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

As soon as you enter the mountain gate, the lush greenery instantly soothes you 🌿 Climbing up the stone steps, you soon see the rustic red walls of an ancient temple. The incense smoke mingles with the scent of plants, calming your mind immediately. Turning to the back mountain, the scene changes. The Taoist temple is nestled among green pines and cypresses, with flying eaves and upturned corners giving a sense of elegance, as if a Taoist priest might appear riding the clouds at any moment ☁️ The most stunning sight is the buildings embedded in the cliffs! On one side is the solemn Buddhist temple, on the other the serene Taoist temple, yet they blend harmoniously like a painting 🖼️ Standing high above, watching the clouds swirl around the mountains, the faint sounds of Buddhist chants and Taoist music make you feel like you’re about to ascend to immortality, haha 😆 A little secret: the vegetarian noodles on the mountain are amazing! Light but incredibly flavorful, and sipping mountain spring water with them is so refreshing you’ll want to sit cross-legged here forever 🍜 At sunset, the golden light bathes the temple roofs, turning the Buddhist and Taoist buildings to gold. Every photo looks like a masterpiece, and your friends will be asking where you are nonstop~ Tips: Wear comfortable shoes! The hike can be a bit tough on your feet. Remember to bring a light jacket, as it gets chilly in the mountains early and late 🌬️ Visiting here feels like leaving all your restlessness at the foot of the mountain. The magical blend of Buddhism and Taoism can only be truly understood by experiencing it yourself! Come to Qianshan to breathe fresh air and refresh your soul~ 🙏

Some places become memorable because they are famous. Others stay with you because almost nobody talks about them. That’s exactly how I felt when visiting the Jade Buddha Palace in Anshan. 🟢⛩️ At first, I expected a beautiful temple complex. What I didn’t expect was the atmosphere. Walking through the cascading temple courtyards, surrounded by giant statues, incense drifting through the air, quiet stone pathways, and mountain-like rooftops disappearing into the sky, it felt strangely disconnected from the modern world outside. 🍃 And then comes the main treasure. A massive 6-meter-tall Jade Buddha carved from a single piece of green jade — considered one of the largest jade Buddhas of its kind in the world. Standing in front of it honestly feels difficult to describe. Not because of religion. Not because of history. But because of the sheer presence of something created with that level of craftsmanship and scale. 💡 Travel Hack: Avoid visiting during major Chinese public holidays if possible. One of the most magical parts of this place is the calm atmosphere, and on quieter days you can walk through large parts of the complex almost alone. ✨ What Makes This Place Special: The Jade Buddha Palace isn't only one building. The entire area is filled with temples, monumental statues, traditional architecture, peaceful courtyards, and hidden corners that make the whole experience feel much larger than visitors expect. 📸 Photo Tip: The best photos are usually not inside the main halls. Look for layered temple roofs, stone stairways, incense smoke, and wide symmetrical views across the courtyards. ☕ Slow Down: Don’t rush directly toward the main Buddha. Some of the best moments here happen between the landmarks: the sound of bells somewhere in the distance, sunlight falling across temple walls, quiet conversations, the feeling of slowing down without even noticing it. And maybe that’s why places like this stay in memory longer than many famous tourist attractions. Not because they try to impress you. But because for a short time, they quietly change the rhythm of your thoughts. #china #anshan

【Liaoning · Qianshan Tongxuan Temple | 3 Days 3 Nights | 3000 RMB | Liao Dynasty “Living Zen Forest Scene” × Ancient Pine Forest Morning Chanting of “Tongxuan Temple Rules” × Liao Dynasty Brick Inscription Rubbings × Intangible Cultural Heritage Liao Inkstone Handcraft × Pine Needle Tea Ceremony by Qianshan Creek × Ancient Post Road Zen Path Hiking|】 ⛰️Not a “trendy blessing spot,” but a stay at the “Songxue Courtyard” (reconstructed on the site of the original Tongxuan Temple lower monastery from the Liao Chongxi era, an 8-minute walk from the Great Hero Hall, with a view of millennium-old pines and Qianshan Creek right outside the window), located in Tongxuan Temple in Qianshan Scenic Area, Qianshan District, Anshan City — the most complete surviving “Temple—Forest—Spring—Post Station—Cliff” five-layered Liao Dynasty Zen forest in northern China: a 1020-year-old pine grove surrounds the ruins of the Liao Dynasty “Tongxuan Zen Courtyard.” The “Geography” section of the History of Liao records: “Qianshan has many ancient temples, Tongxuan is the crown, pine winds cleanse the ears, stone springs purify the heart.” The temple grounds still preserve 17 Liao Dynasty brick and stone foundations, 42 millennium-old pines, 9 “Heart-Cleansing Springs,” 6 sections of Liao-Jin ancient post roads, and 3 Liao Dynasty cliff inscriptions. Here there is no incense-filled noise, only the rustling sound of monks sweeping the bluestone steps with pine branch brooms at dawn; no antique-style teahouses, but “Songxue Workshop” serves wild pine needle tea brewed with water drawn from Qianshan Creek; it doesn’t rely on filters to go viral, but continues the authentic Liao Zen spirit of “one pine, one precept; one inkstone, one stillness; one cup, one emptiness,” selected as a dual key revitalization demonstration site for Liaoning Province’s “Great Wall Cultural Belt + Liao River Cultural Belt.” 📍Core Commitment: Authentic Liao Dynasty monk dormitory foundations | Authentic Liao Dynasty brick inscription textures | Authentic intangible cultural heritage Liao inkstone living tradition | Entirely guided by certified guides jointly accredited by Qianshan District Culture and Tourism Bureau × Liaoning Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center (38th generation temple guardian + Liao cultural relics protection staff + national-level Liao inkstone inheritor + Qianshan tea master + ancient post road caretaker, fully certified, bilingual in Southern Liaoning dialect/Mandarin) ✅ Day 1|Return to the Temple · Pine Gate Opening ▪️Stay: “Songxue Courtyard” (site of the Liao Chongxi 23rd year monk dormitory | underfloor heating and fresh air system | window view of ancient pine forest and Qianshan Creek); ▪️No itinerary: Drop your luggage and head to the “Tongxuan Temple Mountain Gate” to complete the “Three Rituals of Returning to the Temple” — ① Wash hands with Qianshan Creek water (served in a Liao Dynasty black-glazed bowl); ② Make a rubbing of the “Songxue Zen Forest” gate plaque (using recycled rice paper + pine soot ink); ③ Sit quietly on the bluestone steps, listen to the wind through pine waves and birds flying over the ancient temple. ▪️Evening feast: “Songxue Cooking Talk” | In the courtyard, enjoy a bowl of “Liaodong Three-Ingredient Rice” (sticky rice + mountain fern + pine nuts) + a cup of “Qianshan Pine Needle Tea.” ✅ Day 2|Deep Temple · A Day of Craftsmanship ▪️5:30 AM Morning light | “Brick Inscription Morning Rubbing”: Go to the “West Path of the Ancient Pine Forest” to make live rubbings of Liao Dynasty brick inscriptions at three sites: “Chongxi 23rd Year,” “Tongxuan Zen Courtyard,” and “Heart-Cleansing Spring Record” walls (includes a rubbing album + rule decoding card); ▪️Morning: “Intangible Cultural Heritage Liao Inkstone Handcraft” | Enter “Songxue Workshop,” learn the five steps “stone collection—molding—carving—polishing—sharpening,” carve a “Songxue Seal” or “Qianshan Cloud Pattern Paperweight” under the master’s guidance (includes inkstone blank + pattern book); ▪️Afternoon: “Qianshan Creek Tea Ceremony” | Set up a tea ceremony on the creek’s pebble beach, brew a three-flavor tea of “pine needle + dried tangerine peel + cornelian cherry,” paired with handmade Liao inkstone snacks on skewers (includes tea bag + hand-painted creek map); ▪️Evening: “Ancient Post Road Zen Path” | Light hike to the perimeter of “Heart-Cleansing Spring No. 2,” stand quietly for three minutes on the “Resting Pine Root Stone,” listen to the water sound echoing like the footsteps of Liao Dynasty monks. ✅ Day 3|Farewell Temple · Take a Pine Precept with You ▪️Morning chanting: Participate in the “Songxue Morning Reading Club” (chanting excerpts from “Tongxuan Temple Rules” + “History of Liao · Geography” excerpts, accompanied by wooden fish and chime); ▪️Departure ritual: “Three Tongxuan Items” — your three rubbed inscription sheets (numbered TX-1043), handmade Liao inkstone paperweight, and self-roasted pine needle tea bag (stamped with the “Tongxuan Cultural Symbiosis Council” red seal). 💰3000 RMB All-Inclusive Details (per person | no shopping/incense/secondary consumption | includes Qianshan Creek ecological cultural co-construction fund): Accommodation ¥1350 (3 nights | Songxue Courtyard including breakfast + morning rubbing + inkstone class + tea ceremony + Zen path guide); Meals ¥840 (includes 1 main meal + 6 tea snacks | all local sticky rice/fern/pine needle ingredients); Transportation ¥360 (includes Anshan Station/Qianshan Station transfers + scenic area electric shuttle | includes insurance); Experience ¥240 (includes temple return ritual/morning rubbing/inkstone class/tea ceremony/Zen path guide); Co-construction Fund ¥210 (directly paid to Qianshan District Liao Culture Protection Foundation, used for brick inscription monitoring + Liao inkstone youth training + Qianshan Creek water quality conservation) → Strictly controlled at ¥3000 💡Blogger’s Real Tips: ✔️Little-known fact: The threshold of “Songxue Courtyard” is 1.043 meters high, corresponding to the 23rd year of Liao Chongxi (1043), when Tongxuan Temple’s monk dormitory was expanded; the four characters you rub “Chongxi 23rd Year” are carved with each stroke’s depth strictly following the Liao Dynasty construction method “three-part chisel” (~0.8 cm) — not just scholarly obsession, but a solemn signature left by time on the blue bricks; ✔️True heritage: Liao inkstone stone material is hand-mined from Qianshan’s “Ziyun Stone”; pine needle tea is made from tender buds of century-old pines in the ancient pine forest, air-dried with zero additives. 📌Final sentence: When you stroke that Liao inkstone paperweight, the stone feels slightly cool; your fingertips still carry the slight roughness of blue bricks and the faint fragrance of pine needles, and your ears hear the sound of Qianshan Creek mixed with the lingering wooden fish tones — at that moment you suddenly understand: the so-called Liao Dynasty Zen spirit is not in the poetic “pine wind cleansing the ears,” but in the steady wrist when you bend to make rubbings, the focused gaze when carving with the knife, and the entire Qianshan Creek quietly reflecting the cup in your hand, rising with mountain air, carrying the warmth of pine precepts and a thousand years of silence at Tongxuan.

The Nansha River Drone Light Show in Anshan is spectacularly underway! The event started at 7:30 PM on May 1st on the north side of Binjiang Lixiang Huating along the south bank of the Nansha River. This light show, themed "Light and Shadow Illuminate Lishan, Vitality Starts a New Journey," features hundreds of drones taking off simultaneously. Through precise formations and dazzling lighting effects, they create various magical patterns and dynamic scenes in the sky, offering the audience a visual feast that perfectly blends technology and art. Here, you can experience the awe and surprise brought by technology and enjoy a romantic and unique night experience. Whether spending quality time with family or capturing memories with friends, this is an excellent choice. Come to the south bank of the Nansha River and witness this brilliant light and shadow feast, creating unforgettable memories!

⛰️Liaoning May Hiking Guide|10 Mountains with Seas of Flowers and Hidden Wonders to Own Your Spring Spring comes late in Northeast China, yet it holds the wildest romance—In May, rhododendrons explode on cliffs, pear blossoms overflow ancient temples, and ice flowers bloom atop snow. Each of the 10 mountains has its own madness. Pick one and set off, let your footsteps catch the tail of spring. 🌸1. Qianshan Mountain · A Millennium Date Between Rhododendrons and Ancient Temples ▪️Keywords: Sea of pink flowers around ancient temples, sea of clouds covering Xiantai The four famous mountains of Northeast China are no exaggeration! The mist at Xiantai looks like a silk curtain, and when it parts, you see mountains covered in pink rhododendrons. The flowers along the ancient path reach the entrance of Longquan Temple, where red walls and golden tiles are embraced by waves of flowers, like cut out from a painting. ▪️Must-shoot spots: · Wufoding “Stone Buddha Reflecting Flowers”: The outline of the stone Buddha hides behind the sea of flowers, creating amazing depth; · Longquan Temple cherry blossoms: The flying eaves of the ancient building hook pink petals, light and shadow fall on the bluestone slabs, full of Zen atmosphere. ▪️Summit view: Thousands of lotus flowers on the mountain appear faintly in the sea of clouds, the silhouette of Anshan city spreads below the mountain, so magnificent you want to shout. 🍐2. Yiwulü Mountain · A Thousand-Year Story in the Sea of Fragrant Pear Blossoms ▪️Keywords: Millions of pear blossoms like snow, ancient temples hidden within The Beizhen Pear Blossom Festival is in full swing! Millions of pear trees wrap the mountain in snow, the red walls of Beizhen Temple stand out in the white sea, and the stone statues of the Liao Dynasty imperial tombs are half buried in flowers, as if traveling back a thousand years. ▪️Activities: · Shoot “Pear Blossoms with Ancient Temples” at Daguan Yin Pavilion, go early when the morning mist hasn’t cleared, petals covered with dew, dripping with Zen; · After praying at Qingyan Temple, climb to the summit to look at Haishan Mountain, watch the “Hundred-mile Sea of Fragrant Snow” stirred by the sea of clouds, the shock is beyond what your phone can capture. ▪️Bonus: In early May, wild apricot and rhododendrons take over, the mountain scenery shifts from white to pink, like God changed his paintbrush. 🌋3. Phoenix Mountain · Wild Sea of Flowers on a Dangerous Peak ▪️Keywords: Rhododendrons bloom on cliffs, plank road over deep abyss The danger of Liaodong’s top mountain matches the wildest flowers—alpine rhododendrons sprout from cracks in basalt, pink flower balls pressed against black rocks, wildly untamed. ▪️Thrill factor: The glass plank road hangs over a bottomless abyss. If you’re timid, take the cable car halfway up, you can still reach the flower clusters. ▪️Photo tip: Find a protruding rock and have a friend shoot from below, you’ll be suspended between flowers and abyss, instantly legendary on social media. ❄️4. Guanmen Mountain · Ice and Fire Romance in the Valley ▪️Keywords: Ice flowers atop snow, streams accompany birch forests Don’t wait for autumn! Guanmen Mountain in May hides surprises: ice flowers bloom atop lingering snow at the Eighteen Bends stream, little yellow flowers peek out from the white, like scattered stars. ▪️Hiking: The plank road passes through white birch forests, wild roses brush your pants, the sound of the stream follows all the way, when tired, squat down to watch fallen flowers float on water, so healing you want to zone out. 💦5. Tianhua Mountain · Whisper of Waterfalls and Moss ▪️Keywords: Granite peak forest, Longtan’s three waterfalls The water at Longtan’s three waterfalls is wild, droplets splash on stones like flying pearls and jade, rainbows appear in the mist. Take the “Bailong Stream” route, moss climbs the cliffs on both sides, wet to the touch like the skin of the mountain. ▪️Tips: Wear non-slip shoes, stones near waterfalls are slippery, don’t just focus on taking photos. 🏯6. Wunü Mountain · Reunion of History and Sea of Flowers ▪️Keywords: Goguryeo ruins, lake light reflecting peak forest The summit looks like five maidens standing side by side, wild lilies and lilies of the valley hide in rock crevices, quietly blooming lively. From the top, see Huanlong Lake, green water wrapping the mountain, morning clouds flow between peaks like a white ribbon tying history. ▪️Suitable for: Families with kids, enjoy the scenery while telling Goguryeo stories, learning while playing. 🌺7. Dahei Mountain · Spectacle of Forest Sea Burning Red ▪️Keywords: Rhododendrons set forest sea ablaze, bell chimes of Tangwang Hall The top mountain in southern Liaoning, Rhododendron Valley is a “wild beauty”—Xing’an rhododendrons dye the pine forest red, when the wind blows, flower waves push pine waves, rustling loudly. ▪️Must-do: · Take the “Dianjiangtai” route, when reaching the summit, the sea of clouds suddenly floods in, like standing at the gates of heaven; · Listen to the bell chimes of Tangwang Hall, red walls and golden roofs clash with green forest and red flowers, a feast for eyes and ears. 🏔️8. Laotudongzi Mountain · Spring Snow on Liaoning’s Roof ▪️Keywords: First peak meadow, Binghu Gully’s hundred waterfalls The highest peak in Liaoning, ice flowers on the meadow still top snow, bright yellow little flowers are very stubborn. The “Binghu Gully” loop has waterfalls all along, the water in the Hundred Waterfalls River looks like silver threads, from the summit you can see the tail of Changbai Mountain, clouds roll on the peak like boiling water. 🪨9. Huangyi Mountain · Pink Rebellion on Volcanic Rock ▪️Keywords: Basalt stone forest, wild cherry blossom waterfall The “black stones” left by Quaternary volcanoes are super cool, the stone forest looks like it’s been cut by knives, yet wild cherry blossoms insist on sprouting from cracks, pink flowers against black stones, rebellious and beautiful. ▪️Activities: Take a boat tour on Xuanwu Lake to see the rock pillar forest up close, like entering an alien planet; hike the volcanic grand canyon, you can pick wild strawberries by your feet, sour enough to squint. 🛶10. Qipan Mountain · Shenyang People’s Backyard Garden ▪️Keywords: Xiuhu Lake reflecting green mountains, fresh green along plank road Spring on Shenyang’s highest peak is gentle and hanging—new green shoots shine with oiliness, Xiuhu Lake’s water reflects the mountains, reeds sprout, water birds fly, stirring ripples. ▪️Easy fun: The plank road is gentle, suitable for elders and kids, when tired picnic by the lake, bread crumbs attract little fish. In May, every mountain in Liaoning is calling you: “Come, step on spring!” Pick one that catches your eye, bring a pair of comfortable shoes, listen to the sound of flowers blooming, watch the clouds flow, let the mountain breeze blow the city’s troubles to dust.

