Jixi travel guide and discussion

🌿 Jixi 4 Days 3 Nights In-Depth Travel Guide (Budget 7000 RMB) Theme: Border Lake Scenery + Forest Secrets + Northeast Cuisine Suitable for: Nature lovers/photography enthusiasts, seeking high cost-performance experiences 📅 Itinerary Overview Day 1: Arrive in Jixi → Initial cultural experience in the city Day 2: Xingkai Lake Ecological Exploration (China-Russia border lake) Day 3: Hutou Fortress + Ussuri River Origin Day 4: Qilin Mountain Scenic Area → Return trip 💰 Budget Allocation (for 2 people) Item Cost (RMB) Description Transportation 3000 Round-trip airfare (off-peak) + local car rental/shared ride Accommodation 1500 3 nights (2 nights in 4-star city hotel + 1 night at Xingkai Lake) Tickets/Experiences 800 Xingkai Lake + Hutou Fortress + Qilin Mountain Meals 1000 Full fish feast + Korean ethnic dishes + wild vegetables Shopping 700 Russian goods, dried white fish from Xingkai Lake 📝 Daily Detailed Itinerary Day 1: First Encounter with Jixi Morning: Arrive at Jixi Xingkai Lake Airport, taxi to city hotel (recommended: Jixi Central Hotel, about 450 RMB/night). Afternoon: Jixi City Museum (free, learn about Sushen culture and coal industry history). Muling River Park (walk along the riverside boardwalk, check out the music fountain). Evening: Da Lengmian Main Store (40 RMB per person, served with spicy vegetables and dried tofu rolls, local favorite). Day 2: Full Experience of Xingkai Lake Morning: Rent a car to Xingkai Lake Xinkailiu Scenic Area (1.5-hour drive, shared ride about 100 RMB/person), entrance fee 40 RMB/person, climb the viewing platform to overlook the China-Russia border lake. Noon: Lake Fresh Fish Restaurant (80 RMB per person, must-try Xingkai Lake big whitefish and fried lake shrimp). Afternoon: Xingkai Lake Wetland Park (walk on wooden boardwalk, birdwatching tower for photographing migratory birds). Dangbi Town (China-Russia border port, distant view of Russian village). Evening: Stay at Xingkai Lake Hotel (about 400 RMB/night), try farmhouse stewed lake fish (served with corn flatbread). Day 3: Hutou Fortress + Ussuri River Morning: Rent a car to Hutou Town (2.5-hour drive), visit: Hutou Fortress Ruins (50 RMB/person, WWII end site, impressive underground structures). Ussuri River Origin (free, take photos with riverside monument). Noon: Hutou Town River Fish Restaurant (60 RMB per person, salmon dumplings + fried willow root fish). Afternoon: Hutou Guandi Temple (Qing Dynasty ancient building, 15 RMB entrance). Ussuri River Square (boat tour to enjoy river views, 50 RMB/person). Evening: Return to Jixi city, eat Korean ethnic soybean paste soup with rice (50 RMB per person). Day 4: Qilin Mountain Forest Hiking Morning: Rent a car to Qilin Mountain Scenic Area (1-hour drive, 35 RMB entrance), hike to the summit of "Little Huashan," explore the ice pothole wonder. Noon: Wild Vegetable Bun Shop at the scenic area entrance (30 RMB per person, prickly old bud buns + hazel mushroom soup). Afternoon: Before departure, visit Jixi Guangyi City Market (buy Russian chocolates, pine nuts), then fly back. ⚠️ Notes Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for Xingkai Lake and Hutou Town (about 600 RMB/day), or book shared rides in advance (more cost-effective). Documents: To cross the border into Russia from Dangbi Town, a passport and visa must be prepared in advance (one-day tour about 500 RMB/person). Season Recommendations: Summer (June-August): Cool off at Xingkai Lake, Ussuri River boat tour; Autumn (September-October): Qilin Mountain red leaves, Hutou Town Wuhua Mountain. 🎯 Budget Optimization Suggestions Budget version: On Day 2, stay in the city to save on Xingkai Lake accommodation; choose a knife-cut noodle restaurant for meals (20 RMB per person). Upgrade version: Stay at a hot spring resort at Xingkai Lake (about 800 RMB/night, includes private hot spring bath). ✨ This guide will take you to explore Jixi’s border lake scenery, historical sites, and forest secrets! Let me know anytime if you want to adjust details~ 🚤🌲

I've been talking about visiting Zhonghua Baroque for ages, but kept putting it off. On a whim, I came over tonight, and it was an unexpectedly great experience✨ After nightfall, the lights on the old buildings all turned on, and the European retro vibe was maxed out. Stopped by for some Wandashan ice cream on the way; it was rich, creamy, and so satisfying🍦 Picked up a bottle of limited-edition Coca-Cola as a little memento of the day. No need to rush; just taking a slow, leisurely stroll down the street🚶 The vibrant life of the old city blends into the night—this is what a relaxed night in Harbin is all about.

Take your partner out for the National Day holiday, these 6 spots are worry-free and romantic 01 Xianning | Hubei Chibi Ancient Battlefield is best visited in the morning. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM; there's still mist on the river, and you won't have to fight for a photo spot. 📍 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown Xianning. Public transport is too much of a hassle, so just take a taxi for a stress-free trip. The riverside walkway in the scenic area is worth a slow stroll. If your partner wears flat shoes, the stone path won't be uncomfortable. ⚠️ Don't buy tickets for the so-called "ancient warship river cruise" at the entrance; it's not worth the money, and you can see more clearly from the walkway. 🍜 For lunch, head back to the city for Heshengqiao chicken soup. A small portion is enough for two. The soup is rich and goes perfectly with rice. In the afternoon, you can soak in the hot springs. It's crowded during the National Day holiday, so booking your tickets a day in advance is safer. Perfect for couples who don't want to hike and just want to stroll and chat. The overall pace is slow and relaxing. 02 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Get to Slender West Lake early. ⏰ Enter at 7:30 AM before the tour groups arrive, and you can get empty shots of the Twenty-Four Bridge. ⚠️ During the National Day holiday, it's recommended to book admission and boat tickets through official channels in advance; queuing on-site will waste your whole morning. Just pick either Ge Garden or He Garden. I chose Ge Garden; the Four Seasons Rockery takes half an hour to walk around, and if your partner likes bamboo, they'll love it here. He Garden focuses more on architectural details, which can lead to aesthetic fatigue if you see too much. 🍜 For lunch, go near Guocheng Road for dry noodles with pork kidney soup; the small local shops are more authentic than those at the entrance of the scenic area. In the afternoon, stroll through Dongguan Street, which is a 10-minute walk from the south gate of Ge Garden. 🚄 It's about a CNY 25 taxi ride from Yangzhou Station to Slender West Lake. The city is small, and shared e-bikes are more flexible than buses. Perfect for couples who love gardens and photography; you won't feel rushed even if you walk all day. 03 Shenyang | Liaoning Beiling Park is great for the early morning. ⏰ By 6:30 AM, the locals are already practicing tai chi; the air is fresh, and the lake is quiet. 📍 Take Metro Line 2 to Beiling Park Station and exit at D for the East Gate. Shenyang Expo Garden is in the suburbs, so I suggest setting aside half a day for it. ⚠️ The park is large, so renting a tandem bike is less tiring than walking. There will be a queue for rentals during the National Day holiday, so rent one as soon as you enter. The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and the North Pagoda Falun Temple are close to each other and can be visited together. The pagodas are simple and ancient, and it's not too crowded, making it a nice place for a quiet walk. If your partner isn't interested in ancient architecture, you can shorten this part to 40 minutes. 🍜 In the evening, head back to Zhongjie for Laobian Dumplings or find a barbecue restaurant. Shenyang barbecue portions are large; three plates of meat are enough for two. 🚄 The combination of metro and taxi is the smoothest way to get around; don't squeeze onto buses during the evening rush hour. Perfect for couples who want to visit parks and see some old architecture. 04 Qianxinan | Guizhou Maling River Canyon and Wanfenglin can be combined into a one-day trip. ⏰ In the morning, head to the canyon first; the light shines down from the cliff top, and the mist from the waterfalls is cool. 📍 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from downtown Xingyi to the canyon entrance. The canyon boardwalk is slippery, so ⚠️ make sure your partner wears non-slip shoes—don't wear white sneakers, or they'll be covered in mud by the end. There are many stairs throughout, so take it slow if you have bad knees. In the afternoon, head to Wanfenglin, which is about a 30-minute taxi ride from the canyon. The Bagua Field Observation Deck is a classic photo spot; it's best to arrive before sunset. 🍜 There are egg fried rice and sour soup fish in the Buyi ethnic village at the foot of the mountain. The sour soup is appetizing, and a small portion of fish is just right for two. Perfect for couples who love natural scenery and don't mind walking. Accommodation in Xingyi is in high demand during the National Day holiday, so book a homestay near Wanfenglin in advance to wake up to mountain views. 05 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou Town is by the Wusuli River. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light is soft, and the river surface glitters with gold. 📍 It's about a two-hour drive from downtown Jixi; I suggest chartering a car or driving yourself, as public transport is infrequent. Xingkai Lake is the highlight of this trip. The lake is as vast as the sea. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake during the National Day holiday, so bring a windbreaker for your partner—don't just wear a sweater. Walking on the beach and picking up small stones is more comfortable than rushing between attractions. 🍜 There are stalls selling grilled lake fish by the lake; ask about the price before ordering, as there's a big difference depending on whether it's priced by the piece or by weight. There's a cold noodle shop in Hutou Town that's sweet and sour; a bowl after visiting the lake is very refreshing. Perfect for couples who are driving and love quiet lake views. It's not crowded, and you can control the pace completely. If you want to avoid the crowds during the National Day holiday, this is a great off-the-beaten-path option. 06 Hainan | Qinghai Riyue Mountain and Guide National Geopark can be visited in one day by chartered car. ⏰ Start from Xining in the morning and head to Riyue Mountain first. It's windy at the mountain pass, and the prayer flags flap loudly. 📍 The driver will usually stop at the mountain pass for 20 minutes for photos. ⚠️ It's over 3,000 meters above sea level, so if your partner is prone to altitude sickness, prepare oxygen bottles in advance and don't run or jump on the mountain. Don't stay at Riyue Mountain for more than half an hour; the wind is really harsh. In the afternoon, head to Guide, 🚄 which is about a two-hour drive. The Danxia landforms in the Geopark are a deep red, and the colors are most saturated before sunset. 🍜 There is Yellow River carp in Guide County, but it's not cheap, so ask about the price before ordering. Perfect for couples who want to see the scenery of the Northwest without being too tired. A chartered car costs about CNY 500 for the day, which is cost-effective for two people. The temperature difference between morning and evening in Qinghai is large during the National Day holiday, so bring a light down jacket. 07 Tangshan | Hebei The Eastern Qing Tombs are best visited in the morning. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM. The stone statues on both sides of the Sacred Way stand quietly, and there are few tourists, making for a great atmosphere. 📍 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Tangshan, or you can take the tourist bus. ⚠️ The tomb area is large, so decide which tombs to see before buying a joint ticket, or your legs will be exhausted. Visiting Yuling and Dingdongling is enough; the underground palaces and stone carvings are the highlights. In the afternoon, head back to the city to visit Nanhu Park and Kailuan. Nanhu Park is free, and it's comfortable to stroll by the lake in the evening. Kailuan National Mine Park requires an admission ticket; ⚠️ it's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 🍜 In the evening, go to Tangshan Banquet for Qizi biscuits and Gezha; the snacks are all in one place, and it won't cost much for two. 🚄 It's about a CNY 15 taxi ride from Tangshan Station to Nanhu. Perfect for couples interested in history who also want to visit a park. The Eastern Qing Tombs are not too crowded during the National Day holiday, and the experience is better than you might expect. 08 Qingdao | Shandong Mount Lao and Zhanqiao Pier can be split into two days. ⏰ For Mount Lao, get an early start; leave the city at 7:00 AM and choose either the Yangkou or Jufeng route—don't try to do too much. 📍 Take Metro Line 11 to Puli Station and transfer, which is half the price of taking a taxi the whole way. ⚠️ Mount Lao limits visitor numbers during the National Day holiday, so book admission and sightseeing bus tickets on official platforms in advance; you might not get tickets if you buy them on-site. Wear sneakers for hiking, and ladies, don't wear skirts; it's windy, and there's a risk of exposure. Go to Zhanqiao Pier in the evening. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, there are many seagulls, and the light is soft. 🍜 Near Zhongshan Road, eat spicy stir-fried clams and mackerel dumplings; find a shop with many locals, and don't eat right across from the pier. The Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center is great for an evening stroll. 🚄 Take Metro Line 2 to Yan'erdao Road Station and walk to Lover's Dam to see the night view. Perfect for couples who love the sea and are willing to walk. Accommodation in Qingdao is expensive during the National Day holiday, so book a hotel along the metro line in advance for convenient travel. These eight places—Xianning and Yangzhou are suitable for slow travel, while Qianxinan and Hainan are great for natural scenery. When taking your partner out for the National Day holiday, choose one direction and explore it deeply; it's more comfortable than rushing around. Which one do you want to visit most? Let's chat in the comments. and National Day Holiday Travel Travel Check-in Train Travel Destinations for Husbands with Partners Travel

We were treated to some of the best fresh water fishes at Mishan. They really went well with some white wine!

