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

Who would have thought that the pinnacle of Guangxi's landscapes isn't in Guilin, but in Hechi! Avoid the crowds and discover the pristine and healing karst secret spots here. Experience the highlights in 3 days and 2 nights without rushing, fully immersing yourself in the romantic wilderness✨ Day 1: Head straight to Fengshan Sanmenhai, take a boat through the underground river skylight—where mountains meet the sea and the sea embraces the mountains, creating a magical sensation. In the afternoon, check in at the first bend of the Hongshui River, a magnificent U-shaped river bend with mountain and water sunsets so beautiful they leave you speechless. Day 2: Unlock Du'an's twin skylights. The glassy water of Jiudun Skylight shines like sapphire, perfect for paddleboarding and healing the soul; during the high water season, Tunbang Skylight is covered with seaweed flowers across the river surface. In the afternoon, stroll through Bama Longevity Village, breathe fresh air by the Panyang River, and enjoy a slow-paced, relaxed lifestyle. Day 3: Explore the mysterious Baimo Cave, a natural oxygen bar where you can witness the spectacular light and shadow show inside the karst cave; in the afternoon, walk the cliffside plank road at the Cotton Sinkhole, ending with a breathtaking underground wonder. Along the way, savor Bama roasted fragrant pork and hemp soup, full of wild mountain flavors. Here, there is no commercial hustle and bustle, only healing landscapes and relaxation for body and mind—you won't want to leave once you arrive~

Stop focusing only on Guilin! Hechi is Guangxi's true "scenic blind box." Here, you'll not only find the songs of Liu Sanjie, but also the "Eye of the Earth" comparable to Jiuzhaigou, the Wine Sea Cave storing tens of thousands of jars of wine, and the mysterious longevity code. This guide will help you explore this severely underestimated, high-value city. 🌟 Why Hechi? · Hometown of Liu Sanjie: The birthplace of the Song Fairy culture, where folk songs echo through the mountains and rivers. · World's Longevity Hometown: Bama's longevity secrets attract health-conscious travelers worldwide. · Diving Paradise: Duan's underground river skylight clusters, with water as clear as glass, are a paradise for freediving enthusiasts. · High Value for Money: Compared to popular cities, prices here are affordable, and it boasts beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. 🗺️ Must-Visit Attractions (by Region) 1️⃣ Duan: Eye of the Earth, Jelly Water Wonderland · Jiudun Tianchuang / Tunbang Tianchuang: Free. Known as "China's Underwater Everest," July-August is the high-water season, also the best time for summer escape and diving. The water surface is as clear as a sapphire; you can paddleboard, dive, or even just sit by the water and relax – it's incredibly therapeutic. · Water Snowflake (Hai Cai Hua): If you're lucky, you might see the river covered in white water snowflakes (also known as 'Shuixing Yanghua'), like a fairyland. 2️⃣ Fengshan & Tian'e: Karst Essence · Sanmenhai: Take a boat through three skylights (water caves). The water is clearest in winter and spring. When the sun shines through, it feels like passing through the Earth's core. Admission including boat ticket is about 90-98 RMB. · Longjiang First Bend / Hongshui River First Bend: Climb high for a panoramic view of the U-shaped great bend; the aerial perspective is incredibly stunning. 3️⃣ Bama: Longevity Code · Longevity Village (Bapan Village): Visit centenarians and experience the local wellness atmosphere (be mindful of customs and avoid excessive disturbance). · Baimo Cave: Unique karst landform with extremely high negative oxygen ions. Many "migratory birds" come here for recuperation. Admission is about 75-85 RMB. · Bainiao Cave: Take a boat through alternating bright and dark water caves, experiencing the "three days and three nights" light and shadow changes. 4️⃣ Nandan: Wine Aroma and Yao Village · Dongtian Jiuhai (Wine Sea Cave): A winery hidden in a giant karst cave, holding a Guinness World Record. Tens of thousands of tons of wine are stored inside, with a rich aroma. Admission is about 85 RMB. · Geyasigu: Experience the customs of the White Trousers Yao ethnic group, see the Yao village and the underground grand canyon. · Nandan Hot Springs: Natural hot springs, a top choice for relaxation after hiking. 5️⃣ Yizhou: Hometown of Liu Sanjie · Hometown of Liu Sanjie: Take a boat trip on the Xiajian River, see Liuhe Village, and experience folk song duets and throwing embroidered balls. Admission + boat ticket is about 148 RMB. · Huaiyuan Ancient Town: A thousand-year-old ancient town with bluestone paths and a strong sense of local life. 🍜 Food & Drink (No-Fail Guide) · Danquan Wine: A Nandan specialty, available for tasting at Dongtian Jiuhai. Don't miss it if you like baijiu. · Yizhou Cuisine: Fruit sauce BBQ (a must-try! The sweet and sour fruit sauce dip is unique), Yizhou grilled fish, sliced meat noodles. · Bama Health Cuisine: Hemp seed soup, Bama fragrant pork, oil fish. · Hechi Boiled Noodles / Luosifen: The soul of local breakfast, with a fresh and spicy broth. 🚗 Recommended 3-5 Day Classic Itineraries Itinerary 1: Scenic Essence Route (3-4 days, self-driving recommended) · Day 1: Nanning/Liuzhou → Duan (play at Jiudun Tianchuang, stay in Duan) · Day 2: Duan → Bama (Baimo Cave, Longevity Village, stay in Bama) · Day 3: Bama → Fengshan (Sanmenhai) → Nandan (Dongtian Jiuhai, stay in Nandan) · Day 4: Nandan → Yizhou (Hometown of Liu Sanjie) → Return Itinerary 2: In-depth Slow Travel Route (5 days, including Nanning arrival/departure) · Day 1: Arrive in Nanning, rent a car to Duan, stay in Duan · Day 2: Water activities at Duan Tianchuang → Afternoon travel to Bama, stay in Bama · Day 3: In-depth tour of Bama (Baimo Cave, Bainiao Cave, Panyang River) · Day 4: Bama → Fengshan Sanmenhai → Nandan Hot Springs, stay in Nandan · Day 5: Nandan Dongtian Jiuhai → Return to Nanning 💡 Practical Tips · Best Season: · Water activities/diving: July-August (Duan Tianchuang has the most water and is coolest). · Best water clarity: Winter and spring (November-April), less rain, water is bluest and clearest. · Transportation: Hechi attractions are spread out, self-driving is highly recommended. High-speed rail is available to Yizhou, Duan, Nandan, etc., then rent a car or charter a car. · Cost: Overall prices are not high. Accommodation for 150-300 RMB can be very good, and dining is about 30-50 RMB per person. · Avoid Pitfalls: · Some areas of Duan Tianchuang are deep and cold. Non-professional divers should not dive rashly. Always wear a life jacket when paddleboarding. · There might be promotions for expensive health products near Bama Longevity Village; consume rationally. Hechi's beauty lies in its pristine nature and diversity, half ethereal landscapes and half vibrant local life. Pick a weekend and escape to this "Guangxi's Backyard Garden" to unwind!

Who says Guangxi is only about Guilin's landscapes? Take the kids on a 3-day, 2-night self-drive trip in Hechi and be blown away by nature’s masterpieces—off the beaten path and super fun! 🚗 The itinerary is super reasonable, so it’s fun without tiring the kids! Day 1️⃣ Depart from Nanning, drive 2.5 hours to Jiudun Skylight, start with some local delicacies to recharge~ Jiudun Skylight really looks like a sapphire dropped from the heavens, with crystal-clear blue river water and stunning sea mustard flowers. The kids’ eyes lit up seeing people paddleboarding and diving, and they kept saying they want to play in the water next time~ In the afternoon, visit Nongxiang Sinkhole, where sunlight streams through the cave opening creating Tyndall light on the stalactites. The kids said it felt like stepping into a fairyland—perfect for photos! Stay overnight in Jinchengjiang to rest up for the next day~ Day 2️⃣ Depart from Du’an hotel, drive 2.5 hours to Nandan~ First stop is Dongtian Shengjing, a karst wonderland with underground rivers, waterfalls, and canyons. The cave stays a cool 16°C, comfortable and refreshing. The kids kept asking questions like they were in a nature class~ Next, visit Sanmenhai, where the turquoise lake is nestled among karst peaks. Sunlight filters through skylights onto the water, creating breathtaking light and shadow effects~ Take a bamboo raft ride through the bright and dark lakes. The kids said it felt like entering the mysterious world of “The Lost Tomb,” and they were thrilled the whole time~ Stay overnight at a hotel in Nandan for a good rest~ Day 3️⃣ Depart from Bama to Cotton Sinkhole, a spectacular 326-meter deep funnel sinkhole! Take the hollow ladder down to explore the earth’s core, and watch clouds drift beneath your feet from the mountaintop—the kids exclaimed how magical it was~ At 7:30 PM, the Cliffside Bookstore lights up, creating an immersive atmosphere like stepping into another magical world~ Finally, visit the Little Three Gorges, where the peaks on both sides look like they were carved by knives and axes—some resemble a fairy pointing the way, others like crouching beasts. The emerald-clear river reflects the stunning scenery, and the kids were amazed all along the way~ Afterward, return to Nanning~ There are surprises along the way! The U-shaped bend at the First Bay of the Hongshui River is breathtaking. Climb the viewing platform to overlook the canyon carved by the Red River. In the evening, take a boat ride to enjoy the “Half River Silver, Half River Red” scene—the kids watched in awe~ In summer, you can also witness the Tian’e blue knife fish storm, where millions of fish swirl like a vortex, shimmering like silver under the sunlight—just thinking about it is stunning~ The road conditions for the family self-drive are great, the attractions are not crowded, so no squeezing through crowds, and the kids can fully enjoy nature~ Hechi is truly a treasure trove. Family travelers, save this guide and just go for it! 🌟

Found a treasure! In Guangxi! A seriously underrated hidden gem: Dongnanpo Haohu National Wetland Park When you think of Guangxi, do you first think of Guilin's landscapes or Beihai Silver Beach? This time, I want to take you to explore a treasure that even many locals in Guangxi might not know about—Dongnanpo Haohu National Wetland Park. It’s like a piece of jade carefully polished by time but accidentally left in the mortal world, quietly resting among the mountains of Guangxi. It’s niche, pristine, yet breathtakingly beautiful. Trust me, this is definitely a hidden level on your travel checklist waiting to be unlocked! Why is it “seriously underrated”? Compared to well-known attractions, Haohu Lake is almost free of tourist noise. There are no signs of over-commercial development here, only endless wetlands, scattered islands, crystal-clear lakes, and generations of wildlife. It is a “living” ecosystem, a quiet natural manuscript waiting for those destined to interpret it. Immersive Experience Guide: Explore Water, Land, and Air in One Day Water Maze, Sailing on the Blue Waves You must take a boat! This is the only right way to unlock Haohu Lake. Rent a small boat from local fishermen and slowly row into the heart of the lake. The waterways wind like a maze, flanked by dense aquatic plants and karst hills. Sunlight filters through the clouds, turning the water into a dreamy blue-green. The swaying water plants make you feel like you’re traveling through a real-life “Emerald City.” If you’re lucky, egrets will fly close by, wild ducks will play in the distance, and time will slow down here. Climb High for a Panoramic View, Unlock the God’s Eye Perspective Abandon the boat and land ashore, then find a low viewing platform or small hill to climb. When you reach the top, gasping for breath, look back—the entire wetland panorama unfolds beneath your feet! The lake sparkles like scattered diamonds set in emerald-green wet meadows, islands scatter like green snails, and distant villages emit curling smoke. The vastness and tranquility here can wash away all fatigue and worries. At dusk, this is the perfect spot to capture sunsets and evening glow, with golden light spreading across the lake, stunningly unreal. Secret Trekking, Encounter Wetland Spirits Follow the well-built wooden boardwalk deep into the wetland’s heart. This is a paradise for observing flora and fauna. Bring binoculars, and you might see the nationally protected purple swamphen elegantly walking among the reeds, various herons dancing gracefully. In spring and early summer, the lake surface may be dotted with wildflowers. Please step lightly and speak softly to avoid disturbing this peaceful habitat. Fishermen’s Lifestyle, Lake Freshness on Your Palate Haohu Lake coexists harmoniously with local communities. If you meet friendly fishermen, don’t hesitate to chat about their lives. Some lakeside farmhouses offer the most authentic river delicacies. Freshwater tilapia boiled in clear water, stir-fried river shrimp, seasonal wild vegetables... The ingredients come from this pristine water, and the flavors are something you can never replicate in the city. Travel Tips and Sincere Suggestions Address: Within Donglan County, Hechi City, Guangxi (navigate to “Dongnanpo Haohu National Wetland Park”). Best Seasons: Suitable in spring, summer, and autumn. Spring and summer bring lush aquatic plants and vibrant life; autumn offers clear skies and colorful scenery. Accommodation: It’s recommended to stay in Donglan County town, where there are more options and better conditions. For a deeper experience, there are a few homestays nearby—please contact in advance to confirm. Important Reminders: Please protect the environment! Take all your trash with you, do not pick plants, and do not disturb wildlife. There are many mosquitoes in the wetlands, so bring insect repellent. Mobile signal may be weak in some areas; download offline maps in advance. Currently, the park’s facilities are relatively natural—come with a heart ready to explore nature, not to enjoy luxury services. Final Words Dongnanpo Haohu is not the kind of flashy beauty that makes you say “wow” immediately. It’s an immersive healing experience that requires you to calm your mind and feel it with your eyes, breath, and whole being. Here, you will rediscover the meaning of “tranquility” and “abundance.” If you’re tired of crowded popular spots and crave a trip truly close to nature to find inner peace, then this seriously underrated hidden gem in Guangxi is the next place you should visit. Don’t hesitate any longer—while it’s still little known, come quickly and “dig for treasure”!

