. Tickets are 30 yuan, half price for students. 🍜 In the evening, go to Guilin Road near Changying Century City for a bowl of Korean cold noodles. The broth has ice chips and a sour-spicy kick that hits the spot—this is the right way to enjoy a northeast summer. Save Jingyuetan for the next morning. Rent a bike and circle the lake, which is 96% forested. The deeper you go, the cooler it gets. 02 Jining | Shandong Jining’s coolness comes from water. A breeze off Weishan Lake instantly disperses the heat. 📍 The shade at Qufu Ming Ancient City (the Three Confucian Sites) is like natural air conditioning. Ancient cypresses tower in the Confucius Temple, and walking along the central axis keeps you mostly out of the sun. ⏰ Arrive right at 8:30 AM when it opens. Tour groups haven’t arrived yet, and the main hall is empty. You can hear the wind ringing the copper bells under the eaves. The combined ticket is 140 yuan. ⚠️ Closed Monday morning, opens in the afternoon. In the afternoon, head to the Weishan Lake tourist area. Take a boat into the reed marshes. The lake breeze mixed with water vapor cools you down by about 5 degrees instantly. Boat tickets are around 60 yuan. Ask the boatman to go deeper where the lotus flowers are densest for great photos. 🍜 For dinner by the lake, try stewed fish with flatbread. The fish is tender and the bread crispy. One portion is enough for two. Jining’s coolness has a price—the temperature difference between morning and night is large. It’s cool by the lake in the evening, so bring a light jacket. 03 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia August in Hohhot offers the dual coolness of grasslands and canyons. 📍 Lao Niuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon is best visited in the afternoon. The Yellow River makes a sharp bend here, and the stone cliffs on both sides are wind-eroded with layered textures. Standing on the viewing platform, the river breeze is dry and cool, a world apart from the humid heat of the south. Tickets are 40 yuan. ⚠️ There is no shade in the park, so avoid noon heat. Early the next day, visit the Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area. The grassland is high altitude, with temperatures only in the teens in the morning and evening. Wearing a windbreaker is not an exaggeration. ⏰ The best time is 6 AM. The sunrise turns the grass tips golden, and the dew is still wet and cool underfoot. The park is free. Renting a horse for half an hour costs 80 yuan. 🍜 In the city, try Gerile Ama Milk Tea House. Their pot tea includes roasted rice and milk skin, salty and rich. One bowl warms you up completely. Hohhot’s coolness is dry, so sun protection is essential, but you don’t have to worry about stuffy heat. 04 Lhasa | Tibet Lhasa’s coolness is unique to the plateau—hot under the sun but refreshingly cool in the shade. 📍 The Potala Palace must be booked a day in advance via the official WeChat account. Tickets are 200 yuan. ⏰ The first entry is at 9 AM. There are many steps and the altitude is high, so take it slow and rest often. From the top, the wind is strong enough to blow off your hat, but the view is spectacular. In the afternoon, visit Jokhang Temple. The clockwise flow of pilgrims on Barkhor Street is constant. The scent of butter lamps mixes with barley fragrance. ⚠️ No photos or touching the Buddha statues inside the temple. Tickets are 85 yuan. Closes at 5:30 PM. 🍜 Spend a full day at Namtso Lake. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Lhasa, at 4,700 meters altitude. The wind by the lake is strong, so wear fleece even in August. The lake’s blue is unreal, with snow-capped mountains clearly visible in the distance. Shared rides cost about 200 yuan per person round trip. ⚠️ Don’t run or jump by the lake—altitude sickness is serious. 05 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The coolness around Qinghai Lake comes from the altitude. Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture averages over 3,000 meters above sea level. In August, daytime temperatures are just over 20 degrees, and nights drop below 10 degrees. 📍 Riyue Mountain is the gateway to Tibet, at 3,520 meters altitude. It’s windy, green, and cloudy. Standing on the summit feels like you can touch the clouds. Tickets are 40 yuan. ⏰ The light is best after 3 PM. Backlit silhouettes are stunning. 📍 Guide National Geopark offers a different scene—red Danxia landforms glow under the sun, but the mountain breeze quickly cools you down. The park is large with hiking routes of varying lengths. ⚠️ The short route is recommended; 1.5 hours is enough. The long route is hot and tiring. Tickets are 80 yuan. Sightseeing bus is 20 yuan. 🍜 Don’t miss the niangpi noodles and yogurt in Guide County. The local yogurt is strongly sour. Add a spoonful of sugar for a cool, refreshing taste. The coolness here is “hot in the sun, cold in the shade,” so both sun protection and a jacket are essential. 06 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Zhoushan’s coolness relies entirely on sea breezes. On the island in August, it’s cool when the wind blows during the day, and you need a quilt at night. 📍 Putuo Mountain Scenic Area tickets are 160 yuan; boat tickets are extra. The island has many trees and temples and is windy. The best route is simple—visit the South Sea Guanyin statue in the morning, then walk to Fayu Temple. Have a vegetarian lunch at the temple (10 yuan fills you up), then go to Qianbasha Beach in the afternoon. ⚠️ Prices on the island are high. Bring two bottles of water. 📍 Gouqi Island and Shengsi Archipelago are better for overnight stays. Gouqi Island’s seawater is blue-green, comparable to Southeast Asia. Shengsi Archipelago’s Jihu Beach is one of East China’s largest beaches, with bonfire parties at night. 🚄 The ferry from Shanghai Nanpu Bridge Passenger Terminal to Shengsi Lizhushan Pier takes about 4 hours. Tickets are just over 100 yuan. 🍜 Seafood noodles are a must on the island. One bowl is piled with shrimp, crab, and shellfish. At 35 yuan, it’s so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows fall off. ⏰ At 6 PM by the sea, barefoot on fine sand, the water is warm and the sea breeze cool. The mix of hot and cold is extremely comfortable. 07 Nanning | Guangxi Nanning’s coolness hides deep in the mountains. The city is indeed hot, but an hour outside, the temperature drops immediately. 📍 Fubo Temple is by the Yu River in Heng County, built against the mountain. The river rushes in front, and ancient trees tower behind. Sitting on the stone steps in front of the temple, the river breeze passes through the shade, sending coolness from your feet upward. ⚠️ The temple is small. One hour is enough, making it a good addition to nearby trips. Qingxiu Mountain in Nanning is also a summer escape. Tickets are 20 yuan. The mountain has large cycad and palm groves with extensive shade. ⏰ Go up at 5 PM to watch the sunset by Tianchi Lake. The city’s heat is blocked by greenery at the mountain’s base. 🍜 At night in the city, try the sour snacks at Zhongshan Road Night Market—mango, pineapple, and guava mixed with chili salt. The sour, spicy, and refreshing taste costs 10 yuan per portion. Eating while walking makes the heat bearable. Nanning’s coolness requires some searching, but once you find the right spot, it feels great. 08 Huanggang | Hubei Huanggang making the list might surprise many. But the coolness in the heart of the Dabie Mountains is real. 📍 Luotian Tiantangzhai is 1,729 meters above sea level. In August, it’s 30 degrees at the foot and just over 20 degrees at the top. Take the cable car up (one way 60 yuan). After the cable car, walk the glass plank road with a sheer drop below. The mountain wind howls, bringing a thrilling chill. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes quickly. Always carry a raincoat. Temperatures drop sharply when it rains. 📍 Macheng Guifeng Mountain is famous for rhododendrons, but in August it’s a summer retreat. The mountain has large areas of primeval forest, and the trails are fully shaded, like a natural air-conditioned room. Tickets are 60 yuan. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the mist still lingers, making the mountain look like a fairyland. 🍜 The hanging pot stew at the foot of the mountain is a must-try—cured meat, tofu, and potatoes stewed together. Sitting around the stove, you get warmer the more you eat, but the cool breeze outside makes you reluctant to leave. Huanggang’s coolness is mountain coolness, perfect for a two-day stay with a night in a mountain guesthouse, where you’ll need a light quilt at night. Which of these 8 places do you most want to visit? Or share your own favorite summer escape in the comments.

People often say traveling with kids in August is just paying to suffer—too many people, too hot, and your wallet takes a hit. But that’s not always true. After digging through half a month of guides, I found 8 seriously underrated cool places. They have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and best of all, they won’t break the bank. Instead of going to popular cities and seeing the backs of people’s heads, take your kids to these spots for a relaxed summer escape. 01 Jinzhou | Liaoning Half of Jinzhou’s charm is in the sea breeze, the other half in the mountains. When you bring kids here, don’t rush to squeeze into Bijia Mountain. Drive straight to Yiwulü Mountain. The shade is dense, the streams are cool, and walking up the stone steps feels several degrees cooler than downtown. ⏰ Arrive at the mountain gate before 9 AM. The air is full of the scent of plants. Kids run ahead chasing butterflies while you follow at a relaxed pace, no exhaustion at all. The mountain isn’t steep, so kids as young as 5 or 6 can climb partway on their own. When tired, find a stone bench to sit, munch on a cucumber, and listen to the cicadas. 🍜 Don’t rush down. Head to Beizhen city to find an old shop selling Gou Bangzi smoked chicken. The meat is firm and gets more flavorful the more you chew. Kids tearing into it is way better than snacks. ⚠️ Remember, the mountain has fierce mosquitoes. Bring long pants and insect repellent. Don’t ask me how I know. 02 Changde | Hunan Many don’t know Changde hides a place even more like Tao Yuanming’s Peach Blossom Spring. The Taohuayuan scenic area isn’t a fake ancient town. It really has mountains, water, and fields where kids can run wild. I suggest taking the electric cart straight to Qin Valley. The area is open with streams and farmland. Kids can take off their shoes and splash in the cool water, reluctant to get out after a long time. Adults can sip tea in the nearby pavilion while the breeze carries the scent of lotus leaves. 📍 Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant in the park. Order a bowl of lei tea with a few side dishes. Kids get fresh food, and you get a break. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light softens. Walk along Qin Creek. The water reflects scattered gold, perfect for photos. ⚠️ The park has many steps, so strollers are inconvenient. Use a baby carrier or rent an electric cart. 03 Handan | Hebei Handan is often overlooked, but a trip with kids here offers two completely different experiences. In the morning, visit Guangfu Ancient City. Don’t enter from the south gate where tour groups gather. Enter from the east gate and walk slowly along the city wall. The old gray brick walls warmed by the sun feel rough to the touch. Kids can feel the passage of time. There’s a place in town that makes crispy fish with bones so tender kids can chew easily. In the afternoon, head to Wa Huang Palace, a cliffside complex that will make kids say “wow.” ⏰ After 5 PM, when tourists leave, the sunset turns the palace orange. Standing halfway up the mountain, the breeze is cool and the heart is calm. ⚠️ The palace stairs are steep. Hold your child’s hand tightly and don’t get distracted by taking photos. 04 Foshan | Guangdong Summer in Guangdong is really hot, but Foshan has its own way to stay cool. In the morning, visit Qinghui Garden. The charm of Lingnan gardens is in the details—rockeries, lotus ponds, corridors. The indoor and outdoor temperature difference can be 5 to 6 degrees. Kids love running back and forth on the Nine-Bend Bridge watching koi fight for food, entertained for half an hour without getting bored. In the afternoon, when the sun is strongest, avoid the outdoors and go to Xiqiao Mountain. Don’t be mistaken—the mountain has the Cuiyan ancient trail lined with century-old banyan trees. Their canopies block the sky completely, making it feel like a natural air-conditioned room. 🍜 After descending, find a dessert shop in Chancheng District and order a bowl of chilled coconut sago. Kids slurp it nonstop. ⚠️ Qinghui Garden is very crowded on weekends. Visit on a weekday if possible. 05 Suizhou | Hubei Suizhou is truly low-key, so much that many don’t know it has Dahong Mountain, a summer retreat gem. The mountain’s high elevation means temperatures are much cooler than downtown. At night, you even need a light blanket. When bringing kids, stay in a mountain guesthouse. Open the window in the morning to see misty valleys. Kids will excitedly call you to watch the sea of clouds. During the day, walk the trails surrounded by bamboo and pine forests. The sound of wind through the treetops is better than any white noise. 📍 Halfway up is Bailong Pool, with water so clear you can see the bottom. Kids crouch by the edge catching small fish, playing all afternoon. ⏰ The most comfortable time is 2 to 3 PM when sunlight filters through leaves like scattered gold on the ground. ⚠️ Signal is weak on the mountain. Download cartoons in advance to keep kids entertained. 06 Suzhou | Jiangsu Suzhou’s beauty is something to savor slowly, especially with older kids who can appreciate garden design. In the morning, visit Tiger Hill. Don’t rush up the hill. Walk through the bamboo forest at the base first, where cool air hits your face. Climb to Yunyan Temple Pagoda. Kids will be curious why the leaning tower tilts. It’s a perfect chance to tell an 800-year-old story. For lunch, find a noodle shop outside the park and order a bowl of Fengzhen pork noodles. The broth is so rich it’ll make your eyebrows drop. In the afternoon, visit Hanshan Temple. Don’t just focus on the main hall. Take kids to the bell tower behind. For 10 yuan, strike the bell three times—“dong—dong—dong”—the long echo teaches kids what a midnight bell sounds like better than any lecture. ⚠️ The Humble Administrator’s Garden is too crowded. Avoid it with small kids. The Lingering Garden is quieter and twice as enjoyable. 07 Jining | Shandong Summer in Jining is best split in two. Half culture, half water. In the morning, visit the Ming Ancient City in Qufu. The ancient cypresses in the Confucius Temple tower high, casting thick shade. Kids walking on the bluestone feel a solemn quiet. Don’t expect little kids to understand, but the atmosphere will stay in their memory. In the afternoon, head to Weishan Lake, the real playground for kids. Take a boat into the lake. The breeze carries the fresh scent of lotus leaves. Kids lean over the boat watching water birds take flight, clapping excitedly. 🍜 Have a full fish feast by the lake at dinner. The fish ball soup is fresh and sweet, fried lotus flowers are crispy, and kids get messy eating. ⏰ August is peak lotus season, with the lake full of pink and white blooms. Missing it would be a shame. ⚠️ UV rays are strong on the lake. Apply sunscreen thickly on kids. 08 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan’s summer has big temperature swings between morning and night. Even if it’s hot during the day, it cools down as soon as the sun sets. In the morning, visit Tianlong Mountain. The winding mountain road is mostly shaded by pine forests. Halfway up, roll down the car window and breathe in the sweet fresh air. The Buddha statues in the grottoes have been silent for thousands of years. Kids might not understand, but the solemnity will naturally quiet them. In the afternoon, visit Jin Temple, my top pick for kids in Taiyuan. The water at Nanlao Spring stays the same temperature year-round. When kids touch it, the coolness runs from fingertips to elbows, making them exclaim “wow.” 📍 The temple has many ancient trees, each over a thousand years old. Kids can’t even hug one. In the evening, go to Jinyang Lake Park. Rent a four-person bike and ride slowly around the lake. The sunset turns the water golden, and the breeze blows away the day’s heat. ⚠️ The road down Tianlong Mountain has many curves. Apply motion sickness patches in advance for kids prone to car sickness.

I was invited to a birthday banquet here 🎉, and I honestly never expected to find a hotel in Yanzhou that feels like a hidden paradise! I highly recommend it 🔥! The lobby on the first floor seemed pretty average at first (I even wondered if I was in the wrong place…? 🤣), but the floor decals are a total visual highlight. One side is black and the other is red—it's so creative! It feels like the path of life: one step is a struggle, the next is a success. Naturally, I chose the red side because I want every step to be great! ‼️ There’s an adorable little dog in the elevator that just melts your heart! 🐶 The weather in Yanzhou today is gorgeous too, making the whole experience even better. Regarding the environment: the Radisson RED Jining Yanzhou is truly impressive! It has everything from a gym and laundry room to a bar, plus plenty of activities to enjoy. There are tons of lounge areas, and even though they’re open-plan, every spot is so thoughtfully arranged that it still feels private—perfect for couples! 💑 And the food—oh my god, it’s amazing! I was just repeating "so good, so good, so good" on a loop 🔁. The cocktails and snacks are perfect! While strolling through the garden, I saw a large group of cosplayers taking photos 📸. Every corner is stunning—it’s genuinely a photographer's dream! The environment and design are top-tier. The lighting during the banquet last night added a whole different vibe, making the atmosphere even more incredible! In short, Radisson RED Jining Yanzhou offers a true one-stop vacation experience. It’s incredibly photogenic and offers amazing value! Don't miss out on this place next time you're in Yanzhou! 📍Radisson RED Jining Yanzhou Address: 27th Floor, No. 116 Jianshe Middle Road, Yanzhou District, Jining, Shandong Province

Shuipo Liangshan is located in Jining, Shandong. If you want to witness a thousand years of human history and billions of years of natural change, this place is a perfect example. In ancient times, this vast marshland was on the edge of the old Yellow River. After multiple course changes and sediment deposits, the once vast 800-li expanse of misty waves has mostly disappeared, leaving only scattered hills and waters, a vivid testament to the passage of time and nature’s transformation. Stepping into Liangshan is like diving straight into the world of Water Margin. The mighty Black Wind Pass and the grand Loyalty Hall stand clearly before you, while famous sites like Qingfeng Fort and Jingyang Ridge unfold one after another; climbing high and looking far, the distant mountains and plains stretch out in full view, instantly opening your mind and refreshing your spirit. The scenic area regularly stages live Water Margin performances that you can watch, enjoy, and even participate in immersively. The natural scenery and thousand-year cultural heritage blend and complement each other perfectly. Pause to carefully read Fan Zeng’s cliff inscription of Shuipo Liangshan, then admire the expressive landscape paintings that capture the heroic spirit of the outlaws. The strong sense of martial valor and loyalty fills the air—this visit is truly worthwhile.

When the city is wrapped in a scorching heatwave, the southern mountainous area of Jinan hides a natural summer retreat—Jiuru Mountain waterfall cluster. With 97% forest coverage blocking out the heat, the mountain air is 5–8℃ cooler than the city. A 10-li (about 3-mile) solid wood boardwalk winds along the valley. Eight pools, nine waterfalls, and 24 springs scatter throughout the forest. Mountain springs rush, and the sea of trees is lush, hiding summer’s coolness in every stream and waterfall. No need to travel far—take a short escape for a healing experience with the forest and streams. ✨Must-see highlights in the wilderness ▫️ Rainforest flower valley | A real-life green fairyland where mist drifts over flowers and plants, light fog lingers in the valley, and lush greenery and blooms fill the view. Walking through it brings a refreshing coolness, perfect for capturing forest-themed photos. ▫️ Tianxin waterfall & deep pool waterfall area | Summer brings abundant water flow as waterfalls cascade down cliffs, creating mist and, on sunny days, rainbows in the mountains. A clear blue pool nestled in the forest reveals the bottom of the spring. Listen to the roar of the waterfall and feel the cool mist on your face. ▫️ 10-li solid wood boardwalk | Built along the mountain, this wooden path connects the entire valley with gentle slopes, no intense climbing needed. Follow the stream, stop and go, enjoy the views, listen to the springs, and breathe fresh air. Suitable for all ages. ▫️ Stream tracing and fish catching area & infinity pool | Summer-exclusive fun. Roll up your pants and step into the shallow stream valley to play in the mountain spring water and try catching fish. The wilderness infinity pool is surrounded by forest, offering an immersive mountain water experience. ▫️ Art and culture town handcraft workshop | After hiking and playing in the water, visit the mountain cabin to try dozens of crafts like aromatherapy, sachets, and plant printing. Turn the scent of wild plants into small gifts you can take home and enjoy the mountain time slowly. ▫️ **Wilderness night event (weekends only)** | As night falls, enjoy live bands, bonfires, and fireworks. The evening breeze flows through the forest, far from city lights, offering a romantic and lively valley celebration. If you have time, staying overnight is highly recommended. 🚶‍♂️ Comfortable August itinerary (one-day trip) Morning | Arrive at the scenic area and head to the rainforest flower valley for an immersive misty forest experience and photo ops Noon | Visit the art and culture town for crafts, enjoy a light meal in the mountain cabin, and rest to avoid the midday heat Afternoon | Walk up the boardwalk to Tianxin waterfall and various clear pools and waterfalls. Stop anytime to cool off in the water Evening | Head down to the fish catching and water play area to enjoy the water and evening breeze in the forest On weekends, stay until night to experience the bonfire and fireworks party before heading back 💡 Travel tips | Avoid common pitfalls ▪️ Transportation: About 1 hour by car from downtown Jinan, about 2.5 hours from Jining; parking available at the scenic area ▪️ Clothing: Non-slip water shoes recommended for wading; light-colored clothes for photos; bring sunscreen and insect repellent as there are many mosquitoes in the forest ▪️ Items: Bring a change of clothes if you plan to play in the water; small buckets or nets allowed in the fish catching area ▪️ Tickets: Admission includes most craft experiences. One-time purchase grants lifetime access. Confirm policy before entering ▪️ Physical demand: The boardwalk is gentle with no intense climbing. Walk and play at your own pace, no need to rush to the top ▪️ Food: Restaurants and snack cabins are available in the scenic area offering simple mountain meals. You can also bring some snacks ▪️ Reminder: Weekends in summer are busy, so start early. There is a temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, with cool evenings. Bring a light jacket Mountain winds pass through the sea of trees, and spring water babbles. Here, there is no city noise or heat, only endless greenery and flowing water. Leave your worries to the wilderness, let the mountain springs wash away the summer heat, and feel the unique mountain romance of Shandong🌿

