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

Puzhehei in July is tough and not recommended. The 32℃ humid heat blows through the karst peaks of Qinglong Mountain, mixed with sudden bursts of cool rain that soak the linen T-shirt, sticking damply to the waist. Freshly squeezed water chestnut juice bought at the Xianrendong village market is blown by the strong Tianheng wind, scattering wild lotus seed residue all over the back of the hand, mixing sweet and sticky sensations that catch you off guard! July midsummer at Puzhehei is the real lotus wave water fight season. Holding freshly grilled honey-glazed pork belly skewers, before finishing half the stone path in Xianrendong village, the oil residue is blown by the village wind onto the side pocket of khaki cargo pants. Stepping on the shallow embankment by the lotus pond, the pink and white lotus petals stick to the edges of the non-slip hole shoes, along with crushed purple water lily honey crumbs. The honey-orange sunset bathes the vast lotus pond in dazzling golden waves, while soft rain clouds drift along the peaks toward Bamei, carrying the fresh aroma of stewed chicken mixed with the crispy, sweet, and smoky scent of fried lotus flowers that fills the nose 🍉 Who understands, family! Just bit into a freshly baked purple rice paste cake with a crispy outside and molten filling at the stilt house alley in Puzhehei village. The fragrance of purple glutinous rice mixed with rose sauce sweetness still lingers in the throat. Suddenly, a 31℃ muggy wind carrying lotus pond moisture sweeps in. The scattered cool raindrops rolling down Qinglong Mountain sneak through sandal straps. The handmade lotus stem cool ring hanging on the bamboo raft rattles against the stainless steel ice bucket. The exclusive cloud sea spot halfway up Qinglong Mountain overlooking the lotus pond hasn’t been reached yet. Fingertips pruned by rain almost drop the phone into a lotus pond puddle. Almost opened the app to book the last flight from Qiubei to Kunming to rush home, wrap in a cool 23℃ room under air conditioning, and eat chilled kirin melon. Looking up, unexpectedly hit by the honey-orange sunset spreading soft light along the peaks, the entire lotus pond floats with a layer of scattered gold. Even the edges of the pale pink lotus tips glow with warm orange halos. The sticky sweat on the back is instantly replaced by the wild fragrant cattail scent, leaving no trace! 📍Location: Puzhehei National 5A Tourist Scenic Area, Wenshan, Yunnan Address: Puzhehei Scenic Area, Qiubei County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Precise navigation available Tickets: In July, the summer bamboo raft water fight + full-area lotus pond sightseeing bus pass costs about 210 yuan. The early morning exclusive Qinglong Mountain sunrise climb and the cave dark river rowing experience are optional. During sudden heavy rain, if the lotus pond water level rises sharply, bamboo raft navigation may be temporarily restricted. Please confirm the latest updates on the official mini program at least 1 day in advance Recommended time: 6:30 AM–9:20 AM / 6:10 PM–10:00 PM. Avoid the extreme temperature difference period from 12 PM to 4 PM when the lotus pond surface is directly heated and sudden rain drops the temperature by 10℃, chilling fingertips. This timing perfectly catches the milky morning fog drifting over the lotus pond embankments with no one on the stone path, and the evening string lights around the wooden boardwalk by the lotus fields illuminating the golden waves—a perfect photo window. It also avoids the summer vacation crowds at the transfer center waiting for bamboo rafts, where over 40 people jam the boats. 📒 July full bloom lotus wave + full-area water fight season firsthand tips: 1. Don’t believe the online hype about “wearing a short skirt on a bamboo raft water fight in July for easy beautiful photos”! The 33℃ direct sun heats the water surface, burning feet, and strangers splashing water soak you with an ice-fire double effect. Quick-dry waterproof clothes with velcro hoods + non-slip water shoes that drain and don’t trap water are a must. Tested on a 1.5-hour water fight bamboo raft ride, not a drop of water got on the spare phone in the pocket. The slippery lotus pond embankment didn’t cause any slips. 2. For the best panoramic shots of Qinglong Mountain’s peak forest and lotus waves, don’t squeeze into the crowded mountaintop. Move 25 meters to the side to a half-mountain stone step platform. Low-angle upward shots capture the entire lotus pond stretching to the horizon and the scattered karst peak outlines. Visitors holding water scoops for splashing don’t even get half an arm in the frame. The photos will blow up your social feed. 3. Never wear white mesh shoes to run on the muddy lotus pond embankments! Dark brown mud spots and fine lotus petal debris get stuck in the mesh and are impossible to clean even after half an hour at the guesthouse. If you don’t want to spend the night on the stilt house terrace scrubbing shoes by lantern light, choose fully enclosed waterproof hole shoes. After stepping in soft mud, a quick shake drops all the mud off, and rinsing in the clear stream by the lotus field for 2 seconds leaves no mud marks. 4. Don’t waste money on souvenirs at the scenic area’s trendy cultural shops. Head deeper into Puzhehei village to a Zhuang grandmother’s handmade shop that’s been open for over 20 years. For 28 yuan, you can fill a big bag with handmade dried lotus flower tea. The grandmother also offers free samples of her crispy sweet fried lotus flower pastries, which are almost half the price and more authentic than the scenic area shops. 5. To capture misty lotus wave panoramas without people, don’t stick to the main trail checkpoints. Walk 30 meters to the hidden small wooden bridges among the lotus fields. Look up to see soft light wrapped in milky morning fog spreading over the lotus waves. You won’t even bump into a single live-streaming blogger with a camera rig. 👗 Dressing guide: ✔️ Wear water blue or pink-white draping quick-dry short T-shirts! The soft colors paired with the green tea lotus fields and scattered gray-blue peaks create summer countryside magazine-level atmosphere photos. Posting on social media will get 99+ comments with no duplicates. ✔️ Thick-soled non-slip quick-dry hole shoes are a must! The bamboo raft floor is covered with splashed water, but your feet won’t slip or blister after the full ride. Mud and stream water rinse off instantly. ✔️ Use a fully enclosed waterproof phone pouch hung around your neck. Water splashes during the fight won’t reach the screen. Holding it up to shoot splashes won’t blur the photos. It’s 100 times less stressful than putting your phone in your pocket and accidentally soaking it. 🚗 Transportation: The Qiubei County bus station’s direct Puzhehei cultural tourism line is the easiest! The 20-minute route goes straight along the scenic boulevard with no detours. The freshly squeezed water chestnut juice bought at the station still has cold droplets on the cup wall when you arrive at the Xianrendong village alley. A 3-minute walk from the stop leads straight to the charcoal-grilled pork belly stall at the village entrance. Now sitting by the lotus pond boardwalk, enjoying the lotus-scented braised ribs just steamed to fall-off-the-bone tenderness. The wind carries the fresh lotus seed fragrance past the ankles. Flipping through over 1,800 golden misty lotus wave photos in the album, reluctant to delete any. The chill from being soaked and the leg soreness from climbing stone steps are instantly forgotten. The lotus petal debris stuck in the hole shoes is kept as a souvenir. Not suffering at all. Back at the guesthouse, found the lotus flower pastry the grandmother gave earlier, soaked in lotus breeze with fresh lotus sweetness. Sipping cold chrysanthemum tea, it feels like drifting in Puzhehei’s lotus-scented evening breeze hhhh

As soon as July arrives, tens of thousands of lotus flowers in Puzhehei bloom in full glory. Karst solitary peaks rise and fall in a staggered pattern, with emerald green rivers weaving through lotus leaves. Say goodbye to the city’s scorching heat and step into a real-life landscape painting of mountains, water, and countryside. 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions 1. Qinglong Mountain Viewing Platform (Must-Visit) It takes only 20-25 minutes to reach the top, with gentle steps suitable for all ages. On clear days, you can overlook the entire wetland countryside with layered mountains and waters; after rain, mist drifts over the peaks, creating a fairy-like atmosphere; at dusk, the sunset bathes the mountains in golden light, perfect for stunning photos. It’s best to climb in the early morning or evening to avoid the midday sun. 2. Willow Leaf Boat Ride Through the Lotus Pond Take a special wooden boat to glide through vast lotus flower clusters. Cool river water surrounds you, and during the ride, you can easily splash water with other tourists, fully immersing yourself in the unique relaxed vibe of summer. 3. Leisurely Stroll in Xianrendong Village A Zhuang ethnic riverside village with lakeside homestays scattered around. Take an evening walk along the lake, feel the breeze, and slowly enjoy the peaceful rural life. 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary Plan Day 1: Arrive in Puzhehei, check into a homestay in Xianrendong Village, and take a relaxing lakeside walk in the evening; Day 2: Early morning climb to Qinglong Mountain for panoramic views, afternoon boat ride on the willow leaf boat through the lotus pond; Day 3: Leisurely explore the countryside scenery, taste local specialties before heading back. 😋 Puzhehei’s Signature Foods 1. Sanqi Stewed Native Chicken: Wenshan specialty Sanqi herb slow-cooked with native chicken, resulting in a rich, fragrant, and nourishing broth; 2. Lotus Leaf Fried Eggs: Fresh lotus leaves picked from the pond, fragrant and refreshing, a must-eat summer home dish; 3. Puzhehei Lotus Flower Fish: Fresh fish from the lake with tender meat and no earthy smell; 4. Zhuang Ethnic Five-Color Rice: Naturally dyed with plants, glutinous rice that is soft, sweet, and a distinctive ethnic snack; 5. Zhuang Sour Soup Beef: Sour and spicy, appetizing and perfect for cooling down and refreshing in summer. 💡 Practical Travel Tips 1. The UV rays in Yunnan are strong, so be sure to bring a sun hat and sunscreen; 2. Boat rides and water play can easily wet your clothes, so carry a change of clothes; 3. Wear light-colored long dresses for better harmony with the mountain and water scenery, making your photos more stunning.

Taking advantage of my free time, I embarked on a relaxing short trip to Wenshan City, experiencing firsthand the unique natural scenery and ethnic charm of this small town, which left me feeling exceptionally refreshed. Early in the morning, I first went for a walk in Xihua Park. The park is lush with trees, and the air is fresh and cool. Walking slowly along the mountain path, I could hear the melodious chirping of birds. Climbing to a higher point, I could see the entire cityscape of Wenshan, with its staggered buildings and rolling mountains creating a breathtaking panorama. After exploring the park, I strolled to the Panlong River. The river flowed gently, its banks lined with verdant greenery, and many locals were leisurely walking there, creating a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere. After a day of sightseeing, I was inevitably tired, so choosing a comfortable place to stay was crucial. For this trip, I chose to stay at the Fengbang Hotel flagship store. The hotel boasts a superb location, right next to Qihua Square, with excellent accessibility to all parts of the area. Whether it's sightseeing, shopping, finding food, or commuting, it's incredibly convenient. The hotel itself is clean and tidy, the rooms are spacious and bright, the beds are soft and comfortable, and the soundproofing is excellent, ensuring a undisturbed night's rest. The service is attentive and meticulous, and the facilities are complete, making for a safe and comfortable stay. A good rest here after a long journey instantly relieves travel fatigue. After a good rest, I continued my sightseeing in the afternoon. I visited the Wenshan Prefecture Museum, learning about the local history and culture, viewing unique folk exhibits, and experiencing firsthand the customs and traditions of the Zhuang, Miao, and other ethnic minorities. In the evening, I went to Hualong Lake, where the setting sun cast its golden rays on the shimmering water, creating a beautiful scene. As night fell, the city came alive, with a dazzling array of street food stalls. The authentic Sanqi Steamed Chicken is fragrant and nourishing, the special cold rice noodle rolls are smooth and refreshing, and the local barbecue is full of flavor – every bite is a taste of Wenshan. Stroll leisurely through the bustling streets and alleys, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this small town. This short trip to Wenshan was a feast for the eyes with its beautiful scenery, memorable folk customs, and delicious food. Comfortable and convenient accommodations combined with a fun-filled itinerary made this trip fulfilling and enjoyable, leaving behind many wonderful memories.

01 Tianjin September's autumn breeze is cool, perfect for cycling in the Five Great Avenues. The parasol trees on Machang Road and Munan Road are lush, and the light is perfect around 3–4 PM. Don't take a horse-drawn carriage; ride a shared bike to explore the small Western-style villas. In the evening, go to the Italian Style Town, walk into the alleys off Ziyou Road to avoid the main street. Arrive at the Olympic Sports Center perimeter before 9 AM to experience local morning exercises. ⚠️Some villas are office areas; do not enter restricted zones. 02 Haikou | Hainan Qilou Old Street is worth an overnight stay. At 7 AM, stroll along Deshengsha Road to Zhongshan Road and have a bowl of Hainan rice noodles. At noon, avoid tourist traps and eat marinated noodles in the alleys of Bo'ai North Road for great value. In the afternoon, visit the Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark; check out the science museum first, then head to the summit after 4 PM to catch the breeze. 03 Shenyang | Liaoning Visit Beiling Park from late September to early October, when the ginkgo trees along the central axis turn golden. From 6:30–8 AM, it's full of locals doing morning exercises. At the Expo Garden, take the CNY 5 train to hop on and off, then climb the Lily Tower for a bird's-eye view of the colorful autumn park. 04 Shaoguan | Guangdong Choose a sunny day for Mount Danxia and enter the park at 2 PM. Hike up Zhanglao Peak; it takes about 40 minutes to reach the summit, where you can see the Jinjiang River winding around the red rock formations. ⚠️It's windy at the summit, so wear a hat. On the way down, take the other side toward Yangyuan Stone; the path is gentle and easier on the knees. The whole trip takes 3.5 hours. 05 Weinan | Shaanxi For Mount Hua, start hiking from Yuquan Temple at 3 PM and take the "Ancient Mount Hua Trail." The steps at Qianchi Chuang and Baichi Xia are steep. If you're tired, you can stop at North Peak; if you're afraid of heights, you can take the West Peak cable car down. ⚠️It's very cold at the summit at night, so bring a light down jacket; renting a coat is not recommended. If you climb at night, look up to see a sky full of stars. 06 Jiaozuo | Henan Yuntai Mountain is beautiful in autumn. Visit Red Stone Gorge between 9–11 AM; enter as soon as the park opens to avoid the crowds. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Qingtian River to enjoy the autumn scenery on both banks. You can try the wild vegetable buns in the scenic area. ⚠️Boat tickets and admission tickets must be purchased separately. 07 Changzhi | Shanxi Enter Baquan Gorge in Huguan at 10 AM to see the deep green lake water. Hike upstream and take a boat back at the end. If you have average stamina, choose Qinglong Gorge; the trails are gentle, there are many red leaves, and it's great for photos. 08 Wenshan | Yunnan In Puzhehei, climb Qinglong Mountain and reach the summit half an hour before sunset to see the golden light on the karst peaks and lakes. Stay at a homestay in Xianrendong Village and eat freshly caught sour soup fish. ⚠️Choose an official pier for boat rides and avoid private boats.

Step into a real-life Qingqiu landscape, where karst peaks are scattered across ten thousand acres of lotus ponds, and pastoral fields, lakes, and caves blend together. Experience the unique poetic charm of a Yunnan water town. 🌈 Basic Information 🎫 Admission: The scenic area entrance is free. Boat rides and cave tours are separate paid activities; buying a package online is recommended for better value. ⏰ Boat & Cave Operating Hours: 8:00 AM–5:30 PM; villages and Qinglong Mountain are open all day. 📍 Address: Puzhehei Scenic Area, Qiubei County, Wenshan, Yunnan. Best Time to Visit: June–August for blooming lotuses and water fights; September–November for fewer crowds, perfect for photographing misty pastoral mornings. 🔥 Must-Visit Highlights Qinglong Mountain: Free. A 15–20 minute hike to the summit offers a panoramic view of Puzhehei. It is the perfect spot for sunrise, sunset, and morning mist photography. Wear non-slip shoes for the climb. Willow Leaf Boat: The core experience. Cruise through lotus pond waterways and pass by Huoba Cave. In summer, you can have water fights, so bring waterproof bags and a change of clothes. If you prefer to stay dry, choose the larger sightseeing boat. Caihuaqing: The filming location for "Eternal Love of Dream." With its wooden bridges and isolated peaks, it is a great spot for atmospheric photos. Xianrendong Village: A village with distinct Yi ethnic characteristics. Stroll around the lake, explore the night market in the evening, and soak in the local atmosphere. Lover's Bridge: A free spot for lotus viewing. It is great for capturing photos of boats amidst the lotus flowers, especially in the soft evening light. 🚶‍♀️‍➡️ Recommended Itinerary ✅ One-day trip (compact): Qinglong Mountain → Lover's Bridge → Willow Leaf Boat lake tour → Stroll through Xianrendong Village ✅ Two-day trip (leisurely): Day 1: Sunset at Qinglong Mountain → Night tour of Xianrendong Village Day 2: Willow Leaf Boat ride → Photo op at Caihuaqing → Walk through Xihuang Wetland 🚗 Transportation Guide 🚄 Getting There: High-speed rail directly to Puzhehei Station (about 1.5 hours from Kunming South). Take bus line 8 or a taxi from the station to reach Xianrendong Village. 🚗 Within the Scenic Area: Renting an electric scooter is convenient, or you can buy a pass for the sightseeing shuttle. Driving into the village during peak season is not recommended due to traffic congestion. ⚠️ Practical Tips 1️⃣ The highland UV rays are strong, so take sun protection measures. There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so bring insect repellent. 2️⃣ You are very likely to get wet on the Willow Leaf Boat. Be sure to put your phone in a waterproof bag and bring a change of clothes. If you do not want to participate in water fights, let the boatman know in advance. 3️⃣ The steps on Qinglong Mountain can be slippery; do not wear flip-flops for the climb. For sunrise, it is recommended to head up early to secure a good spot. 4️⃣ For accommodation, prioritize Xianrendong Village. It is close to the docks and dining options, making it very convenient.

01 Hezhou | Guangxi I brought my child to Hezhou in September, and our first stop was Gupo Mountain. The temperature difference between the foot and summit is significant, so a light jacket for the kids is essential. We entered the mountain at 9 am; the air was filled with the scent of grass and trees. The waterfall area was shrouded in mist, and the children had to stop and splash in the water every short distance. ⚠️ The mountaintop boardwalk is windy; younger children shouldn't try to walk the entire way. Turning back at Xiangu Waterfall is sufficient. At noon, we had a bowl of local oil tea with glutinous rice cakes at the scenic area entrance. Kids might not like it, but adults will love the ginger flavor. In the afternoon, we went to Huangyao Ancient Town. The stone slabs were scorching hot from the sun; it's more comfortable to stroll around after 5 pm. If you're with elementary school students, you can look for the carvings on the lintels of the old houses as you walk, like a treasure hunt. 📍 There's a tofu pudding shop near the Long Bridge in the ancient town; it's so tender it's almost like a dessert. Remember to add a spoonful of osmanthus honey. Staying in a guesthouse in the ancient town at night, you can see lanterns reflected in the Yaojiang River when you open the window, which will excite the children and make them talk ten more words. If time is tight, you can skip Dongtanling; the mountain roads are winding, and children prone to motion sickness should be cautious. 02 Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai This stop is at a high altitude, suitable for children in upper elementary school and above. Younger children are prone to altitude sickness, so don't risk it. Chaka Salt Lake and Qarhan Salt Lake are often compared. My judgment is: Qarhan is more expansive, with green salt lakes like a giant palette. There are fewer tourists, allowing you to quietly watch the white crystals crunch under your feet; Chaka is more famous, but in September afternoons, it gets crowded, the water becomes muddy, and you can't get the "mirror of the sky" photos. ⏰ To get good photos, you must arrive at Chaka before 8 am, when the wind hasn't picked up yet, and the reflections are cleanest. Emerald Lake is hidden near Mangya, a long way away, requiring a whole day round trip, but the colors are richer than the previous two, perfect for children who like geology to squat down and study the salt crust patterns. You don't necessarily need to enter the Kunlun Mountains scenic area. Just drive south from Golmud, and you'll see snow-capped peaks peeking out from the clouds. There are viewpoints along the roadside where you can stop. ⚠️ Don't skimp on sunscreen throughout your trip; the UV rays are so strong they can cause children's noses to peel. Wear old sneakers when walking around the salt lake, as the salt water will harden the soles. 03 Shaoxing City | Zhejiang Lu Xun's Former Residence is half the size of the usual tourist spots in September, making it perfect for bringing elementary school students. In the Hundred Herb Garden, the cicadas' chirping is still lingering, and children can point to the mud wall and ask, "Is this a he shou wu vine?" The desks at Sanwei Study are partially obscured by railings, but you can buy a bag of fennel beans sold at the entrance and chat about Kong Yiji while eating—more effective than memorizing texts. Shen Garden is right next door; evening is the best time to visit. When the corridor lights come on, the two poems "Chai Tou Feng" by Lu You and Tang Wan are engraved on stone, perfect for middle school students to read quietly. Lanting is in the suburbs; go in the morning to avoid crowds. The white geese in the goose pond really do chase after people; the kids are both scared and want to feed them. 📍 The winding stream in Lanting is still there, allowing children to imagine ancient literati sitting by the water drinking wine and composing poetry. Anchang Ancient Town doesn't charge an entrance fee after 6 PM; lanterns hang from the covered corridors, and the aroma of sausages and braised duck wafts along the river. 🍜 The wonton stall at the town entrance only sells until 8 PM; the wonton wrappers are as thin as paper, and the kids even drink the soup clean. ⚠️ During the day, bargaining is necessary for a boat ride; under 30 yuan is a reasonable price. 04 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan Puzhehei in September is all about "not being crowded." Most of the lotus flowers have faded, but the layers of mountains and water are revealed. Willow-leaf boats are the best choice for families with children; water fights are a must. Remember to bring an extra set of dry clothes, as the boatmen also participate in the water splashing—don't think you can escape! ⏰ Swimming is most comfortable before 10 AM, when the sun hasn't fully warmed you up and the water is cool when it splashes. In the afternoon, head to Qinglong Mountain. The steps aren't too steep; children over six can climb it on their own. From the summit, you can see the entire karst peak forest of Puzhehei, like an unfinished ink painting. If your children are younger, just take an electric cart around the lake and get off at Lover's Bridge for a few photos. Choose accommodations near the water in the village; you can hear fish jumping out of the water at night. 🍜 The roasted purple potatoes and lotus flower omelets sold by the roadside are worth trying; kids especially love the latter. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry from roadside vendors; many are made of alloy to imitate silver. 05 Chenzhou|Hunan The Gaoyiling Danxia landform is perfect for middle school students; they've just learned about it in their geography textbooks. The red rock ridge resembles the spine of a giant beast. A walk along the boardwalk takes about two hours, with no shade along the way. ⏰ You must arrive before 9 AM, as the afternoon sun will make you want to escape. The core of the Dongjiang Lake Tourist Area is the misty Xiaodongjiang River. The fog is thickest between 6:30 AM and 8 AM in September, and fishermen casting their nets is a scheduled performance; don't miss the viewpoint on the second floor of the observation deck. ⚠️ To see the fog, you must get up early; if you're half an hour late, you'll only see a still pool of water. There's a cable car directly to Mangshan Wuzhifeng (Five Finger Peaks), making it the easiest option for families with young children and the elderly. The mountaintop boardwalk is gentle, and Wuzhifeng appears and disappears in the clouds, prompting children to ask, "Is this where the immortals live?" The drive between Gaoyiling Tourist Area and Dongjiang Lake is about 40 minutes. It's recommended to split the trip into two days, one day per destination, for a perfect pace. In the evening, have salmon in Zixing city. It's actually freshwater rainbow trout, with a crisp texture; the children thought it was sashimi and ate it even more enthusiastically than the adults. 06 Jinzhou City | Liaoning The maple leaves on Yiwulü Mountain in September are just beginning to turn red, making it quiet and less crowded. If you're bringing children, it's recommended to take the sightseeing bus from the mountain gate to the middle section before starting the climb, saving energy for the final stone steps. From the summit, you can see the entire Beizhen town; the expansive view will even quiet restless children for a few seconds. The Beizhen Temple at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit; the Ming Dynasty architectural complex is well-preserved, with various eaves and ridge beasts, perfect for children who enjoy drawing to copy. ⏰ After 3 pm, the light softens, and the shadows of the trees on the red walls of the temple are particularly beautiful. If children have a stronger interest in nature, you can go around to the Dripping Water Guanyin Cave on the back mountain; the rock walls seep water year-round, and the cool air is especially refreshing in summer. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Beizhen town to eat pig's trotters. The smoky and braised flavor is rich, the skin is tender but not greasy, and with a bowl of sorghum rice, a child can easily eat half a trotter. ⚠️ There are stalls selling so-called "wild mountain products" at the scenic area entrance; the prices are inflated, so don't buy impulsively. The entire route isn't strenuous; a six-year-old's stamina is sufficient, and even the elderly can walk slowly and enjoy the scenery. 07 Xinzhou City | Shanxi The wind at Yanmen Pass is already cool in September, so be sure to bring a windproof jacket for your children. Standing on the gate tower and looking down, the ancient path winding through the valley provides an intuitive understanding of the phrase "one man can hold the pass" for upper elementary school students. There's a reconstructed section of the Great Wall within the scenic area that you can walk on; the slope is gentle, and you can finish it in half an hour, so even younger children won't find it difficult. Laoniu Bay is about a two-hour drive from Yanmen Pass. Here, the Yellow River makes an almost right-angle bend, and the water is greenish, completely different from the stereotypical image of the "Yellow River." The highlight for families with children is taking a speedboat ride around the river to see the textures of the rock walls on both banks—like flipping through a giant geological atlas. ⏰ It's recommended to take the speedboat after 3 PM, when the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, creating the most beautiful colors. In September, the number of pilgrims in Wutai Mountain Scenic Area decreases, but the temples still require quiet. For children, the focus isn't on burning incense, but rather on seeing the brackets and beams of the Tang Dynasty architecture. 📍 The beams of the East Hall of Foguang Temple have Tang Dynasty inscriptions, perfect for children learning calligraphy to squat down and find. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in Wutai Mountain is extreme; the temperature drops sharply after sunset, so a thick jacket is essential. The entire trip is quite long, so it's recommended to drive and only plan one main attraction per day. 08 Baiyin City | Gansu The temperature at the Yellow River Stone Forest in September is just right, neither too hot nor too cold. For children, the focus is on seeing the stone forest clusters; those dozens of meters high yellow stone pillars stand straight under the sunlight, looking as if they've been cleaved by a knife. Upon entering the scenic area, first take an electric cart to the canyon entrance, then transfer to a donkey cart to walk further in; children will especially love the creaking sound of the donkey cart. ⏰ The best time to visit the canyon is from 10 AM to 12 PM, when sunlight filters through the gaps in the stone pillars, creating photos with distinct light and shadow. There's a viewing platform at the end; climbing the steps takes about 20 minutes and is manageable for children in middle elementary school and above. At the foot of the stone forest, in Longwan Village, there are farmhouses offering delicious noodles with scallions and eggs – the kids loved it. ⚠️ There's no shade in the canyon, so even in September, bring plenty of water and hats. If you have enough time, you can hike through the canyon again in the evening; the sunset paints the stone forest orange-red, adding a gentler touch than during the day. The entire route is quite physically demanding, so it's recommended to schedule it for the last day of your trip, taking your time and not rushing. 01 Hezhou|Guangxi In September, I brought my child to Hezhou, and our first stop was Gupo Mountain. The temperature difference between the foot and summit is significant, so bringing a light jacket for the children is essential. We entered the mountains at 9 AM. The air was filled with the scent of grass and trees. The waterfall area was spraying mist, and children had to stop and splash in the water every few steps. ⚠️ The mountaintop boardwalk is windy; younger children shouldn't try to walk the entire way. Just turn back at Xiangu Waterfall. At noon, have a bowl of local oil tea with glutinous rice cakes at the scenic area entrance. Kids might not like it, but adults will love the ginger flavor. In the afternoon, we went to Huangyao Ancient Town. The stone slabs were scorching hot from the sun; it's more comfortable to stroll around after 5 PM. If you're with elementary school students, you can look for the carvings on the lintels of the old houses—it's like a treasure hunt. 📍 Near the Long Bridge in the ancient town, there's a tofu pudding shop; it's so tender it's almost dessert-like. Remember to add a spoonful of osmanthus honey. Stay overnight in a guesthouse in the ancient town. Opening the window, you can see lanterns reflected in the Yaojiang River; the kids will be excited and talk a lot more. If time is tight, you can skip Dongtanling; the mountain roads are winding, so children prone to motion sickness should be cautious. 02 Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai This stop is at a high altitude, suitable for children in upper elementary school and above. Younger children are prone to altitude sickness, so don't risk it. Chaka Salt Lake and Qarhan Salt Lake are often compared. My assessment is: Qarhan is more expansive, with its green salt lakes resembling a giant palette. It's less crowded, allowing you to quietly watch the white crystals crunch under your feet; Chaka is more famous, but in September afternoons it gets crowded, the water becomes muddy, and you can't capture the "mirror of the sky" effect. ⏰ For truly great photos, you must arrive at Chaka before 8 am, when the wind has picked up and the reflections are cleanest. Emerald Lake is hidden near Mangya, a long drive requiring a full day round trip, but its color gradations are richer than the previous two, perfect for geology enthusiasts to squat down and study the salt crust patterns. You don't necessarily need to enter the Kunlun Mountains scenic area. Just drive south from Golmud towards the mountain pass, and you'll see snow-capped mountains peeking out from the clouds; there are viewpoints along the roadside where you can stop. ⚠️ Don't skip sunscreen throughout the trip; the UV rays are so strong they can cause your child's nose to peel. Wear old sneakers when walking in the salt lake, as the salt water will harden the soles. 03 Shaoxing City | Zhejiang Lu Xun's Former Residence is half the size of other places in September, making it perfect for bringing elementary school students. In the Hundred Herb Garden, the cicadas' chirping is still lingering, and children can point to the mud wall and ask, "Is this a he shou wu vine?" The desks at Sanwei Study are obscured by railings, but you can buy a bag of fennel beans sold at the entrance and talk about Kong Yiji while eating them—more useful than memorizing texts. Shen Garden is right next door; evening is the best time to visit, when the corridor lights come on, and Lu You and Tang Wan's two poems, "Chai Tou Feng," are engraved on stone, perfect for middle school students to read quietly. Lanting is in the suburbs; go in the morning when it's less crowded. The white geese in the goose pond really do chase after people; children are both scared and want to feed them. 📍 The winding stream in Lanting is still there, allowing children to imagine ancient literati sitting by the water drinking wine and composing poetry. Anchang Ancient Town has no entrance fee after 6 PM; lanterns hang from the covered corridors, and the aroma of sausages and braised duck wafts along the river. 🍜 The wonton stall at the town entrance only sells until 8 PM; the wonton wrappers are so thin they're like paper, and children can even drink the soup clean. ⚠️ During the day, bargaining is necessary for a boat ride; under 30 yuan is a reasonable price. 04 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan Puzhehei in September is all about "not being crowded." Most of the lotus flowers have faded, but the layers of mountains and water are revealed. Willow-leaf boats are the best choice for families with children; water fights are a must. Remember to bring an extra set of dry clothes, as the boatmen also participate in the water splashing, so don't think you can avoid it. ⏰ The most comfortable time to go in the water is before 10 AM, when the sun hasn't fully warmed the water, and the splashes are cool. In the afternoon, we went to Qinglong Mountain. The steps weren't too steep; children over six could climb it on their own. From the summit, you could see the entire karst peak forest of Puzhehei, like an unfinished ink painting. If the children are younger, a short electric cart ride around the lake and a few photos at Lover's Bridge would suffice. Choose accommodations near the water in the village; you can hear fish jumping out of the water at night. 🍜 The roadside roasted purple potatoes and lotus flower omelets are worth trying; the kids especially loved the latter. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry from roadside vendors; many are made of alloy to imitate silver. 05 Chenzhou|Hunan The Gaoyiling Danxia landform is perfect for middle school students, as they've just learned about it in their geography textbooks. The red rock ridges resemble the spine of a giant beast. A walk around the boardwalk takes about two hours, with no shade along the way. ⏰ You must climb the mountain before 9 am; the afternoon sun will make you want to escape. The core of the Dongjiang Lake Tourist Area is the misty Xiaodongjiang River. The fog is thickest between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM in September, and the fishermen casting their nets is a scheduled performance – don't miss the viewpoint on the second floor of the observation deck. ⚠️ To see the fog, you must get up early; if you're half an hour late, you'll only see a still pool of water. There's a cable car directly to Mangshan Wuzhifeng (Five Finger Peaks), making it the easiest option for families with young children and seniors. The mountaintop boardwalk is gentle, and Wuzhifeng appears and disappears in the clouds, prompting children to ask, "Is this where the immortals live?" The drive between Gaoyiling Tourist Area and Dongjiang Lake is about 40 minutes. It's recommended to split the trip into two days, one day per spot, for a perfect pace. In the evening, have salmon in Zixing city. It's actually freshwater rainbow trout, with a crisp texture; the children thought it was sashimi and ate it even more enthusiastically than the adults. 06 Jinzhou City | Liaoning The maple leaves at Yiwulü Mountain in September are just beginning to turn red, making it quiet and less crowded. For families with young children, it's recommended to take the sightseeing bus from the mountain gate to the middle section before starting the climb, saving energy for the final stretch of stone steps. The summit offers a panoramic view of Beizhen, and the expansive view will even quiet restless children for a few seconds. The Beizhen Temple at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit; its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architectural complex features uniquely designed eaves and ridge beasts, perfect for children who enjoy drawing to copy. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light softens, making the shadows of the trees on the temple's red walls particularly beautiful. If children have a stronger interest in nature, you can go around to the Dripping Water Guanyin Cave on the back mountain. The rock walls seep water year-round, creating a cool breeze that's especially refreshing in summer. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to Beizhen town for pig's trotters. The smoky and braised flavor is rich, the skin is tender but not greasy, and paired with a bowl of sorghum rice, even a child can easily devour half a trotter. ⚠️ There are stalls selling so-called "wild mountain products" at the scenic area entrance; the prices are inflated, so don't buy impulsively. The entire route isn't strenuous; a six-year-old's stamina is sufficient, and even the elderly can enjoy a leisurely walk and explore. 07 Xinzhou City | Shanxi The wind at Yanmen Pass is already cool in September, so be sure to bring a windproof jacket for your child. Standing on the gate tower and looking down, the ancient path winding through the valley is a visual representation of the phrase "one man can hold the pass" for upper elementary school students. There's a reconstructed section of the Great Wall within the scenic area; the slope is gentle, and it can be completed in half an hour, making it easy for younger children. Laoniu Bay is about a two-hour drive from Yanmen Pass. Here, the Yellow River makes an almost right-angle bend, and the water has a greenish hue, completely different from the stereotypical image of the "Yellow River." The highlight for families with children is taking a speedboat ride around the river to see the textures of the rock walls on both banks, like flipping through a giant geological atlas. ⏰ It's recommended to take the speedboat ride after 3 PM, when the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, creating the most beautiful colors. In September, the number of pilgrims at Wutai Mountain Scenic Area decreases, but the temples still require quiet. The focus for children isn't on burning incense, but rather on observing the brackets and beams of Tang Dynasty architecture. 📍 The beams of the East Hall of Foguang Temple have Tang Dynasty inscriptions, perfect for children learning calligraphy to squat down and find. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in Wutai Mountain is extreme; the temperature drops sharply after sunset, so a thick coat is essential. The entire trip is quite long, so driving is recommended, and only one main attraction should be planned for each day. 08 Baiyin City | Gansu The temperature at the Yellow River Stone Forest in September is just right, neither too hot nor too cold. The focus for children is on the stone forest itself; those dozens of meters high yellow stone pillars stand straight under the sunlight, as if cleaved by a knife. Upon entering the scenic area, take an electric cart to the canyon entrance, then transfer to a donkey cart to walk further in; children will especially love the creaking sound of the donkey cart. ⏰ The best time to see the light in the canyon is from 10 am to 12 pm, when the sunlight shines obliquely through the gaps in the stone pillars, creating photos with distinct light and shadow. At the end of the path is a viewing platform; it's about a 20-minute climb up the steps, suitable for children in middle elementary school and above. At the foot of the Stone Forest, in Longwan Village, there are farmhouses offering delicious dishes like noodles with scallions and fried eggs—the kids loved it. ⚠️ There's no shade in the canyon, so even in September, bring plenty of water and a hat. If you have enough time, you can hike through the canyon again in the evening; the sunset paints the Stone Forest orange-red, adding a gentler touch than during the day. The entire route is quite physically demanding, so it's recommended to schedule it for the last day of your trip, taking your time and not rushing.

