Travel in reverse in April, budget-friendly and low-cost trips to six off-the-beaten-path cities
We've put together this April reverse travel guide for you, focusing on fewer crowds, lower expenses, and great experiences. These six lesser-known cities not only have affordable prices but also enjoy perfect weather in April.
1. Tianshui, Gansu
Recently popular for spicy hot pot, but still worth exploring compared to traditional hotspots. The climate in Tianshui in April is pleasant, where you can see ancient grottoes and enjoy relaxing hot springs.
· Must-visit: Maijishan Grottoes (one of China's four major grottoes, student tickets are cheaper), Fuxi Temple, Xianren Cliff. You can purchase a "hot spring + accommodation" package to relieve fatigue.
· Food: Spicy hot pot (priced by skewer, affordable for all budgets), Tianshui Guagua, Suimian noodles, lard boxes.
· Tips: The northwest climate is dry, so remember to moisturize and use sunscreen.
2. Anyang, Henan
The city of characters, an absolute hidden historical gem. Fewer people and great experiences, perfect for history and museum lovers.
· Must-visit: Yinxu Museum (a World Heritage site, see oracle bones and Lady Fu Hao’s tomb), Chinese Character Museum (free and interactive), Hongqi Canal, Taihang Grand Canyon.
· Food: Daokou roast chicken, flat noodles with vegetables, blood cake, rice paste.
· Tips: It’s recommended to hire a guide or rent an audio guide for a more vivid historical experience.
3. Pu’er, Yunnan
Much quieter than Xishuangbanna and Dali, with lower prices. In April, Pu’er is warm and blooming, perfect for deeply experiencing the slow life of coffee and tea.
· Must-visit: China Pu’er Tea Expo Garden, Torch Coffee Lab, Jingmai Ancient Tea Forest, Nakeli Tea Horse Road Town (free), Red Panda Manor.
· Food: Chicken tofu, peanut soup with rice noodles, various cold fruit salads, Simao barbecue.
· Tips: Attractions in Pu’er are spread out, so combining shuttle buses with short-distance car rentals is recommended.
4. Baise, Guangxi
A treasure overshadowed by Guilin and Nanning, boasting world-class sinkholes and canyons with excellent value for money.
· Must-visit: Tongling Grand Canyon (see the waterfall with the largest single drop), Leye Dashiwei Sinkhole Group, Jiuzhou Ancient Town (Embroidery Ball Street), E Spring (scenic rural landscapes).
· Food: Big vegetable cake, Ten-Mile Lotus Fragrance Chicken, roast duck noodles, rolled rice noodles.
· Tips: Visiting the Leye sinkholes requires some physical fitness; wear comfortable sports shoes.
5. Zhangzhou, Fujian
Not that Xiamen is unaffordable, but Zhangzhou offers better value. The weather in April is mild, perfect for seeing tulou (earthen buildings), eating seafood, and strolling through ancient towns.
· Must-visit: Zhangzhou Ancient City (free, full of local life), Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster (four dishes and one soup), Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, Zhenhaijiao (Fujian’s Little Kenting), Dongshan Island (free Su Fengshan Island Loop Road).
· Food: Hand-grabbed noodles, tofu pudding with vermicelli, Zhangzhou braised noodles, four-fruit soup, freshly caught seafood by the sea.
· Tips: For tulou viewing, staying in Taxia Village is recommended as it’s cheaper than inside the scenic area.
6. Dandong, Liaoning
A livable small city on the China-North Korea border, with warm spring river waters in April, offering exotic views and delicious seafood.
· Must-visit: Yalu River Broken Bridge, War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea Memorial Hall (free, reservation required), Jinjiang Mountain Park, Hushan Great Wall (see the “one-step cross”), boat tours on the river.
· Food: Various strawberries (cheap and sweet), yellow clams, Korean cold noodles, barbecue, rice wine.
· Tips: Confirm boat tour prices beforehand, as there are close-up and distant-view options; April has large temperature differences between morning and evening, so bring an extra jacket.
Four general budget travel tips:
1. Transportation: Use transfer flights or high-speed trains through provincial capitals or nearby hubs, then rely mainly on public transport and walking.
2. Accommodation: Choose newly opened hostels or chain hotels near train stations, avoiding the core scenic areas.
3. Tickets: Bring your student ID; many attractions offer free entry during early or late hours or Monday mornings.
4. Spending: Visit local markets where residents shop for authentic and affordable snacks to experience the most genuine local culture.
Wishing you a relaxed and wonderful reverse trip in April! If you’re especially interested in any of these places and want more detailed itineraries, feel free to ask me.