01 Jiaozuo | Henan In summer, Jiaozuo's true trump card is Yuntai Mountain. Don't associate Jiaozuo with coal mines; the steam rising from Hongshixia Gorge makes the perceived temperature five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city. ⏰ Head to Hongshixia Gorge at 8 AM. The boardwalks haven't been taken over by tour groups yet. The sound of the waterfall drowns out all other noises, and the moment the water splashes on your face, you'll feel like air conditioning is unnecessary. After walking through the gorge, don't rush off. Take the scenic shuttle bus to Zhuyu Peak. At an altitude of 1300 meters, the wind will make you need to dig your jacket out of your bag. In the afternoon, head to Qingtian River. Take a boat trip through the gorge; the water reflects a green light, and the trees on both banks completely block the sun, making the boat a natural fan. Shennong Mountain is more suitable for those who enjoy climbing stairs. The boardwalk on Baisongling is suspended on the cliff face, with a bottomless abyss below. The wind is strong enough to instantly dry your sweat. ⚠️ Remember, rain in the mountains can come suddenly; a light raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. For accommodation, choose the riverside service area; it's close to the scenic area entrance. In the evening, grab a bowl of Henan-style braised noodles—about 30 yuan per person, and you'll be stuffed. 🚄 The high-speed train from Zhengzhou East Station to Jiaozuo only takes 40 minutes; two days on a weekend are enough to visit all three places. 02 Zhuzhou|Hunan In Zhuzhou's summer, to escape the heat, head south to Yanling County. The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum itself isn't a mountain, but the entire scenic area is enveloped by ancient trees. Camphor and cypress trees filter the sunlight into fragments, making it almost completely shaded while walking along the sacred path. ⏰ Entering after 3 PM is the most comfortable; the light slants through the treetops, creating stunning photos of the red walls and yellow tiles in the shadows. The sacrificial square in front of the hall is spacious, but don't just stand there. Go around to the stele forest on the back mountain; it's less crowded there, and the sound of the wind whistling through the cracks in the rocks is quieter than any guided tour. 🍜 Don't rush off afterward; the Hakka stuffed tofu and mugwort cakes in the county town are worth saving for dinner. ⚠️ The Yandi Mausoleum is closed Monday mornings, so don't make a wasted trip. If you want to fill your weekend, you can visit Shennong Valley National Forest Park, which is only a half-hour drive from the Yandi Mausoleum. The mist from the waterfalls will refresh you. However, my advice is not to overdo it. A visit to the Yandi Mausoleum plus a Hakka meal is already the greatest respect you can show to summer. There's not much to avoid in Zhuzhou city itself; it gets like a sauna when it gets hot. So don't waste time in the city; take the high-speed train directly to Yanling Station, and it's a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. 03 Jining | Shandong I'll divide Jining's summer into two parts: Qufu and Weishan Lake. The three Confucian sites in Qufu's Ming Dynasty city owe their success to the shade of the trees. The centuries-old cypress trees in the Confucius Temple intertwine their branches, leaving only fragments of the sky. Walking along the paths, your feet are on cool stone slabs, and your head is covered in dense greenery. ⏰ Enter as soon as the gates open at 7 AM, before the tour groups arrive; the breeze in front of the Dacheng Hall is clean. The Confucius Mansion's back garden is less crowded; sitting on the stone benches by the artificial hill, you can hear the cicadas chirping but it's not noisy. The Confucius Cemetery is larger, but my advice is not to walk the entire way. Take an electric cart to the vicinity of Confucius's tomb; that section has the densest trees and the coolest breeze. Dedicate the other half of the day to Weishan Lake. In summer, Weishan Lake isn't just about the lake itself, but about the lotus flowers. When the lotus flowers bloom across the vast expanse, boats glide through the reeds, flanked by lotus leaves taller than a person. As the boats pass, the mist mingles with the fragrance of lotus blossoms. 🍜 The lakeside fishing village experience is worth trying: stewed mixed fish, stir-fried lotus root, and salted duck eggs, all freshly caught from the lake. ⚠️ Remember to bargain for a boat ride; there's a significant price difference between chartering a boat and sharing one. 🚄 High-speed rail directly from Qufu East Station. Driving between Qufu and Weishan Lake takes about an hour and a half, making a two-day, one-night trip perfect. 04 Quzhou|Zhejiang Quzhou's summer is underestimated. Kaihua Root Palace Buddhist Kingdom sounds like a solemn place, but once inside, you'll find it's actually a huge garden. Over 500 root-carved Buddha statues are scattered throughout the various halls, but the garden itself is truly cool. Waterside pavilions, corridors, and artificial hills filter out the heat layer by layer. ⏰ Enter the garden after 4 PM. The light comes from the west, making the root carvings appear particularly three-dimensional. There are also fewer people, allowing for a leisurely appreciation. Jianglang Mountain·Eighteen Capitals is more suitable for those with good stamina. The three-slab stone of Jianglang Mountain is a landmark, but don't rush to the summit immediately. First, walk along the eighteen bends at the foot of the mountain. The stream flows along the steps; take off your shoes and step in—the cool air will rise from your feet. Reaching the "One Line Sky" section, the wind blew in through the cracks in the rocks, instantly drying the sweat. Ershibadu is at the foot of the mountain, an ancient town, but much quieter than Wuzhen or Xitang. Sitting in the courtyard of an old house, drinking a bowl of mung bean soup, listening to the rain pattering on the banana leaves, an afternoon would pass by in a flash. ⚠️ Jianglang Mountain is closed on rainy days; check the weather forecast before you go. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Quzhou Station to Kaihua. Jianglang Mountain is in Jiangshan, about 40 minutes from Quzhou. 05 Yingtan|Jiangxi In Yingtan's summer, Longhu Mountain is the only answer. But my advice is, don't just focus on the hanging coffin performances and coffin-raising ceremonies; those are for tour groups. The real coolness comes from the bamboo rafts on the Luxi River. ⏰ Arrive at the Shangqing Town pier before 8 am; the raft operators haven't started taking big orders yet, and the river is so quiet you can hear the water. Bamboo rafts drifted downstream, the Danxia landforms on both banks blocking most of the sun. Water vapor rose from the river, much more comfortable than air conditioning. The whole trip took an hour and a half. After disembarking, we arrived at Zhengyi Temple, where the ancient well water was drinkable—icy cold and sweet. In the afternoon, we went to the Mosquito-Free Village. The name wasn't for nothing; there really were no mosquitoes. We sat under a camphor tree at the village entrance and dozed off, the wind rustling through the bamboo forest—better than a nap in the hotel. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Tianshi Chestnuts" at the scenic area entrance; they're expensive and not tasty. A large bag costs only five yuan at the town's market. 🍜 Shangqing Tofu is a must-try; it's so tender you can scoop it with a spoon. Pair it with a bowl of chestnut braised chicken, and two people can eat their fill for eighty yuan. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Yingtan North Station to the Longhushan Visitor Center. 06 Mianyang|Sichuan In Mianyang's summer, Beichuan Qiang City is a special place. It's not a traditional summer resort, but the wind changes as you ascend the altitude. The entire tourist area is built in a valley, surrounded by oak forests. After 3 PM, the forest breeze carries the coolness of the vegetation, and sitting on the stone steps under the watchtowers, your sweat will naturally dry. ⏰ At 6 PM, the setting sun bathes the watchtowers of the Qiang village in gold. Most tourists have left, and the village is so quiet you can hear the stream. 🍜 Qiang-style cured meat and cornmeal dumplings are standard fare. The farmhouses in the village cost around 40 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry at the entrance of the scenic area; it's hard to tell if it's real or fake. Go to the old shops in town if you want to buy some. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, Beichuan Qiang City is much easier than Jiuzhaigou. The entire route is flat, with no climbing required. When you get tired, find a teahouse to sit down; a bowl of covered tea costs 10 yuan and you can sit there for an afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Mianyang Station, perfect for a leisurely weekend visit. 07 Baishan | Jilin In Baishan, summer has only one main attraction: Changbai Mountain. But let me clarify, Changbai Mountain isn't just one mountain; it's an entire summer resort system. ⏰ Arrive at 6 AM. The mist over Tianchi Lake hasn't risen yet; the clouds are reflected on the water. The wind is biting, so a windproof jacket is a must. After seeing Tianchi Lake, don't rush down. Walk along the boardwalk through the underground forest, a two-kilometer stretch. The trees completely block out the sky, leaving only a sliver of light. Soft moss carpets your feet, and the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. In the afternoon, go to Changbai Waterfall. Don't just stand on the viewing platform taking pictures; walk down the steps. The spray is more effective than any humidifier. 🍜 In Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain, Korean cold noodles are a must-try. The soup is icy, and the noodles are buckwheat. One bowl will make you feel completely refreshed. ⚠️ Whether you can see Tianchi Lake is entirely up to luck, so don't have high expectations. But even with fog, the scenery below is worth the ticket price. 🚄 High-speed rail directly connects to Changbaishan Station. There are many accommodations in the town, and you can find a clean place for around 100 RMB per person. 08 Baoding|Hebei I'll break down Baoding's summer by region. Baishi Mountain is a true hardcore summer retreat. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, the wind on the glass walkway at the summit is so strong it can blow your hat off, and the perceived temperature drops directly to below 20 degrees Celsius. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid the cable car queue. The entire loop takes about four hours, and the sea of ​​clouds on the mountain is ten times more spectacular than what you see from below. Yesanpo is better for water activities. The streams in Bailixia follow the canyon, and the water is shallow enough to wade in. Kids can play with water guns all afternoon. However, my suggestion is not to stay in Yesanpo; after visiting Yesanpo, go directly to the Western Qing Tombs. Summer at the Western Qing Tombs offers a different kind of coolness. Ancient pine forests provide ample shade, and walking along the sacred path, you're surrounded by pebbles and centuries-old pine branches. The wind whistles through the trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere more peaceful than any other scenic spot. 🍜 The lotus flowers in Baiyangdian Lake in Anxin are in bloom. Take a boat into the lake; the lotus leaves are taller than a person. The boatman will casually pick a lotus seed pod for you—fresh and sweet. ⚠️ Negotiate the boat fare for Baiyangdian Lake in advance. Ask whether it's charged by the hour or by the route before boarding. 🚄 A taxi from Baoding Station to Baishi Mountain takes about an hour and a half. The Western Qing Tombs are in Yi County, about an hour from Baishi Mountain. 01 Jiaozuo|Henan In summer, Jiaozuo's true highlight is Yuntai Mountain. Don't associate Jiaozuo with coal mining. The steam rising from Hongshixia Gorge makes the perceived temperature five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city. ⏰ Head to Hongshixia at 8 AM. The boardwalk hasn't been taken over by tour groups yet. The sound of the waterfall drowns out all other noises, and the moment the water splashes on your face, you'll feel like air conditioning is unnecessary. After walking through the canyon, don't rush to leave. Take the scenic shuttle bus to Zhuyu Peak. At an altitude of 1300 meters, the wind will blow so strong you'll need to take your jacket out of your bag. In the afternoon, head to Qingtian River. Take a boat trip through the canyon. The water reflects a green light, and the trees on both banks completely block out the sun, making the boat a natural fan. Shennong Mountain is more suitable for those who enjoy climbing stairs. The boardwalk on Baisongling is suspended on the cliff face, with a bottomless abyss below. The wind is strong enough to dry your sweat instantly. ⚠️ Remember, rain in the mountains can come suddenly. A light raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. Choose accommodation near the shore service area, close to the scenic area entrance. In the evening, go out for a bowl of Henan-style braised noodles; it's only 30 yuan per person and you'll be full. 🚄 The high-speed train from Zhengzhou East Station to Jiaozuo only takes 40 minutes. Two days on a weekend are enough to visit all three places. 02 Zhuzhou | Hunan In Zhuzhou's summer, to escape the heat, head south to Yanling County. The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum itself isn't a mountain, but the entire scenic area is enveloped by ancient trees. Camphor and cypress trees filter the sunlight into fragments, making it almost completely shaded while walking along the sacred path. ⏰ The most comfortable time to enter is after 3 PM. The light slants through the treetops, creating stunning photos of the red walls and yellow tiles in the shadows. The sacrificial square in front of the hall is spacious, but don't just stand there. Go around to the stele forest on the back mountain; it's less crowded there, and the sound of the wind whistling through the cracks in the rocks is quieter than any guided tour. 🍜 Don't rush off after leaving. The Hakka stuffed tofu and mugwort cakes in the county town are worth saving for dinner. ⚠️ The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum is closed Monday mornings, so don't waste your trip. If you want to fill your weekend, you can also visit Shennong Valley National Forest Park, only a half-hour drive from the Yan Emperor's Mausoleum. The mist from the waterfalls will refresh you. My advice is, don't try to do too much. A visit to the Yan Emperor's Mausoleum plus a Hakka meal is already the greatest respect you can show to summer. There's not much to avoid in Zhuzhou city itself; it gets like a sauna when it gets hot. So don't waste time in the city; take the high-speed train directly to Yanling Station, and it's a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. 03 Jining | Shandong I'll divide Jining's summer into two parts: Qufu and Weishan Lake. The three Confucian sites in Qufu's Ming Dynasty city owe their success to the shade of the trees. The centuries-old cypress trees in the Confucius Temple intertwine their branches, leaving only fragments of the sky. Walking along the paths, your feet feel the cool stone slabs, and your head is enveloped in dense greenery. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7 am, before the tour groups arrive; the air in front of the Dacheng Hall is clean. The back garden of the Confucius Mansion is less crowded; sitting on the stone benches by the artificial hill, you can hear the cicadas chirping but don't feel restless. The Confucius Cemetery is larger, but my advice is not to walk the entire way. Take an electric cart to the vicinity of Confucius's tomb; that section has the densest trees and the coolest breeze. Dedicate the other half of the day to Weishan Lake. In summer, Weishan Lake isn't just about the lake itself, but about the lotus flowers. When the lotus ponds bloom, boats glide through the reeds, surrounded by lotus leaves taller than a person. As the boats pass, the mist and fragrance of lotus blossoms waft over you. 🍜 The lakeside fishing village experience is worth trying. They offer stewed mixed fish, stir-fried lotus root, and salted duck eggs, all freshly caught from the lake. ⚠️ Remember to bargain for a boat ride; there's a significant price difference between chartering and sharing a boat. 🚄 High-speed rail directly connects to Qufu East Station. Driving between Qufu and Weishan Lake takes about an hour and a half, making two days and one night a perfect trip. 04 Quzhou|Zhejiang Quzhou is an underrated city in summer. Kaihua Gengong Buddhist Kingdom sounds like a solemn place, but once inside, you'll find it's actually a vast garden. Over 500 root-carved Buddha statues are scattered throughout the various halls, but the garden itself is truly cool. Waterside pavilions, covered corridors, and artificial hills filter out the heat layer by layer. ⏰ Entering the garden after 4 PM allows the sunlight to shine from the west, highlighting the three-dimensional textures of the root carvings. With fewer people, you can take your time to appreciate them. Jianglang Mountain and Ershibadu are more suitable for those with good stamina. The three-slab stone of Jianglang Mountain is a landmark, but don't rush to the summit immediately. First, walk along the eighteen bends at the foot of the mountain. The stream flows along the steps; take off your shoes and step in—the coolness will rise from your feet. Reaching the "One Line Sky" section, the wind seeps in through the cracks in the rocks, instantly relieving the sweat. Ershibadu is located at the foot of the mountain, an ancient town, but much quieter than Wuzhen or Xitang. Sitting in the courtyard of an old house, drinking a bowl of mung bean soup, and listening to the rain pattering on the banana leaves, an afternoon will pass by in no time. ⚠️ Jianglang Mountain may be closed on rainy days; check the weather forecast before you go. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Quzhou Station to Kaihua. Jianglang Mountain is in Jiangshan, about 40 minutes from Quzhou. 05 Yingtan | Jiangxi In Yingtan's summer, Longhu Mountain is the only answer. But my advice is, don't just focus on the hanging coffin performances and coffin-raising ceremonies; those are for tour groups. The real coolness comes from the bamboo rafts on the Luxi River. ⏰ Arrive at Shangqing Town Wharf before 8 am. The raft operators haven't started taking big orders yet, and the river is so quiet you can hear the water. The bamboo raft floats downstream, the Danxia landforms on both banks blocking most of the sun, and the rising steam is much more comfortable than air conditioning. The whole trip takes an hour and a half. After disembarking, you'll reach Zhengyi Temple. The ancient well water in the temple is drinkable—icy cold and sweet. In the afternoon, go to the Mosquito-Free Village. The name isn't for nothing; there really are no mosquitoes. Sit under the camphor tree at the village entrance and take a nap; the wind whistles through the bamboo forest—better than taking a nap in the hotel. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Tianshi Chestnuts" at the scenic area entrance; they're expensive and not tasty at all. A large bag costs only five yuan at the town's market. 🍜 Shangqing Tofu is a must-try; it's so tender you can scoop it with a spoon. Pair it with a bowl of braised chicken with chestnuts, and two people can eat their fill for eighty yuan. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Yingtan North Station to the Longhushan Visitor Center. 06 Mianyang|Sichuan In Mianyang's summer, Beichuan Qiang City is a special place. It's not a traditional summer resort, but the wind changes as you ascend the altitude. The entire tourist area is built in a valley, surrounded by oak forests. After 3 pm, the wind in the forest carries the coolness of the grass and trees; sitting on the stone steps under the watchtower, your sweat will dry on its own. ⏰ At 6 pm, the setting sun paints the watchtowers of the Qiang village golden. Most of the tourists have left, and the whole village is so quiet you can hear the stream. 🍜 Qiang-style cured pork and cornmeal porridge are a standard dish. A farmhouse restaurant in the village costs around 40 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry at the scenic area entrance; it's hard to tell if it's real or fake. Go to the old shops in town if you want to buy some. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, Beichuan Qiang City is much easier than Jiuzhaigou. The entire route is flat, no climbing required. When you get tired, find a teahouse to sit down; a bowl of covered tea costs 10 yuan and you can sit there for an afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Mianyang Station, perfect for a leisurely weekend trip. 07 Baishan|Jilin In summer, Baishan has only one main attraction: Changbai Mountain. But I want to clarify first: Changbai Mountain isn't just one mountain, it's an entire summer resort system. ⏰ Arriving at 6 am, the mist over Tianchi Lake hadn't yet risen. The clouds were reflected on the water, and the wind was biting; a windproof jacket was a must. After visiting Tianchi Lake, don't rush down the mountain. Take the boardwalk through the underground forest; it's two kilometers long. The trees completely block out the sky, leaving only a sliver of light. Soft moss carpets your feet, and the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. In the afternoon, go to Changbai Waterfall. Don't just stand on the viewing platform taking pictures; walk down the steps. The spray is more effective than any humidifier. 🍜 In Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain, Korean cold noodles are a must-try. The soup is icy, and the noodles are buckwheat—one bowl and you'll feel completely refreshed. ⚠️ Whether you see Tianchi Lake is entirely up to luck, so don't have high expectations. But even with fog, the scenery below is worth the price of admission. 🚄 The high-speed train goes directly to Changbaishan Station. There are many accommodations in the town; you can find a clean place for around 100 yuan per person. 08 Baoding | Hebei I'll talk about Baoding's summer by region. Baishi Mountain is a true hardcore summer retreat. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, the glass walkway at the summit is so windy it can blow your hat off, and the perceived temperature drops to below 20 degrees Celsius. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid the cable car queue. The entire loop takes about four hours, and the sea of ​​clouds at the mountain is ten times more spectacular than from below. Yesanpo is better for water activities. The streams in Bailixia Gorge flow along the canyon, and the water is shallow enough to wade in; children can play with water guns all afternoon. However, my suggestion is not to stay overnight in Yesanpo. After visiting Yesanpo, go directly to the Western Qing Tombs. Summer at the Western Qing Tombs offers a different kind of coolness. Ancient pine forests provide ample shade. Walking on the sacred path, your feet are on loose stones, and your head is covered by centuries-old pine branches. The wind whistles through the forest, creating a quieter atmosphere than any other scenic spot. 🍜 The lotus flowers in Baiyangdian Lake in Anxin are in bloom. Take a boat into the lake; the lotus leaves are taller than a person. The boatman will casually pick a lotus seed pod for you—fresh and sweet. ⚠️ The boat fare for Baiyangdian Lake needs to be negotiated in advance. Clarify whether it's charged by the hour or by the route before boarding. 🚄 A taxi from Baoding Station to Baishi Mountain takes about one and a half hours. The Western Qing Tombs are in Yi County, about an hour's drive from Baishi Mountain.

Taking kids out in August means facing two big challenges: crowds and heat. There’s also a hidden problem—your wallet can’t handle it. This year, I purposely avoided the popular spots and found a few cool, down-to-earth small towns. They’re reachable by high-speed train, tickets are affordable, kids can play wildly, and adults don’t have to follow around wiping sweat the whole time. 01 Tongren | Guizhou ⏰ At 6:30 AM, the air at the foot of Mount Fanjing is still cool. Catch the first cable car to avoid the 9–10 AM rush. Taking the west route with kids is easier—the wooden boardwalk is gentle, and you can spot the red-bellied pheasant along the way, much friendlier than the steep steps on the east route. The mushroom rock and red cloud golden summit are must-sees, but don’t rush the kids. There’s an open space at the entrance of Cheng’en Temple halfway up the mountain. Spread out a picnic mat and enjoy a bowl of instant noodles in the mist. Kids can stare at the sea of clouds for half an hour. ⚠️ Remember to book tickets three days in advance on the official mini program. Tickets are basically unavailable on site. Don’t rush off after descending. At the foot of the mountain, Zhaisha Dong Village has a creek. In the evening, let the kids splash in the water and catch small fish—it’s much more comfortable than squeezing through crowds in the scenic area. 02 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Taoxichuan is best visited at night. The factory buildings look old during the day, but when the lights come on at dusk, the whole block looks like it’s been glazed anew. Take kids to the handmade shops in the glass houses, where they can mold a cup themselves. For 50 yuan, they can play for an hour, which is better value than buying souvenirs. 🍜 For lunch, go to the old alley next to the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area. A bowl of cold noodles with alkaline rice cakes has just the right amount of spice, and kids can eat it with mung bean soup. The old craftsmen in the kiln throw clay and paint blue-and-white porcelain. Kids watch with wide eyes—much more vivid than textbook pictures. 📍 After 3 PM, visit the Ancient Kiln when most tourists have left. You can get close to watch the masters outline on the plain clay. The scratchy sound of the brush can’t be replicated by machines. Bring a small fan because the kiln room can be a bit stuffy. 03 Xinzhou | Shanxi The summer at Yanmen Pass is golden, with the wind carrying the scent of grass seeds. When walking the ancient city wall trail with kids, don’t take the electric cart the whole way. Climb up 20 minutes from the back mountain entrance to see a complete section of the old Great Wall, which feels more authentic than the restored north gate. Laoniuwan is best in the afternoon. The Yellow River makes a big bend here, and the water is green—completely different from what you imagine. You can take a speedboat tour. Kids love the splash and excitement. The boat captain points out cliff rocks that look like animals. Don’t rush to burn incense on Mount Wutai. Take kids to Pusa Peak in Taihuai Town to watch monks debate. Even if you don’t understand, the rhythm and tone are unique. ⚠️ The temperature difference on the mountain is big between morning and evening. Put on a jacket as soon as the sun sets. 04 Qinhuangdao | Hebei At Beidaihe beach, choose Shallow Water Bay over Laohushi. The sand at Shallow Water Bay is fine and the slope gentle. Kids aged 5 or 6 can splash around in the shallow water with a swim ring, and it’s free. Laohushi is crowded like dumplings in a pot, and there are many jellyfish. Arrive at Shanhaiguan Pass at 7 AM. The bricks on the city wall glow warm orange in the morning light. Before the crowds arrive, you can hear the wind chimes on the arrow tower. Take kids to see the old street under the bell and drum towers. The grandpa selling peanut cakes taps his mold and sings little tunes. ⚠️ For lunch, return to Beidaihe. Avoid the food stalls at the scenic area entrance. Walk two alleys down Yuhua Road to find local small restaurants. A plate of spicy stir-fried clams costs only 28 yuan, with generous portions and authentic flavor. When it’s hot in the afternoon, take a nap at the guesthouse and head to the beach again at 4 PM. 05 Jining | Shandong Get to the Three Confucian Sites in Qufu early. The park opens at 7:30 AM. The cypress trees in the Confucius Temple shade everything, so it’s never sunny. Count the bixi turtles on the stone tablets with your kids—they remember them better than you do. In the Confucius Mansion’s back garden, the five cypresses embracing the locust tree make a great story about how trees grow together. Weishan Lake is perfect for a boat tour. The lotus flowers are in full bloom now. 📍 Board the boat at the west dock. The ticket includes a fisherman's feast with salted duck eggs oozing oil and crunchy stir-fried lotus shoots. Kids can watch fishermen scoop small shrimp with nets. The sun in the middle of the lake is strong, so make sure to wear hats. 🍜 In the evening, go to Qufu’s Queli pedestrian street for a bowl of lamb porridge with freshly made pancakes. Kids love rolling them up with scallions. The street’s lighting is antique style, but prices are reasonable—much more authentic than commercialized ancient towns. 06 Yuxi | Yunnan Fuxian Lake doesn’t impress at first glance, but once you stay, you won’t want to leave. Take kids to the Luchong Scenic Area on the west shore. The beach is gentle, and the water is so clear you can see your toes. It’s calmer than the east shore. Rent a small boat to the lake’s center and dip your hand in the water. It’s chillingly refreshing, much more comfortable than a pool. Ailao Mountain suits older kids. Walk the Shimen Gorge boardwalk surrounded by primeval forest. The air is moist, and the moss is so thick it squeezes water. You might see squirrels darting around, but the steps are slippery, so strollers aren’t recommended. ⚠️ Mountain rain comes suddenly. Carry a lightweight raincoat—it’s more convenient than an umbrella. For lunch in Gasa Town, try the beef soup pot. The meat is tender, the broth so flavorful it’ll make your eyebrows raise. It costs about 40 yuan per person and leaves you full. 07 Lhasa | Tibet Be cautious bringing very young kids to Namtso Lake. At 4,700 meters altitude, kids can get altitude sickness and cry, which is tough on adults. But if your child is in elementary school, this lake is worth the trip. 📍 At the lakeside on Zhaxi Peninsula, the wind is strong enough to blow off hats, but the water is an unreal blue. Kids will chase the white water birds for a long time. Book the Potala Palace a day in advance. Don’t get impatient in line; it’s a good chance to tell kids the story of Princess Wencheng. The prayer flags and butter lamps inside have a unique scent, but the stairs are steep, so hold your child’s hand. Visit Jokhang Temple at dusk. The Barkhor Street is crowded with pilgrims spinning prayer wheels. Kids weaving through them can feel a completely different rhythm. ⚠️ The sun in Lhasa is intense. Sunglasses and lip balm are essential. Try to rest indoors from 2 PM to 4 PM. 08 Zhangye | Gansu The colorful Danxia landform is best visited two hours before sunset. The mountains glow red and yellow under the slanting sun, with colors so vivid they look painted. Walk the second and fourth viewing platforms with kids for the best views and fewer people. The reclining Buddha in Zhangye Great Buddha Temple fascinates kids. You can tell them some Western Xia history beforehand so they can spot details in the murals under the Buddha’s feet. Mati Temple is built on a cliff. Climbing the 33 Heavenly Caves requires using hands and feet, like an adventure for 7- or 8-year-olds, which excites them. ⚠️ Skip the Lixian Ancient City. It’s mostly reconstructed buildings with expensive tickets. Better to spend your time at Mati Temple. 🍜 For dinner in Zhangye city, try cuo yuzi, a noodle dish shaped like small fish. Kids find it fun. A bowl costs just over ten yuan and comes with braised meat and spicy-sour shredded potatoes. It’s always eaten clean. When it comes to beating the heat in August, it boils down to two things: choosing the right place and the right time. Avoid the scorching sun during the day and catch the coolness in the morning and evening. Kids have fun, and adults won’t be exhausted to the point of questioning life. Which of these places will you take your kids to first? Share in the comments.

