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

Gansu travel hack 💥! Avoid the crowds at Mogao Caves, Zhongshan Bridge, and Xinglong Mountain 🙅‍♀️! Easily drive from downtown Lanzhou for a same-day round trip without rushing. Discover 4 hidden local gems in the northwest that are low on commercialization and super quiet, with very few tourists 📸! These include a thousand-year-old Yellow River Silk Road town, a natural palette of wild Danxia landforms, a highland gem-blue lake, and a vast century-old ancient pear orchard. Immerse yourself in the vast northwest landscapes and the rustic charm of the Yellow River countryside. Perfect for a weekend escape and easy to copy for your trip plan 🔥! 🌟 Off-the-beaten-path spot 1: Xigu Hekou ancient town (Yellow River Silk Road Ming and Qing dynasty ferry crossing · uncrowded, authentic ancient town) 📍 Location: Hekou Village, Hekou Town, Xigu District, Lanzhou City 🚗 Distance from Lanzhou city center: about 50 minutes by car 🗺️ One-day itinerary Morning 🏮: A hidden Silk Road town by the Yellow River! Complete Ming and Qing dynasty streets and alleys, bell and drum towers, a century-old ferry crossing, and an old theater stage all in original condition. No trendy shops crowding the area. Blue bricks and wooden doors naturally create a vintage film filter effect. Perfect for cultural photos with traditional or retro outfits. The entire old street is mostly empty, ideal for quiet shots. Noon 🍲: Try Lanzhou specialties on the old town street like niangpi (cold noodles), sweet fermented rice, hand-pulled lamb, and gray beans. Authentic northwest snacks full of local flavor. Around 40 per person to eat until full. Afternoon 🌊: Stroll and enjoy the breeze by the Yellow River, visit the ancient dock ruins, sit in an old teahouse and relax with Sanpaotai tea. Experience the slow-paced rural life of the northwest at the ancient ferry crossing. 🕳️ Practical tips to avoid pitfalls ✅ The main street of the ancient town is free to explore 🆓. Entry to old courtyards and exhibition halls is voluntary with no forced purchases. ✅ Very few visitors on weekdays. Early morning mist over the Yellow River creates a beautiful atmosphere. ✅ The old alleys have uneven bluestone slabs. Avoid wearing high heels. Respect local residents by keeping noise down. ✅ Buy goji berries and dried apricots from street vendors wisely. Compare prices and avoid overpriced sales tactics. 🌟 Off-the-beaten-path spot 2: Yongdeng Kushui Danxia self-driving campsite (Lanzhou’s little Zhangye · natural palette secret spot) 📍 Location: Danxia self-driving campsite, Kushui Town, Yongdeng County, Lanzhou City 🚗 Distance from Lanzhou city center: about 1 hour by car 🗺️ One-day itinerary Morning 🎨: Enter the wild, dreamlike Danxia landforms of the northwest! Billions of years of wind and rain have sculpted red, orange, and yellow hills rolling endlessly. A small reservoir reflects the entire Danxia landscape, creating a stunning water-and-rock scene. The wild, wasteland-style outfits look perfect here. The whole area is natural with no commercialization or crowds. Noon 🥘: Taste local farm dishes in Kushui Town like big plate chicken, sour noodle soup, and local rose cakes. Kushui’s rose specialties are fresh and flavorful. Around 38 per person to eat well. Afternoon 🌅: Hike deep into the Danxia valley to find hidden canyon photo spots. Wait for the sunset to set the hills ablaze in orange-red. Immerse yourself in the unique, majestic northwest mountain scenery. 🕳️ Practical tips to avoid pitfalls ✅ The entire Danxia area is free to enter 🆓. Campsite parking costs only 10 yuan with no hidden fees. ✅ After 4 PM, the light softens and sunsets create perfect photo conditions. Colors are highly saturated on sunny days. ✅ The Danxia interior has many sandy and rocky paths. Wear non-slip sneakers and stay away from cliff edges. ✅ No convenience stores in the wilderness. Bring enough drinking water, sun protection hats, sunglasses, and masks for dust and wind. 🌟 Off-the-beaten-path spot 3: Yongjing Weijiapo (Gansu’s little Erhai · gem-blue Yellow River lake view secret) 📍 Location: Weijiapo, Taiji Town, Yongjing County, Linxia Prefecture 🚗 Distance from Lanzhou city center: about 1.2 hours by car 🗺️ One-day itinerary Morning 💎: Break the stereotype of the Yellow River being muddy! The Liujiaxia Reservoir creates a clear gem-blue lake surface. Shallow pebble beaches and waterside trees stretch along the shore. Danxia mountains surround the lake. Light-colored resort-style outfits fit the vibe perfectly. Few people and plenty of spots for photos. Noon 🍜: Try local farm dishes nearby like Yellow River carp, Linxia hand-pulled noodles, and homemade noodles. Fresh and authentic lake delicacies. Around 42 per person to eat to your heart’s content. Afternoon ⛺: Picnic and chat on the lakeside lawn, stroll along the lakeside path and enjoy the breeze. Watch the unique two-color phenomenon where the Yellow and Tao Rivers meet. The gentle evening breeze is soothing and healing, a perfect escape from city heat. 🕳️ Practical tips to avoid pitfalls ✅ Public lakeshore mudflats are free to visit 🆓. Multiple free parking spots along the route. ✅ On sunny days, the lake water is clear and blue. Afternoon light is soft and ideal for photos. ✅ Strong UV rays and wind by the lake. Bring sun protection and a light jacket. The shore is slippery; swimming is prohibited. ✅ Protect the lakeside environment. Take all picnic trash with you for a leave-no-trace visit. 🌟 Off-the-beaten-path spot 4: Gaolan Shichuan ancient pear orchard (world’s oldest ancient pear orchard · Yellow River pastoral healing secret) 📍 Location: Shichuan Town, Gaolan County, Lanzhou City 🚗 Distance from Lanzhou city center: about 40 minutes by car 🗺️ One-day itinerary Morning 🌳: A secret of tens of thousands of century-old pear trees! Over 9,000 pear trees rooted by the Yellow River. In spring, pear blossoms cover the land like snow. In summer, dense shade covers the area. Winding forest trails and endless healing greenery. Fresh pastoral outfits are perfect for casual healing photos. A natural forest oxygen bar to refresh and relax. Noon 🍲: Try local farm dishes in the pear orchard like roasted pears, stewed native chicken, and sour soup with dough sticks. Northwest pastoral flavors that are refreshing and satisfying. Around 35 per person to eat well. Afternoon 🍃: Walk and relax under the pear trees, sit quietly by the Yellow River to enjoy the view, pick seasonal soft pears (in season). Immerse yourself in the gentle, peaceful rural atmosphere by the Yellow River. 🕳️ Practical tips to avoid pitfalls ✅ The orchard’s outer trails are free to explore 🆓. Farm restaurants inside charge as needed. No entrance fee. ✅ Best scenery during pear blossom season in April and pear harvest in September. Morning light in the forest is soft and great for photos. ✅ The forest soil is soft and muddy. Avoid wearing high heels. Climbing trees or breaking branches is prohibited. ✅ Mosquitoes are common in summer. Bring insect repellent and sun protection for shaded areas.

Take a trip along the Linxia and Gannan route—it’s definitely worth it! Experience the pure faith at the world-renowned Labrang Monastery, and be captivated by the stunning Ganjia secret realm and grasslands that you won’t want to leave. The entire trip is self-paced, no rushing, relaxed and worry-free~ · - Treasure travel guide ready for you, check it out now ↓ · - 🗺️ Suggested itinerary: DAY 1: Gather in Lanzhou — Hotel check-in Upon arrival in Lanzhou, a private car will pick you up from the airport or train station to the hotel. Enjoy free time to recharge for the upcoming Gannan secret realm adventure! 🔋 DAY 2: Bafang Shisan Xiang — Labrang Monastery — Bajiao Ancient City Ruins Wander through the ethnic streets of Linxia, feel the power of faith at the world-famous Labrang Monastery, and finally explore the millennia-old ancient city ruins. 🕌 DAY 3: Milarepa Pagoda — Guomang Wetland — Langmusi Scenic Area Pilgrimage to the nine-story pagoda in the Amdo Tibetan region, stroll through the highland wetlands to spot black-necked cranes, and listen to Buddhist chants in the “Little Switzerland of the East,” Langmusi. 🦌 DAY 4-5: Lianbaoyeze — Ruoergai Flower Lake — Zhagana Immerse yourself for two days in sacred mountains and holy lakes! Explore the magical stone peaks of Lianbaoyeze, encounter the wetland spirits of Ruoergai, and stay in the fairy-tale Tibetan village of Zhagana. 🏔️ DAY 6: Guan’egou Experience the canyon waterfalls and Qiang ethnic culture in Guan’egou, known as the “Little Jiuzhaigou of Longnan,” and enjoy a Tibetan yak meat hotpot for dinner. ♨️ DAY 7-8: Maijishan Grottoes — Fuxi Temple — Return to Lanzhou Spend the last two days traveling through history: admire the Maijishan Grottoes, an eastern sculpture museum, pay respects at the Fuxi Temple, the cultural ancestor, and return to Lanzhou full of Tibetan memories. ✈️ · - Travel tips: · Souvenir prices: Handmade carpets start at around 100 yuan, remember to bargain! 💰 · March climate: Big temperature difference between morning and night, layering with a jacket and light innerwear is key 🧥✨ · Photo spots: The blue walls of Bafang Shisan Xiang, wear light colors for better photos 📸 · Must-try food: Hezhou steamed buns with covered bowl tea, warm and filling 🥟🍵 · Cultural respect: Speak softly and walk slowly when visiting temples, respect local customs 🕌🙏 · - 【Stress-free solo travel, unlock affordable itineraries with one click】

This is the ultimate summer getaway in the Northwest! Average temperature of 22°C in August, Linxia is uncrowded, beautiful, and budget-friendly✨ Hey everyone! It's not Turkey! And it's not Jiangnan! It's right here in Gansu, the "Cool Capital of China" praised by CCTV—Linxia🏞️ The average summer temperature is only around 22°C. It's less crowded than Gannan, but the scenery is just as stunning, and best of all, it's super affordable🤩 · ————— 💡4 key reasons to visit Linxia 1️⃣Ultimate comfort: 23°C during the day and as low as 13°C at night in August. No air conditioning needed. Mountain areas are 3–4°C cooler than the city—a natural summer oxygen bar 2️⃣Diverse landscapes: Ancient brick-carved alleys, the "Yellow River Mandarin Duck Pot" spectacle, cliffside grottoes, and alpine meadows. A perfect blend of culture and nature 3️⃣Uncrowded and authentic: Avoid the crowds of Gannan. Most core areas are free to enter, with no tourist traps—just authentic local vibes 4️⃣Budget-friendly: Hand-grabbed mutton is 40+ yuan/jin, snacks start from 8 yuan, and homestays are just over 100 yuan. You can fully enjoy a 3-day trip for around 1,000 yuan per person · ————— 🚗Basic travel guide ◾️Transportation: Arrive at Lanzhou West Railway Station or Zhongchuan Airport, then take a 2.5-hour bus directly to Linxia. For Liujiaxia and Bingling Temple, carpooling or driving is recommended. Taxis within the city are cheap and convenient ◾️Best time to visit: Sunny days in August are best for morning and evening activities. Expect short afternoon showers and fog in the mountains; avoid hiking in the mountains in the afternoon ◾️Dress code and etiquette: Short sleeves with a light long-sleeved layer to handle temperature differences. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques. Do not take photos of local residents without permission; respect Hui customs · ————— 🗓3-day relaxing summer itinerary Day 1: Slow-paced city cultural tour (rain-friendly) Visit the free Bafang Thirteen Alleys, explore top-tier Northwest brick-carved alleys and intangible cultural heritage workshops. See the red lantern night view in the evening. Stop by Dong Mansion and Hongyuan Garden to see Northwest-style Jiangnan gardens. Enjoy local snacks in the evening. Day 2: Yellow River secret spot day trip Visit the Yellow-Tao River confluence viewing platform to see the clear and muddy "Yellow River Mandarin Duck Pot" spectacle. Tour the Liujiaxia Dam. Take a boat to visit the World Heritage Bingling Temple Grottoes, where cliffside Buddha niches meet clear water and Danxia landforms. The boardwalk is flat and easy to walk. Return to the city in the evening for local Hezhou cuisine. Day 3: Mountain forest relaxation Go hiking in Songmingyan for a cool, refreshing experience in the streams and dense forests, or drive to Taizishan Grassland to see wildflowers and greenery. Return in the afternoon. · ————— 📝Key attractions 🚩Must-visit (free) · Bafang Thirteen Alleys: 4A-level folk alleys with blue bricks and exquisite brick carvings; free all day; best lighting in the morning and evening · Hongyuan Garden and Dong Mansion: Pinnacle of brick carving art; Hongyuan's pavilions and streams have a Jiangnan vibe · Hezheng Paleozoological Museum: Kid-friendly; free to see ancient giant beast fossils 🚩Top paid attractions · Bingling Temple Grottoes: One of the three major grottoes in Gansu; round-trip boat ticket is about 130 yuan; Buddha niches embedded in Danxia cliffs with deep historical significance · Songmingyan/Dadunxia Scenic Area: Dense mountain forests and streams; top choice for summer hiking; cool, uncrowded, and peaceful · ————— 🍜Affordable local delicacies 🔸Main dishes: Dongxiang hand-grabbed mutton (no gamey taste, 40+ yuan/jin), kang-cooked chicken, steamed Yellow River carp 🔸Snacks: Hezhou steamed buns, liangpi (cold noodles), tianpeizi (fermented oats), and fazi (sausage). Average price per item is 5–15 yuan 🔸Drinks: Sanpaotai covered bowl tea and pear juice. Great for cutting through grease and cooling down with meals · ————— ⚠️Practical tips to avoid tourist traps 1. Local specialties on the main street of Bafang are overpriced; local shops deeper in the alleys offer better value. Confirm prices in advance when dining at farmhouses to avoid last-minute price hikes 2. The last boat to Bingling Temple is at 4:00 PM, so start early to allow enough time for sightseeing. It often rains in the mountains in the afternoon, so carry a portable raincoat and wear non-slip shoes 3. There is a huge temperature difference between day and night; bring a light jacket when going into the mountains. UV rays are strong, so use sun protection throughout the trip 4. Students can get half-price tickets at most attractions with a student ID. Recent high school graduates may enjoy free admission to some attractions Still wondering where to go for the summer? Save this Linxia summer guide and let's experience a 22°C summer together❄️

August guide to kid-friendly summer escapes: 6 places to broaden your child's horizons 01 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Zhoushan is a go-to destination for summer beach trips with kids. But don't rush straight to the Putuoshan pier; during the peak summer season, the lines after 9:00 AM will wear you out. ⏰ We recommend catching the first ferry, arriving at the pier before 7:30 AM. Take the kids to see the Nanhai Guanyin and Zizhulin, then leave before noon to avoid the intense sun and crowds. Gouqi Island is better for an overnight stay. The sand at Dawang Beach is fine, and kids can dig there all afternoon. Head to Shanhai Qiguan in the evening to watch the sunset; the sea breeze will blow the heat away. Taxis on the island don't use meters and start at 30 yuan. Ask your homestay host for a driver's number in advance to save half the cost. For the Shengsi Islands, I suggest picking just one island to explore thoroughly—don't try to do too much. Jihu Beach has glowing waves at night; if you're lucky, you'll see blue waves, and the kids will scream with excitement. ⚠️ Be sure to have seasickness medication ready in advance. The ferry ride to Shengsi can be rough—don't ask me how I know. 02 Fuzhou | Fujian Fuzhou's summer is humid, so mix indoor and outdoor activities. Sanfang Qixiang opens at 8:00 AM. Beat the heat by strolling down Nanhou Street, entering from Langguan Alley and heading north. The former residences of Lin Juemin and Yan Fu are along this route, perfect for kids to connect with history. When it gets hot at noon, duck into a creative shop near the Shuixie Stage to rest and grab an olive juice—a local favorite that's tart, sweet, and refreshing. 🍜 Tongli Meat Yan is right in the alley. Watching the chef pound the meat wrappers is so fascinating that kids won't want to leave. A bowl of meat yan with taro paste is more satisfying than air conditioning. Head back into the alley after 4:30 PM for photos. At this time, the light hits the upturned corners of the saddle-back walls at an angle, making the white walls and gray tiles look especially photogenic. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls are closed on Monday mornings, so don't plan your visit for that day. 03 Haikou | Hainan Haikou is cooler than Sanya and, more importantly, more affordable. The Wugong Temple grounds are lush and shady; walking through with kids is a great way to learn about history without being baked in the sun. There's a small pond inside where kids can spend half an hour feeding fish. Qilou Old Street is a must-visit in the evening. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, the sun is less intense, and the Nanyang-style colonnades provide shade. Walk along and look at the reliefs on the walls, and grab a bowl of Qingbuliang on the street. It's packed with coconut milk and toppings, and at 10 yuan a bowl, it's a better deal than milk tea. We recommend visiting the Volcano Park in the morning; the hike up only takes 30 minutes, and the vegetation at the bottom of the crater is lush and cool. ⚠️ There are people selling battery car rides at the park entrance, but the walking path isn't long, so it's not worth the money. 04 Linxia | Gansu Summer in Linxia is dry and cool; you'll even need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. Take the kids to the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort. The most impressive part is taking a boat to see the Yellow River change from yellow to green—the boundary is so clear it looks painted, and kids will be fascinated by why it happens. Boat tickets are categorized by route; the shortest one is enough to see the highlights in an hour. The Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area requires a half-day. The grottoes are carved into the cliffs, and you really need to take a boat to appreciate them. The boat ride is 40 minutes, and the Danxia landforms on both banks look like a long scroll painting. ⚠️ There are many steps on the walkway in front of the Big Buddha, so you'll need to carry younger kids. We recommend putting them in non-slip shoes. On the way back to the city, stop for a bowl of Linxia Heyan Mianpian (noodle soup). The noodles are thin, the broth is fresh, and kids can easily finish a whole bowl. 05 Chongqing It's called a "furnace city" for a reason, so keep the pace slow when traveling with kids. The Dazu Rock Carvings are a must, but avoid going at noon as there's little shade at Baoding Mountain. ⏰ Arrive with the first group at 8:30 AM. The guides explain things in detail, and kids can understand the story of the "Transformation Table of the Sutra on the Profound Kindness of Parents," which is better than just looking at the statues. Jinyun Mountain is great for cooling off in the afternoon. The water in Dai Lake on the mountain is cold; kids will shrink back when they step in, but they'll have a blast. On the way down the mountain, stop by Beibei Old Street for a bowl of douhua rice—the dipping sauce is the soul of the dish. We recommend spending 2 days at the Wulong Karst Tourist Area. Walking the entire Three Natural Bridges route takes 2 to 3 hours. During peak season, the elevator line can be 50 minutes long, so if you're with kids, just take the walking path down—it actually saves time. The Yangtze Three Gorges is better suited for a cruise; choose a 2-hour short route that departs in the evening, and the river breeze will blow the heat away. 06 Chongzuo | Guangxi Summer in Chongzuo is green and humid, but the upside is the smaller crowds. You must take a bamboo raft to the foot of the Detian Transnational Waterfall; when the mist hits your face, the kids will shout, "It's so cool!" ⏰ The water volume is highest around 10:00 AM and decreases in the afternoon. Mingshi Scenic Area is better for the afternoon. Rent a bicycle and ride along the path; the rice paddies, bamboo groves, and phoenix-tail bamboo reflected in the water look just like a painting. 🍜 The Vietnamese baguette sandwich at the entrance is worth a try. It's 10 yuan each, filled with roasted meat and pickled radishes, and the kids will be covered in sauce while eating it. ⚠️ Don't let kids run around near the border; just stick to the walkway. 07 Kashgar | Xinjiang Summer in Kashgar is cool in the mornings and evenings, and while sunny at noon, it's not stuffy. When exploring the Kashgar Old City with kids, skip the main roads and duck into the alleys—that's where the fun is. The Flower Hat Bazaar, Ironware Bazaar, and Herbal Tea Bazaar are all like mazes; let the kids chase pigeons while you stroll at your own pace. ⏰ Head to Id Kah Square after 7:00 PM. The sunset light hits the yellow earthen walls, making everything look great in photos. ⚠️ The Pamir Plateau is at a high altitude, so if you're with kids, don't rush up there; spend 2 days acclimating in Kashgar first. The Stone City ruins are windy, so put a hat on the kids. A walk around takes exactly 1 hour. The baked buns in the Old City are 3 yuan each. They're freshly baked, with crispy skin and savory meat, and kids can eat 2 in one go. 08 Xianyang | Shaanxi Xianyang is just a 30-minute high-speed train ride from Xi'an, but with far fewer crowds. The most valuable part of taking kids to the Qianling Mausoleum is seeing the Wordless Stele; telling them the story of Wu Zetian while standing in front of it is more intuitive than any history book. There's no need to take the shuttle bus; the stone statues lining the walkway are arranged neatly, and it's more enjoyable to walk and look at them. Yuanjiacun Guanzhong Impression Experience Area is a great place to eat and drink with kids. Try the yogurt, oil-splashed noodles, and Zenggao as you walk along—the kids will be full in no time. There are performances at the shadow puppetry stage on the hour, which will captivate the kids more than a phone screen. ⚠️ The Sima Road at Qianling Mausoleum has no shade, so be sure to bring a parasol in the summer. On the way back, stop by Liquan County for a bowl of Luomian, a local breakfast staple; the broth is sour, spicy, and appetizing. Of these 6 places, Haikou and Chongzuo are the most stress-free, while Chongqing and Kashgar are the most eye-opening. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Let's chat in the comments—which one made you want to vent the most?

There's no need to rush your itinerary for a three-day trip to Linxia. The pace here is slow, there's plenty of delicious food, and a rich cultural heritage. After visiting, I genuinely want to go again. Book your accommodation directly near Baifang Shisan Alley; it's convenient for dining and getting around, saving you from constant travel. Day 1 is dedicated to Linxia city, for a deep dive into Hezhou culture. No need to wake up early; leisurely stroll into Baifang Shisan Alley after 9 AM. The entire alley is open to the public for free, and two to three hours is just right for a slow exploration. Don't rush; pay attention to the exquisite brick carvings on the walls, and you'll find many handmade craft shops hidden in the alleys where you can stop and browse. Have lunch around the area; you must try Dongxiang hand-grabbed lamb and Hezhou steamed buns, and then a bowl of sweet fermented grain. The flavors are unique. In the afternoon, head to Donggongguan, a treasure trove of brick carving art. An hour and a half is enough for a detailed visit. Afterward, walk to Renmin Hongyuan, an exquisite garden hidden within the city. Find a pavilion to rest and cool down; there's no need to specifically check in, just walking around is very pleasant. By evening, return to Baifang Shisan Alley. As dusk falls, all the lanterns light up, creating a completely different atmosphere from the daytime. In the evening, you can visit the nearby night market to try liangpi and mianpian. Day 2 involves a slightly longer route to Yongjing. Depart from the city around 8:30 AM. The drive takes about an hour and a half. It's recommended to carpool or charter a car, as public transportation will take a lot of time. First, head to Liujiaxia Pier and take a boat to Bingling Temple Grottoes. This World Cultural Heritage site must be appreciated slowly. Allocate two to three hours for exploring the grottoes to see the thousand-year-old statues; the grottoes on the cliff are particularly stunning. On the boat trip back, you'll see the famous confluence of the Yellow River and Tao River, one clear and one turbid, a unique natural landscape. A half-hour stop at the viewing platform for photos and appreciation is sufficient. You can have a simple lunch in Liujiaxia; no need to plan too many activities. In the afternoon, leisurely head back. Avoid driving at night and get a good rest in the city. This day's journey is a bit longer, so don't add extra attractions to avoid fatigue. Day 3 follows an easy suburban route for a relaxing finish. In the morning, go to Hezheng. First, visit the Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum. It's free, but remember to book in advance. Take two hours to slowly explore; you'll see many unique ancient fossils and gain a lot of knowledge. Have lunch locally in Hezheng. In the afternoon, head to Songmingyan National Forest Park. The vegetation here is lush, and the air is fresh, making it a natural oxygen bar. There's no need for strenuous climbing; just walk along the gentle paths to breathe in the fresh air. Return after two to three hours of exploration; it won't be too tiring. If you have ample time on the way, you can buy some Babao tea and local pastries as souvenirs. Some practical travel tips: The cross-county journeys around Linxia are relatively long, so try not to cram too many spots into one day. Most local halal restaurants are open during lunch and dinner hours; avoid off-peak times to prevent finding them closed. The temperature difference between morning and evening is significant, so even in summer, bring a light jacket. Try to avoid traveling during the hottest part of midday. The entire route doesn't involve intense rushing, balancing culture, Yellow River scenery, and mountain leisure, with a relaxed pace, making it very suitable for a slow, enjoyable trip.