Want to travel with your kids during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day but worried about getting tired? I get it. Choose the right city, and you can use a stroller, keep the kids entertained, and still find a moment to catch your breath. Below are 8 stress-free options I've personally vetted. 1️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Let's start with Hutou. It's windy by the Ussuri River, so ⏰ arrive before 10:00 AM for soft light and fewer crowds. Kids can spend half an hour throwing stones by the river without getting bored. 📍 The Hutou Fortress ruins have many stairs; don't force a stroller, a baby carrier is much easier. Xingkai Lake is better for the afternoon. The shoreline is flat with fine sand, so kids can run barefoot without getting hurt. ⚠️ It's colder by the lake than in the city, so remember to bring an extra jacket for the kids during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. For food, 🍜 try the lake fish stewed with tofu at a lakeside farmhouse restaurant. Order a small portion—don't believe the "bigger is fresher" myth. Xingkai Lake is better for younger kids, while elementary schoolers can handle the stairs at Hutou. 2️⃣ Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan (Resonant Sand Bay) is the highlight of this trip. ⏰ Enter after 4:00 PM; the sand won't be too hot, and the lines for sand sliding will be shorter. 📍 Choose either Xiansha Island or Yuesha Island; doing both will be exhausting. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan is better for elementary schoolers and up. It's large with lots of walking, so strollers are basically useless. ⚠️ The shuttle buses inside the scenic area cost extra; ask about the route before buying tickets. For accommodation, hotels in Kangbashi District are newer and have convenient parking, making them a better deal than staying near the scenic area entrance. 🍜 Try the hand-grabbed mutton with milk tea. If the kids aren't used to it, order some yogurt pancakes as a backup. The temperature difference between day and night is significant during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so don't mind the weight of a light down jacket. 3️⃣ Shangqiu | Henan I recommend Mangdang Mountain for kids who love to run and jump. 📍 The underground palace of the King Liang Mausoleum is cool—it feels like air conditioning in the summer—but the stairs are steep, so hold onto younger kids tightly. ⏰ Visit the Queen of King Liang Xiao's Mausoleum in the morning; it's less crowded, and you can hear the guide clearly. In the afternoon, head to the grassy area near Chen Sheng's tomb where kids can run wild while adults sit and scroll on their phones. ⚠️ The scenic spots are far apart, so driving yourself is best; it's hard to hail a taxi for the return trip. 🍜 Try the Yongcheng "sa" soup with pan-fried buns; one bowl in the morning will keep you full until noon. Strollers aren't very convenient here; a baby carrier is more practical. 4️⃣ Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajue Mountain is all about staying cool. ⏰ Take the cable car up in the morning before the clouds and mist dissipate; you won't need filters for your photos. 📍 The canyon rafting is exciting, but don't take younger kids; there are strict height requirements. The ancient town area has many flat roads, making it stroller-friendly and suitable for families with small children. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes quickly; raincoats are better than umbrellas, which will flip over in the mountain wind. 🍜 Zixi bread and home-style stir-fries are worth a try and reasonably priced. If visiting during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, I recommend staying at a homestay at the foot of the mountain and heading up early the next morning to avoid the crowds. Rafting is for elementary schoolers and up; stick to the ancient town for preschoolers. 5️⃣ Shenzhen | Guangdong Dameisha Beach Park is free, but it will be packed during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. ⏰ Arrive before 7:00 AM to secure parking and a spot on the beach. 📍 The shower stations have long lines; bringing your own large bottle of water to rinse your feet is easier. Window of the World is great for elementary schoolers, with miniature landscapes and performances, though you'll be exhausted after a full day of walking. The OCT (Overseas Chinese Town) Resort is better for younger kids; Happy Valley and the Wetland Park can easily take up half a day. The Mission Hills Resort area is quieter, with golf and hot springs, making it comfortable for traveling with seniors. ⚠️ The spots are spread out, so a combination of subway and taxi is the most reliable way to get around. 🍜 There are many snacks near Nantou Ancient Town; grab a bite after you're done exploring. 6️⃣ Taizhou | Zhejiang Tiantai Mountain is perfect for a leisurely walk. ⏰ Visit Guoqing Temple in the morning; the scent of incense mixed with the shade makes it a safe place for kids to run around. 📍 The stairs at Shiliang Waterfall are slippery; don't take small kids there after it rains. The Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Area is in Linhai; you can use a stroller for most of the city wall and Ziyang Street. ⚠️ You'll need to lift the stroller on the city wall stairs, so it's easier with two people. Shenxianju is the main event, with cable cars and plank roads; the scenery is worth the price of admission. 🍜 Kids usually love Linhai "maixia" (wheat shrimp noodles) and "danqing yangwei" (egg white dessert). For the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, I recommend visiting Shenxianju in the morning, as it gets too crowded to move in the afternoon. It's suitable for elementary schoolers and up; stick to the Prefecture City for preschoolers. 7️⃣ Qujing | Yunnan The Luoping rapeseed flower fields depend on the season. ⏰ They are only golden yellow in February and March; if you go during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, they'll be green fields, so don't have the wrong expectations. 📍 The sunrise at the Jinji Peak Cluster viewing platform is worth waking up early for, but don't force it if the kids can't get up. The Jiulong Waterfall group has decent water flow in the autumn, and the plank roads are flat enough to barely manage a stroller. ⚠️ It's very misty by the waterfall and the ground is slippery, so put non-slip shoes on the kids. 🍜 Luoping small yellow ginger stewed chicken and colorful rice have mild flavors. The climate in Qujing during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day is comfortable, making it suitable for a slow-paced trip with seniors and children. Focus on the waterfalls for younger kids and save the flower fields for spring. 8️⃣ Jinzhong | Shanxi Choose either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound; seeing both will just get confusing. ⏰ Go to the Qiao Family Compound in the morning before the tour groups arrive so you can get clean shots of the courtyard. 📍 The Wang Family Compound is larger and takes two hours to walk through, which can easily make younger kids fussy. Jiexiu Mianshan is suitable for elementary schoolers and up; it combines plank roads and temples with quite a bit of climbing. Pingyao Ancient City is stroller-friendly; the route from South Street to the Government Office is flat, and it looks beautiful when the lights come on at night. ⚠️ The electric carts inside the ancient city have inconsistent pricing, so ask for the price before getting on. 🍜 Pingyao beef and "wantuo" (buckwheat noodles) are cheaper at small shops on side streets than on the main street. Book your accommodation in advance for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, as prices for inns inside the ancient city spike significantly. Of these 8 places, I vote for Shenzhen and Taizhou as the most stress-free due to their smooth transportation and complete facilities. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Let's chat in the comments.

Some cities have so much to offer, yet they're always treated as mere transit stops. I've picked eight of them. I won't sugarcoat it; I'll tell you straight where it's worth stopping and where you can skip. 1️⃣ Wuhan | Hubei I recommend visiting Yellow Crane Tower Park as soon as it opens. ⏰ Get to the main building before 8:30 AM; it's less crowded, and the river breeze hasn't been heated up by the sun yet. Don't wait in long lines for the elevator; take the west trail—it only takes 10 minutes. East Lake is much larger than West Lake, so don't expect to see it all in one day. Rent a shared bike, enter from Liyuan Square, and return it at the Moshan North Gate—it takes exactly 2 hours. ⚠️ The greenway gets crowded on weekend afternoons; if you're traveling with seniors, take the sightseeing bus instead. Songyang Temple is in Huangpi. It's less touristy, and the ancient ginkgo trees don't turn yellow until mid-to-late November. The Huangpi Mulan Cultural Ecological Tourism Zone is great for kids, but you'll need a car to get between spots—don't go if you don't have one. 🍜 In the morning, have a bowl of hot dry noodles with egg rice wine on Liangdao Street. Don't buy the doupi for 15 yuan at Hubu Alley; walk two streets further, and it's 6 yuan. 2️⃣ Pingliang | Gansu I recommend setting aside a full day for Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area. 🚄 A taxi from Pingliang Station to the rear mountain visitor center costs about 40 yuan. Don't go to the front mountain; the stairs there are enough to make you question your life choices. ⏰ Take the scenic shuttle bus to Zhongtai at 9:00 AM, then transfer to the cable car to Xiangshan. Looking out from the cable car, the Loess Plateau suddenly splits into a green valley—it's worth the price of admission. Bring a jacket; it's windy at the summit. ⚠️ After 4:00 PM, the cable car line can wrap around three times. Either head down early or just take the trail down to Wendao Palace. For the mutton paomo on the Muslim Street at the foot of the mountain, break the flatbread yourself into soybean-sized pieces. It's 20 yuan a bowl, the broth is rich, and don't add too much chili. 3️⃣ Zhengzhou | Henan You need to book the Henan Museum in advance. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't waste a trip. ⏰ Book a morning slot, enter at 9:00 AM, and head straight to the west side of the first floor. The pair of Lotus Crane Square Hu vessels among the nine major treasures are worth a 10-minute look. Shaolin Temple on Mount Song is in Dengfeng, an hour and a half from Zhengzhou. If you only want to see the Pagoda Forest and the main temple, half a day is enough. Don't buy those so-called "consecrated" prayer beads at the entrance—you know the deal. Xiliu Lake is great for the evening; it's where locals go for a stroll, and there are few tourists. Qinwei Water City is newly built and looks nice when the lights come on at night, but the food is pricey. 🍜 If you're passing through Dengfeng, grab a sesame flatbread with mustard greens for 5 yuan—it's a better deal than the 30-yuan set meals in the scenic area. 4️⃣ Chenzhou | Hunan Gaoyiling Danxia—I thought it was a computer wallpaper the first time I saw it. ⏰ Go in after 4:00 PM when the light hits the red rocks at an angle, making the water surface reflect like broken glass. ⚠️ Don't go on rainy days; the muddy paths are slippery, and your shoes will be ruined. To see the mist at Dongjiang Lake Tourist Area, you have to get there early. ⏰ Arrive at the No. 2 Bridge viewing platform before 6:30 AM. The 20 minutes when the morning mist rolls in have a depth that neither cameras nor phones can capture. Gaoyiling Tourist Area is right next to the former, so it's cheaper to buy a joint ticket. Mangshan Five-Finger Peak is best in autumn, with red leaves and a sea of clouds in late October, but there's limited accommodation on the mountain, so book in advance. If you're traveling with seniors, a boat tour on Dongjiang Lake is the least strenuous option; Gaoyiling involves a lot of climbing, so know your limits. 5️⃣ Shaoxing | Zhejiang For Lu Xun's Native Place and Shen Garden, I suggest arriving by 7:30 AM. 📍 Enter from the Xinjian South Road entrance, visit Sanwei Study first, then head back to Baicao Garden. Once the tour groups arrive after 8:00 AM, you won't be able to move in the narrow alleys. Shen Garden has Yue Opera performances at night. Tickets aren't expensive, but if you don't understand the dialect, you can just watch the subtitles. Lanting is outside the city; a taxi costs 30 yuan. ⏰ It's best to go after the rain, when the stone paths by Goose Pond glisten and water drips from the bamboo forest. Calligraphy enthusiasts could spend the whole afternoon here. Anchang Ancient Town is quieter than Wuzhen. 🍜 Sausages hang under the corridors—10 yuan a skewer, and braised duck legs are 20. ⚠️ Don't go on weekends; parking spots are a free-for-all. 6️⃣ Yuncheng | Shanxi I went to Yuncheng Salt Lake for the "China's Dead Sea" experience, but the biggest surprise was the colors. ⏰ It's most vibrant in July and August. After 5:30 PM, the light is soft, and the pink and dark green layers look like an overturned palette. ⚠️ Don't go into the water barefoot; the salt crystals are sharp, so wear old flip-flops. It's windy by the lake, so hold onto your hat. Admission is charged by area; if you just want to take photos, the free outer area is enough. If you want to experience floating, go to the designated area—there's an extra charge for showers. 🍜 Back in the city, have some mutton hubu—shredded flatbread soaked in mutton soup. It's 15 yuan for a big bowl, served with a clove of garlic. 7️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou is in Hulin, a drive of over 2 hours from Jixi. 🚄 If you don't have a car, there are shuttle buses from Jixi Station, but they are infrequent, so check the schedule. Xingkai Lake is divided into the Big Lake and the Small Lake; the Big Lake is like the sea, and the Small Lake is like a wetland. ⏰ Go in July when the wildflowers on the lake ridge are in bloom; when the wind blows, the waves of grass all lean in one direction. ⚠️ The mosquitoes by the lake are man-eaters. Wear long sleeves and pants, use repellent, and don't try to be tough by wearing shorts. For lake fish, go to the restaurants by the Baileng River—the stewed yellow catfish is fresh. Don't buy grilled fish at the scenic area entrance; it's expensive and not fresh. 8️⃣ Jiangmen | Guangdong For Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone, I recommend driving yourself. 📍 Zili Village, Majianglong, and Li Garden are far apart, and waiting for the bus will test your patience. ⏰ Enter Zili Village after 4:00 PM when the rice fields have just been harvested or planted, and the shadows of the watchtowers stretch long. ⚠️ The stairs to the upper floors are steep; wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. Li Garden is worth a longer stop; the gray sculptures and stained-glass windows are full of intricate details. The watchtowers in the bamboo forest at Majianglong are the most photogenic, but the mosquitoes are just as fierce. 🍜 Head back to Kaiping city for claypot rice—a small portion of eel rice is 30 yuan, with crispy, charred rice at the bottom. Don't eat in the scenic area; there are fewer choices and it's expensive. Of these eight cities, Wuhan, Shaoxing, and Chenzhou are the ones I most want to visit again. How many have you been to? Let me know in the comments—if you've been to more than three, I'm impressed.

If you want to avoid the crowds with your kids during National Day, these 8 destinations are stress-free. Pick 2–3 and take your time. 1️⃣ Jiangmen | Guangdong | Kaiping Diaolou Arrive at Zili Village before 8:30 AM for quiet, photogenic views of the rice paddies and watchtowers. Taking a taxi or driving is recommended for Zili Village and Li Garden. The beef brisket noodles in Tangkou Town offer great value. The stairs in the watchtowers are steep, so strollers are not convenient. Buy attraction tickets online in advance. 2️⃣ Yongzhou | Hunan | Shanggantang Ancient Village Enter the village after 4:00 PM for a great atmosphere on the stone-paved paths in the warm light. Kids can throw stones and play in the water at the Xie-Mu River. It's not very commercialized, so bring your own water and snacks. The stone paths are uneven, so have your kids wear non-slip shoes. 3️⃣ Lishui | Zhejiang | Yunhe Rice Terraces, Jinyun Xiandu, Qingtian Shimen Cave Plan for a maximum of 2 spots per day. Arrive at Jiuqu Yunhuan before 9:00 AM to see the morning mist over the terraces. You can wade in the water at Dinghu Peak in Xiandu, so bring a change of clothes. The freshly baked Jinyun sesame cakes sold on the roadside are delicious. Shimen Cave has many steps, so skip it if you have bad knees. Driving is recommended. 4️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang | Hutou, Xingkai Lake Enjoy the colorful autumn foliage during National Day. Hutou Fortress is great for older kids to learn about history, but it's chilly inside, so bring a jacket. Spend the evening at Xingkai Lake, digging in the sand on the beach and watching the orange sunset. Confirm prices and portion sizes before ordering fish. Staying overnight by the lake is recommended. 5️⃣ Hezhou | Guangxi | Gupo Mountain, Huangyao Ancient Town, Dongtan Ridge Split the itinerary into 2 days. Spend the morning visiting the waterfalls at Gupo Mountain. In the afternoon, head to Huangyao; the alleys around Dailong Bridge are quiet. Try the fermented bean curd noodles and stuffed tofu. Watching the sunrise at Dongtan Ridge requires traveling in the middle of the night, so families with small babies should think twice. 6️⃣ Wuhan | Hubei | Yellow Crane Tower, East Lake Greenway, Songyang Temple, Mulan Scenic Area Travel off-peak: Enter the Yellow Crane Tower as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM. Rent a family bike at Liyuan Square to tour East Lake. Songyang Temple has few tourists. Just pick one area to explore in the Mulan Scenic Area. East Lake is prone to traffic jams, so prioritize using the subway and shared bikes. 7️⃣ Nanchong | Sichuan | Langzhong Ancient City There is no general admission ticket; individual attractions require separate tickets. After 7:00 PM, see the lights at Zhongtian Tower and watch the boats on the Jialing River. Shop around before buying vinegar or beef. Stay at an inn within the ancient city to make it easier for kids to nap. 8️⃣ Zhenjiang | Jiangsu | Jinshan, Jiaoshan, Beigu Mountain, Jurong Maoshan Suitable for the latter half of the National Day holiday. Visit Jinshan Temple before 8:00 AM. You need to take a ferry to Jiaoshan, which kids usually enjoy. Explore Xijin Ferry in the evening. The pot-lid noodles at local shops are authentic. It's windy at the top of Maoshan, so bring a windbreaker. Summary: Pick 2 or 3 spots to connect for a relaxed, uncrowded National Day trip.