1️⃣ Hohhot | Inner Mongolia During summer vacation, we took the kids to Hohhot, and our first stop was the Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area. Don't be intimidated by the word "canyon"; it's actually a fantastic geology lesson for families. ⏰ We recommend arriving before 9 am. The sunlight shines down at an angle, making the Yellow River curve beautifully into the cliffs, allowing children to immediately understand what the "Mother River" means. The scenic area's trails are well-maintained, even for strollers. Along the way, you can touch sedimentary rock layers from millions of years ago—much more vivid than textbook pictures. For lunch, we had a bowl of oat noodles at a farmhouse restaurant near the entrance; it cost just over 30 yuan per person. The owner will teach the children the difference between buckwheat and oats. In the afternoon, we moved on to the Chulechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area. This isn't the kind of bare grassland you see elsewhere; it's a three-dimensional grassland with gentle slopes, seas of flowers, and yurts. 📍 Rent a tandem bicycle from the visitor center and ride along the wooden boardwalk deeper into the area, the air filled with the scent of grass seeds and wildflowers. Children can feed lambs and learn archery, while adults can lie on the grass and watch the clouds, remaining still for half an hour without being rushed. ⚠️ The UV rays on the grassland are extremely strong, so reapply sunscreen every two hours and don't remove your hat. The light is softest after 6 PM, perfect for backlit silhouette shots that could be used as wallpapers. 2️⃣ Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan The Meng Huan Golden Pagoda is the soul of Mangshi, but don't just focus on taking pictures when you're with kids. ⏰ Enter the park after 4 PM when the sun isn't so strong, and the golden pagoda shines dazzlingly against the blue sky. Children will be attracted by the giant golden rooster at the entrance. Walk around the base of the pagoda and you can count eighty-eight small Buddha statues, listening to Dai legends as you count—it's much more interesting than just strolling around. Shoes are not allowed inside the pagoda, so remember to bring thick socks for your child, as the stone floor gets very hot after a day in the sun. ⚠️ Important Reminder: The Golden Pagoda has many steps; it's recommended to use a baby carrier for children under three. Strollers can only be parked at the entrance. After viewing the pagoda, don't rush to leave. 📍 The viewing platform behind the pagoda offers a panoramic view of Mangshi. It gets windy in the evening, so bring a light jacket for your child. After descending the mountain, head straight to the nearby Dai Ethnic Minority Ancient Town Night Market. 🍜 The famous Paoluda (a type of coconut milk drink) and Lemon Sa Pie (a type of lemon drink) are must-try. Children will have their mouths full of coconut flakes while drinking Paoluda and will laugh non-stop. It gets dark late here; it's still light at 8:30 pm, so you can return to the hotel just in time for your child's nap. 3️⃣ Yongzhou|Hunan Shang Gantang Ancient Village is a place where children can "travel through time." 📍 The Buying Bridge at the village entrance is a Song Dynasty stone arch bridge. The bridge surface is polished to a shine, and children can spend half an hour counting the arches on the bluestone slabs. The village retains over two hundred Ming and Qing dynasty houses. The wood carvings on the lintels can be used for a "find the animal" game—dragons, phoenixes, and qilin are hidden under the eaves; whoever finds them first wins. ⏰ Before 10 AM, there are few tourists; the only sound in the alley is your family's footsteps. 🍜 For lunch, eat blood duck at a villager's house. You can tell them your desired spiciness level beforehand, and save a non-spicy version for the children. After lunch, walk along the Xiemu River; you can catch small fish and shrimp in the shallows. Remember to bring an empty water bottle as an observation container. ⚠️ The ancient village's stone paths are slippery on rainy days, so wear non-slip shoes and don't let children run too fast. After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely into the alley, turning the blue brick walls a warm gold—this is the best time for photos. There is no nightlife in the village, so it's recommended to leave before 5 PM and return to Yongzhou city for the night. 4️⃣ Yichun|Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest and Rocks is a natural oxygen bar and a "stone museum" for kids. 📍 Walking along the boardwalk, you'll see strangely shaped granite rocks on both sides, some resembling turtles, others mushrooms. Children will name the rocks themselves. ⏰ Entering the park at 8 am, the forest mist hasn't dissipated yet, and sunlight filters through the leaves, shimmering like shattered gold. The concentration of negative oxygen ions here is incredibly high; a few deep breaths feel like a lung cleanse. ⚠️ Important: There are many mosquitoes in the forest. Don't worry about the heat; wear long pants and long sleeves, and spray mosquito repellent on your cuffs and trouser legs. The boardwalk is about three kilometers long, and children over five can walk it on their own. There are rest pavilions where you can rest if you get tired. 🍜 Dried blueberries and pine nuts are sold at the entrance of the scenic area; they are cheaper than in the city and make good souvenirs. In the afternoon, go rafting on the nearby Tangwanghe River. The water is shallow, suitable for families; remember to bring a change of clothes for your child. In the evening, we ate stewed pork ribs and green beans in an iron pot in town. My child ate two bowls of rice with the broth. 5️⃣ Jinzhong|Shanxi When visiting the ancient architectural complexes in Jinzhong with children, be selective and don't try to see too many. 📍 Pingyao Ancient City is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the tour groups leave, and the ancient city truly reveals itself. The kids chase pigeons at the foot of the city wall, while you taste the aged vinegar in the vinegar workshop on Ming-Qing Street. The sweet and sour aroma is pungent, and the kids will frown and say "So sour!" before wanting another bite. ⚠️ There are many electric carts in the ancient city, so hold your child's hand tightly. You only need to choose between the Qiao Family Compound and the Wang Family Compound; I chose the Wang Family Compound. The Qiao Family Compound is famous but crowded, while the Wang Family Compound is more impressive in scale. The kids can climb the city wall to see the entire compound and count how many "囍" (double happiness) characters are on the screen walls. 🍜 We had knife-cut noodles at a farmhouse restaurant near the Wang Family Courtyard for lunch. The noodles were freshly cut, and my child would stare at the chef's hands for ages. Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu is suitable for families with good stamina. Take the scenic bus to the halfway point, then climb a boardwalk. With the sea of ​​clouds swirling below, your child will feel like Sun Wukong (the Monkey King). ⚠️ The steps on Mianshan Mountain are steep; it's recommended to carry children under five in a baby carrier. 6️⃣ Ningbo|Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake are places you can visit even on a rainy day. 📍 The willow trees along Moon Lake droop to the water's surface. My child fed the koi with breadcrumbs, and the sound of the fish scrambling for the food made him laugh. Tianyi Pavilion houses China's oldest private library. Tell your child the story of Fan Qin and tell him that "books are more valuable than houses." He might not understand, but he'll be curious and peer closely at the glass when he sees the thread-bound books. ⏰ Go in as soon as it opens at 9 am; it's less crowded and you can enjoy a quiet visit. In the afternoon, we went to Tengtou Tourist Area in Xikou, which is more suitable for older children. 📍 The Qianzhangyan Waterfall at the foot of Xuedou Mountain has a deafening roar; children will instinctively cover their ears, then release them. There's a small train in the scenic area that runs along the mountainside; children clap excitedly when they ride it. ⚠️ The water vapor around the waterfall is strong, easily fogging up phone lenses; bring a lens cloth. We stayed in Qiantong Ancient Town until evening. Their Shihua Bingfen (a type of shaved ice dessert) is a specialty; 🍜 a bowl costs five yuan, and the children slurped it down, the coolness spreading from their throats to their feet. The alleys in the ancient town are narrow, and the lighting is dim at night, so don't let children wander too far. 7️⃣ Jining|Shandong Qufu Ming Ancient City is a great place for children's cultural introduction. 📍 The dragon pillars in the Confucius Temple are all different; children can play a "spot the difference" game. The artificial mountain in the back garden of the Confucius Mansion is climbable, but the steps are narrow, so adults should accompany them. ⏰ Enter the Confucius Temple at 8 AM. The sunlight will shine perfectly on the golden plaque of the Dacheng Hall. Your child might ask, "Why do people here all worship Confucius?" You can then tell them the story of "The Teacher of Ten Thousand Generations." ⚠️ The small wooden swords and bamboo slips sold in the scenic area are overpriced; don't buy them. The souvenir shops to the left after exiting are half the price. Weishan Lake Tourist Area is best visited in the afternoon. 📍 Take a boat onto the lake. The reeds are several times taller than a person, and your child will excitedly shout, "We're in a maze!" The boatman will stop in a lotus area, allowing your child to pick lotus pods. The fresh lotus seeds are sweet and crisper than those bought in supermarkets. 🍜 The fish ball soup at the lakeside restaurant is a must-order. The fish balls are freshly made and have a bouncy texture. ⚠️ It can be windy on the lake, so bring a sun-protective jacket for your child; it will protect them from the wind and sun. Returning to shore in the evening, we bought some salted duck eggs at the pier; the runny yolks are the kids' favorite. 8️⃣ Huangshi|Hubei Chengyue Island is an underrated destination for families with children. 📍 The island is in the middle of Cihu Lake. We walked across an arched bridge, and the kids would count the steps on the bridge, only to be distracted by the wild ducks in the lake and forget what they were counting to. ⏰ We arrived on the island at 5:30 pm. The sun was beginning to set, turning the lake golden. The kids chased bubbles on the lawn while we sat on a bench enjoying the breeze. It was quiet, mostly with locals strolling around, no tour groups, and you could hear the birds chirping. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so buy water and snacks beforehand. 🍜 After leaving the island, a ten-minute walk leads to the entrance of Tuanchengshan Park, where there's a stall selling Huangshigang cakes. The freshly baked cakes have a flaky crust, and when the kids took a bite, sesame seeds covered their faces. After eating, walk along the lakeside to Lover's Road. The streetlights are just coming on, and the lake reflects the twinkling stars. If the kids get tired, they can ride on your shoulders. This is a perfect place for the last day of your trip—no rushing, just letting the kids roll around on the grass and wash away all the summer fatigue. Of these eight places, I prefer Yichun and Ningbo the most. Yichun's forests let children know what "coolness" means, while Ningbo's ancient villages let them taste the sweetness of Jiangnan. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Or do you have any hidden summer retreats? Share them in the comments, and I'll check them out next time. 1️⃣ Hohhot|Inner Mongolia Taking the kids to Hohhot for summer vacation, our first stop was the Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area. Don't be intimidated by the word "canyon"—it's actually a fantastic geology lesson for families. ⏰ I recommend arriving before 9 am. The sunlight shines down at an angle, and the Yellow River curves beautifully in the cliffs, making it easy for children to understand what the "Mother River" means. The scenic area's trails are well-maintained, even for strollers, and you can touch sedimentary rock layers dating back millions of years – much more vivid than textbook pictures. At noon, we had a bowl of oat noodles at a farmhouse restaurant near the entrance; it cost just over 30 yuan per person. The owner even taught children the difference between buckwheat and oats. In the afternoon, we moved on to the Chulechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area. This isn't the typical barren grassland, but a three-dimensional grassland with gentle slopes, seas of flowers, and yurts. 📍 Rent a tandem bicycle from the visitor center and ride along the wooden boardwalk deeper into the grassland. The air is filled with the scent of grass seeds and wildflowers. Children can feed lambs and learn archery, while adults can lie on the grass and watch the clouds – no one will rush you even if you don't move for half an hour. ⚠️ The UV rays on the grassland are extremely strong, so reapply sunscreen every two hours and don't take off your hat. The light is softest after 6 pm; backlit silhouette photos are perfect for wallpapers. 2️⃣ Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda is the soul of Mangshi, but don't just focus on taking photos if you're bringing kids. ⏰ Enter the park after 4 PM when the sun isn't so strong, and the pagoda shines dazzlingly against the blue sky. Children will be attracted by the giant golden rooster at the entrance. Walking around the base of the pagoda, you can count 88 small Buddha statues while listening to Dai legends – much more interesting than just strolling around. Shoes are not allowed inside the pagoda, so remember to bring thick socks for your child, as the stone floors will be very hot after a day in the sun. ⚠️ Important reminder: The Grand Golden Pagoda has many steps; it's recommended to use a baby carrier for children under three. Strollers can only be parked at the entrance. After viewing the pagoda, don't rush to leave. 📍 The viewing platform behind the pagoda offers a panoramic view of Mangshi. It can get windy in the evening, so bring a light jacket for your child. After descending the mountain, head straight to the nearby Dai ethnic minority ancient town night market. 🍜 The must-try dishes are Pao Lu Da and Lemon Sa Pie. The kids will have their mouths full of coconut flakes while drinking Pao Lu Da, laughing non-stop. It gets dark late here; it's still light at 8:30 pm, so we returned to the hotel just in time for the kids' nap. 3️⃣ Yongzhou|Hunan Shang Gantang Ancient Village is a place where children can "travel back in time." 📍 The Buying Bridge at the village entrance is a Song Dynasty stone arch bridge. The bridge surface is polished to a shine, and the kids spent half an hour counting the arches on the bluestone slabs. The village preserves over two hundred old houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The wooden carvings on the lintels can be used for a "find the animal" game—dragons, phoenixes, and qilin are hidden under the eaves; whoever finds them first wins. ⏰ Before 10 am, there are few tourists; the only sound in the alley is your family's footsteps. 🍜 Have lunch at a villager's house with blood duck. You can specify the spiciness level beforehand so you can save a non-spicy version for the kids. After lunch, walk along the Xiemu River. You can catch small fish and shrimp in the shallows; remember to bring an empty water bottle as an observation container. ⚠️ The ancient village's stone paths are slippery on rainy days, so wear non-slip shoes and don't let your kids run too fast. After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely into the alleys, turning the blue brick walls a warm gold – this is the best time for photos. There's no nightlife in the village, so it's recommended to leave before 5 PM and return to Yongzhou city for the night. 4️⃣ Yichun|Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest and Rocks is a natural oxygen bar and a "stone museum" for kids. 📍 Walk along the boardwalk; both sides are lined with strangely shaped granite rocks, some resembling turtles, others mushrooms. Kids will name the stones themselves. ⏰ Enter the park at 8 AM. The forest mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a shimmering effect like scattered gold. The concentration of negative oxygen ions here is ridiculously high; a few deep breaths felt like my lungs were cleansed. ⚠️ Important: There are many mosquitoes in the forest area, so don't worry about the heat; wear long pants and long sleeves, and spray mosquito repellent on your cuffs and pant legs. The boardwalk is about three kilometers long, and children over five years old can walk it on their own. There are rest pavilions where you can rest if you get tired. 🍜 There are vendors selling dried blueberries and pine nuts at the scenic area entrance; they are cheaper than in the city and make good souvenirs. In the afternoon, go rafting on the nearby Tangwang River. The water is shallow and suitable for families; remember to bring a change of clothes for your child. In the evening, have a stew in the town—pork ribs and green beans stewed over a wood fire; your child can easily eat two bowls of rice with the soup. 5️⃣ Jinzhong|Shanxi When visiting the ancient architectural complexes in Jinzhong with children, be selective and don't try to see too many. 📍 Pingyao Ancient City is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the tour groups leave, and the ancient city truly reveals itself. The kids chase pigeons at the foot of the city wall, while you sample aged vinegar at a vinegar shop on Ming-Qing Street. The sweet and sour aroma is pungent, and the kids will frown and say, "So sour!" before asking for another bite. ⚠️ There are many electric carts in the ancient city, so hold your child's hand tightly. You can choose to visit either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound; I chose the Wang Family Compound. The Qiao Family Compound is famous but crowded, while the Wang Family Compound is more impressive in scale. Kids can climb the city wall to see the entire compound and count how many "囍" (double happiness) characters are on the screen wall. 🍜 At noon, we ate knife-cut noodles at a farmhouse restaurant near the Wang Family Compound. The noodles are freshly cut, and the kids will stare at the chef's hands for a long time. Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu is suitable for families with good stamina. Take the scenic bus to the halfway point, then climb a boardwalk. With the sea of ​​clouds surging below, the kids will feel like Sun Wukong (the Monkey King). ⚠️ The steps on Mianshan Mountain are steep; it's recommended to carry children under five. 6️⃣ Ningbo|Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake are places to visit even on rainy days. 📍 The willows along Moon Lake droop to the water's surface. Your child feeds the koi with breadcrumbs, and the sound of the fish scrambling for the food makes him laugh. Tianyi Pavilion houses China's oldest private library. Tell your child the story of Fan Qin, explaining that "books are more valuable than houses." He might not understand, but he'll be curious and peer closely at the glass of the thread-bound books. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 9 am; fewer people mean a quieter experience. In the afternoon, head to Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area, which is more suitable for older children. 📍 The Qianzhangyan Waterfall at the foot of Xuedou Mountain is deafening; your child will instinctively cover their ears, then release them. There's a small train in the scenic area that runs along the mountainside; your child claps excitedly on it. ⚠️ The water vapor around the waterfall can easily fog up your phone camera; bring a lens cloth. Stay in Qiantong Ancient Town until evening. Their specialty is Shihua Bingfen (a type of shaved ice dessert), 🍜 a bowl costs five yuan. Kids slurp it down, the coolness spreading from their throats to their feet. The alleys of the ancient town are narrow, and the lights are dim at night, so don't let your kids wander too far. 7️⃣ Jining|Shandong Qufu Ming Ancient City is a great place for children's cultural introduction. 📍 The dragon pillars in the Confucius Temple are all different; kids can play a "spot the difference" game. The artificial hill in the back garden of the Confucius Mansion is climbable, but the steps are narrow, so adults should accompany them. ⏰ Enter the Confucius Temple at eight in the morning. The sunlight will shine perfectly on the golden plaque of the Dacheng Hall. Children might ask, "Why do people here worship Confucius?" You can tell them the story of "the teacher of ten thousand generations." ⚠️ The small wooden swords and bamboo slips sold in the scenic area are overpriced; don't buy them. The souvenir shops to the left after exiting are half the price. Weishan Lake Tourist Area is best visited in the afternoon. 📍 Take a boat onto the lake. The reeds are several times taller than a person, and the kids will excitedly shout, "We're in a maze!" The boatman will stop at a lotus pond, allowing the children to pick lotus pods. The fresh lotus seeds are sweet and crisper than those bought in the supermarket. 🍜 The fish ball soup at the lakeside restaurant is a must-try. The fish balls are freshly made and have a bouncy texture. ⚠️ It's windy on the lake, so bring a sun-protective jacket for the kids; it will protect them from the wind and sun. Return to shore in the evening and buy some salted duck eggs at the pier. The runny yolks are a favorite with kids. 8️⃣ Huangshi|Hubei Chengyue Island is an underrated place for taking kids. 📍 The island is in the middle of Cihu Lake. Walk across the arched bridge. The kids will count the steps on the bridge, but halfway through, they'll be attracted by the wild ducks in the lake and forget what number they were counting to. ⏰ Arrive on the island at 5:30 PM. The sun is beginning to set, turning the lake golden. Your child chases bubbles on the lawn while you sit on a bench enjoying the breeze. It's quiet here, mostly with locals strolling around, no tour groups, and you can hear the birds chirping. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so buy water and snacks beforehand. 🍜 After leaving the island, walk ten minutes to the entrance of Tuanchengshan Park. There's a stall selling Huangshigang cakes; the freshly baked crust is flaky and crumbly, and your child's face is covered in sesame seeds after a bite. After eating, walk along the lake to Lover's Road. The streetlights are just coming on, and the lake reflects the twinkling lights. If your child gets tired, they can ride on your shoulders. This is a perfect place for the last day of your trip—no rushing, let your child roll around on the grass and wash away the summer fatigue. Of these eight places, I prefer Yichun and Ningbo the most. Yichun's forests let children know what "coolness" means, while Ningbo's ancient villages let them taste the sweetness of Jiangnan. Which ones have you taken your child to? Or do you know any hidden gems for escaping the summer heat? Share them in the comments, and I'll check them out next time.

8 Places You Must Visit in Your Lifetime, the Last One is Amazing 01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei isn't the kind of place that will make you scream at first glance, but if you stay for three days, you won't want to leave. 📍 Qinglong Mountain is a fantastic spot for panoramic views. It takes about twenty minutes to climb, and from the summit, you can overlook the entire karst peak forest and lakes. ⏰ Go at 6:30 am; the fog hasn't lifted yet, and the lake surface looks like it's covered with a thin veil, the light is incredibly soft. Taking a small willow-leaf boat on the lake is the highlight. The boatman poles slowly, and the water plants sway under the boat. In summer, the lake is full of lotus flowers, so remember to bring a waterproof bag; water fights are common, and you'll get splashed even if you don't participate. 🍜 At noon, go to Xianrendong Village for lotus fish. It's freshly caught and cooked, the soup is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off. ⚠️ Don't buy a package ticket at the scenic area entrance; buying individual boat and electric car tickets is more flexible. Staying in Puzhehei Village is cheaper than in Xianrendong Village, but Xianrendong Village is more lively at night with bonfire parties. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, avoid the midday cruises, as you'll get incredibly sunburnt. 02 Fangchenggang City | Guangxi This border coastal town is so sparsely populated you might wonder if you're at a real beach. 📍 The Fangchenggang Coastal Highway winds along the coastline. Rent a small electric scooter and ride slowly; the sea is on your left, mountains on your right, and the wind carries the salty smell of fish. The sand at Bailang Beach is black and soft underfoot, but don't expect it to be as white as Beihai Silver Beach. Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is a pleasant surprise. Hidden in the bay, the mudflats are teeming with small crabs and mudskippers after low tide. ⏰ Go around 5:30 pm; the light is perfect, and the fishermen start hauling in their nets. You can watch them sort through their catch. 🍜 The shrimp cakes sold by the old lady at the village entrance are five yuan each; fresh out of the pan, they're so crispy they crumble easily. ⚠️ Always ask the price before ordering at seafood stalls, and keep an eye on the weight when weighing; some shops use large baskets to hold the bottom. 🚄 It takes an hour and a half by high-speed train from Nanning; renting a car is the most convenient option once you arrive. Families with children are recommended to stay in the port area, as there are many dining options and it's convenient to visit various attractions. 03 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia If you haven't seen the poplar forest in autumn, you haven't truly understood what "golden" means. 📍 Ejina Poplar Forest Tourist Area: From the first bridge to the eighth bridge, each bridge offers a different view. The reflection forest at the second bridge is the perfect ceiling for photos; when the water is calm, the tree shadows merge with the sky. ⏰ The leaves are at their most yellow around October 10th; earlier they're still green, and later they've all fallen. The Badain Jaran Desert is another world altogether, boasting five wonders: towering peaks, singing sands, lakes, sacred springs, and temples—all nestled within this sea of ​​sand. Hire an off-road vehicle and let the driver surf the dunes; the feeling of weightlessness is more thrilling than a roller coaster. The desert lakes are salty, yet reeds grow along their banks—it's almost unbelievable. ⚠️ Cell phone signal in the desert is intermittent; download offline maps beforehand. Accommodation is generally basic; guesthouses near the Populus euphratica forest scenic area need to be booked at least two weeks in advance during peak season. 🍜 Hand-pulled mutton with brick tea is the most hearty meal in the desert. Don't wear light-colored shoes; they'll be ruined after just one walk in the sand. 04 Heyuan City | Guangdong Guangzhou residents love to flock here on weekends, not for anything else, but for this lake. 📍 Wanlv Lake, a truly fitting name, its water is a vibrant green, like a giant piece of jade. A boat tour is standard, and each of the three islands offers its own unique activities. The Sky Mirror on Jinghuayuan Island is perfect for taking photos, and Shuiyue Bay has a sandy beach for wading. ⏰ Board the boat after 2 PM; the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, creating a dazzling shimmer. 🍜 The "Wanlv Lake Fish Head" at the lakeside fishermen's restaurants is a must-order. The fish head is so big it takes up half a plate, and the tofu soaks up the fish broth, making it even tastier than the fish itself. ⚠️ There are different boat routes; ask about which islands you'll visit before buying tickets, as some cheaper routes only circle the lake without going to any islands. Choose morning departures if you're traveling with elderly people or children, as afternoon departures can be windy and rough, increasing the risk of seasickness. 🚄 Take the train from Guangzhou East Station to Heyuan Station, which takes a little over two hours. From the station, it's about a 30-minute taxi ride to the scenic area's pier. 05 Shannan City | Tibet Yamdrok Lake, meaning "Turquoise Lake" in Tibetan, but I think it's more like a shattered sapphire scattered among the valleys. 📍 Departing from Lhasa, after crossing the Gambala Pass, the entire car fell silent when we first saw Yamdrok Lake. That blue couldn't be captured in a photograph; it was a blue that made you doubt your own eyes. ⏰ Arriving around 10 AM, the light is at its clearest, and the lake's colors are at their most vibrant. There are Tibetan locals with yaks for photos by the lake; it costs 20 yuan per photo, but you can bargain. 🍜 In Langkazi County, there's a Chongqing noodle shop. A bowl of hot soup noodles at this high altitude is incredibly comforting. ⚠️ At an altitude of 4400 meters, stay calm and avoid running or jumping. Bring headache medication. The wind by the lake is strong enough to blow your hat off; wear one with a drawstring. 🚄 We recommend hiring a car or joining a day trip. It takes a little over two hours each way. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves. People prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. 06 Jining City | Shandong Qufu is the hometown of Confucius. The Three Confucian Sites—the Temple of Confucius, the Confucius Mansion, and the Cemetery of Confucius—will leave you exhausted after a day of walking, but your mind will be full. 📍 The Dacheng Hall of the Temple of Confucius has exquisitely carved stone pillars; it's said that even the emperor had to cover them with yellow cloth when he visited. ⏰ Enter at 8 am when it opens, before the tour groups arrive, and spend some time gazing at the Apricot Altar, feeling as if you can have a conversation with scholars from two thousand years ago. Weishan Lake Tourist Area offers a different pace. Take a boat ride through the reed marshes; in summer, the lotus flowers bloom in abundance. Pick a lotus leaf to shade your head. The lakeside families prepare a whole fish feast; the fish ball soup is so delicious you could drink three bowls. 🍜 Weishan Lake salted duck eggs, with their runny yolks, are a perfect match for white porridge. ⚠️ The Cemetery of Confucius is a burial ground; be mindful of your behavior if you have children. A combined ticket for the Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Cemetery can be purchased online in advance. Entry is by scanning your ID card, saving you from queuing. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Qufu East Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride to the Confucius Temple. If time is limited, the Confucius Mansion can be visited quickly; the Confucius Temple and Confucius Cemetery are the real highlights. 07 Lingshui | Hainan When Sanya is packed with people, those in the know flock to Lingshui. 📍 Fenjiezhou Island: The seawater visibility is over ten meters, perfect for diving to see corals and tropical fish. The boat ride to the island takes only about ten minutes. The island has well-developed facilities, but it's much quieter than Sanya. ⏰ Take the first boat to the island in the morning and enjoy diving while it's less crowded. At midday, when the sun is strong, relax on a beach chair and drink coconut water. Nanwan Monkey Island offers a completely different experience. Take the cross-sea cable car there, with fishing rafts and azure waters below. The monkeys are the main attraction on the island; they'll snatch your bottled water, so keep your bag safe and don't rummage through their food in front of them. 🍜 The sour and spicy rice noodles in Xincun Town are incredibly appetizing, topped with dried squid and peanuts, and only cost ten yuan a bowl. ⚠️ The entrance fee and boat ticket to Fenjiezhou Island cost over 100 yuan. Diving and photography are charged separately, so ask before you go to the island. Don't let your children touch the monkeys; getting scratched is no joke. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Sanya to Lingshui Station (half an hour), then take a taxi to the scenic area. 08 Xi'an City | Shaanxi Province Xi'an is a city where three days won't feel enough, and three months will make you feel like you could have lived here in a past life. 📍 At the Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Army Museum, the moment the army formations in Pit 1 are displayed, you'll realize that the photos in history books are misleading—the atmosphere in person is something photos simply can't capture. ⚠️ Definitely hire a guide or rent an audio guide; otherwise, you'll just see a bunch of clay figures. ⏰ Rushing in as soon as it opens in the morning, the experience drops drastically after 10 am when tour groups flood in. Qinling Zhongnan Mountain is Xi'an residents' backyard. Take the subway to Weiqu South Station, then a taxi into the mountains. The hiking route on Guifeng Mountain is suitable for beginners; it takes about two hours to reach the summit, where you can see the entire Guanzhong Plain. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Fengyukou for rainbow trout. Freshly caught and cooked, it's prepared two ways: sashimi with a sauerkraut hot pot. The History Museum is free but difficult to book. Try to grab tickets seven days in advance on their official WeChat account. If you can't get tickets there, buy tickets for the mural gallery—expensive but worth it. Rent a bicycle and ride around the Xi'an City Wall in the evening; it's 14 kilometers and takes about two hours. The sunset shining on the bricks evokes a sense of returning to Chang'an. 🚄 The city's subway system is extensive; don't take taxis, the traffic jams will make you question your existence. Eight places—some will bring you peace, some will leave you in awe, and some will make you want to just lie down and eat. If I had to choose one, I'd vote for Xi'an—it's both historical and lived-in, and you'll never tire of visiting it. What's your "must-visit" destination in this lifetime? Let's discuss in the comments. 8 Places You Must Visit in Your Lifetime, the Last One is Amazing 01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei isn't the kind of place that will make you scream at first glance, but if you stay for three days, you won't want to leave. 📍 Qinglong Mountain is a fantastic spot for panoramic views. It takes about twenty minutes to climb, and from the summit, you can overlook the entire karst peak forest and lakes. ⏰ Go at 6:30 am; the fog hasn't lifted yet, and the lake surface looks like it's covered with a thin veil, the light is incredibly soft. Taking a small willow-leaf boat on the lake is the highlight. The boatman poles slowly, and the water plants sway under the boat. In summer, the lake is full of lotus flowers, so remember to bring a waterproof bag; water fights are common, and you'll get splashed even if you don't participate. 🍜 At noon, we ate lotus fish at Xianrendong Village. It was freshly caught and cooked, and the soup was incredibly delicious. ⚠️ Don't buy a package ticket at the scenic area entrance; buying individual boat and electric cart tickets is more flexible. Staying in Puzhehei Village is cheaper than staying in Xianrendong Village, but Xianrendong Village is lively at night with bonfire parties. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, avoid the midday boat tours, as you'll get incredibly sunburnt. 02 Fangchenggang City | Guangxi This border coastal town is so sparsely populated you might wonder if you're at a real beach. 📍 The Fangchenggang Coastal Highway winds along the coastline. Rent a small electric scooter and ride slowly; the sea is on your left, mountains on your right, and the wind carries the salty smell of fish. The sand at Bailang Beach is black and soft underfoot, but don't expect it to be as white as Beihai Silver Beach. Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is a pleasant surprise. Hidden in the bay, the mudflats are teeming with small crabs and mudskippers at low tide. ⏰ Go around 5:30 PM; the light is perfect, and the fishermen are starting to haul in their nets. You can watch them sort through the seafood. 🍜 The shrimp cakes sold by the old lady at the village entrance are five yuan each; they're so crispy they crumble when they're fresh out of the pan. ⚠️ Always ask the price before ordering at seafood stalls, and keep an eye on the weight when they weigh the seafood, as some shops use large baskets to hold the bottom. 🚄 It takes an hour and a half by high-speed train from Nanning. Renting a car is the most convenient option once you arrive. Families with children are recommended to stay in the port area; there are many dining options, and it's convenient to visit various attractions. 03 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia If you haven't seen the poplar forest in autumn, you haven't truly understood what "golden" means. 📍 Ejina Poplar Forest Tourist Area: From the first bridge to the eighth bridge, each bridge offers a different view. The reflection forest at the second bridge is the perfect ceiling for photos; when the water is calm, the tree shadows and the sky merge into one. ⏰ The leaves are at their most yellow around October 10th; earlier they're still green, and later they've all fallen. The Badain Jaran Desert is another world entirely, boasting five wonders—unique peaks, singing sands, lakes, sacred springs, and temples—all nestled within this sea of ​​sand. Hire an off-road vehicle and let the driver surf the dunes; the feeling of weightlessness is more thrilling than a roller coaster. The desert lakes are salty, yet reeds grow along their banks—it's almost unbelievable. ⚠️ Cell phone signal in the desert is intermittent; download offline maps beforehand. Accommodation is generally basic; guesthouses near the Populus euphratica forest scenic area need to be booked at least two weeks in advance during peak season. 🍜 Hand-pulled mutton with brick tea is the most hearty meal in the desert. Don't wear light-colored shoes; they'll be ruined after just one walk in the sand. 04 Heyuan City | Guangdong People from Guangzhou love to flock here on weekends, not for anything else, but simply for this lake. 📍 Wanlv Lake, a truly fitting name, boasts waters so green they resemble a giant piece of jade. A boat tour is the standard activity, and each of the three islands offers its own unique experience. Jinghuayuan Island's "Sky Mirror" is perfect for photos, while Shuiyue Bay has a sandy beach for wading. ⏰ Board the boat after 2 PM; the sunlight slants across the water, creating a dazzling, shimmering effect. 🍜 The "Wanlv Lake Fish Head" at the lakeside fishermen's restaurants is a must-order. The fish head is so large it takes up half the plate, and the tofu, soaked in the fish broth, is even more delicious than the fish itself. ⚠️ Different boat routes exist; ask about the number of islands visited before buying tickets, as some cheaper routes only circle the lake without visiting any islands. For those with elderly people or children, choose morning departures, as afternoon departures can be windy and rough, increasing the risk of seasickness. 🚄 Take the train from Guangzhou East Station to Heyuan Station, a little over two hours. From there, a taxi to the scenic area's pier takes about 30 minutes. 05 Shannan City | Tibet Yamdrok Lake, meaning "Turquoise Lake" in Tibetan, but I think it's more like a shattered sapphire scattered among the valleys. 📍 Departing from Lhasa, after crossing the Gambala Pass, the first glimpse of Yamdrok Lake left everyone in the car speechless. That blue can't be captured in a photograph; it's a blue that makes you doubt your own eyes. ⏰ Arrive around 10 AM, when the light is clearest and the lake's colors are most vibrant. There are Tibetan locals offering photos with yaks by the lake for 20 yuan each, but you can bargain. 🍜 In Langkazi County, there's a Chongqing noodle shop. A bowl of hot soup noodles on the plateau is incredibly comforting. ⚠️ At an altitude of 4400 meters, stay calm and avoid running or jumping. Bring headache medication. The wind by the lake is strong enough to blow your hat off; wear one with a drawstring. 🚄 It's recommended to hire a car or join a day trip. The journey takes a little over two hours each way. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves. People prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. 06 Jining City | Shandong Qufu is the hometown of Confucius. The Three Confucian Sites—the Temple of Confucius, the Confucius Mansion, and the Cemetery of Confucius—will leave you exhausted after a day of walking, but your mind will be full. 📍 The Dacheng Hall of the Temple of Confucius has exquisitely beautiful stone carvings on its dragon pillars. It is said that even the emperor had to cover them with yellow cloth when he visited. ⏰ Enter at 8:00 AM when it opens. Before the tour groups arrive, spend some time daydreaming in front of the Apricot Altar. It feels like you can have a conversation with scholars from two thousand years ago. Weishan Lake Tourist Area offers a different pace. Take a boat ride through the reed marshes. In summer, the lotus flowers bloom in abundance. Pick a lotus leaf to use as a sunshade. The lakeside families prepare a whole fish feast, and the fish ball soup is so delicious you could drink three bowls. 🍜 Weishan Lake salted duck eggs, with their runny yolks, are a perfect match for white porridge. ⚠️ The Confucius Cemetery is a cemetery; please be mindful of your behavior if you have children. A combined ticket for the three cemeteries (Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Cemetery) can be purchased online in advance; simply scan your ID card to enter and avoid queuing. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Qufu East Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride to the Confucius Temple. If time is limited, the Confucius Mansion can be visited quickly; the Confucius Temple and Confucius Cemetery are the real highlights. 07 Lingshui | Hainan When Sanya is packed with people, those in the know flock to Lingshui. 📍 Fenjiezhou Island: The seawater visibility is over ten meters, perfect for diving to see corals and tropical fish. The boat ride to the island takes only about ten minutes. The island has well-developed facilities but is much quieter than Sanya. ⏰ Take the first boat to the island in the morning to enjoy diving while there are fewer people, and relax on a beach chair drinking coconut water when the midday sun is strong. Nanwan Monkey Island offers a completely different experience. Take the cable car across the sea, with fishing rafts and azure waters below. The monkeys are the main attraction; they'll snatch your bottled water, so keep your bag safe and don't rummage through their food in front of them. 🍜 The sour rice noodles in Xincun Town are spicy and appetizing, topped with dried squid and peanuts, and only cost ten yuan a bowl. ⚠️ The entrance fee and boat ticket to Fenjiezhou Island are over 100 yuan. Diving and taking photos are charged separately, so ask before you go to the island. Don't let children interact with the monkeys; getting scratched is no joke. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Sanya to Lingshui Station (half an hour), then take a taxi to the scenic area. 08 Xi'an City | Shaanxi Province Xi'an is a city you'll feel you haven't lived in for three days, but you'll feel like you could have lived here in your past life if you stayed for three months. 📍 At the Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Army Museum, the moment the army formations in Pit 1 are displayed, you'll realize that the photos in history books are misleading—the sheer scale and atmosphere of the scene defy description. ⚠️ Hiring a guide or renting an audio guide is essential; otherwise, you'll just see a bunch of clay figures. ⏰ Rushing in as soon as it opens in the morning, followed by tour groups after 10 AM, drastically reduces the experience. The Qinling Mountains are Xi'an's backyard. Take the subway to Weiqu South Station, then a taxi into the mountains. The hiking trail on Guifeng Mountain is suitable for beginners; it takes about two hours to reach the summit, where you can see the entire Guanzhong Plain. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to Fengyukou for rainbow trout. Freshly caught and prepared, it's served two ways: sashimi with a sauerkraut hot pot. The History Museum is free but difficult to book. Try to grab tickets seven days in advance on their official WeChat account. If you can't get tickets there, buy tickets for the mural gallery—expensive but worth it. Rent a bicycle and ride around the Xi'an City Wall at dusk. It's 14 kilometers, and you can finish in two hours. The setting sun casts its glow on the bricks, a truly magical experience, like stepping back in time to Chang'an. 🚄 The city's subway system is extensive; don't take a taxi, the traffic jams will make you question your existence. Eight places—some will bring you peace, some will leave you in awe, and some will make you want to just relax and eat. If I had to choose one, I'd vote for Xi'an—it's both historical and lived-in, and you'll never tire of it. What's your "must-visit" place in this lifetime? Let's discuss in the comments.