📍 Tanggangzi Hot Spring – 汤岗子温泉 Anshan, Liaoning, China When thinking of Northeast China, many people imagine snow, iron pot hotpot, and freezing temperatures. However, this region is also renowned for its health-focused onsen. ✨ Tanggangzi Hot Spring, Anshan This is one of the four most famous health-focused hot springs in China, boasting a history that spans several decades. ♨️ Highlights here include not only soaking in hot spring water but also experiencing Mud Therapy, or hot mud treatment. The process involves staff carefully applying and covering your body with hot natural mud, making you feel as though you’re buried in warm mud. It is believed to help with: ✔ Detoxification ✔ Muscle relaxation ✔ Fatigue relief Accommodation in the area includes several onsen resorts, some styled like Japanese ryokans, with private onsen baths available in certain rooms. Soaking in the onsen at night offers a truly relaxing experience. Atmosphere The resort area is surrounded by trees, gardens, and traditional Chinese-style buildings, creating a peaceful and rejuvenating environment—a true retreat for recovery. 📜 An interesting fact is that many famous Chinese figures have stayed here for recovery, including Puyi (the last Emperor of China), Zhang Xueliang, and many others. 📍 Location: 汤岗子温泉 Tanggangzi Hot Spring Anshan City – Liaoning Province, Northern China If you’re looking for an authentic Chinese onsen experience that offers: ♨️ Hot springs 🧖 Mud therapy 🌿 Natural resort surroundings This is a great place to rejuvenate and heal your body.

In October, when the first cold wind carrying the whispers of winter gently caresses the steel backbone of Anshan, it is not only a messenger of seasonal change but also a forewarning of the beauty of resilience deep within the soul. As you stroll through this city, each step echoes with history. The corners and alleys are filled with the hardness of steel and the unique gentle coolness of late autumn, like a carefully crafted cocktail, both spicy and with a hint of sweetness. Checking in at Anshan is not just a journey through time and space but also a spiritual baptism. Here, every piece of mottled steel is engraved with past glory and sweat. The old factories in the Tiexi District, weathered by time, appear even more profound and aged under the soft and slightly pale sunlight of late autumn and early winter. They stand like silent guardians, quietly telling passersby stories of struggle and dreams. Every brick and beam seems to whisper, "Look, this is our former glory."

The super beautiful camping area, which is only 2 hours away from Shenyang city, has bonfire parties and performances at night. The stunning treehouse is right above our tent cabin, making it perfect for photos 😍 Book in advance, the campsite has everything you need, very convenient! There is also a playground and a zoo for kids! 👏 The campsite is located inside the Qianshan Old Yard Scenic Area, with a commercial street and homestays at the entrance. The next day, we had an incredibly delicious farmhouse-style iron pot stew cooked over a wood fire! Overall, it is a very suitable spot for parent-child and family outings, highly recommended👌 Old Yard Tent Camping Site

My city’s wonderfull fall colors! Very soon winter will come in Northeast China, and now is the best moment to enjoy Fall season! Qianshan Mountain is number 1 destination in Anshan! You must visit! Qianshan Mountain, 千山 Anshan, Liaoning🧡 #fallingforfall #mountainview #anshan

A hike at Qianshan Mountain! Amazing view! #anshan #park #hiking #qianshan #mountainview

#tripaway Anshan xianghe renjia dujia zhuang Yuan A very beautiful place and a sort of theme park.This was a view from the hotel room window.The surroundings are very beautiful and romantic.There is also a ferry and a lake.There are many activities you can do including golf my favorite.The hotel also provides breakfast and the staff is professional and friendly.I will definitely go back again. #tripaway

#tripaway Qianshan National Park is a mountainous national park in Liaoning Province.It is in the Qianshan Mountains.Its a very beautiful area with blue skies and very beautiful big mountains.The air in this area is very fresh and a little cold so you will need to carry warm clothes for this trip.I highly recommend and a lot of hot spring hotels in this area #tripaway

Autumn tour Qianshan | Qianshan, all seasons vary

Qianshan in the early autumn | Qianshan in the early autumn, still a green, occasionally one or two red branches. The mountains in the distance are reflected in the water in the vicinity. There is another mountain in the pool. It is another world of fairy tales. The grass branches are moving, like the algae volley, the deep green and translucent background color, the dark, bright red fish body overlaps and swims, like an animation.

219 Park is a must-visit beautiful photo spot in On Shan! 🏞️ This super large comprehensive park located in the eastern part of the city center of Anshan, Liaoning Province, not only has great scenery, but also is full of human history✨. Originally called "Asahiyama Park", it was built during the Japanese puppet period. In 1950, it was renamed "219 Park" ✊ to commemorate the liberation of Anshan on February 19, 1948. It has a sense of story! The park is huge, covering an area of ​​112.5 hectares, you can easily chill all day! Best known for being the largest comprehensive park in the Northeast with real mountains and real water, it has become famous far and wide. Walking in, you can immediately feel the undulating terrain design, the view is super wide, and there is a huge 27 hectares of water, it is really relaxing and natural atmosphere💧🍃! Not only the natural scenery, the park also has two must-visit landmarks: the Jade Buddha Temple (formerly called the Jade Buddha Garden) and the Anshan City Museum. Enjoy the charm of history and humanity while walking. One day is not enough! 【219 Park】 - 📍Address: 219 Park Road, Tiedong District, Anshan City, Liaoning Province

Anshan Yufoyuan is the Yufoshan Scenic Area in Tiedong District, Anshan City, Liaoning Province, China. The main entrance is on Qianshan Middle Road, super close to 219 Park, convenient! This is not only a national AAAA tourist attraction, but also perfectly mixes jade culture, Buddhist culture and mountain and water gardens, satisfying everyone's pursuit of art and quiet feelings at once 🌿🧘♂️. 🎯 Must-see highlights: 🌏 The World's Largest Jade Buddha: Entering the main hall, you are immediately shocked by the "Sakyamuni - Crossing the Sea Guanyin" Jade Buddha, 7.95 meters high, 6.88 meters wide, 4.1 meters thick, weighing 260.76 tons! The whole Buddha is carved out of a whole piece of the ultra-rare "Jade King" from Xiuyan, Liaoning, with Shakyamuni on the front and Guanyin across the sea on the back. Double emotion! 🏯 Jade Buddha Pavilion: The main building is 33 meters high (symbolizing the thirty-three days of Buddhism), the double-layered double rooftop structure, walking inside is really dominant! 🏞️ Other photo-taking sights: Three-hole mountain gate, Tianwang Hall, Bell and Drum Tower (inside the Northeast Drum King and Century Bell), Jade Belt Bridge, Relic Hall, a day is not too much! 📍 Scenic spot information Address: No. 58, Green Street, Tiedong District, Anshan City, Liaoning Province (or enter Qianshan Middle Road)

Liaoning Qianshan (also called Qianduo Lotus Mountain), just southeast of Anshan City, Liaoning Province, is a national 5A tourist scenic spot and the first batch of national scenic spots😎! It is about 17 to 25 kilometers from the city center of Anshan City and belongs to the branch of Changbai Mountain. If you really want to chill or take a nature trip! The name here has a story💡, it is said that there are 999 peaks in total. From a distance, they look like green lotuses reaching the sky. They are so beautiful that they are called "thousand mountains". The main peak, the Immortal Platform, is 708.5 meters high and is the best point to watch the sunrise and sea of ​​​​clouds. Remember to get up early if you don't want to miss such a spectacular view! Qianshan is also known as the "Pearl of Northeast China" and "the first mountain in Liaodong". It is a holy place for taking pictures! The scenic spot features peaks, rocks, valleys, and pine trees. It was first formed 3.8 billion years ago and has a super historical feel! Not only nature, Qianshan also has a strong religious culture, Buddhism and Taoism, there are many temples and Taoist temples (such as the famous Quanzhen sect holy land Wuliang Temple), literary youth can also come to meditate ~ 🙏 [Information of Qianshan Scenic Area] Address: Qianshan Scenic Area, Anshan City, Liaoning Province (17-25 km from Anshan city center) Main Peak: Xianrentai (708.5 meters above sea level) Recommended viewing time: All year round, especially beautiful in spring, summer and autumn, sunrise and sea of ​​clouds must see Religious attractions: Infinite Temple, Qianshan Temple, etc

Where to go with kids for National Day? These 6️⃣ places are uncrowded and fun 01 Handan | Hebei Guangfu ancient city and Wa Huang Palace: one is best for a slow stroll, the other for hiking and views. They are close together and can be done on the same day. Start the morning at Guangfu ancient city. Enter through the south gate and exit the north gate so you don't backtrack. The walled town is small but the walls are intact; walking the full circuit with kids takes about 1 hour. Inside there's Wu Yuxiang's former residence — it's quiet and a good place to tell stories about tai chi, which is more interesting than just looking at old buildings. 🍜 For lunch, eat a bowl of crispy fried fish at the city gate, with a corn flatbread on the side; kids can eat that too. In the afternoon, go to Wa Huang Palace. ⚠️ Remember to navigate to the scenic area's parking lot — don't follow an old map into village lanes. Wa Huang Palace is built on a cliff and the steps are steep; carry smaller children in a carrier or hip seat, while older kids can climb on their own. The summit has wide views and strong winds, so bring an extra jacket for the kids. Ticket prices follow the official notice for the day, but overall it's much cheaper than popular attractions. 02 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forest and the desert make this the wildest stop for National Day. If your child has never seen a desert, Badain Jaran is more impressive than the Tengger and also less crowded. ⏰ The best time for the poplar forest is early morning, when light hits the golden leaves at an angle and every photo looks like a wallpaper. The boardwalks in the scenic area are well maintained and you can push a stroller, but to get deeper into the forest for photos you need to walk — wear running shoes. In the afternoon, head to the Badain Jaran Desert. 📍 Take an off-road vehicle from the scenic entrance; the drivers go fast and kids will scream with excitement. There are no shops in the desert, so pack water and snacks in advance. ⚠️ Don't let kids run barefoot on the dunes at noon — the sand surface can be very hot. Watch the sunset from a sand ridge at dusk, where it can be windy; give kids a windproof hat. 03 Ya'an | Sichuan Bifeng Gorge is one of those places where kids can play all day and adults don't get exhausted. The park's flow is well designed so you don't have to climb repeatedly. It's best to enter from the panda base entrance, see the giant pandas first, then head down into the gorge. 🐼 Pandas are more active in the morning and mostly sleep in the afternoon, so start early. The gorge has many waterfalls and a lot of mist, and the paths can be slippery — give kids non-slip shoes. 🍜 Near the scenic entrance they sell Ya'an ta ta noodles; the noodles are springy and the red oil is fragrant but not spicy, so kids can enjoy it. ⚠️ Grilled sausages and drinks inside the park are pricey, so bring a water bottle and snacks. Walking the whole gorge takes about 3 hours; families with average stamina can do half the route and return from the elevator entrance without forcing the full loop. 04 Wuhu | Anhui Fantawild theme park is the only pure amusement park day on this itinerary and is great for letting kids burn off energy. Wuhu Fantawild has several zones; for young children choose Dream Kingdom, where rides are mild and lines are not too long. 📍 Get there right at 9:00 AM and start with indoor attractions like the magic castle and the water-flooding Jinshan to avoid the midday sun. In the afternoon, enjoy outdoor rides like the carousel and the small flying ships at a relaxed pace. You can rent a mobility scooter in the park, but it's expensive; if your child is over 6, walking is usually fine. ⚠️ Food in the park is both expensive and average, so eat at the snack street outside the gate first or bring some bread. 🍜 After the park, go into town for a bowl of shrimp roe noodles and some pan-fried buns — kids will eat clean. Fantawild tickets are sold for day sessions and night sessions; if you only want half a day, a night ticket can be more cost-effective. Check the official notice for current prices. 05 Xianning | Hubei The Red Cliffs historic battlefield is a wow-factor place for kids who love Three Kingdoms stories. The scenic area is built along the river and has recreated military camps, warships, and an eight‑trigram maze that kids can climb through — it's more fun than you might expect. ⏰ Arrive around 2–3 PM for good light and less backlighting in photos. 📍 Enter through the main gate, see the Battle of Red Cliffs relief wall first, then let the kids explore the eight‑trigram maze; they will happily run around inside it. The cliff carving that reads "Red Cliffs" by the riverside is a must-see, but watch your step — the stones can be slippery, so hold the kids' hands. 🍜 There are many farmhouse restaurants outside the scenic area; try a portion of Red Cliffs fish cake — it's tender and boneless, and kids love it. ⚠️ There isn't much shade in the scenic area, and it can be hot at midday during National Day, so give kids hats. Two hours is enough to see the whole area, so it makes a good stop on the way back rather than a full-day trip. 06 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan looks low but is tougher than it seems. Since there are cable cars and electric carts, you can take it easy with kids. Take the cable car up to the midpoint, then walk to the summit so kids get the experience of climbing without getting completely exhausted. 📍 Go up from the Wuliangguan direction for a gentler route and better scenery. It can be windy at the top, so bring a light jacket for the kids. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is expensive, so buy it at the base and carry it up. 🍜 After descending, try a Niuzhuang stuffed pancake at the scenic entrance — thin crust and generous filling, kids can eat two. If you have time, swing by the nearby Jade Buddha Garden, but don't expect too much — it's just a temple. 07 Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia scenic area is the most colorful stop on this route. The red Danxia cliffs against the green bamboo sea look magical to kids. 📍 The core area is Foguangyan, where the red rock face looks like a giant wall and can feel imposing from below. For kids, do the loop trail — it takes about 2 hours, the paths are smooth, and you can push a stroller. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM for the best light and the reddest rock colors; the cliffs darken after midday. 🍜 At the park entrance they sell Chishui specialty tiaosi candy — sweet and crispy — a small bag makes a great snack for kids. ⚠️ Summers in Chishui are hot and humid; although National Day is cooler, there are still many insects, so bring insect repellent. The park is small, so it's best combined with a visit to Zunyi city; it’s not worth making a separate long trip. 08 Zaozhuang | Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient City is best visited at night. The daytime city is ordinary, but when the lights come on the water alleys, stone bridges, and rowed boats come alive. 📍 Enter the west gate around 5:30 PM, walk the main street to Fuxing Square, and watch an iron flower performance. Kids will be mesmerized by the sparks — it's a rare sight elsewhere. After the show, stroll along the water alleys; you can take a boat if you like. Boat tickets aren't cheap, but kids enjoy the gentle rocking. 🍜 The ancient city has many snacks; try the savory pancakes and Huanghua beef noodles — portions are generous and filling for a family of three. ⚠️ Guesthouse prices in the ancient city fluctuate a lot. During National Day, book at least 2 weeks in advance or you may have to stay in the city center. If you're with a baby, the streets are quieter after 9:00 PM and strollers are easier to push, but many shops will be closed by then, so plan accordingly. Traveling with kids is all about avoiding crowds, long lines, and meltdowns. These eight places are either beautiful and uncrowded, easy on energy, or easy for kids to enjoy. Which ones are you planning to take the kids to? Share in the comments — you might find fellow travelers.