There are some places where, if you take her once, she'll appreciate it for a whole year. I'm not talking about the kind of places where you just snap a photo and leave; I mean the kind she'll look back at in her photo album and mention to her friends later. I've ranked these 8 spots based on my own judgment, and I'll be upfront about any potential pitfalls. 01 Jixi | Heilongjiang Let's start with Hutou. It's a small town on the banks of the Ussuri River. Once the river breeze hits you, you'll feel at peace. ⏰ I recommend arriving at 3:00 PM when the light hits the river at an angle, making every photo look great. 📍 There are many stairs around the Hutou Fortress ruins, so wear comfortable shoes. Xingkai Lake is the highlight. The lake is as vast as the sea with fine sand; you can swim there in the summer. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "dried lake seafood" near the lake; the prices are inflated. It's more practical to buy them back in the city. 🍜 You must try Jixi cold noodles—sweet and sour, served with spicy side dishes. One bowl will cool you right down. Best for: Couples who like peace and quiet and dislike crowds. If you're bringing elderly family members, the flat paths by the lake are easy to walk on. The best months are July through September; it's windy and cold at other times. 02 Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula is, in my opinion, the most underrated place in Qinghai. The Danxia landforms contrast sharply with the Yellow River water, creating a striking color palette. ⏰ Enter the scenic area before 10:00 AM while the mist is still lingering; it looks like an ink wash painting. 📍 Kanbula National Forest Park is easiest to visit by car, but the mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly. ⚠️ The altitude is around 2,500 meters, so don't run or jump; walk slowly. The ticket plus sightseeing bus costs around CNY 100+, subject to the official daily announcement. 🍜 Afterward, head to Tongren city for Tibetan food. Try tsampa with butter tea; you might not be used to it the first time, but it's warming. Best for: Couples and photography enthusiasts. It's most comfortable from June to September; it gets cold on the mountain after October. 03 Xuancheng | Anhui Zhaji Ancient Village is much quieter than Hongcun. It has stone paths, old ancestral halls, and streams flowing right past the doorsteps. ⏰ Get up at 6:30 AM to explore; there's no one around except for local aunties washing vegetables and cats. 📍 The "Erjia Ancestral Hall" and "Zoumalou" in Zhaji are worth entering; the wood carvings are incredibly detailed. ⚠️ Some old houses in the village charge an extra fee of CNY 5 or CNY 10 to enter, so ask before going in. Longchuan in Jixi is a separate day trip. The wood carvings at the Hu Family Ancestral Hall are national treasures, but it gets crowded. 🍜 There are vendors selling "taguo" (flatbread) at the entrance of Longchuan; get the preserved vegetable filling and eat it while it's hot. Best for: Couples who love ancient architecture and a slow pace. It's most beautiful in March when the rapeseed flowers are in bloom. 04 Chongqing Don't just treat the Dazu Rock Carvings as a tourist attraction. ⏰ The light is good after 2:00 PM, and the wall with the Thousand-Hand Guanyin will glow. 📍 Enter from the Baodingshan entrance and follow the sequence; don't go against the flow. Jinyun Mountain is good for the second day. The bamboo forests on the mountain are dense, and it's 5–6 degrees cooler than the city in summer. ⚠️ The cable car queue is long on weekends, so I recommend arriving before 8:00 AM. Choose between Wulong Karst and the Yangtze River Three Gorges. Wulong is for seeing the Three Natural Bridges—it's stunning but tiring on the legs. The Three Gorges boat trip is slow and suitable for elderly travelers. 🍜 Eat "xiaomian" (small noodles) in downtown Chongqing; get a 2-liang portion with an egg, and don't add too much spice. Best for: Couples with good stamina. Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons. 05 Xiangyang | Hubei Ancient Longzhong is where Zhuge Liang used to farm. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM before the tour groups arrive; it's quiet enough to hear the birds chirping. 📍 The Sangu Hall and Caolu Pavilion are the core spots, so don't miss them. ⚠️ Don't engage with the "fortune tellers" in the scenic area. The ticket costs around CNY 80, subject to the official daily announcement. 🍜 Afterward, go to Xiangcheng North Street for beef noodles—thick red chili oil served with yellow wine, which is how the locals eat it. Best for: Couples who love Three Kingdoms stories. It's most comfortable from March to May; it's too hot in the summer. 06 Liuzhou | Guangxi Chengyang Eight Villages is a Dong ethnic village with one Wind and Rain Bridge after another. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, smoke rises from the village chimneys, making for incredible photos. 📍 The Drum Tower in Ma'an Village is the central point; walk from there toward the river. Longtan Park is in the city, free of charge, and features small karst hills and a lake. ⚠️ Don't go on weekend afternoons; it's crowded with locals walking their kids and can be noisy. The Liujiang River night cruise is a plus. 🍜 For Liuzhou river snail rice noodles, look for places in the alleys with lines; don't go to the "internet-famous" shops. Best for: Couples who love to eat and explore. It's good all year round, but autumn is best. 07 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Go to Shicheng in the autumn. ⏰ In mid-to-late November, the maple leaves turn red, and the Tongtianzhai area looks like an overturned palette. 📍 Drive from Shicheng County toward Qinjiang Town; the scenery along the way is beautiful. Sanbai Mountain is for another day. It's the source of the Dongjiang River, and the water is crystal clear. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference on the mountain, so bring a jacket. The ticket plus cable car costs over CNY 100, subject to the official daily announcement. 🍜 Don't miss the Ganzhou stir-fried fish and Hakka stuffed tofu. Best for: Couples who love nature and hiking. October to November is the best time. 08 Baiyin | Gansu Finally, the Yellow River Stone Forest. ⏰ Enter the valley after 4:00 PM when the light stretches out and the rocks look like castles. 📍 Take a donkey cart from Longwan Village into the valley; it's less tiring than walking, but agree on the price before getting on. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes; it's very dusty. Wear a hat when it's windy. 🍜 Back in Baiyin city, eat "suanlanrou" (sour stewed meat) with rice to relieve fatigue. Best for: Couples who like rugged scenery. Go between May and October; it's too cold in winter. This place is less crowded, so you don't have to fight for photo spots. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Jixi and Kanbula—one is peaceful, and the other is stunning. Which one have you taken your wife to? Let's chat in the comments.

This northern border city hides a gentle side. With vast lakes and rivers, clear mountains, and a vibrant local atmosphere, the niche and healing city of Jixi holds the cleanest scenery and most authentic local vibes in Northeast China🌿! 📍Must-visit attractions 1. Xingkai Lake Scenic Area🌊 Asia's largest freshwater border lake, known as the "Oriental Hawaii." The endless blue water is crystal clear, and the sandy beaches are soft and fine—the atmosphere is absolutely perfect! · Highlights: Stroll along the beach to see the water and sky merge, take photos at the Xingkai Lake monument, and wait for the stunning sunset. If you're lucky, you might see flocks of water birds flying by · Special experience: Taste the authentic Xingkai Lake big whitefish. The meat is tender and free of any fishy taste—a unique, fresh delicacy from the cold-water lake🐟 · Tips: The scenic area is open and windy, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and wind. The atmosphere is best for photos in the evening 2. Hutou Tourist Scenic Area🇨🇳 A national 5A-rated scenic area that blends border scenery with revolutionary history. It's rich in heritage and a must-visit cultural landmark in Jixi! · Hutou Fortress Museum: Solemn and filled with detailed historical records. An immersive journey back in time to experience the profound revolutionary history. Free entry with your ID card📜 · First Tower of the Wusuli River: Climb to the top for a bird's-eye view of the winding Wusuli River and a distant look at the China-Russia border scenery. The view is spectacular · Educated Youth Era District: Full of retro vibes, this area recreates the real-life scenes of the Great Northern Wilderness reclamation. Perfect for photos and immersing yourself in the era of the educated youth 3. Yulianggou Tourist Resort🏞️ · East District (Lively & Leisurely): Features an open-air stage, popular slides, and specialty shops. During holidays, there are folk performances and a vibrant local atmosphere · West District (Quiet & Healing): Mountain trails, camping bases, and picking gardens. Perfect for hiking, getting some fresh air, and relaxing in the mountains · The mountaintop offers a view of the entire Jixi city area. The sunset and evening glow are stunning, making it easy to capture healing photos of the mountains and wilderness 4. Jixi Museum🏛️ A must-visit free museum to quickly understand Jixi's thousand-year history! The first floor displays ancient artifacts and historical materials, unlocking the ancient civilization of the frontier. The second floor records the city's modern development and reclamation stories, and you can also learn about the fishing and hunting folk culture of the Hezhen ethnic group. You'll leave with a wealth of knowledge✨ 5. Beidahuang Calligraphy Gallery✍️ A cultural hidden gem nestled in the mountains and forests. Built along the mountain, it gathers stone carvings of calligraphy from many famous masters. With lush trees and a quiet environment, it's a great place to appreciate the art of calligraphy while taking a forest walk to refresh your lungs. A niche, quiet, and beautiful spot with few crowds 6. Azalea Garden🌸 A French-style garden full of atmosphere. In spring and summer, it's filled with blooming flowers and lush greenery; in autumn and winter, it's quiet and beautiful. With various sculptures and flower-lined paths, it's perfect for photos, leisure, and relaxing walks 7. Jixi Zoo and Botanical Garden🐒 A long-established local leisure spot with dense vegetation and fresh air. There are various small animals to see, as well as leisure trails and open lawns. Suitable for family trips, short getaways, and relaxing hikes 👗Outfit & photo guide 1. Outfit suggestions · Spring/Summer: Light-colored dresses or casual workwear styles. Fresh and versatile, perfect for photos by the lake or in flower fields · Autumn/Winter: Dark coats or down jackets paired with scarves and hats. Suitable for snowy scenery and mountain forest vibes · Essentials: It's windy by the lake and in the mountains, so bring a windproof jacket regardless of the season, and be sure to protect yourself from the sun and keep warm 2. Photo spots · Xingkai Lake: Lakeside boardwalk, beach, and sunset spots. The water and sky merging make for great photos · Yulianggou: Mountaintop view of the city, mountain trails, and popular slides · Hutou Scenic Area: Wusuli River bank, museum exterior, and retro spots in the Educated Youth District · Azalea Garden: Flower fields, French sculptures, and tree-lined paths ⚠️Travel tips 1. Do not trust low-price tour guides on the side of the road at Xingkai Lake Scenic Area. Buy tickets through official channels to avoid hidden costs 2. There is a large temperature difference between day and night by the lake. Even if traveling in summer, it is recommended to bring a light jacket 3. When eating lake seafood, prioritize official restaurants for freshness, authenticity, and better value 4. Surrounding scenic spots are far apart, so plan your travel time in advance to avoid rushing 5. Respect border control regulations. Do not approach restricted border areas, and be a responsible traveler Avoid the crowds and head out on this border city journey. See the vast blue waves of Xingkai Lake, enjoy the flowing waters of the Wusuli River, taste authentic Korean ethnic flavors, and unlock the niche, healing romance of Northeast China!