In Sanshi Town, Donglan County, Hechi, Guangxi, there is a fairyland that even locals rarely know about—Pohao Lake Wetland Park📍 Far from the city's hustle and bustle, only rolling green mountains embrace the emerald lake, like a real-life ink painting🖼️ Want to fully immerse yourself in this tranquility? The lakeside "Yupan Camp" is definitely a divine choice! 🌅 Morning Routine: You must try floating yoga❗️ 6:30 AM - 8:00 AM Cool morning breeze + gently rocking bamboo raft Stretch your body amidst the mountains and waters, every breath filled with the scent of fresh grass Don’t rush to get off after finishing, close your eyes and let the raft slowly drift Every second of emptiness washes away the city fatigue🧘‍♀️ ☀️ Afternoon Time: Have a water sports party🎉 Open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Paddleboard to explore the lake bays / kayak chasing clouds / sunbathe on floating beds Sunlight sparkles on the shimmering water surface Simple water play can heal your whole day💦 🌇 Sunset Exclusive: This is the true healing moment! Recommended 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM The setting sun dyes the entire lake golden Row a small boat, feel the breeze, sip a drink Instantly grasp the ancient joy of "expressing feelings through mountains and waters" The silhouette of mountains and waters at dusk is breathtakingly beautiful🌄 ✨ Nearby Highlights: 1️⃣ Pohao Sea of Clouds Viewing Platform (Sanshi Town, Pohao Village, recommended arrival at 5:30 AM) The sea of clouds sunrise is stunning! The moment the red sun rises is breathtaking 2️⃣ Pohao Lake Time Boardwalk (Lakeside trail, open all day) Stroll along the lake shore, every step is a scenic painting 💡Tips: · Remember to bring mosquito repellent · Sunscreen is a must · It’s recommended to stay one night at Yupan Camp (reservation required)

Don’t just focus on popular cities packed like sardines this summer vacation. The trendy photo walls you spend two hours waiting in line for? Locals roll their eyes when they pass by. These 8 lesser-known small cities are reachable by high-speed rail, with rooms still priced like the off-season and streets where you can hear the wind rustling through the leaves. From vast forests to seaside views, from ancient towns to scenic landscapes, there’s something for anyone who needs a breather. 1️⃣ Yichun | Heilongjiang Summer in Yichun smells like pine needles and damp earth. You’ll hardly see any tour groups—the whole forest feels like it’s yours. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, Tangwang River forest and strange rock scenic area is shrouded in a light mist. Walking along the wooden boardwalk, your footsteps creak and the dew wets your shoes. The granite boulders take shapes you have to interpret yourself—some look like something, some don’t, but there are definitely more trees than people. At noon, when the sun shines through the canopy, find a flat rock to sit on, open your thermos for a sip of hot water, and listen to the woodpecker tapping on a tree trunk. ⚠️ Bring a light jacket. The mountain is 5 to 6 degrees cooler than the city, and the afternoon wind can be chilly. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Yichun city center, and the roads are in good condition. 2️⃣ Ningde | Fujian Ningde hides Fujian’s wildest mountains and gentlest coastline. It’s not as commercial as Xiamen or as popular as Pingtan, with just the right vibe and prices. 📍 Taimu Mountain scenic area: The mountains are granite formations that look like giant sculptures. It’s best to take the cable car up to save energy for the cliffside boardwalk. When you reach the “One Line Sky” section, you have to turn sideways and suck in your stomach to pass through—bigger visitors should be cautious. 🍜 After descending, try the Fuding sliced pork at the scenic area entrance. The pork is tender and chewy, soaked in a hot and sour soup, topped with yellow chili and cilantro—a bowl that refreshes your whole body. ⚠️ Be aware that Beiqi mudflat in Xiapu is different from Dajing Beach: Beiqi is for sunrise viewing, and you need to reserve your camera spot 30 minutes early; Dajing Beach is best for swimming after 3 PM, with fine sand and gentle waves. Don’t believe drivers who say you can finish in half an hour—depending on tides and photo spots, plan for a whole morning. 3️⃣ Jinhua | Zhejiang Jinhua is more than just ham. Hengdian is a dream factory, and Shuanglong Cave is a natural air-conditioned room. Two very different experiences, both doable in one day. 📍 Hengdian World Studios: If you like historical dramas, head straight to Qin Palace and Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival. The palaces are grand, but even on non-holidays, it’s busy. ⚠️ Don’t buy hanfu costumes at the scenic area entrance—they’re overpriced and low quality. Rent a set in the city for 50 to 60 yuan and wear it all day for photos. At 4 PM, head to Shuanglong scenic area. The cave stays around 18 degrees year-round, and you’ll shiver as soon as you enter. The small boat inside requires you to lie flat as the stone slabs brush your nose—don’t look up or you’ll hit the back of your head. 🍜 In the evening, visit the old town and find “Lao Fu Noodle House,” a humble spot famous for beef noodles. The noodles are handmade, chewy, and soak up the broth, with generous beef portions. Spice lovers should add local chili sauce for a kick. 4️⃣ Tianjin Tianjin’s pace is comfortable. Listen to crosstalk in the alleys and enjoy the evening breeze by the Haihe River—much more interesting than crowded commercial streets. 📍 Five Great Avenues cultural tourism area: Don’t take the sightseeing bus. Walking or renting a shared bike is the way to go. Sunlight filters through the plane tree leaves, casting patterns on the small Western-style buildings, each with its own story. The courtyard at Minyuan Xili is hidden and quiet, perfect for zoning out. ⏰ At 6 PM, visit the Italian Style Town. It’s most beautiful when the lights come on. Find an outdoor restaurant, order seafood baked rice, and watch the Tianjin Eye light up in the distance. ⚠️ Don’t buy “Goubuli” steamed buns on the street—they’re expensive and tasteless, even locals avoid them. For authentic buns, go to “Shitou Menkan Vegetarian Buns” for the real deal. If you have kids, Fantawild Adventure is worth a full day. 🦖 It has a Boonie Bears-themed area and roller coasters, with shorter lines than Beijing Happy Valley. 5️⃣ Jiangmen | Guangdong Jiangmen is a seriously underrated city. It lacks the noise of big cities and offers watchtowers, arcade buildings, and a slow-paced lifestyle. 📍 Kaiping watchtower cultural tourism area: The watchtowers in Zili Village were filming locations for “Let the Bullets Fly.” You can enter the towers to see Western furniture, gramophones, and bathtubs brought back by overseas Chinese, preserving a blend of East and West from the past. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for soft light, fewer people, and photos without strangers. Walking by the rice fields, the watchtowers look like chess pieces scattered across the quiet fields—almost unreal. ⚠️ The village sells dried tangerine peel ice cream—try it but don’t be fooled by the “century-old peel” hype. For authentic snacks, visit Xinhui pedestrian street in the city, where seafood and roast goose taste much better than in the scenic area. 6️⃣ Guangyuan | Sichuan Guangyuan, home of the mighty Jianmen Pass. This mountain is worth a special trip. 📍 Jianmen Shudao Jianmen Pass scenic area: Enter from the north gate, walk the bird path to One Line Sky, then descend along the cliffside boardwalk. The whole route is one-way and takes about 4 to 5 hours. The inscription on the wall says, “One man guards the pass, ten thousand cannot open it.” Standing at the pass, you’ll understand how dangerous it is—deep chasms on both sides and a narrow wind gap just wide enough for one person. ⚠️ Don’t believe guides saying “the whole route is easy.” There are many steps, so those with knee issues should be cautious and bring trekking poles. 🍜 The tofu feast in Jianmen town at the foot of the mountain is worth trying. The tofu pudding is silky and fragrant when dipped in chili oil. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Guangyuan station, about 1.5 hours. There’s a tourist shuttle from the station to the scenic area every 30 minutes. 7️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Want to see Guilin’s scenery without the crowds in Yangshuo? Hechi is a perfect alternative. The landscapes are more pristine and prices friendlier. 📍 Xiangbei hidden paradise: You need to take a bamboo raft through a cave to reach this hidden village. Bamboo groves, rice fields, old cattle, stone bridges—it really feels like a scene from Tao Yuanming’s writings. The water is so clear you can see the underwater plants swaying. In the afternoon, visit Sanli Yangdu, the most scenic spot. Standing at the ferry dock, the reflections of mountains and water look like an ink painting, especially atmospheric on rainy days. ⚠️ Donglan’s scenery is in a different direction from Xiangbei. Visiting both requires two days. If time is tight, pick one. Locals say Donglan is wilder, Xiangbei is more photogenic. 8️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning Jinzhou’s summer has mountains, sea, and barbecue. This small northeastern city is full of lively local flavor. 📍 Yiwulü Mountain: Visit Beiputuo Mountain scenic area, known for its many temples and bustling incense. The mountain isn’t very high but has many steps. From the top, you can see the whole Jinzhou panorama. ⏰ If you go to Bijia Mountain by the sea, check the tide schedule. At low tide, a “sky bridge” appears, letting you walk from the shore to the island. The path disappears at high tide. Low tide is around 3 PM, so arrive half an hour early to wait. ⚠️ Ask about prices before eating at seafood restaurants near Bijia Mountain to avoid being overcharged. 🍜 At night, visit Linghe night market for barbecue. Jinzhou barbecue is no joke. Lamb skewers sizzle with oil, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder, paired with a cold bottle of Lao Xuehua beer—that’s summer. Summer vacation should be about slowing down. Each of these 8 small cities offers unique scenery and local life beyond definition. Which one do you want to visit most this summer? Share in the comments.

Stay at Ji Hotel (Hechi Donglan Changle) and step into a landscape painting of western Guangxi. Mist drifts around green peaks, calm waters flow quietly, and a small boat floats on the river. Escape the city noise and enjoy the untouched natural beauty of Donglan. Comfortable and elegant rooms ease your travel fatigue. Come to Changle to find a peaceful mountain and water retreat and experience the leisurely riverside life of the Zhuang region.

Traveling with kids in summer, the biggest worry isn’t the crowds but the heat that makes you question life. But if you pick the right place, you’ll find a kind of coolness that feels like “all you see is green, and every breath is fresh air.” Here are 8 hidden gems, from places reachable within 2 hours by high-speed train to those just a 3-hour direct flight away. Temperatures are generally 5–8℃ lower than big cities, and some spots even require a jacket. Whether it’s city life, nature, or historic culture, any choice will have your kids having so much fun they won’t want to leave. 1️⃣ Aksu region | Xinjiang Everyone says southern Xinjiang is hot in summer, but the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon is an exception. ⏰ Enter the canyon at 8 AM when the light hits the red sandstone just right. Cool breezes blow through the canyon, and the ground still holds the night’s moisture. Walk the core trail with kids, a one-hour round trip on gentle terrain. Occasionally, spring water seeps from the rock walls—touch it for a refreshing chill. ⚠️ Avoid going at noon. When the sun is overhead, the canyon offers no shade and you’ll get sunburned. After the canyon, head to the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves. It’s cool inside with exquisite murals, and kids can quietly enjoy it for 10 minutes. Return to Kuqa before dinner for a meal of nan pit-roasted meat with yogurt. The meat’s aroma mixed with cumin bursts in your mouth, and kids can eat two extra bowls of rice. 2️⃣ Lhasa city | Tibet Lhasa stays around 20℃ during the day in summer. The sun feels hot, but shade cools instantly. 📍 Namtso Lake is a must-visit. For kids, I recommend joining a small day tour that leaves at 6 AM to avoid the midday heat at the lake. The lake breeze is strong, so bring an extra jacket for the kids. ⏰ Return by 3 PM so kids can nap on the bus. The next day, visit the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. ⚠️ Book Potala Palace tickets a day in advance. Don’t rush the stairs with kids—rest against the wall when tired. The shade by the wall is very cool. 🍜 Near Barkhor Street, Guangminggang Qiong Sweet Tea House serves a pot of sweet tea for 8 yuan. Kids love it and slurp it up. Pair it with a bowl of Tibetan noodles for a cozy meal. 3️⃣ Shaoguan city | Guangdong People in Guangdong know to escape the summer heat by heading north, with Danxia Mountain as the top choice. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 4 PM. The sun warms the Yangyuan Stone to a cozy orange, but the forest is full of shade—no umbrella needed. Take the Elder Peak trail with kids. The steps are gentle, shaded by trees, and squirrels occasionally dart out, exciting the kids for a long time. ⚠️ Avoid climbing Bazhai; the stairs are steep and little kids can’t manage. After descending, go to the Jinjiang River at the foot of the mountain to splash in the shallow, clear water that cools your feet. Return to Shaoguan city by evening. 🍜 Don’t miss the “Datang braised pork,” worth the line. It’s rich but not greasy. With a bowl of rice, the whole family will be sweaty but very happy. 4️⃣ Xing’an League | Inner Mongolia Arxan National Forest Park is a true natural air conditioner. ⏰ Enter the park before 9 AM to beat the crowds and head to the Unfrozen River first. The sound of flowing water is like white noise, and kids can sit by the river tossing stones for half an hour. ⚠️ The steps to Tuofengling Tianchi are many. If you have a stroller, skip it and go to Dujuan Lake instead. The terrain is flat, and the lake breeze makes you sleepy. If it rains, don’t rush to leave. After the rain, mushrooms pop up in the forest like little umbrellas, and kids can watch them all day. 🍜 Outside the park, small shops serve lamb shaomai with milk tea. The meat is so flavorful you’ll lick your fingers. 5️⃣ Jinan city | Shandong Jinan’s summer survival depends on its springs. 📍 At the “Number One Spring” scenic area, just glance at Baotu Spring and leave—it’s crowded and sunny. ⚠️ Head to Wulongtan Park instead. There’s a shallow pool where kids can go barefoot to catch fish. The water feels as cold as if it came straight from a fridge. ⏰ At 3 PM, go to Qianfoshan Mountain. The cable car takes only 10 minutes to the top, where the breeze blows and you can overlook the city and see where the springs meet the Yellow River. When descending, don’t exit through the main gate. Leave from the east gate and walk 500 meters to the Baizirou (braised pork) street. Pick the restaurant with the longest line. A piece of braised pork with a soft-boiled egg and sauce mixed with rice will have kids licking their bowls clean. 6️⃣ Hechi city | Guangxi Hechi is Guangxi’s hidden gem, surprisingly cooler than Guilin in summer. 📍 To reach Xiangbei Peach Blossom Land, take a small boat. When the boat enters the cave, cool air hits you, and water dripping from the rock walls feels like playing in a water curtain cave to kids. ⏰ The farmland area outside the cave has little shade, so bring an umbrella. You can finish exploring in half an hour. Then go to Sanli Yangdu, where a riverside trail is shaded so thickly that hardly any light gets through. Walk while admiring the green hills on both sides. When tired, sit on a rock and soak your feet in the river. Little fish will nibble your toes. ⚠️ The roads around Donglan’s mountains and waters are hard to find. It’s best to navigate to “Donglan County Hongshui River First Bend.” Park and walk 200 meters to the viewing platform. The view is worth the trip. 7️⃣ Xiangyang city | Hubei Gulongzhong isn’t hot in summer because of the trees. 🌳 After entering the scenic area, head straight to Sangu Hall. The path is shaded by old banyan trees, making the walk easy. ⏰ There’s a performance at 10 AM, but it’s better to avoid it. It’s crowded and sunny. Instead, sit by the farming fields, listen to cicadas, and watch the waterwheel. If you have kids, ⚠️ don’t climb Tenglong Pavilion. The stairs are so narrow two people can’t pass side by side, and kids might bump their legs. After descending, visit Guangde Temple. There’s a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree that shines bright green in summer. The breeze under the tree is so cool you won’t want to leave after 10 minutes. 🍜 Start your day with Xiangyang beef noodles, adding fried tofu and egg wine for a spicy kick. 8️⃣ Zhengzhou city | Henan What to rely on in Zhengzhou’s summer? Indoor spots and night tours. ⏰ Start at the museum during the day. The air conditioning is so strong you’ll need a jacket. Check out the nine top treasures. Kids are most interested in the bronze lotus crane square pot and can circle around it for a long time. ⚠️ Remember to book free tickets in advance. Weekends often sell out. In the afternoon, head to Xiliu Lake. There’s a water feature area where kids can splash and play with bubbles while sitting in the shade. 🌇 After 5 PM, go to Songshan

