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

When traveling after 50, the biggest worry isn’t lacking stamina but turning a place into a rushed checklist. I’ve been to many places and increasingly feel that truly enjoyable travel means taking it slow, seeing things at a relaxed pace, and doing only one or two activities a day. These 8 destinations are perfect for settling in for a few days. They offer sea, mountains, ancient towns, and even the unexpected desolation of northwest China. Pick one, stay a while, and don’t rush to leave. 1️⃣ Lingshui | Hainan Many head straight to Sanya but overlook nearby Lingshui. The sea here is quieter, and prices are more reasonable. Visit Boundary Island in the morning. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes. The island is small, so stroll along the boardwalk with reefs on one side and clear sea on the other. When tired, sit in the shade of the sea-view platform and relax without rushing to do activities. The cable car at Nanwan Monkey Island is worth taking. The sea crossing offers wide-open views. The island has many monkeys, so don’t carry plastic bags—they’re quick to snatch them. In the afternoon, return to Xincun Port in town and find a seafood raft restaurant. Prices are much better than inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Boundary Island has strong winds and waves in the afternoon. If you get seasick, try to take the early boat. 2️⃣ Beihai | Guangxi Beihai’s pace is slower than many coastal cities. Stay two nights on Weizhou Island instead of a day trip to avoid spending all your time traveling. Rent an electric scooter after arriving and explore the island slowly along the coastal road. Watch the sunrise at Shell Beach and the sunset at Dishui Danping. Hiking through Crocodile Mountain Volcano Park takes about two hours. The path has many steps, so if your knees aren’t strong, just walk halfway up for the sea view. The island’s Catholic church is worth a visit. It’s quiet inside, though many take photos outside. Back in the city, visit Beihai Old Street in the evening. The dessert shops under the arcade are packed with locals. Try a bowl of locust flower jelly or Qingbuliang for just over 5 yuan. Silver Beach has fine sand but is scorching during the day. Go after 5 PM to enjoy walking barefoot comfortably. 3️⃣ Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Xishuangbanna is best visited in winter. While northern China is cold, you can still wear short sleeves here. Reserve at least half a day for the Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden. It’s large, so take the electric cart to the innermost part, then walk outward slowly to save energy and see the giant water lilies and tropical rainforest’s large buttress roots. The peacock release at the Primitive Forest Park happens at 10 AM. After watching, walk part of the valley rainforest trail—you don’t need to finish the whole path. The Dai Ethnic Style Park feels like a living village. Visit in the afternoon to see Dai bamboo houses, then have lemongrass grilled fish at the village’s Dai restaurant at dusk. It’s much more authentic than the trendy spots in the nearby Gaozhuang Xishuangjing. ⚠️ Many “Lao coffee” drinks at the night market are instant powder mixes. For authentic coffee, look for alley shops in Jinghong city. 4️⃣ Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is an underrated spot. Its desolate beauty can’t be captured in photos. The scenic area is in Longwan Village. After entering the gate, take an electric cart to Yinma Valley entrance, then switch to a donkey cart. The driver hums local tunes. Don’t mind the slow pace—it’s perfect for admiring the stone forest on both sides. At the valley’s end, there’s a steep staircase leading to a viewpoint of the Yellow River’s big bend. If you’re short on energy, the valley floor view is still impressive. ⚠️ Avoid visiting on rainy days as the stone paths get slippery. Food options inside are limited, so bring snacks and water. Afterward, go to Jingtai County for a bowl of hand-pulled noodles—it’s very satisfying. 5️⃣ Xinzhou | Shanxi Xinzhou has both historic sites and natural scenery but is often overlooked. Stay at least one night at Mount Wutai instead of a day trip. Visit the temple complex in Taihuai Town at 6 AM before tourists arrive. The 1,008 steps to Dailuo Peak are challenging, so take your time. If needed, use the cable car. The panoramic view of Taihuai Town from the top is worth it. Yanmen Pass is in Daixian County. It’s windy, so bring an extra jacket. The well-maintained fortress still carries a strong sense of history. Standing on the gate tower, you can imagine the “one man guards the pass” scene. Laoniuwan in Pianguan County is remote and best reached by car. The Yellow River makes a big bend here. At sunset, the river glows golden, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for daydreaming. 6️⃣ Daxing’anling Region | Heilongjiang To see Daxing’anling’s forests, you don’t have to go to crowded Hulunbuir. Near the Arctic Village, there’s polar day around the summer solstice, with daylight lasting until 11 PM—very magical. The village is small; one night is enough. Take a morning walk along the Heilongjiang River. Across the river is Russian forestland. It’s about an hour’s drive from Mohe city. The road is good but winding, so don’t speed. The forest scenery is mainly along the road. Stop anywhere, walk into the trails, and you’ll see straight larches and birches everywhere. The air smells strongly of pine resin. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are abundant in summer. Long sleeves and pants are more effective than insect repellent. 7️⃣ Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Jiuzhaigou is famous, but those who know also visit Huanglong and Siguniang Mountain separately. The sightseeing buses in Jiuzhaigou are well organized. Take the bus to the Primitive Forest first, then explore downward to avoid crowds. Don’t miss Five Flower Lake and Long Lake. Huanglong is at high altitude, so don’t rush or you’ll get short of breath. After taking the cable car up, walk down slowly. The calcified pools shine bright blue in the sun. Siguniang Mountain is best for an overnight stay. Take the sightseeing bus to the innermost part of Shuangqiao Valley, then explore outward slowly. Snowy mountains and grasslands are right in front of you. Find a grassy slope to sit on and enjoy the view for hours. ⚠️ These places are all at high altitude. For travelers over 50, it’s recommended to bring an oxygen tank in advance rather than buying one when feeling unwell. 8️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo lies deep in the Qinling Mountains and is like a natural air conditioner in summer. The Jinshixia Gorge has boardwalks throughout, making walking easy. The creek water is crystal clear and cool air refreshes you. Even in the hottest weather, walking here is comfortable. Tianshuxia is quieter and better for those who prefer peace. The gorge has one waterfall after another. Two hours is enough for a slow walk. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is small but retains the old southern Shaanxi charm. The cobblestone streets are lined with old houses. Find a teahouse to sit and listen to locals chatting. The ancient pagoda at Baita Temple stands in the fields. Visit at dusk when the light is soft. There are few tourists, and it’s very peaceful. ⚠️ Shangluo’s mountain roads have many curves. If you get car sick, prepare medication in advance. Travel after 50 isn’t about chasing the number of sights but choosing the right places and settling in comfortably. These 8 destinations offer sea, forests, gorges, and ancient towns. Which one would you like to visit? Or do you have a favorite slow travel spot? Share in the comments—I’ll take note and check it out for you next time.

01 Fuyang | Anhui Bali River is not a place that will amaze you at first glance, but it's worth exploring. Arrive before 9:00 AM when there are fewer people, and the lake is still covered in a thin mist. Walking along the waterside corridor, you can hear the flapping wings of water birds. The entire scenic area is divided into two main sections: World Scenery and Splendid China. It takes about 3 hours to walk through, so if you're with seniors or children, it's recommended to rent an electric cart for CNY 30 per person, allowing you to hop on and off. 🍜 Don't miss the Gelatiao noodles at the scenic area entrance. The rich sesame paste, paired with a bowl of light Mahu soup, perfectly cuts through the richness. ⚠️ The sun is strongest from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Don't skimp on sunscreen and hats, as there's no shade by the lake. 🚄 A taxi from Fuyang West Station takes about 25 minutes, and a ride-hailing service costs around CNY 40. 02 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu There are over 100 kilometers of mountain roads between Zhagana and Langmusi, but the grasslands along the way are more worth seeing than the attractions themselves. For Zhagana, it's recommended to stay in Dongwa Village. Pull back the curtains at 5:30 AM, and you'll see clouds and mist emerging from between the stone peaks. The moment of the "golden mountain" sunrise lasts less than 10 minutes. Langmusi has two entrances, one in Gansu and one in Sichuan, each with a CNY 30 admission fee. If you're short on time, just visiting the Sertri Monastery on the Gansu side is enough, as it offers a more expansive view. The Chibi Yougu in Yeliguan is suitable for hiking, taking 2 hours to complete. It's mostly shaded, and the stream water is bone-chillingly cold. GaHai Lake has the best light after 6:00 PM. When flocks of water birds fly by, don't just focus on taking photos; the wind is strong, and your tripod might get blown over. ⚠️ The temperature difference in the plateau is significant. Wear short sleeves during the day but bring a fleece jacket for the evening. Don't try to tough it out. 03 Guyuan | Ningxia The Xumishan Grottoes are hidden in the loess hills, and the scarcity of tourists was a bit surprising. The grottoes are spread across five peaks, with the most spectacular being the Great Buddha in Cave 5, standing 20.6 meters tall. Standing at its base and looking up, with the wind passing through the valley, it's incredibly peaceful. It's recommended to first take the right-hand stone steps to the mountaintop, then follow the plank road down in a loop, avoiding the need to retrace your steps. The entire journey takes about 2 hours, and the steps are a bit steep, so those with knee issues should proceed with caution. ⏰ Before 10:00 AM, the light shines diagonally on the Buddha statues, allowing you to see the remaining traces of colored paintings. In the afternoon, only the dusty stone remains. ⚠️ There's almost no food sold in the scenic area, so bring your own water and dry food. 🚄 A taxi from Guyuan city center takes about 40 minutes. Allow half a day for the round trip. 04 Fuzhou | Fujian Sanfang Qixiang is best visited in the evening. Before dark and after nightfall, it has completely different atmospheres. Entering from the archway on Nanhou Street, first explore Yijinfang. The waterside theater is hidden deep in the alley, and the interplay of light and shadow among the blue tiles and white walls is ten times more beautiful than in photos. Lin Juemin's Former Residence and Yan Fu's Former Residence are next to each other, both with a CNY 20 admission fee, and are worth spending half an hour slowly exploring. 🍜 Tongli Rouyan is at the entrance of Langguan Alley. A bowl of Rouyan and a plate of fish balls cost CNY 15, and the broth is so fresh you'll want to drink it all. ⚠️ Be cautious of the "Fuzhou Three Treasures" shops on the main street; their prices are inflated. If you really want to buy an oil-paper umbrella, go to "Sandu," a century-old shop at the intersection of Dongjie, where prices are half. ⏰ After 8:00 PM, most tourists have dispersed, and the lanterns in the alleys light up. This is when Nanhou Street is truly worth photographing. 05 Guangyuan | Sichuan Jianmen Pass is suitable for people with good stamina, as the entire journey takes 4 to 5 hours. I recommend entering from the North Gate, taking the cable car to the mountaintop, and then descending along the Bird Path and Ape Path. This is the most energy-efficient way to see all the main attractions. The Ape Path truly clings to the cliff, allowing only one person to pass at a time, with a deep abyss below. Those with a fear of heights should skip it and take the nearby Bird Path instead; the scenery is similar, but the safety factor is much higher. 🌟 Don't rush to the glass observation deck at the summit. The bridge surface sways in strong winds, so stand firm before taking photos. 🍜 The Tofu Feast in Jian'ge County at the foot of the mountain is a must-try. With over a dozen tofu preparations, I recommend the spicy tofu and "pregnant tofu." It costs about CNY 40 per person, and you'll be stuffed. ⚠️ Some people at the scenic area entrance might try to sell you "shortcuts." Don't believe them. The official ticket is CNY 105, and taking shortcuts is actually more dangerous. 06 Baishan | Jilin Changbai Mountain's Heavenly Lake in August is like opening a blind box; whether you see it depends entirely on luck. I've been three times: twice it was completely obscured by clouds, and once it was clear and sunny. I recommend planning a two-day trip. On the first day, stay in Erdaobaihe Town and take a walk in the Meirensong Park in the evening; the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. On the second day, enter the mountain at 6:00 AM, take the eco-friendly bus to the Heavenly Lake transfer point, and then a cross-country vehicle for CNY 80 to the main peak. ⏰ Before 9:00 AM, the clouds haven't gathered yet, making it the time with the highest probability of seeing Heavenly Lake. ⚠️ It's windy and cold on the mountain. Even in July and August, bring a light down jacket. Renting a coat at the foot of the mountain costs CNY 50, but they don't smell very good. 🍜 After descending, go to town for an iron pot stewed river fish with corn pancakes; it will warm you right up. 07 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigu Mountain are close to each other but have completely different styles. Jinshan is most famous for the legend of the White Snake, with strong incense and many tourists. It's recommended to rush in when it opens at 8:00 AM, first visit Jiangtian Temple, then ascend Cishou Pagoda. From the top of the pagoda, you can see the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jinshan Lake. Jiaoshan requires a ferry ride. The island is quieter, and the view from Xijiang Tower is more expansive than from Jinshan. Beigu Mountain is the smallest, taking half an hour to walk through, but the "First River and Mountain Under Heaven" stele and Ganlu Temple are worth seeing. ⏰ Walking through all three mountains takes a full day. For lunch, you can eat Guogai noodles in Xijindu Ancient Street. The noodles are chewy, paired with preserved meat and Zhenjiang vinegar, costing CNY 14 a bowl. ⚠️ The Jiaoshan ferry stops at 5:30 PM, so don't get too carried away and miss the last boat. Jurong Maoshan is far from the city, taking an hour to drive there. If time is tight, Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigu Mountain are sufficient. 08 Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge is the coolest place on this trip. The canyon is almost entirely shaded, and the stream water is icy cold; stepping in barefoot will make you retract your feet in 3 seconds. The entire journey takes about 4 hours, with some narrow plank sections where you need to be careful when passing others. Tianshu Gorge in Zhenping County is more primitive than Jinsi Gorge, with more waterfalls, but the path is also more difficult and not suitable for very young children. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is free. The bluestone paths and old Ming and Qing dynasty houses blend Southern Shaanxi and Western Hubei styles. Go in the afternoon around 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM, sit in a teahouse at the town entrance, drink a bowl of Guanguan tea, and watch the local elders play chess; it's more relaxing than checking off attractions. Baitasi Temple is on the outskirts of the city, small in scale but peaceful, and the vegetarian meal there costs CNY 15 for an all-you-can-eat. ⚠️ The Jinsi Gorge parking lot is 2 kilometers from the entrance. Don't be fooled by private touts; the scenic area shuttle bus costs CNY 10.

01 Heyuan|Guangdong The water of Wanlv Lake looks cool in August. The lake surface is as green as a large jade. When you take a boat inside, the breeze blows away half the heat. 📍 It’s best to take the earliest boat from the scenic area dock. Around 9 AM the light is best and the water color is clearest. Tickets including boat and admission cost just over 100 yuan. Student ID gets a further discount. Have fish at a local farmhouse by the lake for lunch. Two ways to enjoy one fish, about 40 yuan per person fills you up. In the afternoon, don’t rush to see sights. Find some shade and relax. ⚠️ Weekends are crowded and boats require lining up. Try to visit on weekdays. 02 Zhumadian|Henan Between Chaya Mountain and nearby Laole Mountain, I suggest climbing only one. Chaya Mountain has unique rocks like an enlarged bonsai. The full hike takes about 3 hours with moderate effort. Laole Mountain is wilder and longer, suited for hiking enthusiasts. Tickets for both mountains are affordable, around 60–70 yuan. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there are stalls selling cold noodles and baked flatbread for 5 yuan a serving, perfect for a pre-hike snack. ⏰ In summer, start early. Enter the mountain by 7:30 AM and descend before 11 AM to avoid the midday sun. Choose one mountain to save time and money, then head to Zhumadian city for a bowl of spicy soup with fried bread—it’s worth it. 03 Hengyang|Hunan Mount Heng in Nanyue has temperatures just above 20°C at the summit in August mornings and evenings. Remember to bring a light jacket. Take the eco-friendly bus to the mid-mountain pavilion, then hike a bit more to the South Heavenly Gate. The whole trip takes about 2 hours. To see the sunrise, you need to get up at 4 AM. I can’t do that, so I go in the afternoon to watch the sea of clouds at dusk when it’s less crowded. The Nanyue Grand Temple at the foot of the mountain is worth visiting. With red walls and yellow tiles, it’s bustling with incense. Admission is 40 yuan. ⚠️ The temple stops admitting visitors at 5 PM. Don’t arrive at closing time. 🍜 There’s a noodle shop at the base. Their signature pork bone noodle costs 12 yuan a bowl. The broth is rich and a bowl before hiking lasts half the day. 04 Jinan|Shandong Jinan is hot and humid in August, but the springs are alive. At the Baotu Spring scenic area, the Baotu Spring bubbles up, looking refreshing. Before 10 AM, there are fewer people and the water is clearest. Walk along the moat to Heihu Spring. Locals fill buckets with water, and you can fill a bottle to taste—it’s really sweet. In the afternoon, visit Qianfoshan Mountain. Tickets are 30 yuan. Climb to the top for a full view of Jinan. ⚠️ Qianfoshan has many steps. If you have elderly with you, take the cable car. One way is 20 yuan. 🍜 For lunch, eat braised pork with rice on Furong Street. It costs 15 yuan and fills you up. Avoid the trendy snacks—they’re expensive and average. Stay in Lixia District for proximity to sights. Hostel beds cost 70–80 yuan per night. 05 Changzhi|Shanxi The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon in Huguan is the ultimate summer cool spot in August. Baquan Gorge is the core area where water gushes from mountain cracks, chilling to the bone. The boat ride through the gorge is flanked by sheer cliffs and emerald water. The breeze cools the summer heat away. Tickets plus boat cost about 150 yuan. Students pay half price. ⏰ It’s best to visit Baquan Gorge in the morning, then go to Qinglong Gorge in the Taihang Grand Canyon in the afternoon. Qinglong Gorge is less crowded and has pools for soaking your feet. The trails in the canyon are well maintained but have many steps. People with knee issues should be cautious. ⚠️ Weather in the mountains changes quickly. A raincoat is more convenient than an umbrella. Outside the canyon, farmhouse stays cost 80 yuan per night. Dinner of stir-fried local eggs with wild vegetables is fresh. 06 Shangluo|Shaanxi Shangluo’s attractions are spread out but all affordable, perfect for a slow self-drive tour. Jinsi Gorge is the main route with a series of waterfalls and loud water sounds, very cool. Tickets are 90 yuan. The full hike takes 4 hours. In the afternoon, visit Tianshu Gorge. It’s less crowded with a boardwalk along the creek, great for photos. The next day, go to Manchuan Pass Ancient Town. No admission fee. The old street’s bluestone pavement is comfortable to walk on. There’s a handmade noodle workshop selling bowls for 5 yuan with fresh broth. Baita Temple is 3 km outside town. The ancient pagoda group inside is quiet and perfect for relaxing. ⚠️ There’s no direct public bus between attractions. Renting a car is recommended at 200 yuan per day. Splitting the cost among several people is economical. Stay in Shangluo city. Standard rooms cost 120 yuan, cheaper than near the attractions. 07 Huangnan|Qinghai Kanbula is a Danxia landform in the upper Yellow River area. Red mountains with green water look like a filtered photo. In August, the grass is green, the mountains red, and the Yellow River water is clearer than usual. Tickets plus sightseeing bus cost 130 yuan. From Xining, take a 2-hour bus to Kanbula Town. The fare is 30 yuan. ⚠️ There are no restaurants in the scenic area. Bring your own snacks and water to avoid hunger. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light hits the mountains at an angle, making the colors richest and photos best. It’s windy on the mountain, so wear a windbreaker. This area is best reached by self-drive or car rental. Public transport is inconvenient. Shared rides cost about 150 yuan per person per day. Stay in Kanbula Town. Tibetan-style guesthouses cost 60 yuan per night. The owner can show you a trail to watch the sunset, which is more stunning than the scenic area’s viewing platform. 08 Nanchong|Sichuan Langzhong ancient city is hot during the day in August but cool at night. It’s best to start exploring in the evening. The ancient city has no main gate fee. Small attractions inside charge separately. Zhang Fei Temple costs 50 yuan. Zhongtian Tower costs 20 yuan. Just pick one or two to visit. 🍜 Shops selling Zhang Fei beef are everywhere in the ancient city. Don’t rush to buy. Walk two streets deeper into the alleys where freshly marinated beef is half the price of the famous shops. Stay in an old courtyard guesthouse inside the ancient city. It costs just over 100 yuan per night. Sitting in the courtyard drinking tea with a fan blowing is more comfortable than air conditioning. ⏰ Get up before 7 AM to walk the quiet Huaguang Tower to Fire Alley route before tourists arrive. The blue tiles and wooden doors make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. ⚠️ The sun is strong during the day. Sunscreen and a hat are essential. There are few trees in the ancient city, so you’ll need to tough it out while shopping.

01 Shangluo | Shaanxi August in Shangluo is a welcome gift from the Qinling Mountains to Shaanxi residents. While others bake in the heat, you can hide away in Jinshixia Gorge, where the sound of flowing water drowns out all your worries. Enter the park at 9 AM and walk along the boardwalk with the creek at your feet, cool air rising from below. The section by Bailong Lake is the most comfortable, with the water reflecting a green glow—you won’t want to move after standing there for 10 minutes. In the afternoon, head to Tianshu Gorge, where the rocks look like open book pages stacked layer upon layer—no need to find the perfect angle for photos. Mankuan Ancient Town is best visited at dusk; the old street is quiet, the bluestone slabs warmed slightly by the setting sun. When tired, grab a bowl of cold fish on the street, sour and spicy, only 8 yuan. Baita Temple is tucked in the mountains and hard to find by GPS, but it’s peaceful. There’s an old locust tree at the temple gate—sit in its shade for a while and feel completely relaxed. ⚠️ Jinshixia Gorge gets darker after 4 PM, which affects photos. Try to visit in the morning. 02 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is all about escaping the heat in summer. Tongtianzai in Shicheng isn’t a tall mountain, but the dense vegetation feels like a thick blanket. Walking the shaded path, the canopy is all green, and sunlight barely filters through. The lotus garden at the foot of the mountain blooms perfectly in August, a sea of pink and white, with the scent of lotus leaves carried by the breeze. Sanbai Mountain offers a different experience—take a boat from Dongfeng Lake into the mountains, the cool water refreshing, with green hills retreating on both sides like stepping into an air-conditioned room. After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk to see Dongjiangyuan Waterfall, where the spray hits your face and instantly wakes you up. 🍜 Don’t rush after coming down the mountain. At the park entrance, try the Hakka stuffed tofu—the tofu is so tender chopsticks can’t hold it. Pair it with a bowl of Aimi fruit for 30 yuan and you’ll be full. ⚠️ Summer in Ganzhou often has sudden showers. Bring a folding umbrella—the rain comes and goes quickly. 03 Tianshui | Gansu Tianshui is one of those places where you regret not coming sooner. Maijishan Grottoes need no introduction. Arrive early—doors open at 8 AM—so you can avoid tour groups. Standing on the cliffside walkway, the wind blows through the rock walls, carrying the scent of earth and incense. In the afternoon, visit Wushan Water Curtain Cave, where the temperature stays around the low teens year-round. Walking inside feels like stepping from summer into late autumn, with water droplets falling from the ceiling, cool against your cheeks. Fuxi Temple is best visited before dusk, with ancient cypress trees shading the area and long shadows stretching across the ground. 🚄 Attractions in Tianshui are close together. A taxi ride costs 10 to 15 yuan. Avoid renting a private car—it’s a waste of money. 🍜 At night, try a bowl of guagua noodles on Dazhong Road. Made from potatoes and mixed with chili oil, it’s sour, spicy, and appetizing for just 5 yuan. 04 Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Summer in Qiandongnan is made for soaking in the atmosphere. Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is crowded during the day, but if you stay at a guesthouse halfway up the mountain, open your window at dawn to see smoke rising from the stilted houses. The village is still asleep, quiet like a painting. During the day, walk along the Baishui River, where it’s cool by the water and children sometimes fish in the river. Zhaoxing Dong Village is more relaxed than Xijiang. Under the drum tower, elders chat while you enjoy a sticky rice ball and watch the Dong grand song performance. Tickets cost 80 yuan, but the show is free. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is perfect for an evening stroll. Lanterns light up both sides of the Wuyang River, their reflections scattered by the breeze. Find a small riverside bar, order a cup of yangmei juice, and you could sit for an hour without getting bored. ⚠️ Xianghuo Rock is under road construction. Avoid going recently to save a wasted trip. Qiandongnan has many mountain roads with sharp turns. If driving, bring motion sickness medicine. 05 Harbin | Heilongjiang Who says Harbin is only for winter? August in Harbin is a hidden gem for cooling off. Even if the sun is strong during the day, standing in the shade of a tree brings a cool breeze. Harbin Ice and Snow World turns into an indoor ice pavilion in summer. Wearing a cotton jacket inside, it’s below zero and freezing, but the ice slide makes it worth it. Volga Manor feels like a fairy tale town, with Russian-style buildings scattered on the grass and the Ash River flowing nearby. Spend the afternoon by the river—you might catch a wedding photo shoot. Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral at dusk, where pigeons circle the dome and the sunset bathes the brick walls in golden light, making it ten times more beautiful than during the day. ⏰ Huamei Western Restaurant on Central Street is less crowded after 2 PM, no need to wait in line. 🍜 Afterward, buy a Madieer popsicle for 5 yuan. The rich milk flavor will have you licking your fingers. 06 Jiaozuo | Henan Jiaozuo is Henan locals’ secret summer retreat. Yuntai Mountain needs no introduction. The Red Stone Gorge section has red cliffs on both sides and emerald water below. After a full walk, you won’t have a drop of sweat. Tanpu Gorge is wilder, with pools every three steps and waterfalls every five. The spray cools your face. Qingtian River is perfect for a boat ride. The wide lake and breeze from the water make your hair flutter as the boat moves. Shennong Mountain is less crowded, ideal for hikers. The Longji Great Wall at the summit offers wide views and strong winds that blow away fatigue. ⚠️ Yuntai Mountain is crowded on weekends. It’s best to enter on Friday afternoon, stay at the service area by the shore, and enter the park early the next day to avoid crowds. 🍜 At night in Jiaozuo city, try a bowl of Bo’ai beef balls. The soup is fresh and the balls are bouncy. For 15 yuan, it’s filling. 07 Hengshui | Hebei Hengshui Lake is one of those places where low expectations lead to pleasant surprises. August is lotus season. Enter from the north embankment and walk along the lake. Lotus leaves cover the water, with pink flowers peeking out. When the wind blows, the whole lotus pond sways. Rent an electric boat for 80 yuan an hour and steer yourself into the reed beds. Water birds fly overhead, and the lake reflects white light, cool and peaceful. ⚠️ Mosquitoes and bugs are common by the lake. Long pants and sleeves are a must. Don’t forget insect repellent. 🍜 Afterward, eat fish at a lakeside farmhouse. Stewed mixed fish with corn pancakes is so fresh you’ll dip the pancakes in the broth. It costs about 50 to 60 yuan per person. Hengshui Lake isn’t large—half a day is enough. It’s good for a stopover but not worth a special trip. 08 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Lianyungang’s summer is half mountain, half sea. Go to Huaguo Mountain at 7 AM, where the air smells of dew. The waterfall at Water Curtain Cave roars down, mist spraying your face. Standing in front of the cave feels like being iced. Yunu Peak is the highest point in Jiangsu. After climbing, you can see a sea of clouds, but after 8 AM the clouds disperse, so come early for photos. In the afternoon, head to Liandao Island. Dashawan Beach is the busiest, but for quiet, go to Suma Bay. The beach is smaller but the water is cleaner. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the light by the sea is softest. Standing on the rocks to take photos with the orange-red sky in the background looks great without filters. ⚠️ At seafood stalls on Liandao, ask the price before weighing. Some sell by portion, others by weight, so watch out. 🍜 Outside the park, try seafood noodles at Wanghailou for 38 yuan a bowl. The toppings are generous, with shrimp and crab piled high. Each of these eight places offers its own way to cool off. Shangluo is perfect for mountain escapes, Ganzhou for waterside soaking, Tianshui for grotto shade, and Qiandongnan for slowing down with a two-day stay. Harbin is the opposite approach, Jiaozuo is Henan’s backyard, Hengshui is great for a stopover, and Lianyungang combines mountains and sea. Which one do you want to visit most? Share in the comments.