Stop only knowing about Dali and Lijiang! This "Qingqiu on Earth" in Yunnan is the true heavenly vacation spot Friends, if you are still struggling with where to go for summer vacation or how to avoid crowds during the National Day holiday, take my advice—look away from Dali and Lijiang and check out this place in Wenshan, Yunnan, called Puzhehei. In the Yi language, "Puzhehei" means "a lake filled with fish and shrimp." 312 karst peaks are scattered among 54 lakes, and over 40,000 mu of wild lotus flowers bloom all summer long. This is not Guilin, but it has a more healing ink-wash painting atmosphere than Guilin—the breeze blowing over ten thousand mu of lotus flowers, you feel like you are traveling inside a painting. This sense of relaxation is truly worth a special trip. 📅 When is the best time to go? ⏰ July–August | Midsummer carnival season: Peak lotus season, with over 40,000 mu of lotus ponds covered in green leaves and pink and white flowers. The average temperature is only around 26°C, making it an excellent summer retreat. The downsides are crowds, high hotel prices, and lines for boat rides. If you like lively atmospheres and want to have a water fight, go for it. 🍂 September–October | Autumn healing season (highly recommended!): Temperatures are 17–28°C, and tourist numbers drop significantly. The lotus leaves are still lush, the rice paddies are golden along the lakeshores, and reeds sway in patches. The morning mist and sunset lighting are incredible, and homestays offer great value. This is the top choice for photography enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet vacation. 🌫️ November–February | Ink-wash off-season: There are almost no lotus flowers, but the morning lake surface is shrouded in mist, and the landscape looks like an ink painting. Swan Lake is full of migratory birds, offering a cool, healing vibe. If you have a limited budget and want to zone out, this is for you. 🛶 How to choose a boat tour? The core of the core! You haven't really been to Puzhehei if you don't take a boat. Here is how to choose between the three routes👇 🚣 Willow Leaf Boat | East route (young people's top choice) Approx. CNY 218/person A 6-person narrow wooden boat travels between lotus ponds and isolated peaks. In July–August, water fights are the main event—whether you know each other or not, splashing water is how you say hello. The whole trip is about 1.5 hours and includes Huoba Cave and Guanyin Cave. ⚠️ Must-haves: Waterproof phone pouch (double-layered is safer!), spare clothes, sandals 📷 Bamboo raft | West route (photography enthusiasts, September top choice) Approx. CNY 208/person Xihuang Wetland route, fewer tourists, reeds + lotus ponds + peak forests, suitable for quiet photography. It is the easiest place to encounter twin lotus flowers, and the photo potential is super high. 🚢 Painted boat | Middle route (elderly and children's top choice) Approx. CNY 208/person Large boat with a roof, stable and shaded, with a wide view. If you do not want to get wet or are traveling with elders or children, this is the no-brainer choice. 💡 Money-saving tip: 2026 middle and high school graduates can enjoy discounts with their exam admission tickets—CNY 182 for the Willow Leaf Boat and CNY 170 for the Painted Boat. General admission to the scenic area is permanently free! 🏔️ Must-visit list | You haven't really been here if you miss these places ⛰️ Qinglong Mountain (free): Puzhehei's prime viewing platform, 20-minute climb to the top. Reach the top before 6:00–6:30 AM to see the morning mist over the lotus ponds, or at 6:00–7:00 PM to see the peak forest bathed in gold. The steps are a bit steep, so wear non-slip shoes. 🌊 Willow Leaf Boat/painted boat: Travel through the waterways of ten thousand mu of lotus ponds, with lotus leaves brushing against the boat and lotus flowers within reach—this is the soul of the experience! Choose the East route if you want to get wet, and the Middle route for clean photos. 🌸 Caihuaqing (admission CNY 30): The prototype for Qingqiu in "Eternal Love" (Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms). Isolated peaks and clear pools, few people and quiet. It is least crowded before 9:00 AM. Wearing Hanfu for photos is absolutely amazing. 🦢 Swan Lake (admission CNY 85): Wetland ecological lake, black swans and egrets are right in front of you. Bringing some bread to feed the swans is super healing. See lotus flowers in summer and migratory birds in winter. 🕳️ Xianren Cave/Huoba Cave: Karst caves, stalactites + light shows, cool inside (bring a light jacket), just pick one to visit. 🌅 Lover's Bridge/Xihuang Wetland: Great for evening strolls and photos. If you have extra time, you can add Shede Grassland (highland meadow). 🏨 How to choose accommodation? A showdown between two villages 🏘️ Puzhehei Village: Close to Qinglong Mountain and the pier, convenient for dining, great value (CNY 100–300). The top choice for waking up early to watch the sunrise. 🏡 Xianrendong Village: Rich in Yi ethnic culture, many lake-view rooms (CNY 200–600), beautiful night views, and bonfire parties. Suitable for those seeking quiet and photography opportunities. ⚠️ Peak season (June–August): Be sure to book rooms two weeks in advance, as prices rise by 30%. The village has narrow stone roads, so do not drive into the village during peak season. 🍜 What to eat and buy? 🍽️ Must-try Lotus Feast: Fried lotus flowers, lotus fish, scrambled eggs with lotus leaves, chicken wrapped in lotus leaves, lotus root stewed with pork bones. Ingredients are freshly picked from the lotus pond that day, with a faint lotus fragrance. Farmhouse meals in the village cost CNY 35–60 per person, and a Lotus Feast table for over CNY 200 is super satisfying. 🍜 Other recommendations: Braised/clear soup lotus fish, sour soup fish, local crayfish (farmed in clear water, firm and springy!), braised chicken/beef rice noodles (adding roasted chili is a must). 🎁 Souvenirs: Qiubei lotus root starch, Qiubei chili, colorful flower rice noodles. 💡 Final thoughtful tips ☀️ Yunnan's UV rays are super strong—sunscreen + hat + sunglasses are a must 🦟 Summer has many mosquitoes—strong mosquito repellent is essential 🌡️ Large temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountains—bring a light jacket 🚗 Scenic area shuttle bus is CNY 30/day for unlimited rides, renting an e-scooter for CNY 50–80/day offers more freedom The beauty of Puzhehei is the half-opened lotus flowers with morning dew, and the frog croaks and evening breeze by the lotus pond at dusk. Once you have been here, you will understand—some scenery is healing just by encountering it. 👉 Save this post and set off on your next vacation!

Explore 8 cities on a budget in September; you can see the world for under CNY 1,000 per person. No fluff here, just practical, actionable travel tips. Just pick a weekend and go. 1️⃣ Yingtan | Jiangxi Longhu Mountain's admission and shuttle bus fees can be a big expense, but don't worry. Take the K2 bus from Yingtan Station directly to the scenic area for CNY 2 each way—you'll save over CNY 30 compared to a taxi. ⏰ Enter the mountain after 3:00 PM; there are half as many tourists, and the Danxia landforms look their best in the setting sun. The Luxi River bamboo raft ride is a must-do. Remember to negotiate; you can get it down to CNY 80 per person in the off-season. ⚠️ Avoid the "Tianshi Bagua Feast" at the entrance—it's overpriced and not good. Walk a bit further to Shangqing Ancient Town; the chestnut braised chicken on the old street is authentic. Stay at a guesthouse outside the scenic area for just over CNY 100, breakfast included. Hike the Elephant Trunk Hill plank road the next morning; you can finish in 2 hours and perfectly avoid the crowds. 2️⃣ Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The best part of Puzhehei isn't the lotus flowers, but the quiet after the September crowds leave. 🚄 A taxi from Puzhehei High-Speed Railway Station to the scenic area costs about CNY 30, or you can take a bus to Xianrendong Village. Head straight to Qinglong Mountain first. It's free, takes half an hour to reach the top, and offers a view of the entire lake cluster that beats any observation deck. Take a willow-leaf boat ride at the foot of the mountain. Wear sandals—water fights can break out at any time—and keep your phone in a waterproof bag. 🍜 In the evening, head to Puzhehei Village and find a place serving sour soup fish. It's freshly prepared and served with a mint dipping sauce—the sour and spicy flavors are addictive. For accommodation, choose a lake-view room in Xianrendong Village for around CNY 200; you'll have stunning water views right outside your window. 3️⃣ Wuhu | Anhui There are four Fantawild parks; don't try to do too much—one is enough to wear you out. If it's your first time, choose Fantawild Dreamland. It's great for photos and mild thrills, with roller coasters and 4D cinemas. Wait times are generally under 20 minutes. ⚠️ Fast food in the park costs CNY 40–50 per meal. It's better to buy bread and water in the city in the morning; you'll save enough for a nice dinner. 🚄 Take Light Rail Line 2 from Wuhu Station directly to Fantawild; it's more convenient than a taxi. ⏰ I recommend rushing in when the park opens at 9:00 AM to hit the most popular ride, "Flame of War," before the afternoon crowds arrive. Head back to the city in the evening, go to the pedestrian street by Jinghu Lake, and grab a bowl of shrimp roe noodles with xiaolongbao. You'll be stuffed for about CNY 20 per person. 4️⃣ Chengde | Hebei You'll be exhausted if you try to do the Chengde Mountain Resort and Jinshanling Great Wall in one day; I suggest splitting them into two. Dedicate the first day to the Mountain Resort. ⏰ Spend the morning in the lake area—Yanyu Tower and the Lion Grove Garden are the most photogenic. In the afternoon, head to the plains area to see the yurts and Wanshu Garden, then hike the mountain area for a panoramic view of the entire resort. Peak season admission is CNY 130; don't forget your student ID for half-price tickets. ⚠️ Don't take the shuttle bus in the resort; the wait is at least 30 minutes, and it's only a 20-minute walk. The next morning, carpool to the Jinshanling Great Wall—it's a 1.5-hour drive. This section has gentle slopes and fewer crowds, perfect for a leisurely hike. Head back to the city in the afternoon and grab a bowl of buckwheat noodles at the Erxianju commercial street, paired with a Chengde Lulu almond drink. So satisfying. 5️⃣ Yantai | Shandong If you're short on time between Penglai Pavilion and Changdao, prioritize Changdao. Penglai Pavilion is famous, but the CNY 120 admission for a few old buildings isn't great value. The ferry to Changdao is CNY 45 and takes half an hour. Rent an electric scooter on the island to ride around; the pebble beach at Crescent Bay and the sunset at Jiuzhang Cliff are well worth the price. 🍜 A seafood meal at a local guesthouse on the island costs about CNY 60 per person, with plenty of scallops and oysters—fresher and cheaper than restaurants in downtown Penglai. If you must see Penglai Pavilion, ⏰ enter after 5:30 PM; there are fewer people, the light is softer, and you might catch a free guided tour. Skip Longkou Nanshan; the tickets are expensive, and it's mostly modern replicas. You'll just wear yourself out walking around. 6️⃣ Jilin You won't see rime at Songhua Lake or Rime Island in September, but the autumn colors at Songhua Lake are at their peak. 🚄 Take the No. 33 bus from the city to Fengman Power Station (CNY 10 admission), then charter a boat to tour the lake. A boat costs CNY 200 and holds six people, which is a great deal when split. Don't go to Wuhu Island by the lake; the attractions there cost extra. It's better to just enjoy the breeze and the red leaves from the boat. Head back to the city in the afternoon and take a walk in Beishan Park—it's free, and you can overlook the entire city of Jilin from the top. 🍜 In the evening, go to Henan Street for cold noodles and guobaorou (sweet and sour pork). It's about CNY 30 per person. The sweet and sour pork is a Jilin specialty—even crispier than in Harbin. Stay near the train station; you can find something for under CNY 150. 7️⃣ Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain is a hidden gem; it's so quiet you'll wonder if you're in the wrong place. Admission plus the shuttle bus is just over CNY 100. ⏰ I recommend visiting Liangwang Cave in the morning; the stalactites in the cave with the lighting give off a "The Lost Tomb" vibe. Then climb to the Golden Summit. At an altitude of over 1,000 meters, it's a 40-minute hike. The view from the top is expansive, and you can see the entire mountain range covered in autumn colors. ⚠️ There's only one restaurant on the mountain, and it's overpriced and not good. Bring your own food. In the afternoon, visit Hongshan Zen Temple. It's not very busy, but it's peaceful. The thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at the entrance starts turning yellow by the end of September. Head down the mountain in the evening and stay at a farmhouse at the foot of the mountain for CNY 60 a night. The cured meat fried rice made by the landlady is unforgettable. 8️⃣ Hanzhong | Shaanxi The CNY 70 admission for Shimen Plank Road is worth it because the suspended walkway is actually built on a cliff, with the Bao River right below your feet. ⏰ Go in the morning when the light hits the rock walls just right, allowing you to see the ancient inscriptions. The whole walk takes 1.5 hours. Afterward, head straight to the Ancient Hantai; it's free, and the three-story building holds legends of Liu Bang. You can finish in half an hour. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Hanzhong hot rice noodles with vegetable tofu in the city. You'll be stuffed for CNY 10—it's softer and chewier than Xi'an's liangpi. Take a walk along the Han River in the afternoon. Let the river breeze blow, find a step to sit on, and just zone out while watching the locals fish and walk their dogs. 🚄 Hanzhong's high-speed railway station is close to the city—a CNY 10 taxi ride. Remember to leave half an hour for your return trip. Of these eight cities, I highly recommend Wenshan and Hanzhong—one is wild, the other is gentle. September has fewer crowds and lower prices. Which one will you visit first? Let me know in the comments.

Puzhehei: Stepping into the Qingqiu fairyland from "Eternal Love," I found complete healing among ten thousand acres of lotus ponds When I first heard the name "Puzhehei," I thought it was just another hyped-up "internet-famous" spot. It wasn't until I truly sat on that willow-leaf boat, gliding across the mirror-like lake, with 312 isolated karst peaks scattered among the emerald waters; as the boat slowly passed through the waters of Qingqiu from "Eternal Love," the breeze carried the fragrance of ten thousand acres of lotus ponds—at that moment, I finally understood what a "picturesque fairyland" truly means. Some landscapes must be experienced firsthand to truly understand the meaning of "eternal love." Puzhehei means "a lake filled with fish and shrimp" in the Yi language. Hidden in Qiubei County, Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan, it features 312 isolated peaks, 54 lakes, and 20,000 acres of water, perfectly blending six major landscapes: pastoral waters, lake-peak forests, Yi water towns, karst wetlands, lotus worlds, and migratory bird paradises. In 2026, Puzhehei is ready to welcome every traveler with its most beautiful posture. 🎪 2026 Limited-Time Highlights: Festivals + Flower Seas, Puzhehei is colorful in summer 🔥 "World Garden · Puzhehei Lotus Tour" and Painted Face Culture Series (July–August): This summer, Puzhehei is going all out. Starting July 18, a summer feast featuring ten thousand acres of lotus viewing, the Painted Face Festival, and the Torch Festival begins under the theme "New Style Painted Face, A Date with Lotus." During the "Painted Face Festival," locals smear special black pigment on each other's faces to pass on blessings; the blacker you are, the more blessings you receive. The evening bonfire party is the climax of the revelry. You can enjoy the lotus flowers and have water fights on willow-leaf boats during the day, and join locals in "smearing faces" and dancing the Yi string dance around the bonfire at night—a fully immersive experience of Yi culture. 🌻 Hainumide Sunflower Sea (July 19–August 18): This summer, Puzhehei has a new "golden romance"! In the Swan Lake (Hainumide) area, vast fields of sunflowers are in full bloom. The golden sea of flowers framed against the distant karst peaks and azure lake water is definitely the most photogenic hidden spot of summer 2026. 💕 10,000 yuan ethnic wedding travel photography perk: Leveraging the Shanghai-Yunnan cooperation, Puzhehei has launched a major perk for newlyweds this year. Couples who have already registered their marriage or will do so within 1 month after this event can receive a wedding travel photography package worth 10,000 yuan, including traditional Yi ethnic costumes and styling. Taking ethnic-style wedding photos in the Qingqiu fairyland is perhaps the most romantic "eternal love" experience. 🎫 2026 Latest Guide: Free park admission, exclusive discounts for middle and high school graduates This is the most important reminder: Admission to the Puzhehei scenic area is free! You only need to purchase tickets for the activities you want to do. The core experience is the boat tour, and the scenic area offers 3 routes: East Route (Willow-leaf boat): Original price 279 yuan, discounted price 182 yuan. This is the most classic route, where you can experience the fun of water fights among the lotus ponds. Middle Route (Painted pleasure boat): Original price 259 yuan, discounted price 170 yuan. West Route (Bamboo raft): Original price 259 yuan, discounted price 170 yuan. 🎁 2026 Exclusive Perk: 2026 middle and high school graduates can enjoy the discounted prices for the above routes from June 10 to August 31 by presenting their exam admission tickets. The package generally includes 4 free shuttle bus rides on the same day. In addition, a single ticket for Swan Lake is 85 yuan, but if you purchase a sightseeing bus ticket, you may sometimes get free admission to Swan Lake; the ticket for Caihuaqing (the core filming location of "Eternal Love") is 30 yuan; and areas like Qinglong Mountain and Xianrendong Village are free to visit. 🚗 Transportation: High-speed rail direct, 1.5 hours from Kunming to the fairyland High-speed rail travelers: Take the high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Puzhehei Station, about 1.5–2 hours, ticket price 75–85 yuan. After exiting the station, you can take the tram directly to the visitor center, or take bus No. 8 (5 yuan) or a bus for about 30 minutes to reach the scenic area. Self-driving travelers: From Kunming, the entire journey takes about 3.5–4 hours via expressway. Local transportation: Renting an electric scooter (50–80 yuan/day) is the most flexible option; you can also purchase a sightseeing bus ticket (30 yuan/day, unlimited rides). 🗺️ 2-Day Essential Route: Just copy this if you're lazy Day 1 · Climb high for views + Boat ride in lotus ponds Morning: After arrival, head straight to Qinglong Mountain. It only takes 20–30 minutes to climb, and the summit is the "ultimate photo spot" for overlooking the panoramic view of Puzhehei, where you can take in the 312 isolated peaks and ten thousand acres of lotus ponds. After descending, head to Caihuaqing to check in at the Qingqiu filming location of "Eternal Love" and search for traces of High Goddess Bai Qian in the peach forest and by the lake. Afternoon: Take a willow-leaf boat tour of the lake. While weaving through the ten thousand acres of lotus ponds, don't forget to prepare your "weapons"—a water scoop or water gun—and have a hearty summer water fight with passing boats! Evening: Experience a Yi-style dinner in Xianrendong Village or Puzhehei Village and join the bonfire party. Day 2 · Swan Lake stroll + Niche flower sea Morning: Head to Swan Lake, stroll through the karst wetlands, and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. If you have a ticket, you can also visit the Hainumide sunflower sea. Afternoon: Visit Xianrendong Village to experience the most authentic Yi water town charm in the ancient village of the Sani people (a branch of the Yi ethnic group). Afterward, you can go to Shede Grassland to enjoy the openness of the alpine meadows. 📸 3 Ultimate Photo Spots Qinglong Mountain Summit: The king of Puzhehei panoramic views, where you can capture isolated peaks, lakes, villages, and lotus ponds all at once. Caihuaqing (Qingqiu filming location): Wear a Hanfu or a white dress to recreate "High Goddess" stills by the lake or on the wooden bridge. Willow-leaf boat bow: When passing through the lotus waterways, "the boat travels on emerald waves, and the person travels within a painting." 💡 Practical Tips Attire: Be sure to protect yourself from the sun in summer; hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. For beautiful photos, it is recommended to wear light colors or Hanfu. There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring a light jacket. Gear: Prepare rain gear; for boat water fights, it is recommended to wear quick-drying clothes, and be sure to waterproof your mobile phones and cameras. Accommodation: Be sure to book in advance during the summer vacation, as scenic area accommodation is often "fully booked." It is recommended to stay in lakeside inns in Puzhehei Village or Xianrendong Village, where you can see the scenery as soon as you open the window. Food: Must-try dishes include Yi-style grilled fish, wild mushroom hot pot, fried potatoes, and sticky rice cakes. Travel responsibly: Protect the environment and do not litter. ✨ Final thoughts I used to not understand why a place could be called a "fairyland." Until I stood on the top of Qinglong Mountain, watching the ten thousand acres of lotus ponds spread out like a green ocean beneath my feet; sitting on a willow-leaf boat, with the oars gently parting the mirror-like water, distant green peaks reflected, and the fragrance of lotus leaves in the breeze—at that moment, I finally understood that the charm of Puzhehei is a real-life fairyland on earth, woven together by 312 isolated peaks, 54 lakes, ten thousand acres of lotus ponds, and the thousand-year-old Yi culture. In 2026, Puzhehei's ten thousand acres of lotus ponds are in full bloom, the Painted Face Festival and Torch Festival are passionate, the sunflower sea is stunningly new, and middle and high school graduates enjoy exclusive discounts. Take this chance and set off now. Buy a 1.5-hour high-speed rail ticket, wear a white dress, and go to that Qingqiu fairyland from "Eternal Love" to be a traveler healed by the mountains, waters, and lotus fragrance.