For a cool August getaway, don’t just focus on those popular spots. Within 2 hours by high-speed train, there are hidden cool retreats with fewer people and stunning scenery. These places not only have temperatures several degrees lower than the main areas but also offer a purer experience—no crowded crowds, no over-commercialization. From the mountains and rivers of the southwest to the ancient cities of the northwest, from the coast to the plateau, this list helps you break free from the usual summer routine. 01 Hechi City | Guangxi Xiangbei is a secluded paradise accessible only by boat. At 6:30 AM, a thin mist floats over the water, and when the oars cut through, you can hear the water echoing in the valley. 📍 The water drawn from the ancient well is so cold it can chill watermelon instantly. At 5 PM in Sanliyangdu, the light is softest. ⏰ Walk along the boardwalk then, and the bamboo on both sides turns a warm golden color, with shadows flickering on the water’s surface. Donglan’s mountains and rivers are best visited after 3 PM. Turn off the Panyang River onto a side road, find a big rock to sit on, soak your feet in the water, and stare at the reflection of Camel Hump Mountain. ⚠️ Avoid going at noon; the stone slabs on the shore get scorching hot. 🍜 The old lady selling iced jelly by the roadside charges 3 yuan a bowl. The brown sugar is homemade and thick enough to stretch. 02 Kashgar Region | Xinjiang Many tourists head straight to the ancient city but miss the alleys rich in local culture. 🗺️ Enter the east gate of Kashgar Ancient City, then take the third alley on the right called Wusitang Boyi. Turn in, and you’ll hear the clinking of copperware being hammered. 📍 Mustagh Peak on the Pamir Plateau has the best light before 3 PM. The ruins of the Stone City cast long shadows, and the wind from the snowy mountains brings a cool breeze. ⚠️ Buy naan and bottled water in town before heading up the mountain. Bottled water on the mountain can cost 15 yuan a bottle. 🍜 The old town night market’s grilled buns have thin skins so you can see the filling. The hot meat juice almost burned my tongue. The owner only accepts cash. 03 Qinhuangdao City | Hebei Between Beidaihe and Shanhaiguan, I choose the former. Although Beidaihe’s beach is crowded during summer vacation, it’s less filtered by influencer hype than Anaya. 📍 Walk along Zhonghai Beach Road to Laohushi Park. After 4 PM, the tide recedes, revealing moist sand that feels cool and soft under bare feet. ⏰ Go to Geziwo Park at 5:30 AM to watch the sunrise. No need to squeeze onto the viewing platform. Walk 300 meters east to the rock formations where no one is around, and the view is even wider. ⚠️ At Shanhaiguan’s “First Pass Under Heaven” scenic area, it’s best to buy only the city wall ticket. The reconstructed ancient street inside isn’t worth it. 🍜 The seafood noodle shop on Jianguo Road in town charges 20 yuan a bowl. Half the bowl is covered with razor clams, and the broth is freshly made. 04 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Kanbula sounds cool just by name. Enter the scenic area at 6 AM. Dew drips from the pine forest on the mountaintop, and clouds slowly drift along the ridges. 📍 Take the sightseeing bus to the “Strange Peaks” viewing platform. ⏰ Around 7:30 AM, the sunlight hits the Danxia cliffs perfectly. The red rock and green vegetation clash, shrouded in mist like a watercolor painting. 🍜 After descending, buy freshly baked flatbread from a roadside tent. It tastes smoky with a hint of barley. ⚠️ The scenic area requires a fair amount of physical effort. Carrying a small backpack makes it much easier. Signal is poor in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance. 05 Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou If you can only visit one Miao village, I recommend Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village—but you have to know how to enjoy it. At 6:30 AM, the smoke from the stilt houses mixes with the morning mist, making the whole village look like it’s soaked in water. 📍 Enter from the north gate and walk along the Baishui River for 1 km to reach the viewing platform. ⏰ The crowd peaks at 2 PM. Instead, go to the “Pastoral sightseeing area” near the terraced fields to rest, then return two hours before sunset when the light slants into the village. Near the drum tower in Zhaoxing Dong Village, there’s a small artsy coffee shop. Stop in to rest, and outside the window, children play on the drying yard. Walking the stone paths in Zhenyuan at night is ten times quieter than during the day. Xianghuo Rock is hidden deep in the mountains. The road is rough, but when the waterfall mist hits you, it feels worth it. ⚠️ All village stone paths are slippery. Wear shoes with non-slip soles. 06 Weifang City | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City is quieter than I expected. Enter from the south gate at 7 AM. Shops aren’t fully open yet, and only a few elderly people are exercising on the stone paths. Walk north along Ouyuan Street, then turn right into a small alley called “Old Locust Tree Alley.” At the end is a small square where stray cats lounge lazily on the stone steps. The shade from the locust trees blocks the sun completely. Afternoon light filters through the leaves, casting mottled shadows on the ground. Exit from Donghua Gate and walk a few steps to Yunmen Mountain Road. The roadside sesame cake shop bakes fresh cakes with a crispy crust. Biting into one, the sesame aroma blends with the savory scallion oil. ⏰ After 4 PM, visit Fangongting Park. The breeze under the trees by the lake is cool, perfect for sitting and daydreaming. 07 Zhengzhou City | Henan Qinwei Water City and the museum are worth spending a whole day. Spend two hours in the Yellow River Civilization exhibition hall in the morning. After seeing the pottery and bronze artifacts, you can have a coffee outside the museum’s cultural shop without walking under the scorching sun. At the hottest time around 1 or 2 PM, walk the wooden boardwalk through the dawn redwood forest in Xiliu Lake Park. The temperature under the trees is at least 5 degrees cooler than downtown, and you might meet an old man feeding fish. After leaving Xiliu Lake, ⏰ go to Mount Song’s Shaolin Temple around 4 PM. Avoid midday when the steps are too hot to climb. The sunset in the mountains is gentle, and the whole temple glows warmly in the evening light. 🍜 The cold noodles at Shaolin Temple’s entrance have a rich sesame sauce. Paired with a bowl of chilled mung bean soup, it’s so refreshing you won’t want to move. 08 Manzhouli City | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli’s Matryoshka Doll Square is best visited in the evening. After 5:30 PM, the sunlight slants over the colorful dolls, casting long shadows. The whole square looks like a scene from a fairy tale. 📍 The giant Matryoshka doll in the center takes great photos around 6 PM. From the doll square, it’s a 10-minute walk north to the Sino-Soviet Street night market. The grilled lamb skewer stalls send up blue smoke that whets your appetite. After eating, walk back to the hotel along the street. Manzhouli’s night has a unique quietness. ⚠️ The grassland wind is still cool in summer a bit farther from the city. If you go to Hulun Lake, remember to bring a jacket. The top three recommendations: Hechi’s mountains and rivers, Qiandongnan’s Miao villages, and Huangnan’s Kanbula—each cooler than the last. Where are you planning to go in August? Share in the comments.

When it comes to budget travel from August to October, there are many underrated destinations within a 2–5 hour high-speed rail radius. You don’t have to spend thousands to squeeze into popular spots. These places offer cheap admission, fewer crowds, limited-time autumn scenery, and direct high-speed rail access that saves on travel costs. You can enjoy a unique experience for just over 1,000 yuan per person. 01 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is an off-the-beaten-path destination with the richest autumn landscapes, offering great value. Xiangbei paradise: ⏰ Best visited in the morning. Hiking along the river has no entrance fee. Both banks are lined with dense bamboo forests. At the end, there’s a small waterfall where the sound of water drowns out all noise, perfect for zoning out. Sanli Yangdu: 🚄 About a 15-minute taxi ride from the high-speed rail station. Rent a bamboo raft (40 yuan per person). At noon, the sunlight makes the water sparkle like scattered silver, half the price and fewer people than Yangshuo. Donglan scenery: ⚠️ There’s a shortcut: rent a three-wheeled motorcycle from the county for 80 yuan round trip. The main viewpoint is the observation deck above the former residence of Wei Baqun, overlooking the entire karst peak forest. The light is softest after 4 PM. Overall suggestion: Hechi has cheap food and lodging. You can get an air-conditioned standard room for 50 yuan. It’s worth staying an extra day to enjoy the scenery. 02 Fuyang | Anhui Balihe, a national 5A attraction, has a surprising contrast between ticket price and experience. ⏰ Opens at 7 AM in autumn. It’s quiet in the off-season. Head straight to the “Birdsong Forest” area upon entry. The boardwalk is flanked by wild ducks and egrets. The sun slants just right on the water, much more beautiful than artificial scenery. ⚠️ Don’t buy the combo ticket. The “World Scenery” miniature section is outdated and less cost-effective than just visiting the core area. 🍜 Outside the park in Balihe town, there’s “Old Ma Claypot” serving large beef vermicelli for 16 yuan. The broth is rich and fresh. Many locals go there for lunch. It’s more reliable than the tasteless 30 yuan boxed meals inside the park. Overall plan: one morning is enough to explore. Spend the afternoon strolling back to the old town. 03 Yichang | Hubei The Three Gorges area has calm rivers in autumn, with red leaves just starting to color the cliffs. Yangtze Three Gorges: 🚄 Yichang East Station has a direct bus to the Three Gorges Dam for 30 yuan per person. ⏰ Arrive around 2 PM to catch the last boat at 4:30 PM without waiting in line. Three Gorges folk village: ⚠️ Check the weather forecast in advance. Rain makes mountain roads muddy and boat trips stop. It’s best to postpone to a sunny day. Three Gorges waterfall: wear a raincoat to fully experience it. Protect your phone with a waterproof bag. ⏰ After rain, the water volume surges and the mist can soak you completely. Qingjiang gallery: 🍜 At the dock, “Afang Snacks” serves stir-fried potatoes with Guang pepper for 12 yuan, paired with a bowl of fermented rice wine. It’s a typical local home-style flavor. Overall advice: attractions are spread out along the Yangtze. Visit one spot per day at a relaxed pace. Don’t rush to see two in one day or you’ll spend all your time traveling. 04 Suzhou | Jiangsu Autumn is garden season in Suzhou, but don’t fixate on the Humble Administrator’s Garden. Tiger Hill scenic area: ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM. The empty Sword Pool steps echo your footsteps. The 60 yuan entrance fee is much cheaper than the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the scenery feels wilder. Hanshan Temple: ⚠️ Weekends are crowded. Visit Monday afternoon instead. Bell ringing costs 3 yuan per time. You can finish in 15 minutes. Nearby, the riverside tea house by Maple Bridge is a nice spot to sit. Suzhou gardens: choose either the Lingering Garden or the Lion Grove Garden. Lingering Garden’s rockeries are more impressive. 🍜 After Lingering Garden, turn right to Tongdexing on Wuqufang Street for freshly shredded crab roe noodles at 45 yuan. Autumn crabs are plump and flavorful. Off-the-beaten-path: turn from Pingjiang Road into Xiaojiagang Alley. The paulownia leaves turn golden by late October. The old houses on both sides are quiet. Suggestion: book the Suzhou Museum main building in advance or visit the free West Wing instead. The exhibits are just as good. 05 Zibo | Shandong Zibo in autumn isn’t just about barbecue. The thin stone slab roads in Zhoucun ancient market feel clean in the cool breeze. ⚠️ Zhoucun Street has no entrance fee, but small ticketed attractions on the main street (ticket museum, folk museum) are optional. The free window displays are enough to see. ⏰ After 4 PM, tourists leave. The old shop selling baked sesame cakes makes them fresh and crispy right out of the oven. 🚄 It’s about a 25-minute taxi ride from Zibo Station to Zhoucun, costing just over 30 yuan. Overall advice: for barbecue, go to “Xiao Hanyang.” It’s on the way back to the city from Zhoucun. Remember to get a small stove to grill yourself. Avoid the popular spots with long lines. Most places taste similar and are cheaper. Local cost: off-season hotel rooms in the city are 150 yuan, perfect for overnight transfers. 06 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui’s autumn wakes up with terraced fields and morning mist in Xiandu. The motto is “slow down and watch.” Yunhe terraced fields: ⏰ Best time is mid to late October. Half an hour before sunrise, mist rises from the valley. The viewing platform is free but you need to stay in a guesthouse at the foot of the mountain and get up early. Jinyun Xiandu: Shimen Cave has a long but gentle trail. The highlight is the section where Dinghu Peak reflects in the water. ⏰ The light is too strong at noon to capture the reflection, so visit before 10 AM. Qingtian Shimen Cave: 🚄 Take the rural bus from Qingtian Station for 6 yuan to the scenic area. In late autumn, red leaves cover the trail and fallen leaves pile thick. 🍜 After the park, try the local chicken soup pot at “Old Zhu’s farmhouse” in town for 60 yuan. It’s authentic and enough for two. Suggestion: Lishui is best for a slow pace. One spot per day is just right. Driving or chartering a car is more convenient. 07 Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia has the most saturated autumn colors. The red rocks shine under low-angle sunlight. Chishui Danxia tourist area: ⚠️ The main area and the big waterfall are separate. It’s best to choose the big waterfall only. Other parts are similar to other Danxia landforms. The 40 yuan ticket is two-thirds cheaper than the full ticket. ⏰ Arrive at 3 PM. The sun turns the water golden. The light lasts for an hour. 🍜 Bamboo shoot stewed with cured meat at the park entrance is a specialty, 25 yuan per serving. The local bamboo is crisp. Avoid big restaurants. 🚄 After arriving at Zunyi by high-speed rail, take a bus to Chishui, about two hours. Suggestion: Danxia rocks are slippery. Don’t wear smooth-soled sneakers or you might slip downhill. 08 Chenzhou | Hunan Chenzhou’s autumn keywords are “Danxia + lakes.” Different strategies apply for the two spots. Gaoyiling Danxia: ⚠️ Tickets are 40 yuan. After 5 PM, fewer people come. The sunlight on the red rocks creates better texture. No need to buy the sightseeing bus. It’s a 20-minute uphill walk. The trail is sunny but not tiring. Dongjiang Lake tourist area: ⏰ Morning fog is most common in autumn. Arrive by 6:30 AM. Around 7 AM, white mist rises over the lake. Fishing boats spread their nets. This scene is worth the 80 yuan ticket. Mangshan Wuzhifeng: 🚄 Take the tourist shuttle from Chenzhou West Station for 1 hour direct. The altitude is high and temperatures are low in autumn. ⏰ Fog starts in the afternoon, so the earlier you go up, the clearer the mountain peaks. 🍜 After descending, try the chopped chili fish head in Yizhang County for 38 yuan per small portion, served with noodles. It’s very cost-effective. Listing 8 spots in one go, if time is limited and you want the most unique experience, I vote for Hechi’s karst morning mist and Chenzhou Dongjiang Lake’s autumn fog, especially in early October. Both places are off-season with fewer crowds and great scenery, and easy to reach by high-speed rail. If you have other lesser-known direct high-speed rail destinations, share them with me. Autumn is perfect for exploring.