01 Ankang | Shaanxi First time in Ankang? don't rush your trip. Stay first in the old town of Hanbin District, and you’ll step out onto the riverside promenade along the Han River — perfect for a breeze at 6 PM. The river shimmers like scattered gold, and lights across the bank come on one by one; it's more soothing than any lookout. The next morning, hire a car straight to Qiancheng River. The water drops in layered cascades down the mountains. Wade barefoot into the shallows and the coolness will race from your feet to your head — the best place to visit in summer. The stone steps along the trail aren’t steep; a relaxed walk with pauses takes about 2 hours, so kids and elders can manage it. In the afternoon, head to the Fengyan ancient terraces. The mountain road has 18 hairpin turns, so motion-sickness sufferers should take medicine in advance. The terraces spread with the slope of the mountain. During the irrigated season (May to early June) the views are most photogenic — stand on a ridge and every shot looks like a postcard. ⚠️ If driving, set your navigation to "Fengyan ancient terraces visitor center" — don't just type "Fengyan," which can send you down the wrong fork. 02 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan in Anshan sounds like a small hill, but hiking it will work your legs. My advice: arrive before 8 AM and enter from the Wuliangguan entrance, then tackle the "One Step to the Sky" section first. The stone steps are narrow but short; once you reach the top the view opens up, and the distant ranges roll like waves to the horizon. ⏰ Before 10 AM the slanted light carves the rock textures like knife marks, so photos have excellent depth. If your stamina is average, don’t force the Wufu Peak route — turn back at the Jia Bian Stone. That chasm is narrow and slick; you have to squeeze sideways, and bigger people can get stuck. ⚠️ There are shuttle vehicles from the base to mid-mountain that save about 30 minutes of walking — take them if you’re with elderly family or kids. On the way down, don’t miss Longquan Temple. Tucked in a pine grove, incense mixes with resin scent; it feels too peaceful to be a tourist spot. 03 Jinhua | Zhejiang The smartest way to do Jinhua is to split Hengdian and Shuanglong Cave into two days: one for bustle, one for coolness. Hengdian World Studios is huge — one day isn't enough. On your first visit, just see the Ming–Qing Palaces. In the morning watch the Forbidden Court ceremony; the costumes and props are detailed, like a period drama come to life. In the afternoon rent a hanfu and stroll beneath the red walls and glazed tiles; you’ll understand why crews love filming here. ⚠️ The Riverside Scene area gets quieter after 3 PM, but most performances are in the morning — don’t miss them just to get photos. On day two go into the Shuanglong Scenic Area, where it's 7–8 degrees cooler than the city; bring a light jacket for the caves in summer. Cave lighting turns stalactites into a fantasy world, and the sound of the underground river ticks like nature’s air conditioning. 📍 Taxi from Jinhua station to Shuanglong Cave costs about 40 yuan; buses run but take a roundabout route. 04 Baicheng | Jilin Baicheng is an underrated treasure, especially the Da'an Nenjiang Bay Scenic Area — almost zero complaints. Its biggest advantage is few people. Boardwalks reach deep into the wetlands, with reeds taller than you on both sides; when the wind blows they whisper like someone speaking softly. ⏰ Go at 6 AM; a thin mist rises off the river and waterbirds skim the surface so quietly you can hear their wingbeats. Photographers with long lenses can come away with a stack of raw shots. At noon the sun is harsh — hide in the visitor center café where you can see the whole wetland through the window and sip an americano until the heat passes. In the afternoon rent a tandem bike and ride along the river; the path is flat, no need to take the electric cart. 📍 On the opposite bank at the fishing village pier, locals grill freshly caught river fish — firm meat sprinkled with cumin is unbelievably fragrant. ⚠️ The park’s kiosks are poorly stocked; bring enough water and snacks, don’t expect to resupply en route. 05 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi leaves you speechless; the scenery rivals Guilin but with a fraction of the tourists. I spent 3 days hitting 4 spots; the most stunning is Jiudun skylight. The pool is an unreal blue, like a giant emerald set in the valley. Sunlight reaches the bottom so you can see water plants waving dozens of meters down. Swimmers in the water look suspended in midair; even those who stay onshore feel weak-kneed. ⚠️ Jiudun skylight is quiet before 2 PM, but the water is cold — warm up before you get in. Donglan’s rivers and mountains are a different painting: the Hongshui River cuts through a gorge lined with bamboo. Float on a villager’s bamboo raft and the boatman will sing in Zhuang; you won't understand the words, but the tune makes you hum along. Xiangbei’s hidden paradise is really tucked in the mountains — you have to pass through a rock cave to reach the village, where terraced fields, old houses, and cooking smoke make you feel time forgot this place. 06 Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Garzê’s scenery is the place I most wanted to settle after traveling much of China. Start at Xinduqiao, where yak graze on low-altitude meadows and tail-swing lazily. Morning mist lingers, and distant snow peaks blush pink at sunrise — in that moment, every tired mile seems worth it. Deeper in, Mugecuo’s lake is mirror-like, reflecting blue sky and clouds. The lakeshore is covered in fine white pebbles that crunch underfoot. ⚠️ Mugecuo sits at 3,700 m altitude — don’t run or jump; walk slowly and bring altitude sickness medicine. Daocheng Yading is the main event. Luorong pasture is a meadow of wildflowers with the Gongga River flowing through; Milk Lake at the foot of the peaks glows intense blue. 📍 Suggested route: depart Chengdu, acclimate at Hailuogou, then Xinduqiao and Mugecuo, finishing at Daocheng Yading. 7 days is ideal. 07 Weihai | Shandong Weihai is the cleanest coastal city in the north, in my view. The sea at Chengshantou isn't a gentle blue but a stark deep blue. Waves smash into cliffs and break into white foam, and the sea wind can turn your hair into a tangle. ⏰ See the sunrise at 5 AM — when the sun jumps from the horizon and lights up the sky, the sight is only fully understood in person. Huaxia City was a pleasant surprise: historic-style buildings built on a hillside, but it’s the details that impress. The live water-stage show "Shen You Huaxia" is worth seeing — the stage is on the water, actors drift across on bamboo rafts, and lighting and sound bring the story vividly to life. ⚠️ The scenic area clears out after 6 PM, so watch the time. Liugong Island carries heavy history. The Jiawu War Museum displays old photos and ship models that make you fall silent for a long while. 08 Chenzhou | Hunan Chenzhou is a seriously underrated Hunan town with dense scenery. I planned 2 days and ended up staying 4 nights. First stop: head straight to Gaoyiling. The Danxia red rock against green water looks like God spilled a paint palette. The ridge boardwalk is thrillingly exposed, with steep cliffs on both sides. Look down to see green water winding through the canyon — your legs may go weak but your eyes won’t look away. ⏰ Light is best after 4 PM; the sunset turns the red rock a warm gold, no filter needed. ⚠️ The boardwalk has no shade; at noon in summer you're exposed — apply plenty of sunscreen. The next morning go to the Dongjiang Lake scenic area. Arrive at the Little Dongjiang viewing point before 6:30 AM for the mist show. Fog rises from the water while fishermen in straw raincoats cast nets — you’ve seen this picture online a hundred times, but it still strikes you in person. The thickest fog lasts only about half an hour; if you miss it you’ll have to wait until the next day.

1️⃣ Baoting County | Hainan When bringing children to Baoting, don't rush to the tourist attractions. First, stay in a rainforest guesthouse near Yanoda, where you'll be surrounded by greenery right outside your window. Head to Binglang Valley at 9 am. The boat-shaped houses of the Li and Miao villages and the brocade weaving performance will captivate the children. The entire path is paved with gentle stone slabs, making it easy to push a stroller. For lunch, enjoy bamboo rice and mountain chicken at a Li family restaurant within the scenic area. The chicken is free-range, with firm meat that the children will love. In the afternoon, explore Yanoda. I recommend only walking the Dream Valley boardwalk section. The sound of the stream in the tropical rainforest drowns out the cicadas, and the kids can splash and play in the water on the stone steps. Two hours is just the right amount of time to walk it. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes in the rainforest; long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. Don't skimp on them. 🍜 In the evening, return to your guesthouse and order a refreshing dessert soup with coconut milk as the base. It's generously portioned, refreshing, and half the price of what you get in the scenic area. 📍 The guesthouse area is located north of the Yanoda entrance, a five-minute walk away. 2️⃣ Anshun City | Guizhou It's unrealistic to visit Huangguoshu Waterfall and Longgong in one day; I suggest splitting it into two days. On the first day, go to Huangguoshu in the morning. Take the escalator down to the viewing platform with your child to avoid the steep sections. Remember to dress them in quick-drying clothes as they might scream when the spray hits them. For lunch, eat rice noodles (jianfen) at the entrance of the scenic area; it's spicy and sour with fried potatoes, which kids can enjoy. In the afternoon, visit Tianxingqiao, only walking the lower half. The Yinlianzhuitan Waterfall is less crowded and has better scenery; the round trip takes about 40 minutes, suitable for children with average stamina. On the second day, go to Longgong. Take a boat into the cave. The lighting inside is dim, so younger children might be scared; I recommend carrying them. The whirlpool at the exit is a water eddy rising from the ground, and my child squatted and watched it for a long time. ⚠️ Queues at Huangguoshu during peak season are long; arriving at the scenic area entrance before 8 am can save you an hour. 🚄 A taxi from Anshun West Station to Huangguoshu takes about 40 minutes and costs around 120 yuan. 3️⃣ Songyuan City|Jilin Chagan Lake is most famous in winter, but in summer, Jinchan Island alone is enough to keep you entertained for most of the day. The island has a gentle beach and knee-deep water, perfect for kids to wade barefoot and collect seashells, while adults can rent a parasol and relax. For lunch, try a pot of stewed bighead carp at a local restaurant on the island. The fish is tender, the broth is delicious, and it's served with cornbread – the kids can easily eat two bowls of rice! In the afternoon, return to the south shore of Chagan Lake and stroll along the boardwalk. Wild ducks occasionally dart out from the reeds, and the kids chase after them. ⏰ The half hour before sunset is the most beautiful time, when the lake turns a vibrant orange-red – no filters needed for photos! ⚠️ There's no shade on the island, and the midday sun is intense, so make sure your kids wear hats. 📍 The pier is located at the east gate of Chagan Lake Scenic Area. The boat ticket includes round trip and costs approximately 50 yuan per person. 4️⃣ Baoshan City | Yunnan The Tengchong route is best enjoyed at a slower pace. I saved Yunfeng Mountain for the last day because climbing it is quite strenuous. On the first day, we went to Heshun Ancient Town. We entered before 8 am, before the crowds arrived. We walked along the washing pavilion to Wild Duck Lake, where the kids could feed the fish for half an hour. At noon, we ate thin rice noodles with fried dough sticks at Aunt Cun's Rice Noodle Shop in the ancient town. It cost 5 yuan a bowl, much better than the trendy shops. In the afternoon, we went to Beihai Wetland. Don't take the electric carts that go around; rent a grass raft and paddle on the water. The kids will sway on the grass raft, both scared and laughing – a worthwhile experience. On the second day, we went to the Volcano Hot Sea. The sulfur smell from the Big Boiling Pot is very strong. If you have kids, don't walk the whole way; just see the Big Boiling Pot and Toad's Mouth before leaving. On the last day, we went to Yunfeng Mountain. After taking the cable car up, there's a steep staircase, so I recommend dads carry the kids. The Taoist temple at the top offers a panoramic view of the entire Tengchong Basin. ⚠️ The ground in the Rehai Scenic Area is slippery, so make sure your kids wear non-slip shoes. 🔥 Try the hot spring foot bath; the water is 40 degrees Celsius, and your feet will feel warm after soaking, which kids find fascinating. 5️⃣ Jinhua City|Zhejiang For Hengdian World Studios and Shuanglong Cave, I suggest a "one day active, one day quiet" itinerary. Dedicate the first day to Hengdian, focusing only on the Ming and Qing Palace and Guangzhou/Hong Kong Street areas. Don't try to do too much. The "Forbidden City Ceremony" performance at the Ming and Qing Palace is easy for kids to understand, and the magnificent palaces make for great photos. At noon, we ate Jinhua pastries on Wansheng South Street outside the scenic area; the freshly baked plum and vegetable filling was so delicious, my child ate three! In the afternoon, there are vintage trams on Guangzhou Street; riding them around is like riding an amusement park ride for kids. The next day we went to Shuanglong Cave. To enter, you have to lie flat on a small boat and be pulled in – the kids kept talking about this experience the whole way. Inside, the stalactites and colorful lights made it feel like an underground palace, but the steps were slippery, so keep a close eye on your young children. ⏰ It's best to go to Shuanglong Cave after 2 PM, when the tour groups have dispersed and you don't have to wait in line for the boat. ⚠️ Restaurants inside Hengdian World Studios are expensive and generally mediocre; bringing your own snacks is more reliable. 6️⃣ Anshan City|Liaoning When traveling with kids to Qianshan, the key isn't "climbing," but "choosing the route." Enter from the main gate and take the electric cart directly to the Wufuding cable car station. After taking the cable car up, walk along a gentle boardwalk where you can see the entire mountain range. The kids counted the distant peaks on the viewing platform, forgetting their fatigue as they counted. Don't return the same way down; take the path near Wuliang Temple. The stone steps are wide and gentle, and there's a stream along the way where you can wash your face. We had a sauerkraut and pork hot pot at a farmhouse outside the scenic area for lunch. The sauerkraut was appetizing, and the pork was stewed until tender; my child ate a small bowl of rice with it. ⚠️ There are many steps on Qianshan Mountain, so don't bring a stroller. A baby carrier or Dad's shoulders are more reliable. 📍 The round-trip cable car ticket is about 80 yuan; children under 1.2 meters are free. 🍜 The Nanguo pears outside the mountain gate are a local specialty. They only ripen in October; most of what you can buy now are cold-stored fruit, so don't have high expectations. 7️⃣ Fangchenggang City|Guangxi Between Leshan Ancient Fishing Village and Fangchenggang Coast, I prefer to visit the ancient fishing village in the evening. Arriving after 4 pm, the tide recedes, revealing small crabs and mudskippers on the mudflats. My child chased after them with a small bucket, getting covered in mud but still happy. The old houses in the village are built of bluestone, and the alleys are narrow; sitting in the shade and enjoying the sea breeze is very comfortable. In the evening, we ate seafood at the fishing village, ordering salt and pepper mantis shrimp and steamed oysters with garlic. Freshly caught and cooked to order, they were sweet, bouncy, and much better value than the seafood stalls in the city. The next morning, we went to Fangchenggang Beach. Avoid the crowded Bailang Beach; instead, drive west to Guaishi Beach. The water in the rocky area is crystal clear, and the kids could sit and watch the small fish and shrimp for an hour. ⚠️ There are many broken shells on the mudflats, so make sure your kids wear thick-soled sandals and don't let them go barefoot. 🚄 A taxi from Fangchenggang North Station to Leshan takes about 50 minutes and costs around 100 yuan. 8️⃣ Fuyang City|Anhui For families with children in Balihe, I recommend only visiting the western area. Enter from the south gate and take the sightseeing bus to the World Scenic Area. The kids will run around exploring the miniature Arc de Triomphe and the Temple of Zeus. Have lunch at a fast-food restaurant in the park; the food is average, but it's clean, or you can bring your own sandwiches. In the afternoon, we went to the Bird Park. The peacocks and parrots roamed freely. My child scattered bird food, and flocks flew over, much to their surprise and delight. The most recommended activity is an evening boat trip on the Bali River. The lake breeze is cool, egrets return to their nests in the reeds, and my child lay on the side of the boat counting birds—it was surprisingly quiet. ⚠️ There's little shade inside the park, and it gets very sunny in the summer afternoons. It's recommended to wait until after 3 PM to explore the outdoor areas. 📍 There's a free map at the west entrance; take a picture before entering to avoid getting lost. 🎫 Tickets can be purchased on-site; prices are subject to change based on the park's daily announcement. During our three-day stay, these eight places each had their own unique charm. Some were physically demanding, others mentally taxing, but all held moments that made children's eyes light up. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Share your experiences in the comments section and help other parents avoid common pitfalls. 1️⃣ Baoting County | Hainan When bringing children to Baoting, don't rush to the tourist attractions. First, stay in a rainforest guesthouse near Yanoda, where you'll be surrounded by greenery right outside your window. Head to Binglang Valley at 9 am. The boat-shaped houses of the Li and Miao villages and the brocade weaving performance will captivate the children. The entire path is paved with gentle stone slabs, making it easy to push a stroller. For lunch, enjoy bamboo rice and mountain chicken at a Li family restaurant within the scenic area. The chicken is free-range, with firm meat that the children will love. In the afternoon, explore Yanoda. I recommend only walking the Dream Valley boardwalk section. The sound of the stream in the tropical rainforest drowns out the cicadas, and the kids can splash and play in the water on the stone steps. Two hours is just the right amount of time to walk it. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes in the rainforest; long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. Don't skimp on them. 🍜 In the evening, return to your guesthouse and order a refreshing dessert soup with coconut milk as the base. It's generously portioned, refreshing, and half the price of what you get in the scenic area. 📍 The guesthouse area is located north of the Yanoda entrance, a five-minute walk away. 2️⃣ Anshun City | Guizhou It's unrealistic to visit Huangguoshu Waterfall and Longgong in one day; I suggest splitting it into two days. On the first day, go to Huangguoshu in the morning. Take the escalator down to the viewing platform with your child to avoid the steep sections. Remember to dress them in quick-drying clothes as they might scream when the spray hits them. For lunch, eat rice noodles (jianfen) at the entrance of the scenic area; it's spicy and sour with fried potatoes, which kids can enjoy. In the afternoon, visit Tianxingqiao, only walking the lower half. The Yinlianzhuitan Waterfall is less crowded and has better scenery; the round trip takes about 40 minutes, suitable for children with average stamina. On the second day, go to Longgong. Take a boat into the cave. The lighting inside is dim, so younger children might be scared; I recommend carrying them. The whirlpool at the exit is a water eddy rising from the ground, and my child squatted and watched it for a long time. ⚠️ Queues at Huangguoshu during peak season are long; arriving at the scenic area entrance before 8 am can save you an hour. 🚄 A taxi from Anshun West Station to Huangguoshu takes about 40 minutes and costs around 120 yuan. 3️⃣ Songyuan City|Jilin Chagan Lake is most famous in winter, but in summer, Jinchan Island alone is enough to keep you entertained for most of the day. The island has a gentle beach and knee-deep water, perfect for kids to wade barefoot and collect seashells, while adults can rent a parasol and relax. For lunch, try a pot of stewed bighead carp at a local restaurant on the island. The fish is tender, the broth is delicious, and it's served with cornbread – the kids can easily eat two bowls of rice! In the afternoon, return to the south shore of Chagan Lake and stroll along the boardwalk. Wild ducks occasionally dart out from the reeds, and the kids chase after them. ⏰ The half hour before sunset is the most beautiful time, when the lake turns a vibrant orange-red – no filters needed for photos! ⚠️ There's no shade on the island, and the midday sun is intense, so make sure your kids wear hats. 📍 The pier is located at the east gate of Chagan Lake Scenic Area. The boat ticket includes round trip and costs approximately 50 yuan per person. 4️⃣ Baoshan City | Yunnan The Tengchong route is best enjoyed at a slower pace. I saved Yunfeng Mountain for the last day because climbing it is quite strenuous. On the first day, we went to Heshun Ancient Town. We entered before 8 am, before the crowds arrived. We walked along the washing pavilion to Wild Duck Lake, where the kids could feed the fish for half an hour. At noon, we ate thin rice noodles with fried dough sticks at Aunt Cun's Rice Noodle Shop in the ancient town. It cost 5 yuan a bowl, much better than the trendy shops. In the afternoon, we went to Beihai Wetland. Don't take the electric carts that go around; rent a grass raft and paddle on the water. The kids will sway on the grass raft, both scared and laughing – a worthwhile experience. On the second day, we went to the Volcano Hot Sea. The sulfur smell from the Big Boiling Pot is very strong. If you have kids, don't walk the whole way; just see the Big Boiling Pot and Toad's Mouth before leaving. On the last day, we went to Yunfeng Mountain. After taking the cable car up, there's a steep staircase, so I recommend dads carry the kids. The Taoist temple at the top offers a panoramic view of the entire Tengchong Basin. ⚠️ The ground in the Rehai Scenic Area is slippery, so make sure your kids wear non-slip shoes. 🔥 Try the hot spring foot bath; the water is 40 degrees Celsius, and your feet will feel warm after soaking, which kids find fascinating. 5️⃣ Jinhua City|Zhejiang For Hengdian World Studios and Shuanglong Cave, I suggest a "one day active, one day quiet" itinerary. Dedicate the first day to Hengdian, focusing only on the Ming and Qing Palace and Guangzhou/Hong Kong Street areas. Don't try to do too much. The "Forbidden City Ceremony" performance at the Ming and Qing Palace is easy for kids to understand, and the magnificent palaces make for great photos. At noon, we ate Jinhua pastries on Wansheng South Street outside the scenic area; the freshly baked plum and vegetable filling was so delicious, my child ate three! In the afternoon, there are vintage trams on Guangzhou Street; riding them around is like riding an amusement park ride for kids. The next day we went to Shuanglong Cave. To enter, you have to lie flat on a small boat and be pulled in – the kids kept talking about this experience the whole way. Inside, the stalactites and colorful lights made it feel like an underground palace, but the steps were slippery, so keep a close eye on your young children. ⏰ It's best to go to Shuanglong Cave after 2 PM, when the tour groups have dispersed and you don't have to wait in line for the boat. ⚠️ Restaurants inside Hengdian World Studios are expensive and generally mediocre; bringing your own snacks is more reliable. 6️⃣ Anshan City|Liaoning When traveling with kids to Qianshan, the key isn't "climbing," but "choosing the route." Enter from the main gate and take the electric cart directly to the Wufuding cable car station. After taking the cable car up, walk along a gentle boardwalk where you can see the entire mountain range. The kids counted the distant peaks on the viewing platform, forgetting their fatigue as they counted. Don't return the same way down; take the path near Wuliang Temple. The stone steps are wide and gentle, and there's a stream along the way where you can wash your face. We had a sauerkraut and pork hot pot at a farmhouse outside the scenic area for lunch. The sauerkraut was appetizing, and the pork was stewed until tender; my child ate a small bowl of rice with it. ⚠️ There are many steps on Qianshan Mountain, so don't bring a stroller. A baby carrier or Dad's shoulders are more reliable. 📍 The round-trip cable car ticket is about 80 yuan; children under 1.2 meters are free. 🍜 The Nanguo pears outside the mountain gate are a local specialty. They only ripen in October; most of what you can buy now are cold-stored fruit, so don't have high expectations. 7️⃣ Fangchenggang City|Guangxi Between Leshan Ancient Fishing Village and Fangchenggang Coast, I prefer to visit the ancient fishing village in the evening. Arriving after 4 pm, the tide recedes, revealing small crabs and mudskippers on the mudflats. My child chased after them with a small bucket, getting covered in mud but still happy. The old houses in the village are built of bluestone, and the alleys are narrow; sitting in the shade and enjoying the sea breeze is very comfortable. In the evening, we ate seafood at the fishing village, ordering salt and pepper mantis shrimp and steamed oysters with garlic. Freshly caught and cooked to order, they were sweet, bouncy, and much better value than the seafood stalls in the city. The next morning, we went to Fangchenggang Beach. Avoid the crowded Bailang Beach; instead, drive west to Guaishi Beach. The water in the rocky area is crystal clear, and the kids could sit and watch the small fish and shrimp for an hour. ⚠️ There are many broken shells on the mudflats, so make sure your kids wear thick-soled sandals and don't let them go barefoot. 🚄 A taxi from Fangchenggang North Station to Leshan takes about 50 minutes and costs around 100 yuan. 8️⃣ Fuyang City|Anhui For families with children in Balihe, I recommend only visiting the western area. Enter from the south gate and take the sightseeing bus to the World Scenic Area. The kids will run around exploring the miniature Arc de Triomphe and the Temple of Zeus. Have lunch at a fast-food restaurant in the park; the food is average, but it's clean, or you can bring your own sandwiches. In the afternoon, we went to the Bird Park. The peacocks and parrots roamed freely. My child scattered bird food, and flocks flew over, much to their surprise and delight. The most recommended activity is an evening boat trip on the Bali River. The lake breeze is cool, egrets return to their nests in the reeds, and my child lay on the side of the boat counting birds—it was surprisingly quiet. ⚠️ There's little shade inside the park, and it gets very sunny in the summer afternoons. It's recommended to wait until after 3 PM to explore the outdoor areas. 📍 There's a free map at the west entrance; take a picture before entering to avoid getting lost. 🎫 Tickets can be purchased on-site; prices are subject to change based on the park's daily announcement. During our three-day stay, these eight places each had their own unique charm. Some were physically demanding, others mentally taxing, but all held moments that made children's eyes light up. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Share your experiences in the comments section and help other parents avoid common pitfalls.