01 Shannan | Tibet In September, Yamdrok Lake is a vibrant blue, like a bottle of paint has been spilled. Many people worry about altitude sickness when taking children to Tibet, but at an altitude of 4441 meters, children often acclimatize better than adults if they spend two days acclimatizing in Lhasa before setting off. 🚄 The drive from Lhasa takes about two hours by chartered car. The mountain roads are winding, so be sure to give them motion sickness medication beforehand. It's windy by the lake, so bring an extra windproof jacket for children and don't just focus on taking photos yourself. The lake's color changes with the clouds; it's most photogenic around 10 am and 4 pm. At midday, direct sunlight makes it appear whitish. Children can skip pebbles along the lake, but don't get too close, as the sand on the shore is soft and you can easily get your shoes wet. ⚠️ There is a charge for taking photos with the yaks by the lake; ask the price before letting your children get close. 02 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is an underrated town perfect for families with young children. September is neither too hot nor too cold, just right. Gupo Mountain is suitable for toddlers who can walk independently. Follow the stream upstream, enjoying the sounds of waterfalls and the abundance of negative ions. Younger children can take an electric cart halfway up the mountain and then come down to play in the water. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, Gupo Mountain spring water tofu pudding costs only five yuan a bowl; it's so tender that children can easily eat two bowls. In the afternoon, head to Huangyao Ancient Town. Don't rush to the main street; take the children into the alleys next to Dailong Bridge. The stone-paved streets are clean, less crowded, and you might even see elderly women shelling soybeans at their doorsteps. Dongtanling is better visited in the evening. 🌄 At sunset, you can see the entire Hezhou Basin spread out below. However, the mountain road is steep, so it's recommended to hire a local driver rather than driving yourself. ⚠️ Many "handmade ginger candies" in the ancient town are actually wholesale; only buy from the few vendors that make them fresh. 03 Anshan | Liaoning If your child is a geology enthusiast who can't resist rocks, September is the perfect time to visit Qianshan Mountain. This isn't just an ordinary hike; it's an immersive experience within a vast granite peak forest. The strangely shaped rocks are far more vivid than textbook pictures. ⏰ Start your hike at 7:30 AM for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Begin from the Wuliang Temple direction, where you'll see iconic rock formations like the "Flattened Stone" and "One Step to Heaven," which will excite your child and encourage them to climb on their own. Families with average stamina can take the cable car to Wufoding and then walk down a bit. There are plenty of squirrels in the mountains; bring some peanuts—your child can spend hours watching them. 📍 The ginkgo trees near Longquan Lake at the foot of the mountain start turning yellow in late September, creating beautiful photo opportunities. ⚠️ Qianshan has many narrow steps, making it impossible to push a stroller. It's recommended to bring children over five years old. Bottled water costs 8 yuan per bottle on the mountain; bringing two bottles is more economical. 04 Wuxi | Jiangsu If you're traveling with children in Wuxi in September, I suggest combining the Lingshan Grand Buddha and Nianhua Bay on the same day. See the Buddha in the morning and explore the town in the afternoon – a convenient and efficient way to visit both. Kids love the Nine Dragons Bathing the Buddha at the Lingshan Grand Buddha; the audience erupts in cheers when the water jets spray. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of vegetarian noodles at the vegetarian restaurant inside the Brahma Palace. It's only around 30 yuan, and surprisingly delicious – cleaner than the farm-style restaurants outside the scenic area. Nianhua Bay is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll – copying scriptures, admiring flowers, and riding a traditional rowboat – easy for younger children. Visit Huishan Ancient Town on a separate day. Enter from the South Gate and walk along Huishan Straight Street to Jichang Garden. 📌 The Bayin Stream in the garden is a favorite with children; the sound of the water is like playing a piano, and they can sit and listen for ages. ⚠️ The vacuum-packed Wuxi-style braised pork ribs sold in the ancient town are quite sweet, which might not be to the liking of children from other places. Buy a small box to try first. I personally wouldn't recommend taking young children to the CCTV Wuxi Film and Television Base. The venue is large, performance times are tight, it's tiring to walk around, and children don't understand the stories of the Three Kingdoms and Water Margin. Wait until they're older. 05 Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou September is the best time for water levels in the Maling River Canyon. The rainy season has just ended, the waterfalls are still there, but the water isn't murky. Take children on the boardwalk at the bottom of the canyon; the whole walk takes about two hours. With waterfalls overhead and emerald green river water below, children will keep asking, "Why is the water green?" ⏰ I recommend entering the canyon in the morning when the sunlight shines obliquely into the canyon, creating small rainbows in the mist. Younger children can be carried in a baby carrier. The boardwalk is gentle, but slippery in many places, so make sure they wear non-slip shoes. In the afternoon, go to Wanfeng Forest. Don't just take the sightseeing bus for a quick look; rent an electric cart and take the children through the paddy fields. In September, the rice paddies are golden, and when the wind blows, it looks like golden waves. 🍜 The fried rice with pickled radish sold in the village is a local specialty; a large plate costs ten yuan, and a child can easily eat two bowls. ⚠️ On the Wanfenglin Viewing Avenue, some people will try to solicit business by saying they'll "take you to a deserted viewpoint," but this is usually a detour, so don't believe them. 06 Quanzhou|Fujian Quanzhou is still a bit hot in September, so I visited Kaiyuan Temple in the morning. ⏰ We went in as soon as it opened at eight o'clock. It was cool under the East and West Pagodas, and the children could play tag among the stone pillars. The ancient banyan trees in the temple provided ample shade, and while resting, I told the children stories about the Maritime Silk Road, which was much more engaging than listening in a classroom. When it got hot at noon, we escaped into the alleys of West Street, found a four-fruit soup shop, and sat down. The seaweed jelly with taro paste kept the children quiet for ten minutes. In the afternoon, when the sun isn't so strong, head up Qingyuan Mountain. 📍 Enter from the Lao Jun Yan entrance. You don't need to climb to the top; just walk to the "First Mountain" stone inscription and then turn back. Along the way, you'll see cliff carvings, like playing a treasure hunt. Chongwu Ancient City is more suitable for boys; the ancient city walls and reefs by the sea allow them to imagine themselves as generals guarding the city. ⚠️ Most of the seashells sold in the ancient city are dyed, so don't buy them. It's more fun to take your children to collect them themselves at the beach. The main branch of Bingzhengtang near Quanzhou Tianhou Palace is too crowded; just find any branch, and the taste is pretty much the same. 07 Shenzhen|Guangdong September in Shenzhen is still summer, perfect for playing in the sea. Dameisha is less crowded before 8 am, with fine sand and gentle waves, suitable for young children to dig in the sand and splash in the water. ⏰ After 10 am, the sun gets very strong, so walk along the nearby seaside boardwalk. There's plenty of shade, and you can see the containers of Yantian Port stacked like building blocks on the shore. In the afternoon, we went to Window of the World. To be honest, I initially thought it was a bit tacky, but it turned out to be a hit with the kids—they were thrilled to see the miniature Eiffel Tower and pyramids, running around excitedly as if "traveling the world." In the evening, we went to OCT Creative Park, an art district converted from old factories. The graffiti walls and old locomotives were very photogenic, perfect for taking travel pictures with the kids. Mission Hills is more geared towards older children; there's a golf driving range to try out and a printmaking village to explore. ⚠️ Night tickets for Window of the World are much cheaper than day tickets. Entering after 5 PM saves half the price, but many attractions are closed. Day tickets are more suitable for first-time visitors with young children. 08 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan September is the most comfortable time to visit Puzhehei. The lotus flowers haven't completely faded yet, and the crowds have thinned considerably. For families with children, I highly recommend staying at a lakeside guesthouse in Xianrendong Village. You can see the water right outside your window, and the kids can spend ages watching the boats come and go. During the day, take a leisurely boat ride on the lake. The September breeze is cool, and there are many water birds, including egrets that will swoop past the bow of the boat, captivating even young children. Dads can enjoy water fights; remember to bring raincoats and changes of clothes for the kids. ⏰ In the evening, climb Qinglong Mountain to watch the sunset. The steps are a bit steep, so dads are advised to carry younger children. However, the panoramic view of the entire Puzhehei Basin from the summit is absolutely worth the effort. 🍜 The lotus fish hot pot sold in the village is freshly caught; the fish is tender, and the broth is delicious. Kids can easily eat two bowls of rice. ⚠️ September occasionally brings showers, so raincoats are more practical than umbrellas, freeing up your hands to hold the children's hands. Before heading back, let them run around on the grassy area by Bailong Lake. It's less crowded and the grass is soft—a perfect last stop for the kids to burn off their energy. With August over, September is the perfect time to avoid the peak season. When taking children out, don't try to do too much. Choose one or two of these eight places to explore at your leisure. Seeing their eyes light up is the best way to broaden their horizons. What kind of scenery does your child like best? Share your thoughts in the comments, and we'll dig deeper next time. 01 Shannan | Tibet In September, Yamdrok Lake is a vibrant blue, like a bottle of paint has been spilled. Many people worry about altitude sickness when taking children to Tibet, but at 4441 meters above sea level, children often adapt better than adults if they acclimatize for a couple of days in Lhasa before setting off. 🚄 The drive from Lhasa takes about two hours by chartered car. The mountain roads are winding, so be sure to give them motion sickness medication beforehand. It's windy by the lake, so bring an extra windproof jacket for your children and don't just focus on taking photos of yourself. The lake's color changes with the clouds; it's most photogenic around 10 am and 4 pm. At midday, direct sunlight makes it appear whitish. Children can skip pebbles along the lake, but don't get too close, as the sand on the shore is soft and you can easily get your shoes wet. ⚠️ There's a charge for taking photos with the yaks by the lake; ask the price before letting your children get close. 02 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is an underrated town perfect for families with young children. September is neither too hot nor too cold, just right. Gupo Mountain is suitable for toddlers who can walk independently. Follow the stream upstream, enjoying the sounds of waterfalls and the abundance of negative ions. Younger children can take an electric cart halfway up the mountain and then come down to play in the water. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, Gupo Mountain spring water tofu pudding costs only five yuan a bowl; it's so tender that children can easily eat two bowls. In the afternoon, head to Huangyao Ancient Town. Don't rush to the main street; take the children into the alleys next to Dailong Bridge. The stone-paved streets are clean, less crowded, and you might even see elderly women shelling soybeans at their doorsteps. Dongtanling is better visited in the evening. 🌄 At sunset, you can see the entire Hezhou Basin spread out below. However, the mountain road is steep, so it's recommended to hire a local driver rather than driving yourself. ⚠️ Many "handmade ginger candies" in the ancient town are actually wholesale; only buy from the few vendors that make them fresh. 03 Anshan | Liaoning If your child is a geology enthusiast who can't resist rocks, September is the perfect time to visit Qianshan Mountain. This isn't just an ordinary hike; it's an immersive experience within a vast granite peak forest. The strangely shaped rocks are far more vivid than textbook pictures. ⏰ Start your hike at 7:30 AM for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Begin from the Wuliang Temple direction, where you'll see iconic rock formations like the "Flattened Stone" and "One Step to Heaven," which will excite your child and encourage them to climb on their own. Families with average stamina can take the cable car to Wufoding and then walk down a bit. There are plenty of squirrels in the mountains; bring some peanuts—your child can spend hours watching them. 📍 The ginkgo trees near Longquan Lake at the foot of the mountain start turning yellow in late September, creating beautiful photo opportunities. ⚠️ Qianshan has many narrow steps, making it impossible to push a stroller. It's recommended to bring children over five years old. Bottled water costs 8 yuan per bottle on the mountain; bringing two bottles is more economical. 04 Wuxi | Jiangsu If you're traveling with children in Wuxi in September, I suggest combining the Lingshan Grand Buddha and Nianhua Bay on the same day. See the Buddha in the morning and explore the town in the afternoon – a convenient and efficient way to visit both. Kids love the Nine Dragons Bathing the Buddha at the Lingshan Grand Buddha; the audience erupts in cheers when the water jets spray. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of vegetarian noodles at the vegetarian restaurant inside the Brahma Palace. It's only around 30 yuan, and surprisingly delicious – cleaner than the farm-style restaurants outside the scenic area. Nianhua Bay is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll – copying scriptures, admiring flowers, and riding a traditional rowboat – easy for younger children. Visit Huishan Ancient Town on a separate day. Enter from the South Gate and walk along Huishan Straight Street to Jichang Garden. 📌 The Bayin Stream in the garden is a favorite with children; the sound of the water is like playing a piano, and they can sit and listen for ages. ⚠️ The vacuum-packed Wuxi-style braised pork ribs sold in the ancient town are quite sweet, which might not be to the liking of children from other places. Buy a small box to try first. I personally wouldn't recommend taking young children to the CCTV Wuxi Film and Television Base. The venue is large, performance times are tight, it's tiring to walk around, and children don't understand the stories of the Three Kingdoms and Water Margin. Wait until they're older. 05 Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou September is the best time for water levels in the Maling River Canyon. The rainy season has just ended, the waterfalls are still there, but the water isn't murky. Take children on the boardwalk at the bottom of the canyon; the whole walk takes about two hours. With waterfalls overhead and emerald green river water below, children will keep asking, "Why is the water green?" ⏰ I recommend entering the canyon in the morning when the sunlight shines obliquely into the canyon, creating small rainbows in the mist. Younger children can be carried in a baby carrier. The boardwalk is gentle, but slippery in many places, so make sure they wear non-slip shoes. In the afternoon, go to Wanfeng Forest. Don't just take the sightseeing bus for a quick look; rent an electric cart and take the children through the paddy fields. In September, the rice paddies are golden, and when the wind blows, it looks like golden waves. 🍜 The fried rice with pickled radish sold in the village is a local specialty; a large plate costs ten yuan, and a child can easily eat two bowls. ⚠️ On the Wanfenglin Viewing Avenue, some people will try to solicit business by saying they'll "take you to a deserted viewpoint," but this is usually a detour, so don't believe them. 06 Quanzhou|Fujian Quanzhou is still a bit hot in September, so I visited Kaiyuan Temple in the morning. ⏰ We went in as soon as it opened at eight o'clock. It was cool under the East and West Pagodas, and the children could play tag among the stone pillars. The ancient banyan trees in the temple provided ample shade, and while resting, I told the children stories about the Maritime Silk Road, which was much more engaging than listening in a classroom. When it got hot at noon, we escaped into the alleys of West Street, found a four-fruit soup shop, and sat down. The seaweed jelly with taro paste kept the children quiet for ten minutes. In the afternoon, when the sun isn't so strong, head up Qingyuan Mountain. 📍 Enter from the Lao Jun Yan entrance. You don't need to climb to the top; just walk to the "First Mountain" stone inscription and then turn back. Along the way, you'll see cliff carvings, like playing a treasure hunt. Chongwu Ancient City is more suitable for boys; the ancient city walls and reefs by the sea allow them to imagine themselves as generals guarding the city. ⚠️ Most of the seashells sold in the ancient city are dyed, so don't buy them. It's more fun to take your children to collect them themselves at the beach. The main branch of Bingzhengtang near Quanzhou Tianhou Palace is too crowded; just find any branch, and the taste is pretty much the same. 07 Shenzhen|Guangdong September in Shenzhen is still summer, perfect for playing in the sea. Dameisha is less crowded before 8 am, with fine sand and gentle waves, suitable for young children to dig in the sand and splash in the water. ⏰ After 10 am, the sun gets very strong, so walk along the nearby seaside boardwalk. There's plenty of shade, and you can see the containers of Yantian Port stacked like building blocks on the shore. In the afternoon, we went to Window of the World. To be honest, I initially thought it was a bit tacky, but it turned out to be a hit with the kids—they were thrilled to see the miniature Eiffel Tower and pyramids, running around excitedly as if "traveling the world." In the evening, we went to OCT Creative Park, an art district converted from old factories. The graffiti walls and old locomotives were very photogenic, perfect for taking travel pictures with the kids. Mission Hills is more geared towards older children; there's a golf driving range to try out and a printmaking village to explore. ⚠️ Night tickets for Window of the World are much cheaper than day tickets. Entering after 5 PM saves half the price, but many attractions are closed. Day tickets are more suitable for first-time visitors with young children. 08 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan September is the most comfortable time to visit Puzhehei. The lotus flowers haven't completely faded yet, and the crowds have thinned considerably. For families with children, I highly recommend staying at a lakeside guesthouse in Xianrendong Village. You can see the water right outside your window, and the kids can spend ages watching the boats come and go. During the day, take a leisurely boat ride on the lake. The September breeze is cool, and there are many water birds, including egrets that will swoop past the bow of the boat, captivating even young children. Dads can enjoy water fights; remember to bring raincoats and changes of clothes for the kids. ⏰ In the evening, climb Qinglong Mountain to watch the sunset. The steps are a bit steep, so dads are advised to carry younger children. However, the panoramic view of the entire Puzhehei Basin from the summit is absolutely worth the effort. 🍜 The lotus fish hot pot sold in the village is freshly caught; the fish is tender, and the broth is delicious. Kids can easily eat two bowls of rice. ⚠️ September occasionally brings showers, so raincoats are more practical than umbrellas, freeing up your hands to hold the children's hands. Before heading back, let them run around on the grassy area by Bailong Lake. It's less crowded and the grass is soft—a perfect last stop for the kids to burn off their energy. With August over, September is the perfect time to avoid the peak season. When taking children out, don't try to do too much. Choose one or two of these eight places to explore at your leisure. Seeing their eyes light up is the best way to broaden their horizons. What kind of scenery does your child like best? Share your thoughts in the comments, and we'll dig deeper next time.

No need to join the crowds in Dali, no need to squeeze into bars in Lijiang, and you don't even need to leave Yunnan. Deep in the karst mountains of southeastern Yunnan lies an ancient Zhuang village, protected for 600 years by time and limestone caves. There is only one way in and out: by boat through a 1-kilometer-long dark cave. When the bow of the boat emerges into the light, the entire pastoral village unfolds before you. This is Bamei, a hidden paradise often called a "real-life Peach Blossom Spring." Bamei is located in Guangnan County, Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan Province, a Zhuang village surrounded by karst landscapes. The village is encircled by mountains and connected to the outside world only by a 1-kilometer-long cave waterway; you must take a boat through the dark cave to enter. Due to its remote location, Bamei has preserved its most primitive Zhuang farming lifestyle. There is no hustle and bustle of trendy shops, no cookie-cutter souvenirs, just the pastoral idyll of working at sunrise and resting at sunset. A high-speed train ticket to Guangnan Station and a transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus are all you need to step into this "suddenly enlightened" real-life Peach Blossom Spring, as described by Tao Yuanming. 🚣 Boat ride through the cave—a ritual from darkness to light The most unique experience in Bamei is taking a boat through the cave to enter the village. Board a small wooden boat at the pier, and the boatman will row you slowly into the cave. It is pitch black inside, with only the faint light from the bow illuminating the rock walls ahead. Stalactites appear and disappear in the light and shadow along the way, and water droplets fall from the cave ceiling, creating crisp echoes. After traveling about 1 kilometer, light gradually appears ahead. The moment the boat emerges from the cave, the entire pastoral village unfolds—layered rice paddies, Zhuang dwellings with blue tiles and white walls, winding streams, and distant karst peaks all rush into view. That instant transition from darkness to light truly feels like stepping into the text of "The Peach Blossom Spring." If you're lucky, you can capture the classic shot of the "boat sailing from darkness into light" at the cave entrance. 🌾 Bamei Village—a pastoral idyll deep in Zhuang country Bamei Village is small, but scenery is everywhere. The Zhuang dwellings in the village retain the traditional stilt-house architectural style, with livestock kept on the ground floor and living quarters above, their blue tiles and wooden walls nestled among green trees and bamboo. In front of the village are terraced fields, behind it are karst peaks, and a clear stream flows through the village. Unlike heavily commercialized trendy ancient towns, the most precious thing about Bamei is its enduring, authentic daily life. Villagers still live a farming life, working at sunrise and resting at sunset. In the morning, you can see grandmothers washing clothes by the stream; in the evening, you can smell the smoke rising from old houses. Time never rushes anyone here. You can walk slowly along the field ridges, watch the water buffalo in the rice paddies, gaze at the mist in the distant mountains, or sit under the old tree at the village entrance and daydream for an entire afternoon. 🌙 Bonfire party—the night life of Zhuang country After sunset, the bonfire in Bamei is lit as scheduled. The firelight illuminates the entire village, and traditional Zhuang song and dance performances take turns on stage. You can hold hands with new friends and dance around the torches, with Zhuang folk songs in your ears and the evening breeze all around, immersing yourself in the simple, authentic life of the Zhuang people. 🐟 Catching fish in rice paddies—rediscover the joy of childhood In Bamei, you can also experience catching fish in the rice paddies. Step into the water fields, weave through the rice, and catch live fish with your bare hands. Both adults and children can have a great time, and the fish you catch can be prepared and tasted on the spot. That joy of stepping in the mud with hands full of fish is something no amusement park can provide. 🍜 The taste of Bamei—flavors of the Zhuang landscape Bamei's cuisine is all about being "authentic" and "local." Five-colored sticky rice is a Zhuang specialty—dyed red, yellow, blue, purple, and white with natural plant juices, it is both beautiful and delicious. "Bahang" chicken is a local signature dish, a sour soup stewed chicken that is tangy and appetizing. There are also authentic flavors like roast pork, fried sticky rice cakes, and Zhuang-style cured meat. The village is full of farm-to-table restaurants where ingredients are picked and cooked fresh, and you can eat very well for an average of 50 yuan per person. 🛵 Two days and one night—no rushing, fully immersive Day 1: Boat through the cave + pastoral stroll Arrive at Guangnan Station by high-speed train > Take the scenic area shuttle bus to the visitor center (5 yuan/person, about 50 mins) > Purchase a package ticket (180 yuan/person, includes admission + 3 boat rides + sightseeing bus + horse-drawn carriage) > Take a boat through the cave to enter the village > Check into a village homestay > Spend the afternoon strolling around the village, walking along field ridges to see the karst landscape > Attend the bonfire party in the evening Day 2: Catch fish in rice paddies + boat through the cave to exit Experience catching fish in the rice paddies in the morning > Explore the Zhuang dwellings in the village > Have a lunch of five-colored sticky rice and "Bahang" chicken > Take a boat through the cave to exit the village in the afternoon (note: exiting the village also requires taking a boat through another cave) > Return in the evening 📝 Bamei travel guide How to get there: High-speed train + bus: Take a high-speed train to "Guangnan County Station," about 2 hours from Kunming. After exiting the station, take the scenic area shuttle bus (5 yuan/person, about 50 mins) directly to the visitor center. You can also take a taxi (about 100 yuan). Self-driving: Navigate to "Bamei Peach Blossom Spring Scenic Area." The trip from Kunming is about 400 kilometers and takes about 5 hours. Ticket information: Package ticket is 180 yuan/person, including admission + 3 boat rides + sightseeing bus + horse-drawn carriage. Ox carts in the village, some handicraft experiences, and farming interaction projects usually charge extra. Best season: Spring and autumn are best, with mild and humid weather. March–May features spring flowers, and September–November offers crisp autumn air. Summer occasionally has showers but is even more serene. Accommodation recommendation: Choose a homestay in Bamei Village; open the window to see terraced fields and karst peaks. Conditions are simple but clean; book in advance during peak season. Essential gear: Non-slip sports shoes (needed for village field ridges and cave piers), mosquito repellent (many insects near the water), sunscreen (strong plateau UV rays), thin jacket (cool mornings and evenings), power bank. Special reminder ⚠️: You must take a boat through the cave to enter and exit the village. Daily boat trips are limited; it is recommended to arrive in the morning and leave in the afternoon. The cave is pitch black and slippery; be sure to wear a life jacket when boating, and do not stand up or reach out to touch the rock walls. Bamei is a Zhuang settlement; please respect local customs.

The first time I went to Wenshan, I was attracted by the scenery; the second time, it was for the food; it wasn't until my 5th visit that I truly fell in love with this slow-paced little city. Many people only know Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna when visiting Yunnan, overlooking Wenshan. But in my opinion, Wenshan has a uniquely comfortable charm: no overcrowded commercialization, just mountains, water, ethnic customs, and the down-to-earth vibe of everyday life everywhere you look. If you enjoy niche travel, natural scenery, and taking your time to experience a city, Wenshan is truly worth a visit 💚. 🌈 Wenshan highlights | A place to slow down The biggest impression Wenshan left on me is "relaxation." Eating a bowl of rice noodles on the street in the morning, taking a walk among the mountains and water in the afternoon, watching the clouds and mist slowly rise at dusk, and finding a small shop to eat local food at night. There is no anxiety about having to check off must-visit spots, just a feeling that "it's just comfortable to be here." 📸 Travel highlights | Treasure spots compiled from 5 trips 📍 Puzhehei: A must-visit mountain and water wonderland in Wenshan 🌊 Although Puzhehei is not in Wenshan city center, you shouldn't miss it when visiting the Wenshan area. The lakes, lotus flowers, and green mountains here are truly healing. Best photo spots: Take a boat in the morning to see the lake surface, where the mist and distant mountains combine to look dreamy; stand on the observation deck at dusk to watch the sunset, which instantly fills your photos with atmosphere. Niche way to play: Don't just take photos of attractions; rent a small electric scooter and slowly explore the villages. The small roads, rice paddies, and local houses make for great lifestyle photos. 📍 Bamei: A real-life Shangri-La 🍃 I was truly amazed the first time I went to Bamei. Taking a boat through a cave to enter the village, surrounded by green mountains on both sides, it felt like entering another world. This place is perfect for those who enjoy quiet travel. 📍 Wenshan Old Street: I visit it every time I come back. It's not as bustling as trendy districts, but it has the most authentic vibe of daily life. Elderly people chatting, small shops open for business, street snacks—these details are the little surprises of travel. 📍 Guangnan Babao: A must-save for those who love natural scenery. Mountains, water, and countryside combine here, especially when the weather is good; it's truly like walking into a landscape painting. 🗺️ 3 days 2 nights slow travel itinerary for Wenshan Day 1: Arrive in Wenshan > stroll around the city > old street food > evening walk After arriving in the afternoon, I don't recommend packing your schedule too full. First, go to the city center to experience local life and browse small shops. Be sure to go out for some local specialties at night; Wenshan's nights are very comfortable. Day 2: In-depth tour of Puzhehei > lotus fields > lakeside sunset Morning: Leave early for Puzhehei to avoid crowds for a better experience. Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the lake to see the lotus flowers and scenery. Evening: Find a high spot to watch the sunset; this moment is truly healing 🌄. Day 3: Bamei/Babao Scenic Area > return trip Morning: Slowly experience the pastoral scenery. Afternoon: Buy some local specialties before heading back. The most comfortable way to enjoy Wenshan is not to rush. 🍜 Foodie heaven | Wenshan is truly underrated 🥢 Wenshan Panax Notoginseng Steam Pot Chicken A must-try when in Wenshan. The soup is fresh and delicious with a faint medicinal aroma; it's one of the local specialties. 🥢 Sour soup rice noodles Yunnan people's breakfasts are truly blissful. Sour, spicy, and appetizing, it's very comfortable to eat a bowl in the morning. 🥢 Cold treats Have one when the weather is hot; it's very refreshing. 🥢 Local barbecue Find a small shop at night, sit down, eat, and chat—this is what travel should feel like. Average spending: Regular meals are about CNY 30–80; overall costs are not high. 🚗 Transportation guide | Reference for independent travel High-speed rail: Currently, you can choose a high-speed train + transfer route to Wenshan depending on your departure city. Flight: Travelers coming from further away can choose to fly to a nearby airport and then transfer to local transport. Self-driving: If you want to explore Puzhehei, Bamei, and other places in depth, self-driving is more convenient. Internal transport: Taxis are convenient in the city; it's recommended to plan routes in advance between scenic spots. 💰 Budget reference 3 days 2 nights: Accommodation: CNY 150–300/night Meals: CNY 80–120 per day Transportation: About CNY 200 Total cost: About CNY 600–1,000 per person; great value for money. ☀️ August travel tips for Wenshan ① Bring sunscreen and rain gear Yunnan's weather changes quickly; it may be sunny in the morning and suddenly rain in the afternoon. ② Don't pack your itinerary too tight Wenshan is suitable for slow travel; planning 1–2 places a day is just right. ③ Outfit suggestions Light-colored clothes and ethnic-style elements are very suitable here and look great in photos 📸. ④ Prepare mosquito repellent in advance Very useful when visiting mountains and rural areas. 🏡 Accommodation suggestions If it's your first time, I recommend staying in the city center for more convenient dining and transportation. If you go to Puzhehei or Bamei, you can choose homestays near the scenic areas to watch the stars at night and the clouds and mist in the morning for a stronger experience ✨. ⭐ Recommendation rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Wenshan isn't the kind of city that stuns you at first glance, but it's one that you like more the better you know it. After visiting 5 times, I still love the mountains, water, food, and slow life here. If you have already been to popular cities in Yunnan and are looking for a place with fewer people, beautiful scenery, and friendly prices, Wenshan in August is truly worth a trip 🌿💚.