Who says summer is only for hiding in air-conditioned rooms? When the ground is hot enough to fry an egg, choose those underrated cool spots. Within a 2- to 5-hour high-speed train radius, you’ll find prairie breezes, valley mists, and cool air at the foot of the giant Buddha. When traveling with your parents, there’s no need to rush to attractions. Taking it slow in 68°F weather is the real deal. 01 Shuozhou | Shanxi The name Shahu Kou sounds full of character. Driving from Shuozhou, you pass through loess hills. When you turn a corner, the wind whistles through the car window. My parents in the back seat said it’s even better than air conditioning. ⏰ Arrive at 9 AM. The sun is just warming up. Standing on the city wall at Shahu Kou, the wind blows through the gap, making you squint. The ground is bleached by the sun, but the temperature feels like 77°F, noticeably cooler than the city. On the way, we met locals herding sheep. They pointed to the distance and said that beyond that ridge is Inner Mongolia. A few steps later, at the entrance of the Guandi Temple, the stone steps are polished smooth. My mom sat down to rest, saying, “This place feels so comfortable, not tiring at all.” 🍜 At noon, head back to Shuozhou city to find a knife-cut noodle shop. Order a bowl of noodles with lamb dipping cake. It costs just over 10 yuan and leaves you feeling warm and satisfied. 02 Harbin | Heilongjiang Don’t think winter is the only time to visit. August in Harbin offers a different vibe—the stifling heat of the northeast is torn apart by the Songhua River breeze. ⏰ At 5:30 PM, take the subway to Central Street, enjoy a Madieer popsicle, and stroll along the riverbank. The steps of the Flood Control Memorial Tower are packed with people. The river breeze tangles your hair. My parents happily watch the sun setting over Sun Island across the river. The next morning, head straight to Sophia Square. The onion-shaped church spires stand out beautifully against the blue sky. There are too many people feeding pigeons. ⚠️ A small bag of pigeon feed costs 5 yuan. To save money, bring some corn kernels. 🚄 In the afternoon, take a taxi to Volga Manor, 40 minutes from downtown. The manor is full of Russian-style wooden houses, so quiet it feels like stepping into a fairy tale. My mom stood in front of an old white birch tree for a long time, saying, “This tree is really spirited.” 03 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia The grassland is August’s most generous gift—so green it dazzles, so cool it chills to the bone. ⚠️ Don’t drive deep into the grassland yourself. The dirt roads can shake your car apart. Instead, hire a local driver who knows which pastures are unfenced and which hills offer panoramic views. ⏰ At 6 AM, dew still clings to the grass tips. The air smells of fresh grass mixed with cow dung. Standing on the meadow by the Erguna River, the wind blows from all directions, so cool you want a jacket. My mom tried milking a cow in a yurt but was too clumsy to get half a bucket. The herder lady laughed and patiently showed her how. My dad filmed it for his social feed, laughing so hard his wrinkles all crinkled together. 🍜 For dinner, eat hand-pulled meat ribs dipped in chive flowers. The fat and lean mix fills your mouth with savory richness. Wash it down with milk tea to cut the grease—just right. 04 Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula is an underrated treasure—where Danxia landforms meet the Yellow River, the colors burn your eyes. ⏰ The best time to enter the park is 7 AM. The mist hasn’t lifted yet. The mountains glow rusty red in the morning light, and the Yellow River looks as green as jade. Take the park shuttle bus up. From the viewing platform, a few steps lead to the top. Parents with knee issues can handle it easily. ⚠️ Leave by 2 PM. The sun is scorching. Don’t push yourself. After the park, settle in a farmhouse in Lijiaxia Town. Order a bowl of freshly pulled beef noodles. The noodles are chewy, and the broth has cilantro and garlic sprouts. My mom leaned back in her chair, fanning herself with a palm leaf fan, saying, “This morning was worth it. Better than watching TV at home.” 05 Anqing | Anhui In summer, visit Tianzhu Mountain and choose the West Gate route for the easiest climb. Take the cable car halfway up, then walk a gentle stone path shaded by trees with a cool breeze. ⏰ Start climbing after 3 PM. The mountain blocks most of the sunlight. When you reach Tianchi Peak, the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. My dad stood there for three minutes, then said, “This mountain is more delicate than Huangshan and less tiring.” After descending, visit Anqing’s old town. On the riverside street, there’s a shop selling Jiangmao dumplings. The wrappers are thin, the filling tender. A bowl with about 10 dumplings leaves you feeling great. 🍜 Then head to Daobashi Lion pedestrian street to find a stall selling kuai bing stuffed with fried dough sticks. Pair it with a bowl of mung bean porridge. The whole meal costs just 5 yuan—authentic and affordable. 06 Leshan | Sichuan Leshan is paradise for parents—walk on flat paths, sit and watch, lie down and relax. ⏰ Arrive at the Giant Buddha scenic area at 9 AM. Slowly walk down the plank road to the Buddha’s feet. If you’re not in a hurry, half an hour is enough. The weather is sticky hot, but standing at the Buddha’s feet, the Min River breeze blows close to the ground, instantly cooling you down. After seeing the Buddha, don’t rush off. Take a boat tour around. The river breeze is pleasant, and you can capture the full view of the Buddha from the water. My dad took 20 photos with his phone, saying it’s much better than squeezing through the plank road crowds. 🍜 At noon, eat Qiaojiao beef at Zhanggong Bridge. The broth is herbal and fresh, the beef tender and juicy. Order some spicy blood curd on the side. It costs about 30 yuan per person and leaves you full. In the afternoon, relax with tea at the foot of Mount Emei. The mountain breeze rustles bamboo leaves. My mom leaned back in a bamboo chair and fell asleep. 07 Hechi | Guangxi Northwest Guangxi’s summer is wet green. The air feels like mint-scented cotton wrapped around you. ⏰ Early morning, visit Xiangbei Peach Blossom Land. The river is covered in mist. The bamboo bends over the water. The old boatman hums mountain songs that echo through the canyon. In the afternoon, go to Sanli Yangdu. Rent a small boat to drift on the clear river. The water is so clear you can count the stones below. The boatman said the water is only 6.5 feet deep. My dad dipped his hand in, and the cold ran from his fingertips to his elbow. 🍜 For dinner, find a shop in Donglan County that makes hemp chicken. The chicken is stewed until tender. The soup has wild mushrooms and ginger. Everyone eats two bowls without stopping. ⚠️ The mountain roads have many curves. When driving, have your parents sit in the back seat with seat belts fastened. Don’t drive too fast. 08 Kashgar | Xinjiang Kashgar’s old town is like a thick book you can’t finish, full of Uyghur signs and carved wooden doors. ⏰ At 9 AM, sunlight slants into the alleys. Children’s ball games echo between the mud walls. The old teahouse is full of locals breaking naan and dipping it in tea, sitting all morning. 📍 Visit Id Kah Square at the west gate of Kashgar Old Town. When pigeons suddenly take flight, their wings sound like rain. In the afternoon, stop by a century-old teahouse. The owner serves hot tea and naan. You sit there staring at the light and shadow cast by the skylight, time slowing to a standstill. If you want to see farther, hire a car to the Pamir Plateau. White Sand Lake and Muztagh Ata peak shine like a fairy tale under the sun. ⚠️ At over 3,000 meters elevation, parents with heart issues shouldn’t go too deep. A walk and photos by the lake are enough. At dusk, return to the old town. The stone city ruins glow orange-red in the sunset. My mom took a silhouette photo there, saying, “Of all the colors I’ve seen in my life, this is the brightest.” The main text is done. I realize these 8 cities’ summers aren’t delicate at all. Some are cool in the wind, some by the water, some at the Buddha’s feet. As my mom says, “Traveling isn’t just about seeing sights, it’s about changing the air you breathe.” While your parents are still nimble, pick one and go—where did you take your parents this year? Share in the comments.

Honestly, some healing doesn’t come from a therapist but from standing by the wetland, feeling the breeze. The openness, the calm, and the thriving life will make your anxiety seem less important. Here are 4 breathtaking wetlands, each with its own unique charm, all worth your visit. 💚 Guangxi · Pohao Lake | The “Wizard of Oz” in karst landscapes, an underrated jade gem Hidden in Datong Township, Donglan County, Hechi, Guangxi, is a treasure many locals don’t know about. Formed by karst terrain, it features lakes within islands and islands within lakes. The water comes from the Hongshui River, reflecting mountains like a mirror year-round, with mist swirling at dawn and dusk. The wetland covers about 500 hectares, with over 85% wetland area, serving as an important stopover for migratory birds. Healing moment: Rent a small boat from a local fisherman and slowly row into the lake’s heart. The waterways twist like a maze, flanked by dense aquatic plants and karst hills. The water glows a dreamy blue-green, like traveling through a real-life “Wizard of Oz.” Climb a small hill to overlook the lake, which sparkles like scattered diamonds set in an emerald wetland meadow, with islands like green shells. At dusk, golden light spreads across the lake, creating an otherworldly beauty. How to get there: Located in Datong Township, Donglan County, Hechi City, Guangxi. Driving is recommended. The lakeside trail and birdwatching platform are open to the public for free. 🦌 Jiangsu · Yancheng Yellow Sea Wild Deer Bay | “Kenya of the East,” wild mudflats, deer, and starry wilderness romance Yancheng Yellow Sea Wild Deer Bay is one of China’s first “Beautiful China check-in spots.” There are no skyscrapers or neon lights here, only vast Yellow Sea mudflats. It’s also a precious dark sky reserve, known as the “Kenya of the East” hidden in the Yangtze River Delta. It’s the densest habitat for wild Père David’s deer in the world. Healing moment: Walk through the wetland fields and unexpectedly encounter lively deer crossing shallow bays or grazing; under the dark sky reserve, see a dazzling starry sky rarely visible in cities with the naked eye; watch thousands of water birds flutter over the sea, painting an ecological poem along the Yellow Sea coast. How to get there: Located in the core area of Chuandong Port National Beautiful Bay, Yancheng, Jiangsu. Driving is recommended. Stay at the Deer Resort for a seamless coastal vacation. 🌿 Sichuan · Ruoergai Flower Lake | An ink painting scroll on the plateau, healing even on cloudy days Ruoergai Flower Lake is on the western Sichuan plateau and an important water source for the upper Yellow River. When the sun isn’t blazing, clouds roll across the sky, and endless grasslands ripple with green waves in the wind. The wetland’s water shimmers with tiny waves, blending the clouds’ reflections into the water. Healing moment: Walk on the boardwalk and watch flocks of red-billed gulls circle low; see distant mountains fade in and out of mist, with only the sounds of wind, water, and birds; on cloudy days, Flower Lake looks like a flowing ink painting, holding the purest, most healing life force. How to get there: Located in Ruoergai County, Aba, Sichuan. Driving or chartering a car is recommended. The boardwalk is flat and easy for all ages. The plateau is windy with big temperature swings, so bring a windbreaker. 🕊️ Heilongjiang · Wuyuer River | A true wild wetland, home to over 200 bird species Less than 100 km south of Qiqihar lies the Wuyuer River National Nature Reserve. Unlike Zhalong, which is a managed scenic area with boardwalks and showtimes, Wuyuer River is a truly wild wetland with no human traces or visitor centers. Every bird and plant you see is exactly where it belongs. It’s a real bird sanctuary, with over 200 species visible during spring and autumn migrations. Setting up a camera here for half a day will capture more species than a month at Zhalong. Healing moment: Stand by the wetland and feel every part of the ecosystem working naturally; witness the stunning sight of Oriental white storks and white-naped cranes feeding together; observe bird behaviors like hunting, courting, and teaching chicks to fly—rare to see in managed wetlands. ⚠️ Tips: There are no shops selling water inside the reserve, so bring your own food and water; a telephoto lens and insect repellent are essential; there is no signal in the reserve, so inform family of your plans in advance. Contact the reserve management station before entering the core birdwatching area. How to get there: Located south of Qiqihar, Heilongjiang. About 1.5 hours’ drive from Qiqihar along the national highway. Accommodation is recommended in Lindian County. Best seasons: mid-April to early May and late September to early October during migration. 💡 Travel tips 1. Clothing: Wetlands have big temperature swings between morning and evening, so bring a windbreaker; Ruoergai plateau is windy with big temperature swings, so sun protection is essential; Wuyuer River has many mosquitoes, so insect repellent is a must. 2. Gear: A telephoto lens and binoculars improve birdwatching; boating on Pohao Lake offers a “boat on emerald waves” experience. 3. Leave no trace: These wetlands mostly retain their original natural state. Please take all trash with you and avoid disturbing migratory birds and wildlife. 4. Best seasons: Spring and autumn are prime birdwatching seasons; summer and autumn wetlands are lush and most healing. 💬 Join the conversation: Which stunning wetland do you most want to visit?

These 8 places may not be as famous as Dali or Lijiang, but everyone who’s been says they’re amazing. From Xianning, just two hours by high-speed train, to Kashgar, which requires flying across half of China, the travel costs vary greatly and the experiences are completely different. Some let you zone out on ancient battlefields, others immerse you in the wildest landscapes. Is it worth it? Keep reading. 01 Xianning | Hubei ⏰ Arrive at the Chibi ancient battlefield at 9 AM when it’s not crowded. The river breeze instantly clears your mind. Don’t rush in; first, stand by the statue of Zhou Yu and look at the Yangtze River. That feeling of “this is really Chibi” will hit you. 🍜 Don’t settle for food inside the scenic area at noon. Drive 10 minutes to town and find a small restaurant with a sign for “Chibi fish cake.” The fish cake is so tender it can’t be held with chopsticks, and the broth is incredibly fresh. ⚠️ The Chibi cliff inscriptions are by the river and get submerged at high tide in the afternoon. Be sure to visit before noon. Enter through Jinluan Mountain Gate, walk down the steps to Baifeng Terrace for a look. Two hours is enough for the whole trip. On weekends, it’s just a 30-minute high-speed train ride from Wuhan, making a same-day round trip easy. 02 Kashgar | Xinjiang 📍 In Kashgar old town, don’t just focus on the half-hour city gate opening ceremony at the east gate. Walk deeper into the alleys where kids kick soccer balls, the blacksmith’s hammer rings out, and Uyghur grandmothers sit on doorsteps embroidering hats. ⏰ After 4 PM, head to the stone city on the Pamir Plateau. The sun turns the ruined walls a warm orange, and Muztagh Ata Peak looms on the horizon. At this time, tourists are sparse, so you can almost have the entire ruin to yourself. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke. Don’t push through if you have a cough or cold. The stone city’s boardwalk is so windy it can blow you off balance, so keep your hat and scarf tight. It’s a four-hour drive from Kashgar city to Taxian, with scenery worth hundreds of photos along the way. 03 Haikou | Hainan 📍 Qilou old street is quietest before 9 AM. The wet stone pavement reflects the weathered South Seas-style buildings, making every photo a hit. ⚠️ After 10 AM, tour groups flood in, and you’ll have to squeeze through. 🍜 Across from Wugong Temple, a street stall sells pickled Hainan rice noodles for just 8 yuan. Mixed with pickled vegetables, peanuts, and sesame sauce, one bite wakes you up completely. If you want to visit Volcano Crater Park, go after 3 PM. The sun tilts west, shining into the crater bottom with layered light and shadow, perfect for a stroll. ⚠️ Don’t bring children under 3; the many steps can be overwhelming. 04 Chuzhou | Anhui 📍 Langya Mountain isn’t as tiring to climb as you might think. Enter from the north gate and take the gentle slope. You’ll reach the South Heavenly Gate in under an hour. ⏰ Arrive at 2 PM and first visit Zuiweng Pavilion. The pavilion matches the textbook description exactly: “winged and overlooking the spring.” Nearby is a crooked-neck tree said to be 800 years old. After Zuiweng Pavilion, head to Shenxiu Lake. In autumn, the lake is covered with fallen leaves. Pick any bench and you can stay all afternoon. 🚄 A taxi from Chuzhou station to the scenic area costs 25 yuan. On weekends, the high-speed train from Nanjing takes only 18 minutes. 05 Hechi | Guangxi 📍 Xiangbei Peach Blossom Land is worth a special drive. Bamboo rafts glide over emerald water, with karst peaks reflecting on both sides, like stepping into a movie. ⏰ At noon, visit Sanliyang Ferry where the sun makes the water sparkle gold. Rent an electric bike and ride along the country road, surrounded by sugarcane fields rustling in the breeze. ⚠️ Donglan’s mountains and waters look best after rain. Mist clings to the mountain slopes, and the rice paddies reflect the sky. That fresh feeling can’t be captured by phone. 🍜 In Donglan County, try a bowl of dried lotus root noodles. The chewy texture paired with local sour bamboo shoots is incredible. 06 Yancheng | Jiangsu 📍 Dafeng Milu Deer National Nature Reserve is only recommended in winter. ⚠️ Visit in summer? The deer hide in the woods with air conditioning, and you won’t see many even if you get sunburned. ⏰ Arrive right at 8:30 AM when it opens and take the sightseeing bus into the semi-wild deer area. The deer are hungry then and will come close waiting for you to feed them carrots. Carrots are sold in the park for 10 yuan a bag. 🍜 At noon, return to Dafeng city and find a “Yancheng egg pancake” shop. The pancake is soft and chewy, and the filling is so flavorful you’ll want seconds. 🚄 There’s a direct bus from Yancheng station to Dafeng, about a one-hour ride. 07 Huangnan | Qinghai 📍 Kanbula must be visited on an autumn morning. ⏰ At 9 AM, the sunlight perfectly lights up the Danxia landform, making the mountains glow red as if scorched by fire. If you have time, walk down the mountain on the boardwalk. Along the way, you’ll see Lijiaxia Reservoir, its green water nestled among red mountains. The visual impact is indescribable. ⚠️ Only go when the weather forecast says sunny. On cloudy days, Kanbula is just a gray blur with no atmosphere. 🚄 It’s a two-hour drive from Xining with good roads, perfect for a self-drive trip to zone out. 08 Wuzhong | Ningxia 📍 At the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon tourist area, skip the usual routes. Enter from the north gate and take a boat to the 108 pagodas. As the boat moves, the Yellow River water changes from deep green to muddy yellow, with jagged cliffs on both sides that look like they’ve been cut by knives. ⏰ Arrive at Niushou Mountain at 2 PM and climb up to overlook the Yellow River’s big bend. The river sparkles gold in the sunlight, so spectacular it leaves you speechless. 🍜 Wuzhong morning tea is worth a separate meal. Beef hand-pulled noodles with eight-treasure tea are chewy and fragrant, even better than Lanzhou. ⚠️ The boardwalk by the Yellow River is windy, so tie your hat. After 4 PM, the light dims, so hurry if you want to take photos. 🚄 It’s a 30-minute high-speed train ride from Yinchuan, so you can have morning tea and return the same day. Each of these eight places will make you wonder, “Why didn’t I come sooner?” The river breeze in Xianning, the sunset in Kashgar, the noodles in Haikou, the pavilion in Chuzhou, the waters in Hechi, the deer in Yancheng, the mountains in Huangnan, the noodles in Wuzhong — how many have you been to? Share your thoughts in the comments. complaints the beaten path and culture scenery travel travel