Can you travel in style on a 3,000 budget? These 8️⃣ places are stunning in August–September. 01 Guilin | Guangxi For the best part of the Li River, I recommend taking a bamboo raft from Xingping to Nine-Horse Mural Hill. ⏰ Arrive at the pier before 8:00 AM. The water is as flat as a mirror, and the reflections are even clearer than the real thing. Remember to book your bamboo raft ticket one day in advance via the official account; buying on-site often means waiting until noon. After getting off the raft, don't rush away. Hidden in the old alleys of Xingping Ancient Town is a small shop selling songgao (rice cakes). The freshly steamed osmanthus-flavored ones are 5 yuan each—warm and satisfying. In the afternoon, head to Reed Flute Cave. It stays around 20°C year-round, a completely different world from the 30°C+ scorching heat outside. ⚠️ The light show inside the cave starts on the hour. Time your entry so you don't have to wait inside. The rice in the Longji Rice Terraces starts turning yellow this season, making late September the best time for photos. Stay one night in a stilt house in Ping'an Village; open the window to see layers of green waves. Accommodation is 150–200 per night, including breakfast and dinner—a great deal. 🚄 The high-speed train from Guilin Station to Yangshuo takes 30 mins, but to get to Xingping, you'll need to take a taxi from Yangshuo Station, which costs about 30 yuan. Don't buy pre-cut fruit at the scenic area entrance; the scales are inaccurate and it's overpriced. 02 Jincheng | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu is one of the few attractions I've seen where the expensive ticket is worth it. ⏰ Enter after 3:00 PM when most tour groups have left. The brick carvings and wooden structures look especially layered in the slanting sunlight. The entire complex is divided into an inner and outer city. Walk through the stone archways of the outer city first, then enter the Heshan Tower in the inner city. The stairs are narrow and steep, so be careful if you're with elderly people or children. Rent an audio guide for 20 yuan; it's cheaper than hiring a tour guide and lets you control the pace. After you finish, don't rush to eat the "Baba Banquet" at the entrance. Walk 200 meters into town to a small restaurant frequented by locals. A bowl of Jincheng guoyourou (oiled meat) with rice costs about 30 yuan per person and will leave you stuffed. ⚠️ Some courtyards are closed on Monday mornings, so don't make a wasted trip. 🚄 A taxi from Jincheng East Station takes about 40 mins. Carpooling is more cost-effective at 20 yuan per person. 03 Jinzhou | Liaoning Visit Mount Yiwulü this season to see mountains covered in varying shades of green, occasionally interspersed with early-red maple trees. I suggest starting from Beizhen Temple to see the ancient pines before climbing the main peak. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 6:30 AM. The air is cool, and you can hear the sound of spring water halfway up—more healing than any white noise. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps, so those who don't exercise regularly will be out of breath. Just bring a bottle of water; there are few supply points on the mountain, so don't carry too much. After descending, go to Beizhen city to eat Goubangzi smoked chicken. Go to the time-honored brand; the chicken skin is smoked to a glossy finish, the meat pulls apart easily, and it's perfect with a bowl of rice porridge. ⚠️ There are vendors selling wild mountain goods at the foot of the mountain with inflated prices, so don't act on impulse. 🚄 Take a shuttle bus from Jinzhou Station to Beizhen, which takes about an hour and costs 15 yuan. 04 Yulin | Shaanxi Wave Valley is the most unreal landscape I've seen this year. The red sandstone patterns are frozen in time like waves. ⏰ Between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM, the slanting sunlight makes the patterns look most three-dimensional—anything you snap with your phone is wallpaper-worthy. The scenic area has two routes: Route A for the canyon and Route B for the water Danxia. If you're short on time, choose A. The next day, go to Hongshixia, located north of Yulin city. The red rocks on both sides of the canyon are covered with inscriptions from past dynasties. A walk around takes less than an hour, perfect for a stroll. In the afternoon, charter a car to Jiaxian to see the Yellow River. This section of the river is wide, and the current is gentler than at Hukou. There are jujube orchards along the bank, and September is the harvest season. The fresh jujubes sold by local farmers on the roadside are crisp and sweet—10 yuan for a big bag. ⚠️ Some parts of the boardwalk in Wave Valley have no railings, so hold children's hands tightly. 🚄 The drive from Yulin city to Wave Valley takes about two hours. Chartering a car costs about 300 yuan round trip, which is most cost-effective if split among four people. 05 Urumqi | Xinjiang The International Grand Bazaar is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 7:00 PM, the light is soft, and the golden domes of the buildings are very photogenic in the sunset. Don't pay at the first shop you see; walk further in, and you can get the same dried fruits for 20% less. Buy a little bit of raisins, figs, and almonds, and the shopkeeper will pack them into small bags for you to take home. Eat the baked buns (kao baozi) on the Grand Bazaar pedestrian street while they're hot—crispy skin and savory meat for 3 yuan each. The handmade ice cream shop nearby has a rich, creamy flavor that's far better than chain brands. Hongguangshan Park is in the city; climb it in the evening. It takes 20 minutes to reach the top, where you can overlook the entire city skyline—it's beautiful at sunset. The Dabancheng Wind Power Station is on the way; the windmills turning into a sea of white dots on the Gobi Desert is quite spectacular. ⚠️ Don't touch the jade in the Grand Bazaar; it's a murky market. 🚄 A taxi from the city to the Grand Bazaar costs about 15 yuan; you can also take the subway. 06 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia The grass in the Ulagai Grassland is still green this season, but it's starting to turn yellow at the edges, creating that perfect oil painting transition color. I suggest chartering a car with a local driver for about 500 yuan a day; they can take you deep into the heart of the grassland, away from the observation decks crowded with tour groups. ⏰ Wake up at 5:30 AM to watch the sunrise. Sunrise on the grassland isn't as gentle as at the seaside; it jumps out suddenly, and the light instantly covers the entire meadow. It's very windy walking on the grassland during the day, so remember to wear a hat. In the evening, go to a herdsman's home to drink freshly brewed milk tea with hand-grabbed mutton—50 yuan per person, and there's plenty of meat. ⚠️ Mobile signal on the grassland is intermittent, so download offline maps in advance. 🚄 The nearest airport is in Xilinhot. It's about a one-hour flight from Beijing, followed by a two-hour car charter to the grassland. 07 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu For Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigushan, I suggest you only choose two. Jinshan Temple is famous, but it's crowded. The "Number One Mountain Under Heaven" stone inscription and river views at Beigushan are more worth taking your time to see. ⏰ Go to Beigushan in the morning when it's less crowded. Reaching the top offers a wide view of the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal. Descend at noon and find a noodle shop near Ganlu Ferry Pier. Zhenjiang pot-lid noodles with aspic meat (yaorou) have a broth so fresh it'll blow your mind—20 yuan per person. In the afternoon, go to Jiaoshan; you have to take a ferry to get there. The river breeze hits your face, and the island is very quiet with towering ancient trees, perfect for zoning out. Jurong Maoshan is far from the city and takes a whole day round trip; if you're short on time, skip it—you won't regret it. ⚠️ The joint ticket for the three mountains looks like a good deal, but it's really tiring to finish them all. Choosing two is enough. 🚄 A taxi from Zhenjiang Station to Beigushan is just the starting fare; public transport is also convenient. 08 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The blue of Liujiaxia Reservoir is an unreal blue, like a piece of the sky cut out and laid on the water. ⏰ Take a cruise at 3:00 PM. Sunlight spills onto the water, making it sparkle, and the lines of the loess ridges on both banks are clean and sharp. The boat ticket is 80 yuan, and the trip takes about an hour—it's worth it. Bingling Temple Grottoes are right by the reservoir and can only be reached by boat. The Buddha statues in the grottoes are over 1,600 years old. Standing at the foot of the Great Buddha and looking up, the shock is something photos can't convey. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes. Don't sneak photos; it's embarrassing to be stopped. After seeing the grottoes, return to the city and stroll through the Bafang Thirteen Alleys. The snack street in the alleys has hand-grabbed mutton and Hezhou buns—30 yuan per person for a satisfying meal. 🚄 There are high-speed buses from Lanzhou to Linxia, taking about two hours and costing 50 yuan. With a 3,000 budget, choose off-season flights departing on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, pick hostels or homestays for accommodation, and follow the locals for food. You can experience these eight places with a quality that exceeds the price. Which one do you want to visit the most? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you refine your itinerary.

I. Basic Information · ① Erziwaliang is located in Datan Village, Luojiaji Town, Hezheng County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Situated at the northern foot of Taizi Mountain at an altitude of about 2,800m, it is named for its mountain silhouette, which resembles a giant ear when viewed from above. · ② The scenic area is open all day, all year round. Admission is free, and parking is also free. · ③ The average summer temperature is about 20°C, making it an excellent summer retreat. II. Itinerary & Activities · ① View Taizi Mountain from the observation deck — Upon arrival, head to the observation deck at the entrance to view the snow-capped main peak of Taizi Mountain. If you are lucky, you might catch the magnificent "golden mountain" view. · ② Stroll through alpine meadows along the wooden boardwalk — The 350m sightseeing boardwalk connects 5 observation decks. Along the way, you will see a mix of primeval forests and alpine meadows, hear babbling streams, and may even encounter wildlife like blue sheep. · ③ Visit Fusu Town and Haiyan Spring — The commercial street in Fusu Town within the scenic area features Han-style architecture and incorporates Qin culture legends. Don't forget to see the natural spring known as "Haiyan" (Sea Eye), which locals compare to the "eye of the mountain." · ④ Camping and bonfires — The scenic area has a well-equipped "Erziwaliang Tent Home" camping project, providing water, electricity, and shower facilities. There are often bonfires or open-air cinemas in the evening, creating a great atmosphere for stargazing on summer nights. · ⑤ Recommended one-day itinerary — Arrive in the morning to walk the boardwalk and enjoy the views, have lunch at the scenic area restaurant or a nearby farmhouse, explore Fusu Town and Haiyan Spring in the afternoon, and camp or head back in the evening. It is suitable for a day trip or an overnight stay for a more relaxed experience. III. Practical Tips · ① Driving directions: From Lanzhou, take the Lanzhou South Expressway and transfer to the Wuma Expressway. Set your navigation to "Erziwaliang." The trip takes about 2 hours and 20 mins, and road conditions are good. · ② Best time to visit: July–August is the most comfortable for escaping the heat. September–October offers colorful autumn scenery, with aspen leaves turning from green to yellow, creating rich layers of color. · ③ Clothing tips: The altitude is high and the temperature difference is large, so be sure to bring a jacket. The UV rays are strong, so take sun protection measures. The weather in the mountains is changeable, so carry rain gear with you. · ④ Accommodation options: The scenic area has campsites and homestays. You can also stay in Hezheng County (about a 30-min drive away). Hongsen International Hotel and Yunlong Hotel are good choices. · ⑤ Local food: Don't miss Linxia specialties like Dongxiang hand-grabbed lamb, Heyan noodle slices, Tianpeizi (fermented oats), and Liangpizi (cold skin noodles). You can taste these at the farmhouses around the scenic area.

Where to go for a budget trip in August? These 8 places are uncrowded, beautiful, and affordable 01 Linxia | Gansu The Yellow River takes a turn here, turning summer into a cool breeze. Liujiaxia Tourist Resort has water as green as jade. Take a boat ride; the wind is cool, and the sun is gentle. After 5:00 PM, the light is just right. Standing on the viewing platform looking at the reservoir dam, the distant mountains look like an ink wash painting. No filters needed; just snap a photo with your phone. Binglingsi World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area is more demanding. The grottoes are carved into cliffs, requiring a climb, but the moment you see that giant Buddha, it's all worth it. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Heyan noodles in town. Freshly pulled noodles with lamb soup, just over 10 yuan, will keep you full until the afternoon. ⚠️ The grottoes stop admitting visitors at 4:00 PM, so don't cut it too close. 🚄 It takes about 2 hours by bus from Lanzhou, and the ticket is just over 30 yuan, perfect for a weekend getaway. 02 Meizhou | Guangdong The home of the Hakka people. It's not stuffy or dry in August, and the mountain breeze acts like natural air conditioning. Yannanfei Tea Garden is a vast expanse of green tea slopes. Walk through the rows, and you can feel the tenderness of the tea buds. Go in the morning when the dew hasn't dried; the air is full of the scent of grass. There's a teahouse on the hillside. Sit down and brew a pot of Dancong tea; 30 yuan gets you an afternoon of relaxation. 🍜 Find a noodle shop in the village at the foot of the mountain. Mix it with lard and garlic, and pair it with a bowl of Sanjidi soup. It's just over 10 yuan, much more authentic than the trendy shops in the city. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the tea garden, so don't be lazy about wearing long pants and sleeves. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Meizhou West Station. On the way back, stop by Songkou Ancient Town to see the old streets; no need to go out of your way. 03 Zhengzhou | Henan Don't just think of crowds when you hear Zhengzhou; Qinweishuicheng is a surprise. The water street stretches along the river. After the lights come on in the evening, it looks like a Jiangnan water town. There's a shop at the bridge selling sweet soup; a large cup of iced plum juice is 5 yuan, perfect for sipping while walking. Songshan Shaolin is better visited early. Arrive at the gate before 7:00 AM before the tourists flood in. The morning light hits the Pagoda Forest, and you can hear the bells of the monks' morning prayers. Xiliuhu Park is free. Go around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, sit on a bench by the lake, feel the breeze, and watch the locals fishing and strolling. It's more comfortable than squeezing into shopping malls. The museum requires booking 3 days in advance. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 🍜 In the evening, go to Shunhe Road for a bowl of spicy soup with fried dough. 8 yuan will fill you up. That's how Zhengzhou stomachs are raised. 04 Changde | Hunan Peach Blossom Spring isn't just for spring. Go in August; the lotus flowers are in full bloom, and the water vapor keeps the whole park cool. The Peach Blossom Spring Tourist Area is huge. It's recommended to enter from the Qingu entrance, walk along the stream, and pass through the bamboo forest to Peach Blossom Mountain. It's all shaded, so you won't be exposed to the sun. For lunch, have a bowl of lei cha (pounded tea) in the scenic area, served with a side of appetizers. It's 20 yuan per person. The tea fragrance mixed with the sesame flavor will make you sleepy. ⏰ The light is best after 3:00 PM. The ancient buildings will be coated in a layer of gold, making for great photos without backlighting. ⚠️ The handicrafts sold in the scenic area are overpriced, so just look and don't buy impulsively. 🚄 Take bus H13 from Changde Station directly to the scenic area entrance. It takes 40 minutes and costs 2 yuan, which is more cost-effective than a taxi. 05 Jingzhou | Hubei A city surrounded by ancient walls, naturally carrying a sense of ease. Jingzhou Ancient City doesn't require an entrance ticket. Walk along the base of the wall; moss grows in the cracks of the blue bricks, and it feels cool to the touch. At 6:00 PM, the breeze by the moat blows away the summer heat. Some people are fishing, some are walking their dogs; you just need to find a step and sit down. Jingzhou lantern folk customs are a summer tradition only locals truly understand. The square is hung with handmade lanterns that light up after dark, casting shadows on the walls like walking into an old movie. 🍜 For lunch, you must have a bowl of Jingzhou Zaotang noodles. Alkaline noodles with eel shreds and meat slices, the broth is rich, and you'll be sweating after a 10-yuan meal. ⚠️ The sightseeing cart on the city wall charges a fee. If you have good legs, don't take it; walking yourself makes for better photos. 06 Lhasa | Tibet August is the rainy season in Lhasa, but it often rains at night, leaving blue skies and white clouds during the day. Namtso is a 4-hour drive from the city. The altitude is high and it's windy, so wear a windbreaker and don't worry about how it looks. The lake water is unrealistically blue. Standing by the lake, you'll be stunned by the vastness. ⚠️ There are people by the lake charging for photos with yaks. Be sure to ask the price clearly before taking photos, or you might get overcharged. The Potala Palace must be booked one day in advance. The ticket is 200 yuan, but it's worth it. Climb to the White Palace platform to overlook the whole city; the shock is something photos can't capture. Barkhor Street in front of Jokhang Temple is best visited in the afternoon. In the flow of pilgrims, you can smell the scent of butter tea and incense smoke mixed together. 🍜 Get a pot of sweet tea in a sweet tea house for 5 yuan, sit down, and watch the sunlight move across the stone pavement. 07 Mianyang | Sichuan A treasure city in Sichuan, overshadowed by Chengdu, but perfect for escaping the heat in August. Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is on the mountain. The altitude is high, so bring a thin jacket for morning and evening. The watchtowers and stone houses of the Qiang village are scattered in an orderly fashion. Walking on the stone path, you can hear the sound of the stream passing under the eaves. Arrive before 9:00 AM before the fog clears; the whole village looks like it's soaking in the clouds. For lunch, eat Qiang-style cured meat in the village with a bowl of buckwheat noodles. It's 20 yuan per person, and the rich aroma of the meat is unforgettable. ⏰ In the afternoon, go to the Qiang embroidery workshop to watch the grandmothers embroider. Embroidering a phone strap costs 20 yuan, which has more heart than souvenir shop items. ⚠️ It rains suddenly in the mountains, so keep an umbrella and raincoat with you; don't find it troublesome. 08 Changji | Xinjiang A land at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. August is its most generous season. The wheat fields of Jiangbulake have just turned yellow. As the wind blows, the whole hillside looks like a golden wave. Standing on the viewing boardwalk, you can hear the rustling of wheat ears colliding. Wucaiwan is better visited at dusk. The Yadan landform turns orange-red in the sunset, and the shadows stretch long, like walking on the surface of Mars. Tianshan Tianchi is the main event. Enter the mountain in the morning; the lake is emerald green, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains are reflected on the water. Take a boat ride for 120 yuan; it's worth it. ⚠️ It's windy by Tianchi, so bring a jacket and don't wear a short skirt. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to downtown Changji for Dapanji (big plate chicken). A portion is 60 yuan, enough for 3 people. Mixing the noodles into the sauce is so satisfying. 🚄 It takes half an hour by high-speed train from Urumqi, and the ticket is over 20 yuan, enough for a day trip. Eight places, each with its own way to stay cool. Who are you planning to visit first this August? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you check for any pitfalls.

8 places to escape the summer heat with kids in August that are less crowded and scenic 1️⃣ Dongying | Shandong The wind at the Yellow River estuary carries a salty, cool breeze. Arrive before 10 AM at the Yellow River Estuary Ecotourism Area and take the electric cart straight to the observation tower to see where the muddy yellow river meets the deep blue sea, creating a clear dividing line. Kids will be fascinated watching the river and sea meet longer than any textbook can show. 🦀 After the tide recedes, small crabs appear on the mudflats. Bring a small bucket and kids can play for an hour. ⚠️ The wetland boardwalk is exposed to strong sun. Make sure kids wear hats and apply enough sunscreen. 🍜 For lunch, head back to the city to try Lijin’s pan-fried buns. Crispy skin and generous filling, paired with a bowl of mung bean soup—much better than the overpriced, bland boxed meals at the scenic area. In the afternoon, cool off at the science museum. Indoor activities make it easy on parents. 2️⃣ Lijiang | Yunnan Don’t just think of Lijiang as a bar street. When traveling with kids, I recommend staying in Shuhe Ancient Town. It’s quieter than Dayan and has wider cobblestone streets. At 8 AM, before the tour groups arrive, stroll through Lijiang Old Town. The sound of flowing water at Sifang Street is louder than the crowd—that’s the real way to experience the ancient town. ⏰ In the afternoon, visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Be sure to book the main cable car ticket through the official WeChat account three days in advance; buying on-site is nearly impossible. At 4,506 meters altitude, if your child complains of a headache, don’t push it—descend immediately. The Blue Moon Valley below has milky blue water that needs no filter for photos, but the boardwalk is slippery, so hold your child’s hand. Visit Black Dragon Pool Park around 4 PM to catch the snow mountain reflection. Admission is free but you need to show your old town maintenance fee receipt. The Mu Residence is worth visiting. The guide’s stories about the Mu clan captivate kids even more than adults. ⚠️ Eight out of ten silver shops in the old town sell fake items. Just look, don’t buy. 3️⃣ Fuzhou | Fujian Sanfang Qixiang is not for “browsing” but for “exploring.” The main street of Nan Hou Street is crowded and hard to walk through, but turn into the side alleys of Yijin and Guanglu, and it’s instantly peaceful. The former homes of Bing Xin and Lin Juemin are on Yangqiao Lane, free to enter, cool inside, perfect for escaping the afternoon heat around 2 or 3 PM. 🍜 Don’t miss Tongli meat swallow dumplings. Made fresh to order, five per bowl, kids can even drink the soup. ⚠️ Avoid the “Fuzhou fish ball” shops on the main street; many sell wholesale products. For authentic fish balls with a chewy texture, go to the old Yonghe fish ball shop. In the evening, visit Wushan air-raid shelter. It stays at 22 degrees year-round and is a local favorite for cooling off. Kids running around inside will have more fun than just staying in the hotel air conditioning. 4️⃣ Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan’s coolness is dry and refreshing. Under the sun it’s warm, but instantly cool in the shade. Visit Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park in the morning. Walk the wooden boardwalk through the reeds and spot egrets and herons. Kids with binoculars can watch for half an hour without getting bored. Rent a pedal boat to drift on the lake. The breeze is so relaxing it makes you want to nap. In the afternoon, go to Helan Mountain rock art. Even in strong sun, the mountain shadows keep it cool. Guides tell stories about the sun god and hunting scenes that captivate kids. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants in the scenic area. Bring snacks and water. Lingwu Shuidonggou is better for older kids. Ride mule or camel carts and explore Tibetan soldier caves. It’s like an adventure. The Western Xia mausoleum museum is well done. The cultural ice cream is delicious, but the mausoleum area is exposed to strong sun. It’s best to visit after 4 PM. 5️⃣ Jiujiang | Jiangxi Lushan’s coolness is the kind that makes you regret not bringing a jacket. It’s 38 degrees at the foot of the mountain but just over 20 degrees at Guling Town at night. Stay two nights on the mountain in Lushan Scenic Area to fully explore. ⏰ In the morning, walk from Ruqin Lake to Huajing while the mist still lingers. The lake looks like a fairyland. At the hottest time around noon, visit Meilu Villa. It’s cool inside and you can listen to historical stories. In the afternoon, hike Sandie Spring. The stairs are steep with 3,000 steps round trip. For younger kids, take the cable car to the first tier and walk down from there, or your legs will be exhausted the next day. Lushan West Sea offers a different experience. Take a boat through islands like those in Thousand Island Lake. The water is so clear you can see the bottom. ⚠️ West Sea and Lushan are in opposite directions. Don’t try to visit both in one day—it’s exhausting. 🍜 Avoid street stalls on the mountain. Find home-style restaurants in residential areas. Stone fish with scrambled eggs and bamboo shoot braised pork are kid-friendly dishes that will have them eating two bowls of rice. 6️⃣ Anshun | Guizhou The coolness at Huangguoshu Waterfall comes from the mist. Visit Huangguoshu Waterfall in the morning. The Water Curtain Cave has fewer lines. Wear a raincoat inside—the mist hits you from all directions. Kids will scream running out and then want to go back in. ⚠️ Wear quick-dry clothes, not cotton T-shirts. Wet cotton sticks uncomfortably to the skin. In the afternoon, visit Dragon Palace. Take a boat into the cave, which stays at 16 degrees year-round. It’s so cold it gives you goosebumps. The dragon king statue and stalactites under colorful lights look magical. Kids will ask, “Is this the real Dragon Palace?” Say yes, and they’ll believe it. 🍜 Don’t miss Anshun’s Duoduo rice noodle hot pot. It’s sour and spicy, and the rice noodles soak up the broth. Kids can finish a bowl. ⚠️ Disposable raincoats sold at the scenic entrance cost 5 yuan each. Don’t buy the 10-yuan ones in the parking lot. 7️⃣ Dalian | Liaoning Dalian’s coolness comes from the sea breeze, which can even feel chilly in the morning and evening. Visit Jinshitan National Tourist Resort in the morning. The Golden Coast has fine sand where kids can dig all morning. The coastal national geopark’s reefs are impressive but have many stairs. Avoid with strollers. In the afternoon, go to Laohutan Ocean Park. Kids love the penguin and beluga whale shows at the polar pavilion. ⚠️ Dolphin shows have limited sessions. Check the schedule upon entry so you don’t miss it. Tangli Lake Park is a local favorite. It’s less crowded with shaded lakeside trails, perfect for a walk around 3 or 4 PM. The light show at Xinghai Square starts at 8 PM, but it’s windy. Bring an extra jacket for kids. 🍜 Don’t eat seafood inside the scenic area. Buy fresh seafood at the Heishijiao market and have it cooked at a small local restaurant. It’s fresh and affordable. 8️⃣ Linxia | Gansu Linxia’s coolness is the kind where you need a jacket in the morning and evening. The best thing at Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is a boat ride on the Yellow River. The water is emerald green, very different from the dusty northwest you imagine. Bingling Temple Grottoes are across the lake, about an hour by boat. Kids can watch water birds from the deck. The Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage site has well-preserved statues and murals. Guides tell Silk Road stories that are more vivid than textbooks. ⚠️ Boat trips are infrequent. No boats after 3 PM, so go early. Linxia’s Dongxiang hand-pulled lamb is top-notch. Boiled in clear water and dipped in pepper salt, it has no gamey taste. Take kids to Bafang Shisan Alley, where ethnic snacks like sweet fermented rice and stuffed rice noodles are sold. Kids will love them. ⚠️ The temperature difference between morning and evening is big. Bring a fleece jacket for kids and don’t just dress them in short sleeves. When traveling with kids in August, avoid crowded popular spots. These eight places offer wind, water, mountains, or caves—there’s something to keep you and your kids cool. Which one will you visit first? Share in the comments.

Stop crowding Gannan! This small summer retreat in the Northwest stays at a cool 22°C in summer✨ Linxia, the "Cool Capital of China" named by CCTV, has truly refreshed my impression of the great Northwest🌬️. Without the massive crowds, it offers a perfect mix of landscapes, grottoes, and vibrant ancient alleys. With an average summer temperature of 22°C, it is the ultimate comfortable summer getaway. ✨Trip Highlights Bafang Thirteen Alleys Filled with exquisite Hezhou brick carvings and layered blue-brick archways, these ancient alleys are full of local life and require no admission ticket. When the lanterns light up in the evening, the atmosphere is lively and perfect for photos. The alleys are home to many old courtyards; take your time wandering through them to experience the daily life of the locals. Bingling Temple Grottoes A thousand-year-old grotto complex hidden on the Danxia cliffs of the Yellow River, this is a World Heritage site. You need to take a boat across the Liujiaxia Reservoir to reach it. The combination of turquoise water, red rocks, and ancient Buddha statues is breathtaking, and it is much less crowded than the Mogao Caves. The iconic Cave 169 is a must-see; photography is prohibited inside the caves. Yellow and Tao River Confluence Viewing Platform A natural wonder resembling a "mandarin duck hotpot" 🌊, where the turquoise Yellow River meets the muddy Tao River. The two rivers remain distinct, creating a striking visual impact on sunny days. It is a free spot to visit. Songmingyan Forest Park An untouched forest sanctuary with ancient pine trees and flowing mountain streams. Walk along the forest trails to breathe in the fresh air and escape the heat; the lush greenery makes it incredibly refreshing and comfortable in summer. 🗓️Itinerary 3-day, 2-night relaxed route Day 1: Cultural exploration in the city Spend the afternoon wandering through the Bafang Thirteen Alleys, then visit the Dong Mansion to admire the brick carving art. In the evening, sit at Hongyuan Park, enjoy a bowl of covered-bowl tea (gaiwan tea), and relax. Have local snacks in the surrounding area for dinner. Day 2: Yellow River secret exploration Take a shared ride to Liujiaxia early in the morning. First, visit the Yellow and Tao River Confluence, take a boat tour of the Yellow River Three Gorges, and go ashore to visit the Bingling Temple Grottoes. Return to the city in the evening. Day 3: Mountain air and nature Spend the morning at the Hezheng Paleozoological Museum to see fossils of ancient giant beasts (free admission). In the afternoon, head to Songmingyan Forest Park for a hike to enjoy the cool mountain air before heading home. 🍲Food Recommendations Hand-grabbed lamb (shouzhuayangrou) is tender with a mild flavor; dip it in seasoned salt for a delicious taste. Hezhou steamed buns have thin skins and generous fillings—eat them while hot for the best texture. Tianpeizi (fermented oat dessert) is sweet and refreshing, while Eight-Treasure covered-bowl tea is great for cutting through grease. You can also find authentic flavors like fazi mianchang (sausage and noodle dish) and tangyougao (fried sugar cakes) at small street-side shops.