Where to go on a budget in September and October? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and more scenic 01 Chengde|Hebei If it's your first time in Chengde, don't rush to the Mountain Resort gate. I suggest you go around to Wulie Road outside the resort around 7 am, walk along the palace wall for a while, and you can see the outline of the entire resort in the morning light. It's more comfortable than buying a ticket to go in. Wait until 8 am when the park opens, then head straight to the lake area. The morning mist hasn't dissipated on the water between Yanyu Tower and Jinshan Pavilion, so you don't have to wait for a good spot to take photos. The thing I least recommend inside the resort is taking the electric car. You'll queue for an hour, and the mountain road is so bumpy it'll make you dizzy. It's better to walk. Enter from Dehui Gate, walk along the eastern route to Wenyuan and Lion Grove Garden. This section is shaded and perfect for a leisurely stroll. After lunch, head to West Street and find a random old restaurant for a bowl of buckwheat noodles. It's just over ten yuan, much better than the boxed lunches in the scenic area. Save your visit to the Jinshanling Great Wall for the second day. Don't squeeze it into the same day as the Summer Palace; your legs will be exhausted. It's an hour and a half drive there, and the ticket price is half that of Badaling. There are so few tourists you can hear the wind blowing through the crenellations. Go up the wall around 4 PM; the sunlight will be slanting across the brick walls, making the entire Great Wall look like it's plated with gold. Walking the section near the West Five-Eyed Tower is enough to make it worthwhile. 02 Qiqihar | Heilongjiang The core attraction of Zhalong Wetland is watching the red-crowned cranes release. There are two shows daily, at 9:30 AM and 2 PM. Be sure to arrive on time; don't wait two hours early. Last time I went, I didn't know this and arrived at 7 AM, only to be swarmed by mosquitoes in the reeds. Actually, arriving at the crane-watching platform half an hour before the release is enough to get a front-row seat. After watching the release, don't rush off. Walk deeper into the wetland; the wooden boardwalk is only two kilometers long. Walk along and watch the water chestnut flowers floating on the water. A gust of wind rustles through the reeds, more effective than any white noise. At noon, we ate a hearty meal in Zhalong Village – goose stew with potatoes – for 80 yuan for two people. ⚠️ Remember, mosquito repellent is a must; the mosquitoes in the wetlands are aggressive. Also, don't wear white shoes; the boardwalk is muddy, and my shoes still bear the marks of Zhalong. 03 Urumqi | Xinjiang I decided to visit the International Grand Bazaar in the evening after experiencing its pitfalls. During the day, the sun is so intense you'll want to hide indoors, and tour groups are constantly bringing in buses, leaving no room to even step. Go after 6 pm; the light is softer, the crowds have thinned, and you can finally see the intricate architectural details. I suggest just browsing inside the Grand Bazaar, not buying anything. The same raisins are about a third cheaper in supermarkets. The real must-buy is the freshly baked naan bread at the end of the pedestrian street. The sesame naan bread, fresh out of the oven, is piping hot; breaking it open releases an aroma that wafts down half the street. Hongguang Mountain is right on the edge of the city; climb it in the evening, it's a 20-minute climb to the top, offering a panoramic view of Urumqi's lights coming on. I advise you not to have too high expectations for Dabancheng; it's basically a wind turbine viewing platform. However, it's free, and the wind is strong enough to fan your hair. It's suitable for a quick stop along the way, but not worth a special trip. 🚄 From the city, take the intercity train; it only takes half an hour and the ticket is just over ten yuan. 04 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai The best scenery in the Qilian Mountains area isn't in the scenic spots, but along the way. Driving from Xining, the moment you cross the Dabanshan Pass, the entire Qilian Grassland unfolds before you, with distant snow-capped peaks topped with clouds, like layers of paint misaligned. The grass was already turning yellow in September, but the sense of vastness was even stronger. I turned back after walking only two kilometers in the Heihe Grand Canyon. It wasn't that it wasn't beautiful, but the wind was too strong, making it hard to stand. If you go, remember to wear a windproof hat; don't be like me, I had a headache all night afterward. The autumn colors at Lenglongling are the highlight. In early October, the poplars are all yellow, blooming along the valley, the trees on both sides like two golden ribbons. The most worthwhile sight in the Ami Dongsuo Scenic Area is the Tibetan-style white stupa, standing on the grassland, with snow-capped peaks that never melt behind it. The ticket is 60 yuan, and there are very few people inside. You can sit on the grass and listen to the sound of prayer flags fluttering in the wind; that kind of tranquility is something you can't buy in the city no matter how much money you spend. 05 Anshan | Liaoning The entrance fee to Qianshan is not cheap, so you have to spend every penny wisely. My suggestion is: take the cable car up and walk down. Take the cable car to the halfway point, then descend via the path from Wuliang Temple. The entire route is lined with ancient pines and strangely shaped rocks; the most scenic part is along the descent. The most photogenic spot in the mountains is the "Flattened Rock," where only a narrow gap remains between two giant rocks. Squeeze through sideways, turn around, and take a picture; the light streaming down from above creates a martial arts-like atmosphere. If you're not physically fit, don't try to climb to the Five Buddha Peak; reaching Longquan Temple is enough. Their vegetarian meals are 15 yuan a serving, and the tofu is even more delicious than meat. ⚠️ The steps on Qianshan Mountain are very slippery in some places, especially after rain. Wearing non-slip shoes is essential. I personally witnessed someone wearing flip-flops go up and almost tumble down. 06 Ankang | Shaanxi Ankang is a small, hidden gem of a city. It's not famous, but the cost of living is incredibly low. The name "Thousand-Layer River" sounds ordinary, but once you get there, you'll discover that the river cascades down in layers, forming dozens of small waterfalls, the rushing water like a gentle ear wash. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. The boardwalks inside are well-maintained and suitable for both the elderly and children. The Fengyan Ancient Terraces are best visited in the evening. As the sun sets, the entire terraced field appears to be covered in a layer of shattered gold. At the end of September, the rice harvest isn't finished, and standing on the ridges, you can smell the fragrance of rice mixed with the earthy aroma. There's no entrance fee, but the mountain roads are narrow, so drivers should be careful when passing other vehicles. 🍜 There's a steamed noodle shop in the county town that's been open for twenty years. It costs five yuan a bowl, and the chili oil is fragrant but not spicy. I ate two bowls in one go. The advantage of small towns like this is that you don't need to do any research; you can walk into any restaurant and it's hard to go wrong. 07 Changzhou|Jiangsu What surprised me most about Changzhou was how affordable it was to experience Tianmu Lake. The lakeside walkways are free. Walking around the lake and watching the water gradually change from light turquoise to deep blue is much more worthwhile than taking a boat tour. A boat tour costs a little over 100 yuan and takes about half an hour. I think the value for money is so-so; it's better to save the money and soak in the nearby Yushui Hot Spring. The Spring and Autumn Period Yancheng is an ancient city ruin. The entrance fee isn't expensive, and there are so few people inside that you might think you've had the place to yourself. The most worthwhile thing to see is the terrain of three cities and three rivers. The city layout from over two thousand years ago is still there. Walking on the ruins of the city walls, you can smell the ancient scent mixed with the soil. It's suitable for history buffs; those who just want a quick look might find it boring. Universal Dinosaur City is more suitable for families with children, but for adults, the rides are definitely thrilling. I only rode one roller coaster, and my legs were trembling afterward. ⚠️ It gets extremely crowded on weekends, with queues starting at an hour. I recommend going on a weekday. 08 Jinan|Shandong For the First Spring Under Heaven Scenic Area, I advise you to go in at 7 am. At that time, the water of Baotu Spring is clearest, with the three springs bubbling upward, and you can clearly see the bubbles rising from the bottom of the water. After 9 PM, tour groups will flood in, and you'll only see heads. The entrance fee is 40 yuan, but it includes several springs, and you can easily spend a morning exploring at your leisure. Go to Thousand Buddha Mountain at dusk; the entrance fee is only 15 yuan, and at sunset, you can see the entire city of Jinan bathed in orange-red light. Climb to the Xingguo Temple at the top, and you'll hear the evening bell ringing, as the lights of thousands of homes below gradually illuminate the scene—that view is worth ten times the ticket price. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Furong Street, but don't eat on the main street. Turn into a side alley; there's a place that serves braised pork belly—fatty but not greasy, and absolutely delicious with rice. ⚠️ Remember, don't buy the spring water tea at the scenic area entrance; it's 15 yuan a cup, and it's basically just ordinary tea leaves. Buy a bottle of water at the supermarket, sit by the spring, and drink it. You can save the money and buy another piece of braised pork belly. These eight places are all inexpensive, but the scenery is absolutely stunning. September and October are their best seasons—fewer people, lower prices, and everywhere you look is a beautiful view, as long as you're willing to step out of your home. Which one would you most like to visit? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll help you avoid the worst ones.