Tickets for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day are already selling fast. Instead of fixating on those popular spots where you can barely move, why not spread out your budget and check out these 8 destinations? I've screened them based on "low cost, high value, and stress-free" criteria. Below is the honest truth from someone who's been there. 01 Longyan | Fujian Tulou: I suggest going early. ⏰ Arrive at Hongkeng Village in Yongding before 7:30 AM, before the tour groups arrive, and you'll have the entire Zhencheng Building to yourself. Book your admission tickets through official channels in advance. Check the daily announcements for details. Changting: The ancient town is best for an evening stroll. 📍 Walk from Diantou Street to the ancient city wall—it's atmospheric once the lanterns light up. Stay in the riverside area of Changting County; it's cheaper and quieter than staying inside the Tulou. Guanzhai Mountain: Don't try to hike the whole thing. Take the cable car up and down to save your legs; it's accessible for seniors and children. ⚠️ Supplies on the mountain are limited, so bring enough water. 🚄 The high-speed train from Longyan Station to Changting is fast. Don't take a taxi; it's a waste of money. 02 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas: The period around the Mid-Autumn Festival is when the leaves change color. ⏰ The half-hour at dawn when the mist rises over Shenxian Bay is the most rewarding; the light fades a minute later. Staying in Jiadengyu is cheaper than staying inside the scenic area, though the trade-off is taking an extra shuttle bus each day. Koktokay: I actually recommend this more. It's less crowded, and walking through the stone forest by the Irtysh River is very peaceful. Don't just take photos of the Altay grasslands from the car. 📍 Find a herdsman's home and have a bowl of milk tea; it's more interesting than just hitting the tourist spots. Weather: It might snow in Northern Xinjiang in September. ⚠️ Bring a windbreaker and warm layers; don't gamble on the weather. 🚄 Transfer or take a train to Altay via Urumqi; booking in advance can save you a chunk of money. 03 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan: I suggest setting aside a whole morning for the Beichuan Qiang City Tourism Area. It's large, and a quick look-around isn't worth the trip. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and hear the guide clearly. This isn't the kind of scenic spot where you just take photos and leave; it's more about walking around quietly and observing. 🍜 Afterward, find a small Qiang-style restaurant and have a bowl of buckwheat noodles; it's half the price of what you'd pay inside the scenic area. Stay in downtown Mianyang; public transport and taxis are convenient, and you can enjoy the river breeze by the Yuewang Tower that evening. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls have fixed closing days. Check the official announcements before you leave so you don't have a wasted trip. 04 Suzhou | Jiangsu Gardens: Don't be greedy with the Suzhou gardens; picking either the Humble Administrator's Garden or the Lingering Garden is enough. ⏰ Enter the Humble Administrator's Garden within the first hour of opening; it's quiet enough to hear the water. You can visit Tiger Hill and Hanshan Temple on the same day as they are on the way. Hanshan Temple: You need to catch the morning session to really experience the sound of the bells; it's just crowded during the day. 📍 Walk west from Shantang Street to Duseng Bridge; it's less crowded and the river views are more authentic. If you want to see the original style of the Jiangnan water towns, avoid Pingjiang Road's alleys at noon. 🍜 A bowl of first soup noodles for breakfast is a safer bet than any viral restaurant. ⚠️ You must book the gardens in advance during peak season; there's a high chance there won't be tickets available on the day. 05 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Matryoshka Scenic Area: It looks better at night than during the day. ⏰ Once the lights come on after sunset, the whole square looks like a fairy tale, but it's also the most crowded. If you want to take photos without people, come after 8:30 PM. Stay near Zhongsu Street in the city center; it's just a short walk to the Russian-style architecture complex, which is more cost-effective than staying at the entrance of the scenic area. 🍜 You can try Russian borscht and rye bread, but don't eat inside the scenic area—it's expensive and mediocre. ⚠️ The attractions inside the Matryoshka Scenic Area charge separately. Check carefully before you go in so you don't end up buying a package ticket by mistake. 🚄 The train from Hailar to Manzhouli is convenient, and the grassland scenery along the way is worth seeing. 06 Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake: I recommend saving this for dusk. ⏰ The reflection on the lake is softest in the evening, and the wind is calmer. There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so ⚠️ definitely bring mosquito repellent—don't ask me how I know. Hutou: This area is best visited in the morning. Walk along the river; it's quiet and not crowded. 🍜 Have some lake fish for lunch. Find a restaurant with lots of locals, and don't pick the one with the flashiest decor. Stay in downtown Jixi; you can make round trips to Xingkai Lake and Hutou on the same day, saving you from moving your luggage back and forth. 🚄 Taking a taxi from Jixi Station to the bus station to transfer is much cheaper than chartering a car. 07 Panjin | Liaoning Red Beach: Come to the Red Beach Scenic Corridor specifically for autumn. ⏰ It's reddest from late September to early October; it's green if you're too early, and it fades if you're too late. The corridor is very long, so don't expect to walk the whole thing—pick a section and take the sightseeing bus. Stay in downtown Panjin; go to the Red Beach in the morning and return to the city in the afternoon to eat river crabs, as it's the right season. 🍜 River crabs are sold by weight. Ask for the price before you order, and ⚠️ don't just pick a stall at the entrance of the scenic area. It's windy in the wetlands, so bring a jacket. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Panjin Station directly to the scenic area, which is more cost-effective than taking a taxi yourself. 08 Ankang | Shaanxi Qianceng River: Best visited after rain. ⏰ The water volume is sufficient, and the waterfalls are more impressive; they are rather dull on sunny days. The road is a bit slippery, so ⚠️ wear non-slip shoes and seniors should walk slowly. Fengyan Ancient Terraces: Choose a misty morning. 📍 Standing on the viewing platform and looking down, the terraces spread out layer by layer like a painting. If the season isn't right, it's just an ordinary hillside, so don't overhype it. Stay in downtown Ankang; you can make round trips to both spots on the same day. 🍜 Come back and have a bowl of steamed noodles with pickled vegetables; it's cheap and filling. 🚄 Transfer to a shuttle bus at Ankang Station to get into the scenic area; driving yourself is more flexible. Averaged out, the cost per person for these 8 places isn't high. The key is not to rush. Picking 2 or 3 places to stay and explore slowly is much more comfortable than trying to tick them all off at once. Which one do you want to visit first? Let me know in the comments.

Don't want to fight the crowds this National Day? These 8 affordable small cities are amazing 01 Liuzhou | Guangxi Liuzhou during National Day has fewer people than you'd think, and prices are more stable than expected. I treat it as a "budget-friendly Guilin" alternative; the scenery is just as good, and the rice noodles are laughably cheap. ⏰ Go to Longtan Park at 7:00 AM. It's where locals exercise in the morning. The wind and rain bridge and karst mountains reflect on the lake, so you don't have to fight for a photo spot. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and walk along the lake trail for about an hour. The slope is gentle, making it easy even for seniors. At noon, head into Qingyun Market. 🍜 A bowl of snail rice noodles with duck feet is less than CNY 15, which is a better deal than the viral shops. In the afternoon, go to Chengyang Eight Villages. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from the city. The Drum Tower and Wind and Rain Bridge are worth seeing, but ⚠️ some "folk performances" in the village charge extra fees, so ask before you pay. In the evening, return to the Liujiang River. ⏰ After the lights turn on at 7:30 PM, take a walk along the river and watch the musical fountain for free. For accommodation, choose the Chengzhong District; it's within walking distance to both the river and the market. You can get a standard room for just over CNY 200 during National Day. 02 Yangjiang | Guangdong Dajiao Bay on Hailing Island isn't exactly off the beaten path during National Day, but it's significantly cheaper than Sanya or Xiamen. My verdict: If you want to swim without getting ripped off, this is the place. ⏰ Enter the Dajiao Bay Maritime Silk Road Tourist Area after 4:00 PM. The sun isn't as harsh, the sand is fine, and the waves are steady. 📍 The left side after entering the main gate is less crowded, perfect for laying out a mat and relaxing. 🍜 Don't eat seafood on the street right outside the scenic area. Walk toward Zhapu Market, pick your own, and find a nearby shop to cook it for you. The processing fee for a pound of shrimp is about CNY 10. ⚠️ Hotel prices double during National Day, so I recommend staying in Zhapu Town rather than right on the beach. The price difference is enough to pay for two meals. Great for families with kids and couples. There's room to negotiate prices for water activities. The water temperature is still okay in October, but it's windy in the morning and evening, so bring a light jacket. 03 Hengshui | Hebei Hengshui Lake is a hidden gem I discovered this year. If you go during National Day, it's so quiet you can hear the reeds rustling, and the costs are so low you'll wonder if you're in the wrong city. ⏰ Arrive at Hengshui Lake before 9:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and there are many water birds in the reed marshes. It's even better if you bring binoculars. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and take a boat tour of the lake for about an hour. Buy tickets on-site; don't trust the "package deals" from people soliciting on the roadside. 🍜 At noon, go to a farmhouse near the lake. A pot of stewed fish with corn cakes costs around CNY 60 and is enough for two or three people. ⚠️ Some areas of the lake are under ecological protection. Don't climb over the railings into the reed beds, or you'll be asked to leave. Suitable for family nature lessons and photography enthusiasts. The reed catkins are just turning white in October, looking like snow when the wind blows. Staying in the city is fine; it's about a 20-minute taxi ride away, and hotel prices generally don't spike during National Day. 04 Bortala | Xinjiang Don't just think of the massive crowds at Kanas when you think of Xinjiang. Sayram Lake in Bortala is already chilly by National Day, but that's exactly why the lakeside is incredibly quiet. ⏰ Enter Sayram Lake after 10:00 AM. The light hitting the lake creates a cold blue hue. Driving along the lake road is the most comfortable way to see it. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and drive clockwise. The south shore is less crowded, so you can stop and take photos wherever you like. Visit Anjihai Grand Canyon on the way. ⚠️ There are no railings on the cliff edge, so don't get too close just for a photo. Wenquan County is a good place to stay for a night. 🍜 Have Kazakh milk tea and baursak in the county town for breakfast; CNY 10 will fill you up. Suitable for road trippers and couples wanting to avoid crowds. It's windy by the lake in October, so don't skimp on the down jacket. Choose accommodation in Wenquan County town; it's cheaper and warmer than the yurts by the lake. 05 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi sounds cold, but it's perfect for a National Day trip. Autumn at Xingkai Lake has more character than summer, and the best part is that there are very few people. ⏰ Arrive at Xingkai Lake at 2:00 PM. The lake is as vast as the sea, and while it's windy, it's sunny. 📍 There's an observation deck near the Dangbi Town port where you can view the lake for free. There are also relics related to the end of WWII near Hutou, which history buffs will enjoy. 🍜 For lake fish, go to a local restaurant. A large pot of stewed silver carp costs CNY 40–50. ⚠️ Some lakeside stalls close early after National Day, so food options become limited after 4:00 PM. Ask in advance. Suitable for solo travelers who enjoy quiet and border scenery. Temperatures are near freezing in the morning and evening in October, so bring a down jacket and a hat. Stay in Jixi city; it's about a 1.5-hour drive to Xingkai Lake. 06 Fuyang | Anhui Fuyang Balihe, the name sounds plain, but once you go, you'll find it's "underrated and authentic." Tickets aren't expensive during National Day, the park is huge, and once the crowds disperse, you won't feel crowded at all. ⏰ Enter as soon as the park opens at 8:30 AM. Take the sightseeing car to the very back first, then work your way back to save energy. 📍 The Twelve Flower Islands and Bird Language Forest are great for kids. Feeding animals costs extra, so ⚠️ check the price list before buying feed. 🍜 Leave the park at noon and head to Fuyang city center. Gelatiao noodles with egg soup is a solid meal for CNY 10. Suitable for budget-conscious family trips. The weather in October is just right—not too hot or cold. Stay in Yingzhou District; it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to Balihe. Total expenses for a family of three can be kept under CNY 300 a day. 07 Haixi | Qinghai The Haixi route has its last window during National Day. Any later and the salt lakes will be too cold to step into. Go now; there are half as many people as in the summer, and prices have dropped. ⏰ Go to Qarhan Salt Lake in the morning when the light is flat and you can see the salt flowers clearly. 📍 Emerald Lake is most vibrant after 3:00 PM, but ⚠️ don't step on the edges of the salt crust, as it's easy to sink. I recommend entering Chaka Salt Lake in the evening; it's less crowded and you can capture reflections. Just view the Kunlun Mountains from a distance; no need to go deep. 🍜 Choose Golmud for food and accommodation along the way. The hand-grabbed mutton and "kangguo" (pan-stewed) meat are authentic, and accommodation is half the price of the scenic areas. Suitable for experienced road trippers and photography enthusiasts. The temperature difference between day and night in October is 20 degrees, so bring a shell jacket and fleece. The altitude is around 3,000 meters, so don't run or jump; walk slowly. 08 Shanghai Shanghai is crowded during National Day? That's because you didn't pick the right places. The Expo Park, Guangfulin, and the outskirts of Yu Garden can still offer a relaxing, low-cost experience. ⏰ Go to the Guangfulin Relics Park at 9:00 AM. The area around the underwater museum is less crowded, the architecture is beautiful, and the tickets aren't expensive. 📍 Enter from the Zhuque Gate, see the ruins first, then browse the market—it's on the way. Don't rush to Yu Garden at noon. ⏰ After the lights come on at 5:00 PM, just walk around the outside of the Nine-Turn Bridge. ⚠️ The lines for xiaolongbao inside are ridiculously long; it's better to eat at the old street nearby. If you must go to the Disney Resort, choose a weekday. National Day ticket prices are high and the lines are long, so I advise against it. Suitable for office workers who don't want to travel far but still want a holiday feel. Stay along the subway lines and use public transport. You can get by on CNY 200 a day for food, drinks, and tickets. Of these eight places, I most recommend Liuzhou and Bortala—one for great food, the other for vast views. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let's chat in the comments.