While others flock to trendy spots, I picked these few places—within a 2-hour high-speed train ride, prices are only half of the popular destinations, yet the landscapes showcase the ruggedness of Northwest China, the gentleness of Jiangnan, and the vastness of the plateau. Each has its own seasonal window. Going now means avoiding crowds and getting great deals. 1️⃣ Linxia | Gansu Before going to Linxia, I thought I’d just pass through. But I stayed for three days. I asked locals, “Which to visit first, Liujiaxia or Bingling Temple?” They waved their hands, “See the reservoir first, then the grottoes.” ⏰ Arrive at Liujiaxia Dam at 9 AM. The water is emerald green, clearly separated where it meets the Yellow River. On the speedboat, the wind is so strong you have to shout to talk. 📍 Bingling Temple is deep in the canyon. After getting off the boat, it’s a 10-minute walk. Seeing the giant Buddha feels like reaching the end of the Hexi Corridor. ⚠️ Don’t wear light-colored shoes; the boardwalk is covered in dust. 🍜 Back in town, try hand-pulled lamb. Just pick any place in Bafang Shisan Alley with a big pot outside. Lamb ribs dipped in pepper salt are so tender you don’t need to chew. 2️⃣ Changde | Hunan Many know Tao Yuanming wrote The Peach Blossom Spring, but when you visit Changde’s Peach Blossom Spring, it feels much quieter than in textbooks. I entered at 3 PM, and the park was almost empty. Walking along Qin Creek, both banks have ancient-style stilt houses and peach trees. The flowers weren’t fully bloomed in March, but the shade already covered the path. ⏰ After 5 PM, the light warms up, making the archway especially photogenic. ⚠️ Some small venues close on Mondays, so don’t follow a weekend itinerary. 📍 Afterward, go straight to Wuling District for Jinshi beef noodles. The noodles are round strips, the broth has a hint of herbal flavor, and adding a fried egg fills you up for 14 yuan. If you bring elders, take the sightseeing bus in the park; it’s flat and easy. If alone, spend the afternoon relaxing in a tea house. 3️⃣ Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula surprised me the most—it’s not as famous as Qinghai Lake, but the canyon and Danxia landforms mixed together have colors wilder than Zhangye. ⏰ Enter the park at 10 AM. First, take the mountain road to the viewing platform overlooking Lijiaxia Reservoir. The water is blue-green, like a jade piece set in red mountains. 📍 Hike down to touch the red sandstone, its texture looks like it’s been carved by a knife. ⚠️ The altitude is nearly 3,000 meters. Don’t rush or you’ll get out of breath. 🍜 At the exit, yak yogurt is sold for 5 yuan a cup. It’s so sour it makes you frown, but adding sugar balances it. If you only have one day, focus on Kanbula and skip Longwu Temple; it’s too rushed. 4️⃣ Nyingchi | Tibet Nyingchi is the gentle land of Tibet. When peach blossoms bloom in spring, the whole valley is pink and white. Choose between Bomi and Basongcuo? I pick Bomi. Basongcuo’s ticket plus sightseeing bus costs nearly 200 yuan, but the wild peach forest in Bomi County is free, right along the Palongzangbu River. ⏰ Peach blossom season is from late March to mid-April. In the early morning mist, snow mountains, peach blossoms, and prayer flags blend like a watercolor painting. 📍 On the Yunnan-Tibet route entering Nyingchi, near National Highway 318 is a village called Galang Lake. The lake reflects the snow mountains and has almost no tourists. ⚠️ Don’t drive yourself on the canyon’s gravel road; it’s prone to landslides in the rainy season. Hiring a car is safer. If you must enter the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, just go to the “Stronger than love” rock. Beyond that, the scenery repeats. 5️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake is the lake that looks least like a lake I’ve seen—it’s vast like a sea. 📍 Drive two hours from Jixi city to Dangbi Town, buy a ticket to enter the park. The sand is fine and soft, and the water is clear. ⏰ The light after 3 PM is the softest. Sitting by the lake eating grilled fish, locals use iron nets to grill, sprinkle cumin, and it’s 25 yuan per fish. ⚠️ Don’t wear slippers in the water; the lake bottom has sharp stones that can cut your feet. There’s a WWII memorial at Hutou, but I wasn’t interested and skipped it. If you visit in summer, bring a tent to camp, watch the stars at night, and there aren’t many mosquitoes. 6️⃣ Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake’s pink color has gone viral on social media, but seeing it in person is still surreal. ⏰ Autumn is the best time to visit. The water turns light pink due to algae, and on sunny days it looks like a giant strawberry pudding. 📍 Navigate to the “Colorful Salt Lake Scenic Area” entrance. No ticket is needed to walk along the outer fence, where you can photograph the lake and vast salt fields. 🍜 After the salt lake, go to Jiexian for lamb stew with bread. The broth is richer than Xi’an’s. Tear the bread into small pieces, soak it in the soup, and pair it with pickled garlic to cut the grease. If you have time, visit the Guan Di Temple, just a half-hour drive from the salt lake. 7️⃣ Zhoukou | Henan Zhoukou’s Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum and Taiqing Palace are treasures for culture lovers. ⏰ Go early to Taihao Mausoleum. It’s least crowded when the park opens. Walking on the sacred path, the cypress trees on both sides are over a thousand years old, covered in moss. 📍 Behind the main hall is the yarrow garden, where legend says Fuxi drew the Bagua with these plants. ⚠️ Taiqing Palace is a bit remote. Afternoon light is better. Some murals inside have peeled, but the carved beams and pillars are still clear. 🍜 Afterward, eat roast chicken in Huaiyang County at the old “Zhang’s roast chicken” shop. Tear open the drumstick; the meat is juicy and the skin slightly crispy. If you’re not into ancient architecture, it might feel boring, but history fans can spend a whole day here. 8️⃣ Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang is a seafood paradise, but Lake Guangyan surprised me more—a volcanic crater lake with shallow, crystal-clear water where you can see the stones at the bottom. 📍 The lakeside trail is 4 km. Rent a bike and circle it in half an hour. ⏰ Come at 4 PM. Sunlight filters through the trees onto the water. There’s a small island in the lake where wild birds nest. 🍜 In the city, eat oysters at street stalls. A dozen costs 10 yuan, grilled over charcoal with garlic and chili sauce, the juice sizzling. ⚠️ Avoid seafood restaurants on Chikan Old Street; prices are double. Near Dongfeng Market in Xiashan District, food stalls are more affordable. Each of these eight places has the confidence to offer a unique experience. Which one will you visit first this year? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you avoid pitfalls.

The summer heat in the dog days is really exhausting! Popular attractions are crowded and prices double. You definitely don’t want to squeeze into the crowds. Here are 4 super off-the-beaten-path summer getaway towns with gentle, comfortable temperatures, fewer people, and peaceful vibes, offering great value! Three days and two nights of food, fun, and relaxation cost only 500 per person—perfect for a short summer escape! 🥳 🍃 Hunan · Guidong|23℃ natural air-conditioned secret spot Hunan’s hidden summer paradise with a high forest coverage rate and cool, fresh air. Almost no heat waves all summer, no need for air conditioning, extremely comfortable! ✅ Activities: enjoy stunning sea of clouds on the mountaintop grassland, wade in mountain streams, stroll through the city forest park to soothe the summer heat 🍜 Food: mountain wild vegetables, Guidong cured duck, soft and sticky yellow rice cake 💰 Three days per person: 480r 🌿 Gansu · Linxia|20℃ refreshing small town in northwest China Who would have thought the northwest in August could be so cool and refreshing! Dry and not stuffy, the evening breeze is very soothing, completely overturning the stereotype of the northwest. ✅ Activities: free visit to Bafang Shisan Alley, walk along the Yellow River, check out the thousand-year-old grottoes, stroll through alpine meadows 🍜 Food: authentic hand-pulled lamb, sweet fermented rice wine, special guagua snacks 💰 Three days per person: 490r 🏯 Zhejiang · Quzhou|24℃ low-key ancient town in Jiangnan Avoid the crowds of Hangzhou and Wuzhen and experience the understated charm of Jiangnan in Quzhou. Quiet mountains and waters, peaceful ancient streets, a slow pace perfect for relaxing and unwinding. ✅ Activities: visit the free Shuitingmen ancient street, explore Ming and Qing dynasty villages, check out the famous Danxia mountains 🍜 Food: spicy duck head, crispy baked cakes, refreshing crystal jelly 💰 Three days per person: 460r 🌾 Yunnan · Jianshui|24℃ gentle slow town Compared to Dali and Lijiang, Jianshui is low-key and gentle with little commercialization and full of local life. Comfortable year-round temperature, gentle summer without harsh sun, perfect for slow travel. ✅ Activities: ride the rice field narrow-gauge train, watch the sunset at Chaoyang Tower, visit the ancient Shuanglong Bridge, check out the popular Ant Workshop 🍜 Food: grass sprout rice noodles, Jianshui grilled tofu, fragrant steam pot chicken 💰 Three days per person: 470r   ✨ travel notes All four towns are connected by high-speed rail, making transportation super convenient! August temperatures are comfortable, tourists are few, and food and lodging are affordable. For just 500, you can unlock a comfortable summer escape. Students and workers looking for a short trip should go for it!

01 Heihe City | Heilongjiang Province Wudalianchi is the kind of place where "you only realize how small you are when you get there," but it's surprisingly easy to manage with kids. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Harbin to Bei'an, then a half-hour bus ride to the scenic area. No need to climb mountains. The core activities are twofold: seeing the volcanic landforms and soaking in the cold mineral springs. Kids will definitely love the Fanhua Spring area; the water is cool, perfect for soaking your feet in the summer without getting too hot or sunburnt. There are also lava plateaus nearby where you can collect stones. In the afternoon, go to Laoheishan. Take the park's electric shuttle bus to the mountainside, then walk a short wooden boardwalk to see the crater. The slope is gentle, and even five- or six-year-olds can walk it on their own. ⚠️ Definitely avoid going at midday. There's no shade near the crater. The light is much more comfortable before 9 am or after 4 pm. Stay overnight in the sanatorium area near the scenic area entrance. Choose a local restaurant for meals; stewed river fish and mineral spring tofu are both cheap and plentiful. If you're bringing a stroller, the Stone Forest area isn't recommended; the ground is made of broken basalt, and the wheels can easily get stuck. Slow down the pace; two days and one night is just right. Don't try to visit too many attractions. 02 Nanning City | Guangxi Nanning summers are hot and humid, so you need to find opportunities to explore with kids. My strategy was to spend the morning indoors and the afternoon in the shade along the Yong River. Fubo Temple was a pleasant surprise, hidden in the old streets of Jiangnan District. The temple isn't large, but the large banyan tree at the entrance provides ample shade, and a row of elderly people sit under it fanning themselves, creating a very relaxed atmosphere. Kids can feed pigeons in the open space in front of the temple, and there are vendors selling corn kernels nearby for two yuan a bag. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 10:30 am, as the sun will make the stone steps scorching hot later. In the afternoon, head to the Shade Botanical Garden at the North Gate of Qingxiu Mountain. The temperature there is several degrees lower than in the city, the misting system is running, and the paths are all shaded, making it easy to walk with a stroller. 🍜 Don't eat lunch at the scenic area entrance. Take a 10-minute taxi ride to Shuangzijing Market; the rice noodle rolls and locust flower sweet soup are popular with locals queuing up. ⚠️ Rain in Nanning can come and go suddenly, so carry a folding umbrella. The air is actually cooler after a shower. In the evening, take a walk along the Yongjiang River; the river breeze will dispel all the daytime heat. 03 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Many outsiders don't know Linxia, ​​but once you bring your kids, they'll remember it. The most worthwhile activity at Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is a boat trip on the Yellow River. The water is emerald green, not the muddy yellow water you might imagine. Tickets are 80 yuan for adults and half price for children. The trip lasts one hour, with Danxia landforms on both banks. Kids will be thrilled watching water birds chase the waves from the side of the boat. ⏰ The most comfortable departure times are after 3 pm, when the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, preventing backlighting in photos. After getting ashore, don't rush off. The Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area is right next door, but children under six might not understand the grottoes. I recommend taking them to the dam viewing platform to watch the flood discharge; the rising mist can create rainbows. 🍜 Lunch was at "Gama Big Plate Chicken" in Liujiaxia Town. The potatoes were soft and tender, the chicken was flavorful, and it came with a side of white noodles. A family of three ate until they were stuffed for 60-70 yuan. ⚠️ Sun protection is essential. The ultraviolet rays at high altitudes are no joke; always bring a hat and sunglasses. We stayed overnight in Linxia city. The night market in Bafang Shisanxiang is lively, but I suggest avoiding anything too spicy, as children's stomachs can't handle it. 04 Xi'an City | Shaanxi The biggest fear when traveling with children in Xi'an is that "adults want to see history, but kids just want to play." My solution was: see the Terracotta Warriors in the morning and go to the Qinling Mountains to cool off in the afternoon. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Army Museum opens at 8:30 AM. Make sure to be among the first to enter; when it's less crowded, kids can lean on the railings, completely absorbed in watching the terracotta warriors in the pits. I recommend hiring a guide, but avoid the unlicensed guides soliciting customers at the entrance. Official guides are available at the service desk in Pit 2; they cost 100 yuan per hour and their explanations are much more engaging. After your visit, don't rush off. The souvenir shop near the exit sells Terracotta Army blind boxes; your child will be thrilled with just one. At noon, take a taxi directly to the Qinling Mountains (Zhongnan Mountain), a 40-minute drive. Have a bowl of biangbiang noodles at a local farmhouse at the foot of the mountain, then head into the mountains to play in the water. ⚠️ The rivers in Zhongnan Mountain are cold in summer, so don't let your child walk barefoot for too long. Water shoes are the safest option. If your child isn't interested in history, you can visit the Shaanxi History Museum in the afternoon, but you must book tickets three days in advance through their official WeChat account. Free tickets are hard to get; if you can't get a free ticket, buy a 30 yuan ticket for the Treasure Hall, which includes entry to the main hall and avoids the queue. In the evening, we rode tandem bicycles along the Xi'an City Wall. The section from the South Gate to the East Gate was the most comfortable; the breeze was gentle at sunset, and my child giggled in the front seat. 05 Hangzhou | Zhejiang In Hangzhou summers, don't insist on going to West Lake; it'll be incredibly crowded. I recommend Xixi National Wetland Park. Take a traditional rowing boat from Zhoujiacun Wharf. The boatman rows slowly, and the banks are lined with reeds and mulberry trees. Egrets fly across the water, and your child can easily reach out and touch the lotus leaves. ⏰ Enter as soon as the park opens at 8 am for a quieter, less crowded experience. The boat fare is 120 yuan per boat, seating six people; sharing a boat is more economical. After disembarking at noon, we went to the China Umbrella Museum, near Gongchen Bridge. The indoor area is cool, and children can watch the process of making oil-paper umbrellas and even paint the umbrella surface themselves. A 40-minute workshop costs 30 yuan. In the afternoon, we went to Prince Bay Park. It was much less crowded than West Lake. You could lie down on the lawn, spread a picnic blanket under the trees, and let the kids chase butterflies while you just close your eyes and sleep. 🍜 For dinner, we went to "Kuiyuan Restaurant" on Zhongshan Middle Road. Their signature dish is shrimp and eel noodles—the broth is rich, the noodles are chewy, and a bowl of Pian'erchuan noodles is enough for the kids. ⚠️ Don't take the electric carts around West Lake; they're expensive and congested. Walking is much faster. If you really want to see West Lake, go at 6:30 am. The Broken Bridge area is almost deserted, and the lake in the morning mist looks like an ink painting. 06 Lhasa City | Tibet Many people are hesitant to bring children to Lhasa, but actually, as long as they don't experience altitude sickness, children adapt faster than adults. We recommend visiting Namtso Lake on the third day of the trip to allow their bodies to acclimatize. A day trip by chartered car takes about three hours each way. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves. Children prone to motion sickness should use motion sickness patches beforehand. The wind is particularly strong by the lake, so dress your child in a fleece-lined windbreaker—don't worry about the appearance, practicality is key. ⚠️ Namtso Lake is at an altitude of 4,700 meters. Avoid letting children run or jump; make sure they stop to catch their breath after every few steps. Keep oxygen cylinders in the car. The Potala Palace requires reservations one day in advance. Take your child through the east gate; the steps aren't steep but are long, taking about 40 minutes to reach the top. Children may not understand the murals and stupas, but they'll be very curious about the butter lamps and chanting. The Jokhang Temple is best visited in the evening when the crowds circumambulating the Barkhor Street slowly emerge. Children can follow the prayer wheels, walking and spinning them, and can be quite engrossed in the activity. 🍜 Don't miss the sweet tea in Lhasa! A cup at the Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House costs only five yuan, and your child drank until their nose was bubbling. Return to the hotel early in the evening to rest; avoid too much nightlife, as the energy expenditure at high altitudes is twice as fast as at low altitudes. 07 Xiangyang City | Hubei Bringing kids to Xiangyang, Ancient Longzhong is the kind of place you might think is boring, but the kids won't want to leave. The entire scenic area is like a large park, with shady trees and gentle paths, making it perfect for strollers. The main attractions are the Sangu Hall and the Thatched Cottage Pavilion, but kids prefer the stream within the scenic area. The water is ankle-deep, perfect for catching small fish and shrimp; remember to bring a small net. ⏰ Enter the park at 8:30 am and follow the main route to see the ancient buildings. After 10 am, when it gets crowded, head towards the stream where it's cooler under the trees. 🍜 At noon, turn right after exiting the scenic area gate and you'll find "Longzhong Old Tofu," which offers freshly ground soy milk and both sweet and savory tofu pudding. Kids will enjoy it with a guokui (a type of flatbread). ⚠️ There's no need to take the sightseeing bus within the scenic area. The journey is short, only about 20 minutes on foot, and taking the bus will make you miss the fun along the stream. If you still have energy in the afternoon, take a walk along the ancient city wall of Xiangyang. Near Zhaoming Terrace on North Street, there's a shop selling freshly baked brown sugar cakes; the molten sugar inside is irresistible to kids. Half a day is enough for the whole trip; no need to stay overnight. 08 Ya'an City | Sichuan Ya'an Bifengxia is perfect for kids because of its coolness and wildness. Upon entering the scenic area, take a sightseeing bus to the panda base, where dozens of giant pandas live. Nine o'clock in the morning is feeding time, and kids will laugh as they watch the pandas munching on bamboo. After seeing the pandas, walk down the canyon boardwalk, passing waterfalls and pools along the way. The mist is refreshing, and the temperature feels five or six degrees Celsius lower than outside. ⏰ After 2 pm, there are fewer tourists, the boardwalk is quiet, and the sounds of birds and water blend together. Kids can walk the whole way on their own, but there's a steep section of steps; it's recommended to carry children under five. 🍜 "Bifengxia Home-Style Cuisine" at the scenic area entrance serves Ya fish, which is tender and has few bones, making it suitable for children. The price is around 50 RMB per person. ⚠️ Ya'an is a rainy city; it can rain at any time. Raincoats are more convenient than umbrellas. The boardwalks are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. If you have enough time, you can visit Shangli Ancient Town the next day, which is a half-hour drive from Bifengxia. It features ancient bridges and flowing water; children can play by the river throwing stones for an entire afternoon. A two-day, one-night trip is just right; don't rush. 01 Heihe City | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi is the kind of place where "you only realize how small you are when you arrive," but it's surprisingly easy to manage with children. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Harbin to Bei'an, then a half-hour bus ride to the scenic area. There's no need to climb mountains. The core activities are twofold: seeing the volcanic landforms and soaking in the cold mineral springs. The kids' favorite spot is definitely Fanhua Spring. The water is cool, perfect for soaking their feet in the summer without getting too hot or sunburnt. There's also a lava plateau nearby where you can collect stones. In the afternoon, head to Laoheishan Mountain. Take the park's electric shuttle bus to the mountainside, then walk a short wooden boardwalk to see the crater. The slope is gentle, and even five- or six-year-olds can walk it on their own. ⚠️ Definitely avoid going at midday. There's no shade near the crater. The light is much more comfortable before 9 am or after 4 pm. Stay overnight at the sanatorium area near the park entrance. Choose local restaurants for meals; stewed river fish and mineral spring tofu are cheap and plentiful. If you're bringing a stroller, I don't recommend the Stone Sea area, as the ground is made of broken basalt, and wheels can easily get stuck. Slow down the pace; two days and one night is just right. Don't try to visit too many attractions. 02 Nanning City | Guangxi Nanning summers are hot and humid, so you have to learn to "find opportunities" when taking kids out. My strategy is to spend the morning indoors and the afternoon in the shade along the Yongjiang River. Fubo Temple was a delightful surprise, tucked away in the old streets of Jiangnan District. The temple itself isn't large, but the huge banyan tree at the entrance provides ample shade, and a row of elderly men and women sit beneath it, fanning themselves – the atmosphere is incredibly relaxing. Kids can feed pigeons in the open space in front of the temple, and there are vendors selling corn kernels nearby for two yuan a bag. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 10:30 am, as the sun will make the stone steps scorching hot later. In the afternoon, head to the Shade Botanical Garden at the North Gate of Qingxiu Mountain. The temperature there is several degrees lower than in the city, with a misting system running and the paths completely shaded, making it easy to walk with a stroller. 🍜 Don't eat lunch at the scenic area entrance. Take a ten-minute taxi ride to Shuangzijing Market; the rice noodle rolls and locust flower sweet soup are always packed with locals queuing up. ⚠️ Rain in Nanning can come and go suddenly, so carry a folding umbrella. The air is actually cooler after a shower. In the evening, take a walk along the Yong River; the river breeze will instantly dispel the daytime heat. 03 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Many outsiders may not know Linxia, ​​but a visit with children will leave a lasting impression. The most worthwhile activity at the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is a boat trip on the Yellow River. The water is emerald green, completely unlike the muddy yellow water you might imagine. Tickets are 80 yuan for adults and half price for children, a one-hour trip. The banks are lined with Danxia landforms, and the kids were thrilled watching the water birds chase the waves from the gunwale. ⏰ The most comfortable time to go is after 3 pm, when the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, preventing backlighting in photos. After disembarking, don't rush off. The Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Site is right next door, but children under six might not understand the grottoes. I recommend taking them to the dam viewing platform to see the flood discharge; the rising mist can create rainbows. 🍜 Lunch was at "Gama Big Plate Chicken" in Liujiaxia Town. The potatoes were soft and tender, the chicken was flavorful, and it came with a side of white noodles. A family of three ate until they were stuffed for 60-70 yuan. ⚠️ Sun protection is essential; the UV rays at high altitudes are no joke. Always bring a hat and sunglasses. Stay overnight in Linxia city. The night market in the Eight Squares and Thirteen Lanes is lively, but avoid overly spicy food as it can upset a child's stomach. 04 Xi'an City | Shaanxi The biggest fear when traveling with kids in Xi'an is that "adults want to see history, but kids just want to play." My solution is: visit the Terracotta Army in the morning and cool off in the Qinling Mountains in the afternoon. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Army Museum opens at 8:30 am; be sure to be among the first to enter. When it's less crowded, kids can lean on the railings, completely absorbed in watching the terracotta warriors in the pits. I recommend hiring a guide, but avoid the unlicensed guides soliciting customers at the entrance. Official guides are available at the service desk in Pit 2 for 100 yuan per hour, and their explanations are much more engaging. After the tour, don't rush off. The souvenir shop at the exit sells Terracotta Army blind boxes; a single box can keep a child happy for hours. At noon, take a taxi directly to the Qinling Zhongnan Mountain (40-minute drive). Have a bowl of biangbiang noodles at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain, then head into the mountains to play in the water. ⚠️ The river water in the Zhongnan Mountains is cool in summer, so don't let your child walk barefoot for too long; a pair of river wading shoes is the safest option. If your child isn't interested in history, visit the Shaanxi History Museum in the afternoon, but you must book tickets three days in advance through their official WeChat account. Free tickets are hard to get; if you can't get a free ticket, buy a 30 RMB ticket for the Treasure Hall, which allows entry to the main hall and avoids queuing. In the evening, ride tandem bicycles along the Xi'an City Wall; the section from the South Gate to the East Gate is the most comfortable. The breeze is gentle at sunset, and your child will be giggling in the front seat. 05 Hangzhou | Zhejiang In Hangzhou summers, don't insist on visiting West Lake; it will be incredibly crowded. I recommend Xixi National Wetland Park. Take a traditional rowing boat from Zhoujiacun Wharf. The boatman rows slowly, and the banks are lined with reeds and mulberry trees. Egrets fly across the water, and your child can easily reach out and touch the lotus leaves. ⏰ Enter the park as soon as it opens at 8 am for a quieter, less crowded experience. The boat fare is 120 RMB per boat, seating six people; sharing a boat is more economical. At noon, we disembarked and went to the China Umbrella Museum, near Gongchen Bridge. The indoor area was cool, and the kids could watch the process of making oil-paper umbrellas and even paint the umbrella surface themselves. A 40-minute workshop cost 30 yuan. In the afternoon, we went to Prince Bay Park, which was much less crowded than West Lake. We could lie on the lawn freely, spread a picnic blanket under the trees, and let the kids chase butterflies while you just closed your eyes and slept. 🍜 For dinner, we went to "Kuiyuan Restaurant" on Zhongshan Middle Road. Their signature dish is shrimp and eel noodles; the broth is rich, and the noodles are chewy. A bowl of Pian'erchuan noodles for the kids is enough. ⚠️ Don't take the electric carts along West Lake; they're expensive and congested. Walking is much faster. If you really want to see West Lake, go at 6:30 am. The Broken Bridge area is almost deserted, and the lake in the morning mist looks like an ink painting. 06 Lhasa City | Tibet Many people are hesitant to bring kids to Lhasa, but actually, as long as there's no altitude sickness, children adapt faster than adults. It's recommended to visit Namtso Lake on the third day of your trip to allow your child's body to acclimatize to the altitude. A chartered car will take a day round trip, about three hours each way. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves. Children prone to motion sickness should apply motion sickness patches beforehand. The wind is particularly strong by the lake, so dress your child in a fleece-lined windproof jacket – don't worry about the appearance, practicality is paramount. ⚠️ Namtso Lake is at an altitude of 4,700 meters. Avoid letting children run or jump; allow them to stop and catch their breath every few steps. Keep oxygen cylinders in the car. The Potala Palace requires reservations one day in advance. Enter through the east gate with your child. The steps aren't steep but are long; a leisurely 40-minute walk will get you to the top. Children may not understand the murals and stupas, but they will be very curious about the butter lamps and the chanting. Jokhang Temple is best visited in the evening when the crowds circumambulating Barkhor Street slowly emerge. Children can follow the prayer wheels, walking and spinning them, and can be very engaged. 🍜 Don't miss the sweet tea in Lhasa! A cup at the Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House costs only five yuan, and my child drank it until their nose was bubbling. Go back to the hotel early to rest. Don't plan too much nightlife, as you burn through energy twice as fast at high altitudes as at low altitudes. 07 Xiangyang City | Hubei Province Traveling with kids in Xiangyang, Ancient Longzhong is the kind of place you might think is boring, but your child won't want to leave. The entire scenic area is like a large park, with shady trees and gentle paths, making it perfect for strollers. The main attractions are the Sangu Hall and the Thatched Cottage Pavilion, but kids prefer the streams within the scenic area. The water is ankle-deep, perfect for catching small fish and shrimp; remember to bring a small net. ⏰ Enter the park at 8:30 am. Start with the main route to see the ancient buildings. After 10 am, when it gets crowded, head towards the stream where it's cooler under the trees. 🍜 At noon, turn right after exiting the scenic area gate. There's a shop called "Longzhong Old Tofu," which serves freshly ground soy milk and both sweet and savory tofu pudding. Kids will enjoy it with a flatbread. ⚠️ There's no need to take the sightseeing bus in the scenic area. The journey is short, only about 20 minutes on foot, and taking the bus will make you miss the fun along the stream. If you still have energy in the afternoon, walk a section of the Xiangyang Ancient City Wall. Near Zhaoming Terrace on North Street, there's a shop selling freshly baked brown sugar cakes; one bite and the sugar oozes out—the kids' eyes will light up. Half a day is enough for the whole trip; no need to stay overnight. 08 Ya'an City | Sichuan Ya'an Bifengxia is best suited for children because of its coolness and wildness. Upon entering the scenic area, take the sightseeing bus to the Panda Base, where there are dozens of giant pandas. 9:00 AM is feeding time, and the kids will laugh as they watch the pandas munching on bamboo. After seeing the pandas, walk down the canyon boardwalk, passing waterfalls and pools along the way. The mist is refreshing, and the perceived temperature is about 5-6 degrees Celsius lower than outside. ⏰ After 2:00 PM, there are fewer tourists, the boardwalk is quiet, and the sounds of birds and water blend together. Children can walk the entire way on their own, but there's a steep section of steps; it's recommended to carry children under five. 🍜 "Bifengxia Home-Style Cuisine" near the scenic area entrance serves Ya fish; the meat is tender and has few bones, making it suitable for children. The price is around 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ Ya'an is a rainy city, so rain can come at any time. Bringing a raincoat is more convenient than an umbrella. The boardwalk is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. If you have enough time, you can visit Shangli Ancient Town the next day, which is about a half-hour drive from Bifengxia. With its ancient bridges and flowing water, kids can play by the river throwing stones for an entire afternoon. A two-day, one-night itinerary is just right; don't rush.

If you don’t want to crowd Gannan in summer, try visiting Linxia🌿 Cool and comfortable, with mountains, rivers, and culture all in one. 🌟Highlights ✅ Bafang Shisan Alley Free to explore Hezhou’s ancient streets and alleys. Exquisite brick carvings are everywhere. Lanterns light up in the evening, creating a great atmosphere full of local life. ✅ Dong Mansion A Republic of China-era old residence with stunning brick carving art. Full of intricate details worth a close look. Take a walk next door at Hongyuan while you’re there. ✅ Bingling Temple Grottoes A world cultural heritage site reached by boat through the Yellow River’s Three Gorges. Thousand-year-old Buddhist caves on the Danxia cliffs facing the Yellow River are truly breathtaking. ✅ Huangtao Confluence viewing platform Where clear and muddy river waters meet, a natural two-tone Yellow River wonder. Perfect for photos on sunny days. 🗓️3-day easy itinerary D1 Arrive in Linxia. Explore Bafang Shisan Alley and Dong Mansion. Stroll the night market in the evening. D2 Head to Yongjing. Visit the Huangtao Confluence. Take a boat tour of Bingling Temple Grottoes. D3 Relax and breathe fresh air at Songmingyan Mountain. Leisurely return trip. 🍲Food notes Try Dongxiang hand-pulled lamb, Hezhou steamed buns, Fazimian sausage, and finish with a cup of eight-treasure covered bowl tea to refresh. ⚠️Travel tips ▫️Attractions are far apart; self-driving is more convenient ▫️Large temperature difference between morning and evening; bring a light jacket ▫️Strong UV rays; remember to bring sun protection ▫️Confirm boat schedules for Bingling Temple in advance and allow enough time Relaxed pace and low cost make it perfect for slow unwinding and summer escape.