How to choose a 3-day stay? 8 cities with relaxed itineraries 01 Shannan | Tibet If you want to spend three days on lakes and highways, rest in the city on day one. Don’t rush straight to Yamdrok Lake after arrival. High altitude is tough if you push too hard. The first time I tried, even climbing stairs felt like a workout. 🚄 Confirm train schedules and road conditions from Lhasa to Shannan before departure. Go to Yamdrok Lake on the morning of day two. 📍 Gangbala Pass offers wide views. Continue along the lake to see different shades of blue. From October to April, the wind is stronger, so hats and windbreakers are more practical than shawls for photos. ⏰ The light is steadier from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. On cloudy days, don’t insist on filters. Stay within the viewing area and avoid steep slopes. Don’t chase or feed animals along the way. On day three, return to the city for a slow meal of Tibetan noodles and leave enough time for your trip back. 02 Jinan | Shandong Three days in Jinan means you don’t have to choose between Baotu Spring and Qianfoshan. Start day one at Baotu Spring, then walk along Wulongtan to Daming Lake to see springs, the old city, and the lake all in one go. 📍 Qushuiting Street is great for an evening stroll. Furong Street is livelier but crowded on holidays. Climb Qianfoshan on the morning of day two. If your stamina is average, take the main path. If you’re with elders, choose sightseeing options based on what’s open. ⏰ Enter before 8:00 AM for a quieter experience. Afternoon backlighting is strong, so don’t wait until after sunset to climb if you want city views. 🍜 For lunch, try braised pork, sweet soup, or fried dough twists. Don’t order too many dishes at once. Jinan snacks look simple, and stacking carbs can easily fill you up. Spend day three at the moat and Spring City Square. Walking slowly is more enjoyable than rushing between spots. 03 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi’s attractions are spread out, so don’t squeeze Hutou and Xingkai Lake into the same day. Stay in Jixi city on day one and try Jixi cold noodles and spicy dishes. 🍜 Order a few small portions of spicy dishes with sour, sweet, garlicky, and spicy flavors. Eating too much on an empty stomach can be overwhelming. Go to Hutou on day two to enjoy wide river views along the Ussuri River. 📍 The trip from Hutou Town to Jixi city is long. Driving or hiring a car saves transfer time. Confirm road and attraction opening status before you go. Reserve day three for Xingkai Lake. ⏰ Winds are gentler in the summer mornings but temperatures drop quickly in autumn. Xingkai Lake is large, so specify the exact entrance in your navigation instead of just the park name. The lake’s wind and waves change fast. Don’t enter closed waters or trample wetlands. 04 Changzhi | Shanxi For just three days, I recommend focusing on Huguan Taihang Grand Canyon’s Baquan Gorge instead of switching entrances daily. 📍 The mountain road from Changzhi city to Huguan is winding. Prepare if you get car sick and don’t schedule a late return. Baquan Gorge deserves a full day. ⏰ Enter around 8:30 AM and follow the open routes combining walking and shuttle transport. Temperature differences inside and outside the canyon are obvious, so bring a light jacket even in summer. After rain, stone steps are slippery, so shoe soles matter more than style. The Taihang Grand Canyon is large. On day two, choose a section to walk slowly based on your stamina. ⚠️ Don’t rush to “see it all” by taking multiple shuttles. If you’re with elders or kids, check stairs, cable cars, and transfers in advance. Ticket prices and open attractions depend on daily announcements. 05 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan If you want to see Puzhehei, stay near Puzhehei Village or Xianrendong Village. 📍 Puzhehei Village is convenient for getting around. Xianrendong Village has more dining and walking options. For just three days, don’t stay too far away and commute daily. June to August is best for lotus flowers but also the rainy season. ⏰ Visit near Qinglong Mountain early in the morning for soft light. In the afternoon, plan a boat ride or a leisurely village walk. The steps at Qinglong Mountain are continuous, so elders don’t need to climb to the top. The flat lakeside paths are just as beautiful. 🍜 For dinner, try lotus leaf fried rice, local rice noodles, and seasonal vegetables. Boat types and routes can be confusing. Ask if you’ll get wet or if transfers are included. If you’re afraid of water or have kids, choose calmer options and don’t get pressured into booking on the spot. 06 Chengdu | Sichuan For family trips, start with the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. ⏰ Book early morning tickets if possible. After opening, visit outdoor areas first. Many pandas rest at noon. The base is large, so don’t linger near the entrance. Comfortable shoes are better than trying to see every spot. If you like mountains and water, spend day two at Qingcheng Mountain and Dujiangyan. 📍 Visit Dujiangyan in the morning and Qingcheng Mountain’s front mountain in the afternoon based on your stamina. Trying to explore both thoroughly in one day is rushed. If you have elders, split into two days. Tickets, reservations, and transport depend on official daily info. Tiantai Mountain and Anren Ancient Town are in different directions. 🌿 For summer cooling, choose Qionglai Tiantai Mountain and watch for slippery steps after rain. If you prefer old streets and teahouses, go to Anren Ancient Town. I don’t recommend squeezing four places into three days. Most of your time will be spent in transit. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Start from Shangluo city. Jin Silk Gorge is best for a full day. 📍 The trails are long. Confirm entrances, exits, and shuttle arrangements to avoid finishing your walk only to find your car is at the other end. After rain, the canyon is humid and wooden paths and stone steps are slippery. Stay one night in Manchuan Pass Ancient Town. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, group tours decrease. Stroll the old street and find a bowl of local noodles. Baita Temple can be combined with nearby short trips. Check opening times before you go. Don’t treat these three distant spots as city walks. ⚠️ Tianshu Gorge is toward Ankang and not near Shangluo city. If you want to visit, plan the travel time separately. Don’t try to combine it with Jin Silk Gorge for an easy trip. With only three days, I’d prioritize Jin Silk Gorge and Manchuan Pass for a smoother route. 08 Fuzhou | Jiangxi For a 3-day stay in Fuzhou, plan Dajue Mountain on day two, located toward Zixi. 🚄 Stay one night after arriving in Fuzhou, then head out the next day. It’s easier than carrying luggage straight to the mountains. Driving and public transport take different times, so check return connections before booking. 📍 Dajue Mountain’s canyon, trails, and mountain activities are concentrated. If you just want to see the scenery, take the usual slow route. If you want thrills, choose based on your health. Don’t use “since I’m here” as a reason to pay. Prices and rules depend on daily announcements. ⏰ Spring and summer mornings are best for entry. Don’t enter closed areas during afternoon showers. Wear non-slip shoes and bring a light raincoat. On day three, return to Fuzhou city for rice noodles and a walk in Wenchangli. Leave the afternoon for your trip back so the three days don’t turn into an endurance test. If you want lakes, choose Shannan, Jixi, or Wenshan. For food and shopping along the way, Jinan and Chengdu are more reliable. If you prefer canyon hiking, pick one from Changzhi, Shangluo, or Fuzhou. Doing less in three days is the real way to enjoy a short stay. stay travel stroll and water travel trip value route

Where to take kids for summer vacation? These 8 places have few people and beautiful views 1️⃣ Lu’an | Anhui When visiting Lu’an with kids, I recommend heading straight to Tiantangzhai. Enter the mountain in the morning. The waterfall clusters unfold along the way, the sound of water drowns out the cicadas, and kids want to stop and play in the water every few steps on the boardwalk. ⏰ Arrive at the scenic area entrance before 9 AM to avoid cable car lines. It’s windy at the top, so bring a light jacket for the kids. After lunch, head to Wanfo Lake and rent a four-person pedal boat to drift slowly. The lake is wide open, and after 3 PM, the sunlight hits the water at an angle, making photos easy on the eyes. The little monkeys on the island in the lake will chase people for food. Don’t let kids feed them by hand; the staff said one with a bad temper often steals hats. ⚠️ The last boat at Wanfo Lake leaves at 5 PM. Don’t stay too long and miss your return trip. 2️⃣ Zaozhuang | Shandong Tai’erzhuang Ancient City is a place where you can explore from day to night, but I don’t recommend entering at noon. The sun heats the bluestone pavement, making it too hot for kids to walk, and they’ll want to be carried after a few steps. It’s most comfortable to enter after 5 PM when the lights come on. The oar boats creak as they glide through the water alleys, and the aroma of pancakes wrapped with scallions drifts from the restaurants on both sides. 🍜 I recommend having a bowl of yellow flower beef noodles at “Xie’s Old Shop.” The noodles are chewy, the broth rich, and kids can finish a whole bowl. At night, take the kids to Fuxing Square to watch the fire dragon steel flower show. Molten iron splashes into golden raindrops, and all the kids scream with excitement. ⚠️ Toy stalls in the ancient city overcharge. The same rattle drum is half the price in the deeper alleys compared to the main street. 3️⃣ Kunming | Yunnan Kunming is a city to slow down in. In the morning, take the kids to Daguan Park and stroll slowly along Dianchi Lake. Watch egrets walking on the shallows, and let kids feed seagulls with bread crumbs. Be sure to go before 10 AM; later the gulls fly away. In the afternoon, head to Dongchuan Red Land. Honestly, it’s a bit far—about a two-hour drive—but worth it. The red soil slopes are covered with large patches of potato flowers that look like purple waves in the wind. Kids can quietly dig for small stones on the ridges for half an hour. Kunming Expo Garden is perfect for the afternoon with many indoor pavilions to escape the sun. ⚠️ There are no shade trees at Red Land. Bring plenty of sunscreen hats and drinking water. Don’t underestimate the high-altitude UV rays. 4️⃣ Meizhou | Guangdong Yannanfei Tea Plantation is the least touristy scenic spot I’ve seen. The whole hill is covered with neatly trimmed tea rows, and the air carries a faint tea fragrance. When visiting with kids, don’t rush. Find a shady grassy spot and watch tea pickers bending over with bamboo baskets on their backs. Kids may not be interested in tea leaves, but they can play all afternoon in the shallow creek at the foot of the mountain—water only ankle-deep, with transparent little shrimp hiding between the stones. 🍜 The Hakka stuffed tofu and braised pork with preserved vegetables at the entrance are worth trying. About 40 yuan per person will leave you full. ⏰ Arrive around 2 PM. The sunlight casts long shadows through the tea trees, perfect for photos without filters. 5️⃣ Karamay | Xinjiang Wuerhe World Devil City is a place that excites kids to scream. The yardang landforms look like abandoned castles, and the wind whistling through the stone pillars sounds like dinosaurs roaring. 📍 Take the scenic area’s small train deeper inside. The second and fifth stops are the best photo spots. The red rock layers look like they’re on fire in the 5 PM sunlight. But a reminder: there is no shade here. In July, ground temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius. Be sure kids wear long-sleeve sun-protective clothing and hats with straps, as the wind can blow them off. After 7 PM, the light softens, and the rocks change color from red to orange to purple. Kids say it looks like chocolate melting on a plate. ⚠️ There are few water vendors along the route. Bring enough water yourself. Don’t expect to buy ice-cold soda inside. 6️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is an underrated summer getaway. The boardwalk at Jinshixia is built halfway up the canyon. Below is emerald creek water, and above is dense shade. You won’t feel hot walking all morning. Kids especially love the “Black Dragon Pool” section, where the water is as still as a mirror. Tossing a stone creates ripples that spread far. In the afternoon, head to Tianshu Gorge. The rock wall patterns look like pages of an open book, and kids will keep asking, “Who wrote these words?” Mianchuan Pass Ancient Town is perfect for an evening stroll. The bluestone pavement glows warm yellow in the sunset. An old man sits at his door fanning himself and selling walnut buns for 5 yuan each. Freshly baked, they smell amazing. ⚠️ Baita Temple is deep inside the town. GPS can be confusing. Asking the lady selling cold jelly on the street is the most reliable way. 7️⃣ Changchun | Jilin Changchun is ideal for elementary school kids, with lots of interesting facts that aren’t boring. Visit the Puppet Manchurian Emperor’s Palace Museum in the morning. The building itself is like an open textbook. Kids will ask, “Did the emperor really sleep in such a small bed?” Rent an audio guide; otherwise, just looking at the building can be dull. In the afternoon, go to Changchun World Sculpture Park. The park is large enough to run around all afternoon. Sculptures from various countries are scattered on the lawn. Kids love the giant miniature “Thinker” statue and insist on copying the pose. Jingyuetan is best in the evening. Rent a tandem bike and ride along the lake. The breeze coming through the woods makes it feel cool, unlike summer. Changying Century City is a pleasant surprise. 🎬 It has 4D movies and special effects shows. Kids will retell the story all the way home. ⚠️ There are no food or drink vendors in the sculpture park. Bring snacks and water. 8️⃣ Alxa League | Inner Mongolia If your kids have lots of energy, take them straight to Badain Jaran Desert. When the desert off-road vehicle climbs a slope, kids scream from the back seat, “Again!” The driver laughs and says this is already the fifth trip. ⏰ Be sure to enter the desert before 8 AM or after 5 PM. The sand surface can fry eggs at noon. The poplar forest tourist area is most beautiful in autumn, but summer has its perks—fewer people, and kids can run wild in the forest, picking dry poplar branches as swords. 📍 You can ride camels at the entrance for 60 yuan per round. When the camel stands up, kids will nervously hold the saddle tightly but relax once it starts walking and even reach out to touch the camel’s hump fur. ⚠️ You must wear high-top shoes in the desert. Sand gets inside and rubs your feet. Don’t ask me how I know. family travel spots getaway travel trip trip outing

Ate cheap, fresh seafood Saw the beautiful scenery of Pipa Island Went for a fun beach BBQ and camping Experienced life in the 80s and 90s Lived without internet, using only cash

01 Kunming | Yunnan Kunming in August is cool enough in the morning and evening to need a light jacket. The sun is strong at noon, but it cools down quickly in the shade. The first stop with kids is Daguan Park. 🎫 Tickets are affordable. There are large lawns and a lake where kids can run freely and see lotus flowers and egrets. Enter from the south gate, then walk west along the Dianchi Lake wind corridor. It’s windy but cool, perfect for pushing a stroller. For lunch, near the park entrance is “Qiaoxiangyuan” for crossing-the-bridge rice noodles. It costs less than 30 per person. The soup is fresh and flavorful. Avoid the fried potatoes in the set menu—they’re too greasy. In the afternoon, head to Dongchuan Red Land, a two-hour drive. The road is average, but the scenery is worth the fuel. 📍The light is softest at Luoxia Valley in the evening. The red soil slopes with green crops make great photos without filters. ⚠️Don’t buy “specialty” stones at the scenic area entrance—they’re all dyed. If the kids are tired, go straight to Kunming Expo Garden the next day. The indoor pavilions are cool and have many plant species. Kids can explore for a long time. Book tickets online one day in advance to save 10 yuan compared to buying on-site. 02 Pingdingshan | Henan Many people just pass through Pingdingshan, but Yaoshan Mountain and the Central Plains Giant Buddha are great for a summer family trip. ⏰Enter the mountain at 7 AM. The temperature is just over 20 degrees with moist air. Walking the trail is neither hot nor stuffy. If kids get tired, take the cable car for 60 one way. It’s windy at the top, so bring a windbreaker. There’s a plaza at the foot of the Buddha where kids can run and watch pigeons. Don’t feed them your own food. Special feed is sold at the entrance for 5 yuan a pack. ⚠️Don’t eat group meals on the mountain at noon—they’re expensive and bad. After descending, drive 20 minutes to town to “Zhao Ji Hui Mian.” Lamb noodle soup is 12 per bowl and filling. Pair it with cold wild chrysanthemum salad for a refreshing meal. If you still have energy in the afternoon, go to the nearby reservoir to splash in the shallow water. Wear non-slip shoes because the stones are slippery. The whole trip costs just over 100 per person. Kids will be sweaty and sleep well at night. 03 Changsha | Hunan August in Changsha is really hot, but there are many indoor attractions, so it’s comfortable with kids. Head straight to the provincial museum in the morning. Book free tickets three days in advance via the official account. It’s closed on Mondays, so don’t go for nothing. 📍The Mawangdui Han Tomb exhibition hall is well air-conditioned. Kids are fascinated by Lady Xin Zhui, but don’t force history lessons. Pointing out “a skirt from 2,000 years ago” works better than memorizing facts. For lunch, go to the “Huogongdian” store on Pozi Street. Try the sugar oil cake and stinky tofu, about 30 per person. Kids will get messy eating the oily snacks. In the afternoon, visit Tianxin Pavilion. The city wall isn’t high, but climbing up offers views of old rooftops. It’s not windy, but there are many shady spots. ⚠️The stairs inside the pavilion are narrow. Don’t bring a stroller; carry your child. If kids still have energy, head to Yuelu Mountain at dusk. Enter from the south gate and walk 20 minutes to Aiwan Pavilion. The shade is dense, and there are many mosquitoes, so use insect repellent. Huaminglou is far from the city. If time is tight, skip it. If you go, bring water because drinks inside are twice as expensive. 04 Jinzhou | Liaoning Jinzhou isn’t a traditional family destination, but Yiwu Mountain is worth a special trip. ⏰Arrive before 9 AM. It’s less crowded, and the air smells of pine resin. The steps aren’t steep; a 6-year-old can climb on their own. Halfway up is a small temple where an elderly lady sells popsicles for 2 yuan each—cheaper than the supermarket below. Buy one to rest. The summit is windy with wide views of plains and villages. Kids will excitedly say, “The houses look like building blocks.” ⚠️Don’t buy “wild vegetable dried goods” at the mountain base. They’re just residue when soaked. For lunch, drive down to Beizhen city to eat “Goubangzi smoked chicken.” Half a chicken is 25 yuan. The meat is firm, perfect for kids to tear apart. If you have energy in the afternoon, visit the twin pagodas at Chongxing Temple nearby. No admission fee. It takes 10 minutes to see and helps digestion. The whole trip, including fuel and food, costs less than 80 per person, offering great value. 05 Xuzhou | Jiangsu August in Xuzhou is humid and hot, but Yunlong Lake in the evening can save you. ⏰Enter from the west gate of Binhu Park at 5 PM. The lakeside is shaded by willows, and the breeze carries moisture. Kids can rent a pedal boat for 60 per half hour. The lake surface is much cooler. 📍Walk along the east shore of the lake. There’s a shallow area where water barely covers ankles, perfect for kids to splash around. Don’t swim because the depth varies. Sunset is at 6:30 PM with pink and purple skies, perfect for photos. Any phone shot looks like wallpaper. ⚠️Don’t eat at the barbecue stalls at the scenic entrance at night. A lamb skewer costs 8 yuan, twice the city price. Drive 10 minutes to the “Lao Zhai Ban Mian” main store. Noodle soup with braised egg is 12 per bowl. You can choose the spice level. Kids can eat mildly spicy. Pair it with iced soy milk for comfort. If the daytime heat is unbearable, visit Xinghua Temple on Yunlong Mountain. Tickets are 5 yuan. It’s quiet and shady with city views. You can finish in half an hour. 06 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a hidden gem in the Qinling Mountains. August temperatures are several degrees cooler than Xi’an. Jinsi Gorge is the highlight. ⏰Enter at 8 AM. The sound of water is loud, and the air is cool. The boardwalk follows the creek. Kids can play in the water. Bring sandals to step in the shallow areas. The whole walk takes three hours without backtracking. There’s a shuttle at the exit for 10 yuan per person. Don’t skip it—it’s a lifesaver when kids get tired. ⚠️There’s no signal in the valley. Download offline maps in advance and bring some cash. Mountain shops only accept cash. In the afternoon, visit Tianshu Gorge. It’s less crowded with a flat boardwalk, stroller-friendly. The waterfall mist cools your face. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is better for an evening stroll. The cobblestone streets are shaded. Walnut cakes are sold for 5 yuan a bag—crispy and great as snacks for kids. Baita Temple is on the way. It takes 10 minutes to see. The old ginkgo tree at the entrance is stunning in autumn but just bright green in summer. 07 Zhangzhou | Fujian Zhangzhou is hot in August but has strong sea breezes. Yunshuiyao Ancient Town and Nanjing Tulou can be planned over two days. Yunshuiyao is sunny during the day. ⏰Enter the village after 4 PM. The stone steps by the creek are cool. Ancient banyan trees provide full shade. Kids can throw stones in the water for hours. 📍It’s a 20-minute walk between Heguilou and Huaiyuanlou. The tulou interiors are cool, but the stairs are steep. Hold kids’ hands. Tickets are 90 per person for two buildings. Don’t trust the touts at the entrance offering “shortcuts.” You still need a ticket. The next day, visit Binhai Volcano National Geopark. 🚄It’s a one-hour drive from Zhangzhou city. Tickets are 50. The volcanic rocks are black, and kids will wonder why the stones look like that. The seaside boardwalk is windy, so secure hats. At low tide, you can find small sea snails but avoid the sharp ones—they can hurt. For lunch, eat seafood noodles at the park entrance for 20 per bowl. The portions are generous. Avoid the “abalone set meal”—it’s expensive and barely enough. 08 Lingshui | Hainan Lingshui has fewer people and lower prices than Sanya. The core attraction is Boundary Island. 🎫 Tickets plus ferry cost 120. Kids over 1.2 meters pay half price. ⏰Take the first ferry in the morning. It’s less crowded, the water is clear, and the sand is fine and white. Kids can dig in the sand endlessly. The island has a marine theater with dolphin shows that excite kids. But ⚠️don’t buy the “diving experience.” It’s expensive and disappointing, just floating in shallow water. Things on the island are pricey, so bring your own water and bread to save on lunch. In the afternoon, visit Nanwan Monkey Island by cable car. You can see the Danjia fishing rafts on the sea, a unique view. The monkeys roam freely and will grab bags. ⚠️Don’t carry plastic bags in your hands. Put snacks in a backpack. The monkeys are clever and kids love them, but don’t let kids feed them to avoid scratches. The total cost for tickets and cable car is 80. Spend the afternoon there, then return to Lingshui town for “suanfen” (sour noodles). A bowl costs 10 yuan. It’s sour and spicy, appetizing, and kids can eat it too. The two-day trip in Lingshui costs about 300 per person, less than half the price of Sanya.

1️⃣ Jingmen | Hubei When visiting Jingmen with kids, don’t rush straight to the Mingxian Tomb. Park at Mochouhu Road first and walk along the lakeside. Kids can run freely while you keep an eye on them. The highlights of Mingxian Tomb are the spirit way and the Ming building. The stone slab path is wide and stroller-friendly. But ⚠️ the ground temperature gets high in the summer afternoons, so it’s best to enter before 9 AM and finish the visit in time to return to the city for lunch. There’s a green bean soup stall at the entrance selling cups for 3 yuan, half the price of those inside the attraction. Avoid scheduling anything for the afternoon. Take a nap at the hotel, then head to Zhanghe Reservoir in the evening to enjoy the breeze. There’s a shallow beach area where kids can splash around. 2️⃣ Chenzhou | Hunan Chenzhou is perfect for splitting your day into “mountains in the morning, water in the afternoon.” Gaoyiling and Mangshan Wuzhifeng are both Danxia landforms but with very different vibes. The boardwalk at Gaoyiling is smooth and takes about 2 hours to complete. Kids can climb on their own, but there are many steps, so elders with knee issues should be cautious. Mangshan Wuzhifeng has a cable car and elevator, so no climbing is needed. It’s easy to take kids up to see the sea of clouds. Enter from the east gate and exit from the west gate to avoid backtracking. Be sure to visit Dongjiang Lake early. The morning fog is thickest between 6:30 and 7:30 AM. Watching fishermen cast nets is a regular show. Don’t believe roadside vendors who say you need to pay extra for a good spot; the viewing platform has plenty of free space. In the afternoon, stroll along the lakeside boardwalk, which is shaded and stroller-friendly. 3️⃣ Xuzhou | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake in Xuzhou is a spot locals visit daily but often overlooked by tourists. When traveling with kids, don’t just focus on the lake. Head straight to the sandy beach bath on Hunan Road. The sand is fine and the water shallow, perfect for kids to play all afternoon. Right next to it is Yunlong Mountain. The cable car costs 40 yuan one way and offers a full view of the lake. ⚠️ On weekends, wait times start at 40 minutes, so weekdays are recommended. For lunch, try spicy soup and fried buns at “Two Winds” on Hudong Road. It costs about 20 yuan per person and kids can eat it too. Don’t plan other attractions for the afternoon. Find a shady spot by the lake, spread a picnic mat, let the kids nap while you scroll on your phone—that’s real kid-friendly travel. 4️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei I didn’t expect much from Shijiazhuang, but Zhaozhou Bridge was better than I thought. The bridge itself isn’t large, but the park under the bridge, Xiahe Park, is spacious and great for kids to run around. 📍 At the east end of the bridge, there’s a donkey meat sandwich shop. They make fresh flatbread with donkey meat for 12 yuan each, tastier than the city chain stores. Xibaipo is better suited for older kids who can appreciate old houses and antiques. ⚠️ The guides take groups at scheduled times, so solo visitors may have to wait. It’s best to call ahead to check the schedule. If you have younger kids, skip Xibaipo and go straight to Zhengding Ancient City. There’s a pedestrian street under the city wall that looks beautiful when lit up at night. Kids can play there until 9 PM without fuss. 5️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is all about cool weather. Jinsixia is the main attraction. The full trail takes about 3 hours, but don’t overdo it with kids. Turn back at Heilongtan; the best parts are in the first half. The water is emerald green, and the shallow areas are perfect for kids to take off their shoes and splash around. Remember to bring water shoes because the rocks are slippery—don’t go barefoot. Tianshuxia is less crowded with a gentle boardwalk, good for strollers, but the signal is weak, so download offline maps in advance. Don’t expect much from Manchuanguan Ancient Town; it’s just old houses and a few streets, which you can explore in half an hour. However, the walnut buns sold at the entrance for 5 yuan each are a hit with kids. Baita Temple is even more off the beaten path. The ginkgo tree in front of the pagoda is the main attraction in autumn. Visiting in summer is mainly for peace and quiet. 6️⃣ Nanyang | Henan Nanyang’s Funiu Mountain Dinosaur Site Park is the kind of place where kids don’t want to leave. The dinosaur fossil exhibition hall is large and air-conditioned, perfect for escaping the midday heat. 📍 There’s a simulated excavation area in the park. For 30 yuan, kids can dig for half an hour and uncover small dinosaur models, which is better value than souvenirs. Be sure to take the cable car at Laojieling. It’s a 15-minute ride, and the wind is strong at the top, so bring a light jacket for the kids. ⚠️ Don’t follow the farm stay touts at the foot of the mountain. Go straight to the restaurant on the second floor of the visitor center. The set meal costs about 40 yuan per person and is clean. After descending in the afternoon, return to the city and visit the government office snack street. A bowl of beef soup with baked flatbread will have your kids sweating happily. 7️⃣ Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake is a great alternative to the Dead Sea. When traveling with kids, the main activities are floating and playing with black mud. The floating pool water is warm, and kids can float with swim rings. But ⚠️ saltwater stings the eyes, so make sure they wear goggles. Applying black mud on the body is free, and kids love turning into little mud figures. ⏰ Visit after 4 PM when the sun is less intense and the light is perfect for photos. 📍 Next to the salt lake is Salt Lake Road, where vendors sell roasted sweet potatoes that are very sweet. Don’t leave in the evening. Wait for the 7:30 PM light show when the lake surface lights up in colors. Kids will be amazed. For younger kids, there’s a rest area by the floating pool where they can lie down and nap. 8️⃣ Wanning | Hainan Wanning has a completely different vibe from Sanya. The beach at Shimei Bay is wilder with smaller waves, perfect for kids to play in the sand. 📍 The Phoenix Jiuli Bookstore is right by the sea. When tired, go inside to cool off with air conditioning, order a mango smoothie, let the kids read picture books while you scroll on your phone—perfect. Riyue Bay is a surfing spot, but don’t bring kids there; the waves are too big and unstable for them. It’s best to spend the morning at Shimei Bay and drive to the Riyue Bay viewing platform at sunset. You don’t need to get out of the car; just roll down the window for the view. ⚠️ Parking at Riyue Bay is expensive. Park outside the attraction on the roadside and use the saved money to buy coconuts for the kids. For seafood dinner, go to Xinglong Town. The processing fee is charged by weight, about 80 yuan per person, which is much more reasonable than inside the attraction. If I had to pick one, I’d recommend Chenzhou and Wanning. One is cool, the other fun, and kids won’t fuss at either. Where are you planning to go this summer? Let’s chat in the comments.