Avoid the crowds in September for a budget-friendly and hassle-free trip with your kids. These 8 off-the-beaten-path destinations offer beautiful scenery, low prices, and a fantastic experience. I've compiled the itinerary, timing, and tips for each place, so you can just follow along. 01 Zhangjiajie | Hunan When traveling to Zhangjiajie with kids, don't just focus on the crowded cable car ride at Tianmen Mountain. I highly recommend heading straight to the Wulingyuan landmark gate on the first day. Enter the park at 7:30 am, take the eco-friendly bus to the Water-Surrounded Gate, and walk along the Golden Whip Stream. The stream is shallow, perfect for kids to splash and play in, and you might even spot wild macaques along the way. Remember to put away your snacks and don't rummage through your bag in front of the monkeys. Have lunch at a streamside pavilion with your own packed lunch, and in the afternoon, take the Bailong Elevator up the mountain to see the Qiankun Pillars of Yuanjiajie. Let your kids count the "Hallelujah Mountains" and experience their suspended effect. The next day, we'll visit Tianmen Mountain. Choose route A: ascend via the walkway and descend via the road. The 999 steps of the steep staircase might be tiring for five- or six-year-olds; we recommend buying an escalator ticket to save energy for the glass walkway. ⚠️ Wulingyuan tickets are valid for four days, but each attraction can only be visited once. Don't try to see everything in one day. It's cool in the mountains in September, especially in the mornings and evenings; bring a light jacket for your children. It gets windy after 4 PM. 02 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is a good weekend stopover; the pace is slow and expenses are low. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for *Journey to the West*. Children are particularly interested in the "Flower and Fruit Mountain" hidden in the rocks. We recommend entering from the North Gate, seeing the Flying Stone first, and then climbing the One-Line Sky. This path is narrow; parents with young children should hold their hands, but it's not physically demanding and can be completed in about two hours. Old Leshan is more suitable for those who want a relaxed outing with their kids. There are large lawns at the foot of the mountain where children can run around freely, and the windmill array at the summit provides a great backdrop for photos. 🍜 Sesame leaf tofu pudding sold at the foot of the mountain costs five yuan a bowl; it's savory, smooth, and tender, and even kids can enjoy it. ⚠️ Signal is weak in the mountains, so download offline maps beforehand and don't rely on navigation to find side roads. There are many mosquitoes in the mountains in September; long pants are more effective than mosquito repellent. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan The most worthwhile activity in Puzhehei is water fighting in willow leaf boats. The water temperature in September is just right—not too cold and not too hot. Arrive at Qinglongshan Wharf at nine in the morning, rent a metal boat, and the boatman will help you buy water scoops and raincoats. Put the raincoats on your kids, grab the water guns, and start fighting when the other boat comes. The boat trip takes about two hours, ending at Xianrendong Village. After disembarking, you can go to the village entrance for a bowl of cold rice noodles (liangjuanfen), which is sour and spicy. If your kids find it too spicy, ask the vendor to add less chili. Don't rush off in the afternoon. Take the kids to Swan Lake to feed the black swans. Feed is five yuan a bag. The swans will chase after you, which will both scare and entice your children. 📍 In the evening, go to the top of Qinglong Mountain to watch the sunset. The steps aren't too steep; a six-year-old can climb them by themselves. ⚠️ Make sure your phone is in a waterproof case when you're having a water fight. Don't ask me how I know. The lotus flowers are still late in September, so if you want to take pictures of the lotus pond, go early. 04 Zhongwei|Ningxia At Shapotou in Zhongwei, kids are captivated by the sand. Tickets for the Yellow River area and the desert area are separate. If you're bringing kids, I recommend only buying tickets for the desert area. Riding camels into the sand dunes will have your kids excitedly shouting. Sandboarding is a must. The slopes aren't too steep, and the speed is controllable; even a three-year-old can slide in their parents' laps. Have lunch at a desert restaurant with a bowl of mutton noodles for 38 yuan—the meat is plentiful. In the afternoon, we visited Gaomiao Bao'an Temple. This place is completely different in style from Shapotou. The Ming and Qing dynasty architectural complex is hidden within the city, making it quiet and less crowded. Children can count the lions on the stone steps, and the brick carvings in the temple are well worth seeing. ⚠️ The ultraviolet radiation in the desert is strong. Don't let children walk barefoot on the sand between 1 pm and 3 pm; it will be extremely hot. The temperature difference between day and night is large in September, so bring a jacket at night. 05 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Jiuzhaigou is most beautiful in September, but the tickets are expensive. If you're traveling with children, you need to find the best value. It's recommended to only visit the Rize Valley route. Enter the valley as one of the first groups in the morning, take the sightseeing bus directly to the primeval forest, and then walk downhill. The colors of Five-Flower Lake will make children scream with excitement. There's a boardwalk at Panda Lake where you can stop for a snack. Have a boxed lunch at the Nuorilang Central Station for 30 yuan; the taste is average, but it'll fill you up. In the afternoon, we went to Huanglong. Children might experience altitude sickness, so walk slowly and avoid running or playing roughly. After seeing the Five-Colored Pool, head back down. Mount Siguniang is more suitable for older children. Take the sightseeing bus to the end of Shuangqiao Valley, then walk downhill through snow-capped mountains and meadows – kids can run and play freely. ⚠️ Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are far apart, a two-hour drive, so don't plan to visit them on the same day. It's already cold in the mountains in September, so bring a down jacket – don't think it's excessive. 06 Baicheng | Jilin Baicheng is a less-visited destination, but the Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area surprised me. The riverside boardwalk is well-maintained, making it easy to push a stroller. Enter from the north gate in the morning and walk along the river; you can see vast reed beds, and children can use binoculars to watch the seagulls. For lunch, have stewed river fish at a riverside restaurant (88 yuan a pot). The fish is freshly caught, with tender meat; my child ate two bowls of rice with it. In the afternoon, take the kids to the riverbank to collect seashells. The shells here are smaller than those at the beach, but at least there's no one to compete with. 📍 Head to the birdwatching platform at Nenjiang Bay Wetland in the evening. Migratory birds begin their southward migration in early September; with luck, you might spot flocks of white cranes. ⚠️ There are no convenience stores in the scenic area, so make sure you bring enough food and water. The river breeze is cool in September, so dress your children in an extra layer of windproof clothing. 07 Meizhou|Guangdong Yan Nanfei Tea Plantation is a great place to take kids, not the typical stuffy tourist spot. Enter from the tea plantation entrance in the morning and walk along the path. The tea trees on both sides are layered upon each other. Children can pick tea leaves with small bamboo baskets. The scenic area provides sample packs, which you can take home after picking. At noon, eat Hakka cuisine at Weilong Restaurant in the center of the tea plantation. Stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken are must-orders; kids can easily eat a bowl of rice with the broth. In the afternoon, go to the tea house in the tea plantation. A master will teach children how to brew tea; the tea they brew themselves tastes especially delicious. 🍜 The "Fairy Rice Cake" sold in the scenic area costs six yuan a bowl; it's mint flavored and kids enjoy it as a dessert. ⚠️ The light in the tea fields is best after 3 PM, making it less glaring for photos, and there are fewer people. Meizhou is still hot in September, so short sleeves are fine for children, but a light jacket is needed in the evening. 08 Hezhou|Guangxi Going to Huangyao Ancient Town in Hezhou in September is perfect to avoid the summer crowds. Entering the ancient town before 8 AM is free. The stone paths are wet from the morning mist, making them a little slippery for children, but you can hold their hands. Head towards the fish-scale old houses; there are fewer people, and children can spend a long time admiring the wood and brick carvings. At noon, eat fermented black bean noodles by the ancient well in the town; it's eight yuan a bowl, savory and appetizing, and children can watch the locals fetch water. In the afternoon, go to Gupo Mountain; the path to the waterfall group is the easiest to walk, with the mist hitting your face, and children will excitedly shout that it's cool. Dongtanling is best visited in the evening for a sea of ​​clouds view from the summit, but the mountain roads are winding, so children prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. ⚠️ The night view of Huangyao Ancient Town is more beautiful than during the day. Once the lanterns are lit, a walk around with the children offers a more immersive experience. September in Hezhou is often rainy, so bring a folding umbrella – it can rain unexpectedly. Of these eight places, Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou are suitable for older children with good stamina; Puzhehei and Huangyao Ancient Town are also fun for younger children. Traveling in September means accommodation and entrance fees are 20-30% cheaper than during the summer holidays, with fewer crowds and a better experience, saving you 400-500 yuan per trip. Where are you planning to take your children this September? Let's chat in the comments – maybe we'll bump into each other on the road!

The crowds of the National Day holiday have just receded, and flight and hotel bookings are finally easing up. The autumn colors are just starting to show, and the temperature is comfortable—not too sticky or dry. I've picked 6 places that are less crowded, have great scenery, and aren't tiring to walk around. If you're also looking to avoid the crowds, keep reading. 1️⃣ Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan Mountain knows exactly how to strike the right balance this season. The maple leaves are half red, with the other half still holding onto summer's green, like an unmixed palette. ⏰ Enter through the main gate at 7:30 AM to secure a spot for photos on the stone steps of Wuliang Temple before the tour buses arrive. 📍 Follow the path from Jiabianshi to Tianshangtian. The road is narrow, so those on the heavier side will need to turn sideways to pass, but the view from the top is worth the price of admission. If you have trouble walking, take the cable car directly to Wufoding to save two hours. 🍜 After descending, head to Hehe Cold Noodles in Tie Dong district for their sweet and sour noodles, paired with a plate of soy-sauce beef. Be back in the city before 4:00 PM; don't linger, as it gets dark much faster in the mountains than in the city. ⚠️ Qianshan's admission and cable car tickets are charged separately. Buying a package deal on the official account in advance can save you a few dollars. The temperature difference between morning and evening can reach 10 degrees by late September, so a light down jacket is a smart choice. 2️⃣ Hangzhou | Zhejiang Don't shake your head just because you hear "West Lake." In October, the West Lake is returned to the locals. ⏰ At 6:00 AM on the Su Causeway, there are more people jogging than taking photos, and the light is as soft as a filter. 📍 Take a sculling boat into the Xixi National Wetland Park; the Zhoujiacun entrance is the least crowded. The boatman will point out the few red persimmons left on the trees—those are left for the birds. The China Umbrella Museum near Gongchen Bridge is free and closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. You can still lounge on the lawns of Prince Bay Park in October; bring a picnic mat, and it's ten times more comfortable than squeezing onto the Broken Bridge. 🍜 For lunch, head to Zhiweiguan in Hubin for Pian Er Chuan noodles, or duck into Houshi Street to buy scallion pancakes. ⚠️ The West Lake musical fountain is most crowded at the 7:00 PM show. If you want to watch it, arrive 40 minutes early to grab a spot, otherwise, you'll only see the back of people's heads. 3️⃣ Ningde | Fujian I recommend splitting your visit to Taimu Mountain and Baishuiyang over two days. Taimu Mountain is for viewing rocks; you'll need to squeeze through the "Yixiantian" (A Thread of Sky) passage, and large backpacks might get stuck. ⏰ Enter the mountain before 9:00 AM while the mist hasn't cleared yet; the silhouette of the Couple Peaks looks like an ink wash painting. 📍 The shallow water plaza at Baishuiyang is chilly in October, but there are fewer people wading, making it quite peaceful. The Xiapu Beiqi mudflats are the highlight. ⏰ Check the low tide times and arrive an hour early; the fishermen planting razor clams will be part of the scenery along with the light and shadows. 🍜 At the seafood stalls in Xiapu county, razor clams and small snails are sold by weight—ask for the price before ordering. ⚠️ The "guides" near the mudflats will charge 50 yuan to take you along the mud paths, but you can actually get there yourself by checking the tide table. To save energy, stay in Xiapu and hire a car to visit Dongbi and Xiaohao; you can hit three spots in one day. 4️⃣ Wenshan | Yunnan Puzhehei sounds ethereal, but it's actually a large village. The lotus flowers have faded by October, but the leaves are still there. Rowing a boat through the reed marshes is much quieter than in summer. ⏰ Climb Qinglong Mountain at 5:00 PM; the light over the entire basin turns golden, and the lake surface below reflects the glow. 📍 Stay one night in Xianrendong Village, where you can watch the sunrise from your inn's balcony. 🍜 Lotus leaf scrambled eggs and sour fish soup are local specialties. Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area; walk a few steps into the village, and it's half the price. ⚠️ There are willow-leaf boats and painted pleasure boats for hire. Choose the small boat for photos and the pleasure boat to save energy. Admission and boat tickets are bundled; just buy them on the official WeChat account. It's suitable for traveling with seniors as the roads are flat and you don't have to walk far. 5️⃣ Bijie | Guizhou Zhijin Cave is the most impressive karst cave I've ever seen. The lighting is restrained, and the stalactites aren't lit up like a disco. ⏰ Enter the cave at 10:00 AM when it's less crowded, and the guides are more willing to chat. The cave is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 📍 Baili Dujuan (Hundred Mile Rhododendron) has no flowers this season, but the meadows at Fangjiaping have turned yellow, making it perfect for camping and stargazing. 🍜 Try the buckwheat jelly and "laoguo" (hot pot) in Zhijin county; the night market only gets lively after 8:00 PM. ⚠️ The two spots are two hours apart by car, so don't try to do both in one day. The temperature inside the cave is a constant 14 degrees, so bring a jacket. Buying tickets online is cheaper than on-site, but check the official daily announcements. 6️⃣ Huanggang | Hubei Luotian Tiantangzhai and Macheng Guifeng Mountain are at their best in autumn. The waterfalls in Tiantangzhai still have enough water in October, and ⏰ after 3:00 PM, the light slants into the canyon, creating rainbows in the mist. 📍 The rhododendrons on Guifeng Mountain only bloom in spring, but there are fewer people hiking in autumn, the steps aren't crowded, and you can reach the top in an hour. 🍜 For Luotian chestnut stewed chicken, any roadside farmhouse restaurant will do; don't go into places that are too heavily decorated. ⚠️ The cable car at Tiantangzhai has long queues. If you're fit, take the trail up the mountain, which takes 40 minutes. These two spots are best for self-driving; public transport transfers are a hassle. For seniors, I recommend only walking the flat sections of Tiantangzhai. 7️⃣ Huangnan | Qinghai The Danxia landforms of Kanbula paired with the Yellow River are stunning. In October, the grass turns yellow, making the red mountains stand out even more. ⏰ Depart from Jianzha County at 8:00 AM; the morning mist hanging over the Lijiaxia Reservoir looks like boiling water. 📍 If driving, take the South Bank Highway; there are viewing platforms one after another, so you don't need to crowd into the first one. 🍜 There isn't much food on the road, so bring your own snacks and have hand-grabbed mutton back in the county. ⚠️ The altitude is around 2,500 meters, so don't run or jump. Admission and the sightseeing bus are a package deal; private cars cannot enter the core area. It's great for photography but not suitable for very young children due to the strong winds. 8️⃣ Ili | Xinjiang The Ili River Valley in late September is like an overturned palette. ⏰ The meadows of Kalajun turn from green to yellow, and the light at 6:00 PM cuts the grassland into light and dark sections. The apricot blossom valley in Tuergen only blooms in spring, but in autumn, the valley is so empty you can hear the wind. 📍 Herdsmen in the Gongnaisi Grassland begin their seasonal migration; cattle and sheep blocking the road is common, so don't honk your horn. 🍜 In Yining's Liuxing Street, try the blue-walled lung slices and handmade ice cream—perfect for afternoon tea. ⚠️ The Duku Highway may be closed due to snow in late September, so check road conditions before you set off. The spots in Ili are far apart, so hiring a car is more relaxing than driving yourself. If traveling with seniors, stick to the river valley and Liuxing Street, as the grasslands can be very windy. Autumn scenery doesn't wait for anyone; this is the only month for off-peak travel. I highly recommend Kanbula and Ili—one is quietly red, the other is vast and yellow. Which one will you choose?

01 Songyuan | Jilin Autumn at Chagan Lake is much quieter than I imagined. In late September and early October, the reeds along the lake begin to turn yellow, rustling in the wind, perfect for a slow drive along the shore. I prefer going to Jinchan Island after 3 pm. The sunlight shines obliquely on the lake, creating layers of color, with the blue and green areas being the most photogenic. The island's walking trails are short; you can walk around in about an hour, stopping frequently. The slope is gentle, so it's not tiring for elderly people or children. 📍 Simply search for "Chagan Lake Fishing and Hunting Culture Museum" on your navigation app. From there, turn onto the lakeside road; the entrance to Jinchan Island is right there. You won't get lost. 🍜 Most of the small restaurants along the lake sell braised bighead carp with vermicelli. A small portion with some vegetables is enough for two people; it's about 50-60 yuan per person and quite filling. Don't order too much; the portions are more generous than in the city. ⚠️ Late October is windy, and the temperature by the lake is several degrees lower than in the city, so remember to bring a windproof jacket. If you plan to stay overnight, I recommend staying in Songyuan city center; the guesthouses by the lake are generally not very good value for money. 02 Jingzhou|Hubei Jingzhou Ancient City is best visited in autumn, not because it's particularly stunning, but because it's less crowded and has a slower pace, making it perfect for a relaxing weekend. I suggest entering from the East Gate, walking along the city wall for a while, and then exploring the city itself. Walking along the ancient city wall in the morning is the most comfortable. Between 9 and 11 am, the light reveals the texture of the bricks clearly, and you won't need a filter for photos. Walking the entire wall takes two to three hours; if you don't want to walk, you can rent an electric scooter, which takes about half an hour to circle the wall. In the afternoon, visit the Jingzhou Lantern Folk Customs. Don't have high expectations; it's not a large-scale lantern festival, more like a park for locals to stroll in. However, it gets dark early in autumn, and the atmosphere is created as soon as the lights come on at 6:30 pm—a lively scene with red and green lights. 🍜 For lunch, find a small shop near Zhang Juzheng Street and have some early morning noodles. The alkaline noodles with toppings have a rich broth, and a bowl costs seven yuan – much more affordable than the fast food in tourist areas. ⚠️ Some sections of the ancient city wall have steep steps, making it inconvenient for wheelchairs and strollers. It's best to take the section near the North Gate if you're taking elderly people. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan Autumn in Puzhehei is the kind of place that makes you want to stay forever. Withered lotus leaves float on the lake, mountain reflections are mirrored in the water, and the mist dissipates slowly, making it like a painting before 8 am. I recommend staying in Xianrendong Village. It's close to the lake, and you can walk to the water's edge right from your door. There are many guesthouses in the village, some clean and comfortable for around 100 yuan a night. It's quieter than Puzhehei Village, and you won't be woken up by tour groups in the morning. ⏰ To watch the sunrise, leave at 6:30 am, walk to the foot of Qinglong Mountain, and climb for twenty minutes. From the top, you can see the entire lake group. If you don't want to see the sunrise, going after 4 PM is also fine; the light is softer and there are fewer people. 🚄 A taxi from Puzhehei High-Speed ​​Railway Station to the scenic area entrance takes about 40 minutes, costing around 20-30 yuan per person if shared. The scenic area is quite large; you can drive in, but it gets congested in the afternoon during peak season, so an electric scooter is more convenient. 🍜 You can try the lotus leaf chicken sold on the roadside, but don't buy the vacuum-packed kind at the entrance; freshly roasted ones are much better. 04 Linfen|Shanxi In the Linfen area, you should allow at least two days for a road trip in autumn. Hukou Waterfall, Yunqiu Mountain, and Dahuaishu are not close together; trying to see them all in one day will only result in a rushed visit, which I don't recommend. You must go to Hukou Waterfall in the morning. Around 9 AM, the water vapor is at its peak, and the sunlight shining through the mist can create rainbows. In the afternoon, when the wind picks up, you'll be soaked and cold. The ticket price isn't cheap, but the roar is worth standing there silently for ten minutes. Yunqiu Mountain is much easier to visit. It's not high, there's a cable car, and the hiking trails are well-maintained. The autumn leaves are a vibrant mix of yellow and green, and the views from the ridge are expansive, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Hongtong Big Locust Tree Ancestral Worship Park is more of a cultural landmark. Learn about the history of immigration, touch the old locust tree—an hour is enough. ⚠️ Remember, the ancestral hall closes at 5 PM, so don't rush in at that time. 🍜 In the evening, head back to Linfen city and have some beef ball noodles. They're incredibly spicy and satisfying, only a little over ten yuan a bowl—much better than the noodles in tourist areas. 05 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia's autumn colors have a rugged, northwestern feel, completely different from the humid atmosphere of Jiangnan. The water at Liujiaxia is unbelievably blue; standing on the dam gives you the illusion of being at the seaside. I suggest you visit the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort in the morning, drive along the reservoir road for a while, and find a place to park and admire the water. On sunny days, the water's blue and green hues are clearly defined, making every snapshot look like a tablecloth. In the afternoon, we visited the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area, focusing on the grottoes. ⚠️ The grottoes are built into the cliff face, with narrow and steep steps. Wear sneakers, not flip-flops or sandals. Hiring a guide is recommended; otherwise, you'll only see the statues and won't understand the intricacies. 📍 From Liujiaxia to Bingling Temple, navigation will take you along a mountain path before taking a boat. The easiest way is to take a speedboat directly from the pier; it takes half an hour and offers views of the canyons on both sides. 🍜 In the evening, we returned to the city for hand-pulled lamb, paired with a bowl of Sanpaotai tea. The meat was tender and the tea fragrant; a meal costing around 70-80 yuan per person is quite satisfying. 06 Yingtan|Jiangxi Autumn in Longhu Mountain has a cool, ethereal feel. The Luxi River is shallow, revealing large stretches of pebble beach. Bamboo rafts float on the river, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are a deep red. I recommend taking a bamboo raft, instead of hiking. The whole trip takes about forty minutes. The boatman will slowly pole the raft, occasionally telling a few legends about the cliff tombs. Sitting at the stern, your feet can touch the cool water, which is very comfortable. ⏰ It's best to catch the first raft in the morning, around 8:30 am. The river mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the mountain shadows are faintly visible—that's when Longhu Mountain is at its most scenic. After noon, the sun is directly overhead, and the reflections on the Danxia landforms are too strong, resulting in overly white photos. 📍 From the visitor center to the bamboo raft dock, it's a ten-minute electric scooter ride. Don't walk; there's not much scenery along that stretch. ⚠️ There are many Taoist temples on the mountain, and many will charge extra for incense money. If you don't want to pay, just ignore the fortune sticks offered and walk away. 🍜 In the ancient town at the foot of the mountain, there are vendors selling Shangqing tofu. It's smooth, tender, and has a slightly smoky flavor; a bowl costs five yuan. You can try it. 07 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The altitude in this area is close to 3,000 meters. In autumn, the grass turns yellow, the sky is a bright blue, the air is dry, and the visibility is excellent. However, this is contingent on you acclimatizing. Riyue Mountain is a good first stop; its altitude isn't too high, allowing your body to adjust. The wind is strong at the summit, making it difficult to stand still, so take a few photos and come down. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for the best perspective, as the sidelight illuminates the hillside. Guide National Geological Park is the highlight. The Danxia landforms are particularly vibrant in the autumn sunlight, a fiery red. The park's trails are well-maintained; a complete loop takes about two hours. Don't rush; take your time to appreciate the wind-eroded patterns. ⚠️ Guide's altitude is lower than Riyue Mountain, but the UV radiation is incredibly strong. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential; otherwise, don't blame me if you get a sunburn. 🚄 From Xining, it's about a two-hour drive to Riyue Mountain, then another 1.5 hours to Guide. A day trip is a bit rushed, so I recommend staying in Guide County. The hotels are clean, and you can enjoy the starry sky at night. 08 Jinzhou|Liaoning In autumn, the most worthwhile sight at Yiwulü Mountain is the larch trees from the mountain gate to the summit. In early October, the pine needles begin to turn yellow, and when the wind blows, they rustle and carpet the stone steps, soft and gentle underfoot, creating an unreal sense of tranquility. I suggest you enter the mountain from Beizhen Temple. Visit the temple first, then climb the mountain. The temple isn't large; you can see it in half an hour, but the ancient pine trees in front of it are quite charming, even thicker than those on the mountain. When climbing, don't aim for the summit. You can turn back after reaching Wanghai Temple. The latter half is steeper and has more broken steps, but the scenery is similar. For those with elderly people or children, reaching the halfway point pavilion is sufficient. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to Beizhen city for Goubangzi smoked chicken. The meat is firm and has a strong smoky flavor. One chicken costs around 30-40 yuan, and with a bottle of soda, it's much better than the takeout boxes at the scenic area. 📍 Search for "Yiwulü Mountain National Scenic Area" on your navigation app. It's about an hour and a half drive from Jinzhou city. The road conditions are good, but the mountain section has many curves, so beginners should drive slowly. Of the eight routes I've explored, I'm most looking forward to the morning mist of Longhu Mountain and the withered lotus flowers of Puzhehei. Autumn colors wait for no one, so take advantage of the fewer crowds and choose one to go on. Which route do you plan to visit first? Let's chat in the comments. 01 Songyuan|Jilin Autumn at Chagan Lake is much quieter than I imagined. In late September and early October, the reeds along the lake begin to turn yellow, rustling in the wind, perfect for a slow drive along the shore. I prefer visiting Jinchan Island after 3 PM. The sunlight shines obliquely on the lake, creating layers of color, with the blue and green areas being the most photogenic. The island's walking trails aren't long; you can walk around in about an hour, stopping occasionally. The slope is gentle, making it easy to navigate even with elderly people or children. 📍 Simply search for "Chagan Lake Fishing and Hunting Culture Museum" on your navigation app. From there, turn onto the lakeside road; the entrance to Jinchan Island is right there. You won't get lost. 🍜 Most of the small restaurants along the lake sell braised bighead carp with vermicelli. A small portion plus some vegetables is enough for two people, and you can eat quite a bit for around 50-60 RMB per person. Don't order too much; the portions are more generous than in the city. ⚠️ Late October is windy, and the temperature feels several degrees lower by the lake than in the city. Remember to bring a windproof jacket. If you plan to stay overnight, I recommend staying in Songyuan city. The guesthouses by the lake generally have basic facilities and aren't very cost-effective. 02 Jingzhou | Hubei Jingzhou Ancient City is best visited in autumn, not because it's particularly stunning, but because it's less crowded and has a slower pace, making it perfect for a relaxing weekend. I suggest entering from the East Gate, walking along the city wall for a while, and then exploring the city itself. Walking along the ancient city wall in the morning is most comfortable. Between 9 and 11 am, the light reveals the texture of the bricks clearly, making photos easy to take without filters. The entire walk takes two to three hours; if you don't want to walk, rent an electric scooter, which can complete a loop in half an hour. In the afternoon, visit the Jingzhou Lantern Folk Custom Area. Don't have high expectations; it's not a large-scale lantern festival, more like a park for locals to stroll in. However, it gets dark early in autumn, and the atmosphere is created as soon as the lights come on at 6:30 pm—a lively scene with red and green lights. 🍜 For lunch, find a small shop near Zhang Juzheng Street for early morning noodles. The alkaline noodles with toppings have a rich broth, and a bowl costs seven yuan—much more affordable than the fast food in tourist areas. ⚠️ Some sections of the ancient city wall have steep steps, making it inconvenient for wheelchairs and strollers. It's best to take the section near the North Gate if you're taking elderly people. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Autumn in Puzhehei is the kind of place you'll want to stay forever. Withered lotus leaves float on the lake, mountain reflections are mirrored in the water, and the mist dissipates slowly, creating a picturesque scene before 8 am. I recommend staying in Xianrendong Village. It's close to the lake, and you can walk to the water's edge right from your door. There are many guesthouses in the village, some clean and comfortable for around 100 yuan a night. It's quieter than Puzhehei Village itself, and you won't be woken up by tour groups in the morning. ⏰ To watch the sunrise, leave at 6:30 am, walk to the foot of Qinglong Mountain, and climb for about 20 minutes. From the top, you can see the entire lake group. If you don't want to see the sunrise, you can go after 4 pm when the light is softer and there are fewer people. 🚄 A taxi from Puzhehei High-Speed ​​Railway Station to the scenic area entrance takes about 40 minutes, or about 20-30 yuan per person if you share a ride. The scenic area is quite large; you can drive in, but it gets congested in the afternoons during peak season, so an electric scooter is much more convenient. 🍜 You can try the lotus leaf chicken sold by the roadside, but don't buy the vacuum-packed kind at the entrance of the scenic area; freshly roasted ones are much more fragrant. 04 Linfen|Shanxi In the Linfen area, you should allow at least two days for a road trip in autumn. Hukou Waterfall, Yunqiu Mountain, and the Big Locust Tree are not close together, so trying to see them all in one day will only result in a rushed experience, which I don't recommend. Hukou Waterfall must be visited in the morning. Around 9 am, the water vapor is at its peak, and the sunlight shining through the mist can create rainbows. In the afternoon, when the wind picks up, you'll be soaked and cold. The ticket price isn't cheap, but the roar is worth standing there silently for ten minutes. Yunqiu Mountain is much easier to visit. The mountain isn't high, there's a cable car, and the hiking trails are well-maintained. The autumn leaves are a mix of yellow and green, and walking along the ridge offers a wide view, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The Hongtong Big Locust Tree Ancestral Worship Park is more like a cultural landmark; you can learn about the history of immigration and touch the old locust tree—an hour is enough. ⚠️ Remember, the ancestral worship hall closes at 5 PM, so don't rush in at that time. 🍜 In the evening, return to Linfen city and have some beef ball noodles. They're incredibly spicy and satisfying, costing only a dozen yuan a bowl—much better than the noodles in tourist areas. 05 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The autumn colors of Linxia have a rugged, northwestern feel, completely different from the humid atmosphere of Jiangnan. The water at Liujiaxia is unbelievably blue; standing on the dam, you get the illusion of being at the seaside. I suggest you visit the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort in the morning. Drive along the reservoir road for a while, find a place to park, and look at the water. When the sun is shining, the water is a striking contrast of blue and green; every photo you take will look like a tablecloth. In the afternoon, go to the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Site, focusing on the grottoes. ⚠️ The grottoes are on a cliff face, with narrow and steep steps. Wear sneakers, not flip-flops or sandals. Hiring a guide is recommended; otherwise, you won't understand the intricacies of the grottoes just by looking at the statues. 📍 From Liujiaxia to Bingling Temple, navigation will take you along a mountain path before taking a boat. The easiest way is to take a speedboat directly from the pier; it takes half an hour and offers views of the canyons on both sides. 🍜 In the evening, return to the city for hand-pulled mutton with a bowl of Sanpaotai tea. The meat is tender and the tea is fragrant; a good meal costs around 70-80 yuan per person. 06 Yingtan|Jiangxi Autumn in Longhu Mountain has a cool, ethereal feel. The Luxi River is shallow, revealing large pebble beaches. Bamboo rafts float on the river, and the Danxia landforms on both sides are a deep red. I recommend taking a bamboo raft, without hiking. The whole trip takes about 40 minutes. The boatman will slowly pole the boat, occasionally telling a few legends about the cliff tombs. Sitting at the stern of the raft, your feet can touch the cool, refreshing water – it's incredibly comfortable. ⏰ The best time to visit is the first raft in the morning, around 8:30 AM. The river mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the mountain shadows are faintly visible – that's when Longhu Mountain is at its most scenic. After midday, the sun is directly overhead, and the Danxia landforms reflect too much light, resulting in overly white photos. 📍 From the visitor center to the bamboo raft dock, it's a ten-minute ride by electric scooter. Don't walk; the scenery along that stretch is lacking. ⚠️ There are many Taoist temples on the mountain, and many charge extra for incense money. If you don't want to pay, simply walk away from the offerings. 🍜 In the ancient town at the foot of the mountain, there are vendors selling Shangqing tofu – tender, smooth, and slightly smoky, five yuan a bowl. Give it a try! 07 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai The altitude in this area is almost 3,000 meters. In autumn, the grass turns yellow, the sky is a brilliant blue, the air is dry, and the views are excellent. However, this is on the premise that you've acclimatized to the high altitude. Riyue Mountain is a good first stop; its altitude isn't too high, allowing your body to adjust. The wind is strong at the summit, making it difficult to stand still, so take a few photos and come down. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for the best lighting, with the light shining from the side onto the hillside, creating the best sense of depth. Guide National Geological Park is the highlight. The Danxia landforms are particularly vibrant in the autumn sunlight, a fiery red. The park's trails are well-maintained; a complete loop takes about two hours. Don't rush; take your time to appreciate the wind-eroded patterns. ⚠️ Guide's altitude is lower than Riyue Mountain's, but the UV radiation is incredibly strong. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential; otherwise, don't blame me if you get sunburned. 🚄 From Xining, it's about a two-hour drive to Riyue Mountain, then another 1.5 hours to Guide. A day trip is a bit rushed, so I recommend staying in Guide town. The hotels are clean, and you can enjoy the starry sky at night. 08 Jinzhou | Liaoning The most worthwhile sight in autumn at Yiwulü Mountain is the larch trees from the mountain gate to the summit. In early October, the pine needles begin to turn yellow, and when the wind blows, they rustle and carpet the stone steps, soft and gentle underfoot, creating an unreal tranquility. I suggest you enter the mountain from the Beizhen Temple side. Visit the temple first, then climb the mountain. The temple isn't large; you can see it in half an hour, but the ancient pine trees in front of the gate are quite charming, even thicker than those on the mountain. When climbing, don't aim for the summit. You can turn back after reaching Wanghai Temple. The latter half is steeper with broken steps, but the scenery is similar. For those with elderly people or children, reaching the Halfway Pavilion is sufficient. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Beizhen City to eat Goubangzi smoked chicken. The meat is firm, with a strong smoky flavor. One chicken costs thirty to forty yuan, and with a bottle of soda, it's much better than the takeout boxes in the scenic area. 📍 Navigate to "Yiwulü Mountain National Scenic Area". It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Jinzhou city. The road conditions are good, but the mountain section has many curves, so beginners should drive slowly. Of all the eight routes I've explored, I'm most looking forward to the morning mist of Longhu Mountain and the withered lotus flowers of Puzhehei. Autumn colors wait for no one, so pick one and go while there are fewer crowds. Which route are you planning to visit first? Let's chat in the comments.