01 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang is often mentioned only for its vinegar, but its true calling is its mountains and rivers. Visit in August or September when the summer heat has just subsided and the river breeze carries the moisture, perfect for visiting the three mountains in one trip. Start in the morning at Jinshan, but don't just focus on taking pictures of the Cishou Pagoda. Walk around to Bailong Cave behind Jiangtian Temple through the side gate; it's less crowded, the moss is damp, and you can see the river crashing against the shore. Jinshan isn't large; two hours is enough. Afterward, stroll along the Yangtze River Road, enjoying the scenery. Jiaoshan is on the opposite bank, but you need to take a ferry. Jiaoshan is an island in the river. The ferry ride is only a few minutes and the fare is cheap, but the ferries aren't frequent, so it's best to go before noon. The island has dense bamboo groves and shady stone paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You might not understand the fragment of the "Yizheming" inscription in the Stele Forest, but the sense of history and vicissitude in the cliff carvings speaks volumes more than any explanation. Save Beigushan for dusk. ⏰After 5 PM, the light is just right. Climbing Beigu Tower, the river shimmers with golden light. The sentiment of "Where can one gaze upon the Central Plains?" becomes clear once you stand there. ⚠️Beigu Mountain has many steep steps; those with elderly people or children should consider this option, or take the cable car up and down, saving a lot of energy. Jurong Maoshan is far from the city center, so it's best to dedicate a separate day to it. The winding mountain roads can be dizzying, but the Taoist temple at the summit is bustling with worshippers, and the lush greenery is overwhelming. Remember to wear long pants; the mosquitoes in the mountains are fierce, so don't try to brave them in shorts. 02 Longnan|Gansu Longnan is known as the "Jiangnan of Longshang," and it truly lives up to its name. During August and September, with abundant rainfall, the color of Tianchi Lake changes dramatically, shifting from emerald green to bluish-green, as if someone has poured paint into it. Wenxian Tianchi Lake is at a high altitude, and the mountain roads are winding and sharp; allow ample time if driving. There's no cable car in the scenic area; you have to walk the whole way. Fortunately, the boardwalks are well-maintained, and a complete loop around the lake takes about two hours. Don't miss the viewing pavilion halfway through; it offers the best view of the lake, where the wind ripples the water like silver flakes. Guange Valley has a completely different character. It's full of waterfalls with a thunderous roar; you'll encounter one every few steps. It gets cooler as you go further in, so you might need a light jacket. ⚠️There are sections of the trail within the valley with rockfall zones; don't attempt to cross them after rain—safety first. 🚄There are buses from Longnan Station to Guange Valley, but the last return bus is early, so you need to leave before 4 PM. To photograph the light beams in the canyon, you need to enter the valley before 10 AM, when the sun shines obliquely down from the eastern mountains, creating beams of light in the mist. 🍜The potato dumplings sold at the valley entrance are spicy and sour; a bowl before climbing will fill you up. 03 Jining | Shandong The name Jining might sound unfamiliar, but once the Three Confucian Sites of Qufu are mentioned, everyone has to admit their worth. August and September have a decent number of tourists, but it's much less crowded than the summer peak season, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visiting the Temple of Confucius, the Confucius Mansion, and the Cemetery of Confucius together takes about half a day. ⚠️The Cemetery of Confucius is a bit far from the first two sites, so don't try to walk there. There are electric carts available at the entrance for 10 yuan a ride, saving your energy for exploring the grounds. The Stele Forest and ancient cypress trees at the Temple of Confucius make great backdrops for photos, but don't just focus on taking pictures; look up at the ridge beasts on the eaves—each one is unique. Weishan Lake is best visited in the afternoon. ⏰Take a boat around 3 or 4 pm. The lake is wide open, and the lotus flowers are in full bloom. The boatmen will deliberately navigate into the lotus fields. Pick lotus pods for 5 yuan each; peel and eat them fresh—they're sweet and delicious. It's windy on the lake, so make sure your hat is tied tightly, or it'll fly into the water in a blink of an eye. 🍜The smoked tofu on the streets of Qufu, sizzling on a hot plate, brushed with chili sauce, and served with a bowl of millet porridge, is far superior to the fast food in tourist areas. Don't buy those "Shengfu Family Banquet" restaurants near the Confucius Temple; they're expensive and mediocre. Walk a little further, and you'll find more affordable, home-style restaurants in the alleys. 04 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is the most ancient place in northeastern Sichuan. August and September bring more rain, making the stone paths wet and even more charming. The ancient city itself doesn't charge an entrance fee, but several attractions inside require separate tickets. The core attraction is the Zhang Fei Temple, which is very popular and crowded, so you can skip it. The truly interesting place is Zhongtian Tower; climbing it offers a panoramic view of the city's rooftops, with their continuous rows of green tiles resembling fish scales. ⚠️The stairs are narrow; don't carry large bags up, as turning around will be difficult. The Jialing River is a great place for a stroll. ⏰After 6 PM, the sun hangs low over the mountains, gilding the river, and fishing boats glide slowly by. Tea stalls line the riverbanks with bamboo chairs; a bowl of covered tea costs five yuan, enough to sit for an entire afternoon. Don't be put off by their shabby appearance; this is the essence of life in the ancient town. 🍜Langzhong beef noodles are a local breakfast staple. Alkaline noodles are topped with braised beef sauce, rich and flavorful, and spicy. The long-established shop at Huaguanglou Wharf has long queues starting at 7 AM; go early, and they'll be sold out by 9 AM. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, the ancient town's roads are smooth, making it easy to push a stroller, though you'll need to navigate around areas with many stairs. 05 Dongguan|Guangdong Dongguan isn't just about factories; the Humen Bridge area is worth a special trip. The weather is hot and humid in August and September, but the strong sea breeze on the bridge makes it surprisingly cool. The Humen Bridge itself doesn't charge an entrance fee, but traffic is heavy, so driving across the bridge is not recommended. The best way to see the bridge is by boat to Weiyuan Fortress. Looking up at the bridge from below, the awe-inspiring presence of this steel behemoth is far more powerful than standing on the bridge itself. ⏰Before 10 AM, the light is excellent; the brick walls of the fortress ruins glow yellow in the morning light, perfect for photos. The naval museum under the bridge is free, but⚠️ it's closed on Mondays, so don't waste your time. The museum is well-air-conditioned, a good place to rest if you get tired. Families with children can spend an extra two hours; the exhibits are highly interactive and more interesting than just a lecture. 🍜After seeing the bridge and fortress, drive to Humen town for roast goose rice noodles. The perfectly marbled roast goose, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is soaked in piping hot broth noodles, served with a side of plum sauce to cut through the richness. ⚠️Many old shops close after 2 PM; if you want to eat there, go around noon. 06 Hechi|Guangxi The mountains and rivers of Hechi reveal the wildest side of Guangxi. Xiangbei, a secluded paradise, sounds like a common name, but once you arrive, you'll find the words "Shangri-La" don't do it justice. The entrance to the scenic area involves a bamboo raft ride. The banks are lined with dense bamboo forests, the water a dark, almost blackish green, so still that only the sound of the oars can be heard. After disembarking, you walk through a karst cave. The stalactites gleam with a bluish hue under the lights, the dampness is refreshing, and the coolness seeps into your bones. ⏰Going in the morning means fewer people, and the cave is brighter and more serene. In the afternoon, tour groups arrive, and the place becomes noisy. Sanliyangdu offers a completely different experience. The Hongshui River makes a sharp bend here, and the riverbank is covered in pebbles, rough to walk on barefoot, but the water is exceptionally clear. ⚠️Don't pitch a tent on the riverbank; the water level rises rapidly during the rainy season. There are small restaurants run by villagers nearby, serving freshly caught river fish, braised with ginger—it's incredibly delicious. Donglan Mountain and Water is best enjoyed by car; the scenery along the way is breathtaking. The winding mountain road snakes around the mountainside; with the car window open, the air is filled with the fragrance of grass and trees. ⏰At dusk, the setting sun paints the mountains with golden edges; any roadside parking spot is postcard-perfect. 07 Zhengzhou|Henan Don't just treat Zhengzhou as a transit point. In August and September, the weather cools down, making the city center and surrounding areas ideal for a two- or three-day trip. The Zhenwei Water City is a newly popular spot, but don't have too high expectations. The antique-style streets are quiet during the day, but they have a certain charm when the lights come on at night. ⚠️The food prices inside are relatively high; it's recommended to just browse without eating, or walk a little further to the old town to find a noodle shop. Songshan Shaolin Temple is the highlight. Songshan is divided into Taishi Mountain and Shaoshi Mountain; Shaolin Temple is on Shaoshi Mountain. ⏰Visit the Pagoda Forest first in the morning for a quieter, less crowded experience. In the afternoon, watch a martial arts performance; showtimes are fixed, so arrive 20 minutes early to secure your seat. Take the cable car up the mountain; hiking is too time-consuming, but the view from the summit is worth the price. Xiliu Lake is perfect for an evening stroll. The lake isn't large, but wild ducks roam the reeds, and birdsong fills the air at dusk. Zhengzhou's subway system is very convenient, and the museum is worth two hours of planning, ⚠️but it's closed on Mondays, so avoid conflicting with your itinerary. 🍜After leaving the museum in the evening, the next street is lined with spicy soup shops, served with fried dough sticks—a tangy and appetizing treat. 08 Tianjin Tianjin has an inherently relaxed feel. August and September offer crisp, clear autumn skies, perfect for leisurely strolls without rushing to tourist attractions. The Italian Style Town is a photographer's paradise, but it's heavily commercialized, and the restaurants are expensive and mediocre. I suggest you just stroll around without buying anything. After taking photos of the sculptures in Marco Polo Square, head straight to the Five Avenues. The old villas of the Five Avenues are the essence. Don't take a horse-drawn carriage; it's expensive and a rushed experience. Rent a shared bike and ride slowly; every alleyway holds surprises. 📍The cafe at the end of Machang Road has an unassuming facade, but its terrace offers a view of the entire grove of plane trees. The Olympic Stadium isn't worth a special trip if you're not a football fan, but if you happen to pass by, the silver-white dome is particularly striking against the sky when the lights come on in the evening—worth taking a picture. ⏰The best time for photos is between 6 and 7 pm, when the sky is just beginning to darken, during the blue hour. Fantawild Adventure is suitable for families with children. ⚠️It gets extremely crowded on weekends; wait times for popular rides can be at least an hour. Going on a weekday will be much better. 🍜After playing, find a Guoba Cai (a type of savory crepe) shop in a nearby residential area. A jianbing (Chinese crepe) with soy milk is a hundred times better than the simple meals inside the park. The Tianjin Eye is beautiful at night, but the queues are too long; a quick glance from afar is enough. These eight cities aren't all popular tourist destinations, but each one is worth exploring in detail. August and September offer perfect weather, so avoid crowding into trendy photo spots. Pick one close to you, buy a ticket, and experience what it truly means to have a worthwhile trip. Which city did you visit this year that you felt was the most worthwhile? Share your thoughts in the comments, and I'll write them down. 01 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang is often associated with its vinegar, but its true calling lies in its mountains and rivers. Visit in August or September when the summer heat has subsided, and the river breeze carries the moisture, perfect for a scenic tour of the three mountains. Start in the morning at Jinshan, but don't just focus on taking pictures of the Cishou Pagoda. Walk around to the Bailong Cave behind the Jiangtian Temple through the side gate; it's less crowded, the moss is damp, and you can see the river crashing against the shore. Jinshan is small; two hours is enough. Afterwards, stroll along the Yangtze River Road, enjoying the scenery. Jiaoshan is on the opposite bank, accessible by ferry. Jiaoshan is an island in the river. The ferry ride is only a few minutes and the fare is cheap, though departures are infrequent. It's best to arrive before noon. The island is covered in bamboo groves, and the stone paths are shady, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You might not understand the fragment of the *Yizheming* inscription in the Stele Forest, but the weathered feel of the cliff carving speaks volumes more than any explanation. Visit Beigushan at dusk. ⏰After 5 pm, the light is perfect. Climb Beigu Tower, and the river shimmers with gold. The sentiment of "Where can one gaze upon the Central Plains?" will become clear once you stand there. ⚠️Beigushan has many steep steps; consider this if you have elderly people or children with you, or take the cable car up and down—it saves a lot of energy. Jurong Maoshan is far from the city center and is best visited in a separate day. The winding mountain roads can be dizzying, but the Taoist temples at the summit are bustling with worshippers, their lush greenery providing ample shade. Remember to wear long pants; the mosquitoes in the mountains are fierce, so don't try to brave them in shorts. 02 Longnan | Gansu Longnan is known as the "Jiangnan of Longshang," and it truly lives up to its name. During the rainy months of August and September, the water color of Tianchi Lake changes dramatically, shifting from emerald green to bluish-green, as if someone has poured paint into it. Wenxian Tianchi Lake is at a high altitude, with sharp mountain roads, so allow plenty of time if you're driving. There's no cable car in the scenic area; you have to walk the whole way. Fortunately, the boardwalks are well-maintained, and a complete loop around the lake takes about two hours. Don't miss the viewing pavilion halfway along the way; it offers the best view of the lake, where the wind ripples the water like silver flakes. Guange Valley is a completely different story. It's full of waterfalls with a thunderous roar; you'll encounter one every few steps. It gets cooler as you go further in, so you might need a light jacket. ⚠️There are sections of the trail within the valley with potential rockfalls; do not attempt to traverse these areas after rain, safety first. 🚄There are buses from Longnan Station to Guange Valley, but the last return bus departs early, so you must leave before 4 PM. To photograph the light pillars in the valley, you need to enter before 10 AM, when the sun shines obliquely down from the eastern mountains, creating beams of light through the mist. 🍜The potato dumplings sold at the valley entrance are sour and spicy; a bowl before climbing is very filling. 03 Jining|Shandong The name Jining might sound unfamiliar, but once the Three Confucian Sites of Qufu are mentioned, everyone has to admit their worth. There are quite a few tourists in August and September, but it's much less crowded than the summer peak season, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visiting the Temple of Confucius, the Confucius Mansion, and the Cemetery of Confucius together takes about half a day. ⚠️The Confucius Cemetery is a bit far from the previous two sites, so don't try to walk there. There are electric carts at the entrance for 10 yuan a trip; save your energy for exploring the cemetery. The Stele Forest and ancient cypress trees at the Confucius Temple make great backdrops for photos, but don't just focus on taking pictures; look up at the roof ridge beasts—each one is different. Weishan Lake is better visited in the afternoon. ⏰Take a boat around 3 or 4 pm. The lake is wide open, and the lotus flowers are in full bloom. The boatmen will deliberately turn into the lotus fields. Pick lotus pods for 5 yuan each; peel and eat them fresh—they're sweet and delicious. It's windy on the lake, so make sure your hat is tied tightly, or it'll fly into the water. 🍜The smoked tofu on the streets of Qufu, sizzling on a hot plate, brushed with chili sauce, and served with a bowl of millet porridge, is much better than the fast food in the scenic area. Don't buy those "Shengfu Family Banquet" restaurants near the Confucius Temple; they're expensive and mediocre. Walk a little further, and you'll find more affordable, home-style restaurants in the alleys. 04 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is the most ancient place in northeastern Sichuan. The rainy season in August and September makes the cobblestone streets wet, which adds to its charm. The ancient city itself doesn't charge an entrance fee, but several attractions inside require separate tickets. The core attraction is Zhang Fei Temple, which is very popular and crowded, so it's worth skipping. The truly interesting place is Zhongtian Tower, where you can see all the rooftops of the city, their green tiles stretching out like fish scales. ⚠️The stairs are narrow, so don't carry large bags; turning around will be difficult. The Jialing River is a great place for a stroll. ⏰After 6 pm, the sun sets behind the mountains, gilding the river, and fishing boats glide by slowly. Tea stalls line the riverbank with bamboo chairs; a bowl of covered tea costs five yuan, and you can sit there for an entire afternoon. Don't be put off by its shabby appearance; that's part of the ancient city's vibrant life. 🍜Langzhong beef noodles are a local breakfast staple. Alkaline noodles are topped with braised beef sauce, rich and flavorful, and spicy. The long-established shop at Huaguanglou Wharf has long queues starting at 7 am; go early, or it'll be sold out by 9 am. For those with elderly people or children, the ancient city streets are smooth, making it easy to push a stroller, but you'll need to navigate around areas with many stairs. 05 Dongguan|Guangdong Dongguan isn't just about factories; the Humen Bridge area is worth a special trip. The weather is hot and humid in August and September, but the sea breeze on the bridge makes it cool. The Humen Bridge itself doesn't charge an entrance fee, but traffic is heavy, so driving across isn't recommended. The best way is to take a boat to Weiyuan Fortress and look up at the bridge from below; the imposing presence of this steel behemoth is far more awe-inspiring than standing on the bridge itself. ⏰Before 10 am, the light is good; the brick walls of the fortress ruins glow yellow in the morning light, perfect for taking photos. The naval museum under the bridge is free, but⚠️ it's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. The air conditioning inside is great, a perfect place to rest if you get tired. Families with children can spend an extra two hours; the exhibits are highly interactive and more interesting than just a lecture. 🍜 After seeing the bridge and fort, drive to Humen town for roast goose rice noodles. The roast goose, with its perfect balance of lean and fatty meat, has crispy skin and tender meat, soaked in piping hot soup noodles, served with a side of plum sauce to cut through the richness. ⚠️ Many old shops close after 2 PM, so try to eat there around noon. 06 Hechi|Guangxi Hechi's landscape hides the wildest side of Guangxi. Xiangbei Shangri-La sounds like a common name, but once you arrive, you'll feel that the words "Shangri-La" don't do it justice. At the scenic area entrance, you need to take a bamboo raft ride. The bamboo forests on both banks are so dense they're almost black with the wind, the water is so still that only the sound of the oars can be heard. After disembarking, walk along the cave. The stalactites gleam with a deep blue hue under the lights, a dampness hits you, and a chill seeps into your bones. ⏰Going in the morning means fewer people, and the cave is cleaner in terms of light and shadow. In the afternoon, tour groups come in, and it's filled with noise. Sanliyangdu offers a completely different experience. The Hongshui River makes a sharp bend here, and the riverbank is covered with pebbles, which are uncomfortable to walk on barefoot, but the water is exceptionally clear. ⚠️Don't pitch your tent on the riverbank; the water level rises rapidly during the rainy season. There are small restaurants run by villagers nearby, serving freshly caught river fish, braised with ginger—it's incredibly delicious. Donglan Mountain and Water is perfect for a road trip; the scenery along the way is breathtaking. The winding mountain road snakes around the mountainside, and with the car windows down, the air is filled with the fragrance of grass and trees. ⏰At dusk, the setting sun paints the mountains with golden edges; you can find any open space by the roadside to take a postcard-perfect photo. 07 Zhengzhou | Henan Don't just treat Zhengzhou as a transit point. The weather cools down in August and September, making it a good time to spend two or three days in the city and surrounding areas. The Zhenwei Water City is a newly popular spot, but don't have too high expectations. The antique-style streets are quiet during the day, but have a certain charm when the lights come on at night. ⚠️The food prices inside are relatively high; it's recommended to just browse without eating, or walk a little further to the old town to find a noodle shop. Songshan Shaolin Temple is the highlight. Songshan is divided into Taishi Mountain and Shaoshi Mountain; Shaolin Temple is on Shaoshi Mountain. ⏰Go to the Pagoda Forest first in the morning for a quieter experience; watch the martial arts performance in the afternoon. Showtimes are fixed, so arrive 20 minutes early to secure a seat. Take the cable car up the mountain; hiking is too time-consuming, but the view from the top is worth the price. Xiliu Lake is suitable for an evening stroll. The lake isn't large, but wild ducks roam the reeds, and birdsong fills the air at dusk. Zhengzhou's subway system is very convenient, and the museum is worth two hours of planning, ⚠️ but it's closed on Mondays, so don't let it conflict with your schedule. 🍜After leaving the museum in the evening, the next street is lined with spicy soup shops, served with fried dough sticks—a tangy and spicy appetizer. 08 Tianjin Tianjin has an inherently relaxed feel. August and September are perfect for strolling the streets in clear, crisp autumn air, without rushing to see all the sights. The Italian Style Town is a photographer's paradise, but it's heavily commercialized, and the restaurants are expensive and mediocre. I suggest you just browse without buying anything. After taking photos of the Marco Polo Square sculpture, head straight to the Five Avenues. The old villas of the Five Avenues are the real gem. Don't take a horse-drawn carriage—it's expensive and a rushed experience. Rent a shared bike and ride slowly; every alleyway holds surprises. 📍The cafe at the end of Machang Road has an unassuming storefront, but its terrace offers a view of a whole grove of plane trees. The Olympic Stadium isn't worth a special trip for non-sports fans, but if you happen to pass by, the silvery-white dome stands out against the sky when the lights come on in the evening—worth a photo. ⏰The best time for photos is between 6 and 7 pm, when the sky is just beginning to darken, during the blue hour. Fantawild Adventure is suitable for families with children. ⚠️It gets extremely crowded on weekends, with queues for popular rides starting at an hour. Going on weekdays will be much better. 🍜After playing, find a Guoba Cai (a type of savory crepe) shop in a nearby residential area. A jianbing (Chinese crepe) with soy milk is a hundred times better than the simple meals inside the park. The Tianjin Eye is beautiful at night, but the queues are too long; a quick look from afar is enough. These eight cities aren't all popular tourist destinations, but each one is worth exploring in detail. With the weather perfect in August and September, avoid crowding into trendy photo spots. Pick one that's close to you, buy a ticket, and experience what it means to have a "worthwhile trip." Which city did you visit this year that you felt was the most worthwhile? Let's chat in the comments section, and I'll write it down.