People often say the most beautiful places in China are in western Sichuan and Xinjiang, but I want to take a different view. Some cities seem unremarkable, even hard to find on the map without squinting, but once you step inside, the scenery and culture leave you speechless. I’ve been to these eight cities myself, with surprises and pitfalls. Today, I’ll share everything at once. 01 Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge and Tianshu Gorge—I recommend choosing just one. Jinsi Gorge is more famous, but on holidays the plank road is crowded, and you have to squeeze in to take photos. Tianshu Gorge is much quieter. The sound of the creek drowns out all noise. At 3 PM, sunlight filters through the trees, and the water surface sparkles like scattered gold. 📍 Navigate directly to “Tianshu Gorge Scenic Area South Gate.” It’s about a two-hour drive from Shangluo city. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is worth spending half a day on its own. Don’t just follow the main street—turn into the alleys where old houses still have Ming and Qing dynasty brick carvings above the doors. At the town entrance, there’s an old shop selling handmade dried noodles. The owner makes only 20 jin daily and closes when sold out. A bowl of sour soup noodles with a fried egg costs 8 yuan. ⏰ Visit Baita Temple before 8 AM. The morning mist lingers, the pagoda forest frames the distant mountains, and there are almost no visitors. ⚠️ The temple doesn’t offer vegetarian meals. Eat well before you go. The mountain path has many steps, so elderly visitors should take it slow. 02 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Sayram Lake’s beauty is beyond reason. I arrived in late June. Wildflowers bloomed in patches by the lake, and the water was an unreal shade of blue. But don’t rush to take the sightseeing bus at the entrance. Walk along the wooden boardwalk on the west side of the lake for 20 minutes. It’s less crowded, the breeze is gentle, and you can see swans preening in the shallows. Anjihai Grand Canyon is free to enter but be careful. 📍 Navigate to “Anjihai Grand Canyon Viewing Platform.” After parking, don’t get too close—the wind at the edge is strong enough to blow your hat away instantly. The canyon’s textures look most vivid around 5 or 6 PM when sunlight hits the opposite rock walls, layering red, yellow, gray, and white. The hot springs in the county are perfect for soaking tired feet. There’s a wild hot spring eye in town where locals built a small pool by the river. The water temperature is just over 40 degrees Celsius. Soaking for half an hour melts away a day’s fatigue. ⚠️ Check the hot spring temperature notice before going. Sometimes upstream snowmelt cools the water. 03 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia I recommend staying overnight at Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon. At 7 PM, the viewing platform had only me and a couple. The Yellow River makes an almost right-angle bend here. The sunset turns the water copper-colored, and the canyon shadows stretch slowly. Early morning mist the next day is even quieter than sunset. Chiluchuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area is better for families with kids. The grassland is windy, so bring an extra windbreaker for children. You can rent a four-person bike in the park for 60 yuan per hour. Ride around the main loop while enjoying the distant Yinshan mountain outline. 🚄 Driving from Hohhot city is most convenient. A private car for a day costs about 400 yuan. Drivers know the route well and will stop at sunflower fields along the way for photos. ⚠️ Toilets are far apart on the grassland. Use the restroom before entering. 04 Zhangzhou | Fujian You can visit Nanjing Tulou and Yunshuiyao Ancient Town in one day, but the order matters. I went to the Tulou first. In the morning, there were few tourists. Only elderly people sat in the courtyard picking vegetables. Sunlight poured through the round roof, and the atmosphere was more moving than any explanation. Yunshuiyao’s charm is at dusk. The big banyan tree from the movie looks best after 5:30 PM when the light softens. The creek reflects the Tulou and tree shadows, making every photo beautiful. The town’s “Grandma’s taro balls” are worth trying. For 6 yuan, they’re hot and chewy, ten times better than the popular shops in the scenic area. Binhai Volcano National Geopark is a 40-minute drive from town. 📍 Electric carts at the scenic entrance cost 20 yuan round trip. Don’t skip this—you’ll need 40 minutes to walk in, so save your energy for the columnar jointed rock walls. ⚠️ Some reef walkways close at high tide. Check the tide table before you go. 05 Changzhou | Jiangsu Tianmu Lake is perfect for a slow soak. I stayed one night at the “Tianmu Lake Hotel” near the entrance. At 7 AM, the lake was covered in thin mist, and the mountain shadows were faint. Taking the first boat to Longxing Island, I circled the island with so few people I could hear my footsteps. ⚠️ After 2 PM, large tour groups arrive, and boat lines can be at least 30 minutes. Chunqiu Yancheng Tourist Area was a pleasant surprise. The water system of three cities and three rivers is unique. Riding a rowboat through the ancient city waterways, the boatwoman even sang a few lines in Wu dialect. The “Yancheng Ruins” area is the most worthwhile. The earthen city walls half-hidden in the grass feel more authentic than the reconstructed buildings. Global Dinosaur City is better for families. Parents, remember this: go straight to the “Dinosaur Gene Research Center.” The line is shortest, and the experience is best. The dinosaur toy stalls outside sell the same items 15 yuan cheaper than inside the park. 06 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang The Diaoshuilou Waterfall at Jingpo Lake has the most water in July. You can hear the roar from far away. Standing on the viewing platform, the mist hits your face, instantly cooling the summer heat. ⏰ There’s a diving show at 10 AM daily. Arrive 20 minutes early to get a spot. The railing facing the waterfall is the most popular. Mudanjiang city is often overlooked. The riverside walkway from Tieling River Bridge to Mudanjiang Bridge takes about 40 minutes. After 6 PM, locals fish, walk dogs, and dance in the square, creating a lively atmosphere. Street vendors sell grilled cold noodles for 5 yuan a serving. The sauce is sweeter and tastier than those in the scenic area. 🚄 The high-speed train from Harbin to Mudanjiang takes about 1.5 hours. A taxi from the station to Jingpo Lake costs about 120 yuan. If short on time, just visit Jingpo Lake and spend two hours exploring the city. 07 Guangzhou | Guangdong I’ve been up Guangzhou Tower once, just once. The ticket isn’t cheap, and it’s crowded, but the 6:30 PM trip caught the lights on both sides of the Pearl River. The city changed from blue to gold, and that moment felt worth it. 📍 Don’t buy the Ferris wheel combo ticket. The night view from the tower’s observation deck is better than from the Ferris wheel. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is an underrated treasure. Even locals love it. Brick, wood, and stone carvings cover every inch. Look up and down for details. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays. Don’t go for nothing. After visiting, turn right out the door. In the alley, there’s “Chen’s Desserts.” Their double-skin milk costs 12 yuan. The milk skin is thick enough to lift. When the wind is strong on Baiyun Mountain, the cable car stops running. I hiked from the south gate to the summit plaza in about 40 minutes, sweating but feeling great. Chimelong Tourist Resort is best for a full day. Arrive early to visit “Bird Paradise” first, then “Happy World” to avoid afternoon crowds. 08 Haidong | Qinghai Many people just pass through Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park, but I suggest staying a night. Tu women will teach you embroidery, stitch by stitch, all old craftsmanship. Barley dries in the yard, and the air smells faintly of grain. At night, there’s a bonfire party. When Tu songs and dances start, the atmosphere lifts instantly. Youning Temple is halfway up the mountain, less than a half-hour drive from Huzhu county. The temple’s long corridor of prayer wheels is peaceful. Slowly turning them, you hear the creak mixed with the wind. ⏰ Arrive around 2 PM when sunlight hits the golden roof of the main hall—no filter needed for photos. ⚠️ Haidong is over 2,000 meters above sea level. Most people are fine, but shortness of breath when walking is normal. Don’t rush. Stay in Huzhu county. In July and August, a standard room costs about 200 yuan, half the price of the scenic area. You can also enjoy a bowl of authentic mixed offal soup in the morning. These eight cities have mountains, rivers, ancient towns, and local life. Each hides another side of China’s ultimate beauty. Which city caught your eye? Share in the comments. I’ve been through the pitfalls so you don’t have to.

Where to go for a road trip? Popular tourist spots are packed with crowds, and parking lines can take at least half an hour. These 8 places, however, are quiet and offer plenty of fun. I'm not advising you to go far away; I'll just pick a few destinations that are truly worth taking a detour to, perfect for a spontaneous trip. 01 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou I've been to Libo Zhangjiang three times, always entering from the west gate. The east gate is always crowded with tour groups. Entering from the west gate, you first walk through a section of water forest, where tree roots are submerged in emerald green water, and small fish dart around your feet. ⏰ Enter the park at 8:30 am. There are fewer people, and the light is soft, making the water reflect the entire mountain like a mirror. After walking through the 68-tiered waterfall, which takes about two hours, it's lunchtime. Have sour fish soup at a Buyi ethnic farmhouse outside the scenic area; one pot is enough for two people. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip river wading shoes. The boardwalk is slippery, and ordinary flip-flops are easy to slip on. Remember to book your tickets one day in advance through official channels; during peak season, tickets may sell out quickly if you buy them on-site. Around 3 PM, the sunlight angles down, giving the water at Wolongtan a bluish-green hue, making for much better photos than at midday. It's suitable for those who enjoy hiking and natural scenery. If you're with elderly people, don't rush the whole route; walking halfway and turning back is enough. 02 Suzhou | Jiangsu Suzhou is often talked about, but Tiger Hill and Lingering Garden are still underrated. Tiger Hill isn't high, but the Leaning Pagoda, Sword Pool, and Yongcui Villa are connected, making it easy to see at a leisurely pace. I suggest this route: Enter from the South Gate, first seeing the two ginkgo trees at the main gate, which turn a brilliant yellow in autumn; follow the mountain path to Sword Pool, where the water is small but deep, with a thick layer of moss on the stone walls. Further up is Yunyan Temple Pagoda, its slightly leaning body creating a strong sense of time when you look up at it. The whole walk takes about two hours, with gentle slopes suitable for both the elderly and children. Afterwards, take a taxi to Lingering Garden, which is half the size of the Humble Administrator's Garden, but much less crowded. ⚠️ During peak season, the queue at the Humble Administrator's Garden can be at least an hour long, while entry to the Lingering Garden usually takes about half an hour. There are many artificial hills in the gardens, so wear flat shoes as your feet will hurt after walking on the stone paths for a while. 🍜 After visiting the gardens, head to Shantang Street for a bowl of sweet rice porridge, or find an old noodle shop for a bowl of braised pork noodles – more reliable than the trendy restaurants. Hanshan Temple is right next to Fengqiao Bridge; arrive before 5 pm to catch the bell tolling, and a stroll along the canal near the temple entrance is very pleasant. The beauty of Suzhou's gardens doesn't need to be seen in one visit; just pick a couple and explore them at your leisure. 03 Yongzhou|Hunan Shang Gantang Ancient Village is truly "ancient," without the forced commercialization. At the village entrance stands Buying Bridge, its stone slabs gleaming from countless footsteps, and the Xie Mu River beneath is so clear you can see the aquatic plants. There's no entrance fee; walk along the main alley, lined with old Ming and Qing dynasty houses, their wooden doors weathered and grass growing on the eaves. ⏰ The best light comes after 4:30 PM. The setting sun casts its glow on the blue brick walls, bathing the entire village in a honey-colored light. There's a pavilion called Wenchang Pavilion in the village, where you can climb up and see all the rooftops – a continuous expanse of gray tiles, and the rising smoke from the chimneys is incredibly charming. ⚠️ The village's stone-paved paths are slippery on rainy days, so wear shoes with good grip. For accommodation, I recommend staying near Lingling Ancient City, about a 40-minute drive away. You can also enjoy the ancient city's night view in the evening. 🍜 There are several farmhouses near the village entrance. Blood duck and Dong'an chicken are Yongzhou specialties, with a spicy and sour flavor that you could easily eat two bowls of rice with them. Suitable for those who appreciate ancient architecture and tranquility. I don't recommend joining a tour group; this place is best enjoyed at your own pace. 04 Fangchenggang City | Guangxi The sea in Fangchenggang isn't the trendy blue; it's a grayish-blue with a hint of green, but its beauty lies in its wildness and openness. Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is the highlight. After low tide in the afternoon, the mudflats are teeming with small crabs and mudskippers; kids can spend an entire afternoon digging with a small bucket. There are vendors selling sweet soups under the big banyan tree at the village entrance; locust flower powder and "qingbuliang" (a type of sweet soup) are cheap, only five yuan a bowl. ⚠️ For beachcombing, check the tide table. The best time is around the first and fifteenth of the lunar month when there's high tide. Don't wear flip-flops to the mudflats; the mud will stick to your feet. Bring a pair of old sneakers. Drive along the coastal road; turn into any intersection where cars are parked. You'll often find unexpected little beaches. ⏰ Go to the west coast of Jiangshan Peninsula around 6 pm. At sunset, the sea turns orange-red, and there are so few people that you can have the entire mudflat all to yourself. Buy seafood at the fishing port pier; freshly caught mantis shrimp and flower crabs can be cooked at nearby shops. The cooking fee is calculated by the plate, and you can eat your fill for about fifty yuan per person. This is suitable for those who like a pristine coastline. If you're looking for the resort feel of Sanya, this isn't the place for you; there are no hotel pools or lounge chairs here. 05 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon, to be honest, was more magnificent than I imagined. The Yellow River makes a sharp bend here, with steep, yellowish-brown cliffs on both sides. The water is a calm, emerald green, completely different from the murky downstream. Driving to the scenic area entrance, you transfer to an electric cart to the viewing platform. Standing on the cliff edge looking down, the wind is strong, refreshing you. ⏰ Arriving around 10 am, the light is perfect for illuminating the canyon, creating distinct layers. There's also a section of the Great Wall ruins within the scenic area, running parallel to the Yellow River; this is where the Great Wall meets the Yellow River. Best driven; about two hours from Hohhot city center, road conditions are good. ⚠️ It's windy in the scenic area, even in summer, bring a light jacket. Chulechuan Grassland is close to the city; evening is the best time to visit. After sunset, the grassland temperature drops quickly, but the sunset paints half the sky, and the distant mountain silhouettes are clearly visible. Horseback riding is available on the grasslands; bargain down to 50 yuan per ride, avoid those marked up to 100+ yuan. 🍜 For hot pot in the city, Erdun or Little Sheep are both good options. Hand-cut mutton dipped in sesame sauce, served with a flatbread, is hearty and satisfying. 06 Harbin|Heilongjiang Harbin is a world of ice in winter, but I don't recommend heading straight to the Ice and Snow World; it's too expensive and crowded. Spend a day in the city first. Walk to the end of Central Street, and you'll reach the Songhua River. Once the river is frozen solid, enjoy ice skating, ice sledding, and ice spinning tops—locals seem to enjoy it more than tourists. St. Sophia Cathedral is most beautiful at night when it's lit up; the brick walls reflect warm yellow light, and snow falls on the dome, like pages torn from a fairytale book. ⏰ Enter the Ice and Snow World at 3 PM, before it gets dark. First, admire the details of the ice sculptures. The main attraction is at 4:30 PM when the lights come on and the entire ice city illuminates. ⚠️ It's -20 degrees Celsius inside. Even with hand warmers on your phone, it won't last long. Bring a spare power bank and at least two spare cameras. Volga Manor is in the suburbs, about a 40-minute drive from the city center. The Russian-style architecture looks great in the snow, perfect for taking photos. 🍜 The Madier ice cream on Central Street is worth eating even in -20 degrees Celsius. It's rich in milk flavor, and it's so satisfying that your teeth chatter from the cold. The braised goose in an iron pot with cornbread is enough for two people, costing about 50 yuan per person. If you're taking your parents, don't plan too many outdoor activities; intersperse the indoor exhibits with them. 07 Shangluo City | Shaanxi Shangluo is Xi'an's backyard, but much less popular than the northern foothills of the Qinling Mountains. Jinshixia Gorge is the main attraction; the gorge has a year-round flowing stream, and in summer it's as cool as if you're in air conditioning. ⏰ Enter the gorge at 8 am and walk along the trail. Steep cliffs line both sides, with occasional glimpses of sky overhead, and the sound of waterfalls follows you all the way. The entire hike takes about three hours. There's a cable car for the latter half, which is convenient for families with elderly members or children. ⚠️ The path is slippery after rain, and some sections of the canyon are dimly lit; bring a flashlight or your phone for illumination. Tianshu Gorge is less crowded, the canyon is narrower, and the water is clearer, making it ideal for those who want to avoid large groups. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is located on the Danjiang River; the atmosphere of the Ming and Qing dynasty wharf remains. The cobblestone streets are lined with old shops, not overdeveloped, selling handmade noodles and sesame candy. Baita Temple is on a mountain, requiring a climb up some steps. The temple's ancient pagodas are scattered among the trees, and in autumn, the ground is covered in golden ginkgo leaves. 🍜 Shangluo's thick soup noodles with pickled vegetables are cheap and filling. Zhen'an cured meat is also worth buying. It's a good option to drive from Xi'an on a weekend; the journey takes two hours each way, making a day trip easy. 08 Shanghai Shanghai is more than just the Bund and Lujiazui. I highly recommend the Guangfulin Cultural Site. The underwater museum resembles a floating dome and tells the story of Shanghai's history from the Songze Culture to the Republic of China era. It's less crowded and the exhibits are well-done. ⏰ Arrive at 2 PM and visit until 5 PM closing time. Yu Garden is worth visiting, but avoid peak season; the Nine-Turn Bridge is packed with people, you can barely touch the ground. If you want to see a traditional garden, go to Guilin Park or Guyi Garden; they're less crowded and quieter, and still have plenty of pavilions and waterside terraces typical of Jiangnan gardens. The Expo site area has now been converted into parks and exhibition areas. The riverside promenade near the Mercedes-Benz Arena is a pleasant place to stroll, and you can watch the sunset over the Huangpu River in the evening—it's a hundred times less crowded than the Bund. Disney Resort is worth a dedicated day. ⚠️ Don't buy those "skip-the-line" tickets from scalpers on the street; they're scams. Reservations are made through the official app, and book popular attractions early. 🍜 Hidden in the alleyways of the old city are small noodle shops, serving braised pork intestine noodles and spicy pork noodles for just over twenty yuan a bowl—the soul of these dishes surpasses that of chain stores in shopping malls. Choose accommodations along subway lines, not near tourist attractions, as they are expensive and inconvenient. Shanghai is best enjoyed by wandering aimlessly, exploring side streets—more interesting than visiting must-see spots. Where to go on a road trip? Popular attractions are crowded, with parking queues starting at half an hour. These eight places, however, are quiet and offer plenty of opportunities to explore. I'm not advising you to go far away; I'll just pick a few destinations truly worth detouring to, perfect for a spontaneous trip. 01 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou I've been to Zhangjiang in Libo three times, always entering from the west gate. The east gate is packed with tour groups; entering from the west gate involves walking through a section of water forest where tree roots are submerged in emerald green water, and small fish dart around your feet. ⏰ Entering the park at 8:30 am means fewer people and softer lighting, with the water reflecting the entire mountain like a mirror. After hiking the 68-tiered waterfall, which takes about two hours, it's just lunchtime. We ate sour fish soup at a Buyi ethnic minority farmhouse outside the scenic area; one pot is enough for two people. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip river trekking shoes, as the boardwalk is slippery and ordinary flip-flops are easy to slip on. Remember to book tickets a day in advance through official channels; tickets are often sold out on-site during peak season. Around 3 pm, the sunlight is at an angle, and the water in the Wolongtan section has a bluish-green hue, making for much better photos than at noon. Suitable for those who enjoy hiking and natural scenery. If you're with elderly people, don't rush the whole route; hiking halfway and then turning back is enough to see everything. 02 Suzhou|Jiangsu Suzhou is often talked about, but Tiger Hill and Lingering Garden are still underrated. Tiger Hill isn't very high, but the Leaning Pagoda, Sword Pool, and Yongcui Villa are connected, making it easy to walk and see the sights without getting tired. I suggest this route: Enter from the South Gate, first see the two ginkgo trees at the main gate, which turn a brilliant yellow in autumn; follow the mountain path to Sword Pool, the water is small but deep, and the stone walls are covered with a thick layer of moss. Further up is the Yunyan Temple Pagoda, its body slightly tilted, and looking up from its base evokes a strong sense of time. The whole walk takes about two hours, the slope is gentle, and it's suitable for both the elderly and children. Afterwards, take a taxi to Lingering Garden, which is half the size of the Humble Administrator's Garden, but much less crowded. ⚠️ During peak season, the queue at the Humble Administrator's Garden can be at least an hour long, while you can usually get into Lingering Garden within half an hour. There are many artificial hills in the gardens, so wear flat shoes, as your feet will hurt after walking on the stone paths for a while. 🍜 After visiting the gardens, go to Shantang Street for a bowl of sweet rice porridge, or find an old noodle shop for a bowl of braised pork noodles—it's more reliable than the trendy restaurants. Hanshan Temple is right next to Maple Bridge; arrive before 5 pm to catch the bell tolling, and a stroll along the canal near the temple entrance is very pleasant. The beauty of Suzhou gardens doesn't need to be explored all at once; a couple of places to leisurely stroll through are enough. 03 Yongzhou | Hunan Shang Gantang Ancient Village is truly "ancient," without the forced commercialism of some other villages. At the village entrance stands Buying Bridge, its stone slabs gleaming from countless footsteps, and the Xie Mu River beneath is so clear you can see the aquatic plants. There's no entrance fee. Walking along the main alley, you'll find Ming and Qing dynasty houses on both sides, their wooden doors weathered, and eaves overgrown with weeds. ⏰ The light is best after 4:30 PM; the slanting sunlight casts a honey-colored glow on the blue brick walls, making the entire village seem bathed in a warm glow. There's a Wenchang Pavilion in the village, where you can climb up and see all the rooftops—a continuous expanse of gray tiles, most charming when the smoke rises from the chimneys. ⚠️ The stone paths in the village can be slippery on rainy days; wear shoes with good grip. For accommodation, it's recommended to stay near Lingling Ancient City, about a 40-minute drive away, where you can also enjoy the ancient city's night view. 🍜 There are several farmhouses near the village entrance. Blood duck and Dong'an chicken are Yongzhou specialties, spicy and sour, perfect with rice—you could easily eat two bowls! Suitable for those who appreciate ancient architecture and tranquility. Group tours are not recommended; this place is best enjoyed at your own pace. 04 Fangchenggang City | Guangxi The sea in Fangchenggang isn't the trendy blue; it's a grayish-blue with a hint of green, but its charm lies in its wildness and openness. Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is a highlight. After low tide in the afternoon, the mudflats are teeming with small crabs and mudskippers; kids can spend an entire afternoon digging with a small bucket. Under the large banyan tree at the village entrance, there are vendors selling sweet soups; locust flower powder and Qingbuliang (a type of sweet soup) are cheap, only five yuan a bowl. ⚠️ For beachcombing, check the tide table. The best time is around the first and fifteenth of the lunar month when the tides are high. Don't wear flip-flops to the mudflats; the mud will stick to your feet. Bring a pair of old sneakers. Drive along the coastal highway; turn into any intersection where cars are parked—you'll often find unexpected little beaches. ⏰ Head to the west coast of Jiangshan Peninsula around 6 PM. The sea turns orange-red at sunset, and there are so few people that you can have the entire mudflat all to yourself. Buy seafood at the fishing port pier; freshly caught mantis shrimp and flower crabs are available. Small shops nearby cook them, with processing fees calculated per plate. You can eat your fill for around 50 yuan per person. Suitable for those who appreciate a pristine coastline. If you're looking for the resort feel of Sanya, this isn't the place for you; there are no hotel pools or lounge chairs. 05 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Laoniu Bay Yellow River Grand Canyon: To be honest, it's more magnificent than I imagined. The Yellow River makes a sharp bend here, with steep, yellowish-brown cliffs on both sides. The water is a calm, emerald green, completely different from the murky downstream. Drive to the scenic area entrance, then take an electric cart to the viewing platform. Standing on the cliff edge looking down, the wind is strong and refreshing. ⏰ Arrive around 10 AM; the light is perfect for illuminating the canyon, creating distinct layers. There's also a section of the Great Wall ruins within the scenic area, running parallel to the Yellow River. This is what it looks like where the Great Wall meets the Yellow River. It's best to drive there; it takes about two hours from Hohhot city center, and the road conditions are good. ⚠️ It's windy in the scenic area, so bring a light jacket even in summer. The Chulechuan Grassland is close to the city center, so it's best to go in the evening. After sunset, the temperature drops quickly on the grassland, but the sunset paints half the sky, and the distant Yinshan Mountains are clearly visible. You can ride horses on the grassland; bargain down to 50 yuan per ride, don't go to those that are priced over 100 yuan. 🍜 For hot pot in the city, Erdun or Little Sheep are both good options. Hand-cut mutton dipped in sesame sauce, served with a flatbread, is hearty. 06 Harbin|Heilongjiang Harbin is a world of ice in winter, but I don't recommend going straight to the Ice and Snow World; it's too expensive and crowded. Spend a day in the city first. At the end of Central Street lies the Songhua River. The river is frozen solid, and locals are more enthusiastic about ice skating, ice sledding, and ice spinning tops than tourists. St. Sophia Cathedral is most beautiful at night when it's lit up; the brick walls are bathed in warm yellow light, and snow on the dome looks like pages torn from a fairytale book. ⏰ Enter the Ice and Snow World at 3 PM, before it gets dark. Start by admiring the details of the ice sculptures. The real highlight is when the lights come on at 4:30 PM, illuminating the entire ice city. ⚠️ It's -20 degrees Celsius inside. Even with hand warmers, your phone won't last long. Bring a spare power bank and at least two spare cameras. Volga Manor is in the suburbs, about a 40-minute drive from the city. The Russian-style architecture looks charming against the snow and is perfect for taking photos. 🍜 The Madier ice cream on Central Street is worth eating even in -20 degrees Celsius. It's rich in milk flavor, and the chill is so intense it makes your teeth chatter. Stewed goose in an iron pot with cornbread is enough for two people, costing about 50 yuan per person. If you're taking your parents, don't plan too many outdoor activities; intersperse the indoor exhibits. 07 Shangluo City | Shaanxi Shangluo is Xi'an's backyard, but much less popular than the northern foothills of the Qinling Mountains. Jinshixia Gorge is the main attraction; the gorge has a year-round flowing stream, and in summer it's as cool as if you're in air conditioning. ⏰ Enter the gorge at 8 am and walk along the trail. Steep cliffs line both sides, with occasional glimpses of sky overhead, and the sound of waterfalls follows you all the way. The entire hike takes about three hours. There's a cable car for the latter half, which is convenient for families with elderly members or children. ⚠️ The path is slippery after rain, and some sections of the gorge are dimly lit, so bring a flashlight or your phone for illumination. Tianshuxia Gorge is even less crowded, narrower, and has clearer water, making it suitable for those who want to avoid large groups of people. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is located on the banks of the Danjiang River. The atmosphere of the Ming and Qing dynasty wharf is still there. The cobblestone streets are lined with old shops, not overdeveloped, selling handmade noodles and sesame candy. Baita Temple is on a mountain, requiring a climb up some steps. The temple's ancient pagodas are scattered among the trees, and in autumn, the ground is covered in golden ginkgo leaves. 🍜 Shangluo's thick soup noodles with pickled vegetables are cheap and filling. Zhen'an cured meat is also worth buying. It's suitable for a weekend trip from Xi'an; the journey takes two hours each way, making a day trip easy. 08 Shanghai Shanghai is not just about the Bund and Lujiazui. I highly recommend the Guangfulin Cultural Site. The underwater museum, shaped like a floating dome, tells a short history of Shanghai from the Songze Culture to the Republic of China. It's less crowded and the exhibits are well done. ⏰ Arrive at 2 PM and visit until 5 PM closing time. Yu Garden is worth seeing, but avoid peak season; the Nine-Turn Bridge is packed with people, making it difficult to even touch the ground. If you're looking for gardens, consider Guilin Park or Guyi Garden; they're less crowded and quieter, and still offer the pavilions and waterside terraces typical of Jiangnan gardens. The area around the World Expo site has been converted into parks and exhibition areas. The riverside promenade near the Mercedes-Benz Arena is a pleasant place for a stroll, offering stunning sunset views over the Huangpu River—far less crowded than the Bund. Disney Resort is worth a dedicated day. ⚠️ Don't buy those "skip-the-line" tickets from scalpers on the street; they're scams. Reservations are made through the official app, and book early for popular attractions. 🍜 Hidden in the alleyways of the old city are small noodle shops, serving dishes like braised pork intestines and spicy pork noodles for just over twenty yuan a bowl—far more authentic than chain restaurants in shopping malls. Choose accommodations along subway lines, not near tourist attractions—they're expensive and inconvenient. Shanghai is best enjoyed by wandering aimlessly, exploring the side streets; it's more interesting than visiting tourist spots.