01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei, even its name carries a touch of mystery. I suggest taking the high-speed rail directly to Puzhehei Station, then taking a taxi to the scenic area (about 30 minutes, fare around 40 yuan). ⏰ Arrive at Qinglongshan Wharf before 9 am; it's less crowded then, and the lake mist hasn't dissipated yet, resulting in photos that look like ink paintings. The hike takes about 40 minutes; from the summit, you can overlook the entire karst peak forest and lake, offering a panoramic view. After descending, don't rush off; visit Xianrendong Village. There's a stall selling fried lotus flowers for 5 yuan a skewer. The lotus flowers are coated in batter and fried until crispy, with a slightly sweet taste—worth trying. A combined ticket for the scenic area and boat costs about 200 yuan; students get half price with their ID cards, so remember to bring one. ⚠️ The peak tourist season is around 2-3 pm; the wait for the willow-leaf boats can be over an hour, so it's recommended to avoid this time. If you want to play in the water, remember to bring a change of clothes. Water fights are a must here, and it's practically impossible to stay dry. 02 Jiangmen City | Guangdong I don't recommend trying to see too many Kaiping Diaolou (watchtowers); visiting three a day is enough. 📍 The Zili Village Diaolou Cluster is the top choice. Tickets are 78 yuan. In the morning, the light is soft, and the gray plasterwork and reliefs on the exterior walls of the watchtowers are clearly defined in the sunlight. There's an old shop at the village entrance selling Ai Ci (glutinous rice cakes) for 3 yuan each, topped with crushed peanuts and coconut shreds—much lighter than the sweet version in the city. Next, go to Li Garden, which has a Western-style garden feel, a different vibe from Zili Village, and is suitable for portrait photography. The two places are not far apart, about a 15-minute taxi ride. For lunch, have eel rice in Chikan Ancient Town. I recommend "Wanli Restaurant"—the rice at the bottom of the claypot rice is crispy and fragrant, and the eel is freshly killed and cooked. You can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the sunlight will shine directly on the walls of the watchtowers, making photos prone to overexposure. It's best to finish the main shooting before 3 PM. Before returning to the city in the evening, you can visit Tangkou Town, where there's a cultural and creative park converted from an old granary. It's free and a good place to rest and have a coffee. 03 Jiaozuo City | Henan Yuntai Mountain can't be fully explored in one day, so I'll highlight the key points for you. In the morning, go to Hongshixia Gorge, the most scenic part. The entrance is on the mountain, and you walk downhill. The water in the gorge is rapid, and the plank road is built along the rock face, giving you a slight feeling of being suspended in mid-air. Walking through the entire gorge takes about two hours, and you'll arrive at Zifang Lake. There are vendors selling sweet yam soup by the lake for 10 yuan a cup—it's good for warming your stomach. At noon, take the scenic bus to Tanpuxia Gorge. There are many waterfalls here, and the path is gentle, making it suitable for families with elderly people and children. Qingtianhe River and Shennong Mountain are relatively less popular. If you only have one day, I suggest skipping Shennong Mountain and spending the afternoon on a boat trip on Qingtianhe River. The boat ticket plus entrance fee is about 120 yuan. The riverbanks are lined with Danxia landforms, their colors reflected in the water in a rich tapestry of hues. ⏰ The best time to return is around 5 PM, when the sunlight is optimal. From the square outside the Yuntai Mountain gate, you can see the mountains bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. ⚠️ Long queues for the scenic area buses are common during holidays. Try to catch the early bus to enter the mountain, or stay at a guesthouse near the scenic area entrance and enter the park directly the next morning. 04 Yichun City | Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest and Strange Rocks – the word "strange rock" is key to its name. The scenic area is about 110 kilometers north of Yichun city. Driving is the most convenient option; simply search "Tangwanghe Stone Forest National Geological Park" on your navigation app. The drive takes about an hour and a half. 📍 After entering the park, take an electric cart to the "One Line Sky" (一线天). This is the most photogenic spot in the entire scenic area. Two giant rocks create a narrow path, and looking up, only a sliver of sky is visible. At midday, sunlight filters through the gaps, creating stunning light and shadow effects. Next, take the western route to see "Buddha Peak." The pile of rocks does indeed resemble a seated Buddha, but you need to stand back to see it clearly; up close, it looks like a jumble of rocks. Signal strength within the scenic area is inconsistent, so it's recommended to download an offline map beforehand. 🍜 At the scenic area exit, there's a small shop selling freshly made blueberry jam for 20 yuan a bottle. It's much thicker than the ones sold in supermarkets, and it's a sweet and sour treat to spread on flatbread, refreshing and not too greasy. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the forest area, so bring mosquito repellent and wear long pants. The entire scenic area takes about four hours to walk, not too physically demanding, suitable for a leisurely stroll. 05 Nanning City | Guangxi Qingxiu Mountain is much larger than I expected; walking alone would be exhausting. I recommend taking the scenic area shuttle bus, which costs 5 yuan per ride and allows you to hop on and off. 📍 Guanyin Temple is the most worthwhile place to visit at the top of the mountain. The platform in front of the temple offers a panoramic view of the entire Nanning city area. Descending the mountain towards the East Gate, you'll pass Tianchi Lake. The lake's water is emerald green, reflecting the palm trees on sunny days, creating a tropical feel in photos. Qingxiu Mountain's entrance fee is 20 yuan, good value for money. In the afternoon, visit Fubo Temple, located on the banks of the Yong River, about a 30-minute drive from Qingxiu Mountain. The temple isn't large, but its architecture is very characteristic of Lingnan style, with well-preserved brick carvings and stucco. There's a large banyan tree in front of the temple, and under it, there are stalls selling pickled fruits. Green mangoes dipped in chili salt are a childhood favorite in Nanning; you should try it—it's sour, spicy, and crunchy, very appetizing. ⚠️ Fubo Temple closes at 4 PM, so don't go too late. In the evening, return to the city center. Zhongshan Road Night Market is worth exploring, but avoid the barbecue stalls near the entrance. Walk about 300 meters further in; the broth at Fuji Laoyou Rice Noodles is richer, and the noodles are more springy. 06 Shanghai In Shanghai, I advise you not to try to do too much; two routes a day are enough. In the morning, I visited the Guangfulin Cultural Site, my most unexpected discovery in Shanghai. The entrance fee was 30 yuan. The highlight was the underwater museum; the entire building is submerged, with only the roof above water, resembling a floating ark. Exhibits included pottery tripods from the Songze Culture period, dating back approximately 6,000 years, older than most people imagine. At noon, I took Metro Line 9 to Yu Garden Station. Crowds are the norm at Yu Garden, but it's worth a visit. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. The Jade Exquisite Rockery inside is a Ming Dynasty relic; the ethereal beauty of the Taihu stones is truly unique. 🍜 After leaving Yu Garden, I went to the Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop near the City God Temple. A basket of six crab roe xiaolongbao cost 38 yuan; the skin was thin and the filling was plentiful, but be prepared to wait at least half an hour. In the afternoon, I went to the Expo Park, now converted into exhibition halls and shopping malls. Entry was free, and the architecture itself was photogenic. ⚠️ The "Moon Boat" pavilion at the Expo Park closes early; you need to enter before 5 PM. If you're not specifically traveling with kids, I suggest skipping Disneyland. Waiting two hours for a three-minute ride is common. If you really want to go, buy an early bird pass for an hour's entry. 07 Baoting County | Hainan Binglang Valley and Yanoda are two different styles, and I recommend visiting both, but in a specific order. Go to Binglang Valley first in the morning. It's more like a living village, where Li ethnic grandmothers weave Li brocade in front of their boat-shaped houses. The "click-clack" of the looms is very crisp. You can buy a small square scarf for 30-50 yuan; the handmade patterns are definitely more vibrant than machine-printed ones. There's also a fire-making demonstration in the scenic area—real fire-making, not staged. After watching, you'll realize that humans are truly forced to develop these skills. In the afternoon, go to Yanoda, which focuses on the tropical rainforest. The entrance fee plus the sightseeing bus is about 130 yuan. 📍 Waterfall trekking is a must-do. Wear straw sandals and go upstream. The water is cold and the rocks are slippery, but it's thrilling. There's an additional 100 yuan equipment fee. You'll definitely get soaked after the hike, so bring an extra set of clothes. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the light inside Yanoda Scenic Area dims, and mosquitoes are active in the rainforest, so spray plenty of mosquito repellent before entering. 🍜 There's a coconut jelly stall near the scenic area entrance, 15 yuan each. The coconut meat and juice are frozen into a semi-solid state, and it scoops up like jelly, thicker than the ones from roadside stalls. 08 Changsha City | Hunan The best places to visit in Changsha aren't in the scenic areas, but on the streets, though Tianxin Pavilion is worth a visit. The entrance fee is 32 yuan. It's the only remaining remnant of Changsha's old city wall. Climbing the tower, you can see the gray-tiled roofs of Taiping Street connecting to modern high-rises—a charming mix of old and new. ⏰ Go at 8 AM; there are fewer tourists, and the blue bricks on the city wall are wet with dew, so walk carefully. Next, go to Yuelu Mountain, entering from the South Gate and heading towards Aiwan Pavilion. It's most beautiful in November when the maple leaves are at their reddest; otherwise, it's peaceful and serene. The mountain isn't high; it takes about forty minutes to climb. From the summit, you can overlook the Xiang River. The Hunan Provincial Museum is the highlight, as it houses the tomb of Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Dynasty. Admission is free, but you must make a reservation in advance through the official WeChat account and enter by scanning your ID card on-site. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Huaminglou is quite far from the city center, about 40 kilometers. If you're not particularly interested in cultural attractions, you can skip it and save your time for Orange Isle. Take a walk along the river in the evening; it's windy, but the night view is worth seeing. 🍜 Don't bother looking for specific snack shops in Changsha. Any stall near Wuyi Square selling stinky tofu and sugar-coated fried dough sticks is fine. Avoid buying from the entrances to tourist attractions; they're overpriced and often subpar. Let's go! These eight cities each have their own unique character. Wenshan's lakes, Jiangmen's watchtowers, Jiaozuo's canyons, Yichun's stone forest, Nanning's pickled vegetables, Shanghai's alleyways, Baoting's rainforest, and Changsha's late-night snacks—each city deserves two or three days to slowly experience. Let's discuss in the comments: which one would you most like to visit first? 01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei—the name itself carries a touch of mystery. I suggest taking the high-speed rail directly to Puzhehei Station, then taking a taxi to the scenic area; it takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. ⏰ Arrive at Qinglongshan Wharf before 9 AM. There will be fewer people, and the mist on the lake won't have dissipated yet, making for photos that look like ink paintings. The hike takes about 40 minutes; from the summit, you can overlook the entire karst peak forest and lakes—a truly expansive view. After descending the mountain, don't rush off. Take a stroll through Xianrendong Village. There's a stall selling fried lotus flowers for five yuan a skewer. The lotus flowers are coated in batter and fried until crispy, with a slightly sweet taste—worth trying. A combined ticket for the scenic area and boat ride costs about 200 yuan; students get half price with their ID cards, so remember to bring one. ⚠️ The peak tourist season is around 2-3 pm. The wait for the willow-leaf boat ride can be over an hour, so it's recommended to avoid peak times. If you want to play in the water, remember to bring a change of clothes; water fights are a must here, and getting wet is practically impossible. 02 Jiangmen City|Guangdong I don't recommend trying to see too many Kaiping Diaolou (watchtowers). Visiting three a day is enough. 📍 Zili Village Diaolou Cluster is the top choice. The entrance fee is 78 yuan. In the morning, the soft light makes the gray plaster and reliefs on the watchtower walls stand out clearly. There's an old shop at the village entrance selling Ai Ci (glutinous rice cakes) for three yuan each, topped with crushed peanuts and coconut shreds—much lighter than the sweeter versions in the city. Next, head to Li Garden, a Western-style garden that offers a different feel from Zili Village, perfect for portrait photography. The two are close by, about a 15-minute taxi ride. For lunch, try eel rice in Chikan Ancient Town. I recommend "Wanli Restaurant"—the rice crust at the bottom of the claypot rice is fragrant, and the eel is freshly killed and prepared. It's a very filling meal for about 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the sunlight will directly hit the walls of the watchtowers, making photos prone to overexposure. It's best to finish your main shots before 3 PM. Before returning to the city in the evening, you can visit Tangkou Town, where there's a cultural and creative park converted from an old granary. It's free and a good place to rest and have a coffee. 03 Jiaozuo City | Henan Yuntai Mountain can't be explored in one day, so I'll highlight the key points for you. Start in the morning at Hongshixia Gorge, the most scenic part. The entrance is on the mountain; walk down the gorge, where the water flows rapidly. The plank road is built along the rock face, giving a slight feeling of being suspended in mid-air. The entire canyon walk takes about two hours, and you'll arrive at Zifang Lake. There are vendors selling sweet yam soup by the lake for 10 yuan a cup – a warming treat. At noon, take the scenic area bus to Tanpu Gorge. It has numerous waterfalls and a gentle path, suitable for families with elderly members and children. Qingtian River and Shennong Mountain are relatively less popular. If you only have one day, I suggest skipping Shennong Mountain and spending the afternoon on a boat trip on Qingtian River. The boat ticket plus entrance fee is about 120 yuan. The riverbanks are Danxia landforms, with rich colors reflected in the water. ⏰ The best time to return is around 5 pm, when the light is optimal. From the square outside the Yuntai Mountain gate, you can see the mountains bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. ⚠️ Long queues for the scenic area buses are common during holidays. Try to catch an early bus to enter the mountain, or stay at a guesthouse near the scenic area entrance and enter the park early the next morning. 04 Yichun City | Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest and Strange Rocks – the word "strange rocks" in the name is key. The scenic area is located about 110 kilometers north of Yichun city. Driving is the most convenient option; simply search for "Tangwanghe Stone Forest National Geological Park" on your navigation app. The drive takes about an hour and a half. 📍 After entering the park, take an electric cart to the "One Line Sky" (一线天), the most photogenic spot in the entire area. Two giant rocks create a narrow path, and looking up, only a sliver of sky is visible. At midday, sunlight filters through the gaps, creating stunning light and shadow effects. Next, take the western route to see "Buddha Peak" (佛祖峰). The pile of rocks does indeed resemble a seated Buddha, but you need to stand back to see it clearly; up close, it looks like a jumble of rocks. Signal strength within the scenic area is inconsistent, so it's recommended to download an offline map beforehand. 🍜 At the scenic area exit, there's a small shop selling freshly made blueberry jam for 20 yuan a bottle. It's much thicker than the ones sold in supermarkets and is perfect for spreading on flatbread—a sweet and sour treat that cuts through the richness. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the forest, so bring mosquito repellent and wear long pants. The entire scenic area takes about four hours to walk, not too physically demanding, perfect for a leisurely stroll. 05 Nanning City | Guangxi Qingxiu Mountain is much larger than I expected; walking alone would be exhausting. I recommend taking the scenic shuttle bus, which costs 5 yuan per ride and allows you to hop on and off at your leisure. 📍 Guanyin Temple is the most worthwhile place to visit at the summit. The platform in front of the temple offers a panoramic view of the entire Nanning city. Descending the mountain towards the East Gate, you'll pass Tianchi Lake. The water is emerald green, and on a sunny day, the reflection of the palm trees creates a tropical feel in photos. The entrance fee to Qingxiu Mountain is 20 yuan, which is good value. In the afternoon, visit Fubo Temple, located on the banks of the Yong River, about a 30-minute drive from Qingxiu Mountain. The temple isn't large, but the architecture is very characteristic of Lingnan, with well-preserved brick carvings and plasterwork. There's a large banyan tree in front of the temple, and under it, there are stalls selling pickled fruits. Green mangoes dipped in chili salt are a childhood favorite in Nanning; you should try it—it's sour, spicy, crunchy, and very appetizing. ⚠️ Fubo Temple closes at 4 PM, so don't go too late. Back in the city in the evening, Zhongshan Road Night Market is worth a visit, but avoid the barbecue stalls near the entrance. Walk 300 meters further in; the soup base at Fuji Laoyou Rice Noodles is richer, and the noodles are more springy. 06 Shanghai I advise you not to try to do too much in Shanghai; two routes a day are enough. In the morning, go to the Guangfulin Cultural Site, my most unexpected discovery in Shanghai. Tickets are 30 yuan. The highlight is the underwater museum; the entire building is submerged, with only the roof above water, like a floating ark. Exhibits include pottery tripods from the Songze Culture period, dating back about 6,000 years, older than most people imagine. At noon, take Metro Line 9 to Yu Garden Station. Yu Garden is always crowded, but it's worth a visit. Tickets are 40 yuan. The Jade Linglong Rockery inside is a Ming Dynasty relic; the ethereal beauty of the Taihu stones is truly unique. 🍜 After leaving Yu Garden, head to Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop near the City God Temple. A basket of six crab roe xiaolongbao costs 38 yuan; the skin is thin and the filling is plentiful, but be prepared to wait at least half an hour. In the afternoon, visit the Expo Park, now converted into exhibition halls and shopping malls. Entry is free, and the architecture itself is photogenic. ⚠️ The "Moon Boat" pavilion at the Expo Park closes early; you need to enter before 5 PM. If you're not specifically bringing children, I suggest skipping Disneyland. Waiting two hours for a three-minute ride is common. If you really want to go, buy an early bird pass for an hour's entry. 07 Baoting County | Hainan Binglang Valley and Yanoda are two different styles; I recommend visiting both, but the order matters. Go to Binglang Valley first in the morning. It's more like a living village. Li ethnic grandmothers sit in front of their boat-shaped houses weaving Li brocade; the "click-clack" of the loom is very crisp. You can buy a small square scarf for 30-50 yuan; the handmade patterns are indeed more vibrant than machine-printed ones. There's a fire-making demonstration in the scenic area—it's real fire-making, not staged. After watching it, you realize humans are truly driven by necessity. In the afternoon, we went to Yanoda, which mainly features tropical rainforest. The entrance fee plus the sightseeing bus is about 130 yuan. 📍 Waterfall trekking is a must-do. Wearing straw sandals, you swim upstream. The water is cold and the rocks are slippery, but it's thrilling. There's an additional 100 yuan equipment fee. You'll definitely get soaked, so bring an extra set of clothes. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the light in Yanoda's scenic area dims, and mosquitoes are active in the rainforest. Spray plenty of mosquito repellent before entering. 🍜 There's a coconut jelly stall at the entrance of the scenic area, 15 yuan each. The coconut meat and juice are frozen into a semi-solid state, and it scoops up like jelly, thicker than the ones from roadside stalls. 08 Changsha City|Hunan The best places to visit in Changsha aren't in the scenic areas, but on the streets. However, Tianxin Pavilion is worth a visit. Tickets are 32 yuan. This is the only remaining remnant of Changsha's old city wall. Climbing the city wall tower offers a view of the gray-tiled roofs of Taiping Street connecting to modern high-rises, a charming blend of old and new. ⏰ Go at 8 am to avoid crowds. The blue bricks on the city wall are damp with dew, so walk carefully. Next, head to Yuelu Mountain. Enter from the south gate and walk towards Aiwan Pavilion. It's most beautiful in November when the maple leaves are at their reddest; otherwise, it's peaceful and serene. The mountain isn't high; the climb takes about 40 minutes. From the summit, you can overlook the Xiang River. The Hunan Provincial Museum is the highlight, as it houses the tomb of Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Dynasty. Admission is free, but you must make a reservation in advance through the official WeChat account and enter by scanning your ID card. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Huaminglou is quite far from the city center, about 40 kilometers. If you're not particularly interested in cultural attractions, you can skip it and save your time for Orange Isle. Take an evening stroll along the river; it's windy, but the night view is worth seeing. 🍜 Don't bother looking for specific snack shops in Changsha; any stall near Wuyi Square selling stinky tofu and sugar-coated fried dough sticks is fine. Just avoid the ones near tourist attractions—they're overpriced and poorly made. Let's go! These eight cities each have their own unique character. Wenshan's lakes, Jiangmen's watchtowers, Jiaozuo's canyons, Yichun's stone forest, Nanning's pickled vegetables, Shanghai's alleyways, Baoting's rainforest, and Changsha's late-night snacks—each city deserves two or three days to experience. Let's discuss in the comments: which one would you most like to visit first?