List of cities with zero negative reviews, how many have you checked in? 01 Tonghua|Jilin Tonghua is a place that I would like to call "a treasure delayed by names." Many people first thought of Changbai Mountain when they heard about Jilin, and ended up missing Tonghua. I'll make it up for you. ⏰ Arrive at Goguryeo cultural relics before 9am, the light hits the ruins of the city wall, photography does not need a filter. This is not the kind of fake antique that has been repaired to a new level, it is a wild site that really touches the thousand-year-old stone blocks. Walk around for about two hours, remember to wear non-slip shoes, the stairs are something. 🍜 Don't leave in a hurry at noon. Find a small shop in Ji'an city and order a Korean brazier. Beef, tofu, and vermicelli are bubbling and bubbling in the copper basin. With white rice, you can eat two bowls. The average price is 30 dollars per person, which is enough to support the wall. In the afternoon, go to Ji'an Rapeseed Flower Sea. ⚠️ Early July is the blooming period, early to get green stems. The sea of ​​flowers spreads along the Duck Green River, and on the other side is exotic mountain land. When the wind blows, the pollen mixed with the fishy smell of the river water is very special. It is recommended to rent a bicycle and ride slowly. Don't take a sightseeing car. You will miss the old apricot trees on the edge of the field. 02 Southeast Guizhou Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Southeast Guizhou is a big state with scattered attractions. Don't think about walking it all in one go. I'll help you prioritize. 📍Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, the most famous, the most people. My advice: stay one night and wait until the tour is gone after 9pm so you can see the real bonfire of thousands of homes. Waking up at six in the morning, Miaozhai looks like an ink painting in the mist, that is how it looks worth the price of admission. Daytime? Crowded, average experience. Zhaoxing Dong Village is much quieter than Xijiang. ⏰ Entering the village after 4pm, the old man downstairs from the drum began to sing the Dong song, the sound echoed under the wind and rain bridge, giving rise to goosebumps. This place is more suitable for people who like slow pace. It's not too much to stay for two nights. The ancient city of Zhenyuan was an unexpected surprise. The Wuyang River split the ancient city in half, and Qinglong Cave was built on a cliff, like a suspended block. ⚠️ Don't take a cruise, the stone path by the river is more flavorful. Watching the sunset on the Consecrated Bridge in the evening, with gold crushing on the river, lasts longer than any light show. Incense Rock is suitable for those who like to hike. The road is not good, but the waterfall washes down from the top of the rock, and the moment the water vapor hits your face, you will feel that the previous sweat is worth the price of admission. Not recommended for the elderly and children, the stairs are slippery. 03 Salt City |Jiangsu Salt City has one main character: Dafeng Chinese Elk Park. But this one is enough for you to make a special trip. 🚄 About an hour drive from the Salt City area, it is recommended to leave at 8am. The elk are most active in the early morning hours, lying languidly unmoving as soon as nine o'clock passes. The park is so large that a battery car is mandatory, but don’t ride the whole way – the latter half of the drive allows you to see the deer herd cross the river up close. 🍜Eat a bowl of fish soup noodles at the entrance of the scenic spot at noon. The soup is as white as milk, with shredded ginger, so fresh that your eyebrows will fall off. Don't be disdainful of simplicity, that's how locals eat. ⚠️ The afternoon light is not suitable for deer photography, the backlight is all silhouette. Let's go to the beach wetland and have a look. At this time, the Danding Crane will come out to look for food. Remember to bring a binocular, your phone can't take pictures clearly. Four hours of walking around the whole park is enough. You don't have to live. It's easy to go back and forth on the same day. 04 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia, ​​I would like to call it "the hidden copy of the Northwest". It is not as noisy as Lanzhou, but it hides two completely different scenery. In the morning, we went to Liujia Gorge Tourist Resort. ⏰ Arrive before 10 o'clock, take a boat tour of the reservoir, the water is as green as emerald. Don't leave in such a hurry, you must go to the intersection of the Yellow River and the Yu River - one side is green and the other is yellow, the two rivers seem to be fighting, the dividing line visible to the naked eye. This kind of natural wonder cannot be captured in a photo. In the afternoon, transfer to the Bing Ling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area. ⚠️ The most troublesome thing here is the traffic. Be careful when driving on the mountain road. The steep slopes are steep. But when you stand at the feet of the Buddha and look up at the Tang Dynasty cliff Buddha, you will feel that all the trouble is worth the price of admission. It is recommended to hire an instructor, otherwise you will just "wow" and not understand anything. 🍜 Back in the city at night, eat a bowl of riverside noodles, hand-kneaded noodles with lamb soup, warm the stomach. The night market in Linxia is more lively than expected. The skewers of roast lamb are two dollars a skewer, and the meat is very big. 05 Xiangtan|Hunan Xiangtan, don’t just think that he has been famous, he is fun in his own right. Caojia Au Waterfall is a summer resort privately collected by locals. ⏰ Go the second day after the rain, the amount of water is the largest, the waterfall hangs in the mountains like a white practice. The road was not good, all covered with gravel and moss, but when we reached the bottom of the waterfall, the water mist hit our faces, and the coolness rushed from the soles of our feet to our heads. ⚠️ Do not wear slippers, do not bring DSLR, serious splashing. Shaoshan tourist area is another matter. This is not a natural scenery, but a humanistic atmosphere. It is recommended to hire a guide, otherwise all you can see is the house and the trees. Walk around and you will have a more three-dimensional understanding of that history. ⚠️ There are so many people on holidays, try to go on weekdays. 🍜Eating Mao's red pork outside the scenic spot at noon is fat but not greasy, and melts in your mouth. Served with a bowl of fish head with chopped pepper, spicy to tears, but can't stop chopsticks. Xiangtan's Xiang cuisine is wilder and more spicy than Changsha. 06 Yuncheng | Shanxi The Yuncheng Salt Lake is known as the "Dead Sea of ​​China", but I think it's much more fun than the Dead Sea. ⏰ At 5:30 pm, the sun begins to set west, the lake is dyed pink purple. The color of Salt Lake is layered, light green in the near, dark blue in the distance, with pink sandwiched in the middle, as if the palette has been overturned. Taking pictures at this point, casually pressing the shutter is a large piece. ⚠️ Don’t go at noon, the salt lake reflection stings your eyes, you can’t open your eyes, and you get dizzy from the sun. Don’t wear shoes that are too good either, as salt crystals from the lake can scratch the uppers. 🚄 Take a taxi from Yuncheng North Station for about twenty minutes. After playing in Salt Lake, go to the Guandi Temple in Jiezhou at night. Although the tickets are not cheap, as the largest Guandi Temple in existence, it is worth a visit. 🍜 Dinner in the city with a bowl of smelly boiled biscuits with lamb dumplings, carbohydrate bomb, but happy. 07 Chicken West | Heilongjiang Chicken West, a small town on the northeastern border, has pitifully few tourists, but the scenery is hard-core. Tiger Head, with its nasty-sounding name, is actually a quiet town. The Ussuri River flows by the edge of the town, and on the other side lies Russia. ⏰ Go to the riverside in the early morning, the fog rises from the river, the fishing boat is looming in the fog, like an ink painting comes to life. There are no commercial streets, no souvenir shops, only the river breeze and the chirping of birds. Lake Xingkai is a different story. The lake is so big that you can’t see the other side, it’s like the sea. ⚠️ Don’t go to the toll beach area, drive two kilometers east, there is a wild beach where locals swim. The water is clear to the bottom, the sand is soft and soft, and it is very comfortable to step on it with bare feet. 🍜The cold noodles at Chicken West are the best in the Northeast, completely different from those in Yanji. The soup is boiled in beef broth, sweet and sour, with spicy cabbage and cucumber shreds. A bowl of summer is refreshing. Don't eat the food inside the scenic spot. Go to the "old-fashioned" small shop in the city. It costs 10 dollars a bowl. The portion is plenty. 08 Chongqing Chongqing, the only metropolis in the city with zero negative reviews. But I’m not going to talk about Hongya Cave and Liberation Monument—those are Chongqing for tourists, and I’m going to talk about some of the others. The Dazu Rock Carvings are a World Cultural Heritage Site, but many people who come to Chongqing don't know it at all. 🚄 Take the subway from the city to University Town, then take a taxi for half an hour. The petroglyphs here are not the kind of petty fights. They are the whole mountain carved with Buddha statues. The thousand-handed Guanyin statue is shining with golden light. There are too many details to see. ⏰ It is recommended to go in the morning, the light shines from the east side, the face of the Buddha statue is light. Backlighting in the afternoon, I can't see my expression clearly. Yanyun Mountain is the back garden of Chongqing people. ⚠️ Don't take the cable car, it's fun to walk up the hill. The mountain road is not steep, but there are many bends. You can reach the top in two hours. The visibility of Lion Peak at the top of the mountain is excellent, with the entire Beibu District at your feet. 🍜 After going down the mountain, go to Beibu Old Street to eat a bowl of bean curd rice, tender bean curd with spicy oil, three dollars a bowl, cheap enough to doubt life. Wulong Karst Tourist Area, far, but worth it. At the scale of being born with three bridges, you’ll feel like a mite when you stand under the bridge and look up. ⏰ Best to go after the rain, the waterfall hangs down from the top of the bridge, the water is full of air, like entering a fairyland. ⚠️ The elevator queue is very long, it is recommended to walk down the hiking trail to save an hour. The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, don't take that kind of day trip cruise, it's too rushed. Choose a two-day, one-night slow boat and watch the stars on the deck at night, the river is as black as ink, and the shadows of the mountains on both banks are like giant beasts. That kind of peace and quiet that can never be found in the city. Eight places, eight characters. The things of Tonghua, the slowness of Southeast Guizhou, the leisure of Salt City, the strangeness of Linxia, ​​the spicy of Xiangtan, the powder of Yuncheng, the quietness of Jixi, the demon of Chongqing. How many have you checked in? Talk in the comment section and I see who knows the best. List of cities with zero negative reviews, how many have you checked in? 01 Tonghua|Jilin Tonghua is a place that I would like to call "a treasure delayed by names." Many people first thought of Changbai Mountain when they heard about Jilin, and ended up missing Tonghua. I'll make it up for you. ⏰ Arrive at Goguryeo cultural relics before 9am, the light hits the ruins of the city wall, photography does not need a filter. This is not the kind of fake antique that has been repaired to a new level, it is a wild site that really touches the thousand-year-old stone blocks. Walk around for about two hours, remember to wear non-slip shoes, the stairs are something. 🍜 Don't leave in a hurry at noon. Find a small shop in Ji'an city and order a Korean brazier. Beef, tofu, and vermicelli are bubbling and bubbling in the copper basin. With white rice, you can eat two bowls. The average price is 30 dollars per person, which is enough to support the wall. In the afternoon, go to Ji'an Rapeseed Flower Sea. ⚠️ Early July is the blooming period, early to get green stems. The sea of ​​flowers spreads along the Duck Green River, and on the other side is exotic mountain land. When the wind blows, the pollen mixed with the fishy smell of the river water is very special. It is recommended to rent a bicycle and ride slowly. Don't take a sightseeing car. You will miss the old apricot trees on the edge of the field. 02 Southeast Guizhou Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Southeast Guizhou is a big state with scattered attractions. Don't think about walking it all in one go. I'll help you prioritize. 📍Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, the most famous, the most people. My advice: stay one night and wait until the tour is gone after 9pm so you can see the real bonfire of thousands of homes. Waking up at six in the morning, Miaozhai looks like an ink painting in the mist, that is how it looks worth the price of admission. Daytime? Crowded, average experience. Zhaoxing Dong Village is much quieter than Xijiang. ⏰ Entering the village after 4pm, the old man downstairs from the drum began to sing the Dong song, the sound echoed under the wind and rain bridge, giving rise to goosebumps. This place is more suitable for people who like slow pace. It's not too much to stay for two nights. The ancient city of Zhenyuan was an unexpected surprise. The Wuyang River split the ancient city in half, and Qinglong Cave was built on a cliff, like a suspended block. ⚠️ Don't take a cruise, the stone path by the river is more flavorful. Watching the sunset on the Consecrated Bridge in the evening, with gold crushing on the river, lasts longer than any light show. Incense Rock is suitable for those who like to hike. The road is not good, but the waterfall washes down from the top of the rock, and the moment the water vapor hits your face, you will feel that the previous sweat is worth the price of admission. Not recommended for the elderly and children, the stairs are slippery. 03 Salt City |Jiangsu Salt City has one main character: Dafeng Chinese Elk Park. But this one is enough for you to make a special trip. 🚄 About an hour drive from the Salt City area, it is recommended to leave at 8am. The elk are most active in the early morning hours, lying languidly unmoving as soon as nine o'clock passes. The park is so large that a battery car is mandatory, but don’t ride the whole way – the latter half of the drive allows you to see the deer herd cross the river up close. 🍜Eat a bowl of fish soup noodles at the entrance of the scenic spot at noon. The soup is as white as milk, with shredded ginger, so fresh that your eyebrows will fall off. Don't be disdainful of simplicity, that's how locals eat. ⚠️ The afternoon light is not suitable for deer photography, the backlight is all silhouette. Let's go to the beach wetland and have a look. At this time, the Danding Crane will come out to look for food. Remember to bring a binocular, your phone can't take pictures clearly. Four hours of walking around the whole park is enough. You don't have to live. It's easy to go back and forth on the same day. 04 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia, ​​I would like to call it "the hidden copy of the Northwest". It is not as noisy as Lanzhou, but it hides two completely different scenery. In the morning, we went to Liujia Gorge Tourist Resort. ⏰ Arrive before 10 o'clock, take a boat tour of the reservoir, the water is as green as emerald. Don't leave in such a hurry, you must go to the intersection of the Yellow River and the Yu River - one side is green and the other is yellow, the two rivers seem to be fighting, the dividing line visible to the naked eye. This kind of natural wonder cannot be captured in a photo. In the afternoon, transfer to the Bing Ling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area. ⚠️ The most troublesome thing here is the traffic. Be careful when driving on the mountain road. The steep slopes are steep. But when you stand at the feet of the Buddha and look up at the Tang Dynasty cliff Buddha, you will feel that all the trouble is worth the price of admission. It is recommended to hire an instructor, otherwise you will just "wow" and not understand anything. 🍜 Back in the city at night, eat a bowl of riverside noodles, hand-kneaded noodles with lamb soup, warm the stomach. The night market in Linxia is more lively than expected. The skewers of roast lamb are two dollars a skewer, and the meat is very big. 05 Xiangtan|Hunan Xiangtan, don’t just think that he has been famous, he is fun in his own right. Caojia Au Waterfall is a summer resort privately collected by locals. ⏰ Go the second day after the rain, the amount of water is the largest, the waterfall hangs in the mountains like a white practice. The road was not good, all covered with gravel and moss, but when we reached the bottom of the waterfall, the water mist hit our faces, and the coolness rushed from the soles of our feet to our heads. ⚠️ Do not wear slippers, do not bring DSLR, serious splashing. Shaoshan tourist area is another matter. This is not a natural scenery, but a humanistic atmosphere. It is recommended to hire a guide, otherwise all you can see is the house and the trees. Walk around and you will have a more three-dimensional understanding of that history. ⚠️ There are so many people on holidays, try to go on weekdays. 🍜Eating Mao's red pork outside the scenic spot at noon is fat but not greasy, and melts in your mouth. Served with a bowl of fish head with chopped pepper, spicy to tears, but can't stop chopsticks. Xiangtan's Xiang cuisine is wilder and more spicy than Changsha. 06 Yuncheng | Shanxi The Yuncheng Salt Lake is known as the "Dead Sea of ​​China", but I think it's much more fun than the Dead Sea. ⏰ At 5:30 pm, the sun begins to set west, the lake is dyed pink purple. The color of Salt Lake is layered, light green in the near, dark blue in the distance, with pink sandwiched in the middle, as if the palette has been overturned. Taking pictures at this point, casually pressing the shutter is a large piece. ⚠️ Don’t go at noon, the salt lake reflection stings your eyes, you can’t open your eyes, and you get dizzy from the sun. Don’t wear shoes that are too good either, as salt crystals from the lake can scratch the uppers. 🚄 Take a taxi from Yuncheng North Station for about twenty minutes. After playing in Salt Lake, go to the Guandi Temple in Jiezhou at night. Although the tickets are not cheap, as the largest Guandi Temple in existence, it is worth a visit. 🍜 Dinner in the city with a bowl of smelly boiled biscuits with lamb dumplings, carbohydrate bomb, but happy. 07 Chicken West | Heilongjiang Chicken West, a small town on the northeastern border, has pitifully few tourists, but the scenery is hard-core. Tiger Head, with its nasty-sounding name, is actually a quiet town. The Ussuri River flows by the edge of the town, and on the other side lies Russia. ⏰ Go to the riverside in the early morning, the fog rises from the river, the fishing boat is looming in the fog, like an ink painting comes to life. There are no commercial streets, no souvenir shops, only the river breeze and the chirping of birds. Lake Xingkai is a different story. The lake is so big that you can’t see the other side, it’s like the sea. ⚠️ Don’t go to the toll beach area, drive two kilometers east, there is a wild beach where locals swim. The water is clear to the bottom, the sand is soft and soft, and it is very comfortable to step on it with bare feet. 🍜The cold noodles at Chicken West are the best in the Northeast, completely different from those in Yanji. The soup is boiled in beef broth, sweet and sour, with spicy cabbage and cucumber shreds. A bowl of summer is refreshing. Don't eat the food inside the scenic spot. Go to the "old-fashioned" small shop in the city. It costs 10 dollars a bowl. The portion is plenty. 08 Chongqing Chongqing, the only metropolis in the city with zero negative reviews. But I’m not going to talk about Hongya Cave and Liberation Monument—those are Chongqing for tourists, and I’m going to talk about some of the others. The Dazu Rock Carvings are a World Cultural Heritage Site, but many people who come to Chongqing don't know it at all. 🚄 Take the subway from the city to University Town, then take a taxi for half an hour. The petroglyphs here are not the kind of petty fights. They are the whole mountain carved with Buddha statues. The thousand-handed Guanyin statue is shining with golden light. There are too many details to see. ⏰ It is recommended to go in the morning, the light shines from the east side, the face of the Buddha statue is light. Backlighting in the afternoon, I can't see my expression clearly. Yanyun Mountain is the back garden of Chongqing people. ⚠️ Don't take the cable car, it's fun to walk up the hill. The mountain road is not steep, but there are many bends. You can reach the top in two hours. The visibility of Lion Peak at the top of the mountain is excellent, with the entire Beibu District at your feet. 🍜 After going down the mountain, go to Beibu Old Street to eat a bowl of bean curd rice, tender bean curd with spicy oil, three dollars a bowl, cheap enough to doubt life. Wulong Karst Tourist Area, far, but worth it. At the scale of being born with three bridges, you’ll feel like a mite when you stand under the bridge and look up. ⏰ Best to go after the rain, the waterfall hangs down from the top of the bridge, the water is full of air, like entering a fairyland. ⚠️ The elevator queue is very long, it is recommended to walk down the hiking trail to save an hour. The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, don't take that kind of day trip cruise, it's too rushed. Choose a two-day, one-night slow boat and watch the stars on the deck at night, the river is as black as ink, and the shadows of the mountains on both banks are like giant beasts. That kind of peace and quiet that can never be found in the city. Eight places, eight characters. The things of Tonghua, the slowness of Southeast Guizhou, the leisure of Salt City, the strangeness of Linxia, ​​the spicy of Xiangtan, the powder of Yuncheng, the quietness of Jixi, the demon of Chongqing. How many have you checked in? Talk in the comment section, I see who knows the best.