If you want to travel in August but worry about the heat, many people’s first thought is to head north. But I have to say, the south has plenty of cool spots, some even more comfortable than certain northern cities. These 8 places have fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, saving you more than half on air conditioning costs. 01 Guangzhou | Guangdong Who says Guangzhou is only hot and stuffy in midsummer? After 5 PM by the Pearl River, the river breeze feels even better than air conditioning. 📍 Climb Guangzhou Tower at 6 PM to avoid the sun, watch the sunset turn the Pearl River golden, and wait for the tower lights to come on. Don’t buy tickets for the open-air platform; the indoor observation deck is enough, with strong wind and no sun. ⏰ Get to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall early. It opens at 9 AM, and the breeze through the carved corridors keeps it several degrees cooler than outside. After touring, stop by any dessert shop at the alley entrance for a bowl of mung bean soup to cool off. I recommend entering Baiyun Mountain through the west gate—fewer people and more trees. A half-hour walk takes you to Nengren Temple, where sitting by the stream feels cooler than the mountaintop. Chimelong Water Park is best after 3 PM. It’s scorching during the day, but the water temperature is just right in the evening. Night tickets also include fireworks. 02 Pingdingshan | Henan Can you believe there’s a 26°C summer hidden in central China? Yaoshan—Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area is high in elevation, and the mountain breeze feels naturally cool. Take the cable car up through the clouds, and you’ll need a jacket at the top. ⏰ The best time is before 10 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared. The mountains look like they’re wrapped in a veil, and the coolness is strongest. At the entrance, locals sell wild kiwifruit for 5 yuan a bag. It’s so sour it makes you squint, but it really quenches your thirst. Don’t rush down; the waterfall area halfway down is misty. Standing there for 5 minutes feels like washing your face. ⚠️ There’s an electric shuttle from the foot of the mountain to the cable car station. Don’t save the 10 yuan by walking—it takes 40 minutes with no scenery. 03 Anqing | Anhui Tianzhu Mountain isn’t as famous as Huangshan, but it’s just as cool. I entered from the south gate and followed the stream uphill. The sound of water drowned out the cicadas. ⏰ Arrive at Liandan Lake around 2 PM. The lake glows blue-green, and the mountain breeze flows through the canyon. Sitting on a rock by the lake, you’ll feel sleepy. The full hike takes 4–5 hours. If your knees aren’t strong, take the cable car halfway up to skip the steepest part. On the way down near Sanzu Temple, stop at a farmhouse restaurant for a bowl of stone ear mushroom chicken soup—it’s so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows drop. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from Anqing Station to the scenic area every hour. Don’t trust private cars that solicit passengers—they’re twice as expensive and take a longer route. 04 Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin in summer is a natural refrigerator at 45° north latitude. Harbin Ice and Snow World only opens in winter, but the indoor ice pavilion stays at –8°C year-round. I wore shorts inside and was shivering after 10 minutes. Down jackets rent for 20 yuan each at the entrance—don’t tough it out. Volga Manor’s Russian architecture looks like an oil painting in the sun, but ⏰ after 4 PM the light softens. The breeze in the birch forest is 3 degrees cooler than at noon. Pigeons at Saint Sophia Cathedral Square aren’t afraid of people. Buy a bag of corn kernels, and they’ll circle you for half an hour. Don’t rush back to the hotel at night. No matter how long the line, buy a popsicle on Central Street. The creamy flavor melts in your mouth. Eating it while walking—that’s Harbin summer. 05 Shangluo | Shaanxi This small city in the Qinling Mountains still needs a blanket at night in summer. Jinsi Gorge is a canyon with water running alongside the whole way. The pools are emerald green. Dip your hand in, and the coolness shoots from your fingertips to your elbow. ⏰ Enter the valley at 9 AM. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the water like scattered silver. The full hike takes 3 hours. The stone path isn’t tiring but slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Tianshu Gorge on the other side has even fewer people. The plank road hangs halfway up the mountain, with roaring streams below and plenty of wind and mist. Mianchuan Pass Ancient Town is best in the evening. The cobblestone streets glow warm orange in the sunset. A bowl of tea in an old teahouse costs 5 yuan, and you won’t want to move until dark. ⚠️ Baita Temple is under renovation. Don’t make a wasted trip. 06 Jinhua | Zhejiang Hot and dizzy at Hengdian World Studios during the day? Then you’re wrong. Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden has many trees and water. ⏰ Enter after 3 PM. Walking through the Song Dynasty–style streets, breezes come through one after another. Renting a Hanfu costume for photos costs 50 yuan an hour—cheaper than you’d expect. But don’t shoot at noon; the light is harsh, and your face will be all shadows. Shuanglong Scenic Area is a natural karst cave with a constant 18°C inside. Bring a light jacket. The stalactites lit up look like another world. Outside the cave is a shaded mountain trail, perfect for a sun-free walk. 🍜 The crispy pastries sold at the entrance are filled with preserved mustard greens. Fresh from the oven, they crumble when you bite. Three cost 5 yuan—half the price inside. 07 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Qinghai Lake in August is 20+ degrees during the day and winter at night. Riyue Mountain is over 3,000 meters high. The wind can blow your hat off, but the view is wide open, with grasslands and snow-capped mountains in one frame. Any photo you take is wallpaper-worthy. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM. Morning light slants across the hillside, casting long shadows of cattle and sheep. Few people are around, and the only sound is the wind. The Danxia landforms at Guide National Geopark are glaringly red in the sun, but ⏰ after 6 PM the light softens, and the colors deepen. There’s no shade in the park, so don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. ⚠️ The altitude is high. Don’t run or jump—I was out of breath just climbing a small hill. 08 Ordos | Inner Mongolia The desert’s coolness comes from the wind. The sand dunes at Xiangshawan are scorching under the sun, but ⏰ before 9 AM and after 5 PM, the sand cools to a warm temperature that’s comfortable barefoot. Riding the cable car into the desert, the wind whistles past your ears, feeling cooler than air conditioning. Camel riding is a must. It costs 100 yuan for a 20-minute loop, bouncing so much you’ll want to laugh. Sandboarding down the dunes is faster than you expect. The sand flies up and covers your face, but it’s thrilling. Genghis Khan Mausoleum is deep in the grasslands, where the wind is stronger. Visiting in the afternoon is cooler than at noon. The park is large, so take the electric shuttle. Don’t save the 30 yuan. Of these 8 places, I most want to revisit Tianzhu Mountain and Jinsi Gorge—one to see water, the other to play in it. Both are truly cool to the bone. What are your secret summer escapes? Share in the comments, and I’ll check them out next time.

1 Shangluo | Shaanxi Hidden deep in the Qinling Mountains are two gorges, Jin Si Gorge and Tianshu Gorge, both of which I have explored. Jin Si Gorge is well-known, with smooth plank roads. Walking from Bailong Lake to Shishengshu takes about three hours at a relaxed pace without tiring. Tianshu Gorge is less crowded, with a stream flowing right by your feet and moss thick like a carpet. Both are suitable for elderly people with good mobility, but don’t overdo it—one gorge per day is enough. 📍 There is an electric shuttle at the Jin Si Gorge entrance for 15 yuan to the mid-mountain, saving you the uphill effort. Manchuan Guan ancient town has no entrance fee. The old street sells handmade noodles and walnut buns. Strolling and stopping takes about two hours. Baita Temple is hidden in the village. The gate is old, but the courtyard’s ginkgo trees turn golden in autumn, covering the ground. ⚠️ Mountain roads are winding. If you get car sick, take medicine in advance. The shuttle from Zhen’an to Shangnan runs only a few times a day, so go early rather than late. 2 Anyang | Henan Taihang Grand Canyon and Yinxu offer two very different experiences—one scenic, one historical. In the canyon, there are three spots: Peach Blossom Valley, Taihang Sky Road, and Wangxiang Rock. Peach Blossom Valley has plenty of water and slippery stone paths. Elderly visitors should use the outer railing path for safety. Sky Road has sightseeing buses. It’s windy at the top, so bring a light jacket. At Yinxu, you need a guide; otherwise, the scattered oracle bone fragments won’t make much sense. 🚄 Taxi from Anyang East Station to Yinxu costs about 25 yuan, and to the Grand Canyon visitor center about 60 yuan. 🍜 In the city, try the flat rice noodles with fried dough on North Street. It’s hot, filling, and only 10 yuan a bowl. ⚠️ Yinxu Museum closes Monday afternoons. Don’t miss it. 3 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigushan mountains are all by the Yangtze River. Visiting all three in one day is tight; two are enough. Jinshan Temple is bustling with worshippers. Climb the tower for a wide river view. Beigushan has many steps but plenty of stories. Ganlu Temple, where Liu Bei proposed marriage, is halfway up. Jiaoshan requires a five-minute ferry ride. The island is quiet, perfect for sitting and daydreaming. Maoshan in Jurong is a bit farther, a Taoist holy site. From the square in front of the Laozi statue, you can see the whole hilly area. The air smells of grass and trees. ⏰ Go to Jinshan at 7 AM before the crowds arrive. The river breeze mixed with bell chimes is the most pleasant. ⚠️ The plank road railing on Beigushan’s back mountain is low. Don’t lean too close. 🍜 Guogai noodles with cured meat are a Zhenjiang breakfast staple. The broth is soy sauce–flavored, and the noodles are springy. 4 Jinzhou | Liaoning Yiwulü Mountain is in Beizhen, about an hour from Jinzhou city. The mountain isn’t very high but stretches far, with pine trees growing crookedly, giving a wild vibe. From the mountain gate to Laoye Pavilion takes about two hours at a leisurely pace, with stops at Guanyin Pavilion and Wanghai Temple. The summit is windy. In autumn, the red, yellow, and green leaves mix like a spilled palette. 📍 Beizhen Temple at the foot is a Liao Dynasty building. It’s quiet with few visitors, and ancient pines shade the area. Worth lingering longer. ⚠️ The mountain path has many loose stones. Wear non-slip shoes. Avoid leather shoes. 🚄 There is a direct bus from Jinzhou Station to Beizhen every half hour. The ticket costs 15 yuan. 🍜 After descending, go to Beizhen old town for Gou Bangzi smoked chicken. It’s savory and flavorful, best eaten shredded. 5 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Zagana mornings begin waking up in the mist. Stone mountains surround a village with Tibetan wooden houses and curling smoke. Light slants in from the mountain pass like stage lighting. Stay a night at a Tibetan guesthouse, where you can see snow-capped peaks from your room. Langmusi straddles Gansu and Sichuan provinces. The temple’s golden roof shines in the sun. Elderly people slowly spin prayer wheels along the circumambulation path. No one rushes you. The boardwalk in Yeliguan’s primeval forest is flat, like walking through a green tunnel. Gahai Lake is a stopover for migratory birds. Visit in July or August to see waterfowl take off and land. The air smells grassy. ⚠️ The altitude is around 3,000 meters. Walk slowly. Avoid running or jumping. ⏰ Sunrise in Zagana is around 6:30 AM. Bundle up in a thick jacket. It’s cold but worth it. 🍜 In Langmusi town, yak yogurt mixed with sugar is sour enough to make you frown but leaves a lasting sweet aftertaste. 6 Fangchenggang | Guangxi Among coastal cities, Fangchenggang isn’t trendy but peaceful. The Fangchenggang coastal trail stretches from Beibu Gulf Avenue to Moon Bay. At 6 AM, the tide is far out, and small crabs scuttle sideways on the mudflats. Leshan ancient fishing village is at the peninsula’s tip. Stone houses are old, with roofs darkened by sea wind. Villagers mend fishing nets, and if you squat nearby watching, they won’t rush you. 🍜 A small shop at the fishing village entrance sells sandworm porridge. It’s so fresh it makes your eyebrows drop. One bowl costs 15 yuan. ⚠️ Avoid the beach at noon. The sun is harsh and painful on the skin. ⏰ Go out to sea after 4:30 PM to watch the sunset. Fishing boats sway gently, and the sea glows golden. Perfect for a slow stroll. One day is enough. 7 Linyi | Shandong Firefly water cave and the underground grand canyon are next to each other. The combined ticket is a good deal. Inside the water cave, you take a small boat. Fireflies on the ceiling look like stars embedded in the rock, twinkling. Even elderly visitors say wow. The underground grand canyon has deep caves and a rushing underground river. The plank road is slippery, so hold the railing. Yimeng Mountain has several peaks. Guimeng Peak is over 1,000 meters high, with a cable car up and down. The summit is windy with wide views. You can see the Shandong hills rolling like waves to the horizon. ⏰ Firefly viewing season is June to September. Outside those months, you’ll only see the rock walls. ⚠️ The underground canyon stays a constant 18 degrees year-round. Wear long sleeves even in summer. 🍜 In Linyi city, have a bowl of grain soup with fried dough sticks. The peppery aroma hits your nose, and it warms you up. 8 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Xizhou ancient town is much quieter than Dali old town. The Bai-style houses with upturned eaves look especially clean under the blue sky. Visit the morning market early. Freshly baked broken crisp pastries filled with hot rose sugar are mouth-burning hot. The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple reflect on the lake. Despite earthquakes, the pagodas still stand tall. Walking around the base brings peace of mind. Cycling along Erhai Lake is the most comfortable, but elderly visitors don’t need to rent bikes. Take the sightseeing bus to Caicun Pier, walk part of the boardwalk, watch water birds pecking food, and feel the pine scent blowing from Cangshan Mountain. Nanzhao Style Island is opposite Shuanglang. The ferry takes 15 minutes. The island is lush with flowers and trees. Sitting in a pavilion watching Erhai’s shimmering waves is perfect for daydreaming all afternoon. ⚠️ UV rays are strong by Erhai Lake. Bring a hat and sunglasses. ⏰ The light at 5 PM is best for photos. It’s soft and not glaring, with gentle reflections on the water. 🚄 Taxi from Dali Station to Xizhou costs about 40 yuan. Shared rides are cheaper. Each of these six landscapes has its own character: Shangluo’s gorges, Anyang’s history, Zhenjiang’s river breeze, Jinzhou’s wild mountains, Gannan’s Tibetan land, Fangchenggang’s coastal flavor, Linyi’s caves, and Dali’s cloud reflections. Pick one and stay a few days—it’s better than rushing around. Where do you most want to go after retirement? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you plan a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

Tianshu Gorge (Ankang Pingli · 4A attraction) Tianshu Gorge is located in Baxian Town, Pingli County, Ankang, Shaanxi, on the northwest slope of Hualong Mountain in the Daba Mountains. Known as the Jiuzhaigou of southern Shaanxi, it is a hidden original canyon retreat deep in the Bashan Mountains. Basic overview Name origin Legend has it that the Eight Immortals once practiced cultivation in this valley. After attaining enlightenment, they transformed tens of thousands of heavenly books into layers of stacked stone pages left in the gorge. The rock layers resemble piled books, hence the name Tianshu Gorge. Environmental features The canyon is 12.8 km long with a developed area of 25 km². It has a 97% forest coverage and features a primitive forest canyon landscape. The temperature is 5–8℃ cooler than the city year-round, with abundant negative oxygen ions, making summer cool and comfortable. The area is home to rare plants and animals such as the yew tree, dove tree, and Chinese giant salamander according to Douyin Encyclopedia. Landforms: glacier + karst landforms, featuring waterfalls, clear pools, layered strange stones, mountain sky pools, cliffside glass walkways, and alpine meadows. Must-visit core attractions Ten thousand heavenly books: the iconic scenic spot, a giant rock wall with distinct layers resembling stacked ancient books Nine Heavens Waterfall / Fairy Waterfall: multi-layered cascading waterfalls with long, gentle streams and cool mist Pearl Pool, Colorful Cloud Pool: mountain spring pools with clear water, perfect for summer water play Cliffside glass walkway: a cliffside path at the mountain waist offering views of the entire canyon, streams, and forest Bright lake reflecting the moon (sky pool): a tranquil mountain lake with a strong morning mist atmosphere Langhuan blessed land: a quiet valley water scenery spot Complete travel guide 🎫Ticket prices Adult ticket: 80 yuan; round-trip shuttle bus 30 yuan; full package ticket 100 yuan (recommended) Free admission: children under 1.2 m, seniors over 70, military personnel, and people with disabilities (only shuttle bus fee required) Half price: students, teachers, medical staff, and seniors aged 60–69 with valid ID enjoy half-price tickets ⏰Opening hours Peak season (Apr–Oct) 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, last entry at 4:00 PM; Off-season winter hours vary, please confirm before traveling. Travel tips: take the shuttle bus directly to the deep canyon entrance, then hike down along the walkway to return. The whole route is downhill and easy, with no backtracking. The full trip takes about 3–4 hours. 🚗Transportation (from Xi’an) Self-driving (preferred) Xi’an → Baomao Expressway – Shitian Expressway → Baxian Town, Pingli, about 3.5 hours total; free parking at the attraction; mountain roads have many curves, drive carefully and slowly. 🚌Public transport Take a bus from Xi’an or Ankang bus station to Pingli County, then transfer to a bus to Baxian Town, and take a taxi to the attraction. ✨Best travel seasons Jun–Aug: high water period, waterfalls are full, ideal for summer cooling and playing by the stream Sep–Nov: deep mountain colorful forests and red leaves, perfect autumn atmosphere Rainy days often bring mountain rainbows and sea of clouds Accommodation & nearby tours There are forest cabin lodges (Tianyi Mountain Villa) inside the attraction for overnight stays; One-day tour route: Tianshu Gorge → Peach Blossom Creek → Peony Valley; Two-day tours can include Zhengyang alpine meadows and Nangong Mountain attractions.

When traveling with parents, the biggest worry isn’t the cost, but getting worn out. I’ve been to these 8 places myself. You can enjoy a leisurely pace and still have a great time. Some are even more comfortable than routes young people rush through. 01 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is perfect for slow exploration. Shicheng and Sanbai Mountain offer completely different rhythms. Shicheng is small. Go to Tongtianzai at 8 AM. The steps are gentle, and it takes about half an hour to reach the top. It’s windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket for your parents. After coming down, have a bowl of sweet potato noodle dumplings in the county town. The skin is smooth and the filling flavorful. Locals eat this for breakfast. Sanbai Mountain is more demanding on your legs. Don’t try to walk the whole trail. Take the electric shuttle to Dongjiangyuan Waterfall, then walk a short section along the boardwalk to see the water. The round trip takes about an hour. After 3 PM, the light slants into the valley, making the water look its best. ⚠️ Signal is weak in Sanbai Mountain. Download offline maps in advance. If you’re with elderly people, don’t climb to the summit. The mid-mountain viewing platform is enough for great photos. 02 Shangluo | Shaanxi This route in Shangluo suits those who can make choices. Both Jinshixia and Tianshuxia are canyons. Pick one. I chose Jinshixia because the trail is flat and follows the stream. Most of it is shaded, so it’s not hot in summer. Have a bowl of Shangzhou sticky rice cake at the park entrance for lunch. It’s chewy and filling with chili. In the afternoon, visit Manchuan Pass Ancient Town. There’s no admission fee. The walnut bread stalls close by 4 PM, so get there early if you want some. Just glance at Baita Temple from afar. It’s nothing special. Better to spend time on the cobblestone street in the ancient town. The evening light on the door panels is warm and cozy. 🚄 There’s a shuttle from downtown Shangluo to Jinshixia, but return trips are limited. Renting a car is recommended, costing about 300 yuan for the day. 03 Shannan | Tibet Yamdrok Lake isn’t for rushing; it’s for zoning out. Leave Lhasa early morning. It takes two and a half hours to reach Gangbala Pass. Don’t rush to take photos. Let your parents acclimate to the altitude first. Bring oxygen bottles in the car. At the lake, the wind is strong enough to blow off hats, so make sure your parents wear scarves. Locals offer yak photo sessions for 20 yuan each. If you want photos, go ahead. If not, just wave them off—they won’t insist. Have a bowl of Tibetan noodles in Langkazi County for lunch. It’s warm and comforting, especially with sweet tea, much better than packed food. ⚠️ The toilets by the lake are poor. Try to use facilities in town. The round trip takes six hours by car. It’s best to dedicate a whole day to this and not squeeze it in with other sights. 04 Jiuquan | Gansu On this route, the most tiring spot is Mingsha Mountain, and the easiest is Mogao Caves. Enter Mingsha Mountain after 5 PM when the sun is less harsh and the sand isn’t hot on your feet. Camel rides cost 100 yuan per person and take about 40 minutes to circle. Elderly people can sit, but it’s bumpy, so those with back issues should be cautious. Crescent Lake is nearby, a 10-minute walk along the wooden boardwalk. Don’t climb the sand dunes—they look close but can take half an hour to climb. Mogao Caves are the opposite. Watch the movie at the digital center, then take the shuttle to the caves. A guide leads you through, so there’s almost no walking. But tickets must be booked on the official website at least a week in advance. No tickets are sold on-site. Yadan and Yumenguan are too far from the city, requiring a full day for round trip. If time is tight, skip them. The Yadan sunset is stunning, but the long drive across the Gobi can be tiring. 05 Hangzhou | Zhejiang The biggest pitfall in Hangzhou is the crowds on the east side of West Lake. When traveling with parents, don’t enter from Broken Bridge. Enter from Xiling Bridge and walk along Beishan Street. The plane trees provide shade, and there are half as many people. Rest on benches along Gushan Road and watch the hand-pulled boats drift by slowly. It’s more comfortable than squeezing by the lake for photos. Take the electric boat in Xixi Wetland instead of walking. The water area is huge, and walking for an hour won’t get you far. For lunch, visit the China Umbrella Museum. It’s cool inside, and you can watch the making of oil-paper umbrellas. Elderly people will find it interesting. In the afternoon, go to Taiziwan Park. The grass is flat. Lay out a picnic mat and relax until 4 PM, waiting for the sunlight to filter through the trees. 🍜 Don’t eat dinner in the scenic area. Take the bus two stops to Zhongshan South Road, where the authentic Pian’er Chuan cuisine is. 06 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor Mausoleum in Zhuzhou is one of those places you’ll regret missing but feel rewarded visiting. The whole park is grand. Walking the central axis takes about an hour. There aren’t many steps, and the slopes are gentle, so elderly people can manage. The square in front of the main hall is very spacious, perfect for sitting and resting while watching the incense smoke rise. For lunch, try the local farmhouse’s blood duck. It’s spicy and flavorful, but ask the owner to use less salt because Hunan cuisine tends to be salty. ⏰ There’s a sacrificial performance at 2 PM. Don’t miss it. Afterward, you can head back. ⚠️ Vendors selling incense and candles inside the park may follow you to push sales. Just say “already worshiped,” and they’ll leave. This place is best for a half-day stopover, not worth a special trip. 07 Haikou | Hainan Haikou is much more relaxed than Sanya, and prices are friendlier. Start at Wugong Temple, which opens at 8 AM. It’s less crowded, shaded by ancient trees, and you can finish in half an hour. Then visit Qilou Old Street. Avoid the main street and turn into the alleys beside Zhongshan Road. The old arcade walls are weathered, making photos more interesting than on the main street. For lunch, have a bowl of Hainan rice noodles in the alley. The sour bamboo shoots and peanuts mixed in are refreshing and appetizing. In the afternoon, visit Volcano Crater Park. Don’t climb the volcanic cone—it’s steep and the boardwalk is slippery. If you’re with elderly people, visit the science center at the base or walk the flat green trail around the perimeter, where you can see tropical jackfruit trees. ⚠️ The sun in Haikou is strong. Avoid being outdoors from 2 PM to 4 PM. Find a café to rest. 08 Jinzhou | Liaoning Yiwulü Mountain is the only place on this list that requires hiking, but it’s not too intimidating. Take the electric shuttle from the mountain gate to halfway up, then walk the rest. The stone steps are well maintained and not steep. Walking with breaks, it takes about 40 minutes to reach Wanghai Temple. It’s windy at the top, so bring a windbreaker for your parents. Don’t return the same way. Take the back mountain trail on the other side. It’s less crowded, shaded, and passes an old archway that’s great for photos. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light softens, and tree shadows fall on the steps, creating a charming atmosphere. 🍜 In town, have a bowl of Jinzhou baked flatbread. Potatoes and green beans are stewed until soft and eaten with the bread. It’s simple but filling. This place suits elderly people with decent stamina. If your parents have mobility issues, take the electric shuttle both ways and stroll near the parking lot. Among these 8 places, the easiest are Hangzhou and Haikou, with almost no uphill walking. The most worth the effort is Jiuquan, where Mogao Caves are truly unique. When traveling with parents, don’t pack the itinerary full. Two spots a day is enough. Leave time for them to relax on benches and soak up the sun. That will make them happier than checking off one more attraction. Where have you taken your parents? Share in the comments.

People say China’s beautiful spots have all been taken over by popular cities, but the places that truly linger in my mind are those that make others pause for a few seconds when I mention their names. The waters of Yuxi, the sands of Ordos, the secret spots of Gannan—each one makes me feel like I’ve missed out by flying to so many popular check-in spots before. 1️⃣ Yuxi | Yunnan The blue of Fuxian Lake isn’t the filtered blue you see in photos. Standing high up at Luchong Scenic Area, the lake looks like a huge piece of glazed glass, so clear you can count the stones at the bottom. After 4 PM, the light hits the lake at an angle, breaking the surface into a silver scale pattern. Don’t rush to leave then—find a rock to sit on, feel the breeze by your ear, and listen to the waves gently lapping the shore. ⚠️ Avoid cycling around the lake under the midday sun—you’ll feel like you’re burning alive. Early the next morning, head into Ailao Mountain while the mist still lingers. The mix of tea trees, bamboo, and earthy scents hits you as you walk the cool plank road at Shimen Gorge. Remember to bring a light jacket. 🍜 After descending, stop in Chengjiang County for a bowl of copper pot fish. The fish is so tender it falls apart with chopsticks, and the broth is so fresh you’ll want three bowls. 2️⃣ Nantong | Jiangsu Nantong is the most underrated riverside city in my heart, bar none. The Hao River circles the old town, enclosing a slow-paced lifestyle. I started at the clock tower and walked west along the river, where elderly locals play chess and residents stroll. That relaxed vibe can’t be faked. At 5:30 PM, the sunset turns the river orange-red, boats set off, and the riverside lights come on one by one. At this time, Hao River looks ten times better than during the day. 🚄 A taxi from Nantong Station to the Hao River scenic area costs about 20 yuan. Staying near the clock tower is most convenient—you can walk along the river in the evening right from your hotel. ⚠️ For river cruises, choose a departure after 6 PM. Daytime rides are just sunbathing torture. 3️⃣ Jingzhou | Hubei My first impression of Jingzhou ancient city was its solidity. Moss grows between the bricks of the city wall, which feels rough yet sturdy—much more authentic than those shiny restored buildings. I entered through Yinbin Gate and walked along the wall to Nanji Gate, about 40 minutes total. Few people were around, so I could leisurely admire the old houses inside and the distant Yangtze River embankment. ⏰ It’s best to arrive before 8 AM, before the crowds. The entire city wall will be yours. If you visit during the first lunar month, don’t miss the lantern folk customs inside the ancient city. Lanterns stretch from East Gate to West Gate, shaped like various birds and beasts. At night, they light up like stepping into an old dream. ⚠️ Roads near South Gate close during the lantern festival. It’s faster to park farther away and walk into the city than to drive in. 4️⃣ Ordos | Inner Mongolia The sand at Xiangshawan really does make sounds. I stepped barefoot onto a dune and slid down, hearing a humming noise as if something was quietly singing inside the sand. The experience is simple: take the cable car across the river, then head straight to the tallest dune. The moment you slide down, you feel weightless, and salty sand fills your mouth. 📍 Enter from Liansha Island for fewer people and more intact dunes. ⏰ After 3 PM, the sand isn’t hot on bare feet, so walking barefoot is no problem. The next day, visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum tourist area. It’s a completely different world from Xiangshawan—quiet and solemn, with blue and white tents fluttering in the wind. Visitors naturally lower their voices. 🍜 In the evening, return to the city for ice-boiled lamb. The lamb is cooked in icy water until tender beyond belief. 5️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a magical place. Although it’s in Shaanxi, it’s filled with southern-style green mountains and clear waters. The most surprising part of Jinshixia is Bailong Lake, where the water is as green as jade. Riding a bamboo raft through the canyon, a narrow strip of sky above, the sound of water and birds blend together, calming your whole being. ⏰ Enter the canyon at 9 AM when the light just reaches the valley floor. Later, it becomes backlit. The waterfall clusters at Tianshu Gorge are better for hikers. The steps are steep, so elders with knee issues should be cautious. Manchuanguan Ancient Town is mostly flat, with old shops selling handmade noodles. A bowl of sour soup noodles costs only 8 yuan and is filling. Baita Temple is tucked on a mountainside, small but peaceful in the afternoon. ⚠️ Walking the entire Jinshixia takes 3–4 hours. Wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. 6️⃣ Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Xinjiang’s vastness is most tangible in Changji. The wheat fields at Jiangbulake stretch from the foot to the top of the mountain. At the end of June, the wheat is still green, and the wind makes the whole mountain ripple like waves. This vastness can’t be captured in photos. I drove up the scenic road, stopping frequently to take pictures, finally parking halfway up to lie on the grass and watch clouds for half an hour. The yardang landforms at Wucaiwan are best visited at dusk. The sunset dyes the hills golden red, casting long shadows, like stepping onto an alien planet. ⚠️ Wucaiwan is windy—secure your hat tightly. I personally prefer visiting Tianshan Tianchi in the afternoon. Mornings are crowded with tour groups, making the plank road hard to navigate. 🍜 After descending, find a local restaurant for big plate chicken. Dip the belt noodles in the sauce and sigh with satisfaction after each bite. 7️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Hechi’s mountains and waters are overshadowed by Guilin’s fame. Xiangbei’s Peach Blossom Land is hidden deep in a valley, accessible only by a short bamboo raft ride. The boatman’s pole stirs the water as water birds fly past, their wingbeats audible. The sunset at Sanliyangdu is one of my most unforgettable scenes. The sun slowly sinks into the mountain gap, the river turns golden, and fishermen haul in their nets. In that moment, I understood what “retreating from the world” means. Donglan’s landscape is wilder. Driving along the Hongshui River, karst peaks line both sides, clouds wrap the mountain waists, and every stop is a scenic view. 🚄 After arriving at Hechi West Station, it’s best to rent a car directly. Attractions are far apart, and public transport is inconvenient. ⚠️ Avoid camping by the river during the rainy season—upstream water levels can rise suddenly. 8️⃣ Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The morning in Zhagana is the most surreal scene I’ve ever seen. Clouds roll down the mountainsides, wrapping four villages in mist. Prayer flags flutter in the wind. When the sun rises, beams pierce the clouds and hit the golden peak like a miracle. I stood shivering at the Dari viewing platform but felt it was worth it. ⏰ Be sure to arrive before 7 AM. Later, the clouds disperse and the magical atmosphere fades. Afternoons in Langmusi are quiet. The red walls and white pagoda stand out in the sunlight. An elderly woman spinning prayer wheels smiled at me—a kindness that needs no words. The canyon hike at Yeliguan suits those with good stamina. It takes over two hours round trip, with wildflowers and streams along the way. Gahai Lake is by the national highway. In June, the meadow by the lake blooms with wildflowers, and the wind makes it look like colorful waves. ⚠️ Gannan is around 3,000 meters above sea level. Don’t shower the first night to avoid altitude sickness. None of these eight cities are just “check-in” spots. They all deserve you to slow down, stay two or three days, and dedicate your mornings and evenings to the scenery. Which one do you most want to visit? Share in the comments.