Budget travelers, rejoice! These 8 hidden gems are uncrowded, beautiful, and affordable. 01 Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan and the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan Tourist Area offer completely different experiences—one for playing in the sand, the other for history. The ticket for Xiangshawan includes the cable car, but desert motorbikes and camel rides are charged separately. To save money, bring your own shoe covers; renting them at the scenic area isn't cheap. ⚠️ Surface temperatures in the desert are high at noon, and walking barefoot will burn your feet. We recommend ⏰ entering the sand area after 3:00 PM, when the light is softer and better for photos. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan Tourist Area is more like a museum on the grasslands with grand architecture and solid guided content. You don't need to hire a guide; just follow the audio guide. 📍 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from the city center, but ride-sharing is more cost-effective. If you can only choose one, I vote for Xiangshawan; the vastness of the desert is truly unique. 02 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu You can combine the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort and the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area into a day trip, but don't be too ambitious—doing both in one day will be exhausting. My advice is to visit Liujiaxia Reservoir in the morning to take a boat and see the spectacular sight of the Yellow River turning from muddy to clear. Remember to book your boat ticket online in advance, as buying it on-site is much more expensive. In the afternoon, visit the Bingling Temple grottoes. ⚠️ The grotto area has many steep steps, so wear sneakers. Don't wear flip-flops or sandals, or your feet will suffer. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of "Heyan Mianpian" (noodle slices) near the pier. It costs just over 10 yuan and is filling—much better than the boxed meals in the scenic area. If you're short on time, prioritize Bingling Temple; the sheer impact of that giant Buddha makes the whole trip worth it. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei is a place meant for slow travel. Don't try to check off all the attractions in one day; staying overnight is the right way to experience it. 📍 Qinglong Mountain is the perfect spot for sunset. It takes about half an hour to climb, and while it's not high, the steps are slippery, so don't force it after rain. 🛶 Taking a willow-leaf boat tour on the lake is the highlight. Whether you join a water fight depends on your mood, but remember to wrap your phone and camera in a waterproof bag—don't ask me how I know. The tail end of the lotus season is still here in September and October, and you can buy lotus seed pods on the lake to peel and eat fresh—they're sweet and refreshing. For accommodation, choose Xianrendong Village; it's quieter than Puzhehei Village, and you can hear frogs at night. That's what pastoral life should be like. 04 Changzhi | Shanxi Baquan Gorge in Huguan Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon and the Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon sound like siblings, but they offer completely different experiences. Baquan Gorge is more of a "scenic area" with electric carts, boat rides, and cable cars, so you don't have to climb many steps—it's suitable for those traveling with parents or those with average stamina. The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon is wilder, with more hiking sections and more primitive scenery, perfect for those who want to break a sweat. ⚠️ It's several degrees cooler in the canyon than outside. Remember to bring a light jacket when visiting in September or October; it gets cold when the wind blows in the shade. 🚄 There are direct tourist shuttle buses from Changzhi East Station to the scenic area, which are more than half the price of chartering a car. My advice: choose Baquan Gorge for a relaxing sightseeing experience, or the Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon if you want a challenge. Don't try to cram both into the same day. 05 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Riyue Mountain and Guide National Geopark—one is by the roadside, the other requires a detour—so I suggest planning them separately. Riyue Mountain is where Princess Wencheng passed through on her way to Tibet. It's not high, but it's windy. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM to avoid crowds and quietly watch the prayer flags fluttering at the mountain pass. The Danxia landforms at the Geopark are another kind of stunning; the red mountains look like they've been sliced by a knife. ⚠️ There's almost no shade in the scenic area, and it's scorching on sunny days, so bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Qinghai yogurt in Guide County. It's so thick it sticks to the spoon, and it tastes better than what's sold at the scenic area entrance. These two spots are better suited for a road trip; public transportation isn't convenient, so ride-sharing or chartering a car is the norm. Agree on the price before you set off. 06 Laibin | Guangxi Dayao Mountain Panwangjie and Jinxiu Lotus Mountain both combine Yao ethnic culture with natural scenery, but their styles are distinctly different. Panwangjie excels in cultural experiences, with detailed Yao song and dance performances and folk displays, making it great for kids to learn something new. Lotus Mountain is purely for hiking—lots of steps and great scenery. From the top, you can see layers of rolling mountains. ⏰ It's most beautiful in the early morning when there's mist, looking just like a traditional ink painting. The two scenic areas aren't far apart, but doing both in one day is too rushed. I suggest choosing one for an in-depth visit. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes and bugs in the mountains, so be sure to bring insect repellent and don't wear shorts. If you like culture, choose Panwangjie; if you just want to see the mountains, Lotus Mountain is more straightforward. 07 Yichun | Jiangxi Mingyueshan Tourist Area is an underrated spot. There's Wentang Town at the foot of the mountain—perfect for soaking your feet after a hike. After taking the cable car up, walk along the Qingyun Plank Road. It's flat the whole way, suspended on the cliffside. Looking down might make your legs weak, but the scenery is absolutely worth the ticket price. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light on the mountain becomes warmer, making it the best time for photos on the plank road, and there are far fewer people. 🍜 The selenium-rich salted century eggs in Wentang Town at the foot of the mountain are a local specialty. Buy a few as souvenirs—they're more practical than scenic area trinkets. Stay in Wentang Town; foot soaking is free, while hot springs are charged separately, so you can choose what fits your budget. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain is changeable. Raincoats are more useful than umbrellas, as umbrellas can't withstand the strong winds. 08 Wanning | Hainan Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay—one is quiet and perfect for zoning out, the other is lively and great for surfing. The water at Shimei Bay is clearer, the sand is finer, and it's so uncrowded it feels like a private beach. You can just find a coconut tree to lie under and spend the whole afternoon. Riyue Bay is a playground for young people, with surf shops and coffee trucks lining the road, creating a free and spirited atmosphere. 🍜 In the evening, eat seafood at a fishing village near Shimei Bay. It's half the price of what you'd find in the scenic area, and even fresher. ⚠️ September and October are the tail end of the rainy season, and showers can come at any time. Carry an umbrella with you so it doesn't dampen your mood for water activities. If you only have time for one bay, I'd choose Shimei Bay; quietness itself is a luxury. None of these eight places are the kind of "must-visit or you'll regret it for life" popular spots, but each one lets you see real scenery for a small price. September and October are less crowded, and accommodation and transportation are cheaper. Traveling off-peak will double your experience. Which one do you want to visit first? Let's chat in the comments.

Where to go for a family autumn trip? These 8 places are uncrowded and beautiful, offering a perfect family experience. 01 Ganzhou | Jiangxi When bringing kids to Ganzhou, Shicheng is my top choice. In September and October, the scent of osmanthus fills Qinjiang Road. Kids run after the fragrance, while adults sit under ancient camphor trees and relax. 📍 The Danxia landforms at Tongtianzhai aren't very high; 5- or 6-year-olds can climb them on their own. It's windy at the summit, so remember to bring a light jacket. In the afternoon, head to Sanbai Mountain. The water at the source of the Dongjiang River is so clear you can see small fish in the crevices of the rocks. Kids can squat by the boardwalk and watch them for half an hour. ⏰ I recommend visiting Sanbai Mountain in the morning. The light is too strong in the afternoon, making photos prone to overexposure. 🍜 Shicheng's taro dumplings have smooth skins and savory fillings. Kids will pop them one after another—they're more appealing than the stir-fried dishes at restaurants. ⚠️ The small water guns sold in the scenic area are of average quality. Buy them in the county town beforehand to avoid wasting money. 02 Songyuan | Jilin Chagan Lake isn't just about winter fishing. In late September, the reed marshes turn golden, rippling like waves in the wind. Take the kids on a boat to the center of the lake; water birds will swoop overhead, and the kids will be clapping with excitement. 📍 Jinchan Island is best visited in the afternoon. The trails on the island are flat, making it easy to push a stroller. ⏰ The light is perfect after 5:00 PM. The lake surface turns orange-red, making every photo look like a postcard. 🍜 The stewed bighead carp with tofu by the lake has such a fresh broth that kids will drink 2 bowls. Remember to ask the owner to use less salt. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes on the island, so long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. Don't wear sandals. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake. Hiring a car is more convenient, as the drivers know the routes well. 03 Wenshan | Yunnan In September and October, the lotus flowers in Puzhehei have faded, but the landscape is quieter. Take the kids on a willow-leaf boat through the karst peaks. Water birds follow the boat looking for food, and kids can reach out and touch the lotus stems. 📍 The Qinglong Mountain observation deck is worth the climb. The steps aren't steep, and a 7-year-old can reach the top in half an hour to overlook the entire lake and village. ⏰ At 7:00 AM, a thin mist rises over the lake, looking like an ink wash painting. You don't need filters for photos. 🍜 The soy milk porridge with fried lotus flowers in the village is a novelty for kids and a comfortable meal for adults. ⚠️ Boat tickets stop selling at 4:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the deadline. For accommodation, choose Xianrendong Village; you'll have a lake view right outside your window, and it's half the price of staying at the scenic area entrance. 04 Jining | Shandong The Three Confucius Sites in Qufu are great for elementary school students. Walking around and telling stories about Confucius is more vivid than what's in textbooks. 📍 At the Confucius Temple's dragon pillars and Apricot Altar, kids will ask, "Did people really have classes here?" If adults do some homework beforehand, they'll feel more confident answering on the spot. ⏰ Visit the Confucius Temple and Confucius Mansion in the morning, and head to the Confucius Forest in the afternoon—there's plenty of shade, so it's not too sunny. ⚠️ You need to bargain if you hire a tour guide in the scenic area; the official audio guide for 20 yuan is sufficient. In the afternoon, head to Weishan Lake. Take a boat through the reed marshes and watch fishermen haul in their nets; kids can even touch the crabs fresh out of the water. 🍜 The lotus leaf-wrapped meat and water caltrop kernels by the lake are novel for kids and satisfying for adults. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes to take a taxi from Qufu East Station to the Three Confucius Sites. Don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers at the entrance. 05 Longyan | Fujian Yongding Tulou is a great place to broaden kids' horizons. When they duck into Zhencheng Building, they'll exclaim, "Why is the house round?" 📍 Elderly people still live in the buildings. The drying vegetables and the chickens they raise are all part of the vibrant, living atmosphere. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light slants into the courtyard, making it the best time for photos. 🍜 The taro dumplings and beef balls downstairs are so good that kids will want to pack some to go. The next day, visit Changting Ancient Town. The city walls and Diantou Street are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Kids will be more interested in the blacksmith shops and puppet shows. ⚠️ Guanzhai Mountain has many steps. If you have a baby, I suggest taking the cable car up and down instead of trying to climb. 🚄 There are direct shuttle buses from Longyan Station to the Tulou. The trip takes about 1.5 hours, so kids can catch up on sleep on the bus. 06 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Autumn in Jingpo Lake is colorful, with red maples and yellow leaves reflected in the deep blue lake water. Kids will ask, "Is this a painting?" 📍 Although the water volume at Diaoshuilou Waterfall isn't as high as in summer, it's less crowded. Standing on the observation deck, you can hear the roaring sound of the water. ⏰ The lake surface is calm before 10:00 AM, making the reflections clearest. 🍜 The stewed crucian carp with tofu by the lake has tender fish meat. Kids can eat a big bowl mixed with rice. ⚠️ The sightseeing buses in the scenic area charge by section. If you're with kids, don't save this money; walking is too exhausting. In the afternoon, head to downtown Mudanjiang. The riverside path is perfect for riding family bikes, and you can watch the sunset turn the river red in the evening. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Mudanjiang Station to Jingpo Lake. Hiring a car for the round trip is more flexible. 07 Yichang | Hubei Three Gorges Tribe is perfect for taking kids on a boat to enjoy the scenery. Kids will suddenly visualize the phrase "the boat sails on the river, and people travel through a painting." 📍 Kids will be mesmerized by the trackers' work songs and the Tujia wedding performance at Longjin Creek. ⏰ There's a performance at 10:00 AM, so don't miss it. 🍜 The radish dumplings in the scenic area are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside; kids will be happy eating them while walking. In the afternoon, go to the Three Gorges Waterfall. Put on a raincoat and walk behind the waterfall; the mist will hit your face, and kids will scream, dodge, and laugh. ⚠️ The waterfall area is slippery, so have the kids wear non-slip shoes. Qingjiang Gallery is suitable for the second day; the boat trip is long, so prepare some snacks and picture books. 🚄 There is a direct tourist bus from Yichang East Station to Three Gorges Tribe, with a travel time of about 1 hour. 08 Xianyang | Shaanxi Qianling Mausoleum is a great place for kids to experience history. The Wordless Stele and the stone lions will spark a bunch of questions from kids, giving adults the perfect opportunity to talk about Wu Zetian. 📍 Kids will count the Wengzhong stone statues on both sides of the Sima Road and ask, "Why is one missing a head?" It's more fun to look up information on the spot. ⏰ Go in the morning to avoid the sun; the light is too harsh in the afternoon, making faces look dark in photos. ⚠️ There's no need to take the electric cart in the scenic area; the walking distance isn't long, and kids can manage it. In the afternoon, head to Yuanjia Village. The Guanzhong Impression Experience Area is more like a living folk museum. Kids will be fascinated watching traditional crafts like making chili paste and grinding tofu. 🍜 At the snack street in the village, kids will be full after just 1 bite of each—sour soup noodles, Zeng cake, and oil-splashed noodles. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Xianyang West Station to Qianling Mausoleum. Yuanjia Village is on the way back, so it's most reasonable to arrange it along the route. These 8 places are perfect for visiting in September and October—they aren't crowded, and the weather is comfortable. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Or if there are any you want to visit, let's chat in the comments section, and I'll help you avoid any pitfalls.

1. Zhenjiang, Jiangsu The Yangtze River and the Grand Canal meet here, in a city defined by its mountains and water. Jinshan Temple is the legendary site of the White Snake flooding Jinshan; climb the tower for a view of the rushing Yangtze. Xijindu Ancient Street has existed since the Tang Dynasty, its bluestone paths polished smooth by time, and Zhaoguan Stone Pagoda is the only street-crossing stone pagoda in the country. "Pot lid noodles" are a must-try, known as the "No. 1 noodle in Jiangnan," and the unique sight of a pot lid boiling inside the noodle pot is full of local ingenuity. It's rarely crowded here; you can wander in the river breeze for 3 days on a budget of 500 yuan, enjoying ten times the tranquility of Suzhou or Hangzhou. 2. Yichang, Hubei The gateway to the Three Gorges and the world capital of hydropower. The stilt houses of Sanxia Renjia hang from the cliffs, and the chants of trackers echo through the canyons. The clear waters of the Qingjiang Gallery reflect the karst peaks; cruising through feels like entering a hundred-mile-long painting. The grandeur of the Three Gorges Dam is breathtaking; stand on Tanziling to overlook the five-level ship lock and experience a miracle of human engineering. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the autumn air is crisp and the crowds have dispersed; you can enjoy this magnificent landscape for 3 days on a budget of 650 yuan. 3. Wuzhong, Ningxia A "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall" where the Yellow River flows through the city. The 108 Pagodas of Qingtongxia stand quietly on the banks of the Yellow River, each carrying the memories of the Western Xia Dynasty. The Yellow River Tower is majestic; climb it for a view of the "long river and the setting sun," just like the poem. Hand-grabbed lamb is the signature dish—fatty but not greasy—paired with a bowl of Eight-Treasure Tea, warming you from your tongue to your heart. The giant reliefs at the China Yellow River Altar tell the story of Chinese agricultural civilization. There are very few tourists here; you can experience the most authentic Ningxia culture for 3 days on a budget of 580 yuan. 4. Haikou, Hainan Haikou is an underrated treasure of a city in Hainan. The Nanyang-style building complex on Qilou Old Street is well-preserved, and the mottled carved doors and windows record a century of history of this hometown for overseas Chinese. The lava tunnels at the Volcano Park are amazing, and the sunset at Holiday Beach is quieter than in Sanya. Prices here are half those of Sanya; seafood markets offer fresh catches cooked on the spot, and you can sit for an afternoon in a "Dad Tea" shop with a pot of tea. In the September off-season, both flights and accommodation are cheap; you can enjoy a slow island life for 3 days on a budget of 700 yuan. 5. Chenzhou, Hunan The misty Xiaodongjiang River is the soul of Chenzhou. At 6:00 AM, white mist drapes over the river like gauze, and the silhouette of fishermen casting nets becomes a classic scene captured by countless photographers. The Danxia landforms of Gaoyiling feature red rocks and green water; climbing to the top offers a view like a giant dragon coiled below. The salmon sashimi from Dongjiang Lake is fresh and succulent, and the spicy chicken stew is incredibly satisfying. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the crowds fade away; you can enjoy the tranquility of this small southern Hunan city for 3 days on a budget of 600 yuan. 6. Zhanjiang, Guangdong The seafood capital at the southernmost tip of mainland China. The sunset at Jinshawan and the Bay Bridge form a stunning silhouette. Naozhou Island is China's largest volcanic island, where the black reefs of Na'yan Beach contrast beautifully with the blue sea. After the fishing season opens in September, oysters are 1 yuan each, and crabs and lobsters are sold by weight; you can eat until you're stuffed for 30 yuan. The French-style architecture of Chikan Old Street has a cinematic quality. It's more off-the-beaten-path than Beihai and cheaper than Sanya; you can achieve "seafood freedom" for 3 days on a budget of 650 yuan. 7. Wenshan, Yunnan The pastoral landscapes of Puzhehei reach their most beautiful season in September. Ten thousand acres of lotus flowers are still in full bloom, and the view from Qinglong Mountain overlooks the karst peaks like jade hairpins. Shede Grassland is a high-altitude pasture in Yunnan, with herds of cattle and sheep and spinning windmills. The Yi Sani people of Xianrendong Village sing ancient ballads. It's ten times quieter than Dali or Lijiang; you can live a heavenly life for 3 days on a budget of 600 yuan at the filming location of "Eternal Love." 8. Baishan, Jilin The west slope of Changbai Mountain offers the most expansive view of Heaven Lake. In September, the opening rate of Heaven Lake is the highest of the year (70%+), and in the crisp autumn air, the lake looks like a sapphire embedded in the crater. The source of the Songhua River is crystal clear, and the primeval forests of Jinjiang Grand Canyon are ablaze with autumn colors. The autumn colors here arrive earlier than in Kanas, but with less than one-tenth of the tourists. Ginseng chicken soup and wild mountain vegetables are delicacies; you can enjoy a whole autumn of tranquility at the foot of Changbai Mountain for 3 days on a budget of 700 yuan. 🏆 Top picks for Mid-Autumn "reverse travel" (by vibe): · Escapist landscapes → Yichang (Three Gorges) or Chenzhou (Xiaodongjiang) · Beach relaxation → Zhanjiang (cheap seafood) or Haikou (low off-season prices) · Off-the-beaten-path ancient towns → Zhenjiang (where rivers meet) · Frontier hidden gems → Wenshan (Puzhehei) or Baishan (Changbai Mountain) Which vibe do you prefer? Once you've decided, I can help you plan a specific 3-day, 2-night itinerary. 😊

01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Take the high-speed train from Kunming — just over 3 hours. In the carriage, half the people carry easels and the other half carry fishing rods. Puzhehei isn’t the kind of place that stuns you at first sight; it slowly sticks to you — mist rises off the lake at dawn, isolated karst peaks reflect in the water, willow-leaf boats glide by, and the sound of oars is clearer than conversation. 📍 Qinglongshan sunrise viewing platform: arrive before 6:30 AM. Climb about 15 minutes of steps to watch the lake cluster change from gray-blue to gold. ⏰ Schedule a boat ride before 10 AM. The water is calm and the people staging water fights haven’t shown up yet, so it’s best for enjoying the scenery. 🍜 Roadside stalls sell fried lotus and lotus leaf-fried eggs for CNY 5–10 a serving, fried to order and so fragrant you won’t want to take photos first. ⚠️ Afternoon summer storms arrive fast; a lightweight rain jacket is more practical than an umbrella. Stay in Puzhehei village so you wake up to fields and lake outside your window. Two days is just right — any longer and you’ll be reluctant to leave. 02 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou’s old town is best measured on foot. Start at Kaiyuan Temple on West Street, walk to the clock tower, then turn into Zhongshan Road. The East and West pagodas at Kaiyuan Temple are truly beautiful, with stone carvings so detailed you won’t mind looking up for 10 minutes. 📍 Qingyuan Mountain’s Laojunyan is best early. Before 7 AM admission is free, and morning light softens the statue’s lines far more than at noon. ⏰ Cliff inscriptions cluster around mid-mountain. If your stamina is average, turn back there — no need to force yourself to the summit. Chongwu Ancient City needs a half-day on its own. The sea breeze is strong; stroll the city walls and the stone houses feel more textured in person than in photos. ⚠️ Ignore touts in the ancient city offering to "show you a sea view"; walk to the east gate yourself for a better, free vantage. 🍜 A bowl of misua noodle paste with vinegar-braised pork and a fried egg plus a youtiao will fill you for CNY 15 — any small shop on West Street will do. Quanzhou reveals itself layer by layer. Stay three days and it will give you three days of surprises. 03 Yancheng | Jiangsu Dafeng China Milu National Nature Reserve is the least touristy-feeling attraction I’ve seen: thousands of acres of tidal flats and wetlands where the milu deer seem more at ease than people. Take the electric cart into the core area; when the cart stops, the deer come right up — the bold ones will stretch their heads for the carrot in your hand. 📍 Climb the deer-watching tower in the park. From above you can see the herd moving through the reed beds like a flowing brown river. ⏰ Deer are most active after 3 PM. In the morning they hide in the shade when it’s hot, so you’ll see little then. 🍜 There are deer-meat skewers sold at the park entrance — I don’t recommend them. Theme park food is often perfunctory; bring snacks instead. ⚠️ If you drive, don’t park outside designated spots; patrols are frequent. This is a great place to let kids run wild all day. An adult ticket plus the electric cart is just over CNY 100, well worth it. 04 Shanghai Don’t rush straight to the Bund. Start at Guangfulin cultural site. The underwater museum’s building looks like it’s being supported by water; on sunny days the reflection is so sharp it looks photoshopped. Exhibits span from the Neolithic to the Ming and Qing dynasties, and two hours will fly by. 📍 Get to Yuyuan Garden right at opening — before 9 AM it’s quiet. Walk the Nine-Bend Bridge and you can shoot empty-frame photos from gaps in the rockeries. ⏰ The Mercedes-Benz Culture Center area at the Expo Park is nicest in the afternoon; a river breeze makes it perfect for strolling and daydreaming. 🎡 Don’t expect to finish all of Shanghai Disney Resort in one day. Download the official app in advance and reserve standby passes for popular attractions on entry. Choose between TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Soaring Over the Horizon, and take the rest as they come. ⚠️ Steamed soup dumplings sold outside Yuyuan Garden are expensive and mediocre. For better eats, walk five more minutes to the old shops on Henan South Road — the taste is worth it. Either you skip Shanghai, or once you visit you can’t escape it. Three days, two nights is just right. 05 Guiyang | Guizhou Guiyang’s summer feels like a natural air-conditioned room; mornings and evenings can even be cool. Tianhetan is not far from the city and condenses karst landforms into one spot; dry caves and water caves connect, and the caverns are refreshingly cool — a summer lifesaver. 📍 The old town walls of Qingyan Ancient Town are worth climbing. After 6 PM most tourists are gone and the sunset hits the stone streets; the smell of braised pig trotters drifts from deep in the alleys. 🍜 Wang’s braised pig trotter in the ancient town is tender and falling-off-the-bone, CNY 15 a portion. Pair it with a bowl of rose jelly dessert and you’ll want to take some home. ⏰ Gaopo Yunding Grassland is best after 4 PM for sunset and evening glow — bring a jacket, it gets windy. Huaxi Park is better for a slow wander. It’s a local spot for strolling; rent a bike and circle it — much more pleasant than squeezing into a trendy check-in place. ⚠️ Rain in Guiyang is unpredictable. Carry an umbrella — you’ll use it on sunny days and rainy ones. Two days is enough to fall in love with this cool city. 06 Wuhan | Hubei Yellow Crane Tower is swamped during the day; I suggest going after 5 PM. When the Yangtze River Bridge lights up, all of Wuchang lies at your feet. The ticket is a bit pricey, but the view is worth it. 📍 After seeing Yellow Crane Tower, don’t leave right away. Walk along She Mountain to Shouyi Park, then head down to Hubu Alley for a bowl of hot dry noodles. Cai Linji’s black sesame paste is thick enough to cling to the mouth — CNY 5 a bowl, very filling. ⏰ Plan a morning ride on the East Lake greenway. It’s over 20 km in total; if you can’t do it all, rent a bike at Liyuan Square and ride to Moshang then return — two hours is perfect. Songyang Temple is in Jiangxia, farther out; skip it if you’re short on time. It’s for those who want to avoid crowds — the ginkgo in front turns stunningly yellow in autumn. Huangpi Mulan cultural and ecological tourism area is even farther and better reached by car. It’s divided into several sections; pick one and don’t try to do everything. ⚠️ Wuhan’s summer is blisteringly hot. Avoid midday, do activities in the morning and evening, and bring water and a sun hat. You have to come smell Wuhan’s gritty riverside character yourself. 07 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan’s dry coolness made this southerner almost cry; 30°C feels comfortable in the shade. The Helan Mountain rock carvings must be visited with a guide — otherwise you’re just looking at scratches on stone. With a guide you’ll hear they’re the diary of shepherds from 3,000 years ago. 📍 The Han Meilin Art Museum at the rock carving park exit is free and often missed. Its paintings and sculptures match the Helan Mountains’ spirit perfectly. ⏰ Allow half a day for the Western Xia mausoleums. Start with the museum, then take the shuttle to the tomb area. The wind will nearly steal your hat, but that desolate feeling is hard to replicate elsewhere. Mingcui Lake Wetland Park is great for families — a reed maze, boating, lots of birds, and in May–June you can see the first lotus blooms. Shuidonggou is farther out but worth it. The soldier storage caves and the Ming Great Wall feel like stepping into a borderland history. ⚠️ Yinchuan has a large temperature swing between day and night. Short sleeves by day, a jacket at night — don’t skip it. 🍜 Hand-pulled lamb with Eight-Treasure tea is everywhere at Huaiyuan Night Market — pick any stall, the lamb is so tender it melts in your mouth. Three days, two nights — Yinchuan won’t disappoint. 08 Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The road to Golog is rough, but the Yellow River’s first big bend is worth hours of bumping along. From the high viewpoint the river takes a huge turn and the water is a vivid green, overturning everything you thought you knew about the Yellow River. 📍 The viewpoint near Dari County offers the best angle at about 4,200 m. Walk slowly and don’t get excited. ⏰ July and August are best — the grasslands turn green, wildflowers and yak herds carpet the slopes, and the light is so clear any snap looks like wallpaper. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke. Bring oxygen and glucose, and on arrival day avoid showers and alcohol. 🍜 Local Tibetan restaurants sell yak meat buns and butter tea. The buns have thin dough and generous filling — CNY 10 for 3, and the tea helps cut the richness. There’s no commercialization here, no influencer check-in spots — just wind, grassland, river, and an afternoon so quiet it makes your ears ring. It’s for those who want to sit with themselves for a while. Prepare mentally before you come, and you’ll take away more than you expect. These eight places include famous spots and quiet ones that are easy to miss on a map. Their common trait is that nobody who’s been regretted it. Which city in your heart has zero bad reviews? Share in the comments and I’ll scout it for you next time. complaints stroll travel vacation experience trip travel