Exploring 8 Cities on a Budget of 3000 Yuan: A Tested and Worthwhile Off-the-Beaten-Path Summer Getaway 01 Linyi | Shandong For my stop in Linyi, I went straight to the Underground Grand Canyon. 🎫The entrance fee plus rafting package is around 200 yuan, which isn't cheap, but the constant 18-degree temperature inside is more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Upon entering the cave, you'll first walk through a dry section. When the stalactites are low, you need to duck down, and don't carry your backpack too high, or you'll get soaked if you bump into the rock walls. The rafting section is the highlight; you slide in the rubber raft yourself. The current isn't fast, but there are many bends, so make sure your phone is in a waterproof case. After that, head to the Firefly Water Cave. The two attractions are close together, so buying a combined ticket is more cost-effective. ⚠️The firefly viewing area is completely dark, and flash photography is prohibited. If children are afraid of the dark, don't force them in. Entering after 3 PM is less crowded, and the lighting is softer. For accommodation, I stayed in Yishui County. A clean and adequate budget hotel cost 120 yuan per night. For food, I went to Jiuzhou Commercial Street; Linyi fried chicken and scallion pancakes cost 60 yuan for two people, enough to fill you up. I left Yimeng Mountain for the second morning, taking the cable car up. It's windy at the top, so bring a light jacket. Don't take the off-the-beaten-path paths down; they're longer and wear out your shoes. 02 Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi was the most "alien" place on this trip. The volcanic landscape combined with cold mineral water made the temperature several degrees lower than in the city. August is the perfect time to go. 🚄It takes about 2 hours by bus from Heihe city, costing 30 yuan. The scenic area is very large; don't try to see everything in one day. Focus on Laoheishan and Yaoquanshan. Climbing the Laoheishan crater takes about 40 minutes; the entire path is covered in black lava, which crunches underfoot, so wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. You can collect water from the Erlong Spring at the foot of Yaoquan Mountain. The cool mineral water has a slightly bubbly texture. Locals fill large buckets with it; you can bring an empty bottle to try. 🍜For lunch, try the mineral spring tofu at the scenic area entrance. It tastes like pudding and costs 15 yuan per serving. For accommodation, I recommend returning to Heihe city. You can find a decent business hotel for 150 yuan. In the evening, take a walk along the river and you can see the night view of Blagoveshchensk on the opposite bank. ⚠️The sightseeing bus in the scenic area stops running at 5 pm. Don't stay out too late, otherwise it will take half an hour to walk back to the entrance. 03 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture|Gansu I split Liujiaxia and Bingling Temple into two days, but it was perfectly manageable on my budget. On the first day, I went to the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort. 🎫The entrance fee is 50 yuan. The highlight is the boat tour of the Yellow River Three Gorges. The water is unusually green, almost unrecognizable as the Yellow River. On a sunny day, the color layers are particularly distinct. The boat ticket is included in the package. The entire trip takes about 1 hour. It's windy at the bow of the boat, so keep your hat down. After disembarking, you can walk to the reservoir dam viewing platform. The best light is around 5 PM, when the water surface is like a mirror. The next day, visit Bingling Temple. A round-trip chartered car from Liujiaxia Town costs 200 yuan; sharing a car for four costs 50 yuan per person. The grottoes are carved into the Danxia cliff face, and the Buddha statue is 27 meters tall. ⚠️ Climbing the plank road requires stamina; if you have knee problems, just stand at the bottom and look up – it's worth it. 🍜 Dongxiang hand-pulled mutton in Linxia is a must-try. It costs 60 yuan per jin (500g), and paired with Sanpaotai tea to cut the greasiness, one jin is enough for two people. Stay in the old town of Linxia City; a 120 yuan guesthouse with a courtyard is ideal. In the evening, stroll through the Eight Squares and Thirteen Alleys – it's free, and the lights make it even more beautiful than during the day. 04 Kaifeng | Henan Kaifeng is the most "intensive" city on this trip, with so many attractions that you have to make a selection. I recommend entering Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden after 3 PM. Day tickets are 120 RMB. There's a "Dongjing Menghua" performance in the evening; for an extra 100 RMB, you can see a live-action show with stunning lighting and Song Dynasty poetic atmosphere. The almond tea and soup dumplings at the garden's food street are more expensive than outside, but the atmosphere is better; just try one. For the second day, I'll follow the ancient capital culture route: First, visit the Iron Pagoda Park. The glazed pagoda is breathtaking up close. The park is free, but climbing the pagoda costs 30 RMB. The stairs inside are narrow, so larger people should be cautious. The entrance fee to Daxiangguo Temple is 40 RMB. The Thousand-Hand Guanyin in the Arhat Hall is the temple's treasure; ⚠️ photography is not allowed inside. The entrance fee to Bao Gong Temple is 30 RMB. It's relatively small; you can see everything in half an hour. It's suitable for those interested in the culture of upright officials. For lunch, go to Xisi Night Market. Stir-fried mung bean jelly with mutton flatbread costs about 25 RMB per person, cheaper than the Drum Tower Night Market and less crowded. For accommodation, stay at a chain hotel near Songdu Imperial Street for 180 RMB per night; the scenic area is right outside. 🚄A taxi from Kaifeng Station to the Iron Pagoda Park costs only 8 yuan; avoid the electric scooters soliciting passengers at the entrance. 05 Hanzhong|Shaanxi Hanzhong surprised me the most. The small town is clean, and the prices are incredibly low. The Shimen Plank Road is located beside the Baohe Reservoir. 🎫Entrance fee is 60 yuan. The plank road is a reconstruction, but the feeling of being suspended on the cliff is still there. Walking along it and looking at the river below gives you a sense of time travel. ⚠️The plank road is 2 kilometers long with no turning back. If you have elderly people or children, walk to the first viewing platform and turn back, as the latter half has many steps. The Ancient Han Terrace is free; it's the site of Liu Bang's former palace. The Thirteen Stone Inscriptions at Shimen are a boon for calligraphy enthusiasts; even those who don't understand calligraphy can enjoy the spectacle. 🍜After exploring, head to the Yinmachi Snack Street. Hot noodles with vegetables and tofu are the standard order; a serving costs 8 yuan, and the spiciness is fragrant but not overpowering. The Han River is most comfortable in the evening, with a cool river breeze. Locals stroll along the paths, and you can also rent a shared bike and ride around the river for free. For accommodation, stay in Hantai District; you can get a room with a river view for around 150 yuan. At night, opening the window to see the reflections of the lights is even better value than the hotel lobby. 06 Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower is very famous, but my advice is: go early. ⏰Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 am. 🎫Tickets are 70 yuan. There are fewer tourists then. Climb to the third floor for a better view of Dongting Lake and experience the vastness of the water. Each floor has models of Yueyang Tower from different dynasties. Don't rush downstairs; the second-floor corridor offers the best view for photos. Afterwards, have a bowl of Yueyang rice noodles on Bianhe Street near the scenic area entrance. The beef topping is stewed until tender, and it costs 12 yuan a bowl. A boat ride on Dongting Lake costs 80 yuan per person, but I think it's optional. Walking along the lakeside path is more enjoyable for getting closer to the water. To get to Junshan Island, you need to take a boat. The round-trip boat ticket plus entrance fee is 100 yuan. The tea gardens and Xiangfei Temple on the island are worth seeing, but allow at least half a day. 🍜For dinner, go to Xiahuang (虾皇) for spicy crayfish. One serving is 88 yuan; it's so spicy it'll make you scream! It's best to have some iced mung bean soup to cool it down. Stay at a guesthouse near Yueyang Tower for 160 yuan a night. In the evening, go to Dongting Lake for a refreshing breeze (free). When the moon rises, the water is a silvery expanse. 07 Shennongjia Forest District | Hubei Shennongjia is the ultimate summer retreat. The average temperature in August is 20 degrees Celsius; you'll need a blanket at night. 🎫A combined ticket for the scenic area is 299 yuan and valid for five days. However, if you don't have enough time, just visit Shennongding and Dajiuhu. The Banbi Rock at Shennongding looks like an alien surface. When the fog rolls in, you can't see anything, but it will clear up in about ten minutes. If you're lucky, you might even see a sea of ​​clouds. To get to Dajiu Lake, you need to transfer to a scenic area bus. The ticket costs 60 yuan. You can walk along boardwalks between the lakes. At the deer park, you can feed the sika deer; feed costs 10 yuan for a small bag, and the deer will chase after you. ⚠️The weather on the mountain is unpredictable. A raincoat is more practical than an umbrella, and a windproof jacket is a must. 🍜Stir-fried cured pork with potato slices and wild vegetable omelet are the standard fare in Muyu Town, costing about 40 yuan per person. The ingredients are all locally sourced and very fragrant. For accommodation, there are many guesthouses in Muyu Town for around 200 yuan per night. Choose one with a balcony; the morning mist in the mountains is like a fairyland. 🚄The bus ride from Yichang East Station takes about 3.5 hours and costs 80 yuan. Don't trust the touts offering chartered cars on the roadside; they're twice as expensive. 08 Zhanjiang|Guangdong Zhanjiang is the final stop on this trip; seaside cities are so relaxing. Huguangyan Scenic Area is a crater lake. The entrance fee is 50 yuan. A loop around the lake is 7 kilometers. Renting an electric scooter for a scenic drive around the lake is the best way to experience it; it costs 40 yuan for half an hour. The wind carries moisture and is refreshing. The lake water is so clear you can see the volcanic rock at the bottom. It's said to contain minerals, so don't swim! There are warning signs along the lake. After visiting the lake, head to Chikan Old Street for oysters. A dozen oysters at a roadside stall are only 38 yuan. The garlic is sizzling, and they're perfect with ice-cold beer. Zhanjiang chicken is another must-try. It's boiled, the meat is firm, and it's dipped in ginger soy sauce. Half a chicken costs 48 yuan. For accommodation, stay in a sea-view room in Xiashan District for 180 yuan a night. You can see the sea view, and in the morning, you can see the fishing boat pier right outside your curtains. In the evening, go to Jinsha Bay Beach. It's free. As the sun sets, the sky gradually changes from golden to purplish-red. Locals are strolling around; you can walk barefoot on the sand. This trip through 8 cities was completed with an average cost of under 3000 RMB per person. Transportation mainly consisted of high-speed rail and long-distance buses. Accommodation was all budget-friendly, but food was plentiful. The most surprising places were Shennongjia and Wudalianchi, the most affordable was Hanzhong, and the most vibrant was Kaifeng. If you're short on time, prioritize skipping Yueyang and Zhanjiang; the best of both worlds—Hunan, Hubei, Hunan, Zhejiang, Hunan, Guangdong, and Guangxi—are the highlights. Let's chat in the comments: where's your next summer getaway? Explore 8️⃣ Cities on a 3000 RMB Budget: Tested and Tested Off-the-Beaten-Path Summer Getaway Routes 01 Linyi|Shandong For my stop in Linyi, I went straight to the Underground Grand Canyon. 🎫The entrance fee plus rafting package was around 200 RMB, which isn't cheap, but the constant 18-degree temperature inside is more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Upon entering the cave, you first walk through a dry section. When the stalactites are low, you need to duck, and don't carry your backpack too high, or you'll get soaked if you bump into the rock walls. The rafting section is the highlight of the entire trip. You paddle in the rubber rafts; the current isn't rapid, but there are many bends, so make sure your phone is in a waterproof case. After that, go to the firefly cave. The two scenic areas are close together, so buying a combined ticket is more cost-effective. ⚠️The firefly viewing area is completely dark, so flash photography is prohibited. If children are afraid of the dark, don't force them in. Entering the park after 3 PM is less crowded, and the light is softer. For accommodation, I stayed in Yishui County. A clean and adequate budget hotel cost 120 yuan per night. For food, I went to Jiuzhou Commercial Street; Linyi fried chicken and scallion pancakes cost 60 yuan for two people, enough to fill you up. I left Yimeng Mountain for the second morning, taking the cable car up. It's windy at the top, so bring a light jacket. Don't take the off-the-beaten-path paths down; they're longer and wear out your shoes. 02 Heihe|Heilongjiang Wudalianchi was the most "alien" place on this trip. The volcanic landscape combined with cold mineral water made the temperature several degrees lower than in the city, making August the perfect time to visit. 🚄It takes about 2 hours by bus from Heihe city center, costing 30 yuan. The scenic area is very large; don't try to see it all in one day. Focus on Laoheishan (Old Black Mountain) and Yaoquanshan (Medicine Spring Mountain). Climbing the Laoheishan crater takes about 40 minutes; the path is full of black lava, which crunches underfoot, so wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. You can collect water from Erlongquan (Two Dragon Spring) at the foot of Yaoquanshan; the cool mineral water has a slightly bubbly texture. Locals fill large buckets to collect it; you can bring an empty bottle to try it out. 🍜For lunch, try the mineral spring tofu at the scenic area entrance; it tastes like pudding and costs 15 yuan per serving. For accommodation, I recommend returning to Heihe city center. You can find a decent business hotel for 150 yuan. In the evening, take a walk along the river and you can see the night view of Blagoveshchensk on the opposite bank. ⚠️The sightseeing bus in the scenic area stops running at 5 pm; don't stay out too late, otherwise it will take half an hour to walk back to the entrance. 03 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu I split my trip to Liujiaxia and Bingling Temple into two days, but it was perfectly manageable on my budget. On the first day, I went to the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort. 🎫Entrance fee: 50 yuan. The highlight was the boat tour of the Yellow River Three Gorges; the water was an unusual shade of green, almost unrecognizable as the Yellow River, with distinct color layers on a sunny day. The boat ticket was included in the package, and the entire trip took about an hour. It was windy at the bow, so keep your hat down. After disembarking, you can walk to the reservoir dam viewing platform. The best light is around 5 pm, when the water looks like a mirror. On the second day, I went to Bingling Temple. A round-trip chartered car from Liujiaxia Town cost 200 yuan, but with four people sharing, it was 50 yuan per person. The grottoes are carved into the Danxia cliff face, and the Buddha statue is 27 meters tall. ⚠️Climbing the plank road requires stamina; if you have bad knees, just stand at the bottom and look up – it's worth it. 🍜Linxia's Dongxiang hand-pulled mutton is a must-try. It costs 60 yuan per jin (500g), and paired with Sanpaotai tea to cut the greasiness, one jin is enough for two people. Accommodation was in the old town of Linxia City, a 120 RMB guesthouse with a courtyard. In the evening, we strolled through the Eight Squares and Thirteen Lanes (free of charge), and the lights made it even more beautiful than during the day. 04 Kaifeng | Henan Kaifeng was the most "busy" city on this trip, with so many attractions that we had to cut back. For Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden, I recommend entering after 3 PM. Day tickets are 120 RMB, and there's a "Dongjing Menghua" performance in the evening; for an extra 100 RMB, you can see a live-action show with stunning lighting and Song Dynasty poetic atmosphere. The almond tea and soup dumplings in the garden's snack street are more expensive than outside, but the atmosphere is worth it; just try one. For the second day, I followed the ancient capital culture route: First, I visited the Iron Pagoda Park. The glazed pagoda is breathtaking up close. The park is free, but climbing the pagoda costs an extra 30 RMB. The stairs inside are narrow, so larger people should be cautious. The entrance fee to the Xiangguo Temple is 40 RMB. The Thousand-Hand Guanyin in the Arhat Hall is the temple's treasure; ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the hall. Bao Gong Temple: Entrance fee 30 RMB. It's relatively small; you can see it in half an hour. Suitable for those interested in the culture of upright officials. 🍜For lunch, go to Xisi Night Market. Stir-fried mung bean jelly with mutton flatbread costs around 25 RMB per person, cheaper than Gulou Night Market and less crowded. For accommodation, stay at a chain hotel near Songdu Imperial Street for 180 RMB per night; the scenic area is right outside. 🚄A taxi from Kaifeng Station to Iron Pagoda Park only costs 8 RMB. Don't take the electric scooters soliciting passengers at the entrance. 05 Hanzhong|Shaanxi Hanzhong surprised me the most. The small town is clean, and the prices are incredibly low. Shimen Plank Road is located beside the Baohe Reservoir. 🎫Entrance fee 60 RMB. The plank road is a reconstruction, but the feeling of being suspended on the cliff is still there. Walking along it while looking at the river below gives you a sense of time travel. ⚠️The plank road is 2 kilometers long with no turning back. If you have elderly people or children, walk to the first viewing platform and turn back; the latter half has more steps. Ancient Hantai is free to enter. It's the site of Liu Bang's former palace. The thirteen cliff carvings at Shimen are a boon for calligraphy enthusiasts, and even those unfamiliar with calligraphy can enjoy the spectacle. 🍜After exploring, head to Yinmachi Snack Street. Hot noodles with vegetables and tofu are the standard order, 8 yuan a serving, the spiciness is fragrant but not overpowering. The Han River is most comfortable in the evening, with a cool river breeze. Locals stroll along the paths, or you can rent a shared bike and ride around the river for free. For accommodation, stay in Hantai District; 150 yuan can get you a room with a river view. At night, opening the window to see the reflected lights is even better value than the hotel lobby. 06 Yueyang|Hunan Yueyang Tower is very famous, but my advice is: go early. ⏰Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 am. 🎫Tickets are 70 yuan. At that time, there are fewer tourists. Climb to the third floor for a panoramic view of Dongting Lake; only then can you truly appreciate the vastness of the lake. Each floor has models of Yueyang Tower from different dynasties. Don't rush downstairs; the second-floor corridor offers the best view for photos. After leaving the scenic area, I ate a bowl of Yueyang rice noodles on Bianhe Street near the entrance. The beef topping was stewed until very tender, and it cost 12 yuan a bowl. Taking a boat tour on Dongting Lake costs 80 yuan per person, but I think it's optional; walking along the lakeside path is more enjoyable. Junshan Island requires a boat trip; the round-trip boat ticket plus entrance fee is 100 yuan. The tea gardens and Xiangfei Temple on the island are worth seeing, but you should allow at least half a day. 🍜For dinner, I went to Xiahuang for spicy crayfish. One serving was 88 yuan, so spicy it was almost unbearable! It was best enjoyed with iced mung bean soup. I stayed at a guesthouse near Yueyang Tower for 160 yuan a night. In the evening, I went to Dongting Lake for a free stroll; the water shimmered silver when the moon rose. 07 Shennongjia Forest District | Hubei Shennongjia is a top-tier summer retreat. The average temperature in August is 20 degrees Celsius, and you need a blanket at night. 🎫A combined ticket for the scenic area costs 299 yuan and is valid for five days. However, if you don't have enough time, visiting only Shennongding and Dajiuhu is sufficient. The Banbi Rock at Shennongding resembles an alien surface; when the fog rolls in, you can't see anything, but it will clear up in about ten minutes. If you're lucky, you might even see a sea of ​​clouds. For Dajiuhu, you need to transfer to a scenic bus, which costs 60 yuan. There are boardwalks between the lakes, and you can feed the sika deer at the deer park. Feed costs 10 yuan for a small bag, and the deer will chase after you. ⚠️The weather on the mountain is unpredictable; a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella, and a windproof jacket is a must. 🍜Stir-fried cured pork with potato slices and wild vegetable omelet are the standard fare in Muyu Town, costing around 40 yuan per person. The ingredients are all locally sourced and very fragrant. For accommodation, there are many guesthouses in Muyu Town for around 200 yuan per night. Choose one with a balcony; the morning mist in the mountains is like a fairyland. 🚄The bus ride from Yichang East Station takes about 3.5 hours and costs 80 yuan. Don't trust the touts offering chartered cars on the street; they'll cost twice as much. 08 Zhanjiang|Guangdong Zhanjiang was the final stop on this trip. Seaside cities are so relaxing. Huguangyan Scenic Area is a crater lake. 🎫Entrance fee is 50 yuan. A loop around the lake is 7 kilometers. Renting an electric scooter for a ride around the lake is the best way to experience it; it costs 40 yuan for half an hour. The wind carries moisture and is refreshing. The lake water is so clear you can see the volcanic rock at the bottom. It's said to contain minerals, so don't swim in it. ⚠️There are warning signs along the lake. 🍜After visiting the lake, go to Chikan Old Street for oysters. A dozen oysters at a roadside stall are only 38 yuan. The garlic is sizzling, and they're perfect with ice-cold beer. Zhanjiang chicken is another must-try. It's boiled, the meat is firm, and it's dipped in ginger soy sauce. Half a chicken costs 48 yuan. Staying in a sea-view room in Xiashan District costs 180 yuan per night and offers a view of the sea. In the morning, opening the curtains reveals the fishing boat pier. ⏰In the evening, head to Jinsha Bay Beach – it's free! As the sun sets, the sky gradually changes from golden to purplish-red. Locals are strolling around; you can walk barefoot on the sand. This trip through 8 cities was kept under 3000 yuan per person. Transportation was mainly by high-speed rail and long-distance bus. Accommodation was budget-friendly, but food was plentiful. The most surprising places were Shennongjia and Wudalianchi, the most affordable was Hanzhong, and the most vibrant was Kaifeng. If you're short on time, prioritize skipping Yueyang and Zhanjiang; the best of both worlds – the Two Lakes and One Mountain area plus Guangdong and Guangxi – is the real highlight. Let's chat in the comments: where's your next summer getaway?

Take her to these 8 places and she’ll be moved to tears 1️⃣ Hengshui | Hebei Hengshui Lake isn’t stunning at first glance, but it’s great for a long stroll. Arrive before 9 AM and the lake is still shrouded in mist, with birdsong louder than car horns. 📍 Enter from the south gate of Lotus Park and follow the wooden boardwalk deeper in. The reeds on both sides can be taller than a person. If she likes photography, the light at this time is soft and natural—no filter needed for great shots. Don’t rush to leave at noon. Find a small lakeside restaurant and order iron pot stewed fish. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, firm in texture, and the broth is milky white. Dip some bread in it—it’s amazing. ⚠️ At 2 or 3 PM, the sun shines directly and the lake’s glare is harsh. It’s best to rest in the pavilion on the island in the middle of the lake. In the evening, rent a pedal boat and slowly row to the center of the lake. The breeze carries the scent of water plants. If she leans on your shoulder, the trip is worth it. 🚄 It’s about a 25-minute taxi ride from Hengshui North Station. Ticket prices follow the official daily announcement. 2️⃣ Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia The most touching thing about Ulagai Grassland is its endless quiet. As you drive into the heart of the grassland, cell signal fades until only the wind and rustling grass remain. If she’s used to city skyscrapers, she’ll be stunned. ⏰ The best time is 5 to 7 PM. The sunset dyes the grassland golden red, and the sheep move like clouds slowly heading back to the pen. You can sit on the grassy slope and do nothing but watch the sky darken. The grassland has a big temperature difference between day and night. It cools quickly at night, so bring a windbreaker. 📍 From Bayin Hushuo Town, take Provincial Road S101 east. After about 40 minutes, you’ll see the winding Ulagai River across the grassland. ⚠️ Don’t park near herders’ fences to take photos—it can cause misunderstandings. For lodging, stay in a yurt guesthouse in town. The conditions are basic but the atmosphere is authentic. 3️⃣ Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou ancient city isn’t a commercialized fake town; people really live there. Enter at 7 AM and the stone streets still have last night’s water. Old men light stoves at their doorsteps, and the smoke mixes with the smell of baked goods. 🍜 Longsheng Pastry at the east gate street corner is a local favorite since childhood. The honey candy is sweet but not cloying, and the sugar threads stretch long when bitten. If she loves sweets, buy her two boxes—she’ll want more on the way home. The ancient city is small and can be explored in two or three hours. 📍 Ouyuan Garden is worth a visit. Its rockery dates back to the Ming dynasty, and the moss on the stones is over 400 years old. ⚠️ The main street gets crowded in the afternoon, making it hard to walk. It’s better to explore the main street in the morning and relax by the moat outside the south gate in the afternoon. 4️⃣ Chongzuo | Guangxi Detian transnational waterfall and Mingshi pastoral area must be visited together in one day. Start at Detian Waterfall in the morning. Take a bamboo raft close to the base of the falls. The mist hits your face, and across the border is Vietnam’s Ban Gioc waterfall—two water curtains side by side on the border line. ⏰ Around 10 AM, the water flow is strongest, and the roar is so loud you have to shout to talk. If she’s wearing light-colored clothes, bring a raincoat. The mist is heavy, and after the walk your clothes will be soaked. In the afternoon, head to Mingshi pastoral area, about a 40-minute drive from the waterfall. It’s much quieter here. Karst peaks reflect in the rice paddies like a slowly unfolding ink painting. 📍 Rent a bike and ride the 8 km greenway loop. Rice fields and bamboo forests line both sides, and the breeze smells like fresh grass. ⚠️ Don’t trust people at the entrance offering “farmer’s car” rides to skip tickets. Only official tickets are valid. 5️⃣ Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan For Xishuangbanna, I suggest skipping the “checklist” approach. The Dai Ethnic Garden, Tropical Botanical Garden, and Primitive Forest Park each have their own vibe—don’t try to do all in one day. Start in the morning at the Dai Ethnic Garden. 📍 The Dai King’s Palace in Manting Park is worth a close look. Its golden spires sparkle in the sun. If she likes photos, rent a Dai costume and take pictures in front of the white pagoda—it looks great without effort. ⚠️ Beware of overpriced silver jewelry sales inside the garden. Don’t buy. In the afternoon, visit the Chinese Academy of Sciences Tropical Botanical Garden. It’s huge, so take the electric cart. The giant water lily pond is a must-see. The huge leaves float on the water, and even kids can stand on them without sinking. If she’s curious, try squatting by the edge and touching the water—the leaves gently sway. Save the Primitive Forest Park for the next morning when it’s cooler. 📍 The canopy walkway in the valley rainforest sways between treetops. If she’s afraid of heights, hold her hand and walk slowly. ⏰ Enter before 9 AM to catch the peacock release. Dozens of blue peacocks fly down the hillside—a stunning sight. 6️⃣ Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia is an underrated place. Liujiaxia Reservoir and Bingling Temple are close together and can be visited in one day. Start at Liujiaxia Reservoir in the morning. The water is as blue as a giant gem, flanked by yellow loess hills with striking color contrast. 📍 Take a boat from the dam for about an hour to Bingling Temple. This water route is the highlight. The stone forest on both banks looks carved by knives—some resemble camels, others pagodas. If she has a vivid imagination, she can make up stories. Bingling Temple’s Tang dynasty grottoes are carved into steep cliffs. The largest Maitreya Buddha is 27 meters tall. Looking up for too long will make your neck sore. ⚠️ No photos allowed inside the caves. Don’t sneak pictures—staff will be unhappy. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light hits the statues at an angle, making their contours stand out. But the last boat leaves at 5:30 PM, so don’t miss it. 7️⃣ Shaoyang | Hunan Langshan’s highlight is Bajiaozhai, but don’t climb the main peak right away—you’ll run out of energy. My approach: take the cable car halfway up, then walk slowly along the plank road. It saves energy and lets you see the full view. 📍 From the “Whales Stirring the Sea” viewing platform, the Danxia peaks look like giant whales rolling in a sea of clouds. If she’s seeing this landscape for the first time, she’ll be amazed. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared—it’s the most breathtaking time. Have a bowl of Shaoyang rice noodles at noon. The broth is spicy and flavorful. If she can’t handle spice, ask for mild. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain. Bring enough water—at least two bottles per person. In the afternoon, visit Tianyi Alley. The narrowest part is only 0.8 meters wide, so you have to squeeze through side by side. If she’s afraid of the dark, walk ahead and hold her hand. 8️⃣ Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is the place worth “wasting a whole day” on this trip. The lake road is about 90 km. Don’t rush—stop whenever you see a beautiful spot. ⏰ Early morning, the lake surface is like a mirror, reflecting snow-capped mountains so clearly you can’t tell which is real. If she’s wearing a skirt, bring a thick jacket. The wind by the lake is strong and can cause headaches after a while. 📍 Enter from the south gate and circle the lake counterclockwise. Arrive at the west shore in the afternoon just in time for sunset. The light turns the lake golden pink. Anjihai Grand Canyon is on the way to Sayram Lake. It’s worth a quick stop but no need to detour. The canyon edge has no guardrails. Don’t get too close when taking photos—the rocks are loose and slippery. ⚠️ The hot springs in Wenquan County are worth visiting but crowded in peak season. It’s best to go after 8 PM when it’s quieter and the water is clean. Each of these eight places has its own character. The moment she’s most moved might not be the most spectacular view, but when you remember to bring her a jacket, shield her from the wind, or slow down when she’s tired. Where will you take her first? Share in the comments.

Who understands! A 40-minute high-speed train ride from Lanzhou West Station to Linxia, ​​and the moment the doors open, a 22°C breeze hits your face. CCTV-certified "Cool Capital of China," you can't even feel the heat without a jacket at night. The Eight Squares and Thirteen Alleys are free to enter. The winding cobblestone streets are adorned with brick carvings of plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, and chrysanthemums. In the afternoon, sunlight streams through the alleyways, illuminating the brick carvings. At dusk, the lanterns light up the entire alley, bathing it in a warm red glow. The East Mansion is right next door, a veritable open-air museum of brick sculptures. The Red Garden is free, a rare sight in Northwest China with its small bridges, flowing water, and Islamic carvings. At Liujiaxia Reservoir, there's the "Yellow River and Tao River Confluence"—the emerald green Yellow River and the earthy yellow Tao River collide, a natural hot pot. The Bingling Temple Grottoes can only be reached by boat, with a boat ticket plus entrance fee of 110 yuan. The grottoes are embedded in the red sandstone cliffs, with a large Buddha facing the Yellow River. The plank road is gentle, requiring no climbing. Songmingyan Forest Park entrance fee is over 40 yuan. It's a vast, pristine spruce forest, with temperatures around 20°C in August. Mountain streams babble, and from the mountaintop you can hear locals singing folk songs. The Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum is free, with over 30,000 fossils, including a skeleton of a shovel-toothed elephant. Here's a three-day itinerary: Day 1: High-speed train to Linxia → Afternoon stroll through Bafang Shisanxiang → Donggongguan (brick carving) → Rest at Hongyuan → Evening at Beidajie Night Market (eating steamed buns and noodles) Day 2: Early departure to Liujiaxia → Huangtao Confluence Viewpoint → Boat trip to Bingling Temple → Afternoon return to the city Day 3: Hiking in Songmingyan for fresh air → Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum → Evening return trip Hand-pulled mutton is a must-try, the Dongxiang style is fatty but not greasy. Hezhou steamed buns have thin skin and are juicy, dipped in chili vinegar. Sweet fermented rice is sweet and sour and refreshing. Liangpi (cold skin noodles) are cut into wide strips and mixed with chili. Steamed buns with chili are fried until crispy. A decent meal costs around 50 RMB per person and you'll be stuffed. A few words of advice: ⚠️ The altitude is 2000-2800 meters, with a large temperature difference between day and night. Wear short sleeves during the day and a windproof jacket at night. The UV radiation is strong, so don't skimp on sunscreen and sunglasses. Wear long sleeves and trousers when entering mosques. The last boat to Bingling Temple departs at 4 PM, so it's recommended to arrive at the pier before 8 AM. Book your weekend accommodation 3-5 days in advance. Linxia boasts scenery comparable to Gannan, but with half the crowds. With summer temperatures around 22℃ and ancient grottoes, three days simply isn't enough to explore it all 😭

Travel in August–September, airfares and hotels haven't skyrocketed yet, and the crowds have already halved. Don't bother flocking to those popular cities. I spent half a month poring over maps and picked out 8 places that are truly less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive. There's food, shopping, and natural scenery, and you can still have a comfortable trip with a budget of around CNY 1,000. 01 Zibo | Shandong Zibo isn't just about barbecue. Go to Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City at 8:00 AM; the flagstone streets haven't been fully warmed by the sun yet, and the ovens at the shaobing shops have already been running for three rounds. 📍 The "Zhoucun Shaobing Museum" in the middle of the main street is worth a detour. Take a bite of the freshly baked thin flatbread; the sesame and wheat aromas are ten times better than the vacuum-packed version. The ancient commercial city doesn't charge an entrance fee. After exploring the main street, walk north. Hidden in the alleys are the old post office and the former site of a draft bank, so uncrowded you can hear your own footsteps. 🍜 Don't settle for lunch in the scenic area. Take a taxi to Zhangdian District for a Boshan meal. Tofu box and crispy pot are specialties, and two people can eat their fill for CNY 70–80. ⚠️ Tour groups flock to the ancient commercial city around 2:00–3:00 PM. If you want to take photos without crowds, go early. 02 Xi'an | Shaanxi Don't just focus on the Muslim Quarter and the Bell Tower for things to do in Xi'an; those places are as crowded as a rush-hour subway. I recommend going directly to Qinling Zhongnan Mountain. 🚄 Take Metro Line 2 to Weiqu South Station, then transfer to a bus into the mountains. The whole trip costs less than CNY 10. Find a farmhouse stay at the foot of the mountain for a night. In the evening, watch the clouds roll up from the mountainside; it's 7–8 degrees cooler than the city. In the city, the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor Museum and Shaanxi History Museum require advance reservations. ⚠️ The Shaanxi History Museum is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Go up the Xi'an City Wall after 5:00 PM, rent a bicycle, and ride half a loop. At sunset, the city wall turns a warm orange, and the shadows stretch long, which is much more pleasant than being exposed to the midday sun. The city wall ticket is CNY 54, and bike rental is CNY 45. The cost isn't high, but the experience is top-notch. 03 Yuxi | Yunnan Most people transiting through Kunming head straight for Dali and Lijiang, but Yuxi is severely underestimated. The water quality of Fuxian Lake is among the best in Yunnan. 📍 There's a free lakeside stretch near Luchong Scenic Area. Go around 3:00–4:00 PM; the water is so clear you can see the patterns on the pebbles. Rent a pedal boat by the lake for a few dozen yuan an hour; it's more enjoyable than taking a large cruise ship. 🍜 In the evening, go to Chengjiang County for copper pot fish. The fish is so tender it's hard to pick up with chopsticks, and the broth is so delicious you'll want to pack it up. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry randomly by the lake; it's hard to distinguish genuine from fake. If you want mountain views, head towards Ailao Mountain. The plank road section in Shimen Gorge is suitable for hiking. After rain, the air is filled with the scent of grass and trees, and the sound of waterfalls makes your ears tingle. This is suitable for solo travelers who like peace and quiet. If you're with seniors or children, just visiting Fuxian Lake is enough. 04 Putian | Fujian Putian's Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area is the most underestimated island I've seen this year. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Putian Station, then a taxi to Wenjia Pier for the ferry. The ferry ticket plus admission is just over CNY 100. Once on the island, don't crowd near the pier. Rent an electric scooter and ride north. 📍 The sea at Ewei Shenshi Park is an unnatural blue for Fujian. In the evening, go to Mazu Temple to watch the sunset. The scent of incense mixed with the sea breeze is strangely comforting. 🍜 Eat seafood noodles on the island; a bowl is CNY 15, and they're generous with shrimp and clams. ⚠️ The last ferry is at 5:30 PM. If you want to stay on the island, book a guesthouse in advance. Finding a room last minute during peak season can be risky. This is suitable for couples or small groups; two days and one night is just right. 05 Hinggan League | Inner Mongolia Arxan National Forest Park is at its most breathtaking from late August to early September. The birch forests begin to turn yellow, and the water in Tianchi Lake at Camel Hump Mountain is as blue as an overturned paint palette. ⚠️ The park entrance ticket and sightseeing bus are bundled, and the price isn't cheap, but it's definitely worth it for a full day of fun. 📍 I recommend entering the park at 8:00 AM. Start with Shitanlin; the volcanic lava landscape with golden larch trees is so uncrowded it feels like you have the place to yourself. Have a bowl of lamb noodles for lunch in the scenic area; the portion is generous. In the afternoon, go to Azalea Lake. The lake reflects the yellow and green intertwined forests, and a gust of wind breaks the surface into golden foil. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, go to Arxan city for a Mongolian meal. Hand-torn meat with milk tea costs around CNY 50–60 per person. This place is suitable for self-driving or chartered cars; public transportation is inconvenient, but the scenery is absolutely worth the effort. 06 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang is unfairly treated as just a transit hub. Zhaozhou Bridge is just south of the city, with a CNY 40 entrance fee. The bridge is truly ancient; a Sui Dynasty artifact that has stood for 1,400 years. 📍 The Xiaoshe River Park below the bridge is free. Go for a walk in the evening; you can see locals strolling and playing chess, which is more relaxing than the scenic area. The Hebei Museum in the city is also worth two hours. The jade burial suit sewn with gold thread from the Han tombs in Mancheng is its most prized possession. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't run into that. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of authentic Anhui Banmian. Shijiazhuang is full of them, but look for the old shop on "Wuqilu." The noodles are chewy, and the spicy oil is so fragrant it makes you cough. This is suitable for those stopping by for half a day; no need to plan a whole day specifically. 07 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia is a small city overshadowed by Lanzhou, but Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is truly impressive. 🚄 It's only a half-hour high-speed train ride from Lanzhou. Get off the train and take a taxi to Liujiaxia Dam. See the Yellow River water turn emerald green here; that shade of green doesn't look real. 📍 Take a speedboat to Bingling Temple Grottoes Cultural Tourism Zone. The boat ride is one hour, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are like an overturned palette. Bingling Temple admission is CNY 50. The Tang Dynasty statues in the Great Buddha Cave are exceptionally well preserved, and there are so few tourists that you can quietly admire them for ten minutes. 🍜 Back in the city, have a bowl of Heyan Mianpian. The soup is fresh, the noodles are smooth, and it's just over CNY 10. ⚠️ The speedboat stops operating at 4:00 PM. If you want to enjoy it comfortably, go early. This is suitable for those who like a mix of culture and nature; one day round trip is enough. 08 Zhoukou | Henan Zhoukou, a place with an unfamiliar name, but Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Area is a genuine thousand-year-old architectural complex. 📍 Taihao Mausoleum in Huaiyang District has a CNY 60 entrance fee. Ancient cypresses reach to the sky, and the incense is strong but not noisy. The Tongtian Hall and Xianren Hall in the mausoleum area are worth a close look; the wood carvings and colorful paintings are traditional craftsmanship. 🍜 After exploring, go to the county town for a Fangcheng Huimian. The soup is rich, the noodles are wide, and a bowl is CNY 12. In the afternoon, go to Taiqing Palace in Luyi County. This is the birthplace of Laozi, and the Taoist temple is quiet, with sparse tourists, allowing you to hear the sound of the wind blowing the eaves bells. ⚠️ The two attractions are not close to each other. Self-driving is the most convenient; a one-way taxi ride takes an hour. This is suitable for history enthusiasts; the pace is slow, the cost is low, and a day trip costs just over CNY 100 per person.