Who knew! Shandong has such a relaxing lake destination 🌿, with endless lotus ponds, reed marshes, red history, and authentic fisherman's cuisine. In summer, enjoy the lake breeze while boating through lotus flowers—the atmosphere is unbeatable. Weishan Lake is the top choice for a short weekend getaway ✨. 📍Location: Weishan County, Jining City, Shandong Province. The main area to explore is Weishan Island. 🚗 Transportation tips For driving, navigate directly to Weishan Island ferry terminal. Don’t just search for Weishan Lake, as it may lead you to the wrong place. A 5-seat private car round-trip ferry ticket costs 60 yuan. Passengers inside the car ride free. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes. For 7-seat vehicles, the round-trip fare is 80 yuan. If you don’t want to drive onto the island, you can park at the terminal parking lot for 10 yuan per day and take a passenger ferry to the island. Public transport: Take the high-speed train to Zaozhuang Station or Tengzhou East Station, then taxi to Weishan Island ferry terminal. Passenger ferry round-trip costs about 6 yuan per person. Sightseeing boat round-trip is 30 yuan per person. On the island: Buy a 20 yuan sightseeing bus pass for unlimited hop-on hop-off at stops, which is convenient and saves effort. You can also rent an electric scooter to explore at your own pace. Ferry lines get very long on holidays, so try to start early in the morning. 🏨 Accommodation options ✅ Fisherman’s homestays on Weishan Island: 160–300 yuan per night. Many lakeside courtyards where you can watch the sunset over the lake at night and open your window to lotus ponds in the morning. An immersive lake experience—highly recommended to stay at least one night. ✅ Hotels in Weishan County: 130–240 yuan per night. More hotel options and convenient dining with lower prices. You’ll need to take the ferry to and from the island daily, suitable for day trips or budget travelers. Rooms fill up quickly on weekends and during lotus season, so book in advance. 💰 Budget reference (per person for 2 days 1 night) Budget: 550–800 yuan. Includes one night in a homestay, simple meals, ferry, island transport, and basic admission. Comfort: 900–1300 yuan. Lakeside homestay, boat tour deep into lotus ponds, and a full fish feast. Overall very affordable with great value. 🍤 Food must-tries ✨ Show off fresh lake delicacies at Weishan Lake 🐟 Drifting soup fish balls: The local signature dish. The fish balls are tender and bouncy, the clear broth is incredibly fresh—must order! 🐠 Spicy four-nose carp: A Weishan Lake specialty. The meat is tender and flavorful with spicy seasoning. A guaranteed must-have at every table. 🥚 Oily salted duck eggs: The yolk is sandy and oozes oil. Great as a gift to take home. 🫓 Old turtle by the riverbank: A ring of flatbread baked alongside the fish stew pot. The bread soaks up the fish broth—delicious bite after bite. 🌼 Fried lotus flowers and lotus leaf-wrapped rice: Very characteristic of the lake area with a subtle lotus leaf fragrance, perfect as a snack. Fresh lotus seed pods and water caltrops are seasonal and must be tried in summer. When dining, choose restaurants with clear pricing, ask about prices and portion sizes before ordering to avoid surprises. 🏞️ Must-see attractions 🚤 Ecological lotus garden ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: The soul of Weishan Lake! Thousands of acres of lotus ponds stretch as far as the eye can see. Be sure to take a small boat deep into the lotus flowers. The leaves brush the boat’s side, and the breeze carries the scent of lotus. The scenery is at its best in July and August when the lotus blooms. 🏯 Weizi cultural park: Climb the 88-meter-high Wanghu Pavilion to overlook the entire Weishan Lake. The vast lake view is stunning and perfect for photos. 🎖️ Railway guerrilla memorial park: A classic red tourism site to learn about the Weishan Lake railway guerrilla fighters. The museum and monument are worth a visit and very educational. 🌿 Weishan Lake national wetland park: Vast reed wetlands with boardwalks. Watch birds fly over the lake at dusk. A must for those who enjoy quiet nature and photography. 🏘️ Weizi forest and fisherman's folk museum: Worth a visit if you have time to learn about the ancient fishing customs of the lake area. 📆 Simple itinerary to copy Day 1: Arrive at Weishan Island ferry terminal, take the ferry to the island → boat tour at ecological lotus garden → visit Wanghu Pavilion for panoramic lake views, watch the sunset by the lake in the evening, stay overnight at an island homestay and enjoy fresh lake dinner. Day 2: Visit railway guerrilla memorial park → walk the boardwalk at the wetland park, have lunch, then take the ferry off the island to return. If you only have one day, prioritize the ferry to the island, lotus garden boat tour, and Wanghu Pavilion. 💡 Travel tips 1. Avoid unlicensed private boats around the ferry terminal. Safety is not guaranteed. Buy tickets through official channels. 2. UV rays are strong around the lake with little shade. Bring sun hats, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. 3. Do not swim in the lake. The water conditions are complex. Use only official boats and walkways. 4. The busiest time is lotus season in July and August. The ferry starts operating around 6 AM. Visit during off-peak hours for a better experience. 5. Protect the lake’s ecology. Do not pick lotus flowers or seed pods in the scenic area. Weishan Lake is free from the noise of big cities. Sitting on a boat slowly drifting through lotus ponds, the breeze over the water blows all worries away. If you want to see the lake, enjoy fresh food, and relax for a couple of days, Weishan Lake is definitely worth a trip 🌊.

01 Jinzhou | Liaoning What surprised me most about Jinzhou is how kid-friendly Yiwulü Mountain is. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of hiking—there’s a gentle slope at the base where kids can walk on their own. We entered the mountain from the Dachaoyang Temple side. You can buy tickets on-site, which is easier than booking online. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the mountain breeze is still cool. By the time you reach halfway up, the sun comes out just right—not too hot or stuffy. There aren’t many supply points on the mountain, so bring two energy bars and a bottle of water for the kids. Don’t carry too much—you’ll be the one getting tired. After coming down, head straight to Gou Bangzi for old Pang’s steamed buns filled with juicy meat. The kids ate three in a row. ⚠️ Remember, the steps near the main peak of Yiwulü Mountain are very steep. It’s not recommended for kids under 5 to climb all the way up. Just play around the Guanyin Pavilion area. 02 Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan and the Genghis Khan Mausoleum are too far apart to visit both in one day. When traveling with kids, focus on Xiangshawan and save the mausoleum for older kids interested in history. The fun at Xiangshawan is simple: take the cable car into the desert, then head straight to Yue Sha Island. There’s a kids’ water play area, and the sand is as fine as flour. Kids can play there all afternoon. ⏰ After 3 PM, the desert sun starts to soften, making it the best time to ride camels. One round takes about 20 minutes. 🍜 Don’t miss the freshly made milk tea and yogurt in the park. The thick milk skin is so rich it could be a meal on its own. ⚠️ Renting shoe covers in the desert is a waste of money. Just wear an old pair of sneakers and shake out the sand afterward. The Genghis Khan Mausoleum is better visited in spring or fall. It has no air conditioning in summer, which makes it uncomfortable for both adults and kids. 03 Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain Scenic Area is the least tiring mountain destination I’ve seen. The main reason is you can drive directly to the halfway point. We parked at Nanfengya and walked the boardwalk to Bailong Pool. It’s all flat paths, so even strollers are fine. The kids were most excited about collecting ginkgo nuts in the thousand-year-old ginkgo valley. 📍 Under the “Ginkgo King” tree, the ground was covered with nuts—they couldn’t pick them all. ⏰ Visiting in late October, the valley is golden. Elderly and kids standing under the trees taking photos don’t even need filters. 🍜 There’s a local restaurant called “Hongshan Renjia” in the town below. Their homemade chicken soup is rich and milky, served with crispy rice crust. The kids could eat an extra bowl. ⚠️ The signal is poor on the mountain. Download offline maps in advance or it’s hard to find restrooms. 04 Quzhou | Zhejiang Quzhou was the biggest surprise among these lesser-known cities. Kaihua Gen Gong Fo Guo is less a tourist spot and more a fascinating blend of nature and craftsmanship. Kids might not care about the Buddha statues but will be amazed by the massive, intertwined tree roots. 📍 The corridor of 500 Arhats features statues with unique expressions. Kids love walking along trying to find “which one looks like dad,” and can play here for half an hour. Jianglang Mountain and Nianbodu are better planned as a two-day trip. On day one, hike Jianglang Mountain via Langfeng trail. ⏰ After 4 PM, the slanting light makes the mountain look gilded. On day two, visit Nianbodu ancient town, which is not commercialized and still has residents living in old houses. 🍜 The town’s copper gong cake, made from glutinous rice and pan-fried, is sweet and a kid favorite. ⚠️ The Jianglang Mountain cable car stops running at 5 PM. Don’t get caught out. 05 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang hides two completely different kid-friendly treasures. Zhaozhou Bridge and Xibaipo are an ancient architectural marvel and a red education site, respectively. Don’t expect to see both in one day. Half a day is enough for Zhaozhou Bridge. 📍 The Zhaozhou Bridge Museum south of the bridge is even more worth visiting than the bridge itself. It has an interactive arch bridge mechanics exhibit where kids can press buttons to see how different arches bear pressure. Our kids pressed it more than ten times. ⏰ Around 5 PM, when the tourists thin out, the sunset lights up the bridge arches in orange. It’s a peaceful scene. Xibaipo is better for older kids, ideally third grade or above, as the historical context is complex. 🍜 The “Guyue tofu” from Pingshan County is so tender chopsticks can’t hold it. Paired with farmhouse dishes, kids can enjoy it too. ⚠️ Xibaipo is closed on Mondays. Don’t make a wasted trip. 06 Jining | Shandong Jining’s highlight is Qufu, but if you only visit the Three Confucian sites, you’re missing out. The Ming Ancient City in Qufu opens at 7 AM, so get there early. 📍 Touch the dragon pillars in front of the Dacheng Hall at the Confucius Temple. The surface is a 3D relief, and kids will stare at it for a long time. ⏰ There’s a Confucius memorial performance at 10 AM. Arrive 30 minutes early to get a good spot or you’ll only see heads. 🍜 After touring, head to Wuma Ci Street on Kongfu West Road for braised pork with rice and salted duck eggs. A hot bowl is very satisfying. The Weishan Lake tourist area offers a different experience: take a boat into the lake to see thousands of lotus flowers. ⚠️ Lotus blooms peak in mid-July. By August, only withered flowers remain. It’s windy on the lake, so bring a light jacket for the kids. The salted duck eggs from Weishan Lake have runny yolks. Remember to buy a few boxes as souvenirs. 07 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Riyue Mountain and Guide National Geopark are great for older kids to see geological wonders. Riyue Mountain is 3,520 meters high. Don’t let kids run or jump. Walk slowly while watching prayer flags and the distant Qinghai Lake. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared. The mountain looks like an ink painting. The kids’ favorite stop is 📍 Daotanghe Town, where the river flows from east to west. This “anomaly” from geography textbooks is right before your eyes. Guide National Geopark offers a different kind of awe. The Danxia landform is fiery red. The boardwalk is smooth and takes about an hour to walk without tiring. 🍜 Have a Qinghai-style hot pot in Guide County. The lamb is so tender it melts in your mouth. ⚠️ This route is at high altitude. If kids show cold symptoms, don’t go. It can trigger altitude sickness. 08 Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Bayingolin is huge and exhausting if you don’t plan well. My advice: focus only on Bayinbuluke Grassland and the Tarim Poplar Forest, saving the desert for the last day. Bayinbuluke’s winding rivers are best visited two hours before sunset. The light shifts from gold to orange, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see nine sun reflections. Kids won’t get bored because the grassland is full of marmots popping their heads out of holes. 🍜 The barbecue stalls at the park entrance grill fresh skewers for 5 yuan each. The meat chunks are so big kids get full after two skewers. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is at its golden peak in late October. The golden poplars reflect in the water, making every photo a wallpaper. ⚠️ Drones are not allowed in Bayinbuluke Park. There are patrols. Don’t bring kids to the desert. The strong winds and sandstorms can cause you to get lost, and rescue vehicles take at least two hours to arrive. The secret to traveling with kids without getting tired is never “to visit more places,” but to “do one big thing a day.” These eight cities have the most comfortable pace based on my experience. How old are your kids? Is there a city better suited for younger toddlers? Let’s chat in the comments—I’ll help you avoid pitfalls. Nature scenery experience tiring

01 Nanchong | Sichuan When traveling to Nanchong by high-speed rail with kids, the first place that comes to mind is Langzhong Ancient City. 🚄 Get off at Nanchong North Station, then take a taxi to Langzhong, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, take the high-speed rail directly to Langzhong Station, which is closer to the ancient city. The most comfortable way to explore the ancient city is to enter from Huaguang Tower and stroll along the Jialing River. In the early morning, there are fewer people, and the bluestone paths are wet with dew, echoing with each step. The kids' favorite is Zhongtian Tower, where you can climb up to see the entire expanse of gray-tiled roofs, spread out like building blocks. ⏰ The light is perfect after 5:00 PM, with the river shimmering golden, no filter needed for photos. ⚠️ Many shops in the ancient city with "handmade vinegar" signs actually sell mass-produced goods. If you want real vinegar, go to the old workshops on Cufang Street. If the kids get tired, take the sightseeing cart. It's 10 yuan per person, from the East Gate to the North Gate, saving a lot of effort. For food, head directly to the beef noodle shop on North Street. A bowl of noodles and a guokui (flatbread) cost around 20 yuan per person. 02 Wanning | Hainan For Wanning, I recommend skipping the tourist attractions and dedicating all your time to the beach. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Wanning Station, then a taxi to Shimei Bay, which takes about 40 minutes. Shimei Bay has fine sand and gentle waves, perfect for kids to squat in the shallows and collect seashells. Bring a picnic mat, spread it under a coconut tree, and you can stay for half a day. Riyue Bay is not far from Shimei Bay, a 15-minute drive. The waves here are big, making it a hotspot for surfers, but not suitable for kids. My suggestion: play in the sand at Shimei Bay, then watch surfers at Riyue Bay. You can visit both bays consecutively without needing to stay overnight; one day is enough. 🍜 The old aunties selling coconuts by the roadside offer green coconuts for 6 yuan each, half the price of those in tourist areas. ⚠️ Never go to the beach at noon; the UV rays are intense, and kids can easily get sunburned. Before 10:00 AM and after 4:00 PM are the most comfortable times. When traveling with kids, sunscreen, sun hats, and quick-drying clothes are essential. 03 Huanggang | Anhui I'll discuss Luotian Tiantangzhai and Macheng Guifeng Mountain in Huanggang together, as these two places are suitable for a single trip. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Huanggang East Station, then charter a car to Tiantangzhai, which takes about 1.5 hours. The way to experience Tiantangzhai is to go up by cable car and hike down. After reaching the summit by cable car, walk along the plank road for a while, and you'll see a rolling sea of clouds. Kids will excitedly point to the distance and shout, "That's the mountaintop!" When descending, don't walk the entire way. With kids, half the journey is enough; take the slide for the rest of the way, which feels like a roller coaster to them. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM to reach the summit before noon, avoiding the strong sun. For Guifeng Mountain, I recommend visiting only during the azalea season, when the mountains are covered in red in late April and early May. In other seasons, it's just an ordinary mountain and not worth a special trip. ⚠️ Prices in the mountains are high; a bottle of water costs 8 yuan, so bring plenty of your own. For accommodation, choose a farmhouse near the scenic area entrance; 150 yuan per night including breakfast is a good deal. 04 Linxia | Gansu Many people don't know about Linxia, but I genuinely think it's suitable for traveling with kids. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Linxia Station, then a taxi to Liujiaxia Tourist Resort, which takes 30 minutes. The highlight of Liujiaxia is the reservoir, with its emerald green water resembling a large jade. Take the speedboat with kids; they'll scream with excitement as it speeds across the water. Boat tickets are 80 yuan per person, half price for children. After disembarking, visit Bingling Temple Grottoes World Cultural Heritage Site, where the Buddha statues in the grottoes are over a thousand years old. ⚠️ No photos are allowed inside the grottoes, so don't let kids use their phones. 🍜 Linxia's beef noodles are exceptional, with clear broth and chewy noodles, 8 yuan a bowl. Take the kids to Bafang Shisan Alley, where there are handicraft vendors selling small gourds that make great souvenirs. ⏰ I recommend boating on the lake in the morning, visiting the grottoes in the afternoon, and returning to the city for noodles in the evening; the timing is perfect. 05 Jining | Shandong Jining has two places; with kids, I suggest choosing one, don't try to do too much. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Qufu East Station; it's very convenient to get to the Three Confucius Sites. The Qufu Ming Ancient City (Three Confucius Sites) Tourist Area includes the Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Forest, all connected. In front of the Dacheng Hall at the Confucius Temple, kids will ask, "Why is this building so tall?" and you can tell them stories about ancient architecture. The trees in Confucius Forest are very old, with centuries-old cypress trees standing in rows like guards. ⚠️ Confucius Forest is very large, don't let kids run too far, as they can easily get lost. Tickets are 140 yuan, children are free, but remember to book in advance on the official account. I recommend visiting Weishan Lake Tourist Area in autumn, when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. Take a boat into the lake, and the boatman will pick lotus pods for the kids; they're sweet. ⏰ The light after 4:00 PM casts a golden glow on the lake, making for excellent photos. With kids, choose an electric boat, don't take a hand-rowed one, as it's too strenuous. 06 Ma'anshan | Anhui Ma'anshan is a small city, but Caishiji is worth a stop. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Ma'anshan East Station, then a taxi to Yangtze River Caishiji Cultural and Ecological Tourist Area, which takes 20 minutes. Caishiji is a rocky outcrop by the Yangtze River. Standing on it, you can see the river flowing. Walk along the riverside plank road with kids; the river breeze is refreshing, especially cool in summer. Li Bai wrote poems here, and there's Taibai Tower in the scenic area where you can teach kids about the characters. ⏰ The most beautiful time is at dusk, when the sunset dyes the river golden, and cargo ships pass by on the river, like a painting. 🍜 The Caishiji tea-flavored dried tofu at the scenic area entrance costs 10 yuan a bag; the more you chew, the more flavorful it gets, perfect as a snack for kids. ⚠️ Don't wear flip-flops to climb the rocky outcrop; the rocks are very slippery from the river water. With kids, turn back after walking half the way; the full route can be a bit tiring for them. 07 Anshun | Guizhou I once took my kids to Huangguoshu Waterfall in Anshun, and it's still unforgettable. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Anshun West Station, then a direct shuttle bus to the scenic area, which takes 40 minutes. The sound of Huangguoshu Waterfall can be heard from afar. As you get closer, the mist sprays your face like light rain, which is especially comfortable in summer. Kids will excitedly shout, "The waterfall is breathing!" ⏰ Enter the park at 8:00 AM when there are fewer people, and you can have the viewing platform to yourselves. Be sure to visit Water Curtain Cave; walking behind the waterfall is an awe-inspiring experience for both adults and children. Longgong is not far from Huangguoshu, a 30-minute drive. Longgong is a karst cave where you take a boat ride, and the colorful lights illuminate the stalactites. ⚠️ The temperature inside the cave is low, so bring a light jacket for the kids. A combined ticket for both attractions is 220 yuan, half price for children; remember to buy online one day in advance. 08 Chongzuo | Guangxi Chongzuo is the place I most want to keep secret among these eight. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Chongzuo Station, then charter a car to Detian Transnational Waterfall, which takes an hour. Detian Waterfall spans the border between China and Vietnam, with Vietnam on the left and China on the right. Take a bamboo raft with kids to the foot of the waterfall; the spray on your face is cool and refreshing. You can see Vietnamese boats on the opposite bank, with vendors selling dried mangoes for 10 yuan a pack. ⏰ The water volume is greatest before 10:00 AM; after noon, the water is lower, and the scenery is less impressive. Mingshi Pastoral Scenery is another surprise. Take a bamboo raft through the rice paddies, with karst peaks on both sides, like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting. 🍜 The Vietnamese banh mi at the scenic area entrance costs 15 yuan each, and the kids love it. The Zuojiang Huashan Rock Paintings can only be seen from a boat. The red human figures on the rock face were painted by ancient people two thousand years ago, and kids will ask, "How did they climb up there?" ⚠️ The boat trip to see the rock paintings takes two hours, so if kids are too young, they might get restless. It's recommended to go when they are older. Among these eight places, I most recommend Langzhong Ancient City and Chongzuo; one is full of local charm, and the other boasts stunning natural scenery. Which ones have you visited with your kids? Share in the comments to help other moms avoid pitfalls.