Going out in August, don’t go to those overcrowded spots flooded with travel guides. I checked the map and picked a few small towns that are truly cool and not taken over by tour groups. Some are hidden deep in the grasslands, others nestled in valleys, each with its own charm. Just follow along, and I guarantee no disappointments. 1️⃣ Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Hashhatu stone formation is much quieter than I expected. Enter the scenic area at 8 AM. The wind is strong enough to blow off your hat, but the morning light casts long shadows on the stones. Don’t rush to take the shuttle bus; walk part of the boardwalk first. The granite looks like stacked mille-feuille, rough and cool to the touch. ⏰ The light is best before noon. After the afternoon, clouds thicken and the stone textures turn gray. ⚠️ There are few supply points in the scenic area. Bring a bottle of water; don’t count on buying one along the way. The whole route takes about two and a half hours. If your knees aren’t good, you can take the shuttle for the second half to save effort. 2️⃣ Haidong | Qinghai I suggest visiting Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park and Youning Temple separately. Visit the homeland park in the morning. The Tu ethnic women’s embroidery is beautiful, but the park is small and an hour is enough. In the afternoon, go to Youning Temple. The mountain road is a bit winding. Taking a taxi from Huzhu town takes about half an hour. 📍 The prayer wheel corridor at the temple entrance is quiet, so you can turn the wheels slowly. ⚠️ Youning Temple closes its main hall at 5 PM. Don’t arrive just before closing. There is an old bodhi tree in the temple. When the wind blows, the leaves rustle. Sitting under the tree listening to the chanting is much more relaxing than rushing through sights. 3️⃣ Shuozhou | Shanxi Shahukou sounds fierce, but it’s actually a gentle ancient trail entrance. Climb up around 5 PM. The wind blows in from outside the pass, carrying the scent of grass. The city wall isn’t high, but standing on it you can see flocks of sheep on the gentle slopes in the distance, a white sea. 🍜 There’s a small shop in the town below selling youmian kaolaolao noodles for 10 yuan a bowl. Topped with lamb sauce, it’s hot and filling. ⚠️ Don’t buy the vacuum-packed “Shahukou specialty” at the scenic entrance. It’s expensive and tastes bad. The afternoon light is best for photos. The city wall’s outline is especially clear against the backlight. 4️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge, Tianshu Gorge, Manchuanguan ancient town, and Baita Temple—how many you visit depends on your time. If you only have one day, I recommend heading straight to Jinsi Gorge. The canyon is cool and refreshing, and the creek is so clear you can see the little fish between the stones. In the afternoon, visit Manchuanguan ancient town. The town is small and can be walked around in half an hour, but the carved old houses along the bluestone street are worth a slow look. ⚠️ Tianshu Gorge and Baita Temple are far apart. If driving, it’s over an hour on mountain roads with average conditions. Skip them if you’re short on time. 🍜 There’s a stall selling sour and spicy jiangshui noodles at the bridgehead of the ancient town. It costs 6 yuan a bowl and leaves you feeling refreshed. 5️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan Yandi Mausoleum is more solemn than expected but not tiring to visit. Arrive before 9 AM when there are fewer tourists. The square in front of the main hall is especially spacious. ⏰ The sun shines directly in the afternoon. It’s best to hide in the nearby Shennong pharmacy, which has various herbal specimens. ⚠️ There is a ceremony at the sacrificial square at 3 PM. If you want to watch, find a shady spot early. The mausoleum area has many trees and fierce mosquitoes. Wear long pants or bring insect repellent. The whole scenic area can be covered in two hours. No guide is needed; just read the inscriptions on the stone tablets at your own pace. 6️⃣ Yangzhou | Jiangsu Slender West Lake, Ge Garden, and He Garden are close to each other and can be visited in one day. First, Slender West Lake. Don’t enter through the main gate. Enter from the west gate and walk a few steps to the Twenty-Four Bridge. It’s less crowded and scenic. Ge Garden’s highlight is the four-season rockeries, especially the summer mountain made of Taihu stones. The caves channel the breeze, making it so cool you won’t want to leave. He Garden’s corridor design is amazing. It’s even more atmospheric on rainy days, listening to rain under the eaves and water droplets falling from the corners. 🍜 Have a bowl of shrimp roe dumpling noodles in the alley next to Ge Garden for 8 yuan. The broth is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows drop. ⚠️ Slender West Lake clears out at 6 PM. Don’t linger too late. These three gardens are great for leisurely visits with elders and children, no need to rush. 7️⃣ Jingzhou | Hubei I split my visit to Jingzhou ancient city wall and lantern folk customs into two sessions. In the morning, climb the city wall from the east gate and walk to the south gate, which takes about 40 minutes. Moss grows between the bricks, making it slippery underfoot. In the afternoon, visit the lantern folk exhibition near the old south gate inside the ancient city. The lanterns are shaped like various animals, which kids will love. ⚠️ The lanterns look best when lit at night, but they only light up at 6:30 PM. Don’t arrive too early and wait. There are many snack stalls in the ancient city, but don’t buy the packaged cakes labeled “ancient city specialty” because locals don’t eat them. 🍜 For guokui, go deep into the alley to the shop that bakes them fresh. They smell of sesame. 8️⃣ Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Zagana, Langmu Temple, Yeliguan, and Gahai Lake—this route is suitable for those with five or more days off. The early morning in Zagana is the most beautiful, with clouds wrapped around the mountain waist and sunlight slowly illuminating the stone forest. Langmu Temple feels more like a town, with temples and residences mixed together. In the afternoon, listen to the debate. Even if you don’t understand it, the atmosphere is impressive. The boardwalk at Gahai Lake ends at a wetland. When water birds take flight, you won’t stop clicking the shutter. ⚠️ Yeliguan has the worst roads. Sedans scrape the bottom, so an SUV is recommended. The altitude is over 3,000 meters. Don’t run or jump. If you get a headache, lie down in the car for a while. 🚄 Hezuo city has shuttle buses to the attractions, but they are infrequent. It’s best to rent a car for about 300 yuan a day. Among these six cities, I’m most reluctant to leave the stones of Chifeng and the early mornings of Gannan. Traveling in August, fewer people is key and cool weather is essential. If you’ve been to any of these places, share your pitfalls or hidden gems in the comments?

Cities with zero negative reviews – you'll understand once you've been. China is so vast; some places are praised to the skies, only to disappoint upon arrival; others remain quiet, but once you've visited, you'll rave about them to everyone you meet. These eight cities belong to the latter. 01 Huangshan City | Anhui Province It's said that after visiting Huangshan, you won't want to see any other mountains, but nine out of ten first-timers fail because of their route planning. That day, I set off from Tangkou Town at 6 AM, took the scenic shuttle bus to Yungusi Temple, took the cable car up the mountain, walked from the back to the front, and didn't reach the Welcoming Pine until 4 PM. ⚠️ If you only have one day, never try to climb from the Ciguang Pavilion on the front of the mountain; the steps will ruin your knees. ⏰ The best time to see the sea of ​​clouds is in the early morning after rain. Staying at a mountaintop hotel is essential for seeing it; if you stay at the foot of the mountain, you won't have enough time to get up early. Don't rush off the way down; detour to Xidi and Hongcun villages for the night. After 8 PM, the tour groups leave, and the cobblestone paths and the surface of Moon Pond truly become quiet. Hongcun's ticket is valid for three days, so you can easily enter in the afternoon and then visit Nanhu Academy again the next morning. Chengkan Ancient Village is less popular than Hongcun. The village's "autumn drying" square features beautifully laid-out chili peppers and corn. It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Huangshan North Station, suitable for those who want to avoid crowds. The wind in Huangshan isn't from the attractions, but from the mountain wind itself, especially in autumn and winter. The wind at the summit can be so strong it can blow your hat off, so remember to bring a windproof jacket. 02 Xiangtan City | Hunan Many people don't know that Xiangtan hides one of Hunan's wildest waterfalls. Caojia'ao Waterfall isn't in the main scenic area; it's about an hour's drive from the city center. The road into the mountains is winding and narrow, so cars with low ground clearance should be cautious. The waterfall has a drop of nearly 40 meters, and the spray is intense. In summer, standing on the viewing platform for three minutes can soak you halfway through, so bring an extra layer of clothing if you're bringing children. ⏰ Arrive at 10 am; the sun is shining obliquely on the water curtain, and you can see a small rainbow. I advise against having a blast at Shaoshan Tourist Area; it's better to explore at a leisurely pace. The core scenic area isn't large, but the surrounding green hills and rice paddies are incredibly photogenic. In April and May, the fields are filled with water, reflecting the mountain shadows—a more natural look than any staged photo. ⚠️ Weekends and holidays are extremely crowded, so be sure to book your tickets in advance through official channels. Buying tickets on-site is practically impossible. For food, avoid the street near the scenic area entrance; walk about 200 meters in and you'll find local restaurants serving rustic dishes. Their stir-fried cured pork with bamboo shoots is fragrant and delicious with rice. 03 Dalian City | Liaoning Summer in Dalian is all about the sea breeze and the smell of beer. Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is a bit far from the city center. 🚄 Take the light rail line 3 to Jinshitan Station (about 50 minutes), then take a 10-minute taxi ride to the beach. The reefs in the geological park area are spectacular, but remember to wear non-slip shoes. Some reef areas are closed during high tide; ⚠️ entry is prohibited after 3 PM, so don't go at the last minute. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is more suitable for families with children. There are several dolphin shows a day, so check the schedule in advance to avoid missing your turn after queuing at the polar aquarium. Tangli Lake Park is a popular weekend getaway for locals in Dalian. It's free, and evening is the best time to go, as the lake is bathed in golden-red hues from the sunset. A walk around the lake takes about 40 minutes, suitable for seniors who can't walk much. Xinghai Square is more beautiful at night than during the day; with the lights on and the sea breeze blowing, the entire coastline is filled with people strolling. 🍜 There's a seafood barbecue restaurant nearby that sells grilled oysters and scallops individually—they're so plump and juicy that you can eat your fill for around 70-80 yuan per person. 04 Songyuan City | Jilin Chagan Lake's winter fishing is very famous, but I think summer is the truly comfortable time to visit. Jinchan Island is located in the southeast corner of Chagan Lake. The island is small; a complete circuit takes less than an hour. It's covered in wildflowers, windy, and perfect for relaxing. ⏰ In summer, after 6 PM, the sunset shines directly onto the lake, creating a dazzling, shimmering effect on the water. Chagan Lake Scenic Area is quite large, and driving is the most convenient way to explore. The scenery on the north and south shores is different; the north shore has dense reed beds teeming with various water birds, perfect for an afternoon of observation with binoculars. 📍 It's about a 50-minute drive from Songyuan city. The road conditions are good, but gas stations are scarce, so fill up before you go. ⚠️ Winter fishing takes place from late December to January. Don't go in the summer asking "Why isn't there ice fishing?"—you'll just be laughed at by the locals. For fish, the large restaurants near the scenic area entrance aren't as good as the small roadside eateries. A stew of bighead carp with vermicelli is served in a pot; the fish is so tender it falls apart with chopsticks. For those on a budget, accommodation in Songyuan city center costs around 100 RMB per night and is reasonably priced, much better value than guesthouses in the scenic area. 05 Haidong City | Qinghai Haidong is the most underrated place in Qinghai. The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is not far from Xining. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Huzhu Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride. The park features displays of traditional Tu ethnic houses and clothing, as well as a wheel swing performance where performers somersault on a spinning swing – a thrilling spectacle! ⏰ There are performances at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM; just arrive on time. You can sample the barley wine at the park's barley wine workshop; it's not very strong, but it has a powerful aftereffect, so don't overindulge if you're driving. Youning Temple is located in the mountains north of Huzhu County, a 30-minute drive from the park. The mountain roads are winding, so those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. The temple isn't large, but it's nestled between a vast expanse of barley fields and Danxia landforms, the color scheme is stunning—red walls and golden roofs against a backdrop of red mountains, the saturation reaching its peak on a sunny day. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed in most of the temple's halls; please respect the rules and just take pictures of the exterior and the mountain scenery. In June and July, the rapeseed flowers and barley fields on the hillsides create a beautiful interplay of yellow and green, making every snapshot wallpaper-worthy. 06 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The Liujiaxia Tourist Resort in Linxia is the kind of place where "you won't know the Yellow River can be this green until you go there." The water near the reservoir dam is a jade-green, completely different from the muddy yellow of the past. A boat trip takes about 40 minutes and costs around 80 yuan. 📍 The pier is at the entrance of the resort; wear sneakers as the boardwalk for boarding and disembarking is a bit slippery. The Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area is an hour's drive from Liujiaxia Town; the road conditions are average, but it's worth it. The grottoes are carved into the red sandstone cliffs along the Yellow River. The Buddha statue is very tall; looking up at it will strain your neck. ⏰ It's best to go early in the morning. Before 10 am, the sunlight shines sideways on the Buddha's face, making the details clearer. In the afternoon, the direct sun makes it too hot to enjoy. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants inside the scenic area, only small shops selling instant noodles and grilled sausages. Bring your own snacks. 🍜 In the evening, back in Linxia city, be sure to try hand-pulled mutton. Dongxiang hand-pulled mutton is a local specialty, with a perfect balance of lean and fatty meat. Dip it in salt and pepper and minced garlic, and enjoy it with a bowl of Sanpaotai tea to cut through the richness. Accommodation in the city costs 150-200 yuan per night and is clean and hygienic. 07 Shangluo City | Shaanxi Shangluo is known as Xi'an's backyard, and it's even more convenient now that the high-speed rail is open. Jinshixia Gorge is in Shangnan County, about an hour and a half drive from Shangluo city. The water in the gorge is crystal clear, almost blue. The entire hike takes four to five hours, with many steps; those with knee problems should proceed with caution. ⏰ Summer is the best time to visit; the temperature inside the valley is five or six degrees Celsius lower than outside, and you can even wade in the pools. Tianshu Gorge is less popular than Jinshi Gorge; there aren't as many shops at the entrance, making it feel more like a wild mountain stream. The patterns on the rocks resemble characters, hence the name Tianshu Gorge (Heavenly Book Gorge). ⚠️ The roads are slippery after rain, so don't wear flip-flops. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is located in the southeast corner of Shangluo, bordering Shaanxi and Hubei provinces. The town isn't large; you can explore it in an hour or two, but it retains many old houses with blue bricks and black tiles, and exquisite stone carvings on the doorsteps. Baita Temple is near Mancheng Pass; the temple is surrounded by a pine forest, so quiet you can hear the wind. 🍜 Shangluo's potato cakes and acorn jelly are worth trying. The former is soft and chewy, while the latter is smooth, sour, and spicy—both flavors locals have enjoyed since childhood. 08 Pingdingshan City | Henan Pingdingshan is most famous for Yaoshan Mountain—the Central Plains Buddha. Yaoshan Mountain is perfect for hiking enthusiasts. A combination of cable car and walking takes about half a day to complete. The summit offers expansive views of layered mountains. ⏰ Autumn is the most beautiful time, after the maple leaves turn red. In November, the entire mountain is ablaze with orange-red hues. The Central Plains Buddha is located at the foot of Yaoshan, a ten-minute ride away by the park's electric shuttle bus. The Buddha is over 100 meters tall; standing at its base and looking up, you look as small as an ant. ⚠️ Tickets for the Buddha scenic area and the Yaoshan cable car are sold separately. Don't assume one ticket covers both. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, it's recommended to only visit the Buddha scenic area, as it's mostly flat and less strenuous. Younger people can hike in the morning and descend to see the Buddha in the afternoon, making for a perfect day trip. 🚄 A taxi from Pingdingshan West Station to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. 🍜 After descending the mountain, enjoy a bowl of Jiaxian he luo noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth is rich in mutton flavor, and a spoonful of chili oil warms you right up. Accommodation near the scenic area is generally average; I recommend staying in the city center. Business hotels costing just over 100 yuan are much more reliable than guesthouses near the scenic area. None of these eight cities rely on trendy filters to enhance their image; they are all genuinely worthwhile destinations you can experience after just one visit. Is there a place in your heart that you'd want to visit again? Share your thoughts in the comments, and I'll write it down. Cities with zero negative reviews—you'll understand once you've been there. China is so vast; some places are praised to the skies, only to disappoint upon arrival; others remain quiet, but once you've visited, you'll be raving about them to everyone you meet. These eight cities belong to the latter. 01 Huangshan City | Anhui It's said that after visiting Huangshan, you won't want to see any other mountains, but nine out of ten first-time visitors fail due to poor route planning. I set off from Tangkou Town at 6 AM that day, took the scenic shuttle bus to Yungusi Temple, then the cable car up the mountain, walking from the back to the front, and finally reaching the Welcoming Pine at 4 PM. ⚠️ If you only have one day, absolutely do not attempt to climb from the front of the mountain to Ciguang Pavilion; the steps will ruin your knees. ⏰ The best time to see the sea of ​​clouds is in the early morning after rain. Staying at a mountaintop hotel is essential for this; staying at the foot of the mountain means you won't have enough time to get up early. Don't rush off the way down; detour to Xidi and Hongcun for the night. After 8 PM, the tour groups leave, and the cobblestone paths and the surface of Moon Pond truly become quiet. Hongcun's ticket is valid for three days, so you can easily enter in the afternoon and then visit Nanhu Academy again the next morning. Chengkan Ancient Village is less popular than Hongcun. The "Autumn Drying" square in the village features a picturesque display of chili peppers and corn. 📍 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Huangshan North Station, suitable for those who want to avoid crowds. The wind in Huangshan isn't the attraction itself, it's the mountain wind, especially in autumn and winter. The wind at the summit can be so strong it blows your hat off, so remember to bring a windproof jacket. 02 Xiangtan City | Hunan Many people don't know that Xiangtan hides one of Hunan's wildest waterfalls. Caojia'ao Waterfall isn't in the main scenic area; it's about an hour's drive from the city. The road into the mountains is winding and narrow, so cars with low ground clearance should be cautious. The waterfall has a drop of nearly 40 meters, and the spray is intense. In summer, standing on the viewing platform for three minutes will soak you halfway through. Bring an extra layer of clothing if you're bringing children. ⏰ Arrive at 10 am; the sun will be shining obliquely on the water curtain, and you can see a small rainbow. For Shaoshan Tourist Area, I advise against expecting a "thrilling" experience; it's better to explore at a leisurely pace. The core scenic area isn't large, but the surrounding green mountains and rice paddies are incredibly photogenic. In April and May, the fields are filled with water, reflecting the mountain shadows—a more natural look than any staged photo. ⚠️ Weekends and holidays are extremely crowded, so be sure to book your tickets in advance through official channels. Buying tickets on-site is practically impossible. Don't eat on the street near the scenic area entrance; walk about 200 meters inwards to find local restaurants serving rustic dishes like stir-fried cured pork with bamboo shoots – fragrant and delicious with rice. 03 Dalian City | Liaoning Dalian's summer is all about the sea breeze and the smell of beer. Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is a bit far from the city center. 🚄 Take the light rail line 3 to Jinshitan Station (about 50 minutes), then take a 10-minute taxi to the beach. The reefs in the geological park area are spectacular, but remember to wear non-slip shoes. Some reef areas are closed during high tide, ⚠️ and entry is prohibited after 3 PM, so don't go right at the last minute. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is more suitable for families with children. There are several dolphin shows a day, so check the schedule in advance to avoid missing your turn after queuing at the polar aquarium. Tangli Lake Park is a popular weekend getaway for Dalian locals. It's free, and the best time to visit is in the evening when the lake is bathed in the golden-red glow of the setting sun. A walk around the lake takes about 40 minutes, perfect for seniors who can't walk much. Xinghai Square is even more beautiful at night than during the day; with the lights on and the sea breeze blowing, the entire coastline is filled with people strolling. 🍜 There's a seafood barbecue restaurant nearby that sells grilled oysters and scallops individually—they're so plump they're practically dripping with oil! You can eat your fill for around 70-80 yuan per person. 04 Songyuan City | Jilin Chagan Lake is famous for its winter fishing, but I think summer is the truly comfortable time to visit. Jinchan Island is located in the southeast corner of Chagan Lake. The island isn't large; a walk around it takes less than an hour. It's covered in wildflowers, has a strong breeze, and is perfect for relaxing. ⏰ In summer, after 6 pm, the sunset shines directly onto the lake, casting a dazzling, shimmering light on the water like scattered gold. Chagan Lake Scenic Area is quite large, and driving is the most convenient way to explore it. The scenery on the south and north shores is different; the north shore has dense reed beds that harbor various water birds, and you can spend an entire afternoon watching them with binoculars. 📍 It's about a 50-minute drive from Songyuan city. The road conditions are good, but there are few gas stations along the way, so fill up your tank before you set off. ⚠️ Winter fishing takes place from the end of December to January of the following year. Don't go in the summer and ask "why isn't there ice fishing?"; you'll just be laughed at by the locals. For fish, the big restaurants near the scenic area entrance aren't as good as the small roadside eateries. A stew of bighead carp with vermicelli is served in a pot; the fish is so tender it falls apart with chopsticks. If you're on a budget, accommodation in Songyuan city costs around 100 yuan per night; the conditions are decent, and it's much better value than the guesthouses in the scenic area. 05 Haidong City | Qinghai Haidong is the most underrated place in Qinghai. The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park isn't far from Xining. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Huzhu Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride. The park features displays of traditional Tu ethnic minority houses and costumes, as well as a wheel-swing performance where performers perform somersaults on a spinning swing – a thrilling spectacle! ⏰ There are performances at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM; just arrive on time. The park's barley wine workshop offers samples; the alcohol content is low, but it has a strong aftereffect, so those driving should be mindful of their alcohol intake. Youning Temple is located in the mountains north of Huzhu County, a half-hour drive from the park. The mountain roads are winding, so those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. The temple is small, but nestled between a vast expanse of barley fields and Danxia landforms, the color scheme is stunning – red walls and golden roofs against a backdrop of red mountains, creating a vibrant, saturated effect on a sunny day. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed in most of the temple's halls; please respect the rules and simply take photos of the exterior and the mountain scenery. In June and July, the hillsides are ablaze with rapeseed flowers and barley fields, a beautiful mix of yellow and green – every snapshot is wallpaper-worthy. 06 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The Liujiaxia Tourist Resort in Linxia is the kind of place where "you won't know the Yellow River can be this green until you go there." The water near the reservoir dam is a jade-green, completely different from the muddy yellow you might imagine. A boat trip around the area takes about 40 minutes and costs around 80 yuan. 📍 The dock is at the entrance of the resort; wear sneakers as the boardwalk for boarding and disembarking is a bit slippery. The Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Site is an hour's drive from Liujiaxia Town; the road conditions are so-so, but it's worth it. The grottoes are carved into the red sandstone cliffs along the Yellow River. The Buddha statue is very tall; looking up will strain your neck. ⏰ It's best to go early in the morning. Before 10 am, the sunlight shines sideways on the Buddha's face, making the details clearer. In the afternoon, the direct sun makes it too hot to look at. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants inside the scenic area, only small shops selling instant noodles and grilled sausages; bring your own snacks. 🍜 Back in Linxia city in the evening, be sure to try hand-pulled mutton. Dongxiang hand-pulled mutton is a local specialty, with a perfect balance of lean and fatty meat. Dip it in salt and pepper and minced garlic, and enjoy it with a bowl of Sanpaotai tea to cut through the richness. Accommodation in the city costs 150-200 yuan per night, and it's clean and hygienic. 07 Shangluo City | Shaanxi Shangluo is known as Xi'an's backyard, and it's even more convenient now that the high-speed rail is open. Jinshixia Gorge is in Shangnan County, about an hour and a half drive from Shangluo city. The water in the gorge is crystal clear, almost blue. The entire hike takes four to five hours, with many steps, so those with knee problems should be cautious. ⏰ Summer is the best time to visit, as the temperature inside the gorge is five or six degrees Celsius lower than outside, and you can even wade in the pools. Tianshuxia Gorge is less popular than Jinshixia Gorge. There aren't as many shops at the entrance, making it feel more like a wild mountain stream. The patterns on the rocks resemble characters, hence the name Tianshuxia (Heavenly Book Gorge). ⚠️ The roads are slippery after rain, so don't wear flip-flops. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is located in the southeast corner of Shangluo, bordering Shaanxi and Hubei provinces. The town is small, easily explored in an hour or two, but it retains many old houses with blue bricks and black tiles, and exquisite stone carvings on the doorsteps. Baita Temple is near Mancheng Pass, surrounded by a pine forest so quiet you can hear the wind. 🍜 Shangluo's potato cakes and acorn jelly are worth trying. The former is soft, chewy, and springy, while the latter is smooth, sour, and spicy—both flavors locals have enjoyed since childhood. 08 Pingdingshan City | Henan Province Pingdingshan is most famous for Yaoshan Mountain—the Central Plains Buddha. Yaoshan is a hiking enthusiast's paradise; a combination of cable car and walking takes most of the day. The summit offers panoramic views of layered mountains. ⏰ Autumn is the most beautiful time, after the maple leaves turn red. In November, the mountains are ablaze with orange-red hues. The Central Plains Buddha is located at the foot of Yaoshan Mountain, a ten-minute ride away by the scenic area's electric shuttle bus. The Buddha is over 100 meters tall; standing at its base and looking up, you appear as small as an ant. ⚠️ Tickets for the Central Plains Buddha scenic area and the Yaoshan cable car are sold separately. Don't assume one ticket covers both. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, it's recommended to only visit the Central Plains Buddha scenic area, as it's mostly flat and less strenuous. Young people can hike up the mountain in the morning and come down to see the Buddha in the afternoon, making for a perfect day trip. 🚄 A taxi from Pingdingshan West Station to the scenic area takes about forty minutes and costs around 60 yuan. 🍜 After descending the mountain, enjoy a bowl of Jiaxian Heluo noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth is rich in mutton flavor, and a spoonful of chili oil will warm you up completely. Accommodation near the scenic area is generally basic; it's recommended to stay in the city center. Business hotels costing just over 100 yuan are much more reliable than guesthouses near the scenic area. None of these eight cities rely on trendy filters to enhance their image; their genuine charm is evident after just a short visit. Is there a place in your heart that you'd love to visit again? Share your thoughts in the comments, and I'll jot it down.

Where to go for summer cooling in August? Don’t just focus on those overcrowded popular cities. Someone asked me, “Is summer only for mountain trips?” I said not necessarily. I visited several places reachable by high-speed rail that are less crowded, cool, have great food, and best of all, don’t cost much. These 6 places are definitely underrated treasures. 01 Changde | Hunan Taohuayuan Tourist Area sounds old-fashioned, but it’s much more relaxed than you’d expect. I entered the park at 8 AM when the mist hadn’t cleared yet. The stone path in Qingu was still wet and a bit slippery. ⏰ The whole morning has soft light, perfect for photos capturing the “forest ends, water begins” mood. The park is large. Don’t take the sightseeing bus right at the entrance. Walk along the left trail for 20 minutes to see a rice field and some thatched cottages, which are much more interesting than the artificial scenes later on. 🍜 Don’t eat inside the park at noon. Turn right and go 3 km to “Liu Deaf’s Noodle Shop.” The beef noodles have a numbing peppercorn aroma that’s intoxicating. In the afternoon, stroll along the Yuan River. The river breeze cools off most of the heat. ⚠️ Travel groups gather after 2 PM on weekends, so it’s best to visit in the morning. 02 Xiangyang | Hubei Gulongzhong isn’t just a “look at the gate” kind of attraction. I arrived at 3 PM and first climbed Tenglong Pavilion. The stairs are a bit steep, but from the top, you can see the whole outline of Xiangyang city. ⏰ Around 5:30 PM, the sunset turns the bamboo forest in “Wolong’s depths” golden. By then, most visitors have left, and it’s quiet enough to hear the rustling of bamboo leaves. 📍 After leaving the park, navigate to “Beijie” street. It’s about a 15-minute walk. The old city wall along the way is even more charming than inside the park. 🍜 Have dinner on Beijie. A bowl of “spicy soup” with two “fried dough sticks” is sour and spicy. You’ll sweat after eating but feel great. ⚠️ There’s a “Thatched Cottage Theater” show in the park. If you’re short on time, skip it. Tickets are pricey and the show is average. 03 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is really cool in summer. You might even need a light jacket in the morning and evening. Jinshixia and Tianshuxia have different vibes. Jinshixia is a canyon with streams. The water sound is loud, and walking on the boardwalk you feel the mist, dropping the temperature several degrees. It’s best to visit in the morning. If you walk fast, you can finish in 3 hours. Tianshuxia is wilder. The rock textures look like book pages. Visit in the afternoon when the light hits at an angle to see the layers. 📍 Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is free but don’t expect too much. It’s an old town where people still live. The bluestone paths are polished shiny. At the town entrance, there’s a shop selling “immortal tofu” made with leaves. Eat it with chili for a refreshing taste. ⚠️ Baita Temple is remote. It’s not worth a special trip, but if you pass by, stop in. The ancient pine trees there are very majestic. 🚄 It takes only 40 minutes by high-speed rail from Xi’an North Station to Shangluo. Two days on the weekend is enough. 04 Yantai | Shandong Yantai’s sea is different from Qingdao’s. Qingdao is lively; Yantai is slow. I first went to Penglai Pavilion. Honestly, the “Eight Immortals crossing the sea” legend is more interesting than the building itself. ⏰ It opens at 7 AM. Go straight to the highest wind shelter. The sea breeze is strong enough to blow your hat off, but the view is wide open, showing the boundary between the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea. In the afternoon, go to Changdao Island. The boat ride takes 40 minutes. Take motion sickness medicine in advance if you get seasick. 📍 After landing, don’t follow the crowd to the so-called “Crescent Bay.” Walk 300 meters east to a wild beach with smooth pebbles like jade. It’s less crowded, and you can hear the waves rolling over the stones. 🍜 Longkou Nanshan Scenic Area is more about religious culture. If you’re not interested in Buddha statues, skip it and save the ticket money for a bowl of “Penglai noodles” with fresh seafood broth that’s incredibly flavorful. ⚠️ Accommodation on Changdao doubles in price on Saturday nights during peak season. If possible, visit on weekdays. 05 Shangrao | Jiangxi Sanqingshan is one of those places that makes you want to scold yourself for not coming sooner. I entered from the south gate and took the Waishuangxi cable car up. ⏰ After 2 PM, there’s almost no line, saving you 2 hours. The West Coast plank road is the highlight. It runs along a cliff with clouds below. If you’re afraid of heights, don’t look down. 📍 Wuyuan Jiangwan and Huangling are two directions. If short on time, choose Huangling. The drying racks for autumn harvests are up all year, but visiting at the end of August lets you see early autumn chili peppers and corn drying on the racks, with colors even richer than in photos. Guifeng is in Yiyang, a bit far from Sanqingshan. If you only have 3 days, I recommend Sanqingshan + Huangling and save Guifeng for next time. 🍜 The “farmhouse” restaurants at the mountain base serve authentic “fermented tofu” and “steamed pork with rice flour.” You can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes quickly. Raincoats are more useful than umbrellas. Don’t ask me how I know. 06 Xining | Qinghai Xining’s summer is the kind of cool where air conditioning feels useless. Ta’er Monastery is a must-visit, but be prepared for many tourists and worshippers inside. ⏰ It opens at 8:30 AM. Go first to the “Butter Sculpture Hall.” The strong butter scent mixed with Tibetan incense is intoxicating but truly impressive. 📍 Dongguan Mosque is in the city. Afternoon is perfect to visit after prayer time when it’s less crowded. Sunlight streams through the arches, creating beautiful light and shadow. 🍜 At night, go to “Mojia Street.” Try hand-pulled lamb with garlic, followed by a bowl of “sweet fermented barley,” which is sweet and sour and cuts the richness. ⚠️ Xining is 2,200 meters above sea level. On your first day, avoid hot showers and strenuous exercise. You might get a slight headache at night. 🚄 It takes just over 4 hours by high-speed rail from Xi’an. The ticket price is similar to flying, but the scenery along the way, especially after passing Tianshui, with the gullies of the Loess Plateau, is worth the extra time. 07 Suzhou | Jiangsu Suzhou’s summer is hot and humid, but the gardens offer shade. The Humble Administrator’s Garden is too crowded in the afternoon. I recommend going at 7:30 AM when it opens. The lotus flowers are blooming, mist floats over the lake, and the breeze flows through the corridors. 📍 Tiger Hill isn’t high, but the bamboo forest on the back hill is much cooler than the front. Enter from the north gate and stroll slowly up. When you reach Sword Pool, you’ll avoid the crowds. As for Hanshan Temple, I find the poetry of “Night Mooring by Maple Bridge” more moving than the temple itself. Go around 5 PM when it’s less crowded. Sit by the Maple Bridge and listen to the bell ringing across the water. It’s just right. 🍜 You don’t have to go to Zhouzhuang or Tongli to experience the Jiangnan water town vibe. The alleys off Pingjiang Road hide authentic white walls and black tiles. Turn into “Huxiangshi Alley” and hear the sizzle of oil frying radish cakes. That’s locals cooking. ⚠️ Suzhou Museum requires booking a week in advance. Otherwise, tickets are sold out. 08 Beijing Honestly, August in Beijing isn’t good for long walks, but the Forbidden City is worth getting up early for. ⏰ Enter at 8:30 AM and head west first. The section from Duanhong Bridge to the ice cellar is less crowded. Red walls and green willows with slanting light cast long shadows. Visit the Summer Palace in the afternoon. Enter from the North Gate, climb Wanshou Mountain to the Tower of Buddhist Incense. There’s plenty of shade along the way. The breeze from Kunming Lake is more comfortable than air conditioning. 📍 Temple of Heaven and Beihai Park can be done in one day. Visit the ancient cypress trees at Temple of Heaven in the morning. In the afternoon, row a boat at Beihai. The water west of Five Dragon Pavilion is the least crowded. 🍜 Don’t go to Nanluoguxiang for dinner. Eat a bowl of zhajiang noodles at “Yinding Bridge” by Houhai. Pair it with a bottle of Beibingyang soda and watch the sunset turn the water warm orange. ⚠️ The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests at Temple of Heaven stops admitting visitors at 4 PM. Don’t time your visit too close. The combined ticket for Beihai Park is cheaper than buying separately, but if you only want to row a boat, buy the single ticket.