Traveling with kids during the National Day holiday is dreaded because of crowds, fussy kids, and exhausting adults. I've curated 8 places for you – less crowded, fun for kids, and less stressful for adults. The itinerary is arranged logically, so you can easily copy it. 01 Hefei City | Anhui Province When visiting Hefei with kids, don't rush straight to the city center shopping malls. Sanhe Ancient Town is better suited for a leisurely half-day stroll. The cobblestone streets are safe for strollers, and kids can run and jump without worrying about traffic. Enter from the East Street of the ancient town in the early morning and start with a freshly cooked rice dumpling – crispy on the outside and piping hot inside, perfect for kids to blow on while they nibble. When you reach Yiren Alley, remember to look up; the old walls on both sides create a narrow passage between the walls, making it feel like a tunnel for children. ⏰ The light is softest around 2-3 pm. Take a walk along the Xiaonan River; the willows and their reflections along the banks are perfect for taking some effortless group photos. The quality of restaurants in the ancient town varies. I suggest you look for those few places with steaming bamboo steamers at the entrance and order Sanhe stir-fry and shrimp paste; kids can easily eat two bowls of rice with them. ⚠️ Tourists tend to increase in the afternoon during holidays, so try to arrive before 10 am to avoid peak hours for lunch. 02 Qujing City | Yunnan Luoping isn't just about rapeseed flowers in spring; visiting during the National Day holiday actually helps avoid the crowds. The Jiulong Waterfall Group has plenty of water this season, not yet in its dry season. Kids will be counting and shouting "How many more levels!" as they see the ten tiers of waterfalls cascading down. Take children along the scenic boardwalk; don't force them to climb all the steps. Take a sightseeing bus from the entrance to Shenlong Waterfall, then walk uphill—the pace is just right. The water mist around the waterfall is heavy, so bring a light jacket for your child; their hair will get damp in half an hour. 🍜 The fried potatoes and roasted corn from the roadside stalls at the foot of the mountain are delicious for kids after playing. If your child is interested in flowers, you can see late-blooming cosmos flowers in Luoping during the National Day holiday. While not as spectacular as the rapeseed flower fields in spring, it's less crowded and quieter, allowing them to run freely on any patch of land. ⚠️ The rocks in the waterfall area are slippery, so please hold your young children tightly and don't risk getting too close for photos. 03 Linyi City | Shandong I would call Linyi a place that's a "kids' paradise." The Firefly Cave and the Underground Grand Canyon can be visited together, making for a perfect full day. The Firefly Cave requires a boat ride into the underground river. When the twinkling lights overhead, all the children scream with excitement, and the tranquility is breathtaking even for adults. The Underground Grand Canyon is more suitable for energetic children. The cave has many steps, but the stalactites along the way are incredibly varied in shape. My child kept guessing, "Does this look like a dinosaur?" ⏰ I recommend visiting the Firefly Cave in the morning and then the Grand Canyon in the afternoon. The canyon is dark, and the temperature difference in the afternoon helps to wake the children up. The rafting activity at the scenic area is suitable for children over 1.2 meters tall. It's not too thrilling, and the level of getting wet is manageable. Remember to bring a change of clothes. Yimeng Mountain is better suited for the second day. Take the cable car up the mountain with your child. It's windy at the top, but the view is expansive. If you only have one day, stick to the two caves and don't try to do too much. 04 Xianyang City | Shaanxi Don't expect your child to understand the history at Qianling Mausoleum in Xianyang, but you can turn it into a "stone-finding game." The stele without inscription, the stone lions, and the statues of the sixty-one foreign officials—counting them all along the way will keep your child entertained. The tomb passage is long, making it inconvenient for strollers; it's recommended to bring a baby carrier or have the father carry the child on his shoulders. In the afternoon, head to Yuanjia Village's Guanzhong Impression Experience Area. This is where the kids truly shine. On the old brick street, the aroma of oil-splashed noodles wafts from one end of the alley to the other. Your child stands next to the noodle maker, watching intently as the noodles are pulled. 🍜 Cheese, fried dough twists, and steamed rice cakes—you can buy a small portion from each stall to share, offering seven or eight different dishes for lunch. ⚠️ Qianling Mausoleum is windy, and it gets cool in the mornings and evenings during the National Day holiday, so bring a windproof jacket for your child. Yuanjia Village gets quite crowded on weekends, so try to arrive before 3 PM to eat your snacks and avoid the return rush. 05 Anshan City | Liaoning Qianshan is not suitable for strollers, but it's perfect for toddlers who can walk to "conquer the peaks." Don't challenge the highest peak right away. Start from Wuliang Temple and hike through the Peach Blossom Valley section; the slope is gentle, the scenery is plentiful, and children can collect fallen leaves along the way, easily making the hour-long hike worthwhile. My suggestion for hiking Qianshan with children is to take the cable car up and hike down. The cable car goes directly to the halfway point, saving you the most tedious climb, and the child can complete the rest of the hike on their own, maximizing their sense of accomplishment. The view from the mountaintop is expansive, offering a panoramic view of the continuous mountain ridges. Kids might point and exclaim, "Is that the sea?" Actually, it's just the layered effect of the mountains. There are hot spring hotels at the foot of the mountain. After hiking, you can soak in the hot springs. Kids splash around in the water for half an hour and sleep very soundly that night. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and snacks. The steps on Qianshan Mountain are covered in moss, so wearing non-slip shoes is essential. 06 Haidong City | Qinghai The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is the easiest way to introduce children to minority cultures. Tu women in colorful robes dance in the courtyard, and kids will stare at their swirling skirts for ages. The park also features Tu embroidery demonstrations, allowing children to try their hand at stitching—a much better experience than just a quick photo op. Youning Temple is not far away, but lower your expectations when taking children there. The temple is quiet and solemn, not suitable for running and playing. If your child is restless that day, it's recommended to skip it. If children can stay quiet and observe the prayer wheels and colorful murals, it will create unique memories. Haidong's altitude isn't particularly high, but be careful not to let children run too vigorously. ⏰ Visit the Hometown Garden in the morning, then Youning Temple in the afternoon. The temple's afternoon light is gentle, making for beautiful photos, and there are fewer people. 🍜 Have lunch in Huzhu County. Enjoy Tu ethnic minority-style flatbread with yak meat soup; the kids are full just from the soup. 07 Shiyan City | Hubei The core strategy for taking children to Wudang Mountain is one word: laziness. Don't plan to hike up the mountain; take the scenic area bus and cable car directly, saving your energy for the final steps to the Golden Summit. Children may not be interested in the Taoist temples, but they will definitely love the monkeys of Wudang Mountain. ⚠️ Be careful not to let children approach the monkeys with food in their hands; they can be quite aggressive if they try to snatch it. The square in front of Zixiao Palace is spacious; children can run around, while adults can sit and enjoy the red walls and green tiles—a truly relaxing experience. If your child has the stamina, the Nine-Bend Yellow River Wall at Taizipo is worth a visit. The red wall lines the path, and children can run ahead, disappearing and reappearing around bends – a fun game of hide-and-seek. 🍜 Restaurants on the mountain are expensive and generally mediocre; it's recommended to eat well at the foot of the mountain and bring some snacks and hot water. If you have time after descending, you can stroll along Taiji Lake; the calm water is perfect for wrapping up. 08 Hezhou City | Guangxi Gupo Mountain and Huangyao Ancient Town, one natural and one cultural, make a perfect two-day trip. Gupo Mountain has waterfalls and forests; the air is humid, and children will excitedly reach out to catch the water droplets at the base of the waterfall. There are electric carts in the scenic area, so you don't have to walk the entire way with kids; you can ride to Xiangu Waterfall and then get off – that's where the best parts are. Huangyao Ancient Town is better visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5 PM, the tour groups left, and the stone-paved streets quieted down. Strolling through the alleys with the kids, the aroma of fermented black beans wafted from the old shops. 🍜 Stuffed tofu and stuffed pumpkin blossoms are local specialties. Kids might not recognize the ingredients, but they'll find the flavors novel. Dongtanling is suitable for families wanting to see the sunrise or sea of ​​clouds, but don't bother with young children; the mountain paths are winding, and getting up early is too strenuous. If your children are older and can walk, climbing the ridge at 5 AM to watch the sea of ​​clouds roll in will be the most breathtaking memory of the trip. ⚠️ The stone-paved streets in the ancient town are slippery; don't wear flip-flops on rainy days. When traveling with kids during the National Day holiday, a relaxed itinerary is key to a more relaxed trip. Of these 8 places, I personally prefer Hezhou and Linyi the most—one gentle, the other wild. Where are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments; you might find some like-minded people. Traveling with kids during the National Day holiday is dreaded because of crowds, fussy kids, and exhausting adults. I've curated 8 places for you – less crowded, fun for kids, and less stressful for adults. The itinerary is arranged logically, so you can easily copy it. 01 Hefei City | Anhui Province When visiting Hefei with kids, don't rush straight to the city center shopping malls. Sanhe Ancient Town is better suited for a leisurely half-day stroll. The cobblestone streets are safe for strollers, and kids can run and jump without worrying about traffic. Enter from the East Street of the ancient town in the early morning and start with a freshly cooked rice dumpling – crispy on the outside and piping hot inside, perfect for kids to blow on while they nibble. When you reach Yiren Alley, remember to look up; the old walls on both sides create a narrow passage between the walls, making it feel like a tunnel for children. ⏰ The light is softest around 2-3 pm. Take a walk along the Xiaonan River; the willows and their reflections along the banks are perfect for taking some effortless group photos. The quality of restaurants in the ancient town varies. I suggest you look for those few places with steaming bamboo steamers at the entrance and order Sanhe stir-fry and shrimp paste; kids can easily eat two bowls of rice with them. ⚠️ Tourists tend to increase in the afternoon during holidays, so try to arrive before 10 am to avoid peak hours for lunch. 02 Qujing City | Yunnan Luoping isn't just about rapeseed flowers in spring; visiting during the National Day holiday actually helps avoid the crowds. The Jiulong Waterfall Group has plenty of water this season, not yet in its dry season. Kids will be counting and shouting "How many more levels!" as they see the ten tiers of waterfalls cascading down. Take children along the scenic boardwalk; don't force them to climb all the steps. Take a sightseeing bus from the entrance to Shenlong Waterfall, then walk uphill—the pace is just right. The water mist around the waterfall is heavy, so bring a light jacket for your child; their hair will get damp in half an hour. 🍜 The fried potatoes and roasted corn from the roadside stalls at the foot of the mountain are delicious for kids after playing. If your child is interested in flowers, you can see late-blooming cosmos flowers in Luoping during the National Day holiday. While not as spectacular as the rapeseed flower fields in spring, it's less crowded and quieter, allowing them to run freely on any patch of land. ⚠️ The rocks in the waterfall area are slippery, so please hold your young children tightly and don't risk getting too close for photos. 03 Linyi City | Shandong I would call Linyi a place that's a "kids' paradise." The Firefly Cave and the Underground Grand Canyon can be visited together, making for a perfect full day. The Firefly Cave requires a boat ride into the underground river. When the twinkling lights overhead, all the children scream with excitement, and the tranquility is breathtaking even for adults. The Underground Grand Canyon is more suitable for energetic children. The cave has many steps, but the stalactites along the way are incredibly varied in shape. My child kept guessing, "Does this look like a dinosaur?" ⏰ I recommend visiting the Firefly Cave in the morning and then the Grand Canyon in the afternoon. The canyon is dark, and the temperature difference in the afternoon helps to wake the children up. The rafting activity at the scenic area is suitable for children over 1.2 meters tall. It's not too thrilling, and the level of getting wet is manageable. Remember to bring a change of clothes. Yimeng Mountain is better suited for the second day. Take the cable car up the mountain with your child. It's windy at the top, but the view is expansive. If you only have one day, stick to the two caves and don't try to do too much. 04 Xianyang City | Shaanxi Don't expect your child to understand the history at Qianling Mausoleum in Xianyang, but you can turn it into a "stone-finding game." The stele without inscription, the stone lions, and the statues of the sixty-one foreign officials—counting them all along the way will keep your child entertained. The tomb passage is long, making it inconvenient for strollers; it's recommended to bring a baby carrier or have the father carry the child on his shoulders. In the afternoon, head to Yuanjia Village's Guanzhong Impression Experience Area. This is where the kids truly shine. On the old brick street, the aroma of oil-splashed noodles wafts from one end of the alley to the other. Your child stands next to the noodle maker, watching intently as the noodles are pulled. 🍜 Cheese, fried dough twists, and steamed rice cakes—you can buy a small portion from each stall to share, offering seven or eight different dishes for lunch. ⚠️ Qianling Mausoleum is windy, and it gets cool in the mornings and evenings during the National Day holiday, so bring a windproof jacket for your child. Yuanjia Village gets quite crowded on weekends, so try to arrive before 3 PM to eat your snacks and avoid the return rush. 05 Anshan City | Liaoning Qianshan is not suitable for strollers, but it's perfect for toddlers who can walk to "conquer the peaks." Don't challenge the highest peak right away. Start from Wuliang Temple and hike through the Peach Blossom Valley section; the slope is gentle, the scenery is plentiful, and children can collect fallen leaves along the way, easily making the hour-long hike worthwhile. My suggestion for hiking Qianshan with children is to take the cable car up and hike down. The cable car goes directly to the halfway point, saving you the most tedious climb, and the child can complete the rest of the hike on their own, maximizing their sense of accomplishment. The view from the mountaintop is expansive, offering a panoramic view of the continuous mountain ridges. Kids might point and exclaim, "Is that the sea?" Actually, it's just the layered effect of the mountains. There are hot spring hotels at the foot of the mountain. After hiking, you can soak in the hot springs. Kids splash around in the water for half an hour and sleep very soundly that night. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and snacks. The steps on Qianshan Mountain are covered in moss, so wearing non-slip shoes is essential. 06 Haidong City | Qinghai The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is the easiest way to introduce children to minority cultures. Tu women in colorful robes dance in the courtyard, and kids will stare at their swirling skirts for ages. The park also features Tu embroidery demonstrations, allowing children to try their hand at stitching—a much better experience than just a quick photo op. Youning Temple is not far away, but lower your expectations when taking children there. The temple is quiet and solemn, not suitable for running and playing. If your child is restless that day, it's recommended to skip it. If children can stay quiet and observe the prayer wheels and colorful murals, it will create unique memories. Haidong's altitude isn't particularly high, but be careful not to let children run too vigorously. ⏰ Visit the Hometown Garden in the morning, then Youning Temple in the afternoon. The temple's afternoon light is gentle, making for beautiful photos, and there are fewer people. 🍜 Have lunch in Huzhu County. Enjoy Tu ethnic minority-style flatbread with yak meat soup; the kids are full just from the soup. 07 Shiyan City | Hubei The core strategy for taking children to Wudang Mountain is one word: laziness. Don't plan to hike up the mountain; take the scenic area bus and cable car directly, saving your energy for the final steps to the Golden Summit. Children may not be interested in the Taoist temples, but they will definitely love the monkeys of Wudang Mountain. ⚠️ Be careful not to let children approach the monkeys with food in their hands; they can be quite aggressive if they try to snatch it. The square in front of Zixiao Palace is spacious; children can run around, while adults can sit and enjoy the red walls and green tiles—a truly relaxing experience. If your child has the stamina, the Nine-Bend Yellow River Wall at Taizipo is worth a visit. The red wall lines the path, and children can run ahead, disappearing and reappearing around bends – a fun game of hide-and-seek. 🍜 Restaurants on the mountain are expensive and generally mediocre; it's recommended to eat well at the foot of the mountain and bring some snacks and hot water. If you have time after descending, you can stroll along Taiji Lake; the calm water is perfect for wrapping up. 08 Hezhou City | Guangxi Gupo Mountain and Huangyao Ancient Town, one natural and one cultural, make a perfect two-day trip. Gupo Mountain has waterfalls and forests; the air is humid, and children will excitedly reach out to catch the water droplets at the base of the waterfall. There are electric carts in the scenic area, so you don't have to walk the entire way with kids; you can ride to Xiangu Waterfall and then get off – that's where the best parts are. Huangyao Ancient Town is better visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5 PM, the tour groups left, and the stone-paved streets quieted down. Strolling through the alleys with the kids, the aroma of fermented black beans wafted from the old shops. 🍜 Stuffed tofu and stuffed pumpkin blossoms are local specialties. Kids might not recognize the ingredients, but they'll find the flavors novel. Dongtanling is suitable for families wanting to see the sunrise or sea of ​​clouds, but don't bother with young children; the mountain paths are winding, and getting up early is too strenuous. If your children are older and can walk, climbing the ridge at 5 AM to watch the sea of ​​clouds roll in will be the most breathtaking memory of the trip. ⚠️ The stone-paved streets in the ancient town are slippery; don't wear flip-flops on rainy days. When traveling with kids during the National Day holiday, a relaxed itinerary is key to a more relaxed trip. Of these 8 places, I personally prefer Hezhou and Linyi the most—one gentle, the other wild. Where are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments; you might find some like-minded people.

People say the Northeast has great scenery, but many only know Harbin's snow and Dalian's sea, ignoring the low-key, hidden gem counties in Liaoning. They lack the hustle and bustle of big cities but hide the purest northern autumn colors, the most authentic local atmosphere, and the most moving mountain and sea scenery. Today, let's list 4 stunning counties in Liaoning; if you've been to two, you've struck gold!  🍁 Benxi · Huanren Manchu Autonomous County: The starting point of the China Maple Leaf Road If autumn has a color, it must be the red of Huanren. Known as the "Maple Leaf Capital of China," every late September, the mountains and plains are covered in red leaves like an overturned palette, breathtakingly beautiful. 📍 Must-visit recommendations · Laobiangou/Dashihu: Excellent spots for maple viewing. With babbling brooks and red leaves reflected in the water, every step offers a new view, as if walking into a fairy tale world. · Wunv Mountain: The birthplace of the Goguryeo people. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Huanren and see the spectacular natural "Taiji Bagua" landform. · Huanlong Lake: Take a boat tour to see the colorful forests on both banks and the water merging with the sky; it's truly refreshing. 🍜 Food highlights · Huanren pork stew: Authentic Northeast flavor! Sauerkraut, blood sausage, and pork belly stewed together—steaming hot, warming both heart and stomach. · Mountain delicacy feast: Various wild mushrooms and mountain vegetables are gifts from nature, incredibly fresh and delicious. 💰 Budget reference · Accommodation: Comfortable hotels in the county seat are about CNY 150–250/night. There are many homestay options near scenic areas. · Dining: You can eat very well for CNY 50–80 per person. · Admission: Tickets for major scenic areas range from CNY 60–100.  🌊 Dandong · Donggang: A delicious secret spot on the Yellow Sea coast Donggang, a city born from the sea. It not only has the longest coastline in Liaoning but is also China's largest strawberry producer and an important seafood distribution hub. 📍 Must-visit recommendations · Dalu Island/Zhang Island: Take a boat to the islands and experience peace away from the hustle and bustle. Watch the sunrise and sunset, go clam digging, and enjoy the freshest seafood feast. · Yalu River Estuary Wetland: A paradise for migratory birds! In spring and autumn, thousands of migratory birds stop here, creating a spectacular scene. · Donggang Old Street: Wander around and feel the slow pace of life in this coastal town, where you can see seafood vendors everywhere. 🍜 Food highlights · Swimming crab/yellow clam: Coming to Donggang without eating seafood is a wasted trip! Autumn swimming crabs are full of roe and meat; every bite is savory and delicious. · Donggang strawberries: A must-eat in winter and spring! Large and sweet, they are famous nationwide. 💰 Budget reference · Accommodation: Downtown or island homestays are about CNY 150–300/night. · Dining: Seafood prices vary, averaging CNY 80–150 per person. · Admission: Boat tickets + admission to the islands are about CNY 100–150.  ⛰️ Huludao · Xingcheng: An ancient hot spring city with a story Xingcheng, a hidden gem city that combines "city, hot spring, mountain, sea, and island." It not only has a well-preserved Ming Dynasty ancient city but also healing hot springs. 📍 Must-visit recommendations · Xingcheng Ancient City: One of the four best-preserved Ming Dynasty ancient cities in China. Walk along the city walls, touch the mottled bricks, and you can almost hear the echoes of history. · Xingcheng Hot Spring: Soaking in a hot spring after a day of sightseeing to relieve fatigue and wash away tiredness is an essential experience in Xingcheng. · Shoushan: Climb high to look into the distance and overlook the magnificent scenery of Xingcheng Ancient City and Bohai Bay. 🍜 Food highlights · Whole lamb feast: A local specialty banquet with various lamb dishes; it tastes delicious and has no gamey flavor at all. · Seafood dumplings: Mackerel filling, sea worm filling... thin skin and large fillings, every bite is incredibly fresh. 💰 Budget reference · Accommodation: Hotels near the ancient city or hot spring hotels are about CNY 150–300/night. · Dining: CNY 50–100 per person. · Admission: The ancient city is free; the combined ticket for the city walls and attractions is about CNY 50.  🏞️ Anshan · Xiuyan Manchu Autonomous County: The "Jade Capital" hidden in the deep mountains Xiuyan is world-famous for its abundant Xiuyan jade and is known as the "Jade Capital of China." But besides jade, its mountain and water scenery is also stunning. 📍 Must-visit recommendations · Yaoshan Scenic Area: Steep mountains and lush forests. Come here in autumn to enjoy the red leaves covering the mountains. · Xiuyan Jade Carving Exhibition Hall: Admire exquisite jade carvings, feel the charm of "jade culture," and broaden your horizons. · Qingliang Mountain: As the name suggests, the climate is cool, making it a great place to escape the summer heat. The waterfalls and strange rocks in the mountains are also worth seeing. 🍜 Food highlights · Xiuyan lamb soup: The soup is white and rich, the lamb is tender, and it's served with sesame flatbread—a favorite breakfast for locals. · Silkworm pupae: A Northeast specialty snack; deep-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it's high in protein. Those who dare to challenge themselves should try it! 💰 Budget reference · Accommodation: Hotels in the county seat are about CNY 100–200/night. · Dining: CNY 40–80 per person, offering great value for money. · Admission: Tickets for major scenic areas range from CNY 50–80.  💡 Budget travel tips 1. Best season: Autumn (September–October) is the best time to visit Huanren and Xiuyan for maple viewing; autumn is also when seafood in Donggang is at its fattest and most delicious. 2. Transportation: Transportation in Liaoning's counties is very convenient; you can basically reach them directly by high-speed rail, train, or long-distance bus. 3. Clothing guide: The temperature difference between morning and evening in autumn is large, so remember to bring a thick jacket to keep warm and block the wind. 4. Shopping tips: Keep your eyes peeled when buying jade in Xiuyan, and it's best to go to regular stores; when buying seafood in Donggang, you can go to local markets for better prices.