The biggest fear when traveling with kids during the National Day holiday is dealing with crowds and coming home having learned nothing. I've done some digging and picked 8 off-the-beaten-path but worthwhile places. They're less crowded, giving kids room to run around and parents a chance to catch their breath. 01 Nanyang | Henan The Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling area is what I call a "dinosaur lover's paradise." ⏰ Start the morning at the Dinosaur Relics Park. The egg fossils are displayed in situ, and kids can squat there for half an hour without moving. Don't rush off; the simulated excavation area in the park lets them dig for themselves, which is much better than just looking through glass. In the afternoon, head to Laojieling. It's at a high altitude, and the leaves start changing color in early October. 📍 Take the cable car up the mountain and walk the suspended plank road. With clouds beneath your feet, your kids will shout, "I'm flying!" ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so pack a light down jacket—don't worry about the extra weight. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Nanyang East Station; renting a car is recommended. The wild vegetables and free-range chicken at the local farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are worth a meal, costing about 50–60 per person. Suitable for children aged 4 or 5 and up who can handle some walking. 02 Xiangxi | Hunan I recommend leaving for Fenghuang Ancient Town before 7:00 AM. ⏰ At that time, the Tuojiang River is misty and the reflections of the stilt houses are perfect. After taking photos, grab a bowl of rice noodles to avoid the tour groups. 📍 Walking along the river from the North Gate Pier to the Jumping Rocks offers the best view of the ancient town. Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai can be visited on the same day. Seeing the Aizhai Bridge from underneath is more impressive than seeing it from above, and your kids will ask, "How did they hang this bridge up there?" The water volume of the Liusha Waterfall in Dehang depends on the season; it's most spectacular after rain. Shibadong Village is suitable for older children, as you can talk about "how the road was built." 🍜 Xiangxi's sour fish and cured meat are quite salty and spicy, so order steamed eggs and bean jelly for the kids. ⚠️ Ignore the people in the ancient town trying to solicit photo shoots; your own phone is enough. 03 Yuxi | Yunnan The water in Fuxian Lake is incredibly clear—you can see the bottom near the shore. ⏰ Head to the lakeside after 4:00 PM when the light is soft and it's not too sunny. 📍 You can wade in the water at the Luchong Scenic Area; bring a pair of clogs, as the stones can be sharp. The Ailao Mountain area offers a different kind of experience. It's misty in the mountains, with terraced fields and primeval forests side by side, offering new scenery every step of the way. ⚠️ Cell signal is weak in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance and don't take the kids too deep into the woods. 🍜 Have a bowl of eel rice noodles in Yuxi city before heading up the mountain, and enjoy fresh copper-pot fish by the lake. Suitable for families who love nature and prefer a relaxed pace. A two-day, one-night trip is perfect—don't overpack your itinerary. 04 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Huguangyan is a volcanic crater lake, a fact your kids will remember for a long time. ⏰ Enter at 8:00 AM; walking around the lake takes about an hour and is nice and cool. 📍 Squat down and read the signs about the volcanic geological relics by the lake to your kids—it's more vivid than a textbook. This is a great spot to combine with a trip to Zhanjiang city. Head back to the city at noon for white-cut chicken and seafood porridge, then go to Jinshawan Beach in the afternoon to play in the sand. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Zhanjiang West Station to Huguangyan. ⚠️ There's little shade by the lake, so don't skimp on hats and sunscreen. The overall pace is slow, making it suitable for groups with seniors and children; if you get tired of walking, just take the sightseeing cart. 05 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake offer a side of Northeast China you won't find in textbooks. ⏰ Go to Xingkai Lake in the early morning; the lake surface is as flat as a mirror, and during migratory bird season, you can see flocks flying overhead. 📍 Walk east from the lakeside viewing platform—it's less crowded and perfect for kids to run around. The Hutou section features border river scenery, and you can see the opposite bank from the riverfront. Explain to your kids that this is a national border and they shouldn't wander off—it's a great opportunity for safety education. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles and spicy dishes are local specialties, but they might be too spicy for kids, so order a bowl of clear noodle soup. ⚠️ It's already cold here during the National Day holiday, so long johns and thick coats are a must. 🚄 You'll need to charter a car or drive from Jixi West Station. Suitable for families who want to avoid crowds and see something different. 06 Fuyang | Anhui Many people pass through Fuyang without knowing about Balihe. ⏰ Go in the morning; the park is large, so take a sightseeing cart for a loop before choosing which areas to focus on. 📍 The Lake Center Island and the Twelve Flower Islands area are connected by bridges, making it feel like a maze for kids to run through. It offers great value, with affordable admission and reasonable prices inside. 🍜 Have Fuyang "gelatiao" (noodles) and "juanmo" (rolled pancakes) for lunch—they're filling. ⚠️ Don't buy the package tickets at the entrance; it's more cost-effective to pay for what you want once inside. Suitable for families on a budget who want a relaxing outing with kids. Half a day to a full day is fine, and it's not tiring. Parking will be tight during the National Day holiday, so arrive early. 07 Baoji | Shaanxi This route in Baoji is very packed, so I suggest splitting it into two days. Spend one day at Taibai Mountain and one day at Famen Temple and Guanshan Grassland. ⏰ Enter Taibai Mountain in the morning and take the scenic shuttle to the cable car station; seeing the sea of clouds from the summit depends on luck. Famen Temple is best explored quietly; kids might not understand the Buddhist culture, but the architecture and the underground palace are fascinating. You can go horseback riding at Guanshan Grassland, which kids will love. The meadows in the "frozen mountain wind" area look their best in autumn. 🍜 You must try Baoji "ganmianpi" (steamed cold noodles) and "saozi" noodles; if your kids can handle mild spice, order some for them. ⚠️ Taibai Mountain is at a high altitude, so don't let the kids run or jump too much—walk slowly. Suitable for families with good stamina. 08 Shizuishan | Ningxia Shahu (Sand Lake) is the most "contrasting" destination on this list. The lake is right next to the desert, so you can wade in the water and climb sand dunes at the same time. ⏰ Go in the afternoon to avoid the midday sun; the sand dunes look beautifully golden in the evening. 📍 Take a boat into the lake area, then switch to a camel or off-road vehicle to enter the desert area. Your kids will ask "how can there be a lake in the desert?" the whole way. 🍜 Food in the scenic area is a bit pricey, so bring your own snacks and water. ⚠️ It's windy in the desert area, so bring scarves and sunglasses; shoe covers are optional. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from Yinchuan. Suitable for families who want to show their kids different landscapes; a one-day round trip is enough. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Nanyang and Yuxi—one is great for learning, and the other is great for playing. Where are you planning to take your kids for the National Day holiday? Let's chat in the comments, and I can help you see if it's on the way.

Some cities are just strange; you don't have high expectations, but you can't stop thinking about them after you return. I'll go through these 8 places one by one, and you can pick where to go. 01 Shanghai In Shanghai, I recommend you don't just focus on the Bund. The Expo Park area has been renovated nicely. The riverside walkway is perfect for an evening stroll. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the light softens, making it easier to photograph the Lupu Bridge without the glare. Go to Yu Garden early; before 9:00 AM, the Nine-Turn Bridge isn't packed with crowds. 🍜 If the line for Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant is over 20 minutes, I suggest you try another place—the small shops in the alley next door are just as good. Guangfulin Relics Park is great for those interested in history; the underwater museum section is worth seeing. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Regarding the Disney Resort, I'll be blunt: go if you're bringing kids. If you're not bringing kids and hate lines, pick a weekday. 🚄 Take Metro Line 11 directly there. Staying in Chuansha saves more time than staying in the city center. 02 Changchun | Jilin Changchun is a severely underrated city. I suggest setting aside 3 hours for the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's less crowded, and rent an audio guide, otherwise you're just looking at empty rooms. Changchun World Sculpture Park is perfect for a leisurely walk. The sculptures are scattered across the grass, making it easy for seniors to walk around. Changchun Movie Wonderland is geared toward families with kids; the attractions are more amusement-focused, so adults going alone might feel it's not worth it. I prefer Jingyuetan. Go in the autumn. 🍜 Buy some snacks at the entrance to bring inside, as there aren't many food options there. 🚄 Take Light Rail Line 3 to Jingyuetan Park Station. You'll still have to walk a bit after exiting, so wear comfortable shoes. 03 Guilin | Guangxi I don't need to praise Guilin much, but there's a trick to how you visit. Don't choose noon for a bamboo raft ride on the Li River. ⏰ The 8:00 AM ride still has mist, making the mountains look like they're floating on water. Xingping Ancient Town is worth visiting just for the photo spot featured on the 20-yuan note. 📍 It's a 20-minute hike up from the foot of Laozhai Mountain. The path is steep, so wear non-slip shoes. Reed Flute Cave is a karst cave with colorful lighting. ⚠️ It's slippery inside, so don't wear white shoes. The Longji Rice Terraces depend on the season: flooded in May, golden in September. You'll be disappointed if you go at other times. 🍜 Just try the bamboo rice on the terraces for the novelty; don't count on it as a full meal. 04 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia I want to highlight the Hashhatu Stone Forest Tourist Area in Chifeng. It's far, but worth it. The wind has carved the rocks into various shapes. ⏰ Go in the evening; the slanted light highlights the edges of the rocks, making it 10 times better than at noon. Driving yourself is most convenient. 📍 The road conditions from Chifeng city center are okay, but the last stretch is a dirt road, so drive slowly if your car has low ground clearance. ⚠️ There's no shade in the scenic area. Bring enough water in the summer, and it's windy, so your hat might blow away. It's suitable for those who love geology and photography. Keep an eye on kids, as their feet can easily get stuck in the rock crevices. In autumn, the yellow grass against the gray rocks creates a very sophisticated color palette. 05 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is the kind of place you only truly appreciate once you've been there. Xingkai Lake is as big as the sea. ⏰ Go in July; it's cool by the lake, several degrees lower than in the city. The Hutou area has rivers and wetlands; a leisurely half-day stroll is enough. 🍜 Try the stewed lake fish. Look for a farmhouse restaurant by the lake; don't eat at the first one near the entrance—the ones a bit further in have more honest prices. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Jixi city center to Xingkai Lake, but they are infrequent. Driving is more flexible. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so bring insect repellent. It's great for escaping the heat and suitable for seniors and children as the paths are flat. Going in winter is a different story—it's brutally cold. 06 Taizhou | Jiangsu In Taizhou, I recommend Qin Lake. It's a wetland park where you take a boat inside. ⏰ Spring is the best time to go, when the rapeseed flowers and reeds grow together, and the water is so quiet you can hear the oars. Kids will love the elk area. 📍 Qin Lake is in Jiangyan, about a 40-minute taxi ride from Taizhou Station. 🍜 The "Eight Delicacies of Qin Lake" is the signature dish, but don't order too much—the portions are generous, and 3 dishes are enough for 2 people. ⚠️ The scenic area is large and takes half a day to explore, so wear comfortable shoes. It's suitable for people who prefer a slow pace, not for those rushing through an itinerary. It's also beautiful in autumn when the reeds turn white, and there are fewer people than in spring. 07 Zhoukou | Henan This stop in Zhoukou is more about culture. Go to the Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum Cultural Tourist Area in the morning. ⏰ It's filled with the scent of incense, the architectural layout is worth seeing, and those interested in ancient legends will find it rewarding. Taiqing Palace is related to Laozi; it's quiet and perfect for a slow walk. 📍 The two spots are in different directions, so it's a bit rushed to do both in one day. I suggest splitting them up. 🚄 Get off at Zhoukou East Station; it's not far to the city center by taxi. 🍜 Drink the local spicy soup (hulatang) in the morning with fried dough sticks (youtiao); don't add too many extra toppings. ⚠️ Don't speak loudly in the mausoleum area; respect local customs. It's suitable for bringing elders, but young people might find it a bit dull on their own. 08 Kunming | Yunnan I'm putting Kunming last because it's the kind of city you can never go wrong with. Feeding seagulls by Dianchi Lake: ⏰ It's only lively in winter, from November to February of the following year, when the black-headed gulls arrive. In other seasons, you're just looking at water. Daguan Park is perfect for the evening; the building with the long couplet is worth climbing. Dongchuan Red Land is a bit of a trek. 📍 It's about 3 hours from Kunming city center. The colors are most vibrant after the rain. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so take motion sickness medicine in advance if you get carsick. Kunming Expo Garden is more for leisure now; it's just right for a half-day trip with kids. 🍜 Find an old, established shop for Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles; don't eat in the scenic areas. Kunming is a great first or last stop in Yunnan; the altitude isn't high, so you don't need to worry too much. Of these 8 places, I most want you to visit Chifeng and Jixi first—they are less crowded and the scenery is authentic. Which one have you been to? Let me know in the comments.