1️⃣ Zhuhai | Guangdong Don't just think of Chimelong when you hear Zhuhai. Chimelong International Ocean Resort is definitely worth a full day, but I recommend entering after 3:00 PM. The morning sun is harsh, and the queue area for the Ocean Theater has no shade. People are packed together, and the smell of sweat is stronger than the fishy smell. ⏰ Enter in the afternoon and head straight to the Whale Shark Pavilion. Light filters through the giant acrylic windows, and jellyfish float in the deep blue—it instantly feels 5 degrees cooler. Leave after the night parade; it's only a 20-minute taxi ride to Lovers Road. 📍 The best part of Lovers Road is the stretch from Xianglu Bay to the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue. At 6:30 PM, the sea breeze picks up, and the sound of the waves drowns out the traffic. Rent a shared bike and ride slowly—it's much more comfortable than being packed on the beach. ⚠️ Water at roadside kiosks is double the price, so bring your own. 2️⃣ Xiangyang | Hubei Gulongzhong isn't just a "might as well visit" spot; it's the kind of place where you realize your understanding of summer getaways was too shallow. The shade from the ancient cypress trees in front of Sangu Hall is cool and dense. The stone path is arched by tree roots, forcing you to look down as you walk, which actually gives it a sense of time travel. ⏰ Arrive right when it opens at 8:00 AM before the tour groups arrive. Walk from the Stone Archway to the Caolu Pavilion—the whole path is shaded, and the breeze blowing in from the mountain pass is more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. The steps up to Baoxi Pavilion are a bit steep; take a detour if you're with seniors. After coming down the mountain, head to the tofu pudding stall at the entrance of Guangde Temple, 📍 50 meters into Dengcheng Avenue. Savory tofu pudding with a spoonful of chili oil, paired with a freshly baked guokui (flatbread)—the contrast of hot and cold brings you back to life. You can buy tickets on-site; no need to book in advance. 3️⃣ Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The coolness in Banna isn't about low temperatures; it's about the trees blocking the sun. The most valuable thing in the Dai Folk Custom Park is the row of hammocks under the coconut trees. Lie down and sway for 10 minutes; the sound of the wind through the leaves is more effective than any white noise app. 📍 On the second floor of the Dai bamboo house next to Manchunman Buddhist Temple, the host will serve you a cup of herbal tea. The tea leaves are picked from the courtyard, and the aftertaste has a hint of mint. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (Chinese Academy of Sciences) is the main event, but remember, the lotus pond in the Hundred Flowers Garden is most beautiful before 10:00 AM; the flowers wilt once the sun gets high. ⚠️ The park's shuttle bus doesn't stop midway. If you want to see the Rare Flower and Plant Garden, you have to walk the 500-meter wooden boardwalk yourself—don't skip it. There are only 4 peacock release shows a day at the Primeval Forest Park. The 3:00 PM show is the least crowded. After watching it, head straight into the valley rainforest; the stream water is cold enough to chill your drinks. 4️⃣ Shizuishan | Ningxia The most counterintuitive thing about Sand Lake is that the water by the desert is actually the coolest place on the entire trip. ⏰ Take a boat into the reed marshes after 6:00 PM. The lake breeze, laden with moisture, hits your face. As the sun sets behind the Helan Mountains, the sand dunes turn pink, and the temperature drops from 33°C to 26°C. Don't go during the day; walking barefoot on the sand can give you blisters unless you're willing to pay 30 yuan to rent shoe covers. 📍 Walk to the end of the boardwalk next to the Wetland Museum, and you'll find an empty shallow beach. You can take off your shoes and soak your feet. The bottom is fine sand, not mud, so it feels like a foot massage. The fish at the grilled fish stalls in the scenic area is caught fresh from the lake, but it's pricey. I suggest bringing some snacks and eating big plate chicken at a farmhouse restaurant on Shahu Avenue after you leave—the portion is enough for 3 people. 5️⃣ Nantong | Jiangsu The best way to experience Hao River is to walk half a lap in the evening and take a boat ride at night. Start from the Bell Tower and head west. 📍 Passing the Beijige City Wall ruins, the sycamore trees cover the entire road. The evening breeze blows from the river, carrying the scent of water plants—it's much more refreshing than the air from the AC units of the shops along the street. When you're tired, take a night cruise from the Haoxi Shuyuan Pier. It's a 60-minute loop with commentary. The part about Zhang Jian's industrial ventures is worth listening to, but don't take it too seriously. ⚠️ You need to book weekend boat tickets 1 day in advance via the official WeChat account; you likely won't get tickets if you queue on-site. Don't rush off after getting off the boat. In the row of food stalls at Huanxi Cultural Square, look for the one packed with locals—they sell clam pancakes and mudskippers. Pair it with a bowl of white porridge; it's so comfortable you won't want to go back to the hotel. 6️⃣ Chongzuo | Guangxi The coolness at Detian Transnational Waterfall is immersive; the mist hits you head-on, and you can feel it on your face from 50 meters away. ⏰ Arrive at 8:30 AM to catch the first bamboo raft. The boatman will take you for a spin under the waterfall. The mist will drench you, and you'll need to wipe your phone lens 3 times. Don't wear light-colored clothes; the mist will leave water stains. After seeing the waterfall, head straight to Mingshi Scenic Area. It's a 40-minute drive, and the sugarcane fields and rice paddies along the way are dazzlingly green. 📍 The cycling path in Mingshi Village is the highlight. Rent an electric scooter and ride into the fields. The scent of rice mixed with the smell of earth is lovely, and the breeze is warm but definitely not stuffy. ⚠️ Don't buy the small green bananas sold on the side of the road; they're teeth-achingly sour. The people at the entrance claiming to be "local guides" will take you to so-called secret viewing platforms that are actually just public river embankments. You can find them yourself by following the village roads. 7️⃣ Fuzhou | Fujian The coolness of Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is hidden in the alleys, not on the main street. The tourist density on the main street is higher than the temperature. Turn into the alleys, and the noise immediately fades. 📍 There's a narrow alley next to the Water Pavilion Stage in Yijin Lane. After 4:00 PM, the sunlight cuts in at an angle, casting long shadows on the bluestone walls. Sitting on the stone bench under the corridor, you can hear someone playing the pipa in the old house next door. It's much more worth your time than the trendy shops on the main street. After walking through the lanes, go to Laoyaozhou Street by the Antai River for some laohua (Fuzhou-style noodle soup). The broth is clear, and you should add a portion of fish balls and luohan meat. Eating it piping hot will make you sweat, but once you step out and get hit by the evening breeze, that's what you call cool. ⚠️ The museums in Three Lanes and Seven Alleys are closed on Mondays, so don't plan your trip for that day. If you want to take photos, go to the wall in the backyard of Lin Juemin's former residence; it's less crowded and the lighting is good. 8️⃣ Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The coolness at Liujiaxia Tourist Resort comes with the faint, fishy scent of the Yellow River. 📍 The cycling path on Taiji Island runs along the reservoir. The wind comes off the water and blows your hair back. After 3:00 PM in the summer, the temperature under the willow trees on the shore is 7–8 degrees lower than inside a car. You need to take a boat to get to the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area. It takes 40 minutes by speedboat and 1 hour by slow boat. ⚠️ I recommend the slow boat. The speedboat is expensive, too windy to take photos, and so bumpy it'll give you a stomachache. The giant sitting Buddha statue in the grotto is much bigger than you'd imagine. Standing at its feet and looking up, you won't want to look down even when your neck gets sore. Don't look for big restaurants nearby. Just walk into any of the small noodle shops in Liujiaxia Town. Get the jiangshui noodles with tiger skin peppers—it's sour, spicy, and appetizing. One bowl will leave you feeling refreshed. If I had to rank these 8 places, I'd want to stay a few extra days in Chongzuo and Linxia. Zhuhai is great for kids, and Xiangyang is perfect for just zoning out. Do you have any secret cool cities? Let's chat in the comments; I'm looking to escape the heat next month.

01 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia While others are surviving in air-conditioned rooms this summer, you'll be on the grasslands feeling so cool you'll want a jacket. In Hulunbuir, summer days are in the low 20s Celsius, and a breeze will leave you feeling refreshed. 📍 From Hailar, drive towards Chen Barag Banner. Both sides are vast grasslands, perfect for a desktop wallpaper-worthy photo. In the morning, head to the Morigele River observation deck. As the sun rises, dew still clings to the grass tips, and the light casts a slant, making the river look like a silver ribbon. In the afternoon, visit a herdsman's home to try milking a cow. If you're slow, the cow might look back at you, but don't panic. In the evening, wait for the sunset on the grasslands. The temperature drops quickly, so remember to bring a windbreaker. ⚠️ Don't drive too fast. Some dirt roads in the grasslands look flat but turn into mud pits after rain, and sedans can easily get stuck. If you're staying in a yurt, don't open the windows at night due to mosquitoes, but the starry sky is truly bright, and the Milky Way is clearly visible. 02 Wuhu | Anhui Wuhu's summer isn't particularly cool, but it excels in seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Fantawild Adventure is the main attraction, with many water rides. Remember to apply sunscreen while waiting in line; getting sunburned is no joke. 🛟 The water park is busiest after 2 PM; going in the morning can save you half an hour of waiting. For a break, visit Jiuzi Ancient Town. As the evening lights come on, take a stroll along the river. The breeze carries a pleasant hint of the river. 🍜 In the evening, have a bowl of shrimp roe noodles with a braised egg on the pedestrian street. It's only a dozen yuan, and the broth is incredibly flavorful. ⚠️ Fantawild tickets aren't cheap. It's recommended to book online a day in advance, as it's dozens of yuan cheaper than buying on-site. If you have children, note that many rides have height restrictions. Measure them first before queuing to avoid waiting in vain. 03 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Beidaihe and Shanhaiguan offer water activities and historical exploration, making for a full day. Start your morning at Shanhaiguan. Walking along the city walls and touching the moss in the brick crevices is more interesting than listening to a guide. Climb the city tower to see the sea; the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off, but the view is truly expansive. At noon, head to Beidaihe. Choose live seafood at the food stalls. Confirm prices beforehand, and if buying by weight, remember to check the scale. In the afternoon, swim in the sea; the water is not cold, around 20 degrees Celsius, which is just right. ⏰ From 5 PM to 7 PM, the light by the sea is best for photos, no filters needed. ⚠️ Parking near Tiger Stone Park is limited. It's recommended to park your car at your hotel and take a taxi, which will be just the starting fare. Seafront guesthouse prices fluctuate greatly, with weekends being twice as expensive as weekdays. If possible, avoid peak times. 04 Yingtan | Jiangxi Longhu Mountain isn't a popular spot, but it's truly suitable for escaping the summer heat. The Danxia landform mountains are covered with lush trees, and the temperature drops by three degrees as soon as you enter. In the morning, visit Elephant Trunk Mountain. The boardwalk is well-maintained, suitable for seniors and children, and the entire walk takes about an hour. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant at the scenic area entrance; Luxi fish is a must-try, freshly caught and cooked, with tender meat and few bones. In the afternoon, take a bamboo raft down the Luxi River. The current is gentle, and sitting on the raft, watching the mountains on both sides, is like viewing a moving painting. The boatman's poling rhythm is steady, and occasionally he hums a folk song. ⏰ In the evening, visit Shangqing Ancient Town. After the tourists have left, only a few dogs wander the flagstone paths. ⚠️ Scenic area tickets and bamboo raft tickets are separate. Don't buy packages that don't include the activities you want. Summer afternoons often have thunderstorms, so bring a folding umbrella; it can rain suddenly. 05 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia's summer is dry and cool. There's a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, and the midday sun is intense, but it's cool under the trees. At Liujiaxia Tourist Resort, the lake water is as green as jade. Looking down from the dam, the mist from the water is refreshing. In the morning, visit Bingling Temple. The grottoes are on a cliff, requiring a boat ride. The boat trip takes 40 minutes, and the lake breeze might make you sleepy, but it's worth it. The Buddha statues in the grottoes are well-preserved, with fluid lines, much more impressive than seeing photos. At noon, return to Liujiaxia Town for hand-grabbed lamb, dipped in spiced salt, with a bowl of Sanpaotai tea to cut the richness. In the afternoon, drive along the reservoir, find a shady spot to lay out a picnic blanket, bring some watermelon and naan, and you won't get tired of sitting there all afternoon. 🍜 There's an old noodle shop in town that sells Liangpi, sour and spicy, for 6 yuan a bowl. You'll want to get another one to go after finishing. ⚠️ Bingling Temple boats only run a few times a day. Ask about the return schedule in advance to avoid missing the last one. The UV rays are strong, so a hat and sunglasses are essential. 06 Dalian | Liaoning In Dalian's summer, the sea breeze dissipates all the stuffiness. The sand at Jinshitan Beach is fine and soft, comfortable to walk on barefoot. In the morning, swim at Golden Coast; the water is clear enough to see your toes. At noon, head to Discoveryland Theme Park. The roller coaster queue is half an hour, and the ride is 50 seconds. You decide if it's worth it. In the afternoon, move to Laohutan Ocean Park. Don't miss the beluga whale show; the venue is well air-conditioned, perfect for escaping the heat. In the evening, go to Tangli Lake Park. The lakeside path is suitable for walking, and the sunset dyes the lake golden. It's not crowded and very peaceful. At night, visit Xinghai Square. The sea breeze is strong and invigorating. You can rent bicycles at the square and ride along the coastline for 15 minutes, which is very pleasant. ⚠️ Beach umbrellas and lounge chairs at Jinshitan are charged. Bring your own moisture-proof mat to save money. Don't eat seafood right at the scenic area entrance; walk two streets in, and prices can be half off. 07 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei's summer days are hot, but it cools down as soon as the sun sets. Shapotou is the main attraction. Go sand sliding in the morning while it's cool; the sand gets scorching hot, so wear socks. Take a camel ride; it's leisurely, and the camel bells sound like you've traveled back to ancient times. At noon, visit Gaomiao Baoan Temple, hidden in the city. There are few tourists, and the temple's trees provide dense shade, bringing peace to your mind after a short rest. In the afternoon, return to Shapotou and take a sheepskin raft down the Yellow River. The current is swift but not scary, and the boatmen are skilled. The 30-minute rafting allows you to see the Yellow River's muddy yellow color and power up close. 🍜 In the evening, have a bowl of lamb sazi noodles in the city. The broth is rich, and the noodles are chewy. For 8 yuan, it's a filling meal. After eating, stroll around the Drum Tower. In the old town's alleys, you can find wolfberries for sale, cheaper than at tourist spots. ⚠️ Shapotou is sunniest from 2 PM to 4 PM. The UV rays are strong enough to cause peeling skin, so sunscreen and ice sleeves are essential. Buy Yellow River rafting tickets and sand sliding tickets separately; individual experiences are more cost-effective. 08 Linfen | Shanxi Linfen's summer is cooler than other parts of southern Shanxi because of its mountains and rivers. In the morning, visit Hukou Waterfall. Standing on the observation deck, the mist from the water feels like a light rain. The waterfall's roar is deafening; you have to shout to be heard, but its grandeur cannot be captured in photos; you must see it in person. ⏰ The water flow is strongest from 9 AM to 11 AM; it will be weaker if you go later. At noon, visit Hongdong Dahuaishu Ancestor-Worship Garden. The garden is large, with plenty of shade. If you get tired, sit on a stone bench to rest. There are guides in the scenic area who explain the immigration history, which is quite interesting and worth listening to if you're not in a hurry. In the afternoon, go to Yunqiu Mountain. There's a cable car to the top, saving you effort. The ancient village of Tarpo on the mountaintop preserves cave dwellings. Go inside and sit; it's very cool. 🍜 Down the mountain, there are vendors selling Jinan oil cakes, freshly fried and sold. They are crispy outside and soft inside, 3 yuan each, sweet but not greasy. ⚠️ The Hukou Waterfall observation deck has no shade, so a hat and sunglasses are essential. Also, remember to wear non-slip shoes, as the ground is often wet and slippery. Of these eight places, I personally recommend Hulunbuir and Linxia the most. One offers cool grassland breezes, and the other features high gorges and calm lakes. Both are places you won't want to leave once you visit. Which one do you most want to go to? Share in the comments.

The key to August-September off-peak travel is to avoid "internet-famous" spots and "furnace-like" hot cities. With the student rush gone, I've selected 4 unpopular destinations with average temperatures around 25℃ and airfares usually under CNY 500, known for their slow pace and authentic cuisine. 1. Mangshi, Yunnan (Southeast Asian alternative, explore and eat by electric scooter) · Keywords: Golden Pagoda and Silver Pagoda, Paoluda, Tree-Wrapped Pagoda · Transportation: Fly to Kunming and transfer, or fly to Tengchong and take a 1.5-hour car ride. Rent an electric scooter in the city (approx. CNY 40/day). · 3-day itinerary: · Day 1: Rent an electric scooter to visit Tree-Wrapped Pagoda (a wonder) > Mengbanaxi Rare Garden (see peacocks strolling) > Climb Meng Huan Golden Pagoda in the evening for sunset. · Day 2: Morning photos at Silver Pagoda (solid-color long dress recommended) > Afternoon at Dai Ancient Town (free, Dai disco at night). · Day 3: Charter a car for a day trip to Ruili (Wanding Port, One Country Two Villages), or relax and drink Paoluda. · Cost: Average CNY 250/day. Beef rice noodles CNY 8, hand-grabbed rice set meal approx. CNY 40 per person. · Tip: Sunscreen! Bring a light jacket, it's slightly cool in the morning and evening. 2. Baise, Guangxi (Karst and border waterfalls, niche adventure) · Keywords: Tongling Grand Canyon, E'quan Spring, Quyang Lake · Transportation: High-speed rail direct (1.5 hours from Nanning). Attractions are spread out, so renting a car upon arrival is recommended. · 3-day itinerary: · Day 1: Arrive by high-speed rail, pick up car, head straight to E'quan Spring (Jiuzhaigou alternative, extremely clear water) > Stroll through Jiuzhou Ancient Town in the evening (watch embroidered ball making). · Day 2: Full day at Tongling Grand Canyon (waterfall through a cave, very cool) > Stop by Sandieling Waterfall on the way (wild waterfall by the road). · Day 3: Drive to Quyang Lake (free water karst), take a villager's boat tour of the lake (approx. CNY 50). · Cost: Average CNY 300/day. Rolled rice noodles CNY 5, grilled pig's eye (if you dare to try) CNY 15. · Tip: Tongling Canyon has many steps, wear non-slip shoes. 3. Linxia, Gansu (Little Mecca, free "Oriental Morocco") · Keywords: Bafang Shisan Alley, Bingling Temple Grottoes, hand-grabbed lamb · Transportation: Fly to Lanzhou, take a 1-hour high-speed rail to Linxia. Taxis in the city start at CNY 5. · 3-day itinerary: · Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon, explore Bafang Shisan Alley (painted brick carvings, like a maze) > Eat hand-grabbed lamb in the evening, see the mosque night view. · Day 2: Charter a car to Bingling Temple Grottoes (arrive by speedboat through the Yellow River Stone Forest, stunning) > Pass by Liujiaxia Bridge observation deck on the way back. · Day 3: Visit Hongyuan (Suzhou-style garden mixed with Hui architecture) > Buy local fried dough twists as souvenirs. · Cost: Average CNY 280/day. Hand-grabbed lamb CNY 60/jin, unlimited refills for Gaiwan tea. · Tip: Mainly Halal diet, do not bring non-Halal food into restaurants. 4. Linhai, Zhejiang (Underrated ancient city, sticky-sweet paradise) · Keywords: Jiangnan Great Wall, Ziyang Ancient Street, Xinrongji's hometown · Transportation: High-speed rail direct (transfer to bus at Taizhou Station). Walking + shared bikes are sufficient in the old city. · 3-day itinerary: · Day 1: Climb Jiangnan Great Wall in the evening (ascend from Lansheng Gate, descend from Xingshan Gate) to see the ancient city lights. · Day 2: Full day exploring and eating on Ziyang Ancient Street (Longxing Temple, former People's Bank site) > Go boating on East Lake in the afternoon to see the gardens. · Day 3: Get up early for glutinous rice fritters > Visit the market to buy seaweed cakes (best fresh out of the oven) > Take high-speed rail to Taizhou Station for return journey. · Cost: Average CNY 320/day (accommodation slightly more expensive). Zaogeng CNY 10, Maixia CNY 15, Xinrongji's "Rong Xiaoguan" approx. CNY 100 per person for a full meal. · Tip: August has frequent showers, carry an umbrella. · -- Avoid pitfalls and luggage suggestions: · Check in advance: Linxia and Mangshi have ethnic festivals in August (check local culture and tourism accounts for details), which can make them more lively. · Must-bring: Except for Linxia, the other 3 places have many mosquitoes, bring strong repellent; a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella for Baise and Mangshi. Finally, a question: Among these 4 places, do you prefer the desolate grottoes of the Northwest or the border fireworks of the Southwest? Tell me your preference, and I can send you the transportation connection details and a list of local hidden restaurants for the corresponding city. 😊