I often stay at All-Season Hotels! So, I’ve compiled a super practical guide for staying here. Even regular guests can unlock tons of hidden benefits. Perfect for business trips or short getaways—no more missing out! ✨ First, if you’re driving to Donglan All-Season Hotel, remember to ask the front desk for a parking discount voucher. You’ll get 24-hour free parking for as many days as you stay. If you’re not staying but need parking, charges will apply. I always prioritize booking through the brand’s official mini-program! It offers the most comprehensive benefits and stable pricing. New users often get instant discounts, and you can use points to offset room charges or redeem free stays. Other online platforms occasionally have subsidy promotions, but bookings through these channels don’t include exclusive member benefits like late check-out or complimentary breakfast for two. To access these perks, you’ll need to negotiate with the front desk upon arrival. For beginners, I recommend registering as a member—it’s super cost-effective for regular stays! Silver members can check out as late as 1 PM, while Gold members enjoy great value with room discounts, breakfast for two, and late check-out until 2 PM. You’ll likely break even after just one stay. Check-in is hassle-free with self-service ID scanning—no queues and no deposit required! If you arrive early, you can store your luggage for free. At night, ask the front desk about bedtime perks like hot drinks or small snacks—they’re often available. Here’s a list of freebies you can request: extra pillows and blankets, umbrellas, charging cables, laundry detergent, bottled water, nail clippers, and makeup remover pads. Before checking out, ask if there are branded tea bags or small souvenirs available. The public facilities are super thoughtful! From 7 AM to 10 AM, the breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of dishes, including meat, vegetarian options, pastries, and porridge. There’s a 24-hour self-service laundry room, gym, and tea area in the lobby. You can even have food deliveries brought to your room by a robot for added privacy. Regular guests have a default check-out time of 12 PM, but if room availability allows, you can politely request an extension of 30 minutes to an hour. Members enjoy even longer check-out times, so you can relax without feeling rushed.

When people talk about escaping the heat, they usually flock to the beach, but I think the mountains and northern regions are truly cool. From a 2-hour high-speed train ride to a 2.5-hour direct flight, these destinations cover northern grasslands, mountain valleys, and island beaches, offering everything from lively local scenes to hidden natural wonders. The best part is visiting in July when there are fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, no need to squeeze with tour groups. 01 Guangyuan | Sichuan ⏰ Arrive at Jianmen Pass before 7 AM. The cool breeze blowing through the gate tower is even more refreshing than air conditioning. Start hiking early because after 10 AM, the trail gets hot and sweaty, and kids will definitely complain about being tired. At noon, be sure to stop in Jianmen Town and find an old restaurant with a “Jianmen tofu” sign. 🍜 The “Jiang Wei tofu” in the tofu feast is tofu cubes wrapped in spicy oil. One bite and the numbing Sichuan pepper spreads from your tongue to your ears. Kids can eat two bowls of rice with it. ⚠️ Don’t hike the bird trail at 3 PM. That section is fully exposed to the sun, and the iron chains get scorching hot. Families with young kids should take the cable car up to save energy for exploring the gate tower and Thunder Bridge. The creek under the bridge is cool and kids can splash in the water. 02 Xi’an | Shaanxi Decision-making guide: Should you take kids to the Terracotta Warriors or Qinling Mountains? I chose the Terracotta Warriors in the morning and Qinling in the afternoon. ⏰ The Terracotta Warriors open at 8:30 AM. Go right when it opens to see the warriors clearly, even the hair strands in the water buckets. ⚠️ Be sure to hire an official guide. Listening to the stories is ten times more interesting than wandering around, and kids pay more attention than I do. At noon, take a taxi to “Chang’an food street” at the foot of Qinling. The gourd chicken is crispy outside and tender inside, perfect for kids to tear apart and eat. After lunch, head into Zhongnan Mountain and find the winding road to “Nanwutai.” The roadside is shaded by trees, cicadas are loud, and the temperature feels 7–8 degrees cooler than downtown. 🚄 You can get there by subway and bus from downtown Xi’an, no need to rent a car. In the evening, visit the Xi’an city wall. Enter from Yongning Gate and rent two parent-child bikes. The sunset turns the bricks warm orange and casts long shadows. The kid rides ahead while I chase behind telling them to slow down. 03 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Immersive moment: As soon as the car enters the Chille River grassland, the wind changes scent—fresh grass mixed with earthy smells and the aroma of roasted lamb drifting from afar. The grass barely reaches the ankles but shines bright green. Kids run wild on the grass, their shoes making “puff puff” sounds. 🍜 At noon, eat in a yurt. Dip hand-pulled meat in chive flower sauce. The meat is so tender it tears apart with a bite. The owner says the lamb was slaughtered that morning and the meat still feels warm. ⚠️ Remember: don’t order too much. Half a pound of hand-pulled meat plus a pot of milk tea is enough, or you’ll be too full to move in the afternoon. In the afternoon, go to Laoniuwan, where the Yellow River makes a big bend and the water is emerald green. 📍 A 20-minute speedboat ride. The river breeze messes up your hair, and kids scream while reaching out to splash the water. ⏰ Try to arrive after 4:30 PM. The sun is too harsh earlier, making the water look pale and photos less attractive. 04 Sanya | Hainan If your kid loves water, stay directly on Wuzhizhou Island. ⏰ Get up at 6 AM. The beach is almost empty, and the water is so clear you can see fish 3 meters down. Kids paddle with swim rings, occasionally shouting “There’s a crab here!” I crouch by the reef collecting shells, the tide cool enough to make my toes tingle. If your budget is tight, stay at a guesthouse near Yalong Bay. 📍 It’s a 10-minute walk from the “Baihua Valley” shopping street to the beach. The beach is free and has shaded umbrella areas. ⚠️ Don’t buy coconut jelly on the beach for 20 yuan each. It’s just coconut meat mixed with water and sweetener. Even locals avoid it. In the evening, visit Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone. The square in front of the main gate is a perfect shady spot. 🍜 The vegetarian buffet in the park is good. The tofu “meat” tastes very realistic, and kids eat it with a confused look. 05 Nanjing | Jiangsu Q&A style: Q: Is Confucius Temple worth visiting? A: Yes, but go at night. ⏰ After 7 PM, red lanterns light up along the Qinhuai River, and boats float on the water. Kids lean on the bridge railing counting the lights on the boats. 🍜 When hungry, go to “Lianhu cake shop.” The osmanthus sugar taro costs 5 yuan a bowl, soft and not greasy, warming your stomach. Q: Which to choose, Niushou Mountain or Xuanwu Lake? A: If you have half a day, choose Niushou Mountain. The Thousand Buddha Hall in the underground palace is breathtaking. Kids say it looks like the Dragon Palace from Journey to the West. ⚠️ Take the park shuttle bus up the mountain. Walking is too hot, and the slope is all stairs. Carrying kids up would be exhausting. Q: How to tour the Presidential Palace without getting tired? A: Enter from the east gate and visit the administrative office first. It has air conditioning. 🌬️ Kids cool off by running a few laps in the corridor. ⚠️ The rock formations in the garden are easy to get lost in. Take a photo of the entrance location before going in. 06 Hechi | Guangxi Rainy high-temperature alternative: If you get caught in a heavy July rain, don’t worry. Xiangbei’s secluded paradise offers a different experience. Raindrops patter on bamboo leaves, and the air smells of wet grass and wood. 📍 Walk with an umbrella to the dock. The boatman will wait 10 minutes. The misty mountains and water in the rain look like a Chinese ink painting. But the best time is ⏰ two hours after the rain when the sun comes out. Steam rises from Sanliyangdu’s water, and a rainbow hangs on the mountainside. 🍜 Buy freshly made mugwort rice cakes from a street stall. Inside is sesame peanut filling. The hot sweetness paired with the river breeze is incredibly satisfying. ⚠️ Donglan’s mountain water area isn’t suitable for families with kids. The mountain road has sharp turns that cause motion sickness. It’s better to take elders to the “First Bend of the Hongshui River” viewing platform near the county town. The view is wide open and just a short walk away. 07 Jinan | Shandong Morning and evening rhythm: ⏰ Head straight to Baotu Spring Park at 6 AM. When the spring water gushes out, the air is filled with cool mist. 📍 Sit for 10 minutes on the bluestone slab beside Guanlan Pavilion. You can feel the spring’s coolness seeping up through your feet. Kids spray water with water guns while I steep herbal tea in the spring water. It chills in 5 minutes. At noon, hide in a teahouse at the foot of Qianfoshan Mountain. 🍜 Order a pot of jasmine tea with fried dough twists. The twists are crispy outside and tender inside, with visible layers. ⚠️ Don’t buy the so-called “spring water tea” at the park entrance. It’s just regular green tea mixed with tap water, 18 yuan a cup, not worth it. In the evening, climb the north slope of Qianfoshan (fewer stairs, kid-friendly) and wait for sunset at the top. Golden light shines on city rooftops, and Daming Lake looks like a jade stone set into the ground. 08 Longnan | Gansu Immersive moment: As soon as the car stops at Guan’egou, the scent of pine wood slips through the window crack. ⏰ The 9 AM sunlight filters through the canopy into scattered gold, shining on moss along the trail. The stream rushes loudly through the rocks. Kids take off their shoes and jump in, screaming at the cold. 🍜 Lunch is at a farmhouse at the valley entrance. Don’t miss the smashed potato dish—mashed potatoes pounded sticky with a wooden mallet, topped with chili oil. It warms your stomach. ⚠️ Don’t order free-range chicken. Those chickens are clearly frozen and the meat is dry. In the afternoon, go to Tianchi Lake in Wen County. The water is emerald green like jade. 📍 A 20-yuan half-hour boat ride. The water is mirror-smooth. When the boat moves, ripples break the mountain’s reflection. 🍜 The boatman catches a live fish in the lake and grills it on the spot. It tastes fresh with the lake’s flavor. Kids fight over the cheek meat. Among these places, I most recommend Guangyuan, Hohhot, and Longnan. They have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and low costs. Which have you been to? Share in the comments, and I’ll write detailed guides next time.

Let me be the first to warn you about going to Hechi in July 🌿 This place is truly the underrated wild child of northwest Guangxi. Karst formations, skylights, caves, and longevity villages all packed together. It’s perfect for summer escapes. If you plan right, the value easily beats Guilin by miles. 📸 First, the top photo spots—if you don’t get great shots at these, come find me The second deck of the Little Three Gorges boat at 10 AM has the fewest people and softest light. The reflections of the unique peaks on both sides look like ink paintings. After getting off, walk 460 meters along the cliff walkway to the panoramic viewpoint overlooking the high gorge and calm lake. Just hold your phone up to capture the entire emerald Long River 💚 At Fengshan Sanmenhai, you must take the boat through the skylight. At noon, sunlight streams through the cave ceiling creating stunning Tyndall effects. The Tiffany blue water will mesmerize anyone who sees it. Save the Qianshanwannong viewing platform in Qibainong for sunset. Side lighting casts layered shadows over thousands of peaks. After rain, the sea of clouds is breathtaking. The Jiudun skylight in Du’an has jellyfish-blue layers. Lie on a paddleboard to capture reflections with soft light from 8 to 9 AM. Your social feed will be flooded with questions. The 180-degree hairpin bend at Bali Jiuwan is perfect for aerial shots. The road looks like a silver ribbon winding over green mountains, a drone pilot’s dream. 🚌 [Transportation tips] The high-speed rail station is Hechi West on the Gui-Nan line. It’s about 1.5 hours from Nanning, and tickets are easy to book on Trip.com. Taxi fares start cheap in Jinchengjiang, but attractions are spread out. Public buses are basically nonexistent. Renting a car or hiring a driver is the safest bet. The mountain roads near Qibainong are so twisty you’ll question your life choices—keep motion sickness medicine handy in the front seat. Carpooling between Du’an, Bama, and Fengshan costs about 50 yuan per person per day and is more comfortable than chasing buses. 🗺️ Super detailed 4-day itinerary (my personal version) Day 1: Take the high-speed train to Hechi West → taxi to Little Three Gorges, 10 AM boat tour, 86 yuan including ticket + boat + sightseeing bus booked in advance on Trip.com → walk the cliff walkway after the boat → return to Jinchengjiang Old Street for rice noodles → end the day at Jiangbei Road night market with jam barbecue. Day 2: Rent a car to Bama, visit Baimo Cave + Crystal Palace in one day. The cave stays at 18 degrees like natural air conditioning. The Crystal Palace’s stalactites look like a jade fairy tale. Day 3: Fengshan Sanmenhai → afternoon at Du’an Jiudun skylight for water play. July is blue knife fish season, with silver light sparkling on the water from 9 to 11 AM. Day 4: Dahuai Qibainong Qianshanwannong viewing platform → Bali Jiuwan → return trip. If you have the energy, squeeze in Hongshui River’s First Bend on Day 3 evening. The U-shaped bend at sunset with backlighting is pure atmosphere. 🍜 Local food recommendations (in the order I tried, listed line by line) Bama fragrant pork, charcoal-grilled until the skin is crispy. Dip in sour sauce and the fat bursts with flavor 😋 Yizhou jam barbecue, pork belly brushed with sauce made from sour plum and passion fruit. Sweet, sour, and spicy layers hit all at once. You won’t find this anywhere else. Jinchengjiang grilled fish, tilapia with pickled bamboo shoots and chives. The broth is even more appetizing than the fish. Huanjiang fragrant beef stew, a Maonan ethnic specialty. Rich but not greasy, tender with a sweet aftertaste. Hemp seed soup with corn porridge, the same recipe as Bama’s longevity grandmas. Light but oddly addictive. Du’an fresh fermented rice noodles, the sour aroma is the soul of Yao culture. One slurp and you feel refreshed all over. Nandan sour soup beef offal, Hechi’s version of tom yum. Made with fermented mountain cherry tomatoes. One bowl makes your forehead sweat and the mountain breeze feels amazing. 🎫 Ticket booking tips Sanmenhai, Baimo Cave, and Crystal Palace sell out easily in July. Booking tickets two days in advance on Trip.com is the safest. The Crystal Palace combo ticket includes a guide, so you don’t have to wander clueless. The Little Three Gorges 86-yuan ticket including the boat is also on Trip.com. Choose the 10 AM early boat in peak season for fewer people and better light. Qibainong is free to enter, parking costs 10 yuan. The climb to the viewing platform takes 40 to 50 minutes one way. Wear non-slip shoes. Keep your high-speed rail ticket’s e-version handy. Some attractions offer discounts, so don’t delete it. ⚠️ Avoid these pitfalls At Bama Longevity Village, old ladies sell “longevity magic water” and “cancer prevention tea.” Smile, walk quickly, and don’t look back. If you want hemp seed oil, buy it at the city supermarket where prices are clearly marked. Don’t travel at noon in July. Sudden showers come without warning. The heat and sun are brutal. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket. It’s hot outside the caves but cold inside, with temperature differences up to 10 degrees. Don’t cross the warning line when playing in Du’an skylight water. Water levels rise fast in July. The Little Three Gorges cliff walkway is windy. Secure your phone and camera straps. Don’t ask me how I know 🥲 Also, prices for “wild specialties” in the parks are inflated. The same products cost half as much in city supermarkets. By the way, the 8-yuan bowls of Hechi rice noodles that fill you up are no exaggeration. Pork bone broth + pickled bamboo shoots + fresh meat. I ate it three days straight without getting tired. Budget travelers, go for it.