Take your wife to these 8️⃣ places, and she will love you more when you return 01 Yichun | Heilongjiang Don’t just think of Yichun as cold. Visiting in summer is the real way to enjoy it. 📍Tangwang River forest of strange stones sounds hardcore, but once inside, it’s all tree shadows and cool breezes. Enter the park at 8 AM when it’s less crowded. Dew seeps through the cracks in the stones, and stepping on moss makes a muffled sound. If your wife loves photography, don’t snap photos at the first stone forest. Walk 20 more minutes inside to a viewing platform where you can capture the whole forest sea. The backlighting there creates the best layers. ⏰ The light is bright before noon. In the afternoon, fog rises in the forest, making distant views unclear. ⚠️ There are many steps in the park. Don’t wear high heels. My wife’s white sneakers were ruined. Bring a bottle of water since supplies inside are limited. The whole walk takes about 4 hours. If your stamina is average, turn back at the halfway pavilion. Don’t push yourself. 02 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is a place for two people to stroll slowly, not for rushing through attractions. 📍Climb Qingyuan Mountain before 6:30 AM to enter free and watch old Quanzhou wake up in the morning mist. Tea seats at the summit cost 10 yuan per person and are worth sitting all morning. After descending, head straight to Kaiyuan Temple. There’s an open space under the East and West towers where pigeons aren’t afraid of people. When your wife squats to feed them, take photos from the side or behind with the red walls and tower tips as the background. The Quanzhou cliff inscriptions are halfway up Qingyuan Mountain. Don’t go out of your way to find them—just glance on the way. ⚠️ Chongwu Ancient City is windy after 4 PM. It’s hard to stand by the sea, so arrive before 3 PM if you want photos. 🍜 Don’t eat on the main West Street at night. Turn into the alley beside the bell tower for misua soup with vinegar pork. It costs about 20 yuan per person and is filling. 🚄 A taxi from downtown to Chongwu costs about 40 yuan. Renting a car round-trip is more cost-effective but remember to negotiate the price in advance. 03 Anqing | Anhui Tianzhu Mountain wind—that name alone is romantic. 📍Take the cable car from the visitor center. Don’t save the 80 yuan by hiking; it’s just tiring. After the cable car, head toward Liandan Lake. The lake looks like melted jade. If your wife stands on the lakeside boardwalk, crouch a bit to capture both the water and distant mountains. ⏰ The light is softest after 2 PM. It’s windy at the summit, so bring her a light jacket. ⚠️ Don’t take the last cable car down. The line can be an hour long. It’s better to come down 30 minutes earlier and sit at the tea stall at the foot of the mountain. A local melon tea costs 5 yuan a cup. The whole trip is moderately strenuous, suitable for couples who don’t usually hike. Walk and rest, don’t rush. 04 Nanjing | Jiangsu Nanjing is a city you can enjoy without a guide, but having one saves half the effort. 📍The presidential palace is closed on Mondays, so don’t go then. On weekdays, it opens at 9 AM. It’s less crowded, and the corridors have an old-time feel. In the afternoon, head to Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River scenic area. Don’t take the 120 yuan boat tour; the line is long and it’s not worth it. Walk along the riverbank to Wende Bridge at dusk for better photo spots than on the boat. Xuanwu Lake is best visited in the evening. ⚠️ The lights fully turn on after 7 PM. Going earlier means seeing just dark water. Niushou Mountain cultural tourism area is far from downtown. Take metro line S1 to Hohai University station, then a 15-minute taxi. The Buddhist palace is air-conditioned, so bring a long-sleeve shirt in summer. 🍜 Stay near Xinjiekou at night. There are many food options downstairs. For duck blood vermicelli soup, skip the big chains and try the authentic one in the alley. 05 Leshan | Sichuan Leshan isn’t just about the giant Buddha. Mount Emei is the main attraction. 📍The best chance to see the sea of clouds at Emei’s Golden Summit is early morning. Stay at the foot of the mountain the night before and catch the first sightseeing bus at 5 AM. Don’t mind the early wake-up; it’s worth it. The summit is windy. Rent a coat for 30 yuan. Don’t mind the style—it’s really cold. After the summit, don’t rush down. The trail from Qingyin Pavilion to One Line Sky is quiet and forested, like walking through woods. The Leshan Giant Buddha is simpler. 📍Enter from the north gate and exit the east gate to avoid backtracking. The queue to descend the plank road is about 40 minutes. ⚠️ If you’re afraid of heights, don’t push yourself. Just stay on the Buddha’s head platform. The view is still impressive. 🍜 After coming down at noon, go to Zhanggong Bridge for foot-lifting beef. The broth is so fresh you can drink three bowls. 😄 06 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Don’t think Shijiazhuang has nothing to do. You just haven’t found the right places. 📍Zhaozhou Bridge ticket costs 40 yuan. It’s basically a bridge and a park. Honestly, the value isn’t great, but standing on the bridge looking at the Xiao River water lets you imagine what it was like 1,000 years ago. It’s a good place to tell your wife stories. ⚠️ Food around Xibaipo is expensive and average. Bring your own snacks or eat back in the city after sightseeing. 🚄 A taxi from Shijiazhuang station to Zhaozhou Bridge takes about 40 minutes. Carpooling is cheaper. Avoid unlicensed taxis. ⏰ You can visit both places in one day: Zhaozhou Bridge in the morning, Xibaipo in the afternoon, then return to the city for donkey meat sandwich with a bowl of mixed noodle soup to warm your stomach. 07 Tongren | Guizhou Fanjing Mountain is worth visiting once in a lifetime, but avoid holidays. 📍Enter from Jiangkou. After the cable car, you still have to climb 800 steps. This is the toughest part but worth it when you reach the Red Cloud Golden Summit. The fog comes and goes quickly at the top. ⏰ The best chance to reach the summit is before 10 AM. After noon, you’ll mostly see white walls. ⚠️ Disposable raincoats cost 5 yuan at the base. Weather changes quickly on the mountain. 🍜 After descending, go to Jiangkou town for sour soup fish. The local favorite is “Old Street Sour Soup,” costing about 60 yuan per person. It’s sour and spicy, perfect for appetite. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from Tongren station to the scenic area, about 1.5 hours. Avoid unlicensed taxis—they charge double and take detours. 08 Jining | Shandong 📍Qufu Ming Ancient City (Three Confucian sites) is a cultural spot, but it can be romantic with your wife. Don’t miss the city opening ceremony at 8 AM. Watch the ancient costume performance at the gate and feel instantly transported. The Confucius Mansion’s back garden is quiet with green trees and red walls. Wearing light-colored clothes makes for great photos. ⚠️ The three-site ticket is valid for two days. Don’t rush to finish in one day. Splitting it into two days is much easier. In the afternoon, head to Weishan Lake tourist area and take a boat into the lake. ⚠️ The boat ticket is included in the entrance fee. Don’t be tricked into buying a “fast pass” at the gate. It’s windy on the lake, so bring a jacket. The sunset at 4:30 PM shines on the reeds, turning them golden. At that moment, the two of you won’t say a word, and that’s just perfect. 🍜 At night, return to Qufu for a Confucius Mansion feast. Prices range from 50 yuan to several hundred per person. Choose a mid-range option and avoid overpaying.

Frequent visitors to downtown Jining choose Haotai Boutique Hotel. Its location is very convenient for business travelers. The hotel is right across from the South Bus Station and not far from Jining Train Station. Commuting to various business locations in the city is smooth. Public transportation is convenient, and there is free parking for self-driving guests, so parking during business trips is hassle-free. Numerous dining and shopping options line the nearby streets, making meals and errands easy after work. Guest rooms are well laid out with a small work desk and stable internet, making it easy to handle work back at the hotel. Rooms are clean and odor-free with good blackout curtains, allowing for full rest after a busy day. The 24-hour front desk responds promptly, offers free luggage storage, and has self-service laundry, making long stays comfortable. The hotel also features a game room and a small meeting room, suitable for simple business meetings. There are no unnecessary charges, just practical and reliable service. For business trips or fieldwork transfers in Jining, this hotel is a solid choice.

These 8️⃣ cities hide the most extreme mountains, rivers and human fireworks in China 1️⃣ Jining | Shandong The matter of Jining should be viewed separately. On one side is Qufu, on the other is Weishan Lake. Go to Qufu Ming Ancient City in the morning. Don't rush to worship Confucius as soon as you enter the door. Start by walking around the path of God, the ancient cypresses on both sides are more out-of-the-box than you think. Inside the Three Kong Scenic Area, the apricot altar of the Confucius Temple must stand for a while. It was the place where lectures were held. When the wind blows, the mind is full of "learning and learning from time to time". ⚠️ The back garden of Kong Mansion is often closed during maintenance. Check the announcement before going. Don't go in vain. In the afternoon, change to Weishan Lake, drive over from Qufu for about two hours. ⏰ The lake is most beautiful after five o'clock in the evening, the setting sun dyes the reeds golden, the rhythm of the boatmen rocking is more healing than anything else. Take a boat to the island in the middle of the lake, see the old street outside the Railway Guerrilla Memorial Park, and drink a bowl of fresh lake soup for $40 per person. 🚄High-speed rail to Qufu East Station, take a taxi to Sankong for about fifteen minutes. These two places can be played separately, but it is a bit rushed to finish within one day. It is recommended to stay in the city of Qufu and leave for Weishan Lake early the next morning. 2️⃣ Meizhou | Guangdong The name Meizhou sounds literary and artistic, practically a place where tea fields are planted into poetry. Yannan Flying Tea Fields, I would call “the most underrated scenic spot in Guangdong”. As soon as you enter the scenic spot, you will see the terraced tea ridges all over the mountain, and the air is full of the green and astringent taste of tea leaves. Don't take an electric car directly to the top of the mountain, walk up from the foot of the mountain, twenty minutes away, you can see the tea farmers picking tea, and you can take a few beautiful pictures of no one. The Wai Lung Restaurant at the top of the hill offers Hakka cuisine. The stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken are very authentic. They cost $60 per person. ⏰ It is best to arrive before 10 am, the clouds have not dissipated, the tea fields seem to be covered with a veil, ten times more beautiful than the noon sun. In the afternoon, you can sit in the pavilion in the tea field, light the pot in a single cluster, and be in a daze for an hour without feeling distressed. ⚠️ The premium of tea souvenirs inside the scenic spot is serious. The same phoenix single cluster, the tea house outside is one-third cheaper. If you want to buy tea, turn right two kilometers out of the scenic area and there is a local tea market. 3️⃣ Taizhou | Jiangsu Qinhu, Taizhou, is the kind of place where "you don't know how comfortable you are when you go there". The Qinhu Wetland Park is very big. Don't hesitate to take a boat before entering. The boat runs in the water alley, flanked by reeds and water lilies, and if you are lucky, you will see egrets flying overhead. After getting off the boat, walk along the wooden canyon, which is about three kilometers. The road is mainly flat, so you can push a stroller and a wheelchair without any problem. 🍜 Don't make do with the scenic spot at noon, drive ten minutes to the ancient town of Qintong, the fish soup noodles on the old street with boiled dried silk, fifteen dollars to eat to your heart's content. Return to Qinhu in the afternoon to see the main venue of the Qintong Boat Festival. Although there are usually no festive performances, the empty lake has a kind of tranquil power. ⏰ Spring and autumn are the most comfortable, summer mosquitoes are many, remember to bring mosquito repellent. ⚠️ Wetland Park stops entering the park at 4:30 pm. Don't step on the time to go. It takes two and a half hours to finish inside. 🚄 Take a taxi from Taizhou Station for about 40 minutes, suitable for slow-paced strolling on weekends. 4️⃣ Yongzhou|Hunan The ancient village of Shanggantang in Yongzhou is the most unsightly ancient village I have ever seen. The village doesn’t charge a ticket and there’s no fencing, and it’s real life when you walk into it. The bluestone slab roads are polished to a shiny finish, and on the threshold of the old house sits a peanut-peeling grandmother who will smile and ask you to try it. The Buying Bridge at the entrance of the village is an old bridge from the Song Dynasty. The stream under the bridge is so clear that you can see the lines on the stone. ⏰ Six to eight in the morning is the best time, the smoke rises, the sun shines slanting on the roof, the whole village is not awake, you are like breaking into an old painting. More tourists in the afternoon, but less flavor. There is a small wine shop in the village. The home-brewed glutinous rice wine is sweet and sweet. It costs ten dollars a bottle. It's a bit exciting to drink while walking. ⚠️ There are no similar restaurants in the village. It is recommended to come back after lunch in Yongzhou city, or bring some dry food. 📍 Navigation directly search "Shang Gan Tong Village", drive from Yongzhou Station about an hour, the road condition is good, but there are few parking spaces at the entrance of the village, go earlier in the peak season. 5️⃣ Zhangzhou|Fujian Zhangzhou is a treasure of Fujian, and one place can give you three completely different experiences. Yunshuiyue Ancient Town and Nanjing Earth Building are tied together. There are more than a dozen century-old banyan trees by the stream in the ancient town. The shade of the trees blocks the sky. Sitting under the trees drinking tea and listening to the sound of water, time slows down. The most worth-seeing of the earth buildings are the Wai Yuen House and the He Gui House. The former is a double-ring circular earth building, while the latter is built on swampy land. It has not collapsed for two hundred years. From the earth building, drive two hours to the Marina Volcanoes National Geopark. The black volcanic rocks here clash with the azure waters like another planet. ⏰ At low tide in the afternoon you can walk to the farthest part of the coastline and see those hexagonal columnar joints that are more shocking than any artificial landscape. ⚠️ Many "free tour guides" in Tulou Scenic Area will take you to buy tea, don't follow. It's windy in Volcano Park. Bring a jacket. 🚄 High-speed rail to Zhangzhou Station, charter a car to play these three points for two days, do not compress into a day, will be tired to doubt life. 6️⃣ Xi'an League | Inner Mongolia Alshan National Forest Park is that kind of “come and don’t want to leave” kind of place. Let’s start with the bad: it’s far from anywhere, a four-hour drive from Ulanhot. But when you see the moment of Tufengling Sky Pond, you will feel that all the running is worth it. The lake is so blue that it is unreal, like a huge gem inlaid on the top of the mountain, and a forty minute walk around the canyon around the lake, every step is a different angle of beauty. The Stone Pond Forest is a different scene, the volcanic lava landscape covered with moss and pine trees, like walking on a land forgotten by time. ⏰ It is recommended to go to the sky pond in the morning and then go to the stone pond forest in the afternoon, because the afternoon light hits the rocks will have a golden reflection. 🍜The small restaurant at the entrance of the scenic spot is worth trying. ⚠️ Autumn in Alshan (mid-September to early October) is the most beautiful, but it is the most crowded time, accommodation must be booked half a month in advance. Go cool in summer, but can't see yellow leaves. 🚄 There is no direct high-speed rail, it is recommended to fly to Ulanhot, then rent a car and drive yourself. The whole scenic spot will take at least a full day to play. Don't arrange to leave in half a day. 7️⃣ Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Ili, in my mind, is one of the most beautiful summers in China. The Ili River Valley is not a certain point, it is a line. From Yining, drive east along the river valley, all sides of grassland and sea of ​​flowers. The June Turgen Apricot Groove is past its flowering period, but the wildflowers on the meadow are still in full bloom. The Kerakung Prairie is a must, taking the sectional car to Falcon Terrace and trekking towards the side of the gorge, the visibility is so open that it will make you want to scream. The Kunis Grassland is located on the edge of the Duku Highway, and if you are just walking through Duku, be sure to stop for a night. The starry sky there was the brightest I had ever seen, and the Milky Way was like a glowing river hanging directly overhead. ⏰ The most beautiful time of the prairie is from 7 to 9 pm, the sun is slanting, the grass is golden, and the cattle are slowly returning home. ⚠️ The UV rays in Xinjiang are not a joke. Replenish sunscreen once an hour. 🚄 Fly to Yining Airport, then drive by yourself is the most convenient. Accommodation conditions in the prairie room are average, but the experience is full, and it is recommended to stay at least one night. 🍜The toasted buns in Narati Town, three dollars a piece, bite open all the meat juice, do not miss. 8️⃣ Shenyang | Liaoning Shenyang is not the kind of "stunning" city, but if you stroll around carefully, there are surprises everywhere. Beiling Park (Qing Zhaoling) is a treasure of Shenyang. The tickets are cheap, but it contains the complete Qing Dynasty royal mausoleum. ⏰ Go at 7am, you can see locals doing morning exercises inside, playing Tai Chi, shuttlecock kicking, full of fireworks. The ancient pines in the park are all over 300 years old, and walking underneath feels like crossing. Shenyang Expo Park is suitable for taking children or couples. The park is very large. It is recommended to rent an electric car, otherwise your feet will be useless after a day of walking. The tulips in April and the chrysanthemum show in October are two highlights, other times beautiful but not as stunning. The Immaculate Pure Light Relic Pagoda and the North Pagoda Falun Temple are not far away and can be visited together. The stupa is hidden in a residential area, and you can miss it if you don't look carefully, but the feeling of "sudden peace and quiet in the midst of the hustle and bustle" is wonderful. The Falun Temple is in the Tibetan Buddhist style and is completely different from the common Han temples in Shenyang, and it is worth a walk in. ⚠️ Entrance to Beiling Park stops at 5pm. Don't waste time. 🍜 After strolling around Beiling, go to the nearby Xita Street to eat Korean food. Grilled eel and cold noodles are authentic tastes, and you can eat them for 70 dollars per person. 🚄 Shenyang Metro Line 2 goes directly to Beiling Park Station. Each of these eight cities has its own temper. The heaviness of Jining, the fragrance of tea in Meizhou, the leisure of Taizhou, the ancient meaning of Yongzhou, the multifacetedness of Zhangzhou, the vastness of Xi'an League, the magnificence of Ili, the human fireworks of Shenyang - which one do you like best? Talk in the comment section, maybe next stop, it's him. These 8️⃣ cities hide the most extreme mountains, rivers and human fireworks in China 1️⃣ Jining | Shandong The matter of Jining should be viewed separately. On one side is Qufu, on the other is Weishan Lake. Go to Qufu Ming Ancient City in the morning. Don't rush to worship Confucius as soon as you enter the door. Start by walking around the path of God, the ancient cypresses on both sides are more out-of-the-box than you think. Inside the Three Kong Scenic Area, the apricot altar of the Confucius Temple must stand for a while. It was the place where lectures were held. When the wind blows, the mind is full of "learning and learning from time to time". ⚠️ The back garden of Kong Mansion is often closed during maintenance. Check the announcement before going. Don't go in vain. In the afternoon, change to Weishan Lake, drive over from Qufu for about two hours. ⏰ The lake is most beautiful after five o'clock in the evening, the setting sun dyes the reeds golden, the rhythm of the boatmen rocking is more healing than anything else. Take a boat to the island in the middle of the lake, see the old street outside the Railway Guerrilla Memorial Park, and drink a bowl of fresh lake soup for $40 per person. 🚄High-speed rail to Qufu East Station, take a taxi to Sankong for about fifteen minutes. These two places can be played separately, but it is a bit rushed to finish within one day. It is recommended to stay in the city of Qufu and leave for Weishan Lake early the next morning. 2️⃣ Meizhou | Guangdong The name Meizhou sounds literary and artistic, practically a place where tea fields are planted into poetry. Yannan Flying Tea Fields, I would call “the most underrated scenic spot in Guangdong”. As soon as you enter the scenic spot, you will see the terraced tea ridges all over the mountain, and the air is full of the green and astringent taste of tea leaves. Don't take an electric car directly to the top of the mountain, walk up from the foot of the mountain, twenty minutes away, you can see the tea farmers picking tea, and you can take a few beautiful pictures of no one. The Wai Lung Restaurant at the top of the hill offers Hakka cuisine. The stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken are very authentic. They cost $60 per person. ⏰ It is best to arrive before 10 am, the clouds have not dissipated, the tea fields seem to be covered with a veil, ten times more beautiful than the noon sun. In the afternoon, you can sit in the pavilion in the tea field, light the pot in a single cluster, and be in a daze for an hour without feeling distressed. ⚠️ The premium of tea souvenirs inside the scenic spot is serious. The same phoenix single cluster, the tea house outside is one-third cheaper. If you want to buy tea, turn right two kilometers out of the scenic area and there is a local tea market. 3️⃣ Taizhou | Jiangsu Qinhu, Taizhou, is the kind of place where "you don't know how comfortable you are when you go there". The Qinhu Wetland Park is very big. Don't hesitate to take a boat before entering. The boat runs in the water alley, flanked by reeds and water lilies, and if you are lucky, you will see egrets flying overhead. After getting off the boat, walk along the wooden canyon, which is about three kilometers. The road is mainly flat, so you can push a stroller and a wheelchair without any problem. 🍜 Don't make do with the scenic spot at noon, drive ten minutes to the ancient town of Qintong, the fish soup noodles on the old street with boiled dried silk, fifteen dollars to eat to your heart's content. Return to Qinhu in the afternoon to see the main venue of the Qintong Boat Festival. Although there are usually no festive performances, the empty lake has a kind of tranquil power. ⏰ Spring and autumn are the most comfortable, summer mosquitoes are many, remember to bring mosquito repellent. ⚠️ Wetland Park stops entering the park at 4:30 pm. Don't step on the time to go. It takes two and a half hours to finish inside. 🚄 Take a taxi from Taizhou Station for about 40 minutes, suitable for slow-paced strolling on weekends. 4️⃣ Yongzhou|Hunan The ancient village of Shanggantang in Yongzhou is the most unsightly ancient village I have ever seen. The village doesn’t charge a ticket and there’s no fencing, and it’s real life when you walk into it. The bluestone slab roads are polished to a shiny finish, and on the threshold of the old house sits a peanut-peeling grandmother who will smile and ask you to try it. The Buying Bridge at the entrance of the village is an old bridge from the Song Dynasty. The stream under the bridge is so clear that you can see the lines on the stone. ⏰ Six to eight in the morning is the best time, the smoke rises, the sun shines slanting on the roof, the whole village is not awake, you are like breaking into an old painting. More tourists in the afternoon, but less flavor. There is a small wine shop in the village. The home-brewed glutinous rice wine is sweet and sweet. It costs ten dollars a bottle. It's a bit exciting to drink while walking. ⚠️ There are no similar restaurants in the village. It is recommended to come back after lunch in Yongzhou city, or bring some dry food. 📍 Navigation directly search "Shang Gan Tong Village", drive from Yongzhou Station about an hour, the road condition is good, but there are few parking spaces at the entrance of the village, go earlier in the peak season. 5️⃣ Zhangzhou|Fujian Zhangzhou is a treasure of Fujian, and one place can give you three completely different experiences. Yunshuiyue Ancient Town and Nanjing Earth Building are tied together. There are more than a dozen century-old banyan trees by the stream in the ancient town. The shade of the trees blocks the sky. Sitting under the trees drinking tea and listening to the sound of water, time slows down. The most worth-seeing of the earth buildings are the Wai Yuen House and the He Gui House. The former is a double-ring circular earth building, while the latter is built on swampy land. It has not collapsed for two hundred years. From the earth building, drive two hours to the Marina Volcanoes National Geopark. The black volcanic rocks here clash with the azure waters like another planet. ⏰ At low tide in the afternoon you can walk to the farthest part of the coastline and see those hexagonal columnar joints that are more shocking than any artificial landscape. ⚠️ Many "free tour guides" in Tulou Scenic Area will take you to buy tea, don't follow. It's windy in Volcano Park. Bring a jacket. 🚄 High-speed rail to Zhangzhou Station, charter a car to play these three points for two days, do not compress into a day, will be tired to doubt life. 6️⃣ Xi'an League | Inner Mongolia Alshan National Forest Park is that kind of “come and don’t want to leave” kind of place. Let’s start with the bad: it’s far from anywhere, a four-hour drive from Ulanhot. But when you see the moment of Tufengling Sky Pond, you will feel that all the running is worth it. The lake is so blue that it is unreal, like a huge gem inlaid on the top of the mountain, and a forty minute walk around the canyon around the lake, every step is a different angle of beauty. The Stone Pond Forest is a different scene, the volcanic lava landscape covered with moss and pine trees, like walking on a land forgotten by time. ⏰ It is recommended to go to the sky pond in the morning and then go to the stone pond forest in the afternoon, because the afternoon light hits the rocks will have a golden reflection. 🍜The small restaurant at the entrance of the scenic spot is worth trying. ⚠️ Autumn in Alshan (mid-September to early October) is the most beautiful, but it is the most crowded time, accommodation must be booked half a month in advance. Go cool in summer, but can't see yellow leaves. 🚄 There is no direct high-speed rail, it is recommended to fly to Ulanhot, then rent a car and drive yourself. The whole scenic spot will take at least a full day to play. Don't arrange to leave in half a day. 7️⃣ Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Ili, in my mind, is one of the most beautiful summers in China. The Ili River Valley is not a certain point, it is a line. From Yining, drive east along the river valley, all sides of grassland and sea of ​​flowers. The June Turgen Apricot Groove is past its flowering period, but the wildflowers on the meadow are still in full bloom. The Kerakung Prairie is a must, taking the sectional car to Falcon Terrace and trekking towards the side of the gorge, the visibility is so open that it will make you want to scream. The Kunis Grassland is located on the edge of the Duku Highway, and if you are just walking through Duku, be sure to stop for a night. The starry sky there was the brightest I had ever seen, and the Milky Way was like a glowing river hanging directly overhead. ⏰ The most beautiful time of the prairie is from 7 to 9 pm, the sun is slanting, the grass is golden, and the cattle are slowly returning home. ⚠️ The UV rays in Xinjiang are not a joke. Replenish sunscreen once an hour. 🚄 Fly to Yining Airport, then drive by yourself is the most convenient. Accommodation conditions in the prairie room are average, but the experience is full, and it is recommended to stay at least one night. 🍜The toasted buns in Narati Town, three dollars a piece, bite open all the meat juice, do not miss. 8️⃣ Shenyang | Liaoning Shenyang is not the kind of "stunning" city, but if you stroll around carefully, there are surprises everywhere. Beiling Park (Qing Zhaoling) is a treasure of Shenyang. The tickets are cheap, but it contains the complete Qing Dynasty royal mausoleum. ⏰ Go at 7am, you can see locals doing morning exercises inside, playing Tai Chi, shuttlecock kicking, full of fireworks. The ancient pine clusters in the park are all over 300 years old, and walking underneath feels like crossing. Shenyang Expo Park is suitable for taking children or couples. The park is very large. It is recommended to rent an electric car, otherwise your legs will be useless after a day of walking. The tulips in April and the chrysanthemum show in October are two highlights, other times beautiful but not as stunning. The Immaculate Pure Light Relic Pagoda and the North Pagoda Falun Temple are not far away and can be visited together. The stupa is hidden in a residential area, and you can miss it if you don't look carefully, but the feeling of "sudden peace and quiet in the midst of the hustle and bustle" is wonderful. The Falun Temple is in the Tibetan Buddhist style and is completely different from the common Han temples in Shenyang, and it is worth a walk in. ⚠️ Entrance to Beiling Park stops at 5pm. Don't waste time. 🍜 After strolling around Beiling, go to the nearby Xita Street for Korean food. Grilled eel and cold noodles are authentic tastes, and you can eat them for 70 dollars per person. 🚄 Shenyang Metro Line 2 goes directly to Beiling Park Station. Each of these eight cities has its own temper. The heaviness of Jining, the fragrance of tea in Meizhou, the leisure of Taizhou, the ancient meaning of Yongzhou, the multifacetedness of Zhangzhou, the vastness of Xi'an League, the magnificence of Ili, the human fireworks of Shenyang - which one do you like best? Talk in the comment section, maybe the next stop, is him.