When traveling around National Day, the worst thing isn't the distance, but the crowds. I've filtered these 8 places based on "ideal scenery, not too crowded," so just pick the ones that appeal to you. 1️⃣ Zunyi|Guizhou Chishui Danxia Scenic Area: The water volume is just right in September and October, the waterfalls aren't muddy, and the red rocks are even more vibrant after the rain. ⏰ Arrive at Foguangyan before 10 AM, before the backlight comes on, and the rock formations are most clearly visible. 📍 From Chishui city, take the transfer from the visitor center. Park your car on the outskirts; don't drive into the valley. The attractions in Chishui are scattered, so I recommend following the route "Foguangyan—Yanziyan—Sidonggou" to avoid backtracking. ⚠️ The boardwalk is slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes; don't test yourself in white shoes. If you're with elderly people, take the sightseeing bus to the core section. Hiking enthusiasts can hike the entire route, which takes about four hours round trip. During peak season, the sightseeing bus queues are long, so try to be among the first to enter the park. 🍜 Chishui tofu pudding and cured pork with bamboo shoots are good for lunch, but prices are high at the scenic area entrance. It's safer to find restaurants in the old streets of the city. Staying in Chishui city is cheaper than staying near the scenic area entrance, and you can stroll along the river in the evening. This is suitable for those who like waterfalls and Danxia landforms and can tolerate some hiking. If you're traveling with children, limit yourself to one or two attractions. 2️⃣ Jingdezhen|Jiangxi Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative Area is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the lights come on, and the old factory buildings with stalls are twice as attractive as during the day. 📍 The street near the sculpture and porcelain factory is cheaper for small items; don't just focus on the main street of Taoxichuan. The Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area showcases traditional craftsmanship. Demonstrations of pottery throwing and kiln firing are held at fixed times; take a photo of the schedule before entering. If you want to try pottery throwing yourself, call the studio a day in advance, as weekend slots are limited. 🍜 Cold rice noodles and dumplings for breakfast; adjust the spiciness to your liking. For late-night snacks, head to Zhejiang Road area; there are long queues for beef bone noodles and fried dough sticks wrapped in mochi. ⚠️ Some studios are closed on Mondays, so don't overschedule. It's a great place for couples to stroll around at a leisurely pace, or for families with children to see handicrafts. Don't buy porcelain impulsively; compare prices from at least three different shops, and clarify the shipping and packaging fees. There's a market in Taoxichuan around National Day; it's crowded but has a great atmosphere. Staying nearby makes walking the easiest option. 3️⃣ Panjin|Liaoning The Red Beach Scenic Corridor is at its most vibrant from mid-September to early October, with a carpet of Suaeda salsa. Go a week later, and the color will have faded. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light is at an angle, preventing photos from looking grayish. 📍 The corridor is long; driving is the most comfortable way to explore; don't expect to walk the whole way. The mini-train and sightseeing bus within the scenic area are charged separately; check the routes before deciding whether to buy them. ⚠️ It's windy, so hold onto your hat and scarf tightly. Check the no-fly zones for drones beforehand. Traffic is heavy on weekends around National Day; try to enter the corridor in the early morning or late evening to avoid peak hours. 🍜 River crabs are at their fattest this season; choose restaurants with lots of people along the way. Suitable for bringing elders, as there's almost no uphill climbing. For comfortable accommodation, choose Panjin city; for proximity to scenic spots, stay towards Dawa, but evening options are limited. Suitable for photography, families, and traveling with parents; half a day to a full day is sufficient. 4️⃣ Hechi|Guangxi Donglan Mountain and Water, Jiudun Sky Window, Xiangbei Paradise, and Sanli Yangdu can be visited together on one route. ⏰ The water at Jiudun Sky Window is clearest in the morning with high visibility; the light becomes less clear in the afternoon. 📍 Taking a bamboo raft to view the banks at Sanli Yangdu is more worthwhile than driving through. The Xiangbei section has a pastoral atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For self-driving trips, I recommend staying in Donglan or Bama and continuing the journey the next day to avoid backtracking. ⚠️ Rural roads are narrow, so drive slowly when passing other vehicles and avoid driving at night. There may be rockfalls on mountain roads after rain; don't attempt to cross them if you see warning signs. 🍜 The mutton and corn porridge in Du'an and Donglan areas are delicious and satisfying. Suitable for experienced drivers and those with children, but don't rush the itinerary. It's still hot during the day from late September to October, so bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Check the full duration and price of the bamboo raft trip before boarding. 5️⃣ Linfen|Shanxi Hongtong Big Locust Tree Ancestral Temple is best visited in the morning for a quieter experience. The Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River has stable water levels from September to October; the mist near the viewing platform can get your clothes wet. You can spend half a day at Yunqiu Mountain; the ice cave and ancient village are worthwhile. 📍 Entering Hukou from the Shanxi side offers a better view; personally, I prefer this side. The drive from Linfen to Hukou Waterfall is quite long. It's recommended to stay overnight in Jixian or Hukou Town and enter the scenic area early the next morning. ⚠️ Hukou Waterfall is windy and humid, so use a waterproof case for your phone. The temperature at Yunqiu Mountain Ice Cave is low; you can rent a down jacket at the entrance, or bring your own light down jacket for hygiene. 🍜 Linfen beef ball noodles – a bowl in the morning will keep you going until noon. Suitable for elderly people and children. Be careful on the steps at Hukou Waterfall. Hukou Waterfall tickets and sightseeing buses are separate; booking online in advance will reduce queues. During the National Day holiday, try to avoid the midday peak. 6️⃣ Linxia|Gansu Liujiaxia Tourist Resort: Take a boat to see the reservoir and Danxia landforms. ⏰ Depart in the morning when the water is calm for clear photos. Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area: The grottoes are located on the banks of the Yellow River; taking a boat is the best way to experience them. 📍 Board the boat near the Liujiaxia Dam. Check the schedule beforehand to avoid waiting. You can drive along the lakeside road to the viewing platform, but taking a boat is more convenient for viewing the grottoes. ⚠️ Boat tickets and grotto entrance fees are calculated separately, so allow enough budget. Speedboats and regular boats have different prices and durations, so check beforehand whether they include time spent at Bingling Temple. 🍜 Don't miss the hand-pulled noodles and Hezhou steamed buns from Linxia. Suitable for those who enjoy both culture and scenery, and a boat trip is also enjoyable for families with children. It can be cool in the mornings and evenings in September and October, and windy on the boat, so bring a windproof jacket. There are many accommodation options in Linxia city; book in advance for holidays to avoid last-minute searches. 7️⃣ Jixi|Heilongjiang From Hutou Town, you can see the starting point of the Ussuri River. The river is wide, and ⏰ the best time for photos is in the early morning when there is fog. Lake Xingkai is cool this season, with a long shoreline, so drive slowly along the lake. 📍 The road from Hutou Town to Lake Xingkai is easy to drive on, but avoid driving at night. If you want to stay by the lake, choose the Dangbi Town direction; if you want convenient dining, head back to Mishan city. ⚠️ The wind is strong by the lake, so bring a jacket; it's already cool in the mornings and evenings in September. Parts of Xingkai Lake's beaches are protected areas, so don't wade or trample on them. Check if it's permitted to fly drones beforehand. 🍜 Lake fish is best stewed; choose restaurants with clearly marked prices. Suitable for those seeking peace and quiet, and also suitable for families, just don't go swimming. September and October are not swimming season, so bring windproof jackets and snacks for children. A half-day to a full day drive along the lake is just right. 8️⃣ Hulunbuir|Inner Mongolia The Hulunbuir Grassland turns yellow in September and October, creating a more layered effect than in the height of summer. ⏰ The half-hour sunset is breathtaking; the sky seems to set ablaze, making the fuel cost worthwhile. 📍 Start from Hailar and head towards Ergun; every stop along the way is scenic. If you want to take a short loop, you can add Enhe, Shiwei, and Heishantou, but don't exceed 300 kilometers per day. The grassland roads look straight, but driving for long stretches can be tiring. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference between day and night; wear short sleeves at midday and a down jacket at night. Don't try to tough it out. Gas stations are far apart on the grasslands, so fill up whenever you see one. Cell phone signal can be weak, so download an offline map beforehand. 🍜 For authentic hand-pulled mutton and milk tea, try eating at a herder's home. This is suitable for experienced road trippers and also for families to experience true vastness. During September and October, herders cut hay, so be careful when overtaking hay carts. Accommodation ranges from yurts to city hotels; prices jump quickly during the National Day holiday, so book early for peace of mind. Of these eight, I'd only choose three: Zunyi, Linxia, ​​and Hulunbuir. Which direction are you planning to drive? Let me know in the comments. The worst thing about traveling around National Day isn't the distance, it's the crowds. I've filtered these 8 places based on "ideal scenery, not too crowded," so just copy whichever you like. 1️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia Tourist Area: The water volume is perfect in September and October; the waterfalls aren't muddy, and the red rocks are even more vibrant after the rain. ⏰ Arrive at Foguangyan before 10 AM, before the backlighting kicks in, so the rock face textures are most clearly visible. 📍 From Chishui city, take the transfer from the visitor center. Park your car on the outskirts; don't drive into the valley. Chishui's attractions are scattered, so I recommend following the route "Foguangyan—Yanziyan—Sidonggou" to avoid backtracking. ⚠️ The boardwalk is slippery after rain; wear non-slip shoes, don't test your stamina in white shoes. If you're with elderly people, take the sightseeing bus to the core section. Hiking enthusiasts can hike the entire route, which takes about four hours round trip. During peak season, the sightseeing bus queues are long; try to be among the first to enter the valley. 🍜 Chishui tofu pudding and cured pork with bamboo shoots are good for lunch, but prices are high at the scenic area entrance. It's safer to find restaurants in the old streets of the city. Staying in Chishui city is cheaper than staying near the scenic area entrance, and you can stroll along the river in the evening. Suitable for those who like waterfalls and Danxia landforms and can tolerate some hiking; if traveling with children, limit yourself to one or two attractions. 2️⃣ Jingdezhen|Jiangxi Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative Area is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the lights come on, and the old factory buildings with stalls are twice as attractive as during the day. 📍 The street near the sculpture and porcelain factory is cheaper for small items; don't just focus on the main street of Taoxichuan. The Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area showcases traditional craftsmanship. Demonstrations of pottery throwing and kiln firing are held at fixed times; take a photo of the schedule before entering. If you want to try pottery throwing yourself, call the studio a day in advance, as weekend slots are limited. 🍜 Cold noodles and dumpling cakes are good for breakfast; adjust the spiciness to your liking. At night, you can go to Zhejiang Road area for late-night snacks; there are long queues for beef bone noodles and fried dough sticks wrapped in mochi. ⚠️ Some studios are closed on Mondays, so don't overschedule your trip. It's suitable for couples to stroll around at a leisurely pace, and also for families with children to see handicrafts. Don't buy porcelain impulsively; compare prices from at least three different shops, and clarify the shipping and packaging fees. There's a market in Taoxichuan around National Day; it's crowded but has a great atmosphere. Staying nearby makes walking the easiest option. 3️⃣ Panjin|Liaoning The Red Beach Scenic Corridor is at its most vibrant from mid-September to early October, with a carpet of Suaeda salsa. Go a week later, and the color will have faded. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light is at an angle, preventing photos from looking grayish. 📍 The corridor is very long; driving is the most comfortable way to explore it. Don't expect to walk the entire way. The mini-train and sightseeing bus within the scenic area cost extra; check the routes before deciding whether to buy them. ⚠️ It can be windy; hold onto your hat and scarf tightly. Check the no-fly zones for drones beforehand. Traffic is heavy on weekends around National Day, so try to enter the corridor in the early morning or late evening to avoid peak hours. 🍜 River crabs are at their fattest this season, so choose popular roadside restaurants. Suitable for families with elders, as there's virtually no uphill climbing involved. For comfortable accommodations, choose Panjin city center; for closer proximity to scenic spots, stay towards Dawa, but evening options are limited. Ideal for photography, families, and groups with parents; half a day to a full day is sufficient. 4️⃣ Hechi|Guangxi Donglan Mountain and Water, Jiudun Sky Window, Xiangbei Paradise, and Sanliyangdu can be visited together on one route. ⏰ Jiudun Sky Window has the clearest water and high visibility in the morning; visibility drops to average in the afternoon. 📍 Taking a bamboo raft to view the banks of Sanliyangdu is more worthwhile than driving through. The Xiangbei section has a pastoral feel, perfect for a leisurely stroll. If driving, it's recommended to stay in Donglan or Bama and continue the journey the next day to avoid backtracking. ⚠️ Country roads are narrow, so drive slowly when passing other vehicles and avoid driving at night. There may be falling rocks on mountain roads after rain; don't attempt to cross them if you see warning signs. 🍜 The mutton and corn porridge in Du'an and Donglan areas are delicious and satisfying. Suitable for experienced drivers and those with children, but don't rush the itinerary. It's still hot during the day from late September to October, so bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Check the full duration and price of the bamboo raft trip before boarding. 5️⃣ Linfen|Shanxi Hongtong Big Locust Tree Ancestral Temple is best visited in the morning for a quieter experience. The Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River has stable water levels from September to October; the mist near the viewing platform can get your clothes wet. You can spend half a day at Yunqiu Mountain; the ice cave and ancient village are worthwhile. 📍 Entering Hukou from the Shanxi side offers a better view; personally, I prefer this side. The drive from Linfen to Hukou Waterfall is quite long. It's recommended to stay overnight in Jixian or Hukou Town and enter the scenic area early the next morning. ⚠️ Hukou Waterfall is windy and humid, so use a waterproof case for your phone. The temperature at Yunqiu Mountain Ice Cave is low; you can rent a down jacket at the entrance, or bring your own light down jacket for hygiene. 🍜 Linfen beef ball noodles – a bowl in the morning will keep you going until noon. Suitable for elderly people and children. Be careful on the steps at Hukou Waterfall. Hukou Waterfall tickets and sightseeing buses are separate; booking online in advance will reduce queues. During the National Day holiday, try to avoid the midday peak. 6️⃣ Linxia|Gansu Liujiaxia Tourist Resort: Take a boat to see the reservoir and Danxia landforms. ⏰ Depart in the morning when the water is calm for clear photos. Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area: The grottoes are located on the banks of the Yellow River; taking a boat is the best way to experience them. 📍 Board the boat near the Liujiaxia Dam. Check the schedule beforehand to avoid waiting. You can drive along the lakeside road to the viewing platform, but taking a boat is more convenient for viewing the grottoes. ⚠️ Boat tickets and grotto entrance fees are calculated separately, so allow enough budget. Speedboats and regular boats have different prices and durations, so check beforehand whether they include time spent at Bingling Temple. 🍜 Don't miss the hand-pulled noodles and Hezhou steamed buns from Linxia. Suitable for those who enjoy both culture and scenery, and a boat trip is also enjoyable for families with children. It can be cool in the mornings and evenings in September and October, and windy on the boat, so bring a windproof jacket. There are many accommodation options in Linxia city; book in advance for holidays to avoid last-minute searches. 7️⃣ Jixi|Heilongjiang From Hutou Town, you can see the starting point of the Ussuri River. The river is wide, and ⏰ the best time for photos is in the early morning when there is fog. Lake Xingkai is cool this season, with a long shoreline, so drive slowly along the lake. 📍 The road from Hutou Town to Lake Xingkai is easy to drive on, but avoid driving at night. If you want to stay by the lake, choose the Dangbi Town direction; if you want convenient dining, head back to Mishan city. ⚠️ The wind is strong by the lake, so bring a jacket; it's already cool in the mornings and evenings in September. Parts of Xingkai Lake's beaches are protected areas, so don't wade or trample on them. Check if it's permitted to fly drones beforehand. 🍜 Lake fish is best stewed; choose restaurants with clearly marked prices. Suitable for those seeking peace and quiet, and also suitable for families, just don't go swimming. September and October are not swimming season, so bring windproof jackets and snacks for children. A half-day to a full day drive along the lake is just right. 8️⃣ Hulunbuir|Inner Mongolia The Hulunbuir Grassland turns yellow in September and October, creating a more layered effect than in the height of summer. ⏰ The half-hour sunset is breathtaking; the sky seems to set ablaze, making the fuel cost worthwhile. 📍 Start from Hailar and head towards Ergun; every stop along the way is scenic. If you're planning a short loop, you can add Enhe, Shiwei, and Heishantou, but don't exceed 300 kilometers per day. The grassland roads look straight, but driving for long stretches can be tiring. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference between day and night; wear short sleeves at midday and a down jacket at night. Don't try to tough it out. Gas stations are far apart on the grasslands, so fill up whenever you see one. Cell phone signal is also weak in some areas, so download an offline map beforehand. 🍜 For authentic local cuisine, try the hand-pulled mutton and milk tea at a herder's home. This is suitable for experienced road trippers and families looking to experience true vastness. During September and October, herders are harvesting hay, so be careful when overtaking. Accommodation ranges from yurts to city hotels; prices fluctuate rapidly during the National Day holiday, so book early for peace of mind. Of these eight, I'd only choose three: Zunyi, Linxia, ​​and Hulunbuir. Which direction are you planning to drive in? Let me know in the comments.