Traveling with kids during the National Day holiday is a nightmare when it's overcrowded—waiting in line for 2 hours just to see the sights for 5 minutes. I've carefully selected these 8 destinations. They're off the beaten path but not deserted, fun for kids, and easy on parents. They're perfect for a National Day family trip. 01 Guangzhou | Guangdong I know Guangzhou well, but a kid-friendly route is completely different from just wandering around. In the morning, head straight to Chimelong Tourist Resort. Get there when it opens and rush to the Panda Village and Koala Pavilion first. The animals are most energetic in the morning, and the kids will be mesmerized. 🚄 Take the subway to Hanxi Chimelong Station, Exit E, and it's a 5-minute walk. The whole route is stroller-friendly, which is a huge relief. Don't settle for food in the park at lunch; take a 10-minute taxi ride to a nearby Dian Dou De. The kids will love the shrimp dumplings and red rice rolls. In the afternoon, head back to the city center. 📍 You must visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. The brick carvings and gray sculptures are intricate, and kids can play a "find the little lion" game, which is much more interesting than just walking around. ⚠️ Remember to book in advance via their official WeChat account; buying tickets on-site will waste 30 minutes. 02 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian isn't a traditional tourist city, but that's exactly why the crowds are manageable during the National Day holiday. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West." The rocks are strangely shaped, and kids will spend the whole time guessing, "Did Sun Wukong turn into this?" They'll be so excited you won't even need to rush them. ⏰ I suggest entering the mountain at 8:00 AM. It's cool, and the lighting is perfect for photos. The mountain isn't high, and the trails are well-maintained; 5 or 6-year-olds can hike the whole way themselves. There's a slide halfway up for 30 yuan per person. Kids will want to go again, and parents can save their knees. After coming down the mountain, head straight to Laoleshan Scenic Area. It has large lawns perfect for laying out a picnic mat and letting the kids run around to burn off energy. 03 Jingzhou | Hubei Walking the ancient city wall with kids is the most vivid history lesson. 📍 Go up from the Binyang Tower at the East Gate, where you can still touch the inscriptions on the bricks. Telling the kids that "every brick has a name" will keep them fascinated. You can rent tandem bikes on the wall and ride halfway around the moat; it's very pleasant with the breeze. Don't rush off in the evening. Wait until dark, and the ancient city wall will light up, with the lights reflecting in the moat—it's even more charming than during the day. The Jingzhou Lantern Festival was an unexpected surprise this time. When the various lanterns lit up, the kids felt like they had fallen into a fairy tale world; they couldn't take their eyes off them. ⏰ The lights turn on at 7:30 PM during the National Day holiday; just go 10 minutes early to grab a good spot. 04 Xuzhou | Jiangsu What surprised me most about Xuzhou is Yunlong Lake—it's free, open, and never feels crowded, no matter how many people are there. Take the kids for a walk along Lake West Road; there's the lake on one side and mountains on the other. When you're tired, just find a lawn to sit on, watch the kites and the cable cars in the distance, and the pace of life will instantly slow down. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Xuzhou East Station, then it's about a 20-minute taxi ride to Yunlong Lake—no hassle. If you have kids, I recommend going straight to the beach on Lake East Road. The sand is fine and soft, and the little ones can dig in the sandpit all afternoon. Adults can rent a shared bike nearby and ride around the lake; the view is wide, and your mood will lighten up too. ⏰ Yunlong Lake is most beautiful at 5:00 PM. The sunset dyes the lake surface gold. If you head toward Nanhu at this time, you can see the panoramic view of the entire lake reflecting the sunset glow. 05 Altay | Xinjiang Visiting Altay during the National Day holiday means catching Kanas at its most colorful season. The birch forests are golden, and the lake water is an impossibly deep blue. The kids will be quiet for a few seconds when they first see it, then start running around to pick up fallen leaves. 📍 There's a light mist in Shenxian Bay in the morning, like a fairyland, but you don't need to rush for the sunrise with kids. Arriving after 9:00 AM is just right—the light is soft and it's not too cold. The canyons and rivers of Koktokay have a different kind of grandeur, and there are shuttle buses in the scenic area, so you don't have to walk too much. Kids are naturally fascinated by rocks and flowing water. Letting them pick a few pretty stones on the riverbank as souvenirs is more fun than buying any toy. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is huge. During the National Day holiday, it's in the teens (Celsius) during the day and can drop below zero at night. You must bring thick jackets and hats; don't take any chances. 06 Huangshan | Anhui I don't recommend trying to climb Mount Huangshan during the National Day holiday; it's too crowded. It's better to focus on the ancient villages at the foot of the mountain. Both Xidi and Hongcun are worth visiting, but if you have to choose one, I recommend Xidi for families—it's less commercial and the alleys are more open. 📍 At the Nanhu pond at the entrance of the village, kids can feed the fish and watch students sketching; they might even want to pick up a pen and draw a little themselves. Hongcun is great for the exquisite Yueze Pond and Chengzhitang Hall, but when it gets crowded, the stone paths are narrow, which can be a bit tough with a stroller. If you have enough time, the ancient village of Chengkan is an even bigger surprise. There are far fewer tourists, and the auspicious meaning of "visiting Chengkan means a life without obstacles" is also a nice touch. There are racks for drying autumn harvests in the village, with colorful crops arranged in patterns that the kids will find fascinating. 07 Wenshan | Yunnan Puzhehei is one of those places where photos can't capture even a tenth of its beauty. The karst peaks are reflected in the water, like a living ink wash painting. Taking the kids on a willow leaf boat is a must. The boatman rows slowly, and the water is so clear you can see the water plants. The kids will reach out to play with the water and be incredibly happy. ⏰ The water is calmest before 10:00 AM, and the reflections are most complete; it gets blurry once the wind picks up later. 📍 Qinglong Mountain isn't high; you can reach the top in 20 minutes. From the top, you can see the panoramic view of Puzhehei, with the peaks and lakes all in sight. The kids will point into the distance and shout, "That cloud is on top of the mountain!" ⚠️ If you have kids, I suggest taking the cable car up and walking down to save energy and stay safe. There's a steep section on the way down, so just hold the kids' hands and walk slowly. 08 Pingxiang | Jiangxi For a family trip to Wugong Mountain, the key isn't climbing to the top, but finding the right way to do it. If the kids don't have much stamina, I strongly recommend taking the two-stage cable car up the mountain—the Zhong'an cable car plus the Jinding cable car. This compresses the hiking section to under 1 hour, which the kids can manage, and the adults won't have a breakdown. 📍 The section from Diumazhuang to Jinding is the highlight. The alpine meadows have already turned yellow in October, and the wind blowing across them looks like golden waves. The kids running along the ridge feel like they're walking in the clouds. ⏰ The light at 4:00 PM is the gentlest, and the meadows are dyed honey-colored—every photo you take will look like a blockbuster. ⚠️ The temperature on the mountain is 10 degrees lower than at the foot. You must bring a windbreaker; don't let your guard down just because it's sunny at the bottom. 🚄 There is a direct tourist bus from Pingxiang North Station to Wugong Mountain, which takes 1 hour and is very convenient.

01 Shijiazhuang | Hebei When visiting Shijiazhuang, don't just stick to the city center. Zhaozhou Bridge is about 50 km from the city, a little over an hour's drive. The stone slabs on the bridge are worn smooth, and if you look down, you can see 1,400-year-old carriage ruts. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9:00 AM; the light hits the bridge arches at an angle, so you won't have to dodge crowds for photos. There's a small grove on the west side of the bridge with leaves that are half-yellow and half-green in autumn—perfect for a break. ⚠️ The souvenir stalls at the bridge entrance are overpriced, so just take a look and keep moving. 02 Sanya | Hainan The easiest trap to fall into in Sanya is the "one-day tour" scam, so don't trust people soliciting customers on the street. Choose between Daxiao Dongtian and Tianya Haijiao—I recommend the former, as the scenery of reefs and lighthouses is more appealing than just a few rocks. Wuzhizhou Island is great for snorkeling, but the boat ticket plus admission costs nearly 300. ⚠️ Check the weather before heading to the island; the boat ride can be uncomfortable when it's windy and rough. Yalong Bay has the best beach quality on the island; after 6:00 PM, when the tourists disperse, it's most comfortable to walk barefoot on the sand. 🍜 Staying near Dadonghai makes dining convenient. You can get fresh seafood for 50–60 per person; don't go to the First Market, or you'll get ripped off. 03 Anshan | Liaoning Don't force yourself to climb Qianshan if you aren't physically fit. Take the cable car to the halfway point, then walk for 40 minutes to reach Wufoding. The view is expansive, and you can see the entire Anshan city center. ⏰ Mid-October is the best time to visit, when the mountains are a mix of red, yellow, and green, like an overturned palette. There are farmhouses at the foot of the mountain where you can get a stewed local chicken with mushrooms—it's enough to stuff two people for only about 100. ⚠️ People selling "ginseng" at the foot of the mountain are mostly selling artificially cultivated ones, so don't buy them thinking they're treasures. 04 Changsha | Hunan Changsha is a different world by day and by night. In the morning, head to Tianxin Pavilion; you can see moss growing in the cracks of the city walls and smell the local life of the old city. Don't just use the main entrance for Yuelu Mountain; go up from the Hunan University side. You'll pass Aiwan Pavilion along the way, which is most photogenic when the maple leaves turn deep red in autumn. Remember to book the Provincial Museum three days in advance. ⏰ It's less crowded after 2:00 PM, allowing you to view the Mawangdui exhibits in peace. 🍜 Go to Taiping Street in the evening for rice noodles. Just pick any shop with a long line; Changsha rice noodles come with generous toppings, and a bowl only costs 15. 05 Linfen | Shanxi The most worthwhile place to visit in Linfen is the Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River. ⏰ The water volume is high in early October, and the mist from the waterfall can soak you completely, so remember to wear a waterproof jacket and put a plastic bag over your camera. It's a 10-minute walk from the scenic area entrance to the viewing platform, so there's no need to take the shuttle bus—that 20 is a waste of money. The Hongdong Big Locust Tree is great for taking elders; the big tree in the ancestral worship park was replanted, but the story is real. It's easy for older people to get teary-eyed listening to the guide talk about the history of migration. Yunqiu Mountain is far from the city center with many curves on the mountain road, so drive slowly. The ice cave at the top of the mountain is below freezing year-round, so you'll need to rent a cotton coat to go inside. 06 Kashgar | Xinjiang Walking into the Kashgar Old Town feels like falling into another dimension. The mud walls in the alleys are painted a pale yellow, the door curtains have colorful patterns, children play soccer at the alley entrances, and the elderly doze off under grape trellises. ⏰ Don't miss the opening ceremony at 9:00 AM; the singing and dancing are lively, and it's perfect to watch before entering the city to explore. You need to set aside two days for the Pamir Plateau. It's a six-hour drive from Kashgar to Taxkorgan, and the snow-capped mountains and lakes along the way are wallpaper-worthy. The Stone City ruins are next to Taxkorgan; the admission is cheap, but it's windy. ⚠️ Don't go up after 4:00 PM, or you'll be shivering from the cold. 🍜 Baked buns in the old town are 3 each; they're crispy and fragrant right out of the oven, so eat them while they're hot. 07 Lu'an | Anhui Tiantangzhai is a blessing for road trippers; the mountain roads are well-maintained, so even sedans can drive up. ⏰ Go in late September when the waterfall volume is high. The hike through the waterfall group takes two hours, and the mist on your face feels cool and refreshing. There are farmhouses halfway up the mountain where you can get chicken soup with rice crust—it's enough to stuff you for about 50 per person. Wanfo Lake is better for taking elders and children; the lake is vast, and a boat ride around it takes 40 minutes. When it's windy, the waves can splash onto the deck. ⚠️ The boat tickets at the entrance are the same as the ones inside, so don't buy the expensive ones. 08 Wenshan | Yunnan Puzhehei—the name is a mouthful, but the scenery isn't. On autumn mornings, the lake is misty, and the reflections of the solitary peaks appear and disappear like an ink wash painting. Boating is a must-do activity. ⏰ Get on the water before 8:00 AM; it's quiet, and the sound of the oars mixed with birdsong is incredibly healing. Water fights on the willow-leaf boats are a summer activity; it's too cold in October, so don't bother. Qinglong Mountain isn't high; it takes 20 minutes to reach the top, where you can see the panoramic view. The light is best at sunset. 🍜 There's a beef rice noodle shop in the village with a rich broth for 10 a bowl; add a marinated egg for extra satisfaction. The biggest fear with road trips is picking the wrong time. These eight places are at their best from late September to the end of October. Which one do you plan to visit first? Let's chat in the comments.

These eight destinations hold every fantasy you have about travel—from Danxia canyons to azure seas and blue skies, from alpine meadows to the smoky charm of Dong villages, every corner hides a surprise. I have compiled essential guides based on my own field visits to save you the trouble of researching, so you can just copy my itinerary! 📍Puzhehei Scenic Area (Qiubei, Yunnan) Address: Intersection of Provincial Highway 305 and 206, Qiubei County, Wenshan Prefecture Open all day, no admission fee (fees apply for activities like boating) Known as a "water garden," the karst peaks are reflected in the clear lakes, creating a dreamlike scene, especially when the lotus flowers are in full bloom during summer. I recommend taking a willow-leaf boat to travel across the lake. Water fights are a classic activity here, so remember to bring a change of clothes and a waterproof bag. In the evening, climb the Qinglong Mountain viewing platform to watch the sunset paint the mountains red; every shot you take will look like a landscape painting. 📍Pingtan Island (Pingtan, Fujian) Address: Auxiliary road of Huandao East Road, Pingtan County, Fuzhou Open all day, free This is the closest place on the mainland to Taiwan. The peak season for "blue tears" (bioluminescent algae) is from April to June; when chasing them at night, remember to choose a beach without light pollution. During the day, rent an electric scooter to tour the island. The northern route is the most beautiful: windmill fields, Changjiang'ao, and the northern ecological corridor—the sea breeze is incredibly healing. Don't go to the scenic area for seafood; go to the Liushui Town market to pick fresh ingredients and have a homestay owner cook them for you. You can eat your fill for about 50 per person. 📍Axilixi Jiucaiping (Hezhang, Guizhou) Address: Zhongying Village, Xingfa Township, Hezhang County, Bijie Opening hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) Admission: 43 At an altitude of 2,777 meters, the wild chive flowers bloom every year from August to September, covering the mountains in a sea of purple. It is known as the "Provence of Guizhou." You must take the cable car up the mountain; the sea of clouds rolls along the way, and the temperature at the summit is 10 degrees lower than at the bottom, so bring a jacket. I recommend staying at a homestay in Xingfa Township to watch the sunrise in the morning; if you are lucky, you might encounter a Buddha's light. 📍Zhaoxing Dong Village (Liping, Guizhou) Address: County Road 868, Zhaoxing Town, Liping County, Southeast Guizhou Prefecture Open all day, admission 78 The largest Dong village in the country, with five drum towers arranged according to the principles of "benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faith." At night, when the lights come on, it looks like a scene from a Hayao Miyazaki film. Wander between the flower bridges and stilt houses, and listen to the Dong Grand Choir (free performances are usually at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM). I recommend trying the sour soup fish and glutinous rice barbecue. The sticky rice cakes bought from the elderly women on the street are the most authentic. If you want some quiet, you can go hiking in the Tang'an Terraced Fields; it takes 3 hours round trip, and the scenery is incredible. 📍Keketuohai Scenic Area (Fuyun, Xinjiang) Address: Keketuohai Town, Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture Opening hours: April–October, 8:30 AM–8:00 PM (last entry at 6:30 PM) Admission: 116 It's not a sea, but the Irtysh River Grand Canyon. In autumn, the birch forests turn golden, and Shenzhong Mountain stands majestically. I recommend taking the shuttle bus to the end, then hiking 2 km along the river to see the Couple Trees and fossilized waterfalls. Don't forget to visit the No. 3 Mine; it is a meritorious mine, and the temperature inside is low, so wear a windbreaker. There are only instant noodles and snacks in the scenic area, so it is best to bring your own food. 📍Zhangye Colorful Danxia (Zhangye, Gansu) Although no specific information was provided, as the "most beautiful Danxia in China," it must be included. I recommend entering the park after 4:00 PM, when the golden sunset hits the colorful hills, making the colors most vibrant. Choose the in-depth tour route (extra charge) to avoid the crowds and see the most essential Hongxia Terrace. 📍Red Beach (Panjin, Liaoning) In autumn, the seepweed turns red, like a red carpet spread across the beach. October is the best viewing period. The scenic area has wooden boardwalks. The red beach is submerged by seawater at high tide and only appears at low tide, so check the tide table in advance. 📍Libo Xiaoqikong (Libo, Guizhou) The "emerald on the earth's belt." During the high-water season in July, the waterfalls are roaring, and Wolong Pond is like jade. I recommend entering through the East Gate and exiting through the West Gate to save energy on the downhill walk. Boating on Yuanyang Lake is a must-do experience; the misty forest is like a fairyland. 🍜Food Tips: · Puzhehei: Lotus feast (deep-fried lotus flowers, lotus seed soup) · Pingtan: Shilaiyunzhuan (sweet potato dumplings), Bazhen fried cake · Hezhang: Kele pork hot pot, walnut candy · Liping: Niubie hot pot (be cautious if you have a sensitive palate), oil tea · Fuyun: Grilled cold-water fish, Kazakh milk tea · Zhangye: Cuoyu noodles, apricot peel tea · Panjin: River crab, bamboo shoots · Libo: Zhangjiang grilled fish, waxberry soup 🚗Transportation Advice: The eight places are scattered, so I suggest planning by region: the Guizhou route (Libo-Zhaoxing-Hezhang) can be done together; Xinjiang and Gansu can be combined; Pingtan should be visited separately; Red Beach is suitable for a road trip in the Northeast. If time is limited, choose 2–3 places for an in-depth visit. Don't try to do too much, or you'll spend all your time on the road.

01 Shuozhou | Shanxi The name "Shahu Pass" sounds breezy. 📍 Shahu Pass Scenic Area, Youyu County. At an altitude of 1,600 meters, standing on the city wall in summer, the wind blows in from Inner Mongolia, and the perceived temperature drops by 5 degrees. ⏰ The light is softest after 4:00 PM, perfect for photographing the rammed earth walls without glare. Don't go at noon; there's nowhere to hide from the sun. There's a small museum nearby about the Xikou Ancient Trail. It's free, and half an hour is enough to look around. Stay in Youyu County at night, a 10-minute drive away. Lamb skewers from a barbecue stall paired with ice-cold beer—that's what a summer getaway should be like. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants in the scenic area, so bring your own water and snacks. 02 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Zone, where the sea breeze is the star. 🚄 Take the ferry from Wenjia Pier to the island. It runs every 20 minutes. The ticket includes a round trip, so remember to keep your return ticket. ⏰ Go to the Mazu Ancestral Temple at 6:30 AM. It's less crowded, and the scent of incense mixed with the salty sea air is unique. Don't push yourself at noon; hide in a cafe on the island and enjoy the AC. After 3:00 PM, head to Golden Beach to splash in the water. The sand is fine and the waves are gentle, making it great for kids. 🍜 Try the seaweed rice at the island's seafood stalls. It's CNY 10 a bowl and incredibly delicious. ⚠️ Remember to haggle when renting an e-bike to tour the island. Prices are inflated during peak season; cutting the price in half is not an exaggeration. Stay at a homestay on the island; open the window and you're facing the sea. It's much cooler than in the city. 03 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei In Enshi, coolness is ingrained in its bones. At the Shennong Stream Tracker Culture Tourism Zone, take a boat through the gorge. The mist hits your face, and it feels like nature's own air conditioning in summer. ⚠️ The boat tracker performance has fixed times at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, so don't miss it. For Enshi Grand Canyon, ⏰ you must go early. Enter the mountain at 7:00 AM while the clouds and mist haven't dispersed. The plank road hangs on the cliff with a deep valley below; when the wind blows, you'll get goosebumps. Head down when the sun comes out at noon; don't stay out in the heat. Enshi Tusi City is a complex of wooden buildings with intricate carvings. Sitting in the shade under the corridors is a great way to escape the harsh midday sun. The evening boat trip on the Qingjiang River is the most comfortable. Mist rises on the river, the green mountains on both banks recede, and a chill comes off the water. 🍜 Try the "heza" (tofu residue stew) at the city's night market. It's sour, spicy, and appetizing, served with corn rice—the more you eat, the more energized you feel. Stay near Daughter City for convenient evening strolls and plenty of food options. 04 Ningbo | Zhejiang Ningbo's coolness is stolen from the muggy heat. At Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake, ⏰ go in at 7:00 AM. The willow trees along Moon Lake provide shade, and there are stone bridges and small pavilions. A walk around takes half an hour; you'll sweat, but it won't be sticky. At noon, hide in the Tianyi Pavilion library; the wooden floors creak underfoot, and it's so cool you won't want to leave. At Xikou Tengtou Tourism Zone, head to Xuedou Mountain at 3:00 PM. At the Water Curtain Cave of Qianzhangyan Waterfall, the mist hits your face as you stand underneath—it's colder than an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ The waterfall steps are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. At Qiantong Ancient Town, there's no admission fee after 5:30 PM. The sunset stretches shadows across the bluestone paths, and a stream flows through the town. Families place wooden stools outside their doors; sit for a while—there aren't many mosquitoes, and the breeze is quite cool. 🍜 Try the "Qiantong Three Treasures" in the ancient town—tofu, hollow tofu, and dried tofu. It's CNY 10 a serving, dipped in soy sauce. Stay near the Old Bund in Ningbo; an evening stroll by the river is two or three degrees cooler than the city center. 05 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei—the name itself sounds refreshing. 📍 Located in Qiubei County, Wenshan Prefecture, karst peaks surround vast lotus ponds. In summer, the lotus flowers are in full bloom, a sea of pink and white. 🛶 Rowing a willow-leaf boat is the way to go. As the oars hit the water, splashes land on you, and the coolness seeps into your skin. ⏰ Before 9:00 AM, there's mist on the water. The boat glides through the mist, like walking into a painting. The sun is harsh at noon, so hide in an earthen house in the Yi village and have a bowl of iced rice porridge. Go to the top of Qinglong Mountain at sunset; the wind is strong and will dry all your sweat. 🍜 Try the Panax notoginseng steam pot chicken in Qiubei County. It has a rich herbal flavor, and the soup is so delicious you can drink three bowls. ⚠️ Book homestays a month in advance during lotus season. If you go last minute, you'll have to stay in the county seat, which is 10 kilometers away and inconvenient. Stay in Xianrendong Village inside the scenic area; open your window to the lotus pond, listen to the frogs at night, and enjoy the cool air that requires a thin blanket. 06 Chizhou | Anhui Mount Jiuhua breeze—the name says it all. ⏰ Head up to Tiantai Peak at 6:00 AM. The mountain breeze, wrapped in the sound of pine waves, is so cold you'll doubt it's summer. Mount Jiuhua is a famous Buddhist mountain with many temples, such as the Hall of the True Body and the Hundred-Year Palace. It's busy with incense but the environment is serene. You'll sweat climbing the stairs, but when the mountain breeze hits you, the sweat dries, and you'll feel refreshed all over. Eat at Jiuhua Street at noon; vegetarian meals are CNY 20 per person, and the vegetarian duck and fish are even tastier than the real thing. 🍜 Try the stewed chicken with rock ear on the street. The soup is rich and flavorful, paired with scorched rice—it's amazing. ⚠️ Accommodation on the mountain is expensive and basic, so it's recommended to stay near the Tourist Service Center, which is clean and affordable. In the afternoon, go to the Huatai Scenic Area. The plank road is flat, suitable for seniors, and you can watch the clouds and mist rolling beneath your feet as you walk. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Chizhou Station to the mountain gate; carpooling is more cost-effective. 07 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Mount Lu, the textbook definition of a summer getaway. ⏰ Go to Hanpo Pass at 6:00 AM. A sea of clouds piles up beneath your feet, and Poyang Lake is just a white line. The wind is strong enough that you'll need a jacket. Eat in Guling Town at noon; it's 7 or 8 degrees cooler than at the foot of the mountain, so you won't sweat even walking in the sun. In the afternoon, hike to Sandiequan. There are over 2,000 steps. You'll hear the water first, then the cool air hits your face. The mist from the waterfall will soak you from 10 meters away. ⚠️ The steps are steep; if you have bad knees, don't force it—just look from the viewing platform. For Mount Lu West Sea, 📍 enjoy the Thousand-Island Lake scenery of Zhelin Lake. Take a boat through the islands; the water is emerald green, white waves trail behind the boat, and the breeze coming off the lake is damp and cool. 🍜 Try the scrambled eggs with stone fish on Guling Street. Mountain delicacies paired with the aroma of eggs, along with a pot of Mount Lu Cloud Mist tea, will refresh you. Stay in Guling Town; you'll sleep under a quilt at night, making summer feel like autumn. 08 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Beidaihe, a classic summer getaway that lives up to its reputation. ⏰ Go to Pigeon Nest Park at 5:30 AM to watch the sunrise. The sea breeze is so cool you'll quickly wrap yourself in a jacket. The moment the sun jumps out of the sea, it's worth it. In the morning, visit Tiger Stone Marine Park; the sand is fine and soft. Play in the water for a while, then come up and bask in the sun—it's comfortable. At noon, hide in Lianfeng Mountain. Walk along the tree-lined paths; the sea breeze blows through the pine forest, carrying the scent of pine resin. In the afternoon, go to Shanhaiguan. Sit in the shade under the ancient city wall and watch the traffic passing through the city gate. 🍜 Try the "Sitiaobaozi" (four-strip steamed buns) in the ancient city. They have pork and green onion filling, served with a bowl of millet porridge—CNY 10 will fill you up. ⚠️ Beidaihe has traffic restrictions during the summer; out-of-town cars need a permit. It's better to take the high-speed train to Qinhuangdao Station and take a taxi, which takes half an hour. Stay in the Liuzhuang homestay area, a 10-minute walk from the beach. At night, there's a seafood barbecue night market; oysters are CNY 10 for three, so fresh it'll make your tongue tingle. ⚠️ Wear water shoes when swimming during jellyfish season; don't go barefoot.