01 Haikou | Hainan When visiting Haikou in Aug–Sep, don’t just focus on Sanya. Airfare is cheap, and accommodation is affordable. Last time I stayed near Qilou Old Street, about US$12 per person per night. Just outside is the old Nanyang-style architecture. ⏰ Go to Wugong Temple at 7 AM when it’s quiet. The red walls and green tiles of Hainan’s first building look especially photogenic in the morning light. Tickets cost about US$3. A one-hour visit is enough. Return to Qilou Old Street for lunch. Avoid the main street and turn into the alley on Bo’ai North Road. A bowl of Hainan noodles plus spicy soup rice costs about US$2 per person and is very filling. At 4 PM, head to Volcano Crater Park. Climb Haikou’s highest point, see tropical plants inside the crater. It’s windy and cool, several degrees cooler than downtown. ⚠️ The women selling coconuts at the park entrance overcharge. Walk 50 meters inside for coconuts US$1 cheaper. In the evening, find a local tea shop on Old Street. A cup of tea costs a few dollars and you can relax until dark. 02 Jining | Shandong Jining is best explored slowly, don’t rush. The Qufu Ming Ancient City (Three Confucian Sites) ticket is US$21, half price for students with ID. ⏰ Arrive at Confucius Temple before 9 AM to avoid tour groups. The ancient cypress trees and stele forest in front of Dacheng Hall make great empty shots. After visiting Confucius Mansion, have lunch on Wuma Temple Street. Try braised pork with dry rice and oil skin rolls, about US$3 per person. In the afternoon, visit Confucius Forest. Don’t take the electric cart. Walk through the sacred path lined with ancient trees that block the sun. It feels more immersive than riding. ⚠️ Someone at the Confucius Forest entrance will offer a guided tour for US$7. Just read the signs yourself. Weishan Lake is a bit far, about an hour’s drive from downtown. It’s best to go in the afternoon. Take a boat through the reed marshes and see lotus flowers. The boat costs US$9, but you can bargain down to US$6. It’s windy on the lake, bring a light jacket. On the way back, eat the four-hole carp by the lake. The meat is firm and cheaper than city restaurants. 03 Baoding | Shandong Baoding is best explored west to east. One day isn’t enough; plan at least two days. On day one, visit Qingxi Mausoleum, ticket US$17, includes several sites like Tailing and Muling. ⏰ Enter at 8 AM when it opens. Start with Tailing. The stone statues and Long’en Hall are better preserved than Dongling. It’s less crowded and good for a slow walk. For lunch, eat donkey meat sandwich with millet porridge in Yixian County, about US$3 per person. In the afternoon, go to Baishi Mountain. Cable car plus ticket is US$23. The glass walkway on the summit costs an extra US$1.50. ⚠️ It’s sunny at the foot but foggy on the mountain. Check if the cable car is running before going up to avoid wasted trips. On day two, visit Yesanpo. The creek and plank road at Bailixia are best in the morning and cool. Have grilled rainbow trout at the park entrance for US$9. In the afternoon, rush to Baiyangdian in Anxin. Take a boat through the reeds and see lotus flowers. The boat ticket is US$7. The sunset on the lake is beautiful, don’t rush to leave. 04 Qujing | Shandong Visiting Qujing in Aug–Sep? Don’t expect rapeseed flowers; that’s a spring attraction. Now the Jiulong Waterfall Group has a strong flow. Tickets cost US$11, worth it. ⏰ Enter the park in the morning and walk counterclockwise. First see the highest Shenlong Waterfall. The mist hits your face; standing for three minutes will soak your clothes. For lunch, eat steamed rice noodles with toppings in Luoping County, about US$1.50 per person. In the afternoon, visit Luoping rapeseed flower sea. Although no flowers now, the karst hills of Jinjifeng still stand, looking like ink paintings at sunset. ⚠️ Don’t buy “specialty” honey sold at the park entrance; it’s mostly sugar water. Stay overnight in Luoping County. Hotels cost US$9 per room and are clean. 05 Pingliang | Shandong Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area is a famous Taoist mountain. Tickets cost US$17, cable car extra. I recommend hiking up the front mountain and down the back mountain. The whole hike takes three hours and is more rewarding than the cable car. ⏰ Enter at 8 AM. First see the pagoda courtyard and Falun Temple at Zhongtai. The incense is strong but not noisy. When you reach Chaotian Gate, the steps are steep. If your legs feel weak, don’t push yourself. There’s a sedan chair nearby; agree on the price before riding. For lunch, have a bowl of vegetarian noodles on the summit for US$1.50. The taste is average but the view makes it worth it. In the afternoon, hike down the back mountain. Along the way, Qipan Ridge and Leisheng Peak are windy and scenic, perfect for photos. ⚠️ The mountain shop closes early, bring enough water. After descending, eat lamb stew with bread in Pingliang city. The soup is richer than Xi’an’s. About US$4 per person. 06 Ganzhou | Shandong Ganzhou is great for summer escapes, but don’t just visit the old town. Tongtianzai in Shicheng County has Danxia landforms. Tickets cost US$5. The mountain isn’t high, suitable for elderly and children. ⏰ Climb at 4 PM. The slanting light on the red rock walls looks like a fiery cloud. Stay overnight in Shicheng County. Try Shicheng taro dumplings, smooth skin and fragrant filling, about US$2 per person. The next day, visit Sanbai Mountain. Tickets plus shuttle bus cost US$18. ⚠️ The last shuttle bus leaves at 5:30 PM. Don’t miss it by staying out too late. The trail to Dongjiangyuan Waterfall Group is slow and slippery. Wear non-slip shoes. For lunch, eat Hakka stuffed tofu at the park entrance. The tofu is very fragrant. In the afternoon, return to Ganzhou city. Sit by the floating bridge and watch the sunset over Zhang River. It’s free. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is in the Qinling Mountains. It’s cool in summer but attractions are spread out, so choose carefully. Jinsi Gorge is the top choice. Tickets cost US$12. The plank road follows the creek, and the water sound drowns out cicadas. ⏰ Enter at 9 AM. Walk from Heilong Gorge entrance to Bailong Lake. It takes two hours. The water is so clear you can see the stone patterns. For lunch, eat stir-fried black fungus with cured meat at the park entrance. It’s fragrant. In the afternoon, visit Tianshu Gorge. It’s less crowded. The plank road is halfway up the mountain. When the clouds rise, it looks like a fairyland. ⚠️ Tianshu Gorge has poor signal. Download offline maps in advance. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town and Baita Temple are on the way. The ancient town is free. Baita Temple ticket is US$1.50. The pagoda forest is peaceful at sunset. Stay overnight in Shangzhou city. Hotels are cheap, about US$10 per person. 08 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Lianyungang is for beach lovers, but avoid the crowded Liandao Beach. Huaguo Mountain tickets cost US$14. ⏰ Enter at 7 AM. Climb Yunu Peak, the highest point in Jiangsu, and see the sea of clouds. Descend via Water Curtain Cave where there are many monkeys. Don’t carry food in plastic bags or they will snatch it. For lunch, eat seafood noodles at the foot of the mountain for US$3, cheaper than inside the park. In the afternoon, visit Liandao. Walk from Dashawan Beach to Suma Bay along the boardwalk for 20 minutes. It’s less crowded and scenic. ⚠️ Renting a sun umbrella at the beach costs US$9. Bring a picnic mat to save money. In the evening, eat seafood on the island. Mantis shrimp and swimming crab are in season. A small restaurant meal costs about US$12 per person and is very filling. Before returning to the city, buy some shrimp paste for US$1 a bottle, half the price of souvenir shops.

Travel Checklist with Kids: These 8️⃣ Places Will Make Summer Vacation More Meaningful 01 Kunming|Yunnan The best thing about Kunming is that it's like a natural air-conditioned room in the summer. Daytime temperatures are in the twenties Celsius, and you'll need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings, so kids won't easily get heatstroke even after a long day. 📍For Daguan Park, it's recommended to arrive before 9 am. Take advantage of the cool weather and ride the Ferris wheel first. From the top, you'll see Dianchi Lake and the city blending together, a breathtaking view that makes you want to shout. You can also talk to your kids about the famous long couplet in the park; it's much more interesting than just reading it from a textbook. Once the midday sun gets too strong, head to Dongchuan Red Land. The drive takes about two hours, and there are many winding mountain roads along the way, so bring plastic bags if your child is prone to motion sickness. The best time to see the Red Land is around 4 or 5 pm, when the setting sun casts its deepest red light, making photos look like they don't need filters at all. ⚠️Never wear light-colored shoes to walk on the field ridges; one step and you're ruined. Kunming World Horticultural Exposition Garden is more suitable for older children. You can easily spend half a day exploring the various plant pavilions. Remember to bring a water bottle, as drinks inside are double the price. 🍜For lunch, I recommend a farmhouse restaurant near the entrance of the Red Land Scenic Area. Potato rice with ham costs around 30 RMB per person and is very filling. 02 Jining|Shandong Qufu Ming Ancient City and the Three Confucius Sites were the highlights of this trip, but also the most disappointing areas. A word of caution: ⚠️Ignore all the "guides" soliciting customers at the scenic area entrance. For legitimate guided tours, book in advance at the visitor center on the right side of the main gate; the prices are transparent. When visiting the Confucius Temple with children, the easiest route is to enter from the east gate and exit from the west gate, walking around the central axis. Focus on the dragon-carved stone pillars in front of the Dacheng Hall. Let the children count the dragons; it's more engaging than just listening to dry history. You can finish in about two hours if you're quick. Have lunch at Wumaci Street. Try the scallion pancakes with a bowl of soup; kids might find it spicy, but adults will definitely enjoy it. In the afternoon, we moved to Weishan Lake Tourist Area, about an hour and a half drive from Qufu. A boat trip into the reed marshes is a must on Weishan Lake; the boat ticket is included in the scenic area pass. ⏰After 3 PM, the wind picks up on the lake, making the boat rock violently. It's recommended to catch a boat trip before 2 PM. The crayfish and lotus leaf chicken in the lake are worth trying, but avoid the dried goods shops at the scenic area exit; prices are double what they are in town. 03 Datong | Shanxi Datong was the most surprising part of this trip. A guided tour of the Yungang Grottoes is essential; otherwise, children will only see rows of stone caves. The guide will tell the story of the Northern Wei craftsmen carving the grottoes and explain why the Buddha statues have black glass eyes—the children's eyes lit up. ⚠️Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes; don't secretly use your phone, staff are very vigilant. For lunch, we ate knife-cut noodles at the scenic area entrance. I recommend Lao Chai's; the noodles are chewy, the broth is savory, and a small bowl costs ten yuan. In the afternoon, we went to the Hanging Temple. The mountain road was very winding, so children prone to motion sickness should take their medication before getting in the car. The Hanging Temple has a visitor limit; only a fixed number of people are allowed in each day. ⏰ You must book three days in advance through their official WeChat account; buying tickets on-site is almost impossible. When walking on the Hanging Temple's walkways, don't drag your child along. Let them hold onto the railings and move slowly. The thrill of being suspended halfway up the mountain will become the most memorable experience. Mount Heng (Northern Peak) is nearby. If your child's stamina is average, you can just take the cable car up to the halfway point for a quick look and leave; there's no need to force them to climb. Accommodation in Datong city is cheap; you can find a decent chain hotel for around 180 yuan. 04 Shanghai Shanghai was the most budget-flexible stop on this trip. The World Expo Park has now been transformed into cultural venues and shopping malls. The free China Art Museum is worth visiting; the animated Qingming Scroll inside can keep a child glued to their screen for half an hour. To get to Yu Garden, arrive as early as 8:30 AM when it opens. Walking across the Nine-Turn Bridge is much less crowded then. The rock formations and caves are like a maze for kids. ⚠️ Don't buy the "old-fashioned yogurt" at the entrance of Yu Garden; it's only 10 yuan a cup and tastes like regular yogurt. Walk a few steps further in and it sells for 8 yuan. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is my personal recommendation. The underwater museum's roof floats on the water, with a unique design. Kids will ask, "Why is the house submerged in water?"—a great way to learn history. If your budget allows, buy an Early Access Pass for Disneyland to enter an hour early and rush to Soaring Over the Horizon and TRON Lightcycle Power Run, saving you two hours of queuing time. 🍜 In the evening, go to Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street for Xiao Yang Shengjian (pan-fried buns). Four for 16 yuan, with a thin, crispy skin and piping hot soup. Let the kids take a small bite and blow on it first. The Shanghai Metro is convenient; avoid taxis—the elevated roads are incredibly congested during rush hour. 05 Beijing Beijing's summer sun is no joke, but the Forbidden City is worth the heat. ⚠️Tickets must be booked seven days in advance at 8 PM on the Palace Museum's WeChat mini-program, especially during summer vacation; a minute late and they're gone. Once inside, head straight to the Treasure Gallery. Kids are much more excited seeing the gold-inlaid jade and kingfisher-feather phoenix crowns than the three main halls. ⏰The peak time for visitors to the Forbidden City is from 11 AM to 2 PM. At this time, sit in the shade of the Eastern Six Palaces, have an ice cream, and wait for the crowds to thin out before continuing your exploration. You can choose to visit either the Summer Palace or Beihai Park. I recommend the Summer Palace—the long corridor along Kunming Lake has paintings and stories; kids can walk around and find "which painting tells a story from Journey to the West," which is more interesting than listening to an audio guide. Qionghua Island in Beihai Park is best visited in the evening; the White Pagoda glows warmly in the sunset, and the breeze from the lake is refreshingly cool. 🍜Don't go to Nanluoguxiang, it's crowded and expensive. Go to a hutong near Shichahai and find a braised pork offal shop. A bowl of braised pork offal with a baked bun will cost around 30 yuan per person. Kids might not like it, but you'll be satisfied. The Echo Wall at the Temple of Heaven Park is no longer open for whispering, so don't have high expectations, but the grand steps in front of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are great for photos. 06 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Changji's summers are incredibly cool, a true haven from the heat. The wheat fields of Jiangbulak turn golden from late July to early August, the wind blowing like ocean waves. I still remember the image of my child running with arms outstretched along the field ridges. You can rent electric bikes in the scenic area; don't skimp on this if you're traveling with kids, as the walking distance is too long, and they'll often want to give up halfway. Wucaiwan is deep in the Gobi Desert, a three-hour drive from Changji city. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves, and kids are prone to motion sickness, so try to limit their milk intake before the trip. The Yardang landforms of Wucaiwan are most vibrant in color under the midday sun, a mix of red, yellow, and orange like an overturned palette. However, ⚠️ the ground temperature is high at midday, so don't let children walk barefoot on the sand; it can cause blisters. Tianchi Lake and Tianshan Mountain are the highlights. It's recommended to go up the mountain at 8 am to avoid long cable car queues. The lake's water is turquoise, and the snow-capped mountains are reflected on its surface. Children will ask, "Are there really immortals on the mountaintop?" 🍜 After descending the mountain, have a big plate of chicken. "Lao Wu Big Plate Chicken" in Changji city offers generous portions; a medium portion is enough for a family of three. The complimentary noodles soaked in the broth are even more popular than the chicken. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Pingliang isn't very well-known, but Kongtong Mountain is definitely an underrated gem. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7:30 am. The mountain mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the stone steps are slippery with dew; children need to be held. The unique feature of Kongtong Mountain is its Taoist architecture embedded in the cliffs. The temples and monasteries seem to grow into the mountainside, prompting children to ask, "How are the houses hanging on the walls?" It's recommended to take the cable car up and then walk down, saving energy and allowing you to see the main attractions. Zhongtai is the core area, containing Falun Temple and the Pagoda Courtyard. After visiting, grab a bowl of liangpi (cold skin noodles) from a stall near the temple entrance for five yuan – it's sour, spicy, and appetizing. ⚠️ Avoid the souvenir shops on the mountain; the quality is generally low and the prices are high. The same items are half price at supermarkets down the mountain. If children are energetic, they can challenge themselves with the Chaotian Ladder, a nearly vertical stone staircase with over eighty steps – the sense of accomplishment is immense! However, adults with knee problems shouldn't push themselves too hard. A complete tour of Kongtong Mountain takes four to five hours, so bring plenty of food and water, as there are few supply points on the mountain. Accommodation in Pingliang city is inexpensive; you can find a clean standard room for just over 100 yuan. 08 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain in Bazhong was the grand finale of this trip and the perfect place for a family getaway. In summer, Guangwu Mountain is lush and green, with streams flowing down the mountainside; children want to take off their shoes and wade in the shallows as soon as they reach the shallows. ⏰Entering the mountain at 6:30 am, the air was humid, and a thin mist hung in the forest, like entering a fairytale forest; the coolness was refreshingly invigorating. Taoyuan Scenic Area is the core; the walking trails are well-maintained, even for strollers, but to see the sea of ​​clouds at Yanzi Ridge, you have to climb a stone staircase for about twenty minutes, which even children of average stamina can manage. 🍜For lunch, we ate Bazhong's Ten Bowls at the scenic area entrance. Steamed pork, crispy pork, and glutinous rice balls were served together; the portions were generous, averaging around 40 yuan per person. The kids especially loved the sweet braised pork belly. ⚠️The most beautiful season for Guangwu Mountain is actually autumn when the leaves turn red, but coming during the summer has another advantage—fewer people. The entire scenic area is so quiet you can hear birdsong and the sound of the stream. Bazhong city is about an hour's drive from the scenic area. It's recommended to stay at a farmhouse near the area; you can hear insects chirping at night and be woken by birdsong in the morning – a novel experience for city kids. If possible, take your children to play in the stream in the evening; the water is shallow and clear, but remember to bring an extra set of clothes. After visiting eight stops, the most frequent question from children was, "Where to next?" If you have limited time, prioritize Kunming, Changji, and Bazhong – all three are naturally cool places where children can play to their heart's content without adults having to constantly wipe away sweat. Share your thoughts in the comments: Which stop did your child like best? Travel Checklist with Kids: These 8️⃣ Places Make Summer Vacation More Meaningful 01 Kunming|Yunnan The best thing about Kunming is that it's like a natural air-conditioned room in the summer. Daytime temperatures are in the twenties Celsius, and you'll need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings, so children are less likely to get heatstroke after a long day. 📍For Daguan Park, it's recommended to arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the cooler weather and ride the Ferris wheel. The view from above, where Dianchi Lake and the city merge into one, is so expansive it'll make you want to shout! You can also talk to the kids about the famous long couplet in the park; it's much more interesting than just reading it from a textbook. Once the midday sun gets too strong, head to Dongchuan Red Land. The drive takes about two hours, with many winding mountain roads, so bring plastic bags if your child is prone to motion sickness. The best time to see the Red Land is around 4 or 5 PM, when the setting sun casts its deepest, glowing red light, making photos absolutely no filter needed. ⚠️Never wear light-colored shoes to walk on the field ridges; one step and you're ruined. Kunming World Horticultural Exposition Garden is more suitable for older children. You can easily spend half a day exploring the various plant pavilions. Remember to bring a water bottle, as drinks inside are double the price. 🍜For lunch, we recommend the farmhouses near the Red Land scenic area entrance. Potato rice with ham is a great option; it's all-you-can-eat for around 30 RMB per person. 02 Jining | Shandong Qufu Ming Dynasty Ancient City and the Three Confucius Sites were the highlights of this trip, but also the most disappointing areas. Here's a heads-up: ⚠️ Ignore all "guides" soliciting customers at the entrance. For legitimate guided tours, book in advance at the visitor center to the right of the main gate; prices are transparent. When visiting the Confucius Temple with children, the easiest route is to enter from the east gate and exit from the west gate, walking around the central axis. Focus on the dragon-carved stone pillars in front of the Dacheng Hall; children can count the dragons – it's much more engaging than just listening to dry history. You can finish in about two hours if you're quick. Have lunch at Wumaci Street; try the scallion pancakes with a bowl of soup – kids might find it spicy, but adults will love it. In the afternoon, head to Weishan Lake Scenic Area, about a 1.5-hour drive from Qufu. Be sure to take a boat into the reed marshes on Weishan Lake; the boat ticket is included in the scenic area pass. ⏰ After 3 PM, the wind picks up on the lake, making the boats rock violently. It's recommended to catch a boat before 2 PM. The crayfish and lotus leaf chicken in the lake are worth trying, but avoid the dried goods shops at the scenic area exit; prices are double what they are in town. 03 Datong | Shanxi Datong was the most surprising part of this trip. A guided tour of the Yungang Grottoes is a must; otherwise, children will only see rows of stone caves. The guide will tell the story of the Northern Wei craftsmen carving the grottoes and explain why the Buddha statues have black glass eyes—the children's eyes lit up. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes; don't secretly use your phone, staff are very vigilant. For lunch, eat knife-cut noodles at the scenic area entrance; I recommend Lao Chai's—the noodles are chewy, the broth is savory, and a small bowl costs ten yuan. In the afternoon, go to the Hanging Temple. The mountain road is very winding; children prone to motion sickness should take medication before getting on the bus. The Hanging Temple has visitor limits; only a fixed number of people are allowed in each day. ⏰ You must book three days in advance through their official WeChat account; buying tickets on-site is almost impossible. When walking along the plank road of the Hanging Temple with children, don't drag them along. Let them hold onto the railings and move slowly; the thrill of being suspended halfway up the mountain will become the most memorable experience. Mount Heng (Northern Peak) is nearby. If your child's stamina is average, you can just take the cable car up to the halfway point for a quick look and leave; there's no need to force them to climb. Accommodation in Datong city is cheap; you can find a decent chain hotel for around 180 yuan. 04 Shanghai Shanghai was the most budget-flexible stop on this trip. The World Expo Park has now been transformed into cultural venues and shopping malls. The free China Art Museum is worth visiting; the animated "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting there can keep a child glued to their screen for half an hour. For Yu Garden, enter as early as 8:30 am when it opens to avoid crowds on the Nine-Turn Bridge. The artificial hills and caves can feel like a maze for children. ⚠️Don't buy the "old-fashioned yogurt" at the entrance of Yu Garden; it's only 10 yuan a cup and tastes like ordinary yogurt. Walk ten steps further in and it sells for 8 yuan. Guangfulin Cultural Site is my personal recommendation. The underwater museum's roof floats on the water, its unique shape prompting children to ask, "How come the house is submerged in water?" History is introduced in a convenient way. For Disneyland, if your budget allows, I suggest buying an Early Access Pass to enter an hour early and rush to Soaring Over the Horizon and TRON Lightcycle Power Run, saving two hours of queuing time. 🍜In the evening, go to Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street for Xiao Yang Shengjian (pan-fried buns). Four for 16 yuan, with a thin, crispy skin and piping hot soup. Let the kids take a small bite and blow on it first. Shanghai's subway is convenient; avoid taxis, as the elevated roads are incredibly congested during rush hour. 05 Beijing Beijing's summer sun is no joke, but the Forbidden City is worth the heat. ⚠️Tickets must be booked seven days in advance at 8 PM on the Palace Museum's WeChat mini-program, especially during summer vacation—even a minute late means they're gone. Once inside, head straight to the Treasure Gallery. The kids are much more excited seeing the gold-inlaid jade and kingfisher feather phoenix crowns than the three main halls. ⏰The peak hours at the Forbidden City are from 11 AM to 2 PM. At this time, sit in the shade of the Eastern Six Palaces, have an ice cream, and wait for the crowds to thin out before continuing your visit. You can choose to visit either the Summer Palace or Beihai Park. I recommend the Summer Palace—the long corridor along Kunming Lake has paintings and stories; children can walk around and find out "which painting tells a story from Journey to the West," which is more interesting than following an audio guide. Qionghua Island in Beihai Park is best visited in the evening; the White Pagoda glows warmly in the sunset, and the breeze from the lake is refreshingly cool. 🍜Avoid Nanluoguxiang; it's crowded and expensive. Go to a hutong near Shichahai and find a braised pork offal shop. A bowl of braised pork offal and a baked bun will cost around 30 yuan per person. Kids might not like it, but you'll be satisfied. The Echo Wall at the Temple of Heaven Park is no longer open for whispering, so don't have high expectations, but the grand steps in front of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests offer great photo opportunities. 06 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Changji's summers are incredibly cool, truly the ultimate summer retreat. The wheat fields of Jiangbulak turn golden yellow from late July to early August, the wind whipping them like ocean waves. I still remember the image of children running with their arms outstretched along the field ridges. Electric vehicles can be rented in the scenic area; don't skimp on this if you're traveling with kids, as the walking distance is too long, and children often get tired halfway there. Wucaiwan (Five-Colored Bay) is deep in the Gobi Desert, a three-hour drive from Changji city. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves, making children prone to motion sickness; try to limit their milk intake before the trip. The Yardang landforms of Wucaiwan are most vibrant in the midday sun, a mix of red, yellow, and orange, like an overturned palette. However, ⚠️ the ground temperature is high at midday; don't let children walk barefoot on the sand, as it can cause blisters. Tianchi Lake and Tianshan Mountain are the highlights. It's recommended to start climbing at 8 AM to avoid long cable car queues. The lake's water is a vibrant turquoise, reflecting the snow-capped mountains. Kids will ask, "Are there really immortals on the mountaintop?" 🍜After descending, enjoy a hearty plate of chicken. "Lao Wu Dapanji" in Changji city offers generous portions; a medium portion is enough for a family of three. The complimentary noodles soaked in the broth are even more popular than the chicken. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Pingliang isn't widely known, but Kongtong Mountain is an underrated gem. ⏰Enter the mountain at 7:30 AM. The mountain mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the stone steps are slippery with dew, so you'll need to hold your child's hand. Kongtong Mountain is unique for its Taoist architecture embedded in the cliffs; the temples and monasteries seem to grow into the mountainside. Kids will ask, "How are the houses hanging on the walls?" I recommend taking the cable car up the mountain and then walking down. This saves energy and allows you to see all the main attractions. Zhongtai is the core area, containing Falun Temple and the Pagoda Courtyard. After visiting, grab a bowl of liangpi (cold skin noodles) at a stall near the temple entrance for five yuan – it's sour, spicy, and appetizing. ⚠️ Don't go into the souvenir shops on the mountain; the quality is generally low and expensive. The same items are half price at supermarkets down the mountain. If your child is energetic, they can challenge themselves with the Chaotian Ladder, a nearly vertical stone staircase with over eighty steps. Climbing it is incredibly rewarding, but adults with knee problems shouldn't push themselves. A complete tour of Kongtong Mountain takes four to five hours, so bring plenty of food and water, as there are few supply points on the mountain. Accommodation in Pingliang city is cheap; you can find a clean standard room for just over 100 yuan. 08 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain in Bazhong is the grand finale of this trip and the best place for a family get some fresh air. In summer, Guangwu Mountain is lush and green, with streams flowing down the mountainside. Children will want to take off their shoes and wade in the shallows. ⏰We entered the mountains at 6:30 am. The air was humid, and a thin mist drifted through the forest, making it feel like stepping into a fairytale forest. The coolness was a comforting sensation that seeped into your bones. Taoyuan Scenic Area is the core area; the walking trails are well-maintained, even suitable for strollers. However, to see the sea of ​​clouds at Yanzi Ridge, you have to climb a stone staircase for about twenty minutes, which even children of average stamina can manage. 🍜For lunch, we ate at the entrance of the scenic area at Bazhong's "Ten Bowls"—steamed pork, crispy pork, and glutinous rice balls served together. The portions were generous, costing around 40 yuan per person. The kids especially loved the sweet braised pork belly. ⚠️The most beautiful season for Guangwu Mountain is actually autumn when the leaves turn red, but visiting during the summer has another advantage—fewer crowds. The entire scenic area is so quiet you can hear birdsong and the sound of flowing streams. Bazhong city is about an hour's drive from the scenic area. It's recommended to stay at a farmhouse near the scenic area; you can hear insects chirping at night and be woken up by birdsong in the morning—a novel experience for city kids. If possible, take your children to play in the stream in the evening; the water is shallow and clear, but remember to bring an extra set of clothes. After visiting eight stops, the question my child asked most often was, "Where to next?" If you're short on time, prioritize Kunming, Changji, and Bazhong—all three are naturally cool places where your children will have a great time without you having to constantly wipe their sweat. Share your thoughts in the comments: which stop did your child like best?