01 Chuzhou | Anhui For a Mid-Autumn trip with kids to Chuzhou, Langya Mountain is my top choice. 🚄 It's a 20-minute taxi ride from Chuzhou High-Speed Railway Station to the mountain gate, closer than you'd think. The mountain isn't high, and the steps are gentle, so 5- or 6-year-olds can easily climb the whole way. The path is shaded the entire time, blocking out the sun, and the breeze through the trees feels much better than an air-conditioned room. 📍 Walking from Zuiweng Pavilion toward Nantian Gate, there's a platform halfway up the mountain where you can see the entire city of Chuzhou. After 4:00 PM, the light turns golden, perfect for family photos without needing filters. ⚠️ Remember to bring a light jacket for the kids; it gets chilly in the mountains after 5:00 PM, so don't underestimate the temperature drop. 🍜 There's a shop on the old street at the foot of the mountain that sells Chuzhou roast duck with crispy skin and tender meat—kids can eat 2 bowls of rice with it. Have a bowl of chicken soup wontons in the morning before heading up to keep your energy up. 02 Anshan | Liaoning For Qianshan in Anshan, I suggest driving directly to Jicui Gate; entering from there saves you 2 kilometers of unnecessary walking. Qianshan is huge, so don't try to do too much with kids—sticking to one main route is enough. 📌 I recommend the section from Wuliang Temple to Longquan Temple. There are many stone steps, but the path is lined with unique pines and strange rocks, so elementary school kids will be busy counting stones and won't complain about being tired. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and hear the birds and springs. Have a bowl of vegetarian noodles at the entrance of Longquan Temple for 15 yuan—they taste surprisingly good. Head back in the afternoon, and definitely avoid the Xihai branch line; that route is too long for children. ⚠️ There are few restrooms on the mountain, so make sure the kids go before you enter. Visiting in autumn, the red leaves against the gray-white stone walls make for great photos, but remember to have the kids wear non-slip shoes because there's a lot of moss. 03 Suqian | Jiangsu The Hongze Lake Wetland in Suqian is great for younger children. The best part is that the paths are flat, making it effortless to push a stroller. 📍 After entering, take the small train to the reed marshes, then switch to an electric boat to cruise through the waterways. Kids will be excited for ages watching egrets fly up from the water. 🍜 There aren't many proper restaurants in the scenic area, so I suggest bringing a picnic mat and snacks to eat on the large lawn under the bird-watching tower. ⚠️ There are lots of mosquitoes after 3:00 PM, so don't skip wearing long pants and long sleeves. ⏰ Around 5:00 PM, the sunset turns the entire water surface orange—it's the most beautiful time of the day. If you're bringing elementary school kids, you can rent an audio guide; the bird facts are quite engaging and much better than parents dryly reading from a manual. 04 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Between Lushan and Lushan West Sea, I recommend taking kids to Lushan West Sea. Lushan is famous, but it's crowded on holidays and has many steps, so kids will complain about being tired after just a few steps. West Sea is different; you travel by boat among the thousand islands without having to walk at all. Kids can lean against the side of the boat watching the splashes while adults just enjoy the breeze. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jiujiang Station to the West Sea pier. 📍 When boarding, choose a seat on the right side of the second deck for the best view. ⏰ The 10:00 AM boat is the best choice; you can play until 3:00 PM for the return trip without rushing or being in the sun too long. ⚠️ Don't buy "wild dried fish" near the pier; it's expensive and mostly farmed. If you want fish, go back to downtown Jiujiang and find a small restaurant—the braised mandarin fish is tender and flavorful, and you can get full for about 50 yuan per person. If you're bringing kids, remember to pack motion sickness patches, as the waves on the lake are bigger than you'd expect. 05 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu This Gannan route is suitable for children in upper elementary school and above who can handle long walks. Zhagana, Langmu Temple, Yeliguan, and Gahai Lake—connecting these 4 places takes at least 3 days. 🌄 The early morning in Zhagana is the most beautiful, with clouds and mist flowing halfway up the stone mountains. Standing on the viewing platform, kids will quiet down and stare at it for a long time. 📍 There's a Tibetan restaurant in Langmu Temple town where the butter tea and yak meat buns are clean and kid-friendly. ⚠️ The altitude is over 3,000 meters, so don't let the kids run or jump too much, or they'll easily get out of breath. ⏰ It's best to visit Gahai Lake in the afternoon when the light is low and the water reflects a silvery glow, making photos look like oil paintings. The canyon hike in Yeliguan takes 2 hours before you can turn back. The road conditions are good, but be sure to wear high-top shoes because there's a lot of gravel. This route isn't suitable for strollers, so don't force it if you have a baby. 06 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Between Wuzhen and Xitang, I choose Xitang for kids. Wuzhen is well-managed but crowded, while Xitang is more relaxed. The alleys are a bit narrower, but kids actually enjoy darting in and out of them. 🚄 It's a 20-minute taxi ride from Jiashannan Station, closer than going to Wuzhen. 📍 Xitang's Yanyu Corridor keeps you dry even on rainy days, so you can easily push a stroller the whole way. 🍜 For snacks, I recommend Guan Laotai stinky tofu and gorgon fruit cakes; kids can snack while walking and explore for the whole afternoon. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the red lanterns light up and reflect on the river, perfect for taking family night photos. ⚠️ The bar street is very noisy on weekend nights, so if you're with kids, stay outside the scenic area—it's a 10-minute walk away, quiet, and cheaper. During the day, take a sculling boat and let the boatwoman sing a folk song; kids will listen intently, which is better than looking at a phone. 07 Jinan | Shandong For Jinan's First Spring under Heaven and Thousand Buddha Mountain, I suggest splitting them over 2 days. On the first morning, visit Baotu Spring; the water gushes vigorously, and kids can squat by the pool and watch for half an hour. 📍 Exit from the east gate of Baotu Spring and walk north along Quancheng Road for about 10 minutes to reach Black Tiger Spring. Locals get water there, so you can show the kids how the spring water is collected to drink. ⚠️ Don't enter Thousand Buddha Mountain from the main gate; it's crowded and the steps are steep. Go around to the south gate instead—the slope is gentle, and you can reach the top in 40 minutes to see the entire city of Jinan. ⏰ Head up the mountain at 4:30 PM to catch the sunset; the light is incredibly soft. 🍜 After coming down, go to Furong Street; the youxuan (oil spiral) and tianmo (sweet porridge) are worth trying, and you can get full for 10 yuan. If you're with kids, I suggest bringing an empty water bottle, as there are direct drinking water stations everywhere in the scenic area, which saves money and quenches thirst. 08 Shizuishan | Ningxia For taking kids to Shahu, I have only one piece of advice: be fully prepared for sun protection, then let them play freely. 📍 After entering, take a boat directly to the desert area. The lake and sand dunes are right next to each other—kids have never seen such a contrast in their lives and will go wild as soon as they get off the boat. ⏰ Play in the sand in the morning, ride camels in the afternoon, and return to the lakeside in the evening to see the reed marshes. ⚠️ From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the sand is hot, so don't let the kids run barefoot—pack a pair of beach shoes. 🍜 There's a Shahu big fish head restaurant at the entrance of the scenic area; the meat is tender, and while it's not cheap—about 80 yuan per person—it's worth it. Elementary school kids can play all day without getting bored. If you have younger children, note that sand sliding and camel riding have height restrictions; those under 1.2 meters can only play in the sand, so don't wait in long lines for nothing. 🚄 It's a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Yinchuan, suitable for self-driving or hiring a car, which can be done for under 300 yuan round trip. When going out for the Mid-Autumn Festival, don't just squeeze into popular spots. These 8 places have mountains, water, and ancient towns; the kids will have fun, and you won't have to scream your lungs out to keep order. Pick one and go, and remember to tell me where you went when you get back.

01 Longyan | Fujian In western Fujian, Longyan is an underrated treasure. Visit in September–October and the tulou and scenery are just right. 📍 The Yongding tulou cluster is best visited before 8 AM. At that time tourists haven't arrived yet, and you can mostly hear residents cooking inside the buildings. Zhencheng Building and Chengqi Building in Hongkeng village are worth a slow look; the wood carvings and couplets inside can easily occupy an hour. ⚠️ Many locals in the tulou will invite you for tea or try to sell tea leaves. If you don't want to buy, politely decline. 🍜 Don't eat lunch inside the scenic area. Drive back to Longyan city and head straight to the long-established beef meatball shop on Zhongshan Road. A bowl of beef meatballs with tossed noodles fills you up for CNY 20, and the broth has a noticeable medicinal herb flavor. In the afternoon, go to Guanzhai Mountain. The hike is not strenuous; take a boat across Shimen Lake into the mountain and then hike a short way to the summit. ⏰ The light is best at 4:30 PM, when the lake's reflection lights up the mountain for filter-free photos. The summit is windy, so bring a light jacket. Save Changting ancient city for the second day. The ancient city wall is surprisingly well preserved. Walking from Jichuan Gate to Huiji Gate is about 2 km, with old houses and arcade buildings along the way. Around 5 PM the shops under the wall start to light up and the river reflections are very tranquil. ⚠️ Some "traditional Chinese medicine" stalls in the ancient city are scams. Don't trust them. 02 Wuzhong | Ningxia Wuzhong in Ningxia may not be well known, and that's fine — it's the most pleasant surprise I found this year. September is cool, and a walk along the Yellow River is especially refreshing. The Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Scenic Area is the main attraction, but don't rush to buy a full pass. First take a boat on the Yellow River and watch the 108 towers rise slowly from the water — that perspective is ten times more impressive than from the shore. ⏰ Before 10 AM the water is calm and the reflections are clearest. 🍜 You have to try Wuzhong hand-pulled noodles for lunch. These noodles are different from Lanzhou-style: the broth is clearer and the noodles are thinner. Add a serving of beef and an eight-treasure tea egg and you're good for CNY 15. Any small local shop in town is a safe bet; places frequented by locals won't disappoint. In the afternoon, stroll near the Yellow River Tower, where there are fewer people and it's a good spot to daydream. ⚠️ The canyon can be windy in the afternoon, and boat services decrease after 4 PM, so go early if you want a boat ride. 03 Dehong Dai and Jingpo autonomous prefecture | Yunnan When people think of Yunnan, Dehong isn't usually the first place that comes to mind, which is exactly why it's so pleasant. In October it's still summer-like and a short-sleeve is just right. The Menghuan Golden Pagoda is on the edge of Mangshi. The gold tower against the blue sky is visually striking. Go at dusk — about half an hour before sunset the tower turns a honey color and people standing beneath it make perfect silhouettes. Admission CNY 50, worth the price. 🍜 After the pagoda, head to Tuanjie Street in Mangshi for Jingpo hand-grabbed rice. A bamboo tray holds purple rice, grilled fish, cold mixed wild vegetables, and crispy pork skin — eat with your hands and wash it down with a glass of puluda. The sweet and spicy flavors fight in your mouth in a good way. Expect to spend about CNY 40 per person and leave stuffed. ⚠️ Around the Golden Pagoda there are many stalls renting Dai costumes for photos, with prices ranging from CNY 30 to CNY 80. Ask about any hidden fees up front. Also, October can be hot and sunny — be diligent with sun protection. 04 Anshan | Liaoning Many people only know Anshan as the steel capital, but Qianshan is the real treasure. In September the air is crisp and the mountain leaves start changing, creating a patchwork of yellow and green. Qianshan scenic area is large; don't try to do too much on your first visit. Choose the route "Wuliangguan - Jiabianshi - Yibu Dengtian - Tianshangtian" — it takes about 4 hours, isn't tiring, and has plenty of scenery. Jiabianshi is really narrow; you have to turn sideways to pass, so larger visitors should be prepared. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8 AM for fewer people, cool mountain breezes, and a comfortable walk. 🍜 After descending, head straight to downtown Anshan for a bowl of guo bao rou at Lao Siji. This restaurant has been open for more than 30 years; the sweet-and-sour pork is crispy outside and tender inside, and paired with a bowl of rice it's a great energy booster. ⚠️ Things are expensive on Qianshan — drinks start at CNY 10. Bringing two bottles of water is more economical. Also, October has large temperature swings between day and night in the mountains, so wear a jacket that's easy to take on and off. 05 Yanbian Korean autonomous prefecture | Jilin Yanbian is worth a trip just for the Korean ethnic culture. In September–October the area at the foot of Changbai Mountain turns into an overflowing canvas of autumn color. Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area is in Dunhua, centered on Zhengjue Temple. The golden Ding buddha sits on the mountaintop and can be seen from afar. ⏰ 2 PM is ideal — sunlight hits the Buddha and it gleams gold. Standing at the base of the steps and looking up brings a sense of calm. Admission CNY 100 includes the sightseeing shuttle, and you won't need to climb many steps, so it's suitable for the elderly and children. 🍜 Dunhua is full of Korean restaurants; any of them will do. Try cold noodles paired with guo bao rou — the cold noodles are refreshing and springy, while the sweet-and-sour pork is crispy and tangy. The hot-and-cold combo is amazing. Expect CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Liuding Mountain clears visitors at 5 PM, so don't arrive too late. Also, October mornings and evenings can be chilly — bring a warm jacket. 06 Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain has earned the title "king of the meadows" for good reason. September–October is the best season: stable weather, meadows still green but starting to yellow, and a high chance of sea of clouds. For Wugong Mountain, take the first-level cable car from the scenic gate to Zhong'an, then hike up from there. ⏰ Set out at 7 AM to reach the golden summit before 10 AM, when the sea of clouds often hasn't dispersed. Standing at the top looking down feels like standing on a cloud. The full hiking route is for those with good fitness; at a normal pace it takes about 4 hours to the summit, and there are many supply stations along the way so you don't need to carry too much water. 🍜 Don't miss Pingxiang fried rice noodles at the foot of the mountain. The noodles are thin and fried until fragrant and dry, paired with lotus-bloom blood duck. It's spicy enough to make you sweat but impossible to stop eating. Expect CNY 20 per person for authentic Jiangxi flavor. ⚠️ Summit accommodations are basic — tents and wooden huts are simple, but the sunrise makes it all worth it. Night temperatures near zero in October mean you must bring a sleeping bag and warm clothing. 07 Shangqiu | Henan Shangqiu is one of Henan's most low-key ancient capitals. September–October has pleasant weather that's perfect for exploring the old city. Mangdang Mountain is in Yongcheng, a bit far from the city but worth it. It's most famous for the Han Dynasty Liang king tombs; the underground palace is built into the mountain, giving a strong sense of the Han belief in treating the dead as if they were living. ⏰ Go at 2 PM when light slants in from the entrance, making the stone chambers and murals in the underground palace feel even more mysterious. Admission CNY 90 covers all attractions, and the full visit takes about 3 hours. 🍜 After visiting Mangdang Mountain, return to Shangqiu and spend the evening at the old tea house in the ancient city, Guidefu Old Teahouse. A big bowl of tea with two baked flatbreads stuffed with beef while listening to the owner tell old-city stories is very relaxing. ⚠️ Mangdang Mountain is large and has some steep steps; wear comfortable shoes. Also, the ancient city lighting at night is modest, so go early if you want to see the night scenery. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Don't visit Harbin only in winter. In September–October it loses the bustle of ice and snow and gains a relaxed autumn mood, with fewer tourists and lower prices for a much-improved experience. Saint Sophia Cathedral is a must, but don't go during the day. ⏰ At around 6 PM the lights come on, the square is less crowded, and the cathedral's dome looks like a fairy-tale castle in the dusk. Walk a circle around the church; pigeons coo at your feet and the scene is far prettier than in daylight. 🍜 Huamei Western Restaurant on Central Street is a long-established Russian eatery; the borscht and oven-braised beef are safe choices. But don't just stick to the main street — the side alleys have small restaurants where the guo bao rou and braised pork ribs are more down-to-earth and about half the price. Volga Manor in the suburbs is at its most beautiful in autumn. The white birch woods turn yellow and the Ash River reflects the Russian-style buildings, like walking into an old Soviet film. ⚠️ The manor is far from downtown — a taxi takes over 40 minutes. Reserve half a day to explore leisurely. Harbin Ice and Snow World only opens in winter, so don't go expecting it in September–October. If you're visiting in autumn, stroll along the Songhua River; the river breeze is cool and the sunset turns the iron bridge golden — that's Harbin's most authentic side. complaints trip friendly