Airfares and hotel prices drop sharply in August and September, yet popular attractions remain as crowded as rush hour. I believe those small towns overlooked because of their names hold the true essence of summer. With a 500 yuan budget, smart travel beats budget travel. 01 Qingyuan | Guangdong Lianzhou Underground River is a natural air-conditioned cave, staying at 18°C year-round. When it’s scorching outside, you’ll need a light jacket here. Take a boat through the underground river, with stalactites dripping water above you. The dripping sound is more soothing than any white noise. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid tour groups and skip the boat line. Ticket includes the boat ride. Student ID gets a discount, so don’t forget it. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid flip-flops. After the tour, buy some dried Lianzhou vegetable hearts at the cave entrance for about 10 yuan. They make a sweet soup. 02 Quanzhou | Shandong Don’t mistake Quanzhou for a cheaper version of Xiamen. It’s more interesting. Climbing Qingyuan Mountain before 6:30 AM is free. Locals do morning exercises there. At the summit, enjoy tea while overlooking Quanzhou city for 10 yuan per person. On the way down, visit the cliff inscriptions, which are more captivating than any trendy wall. Chongwu Ancient City is by the sea. Visit after 4 PM when the light turns the stone city honey-colored. It’s windy, so bring a sun-protective shirt. 🍜 Have a bowl of Chongwu fish roll soup at the ancient city gate for lunch. The fish rolls are springy, and the broth is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows drop. The flying musician stone pillars at Kaiyuan Temple are worth a close look, but the site clears by 5:30 PM, so don’t arrive late. Public buses and walking cover the whole day’s travel for 2 yuan per ride. Avoid taxis inside the ancient city due to traffic jams. 03 Kunming | Yunnan Those who treat Kunming as just a transfer stop are missing out. It’s a treasure itself. Visit Daguan Park in the afternoon to see Dianchi Lake and Sleeping Beauty Mountain together. Tickets cost 20 yuan and are worth it. The park has the world’s longest couplet, which takes 3 minutes to read—more interesting than scrolling your phone. Dongchuan Red Land is far from the city but worth a special trip. Arrive between 5 PM and 7 PM for slanting sunlight that makes the red soil look like oil paint. Every photo is a masterpiece. 📍 Luoxia Valley viewing platform offers the best angle. Get there early to claim a spot. Kunming Expo Garden is now less crowded and cheap to enter. Don’t worry if you can’t identify all the plants; it’s a pleasant place for a walk. 🍜 For dinner, try the tofu rice noodles by Green Lake. A small bowl is 6 yuan. Add fried potatoes, and you’ll spend about 15 yuan per person and leave full. Kunming is cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring a light jacket and don’t be fooled by the midday sun. 04 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia This border town’s onion-domed buildings make you feel like you’ve crossed the border. Matryoshka Square is the heart of the city, but don’t just focus on the giant doll. The small amusement park nearby is less crowded, and 10 yuan gets you a carousel ride. Visit Beihu Park at dusk to see the city light up in golden hues, like a page torn from a fairy tale book. ⚠️ It gets dark late in Manzhouli, around 8:30 PM, so don’t plan night views by mainland time. For dinner, head to Zhongsu Street for Russian-style grilled skewers and kvass. You can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. 🚄 It’s a 2-hour train ride from Hailar with affordable hard-seat tickets. The wind is strong here, so secure your hat or risk losing it with a turn of your head. 05 Xiangyang | Hubei Gulongzhong is quieter than expected. Walking through the bamboo forest, the breeze feels cool. The old tree in front of Sangu Hall shades half the courtyard. Sitting on the stone bench and zoning out is very relaxing. ⏰ Fewer tourists come in the afternoon. Rent an audio guide and explore at your own pace—it’s better than rushing with a tour group. The ticket includes a shuttle bus inside the scenic area, so don’t walk the long mountain path. 🍜 After descending, go to North Street in Xiangyang Ancient City for a bowl of beef noodles with yellow wine. The noodles are alkaline and chewy, and the beef is generous. Expect to spend about 15 yuan per person. ⚠️ It’s windy on the ancient city wall at dusk, but the sunset over the Han River is stunning. Bring a light jacket before heading up. A daily budget under 100 yuan is more than enough. 06 Zhangye | Gansu Visit the colorful Danxia landforms before sunset. The setting sun turns the mountains into flowing rainbows with saturation no filter can match. ⏰ Enter the park at 4:30 PM and reach viewing platform 4 just in time for the golden hour. ⚠️ It’s windy inside the park. Drones are prohibited, so don’t bring one for nothing. Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple is in the city. The indoor reclining Buddha is huge and instantly quiets you. Tickets cost 40 yuan and are worth it. Matisi Temple at the foot of the Qilian Mountains is built on cliffs. Climbing requires some stamina, but the view of snow-capped mountains and grasslands from the top makes it worthwhile. 🍜 Try the fish noodles at the city night market. A small bowl is 8 yuan, served with garlic sprouts and vinegar for a tangy, appetizing flavor. The temperature difference between day and night is big here. Wear short sleeves at noon and a windbreaker at night. 07 Karamay | Xinjiang Urho Ghost City isn’t as eerie as you might imagine. Visiting during the day feels like stepping onto an alien planet, with rows of wind-eroded earth mounds standing silently and spectacularly. ⏰ Twilight is the best time. The sunset dyes the mounds orange-red, casting long shadows. The wind whistling through the rocks is more immersive than any soundtrack. Tickets plus the small train cost just over 50 yuan. Skip the first train and head straight to the second and third stops for fewer crowds and better views. ⚠️ It’s brutally sunny at noon with no shade. Sunscreen and a hat are a must. 🍜 In the city, a large plate of chicken stew for two costs only 50 yuan. The potatoes are soft, and the chicken legs are tender enough to fall off the bone. It stays light until 9:30 PM, so don’t pack your schedule too tightly. 08 Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge is a hidden gem for summer escapes. The creek water is icy cold, perfect for soaking your feet after a tiring walk—better than any foot massage. ⏰ Enter the gorge in the morning and reach Bailong Lake by noon. Eat your packed lunch by the lake while listening to the water—it makes food taste better. The plank road in Tianshu Gorge is sturdy and suitable for elders and kids. It takes about 2 hours to finish without getting tired. 📍 Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is low-key commercialized. Locals still live on the old street, and the bluestone pavement is polished shiny, making a crisp sound as you walk. 🍜 Try a bowl of Shangluo sticky rice cake in the ancient town. It’s freshly pounded and fried, sprinkled with soybean powder and brown sugar syrup for 5 yuan. It’s sticky and stretchy. Baita Temple is halfway up the mountain. Visit in the afternoon when it’s less crowded. The ancient ginkgo tree there turns golden in autumn but is lush green and refreshing now. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the mountains. Long pants and long sleeves are your best bet. A 500 yuan budget doesn’t mean staying in hostels and eating plain buns. It means spending wisely and saving time for places that truly matter. Among these 8 spots, my personal favorites are Zhangye and Manzhouli—one for its colors, the other for its atmosphere. What’s your pick? Share in the comments.

It’s said that August and September are off-peak travel months, but popular cities are still packed and hotel prices double. I traveled around this month and found that places with truly fewer crowds, stunning views, and affordable prices aren’t on the trending lists. With the same budget, while others are stuck in lines seeing the backs of people’s heads at attractions, I’m by a quiet lake, feeling the breeze and listening to birds. Keep this list handy and follow it to give your wallet and mood a break. 01 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan’s prices are friendly even among northwest cities. I stayed at a chain hotel near Gulou, where a queen room was only 180 yuan per night at the end of August. Right downstairs is the lively old town. Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park is a half-hour drive from downtown. Tickets plus boat ride cost around 60–70 yuan. Enter at 8 AM when the mist still lingers over the lake and only bird calls fill the reed beds. Walking around, you’ll meet fewer than 20 people. Helan Mountain rock paintings are best seen after 4 PM when the slanting light makes the sun god carvings especially clear—much more atmospheric than under the midday sun. Shuichenggou is worth spending half a day on. The secret passage in the soldier cave is so narrow you have to squeeze sideways. It’s cool inside in summer. Expect to walk at least 20,000 steps in the whole park, so wear comfortable shoes. Don’t just focus on the earthen mounds at the Western Xia tombs; the gilded bronze ox in the museum is the real treasure. ⚠️ The museum is closed on Mondays, so don’t make a wasted trip. 02 Sanya | Hainan People say Sanya is expensive, but that’s if you don’t know how to explore it right. Daxiaodongtian and Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone are both on the west side and can be visited in one day. Start at Nanshan in the morning to see the sea goddess before the tour groups arrive. Tickets cost over 100 yuan, but the vegetarian buffet inside is only 50–60 yuan per person and surprisingly tasty. In the afternoon, head to Daxiaodongtian. The seaside rocks and coconut groves turn warm golden after 6 PM, making every photo postcard-worthy. For water activities, go to Wuzhizhou Island, but don’t eat on the island—fried rice costs 40–50 yuan. Bring your own snacks and save enough for two cups of herbal jelly drinks. Yalong Bay has the best beach quality, but the public bathing area is crowded. Walk 500 meters west and the crowd thins by more than half. 🚄 It takes over an hour by bus from downtown Sanya to Yalong Bay. A taxi costs 70–80 yuan, and shared rides are more cost-effective. 03 Xing’an League | Inner Mongolia Arxan National Forest Park is my favorite hidden gem in Inner Mongolia. From late August to early September, the birch trees start turning yellow, and the Halahar River’s water is unrealistically blue. Tickets plus sightseeing bus cost just over 200 yuan, and you can spend two full days there. One key tip: stay overnight inside the park. After 5 PM when the tour groups leave, you’ll be the only one by the Tianchi Lake, watching the sunset reflected on the water—a completely different world from the noisy daytime. Tuofengling Tianchi requires climbing over 800 steps. ⏰ Morning visits are best when the light comes from the east and the lake looks clearest. The volcanic landscape at Shitanglin is perfect for photos. Black rocks with golden larches and a bright jacket make every shot a winner. ⚠️ The mountain temperature varies greatly. Nights in late August drop to around 50°F. A light down jacket isn’t just for show—it’s necessary. 04 Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Both Hoh Xil and Sanjiangyuan National Parks have free admission, but the cost is time and adaptability. Starting from Golmud on the Qinghai-Tibet route, the altitude climbs to 4,700 meters. A girl in my car got altitude sickness near Sonandajie Protection Station because she hadn’t slept well the day before. So don’t stay up late for three days before departure. Rest for half a day after arrival before moving around. The vastness of the no-man’s land can’t be captured in photos. Tibetan antelopes graze just tens of meters from the road. Sitting quietly in the car watching them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To visit the Lancang River source in Sanjiangyuan National Park, you need a local guide, costing a few hundred yuan per person. The bumpy road will test your patience, but standing by the spring source makes it all worthwhile. 🍜 There are no proper restaurants along the way. Self-heating rice and chocolate are essentials. Don’t mind the space they take. 05 Shenzhen | Guangdong Shenzhen’s attraction tickets are the most expensive among these eight cities, but it also has the most generous free spots. Dameisha Seaside Park is free but packed like dumplings on weekends. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM on weekdays to find quiet spots on the beach. Window of the World tickets cost over 200 yuan. Honestly, unless you’re really into miniatures, it’s not worth the money. A photo at the entrance is enough. Overseas Chinese Town Creative Park is worth visiting. It’s an art district converted from old factories with mostly free exhibitions and cafes where you can spend an afternoon for about 30 yuan per person. Guanlan Lake Ecological Sports Park is better for families. Tickets are cheap, and you can feed animals and ride go-karts—better than hanging out in a mall. ⚠️ Shenzhen is still hot and humid at the end of August. Outdoor temperatures feel like a steam room around 2–3 PM. Plan activities for early morning or evening. 06 Jinhua | Zhejiang Hengdian World Studios is famous, but many don’t know that Qinwang Palace and Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden require separate tickets. You can’t finish both in one day, so a combined ticket is more cost-effective. If you want to see filming, avoid the core areas that require VIP tickets. The alleys next to Ming and Qing Palaces often have crews shooting, and watching from outside the barriers is fine. Shuanglong Scenic Area is north of the city. The stalactites in Ice Pot Cave glow with colored lights, and it’s cool inside in summer—a true natural air-conditioned room. The ancient city in downtown is worth two hours. The crispy pastries from the old street bakery are freshly baked. One bite releases the rich aroma of preserved vegetables and meat filling. They cost 3 yuan each—I bought five. 🚄 It’s about a 30-minute taxi ride from Jinhua Station to Shuanglong Cave. Buses run but are infrequent. If you’re in a hurry, taxi is more reliable. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo lies in the Qinling Mountains and is several degrees cooler than Xi’an in summer. The creek in Jinshixia Gorge is so clear you can see the stone patterns. Tickets cost just over 100 yuan. Walking the full route takes 3–4 hours. The core plank road is built along the cliff with deep green pools below. If you’re afraid of heights, take it slow. Tianshuxia sounds mystical but is actually a unique shale landscape. The layered rock slabs look like open book pages. Few tourists visit; I spent an afternoon there and only saw two couples taking wedding photos. Manchuanguan Ancient Town is free. People still live on the Ming and Qing dynasty old street. The bluestone pavement is polished shiny. Sitting on the bridge at dusk eating a bowl of sour and spicy fish soup costs 5 yuan and is very appetizing. Baita Temple is hidden in a mountain valley. The temple is small, but the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree in the courtyard starts turning yellow in late September. By early October, it’s fully golden and stunning. ⚠️ Signal is poor in the mountains, and GPS may fail. Download offline maps in advance. 08 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City has no entrance fee, but climbing the city wall and entering the government office require separate tickets totaling a few dozen yuan. I like going at dusk when the sunset turns the walls warm orange. The willow shadows along the moat stretch long. Locals stroll and play chess under the walls, giving the place a lively atmosphere. The old Zengzhou pork knuckle shop sells out by noon, so come early. A plate of pork knuckle with millet porridge has a rich, gelatinous flavor. Wahuang Palace is built on a mountainside with a strong visual impact, but the stairs are steep. Be cautious with elderly or children. From the top, you can overlook Zhonghuang Mountain with a wide view. 🍜 Donkey meat sausage is a specialty in Guangfu Ancient City. Street stalls sell it for 10 yuan per serving, more authentic than the 30-yuan versions in tourist restaurants. ⚠️ Wahuang Palace stops admitting visitors at 5 PM. Don’t arrive too late. Among these eight places, my personal top three for value and experience are Arxan, Shangluo, and Yinchuan. Sanya and Shenzhen are great for those who want beach fun without leaving the country, but avoid weekends. Have you recently visited any hidden gems? Share in the comments, and I’ll check them out next time.

🌄 Pingli, hidden in the heart of Qinba, is known as the “hometown of Nuwa” and one of China’s most beautiful rural areas. 1️⃣ Tianshu Gorge Scenic Area (Southern Shaanxi Jiuzhaigou | 4A) ⭐ Why visit: Pingli’s top attraction, a national 4A-level scenic area. The gorge stretches 12.8 km with a forest coverage rate of 97%. Named after the legend of the Eight Immortals cultivating Taoism, it combines primeval forest, canyon waterfalls, alpine meadows, sky pools, and stone forests, earning the nickname “Jiuzhaigou of Southern Shaanxi.” Summer average temperature is about 22℃. Join a bonfire party at night. 💰 Cost reference: Subject to official announcements. Located at the border of Baxian Town and Zhengyang Township. ✨ Highlights: Hike along the gorge to see waterfalls and streams; explore the “Tianshu” strange stones and Eight Immortals culture; stay overnight in forest cabins and fall asleep to the sound of the creek. 📌 Tips: Wear non-slip hiking shoes; it’s cooler in the mountains than in town, so bring a light jacket. 2️⃣ Taohuaxi Scenic Area (Suburban family summer retreat | 4A) ⭐ Why visit: National 4A-level scenic area located in Guangfo Town, about 15 km from the county seat. Surrounded by green mountains and flowing streams, it offers creek trekking, water play, a glass sky bridge, and glass plank road. 💰 Cost reference: Tickets + glass sky bridge + glass plank road + glass slide start at about 78 yuan. ✨ Highlights: Walk along the creek plank road to enjoy shade and coolness; see peach blossoms in spring; challenge the glass sky bridge and slide. 📌 Tips: Suitable for families with children; the creek water is cool in summer, bring sandals for wading. 3️⃣ Zhengyang Great Meadow (Grassland in the clouds | free) ⭐ Why visit: Alpine meadow at 1,800–2,500 m elevation, covering about 20,000 mu. Wildflowers cover the hills with wide open views. Camp and stargaze to fully enjoy the pristine alpine scenery. 💰 Cost reference: Free. Located at Taiyangping, Longdonghe Village, Zhengyang Town. ✨ Highlights: Camp on the meadow under the stars; watch a sea of clouds sunrise early morning; experience the vastness “closer to the sky.” 📌 Tips: High altitude with big temperature differences, bring a thick jacket; driving recommended. 4️⃣ Shaoyao Valley Scenic Area (Cracked rock landform museum | 3A) ⭐ Why visit: National 3A-level scenic area about 6 km from the county seat. Named after the legend of Leigong splitting the mountain to help Nuwa mend the sky, known as the “cracked rock landform museum.” The valley is lush with trees, waterfalls, and streams, rich in negative oxygen ions. 💰 Cost reference: Subject to official announcements. Located in Changshapu Village, Chengguan Town. ✨ Highlights: See magnificent sea of clouds after rain clears; stroll and photograph in the “miniature scenic clusters”; breathe the fresh air rich in negative oxygen ions. 📌 Tips: Highest chance of sea of clouds after rain; wear non-slip shoes as some paths are wet. 5️⃣ Jiangjiaping Scenic Area (Ten-thousand-mu tea mountain and red heritage | 4A) ⭐ Why visit: Newly designated national 4A-level scenic area in 2024. Home to over 2,400 mu of ecological tea gardens, selected as a “Beautiful Leisure Village of China” in 2022. Combines tea culture experience with red tourism. 💰 Cost reference: Subject to official announcements. Located in Jiangjiaping Village, Laoxian Town. ✨ Highlights: Walk through tea mountains and experience tea picking and processing; relax in the “high mountain, green, selenium-rich” tea countryside; visit landmarks like the millennium-old Ping’an Palace and ancient osmanthus trees. 📌 Tips: Tea mountains are most beautiful in morning mist; ideal for a slow trip with elders. 6️⃣ Longtou Village Scenic Area (Hui-style countryside and intangible cultural heritage workshops | 3A) ⭐ Why visit: National 3A-level scenic area and one of China’s most beautiful leisure villages. The Chong River winds around the village, with mountains shaped like a dragon and water as its vein. Hui-style residences nestle by the water and hills. Features a water park, farming experience park, and national lacquer intangible heritage workshop. 💰 Cost reference: Free. 5 km southeast of the county seat. ✨ Highlights: Wander through Hui-style architecture for stunning rural photos; try traditional crafts at the national lacquer heritage workshop; bring kids to enjoy the water park and farming culture. 📌 Tips: Suitable for a half-day relaxed visit; local farmhouses offer authentic rural cuisine. 7️⃣ Chang’an Nuwa Tea Town (Tea sea and Hui-style landscape | 3A) ⭐ Why visit: National 3A-level scenic area, 8 km from the county seat. Vast tea gardens and Hui-style architecture complement each other, known as the “tea countryside gallery.” 💰 Cost reference: Subject to official announcements. Located in Chang’an Town. ✨ Highlights: Stroll and photograph in the ten-thousand-mu tea gardens; climb Chang’an Tower for panoramic views of the tea town; visit historic sites like Hong Family Courtyard. 📌 Tips: Most beautiful in early morning mist; buy Pingli Nuwa tea as a souvenir. 8️⃣ Nuwa Mountain Scenic Area (Ancestral holy land of China | 4A | free) ⭐ Why visit: National 4A-level scenic area, said to be Nuwa’s place of governance, giving Pingli the title “hometown of Nuwa.” Forest coverage reaches 95%. Preserves Tang Dynasty Nuwa Holy Empress Temple ruins and Nuwa Temple. Free admission policy. 💰 Cost reference: Free. 15 km from the county seat. ✨ Highlights: Trace roots at the Nuwa Temple ruins; see six scenic spots including “Nuwa sea of clouds” and “pine forest listening to waves”; visit historical sites like the Fire God Temple and relic pagoda. 📌 Tips: Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; ideal for history and culture enthusiasts. 9️⃣ Baxian Wuzhen Temple (Eight Immortals cultural theme park) ⭐ Why visit: A scenic area themed on the Eight Immortals legend, built around the spiritual cave where Han Xiangzi practiced Taoism and alchemy. Rebuilt halls stand on Song Dynasty temple ruins, with immortal springs and strange stones creating a charming scene. Provincial Road 207 passes nearby, convenient transportation. 💰 Cost reference: Subject to official announcements. Located in Baxian Town. ✨ Highlights: Explore Han Xiangzi’s Taoist heritage; experience the charm of Eight Immortals culture among immortal springs and stones; combine with Tianshu Gorge for a one-day Eight Immortals cultural tour. 📌 Tips: Close to Tianshu Gorge, recommended to visit together; suitable for fans of Taoist culture and mythology. 📍 Pingli travel practical guide 🚗 Transportation: Drive from Xi’an via Xikang Expressway to Pingli County, about 3.5 hours; from Ankang about 40 minutes. Attractions are spread out, so self-driving is strongly recommended. Classic routes: Tianshu Gorge → Baxian Wuzhen Temple → Zhengyang Meadow (southern ecological line); Jiangjiaping → Longtou Village → Chang’an Nuwa Tea Town (tea countryside line). 🏨 Accommodation: Recommended to stay in Pingli County seat with many hotel options; forest cabins available at Tianshu Gorge; RV cabin hotels at Mapan Mountain. 🍽️ Food must-tries: Immortal tofu, dry bamboo shoots stir-fried with cured meat, sauerkraut with green beans and rice, cured meat with egg skin stew, bitter vegetable stewed with cured ribs, and other Pingli specialties. 🌤️ Best travel seasons: Suitable in spring, summer, and autumn—enjoy fresh tea and peach blossoms in spring, cool 22℃ gorges in summer, and colorful forests in autumn; cultural sites are open year-round regardless of season.