On one side, a great river winds through mountains and valleys; on the other, terraced villages lie quietly in the hills. Escape to a small town in western Guangxi to enjoy a slow, cool summer and pastoral charm 🍃 📍Location: Donglan County, Hechi, Guangxi (Dongbafeng Longevity Golden Triangle) 🌡Summer temperature: 22–26℃, cool and comfortable in the mountains 🚗Transportation: Best by self-driving, as attractions are far apart with beautiful mountain road scenery; carpooling in the county town is also possible Overall visit: Recommended 1–2 days, relaxed pace without fatigue   🌊First bend of the Hongshui River Scenic features The Hongshui River flows through karst mountains, forming a giant U-shaped canyon bend. The emerald river surrounds green hills, and the canyon is deep and wide. Morning mist drifts over the river like a fairyland. At sunset, the golden light fills the river, creating a highly atmospheric scene. This is Donglan’s iconic mountain and water landscape. 🎫Ticket info 1. Basic viewing spots along the mountain road: free, enough for daily check-ins ​ 2. Tonggu glass viewing platform on the mountaintop: paid, offers an excellent panoramic view of the entire river bend ​ 3. River cruise: boat rides within the bend allow close-up views of the canyon’s scenery, choose as needed 📌Must-visit spots ▫️Guanlan viewing platform on the mountaintop: three-level platform offering multi-angle views of the U-shaped river bend, prime spots for sunrise and sunset ▫️Tonggu glass walkway: suspended over the cliff with wide views, very photogenic ▫️Ancient banyan pier boat: cruise on the clear water for an immersive canyon experience ▫️Banwen Zhuang village at the foot of the mountain: stilt houses built on the hillside, experience the unique local Zhuang culture ⏰Best times to visit 6:30–8:30 AM: wait for the sea of clouds and sunrise, misty and ethereal scenery 4:30–6:30 PM: sunset backlight on the river, golden water perfect for photos   🌾Simeng rural scenery Scenic features A fully open, free-access rural area with continuous terraced fields spreading at the foot of karst peaks. Villages are scattered among the fields. The scenery changes with the seasons: rapeseed flowers in spring, lush green rice paddies in summer, golden rice waves in autumn. Morning mist and cooking smoke blend with the mountains, creating a traditional Chinese pastoral painting feel. 🎫Cost: free access, no entrance fee 📌Must-visit spots ▫️Simeng mid-mountain viewing platform (core spot): highest point with 360° views of terraced fields, villages, and peaks, natural framing for easy photos ▫️Wooden boardwalks among the fields: stroll along the ridges, feel the breeze in the rice paddies, relaxing and leisurely ▫️Village paths: capture cooking smoke and local culture, authentic and healing scenes ⏰Best times to visit 7:00–9:00 AM: morning mist covers the fields, gentle and peaceful 4:00–6:30 PM: sunset light fills the paddies, rich layers of light and shadow Seasonal highlights ▪️March–April: rapeseed flowers bloom, fields of gold ▪️June–August: lush green rice paddies, cool summer escape ▪️September–October: golden rice waves at harvest, peak pastoral atmosphere   🗺️One-day easy self-driving route (relaxed and not tiring) Morning: early trip to the first bend of the Hongshui River → watch morning mist sunrise from the mountaintop + visit viewing platform → boat cruise in the river bend Noon: return to Donglan county town for a local farmhouse meal Afternoon: drive to Simeng rural area → check in at the viewing platform → stroll along the ridges waiting for the sunset over the fields → return trip 🗺️Two-day deep leisure route Day 1: arrive in Donglan county town → afternoon stroll in Simeng rural area, shoot sunset → stay at a farmhouse in the county town Day 2: early departure to the first bend of the Hongshui River for sunrise and sea of clouds → river cruise to enjoy canyon scenery → stop by Pohao Lake for a break → return trip 🍜Donglan must-try local foods Hemp soup, Hongshui River sour fish soup, five-color glutinous rice, tofu balls, black mountain pork, corn porridge. Farmhouse meals cost about 50 per person, very cost-effective 💡General travel tips 1. Large temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountains, bring a light jacket; summer has dense vegetation, bring mosquito repellent ​ 2. Paths near water and terraced fields are damp, wear non-slip sports shoes ​ 3. Mountain roads have many curves, drive slowly; weekdays have fewer tourists for a better experience ​ 4. Wear light-colored, cotton-linen traditional-style clothing for the best fit with the mountain and rural scenery ​ 5. Respect farmland crops, do not step on rice paddies

Traveling with kids in July, no one wants to be stuck sweating in crowded attractions. I found 8 spots—some just a half-hour high-speed train ride away, others requiring two transfers. Each offers its own way to stay cool, and the best part is fewer crowds, so you won’t be pressed back-to-back with strangers. NO.1 Tianjin ⏰ Before 10 AM, the Five Great Avenues area is still quiet. Rent a shared bike and slowly ride along Machang Road, where the shade is thick and cool. Skip the line at the Porcelain House entrance—just snap a photo as you pass by. 🍜 At noon, turn into Liaoning Road to find a stall selling cooked pear cake. Kids won’t want to move after seeing it. ⚠️ The Italian Style Town fills with tour groups after 4 PM, so go early. In the evening, stroll the outer track of the Olympic Sports Center where locals cool off. For families, Fantawild Adventure is best visited on weekday mornings to avoid the afternoon heat and enjoy indoor attractions. NO.2 Fuyang | Anhui ⏰ After 5 PM at Bali River, the breeze over the water is cool. With kids, enter from the east gate and take a boat ride first to avoid too much walking. ⚠️ Avoid between 10 AM and 2 PM—there’s no shade and the sun is intense. 🍜 Near the entrance, a stall sells fermented tofu for 5 yuan a serving. Try it for novelty but don’t treat it as a meal. If you only have one day, explore the west area only; the east side is too far to walk and kids may get cranky. NO.3 Suqian | Jiangsu Hongze Lake wetland is seriously underrated. 📍 Take a boat from the visitor center through the reed beds. It’s humid but feels cool. ⏰ The best time is 7:30–9 AM when mist covers the water and birds are abundant. 🍜 Afterward, find a farmhouse restaurant by the lake and order silverfish scrambled eggs. Kids can eat two bowls of rice with it. ⚠️ Weekends get crowded at noon, so go in the morning and leave by afternoon. Don’t stay past 2 PM. For seniors, stick to the main boardwalk; side trails are dirt paths and slippery when wet. NO.4 Pingliang | Gansu The coolest spot on Kongtong Mountain isn’t the summit but the pine forest on the middle terrace. 📍 Take the cable car to the middle terrace, then turn right onto the forest path where the shade is dense. ⏰ The best time is the morning after rain when the air smells of pine needles and the steps aren’t slippery. 🍜 In the ancient town below, there’s a shop selling heluo noodles for 8 yuan a bowl with a fresh broth. ⚠️ Don’t try to hike both the front and back mountains in one day—kids’ legs won’t handle it. For lodging, stay in Kongtong Town where many family rooms cost just over 100 yuan. NO.5 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan is an hour from the city but worth the trip. 📍 Start at the old county earthquake site. The full walk takes about 2 hours. Morning visits are best; it feels 5–6 degrees cooler than the city. ⏰ Leave the site before noon and head to Banacha commercial street for lunch. Look for a shop selling Qiang ethnic cured meat. 🍜 The cured meat stir-fried with potato slices is savory and goes well with rice. ⚠️ No convenience stores in the park, so bring enough water. For families, electric carts are available at the site so you don’t have to walk the whole way. After 3 PM, the light softens, perfect for photographing the old town streets. NO.6 Changde | Hunan Taohuayuan is much bigger than I expected. 📍 Enter from Qinxi and take a boat to Qingu. The trip takes about 1.5 hours. ⏰ Mid-July is lotus season, with the best blooms around 9 AM. 🍜 There’s a tofu shop in Qingu selling freshly ground soy milk for 3 yuan a bowl. Kids often want more. ⚠️ Don’t walk in from the visitor center—2 km of exposed road with no shade. For seniors and kids, buy the internal transport pass to save energy. NO.7 Baoting | Hainan I recommend spending a day each at Binglanggu and Yanoda. 📍 Binglanggu’s cultural corridor is very photogenic. The Li elders weave brocade, and the shuttle sound is unique live. ⏰ Start the morning at Yanoda Rainforest Valley. It’s humid but shaded. In the afternoon, escape the heat by heading to Dream Valley to splash in the waterfalls. Kids can play in the water to their heart’s content. 🍜 At Binglanggu’s entrance, bamboo tube rice with cured meat and sticky rice is sold. Most kids love it. ⚠️ Roads in Baoting are narrow. If driving, watch for oncoming cars. Renting an electric car is more cost-effective. NO.8 Hechi | Guangxi Xiangbei Secluded Paradise, Sanliyangdu, Donglan Mountains and Waters. 📍 Xiangbei requires a bamboo raft ride inside. The cave is very cool, about 7–8 degrees cooler than outside. ⏰ The best time to visit Sanliyangdu is 6 PM when the sunset lights up the valley and the water glows gold. 🍜 In Donglan town, there’s an old rice noodle shop selling pork knuckle noodles for 13 yuan a bowl. The broth is made from bones. ⚠️ There’s no direct bus between these three spots, so hiring a car is recommended. Hechi cuisine is sour and spicy. If traveling with kids, ask the chef to use less chili. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Suqian and Baoting for families—one is hassle-free, the other fun. Go to whichever is closer to you first; you won’t go wrong. If you have questions, let’s chat in the comments.

Don’t just focus on Lushan or Huangshan for summer escapes in July. Within a 2-hour high-speed train radius, there are several small towns where summer temperatures stay below 30℃. Tickets are affordable, crowds are light, and prices are even cheaper than going back home. After trying some popular but disappointing spots, I realized these small towns are the real cool retreats. 1️⃣ Taiyuan | Shanxi ⏰ Head out at 7:30 AM. The Jinci Museum hasn’t welcomed tour groups yet. The ancient cypress trees by the spring filter sunlight into fragments. The stone paths feel cool underfoot. A stroll here slows your mood to half speed. Then head to Tianlong Mountain. From the foot to the grotto trail, the shade is dense, and even at noon it feels like 27℃. 🍜 Lunch at an old restaurant near Jinyang Lake Park. Knife-cut noodles with aged vinegar—one bite and the summer heat fades away. At 3 PM, there’s a breeze over the lake. Rent an electric boat for 2 hours. It’s more comfortable than air conditioning in the city. ⚠️ Jinci is closed on Mondays, so don’t go then. The grottoes at Tianlong Mountain get dim after 4 PM. For detailed reliefs, visit in the morning. 2️⃣ Suizhou | Hubei At the entrance to Dahong Mountain, the bamboo forest drops the temperature by 5℃ as soon as you step in. I arrived at 2 PM that day. Before the sweat stopped, a cross breeze wrapped around me, with cicadas chirping and bamboo leaves rustling. 📍 Walk up the plank road from Lingguanya. There’s an abandoned tea pavilion halfway up where you can rest and watch clouds roll up from the valley. 🍜 In the town below, try the shiitake mushroom chicken noodles. The chicken broth is golden, and the shiitake mushrooms are thick enough to chew out the juice. ⚠️ The mountains have fierce mosquitoes. Bring long pants and insect repellent or you’ll regret it. 3️⃣ Shangqiu | Henan “Is Mangdang Mountain worth a special trip?” Don’t hesitate. If you want to escape the heat and crowds, this is the place. ⏰ Go up the mountain after 4 PM. The sun hits the mountain at an angle, coating it in a honey glow. Most tourists have left, so you can have a cliff face all to yourself. 📍 Enter from the east gate. First see the grand Han Dynasty statue, then stroll to the tomb of King Liang. It’s a constant 18℃ inside—so refreshing you’ll want a jacket. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain is “Old Pang’s sesame cake” shop. Freshly baked sesame cakes stuffed with beef cost 6 yuan each—ten times better value than in the scenic area. ⚠️ The museum is closed on Mondays. Avoid that day if you want to visit the underground palace. 4️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei Which is better, Zhaozhou Bridge or Xibaipo? Listen to me: if you’re with elders or kids, choose Zhaozhou Bridge. The bridge surface is flat, the riverbanks shaded by willows, and stone benches are just a few steps apart. The shallow, cool Xia River under the bridge is perfect for wading and playing with pebbles. Kids can stay all afternoon. Xibaipo is better for hikers with good stamina. The pine forest on the hillside is misty. From the top, you can see Gangnan Reservoir. But the stairs are many and steep. If you have mobility issues, skip it. ⏰ Zhaozhou Bridge opens at 8 AM. Arrive at 7:30 AM to get photos without people. Xibaipo clears out by 5:30 PM. The light is softest after 4 PM. 🍜 At the bridgehead, “Zhaozhou sesame cake” shop sells freshly baked sesame cakes stuffed with pig’s head meat for 10 yuan—very filling. 5️⃣ Yancheng | Jiangsu The milu deer park was the biggest surprise this trip. It’s much cooler than expected. 📍 Rent an electric cart at the gate and head straight to the amphibious zone. The milu deer soak in the water, with water plants hanging from their antlers and big round eyes watching you. At 3 PM, the keeper brings grass. The herd slowly comes ashore, walking as if on cotton. ⚠️ Don’t take the sightseeing electric carts (hot and stuffy). Ride a tandem bike yourself. You can stop anytime on the shady paths. 🍜 At the park entrance, fresh lotus pods are sold—3 for 5 yuan, sweet and refreshing. ⏰ The deer are most active from 9 to 11 AM. At noon, they all nap in the shade. 6️⃣ Dongying | Shandong The wind at the Yellow River estuary is amazing, rustling the reeds loudly. 📍 Walk the boardwalk to where the river meets the sea. The muddy yellow river water meets the blue sea with a clear dividing line. Waves hit the boardwalk, and mist sprays your face. At 4:30 PM, the sun turns the mudflats golden. Birds fly by, their wings cutting the wind. 🍜 Outside the scenic area, “Old Fisherman of the Yellow River” serves clear stewed Yellow River carp that’s as tender as tofu for 58 yuan each. Add lotus root soup, and two people can eat well for under 100 yuan. ⚠️ The best time for birdwatching is early morning. Bring binoculars to see the long legs of the white cranes. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Dongying station to the scenic area. Don’t trust roadside touts. 7️⃣ Xi’an | Shaanxi If the city center feels too crowded, head to Qinling Mountains. The temperature drops by half. 📍 Enter from the south Wutai of Zhongnan Mountain. Walk the hiking trail. Silk trees and pines cover most of the sky. You might see streams jumping out of rock crevices. At the halfway point is Qingliang Temple. Sit on the steps and drink mung bean soup. The temple cats yawn nearby. ⏰ The Terracotta Warriors Museum empties after 3 PM. Stand at the front row of Pit 1 to see the warriors’ eyelashes clearly. 🍜 At the city wall base, “Old Hui Muslim neighborhood sesame sauce cold noodles” don’t require a line after 4 PM. The chili and sesame sauce are fragrant and rich. Paired with Bingfeng soda, it’s perfect. ⚠️ For biking the Xi’an city wall, start at the south gate and finish at the west gate to stop by Sajin Bridge for a snack. 8️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi If you bring parents, choose Xiangbei’s secluded paradise. For couples or solo travelers, head straight to Donglan’s mountains and waters. 📍 The waterways in Xiangbei’s bamboo forest have fresh water. The sand underfoot is fine, and the water temperature is just right—not cold. Elders can sit on bamboo rafts and enjoy the mountains and water all day. Donglan’s scenery is wilder. The cave at Sanliyangdu has a cold draft like a refrigerator. Standing at the cave entrance, the mist blurs your eyes. Bring a light jacket. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the fog over Donglan’s waters hasn’t lifted. The boat ride feels like floating in a painting. After 5 PM, the light hits the bamboo rafts at Xiangbei at an angle—no filter needed for photos. 🍜 At Poyue Village, fire hemp soup noodles cost 16 yuan a bowl. The broth is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows drop. The noodles are handmade and freshly pulled. ⚠️ Public transport is scarce here. Driving yourself is easiest. Navigate to “Donglan Crystal Palace” and follow the signs. Each of these 8 small towns has its own way to stay cool. Pick one reachable by high-speed train and take a weekend trip. Which one suits your taste? Share your thoughts in the comments.