I took my wife to these 8️⃣ places, and she praised me for a whole year! 01 Huizhou | Guangdong When taking her to Huizhou, don't rush to the beach. In the morning, explore West Lake first, taking a boat from Gushan Wharf to Diancui Island. The lake breeze is much more refreshing than air conditioning. For lunch, find a small shop in Zhuwu Lane and eat at "Grandma's Picks"—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, 5 yuan a serving, all you can eat. In the afternoon, drive to Luofu Mountain, but don't climb the whole way. Take the cable car up to Eagle's Beak Rock and watch the clouds drift by. She takes photos while I carry the bag—a clear division of labor. In the evening, head to Xunliao Bay and stay near the Sea Park; the beach is right downstairs. ⚠️ Traffic can be congested after 5 pm on weekends, so I recommend arriving before 4 pm. In the evening, eat roasted chicken on the beach with ice-cold beer, enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. She suddenly says, "I'll come again next time," and I know the trip was worth it. 🚄 A taxi from Huizhou North Station to West Lake takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. 02 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan is a place best explored at a leisurely pace, not rushed. Start your day with a visit to Mingcui Lake. Rent a small boat and paddle through the reeds. If the lotus flowers are in bloom, the entire lake is a pink and white spectacle. An hour of boating won't tire you out. For lunch, head back to the city center for hand-pulled lamb. "Lao Mao Hand-Pulled Lamb" on Huaiyuan Road in Xixia District costs around 80 RMB per person; the meat is so tender you don't even need dipping sauce. In the afternoon, visit the Helan Mountain Rock Paintings. The light is best an hour before sunset, making the sun god imagery on the rock walls exceptionally clear. The next morning should be dedicated to Shuidonggou. Don't just explore the surface areas; be sure to explore the hidden soldier caves—they're cool and mysterious, like stepping into a time-travel drama. ⚠️ The wind can be strong at the Western Xia Mausoleums in the afternoon, so remember to bring a hat tie. Choose accommodation near Beijing Middle Road in Jinfeng District; it's convenient for visiting any of the attractions. Her biggest surprise was actually the purple wildflowers at the foot of Helan Mountain, covering the entire mountainside—even more beautiful than the scenic area itself. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei is a place you can easily spend two days exploring. Arrive on the first afternoon and stay in Xianrendong Village; the lake is right outside your window. In the evening, rent an electric scooter to Qinglongshan Wharf to catch the last willow-leaf boat. The boatman rows slowly, water birds skim the surface, and she sits at the bow, dipping her feet in the water, laughing like a child. Get up at six the next morning to climb to the top of Qinglongshan Mountain to watch the sunrise. Don't bring too much; a bottle of water is enough. It's windy at the top, so remember to wear a jacket. At noon, return to the village for lotus fish—freshly caught and cooked, incredibly fresh! ⚠️ During the summer when the lotus flowers are in full bloom, there are many tourists. Buy boat tickets a day in advance on the official WeChat account; the queue on-site is at least an hour long. What she remembers most fondly is the pinkish-purple sunset over the lake at dusk—more real than any filter. 04 Guangyuan | Sichuan Places like Jianmenguan require a strategic approach when taking your wife. Those with good stamina should enter through the North Gate, take the cable car to the Fairy Corridor, and then walk along the Bird Path and Ape Path, clinging to the cliff face. Her palms were sweating, but her eyes were shining – the thrill was off the charts! Those with average stamina should enter directly from the South Gate, take the sightseeing bus to the gate tower, and enjoy the imposing "One Man Guards the Pass" viewpoint. Take photos and leave. Don't eat lunch at the scenic area entrance; drive to Jiange County and find a small, unassuming restaurant. A tofu feast costs about 50 yuan per person, featuring dishes like "Pregnant Tofu" and "Bengshan Tofu" – ten times better than what you get in the scenic area! In the afternoon, depending on time, if you have time, go to Liangshan Temple; otherwise, head down to Zhaohua Ancient City. The ancient city is free, and strolling along the cobblestone streets is more relaxing than rushing from one attraction to another. ⚠️ The Ape Path requires a separate ticket and may be closed in bad weather; check with the scenic area beforehand. Her most exciting moment was shouting like an ancient person in front of the gate tower, the echo making her laugh. 05 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is perfect for couples to relax and unwind. On the first day, stay in Huangyao Ancient Town, choosing a traditional guesthouse with a courtyard. Listening to the insects chirping in the courtyard at night is more enjoyable than staying outside. Get up at 7 am, before the tour groups arrive, and enjoy a bowl of fermented black bean noodles on the stone-paved street while the two of you are alone. Then go to Dailong Bridge to see the morning mist. For lunch, have stuffed pumpkin blossoms in the ancient town – steamed pumpkin blossoms filled with meat, sweet and refreshing. In the afternoon, drive to Gupo Mountain. Don't take the sightseeing bus; walk to the section leading to Xiangu Waterfall. The air is humid, and the negative ion concentration is intoxicating. In the evening, head to Dongtanling to see the sunset and sea of ​​clouds. It's windy at the summit, so bring an extra jacket. ⚠️ Some shops in the ancient town sell silver jewelry; the prices are inflated, so just look and don't buy anything. What touched her most was releasing river lanterns in the ancient town at night. As the lanterns drifted away along the Yaojiang River, she leaned on my shoulder and said, "This is such a beautiful life." 06 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is perfect for a short weekend trip, two days is just right. On the first day, go to Chaya Mountain. Don't enter from the main gate; enter from the south gate to avoid crowds. Walk the hiking trail all the way to Feilai Stone, then take the toboggan down – thrilling and less tiring! Have sesame leaf noodles with braised pig's trotters for lunch at the foot of the mountain; about 30 yuan per person is enough to fill you up. In the afternoon, go to Laole Mountain. Don't rush to climb; lie on the grass at the foot of the mountain for a while, and wait for the sun to cool down before heading up. The wind is strong at the top, offering a wide view of the entire Zhumadian plain. Stay overnight in Suiping County. The night market in the county town is lively; grilled gluten and stir-fried mung bean jelly are must-try dishes. ⚠️ The Chaya Mountain toboggan closes at 5:30 pm, so don't go right on time. Her favorite part was flying a kite on the grass; the wind was so strong that it flew without her having to run. She chased after the kite while I filmed it, laughing until my stomach hurt. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain, with its ethereal atmosphere, was a perfect place to soak up some of its spiritual energy. We entered the mountain at 8 am, took the cable car from the back to the central platform, and then climbed the Heavenly Ladder. The steps were a bit steep, but the ancient trees on both sides provided ample shade, making it easy to rest occasionally. At the Imperial City, we saw the Taoist architectural complex—red walls and gray tiles, the aroma of incense and pine wood mingling together. She suddenly quieted down, saying, "It's so peaceful here." We had a vegetarian lunch in the mountains: radish stew with vermicelli—cheap but refreshing. In the afternoon, we descended the front of the mountain, passing Chaotianmen and the Wenda Palace. The entire route was made of stone steps; if you have knee problems, I recommend taking the cable car back the same way. In the evening, we strolled around Kongtong Ancient Town—less crowded and perfect for a walk. ⚠️ There are no shops in the mountains, so bring your own water and snacks. Her biggest surprise was encountering a group of monkeys on the way down the mountain. They squatted by the roadside watching us eat apples. She threw one to a monkey, which caught it and bowed. She was delighted for a long time. 08 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Qinhuangdao is a safe bet for taking my wife in the summer. On the first day, we stayed in Liuzhuang, Beidaihe. It was a five-minute walk to the beach. We got up at 5 am to watch the sunrise—don't think it's too early; you'll understand what it means to be worth it afterward. At noon, we bought seafood at the Shitang Road Market and had it cooked at a nearby shop. Mantis shrimp and clams were must-buys; the cooking fee was 10 yuan per dish. In the afternoon, we went to Pigeon Nest Park, walking along the wooden boardwalk to watch the tides rise and fall. Then we went to Tiger Stone Beach to wade in the water. She wore a long dress and stood in the water as the waves crashed against her. I squatted down to take pictures of her; she chose one out of twenty. On the second day, we went to Shanhaiguan. First, we saw the "First Pass Under Heaven" gate tower, then walked along the ancient city wall to Jingbian Tower. At noon, we ate four steamed buns in the ancient city, costing 15 yuan per person—the filling was juicy. In the afternoon, we went to Laolongtou to see the Great Wall stretching into the sea. Standing on the stone city wall where the wall meets the sea, with the sea breeze blowing in our faces, she suddenly said, "Let's live by the sea when we're old." ⚠️ Beidaihe is extremely crowded during the summer holidays. Try to travel during the week and book hotels a week in advance; the price can be double. Her most unforgettable memory is drawing a heart on the beach and writing our names on it, only to have it slowly carried away by the rising tide. After taking her to these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: the meaning of travel isn't about how many attractions you visit, but about the scenery you saw together, the street food you ate at, and the little jokes you shared—all of which become reasons to reconcile during everyday arguments. Later, every time she flips through her photo album, she'll reminisce, "My legs went weak at Jianmen Pass that time," and then her eyes will crinkle with laughter. Where did you last travel together? Share in the comments. Take my wife to these 8️⃣ places, and she's praised me for a whole year! 01 Huizhou|Guangdong Take her to Huizhou, but don't rush straight to the beach. In the morning, we explored West Lake, taking a boat from Gushan Wharf to Diancui Island. The lake breeze was much more refreshing than the air conditioning. For lunch, we found a small shop in Zhuwu Lane and ate "Grandma's Picks"—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, 5 yuan a serving, all you can eat. In the afternoon, we drove to Luofu Mountain, not hiking the entire way, but taking the cable car up to Eagle's Beak Rock to watch the clouds drift below. She took photos while I carried the bag—a clear division of labor. In the evening, we arrived at Xunliao Bay and stayed near the Sea Park, with the beach right downstairs. ⚠️ Traffic can be congested after 5 pm on weekends, so it's recommended to arrive before 4 pm. In the evening, we ate roasted chicken on the beach with ice-cold beer, enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. She suddenly said, "I'll come again next time," and I knew the trip was worthwhile. 🚄 A taxi from Huizhou North Station to West Lake takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. 02 Yinchuan|Ningxia Yinchuan is a place for leisurely exploration, not for rushing around. First, head to Mingcui Lake in the morning. Rent a small boat and paddle into the reed marshes. If the lotus flowers are in bloom, the entire lake is a pink and white expanse. A one-hour boat ride isn't tiring. For lunch, return to the city center for hand-pulled lamb. "Lao Mao Hand-Pulled Lamb" on Huaiyuan Road in Xixia District costs around 80 RMB per person; the meat is so tender you don't even need dipping sauce. In the afternoon, visit the Helan Mountain Rock Paintings. The light is best an hour before sunset, making the sun god patterns on the rock walls exceptionally clear in the slanting sunlight. The next morning is dedicated to Shuidonggou. Don't just explore the surface areas; be sure to explore the hidden soldier caves—they're cool and mysterious, like something out of a time-travel drama. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the Xixia Mausoleums in the afternoon; your hat can easily blow off, so remember to bring a drawstring. Choose accommodation near Beijing Middle Road in Jinfeng District; it's convenient for visiting any of the attractions. Her biggest surprise was actually the purple wildflowers at the foot of Helan Mountain, covering the entire mountainside—even more beautiful than the scenic area itself. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei alone is enough to explore for two days. We arrived on the afternoon of the first day and stayed at Xianrendong Village, where the lake was right outside the window. In the evening, we rented an electric scooter to go to Qinglongshan Wharf to catch the last willow-leaf boat. The boatman rowed slowly, water birds flew close to the surface, and she sat at the bow, dipping her feet in the water, laughing like a child. The next morning, we got up at six and climbed to the top of Qinglongshan Mountain to watch the sunrise. Don't bring too much; a bottle of water is enough. It's windy at the top, so remember to wear a jacket. At noon, we went back to the village for lotus fish, freshly caught and cooked—it was incredibly fresh! ⚠️ During the summer when the lotus flowers are in full bloom, there are many tourists. Buy boat tickets a day in advance on the official WeChat account; the queue on-site is at least an hour long. What she remembers most fondly is the pinkish-purple sunset on the lake at dusk—more real than any filter. 04 Guangyuan|Sichuan Taking your wife to a place like Jianmenguan requires strategy. Those with good stamina should enter through the North Gate, take the cable car to the Fairy Corridor, and then walk along the Bird Path and Ape Path, clinging to the cliff face. Her palms were sweating, but her eyes were shining – the thrill was off the charts! Those with average stamina should enter directly from the South Gate, take the sightseeing bus to the gate tower, and enjoy the imposing "One Man Guards the Pass" viewpoint. Take photos and leave. Don't eat lunch at the scenic area entrance; drive to Jiange County and find a small, unassuming restaurant. A tofu feast costs about 50 yuan per person, featuring dishes like "Pregnant Tofu" and "Bengshan Tofu" – ten times better than what you get in the scenic area! In the afternoon, depending on time, if you have time, go to Liangshan Temple; otherwise, head down to Zhaohua Ancient City. The ancient city is free, and strolling along the cobblestone streets is more relaxing than rushing from one attraction to another. ⚠️ The Ape Path requires a separate ticket and may be closed in bad weather; check with the scenic area beforehand. Her most exciting moment was shouting like an ancient person in front of the gate tower, the echo making her laugh. 05 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is perfect for couples to relax and unwind. On the first day, stay in Huangyao Ancient Town, choosing a traditional guesthouse with a courtyard. Listening to the insects chirping in the courtyard at night is more enjoyable than staying outside. Get up at 7 am, before the tour groups arrive, and enjoy a bowl of fermented black bean noodles on the stone-paved street while the two of you are alone. Then go to Dailong Bridge to see the morning mist. For lunch, have stuffed pumpkin blossoms in the ancient town – steamed pumpkin blossoms filled with meat, sweet and refreshing. In the afternoon, drive to Gupo Mountain. Don't take the sightseeing bus; walk to the section leading to Xiangu Waterfall. The air is humid, and the negative ion concentration is intoxicating. In the evening, head to Dongtanling to see the sunset and sea of ​​clouds. It's windy at the summit, so bring an extra jacket. ⚠️ Some shops in the ancient town sell silver jewelry; the prices are inflated, so just look and don't buy anything. What touched her most was releasing river lanterns in the ancient town at night. As the lanterns drifted away along the Yaojiang River, she leaned on my shoulder and said, "This is such a beautiful life." 06 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is perfect for a short weekend trip, two days is just right. On the first day, go to Chaya Mountain. Don't enter from the main gate; enter from the south gate to avoid crowds. Walk the hiking trail all the way to Feilai Stone, then take the toboggan down – thrilling and less tiring! Have sesame leaf noodles with braised pig's trotters for lunch at the foot of the mountain; about 30 yuan per person is enough to fill you up. In the afternoon, go to Laole Mountain. Don't rush to climb; lie on the grass at the foot of the mountain for a while, and wait for the sun to cool down before heading up. The wind is strong at the top, offering a wide view of the entire Zhumadian plain. Stay overnight in Suiping County. The night market in the county town is lively; grilled gluten and stir-fried mung bean jelly are must-try dishes. ⚠️ The Chaya Mountain toboggan closes at 5:30 pm, so don't go right on time. Her favorite part was flying a kite on the grass; the wind was so strong that it flew without her having to run. She chased after the kite while I filmed it, laughing until my stomach hurt. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain, with its ethereal atmosphere, was a perfect place to soak up some of its spiritual energy. We entered the mountain at 8 am, took the cable car from the back to the central platform, and then climbed the Heavenly Ladder. The steps were a bit steep, but the ancient trees on both sides provided ample shade, making it easy to rest occasionally. At the Imperial City, we saw the Taoist architectural complex—red walls and gray tiles, the aroma of incense and pine wood mingling together. She suddenly quieted down, saying, "It's so peaceful here." We had a vegetarian lunch in the mountains: radish stew with vermicelli—cheap but refreshing. In the afternoon, we descended the front of the mountain, passing Chaotianmen and the Wenda Palace. The entire route was made of stone steps; if you have knee problems, I recommend taking the cable car back the same way. In the evening, we strolled around Kongtong Ancient Town—less crowded and perfect for a walk. ⚠️ There are no shops in the mountains, so bring your own water and snacks. Her biggest surprise was encountering a group of monkeys on the way down the mountain. They squatted by the roadside watching us eat apples. She threw one to a monkey, which caught it and bowed. She was delighted for a long time. 08 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Qinhuangdao is a safe bet for taking my wife in the summer. On the first day, we stayed in Liuzhuang, Beidaihe. It was a five-minute walk to the beach. We got up at 5 am to watch the sunrise—don't think it's too early; you'll understand what it means to be worth it afterward. At noon, we bought seafood at the Shitang Road Market and had it cooked at a nearby shop. Mantis shrimp and clams were must-buys; the cooking fee was 10 yuan per dish. In the afternoon, we went to Pigeon Nest Park, walking along the wooden boardwalk to watch the tides rise and fall. Then we went to Tiger Stone Beach to wade in the water. She wore a long dress and stood in the water as the waves crashed against her. I squatted down to take pictures of her; she chose one out of twenty. On the second day, we went to Shanhaiguan. First, we saw the "First Pass Under Heaven" gate tower, then walked along the ancient city wall to Jingbian Tower. At noon, we ate four steamed buns in the ancient city, costing 15 yuan per person—the filling was juicy. In the afternoon, we went to Laolongtou (Old Dragon Head) to see the Great Wall stretching into the sea. Standing on the stone city wall where the wall meets the sea, with the sea breeze blowing in our faces, she suddenly said, "Let's live by the sea when we're old." ⚠️ Beidaihe is extremely crowded during the summer holidays, so try to travel during the week. Book hotels a week in advance; the price can be double. Her most unforgettable memory is drawing a heart in the sand, writing our names on it, and watching the tide slowly carry it away. After taking her to these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: the meaning of travel isn't about how many tourist attractions you visit, but about the scenery you saw together, the street food you ate at, and the little jokes you shared—all of which become reasons to reconcile during everyday arguments. Later, every time she flips through her photo album, she reminisces, "My legs went weak at Jianmen Pass that time," and then smiles with her eyes crinkling. Where did you last travel together? Let's chat in the comments.

Recommended reasons: 1. Located in Wenshan, Yunnan, Puzhehei is a karst landscape of mountains and waters. With small, isolated peaks rising from the lake, it looks like a living landscape painting. It was a filming location for "Dad, Where Are We Going?" and "Eternal Love," making it incredibly photogenic. 2. There are plenty of activities, such as riding willow boats and having water fights, exploring karst caves, and hiking to overlook the entire pastoral landscape. It is relaxing and suitable for families or groups of friends. 3. From June–August, thousands of acres of lotus flowers bloom, covering the lake surface—this is when it is at its most beautiful. Even outside the lotus season, the pastoral landscape retains a tranquil atmosphere. 4. It is not overly commercialized. The village has many inns and snacks, prices are reasonable, and there is a rich variety of food. Be sure to try the lotus leaf chicken, local fish and shrimp, and Panax notoginseng stewed chicken. 5. The pace is slow, so there is no need to rush. You can stroll through the villages and watch the sunrise and sunset. It is perfect for those looking to escape the city and find a place to relax. Attraction address: Puzhehei is located in Puzhehei Village, Qiubei County, Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Core areas: Puzhehei Village, Xianrendong Village, Qinglong Mountain, Swan Lake, Huoba Cave, and Pucaotang. Attraction transportation: 1. Getting there: You can take a high-speed train directly to Puzhehei Station, which is not far from the scenic area. Alternatively, fly to Wenshan Puzhehei Airport and take a taxi or bus from there. 2. Between the county and the scenic area: There are buses from Qiubei County to the Puzhehei scenic area, or you can take a taxi, which is affordable. 3. Within the scenic area: The villages and attractions are close to each other, so you can walk or rent an e-bike. Willow boats and sightseeing cars are separate services. 4. Driving: You can drive directly to the entrance of the scenic area. There is ample parking, making it convenient to plan your own itinerary. Must-visit attractions: 1. Qinglong Mountain: A must-visit high point. The hike is not difficult, and the observation deck at the top offers a panoramic view of the peaks, pastoral fields, and lakes. It is the best spot for sunrise and sunset photos in Puzhehei. 2. Puzhehei Willow Boat: A must-do experience in Puzhehei. Ride a small wooden boat through the peaks. In summer, you can even have water fights with other boats while slowly enjoying the scenery on both sides. 3. Xianrendong Village: A unique Yi ethnic village by the water. There are many inns along the lake, and the lakeside path is great for a comfortable stroll. The evening light is soft, making it perfect for wandering and taking photos. 4. Huoba Cave + Guanyin Cave: Karst caves with underground lakes and unique stalactite formations. You can take a boat into the caves to stay cool and out of the sun—great for rainy days too. 5. Swan Lake: A large wetland lake with wide-open views. It is great for walking, birdwatching, and seeing the reflections of the rolling peaks. It is quiet and less crowded, recommended for those who enjoy peaceful sightseeing. Ticket information: 1. Puzhehei Village and the lakeside paths are free; there is no general admission fee. Only specific activities like caves, boat rides, and sightseeing cars are charged separately. 2. Combo tickets: The willow boat + cave combo ticket offers better value and includes the boat ride, Huoba Cave, and Guanyin Cave. Recommended if you want to experience everything at once. 3. Discounts: Students and seniors aged 60+ can get discounts on cave and boat tickets with valid ID. Remember to carry your ID. 4. A la carte: If you only want to walk around the lake or hike for the views without taking a boat or entering the caves, you do not need to buy any tickets. Other tips: 1. Best time to visit: June–August is the lotus season, when the scenery is at its best. March–May and September–October have fewer tourists and comfortable weather, perfect for a quiet vacation. Winter temperatures are lower, the lotuses have withered, and the scenery is less impressive. 2. Gear: You will likely get splashed during the willow boat water fights, so remember to bring a change of clothes and a raincoat. The UV rays are strong, so be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat. 3. Accommodation: Lakeside inns in Xianrendong Village have great views but are more expensive. Puzhehei Village has more options and better value. It is recommended to book in advance during peak season. 4. Dining: There are many farm-style restaurants by the lake; the lotus leaf chicken and lake fish are worth trying. Confirm prices before ordering and avoid restaurants with aggressive roadside touts. 5. Safety: Participate in water fights within your limits. The steps on Qinglong Mountain can be slippery, so watch your step while hiking. It occasionally rains during the rainy season, so carry an umbrella.

The ultimate Puzhehei, Yunnan guide: A no-fail guide for first-timers As a pastoral water town surrounded by karst peaks, Puzhehei offers both the romance of ten thousand acres of lotus flowers and the authentic charm of Yi ethnic villages. You can get the same landscape experience as Guilin without the crowds. Visiting this season is perfect for catching the lotus flowers in full bloom. Follow this guide, and you're guaranteed a smooth trip✨ Transportation guide Visitors from out of town can fly into Wenshan Yanshan Airport and take the 1-hour direct shuttle to the Puzhehei core area for 35 yuan/person. If taking the high-speed train, go directly to Puzhehei Station. There's a dedicated bus line outside the station that takes you straight to the scenic area in 40 minutes for 8 yuan/person. Inside the scenic area, it's recommended to buy a shuttle bus pass for easy transport between attractions, saving you from walking. 🎫 Basic admission info Admission to the scenic area is free. You can pay for individual activities as needed: Willow boat tickets are 170 yuan/person (includes admission to the karst caves, Torch Cave, and Guanyin Cave), and Swan Lake tickets are 80 yuan/person. It's recommended to book on Trip.com in advance to save 10–20 yuan compared to buying on-site. Operating hours are 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Last entry is at 5:00 PM, so don't arrive too late. 👕 Packing list Be sure to bring a light jacket, as there's a significant temperature difference between day and night, and it can be cool by the water. Light-colored dresses or ethnic-style clothing look great in photos. Choose non-slip sandals or sneakers, which are convenient for water fights. A sun hat, sunglasses, and mosquito repellent are essentials. If visiting during the rainy season, remember to bring a dual-purpose umbrella for sun and rain. Must-visit photo spots First, head to the top of Qinglong Mountain. It only takes half an hour to climb, and you can overlook the entire Puzhehei landscape of peaks, lakes, and villages. The lighting at sunrise and sunset is incredible—every shot is wallpaper-worthy. Next is the ten thousand-acre lotus garden. Riding a willow boat through the lotus flowers allows you to reach out and touch them, creating photos with an amazing atmosphere. Also, explore the Yi-style stilt houses and stone paths in Xianrendong Village in the evening for effortless, ethnic-style photos. 🐎 Tips to avoid pitfalls You'll definitely get into a water fight while on the willow boat, so buy a good-quality water gun and raincoat in advance. Don't buy the cheap ones at the pier; they break easily. Don't trust roadside solicitors offering low-price tours—claims of taking you to all attractions for 100 yuan are scams that usually involve taking you on long detours. The caves are cool, so don't go in wearing too little, or you might catch a cold. 🍜 Local food recommendations You must try the Yi-style sour soup chicken; it's tangy and appetizing, made with free-range local chicken that's super tender. Also, try the lotus leaf omelet—it's fragrant and light, perfect with white porridge. Cold shrimp (liangxia) is a local specialty dessert; a bowl is refreshing and cooling in the summer. Don't eat in the core scenic area; the small restaurants deeper in Xianrendong Village have more authentic flavors and are cheaper. For accommodation, we recommend homestays in Xianrendong Village. Many have courtyards and flower terraces, and you can see the peaks and lotus flowers right from your window. The average price is 200–400 yuan/night, and it's much quieter than hotels in the core area. Most owners are local Yi people who can tell you about niche local activities. Puzhehei is at its most beautiful this season. Take two or three days to slow down and explore; it's much more comfortable than crowding into popular tourist spots.

I've put together a comprehensive, easy-to-follow one-day itinerary for Sanla Waterfall, focusing on its highlights as a "state-media-certified Yunnan waterfall wonder." It covers the three-tiered waterfall features, timing, transportation, food, and photography tips—perfect for a short trip. The Yunnan Waterfall Wonder Hailed by State Media✨ Sanla Waterfall One-Day Guide You won't believe it! This is the most low-key, top-tier hidden gem in Southeast Yunnan, recognized by state media as one of Yunnan's waterfall wonders! Unlike typical single-layer waterfalls, Sanla Waterfall is a rare three-tiered cascading waterfall. Three streams converge at a precipice, tumbling down into the deep valley, creating a roar that can be heard for miles and churning mist. On sunny days, it features three rainbows; in the rainy season, the torrents look like snow. It's off the beaten path, uncommercialized, and truly a wild landscape masterpiece hidden in Wenshan! 📍Basic Travel Guide ✅Location: Sanla Village, Babao Town, Guangnan County, Wenshan Prefecture (historically known as Xiangquan Waterfall; in the Zhuang language, it means "where three streams converge") ✅Admission: 30 yuan/person. The scenic area includes basic trails. The exit and entrance are different, so you won't need to backtrack ✅Best time to visit: June–September (rainy season for peak water flow, most spectacular waterfall, high chance of rainbows). Spring and autumn offer clear water and a gentle, healing atmosphere ✅Duration: 3–4 hours is enough for an in-depth visit, perfect for a relaxed one-day trip 🚗Transportation 1. Driving (Recommended) Navigate to "Sanla Waterfall Scenic Area." Take the Babao exit on the G80 Guangkun Expressway and arrive in 25 minutes. The road is smooth, with only a few curves near the scenic area. Suitable for beginners. Free parking 2. Public Transport High-speed train to Guangnan Station/Funing Station → Transfer to a county bus to Babao Town (12 yuan/person) → Charter a car from the town to the scenic area (around 100 yuan). The last bus leaves at 6:00 PM, so be sure to plan your return time carefully 🕘Immersive One-Day Itinerary | Unlock the full view of the three-tiered waterfall 9. 30 AM Arrive at the scenic area | Head straight to the first-tier main waterfall (Yuping Terrace) The first stop is the core attraction, the first-tier waterfall. A 68-meter cliff drop creates a waterfall that spreads out like a giant white jade screen. It's powerful, deafening, and a key filming spot for state media! ✅Exclusive experience: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM is the best time for sunlight. The mist refracts into a triple rainbow. If you're lucky, you'll catch the panoramic rainbow waterfall ✅Photo spot: The upper viewing platform offers a panoramic view of the waterfall, facing the misty wonderland directly. Great shots straight from the camera, no filters needed 10. 30 AM Mid-hike | Visit the second-tier "Male and Female" twin waterfalls Walk along the gentle trail to reach the most romantic second-tier twin waterfalls! The two waterfalls descend side-by-side—the left one is slender and graceful, while the right one is powerful and surging. They face each other, one soft and one strong. Local Zhuang people have prayed and sung songs here for generations. The mountains and water have a gentle atmosphere, and the trail is lush with greenery, packed with negative oxygen ions for an immersive, lung-cleansing experience. 11. 20 AM Valley floor exploration | Third-tier deep valley cascading waterfall Continue descending to the valley floor to get up close to the third-tier cascading waterfall. The water crashes into the deep pool, creating splashes and mist. Cool breezes blow through the valley, making it super refreshing in mid-summer. The entire trail is flat with no steep slopes, suitable for all ages. You can get close to the wild waterfall without intense hiking. 12. 30 PM Lunch in Babao Town | Unlock authentic Wenshan flavors After the tour, return to Babao Town for lunch. Eat authentic local food and avoid overpriced tourist traps! 🍜Must-eat food list · Notoginseng stewed chicken: Fresh, nourishing, and a local signature · Bahang chicken: Sour and spicy, appetizing, and authentic to Southeast Yunnan · Thousand-layer cake, red bean paste meat, and farm-fresh wild vegetables: Simple, fresh, and authentic rural flavors 2:00 PM Off-the-beaten-path add-on | Light tour of rural culture After eating, stop by the Qing Dynasty Babao Twin Bridges. The century-old bridge paired with the surrounding rice paddies creates a healing, peaceful, and quiet scene. Snap some rural documentary-style photos and enjoy the tranquility away from the crowds. Head back before 4:00 PM to finish a perfect, relaxed one-day trip. 📸Pro Photography Tips 1. Outfit: White or light-colored solid clothes match the misty green scenery and white waves, creating a cool, atmospheric vibe 2. Time: Sunny days at noon are a must for rainbows. On cloudy days, the waterfall mist is thicker, perfect for an ink-wash painting style 3. Props: Bring your own raincoat + waterproof phone pouch (the ones at the scenic area are thin). Don't be afraid of getting wet when shooting up close 4. Perspective: Shoot panoramic, grand shots from the upper level and dynamic, misty close-ups from the valley floor. Combine far and near shots for a rich variety of photos ⚠️Essential Tips 1. The entire trail is near water and can be damp, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes. Do not climb over railings to get close to the pool 2. During the rainy season, water volume is huge and mist is thick. Protect your equipment from water and avoid getting wet to prevent catching a cold 3. The scenic area is very uncommercialized with few kiosks, so prepare drinking water and snacks in advance 4. As a niche scenic area, there are very few tourists and no crowded lines. It's perfect for slow strolling, quiet contemplation, and immersive photography 5. There are many curves on the mountain roads. Drive slowly on the way back and pay attention to road safety ✨Summary Yunnan never lacks waterfalls, but Sanla Waterfall's three-tiered chain, twin waterfall wonder, and triple rainbows make it a unique, one-of-a-kind landscape! No noisy crowds, just the roar of mountains and rivers, cool breezes, mist, and rural tranquility. It truly deserves its title as a top-tier Yunnan waterfall wonder certified by state media—the top choice for a hidden gem in Southeast Yunnan!