People say traveling during summer break is just paying to suffer, with flight and hotel prices doubling and crowded attractions. But that’s not always true. I found eight underrated and affordable cities where round-trip train tickets plus food and lodging cost just over 1,000 yuan. The scenery rivals popular spots. Some places are so off the beaten path that even locals complain about too few tourists—you’ll basically have the place to yourself. 01 Tianjin When you think of Tianjin, don’t just picture Goubuli buns and the Tianjin Eye—those are tourist hotspots. I prefer to slip into the Five Great Avenues at 7 AM, rent a shared bike, and ride slowly. The European-style buildings are so quiet in the morning light, it feels like a small European town, a hundred times more comfortable than the crowded afternoons. When the sun gets too hot at noon, head straight to the Italian Style Town and find a small restaurant. Order some tossed noodles with two cold dishes—about 30 yuan per person for a full meal. In the afternoon, stroll around the Olympic Sports Center Stadium’s outer area. It’s free and perfect for photos, with red tracks against blue skies—great for shots. If you have kids, save a whole day for Fantawild Adventure. Buy night tickets online in advance, enter at 4 PM to avoid the heat and get a discount. ⚠️ Don’t buy “old yogurt” at the attraction entrance—it’s expensive and average. Walk a bit to a convenience store and get it for 5 yuan. 🚄 From Tianjin Station to Five Great Avenues, take Metro Line 3 directly. Don’t take a taxi—you’ll get stuck in traffic and regret it. 02 Shaoguan | Guangdong The best money spent in Shaoguan is on Danxia Mountain tickets, but once inside, you’ll see it’s worth it. Don’t follow the crowd to take the cable car. I recommend hiking the Yangyuan Mountain trail, about two hours. Along the way, you’ll see iconic red rock walls with wind-eroded patterns more stunning than any filter. ⏰ Go up the mountain after 3 PM. The light hits the rocks at an angle, bathing the whole mountain in warm orange. No need to edit your photos. At the foot of the mountain, there’s a farmhouse restaurant where a free-range chicken hot pot costs only 48 yuan, served with vegetables and tofu—enough for two to eat until they can’t move. ⚠️ Mosquitoes in the mountains are fierce. Bring mosquito repellent. Don’t ask how I know—I have the bites to prove it. If it rains, the water surface on Danxia Mountain will fog up, making it even more magical. Don’t rush to leave; wait for the rain to stop. 03 Fuyang | Anhui Many haven’t even heard of Fuyang, but the Bali River Scenic Area is seriously underrated. It’s a huge wetland park with cheap tickets where you can spend a whole day. I arrived at 9 AM, took a boat tour on the lake. The breeze carried the scent of water plants, making it feel cool despite summer. For lunch, I ate Taihe board noodles at a small restaurant outside the park—8 yuan a bowl. The spicy oil was so fragrant it hit my head, way better than chain noodle shops. In the afternoon, skip the glass bridge—it’s hot and boring. Instead, spread a picnic mat under the willow trees by the lake and watch local grandpas fishing. You can sit there all afternoon. 🍜 At night, visit Fuyang’s city night market. Try rolled flatbread, chicken rice noodles, and Gelatiao noodles—order one of each. About 20 yuan per person for a full belly. ⚠️ Drinks inside the park cost twice as much as outside. Bring two bottles of water. 04 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a small city overshadowed by Xi’an but perfect for summer. Jinshixia Gorge is the coolest canyon I’ve seen. You barely get any sun walking through it. The creek runs right by your feet, icy cold. If you soak a watermelon in the water for half an hour, it tastes sweeter than one from the fridge. Tianshu Gorge is wilder and less crowded. The plank road clings to cliffs, which might make the faint-hearted weak in the knees, but the scenery is breathtaking. Waterfalls crash overhead, mist hits your face—it’s exhilarating. Mianchuan Pass Ancient Town is best visited at dusk. No entrance fee. The cobblestone streets heat up under the sunset, giving a time-travel vibe. Baita Temple is small but atmospheric, with ancient pagodas so quiet you can hear your footsteps. ⚠️ There’s no direct transport between these spots. It’s best to rent a local car for about 300 yuan a day. Split among four people, it’s very cost-effective. 05 Yichang | Hubei Yichang’s summer life comes from water. The Yangtze Three Gorges need no introduction. Take a sightseeing boat. The wind on deck can blow your hat off. The green mountains on both sides recede, giving a vast feeling that city dwellers will find refreshing. But I recommend the Three Gorges Folk Village Scenic Area more. Tickets include the boat ride. The Tujia stilt houses and girls washing clothes by the creek look like they stepped out of a painting. For lunch, try the lazy tofu inside the park—sour and spicy, 18 yuan a serving, not overpriced. In the afternoon, visit the Three Gorges Waterfall. Wear sandals because you’ll walk through a water curtain cave. You’ll get soaked but feel refreshed. This is ten times better than air conditioning in summer. The Qingjiang Gallery is perfect for the next day. The water is emerald green. A two-hour boat ride with the breeze can lull you to sleep. ⚠️ Yichang’s attractions are spread out. Stay near Yichang East Station for easy access. 06 Benxi | Liaoning Benxi Water Cave is magical. Outside it’s 38 degrees, inside only 12 degrees. You must wear a cotton jacket. They rent them at the entrance for 20 yuan. Don’t hesitate or you’ll want to leave after 10 minutes. Take a boat through the cave. The stalactites sparkle under colored lights like a dragon palace. The tour lasts 40 minutes. You might shiver when you come out, but the sun will revive you. Huanren Wunv Mountain is for hiking lovers. Over 1,000 steps lead to a summit with views of Huanlong Lake. The view is worth every drop of sweat. Guanmengshan National Forest Park is best in autumn, but summer is nice too. The forest is dark green, streams flow through stone cracks. Find a rock to sit on and listen to the water—you can daydream all afternoon. 🍜 Benxi’s grilled bean curd skin is a must-try. Street stalls sell it for 5 yuan a bunch, brushed with sauce, so fragrant you won’t want to move. 07 Wenzhou | Zhejiang Wenzhou’s Yandang Mountain is an underrated summer escape, especially Lingfeng Scenic Area. After 4 PM, the light softens, and the strange peaks and rocks look like silhouettes at dusk—perfect for photos. There’s also a night ticket. Lights shine on the rock walls, and guides tell the funny story of the “Husband and Wife Peaks.” If it’s too hot during the day, hide in Guanyin Cave. It’s incredibly cool inside, and you can sit on stone benches listening to the spring water. Liu Bowen’s hometown is in Wencheng County, a bit far from Yandang Mountain but worth a separate trip. The ancient village is well preserved with gray bricks and black tiles. There’s a lotus pond in front, and in the evening, the scent of lotus mixed with cooking smoke made this my quietest moment on the trip. ⚠️ Yandang Mountain tickets aren’t cheap, but there’s a discount after 3 PM. Buy online in advance to save the price of a milk tea. 08 Altay | Xinjiang Altay itself sounds like a place far away. The blue of Kanas Lake is unreal, like someone poured paint into the water. Arrive before 9 AM when the lake is as smooth as a mirror, reflecting snow-capped mountains and forests. You won’t dare speak loudly, afraid to shatter the scene. Koktokay isn’t a sea but a river valley. The Irtysh River flows through it. The water is glacier melt—put your hand in for three seconds and it goes numb. That cold is a luxury in summer. The Altay grasslands and culture are worth savoring slowly. Find a Kazakh herder’s yurt, drink some milk tea, and listen to them play the dombra. That relaxed feeling can’t be bought in the city no matter how much money you spend. ⚠️ Altay has big temperature swings. Wear short sleeves at noon but a down jacket at night. Don’t tough it out or you’ll get sick and ruin your trip. 🍜 At Burqin night market, grilled dogfish is a must-try. 30 yuan each, crispy outside and tender inside, paired with kvass—this is what summer tastes like. I’ve scouted these eight places for you. None are empty-headed internet-famous spots. If you only have 1,000 yuan and want to avoid a budget trip vibe, start with Tianjin or Fuyang. They have the easiest transport and lowest costs. The rest are yours to explore. Share in the comments which one excites you most?

My travel list for August and September took me three hours of searching flights and guides to find places that are truly less crowded, beautiful, and affordable—none of which are on popular influencer lists. Either the transportation is underestimated, or the scenery is overshadowed by the name. These 8 places are my picks from dozens of candidates. Some even surprised local friends with “How did you find this?” After reading, you’ll understand that budget travel doesn’t mean settling; it means spending your money and energy wisely. 01 Qujing | Yunnan While others flock to Dali and Lijiang in Yunnan, I want to take you east instead. Qujing’s prices are about two-thirds of Dali’s, and you can find clean, comfortable standard rooms for just over 100 yuan. Although you won’t see rapeseed flower fields in Luoping in August, the mountains turn lush green. The Jiulong waterfall group is at its peak flow, with so much water you can feel the mist from hundreds of meters away. ⚠️ Don’t buy raincoats at the scenic entrance; a small shop 50 meters inside sells them for half the price. In the afternoon, visit the Jinjifeng peaks. Don’t just stay at the viewing platform—walk along the ridges for 20 minutes to enjoy a whole karst peak forest all to yourself. 🍜 Back in the city at night, try a bowl of spicy chicken rice noodles. At 15 yuan per person, it’s so good you’ll be leaning against the wall afterward. 02 Zhangjiajie | Hunan Zhangjiajie is a prime example of “expensive tickets but worth every penny.” The Wulingyuan ticket is valid for four days, and many don’t realize you can split your visit over two days. ⏰ Enter the park in the afternoon on day one. Take the shuttle to Yuanjiajie and catch the Hallelujah Mountain after the tour groups leave. The sunset turns the stone pillars golden, and you might be the only person on the whole mountain. On day two, get up early to see the sunrise at Tianzi Mountain, then take the cable car down to avoid the crowds after 10 AM. For Tianmen Mountain, I recommend route B: cable car up and road down, which cuts your wait time in half compared to route A. ⚠️ Don’t trust roadside touts offering “free ticket routes”—they’re all scams. Sausages on the mountain cost 10 yuan each. Bringing your own snacks can save you a lot. 03 Wuhan | Hubei Wuhan’s summer is hot, but by late August, cool breezes come in the mornings and evenings. Hotel prices at this time are about one-third cheaper than in spring or fall. I advise against buying tickets to climb Yellow Crane Tower. You can see its side silhouette from an alley near Desheng Bridge, framed with old residential buildings and flying eaves, which feels more authentic than inside. The best way to enjoy East Lake isn’t cycling around it but entering from Liyuan Square after 4 PM, walking to the Tingtao scenic area where locals stroll under the willow trees in the lake breeze. Songyang Temple is truly off the beaten path, hidden in the mountains of Caidian with almost no visitors. The vegetarian meal at the temple entrance costs 15 yuan and is surprisingly delicious. Huangpi’s Mulan Grassland is perfect for evenings, with the sunset over the big grassy slope and windmills in the distance—no filter needed for photos. 04 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Jingdezhen is the place I selfishly want to keep secret, fearing prices will rise if it gets popular. Tao Xichuan is best visited at night. The old porcelain factory turned park features red brick walls and warm yellow lights. Most stalls are run by students from the ceramic academy, where you can find handmade small cups for just a few dozen yuan—much more soulful than souvenir shop items. Visit the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo in the morning to see veteran artisans throwing clay on the wheel. Their hands have been spinning for decades, and the clay obeys them perfectly. 🍜 Don’t eat inside the scenic area at noon. Take a taxi to Fuzhou Nong for a bowl of cold noodles and dumpling cakes for about 20 yuan per person. It’s spicy enough to keep you slurping nonstop. Stay near People’s Square, where you can find stylish guesthouses for under 150 yuan. ⚠️ Don’t buy ceramics at tourist spots. Go to the sculpture porcelain factory, where prices can be half as much for the same items. 05 Changzhou | Jiangsu Changzhou is one of those cities that “sounds unremarkable but is surprisingly fun.” Tianmu Lake’s value is seriously underestimated. The mountain and water park ticket plus boat ride costs just over 100 yuan. The fish head soup in the lake is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows fall off, but ⚠️ don’t eat at the park’s restaurants. Head to Tianmu Lake town, where the same fish head soup is at least half the price. At the Spring and Autumn Yancheng Ruins Park, many don’t know tickets are half price after 4:30 PM. Watch the sunset over the three cities and three rivers with so few people you can daydream facing the ancient city wall for half an hour. Universal Dinosaur City is better for families with kids, but remember to buy night park tickets online in advance—they’re much cheaper than daytime tickets, and the nighttime parade is more exciting. 06 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang sounds rustic, but it hides two surprising spots nearby. Xibaipo is a classic route, but I recommend visiting it as a regular scenic area without any “educational” mindset. Just enjoy the old buildings and landscape for a relaxed experience. The Zhaozhou Bridge is truly worth a visit. Seeing the textbook structure in real life is a strange and wonderful feeling. ⚠️ The river under the bridge has dried up, so don’t expect much water, but the stone carving details on the bridge itself are worth a close look. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from downtown Shijiazhuang. Carpooling is more cost-effective. I suggest visiting Zhaozhou Bridge in the morning, returning to the city for Anhui-style noodles at noon, then heading to Xibaipo in the afternoon. This route is efficient and avoids backtracking. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is the backyard garden for Xi’an residents but little known to outsiders. The average temperature in the Jinsi Gorge in August is just over 20°C. Walking along the waterside boardwalk, the cool air rises from your feet—it’s a natural air-conditioned room. Tianshu Gorge is wilder with many steps, so be cautious if your stamina is average, but the waterfall group inside is stunning, with pools as green as emeralds. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town has no entrance fee and preserves guild halls and old streets from the Ming and Qing dynasties. A bowl of sour noodle soup with two walnut buns costs 10 yuan and fills you up. Baita Temple is hidden in a mountain valley with almost no visitors. The old monk there will pour you a cup of tea. Sitting under the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree, time seems to slow down. ⚠️ Shangluo’s attractions are spread out. Self-driving is recommended. If you don’t have a car, a day-long private car hire costs about 300 yuan. 08 Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou is the “budget travel pinnacle” I want to recommend to everyone. A bowl of beef noodles costs 8 yuan, and a meat and egg combo is just over 10 yuan—you’ll be full to the point of leaning against the wall. Baita Mountain Park has no entrance fee. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Lanzhou city, with the Yellow River running through the middle and the iron bridge shining in the sunset. ⏰ Go up the mountain at 6:30 PM to catch the sunset and city lights. The view beats any observation deck. The Gansu Provincial Museum is a must-visit. The original Flying Horse of Gansu is there, but ⚠️ it’s closed on Mondays, so don’t go for nothing. 🍜 At night, visit Zhengning Road Night Market. Avoid the long lines at popular stalls. Just walk into any busy old shop. Grilled lamb skewers cost 2 yuan each, paired with apricot skin juice—a combo so comfortable you won’t want to leave. Stay at a hostel by the Yellow River, with beds for 40 yuan and the mother river right outside your window. To be honest, among these 8 places, my favorites are Jingdezhen and Shangluo. One lets you find things you love, the other lets you relax quietly. Are you feeling the urge to go somewhere soon? Share in the comments—you might find a travel buddy.

There are not many people. I have stepped on pits and picked up treasures, this article you treat as a friend to talk, take away and use directly. 01 Putian|Fujian I would call this place on Mei Chau Island "the ceiling of value for money for poor travelers on the sea island". The ferry ticket to the island plus a ticket costs $100 or so, more than half cheaper than going to Sanya. You should never rush straight to the Mazu Temple as soon as you get to the island. First, go to the golden beach on the west side of the island. There are few people before 10am, the sand is white and the water is clear. The coolness of the waves slapping your ankles can wake you up from the sleepiness of waking up in the morning. 🍜 Find a small shop near the pier at noon, order a bowl of Putian stewed noodles, so full of ingredients that the noodles are almost covered by seafood, only ten dollars, the soup is so fresh that you almost swallow your tongue. In the afternoon, we will go to Mazu Temple again. After three o'clock, the light hits the canopy slantingly. It's beautiful to take pictures without filters. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "deep sea pearls" on the island. Nine out of ten are glass pearls. If you stay, the island B&B starts at $100 or so in the off-season. You can see the sea from the window and fall asleep listening to the sound of the waves at night. This kind of experience cannot be given by a five-star hotel. 02 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is an underrated to the disgraceful secret of mountains and rivers, suitable for you to take your parents or take a slow stroll on your own. The best time to visit the Yunhe terraces is from 5:30 to 6:30 in the morning, when the sunrise dyes the irrigated terraces into a golden mirror, the smoke from the farmhouse just rises, at that moment you will feel that the early rise is worth it. 🚄From Yunhe to Yunyunxiandu, bus an hour and a half, Xiandu's Dinghu Peak is the filming location of "Flower Thousand Bones", but do not just look at it, towards Zhutan Mountain, stone bridge with morning mist, is the real fairy spirit. 🍜At noon outside the Xiandu Scenic Area, I ate a bowl of steamed buns with dried plums and vegetables, stuffed with dried plums and vegetables, and charcoal-grilled until they were charred. It was five dollars a piece. I didn't even stop eating three. Tsing Tin Shek Mun Cave is more suitable for an afternoon visit. The waterfall rushes down from the top of the cliff, standing by the pool, the water vapor hits the face, cool to the bone. ⚠️ The stairs in Shek Mun Tung are slippery. Wear non-slip shoes. Don't wear flip-flops to show off. This trip down, two hundred per person, but the scenery is one of the best in the back gardens of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Hu. 03 Shenzhen | Guangdong Don't think of high-rise buildings and expensive when you mention Shenzhen. It has a down-to-earth way of living. The Dameisha Waterfront Park is open for free, but it’s crowded on weekend afternoons, ⚠️ You either arrive before 9am or go after 4pm to avoid the crowds and the beach shows what it deserves. 📍From Dameisha take the bus change subway, straight to the window of the world, night tickets are almost half cheaper than day tickets, 5:30 entry, it's not dark yet, just stroll around the miniature pyramid and Arc de Triomphe, so that the lights are on, the whole park seems to have changed faces. If you bring children, the Ecological Plaza in Overseas Chinese Town is more suitable for unwinding. The lawn is large and the trees are shaded. The children can run away. You can sleep under the tree and scroll through your mobile phone. 🍜 Don't eat in scenic spots at night, take two stops of MTR to Bai Shek Chau, casserole congee with pepper and salt shrimp, 60 per person eat to support the wall. In Shenzhen, poor travel is not about making do, it's about playing in a different way. 04 Shang Luo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a small town in the hinterland of Qinling Mountains. It is so cool that you have to cover yourself when you sleep at night. Going in August is simply a lifeline to escape the high temperature. Tickets for Golden Silk Canyon can be saved online by booking 20 in advance. After entering the canyon, walk along the waterway, shaded all the way, the stream is icy to the bone. ⚠️ The mobile phone signal is intermittent in the canyon. Download the offline map in advance and do not go the wrong way. There are fewer people in Tianshu Gorge, suitable for people who like tranquility. The canyon rises along the cliff, with turquoise pool water at the foot, and the leaking skylight above. The whole journey takes two hours. 🍜 Eat a bowl of potato dumplings in Manchuanguan Ancient Town at noon. The mashed potatoes of glutinous rice dumplings are topped with pickled cabbage sauce. It costs six dollars a bowl. It's sour and appetizing. The Hundred Pagoda Temple is hidden in the village, no tickets are charged, the ancient pagodas are mottled, the moss is covered with moss, and the bell at five o'clock in the evening can make you instantly quiet. After this trip, the fuel cost plus road meals are 150 per person, which is ridiculously high value for money. 05 Nanchong|Sichuan The ancient city of Yuzhong is the real "living ancient city", unlike some places that are all Yiwu small commodities. You enter from Hua Guang Building, do not rush to take pictures, ⏰ Before 8 am, there are only locals on the street, the stall selling breakfast is steaming, the fragrance of soy milk fried dough sticks along the bluestone plank road. Stroll to Zhongtian Tower, spend $10 to climb the building, overlooking the gray tile roofs, and the Jialing River winding through the city. At that moment, you will understand what "feng shui treasure land" is. 🍜 Find a "fly restaurant" at noon, order a bowl of beef noodles with stewed beef, the soup is boiled with stewed beef, the noodles are smooth, spicy and not dry, seven dollars, after eating lips numb but still want to come another bowl. ⚠️ In the afternoon, you can choose between Gongyuan and Zhangfei Temple. Don't go both ways when time is tight. Tickets are not cheap, just choose the one you are interested in. Walking along the riverside in the evening, watching the sunset dye the river orange-red, the locals fishing and letting their dogs on the shore, that kind of life is something you can't buy no matter how much money you spend. 06 Xuancheng|Anhui Chaji Ancient Village is much quieter than Hong Village, with tickets half cheaper and two-thirds fewer tourists, but the rhyme of Hui-style architecture is not compromised at all. You walk along Xu Creek, the stream passes through the village, the stone bridge connects the people on both sides of the river, at six in the morning, the morning fog has not dissipated, the smoke rises from behind the horse head wall, the dog naps at the bridge, at that moment you will doubt whether you have crossed. 🍜 There is a shop selling hairy tofu in the village. It is fried on an iron plate and sprinkled with spicy sauce. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It costs five dollars a portion. I stood at the stall and ate two portions in a row. Jixi Longchuan is more exquisite, the wood carvings of Hu's ancestral hall are worth a closer look. The picture of a hundred deer on the lintel, each deer has a different posture, the carving is so small that it makes people goosebumps. ⚠️ Tickets in Longchuan are rather expensive. It is recommended to buy joint tickets online in advance to save money for lunch. 🚄 From Xuancheng city to Chaji, bus two hours, the road condition is good but many bends, if you get dizzy, prepare a plum. 07 Yantai | Shandong The sea in Yantai is not the same as in the south, tougher, more vast, and seafood is so cheap that it seems like you don’t have to pay for it. The ticket to Penglai Pavilion is a bit red, but ⚠️ you enter after four in the afternoon, few people and good light, standing on Danya Mountain overlooking the Yellow and Bohai Sea dividing line, sea breeze poured into the collar, salty smell mixed with pine fragrance, that feeling is really sober. After seeing Pong Lai Pavilion, do not leave in a hurry, go to the neighboring Long Island, ferry ticket 45, twenty minutes sail, the island has no beach, all ball rock beach, but the water is so clear that you can see the stone patterns at the bottom, pick up a few round ones to take home as a souvenir, do not spend a penny. 🍜 Return to the city of Penglai at night, find a seafood stall, order a plate of spicy fried mussels and a portion of mackerel dumplings, 50 per person, fresh to your eyebrows. Longkou South Mountain is more suitable for those who like humanities. The Great Buddha House is solemn and solemn, but there are many climbing stairs. If you bring the elderly and children, you should do what you can. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin in August is not an ice city at all, it is a summer paradise, with temperatures in the twenties comfortable enough to make you want to settle down. In the square of Hagia Sophia, the light is softest after five o'clock in the evening, white doves fly around the dome, you sit on the stairs and eat a Madier ice cream, five dollars, the milk is so strong that you can't melt it, that sense of painting is gone. ⚠️ There is no need to pay inside the church, just take a picture outside, save the money to eat Russian Western food, Hua Mesi Restaurant's canned stewed beef with beet soup, an average of seventy or eighty, but the portion is so large that two people can not eat. Volga Manor is on the outskirts, tickets include boat tickets, the park is full of Russian-style wooden houses, it seems like an instant crossing to the outskirts of Moscow, rowing on the Ash River, the wind is cool, the water is clear, worth spending half a day slowly wandering. Harbin Ice and Snow World is not open in summer. Don't make a trip in vain, but you can go see the indoor ice and snow art gallery. 🍜 Going outside Lao Dao at night, the rib buns and pot buns of the pastry shop, 30 per person, make you burp. Eight places, eight ways to play, but all have one thing in common: spend a little money, play with a big view. Who do you want to go to most in your heart? Let's talk in the comments section, maybe we can meet on the road. There are not many people. I have stepped on pits and picked up treasures, this article you treat as a friend to talk, take away and use directly. 01 Putian|Fujian I would call this place on Mei Chau Island "the ceiling of value for money for poor travelers on the sea island". The ferry ticket to the island plus a ticket costs $100 or so, more than half cheaper than going to Sanya. You should never rush straight to the Mazu Temple as soon as you get to the island. First, go to the golden beach on the west side of the island. There are few people before 10am, the sand is white and the water is clear. The coolness of the waves slapping your ankles can wake you up from the sleepiness of waking up in the morning. 🍜 Find a small shop near the pier at noon, order a bowl of Putian stewed noodles, so full of ingredients that the noodles are almost covered by seafood, only ten dollars, the soup is so fresh that you almost swallow your tongue. In the afternoon, we will go to Mazu Temple again. After three o'clock, the light hits the canopy slantingly. It's beautiful to take pictures without filters. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "deep sea pearls" on the island. Nine out of ten are glass pearls. If you stay, the island B&B starts at $100 or so in the off-season. You can see the sea from the window and fall asleep listening to the sound of the waves at night. This kind of experience cannot be given by a five-star hotel. 02 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is an underrated to the disgraceful secret of mountains and rivers, suitable for you to take your parents or take a slow stroll on your own. The best time to visit the Yunhe terraces is from 5:30 to 6:30 in the morning, when the sunrise dyes the irrigated terraces into a golden mirror, the smoke from the farmhouse just rises, at that moment you will feel that the early rise is worth it. 🚄From Yunhe to Yunyunxiandu, bus an hour and a half, Xiandu's Dinghu Peak is the filming location of "Flower Thousand Bones", but do not just look at it, towards Zhutan Mountain, stone bridge with morning mist, is the real fairy spirit. 🍜At noon outside the Xiandu Scenic Area, I ate a bowl of steamed buns with dried plums and vegetables, stuffed with dried plums and vegetables, and charcoal-grilled until they were charred. It was five dollars a piece. I didn't even stop eating three. Tsing Tin Shek Mun Cave is more suitable for an afternoon visit. The waterfall rushes down from the top of the cliff, standing by the pool, the water vapor hits the face, cool to the bone. ⚠️ The stairs in Shek Mun Tung are slippery. Wear non-slip shoes. Don't wear flip-flops to show off. This trip down, two hundred per person, but the scenery is one of the best in the back gardens of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Hu. 03 Shenzhen | Guangdong Don't think of high-rise buildings and expensive when you mention Shenzhen. It has a down-to-earth way of living. The Dameisha Waterfront Park is open for free, but it’s crowded on weekend afternoons, ⚠️ You either arrive before 9am or go after 4pm to avoid the crowds and the beach shows what it deserves. 📍From Dameisha take the bus change subway, straight to the window of the world, night tickets are almost half cheaper than day tickets, 5:30 entry, it's not dark yet, just stroll around the miniature pyramid and Arc de Triomphe, so that the lights are on, the whole park seems to have changed faces. If you bring children, the Ecological Plaza in Overseas Chinese Town is more suitable for unwinding. The lawn is large and the trees are shaded. The children can run away. You can sleep under the tree and scroll through your mobile phone. 🍜 Don't eat in scenic spots at night, take two stops of MTR to Bai Shek Chau, casserole congee with pepper and salt shrimp, 60 per person eat to support the wall. In Shenzhen, poor travel is not about making do, it's about playing in a different way. 04 Shang Luo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a small town in the hinterland of Qinling Mountains. It is so cool that you have to cover yourself when you sleep at night. Going in August is simply a lifeline to escape the high temperature. Tickets for Golden Silk Canyon can be saved online by booking 20 in advance. After entering the canyon, walk along the waterway, shaded all the way, the stream is icy to the bone. ⚠️ The mobile phone signal is intermittent in the canyon. Download the offline map in advance and do not go the wrong way. There are fewer people in Tianshu Gorge, suitable for people who like tranquility. The canyon rises along the cliff, with turquoise pool water at the foot, and the leaking skylight above. The whole journey takes two hours. 🍜 Eat a bowl of potato dumplings in Manchuanguan Ancient Town at noon. The mashed potatoes of glutinous rice dumplings are topped with pickled cabbage sauce. It costs six dollars a bowl. It's sour and appetizing. The Hundred Pagoda Temple is hidden in the village, no tickets are charged, the ancient pagodas are mottled, the moss is covered with moss, and the bell at five o'clock in the evening can make you instantly quiet. After this trip, the fuel cost plus road meals are 150 per person, which is ridiculously high value for money. 05 Nanchong|Sichuan The ancient city of Yuzhong is the real "living ancient city", unlike some places that are all Yiwu small commodities. You enter from Hua Guang Building, do not rush to take pictures, ⏰ Before 8 am, there are only locals on the street, the stall selling breakfast is steaming, the fragrance of soy milk fried dough sticks along the bluestone plank road. Stroll to Zhongtian Tower, spend $10 to climb the building, overlooking the gray tile roofs, and the Jialing River winding through the city. At that moment, you will understand what "feng shui treasure land" is. 🍜 Find a "fly restaurant" at noon, order a bowl of beef noodles with stewed beef, the soup is boiled with stewed beef, the noodles are smooth, spicy and not dry, seven dollars, after eating lips numb but still want to come another bowl. ⚠️ In the afternoon, you can choose between Gongyuan and Zhangfei Temple. Don't go both ways when time is tight. Tickets are not cheap, just choose the one you are interested in. Walking along the riverside in the evening, watching the sunset dye the river orange-red, the locals fishing and letting their dogs on the shore, that kind of life is something you can't buy no matter how much money you spend. 06 Xuancheng|Anhui Chaji Ancient Village is much quieter than Hong Village, with tickets half cheaper and two-thirds fewer tourists, but the rhyme of Hui-style architecture is not compromised at all. You walk along Xu Creek, the stream passes through the village, the stone bridge connects the people on both sides of the river, at six in the morning, the morning fog has not dissipated, the smoke rises from behind the horse head wall, the dog naps at the bridge, at that moment you will doubt whether you have crossed. 🍜 There is a shop selling hairy tofu in the village. It is fried on an iron plate and sprinkled with spicy sauce. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It costs five dollars a portion. I stood at the stall and ate two portions in a row. Jixi Longchuan is more exquisite, the wood carvings of Hu's ancestral hall are worth a closer look. The picture of a hundred deer on the lintel, each deer has a different posture, the carving is so small that it makes people goosebumps. ⚠️ Tickets in Longchuan are rather expensive. It is recommended to buy joint tickets online in advance to save money for lunch. 🚄 From Xuancheng city to Chaji, bus two hours, the road condition is good but many bends, if you get dizzy, prepare a plum. 07 Yantai | Shandong The sea in Yantai is not the same as in the south, tougher, more vast, and seafood is so cheap that it seems like you don’t have to pay for it. The ticket to Penglai Pavilion is a bit red, but ⚠️ you enter after four in the afternoon, few people and good light, standing on Danya Mountain overlooking the Yellow and Bohai Sea dividing line, sea breeze poured into the collar, salty smell mixed with pine fragrance, that feeling is really sober. After seeing Pong Lai Pavilion, do not leave in a hurry, go to the neighboring Long Island, ferry ticket 45, twenty minutes sail, the island has no beach, all ball rock beach, but the water is so clear that you can see the stone patterns at the bottom, pick up a few round ones to take home as a souvenir, do not spend a penny. 🍜 Return to the city of Penglai at night, find a seafood stall, order a plate of spicy fried mussels and a portion of mackerel dumplings, 50 per person, fresh to your eyebrows. Longkou South Mountain is more suitable for those who like humanities. The Great Buddha House is solemn and solemn, but there are many climbing stairs. If you bring the elderly and children, you should do what you can. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin in August is not an ice city at all, it is a summer paradise, with temperatures in the twenties comfortable enough to make you want to settle down. In the square of Hagia Sophia, the light is softest after five o'clock in the evening, white doves fly around the dome, you sit on the stairs and eat a Madier ice cream, five dollars, the milk is so strong that you can't melt it, that sense of painting is gone. ⚠️ There is no need to pay inside the church, just take a picture outside, save the money to eat Russian Western food, Hua Mesi Restaurant's canned stewed beef with beet soup, an average of seventy or eighty, but the portion is so large that two people can not eat. Volga Manor is on the outskirts, tickets include boat tickets, the park is full of Russian-style wooden houses, it seems like an instant crossing to the outskirts of Moscow, rowing on the Ash River, the wind is cool, the water is clear, worth spending half a day slowly wandering. Harbin Ice and Snow World is not open in summer. Don't make a trip in vain, but you can go see the indoor ice and snow art gallery. 🍜 Going outside Lao Dao at night, the rib buns and pot buns of the pastry shop, 30 per person, make you burp. Eight places, eight ways to play, but all have one thing in common: spend a little money, play with a big view. Who do you want to go to most in your heart? Let's talk in the comments section, maybe we can meet on the road.