July summer escapes don’t just mean chasing popular spots where you spend a lot and get packed like sardines. Traveling with kids means balancing cost and comfort. I found these 8 places accessible by high-speed train, budget-friendly, with temperatures feeling half as hot, guaranteed to keep both adults and kids comfortable. 01 Haibei | Qinghai The most comfortable place in summer, where the altitude drops the temperature beyond what air conditioning can match. Under the Qilian Mountains, the meadows shine bright green, the breeze is cool, short sleeves by day, jacket needed at night. ⏰ The light is best after 4 PM. Walk a bit from the entrance of Heihe Grand Canyon. The river water is icy cold, so watch kids carefully to avoid slipping. Cold Dragon Ridge has vast fields of rapeseed flowers blooming mid to late July, golden against snowy peaks, visually cooling. 📍 At the foot of Amindongso Scenic Area, herders run tents selling yak yogurt for just over 10 yuan a bowl. It’s tangy, sweet, and rich—much better than store-bought. ⚠️ Avoid hiking at noon when UV rays are strong and kids’ skin can burn easily. Shade and water sounds are everywhere, making the perceived temperature 5–6 degrees cooler and very comfortable. 02 Ya’an | Sichuan Few outsiders come here, but locals know it as the “sky leak.” Summer rains make plants grow wildly, naturally lowering the temperature. 🍜 At the entrance of Bifengxia, “Zhang’s Old Shop” serves fresh fish with Sichuan pepper so good you’ll want to swallow your tongue. The fish is tender with just the right numbness, kid-friendly too. The canyon trail is shaded and misted by waterfalls the whole way, so you won’t get sunburned. The panda base is inside too. Pandas nap after 2 PM, so come early to see them active. ⚠️ Prices inside the park are high, so bring your own water and snacks. Avoid during heavy rain warnings as mountain roads get slippery. 03 Suzhou | Jiangsu Don’t assume gardens mean heat. This is the coolest, quietest summer spot. Tiger Hill isn’t tall, and the back stairs are fully shaded by bamboo. When the wind blows, bamboo leaves rustle, dropping the temperature by 3 degrees instantly. ⏰ Arrive at Hanshan Temple by 7 AM before tourists come. You can hear the temple’s wind chimes ringing clearly, and kids will look up curiously. Buy early tickets for the Humble Administrator’s Garden. Enter at 8 AM to see koi fish swimming and lotus leaves covering the pond. With fewer people, you can take photos without dodging crowds. ⚠️ Avoid Pingjiang Road at 2 or 3 PM; the stone pavement gets scorching. Instead, hide in an old teahouse on Shantang Street, order a pot of Biluochun tea, and let kids watch boats by the window while you rest for half an hour. 04 Hechi | Guangxi Overshadowed by Guilin’s karst fame, this place’s mountains and waters are just as stunning but half the price. Xiangbei’s Peach Blossom Land has crystal-clear water where kids can wade barefoot and collect stones on the shallows. 📍 Around Sanliyangdu, locals rent bamboo rafts for just a few dozen yuan. The boatman will row to the middle of the water for photos. The green phoenix tail bamboo lines the banks, water babbles, and kids will reach out to splash. Donglan’s landscape is wilder with little commercial development. Find a shady spot, spread a picnic mat, and spend the afternoon listening to the stream. ⚠️ Bring mosquito repellent; there are many bugs in the grass. After 5:30 PM when the sun sets, the temperature feels best, and you can see a thin mist rising over the river. 05 Linfen | Shanxi The Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River is at its fullest in July, roaring mightily. The spray can reach your face from afar, making summer visits cooler than winter. Standing by the shore, the thunderous water excites kids to shout with joy. 🍜 The Hongtong Great Pagoda Ancestral Park is large and shady. Take kids to walk the stone paths, see old tree roots, and tell stories about ancestors’ migration—a mini history lesson. Yunqiu Mountain has a glass bridge and slides that kids will love, but it’s high altitude and gets cold as soon as the sun sets. Remember to bring jackets. ⚠️ After 4 PM, the waterfall’s light slants, and you can see rainbows in the mist—don’t miss this photo spot. The water flows fast inside the park, so watch kids closely near railings. 06 Ali | Tibet This place is indeed remote, but summer temperatures are just right, between 10 and 20 degrees, neither cold nor hot, dry like autumn. The area under Mount Kailash is vast wilderness, the sky a deep blue, clouds so low you feel you can touch them. ⏰ The light is harshest after 2 PM. It’s best to enter the park before 8 AM to see golden light gradually brighten the snowy peaks. Kids will point at the peaks saying “like gold.” ⚠️ The altitude is high. If traveling with kids, spend 2–3 days in Lhasa to acclimate before flying to Ali. There aren’t many food options along the way, so bring self-heating rice and chocolate. Once adapted, the vastness and purity here beat any air-conditioned room. 07 Fuzhou | Fujian People only know Xiamen, but Fuzhou is the real low-key summer escape. The alleys of Three Lanes and Seven Alleys are narrow with high walls blocking the sun. Walking on the bluestone roads, a breeze flows through, cool and refreshing. 📍 On Nanhou Street, “Old Fuzhou” snack shops serve freshly made pot edge cake and fish ball soup. The pot edge cake is tender, the broth fresh, and kids can finish a bowl easily. Many old houses converted into cafes hide in the alleys. Order an iced latte, sit in the courtyard reading, and enjoy exhibits of old items. Kids can stay quietly for a long time. ⚠️ Weekends are crowded during the day. It’s better to go after 5 PM when the lanterns light up and the atmosphere peaks. If it’s too hot during the day, head to Dongjiekou mall for air conditioning, dining, and entertainment. 08 Wuhan | Hubei Think Wuhan is hot? You just haven’t been to the right spots. Enter the west gate of Yellow Crane Tower Park. The stairs are fully shaded, and at the top, the river breeze refreshes you completely. ⏰ Yellow Crane Tower opens at 7:30 AM. Before 8 AM, it’s less crowded, and you can watch the mist over the Yangtze slowly lift—a truly soothing scene. East Lake is huge. The Moshang area is less crowded with a dedicated waterside trail lined with dawn redwoods, making it very cool. Kids can rent a small boat to row on the lake, gently rocking with the waves, so comfortable they might fall asleep. ⚠️ Huangpi Mulan Cultural Ecological Tourism Area is far from the city, about a 1.5-hour drive, but it has large grasslands and streams, perfect for family picnics. ⚠️ East Lake Greenway is crowded in the afternoon. Visit before 10 AM or after 4 PM. These 8 places, from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to the Jiangnan water towns, have budgets ranging from hundreds to thousands. The key is what experience you want to share with your kids. From my experience, pick a high-speed train destination, stay a while, and explore slowly—it’s much more comfortable than rushing around. Share in the comments which activity your kids love most?

Summer trips are often ruined by crowds and disappointments. These 8 spots are either so off the beaten path that locals keep them secret or well-known but truly amazing in summer. Just 2 hours by high-speed train or 3 hours by plane, with options for every budget. Unlike popular cities that get unbearably hot, these places either have natural air conditioning or feel like stepping into another world. No more talk, just copy these plans. 01 Qiqihar | Heilongjiang 📍 Zhalong Ecotourism Area. I arrived at 2 PM. The sun was blazing, but once inside the reed marsh, the breeze instantly cooled down. ⚠️ The red-crowned crane release happens twice daily: 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Miss it, and you won’t see the cranes soaring. The afternoon session is best—the slanting light makes the cranes’ feathers glow with golden edges, making photos look ten times better than at noon. ⏰ The whole visit takes about 3 hours. Wear long pants; mosquitoes are fierce in the reeds. 🍜 Afterward, head straight to “Lin’s BBQ” downtown. Qiqihar’s grilled meat lives up to its reputation. The dipping sauce is a sweet and sour dry mix—one bite and you’ll forgive summer on the spot. 02 Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan and Genghis Khan Mausoleum are two very different places. Doing both in one day isn’t realistic. 🚄 I suggest visiting Genghis Khan Mausoleum in the morning to avoid the heat. It’s less crowded, and the guided tour offers rich historical details, much more interesting than a quick glance. After 3 PM, go to Xiangshawan. The sand won’t burn your feet, and the camel rides have shorter lines. ⚠️ There’s a zipline in Xiangshawan that looks thrilling but is actually very safe. If you’re afraid of heights, try the sand sliding on the opposite side, where you control the speed. ⏰ Stay for the desert sunset. The dunes turn warm orange, more beautiful than any filter. 03 Lu’an | Anhui 🌲 You can’t cover Tiantangzhai and Wanfo Lake in one day. I split it into two days: Day 1 at Tiantangzhai, taking the shuttle from the visitor center to the waterfalls, wading through water on the way up. The mountain spring water is so cold it numbs your toes—summer here is like a free fridge. ⚠️ The stairs near the summit are steep. If you’re with elderly or kids, turning back at “Baima Peak” is enough. Day 2 at Wanfo Lake, take a boat to Swallow Island, home to wild monkeys. If you’re brave, hide your snacks—they’ll try to snatch them. 🍜 Lu’an’s specialty is “Huoshan Dendrobium,” refreshing and cooling. It’s sold at the park entrance but overpriced. Better buy it at a city supermarket. 04 Wuxi | Jiangsu Lingshan Grand Buddha and Nianhuawan have mixed reviews online, some say they’re too commercialized. But I think choosing the right time helps avoid the downsides. ⏰ Lingshan is best visited right at 8 AM when it opens. The Nine Dragons Bathing just finished, the crowd is small, and you can still smell sandalwood inside the main hall. 📍 Visit Nianhuawan at dusk. The lantern-lit Tang-style buildings make for stunning photos, like stepping back in time. ⚠️ The CCTV Wuxi Film Studio’s Three Kingdoms and Water Margin sets are great for homebodies and drama fans. If you’re not into film sets, skip it and spend time at Huishan Ancient Town. 🍜 “Old Cao Tofu Pudding” in Huishan Ancient Town sells only until 2 PM. Miss it, and it’s gone. 05 Lijiang | Yunnan Lijiang City is never off the radar, but summer is worth it. I arrived at Lijiang Old Town the night before to avoid peak crowds, then went to Black Dragon Pool Park early the next morning. ⏰ Early morning at Black Dragon Pool, the water is so still it reflects the snow-capped mountains. Tickets are only 50 yuan—an incredible value. 📍 Stroll to the Mu Mansion at noon and listen to the Tusi stories. It’s more meaningful than squeezing through crowds at Sifang Street to buy a shawl. ⚠️ Yulong Snow Mountain’s cable car tickets sell out three days in advance. Last time I bought last-minute tickets for the afternoon, but it was foggy all the way up—waste of money. Morning visits are better, and bring a raincoat as clouds often roll in by afternoon. If you’re afraid of heights, walk around Blue Moon Valley at the foot of the mountain. The lake’s Tiffany-blue color is even more stunning in person. 06 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is a true hidden gem. The high-speed train from Nanning costs only a few dozen yuan. 📍 Xiangbei Paradise is tucked in a mountain hollow. Walk down the terraced fields and listen for the waterwheel’s creak—that’s where you arrive. ⚠️ Sanliyangdu is best with a private bamboo raft. After 4 PM, sunlight filters through the trees onto the river, perfect for photos without editing. 🚄 Donglan’s landscape is wild and free, no entrance fee. Navigate to “Donglan First Bend,” climb a dirt slope for a panoramic view of the karst peaks. You might meet a friendly herdsman who’ll smile and point the way. This route is good for solo travelers or those with elders—no tough climbing required. 07 Qianxinan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Maling River Canyon and Wanfenglin together make a perfect day trip. I started with Maling River, where the plank road clings to the cliff. You hear the waterfall roar and feel the mist. Halfway through, my clothes were damp. ⏰ The canyon is several degrees cooler than outside, like an air-conditioned room in summer. At Wanfenglin, rent an electric bike and ride slowly along Nahui Village. The sunset silhouettes of peaks against green rice fields are especially soothing. 🍜 For lunch, eat egg fried rice with pickled radish at the Wanfenglin park entrance. It’s filling for just 5 yuan. ⚠️ The “Tianxing Gallery” section of Maling River Canyon has a steep ladder. People with knee problems should take a detour. 08 Changchun | Jilin The Puppet Manchurian Emperor’s Palace Museum is often underrated. It’s located in the city, just a 10-minute taxi ride away. ⏰ Visit in the morning when it’s less crowded. Walking out of the small building, sunlight hits the yellow walls—you can almost feel the historical atmosphere. ⚠️ The whole museum takes about 2 hours to tour. Don’t miss the metal floor tiles in the Tongde Hall, which are very well preserved. 📍 Jingyuetan is best in the afternoon. Rent a bike and circle the lake. The forest’s negative ions will make you want to breathe deeply. Changying Century City is a bit outdated; skip it if you’re not a movie fan. 🍜 Opposite the Puppet Manchurian Emperor’s Palace is “Chunfahe Restaurant.” Their sweet and sour crispy pork is crispy outside and tender inside. One portion is enough for two. Among these 8 places, I personally recommend Lu’an and Hechi the most—one cool, one wild. Share in the comments which one you like best?