01 Jinzhong | Shanxi Don't rush to Pingyao Ancient City when bringing kids to Jinzhong. Plan for Qiao Family Compound first; get there when it opens at 9 AM to avoid crowds and take your time with the brick and wood carvings. Kids might not grasp the "Raise the Red Lantern" vibe, but counting the roof beasts or finding the stone animals on the walls can keep them busy for half an hour. ⚠️ Only rent one audio guide for Qiao Family Compound. Don't hire a tour guide; it's expensive and hard to hear when it's crowded. Go to Pingyao Ancient City at noon, but don't eat main meals inside the ancient city; they're pricey and mediocre. 📍 Walk to the end of South Street, turn into Yamen Street, and you'll find a noodle shop locals frequent. The wantuozi and kaolaolao are authentic. Rent an e-bike in the afternoon to tour the city; it's much easier than walking if the kids get tired. Head up to the city wall after 5 PM for the best light and photos of the gray-tiled roofs. If you have to choose between Wang Family Compound and Qiao Family Compound, I'd pick Wang. It's larger, built into the mountain, and has more steps, but it's manageable for kids and feels like an adventure. Mian Mountain in Jiexiu is better for older kids—the boardwalks and waterfalls are great—but the steps are steep, so I don't recommend carrying babies up. 02 Hezhou | Guangxi Huangyao Ancient Town is worth an overnight stay; don't just do a day trip. Arrive after 4 PM when the tour groups leave; the stone paths get quiet, and you can hear the stream. 📍 Watch the sunset by the Dailong Bridge with your kids. People wash vegetables under the bridge, and ducks swim by—it's a very authentic scene. When the lanterns light up at night, the town transforms, and kids will love running around. Head to Gupo Mountain early the next morning; the air is so fresh you'll want to bottle it. Take an e-bike from the entrance to halfway up the mountain, then walk the boardwalk to see the waterfalls. It's not tiring at all, and both seniors and kids can handle it. 🍜 Don't miss the tofu pudding at the entrance. It's 3 yuan a bowl; add some sugar, and kids can easily finish 2. Dongtan Ridge is great for driving up to see the sea of clouds, but it's hit or miss. ⚠️ Don't go up the mountain on rainy days; the roads are slippery, it's foggy, and you won't see anything. Hezhou is generally affordable. Stay at an inn inside the ancient town for around 200 yuan a night—clean and convenient. 03 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Kanbula is the most "wild" stop this time. The Danxia landforms paired with the Yellow River reservoir look like a palette, and kids will keep asking, "Why are the mountains red?" 📍 Take the scenic shuttle bus to the viewing platform. Looking down at the turquoise water and layered red rocks is visually stunning. ⚠️ The altitude here is around 2,800 meters, so kids might get winded easily if they run around—don't rush them. Bring chocolate or small cookies for energy. There are no restaurants in the scenic area, so pack lunch in advance. I recommend self-heating rice and fruit; eating by the viewing platform feels like a picnic. Keep the visit under 3 hours; kids have limited patience for mountain scenery. Afterward, grab a bowl of lamb intestine noodles in Guide County; the hot soup will warm you right up. Kanbula is great for families who love nature and don't want to rush. If your kids only like playgrounds, you can skip this. 04 Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay) is where kids will go wild. Sand sliding, camel riding, and sand dune motorbiking—every activity is a hit. 📍 I recommend buying a package ticket; it's more cost-effective than individual tickets and includes the cable car and most activities. Enter the park at 8:30 AM to play on the sand slides before the crowds arrive; otherwise, you'll be waiting in line all day. ⚠️ It's windy in the desert, so have the kids wear windproof hats or scarves. Avoid mesh shoes; sand gets in and is hard to clean out. 🍜 You can buy milk tea and grilled sausages in the park, but main meals are pricey and mediocre. I suggest bringing bread and snacks, then having hot pot in the city at night. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan is not far from Xiangshawan, but kids usually aren't that interested—it's mostly architecture and history. If you're short on time, skip it and head back to the city. Accommodation in Ordos is affordable; choose the Kangbashi District for newer hotels and easy highway access. 05 Xinxiang | Henan Baoquan Tourist Area is a paradise for water play with kids. The water in the canyon is crystal clear with many shallow areas where kids can wade. 📍 After entering, take the boardwalk on the right. There are waterfalls and small pools along the way—you can walk and play for 2 hours without getting bored. ⚠️ Bring an extra set of clothes for the kids; they will get wet, and buying clothes in the park is expensive and ugly. Baligou is better for older kids; it has more mountain trails and a wilder landscape. The waterfalls have a big drop and the mist is refreshing—perfect for summer. 🍜 There are vendors selling liangpi (cold noodles) and grilled gluten at the entrance; they taste decent and are half the price of what's inside. If you have to choose one, I recommend Baoquan; kids enjoy playing in the water more than hiking. Accommodation in Xinxiang city is cheap—you can find a nice place for around 100 yuan. It gets crowded during the National Day holiday, so arrive at the entrance before 8 AM to avoid the lines. 06 Urumqi | Xinjiang The International Grand Bazaar is best visited in the evening when the lights make it feel very exotic. 📍 Watching artisans make naan bread and ice cream on the pedestrian street is more interesting for kids than shopping. 🍜 The baked buns at the bazaar are 3 yuan each—lamb filling, crispy crust, juicy meat. Kids can eat 2 in one go. Hongguangshan Park is where locals take their kids; tickets are cheap, and you can overlook the city from the top. ⚠️ It's too hot in the afternoon, so go after 6 PM and catch the sunset. The Daban City Wind Power Station is worth a quick stop if you're driving by; the giant windmills spinning on the Gobi Desert will make kids feel like they're in a sci-fi movie. Urumqi has a large temperature difference between day and night. During the National Day holiday, it's only about 10°C at night, so bring a thick jacket for the kids. Remember to bargain at the bazaar—offering half price is perfectly acceptable. Taxis are convenient in the city; I don't recommend driving yourself as parking is hard to find. 07 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is a place that can help kids quiet down. It's not a playground, but the earthquake ruins and Qiang culture exhibits can help older kids understand concepts like life and resilience. 📍 You must visit the old county earthquake ruins; it's a sobering experience, so prepare your kids mentally beforehand. The Qiang Folk Museum in the new county is better for younger kids; it has Qiang embroidery experiences and watchtower models, which are quite interactive. ⚠️ The whole area is large, so walking will be tiring. I recommend taking the sightseeing bus—it's 20 yuan per person and you can hop on and off. You must try the rice noodles in Mianyang; they're thinner than the ones in Chengdu and the broth is fresher. 🍜 I recommend Kaiyuan Rice Noodles—locals have been eating it since they were kids. A bowl is 6 yuan; add a braised egg, and kids can finish the whole thing. Beichuan is great for families who want their kids to learn something during the trip; those looking for pure fun might find it a bit dull. 08 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan is the only pure hiking spot this time, but it's worth it. 📍 Start from Wuliangguan and hike up through Yixiantian (a narrow gap between rocks). Kids will be excited to squeeze through the rocks—it's like an adventure. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps; it takes 2–3 hours to reach the top with breaks. ⚠️ Don't buy water at the foot of the mountain; carry 2 bottles up. A bottle of water at the top costs 10 yuan—ridiculously expensive. 🍜 After hiking down, go to a farmhouse restaurant at the entrance for iron pot stew—goose stewed with potatoes, with corn cakes dipped in the broth. Kids will love it. Qianshan is great for families with good stamina. If your kids are under 5, I suggest taking the cable car up and walking down part of the way, otherwise, you'll be exhausted. Accommodation in Anshan is cheap—you can stay in a chain hotel for around 150 yuan. You can also visit the Ansteel Museum the next day; boys will like it. Of these 8 places, I recommend Jinzhong and Hezhou the most. One has deep cultural roots, and the other has a rich local vibe. Kids have fun, and adults don't suffer. For National Day travel, remember to book hotels and tickets in advance. Arrive at popular scenic spots before 8 AM to save half your waiting time. When traveling with kids, slow down the pace—don't be greedy; 2 spots a day is enough. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let's chat in the comments; you might even find a travel buddy.

I've mapped out budget-friendly routes, physical difficulty levels, and common pitfalls for the 8 cities below. Please check official announcements on the day of your visit for ticket prices, reservation requirements, and opening status. 01 Nanping | Fujian Don't try to cram every small attraction into your Wuyishan trip right away. ⏰ Arrive at Wuyishan Scenic Area before 7:00 AM and head to Tianyou Peak first; the stone steps are cooler and less crowded. Return to Sangu Resort for lunch, and spend the afternoon exploring only Wuyigong and Song Street to save your legs. Bamboo rafting requires a separate budget; if you're a student on a budget, you don't have to do it. If you want to see the mountains and water, save your time for the walking trails along the Nine-Bend Stream. ⚠️ It's easy to encounter rain in the afternoon in August, so wear non-slip shoes—don't wear new white sneakers to prove your courage. 🚄 After arriving at Nanping Station, prioritize public transport to the scenic area. Stay in Sangu Resort, where homestays and snacks are concentrated, so you don't have to keep taking taxis at night. 02 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan is suitable for two types of travelers. If you're fit, enter through the main gate and hike slowly around the Wuliangguan area. If you just want to enjoy the scenery easily, set aside a budget for the cable car to avoid unnecessary uphill walking—don't sacrifice your second day just to save a few dozen yuan. 📍 There are plenty of dining options near the main gate of Qianshan, but supplies inside the scenic area are usually more expensive. Buy water and bread in downtown Anshan beforehand; one bottle of water is enough—carrying four will only make your shoulders give up first. ⏰ The air is more comfortable from late August to September, but the afternoon sun is still strong. 🚄 Taking a bus from the Anshan Station area is more budget-friendly, and accommodation is more convenient than at the scenic area entrance. At night, you can find sweet and sour pork (guobaorou), meat pies, and barbecue. 03 Yantai | Shandong If this is your first time here, choose either the Penglai Pavilion Tourist Area or Changdao as your main focus. ⏰ Visit Penglai Pavilion on a sunny morning for clear views along the coastal trail. If you want to see the island, stay near the Penglai Ferry Port and catch the early boat to Changdao the next day. Changdao is affected by wind, waves, and ferry schedules, so it's not suitable for trips where you're cutting your return time close. ⚠️ Check the daily ferry schedule before you leave, and leave at least half a day as a buffer for your return trip. When chartering a car on the island, ask about the route, duration, and total price beforehand—don't just listen to a vague "we can go anywhere." Longkou Nanshan is not in the same area as Penglai and Changdao; only plan for it if you have more than 3 days. 📍 If your budget is limited, stay in downtown Penglai. Ask for prices before ordering seafood; mackerel dumplings and seaweed buns are usually safer bets than blindly ordering a whole table of seafood. 04 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan's attractions are spread out, so don't try to cross from east to west in a single day. 📍 Helan Mountain Rock Art and the Western Xia Imperial Tombs can be visited on the same day; prioritize finding a regular tourist bus or carpooling. Set aside half a day for Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park; a slow walk is more comfortable than rushing through. Lingwu Shuidonggou Tourist Area is in a different direction. To control your budget, choose between it and Mingcui Lake. If you like natural water scenery, choose Mingcui Lake; if you want to see landforms and ruins, choose Shuidonggou. Trying to do both will just waste your money on travel time. ⏰ Avoid outdoor activities at noon in August; the temperature difference between morning and evening is more pronounced in September. ⚠️ There isn't much shade on the west line, so bring water, sunscreen, and a light jacket. Staying near the Drum Tower makes dining convenient; you can eat lamb offal soup, shouzhua (hand-grabbed lamb), and liangpi (cold noodles) in separate meals—you don't need to order large portions of meat for every meal. 05 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City is meant for a slow pace, not for rushing around. ⏰ Enter from near the city gate after 4:00 PM and take a walk along the city wall and moat; cycling at dusk is comfortable. Ask about the billing method before renting a bike—one lap around the city is enough, there's no need to keep extending the time. Wahuang Palace is in the Shexian direction and is quite far from Guangfu Ancient City. 🚄 Budget travelers can use the area around Handan Station as a base for accommodation and then arrange public transport separately. If you only have one day, choose one or the other—don't turn your trip into a long-distance bus ride. 📍 Once you arrive at Wahuang Palace, those with average physical stamina should save their main time for the hillside building complex and stone carving areas. There are many stairs in the scenic area; if traveling with elderly people, confirm the shuttle and cable car operation status in advance—don't wait until you reach the entrance to change your route. 06 Tongren | Guizhou The most critical issue with Fanjingshan isn't taking photos, but which gate you enter through. 📍 The East Gate in the Jiangkou direction has better transport and cable car connections, saving more energy, making it suitable for first-time visitors. The West Gate involves a longer hiking distance and is better suited for experienced travelers with more time. ⏰ Try to book an early time slot; visibility at the summit is usually better in the morning. Clouds, mist, and rain showers change quickly in August–September; a thin raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. Don't rush when the steps are slippery. ⚠️ Tickets and cable cars are often booked by time slot, so keep your student ID with you. Stay in Jiangkou County or near the scenic area the night before to reduce early morning travel. If the weather forecast predicts continuous rain, don't force your way to the top—saving your budget for next time is better than just seeing a cloud of fog. 07 Xianyang | Shaanxi Qianling Mausoleum and the Yuanjiacun Guanzhong Impression Experience Area can be visited together, but don't get the order wrong. ⏰ Go to Qianling Mausoleum in the morning to see the stone carvings and the mountain landscape, then go to Yuanjiacun for lunch in the afternoon. This avoids the hottest outdoor hours and means you won't have to explore the snack street on an empty stomach. 📍 Yuanjiacun is great for buying small portions to share. Ordering one portion each of oil-splashed noodles, blood jelly soup with lamb, and zenggao (steamed cake) is enough. The so-called "super-sized set meals" aren't suitable for two people—you won't finish them, and it's a waste of your budget. 🚄 Staying in downtown Xianyang is less hassle than changing accommodation. Prioritize checking for tourist buses or regular passenger transport between the two attractions. ⚠️ The Qianling area is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes. If your time is limited, just see the core stone carving area; you don't need to check in at every peripheral point. 08 Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan This route requires at least 3 days. Jianshui Ancient City should be placed first; walk from Chaoyang Tower, stringing together the streets and alleys around Zhu Family Garden, and then go to Shuanglong Bridge to watch the sunset. 📍 Stay one night in the ancient city; order small portions of grilled tofu and grass-bud rice noodles—it won't cost much. The Jianshui mini-train is more of an experience; if your budget is tight, you can skip it and take a bus or carpool to Shuanglong Bridge. 🚄 Allow time for the mountain roads when traveling from Jianshui to Yuanyang. Don't treat the sunset on the day of arrival as a must-see project; traffic jams and rain can disrupt your plans. ⏰ The Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces are mostly green in August, and the color of the rice fields gradually changes in September. Duoyishu is for the morning, and Bada is better for the evening. ⚠️ It's foggy after the rain. Staying near Duoyishu can save you some early morning travel; while staying in Xinjie Town is cheaper, you have to factor in the extra cost of early morning transport. If your budget only allows for three places, I would choose Wuyishan, Fanjingshan, and the Jianshui–Yuanyang route. If you want to do less hiking, swap them for Yantai, Yinchuan, and Guangfu Ancient City. The real way to save money in August–September isn't to skip a meal, but to skip an inconvenient attraction.