From late August to early September, while others are still sweating it out in the south, I’m already driving into the mountains to enjoy the cool breeze. These 6 places have few people, wild scenery, and temperatures just around 20 degrees. Best of all, the driving routes are easy. Skip the crowded popular cities and head these ways—that’s what smart travelers do. 🚗 01 Leshan | Sichuan Leshan is famous for its giant Buddha, so many people treat Mount Emei as just a “stop along the way.” But I recommend setting aside at least a full day for Mount Emei. Start from Baoguo Temple at the foot of the mountain in the morning. Don’t rush to take the cable car; first, walk a section of the lower mountain trail where the air smells of bamboo leaves and moss, and all you hear is the sound of the stream. When you reach near Qingyin Pavilion, find a stone bench to rest—it’s much more relaxing than queuing for snacks at the park entrance. ⏰ After 3 PM, the mountaintop often fogs up. To see the sea of clouds at the Golden Summit, it’s best to stay overnight on the mountain and climb up early the next morning. For the Leshan Giant Buddha, I recommend taking a boat to see the full view. You won’t be packed on the plank road, and the boat ticket costs about 70 yuan. The half-hour ride lets you take in the Buddha’s majesty and the wide Min River. ⚠️ Don’t buy the “combo ticket + guide” package at the park entrance. You can easily explore on your own. 02 Baoshan | Yunnan The biggest surprise in Baoshan was the Beihai Wetland in Tengchong. In September, the grass is a bright green, and walking on it feels like stepping on a giant floating sponge. The boatman slowly poles the bamboo raft, water plants sway by your feet, and the coolness travels from your ankles up to your neck. Heshun Ancient Town is better for an overnight stay. After 6 PM, most tourists leave, and the lotus ponds by the rice fields turn warm gold in the sunset. You can sit by the laundry pavilion for a long time. 🍜 For breakfast, try “Aunt Cun’s bean jelly” in town. A bowl of thin bean jelly with fried dough sticks fills you up for just 5 yuan. At Tengchong Volcano Hot Springs Tourist Area, the highlight isn’t the volcanic crater but soaking in the hot springs. ⏰ I suggest climbing Yunfeng Mountain in the morning and soaking in the hot springs in the afternoon—it fits perfectly into one day. ⚠️ Don’t buy the “hot spring eggs” at the hot springs entrance. The authentic ones are cooked in the sulfur springs inside, 5 yuan per skewer. 03 Jining | Shandong Jining is seriously underrated. At Qufu’s Three Confucian Sites, don’t just visit the Confucius Temple main route. Head west to the Yan Temple, where almost no one goes. Ancient cypresses tower overhead, and it’s so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. At Weishan Lake Tourist Area, I recommend driving to the Nanyang Ancient Town ferry, taking a 30 yuan boat into the lake. After 20 minutes, you disembark to streets filled with the scent of lotus leaves. 🍜 For lunch, pick any lakeside restaurant and order a pot of “lotus-scented carp.” The fish is freshly caught from the lake, firm in texture, and paired with the fresh aroma of lotus leaves—far better than frozen fish in city restaurants. ⚠️ The Three Confucian Sites close Monday mornings. Check the notice before you go to avoid a wasted trip. ⏰ The sunset at Weishan Lake is the main event. Between 5:30 and 6 PM, the lake surface turns into a giant bronze mirror. Be sure to find a good viewing spot in advance. 04 Chuzhou | Anhui Chuzhou has only one mountain, Langya Mountain, but it’s enough for a half-day trip. Enter from the north gate and walk toward Zuiweng Pavilion. The stone path is lined with century-old maple and poplar trees, and sunlight filters through the leaves in tiny fragments. Climb to the South Gate and you can see the rooftops of Chuzhou city, hazy and gray, with the Yangtze River’s outline in the distance. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM to find almost no one on the mountain and enjoy lively bird calls. ⚠️ The park sells one-way electric cart tickets from the foot to the summit, but the walk only takes about 40 minutes. Don’t waste money. After descending, head to “Old Dongguan” in the city for a bowl of beef vermicelli soup. The broth is rich, the chili oil fragrant, and with a baked flatbread, lunch costs just 11 yuan. 🚄 It’s only an hour’s drive from Nanjing, so a same-day weekend trip is doable. 05 Tonghua | Jilin I thought Tonghua was only worth visiting in winter for snow, but the Goguryeo relics in September surprised me. The Goguryeo sites in Ji’an are scattered across fields and hills, with no fences or guides—just huge stone tombs and grassy slopes. When the wind blows, you can hear the rustling of corn leaves. The rapeseed flower sea in Ji’an is past peak bloom in September, but the remaining golden flowers against the distant Yalu River still make for great photos. ⚠️ The sites are spread out, so self-driving is recommended. Don’t expect to walk between them. 🍜 The “Goryeo hot pot” in Ji’an city is a specialty. A pot of beef, tofu, and vermicelli simmers away. Dip it in spicy sauce. It costs about 40 yuan per person and is both warming and filling. ⏰ The best light is from 3 to 5 PM. The stone tombs glow warm red in the low-angle sunlight, much better for photos than at noon. 06 Xiangtan | Hunan Caojiao Waterfall in Xiangtan is the wildest spot on my secret list. Navigate to the foot of the mountain, then hike 40 minutes to see the waterfall. The trail isn’t difficult, but the stone steps get slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes. The waterfall isn’t very tall, but the water flow is strong. Standing by the pool, the mist hits your face and the coolness seeps into your bones. It’s like natural air conditioning in summer. Shaoshan Tourist Area is well known, but I don’t recommend heading straight to the main sites. The surrounding countryside is more relaxing. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, the fields are covered in mist, with dark green mountains and white-walled houses in the distance. It’s so quiet it doesn’t feel like a tourist spot. 🍜 Try the “Mao-style braised pork” in Shaoshan Chong, but avoid the main street. Walk a bit into the village for more authentic local restaurants. It costs about 50 yuan per person. The pork is tender and flavorful without being greasy. ⚠️ Caojiao Waterfall has no shops, so bring your own water and snacks. 07 Nyingchi | Tibet Nyingchi is the most “oxygen-deficient” yet also the most “oxygen-replenishing” of these 6 places. In September, Bomi’s forests are still deep green, but the mountain peaks have their first snow. Driving the Yunnan-Tibet route, you can see all four seasons in one day. The water in Basongcuo Lake is an unreal blue, like a piece of glass placed in the valley. ⏰ Arrive at the lake before 8:30 AM. The water is so calm it reflects the entire snow-capped mountain. With few visitors, you can enjoy 10 minutes alone on the wooden boardwalk. For the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, don’t just visit the viewing platform. Drive toward Paizhen, where several wild viewpoints offer views of Namjagbarwa’s main peak with far fewer people than inside the park. ⚠️ Although Nyingchi’s altitude is relatively low, September has big temperature swings between day and night. Wear short sleeves during the day but bring a fleece jacket for the evening. 🚄 It’s about a 6-hour drive from Lhasa. I recommend staying overnight at Basongcuo and avoiding night driving. 08 Guangzhou | Guangdong Guangzhou is last because it’s a completely different experience from the others. It’s still hot in August and September, but if you go out only in the evening and at night, it’s much more comfortable than during the day. The west gate of Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area is less crowded. Enter at 5:30 PM, walk up the gentle slope to the summit plaza, and catch the sunset. The whole city spreads out below, and the Pearl River looks like a silver ribbon. I actually don’t recommend going up the Canton Tower. Instead, stroll along Binjiang East Road at its base and watch the lights change colors—it’s more romantic than going up. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is worth an hour. Every inch of the gray and ceramic sculptures on the roof shows the craftsmanship of the artisans. ⚠️ Chen Clan Ancestral Hall closes at 5 PM. Arrive before 4 PM to have enough time. 🍜 Chimelong Tourist Resort is great for kids, but tickets aren’t cheap. Buy combo tickets on the official platform a day in advance to save a few dozen yuan. ⏰ After 9 PM, head to Baoye Road for a pot of claypot porridge. The shrimp and crab porridge is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows fall off. Pair it with salt and pepper duck jaw—this is Guangzhou’s true late-night food scene. Of these 6 places, I’m most reluctant to share Baoshan and Nyingchi—one is too peaceful, the other too breathtaking. For a road trip in August and September, don’t rush. Slow down, roll down the windows, and let the wind remember the route for you. Do you have any secret cool road trip spots? Share in the comments—I’m already wondering where to go next month. 🧊

New Travel Ideas After 50: 6 Lesser-Known, Beautiful Spots 01 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Kanbula is the kind of place you'll never forget. The red Danxia landforms and the green Yellow River blend together, like someone spilled a palette of paint in the canyon. ⏰ Arrive at the scenic area entrance before 8 am. The mountain mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the sunlight shines obliquely on the mountain walls, making the colors most vibrant. The entrance fee plus the sightseeing bus is around 100 RMB, but the exact price will be posted at the window on the day. ⚠️ If driving, don't directly navigate to "Kanbula National Park," as it's easy to end up on a dirt road behind the mountain, which will be difficult for cars with low ground clearance. Enter through the main gate, take the sightseeing bus up the mountain first, and then walk down the boardwalk. This saves the most energy. The mountain trails have many steps, so those with knee problems should bring hiking poles. There are three or four viewpoints along the way; don't start taking pictures at the first one, as the views become more expansive as you go further in. 🍜 Outside the scenic area, stalls sell yak yogurt for five yuan a bowl; it's quite sour, just right with a spoonful of sugar. The entire route takes about three and a half hours, perfect for a leisurely stroll. 02 Jining|Shandong It's unrealistic to try to visit Qufu and Weishan Lake in one day; I recommend splitting it into two days. The Qufu Ming Dynasty City (Three Confucian Sites) tourist area opens at 7:30 am. Visit the Confucius Temple first, then the Confucius Mansion, and finally the Confucius Cemetery. This way, you'll follow the central axis and avoid backtracking. 🕐 Before 10 am, there are fewer tourists, and you can take photos of empty spaces on the stone steps in front of the Dacheng Hall. 📌 The Five Cypresses Embracing a Locust Tree in the back garden of the Confucius Mansion is the most easily overlooked corner of the entire scenic area. There are stone benches under the tree; sit for a while and you can hear birds chirping and the sound of the wind rustling the cypress leaves. ⚠️ At the exit of the Confucius Cemetery, people solicit customers for electric carts, saying "it's a long way to the end," but it's only a fifteen-minute walk. Don't waste your money. The next day, we went to Weishan Lake Tourist Area. We took a boat from the pier onto the lake; the boat ticket plus entrance fee was about 80 yuan. As the boat glided across the lake, the reeds were taller than a person, and occasionally egrets skimmed across the water. ⏰ The light is best after 3 pm; the lake surface glows golden, and the photos don't need color correction. The salted duck eggs on the island are worth buying; the yolks are oily, and they cost 5 yuan each. ⚠️ The mosquitoes by the lake are fierce; long pants and mosquito repellent are essential for survival. 03 Huangshi|Hubei Chengyue Island is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Hidden in the middle of Cihu Lake, it's not very big; a walk around the island takes about half an hour. 📍 Enter from the entrance on Hangzhou East Road, and cross an arched bridge to reach the island. The pavilions and towers on the island are in an antique style. When it's not crowded, you can sit down and hear the sound of waves lapping the shore. ⏰ Arrive around 5 pm; the sunset paints the lake surface gold, and the distant city skyline forms a perfect silhouette. The tourists here are mostly locals strolling around; there are almost no tour groups, making it surprisingly peaceful for a tourist spot. ⚠️ There are no convenience stores on the island, so buy your water and snacks in the city beforehand. 🍜 About one kilometer south of the island, there's a 20-year-old noodle shop specializing in pork liver and kidney noodles, with a spicy red oil broth and chewy noodles. Chengyue Island is perfect for spending a leisurely afternoon, not for a rushed, check-in experience. If you prefer tranquility, this place is much more comfortable than those famous tourist attractions. 04 Jiujiang|Jiangxi Lushan and Lushan West Sea are two completely different experiences; don't mix them in your itinerary. I learned this the hard way on my first visit to Lushan Scenic Area; I navigated directly to the South Gate and ended up waiting in line for almost 40 minutes for the sightseeing bus. ⚠️ Remember, entering from the North Gate is faster, and arriving before 7:30 AM will allow you to avoid the crowds. Accommodation in Guling Town on the mountain is a bit pricey, but worth staying overnight. Watching the sea of ​​clouds roll over the mountain from the central park in the evening makes it all worthwhile. The next day, hike the section from Jinxiu Valley to Xianren Cave; it's all downhill, knee-friendly, and the scenery is concentrated. Lushan West Sea is best visited in a separate day; it's about an hour's drive from Lushan City. The main way to experience it is by boat to the islands. A dozen or so small islands are scattered across the water. Boat tickets plus entrance fees are around 150 yuan, but check the window for the exact price. ⏰ The lake is calmest before 10 am, with reflections as clear as a mirror. I only recommend visiting two islands: Bird Watching Island and West Sea Star. The other islands are similar, and you can only see them briefly. 🍜 The fish head tofu soup in the town at the foot of the mountain is incredibly delicious; one pot is just right for two people. 05 Kunming|Yunnan Kunming is a city with a slow pace that makes you want to retire. Daguan Park and Dianchi Lake are connected. In the morning, go to Daguan Park first to see the long couplet. It's quite long and takes about ten minutes to read it all, but the feeling is completely different when you look at Dianchi Lake afterward. The park entrance fee is about 20 yuan, and admission is free for those over 60 with their ID card, which is very considerate. Exit the park from the back gate and walk along the Dianchi Lake Trail towards Haigeng. The path is lined with willow trees and the wind; you can rest on benches when you get tired. ⏰ After 3 pm, head to Dongchuan Red Land. It's about a two-hour drive. In the half hour before sunset, the color of the red land changes from brick red to ochre red, revealing its full depth. 📌 Find the viewing platform at Luoxia Valley; it offers the best angle for capturing the classic terraced fields. ⚠️ There is no entrance fee for the Red Land, but be careful when parking on the roadside. Some villagers will try to collect "parking fees." Just park in a designated parking lot. To be honest, I didn't have high expectations for the Kunming World Horticultural Exposition Garden, but once inside, I found it much better than I imagined. The garden was large, with many plants and few people. 🍜 At noon, I had a bowl of tofu rice noodles and a side of fried potatoes near the park; it cost me 20 yuan and I was stuffed. Kunming's overall cost is low, and the pace of life is slow, making it perfect for a travel lifestyle after fifty. 06 Bazhong | Sichuan The beauty of Guangwu Mountain is concentrated in autumn. If you miss the three weeks from late October to mid-November, it's basically a wasted trip. I went at the end of October, and the red leaves were already 70-80% red; the whole mountain looked like it had been splashed with paint. 📍 Take the sightseeing bus from the scenic area entrance to the top of Xianglu Mountain, then walk down the boardwalk. This is the most classic route, taking about three hours to complete. The summit is high and windy, so bring a fleece jacket or a light down jacket; don't just wear a sweatshirt. ⚠️ There are few places to eat inside the scenic area, so bringing your own food and water is essential. ⏰ Arrive at the scenic area before 9 AM. Sunlight filters through the trees, illuminating the red leaves and making the entire mountain glow. If you're physically fit, you can choose to hike along a section of the trail, but the steps are slippery, especially after rain. Guangwu Mountain isn't as famous as Jiuzhaigou, but precisely because of this, there are far fewer tourists. You'll often be the only person on the entire boardwalk, surrounded only by the sounds of the wind and birdsong—that tranquility is particularly precious. 🎫 Entrance fee plus sightseeing bus: Approximately 140 RMB. The final price is subject to the scenic area's announcement on the day. 🍜 The stir-fried bamboo shoots with cured pork in the town at the foot of the mountain are worth stopping for. 07 Baoting|Hainan Baoting and Sanya are separated by a mountain, and their atmospheres are completely different. The Binglang Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Area feels more like a living village than a tourist attraction. Li grandmothers sit in front of their boat-shaped houses weaving Li brocade, their movements so fast you can barely see them. 📍 The century-old areca palm grove within the scenic area boasts trees over a hundred years old. Looking up, the sky is completely blocked by the leaves, creating a cool atmosphere unlike anything you'd find in Hainan. Tickets are around 120 RMB, including two performances. I recommend the 10:30 AM show; you can have lunch in the scenic area afterwards. ⚠️ Don't rush to buy silver jewelry in the scenic area; prices are high. If you want souvenirs, buy them in Baoting County; the same items will be about 30% cheaper. In the afternoon, head to the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Area. This is a genuine tropical rainforest; the boardwalk follows the stream, accompanied by the sound of water. ⏰ Enter the park after 2 PM. The light filtering through the trees creates a stage-like effect. There's a waterfall trekking activity, suitable for younger people. Those over 50 can simply stick to the regular boardwalk; the scenery is just as beautiful. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, head to the town for a bowl of Lingshui sour noodles—a spicy and appetizing treat for just 10 RMB. Baoting has about one-tenth the tourist density of Sanya, making it very peaceful. 08 Jilin Songhua Lake and Wusong Island are best visited in summer and winter, respectively. Don't get them mixed up! In summer, the lake at Songhua Lake Scenic Area is wide open; a boat trip takes about 40 minutes and costs around 50 yuan. 📍 Board the boat from the Fengman Dam side, and you'll see fishing villages nestled in the bay along the way. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 PM, making the lake surface resemble a warm, smooth piece of jade. ⚠️ It can be windy on the boat, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Wusong Island, on the other hand, is best visited in winter. The peak season for rime ice is from late December to late February, but whether you see it depends entirely on luck. In my experience, the chances of seeing rime ice are high if the temperature is around -20 degrees Celsius, there's no wind, and there was snow the day before. 📍 The best viewing spot on the island is about 200 meters east of the Zengtong Village ferry crossing; there, the trees are most gracefully spread out, and the frost is thickest. 🎫 Island entrance fee is about 50 yuan, but ferry fare is extra. ⚠️ There are no heated rooms on the island, so don't stay for more than two hours. If your hands and feet get numb from the cold, go to the small shop at the village entrance for a bowl of hot soy milk. 🍜 The Manchu hot pot in Jilin City is worth a special trip. Sauerkraut, pork belly, and blood sausage—a pot of this in winter will warm you up completely. New travel ideas after 50: These 6 lesser-known, beautiful places 01 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Kanbula is the kind of place you'll never forget after just one glance. The red Danxia landforms and the green Yellow River blend together, like someone spilled a palette of paint in the canyon. ⏰ It's best to arrive at the scenic area entrance before 8 am, when the mountain mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the sunlight shines obliquely on the mountain walls, making the colors most vibrant. The entrance fee plus sightseeing bus is about 100 yuan, but the exact price is subject to the window display on the day. ⚠️ Don't navigate directly to "Kambula National Park" if you're driving; it's easy to end up on a dirt road on the back mountain, which will be difficult for cars with low ground clearance. Enter through the main gate, take the sightseeing bus up the mountain, and then walk down the boardwalk. This is the most energy-efficient way. The mountain trails have many steps, so if you have knee problems, remember to bring a trekking pole. There are three or four viewpoints along the way; don't rush to take pictures at the first one, the views become more expansive as you walk further in. 🍜 Outside the scenic area, there are stalls selling yak yogurt for five yuan a bowl. It's very sour, just right with a spoonful of sugar. The entire route takes about three and a half hours, perfect for a leisurely stroll. 02 Jining|Shandong It's unrealistic to try to visit Qufu and Weishan Lake in one day; I recommend splitting it into two days. The Qufu Ming Palace (Three Confucius Sites) tourist area opens at 7:30 am. Visit the Confucius Temple first, then the Confucius Mansion, and finally the Confucius Cemetery. This way, you'll follow the central axis and avoid backtracking. 🕐 Before 10 AM, there are fewer tourists, and you can take photos of empty spaces on the stone steps in front of the Dacheng Hall. 📌 The Five Cypresses Embracing a Locust Tree in the back garden of the Confucius Mansion is the most easily overlooked corner of the entire scenic area. There are stone benches under the tree; sit for a while and you can hear birds chirping and the sound of the wind rustling through the cypress leaves. ⚠️ At the exit of the Confucius Cemetery, there are people soliciting customers for electric carts, saying "it's a long way to the end," but it's only a 15-minute walk. Don't waste your money. The next day, we went to the Weishan Lake tourist area. We took a boat from the pier into the lake; the boat ticket plus entrance fee was about 80 yuan. While boating on the lake, the reeds were taller than a person, and occasionally egrets skimmed across the water. ⏰ The light is best after 3 PM; the lake surface shimmers with gold, and the photos don't need color correction. The salted duck eggs on the island are worth buying; the yolks are oily, and they cost 5 yuan each. ⚠️ The mosquitoes by the lake are fierce; long pants and mosquito repellent are essential for survival. 03 Huangshi | Hubei Chengyue Island is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Nestled in the middle of Cihu Lake, it's not very big; a walk around the island takes about half an hour. 📍 Enter from the entrance on Hangzhou East Road, cross an arched bridge to reach the island. The pavilions and towers on the island are in an antique style. When there are few people, you can sit down and hear the sound of waves lapping the shore. ⏰ Arrive around 5 pm; the sunset paints the lake golden, and the distant city skyline forms a perfect silhouette. Most of the tourists here are locals strolling around; there are almost no tour groups, making it surprisingly peaceful. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so buy water and snacks in the city beforehand. 🍜 About a kilometer south of the island, there's a 20-year-old noodle shop specializing in pork liver and kidney noodles with a spicy red oil broth and chewy noodles. Chengyue Island is best enjoyed at a leisurely afternoon; it's not suitable for a rushed, check-in experience. If you prefer tranquility, this place will be much more comfortable than those famous tourist attractions. 04 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Lushan Mountain and Lushan West Sea are two completely different experiences; don't mix them in your itinerary. I learned this the hard way on my first visit to Lushan Scenic Area – I navigated directly to the South Gate and ended up waiting in line for almost 40 minutes for the sightseeing bus. ⚠️ Remember, entering from the North Gate is faster, and arriving before 7:30 AM will allow you to avoid the crowds. Accommodation in Guling Town on the mountain is slightly expensive, but worth staying overnight. Watching the sea of ​​clouds roll over the mountain in the evening park makes it all worthwhile. The next day, hike the section from Jinxiu Valley to Xianren Cave; it's all downhill, knee-friendly, and the scenery is concentrated. Lushan West Sea is best enjoyed in a separate day; it's about an hour's drive from Lushan City. The main way to experience it is by boat to the islands; there are over a dozen small islands scattered on the water. The boat ticket plus entrance fee is around 150 yuan, but check the window for the exact price. ⏰ The lake is calmest before 10 AM, with reflections as clear as a mirror. I only recommend visiting two islands: Bird Watching Island and West Sea Star. The other islands are similar, and a quick visit is all you'll get. 🍜 The fish head tofu soup in the town at the foot of the mountain is incredibly delicious; one pot is just right for two people. 05 Kunming|Yunnan Kunming's pace of life is so slow it makes you want to retire. Daguan Park and Dianchi Lake are connected. In the morning, go to Daguan Park to see the long couplet; it takes about ten minutes to read it all, but the feeling is completely different when you look at Dianchi Lake afterward. Park admission is about 20 yuan, and free for those over 60 with ID, which is very considerate. Exit the park from the back gate and walk along the Dianchi Lake Trail towards Haigeng. The path is lined with willow trees and the breeze; if you get tired, you can sit on a bench to rest. ⏰ After 3 PM, head to Dongchuan Red Land, about a two-hour drive. In the half hour before sunset, the red land changes color from brick red to ochre red, revealing its full depth. 📌 Find the viewing platform at Luoxia Valley; it offers the best angle for capturing the classic terraced fields. ⚠️ There's no entrance fee to the Red Land, but be careful when parking on the roadside. Some villagers will try to collect "parking fees." Just park in a designated parking lot. Honestly, I didn't have high expectations for the Kunming World Horticultural Exposition Garden, but it was much better than I imagined. The garden was large, with many plants and few people. 🍜 For lunch, I had a bowl of tofu rice noodles and a side of fried potatoes near the park; 20 yuan was enough to fill me up. Kunming's overall cost is low, and the pace is slow, making it perfect for travel after 50. 06 Bazhong | Sichuan The beauty of Guangwu Mountain is concentrated in autumn. Missing the three weeks from late October to mid-November is basically a wasted trip. I went at the end of October, and the autumn leaves were already 70-80% red, the whole mountain looking like it had been splashed with paint. 📍 Take the sightseeing bus from the scenic area entrance to the top of Xianglu Mountain, then walk down the boardwalk. This is the most classic route, taking about three hours to complete. The summit is high and windy, so bring a fleece jacket or light down jacket; don't just wear a sweatshirt. ⚠️ There are few places to eat in the scenic area, so bringing your own food and water is essential. ⏰ Arrive at the scenic area before 9 am, when the sunlight filters through the trees and shines on the autumn leaves, making the whole mountain glow. If you're physically fit, you can choose to hike a section of the trail, but the steps are slippery, especially after rain. Guangwu Mountain isn't as famous as Jiuzhaigou, but precisely because of this, there are far fewer tourists. You'll often be the only one on the boardwalk, surrounded only by the sound of the wind and birdsong—that tranquility is especially precious. 🎫 The entrance fee plus sightseeing bus fare is about 140 yuan, but the final price is subject to the scenic area's announcement on the day. 🍜 The stir-fried bamboo shoots with cured pork in the town at the foot of the mountain are worth stopping for a meal. 07 Baoting | Hainan Baoting and Sanya are separated by a mountain, and their atmospheres are completely different. The Binglang Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Area feels more like a living village than a tourist attraction. Li grandmothers sit in front of their boat-shaped houses weaving Li brocade, their movements so fast you can barely see them. 📍 The century-old areca palm forest in the scenic area has trees over a hundred years old. Looking up, the sky is completely blocked by the leaves, making it unusually cool for Hainan. Tickets are about 120 yuan, including two performances. I recommend the 10:30 am performance; you can have lunch in the scenic area afterward. ⚠️ Don't rush to buy silver jewelry in the scenic area; the prices are high. If you want souvenirs, buy them in Baoting County; the same items will be about 30% cheaper. In the afternoon, head to the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Area. This is a true tropical rainforest; the boardwalk follows the stream, with the sound of water accompanying you along the way. ⏰ Enter the park after 2 PM. Sunlight filters through the trees, creating a stage-like effect. There's a waterfall trekking area, suitable for young people. Those over 50 can simply follow the regular boardwalk; the scenery is just as beautiful. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, head to the town for a bowl of Lingshui sour noodles—a delicious and appetizing treat for just 10 yuan. Baoting has about one-tenth the tourist density of Sanya, making it very peaceful. 08 Jilin Songhua Lake and Wusong Island—go in summer and winter respectively, don't get them mixed up! In summer, the lake at Songhua Lake Scenic Area is vast. A boat trip takes about 40 minutes and costs around 50 yuan. 📍 Board the boat from the Fengman Dam side. Along the way, you can see the fishing villages nestled in the bay. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 PM, making the lake surface resemble a warm, smooth jade. ⚠️ It can be windy on the boat, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Wusong Island is best visited in winter, with the peak season for rime ice formations from late December to late February of the following year. However, whether you see it depends entirely on luck. In my experience, the chances of seeing rime ice are high if all three conditions are met: a temperature around -20 degrees Celsius, no wind, and snow the day before. 📍 The best viewing spot on the island is about 200 meters east of the Zengtong Village ferry crossing, where the trees have the most graceful shapes and the thickest frost. 🎫 The entrance fee to the island is about 50 yuan, but the ferry fee is separate. ⚠️ There are no heated rooms on the island, so don't stay for more than two hours. If your hands and feet get numb from the cold, go to a small shop at the village entrance for a bowl of hot soy milk. 🍜 The Manchu hot pot in Jilin City is worth a special trip. With pickled cabbage, pork belly, and blood sausage, a pot of this in winter will warm you up completely.