Avoid the crowds! These 8 off-the-beaten-path cities offer the most authentic local flavor 01 Nanyang | Henan Nanyang's signature attraction is the Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling Dinosaur Relics Park Tourist Area, offering two ways to experience the city in one place. In the morning, climb Laojieling first. After taking the cable car up, walk along the wooden boardwalk, listening to the wind rustling through the pine forest, as if you can hear the entire mountain breathing. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive at the foot of the mountain before 8 am, when there are fewer tourists and the fog hasn't cleared yet, so you can take photos without having to hide from people. In the afternoon, head to the Dinosaur Relics Park. Don't rush to buy tickets; first, look at the huge dinosaur skeleton model at the entrance—the kids will be excited. Inside the park, there's a real fossil excavation site. Looking at the bones embedded in the rock strata through the glass will make you feel like you've come to the right place. ⚠️ Note that the park closes for entry at 5 pm, so don't arrive at 4:30 pm. The entire scenic area is about 40 kilometers from Xixia County. Driving is the most convenient option; a taxi ride costs around 80 yuan one way. Hiring a car for the whole day is recommended for convenience. In Nanyang, a bowl of spicy soup with fried dough sticks is a delicious breakfast at any old shop in the county town; five yuan is enough to fill you up. 02 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain isn't the kind of place that immediately takes your breath away, but it's captivating. Autumn is its peak season, with red leaves carpeting the entire valley in mid-to-late October. However, I don't recommend only visiting in autumn. In summer, the moss along the streams is a vibrant green, and you'll want to stop and touch the water droplets on the stones every few steps. 📍 From the main gate, take a sightseeing bus to Yingyue Lake, then hike towards Yanzi Ridge. This hike takes about two hours, with a gentle slope, making it easy for both the elderly and children. Along the way, you'll pass several viewing platforms with expansive views, where you can see clouds and mist rising from the valleys like white waves. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there's a farmhouse restaurant selling stir-fried cured pork with ferns. The cured pork is homemade, savory, and chewy. Served with a bowl of steamed rice, it costs around thirty yuan per person. If you're short on time, just visit the Micang Mountain area; the main peak of Guangwu Mountain isn't particularly worth seeing. ⚠️ Signal is poor in the mountains, so download offline maps beforehand; don't rely on navigation. It's an hour and a half drive from Bazhong city, with few buses, so hiring a car is recommended; a round trip will cost around 300 yuan. 03 Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake is an underrated place. It's not as famous as Chaka Salt Lake, but much less crowded, allowing for more relaxed photography. The lake water appears pinkish-green under the sunlight, like someone poured paint into it. ⏰ The best time is from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. The sunset paints the lake surface orange-red, and the outline of the Zhongtiao Mountains in the distance is clearly visible; every shot is wallpaper-worthy. 📍 It's a 20-minute taxi ride from Yuncheng city, costing just over 20 yuan. Don't take the unlicensed taxis that solicit passengers; negotiating is troublesome. There's a boardwalk along the lake; a complete walk takes about 40 minutes. It's windy, so remember to bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Don't walk barefoot in the salt mud by the lake. It looks fun, but your feet will burn for a long time afterward. After visiting the salt lake, stop by the Jiexiu Guandi Temple, the largest Guandi Temple in China. Tickets are 60 yuan, and an hour is enough to explore. The mutton stew in Yuncheng is different from that in Xi'an; here, it's mutton broth with flatbread, making the broth richer. Served with pickled garlic, it's incredibly warming. 🚄 Get off at Yuncheng North Station and take a taxi to the city center (15 minutes). 04 Linxia | Gansu Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture has a long name, but it's worth a special trip. The Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is most famous for its blue Yellow River. You read that right; the Yellow River in this section is a clear blue-green, completely different from what you might imagine. 📍 Starting from Linxia city, it's a 40-minute drive to the Liujiaxia Dam. Standing atop the dam, the reservoir looks like a giant piece of jade. You can take a boat trip into the depths of the reservoir; the round trip takes one hour and costs 80 yuan. Be aware that the wind and waves can be strong, so those prone to seasickness should take medication beforehand. Next, visit the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Site. The grottoes are carved into a cliff, and the Buddha statue is 27 meters tall. Standing below and looking up will strain your neck, but it will leave you feeling awe. ⚠️ The plank roads at Bingling Temple are steep; if you're with elderly people, assess their physical condition and don't push them too hard. The two scenic areas are far apart, so it's recommended to split your visit into two days, staying overnight in Linxia city. The Eight Squares and Thirteen Lanes in the city center are worth exploring. The lanes are full of old courtyards with Hui ethnic style, featuring exquisite brick carvings, and at night, they resemble a maze when illuminated. 🍜 Hand-pulled mutton with Sanpaotai (a type of fermented tea), about 50 yuan per person; the meat is so tender you don't even need to chew. 05 Handan | Hebei Handan's Guangfu Ancient City and Wa Huang Palace are like two contrasting landscapes: one like a water town, the other like a mythical place. Guangfu Ancient City is surrounded by water on all sides, with well-preserved city walls. A complete walk around takes about an hour and a half. 📍 Enter from the South Gate. First, explore the Wu Family Courtyard within the city, admiring the wood and brick carvings of the old houses. Then, walk along the city wall for a panoramic view of the entire water town. ⏰ It's recommended to visit in the morning when the light is better, creating long shadows on the walls, perfect for portrait photography. Have lunch in the city with crispy fish, a local specialty of Guangfu. The fish bones are stewed until soft enough to chew directly. In the afternoon, drive to Wa Huang Palace (about an hour's drive, entrance fee 60 yuan). Wa Huang Palace is built on a cliff of Zhonghuang Mountain, carved into the mountainside; the layered wooden structures look precarious. ⚠️ There's a cable car up the mountain, but it only goes halfway up. You'll have to climb the last section of steps yourself, so be prepared if you're not physically fit. The view from the mountaintop is incredibly expansive, offering a view of the Zhanghe River flowing around its foot. It's about 40 kilometers from Handan city to Guangfu Ancient City; a taxi ride costs 50 yuan one way, so driving is highly recommended. You can easily visit both attractions in a day. 06 Haibei | Qinghai Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located in the heart of the Qilian Mountains, boasting some of the most otherworldly scenery I've ever seen. At the foot of the Qilian Mountains lie vast alpine meadows, where rapeseed flowers and barley fields in July create a vibrant tapestry of yellow and green, like a spilled palette. 📍 Starting from Xining, take National Highway G227, crossing the Daban Mountain towards Qilian County. Along the way, you'll pass the Heihe Grand Canyon, a bottomless gorge where the roar of the river shakes the car windows. Lenglongling is located north of Qilian County; it's at a high altitude, with snow-capped peaks year-round, and the snow line is visible even in summer. Ami Dongsuo is a sacred mountain near Qilian County. Local Tibetans circumambulate it, and if you join them, you can feel the atmosphere of devotion. ⚠️ Altitude sickness varies from person to person. It's recommended to acclimatize in Xining a day in advance, rather than rushing directly up the mountain. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Qilian County; a standard room costs around 150 yuan, and you can see a sky full of stars at night. 🍜 You must try the yak yogurt. It's so sour it makes you wince, but with a spoonful of sugar, it's so delicious you can't stop eating it. 🚄 There's no train from Xining to Qilian County, only long-distance buses. The journey takes six hours, but the scenery along the way makes the bumpy ride worthwhile. 07 Hanzhong|Shaanxi The Shimen Plank Road in Hanzhong is the kind of attraction that will make your legs weak. The plank road hangs on the cliffs of the Baohe River Canyon, with rushing water below. The wooden planks and stone beams are pieced together, creaking as you walk. 📍 It's a 40-minute drive from Hanzhong city to the scenic area; the entrance fee is 80 yuan. The plank road is about two kilometers long and takes about an hour to walk. Several sections are suspended in mid-air, which can make you dizzy looking down, but the scenery is absolutely stunning. The Ancient Han Terrace is located in Hanzhong city. It was where Liu Bang stationed his troops and is now a museum, open to the public free of charge. It displays historical artifacts from the Han Dynasty; half an hour is enough to explore it. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Han River. The river is wide, and in the evening, you can see locals fishing and flying kites. You'll feel that the city has a truly slow pace of life. ⚠️ The Shimen Plank Road is slippery in rainy weather, so wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. Hanzhong's hot rice noodles are the soul of the place, served with vegetables and tofu—a spicy and sour appetizer, costing eight yuan a bowl. 🚄 There is a high-speed train from Hanzhong Station, taking about an hour and a half from Xi'an, suitable for a short weekend trip. 08 Baoting | Hainan Baoting County is located in the south-central part of Hainan Island, separated from Sanya by a mountain, but it's much cooler than Sanya. Binglang Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Area is the best place to learn about the culture of Hainan's indigenous people. The Li people's boat-shaped houses, brocade weaving, and tattooed grandmothers are living museums. 📍 It's a 20-minute taxi ride from Baoting County. The entrance fee is 120 yuan, including a Li ethnic song and dance performance, which is worth seeing. There's a handicraft area in the scenic area where you can weave a piece of Li brocade yourself. The grandmothers will patiently teach you; although it might be a short-lived experience, the sense of accomplishment is immense. Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Area is not far from Binglang Valley, a 15-minute drive. It's a true tropical rainforest with towering canopies and the air filled with the scent of plants. ⏰ It's recommended to visit Yanoda in the morning and Binglang Valley in the afternoon. Have lunch at the entrance of the scenic area with a bowl of Hainan noodles and two shrimp cakes for about 20 yuan. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the rainforest, so bring mosquito repellent. Don't wear shorts into the mountains. Baoting is also famous for its hot springs. If you have enough time, find a hot spring hotel in the county town and stay overnight. It costs around 180 yuan including breakfast, which is much better value than Sanya. Avoid the crowds! These 8 off-the-beaten-path cities hide the most authentic local atmosphere 01 Nanyang | Henan Nanyang's signature attraction is the Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling Dinosaur Relics Park Tourist Area, offering two ways to experience the city in one place. In the morning, climb Laojieling first. After taking the cable car up, walk along the wooden boardwalk. The wind whistles through the pine forest, and you can hear the entire mountain breathing. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive at the foot of the mountain before 8 am. There will be fewer tourists, and the fog hasn't lifted yet, so you can take photos without having to hide from people. In the afternoon, head to the Dinosaur Relics Park. Don't rush to buy tickets; first, look at the huge dinosaur skeleton model at the entrance—the kids will be excited. Inside the park, there's a real fossil excavation site. Looking at the bones embedded in the rock strata through the glass, you'll know you've come to the right place. ⚠️ Note that the archaeological site closes for entry at 5 PM, so don't arrive at 4:30 PM. The entire scenic area is about 40 kilometers from Xixia County. Driving is the most convenient option; a taxi ride costs around 80 yuan one way. Hiring a car for the day is recommended for convenience. For breakfast, try Nanyang's spicy soup with fried dough sticks at any old shop in the county town – you can eat your fill for just 5 yuan. 02 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain isn't the kind of place that immediately takes your breath away, but it's captivating. Autumn is its peak season, with red leaves carpeting the valley in mid-to-late October. However, I don't recommend only visiting in autumn. In summer, the moss along the streams is a vibrant green, and you'll want to stop and touch the water droplets on the stones every few steps. 📍 From the main gate, take a sightseeing bus to Yingyue Lake, then hike towards Yanzi Ridge. This section takes about two hours, with a gentle slope, making it easy for both the elderly and children. The route passes several viewpoints offering expansive vistas, where you can see clouds and mist rolling up from the valleys like white waves. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there's a farmhouse restaurant selling stir-fried cured pork with ferns. The cured pork is homemade, savory, and chewy, served with a bowl of steamed rice. It costs around 30 yuan per person. If you're short on time, just visit the Micang Mountain area; the main peak of Wushan Mountain itself isn't particularly worth seeing. ⚠️ Signal is poor in the mountains, so download offline maps beforehand; don't rely on navigation. It's an hour and a half drive from Bazhong city, with few buses, so hiring a car is recommended; a round trip costs around 300 yuan. 03 Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake is an underrated place. It's not as famous as Chaka Salt Lake, but much less crowded, allowing for more relaxed photography. The lake water appears pinkish-green under the sunlight, as if someone poured paint into it. ⏰ The best time to visit is between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM. The sunset paints the lake surface orange-red, and the outline of the Zhongtiao Mountains in the distance is clearly visible; every snapshot is wallpaper-worthy. 📍 It's a 20-minute taxi ride from downtown Yuncheng, costing just over 20 yuan. Don't take those unlicensed taxis that solicit passengers; negotiating is a hassle. There's a boardwalk along the lake; a complete walk takes about 40 minutes. It's windy, so remember to bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Don't walk barefoot in the salt mud by the lake. It looks fun, but your soles will burn for a long time afterward. After visiting the salt lake, stop by the Jiexiu Guandi Temple, the largest Guandi temple in China. The entrance fee is 60 yuan; an hour is enough to explore. Yuncheng's mutton stew is different from Xi'an's; here, it's made with mutton broth and flatbread, resulting in a richer broth. Served with pickled garlic, it warms you up completely. 🚄 Get off at Yuncheng North Station and take a taxi to the city center in 15 minutes. 04 Linxia | Gansu Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture has a long name, but it's worth a special trip. The Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is most famous for its blue Yellow River water. You read that right, the Yellow River in this section is a clear blue-green, completely different from what you might imagine. 📍 From Linxia city, it's a 40-minute drive to the Liujiaxia Dam. Standing on the top of the dam, the reservoir looks like a giant piece of jade. You can take a boat trip into the depths of the reservoir; the round trip takes one hour and costs 80 yuan. Be aware that the wind and waves can be strong, so those prone to seasickness should take medication beforehand. Next, visit the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Site. The grottoes are carved into a cliff, and the Buddha statue is 27 meters tall. Standing below and looking up will strain your neck, but it will leave you feeling awe. ⚠️ The plank roads at Bingling Temple are steep. If you're traveling with elderly people, assess their physical condition and don't push them too hard. The two scenic areas are far apart, so it's recommended to split your visit into two days, staying overnight in Linxia city in between. The Eight Squares and Thirteen Lanes in the city center are worth exploring. The lanes are filled with old courtyards in Hui ethnic style, with exquisite brick carvings, and at night, they resemble a maze when illuminated. 🍜 Hand-pulled mutton with Sanpaotai (a type of stew), about 50 yuan per person, the meat is so tender you don't even need to chew. 05 Handan|Hebei Handan's Guangfu Ancient City and Wa Huang Palace are like a water town and a mythical place, respectively. Guangfu Ancient City is an ancient city surrounded by water on all sides, with well-preserved city walls. A complete walk around takes about an hour and a half. 📍 Enter from the South Gate. First, explore the Wu Family Courtyard within the city, admiring the wood and brick carvings of the old houses. Then, walk along the city wall for a panoramic view of the entire water town. ⏰ It's recommended to come in the morning when the light is better, casting long shadows on the walls, perfect for portrait photography. For lunch, have some crispy fish in the city, a Guangfu specialty; even the fish bones are stewed until soft enough to chew directly. In the afternoon, drive to Wa Huang Palace, about an hour's drive, entrance fee 60 yuan. The Wa Huang Palace is built on a cliff face of Zhonghuang Mountain, carved into the mountainside; its layered wooden structure looks precarious. ⚠️ There's a cable car to the top, but it only goes halfway up. You'll have to climb the last section of steps yourself, so be prepared if you're not physically fit. The view from the summit is incredibly expansive, with the Zhang River flowing around the foot of the mountain. It's about 40 kilometers from Handan city to Guangfu Ancient City; a taxi ride costs 50 yuan one way. Driving is recommended; you can easily visit both attractions in a day. 06 Haibei | Qinghai Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located in the heart of the Qilian Mountains, and it boasts some of the most otherworldly scenery I've ever seen. At the foot of the Qilian Mountains lie vast alpine meadows, where in July, rapeseed flowers and barley fields intertwine, creating a vibrant yellow-green palette. 📍 Starting from Xining, take National Highway G227, crossing the Daban Mountain Pass towards Qilian County. Along the way, you'll pass the Heihe Grand Canyon, a bottomless gorge where the roar of the river shakes the car windows. Lenglongling is located north of Qilian County; it's at a high altitude with snow-capped peaks year-round, even in summer. Ami Dongsuo is a sacred mountain near Qilian County; local Tibetans circumambulate it, and joining them for a while will allow you to experience its devout atmosphere. ⚠️ Altitude sickness varies from person to person. It's recommended to acclimatize in Xining a day in advance, rather than rushing directly up the mountain. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Qilian County; a standard room costs around 150 yuan, and you can see a sky full of stars at night. 🍜 You must try the yak yogurt! It's so sour it makes you wince, but adding a spoonful of sugar makes it irresistibly delicious. 🚄 There's no train from Xining to Qilian County, only long-distance buses. The journey takes six hours, but the scenery along the way makes the bumpy ride worthwhile. 07 Hanzhong | Shaanxi The Shimen Plank Road in Hanzhong is the kind of scenic spot that will make your legs weak when you stand on it. The plank road hangs on the cliffs of the Baohe River Gorge, with the rushing river below. The wooden planks and stone beams are pieced together, creaking as you walk. 📍 It's a 40-minute drive from downtown Hanzhong to the scenic area; the entrance fee is 80 yuan. The plank road is about two kilometers long and takes about an hour to walk. Several sections are suspended in mid-air, which can make you dizzy looking down, but the scenery is absolutely stunning. The Ancient Hantai is located in downtown Hanzhong. It was where Liu Bang stationed his troops and is now a museum, open to the public free of charge. It displays historical artifacts from the Han Dynasty; half an hour is enough to visit. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Han River. The river is wide, and in the evening, you can see locals fishing and flying kites. You'll feel that the pace of life in this city is truly slow. ⚠️ The Shimen Plank Road is slippery in rainy weather, so wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. Hot rice noodles are the soul of Hanzhong, served with vegetables and tofu, a spicy and sour appetizer, costing eight yuan a bowl. 🚄 Hanzhong Station has high-speed rail service; it takes about an hour and a half from Xi'an, perfect for a weekend getaway. 08 Baoting | Hainan Baoting County is located in the south-central part of Hainan Island, separated from Sanya by a mountain, but it's much cooler. Binglang Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Area is the best place to learn about Hainan's indigenous culture. The Li people's boat-shaped houses, brocade weaving, and tattooed grandmothers are living museums. 📍 It's a 20-minute taxi ride from Baoting County. The entrance fee is 120 yuan, including a Li ethnic song and dance performance, which is worth seeing. There's a handicraft area in the scenic area where you can weave a piece of Li brocade yourself. The grandmothers will patiently teach you; although it might be a short-lived experience, the sense of accomplishment is immense. Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Area is not far from Binglang Valley, a 15-minute drive. This is a true tropical rainforest, with towering canopies and the air filled with the scent of plants. ⏰ I recommend visiting Yanoda in the morning and Binglang Valley in the afternoon. Have lunch at the scenic area entrance with a bowl of Hainan noodles and two shrimp cakes; it'll cost around 20 yuan. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the rainforest, so bring mosquito repellent. Don't wear shorts into the mountains. Baoting is also famous for its hot springs. If you have enough time, find a hot spring hotel in the county town and stay overnight; it's 180 yuan including breakfast, much better value than Sanya.

A hidden summer retreat in the Great Northwest! Spotlighted by CCTV, Linxia, the "Cool Summer Capital," features fresh, healing scenery. It's quiet, less crowded, and more niche and gentle than Gannan, making it perfect for a summer trip🍃 ✨ Trip Highlights Linxia combines cultural heritage with Northwest landscapes, creating an incredible atmosphere. The Bafang Thirteen Alleys is a unique folk-custom historic district. The bluestone streets are well-arranged, and you can see exquisite intangible cultural heritage brick carvings everywhere. It's antique and charming. When the lanterns light up at night, the atmosphere is even more immersive. You can explore the ancient streets for free. The Bingling Temple Grottoes house thousands of years of stone carving art. The ancient cliff statues are magnificent and profound. Combined with the surrounding Danxia stone forest landforms, where blue water and red rocks complement each other, every photo you take looks like a Northwest blockbuster. The scenery along the Taizi Mountain route is stunning, with lush forests, open grasslands, and fresh greenery everywhere. It's exceptionally cool even in midsummer, making it a natural summer retreat with healing and comforting pristine natural scenery. 📅 Trip Planning We recommend a relaxed 2-day short trip, stress-free and unhurried. The first day focuses on a slow cultural tour: stroll through the Bafang Thirteen Alleys, admire the ancient charm of the brick carvings, and explore the lantern-lit alleys at night to experience the local vibe of Hezhou. The second day is for nature: visit the grottoes and Danxia landscapes, admire the unique terrain, take a leisurely walk on the mountain trails, and immerse yourself in the cool scenery of Linxia. 🍜 Food Recommendations Local specialties are unique and offer great value. The tender, savory hand-grabbed mutton is fresh and not gamey or greasy. Authentic Hezhou buns and beef offal soup are delicious. Don't miss snacks like Tianpeizi, Liangpizi, and Tangyougao. Pair them with Eight-Treasure Tea to cleanse your palate and unlock the authentic taste of the Northwest in one bite. With no crowds and affordable prices, Linxia offers both the gentle charm of Jiangnan-style alleys and the magnificent landscapes of the Great Northwest. It is definitely a hidden treasure for a summer getaway✅

Where to budget travel in August? These 6️⃣ places have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and save you money 01 Qingdao | Shandong Let’s start with the budget. Qingdao is expensive mainly because of peak season lodging. To save money, don’t stay near Zhanqiao Pier. Stay along the Tuandao or Cuobuling subway lines, and you can keep a night under 200 yuan. The Line 3 subway plus buses basically cover all the spots you want to visit. ⏰ Head to Zhanqiao Pier at 6:30 AM. Tour groups haven’t arrived yet, seagulls circle at your feet, and the pier is empty enough to get photos with no one else in them. After seeing the sea, take a bus to Laoshan. The Yangkou line is cheaper than the Jufeng line. Tickets plus sightseeing bus cost just over 100 yuan. After hiking, if you have energy, visit the Olympic Sailing Center. The lighting at the sailing dock is best at 5 PM, perfect for silhouette shots without editing. 🍜 Don’t eat lunch in the scenic area. After Laoshan, take a bus to Wanggezhuang. Big steamed buns with seafood cost about 30 yuan per person and will fill you up. ⚠️ Beware, the “1 yuan per abalone” near Zhanqiao Pier is a scam. Avoid it. 02 Changde | Hunan Changde is perfect if you don’t want to rush and just want a quiet place to relax for a couple of days. The Taohuayuan scenic area ticket is 80 yuan, but the inns inside offer free entry, so staying overnight is actually cost-effective. 📍 Inside the scenic area, take the sightseeing bus directly to Qingu. Walk through the rice paddies and bamboo corridors to the “suddenly open” viewing platform. The scene matches the mood described by Tao Yuanming. If you’re with elderly people, skip the second half of the mountain path—it’s steep. Instead, return to the dock and take the boat. 🍜 In the evening, back in the city, try a bowl of Changde beef noodles on Da Xiaohe Street. It’s 15 yuan, and the beef portion is more generous than in Changsha. 🚄 There’s a tourist shuttle from Changde Station to Taohuayuan every 30 minutes. A taxi costs about 60–70 yuan. Splitting among four people is the best deal. 03 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is one of those places where you wonder, “Why is it so beautiful but no one comes?” Choose either Gupo Mountain or Dongtanling. I recommend Gupo Mountain because Dongtanling is easier to visit by car. Gupo Mountain tickets plus sightseeing bus cost 75 yuan. Enter at 8 AM. The waterfall area is cool and refreshing, and the mist on your face will lift your summer blues. ⏰ Arrive at the mountaintop meadow before noon for the best chance to see the sea of clouds. Don’t linger too long at the monkey area on the way down; they’ll snatch plastic bags. ⚠️ Don’t rush down. The tofu pudding at the scenic area entrance is 2 yuan a bowl and incredibly soft. Stay at a guesthouse outside Huangyao Ancient Town. Don’t stay inside; it’s noisy and expensive. 🚄 A taxi from Hezhou Station to Gupo Mountain takes about 40 minutes. Book your return ride in advance; there are fewer cars after 6 PM. 04 Nanchang | Jiangxi Nanchang’s budget travel strategy is clear: stay near the Honggutan subway station, eat at Wanshou Palace, and visit Tengwang Pavilion. Lodging costs just over 100 yuan per person and is cleaner and quieter than the old city. Tengwang Pavilion tickets cost 50 yuan and are more worthwhile at night than during the day. ⏰ Enter at 6:30 PM. Watch the sunset over the river, then at 7 PM enjoy the light show. When the pavilion lights up, the whole Gan River night scene belongs to you. Don’t come during the day—it’s hot and the pavilion isn’t as impressive. 🍜 Afterward, walk 10 minutes to Wanshou Palace Street. Green bean cakes, mixed noodles, and clay pot soup cost about 30 yuan and will leave you full. ⚠️ Don’t buy the “cultural ice cream” at Tengwang Pavilion. It’s 15 yuan per stick and tastes worse than the 5-yuan popsicles at the nearby convenience store. 05 Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Here’s the bottom line: skip Chaka Salt Lake and go to Emerald Lake and Chaerhan Salt Lake. Simply put, Chaka is crowded like dumplings in a pot. The green of Emerald Lake and the blue of Chaerhan Salt Lake make perfect wallpaper shots without fighting for a spot. 📍 Emerald Lake is near Chaidan Town. Tickets cost 50 yuan. You don’t need the sightseeing bus; it’s a 20-minute walk to the core area. Chaerhan Salt Lake is in the industrial zone. Navigate to “Wanzhang Salt Bridge” and you can see it roadside without a ticket. ⏰ Visit both lakes after 4 PM. When the sun is low, the salt crystals sparkle. ⚠️ Don’t try to rush Kunlun Mountain this season. It’s high altitude, cold, and the roads are bad unless you have a 4WD. If you want to see snow-capped mountains, a distant view from Golmud city is enough. The money saved on gas can buy you two extra meals of braised lamb. 06 Wuxi | Jiangsu Wuxi is a city to explore slowly. Don’t try to do too much. My route: Huishan Ancient Town in the morning, Nianhuawan in the afternoon, and if you have time, Lingshan Grand Buddha at night. Visiting all three will tire you out. Huishan Ancient Town is free. Go at 8 AM. The ancestral halls aren’t open yet, but breakfast stalls on the old street are already busy. Tofu pudding with soup dumplings is a good start. After eating, stroll along the river for half an hour. No need to pay for a boat ride. 🚄 In the afternoon, go to Nianhuawan. You can get there by subway plus bus. Tickets cost 120 yuan, which is a bit pricey. But the evening light show and scripture copying experience are unique. If you enjoy a Zen atmosphere, it’s worth it. ⚠️ Choose either Lingshan Grand Buddha or Nianhuawan. Both are Buddhist-themed and similar. Save your energy for the night market on Nanchang Street. 07 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia is one of the most surprising small cities I found this year. Liujiagxia Tourist Resort focuses on water scenery and canyons. Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage site features grottoes. They’re close but trying to see both in one day is too rushed. My suggestion: visit Bingling Temple in the morning. Take the boat in. Tickets plus boat cost about 120 yuan. The Yellow River water along the way is bluer than you’d expect in the northwest. The Buddha statues in the grottoes are well preserved. Don’t rush; spend at least two hours. ⏰ In the afternoon, after leaving the scenic area, visit the Liujiagxia Reservoir dam to see the spillway. The sound of the water is intense. 🍜 Back in the city at night, hand-pulled lamb costs 60 yuan per jin, paired with eight-treasure tea. Expect to spend about 50 yuan per person to be full. ⚠️ Taxis in Linxia don’t use meters. Agree on the price before getting in. Trips within the city should be under 10 yuan. 08 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli feels like a fairy tale, but remember, it’s best for nighttime visits. During the day, the Matryoshka Doll Square feels like a giant toy store and is boring. ⏰ Enter the Matryoshka Doll scenic area at 7 PM. When the lights come on, the whole square looks like a dream inside a Russian nesting doll. Tickets cost 80 yuan. The evening music fountain and light show are better than the daytime. Afterward, walk along Zhongsu Street. The Russian architecture looks great under the streetlights. 🍜 For a late-night snack, go to the barbecue street next to Beihu Park. Lamb skewers are 3 yuan each, grilled to juicy perfection. Pair with a bottle of Hailar beer for the perfect ending. ⚠️ Manzhouli has a big temperature difference between day and night. Even in August, bring a light jacket. It gets quite cool with the wind at night. 🚄 The city is small. Taxi fares start at 5 yuan. Avoid taxis that start at 20 yuan.

01 Shigatse | Tibet If it's your first time in Shigatse, many people struggle with whether to head straight to Everest Base Camp. My advice is: don't rush. Spend half a day at Tashilhunpo Monastery first. The prayer path inside the monastery is almost empty before 9:00 AM. With the sunlight slanting against the white palace walls, you can hear the sound of wind chimes mixed with chanting. Head to Everest in the afternoon. On the way, you'll pass Gawu La Pass, where 5 8,000-meter-level snow-capped mountains line up; the sense of awe you feel there is something photos just can't capture. ⏰ To see the golden peak of Everest, arriving at the Rongbuk Monastery viewing platform around 7:30 PM is your best bet. As for accommodation, don't stay in the base camp tents; the conditions are average and they're expensive. Head back to Dingri County to stay; a standard room is just over 200, and it's much cleaner. ⚠️ Get your border permit at your place of household registration before you leave. You can also get it in Lhasa, but expect to wait at least 2 hours. 02 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei is an underrated treasure. Gaomiao Temple and Shapotou are 2 completely different worlds, but they are close to each other, making it perfect to visit both on the same day. Spend the morning at Gaomiao Temple. This temple is built on high ground, and its ground-level structures are connected to an underground "18 levels of hell" exhibit; walking through it feels like watching a 3D movie. Tickets are only 30, and you can tag along with a tour group for a guide. In the afternoon, head to Shapotou. Don't buy the full package as soon as you enter; it's more cost-effective to buy tickets for the shuttle, sand sliding, sheepskin raft, and glass bridge separately. 🍜 For dinner, head to Xiangyang Street in the city center. This is where locals go for BBQ. Lamb skewers are 3 yuan each, paired with eight-treasure tea to cut the grease. ⚠️ It gets windy at Shapotou after 4:00 PM. Make sure your hat has a strap, or you'll just have to watch it fly into the Yellow River. 03 Wenzhou | Zhejiang Yandang Mountain in Wenzhou is perfect for a 2-day trip. On the first day, visit the Lingfeng Scenic Area. Enter after 4:00 PM to see the unique peaks during the day, and then at 7:00 PM, when the lights come on, the same rocks transform into a different scene—this is known as "seeing both the day and night views." On the second day, go to Dalongqiu Waterfall. The water volume depends heavily on the season; in August and September, just after the rainy season, the water is at its most powerful. You'll get soaked within 10 minutes of standing by the pool, so remember to bring a raincoat. Liu Bowen's hometown is in Nantian Town, a 1.5-hour drive from Yandang Mountain. The scenic area isn't large, but the ancient architectural complex is well-preserved, and the wood-carved gate towers are worth a close look. ⏰ For lunch, eat at "Bowen Family Banquet" in town. The pig trotter jelly and sticky rice yam are must-orders. It costs about 50 per person, and you'll eat until you're stuffed. 04 Jilin For a summer getaway in Jilin City, Songhua Lake is the star. It's a 40-minute drive from the city to Fengman Dam, where you can buy a boat ticket to the lake. I recommend taking the 2:00 PM departure; the sunlight hitting the water creates a shimmer that will fill up your phone's photo album. The boat will stop at Wuhu Island. There's nothing particularly special on the island, but walking the loop trail around it fills the air with the scent of pine trees. Wusong Island is only beautiful in winter, so don't get your hopes up if you go in August or September. However, Hantun Village near the island is worth a visit. There's a sunflower field in the village that blooms right around mid-August, making it better for photos than the island itself. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the city for jianfen (jelly noodles) at a long-standing shop near the train station, paired with a bowl of beef soup. That's what a summer night in Northeast China is all about. 05 Chongzuo | Guangxi Before I went to Detian Transnational Waterfall, I thought it was just a tourist spot, but once there, I realized it's "border life." Half of the waterfall is in China and half is in Vietnam. Take a bamboo raft to the middle of the river, and Vietnamese vendors will paddle over to sell dried mangoes. Just cut the asking price in half when bargaining. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM; it's less crowded, and you might see a rainbow created by the waterfall. Mingshi Scenic Area is a 40-minute drive from Detian, and it's better suited for a leisurely stroll. Rent an e-bike and ride along the greenway; you can complete the loop in 2 hours, with rice paddies, phoenix-tail bamboo, and karst peaks all along the way. ⚠️ Make sure to choose an e-bike with a full battery, or you'll end up pushing it if it dies halfway—don't ask me how I know. 06 Yantai | Shandong The Yantai trio: Penglai Pavilion, Changdao, and Longkou Nanshan. If it's your first time, follow this order; 2 days is just right. On the first day, visit Penglai Pavilion. Get there right when it opens at 8:00 AM. Explore the ancient architectural complex first, then head down to the Tianheng Mountain boardwalk. The sea breeze and the sound of the waves are cooler than any air conditioning. For lunch, have mackerel dumplings in downtown Penglai; the filling is bouncy, and they're amazing with minced garlic. In the afternoon, take a boat to Changdao and stay at a fisherfolk homestay. It's 180 per person, including 3 meals. Dinner includes scallops, sea urchins, and crabs, and the landlady will even teach you how to peel mantis shrimp. On the second day, visit Jiuzhang Cliff in the morning; the sea caves under the cliffs are great for photos. Head back to the homestay for seaweed buns at lunch. In the afternoon, head back and visit Longkou Nanshan. The Big Buddha and ancient temple are both on the mountain, and there are many stairs. If you're with elderly people, don't force them to climb; take the scenic sightseeing bus—it's worth the 30. ⚠️ Buy your Changdao ferry tickets a day in advance during peak season; it's easy to run out if you buy them on the day. 07 Linxia | Gansu Linxia Prefecture isn't well-known to outsiders, but it's full of surprises. The core of the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is the Liujiaxia Reservoir. Drive up the mountain road toward Bingling Temple; there's a viewing platform halfway up the mountain where the Yellow River is emerald green—it doesn't match the name "Yellow River" at all. Eat fish at the farmhouses by the reservoir; it's 38 per jin, caught fresh and cooked to order, served with mashed potato jiaotuan. It costs about 50 per person, and you'll be stuffed. You don't need a tour group for the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area. Just drive to the pier and take a speedboat in; it takes 40 minutes. The grottoes are carved into red sandstone, and the Big Buddha is 27 meters tall. Standing at the bottom and looking up, it's enough to cure your stiff neck. ⚠️ It gets windy after 3:00 PM, and the speedboats stop running. Arriving at the pier before 2:00 PM is your best bet. 08 Kunming | Yunnan Kunming is a place to settle down and explore slowly. Daguan Park and Dianchi Lake are connected. In the morning, go to Daguan Pavilion first to see the panoramic view of Dianchi Lake, then walk along the lake to Haigeng Dam by Dianchi Lake. It's less crowded at the end of August, and it's windy, making it perfect for just zoning out. Dongchuan Red Land is 2.5 hours from the city. It's a bit rushed to go there and back in 1 day, so I recommend staying overnight. The sunset at Luoxiagou is the signature view; secure your spot before 5:00 PM. The Red Land is great for aerial photography, but even if you don't have a drone, standing on high ground and looking down is just as stunning. I advise you to be cautious about the Kunming Expo Garden; the tickets are expensive, and most of the attractions inside are maintained landscapes. You're better off going to Cuihu Park—it's free, and you can watch locals playing chess and performing opera. 🍜 For mushroom hotpot in Kunming, August and September are the season for Jianshouqing mushrooms. Find a place where locals are lining up; it costs about 100 per person, and it's so fresh it'll blow your mind. ⚠️ Make sure to boil the mushrooms for at least 15 minutes. Don't be impatient, or you might start hallucinating. Of these 8 places, my personal favorites are Chongzuo and Linxia—they're less crowded, scenic, and offer an incredible road trip experience. Where are you planning to go this summer? Let's chat in the comments; maybe the next guide will be about your destination.