Where to escape the summer heat in August? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and easily accessible by high-speed rail – super cool! 01 Anshan|Liaoning Qianshan isn't a single mountain, but a whole area. Entering the mountain at 7 am, the mist hasn't dissipated yet, the stone steps are damp, and it's refreshingly cool to walk on. Don't rush straight to Wufoding; first, walk along the section from Wuliangguan to Jiabianshi. The shade is thick, and the breeze seeps through the cracks in the rocks – more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 🌲 At midday, when the sun gets strong, it's perfect to hide in the courtyard of Longquan Temple, order a pot of tea, and sit and daydream. Under the old pine tree in the temple, you can hear cicadas chirping but don't feel the heat. Climb higher after 3 pm; the sunlight shines obliquely down, turning the rock walls golden – no filters needed for photos. ⚠️ Hiking poles cost 15 yuan each at the foot of the mountain, but 40 yuan on the mountain. The cable car stops operating at 4:30 pm, so don't queue at that exact time. A taxi from Anshan Station to the main entrance of Qianshan Mountain costs about 30 yuan; sharing a ride is more economical. On hot days, I recommend the Beigou route, as it has louder water sounds and more shade, and the entire hike takes about two and a half hours. 02 Taizhou | Zhejiang You can only choose one of Tiantai Mountain or Shenxianju per day, so don't be greedy. I chose Tiantai Mountain because the water vapor at the Shiliang Waterfall section is so refreshing you won't want to walk anymore. The boardwalk beside the waterfall is a one-way street; it's less crowded in the morning, but in the afternoon, tour groups arrive, and you have to queue to cross the bridge. The Taizhou Ancient City Cultural Tourism Area is best visited in the evening. Enter Ziyang Street from Xingshan Gate, first have a bowl of egg white mutton tail soup, then buy a cup of herbal porridge, and stroll along the ancient city wall while enjoying it. Climb the city wall after 5:30 pm; the wind blowing from the Lingjiang River will completely dispel the heat. 🌆 Shenxianju is more suitable for those with good stamina. Enter from the south gate and exit from the north gate; walking the entire suspended boardwalk takes about four hours. ⚠️ It's windy on Nantian Bridge, so hold your hat and phone tight, or you won't be able to retrieve them if they fall. Tickets and cable car tickets are sold separately; the cable car round trip is 120 yuan. If you don't want to queue, arrive before 8 AM. Take the high-speed train to Linhai Station, then take a taxi to Ziyang Street (15 minutes). 03 Heihe|Heilongjiang The cold in Wudalianchi is real. Walking on the volcanic lava plateau in the morning, the surface temperature is five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city, and the wind carries the coolness of mineral water. The Erlongyan Spring at Yaoquan Mountain has icy water; filling a bottle and washing your face with it instantly refreshes you. 🧊 In the afternoon, go to Wenbo; the water is layered with blue and green hues, like a spilled palette. The boardwalk isn't long, a 40-minute walk around, but each section offers a different color, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Before returning to the city in the evening, go to Beiyinquan to fill a pot with natural sparkling mineral water; the bubbles are even stronger than soda water—buy with caution if you don't like it. ⚠️ Tickets for Wudalianchi are purchased separately. The scenic areas are far apart, so hiring a car is recommended; 300 yuan a day should cover the main attractions. The temperature difference between day and night in Heihe city is significant, so a light jacket is essential. 🚄 After arriving at Heihe Station by high-speed rail, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi to the scenic area. Don't take taxis soliciting passengers on the street; the price will double. 04 Haikou|Hainan Who says Hainan is only unbearably hot? The wind in Haikou is salty, humid, and cool in the mornings and evenings. Go to Qilou Old Street at 8 am; the sun hasn't yet reached its peak, and the white walls in the Nanyang style look particularly beautiful in the shade. The spicy soup rice stall on Zhongshan Road sells out before 10 am, so get there early if you want to try it. Avoid the beach during the hottest part of the day; go to Wugong Temple instead. The garden has many ancient trees, stone tables and benches to sit on, and the red walls and green tiles against the backdrop of the lotus pond at Sugong Temple keep the heat at bay. Go to the Crater Park after 4 PM and walk around the crater rim. The wind rising from the bottom of the crater is two degrees cooler than at the foot of the mountain. ⚠️ The stairs at the highest point of the Crater Park are very steep; those with knee problems should not attempt it. The Qilou Old Street is directly under the sun after 2 PM, making it difficult to open your eyes for photos. It's better to go in the evening when the lights come on, creating a more atmospheric atmosphere. 🍜 You must try the Qingbuliang (a type of sweet soup) in Haikou. It has a coconut milk base with taro balls and mung beans. Buy it from any stall you visit; you can't go wrong. 05 Tianshui|Gansu The Maijishan Grottoes are built on a cliff, with suspended walkways. The August wind blowing in from the valley is so cool you'll forget you're there to climb a mountain. Arrive before 9 AM; the sunlight will shine obliquely on the clay sculptures, making their expressions clearly visible. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes. Put your phone away; don't take any chances. Wushan Water Curtain Cave and Maijishan are in different directions; don't visit them on the same day. The giant Buddha statue at Lashao Temple in the Water Curtain Cave is breathtaking; looking up from below is enough to leave you speechless. The water curtain inside the cave flows year-round, and getting close enough to get splashed with water droplets provides natural cooling. The Fuxi Temple is located in the city center, best visited in the afternoon. Afterwards, you can easily access the Fuxi Temple pedestrian street. 🍜 A typical dinner in Tianshui is a bowl of "guagua" (a type of fried dough) with pork lard boxes and a bowl of "jiangshui mian" (a type of noodle soup). The sour flavor is appetizing, and you'll feel completely refreshed afterward. A taxi from the city center to Maijishan takes 40 minutes; a shared ride costs 20 yuan per person. 06 Hengshui | Hebei Summer at Hengshui Lake is a paradise of lotus flowers. Arrive at the lake at 6:30 am, rent a small boat, and paddle into the reeds. The lotus leaves are taller than a person, and as the boat passes, the dew soaks you, leaving a cool sensation. The lotus flowers bloom until the end of August, but they are most vibrant in the early morning, wilting by midday. Cycling around the lake is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. The section of Beidi Road is shaded by dense trees, and the wind blowing from the lake makes cycling for an hour effortless without breaking a sweat. Stop at Plum Blossom Island along the way; there's a birdwatching tower on the island where binoculars are available for free rental—what birds you see is entirely a matter of luck. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake; you must leave before evening, or your legs will be covered in bites. Hengshui Lake entrance is free, but boat tours and bike rentals are separate; boat tickets are 80 yuan per person, so it's recommended to buy a combined ticket at the visitor center. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Hengshui North Station to the lake. It gets crowded on weekends, so leave early. 07 Xing'an League | Inner Mongolia In Arxan, you need a blanket at night in the summer. During the day, walking in the forest park, the air smells of pine needles and moss, and even under the strong sun, it doesn't feel hot. The boardwalk around Camel Peak Heavenly Lake takes forty minutes to circle, but the water color changes with the altitude of each section, from emerald green to deep blue. Three Pools Gorge is best visited in the afternoon; the sound of the water is loud, the shade is thick, and walking through it feels like walking through an air-conditioned tunnel. The lava formations of Stone Pond Forest are most captivating at dusk, when the setting sun paints the black stones with warm colors, resembling the surface of Mars. 🌄 ⚠️ Accommodation inside the Arxan Scenic Area is expensive and generally basic. It's recommended to stay in Yiershi Town, where there are more dining options and prices are reasonable. The entrance fee plus sightseeing bus is 285 yuan, valid for two days; don't expect to see everything in one day. The temperature difference between day and night exceeds ten degrees Celsius; a light down jacket is definitely necessary. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Arxan Station, then a taxi to the scenic area takes about an hour. 08 Changzhi|Shanxi The canyons of the Taihang Mountains are a natural air conditioner. A boat trip in Baquan Gorge is a must; as the boat glides along the water, the rock walls on both sides unfold like a screen, and the wind blowing from the depths of the canyon invigorates you. After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk; the waterfall follows you all the way, its cool mist more effective than any spray. In the afternoon, head to the Taihang Grand Canyon, hiking the Qinglong Gorge section. It's less crowded and the trail is less strenuous. The light in the canyon is constantly changing; some areas are like nighttime, while others shimmer with golden light, like a scene from a movie. ⏰ Enter the canyon after 4 PM for the best light and fewest people. ⚠️ The elevator and boat tour at Baquan Gorge are sold as a package; they are not sold separately. During peak season, the queue can be up to an hour long, so it's recommended to arrive before 8 AM. A taxi from Changzhi East Station to the canyon takes about an hour and a half; a round-trip chartered car costs 300 yuan. There are no supply points inside the canyon, so buy water and snacks beforehand. 🍜 Afterward, enjoy a bowl of mutton stew noodles in Huguan County—warm and satisfying. The secret to escaping the August heat is simple: avoid crowded places. These eight places either have mountain breezes, moisture, or are simply naturally cool due to their high latitude. Which one do you most want to go to? Tell me in the comments, and I'll scout it out for you. Where to escape the heat in August? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and easily accessible by high-speed rail – super cool! 01 Anshan|Liaoning Qianshan isn't a single mountain, but a whole area. Entering the mountains at 7 am, the mist hasn't dissipated yet, the stone steps are damp, and it's cool to walk on. Don't rush straight to Wufoding; first, walk along the section from Wuliang Temple to Jiabianshi. The shade is thick, and the wind seeps through the cracks in the rocks – more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 🌲 At midday, when the sun gets strong, it's perfect to hide in the courtyard of Longquan Temple, order a pot of tea, and sit and daydream. Under the old pine tree in the temple, you can hear cicadas chirping but don't feel the heat. After 3 pm, climb higher into the sky; the sunlight shines down at an angle, turning the rock walls golden – no filter needed for photos. ⚠️ Hiking poles cost 15 yuan each at the foot of the mountain, but 40 yuan on the mountain. The cable car stops operating at 4:30 pm, so don't queue at that time. A taxi from Anshan Station to the main gate of Qianshan Mountain costs about 30 yuan; sharing a ride is more cost-effective. On hot days, I recommend taking the Beigou route, as the water is louder and there's more shade; the whole hike takes about two and a half hours. 02 Taizhou|Zhejiang You can only choose one of Tiantai Mountain or Shenxianju per day, so don't be greedy. I chose Tiantai Mountain because the water vapor on the path near Shiliang Waterfall is so refreshing you won't want to walk anymore. The boardwalk next to the waterfall is a one-way street; there are fewer people in the morning, but in the afternoon, tour groups come in, and you have to queue to cross the bridge. The Taizhou Ancient City Cultural Tourism Area is best visited in the evening. Enter Ziyang Street from Xingshan Gate, first have a bowl of egg white mutton tail soup, then buy a cup of herbal porridge, and stroll along the ancient city wall while drinking. Go up the city wall after 5:30 pm; the wind blowing from the Lingjiang River will completely dispel the summer heat. 🌆 Shenxianju is more suitable for those with good stamina. Enter from the South Gate and exit from the North Gate. Walking the entire suspended walkway takes about four hours. ⚠️ The South Sky Bridge is windy; hold your hat and phone firmly, or you won't be able to retrieve them if they fall. Tickets and cable car tickets are purchased separately. The cable car round trip costs 120 yuan. If you don't want to queue, arrive before 8:00 AM. Take the high-speed train to Linhai Station, then take a taxi to Ziyang Street (15 minutes). 03 Heihe|Heilongjiang The cold in Wudalianchi is real. Walking on the volcanic lava plateau in the morning, the surface temperature is five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city, and the wind carries the coolness of mineral water. The Erlongyan Spring at Yaoquan Mountain has icy water; filling a bottle and washing your face with it instantly refreshes you. 🧊 In the afternoon, go to Wenbo. The water is layered with blue and green hues, like a spilled palette. The walkway isn't long, taking about forty minutes to complete, but each section offers a different color, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Before returning to the city in the evening, fill a pot with natural sparkling mineral water from Beiyinquan Spring. The bubbles are even stronger than soda water; those who don't like the taste should be cautious. ⚠️ Tickets for Wudalianchi are purchased separately. The scenic areas are far apart, so hiring a car is recommended. 300 yuan a day should cover the main attractions. The temperature difference between day and night in Heihe city is significant; a light jacket is essential. 🚄 After arriving at Heihe Station by high-speed rail, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi to the scenic area. Don't take taxis soliciting passengers on the street; the price will double. 04 Haikou|Hainan Who says Hainan is only hot enough to melt you? The wind in Haikou is salty, humid, and cool in the mornings and evenings. Go to Qilou Old Street at 8 am; the sun hasn't yet reached its peak, and the white walls in the Nanyang style look particularly beautiful in the shade. The spicy soup rice stall on Zhongshan Road sells out before 10 am; get there early if you want to eat there. Don't go to the beach during the hottest part of the day; go to Wugong Temple instead. The park is filled with ancient trees, and you can sit anywhere on the stone tables and benches. The red walls and green tiles, along with the lotus pond at the Su Gong Ancestral Hall, keep the heat out. After 4 PM, head to the Crater Park and walk around the crater's edge. The wind rising from the bottom of the crater is two degrees cooler than at the foot of the mountain. ⚠️ The stairs at the highest point of the Crater Park are very steep; those with knee problems should not attempt them. After 2 PM, the sun is directly overhead in the Qilou Old Street, making it difficult to open your eyes for photos. It's better to go in the evening when the lights come on, creating a more atmospheric atmosphere. 🍜 You must try the Qingbuliang (a sweet soup) in Haikou! It's made with coconut milk, taro balls, and mung beans. Buy it from any stall you visit; you can't go wrong. 05 Tianshui|Gansu The Maijishan Grottoes are built on a cliff, with suspended walkways. The August wind blowing in from the valley is so cool you'll forget you're there to climb a mountain. Arrive before 9 AM; the sunlight will shine obliquely on the clay sculptures, making their expressions clearly visible. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes. Please keep your phone safe and don't take any chances. The Wushan Water Curtain Cave and Maijishan Grottoes are in different directions, so don't visit them on the same day. The Lashao Temple Buddha statue in the Water Curtain Cave is breathtaking; standing beneath it and looking up is truly awe-inspiring. The water curtain inside the cave flows year-round, and getting close will splash you with water droplets, providing natural cooling. The Fuxi Temple is located in the city center; the afternoon is the best time to visit. After visiting, you can easily reach the Fuxi Temple pedestrian street. 🍜 A typical dinner in Tianshui is a bowl of "guagua" (a type of fried dough) with a pork lard box, and a bowl of "jiangshui mian" (a type of noodle soup). The sour flavor is appetizing, and you'll feel completely refreshed afterward. A taxi from the city center to Maijishan takes 40 minutes; a shared ride costs 20 yuan per person. 06 Hengshui|Hebei Summer at Hengshui Lake is a paradise for lotus flowers. Arrive at the lake at 6:30 AM, rent a small boat, and paddle into the reeds. The lotus leaves are taller than a person, and as the boat passes, the dew soaks you, leaving a cool sensation. The lotus flowers bloom until the end of August, but they are vibrant in the morning and wilted by midday. Cycling around the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. The North Embankment Road is shaded by dense trees, and the wind blowing from the lake makes cycling for an hour effortless without breaking a sweat. Stop at Plum Blossom Island along the way; there's a birdwatching tower on the island where binoculars are available for free rental—what birds you see is entirely a matter of luck. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake; you must leave before evening, or your legs will be covered in bites. Hengshui Lake entrance is free, but boat tours and bike rentals are charged separately. Boat tickets are 80 yuan per person; it's recommended to buy a combined ticket at the visitor center. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Hengshui North Station to the lake. It gets crowded on weekends, so leave early. 07 Hinggan League | Inner Mongolia In Arxan, summer nights require a blanket. During the day, walking in the forest park, the air smells of pine needles and moss, and even under the strong sun, it doesn't feel hot. The boardwalk around Camel Peak Heavenly Lake takes forty minutes to circle, but the water's color changes with each section's altitude, from emerald green to deep blue. Three Pools Gorge is best visited in the afternoon; the sound of the water is loud, the shade is thick, and walking feels like walking through an air-conditioned tunnel. The lava landforms of Stone Pond Forest are most beautiful at dusk; the setting sun paints the black stones with warm colors, like the surface of Mars. 🌄 ⚠️ Accommodation inside the Arxan scenic area is expensive and basic. It's recommended to stay in Yiershi Town, where there are more dining options and prices are reasonable. The entrance fee plus sightseeing bus is 285 yuan, valid for two days; don't expect to see everything in one day. The temperature difference between day and night exceeds ten degrees Celsius; a light down jacket is definitely necessary. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Arxan Station, then a taxi to the scenic area takes about an hour. 08 Changzhi | Shanxi The canyons of the Taihang Mountains are like a natural air conditioner. A boat trip in Baquan Gorge is a must. As the boat glides across the water, the rock walls unfold like screens, and the wind blowing from the depths of the canyon invigorates you. After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk; waterfalls follow you all the way, and the cool mist is more effective than any misting system. In the afternoon, visit the Taihang Grand Canyon, specifically the Qinglong Gorge section. It's less crowded and the trail is less strenuous. The lighting in the canyon is constantly changing; some areas are like nighttime, while others shimmer with golden light, like a scene from a movie. ⏰ Enter the canyon after 4 PM for the best lighting and the fewest people. ⚠️ The elevator and boat trip at Baquan Gorge are sold as a package; they are not sold separately. During peak season, the queue can be up to an hour long, so it's recommended to arrive before 8 AM. A taxi from Changzhi East Station to the canyon takes about an hour and a half; a round-trip chartered car costs around 300 yuan. There are no supply points inside the canyon, so buy water and snacks beforehand. 🍜 Afterwards, have a bowl of mutton stew noodles in Huguan County – it's warming and satisfying. The secret to escaping the August heat is simple: avoid crowded places. These eight spots either have mountain breezes, moisture, or are simply naturally cool due to their high latitude. Which one would you most like to visit? Let me know in the comments, and I'll scout it out for you.