Weekend getaway? These 6 niche cities are accessible by high-speed rail 01 Zhangye | Gansu Take a taxi from Zhangye West Station to Colorful Danxia, about 40 minutes. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4:00 PM. The light hits the rock layers at an angle, making the colors 3 times more intense than at noon. Enter through the North Gate and exit through the West Gate to avoid backtracking. The Giant Buddha Temple is in the city center. The Western Xia clay reclining Buddha has been resting quietly for 900 years. The hall is dim, so don't use flash. The grottoes at Mati Temple hang on the cliff face. You'll need to use your hands and feet to climb the 33-Heaven Grottoes, so wear non-slip shoes. ⚠️ Danxia admission tickets plus sightseeing bus tickets allow for a second entry the next day, but you must register at the ticket gate. Lijuan Ancient City is remote; don't force a visit if you aren't driving yourself. A chartered car costs around 200, so weigh whether it's worth it. 🍜 Try the cuoyu noodles and beef rice bowl at Ganzhou Market in the city center; you can eat your fill for 20 yuan. Suitable for a 2-day, 1-night weekend trip. Seniors can easily walk the Danxia viewing platforms, but Mati Temple has many stairs, so be cautious if you have mobility issues. 02 Changde | Hunan Visiting Peach Blossom Spring when the peach blossoms aren't in bloom is actually more peaceful. 🚄 Transfer to the tourist shuttle at Changde Station, about an hour to the scenic area. Don't take unlicensed taxis. ⏰ Enter the park before 9:00 AM. Walk along Qinxi and take a boat first; when the mist rises on the water, it's like stepping into a textbook illustration. After landing, walk along Qin Valley. The whole route is about 3 km, flat and easy to walk, even with a stroller. ⚠️ The "costume photography" stalls in the scenic area are overpriced. Ask about the number of photos and retouching fees before shooting. Eat the lei cha (pounded tea) and Changde rice noodles at the small shops outside the visitor center; they are half the price of those inside. 📍 There is a wild path behind the Peach Blossom viewing area by Wuliu Lake. It's less crowded, but don't go after rain as it's slippery. Suitable for viewing peach blossoms in March or escaping the heat in July. A day and a half is enough for a weekend. Stay near Hejie in downtown Changde for easy access to the night market. 03 Jilin Come to Jilin in winter for the rime ice. ⏰ Arrive at Rime Island by 6:30 AM. Before the sun comes out, the river mist is thickest, and the tree rime is white with a blue tint. It starts falling after 10:00 AM, so don't sleep in. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Jilin Station to Rime Island. Carpooling costs about 50 per person; book it the night before. Songhua Lake is for boating in summer and skiing in winter—2 seasons, 2 ways to play. ⚠️ Rime isn't guaranteed every day; it only happens when humidity is high and the temperature difference is large the night before. Check local live streams before you leave so you don't waste the trip. The heated kang rooms in the island's homestays increase in price on weekends, so book in advance. 🍜 Try the jianfen (fried starch noodles) and sauerkraut pork stew on Henan Street in the city center to warm up. Suitable for couples and photography enthusiasts. If bringing children, keep them warm; -20°C is no joke. 04 Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake is as big as the sea, but quieter than the seaside. 🚄 Transfer to a shuttle bus from Jixi Station to the lake area, about 1.5 hours. Driving yourself offers more freedom. ⏰ Go between July and September. The sunset on the lake ridge turns the water orange. The sand is fine, and you can walk barefoot. Hutou Fortress is in the Hulin direction; it's a bit rushed to combine it with Xingkai Lake in 1 day, so I suggest splitting it into 2 days. ⚠️ Mosquitoes and bugs are fierce by the lake, so carry repellent. Lake fish feasts are priced by weight; confirm the price and cooking method before ordering to avoid a shock when the bill comes. 📍 There are small stalls selling lake shrimp near the Dangbi Town port. They are freshly caught in the morning and best when blanched. Suitable for families driving themselves. Seniors and children can play in the water, but accommodation in the lake area is average. If you have high standards for hotels, stay in downtown Jixi. 05 Ankang | Shaanxi Qianceng River is hidden in the Daba Mountains, with water cascading down layer by layer. ⏰ Best to go after rain when the water volume is high and the pools are emerald green. The boardwalks are slippery, so wear shoes with good grip. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Ankang Station to Qianceng River. There's no direct bus, so chartering a car or carpooling is recommended. Fengyan Ancient Terraces are in Hanyin. In spring, when the fields are flooded, the ridges look like mirrors; they are also beautiful in autumn when the rice turns yellow. ⚠️ The 2 spots are in different directions. It's too tiring to do both in 1 day, so choose 1 for an in-depth visit. The bacon stir-fried with bamboo shoots at the homestays near the terrace viewing platform is more authentic than what you find at the scenic area entrance. 📍 The old street in Xuanwo Town is worth a detour. The bluestone road is not commercialized. Suitable for hikers and photography enthusiasts. If bringing seniors, just go to the terrace viewing platform; the paths down to the ridges are narrow. 06 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Star Lake consists of Seven Star Crags and Dinghu Mountain; don't mix them up. ⏰ Enter Seven Star Crags at 7:00 AM. The lake is misty, and the reflection of the crags looks like an ink wash painting. Rent a boat to row into Longyan Cave; the cool air hits your face. 🚄 It's about 15 minutes by taxi from Zhaoqing Station to Paifang Square. Dinghu Mountain is on the other side. For an oxygen boost, walk the Feishuitan trail, which takes 2 hours. ⚠️ Seven Star Crags is large, and electric carts cost extra. If you aren't very fit, buy a package ticket. Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) are sold everywhere. 📍 I recommend buying them at the old shops on Wenming Road; the freshly steamed ones have soft glutinous rice, while the vacuum-packed ones lack that quality. 🍜 The seafood food stalls by the West River serve fresh yellow croaker tofu soup. Suitable for families. The stream water in Dinghu Mountain is shallow, so children can wade, but it's crowded on weekends, so try to go on weekdays. 07 Ningde | Fujian Mount Taimu and Baishuiyang are in different directions; don't try to do both in 1 day. 🚄 Get off at Taimu Mountain Station to reach the scenic area. Baishuiyang is in Pingnan, another 2 hours from Ningde Station. ⏰ At Mount Taimu, you have to turn sideways to pass through Yixiantian (A Thread of Sky), so friends who are a bit larger should assess their ability. Go to Baishuiyang in summer to wade barefoot in the water slides—it's refreshing. For the sunrise at Beiqi Mudflat in Xiapu, leave at 4:00 AM. If the tide isn't right, you'll wait in vain. ⚠️ The photography spots at Xiapu Mudflat are scattered. Chartering a car for a day costs about 400; carpooling is more cost-effective. Check the tide table before you go; the patterns only appear at low tide. 📍 Fish balls and hutang (thick soup) in Sansha Town are a staple breakfast for locals. Suitable for photography groups and couples. For families, I recommend Baishuiyang, but be careful not to let children go into the water alone where the stream is rapid. 08 Nanyang | Henan Xixia Laojieling plus the Dinosaur Relics Park—1 mountain, 1 museum, the pace is just right. 🚄 It's about 1.5 hours from Nanyang East Station to Xixia. Driving yourself or chartering a car is recommended. ⏰ Hike Laojieling in the morning. Take the cable car up and then walk the trail; it takes 2 hours to reach the top, and the view is wide. Go to the Dinosaur Park in the afternoon; it's an indoor exhibition, so you can avoid the sun. ⚠️ The 2 places are about 40 km apart, and it's troublesome without a car. Some interactive projects in the Dinosaur Park cost extra; if you have children, check clearly before queuing. 🍜 Try the Zhonglu mutton soup and qiangguo noodles in Xixia County; having a bowl after hiking is comfortable. Suitable for families. The Laojieling cable car is senior-friendly, but it's windy at the top, so bring a jacket. Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to official daily announcements. These 8 places are accessible by high-speed rail and perfect for a weekend getaway. Pick 1, buy your ticket, and go. Which one have you been to? Let's chat in the comments.

My mom is 67 this year and needs a break after climbing three flights of stairs. So, my first criterion for choosing a destination isn't how pretty it is, but how easy it is to get around. I've already considered the altitude, terrain, and travel time for these eight places. 1️⃣ Yili | Xinjiang Bottom line first: The Yili River Valley is the best place among these eight for a longer stay with elderly parents. The altitude is low. It's in the 20s °C in summer, so you'll need a light blanket at night. ⏰ Go to Huocheng in June for lavender, and to Kalajun in July. For Kalajun, I suggest taking the shuttle bus to East Kalajun; the grassland is gently rolling, the boardwalks are flat, and you can even push a wheelchair for a stretch. Don't go hiking in West Kalajun, as the slopes are steep. 📍 Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley only blooms in early April, and the season lasts about a week. If you go too early, it's just bare branches; if you go too late, the petals have fallen all over the ground. If you're bringing your parents, I recommend swapping this spot for Gongnaisi Grassland. The wildflowers are in full bloom in June, and cars can drive right up to the side of the viewing platform. 🍜 Six Star Street in downtown Yining is worth a stroll. The pilaf and yogurt shaved ice are both popular with older folks. Just don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area; walk 200 meters into the alley and the price is half as much. ⚠️ Travel time between spots in Yili can easily be two or three hours. Hiring a driver is more stress-free than self-driving; the drivers know the roads, and your parents won't have to be nervous following the navigation. 2️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Many people haven't heard of Jixi, but Xingkai Lake is worth a special trip. The lake is as vast as the sea. The water temperature is just right in July and August, and there's a fine sandy beach on the shore, so it's perfectly fine for seniors to take off their shoes and wade in the water. 📍 Hutou Town is by the Wusuli River. The river breeze is cool, and it's especially comfortable to sit on the river embankment and catch the breeze on a summer evening. There's a restaurant in town that makes river fish; it's stewed until tender, which is suitable for those with sensitive teeth. ⏰ I suggest going to Xingkai Lake in the morning. The light is soft before noon, so you won't be squinting in photos. It's windy in the afternoon, and hats can easily blow away. ⚠️ The drive from downtown Jixi to Xingkai Lake is about 1.5 hours. There are few gas stations on the road, so fill up before you leave. There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so long pants and insect repellent are essential. 3️⃣ Yongzhou | Hunan Shangantang Ancient Village is a spot I personally love. The village isn't big, the Xiemu River runs through it, and the bluestone paths are flat, so you can finish walking around in 40 minutes at a leisurely pace. 📍 Buying Bridge is the landmark at the entrance of the village. The bridge deck has a slope, but it's not high, so it's fine if you hold onto the railing. People still live in the old houses in the village, and peppers and beans are drying at the doorways, giving it a very authentic, lived-in feel. ⏰ I suggest going around 3:00–4:00 PM. The tour groups have basically left, and the light hits the walls at an angle, making everything a warm, golden yellow. 🍜 Yongzhou blood duck is a local specialty, but it's on the spicy side. If you're bringing your parents, tell the owner to make it mild in advance. There are vendors selling handmade rice cakes at the village entrance; they are soft, chewy, and not sticky, which older people love. ⚠️ The ancient village doesn't charge a general admission fee, but you have to pay a few yuan to enter some individual old houses. Keep some cash on hand, and the signal isn't very stable. 4️⃣ Qujing | Yunnan The Luoping rapeseed flower fields are famous, but I have to be honest: the bloom is only from February to March, just that one month. If you go too early, it's just green seedlings; if you go too late, it's just rapeseed. 📍 The Jiulong Waterfall Group, on the other hand, can be seen all year round. The waterfall is divided into 10 levels, and the lowest level is the most spectacular. There is a cable car in the scenic area, so seniors with limited mobility can just take the cable car up and down to save energy. ⏰ The water volume is higher in the morning. The floodgates upstream might be closed in the afternoon, so the water will be less. Don't go in the afternoon. 🍜 The ginger stewed chicken in Luoping county is worth eating. The soup is fresh and warms the stomach. The county isn't big, and you can get to most places for the starting taxi fare. ⚠️ There are several viewing platforms for the rapeseed flower fields. The one at Jinji Peak is the most famous but also the most crowded. If you're bringing seniors, I suggest going to Luositian, where you can drive to the side of the road without having to climb. 5️⃣ Aba | Sichuan The altitude of both Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong is between 2,000 and 3,000 meters, and Siguniang Mountain is even higher. For parents over 60, I suggest only choosing Jiuzhaigou. Decide on Huanglong and Siguniang Mountain based on their physical condition. 📍 Jiuzhaigou now has sightseeing buses and boardwalks for the whole route. Five-Flower Lake and Nuorilang Waterfall both have stops, so if you can't walk, just take the bus. The boardwalks are flat, and you can even push a wheelchair. ⏰ Autumn in October is the most beautiful, but it's also the most crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, go in September. The water is just as blue, and there are half as many people. ⚠️ The Five-Color Pond in Huanglong is at an altitude of 3,500 meters, and you still have to walk a bit after taking the cable car, which can easily make seniors breathless. The altitude of Shuangqiaogou in Siguniang Mountain is 3,800 meters. Those with heart disease or high blood pressure shouldn't push it. Ask your doctor before you go. 🍜 There is Tibetan-style hot pot at the entrance of the valley. The yak meat is stewed until soft and tender, served with highland barley cakes. Don't eat inside the scenic area; it's expensive and not good. 6️⃣ Yushu | Qinghai Hoh Xil and Sanjiangyuan sound far away, but Yushu city is at an altitude of 3,700 meters, which is a bit higher than Lhasa. If you bring seniors here, stay in the city for two days to acclimate first; don't rush to the nature reserve. 📍 The open areas of Sanjiangyuan National Park are currently limited, so check which spots you can enter before you go. The Hoh Xil buffer zone is not open to the public, so don't believe those chartered car drivers who say they can take you inside. ⏰ July and August are the only comfortable seasons; it's too cold in other months. It's sunny at noon, but there's a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so you need to bring both down jackets and short sleeves. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is not a joke. Take Rhodiola a week in advance. Don't take a shower or drink alcohol when you arrive. If your parents' heart and lung function is average, I suggest skipping this spot entirely. 7️⃣ Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain was a surprise I didn't expect. The mountain isn't high, with the main peak just over 1,000 meters, but the vegetation is dense. It's 5–6 degrees cooler than the city in summer, and it's cool walking in the forest. 📍 Hongshan Zen Temple is on the mountain, and the incense is popular. The ginkgo trees in front of the temple are golden in autumn. The temple has vegetarian meals for 10 yuan a serving, which is light and suits the tastes of older people. ⏰ Go up the mountain in the morning, have a vegetarian meal at the temple at noon, and walk down slowly in the afternoon. The whole trip takes three or four hours, so there's no rush. ⚠️ The mountain road has many curves, so drive slowly if you're self-driving. If you get motion sickness easily, take medicine in advance. There are canes for sale at the entrance of the scenic area for 10 yuan each, which seniors might find useful. 8️⃣ Ningde | Fujian Taimu Mountain, Baishuiyang, and the Xiapu mudflats—there's too much to do in Ningde. But if you're bringing seniors, I suggest choosing only two; don't be too greedy. 📍 Taimu Mountain has an elevator that goes directly to the halfway point, and then it's a short walk on flat ground to the viewing platform to see the clouds over the East China Sea. Baishuiyang is a shallow water square where the water is only ankle-deep. Seniors can wade in the water, which is especially cool in summer. ⏰ The Xiapu mudflats are most beautiful at sunrise and sunset, but the viewing platform requires climbing a flight of stairs. For that photo spot at Beiqi mudflats, if your legs and feet aren't good, just look from below; don't force the climb. 🍜 Xiapu seafood is cheap, but don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. Go to Taikang Road in the county, where there's a row of food stalls. Ask for the price before ordering. ⚠️ The stones in the water at Baishuiyang are slippery, so have your parents wear non-slip sandals; don't wear flip-flops. The Taimu Mountain elevator closes at 5:00 PM, so plan your time accordingly. Of these eight places, I personally recommend Yili and Jiuzhaigou the most. The facilities are mature, and seniors won't suffer. For Yushu and Siguniang Mountain, don't force it if your health is average. Where have you taken your parents that you felt was particularly stress-free? Let me know in the comments section, and I'll save it for next time.