What retirees fear most isn’t losing mobility but spending all their time on group tours shopping and rushing around. I’ve scouted these 8 places for you. They offer a relaxed pace and lasting scenery, some even locals rarely visit. Don’t try to see them all at once. Pick two or three and stay a few days—it’s better than rushing through 10 cities. 01 Baoting | Hainan Between Binglanggu and Yanoda, I suggest choosing just one. Binglanggu showcases Li and Miao culture, with elderly women weaving Li brocade by hand—machines can’t replace that skill. Yanoda is a rainforest with gentle boardwalks but quite a few steps. If your knees aren’t strong, half the trail is enough. 📍 Take the electric shuttle in the park. Don’t save a few bucks by walking—the paths are long and exposed. Save your energy for the mountaintop views. 🍜 Try the bamboo tube rice at the park entrance. Glutinous rice wrapped with minced meat, savory and more substantial than you’d expect. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM. Tour groups haven’t arrived yet, the air is cool, and you can clearly hear the birds. ⚠️ Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Bring a lightweight umbrella. The rain comes fast and leaves quickly. 02 Jiuquan | Gansu At Dunhuang’s Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, avoid noon. The sand burns your feet, and camel lines can be so long you’ll question your life choices. ⏰ Enter the park after 6 PM. The light is perfect. The lake reflects the sunset, and the wind makes the sand dunes ripple like water. Book Mogao Grottoes tickets at least two weeks in advance on the official site. Buying on-site is nearly impossible. Emergency tickets only allow viewing four caves, which is a quick glance. Yadan Geological Park is far, a two-hour drive one way, but the “West Sea Fleet” dirt hills glow golden at sunset—worth it. Yumen Pass is just a dirt mound with strong winds. Standing there for 10 minutes makes you want to return to the car, but the poem “Spring breeze does not cross Yumen Pass” lingers in your mind, giving it a special feeling. 🚄 There’s a shuttle from downtown to the Mogao Grottoes digital center. Avoid unlicensed taxis. 03 Jincheng | Shanxi At Huangcheng Xiangfu, I recommend hiring a guide. Otherwise, you’ll just see stone buildings. The stories reveal how well-educated the Chen Tingjing family was. ⏰ The city opening ceremony starts at 10 AM. When the drums sound and the gates open, it’s interesting. Don’t stand in the front row—it’s crowded. Grass grows between the bricks on the city wall, and it feels warm to the touch. 🍜 Outside the park, try Yangcheng roast liver. Thin slices pan-fried until crispy and fragrant, perfect with a bowl of millet porridge. ⚠️ There are many steps inside the mansion. Elderly visitors should use a cane for stability. Don’t overexert yourself. Two hours is enough to tour. No need to stay overnight here. Stay in Jincheng city and enjoy a bowl of helo noodles on South Street at night. 04 Huangshan | Anhui Between Xidi and Hongcun, one is enough. I choose Hongcun. At the painting bridge by South Lake, no one is there at 6 AM. The water reflects white walls and black tiles, ten times more beautiful than the crowded midday. Chengkan is quieter. The village alleys are narrow, the bluestone slabs polished shiny by footsteps, and you often find cats sunbathing around corners. ⚠️ Huangshan requires good stamina. The cable car saves a lot of effort, but mountain lodging is expensive and basic. It’s best to go up and down the same day. ⏰ The best light at Xidi and Hongcun is after 3 PM. The shadow of the horse-head walls slants across the water channels—no filter needed for photos. 🍜 Outside Hongcun, try the fermented tofu. Pan-fried golden on both sides, dipped in spicy sauce, crispy outside and tender inside. Don’t be scared by the name. 🚄 Huangshan North Station has a direct bus to Hongcun every hour. Avoid roadside touts. 05 Nanjing | Jiangsu The presidential palace is closed on Mondays. Don’t go for nothing. Visit Confucius Temple at night. When the lights along Qinhuai River come on, boats line up one after another. The snack street is pricey and average—just browse. Niushou Mountain’s Buddha Palace cost a fortune. The reclining Buddha in the underground palace is impressive, but there are many steps. Elderly visitors should take the park shuttle. I prefer Xuanwu Lake. The lakeside path is flat. Rent an electric boat and drift on the water. The breeze feels better than shopping malls. ⏰ Sunset at Xuanwu Lake is around 6:30 PM. The sky over Purple Mountain glows orange-red, and the lake sparkles like scattered gold. 🍜 Near Kexiang Market, try duck blood vermicelli soup. The broth is clear, and the duck intestines are crunchy—much better than the place at the park entrance. ⚠️ Take Metro Line 3 to Confucius Temple station. Don’t drive. Parking is expensive and traffic is heavy. 06 Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Xinduqiao isn’t a tourist spot but a scenic route. In October, the poplar leaves turn golden. Light filters through, making the whole road look like it’s soaked in honey. Mugucao is 3,800 meters above sea level. Take it slow. The lake’s blue is unreal. When the wind blows, prayer flags flutter. Daocheng Yading requires you to know your limits. The round-trip hike to Milk Lake takes 5–6 hours at 4,700 meters altitude—not for the faint-hearted. Hailuogou is more accessible. Take the cable car to see glaciers. Below are primeval forests, and if you’re lucky, you might spot monkeys. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is serious. Take Rhodiola a week before. Don’t wash your hair or bathe once you arrive. 🚄 Attractions in Ganzi are spread out. Renting a car with a driver is easiest, about 600 yuan per day. Drivers know the roads and are safer than self-driving. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge’s cliffside boardwalk is well built. The water is emerald green. Walking along the stream is refreshing. But the full route takes 3–4 hours. Elderly visitors can walk halfway and return the same way. Don’t push yourself. Tianshu Gorge is more off the beaten path, fewer people, and the mountain air smells of grass and trees. The waterfall drowns out cicadas. Manchuanguan Ancient Town has no entrance fee. People still live on the old street, drying corn at their doors. It feels more authentic than commercialized towns. Baita Temple is on a hill with steep steps. The ancient ginkgo tree inside turns golden in autumn, leaves covering the ground. No one sweeps it. The beauty is unreal. ⏰ Visit Jinsi Gorge the day after rain. The water volume is high, and the waterfalls are spectacular. The paths are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 Shangluo’s rolled noodles are sour and spicy, thicker than Xi’an’s. Pair with a bowl of thick soup for comfort. 08 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The Qilian Mountains grasslands are most beautiful from late July to early August. The rapeseed flowers are still blooming, and cattle and sheep scatter on the slopes like scattered pearls. The Heihe Grand Canyon road follows the river with many bends but offers magnificent views. Watch for falling rocks when stopping to take photos. The snow line at Lenglongling shines dazzling white in the sun. Wear sunglasses or your eyes will hurt. Amindongso means “god of the mountains” in Tibetan. At the foot is a meadow covered with wildflowers. The breeze is cool, perfect for laying a mat and picnicking. ⚠️ Haibei is high altitude with big temperature swings between morning and night. Bring a fleece jacket even in summer. 🚄 Renting a car from Xining for a day trip is tight. It’s better to stay overnight in Qilian County and see Niuxin Mountain in the morning mist. It’s worth it.

Sisters! We really get you! Skip the crowded popular spots and head to Pingli County in Shaanxi, a hidden gem of a small town. With an average cost of just over 300, you can relax fully. Fewer people and stunning views make it a real-life version of "go where the wind blows" 🍃 🤔 Why Pingli? Located at the junction of Shaanxi, Hubei, and Sichuan, with a forest coverage rate of 82%. The average summer temperature is only about 22℃, making it a perfect summer retreat. Known as "China’s most beautiful tea town," the pace here is slow, letting you truly unwind. --- 📍 4 must-visit hidden gems 1. Tianshu Gorge Scenic Area (4A) — "Jiuzhaigou of southern Shaanxi" 🌲 · Attractions: 97% forest coverage, water as green as jade. Features the "Tianshu" strange stones and Longxu Waterfall, with an abundance of negative oxygen ions. · Cost: About 150–300 yuan/day (including admission, food, and lodging) · Transportation: Located in Baxian Town. Recommended to drive or take a shuttle to Baxian Town and transfer. · Accommodation: Inns or homestays in Baxian Town, starting at 80 yuan per person · Food: Local farmhouse dishes in town, recommended smoked pork stir-fried with mountain bamboo shoots 2. Shaoyao Valley Scenic Area (3A) — "Sea of clouds sunrise viewing spot" ☁️ · Attractions: Only 6 km from the county seat. After rain, clear skies often create stunning seas of clouds. Also home to the popular "Cloudside Convenience Store" photo spot! · Cost: About 200–500 yuan/day · Transportation: Very close to the county seat. Taxi or driving is most convenient. · Accommodation: Recommended Pingli Hexi Yun She, mountain view homestay starting at 500 yuan · Food: Meals available at the homestay, recommended bamboo shoots stir-fried with smoked pork and black-bone chicken stew 3. Jiangjiaping Scenic Area (4A) — "Fresh air among ten thousand acres of tea gardens" 🍵 · Attractions: Surrounded by ten thousand acres of ecological tea gardens. Free admission! Bring a chair and daydream facing the tea hills all afternoon. · Cost: About 100–200 yuan/day · Transportation: Not far from the county seat. Recommended to drive or take a taxi. · Accommodation: Stay in Pingli County for more options and lower prices. · Food: Recommended Jinqiao Restaurant, 5 people can eat their fill for just 160 yuan 4. Zhengyang Grassland — "Shaanxi’s Altay" 🏕️ · Attractions: Alpine grassland at 1,600 meters elevation. Endless green fields, said to be as large as 10 Guanshan pastures! Great for camping and stargazing. · Cost: About 150–300 yuan/day (cheaper if camping) · Transportation: Quite far, must drive yourself! The mountain roads offer stunning views. · Accommodation: Camp (bring your own tent) or stay at inns in Zhengyang Town. · Food: Recommended to bring your own food or eat in Zhengyang Town. · -- 🗺️ Itinerary & tips · Itinerary: 2 days 1 night: Day 1 depart from Xi’an → Tianshu Gorge; Day 2 Shaoyao Valley/Jiangjiaping → return. 3 days 2 nights: add Zhengyang Grassland. · Transportation: Recommended to drive (about 3.5 hours from Xi’an). You can also take a bus to Pingli County and rent a car locally. · Food: Must-try dishes include seasonal flatbread sandwiches, potato cakes stir-fried with smoked pork, spicy and sour small river fish, and Rouma wontons. · Budget: 300–500 yuan per person for 2 days 1 night is enough for a great trip! · Reminder: Bring a jacket for big temperature differences in the mountains; follow the "Pingli Culture and Tourism" public account; book accommodations early during peak season. Really, before it gets too popular, hurry and enjoy this peaceful escape! 💖

When it comes to escaping the summer heat in August and September, many people's first thought is to head to Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan. However, truly less crowded, scenic spots with direct high-speed rail access are often overlooked. This time, I've selected eight underrated cities, spanning from Lingnan to Northeast China, and from Northwest to Southeast China. The average temperature here is five or six degrees Celsius lower than in cities, and crucially, you won't be crammed in. 01 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Summer in Zhaoqing is permeated with the misty air of Xinghu Lake. Entering the Seven Star Crags Scenic Area at four in the afternoon, the sunlight shines obliquely down, making the lake surface look like it's covered with shattered silver. Don't rush to take a boat; first, walk along the lake embankment. The breeze blowing across the water carries the refreshing scent of lotus leaves—much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. ⏰ Around five in the evening, climb to the top of Shishi Rock. You can see the entire Xinghu Lake bathed in the warm orange hues of the setting sun, and the outline of Dinghu Mountain in the distance becomes clear. After watching the sunset, don't rush to leave. Exit the scenic area from the south gate, cross the road, and you'll find Yanqian Village. Just pop into any of the dessert shops along the street and order a bowl of mung bean soup. The sandy texture paired with the aroma of dried tangerine peel will cool you down instantly. ⚠️ A word of caution: buy your Seven Star Crags tickets online in advance; the queues on-site can be incredibly long. Also, the mosquitoes by the lake are fierce, so choose between long pants or mosquito repellent—don't say I didn't warn you. 02 Yuxi | Yunnan Many people go straight to Dali and Lijiang in Yunnan, leaving Yuxi like a neglected child, quietly nestled next to Kunming. Fuxian Lake has the clearest water I've ever seen, with visibility of seven or eight meters; you can see the stones at the bottom just by standing on the shore. Cycling around the lake in the morning is the most comfortable. Start from Luchong Village and ride towards Haikou Town. The entire route is scenic, with lake views. Stop when you get tired and find a shady spot to sit for a while. At noon, I ate copper pot fish by the lake. The fish was so tender it practically fell apart with chopsticks. The dipping sauce was the soul of the meal—sour and spicy, with mint leaves. One bite and I felt completely refreshed. If you have enough time, you can head towards the Ailao Mountains. The air in the mountains is very humid, and fog often forms in the afternoon. When the sea of ​​clouds rolls in, standing halfway up the mountain and looking down gives you the illusion of being in a fairyland. 📍 The Shimen Gorge section is the most worthwhile to walk. The boardwalk is built along the stream, the water rushes by, and a cool breeze rises from your feet. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Yuxi. It only takes half an hour, and the ticket price is only 30-40 yuan, much cheaper than going to Dali or Lijiang. 03 Baishan | Jilin Changbai Mountain is very famous, but most people only know about Tianchi Lake, overlooking the cool corners at the foot of the mountain. In August, the highest temperature on the summit of Changbai Mountain is only slightly above 20 degrees Celsius; you still need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. ⏰ To see Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), you must arrive early. The scenic area opens at 7:30 AM, and the first bus up the mountain has the fewest people. If you go at noon, the queue will be at least two hours long, and fog often forms at the summit, so if you're unlucky, you won't see anything. I was lucky that day; I arrived at the top around 9 AM, and Tianchi was completely revealed, a vibrant blue like a gemstone. Everyone around me was stunned. After seeing Tianchi, don't rush down the mountain. The waterfall and hot springs on the north slope are worth a visit. The waterfall isn't high, but the sound is loud. Standing on the viewing platform, the mist on your face is refreshingly cool. At the hot springs, you can buy some hot spring eggs; the yolks are semi-solid, with a runny texture and a slightly sulfurous taste—quite unique. 📍 Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain is especially quiet at night. Find a barbecue restaurant, order some local skewers, and enjoy them with an ice-cold beer—all the fatigue of the day will disappear. 04 Linxia | Gansu Linxia is a seriously underrated city. Summers are surprisingly cool for Northwest China, and it can even be a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings. Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is not far from the city center. The reservoir's water is a vibrant turquoise, and looking down from the dam, it resembles a giant emerald set in the canyon. To see Bingling Temple, you need to take a boat. The journey takes about an hour, and the Yellow River Stone Forest along the way is spectacular, with red sandstone gleaming in the sunlight. The plank road at Bingling Temple is built on a cliff, and the giant Buddha statue inside is over twenty meters tall. Standing below and looking up, the awe is indescribable. ⚠️ Note that Bingling Temple stops selling tickets at 4 PM every day, so plan your time accordingly. Also, it can be windy on the boat, so even if it's sunny at midday, bring a jacket. The night market in Linxia city is worth a visit. Hand-pulled mutton is a signature dish—rich but not greasy, and dipped in salt and pepper, it's incredibly flavorful. Pair it with a bowl of Hezhou steamed buns—thin-skinned and generously filled, bursting with juicy soup when you bite into them—so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! 05 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Summer in Mudanjiang is a hidden summer retreat for Northeasterners. Jingpo Lake is China's largest high-altitude barrier lake, its surface as calm as a mirror, surrounded by forests, the air filled with negative ions. Diaoshuilou Waterfall is the highlight of Jingpo Lake. During the rainy season, the water flow is particularly strong. Standing on the viewing platform, the roar of the water and the spray feel like a light rain. ⏰ Go around 10 am for the best light; you can see a rainbow spanning the waterfall—a truly stunning sight. After viewing the waterfall, you can stroll along the lakeside boardwalk, flanked by birch forests, their dappled shadows creating a tranquil atmosphere. If you have enough time, you can stay overnight at a lakeside resort, falling asleep to the sounds of insects and waking up to birdsong—an experience rarely found in the city. 🍜 The food in Mudanjiang city is very hearty. The iron pot stew is a must-try; pork ribs stewed with green beans, with cornbread stuck around the edge of the pot, releases an irresistible aroma the moment you lift the lid, warming you right up. 06 Fuzhou|Fujian Fuzhou isn't a traditional summer resort, but the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys are surprisingly pleasant to stroll through in summer. The old houses in the alleys, with their blue bricks and gray tiles, are mostly filled with large banyan trees, their shade so dense you can feel two or three degrees cooler inside. Avoid the main street; the shops are so crowded you can barely move. Turn into the adjacent Yijin Lane, and you'll find far fewer people. The stone slabs are worn smooth by countless footsteps, the wooden doors on either side are half-open, and you can occasionally see elderly people in their courtyards, fanning themselves and drinking tea. 📍 The waterside stage is worth seeing. There's a Min opera performance at 3:30 PM. Standing there and listening for a while, even if you don't understand the dialect, the unique rhythm and the charm of the old houses create the perfect atmosphere. ⚠️ The shops in Sanfang Qixiang are generally expensive, so just look and don't make impulsive purchases. For food, head to Daming Road nearby. Local favorites like laohua (a type of noodle soup), fish balls, and rouyan (meat swallow dumplings) are popular. A bowl of these will leave you feeling completely satisfied. Summer evenings come early in Fuzhou. After 5:30 PM, the sunlight turns golden, casting shadows on the saddle-shaped walls of the alleyways. The interplay of light and shadow is incredibly photogenic. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is located in the heart of the Qinling Mountains, and summers there are much cooler than in Xi'an. Jinshixia Gorge is its star attraction. The boardwalk along the stream in the gorge takes about three hours to walk, and the slope is gentle enough for both the elderly and children. The water in the canyon is emerald green and crystal clear. In the latter half, there's a waterfall, like a water curtain cave; as you walk through it, the mist hits you, giving you a refreshing chill. 📍 The Bailong Gorge section is the most beautiful, with sheer cliffs on both sides and a stream running through the middle. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating dappled patterns. If you have enough time, you can also visit Tianshu Gorge. It's less crowded there, and the canyon is deeper and more secluded. At the end, there's an open area where locals sell roasted corn, boiled in spring water, giving it a sweet flavor. 🍜 Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is on the return trip. You can stop for lunch. The local snacks are very unique; the "Immortal Tofu" is green, made with tree leaf juice, and has a smooth texture. Served with chili oil, it's tangy and spicy, very appetizing. Shangluo is only a little over 100 kilometers from Xi'an, less than an hour by high-speed train. A two-day, one-night weekend trip is perfectly feasible. 08 Xining | Qinghai Summer in Xining is truly cool; daytime highs only reach 25-26 degrees Celsius, and you'll need a blanket at night. Ta'er Monastery is a must-see. From morning till night, people prostrate themselves in the square in front of the monastery; the devout atmosphere naturally brings a sense of peace. ⏰ It's best to visit Ta'er Monastery in the morning when it's less crowded and the sunlight is gentler. The butter sculptures inside the halls are breathtaking, but note that photography is not allowed inside, as staff will be watching. There are many prayer wheels in the monastery; follow the locals and walk clockwise to feel the power of faith. Dongguan Great Mosque is located in the city center; visiting in the afternoon is ideal. The square in front of the main hall is spacious, and in the evening, the afterglow casts a beautiful golden halo on the dome of the prayer hall. ⚠️ Please dress appropriately; women should wear long sleeves and trousers. Free robes are available for borrowing at the entrance. Xining's night markets are a paradise for carb lovers, with liangpi (cold skin noodles), sweet fermented rice, and grilled lamb skewers—you can't go wrong with any of them. 🍜 There's a place called Ma Zhong Restaurant where the liangpi is chewy and the chili oil is fragrant but not overly hot. Pair it with a cup of local yogurt for a refreshing and digestive boost. 📍 If you have time, rent a car and drive around the mountains of Huangzhong County. At higher altitudes, you can see fields of rapeseed flowers. Although the peak blooming season is over in August, the view against the backdrop of distant snow-capped mountains is still breathtaking. Many people's first thought for escaping the summer heat in August and September is to head to Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan. But truly less crowded, scenic spots with direct high-speed rail access are often overlooked. This time, I've selected eight underrated cities, from Lingnan to Northeast China, from Northwest to Southeast China, where the average temperature is five or six degrees Celsius lower than in cities, and most importantly, you won't be crammed in. 01 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Summer in Zhaoqing is permeated with the mist from Xinghu Lake. Entering the Seven Star Crags Scenic Area at 4 PM, the sunlight slanted down, making the lake surface look like it was covered with shattered silver. Don't rush to take a boat; first, walk along the lake embankment. The breeze blowing across the water carries the refreshing scent of lotus leaves—much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. ⏰ Around 5 PM, climb to the top of Shishi Rock. You can see the entire Star Lake bathed in the warm orange hues of the setting sun, and the outline of Dinghu Mountain in the distance becomes clear. After watching the sunset, don't rush to leave. Exit from the south gate of the scenic area, cross the road, and you'll find Yanqian Village. Just pop into any of the dessert shops along the street and order a bowl of mung bean soup. The sandy texture paired with the aroma of dried tangerine peel is incredibly refreshing. ⚠️ A word of caution: buy your Seven Star Crags tickets online in advance; the queues on-site can be incredibly long. Also, the mosquitoes by the lake are fierce; choose between long pants or mosquito repellent—don't say I didn't warn you. 02 Yuxi | Yunnan Many people head straight to Dali and Lijiang when visiting Yunnan, leaving Yuxi like a neglected child, quietly nestled next to Kunming. Fuxian Lake has the clearest water I've ever seen, with visibility of seven or eight meters; you can see the stones at the bottom just standing on the shore. Cycling around the lake in the morning is the most comfortable. Start from Luchong Village and cycle towards Haikou Town. The entire route is filled with lake views. Stop when you're tired and find a shady spot to sit. For lunch, eat copper pot fish by the lake. The fish is so tender it falls apart with a touch of chopsticks. The dipping sauce is the soul of the tripe—sour and spicy, with mint leaves; one bite and you're instantly refreshed. If you have enough time, you can head towards the Ailao Mountains. The air humidity in the mountains is high, and fog often forms in the afternoon. When the sea of ​​clouds rolls in, standing halfway up the mountain and looking down gives you the illusion of having wandered into a fairyland. 📍 The Shimenxia section is the most worthwhile to walk. The boardwalk is built along the stream, the water is rushing, and a cool breeze rises from your feet. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Yuxi. It only takes half an hour and the ticket price is 30-40 yuan, much cheaper than going to Dali or Lijiang. 03 Baishan|Jilin Changbai Mountain is very famous, but most people only know about Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) and overlook the cool corners at the foot of the mountain. In August, the highest temperature at the summit of Changbai Mountain is only slightly above 20 degrees Celsius, and you still need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. ⏰ To see Tianchi, you must go early. The scenic area opens at 7:30 am, and the first bus up the mountain has the fewest people. If you go at noon, the queue will be at least two hours long, and fog is common at the summit. If you're unlucky, you won't be able to see anything. I was lucky that day; I arrived at the summit around 9 am, and Tianchi was completely revealed, as blue as a gemstone. Everyone around me was stunned. After visiting Tianchi Lake, don't rush down the mountain. The waterfall and hot springs on the north slope are worth a visit. The waterfall isn't high, but the sound of the water is loud. Standing on the viewing platform, the mist on your face is refreshingly cool. At the hot springs, you can buy some hot spring eggs; the yolks are semi-solid, with a runny yolk and a slightly sulfurous taste—quite unique. 📍 Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain is especially quiet at night. Find a barbecue restaurant, order some local skewers, and enjoy them with an ice-cold beer—all the fatigue of the day will disappear. 04 Linxia | Gansu Linxia is a seriously underrated city. Summers are surprisingly cool for Northwest China, and even a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings. The Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is not far from the city center. The reservoir's water is a vibrant turquoise; standing on the dam and looking down, it resembles a giant emerald set in the canyon. To see Bingling Temple, you need to take a boat. The journey takes about an hour, and the Yellow River Stone Forest along the way is spectacular, with red sandstone shimmering in the sunlight. The plank road at Bingling Temple is built on a cliff. The Buddha statue inside is over 20 meters tall; standing below and looking up, the awe-inspiring feeling is hard to describe. ⚠️ Note that Bingling Temple stops selling tickets at 4 PM every day, so plan your time accordingly. Also, it can be windy on the boat, so even if the midday sun is strong, bring a jacket. The night market in Linxia city is worth a visit. Hand-pulled mutton is their signature dish—rich but not greasy, and dipped in salt and pepper, it's incredibly flavorful. Pair it with a bowl of Hezhou steamed buns; the skin is thin, the filling is generous, and biting into them releases a burst of broth—it's so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! 05 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Summer in Mudanjiang is a hidden summer retreat for Northeasterners. Jingpo Lake is China's largest high-altitude barrier lake; its surface is as calm as a mirror, surrounded by forests, and the air is filled with negative ions. Diaoshuilou Waterfall is the essence of Jingpo Lake. During the rainy season, the water flow is particularly strong. Standing on the viewing platform, the roar of the water and the spray feel like a light rain. ⏰ Go around 10 am for the best light; you can see a rainbow spanning the waterfall – a truly stunning sight. After viewing the waterfall, you can stroll along the lakeside boardwalk, flanked by birch forests with dappled shadows. Walking there is incredibly peaceful. If you have enough time, you can stay overnight at a lakeside resort, falling asleep to the sounds of insects and waking up to birdsong – a rare experience in the city. 🍜 The food in Mudanjiang city is very authentic. The iron pot stew is a must-try. Pork ribs stewed with green beans, with corn cakes around the edge of the pot, releases a fragrant aroma the moment you lift the lid, warming you right up. 06 Fuzhou|Fujian Fuzhou isn't a traditional summer resort, but the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys are surprisingly pleasant to explore in summer. The old houses in the alleyways, with their blue bricks and gray tiles, are mostly filled with large banyan trees, their shade so dense that it lowers the temperature by two or three degrees Celsius. Avoid the main street; the shops are so crowded you can barely move. Turn into the adjacent Yijin Lane, and the crowds thin out considerably. The stone slabs gleam from being walked on, and the wooden doors on either side are half-open. Occasionally, you'll see elderly people in their courtyards, fanning themselves with palm-leaf fans and sipping tea. 📍 The waterside stage is worth seeing. There's a Min opera performance at 3:30 PM. Stand there and listen for a while; even if you don't understand the dialect, the unique intonation and the charm of the old houses create the perfect atmosphere. ⚠️ The shops in Sanfang Qixiang are generally expensive, so just look and don't make impulsive purchases. For food, head to Daming Road next door. Local favorites for dishes like lao hua (a type of noodle soup), fish balls, and rouyan (meat dumplings) are all there; a bowl of these will leave you feeling completely satisfied. Summer evenings come early in Fuzhou. After 5:30 PM, the sunlight turns golden, casting shadows on the saddle-shaped walls of the alleyways, creating a particularly photogenic interplay of light and shadow. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is located in the heart of the Qinling Mountains, and its summers are much cooler than Xi'an's. Jinshixia Gorge is its star attraction. The plank road along the stream in the gorge takes about three hours to walk, with a gentle slope suitable for both the elderly and children. The water in the gorge is emerald green and crystal clear. In the latter part, there's a waterfall, like a water curtain cave; walking through it, the mist hits you, giving you a refreshing chill. 📍 The Bailongxia Gorge section is the most beautiful, with steep cliffs on both sides and a stream in the middle. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating dappled patterns. If you have enough time, you can also visit Tianshuxia Gorge. It's less crowded there, the gorge is deeper and more secluded, and at the end, there's an open area where locals sell roasted corn, boiled in spring water, giving it a sweet flavor. 🍜 On the way back, you can stop at Mancheng Pass Ancient Town for lunch. The local snacks are very unique; the "Fairy Tofu" is green, made with tree leaf juice, and has a smooth texture. Served with chili oil, it's tangy and spicy, very appetizing. Shangluo is only a little over 100 kilometers from Xi'an, less than an hour by high-speed train, making a two-day, one-night trip perfectly feasible over a weekend. 08 Xining | Qinghai Summer in Xining is truly cool. The highest daytime temperature is only around 25-26 degrees Celsius, and you'll need a blanket at night. Ta'er Monastery is a must-see. From morning till night, people prostrate themselves in the square in front of the monastery; the devout atmosphere naturally brings a sense of peace. ⏰ It's best to visit Ta'er Monastery in the morning when it's less crowded and the sunlight is gentler. The butter sculptures inside the halls are breathtaking, but note that photography is not allowed inside; staff will be watching. There are many prayer wheels in the monastery; follow the locals and turn them clockwise to feel the power of faith. The Dongguan Grand Mosque is located in the city center, so an afternoon visit is ideal. The square in front of the main hall is spacious, and in the evening, the afterglow casts a beautiful golden halo on the dome of the prayer hall. ⚠️ Please dress appropriately. Women should wear long sleeves and trousers. Free robes are available for borrowing at the entrance. Xining's night markets are a paradise for carb lovers. You can't go wrong with anything from liangpi (cold skin noodles) and sweet fermented rice to grilled lamb skewers. 🍜 There's a restaurant called Ma Zhong Restaurant; their liangpi is chewy, and the chili oil is fragrant but not overly hot. Pair it with a cup of local yogurt for a refreshing and digestive boost. 📍 If you have more time, you can rent a car and drive around the mountains of Huangzhong County. At higher altitudes, you can see vast fields of rapeseed flowers. Although the peak blooming season is over in August, the view against the backdrop of distant snow-capped mountains is still breathtaking.