Don't be idle after retirement! These 8️⃣ places are perfect for leisurely exploration 1️⃣ Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is ideal for spending a whole day at a slower pace. ⏰ Arrive at the pier before 9 AM. The water is so still it's like a mirror, and the reflections are even clearer than the real scenery. Take a boat to Bingling Temple; the journey takes about 40 minutes. The red sandstone mountains on both sides are increasingly captivating. 📍 After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk. The grottoes are carved into the cliffs, and looking up at the giant Buddha statue will leave you speechless with awe. ⚠️ There are quite a few steps. If you have knee problems, bring a folding hiking stick and rest frequently. In the afternoon, return to the resort. There are flat paths along the lake, suitable even for wheelchair users. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of riverside noodles near the pier. The broth is flavorful, the noodles are thin, and it's very comforting to eat hot. For accommodation, I recommend staying in Yongjing County. It's a 20-minute drive from the scenic area, cheaper and quieter than inside the area. On a clear day, watch the sunset by the lake; the light illuminates the Danxia landforms, creating layers of deepening colors. The tranquility will make you want to stay longer. 2️⃣ Fangchenggang City | Guangxi For the Fangchenggang coastal route, I suggest not trying to see everything; just visit one place a day. Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is best visited in the afternoon. ⏰ After 3 pm, the tide recedes, exposing the mudflats. Watching the locals dig for sand worms is fascinating. 📍 There's a large banyan tree at the village entrance; sitting under its shade and enjoying the sea breeze is more comfortable than at any other tourist spot. The old houses in the ancient village are well-preserved, with blue bricks and gray tiles. The narrow alleys are easy to walk through. ⚠️ Don't buy pearls at the scenic area entrance; the prices are inflated. If you really want to buy them, go to Dongxing city. 🚄 A taxi ride from Fangchenggang North Station to Leshan takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. Sharing a ride is more economical. Dinner was seafood in a village, freshly caught and cooked. The boiled shrimp with ginger and scallions was so fresh and sweet it didn't need any dipping sauce. After dinner, we strolled along the seawall. The sound of the waves was gentle, and the lights of fishing boats twinkled in the distance. That sense of relaxation is something money can't buy in the city. 3️⃣ Yuncheng City|Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake, I call it a place where you can take photos of the "Mirror of the Sky" without going to Chaka Salt Lake. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 pm. The sunlight shines obliquely down, turning the lake surface pinkish-purple, and the reflections are so clear you can count the clouds. 📍 Walk along the boardwalk in the middle of the lake. There are fewer people, the wind is gentle, and the thick layer of salt underfoot makes a crunching sound. ⚠️ Don't walk barefoot in the water. The salt concentration is high, and it will sting if you have sensitive skin. Wear sandals or rent rubber shoes. You can experience the black mud by the lake; it feels cool on your arms, and after it dries, you can wash it off, leaving your skin very smooth. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Yuncheng North Station, costing around 30 yuan. After visiting the salt lake, don't rush off. The Salt Lake Temple on the opposite shore is worth a visit; the ancient architecture is quiet, less crowded, and you can take your time to appreciate it. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the city and have a bowl of Jiexiu mutton soup. The broth is rich and the meat is tender, served with a baked flatbread—very satisfying. 4️⃣ Baoji City|Shaanxi For this Baoji route, I recommend ordering from lowest to highest altitude. Start with Famen Temple, 📍 Famen Temple Cultural Scenic Area. The relics and Tang Dynasty treasures in the underground palace are all national treasures; you can easily spend two hours looking at them. ⚠️ The scenic area is large; it's advisable to take the electric cart for now to save your energy for later. In the afternoon, we went up Mount Taibai. ⏰ We took the cable car to Tianyuan Difang, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. When the sea of ​​clouds surged, it felt like we were standing in the sky. 🚄 From Baoji city to the Mount Taibai Visitor Center, a chartered car costs around 150 yuan, but sharing a car is cheaper. The next day, we went to Guanshan Grassland, which is suitable for the elderly and children. The grassy slopes are gentle, and horseback riding costs 50 yuan per loop. Even if you don't ride, you can just sit on the grass and watch the clouds. 📌 I advise against specifically going to Dongshanfeng (冻山风). It's just a windy spot by the roadside, and when the wind is strong, you can barely stand. Just pass by and look at it. ⚠️ The temperature at the top of Mount Taibai is low. Even in summer, you need to bring a windproof jacket. The wind on the mountain is strong, and prolonged exposure can cause headaches. 5️⃣ Guiyang City|Guizhou For this trip to Guiyang, I suggest visiting Qingyan Ancient Town in the morning. ⏰ Go in as soon as it opens at 8 am. There are fewer people, and the stone paths are still cool with dew. 📍 Enter through Dingguang Gate and walk along the main street to the North Gate. The old houses on both sides are worth taking your time to admire, especially the intricately carved wooden window lattices—the craftsmanship is astonishing. 🍜 Have lunch in the ancient town with a bowl of rice porridge, hot and sweet, paired with braised pig's feet. A meal for 20 yuan is all you can eat. In the afternoon, head to Tianhetan Tourist Resort. The cave is a 40-minute walk away; it's very cool inside, but in summer, you'll need a jacket. ⚠️ The steps inside the cave are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is best visited in the evening; ⏰ the light is best at sunset. It can be windy on the grassy slopes, so a scarf is perfect. Huaxi Park is right on the edge of the city, with many flat paths and plenty of shade. When you get tired, just find a bench to sit on and watch the locals play chess and chat—the relaxed atmosphere is very therapeutic. 🚄 A taxi from Guiyang city center to Qingyan takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. 6️⃣ Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai For the Haibei area, I recommend hiring a car. You can complete the Qilian Mountains, Heihe Grand Canyon, Lenglongling, and Ami Dongsuo in one day – a convenient and direct route. ⏰ Depart from Qilian County at 8:00 AM, first visiting Ami Dongsuo, which means "God of the Mountains" in Tibetan. The snow-capped peaks gleam with gold in the morning light; the sense of sacredness is indescribable. 📍 Continue along the Heihe Grand Canyon. The canyon is deep, the river is rapid, and you can stop at the viewpoint to take some photos. The wind blowing up from the valley floor is cool and damp. The meadows of Lenglongling are most beautiful at the end of July, with wildflowers carpeting the hillsides in yellow, purple, and white, soft and fluffy underfoot. ⚠️ The altitude throughout the route is between 3200 and 3800 meters. Don't run or jump; walk slowly. Keep oxygen cylinders in the car. 🚄 A chartered car from Xining to Qilian County takes four hours one way. The driver/guide costs around 800 yuan per day, which is very cost-effective when split among four people. 🍜 At noon, we had a bowl of yak meat noodles in Ebao Town. The meat chunks were large, the broth was rich, and it warmed us up completely. On the way back in the afternoon, we passed through Menyuan. The rapeseed flowers in August hadn't fully faded yet; the golden yellow intertwined with the green of the barley fields, making it so beautiful that we didn't want to leave. 7️⃣ Panjin City|Liaoning I recommend visiting Panjin Red Beach from late September to mid-October. ⏰ At that time, the Suaeda salsa is at its most vibrant red, making the entire mudflat look like a red carpet. 📍 The scenic corridor is 18 kilometers long. Don't try to walk the whole way; take the sightseeing bus to the innermost viewing platform, where the red is most intense. ⚠️ It's windy, so wear a hat with a drawstring, otherwise it will blow away. The corridor is a wooden boardwalk, flat and easy to walk on; wheelchairs are also fine. 🚄 A taxi from Panjin Station to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes and costs around 80 yuan. After seeing the Red Beach, don't rush off; the rice paddy art next to the scenic area is also worth seeing. At the end of September, the rice turns golden, creating a striking contrast with the red mudflats. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the city for Panjin river crabs. September is the peak season for plump, roe-filled crabs; each one costs around 30 yuan and is so fresh you'll want to lick your fingers clean. ⚠️ Don't buy the grilled crabs sold in the scenic area; they're expensive and not fresh. Eating them back in the city is the better option. 8️⃣ Hengshui City|Hebei I recommend spending half a day leisurely exploring Hengshui Lake. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7 am. When the lake is misty, it looks like an ink painting, and the birdsong comes from all directions—it's incredibly soothing. 📍 Take a boat to the island in the middle of the lake; the journey takes about 20 minutes. The lake breeze is refreshing, especially in summer. There's a birdwatching platform on the island. During the October migration season, you can see flocks of migratory birds, including egrets, herons, and wild ducks. You can easily spend half a day observing them with binoculars. ⚠️ Don't buy bird food at the scenic area entrance; it's cheaper on the island. 🚄 A taxi from Hengshui North Railway Station to the scenic area takes about 20 minutes and costs around 20 yuan. There's a lakeside walking path, gentle and easy to walk, suitable for seniors. 🍜 Have lunch at a farmhouse near the scenic area with stewed fish in an iron pot. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, with firm flesh, served with cornbread. A meal costs about 50 yuan per person. In the afternoon, visit the Hengshui Lake Wetland Science Museum. It's cool inside, and you can learn a lot about birds. ⚠️ It gets very crowded on weekends. If you want peace and quiet, come on a weekday, and the entire lake will be yours to enjoy. Don't be idle after retirement! These 8️⃣ places are perfect for leisurely exploration 1️⃣ Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is ideal for spending a whole day at a slower pace. ⏰ Arrive at the pier before 9 AM. The water is so still it's like a mirror, and the reflections are even clearer than the real scenery. Take a boat to Bingling Temple; the journey takes about 40 minutes. The red sandstone mountains on both sides are increasingly captivating. 📍 After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk. The grottoes are carved into the cliffs, and looking up at the giant Buddha statue will leave you speechless with awe. ⚠️ There are quite a few steps. If you have knee problems, bring a folding hiking stick and rest frequently. In the afternoon, return to the resort. There are flat paths along the lake, suitable even for wheelchair users. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of riverside noodles near the pier. The broth is flavorful, the noodles are thin, and it's very comforting to eat hot. For accommodation, I recommend staying in Yongjing County. It's a 20-minute drive from the scenic area, cheaper and quieter than inside the area. On a clear day, watch the sunset by the lake; the light illuminates the Danxia landforms, creating layers of deepening colors. The tranquility will make you want to stay longer. 2️⃣ Fangchenggang City | Guangxi For the Fangchenggang coastal route, I suggest not trying to see everything; just visit one place a day. Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is best visited in the afternoon. ⏰ After 3 pm, the tide recedes, exposing the mudflats. Watching the locals dig for sand worms is fascinating. 📍 There's a large banyan tree at the village entrance; sitting under its shade and enjoying the sea breeze is more comfortable than at any other tourist spot. The old houses in the ancient village are well-preserved, with blue bricks and gray tiles. The narrow alleys are easy to walk through. ⚠️ Don't buy pearls at the scenic area entrance; the prices are inflated. If you really want to buy them, go to Dongxing city. 🚄 A taxi ride from Fangchenggang North Station to Leshan takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. Sharing a ride is more economical. Dinner was seafood in a village, freshly caught and cooked. The boiled shrimp with ginger and scallions was so fresh and sweet it didn't need any dipping sauce. After dinner, we strolled along the seawall. The sound of the waves was gentle, and the lights of fishing boats twinkled in the distance. That sense of relaxation is something money can't buy in the city. 3️⃣ Yuncheng City|Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake, I call it a place where you can take photos of the "Mirror of the Sky" without going to Chaka Salt Lake. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 pm. The sunlight shines obliquely down, turning the lake surface pinkish-purple, and the reflections are so clear you can count the clouds. 📍 Walk along the boardwalk in the middle of the lake. There are fewer people, the wind is gentle, and the thick layer of salt underfoot makes a crunching sound. ⚠️ Don't walk barefoot in the water. The salt concentration is high, and it will sting if you have sensitive skin. Wear sandals or rent rubber shoes. You can experience the black mud by the lake; it feels cool on your arms, and after it dries, you can wash it off, leaving your skin very smooth. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Yuncheng North Station, costing around 30 yuan. After visiting the salt lake, don't rush off. The Salt Lake Temple on the opposite shore is worth a visit; the ancient architecture is quiet, less crowded, and you can take your time to appreciate it. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the city and have a bowl of Jiexiu mutton soup. The broth is rich and the meat is tender, served with a baked flatbread—very satisfying. 4️⃣ Baoji City|Shaanxi For this Baoji route, I recommend ordering from lowest to highest altitude. Start with Famen Temple, 📍 Famen Temple Cultural Scenic Area. The relics and Tang Dynasty treasures in the underground palace are all national treasures; you can easily spend two hours looking at them. ⚠️ The scenic area is large; it's advisable to take the electric cart for now to save your energy for later. In the afternoon, we went up Mount Taibai. ⏰ We took the cable car to Tianyuan Difang, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. When the sea of ​​clouds surged, it felt like we were standing in the sky. 🚄 From Baoji city to the Mount Taibai Visitor Center, a chartered car costs around 150 yuan, but sharing a car is cheaper. The next day, we went to Guanshan Grassland, which is suitable for the elderly and children. The grassy slopes are gentle, and horseback riding costs 50 yuan per loop. Even if you don't ride, you can just sit on the grass and watch the clouds. 📌 I advise against specifically going to Dongshanfeng (冻山风). It's just a windy spot by the roadside, and when the wind is strong, you can barely stand. Just pass by and look at it. ⚠️ The temperature at the top of Mount Taibai is low. Even in summer, you need to bring a windproof jacket. The wind on the mountain is strong, and prolonged exposure can cause headaches. 5️⃣ Guiyang City|Guizhou For this trip to Guiyang, I suggest visiting Qingyan Ancient Town in the morning. ⏰ Go in as soon as it opens at 8 am. There are fewer people, and the stone paths are still cool with dew. 📍 Enter through Dingguang Gate and walk along the main street to the North Gate. The old houses on both sides are worth taking your time to admire, especially the intricately carved wooden window lattices—the craftsmanship is astonishing. 🍜 Have lunch in the ancient town with a bowl of rice porridge, hot and sweet, paired with braised pig's feet. A meal for 20 yuan is all you can eat. In the afternoon, head to Tianhetan Tourist Resort. The cave is a 40-minute walk away; it's very cool inside, but in summer, you'll need a jacket. ⚠️ The steps inside the cave are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is best visited in the evening; ⏰ the light is best at sunset. It can be windy on the grassy slopes, so a scarf is perfect. Huaxi Park is right on the edge of the city, with many flat paths and plenty of shade. When you get tired, just find a bench to sit on and watch the locals play chess and chat—the relaxed atmosphere is very therapeutic. 🚄 A taxi from Guiyang city center to Qingyan takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. 6️⃣ Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai For the Haibei area, I recommend hiring a car. You can complete the Qilian Mountains, Heihe Grand Canyon, Lenglongling, and Ami Dongsuo in one day – a convenient and direct route. ⏰ Depart from Qilian County at 8:00 AM, first visiting Ami Dongsuo, which means "God of the Mountains" in Tibetan. The snow-capped peaks gleam with gold in the morning light; the sense of sacredness is indescribable. 📍 Continue along the Heihe Grand Canyon. The canyon is deep, the river is rapid, and you can stop at the viewpoint to take some photos. The wind blowing up from the valley floor is cool and damp. The meadows of Lenglongling are most beautiful at the end of July, with wildflowers carpeting the hillsides in yellow, purple, and white, soft and fluffy underfoot. ⚠️ The altitude throughout the route is between 3200 and 3800 meters. Don't run or jump; walk slowly. Keep oxygen cylinders in the car. 🚄 A chartered car from Xining to Qilian County takes four hours one way. The driver/guide costs around 800 yuan per day, which is very cost-effective when split among four people. 🍜 At noon, we had a bowl of yak meat noodles in Ebao Town. The meat chunks were large, the broth was rich, and it warmed us up completely. On the way back in the afternoon, we passed through Menyuan. The rapeseed flowers in August hadn't fully faded yet; the golden yellow intertwined with the green of the barley fields, making it so beautiful that we didn't want to leave. 7️⃣ Panjin City|Liaoning I recommend visiting Panjin Red Beach from late September to mid-October. ⏰ At that time, the Suaeda salsa is at its most vibrant red, making the entire mudflat look like a red carpet. 📍 The scenic corridor is 18 kilometers long. Don't try to walk the whole way; take the sightseeing bus to the innermost viewing platform, where the red is most intense. ⚠️ It's windy, so wear a hat with a drawstring, otherwise it will blow away. The corridor is a wooden boardwalk, flat and easy to walk on; wheelchairs are also fine. 🚄 A taxi from Panjin Station to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes and costs around 80 yuan. After seeing the Red Beach, don't rush off; the rice paddy art next to the scenic area is also worth seeing. At the end of September, the rice turns golden, creating a striking contrast with the red mudflats. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the city for Panjin river crabs. September is the peak season for plump, roe-filled crabs; each one costs around 30 yuan and is so fresh you'll want to lick your fingers clean. ⚠️ Don't buy the grilled crabs sold in the scenic area; they're expensive and not fresh. Eating them back in the city is the better option. 8️⃣ Hengshui City|Hebei I recommend spending half a day leisurely exploring Hengshui Lake. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7 am. When the lake is misty, it looks like an ink painting, and the birdsong comes from all directions—it's incredibly soothing. 📍 Take a boat to the island in the middle of the lake; the journey takes about 20 minutes. The lake breeze is refreshing, especially in summer. There's a birdwatching platform on the island. During the October migration season, you can see flocks of migratory birds, including egrets, herons, and wild ducks. You can easily spend half a day observing them with binoculars. ⚠️ Don't buy bird food at the scenic area entrance; it's cheaper on the island. 🚄 A taxi from Hengshui North Railway Station to the scenic area takes about 20 minutes and costs around 20 yuan. There's a lakeside walking path, gentle and easy to walk, suitable for seniors. 🍜 Have lunch at a farmhouse near the scenic area with stewed fish in an iron pot. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, with firm flesh, served with cornbread. A meal costs about 50 yuan per person. In the afternoon, visit the Hengshui Lake Wetland Science Museum. It's cool inside, and you can learn a lot about birds. ⚠️ It gets very crowded on weekends. If you want peace and quiet, come on a weekday, and the entire lake will be yours to enjoy.

With a budget of CNY 500, visit these 8️⃣ fun places in August to beat the heat. 01 Yueyang | Hunan The wind from Dongting Lake cuts the summer heat in half. Go to Yueyang Tower at 8:00 AM. The admission ticket is CNY 70. Don't think it's expensive; climbing to the third floor to see the expansive lake view is worth the price. The tower can be crowded, so you might want to walk around the exterior first and photograph the building from the side; fewer people and great shots. Come down at 10:30 AM and walk south along the lakeside promenade. In 10 minutes, you'll reach Baling Square, where locals play cards in the shade. Find a stone bench and sit for a while; the lake breeze is more comfortable than air conditioning. Don't eat at the scenic area entrance for lunch. Head into Bianhe Street. The bean curd sheets and lotus root balls deep in the alley cost about CNY 15 per person and are very filling. In the afternoon, go to Junshan Island. A round-trip boat ticket plus admission is about CNY 100. The island has dense bamboo forests and is 2–3 degrees cooler than the city. If you want to save money, you don't have to go to the island. Watch the sunset at the Dongting Lake Bridge head; it's free, and the view is just as good as from the island. ⏰ From 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, the light by the lake is best, no filters needed for photos. ⚠️ Yueyang Tower stops admitting visitors at 4:30 PM, don't go at the last minute. 02 Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan August in Xishuangbanna is the rainy season, but I'll tell you, the rain comes and goes quickly, making it cooler. On the first day, head straight to the Dai Ethnic Garden. Admission is CNY 45. The Dai bamboo houses are scattered throughout the garden. There's a water-splashing event at 2:00 PM, so remember to bring an extra set of dry clothes. Don't wear flip-flops, as you might slip when running. In the evening, go to Gaozhuang Xishuangjing. The night market starts at 6:00 PM. Lao iced coffee is CNY 10 a cup, and pounded chicken feet are CNY 15 a serving; the sweet and sour flavor is addictive. Dedicate the second day to the Tropical Botanical Garden. Admission is CNY 80. The park is too large to explore in one day. Just visit the West District; the Palm Garden and Hundred Flowers Garden are the most photogenic. Take the electric cart for CNY 50 to save your legs. If you have children, definitely visit the Garden of Exotic Flowers and Plants; the mimosa and dancing grass can keep them entertained for half an hour. The Primitive Forest Park admission is CNY 65. The highlight is the peacock release, with shows at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM; don't miss it. 🚄 A taxi from the city to the botanical garden takes about 40 minutes, carpooling is CNY 20 per person. Choose accommodation near the Water Splashing Square; a hostel bed is CNY 40 a night, and the night market is right outside. 03 Dalian | Liaoning In Dalian's summer, the highest temperature is only 27 degrees Celsius. With the sea breeze, you'll even need a light jacket in the evening. Jinshitan is far from the city but worth a full day. Take Light Rail Line 3 directly; the ticket is CNY 8. It's a 10-minute walk from the station to the Geological Park. Admission is CNY 60. The sea-eroded landforms look like they've been carved by a knife; walking the boardwalk takes 2 hours. In the afternoon, go to Golden Coast; it's free, with fine sand and clear water. Locals swim here. Tiger Beach Ocean Park admission is CNY 220. Honestly, I think it's expensive. If you're on a tight budget, skip it and go directly to Xinghai Square; it's free. Watching the cross-sea bridge light up in the evening is more "Dalian" than seeing fish in an aquarium. Tangli Lake Park is a picnic spot favored by locals. The lake is calm; rent a tandem bike for CNY 30 an hour and cycle around. ⏰ It's best to arrive at Jinshitan before 9:00 AM when there are fewer people and good lighting. ⚠️ The sun's UV rays are strong by the sea; reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, don't be lazy. 04 Nantong | Jiangsu Nantong is an underrated city for escaping the heat. Haohe River encircles the city, with lush green trees shading both banks. Every few steps, you'll find a small park. Enter from the south gate of Haohe Scenic Area and walk west along the riverside promenade, passing the Bell Tower, Haoyang Xiaozhu, and then to Beijige. The entire walk takes 2 hours and is free. The wind by the river is strong, and there are many trees, making the perceived temperature at least 3 degrees lower than in the city. For lunch, find a small noodle shop in an alley by the Haohe River. Nantong jumping noodles with crab roe buns cost about CNY 20 per person; the soup is so fresh it'll make your eyebrows drop. In the afternoon, visit Nantong Museum. It's free and is China's earliest museum. Zhang Jian's former residence is also inside. After visiting, your appreciation for this city will soar. 🚄 A taxi from Nantong Station to Haohe River is about CNY 15. Choose a chain hotel near Haohe River for about CNY 150 a night; you can enjoy the night view by strolling downstairs in the evening. 05 Kashgar Prefecture | Xinjiang Kashgar in August is hot during the day, but it cools down as soon as the sun sets; you'll even need a blanket at night. Kashgar Old City is free. Don't stick to the main streets; venture into the alleys. On the second floor of a century-old teahouse, a pot of herbal tea is CNY 15, served with two pieces of naan. Sit for an afternoon and watch Uyghur grandpas play the rawap; it's more valuable than any tourist attraction. Go to Id Kah Square at 7:00 PM to see flocks of pigeons fly. The light hitting the old walls makes every casual photo a postcard. A day trip to Pamir Plateau costs about CNY 200 per person for carpooling. The road conditions are good, but the altitude is high, so avoid strenuous exercise. The Stone City Ruins admission is CNY 30. The crumbling walls against the snowy mountain backdrop have a desolate beauty, perfect for photos. ⚠️ Prepare altitude sickness medication in advance; don't wait until you arrive to buy it. 🍜 Roasted buns in the old city are CNY 3 each, filled with lamb. Eat them hot; the juice is scalding. 06 Nanping | Fujian The average temperature in Wuyi Mountains in August is 26 degrees Celsius, and it's even cooler in the mountains. The Nine-Bend Stream bamboo raft ride is a must-do. The ticket, including the raft, is CNY 130. The entire journey takes 90 minutes. The water is so clear you can see the bottom, and the Danxia landforms on both banks look like a painting. Be sure to choose the first raft ride at 7:30 AM; the water is calm, it's not sunny, and there's a light mist. In the afternoon, climb Tianyou Peak. The steps are steep, but the altitude isn't high; you can reach the summit in 40 minutes. The wind at the top is strong, and it feels refreshing after sweating. Baiyun Zen Temple is free and hidden halfway up the mountain. You can have vegetarian meals at the temple; CNY 10 is filling, and the vegetarian tofu and dried bamboo shoots are especially fragrant. Stay in the Sangu Resort Area; a standard room in a guesthouse is just over CNY 100. In the evening, stroll through the old street. The Dahongpao tea eggs are CNY 5 each, and the tea aroma permeates the yolk. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets must be booked one day in advance on the official account; you can't buy them on site. 07 Shennongjia Forest District | Hubei Shennongjia is one of the coolest places in August; you'll need to wear long sleeves in the morning and evening. Dajiu Lake Wetland Park admission is CNY 100. The morning mist is the essence; be sure to arrive before 6:30 AM. The lake is shrouded in mist, like a fairyland. There's a free mini-train in the scenic area. Visiting all five lakes takes 2.5 hours. In the afternoon, go to Shennongding. The altitude is 3,100 meters, and it's windy, so wear a windbreaker. The vast views of alpine meadows and cloud seas will make you want to shout. Choose Muyu Town for accommodation; a standard room is CNY 120 a night. In the evening, the streets are full of cured meat hotpot restaurants. It's about CNY 40 per person for cured pork ribs stewed with potatoes; it's so fragrant you'll drink all the soup. ⏰ The morning mist at Dajiu Lake can only be seen before 7:00 AM; if you miss it, it's gone. ⚠️ The signal in the mountains is weak; download offline maps in advance. 08 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia in August is hot during the day, but it's dry and not sticky, and cool at night. Liujiaxia Reservoir is free, but a boat tour of the lake costs CNY 50. The lake water is green, like an emerald embedded in the mountains, more stunning than many paid attractions. Bingling Temple Grottoes admission is CNY 50. The boat ride there takes 30 minutes one way. The Tang Dynasty Buddha statues in the grottoes are well-preserved, and with fewer people, you can take your time. For lunch, have a bowl of Heyan Mianpian in the county town for CNY 8. Hand-pulled noodles with lamb soup are delicious. In the evening, go to Bafang Shisanxiang; it's free. It's an old street with Hui ethnic charm, selling Sanpaotai tea and fried dough twists in the alleys.