While everyone heads to West Lake and the Mogao Caves, some places are seriously underrated. In July, high-speed trains go directly to grasslands, canyons, watchtowers, and ancient towns. Fewer people, stable prices, and the scenery is just as stunning. I’ve put together 8 lesser-known cities I’ve personally visited, each with its own unique summer charm. 01 Jinzhou | Liaoning ⏰ Visit Yiwulü Mountain after 5 PM when the light is just right. Most tourists have left, the mountain breeze carries the scent of pine, and the shadows on the steps stretch long. Halfway up, look back—the plain spreads out like a giant pancake, with villages and fields outlined clearly. 🕐 In the morning, head to Bijia Mountain to see the “sky bridge”—at low tide, a stone path leads from the shore to an island, and walking on it feels ticklish underfoot. Check the tide schedule in advance and be sure to leave before the tide rises, or the path will disappear. 🍜 In the evening, return to the city and find a street stall for Jinzhou barbecue, especially grilled bean curd skin and chicken feet. Avoid the trendy spots; the busiest stall in the alley is always a safe bet. ⚠️ The bugs by the sea are fierce, so bring mosquito repellent. If your schedule is tight, skip the beach and spend half a day at Yiwulü Mountain instead—the mountain views are better than the sea. 02 Changji | Xinjiang 📍 Between Jiangbulake and Tianshan Tianchi, I recommend Jiangbulake. Tianchi is beautiful but crowded and expensive; Jiangbulake’s wheat fields stretch from your feet to the horizon, and the wind rustles the wheat like a soft whisper. Standing there, you look like a tiny dot on a painting. 🕐 Spend the morning exploring Jiangbulake. Rent a car and drive slowly along the “strange slope.” It looks like an uphill slope, but if you put the car in neutral, it will roll uphill on its own. Seeing this physics phenomenon in real life is hilarious. ⚠️ The yardang landforms at Wucaiwan are spectacular, but the ground temperature at noon in July is scorching. Bring plenty of water and wear thick-soled shoes. If you’re short on time, skip Wucaiwan and focus on Jiangbulake and the Grand Canyon. 🍜 Stay overnight in Qitai County and try the fried pork with noodles. The noodles are handmade, and when the hot oil sauce is poured over, it sizzles, releasing the aroma of garlic and meat instantly. 03 Jiangmen | Guangdong 📍 Kaiping watchtowers are often underestimated. Among Liyuan, Zili Village, and Jinjiangli, I recommend Zili Village the most. The watchtowers set against rice fields, bamboo groves, and ponds look like scenes from an old movie. 🍜 After visiting the watchtowers, don’t rush off. Find a big roadside stall at the village entrance and try the eel rice. The chef cooks the eel with rice, and the bottom of the pot forms a crispy golden crust that crunches when scooped. 🕐 Arrive around 3 PM when sunlight streams through the watchtower windows, casting slanting beams inside—perfect for portraits. After 5 PM, tourists leave, and the village is so quiet you can hear birds and the wind. ⚠️ Avoid the sightseeing buses in the scenic area; walking lets you discover details hidden in the alleys. Also, many watchtowers are closed on Mondays, so check before you go. 04 Yingtan | Jiangxi 📍 The main attractions of Longhu Mountain are the Danxia landforms and the hanging coffin show. I arrived in the afternoon, took a bamboo raft across the Luxi River, and saw mountains carved like knives with red cliffs contrasting sharply against the green water. 🚄 It’s about a 20-minute taxi ride from Yingtan Station to Longhu Mountain, not far. Stay in the city and take an evening stroll along the Xin River, enjoying a bowl of beef offal noodles. ⏰ The hanging coffin show is at fixed times daily, so check the schedule in advance. I made the mistake of arriving at 4 PM only to find the last show had just ended, leaving me staring at the coffins on the cliff from the shore. 🍜 Try Shangqing tofu—tender with a strong bean flavor. Add some chili sauce for a light yet appetizing taste. 05 Xiangxi | Hunan 📍 Phoenix Ancient Town is commercialized, but you can still find quiet corners wandering around. For example, the jumping rocks downstream on the Tuo River are frequented by locals, with few tourists venturing there. ⏰ If traveling with elders, prioritize Aizhai and Dehang Grand Canyon—fewer stairs and the canyon breeze is cooler than air conditioning. If traveling alone, one night in Phoenix is enough; spend the next day visiting Miao villages. ⚠️ The roads in Shibadong Village are narrow and slippery when wet, so wear non-slip shoes. Don’t linger too long in Phoenix’s bar street—it’s noisy and overpriced. 🍜 Don’t buy the ginger candy sold at street stalls in the ancient town; it’s overly sweet. Instead, try blood rice duck—a dish where glutinous rice and duck blood are stuffed into intestines, pan-fried until slightly crispy, then stewed with duck meat until tender and flavorful. 06 Changchun | Jilin 📍 The Puppet Manchurian Imperial Palace Museum is a unique place. The architecture blends Chinese and Western styles, with old photos in the corridors and European furniture in the corners. Walking through feels like traveling through several eras. Allocate half a day. 🚄 From the palace, take the light rail to Jingyuetan, about 30 minutes. The forest trails at Jingyuetan are smooth, perfect for walking or biking. ⏰ Visit Changchun World Sculpture Park in the morning; afternoon shadows obscure the sculptures’ details. Changying Century City is better for kids. For adults, there’s not much to do, so sitting by the lake at Nanhu Park is more relaxing. 🍜 Try a meal of iron pot stew. Fish and eggplant are stewed together until the sauce thickens. Dip the flatbread on the pot’s edge into the sauce—the bread soaks up the fish broth perfectly. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi 📍 Jinsi Gorge is a hidden canyon in the Qinling Mountains with water as green as jade. In July, the mountain breeze rushes down from above, more refreshing than air conditioning. Enter from the north gate and exit the south gate; the whole trip takes about three hours. ⏰ The path in Tianshu Gorge is a bit steep but worth it. At the end is a small waterfall, and the cool mist splashing on the rocks refreshes you instantly. 🕐 If you have time, detour to Manchuanguan Ancient Town. It’s small, with one main street paved with shiny stone slabs. Elderly locals sit in front of old houses with gray bricks and wooden windows, basking in the sun. ⚠️ Baita Temple is remote with poor road conditions, not recommended for inexperienced drivers. Some steps in Jinsi Gorge are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 Shangluo mushroom sauce with hot steamed buns is simple but fragrant. Avoid restaurants in the scenic area—they’re expensive and not tasty. 08 Hechi | Guangxi 📍 Xiangbei Paradise is a village surrounded by mountains, with crystal-clear rivers where you can see small fish swimming in the shallows. In summer, jump right in—the water is ice-cold, so the sun won’t bother you. ⏰ The waterway scenery at Sanliyangdu is a bit like Guilin but with far fewer people. Take a bamboo raft for an hour; the bamboo groves and peaks reflect on the water, so quiet it feels like a dream. 🍜 Stay overnight in Donglan County and find a small shop for a bowl of freshly squeezed rice noodles. The noodles are freshly made, tangy, and topped with minced meat and perilla leaves—perfect for summer. ⚠️ These places are all in mountainous areas with narrow, winding roads. If you get car sick, bring medicine. Also, Donglan’s natural attractions are limited, better suited for relaxing and zoning out than rushing through sights. These places haven’t been overrun by tourists yet. Before the summer vacation rush fully kicks in, pick one that catches your eye, buy a ticket, and go. Share in the comments which one you want to visit most!

People say summer is only for hiding in air-conditioned rooms, but I prefer to go out. These 8 places range from within a 2-hour high-speed train ride to a 3-hour direct flight, with temperatures several degrees cooler than the city. You’ll find wild charm, local life, old-money culture, and definitely no boredom. 1️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Don’t just focus on Guilin when it comes to Guangxi’s landscapes. Hechi offers much better value. Bring the whole family and head straight to Xiangbei, a hidden paradise. 📍 Navigate to “Xiangbei Pier” where a boat will take you through a karst cave into the village. Outside, the sun blazes; inside, cool breezes blow. Once you emerge, everything is lush green. 🍜 The handmade cold jelly sold by local ladies comes with brown sugar syrup made from local sugarcane. At 3 yuan a bowl, it’s way better than trendy dessert shops. If you like water play, go to Sanliyang Ferry. The water is ankle-deep, and you can walk on the pebbles or sit on a stone for a long time. ⚠️ Don’t wear a white T-shirt—stones are covered with algae and one slip means a laundry day. Stay overnight in Donglan County town, where the mountains are right outside your window. ⏰ At dawn, take a half-hour walk on the Donglan mountain trail. Mist floats over the river, like stepping into a dream. 2️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou The red of Chishui Danxia can’t be captured in photos. Driving from the city, you pass through a bamboo tunnel where the breeze is cool. In the park, stick to the “Great Waterfall–Foguang Rock” route. ⏰ The best time is 3 to 5 PM when the sunlight hits at an angle and the rainbow by the waterfall lasts for half an hour. 🍜 Don’t rush after descending. Try the bamboo tube rice from street vendors—glutinous rice stuffed with tender bamboo shoots and cured meat. At 15 yuan a tube, it’s no exaggeration to say I can eat two. ⚠️ Don’t buy raincoats at the park entrance. The waterfall mist will soak you anyway, so just wear quick-dry clothes. 3️⃣ Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan in Anshan is lush green in summer and less crowded than in autumn. ⏰ Arrive before 7 AM when the coolness lingers. By the time you reach Jiabianshi, you’ll be hungry. Don’t worry—the mountain top serves hand-shredded bean curd rolls with scallions and freshly ground soy milk. Sit on a stone bench and watch the clouds drift. 🍜 On the way down, stop at “Xinxin Lamb” in the city. Their lamb offal soup is milky white. Add a small dish of chive flower sauce for an incredibly fresh broth. ⚠️ Buy Qianshan tickets in advance on the official WeChat to skip a 30-minute line. Wear non-slip shoes—there’s a steep staircase where I saw a girl almost slip wearing sandals. 4️⃣ Yangzhou | Jiangsu Summer in Yangzhou isn’t much cooler, but the slow pace here softens tempers. The breeze over Slender West Lake naturally cools the heat. At dusk, the lake glows warm orange with long shadows. Which garden to visit, Ge or He? I pick Ge Garden. 🍜 Near Ge Garden is “Yi Garden.” Although morning tea is over, crab meat lion’s head and shredded tofu are still served. ⚠️ After 4 PM, He Garden’s light is blocked by covered corridors, making photos less appealing. It’s better to visit early. The rock garden in He Garden is fascinating, with carefully arranged rock formations. Sitting in the shade there is very cool in summer. 5️⃣ Baoding | Hebei Baoding is an underrated treasure. The pine and cypress forest of Qingxi Mausoleum feels like an air-conditioned room in summer. 📍 The underground palace of Chong Mausoleum stays at 13 degrees year-round. A light jacket isn’t enough. The Qingxi Mausoleum sacrificial ceremony schedule is irregular, so don’t wait around for it. Bailixia in Yesanpo has flowing water year-round. Step into the water and coolness rushes up from your feet. 🍜 Eat roasted whole lamb at a farmhouse in Yesanpo, where prices are half those in the park. ⚠️ The lotus flowers at Baiyangdian are blooming, but be sure to take a private boat, not a crowded one. After Yesanpo, head to Baishi Mountain. Walk the glass plank road at the summit—your heart races, and the cool breeze feels great. 6️⃣ Shanghai Shanghai is hot in summer, but there are plenty of indoor venues. The Disney Resort is packed during summer. ⚠️ The two-hour line for “Soaring Over the Horizon” isn’t as fun as the parade. Yu Garden looks different in summer; when the breeze blows through the corridors, the sounds become crisp. Guangfulin Cultural Site is a hidden gem. The underwater museum is fascinating at first glance. 📍 Visit around 5:30 PM when the sunset light spreads over the museum’s triangular roof like a watercolor painting. The China Pavilion in the Expo Park rarely opens now, but the large lawn nearby is spacious. Bring a mat in the evening and picnic with locals. 7️⃣ Urumqi | Xinjiang Urumqi is hot during the day, but once the sun sets, the coolness is very pleasant. Xinjiang has long daylight hours, with darkness only after 9 PM, so you can enjoy a full day. ⏰ Visit the International Grand Bazaar before 10:30 AM when it’s less crowded. You can see carpet shops shaking out rugs, and sunlight filtering through the yarn looks like colorful rain. 🍜 On the bazaar’s pedestrian street, “Musazi” serves pilaf with perfectly tender lamb and distinct grains. Paired with yogurt, it’s amazing. ⚠️ Dried fruits inside the bazaar are overpriced. Buy them at the market near Hongguang Mountain for half the price. Visit Dabancheng’s windmills after 4 PM. The wind picks up, and the scenery expands. 8️⃣ Jinzhong | Shanxi Jinzhong’s history is so rich that even a fallen brick tells a story. Pingyao Ancient City is busy in summer, but after 7 PM, tourists leave. The bluestone pavement on South Street shines under the streetlights. 🍜 Try Wantuo and Youmian Kaolaolao at any small shop in Pingyao. Avoid places with waiters soliciting customers outside. The Pingyao Ancient City Bank Museum has a very old well in the backyard. The water is refreshingly cool in summer. ⚠️ Which to visit, Qiao Family Courtyard or Wang Family Courtyard? I prefer Wang Family Courtyard. Qiao Family Courtyard is famous, but Wang Family Courtyard is larger and more grandly laid out. 🍜 After Wang Family Courtyard, go to Mianshan in Jiexiu. Walk the cliffside plank road halfway up the mountain—the wind will blow right through you. If short on time, Mianshan’s Hanging Temple is even more impressive than Hengshan’s and less crowded. Summer flies by in a blink. Plan a trip now. No more words—let’s chat in the comments. What’s your top summer cooling spot?

Waking up at Ji Hotel, there's no need to chase the sunrise; just open the window to see the complete morning scenery of Jiangnan. A pool of emerald green lake water is clear and bright, with rolling green mountains wrapped in layers of mist, half-hidden and half-revealed. In the distance, fishing boats slowly glide across the lake, gently stirring small ripples that break up the reflection of the mist-covered mountains. There is no bustling city noise, only the mountain breeze, moisture in the air, and the slowly moving fishing boats. On a morning at Ji Hotel, let your restlessness be given to the lake and mountains, and quietly enjoy a unique sense of relaxed poetry with Trip.com.

Hongshui River · Ji Hotel When Eastern elegance meets the stunning scenery of the Hongshui River, this is probably the true meaning of travel. 🌿Open the window to a view filled with greenery In the morning, the river breeze brushes your face, the Hongshui River sparkles with ripples, distant mountains look like ink paintings, and the nearby water is full of emotion. At this Ji Hotel by the Hongshui River, every frame is a natural backdrop, and every snap feels like a masterpiece. 🍃Slow down and heal your body and mind On the hotel terrace or by the window, watch a sunset over the Hongshui River, capturing the evening breeze, sunset, and tenderness in your lens. There’s no city noise, only the relaxation and freedom between the mountains and water.

Guangxi is truly full of treasures. Hechi, this underrated small city, offers water-filled sinkholes, canyons, cliffside bookstores, and the world's best jam barbecue. We've planned everything clearly for your three days and two nights. Transportation is really convenient, with a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Nanning. It’s recommended to rent a car upon arrival since the attractions are far apart; driving yourself is the best way to go. Accommodation ranges from budget to luxury—if you want the ultimate experience, stay at a cliff hotel; if you want great value, city hotels are also excellent. Sanmenhai must be visited early in the morning when there are fewer people and the lighting is better. The boat ride through the caves is truly breathtaking and photos just can’t capture it. At the first bend of the Hongshui River, be sure to go up to the viewing platform. Standing high up and looking at the curve, you’ll understand what natural craftsmanship really means. You must take the boat tour of the Little Three Gorges. The karst peaks on both sides and the emerald green river are truly comparable to the Yangtze Three Gorges. A special mention for Yizhou’s jam barbecue—you have to try it. It’s the best barbecue I’ve ever had, no contest. The secret jam glaze gives it a perfect sweet and sour flavor. Afterward, enjoy a bowl of cold mixed noodles for the perfect finish. The cliffside bookstore at Cotton Sinkhole is a real surprise. Built on the 300-meter-deep sinkhole cliff, sitting there reading with the sinkhole right above you is an amazing feeling. There’s also a thousand-step cliff walkway; it’s a bit tiring to walk down, but the scenery is definitely worth it. Tips to avoid trouble: be sure to wear non-slip shoes as the paths are all karst stone and can be slippery. Mountain roads have many curves, so drive slowly and stay close to the mountain side. The earlier you go to Sanmenhai, the fewer people there are—avoid going at noon to avoid crowds. --- Accommodation 🏨Guanglv Bama Cifu Lake Junlan Hot Spring Resort International Longevity Health Resort Area, prime lake view of Cifu Lake, one-stop hot spring vacation experience 🏨Hechi Boyue Hotel (Vocational Education Center Branch) Light luxury design with city mountain views, smart home control throughout, Hechi’s top high-end hotel choice 🏨Hechi March Flower International Hotel Adjacent to the municipal square, smart voice-controlled fresh coffee, Yizhou’s top choice for business and leisure 🏨Hechi Yunshang Homestay Benchmark for high-end smart homestays in Jinchengjiang, mobile check-in with no front desk, star-level hardware and private experience

Open the window to see green mountains, step outside to meet the fragrance of tea 🌿🌿🌿 Welcome to Ji Hotel Hechi Donglan Changle.

By the Hongshui River, with layers of green peaks The lingering charm of ancient bronze drums drifts through the windows All Seasons Hotel nestled between mountains and waters A cup of clear tea, half a room bathed in Zen light Resting on the mountain, returning with the wind Embracing the enchanting scenery of Zhuangland's mist and moonlight