Come to Jixi for National Day to see the colorful autumn foliage! This border autumn sightseeing loop lets you check off 8 hidden gem attractions at once, featuring lake views, forests, and revolutionary history. Avoid pitfalls and get a clear budget breakdown✨ 🗺️8 Must-Visit Attractions ▫️Xinkailiu Scenic Area at Xingkai Lake | Asia's largest freshwater border lake, vast waters, tree-tunnel road with autumn foliage, and Xinkailiu culture ruins ▫️Fengmi Mountain | The highest peak by Xingkai Lake, offering panoramic views of the lake, unique rock formations, and colorful autumn forests ▫️Qilin Mountain Scenic Area | Known as the "Little Huangshan of the North," featuring canyons, waterfalls, a "sky mirror," and layered autumn colors ▫️Hutou Tourist Scenic Area (5A) | Located by the Wusuli River, home to the Hutou Fortress and the site of the end of WWII, offering rich revolutionary history and border scenery ▫️Shending Peak | The easternmost peak, famous for its sea of clouds, sunrise, and pine waves, with stunning autumn foliage at the summit ▫️Jilin Korean Ethnic Folk Park | Experience rich Korean culture, traditional folk customs, and local cuisine ▫️Jixi Museum | Free! Learn about Jixi's coal mining history and Xinkailiu culture; an indoor option for rainy days ▫️Azalea Park | A free, popular park in the city with windmills and walking paths, perfect for evening photos 📅3-Day 2-Night Itinerary Day 1 Arrive in Jixi city | Azalea Park > Jixi Museum, explore the night market, try Jixi cold noodles and BBQ, stay in Jixi Day 2 Jixi > Qilin Mountain > Jilin Korean Ethnic Folk Park, head to Mishan in the afternoon, visit Xinkailiu + Fengmi Mountain, enjoy autumn views on the lake road in the evening, stay in Mishan Day 3 Hutou Tourist Scenic Area > Shending Peak, enjoy the Wusuli River and forest autumn colors, end of trip 💰Budget Reference per Person (National Day, excluding round-trip travel) ✅Economy (Carpooling + standard hotel, simple meals): 1,000–1,300 yuan · Accommodation for 2 nights: 360–450 ​ · Tickets: Xinkailiu 40 | Fengmi Mountain 30 | Qilin Mountain 28 | Hutou Fortress free, Shending Peak 20; Museum, Azalea Park, and Folk Park are free ​ · Local carpooling: 320 ​ · Meals: 280 ​ · Snacks, souvenirs, etc.: As needed ✅Comfort (Private car charter + quality hotel, local fish specialties): 1,600–1,900 yuan ✅Light Luxury (Private car charter + lake view homestay): From 2,200 yuan ⚠️National Day Essential Tips to Avoid Pitfalls and Save Money 1. Temperatures in the Jixi mountains are very low during National Day! It's 0–10°C in the morning and evening, so bring a thick jacket and long pants. It's windy in the mountains, so bring a hat and gloves, and wear non-slip shoes for hiking. ​ 2. Autumn foliage depends on the weather! Continuous rain will accelerate leaf fall, so check the status of the foliage before you go to avoid disappointment. Bring a windproof jacket for the lakeside. ​ 3. Do not buy fish, honey, or other local products from roadside stalls at high prices; try to use regular supermarkets. Be careful when playing by the lake and do not go into the water. ​ 4. Hutou is a border area; do not take photos of border checkpoints and follow border management regulations. ​ 5. If you want to see the sunrise at Shending Peak, you need to wake up early. There are no supplies on the mountain, so prepare drinking water and snacks in advance and try to hike with others. ​ 6. Distances between attractions are long; drive carefully on mountain roads. Confirm the total price for carpooling or private charters in advance, agree on waiting times, and be wary of mid-trip price hikes. ​ 7. Book accommodation as early as possible! Prices in Jixi and Mishan rise during National Day, so book early. Prioritize accommodation close to attractions. ​ 8. Ask for prices in advance at the Korean Ethnic Folk Park and confirm the contents of clothing rental packages to avoid extra charges for overtime. 💡Food Recommendations Jixi cold noodles, Korean BBQ, Xingkai Lake whitefish, spicy dishes, stone pot bibimbap, Korean blood sausage, guobaorou (sweet and sour pork)

The seven-day National Day holiday is neither too long nor too short. If you want your kids to have fun and actually learn something, choosing the right destination is more important than rushing from place to place. I’ve screened these 8 spots based on whether they’re truly "memorable for kids." 1️⃣ Xiangtan | Hunan First, let's talk about Caojia'ao Waterfall. This place is tucked away in the mountains, and the water flow is only impressive after rain. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM so the light hits the valley entrance, making it easier to spot rainbows in the mist. It takes about 20 minutes to walk in with kids; the path isn't too steep, but the stones are slippery, so ⚠️ don't let the kids wear sandals. Shaoshan Scenic Area is better for the afternoon. 📍 The trail south of the Bronze Statue Square is quiet and shaded, making it stroller-friendly. 🍜 The chopped chili steamed fish head outside the scenic area can be made mild for kids—just remember to ask the restaurant to go easy on the millet chili. Trying to hit both spots in one day is a bit rushed, so I suggest the waterfall in the morning and Shaoshan in the afternoon. Check official announcements for ticket prices and opening hours on the day of your visit, and it's best to book via their official WeChat account one day in advance during the holiday. 2️⃣ Wuhu | Anhui Fantawild Adventure is the kind of place where "once kids get in, they won't want to leave." ⏰ I suggest arriving at the gate before 9:00 AM to hit the indoor attractions first, then move to the outdoor water areas when the sun gets intense in the afternoon. 📍 "Fly with Flint" and "Magic Castle" have the longest lines in the park, so head there as soon as it opens. ⚠️ Don't buy those disposable raincoats at the gate; you won't really need them for the water rides inside, so it's a waste of money. 🍜 Don't eat at the row of shops right at the main entrance. Walk ten minutes into the park; the prices are similar, but the portions are much more generous. If you have kids under 5, rent a stroller—your legs will be toast by the end of the day otherwise. 3️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou might sound fierce, but it's actually a great place to enjoy river views. ⏰ Go after 5:00 PM when the river reflection is at its most beautiful, and kids can spend half the day picking up stones on the shore. Xingkai Lake is best for the morning. 📍 The road along the lake is lined with birch trees, and in autumn, the leaves turn a brilliant yellow—everything looks great in photos. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so put a light down jacket on the kids by early October; don't be fooled by the "crisp autumn air" idea. 🍜 The local braised lake fish is great—order a small portion, as it has few bones and tender meat. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from downtown Jixi, so I recommend driving yourself as public transport is infrequent. 4️⃣ Yuxi | Yunnan The water at Fuxian Lake is unbelievably clear; kids can squat by the shore and watch small fish for half an hour. ⏰ The light is most transparent between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, so you won't need filters for your photos. The Ailao Mountain forest area is perfect for the afternoon. 📍 There are vendors selling roasted potatoes at the entrance to the boardwalk—they're 5 yuan each, and kids love them. ⚠️ Signal is weak in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance and don't let the kids run out of sight. Two days and one night is just right: play in the water at Fuxian Lake on the first day, and walk through the forest at Ailao Mountain on the second. Yuxi is cool in the mornings and evenings in October but sunny at noon, so pack a light jacket and a hat for the kids. 5️⃣ Lingshui | Hainan Fenjiezhou Island Tourist Area—the kids will be excited just from the 10-minute boat ride to the island. ⏰ The first boat at 8:30 AM is the least crowded. Once on the island, head right for the cleanest beaches. Nanwan Monkey Island is better for the afternoon. 📍 The view from the cable car as it crosses the sea is incredible; the kids will keep shouting about how high up they are. ⚠️ The monkeys on the island will snatch plastic bags, so keep snacks hidden in your bag and don't hold them in your hands. 🍜 Have Lingshui sour noodles for breakfast. It's a sour and spicy dish, so if your kids are young, ask the owner to go easy on the yellow lantern chili. It's still hot in Hainan in October, so bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 6️⃣ Wuzhong | Ningxia Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area is all about showing kids what "the Yellow River from the textbooks" actually looks like. ⏰ Go in the morning and take a boat into the canyon. The kids will ask if the patterns carved into the canyon walls by the water are paintings. 📍 The 108 Pagodas are inside the scenic area. There are quite a few steps to climb, but kids over 5 can manage it on their own. ⚠️ It's windy in the canyon, so tie hats on tightly, or they'll fly straight into the Yellow River. 🍜 Try the hand-grabbed lamb in downtown Wuzhong with garlic sauce and vinegar; kids can easily eat half a plate. It's about an hour's drive from Yinchuan with good road conditions, making it perfect for a road trip. 7️⃣ Qinhuangdao | Hebei Beidaihe Scenic Area is perfect for a National Day trip, just in time for the seafood season. ⏰ Go to Pigeon Nest Park at 5:30 AM for the sunrise. If the kids can wake up, go; if not, don't force it. Shanhaiguan is better for the afternoon. 📍 It's windy on the tower of the "First Pass under Heaven." The kids might not understand the history of "inside and outside the pass," but they'll remember touching the ancient bricks. ⚠️ Don't trust the "one-day tour" touts outside the scenic area; you'll have a better time exploring on your own. 🍜 The pork buns at Sitiao Baozi are the kind locals line up for—eat them while they're hot. It's cool by the sea in October mornings and evenings but sunny at noon, so bring both a jacket and sunscreen. 8️⃣ Baise | Guangxi Haokun Lake is best for the morning. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM when there's no wind on the lake, and the reflections are as clear as a mirror. 📍 Walking a section of the boardwalk around the lake is enough; the kids will get fussy if you try to do the whole thing. Tongling Grand Canyon is for the afternoon. ⚠️ It's humid at the bottom of the canyon and the steps are slippery, so hold the kids' hands. The cool air under the waterfall is just right for October in Guangxi. Chengbi Lake can be saved for the second day. 🍜 For breakfast in downtown Baise, try the rolled rice noodles with an egg—kids can easily eat two. The three spots are spread out, so I recommend driving; you can finish everything in two days without getting too tired. None of these 8 places are "check-in and leave" spots. Pick two or three that are close by and take your time—it's much better than rushing. Which one do you most want to take your kids to?

Bottom line first: stop thinking about just buying bags; bags get old. Take her to see the right scenery once, and she'll remember it for a long time. I've ranked these 8 places based on "how happy she'll be," not on how trendy they are. 1️⃣ Qujing | Yunnan Don't go to the Luoping Rapeseed Flower Fields at noon; the light is harsh, and portraits will look like ID photos. ⏰ Go between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, when the mist hasn't cleared and the flower fields look soft. You'll need to hike a bit to reach the observation decks at Jinji Peak Cluster, so wear comfortable shoes. The Jiulong Waterfall Group is best in the afternoon. The water is loud, so you'll need to get close to talk. 📍 Enter from the West Gate and follow the boardwalk to the largest waterfall; it takes 20 minutes. ⚠️ The waterfalls shrink during the dry season, so ask a local before you go. For food, the small-pot rice noodles in Luoping County are more authentic than what you'll find at the scenic area entrance. If you're with seniors, stick to the lower section of the waterfall where there are fewer stairs. If you're with kids, rent a tandem bike in the flower fields—the kind that costs 30 yuan an hour. 2️⃣ Weihai | Shandong Get to Chengshantou early; ⏰ arrive by 6:30 AM to see the sea turn from gray to gold. It's windy, so bring her a jacket—don't ask, or you'll get an earful. Huaxia City is great for a leisurely afternoon stroll; check show times in advance. Liugong Island requires a full morning; 🚄 take a boat to the island and buy your boat and admission tickets together. There are many slopes on the island, so it's tough with a stroller. Stay near the bathing beach for evening walks. 🍜 Look for small shops in residential areas for mackerel dumplings; don't eat at the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ The UV rays are strong by the sea, so reapply sunscreen every two hours. Great for couples and parents alike. The pace is slow and relaxing. 3️⃣ Turpan | Xinjiang Don't go to the Flaming Mountains in the afternoon; the surface temperature will make you question your life choices. ⏰ Go before 10:00 AM or after 7:00 PM. 📸 One photo with the thermometer sign is enough; don't wait in line. Kumtag Desert is close to the city and accessible by taxi. Go in the evening when the sand is warm and the light is soft. ⚠️ Don't wear sandals, or sand will get in and chafe your feet. Rent a sandboard; her laughing at you when you fall is better than the scenery. Choose either the Grape Valley or the Karez Well System in Turpan—one is enough. 🍜 Have mixed noodles for lunch and add a yogurt. If you're with seniors, make sure they stay hydrated; it's so dry here your throat will feel like it's smoking. 4️⃣ Taiyuan | Shanxi Tianlong Mountain is best in the morning. The grottoes are in the mountains and are very quiet. 📍 Take a bus to Jinci and transfer, or it's easier to drive. ⚠️ Some venues are closed on Mondays, so check ahead. It's worth hiring a guide for the Jinci Museum; otherwise, you're just looking at buildings instead of hearing the stories. Sit by the Nanlao Spring for a while; it's cool. Go to Jinyang Lake Park in the evening. Rent a tandem bike and ride around the lake. 🍜 Go to the Food Street in the evening and look for the place with the longest line. Perfect for first-timers to Shanxi—no tourist traps here. 5️⃣ Enshi | Hubei You need a full day for the Enshi Grand Canyon. ⏰ Arrive at the visitor center before 8:00 AM, or you'll be crying in the cable car line. Walk the fissure first, then go up to Qixingzhai; don't reverse the order. ⚠️ There are many stairs throughout the route, so be careful if you have bad knees. Take a boat ride on the Qingjiang Gallery; the breeze is comfortable. Tracker performances on the Shennong Stream are rare now, so it depends on your luck. Go to the Enshi Tusi City in the afternoon; the colors are great for photos. Stay near Daughter City for lively evening entertainment. 🍜 You must order the hezha (soybean stew) and cured meat; if you're not used to the oil tea soup, just get a small portion. The boat trip is the easiest part if you're with kids. 6️⃣ Hengyang | Hunan For Mount Heng (Nanyue), ⏰ go up the mountain in the middle of the night to see the sunrise, or go after the rain to see the sea of clouds. ⚠️ It's 7–8 degrees cooler on the mountain than at the base, so bring a jacket. Choose either the cable car or hiking; don't push yourself. The Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain and is very popular for incense offerings. Don't take photos randomly inside; check the rules first. 📍 The path up the mountain starts from the back gate of the Grand Temple. 🍜 Any tofu pot or rice noodle shop at the foot of the mountain will be good. If you're with seniors, take the cable car up and down; young people can walk the Fanyin Valley section. Perfect for a weekend trip of two days and one night. 7️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake is the highlight. ⏰ Go between July and September; otherwise, the wind will blow you away. The lake is like the sea—you can't see the other side. 📍 There's an observation deck near Dangbi Town; the sunset is incredible. In Hutou, there are fortress ruins and a riverside park; take your time walking around. ⚠️ Bring your ID for the border area and don't fly drones randomly. 🍜 Eat the lake fish stew; look for a farmhouse restaurant. Stay by the lake for one night to see the morning mist. Best for self-driving, as public transport isn't very convenient. Bring your wife here; it's quiet and you won't be crowded. 8️⃣ Guiyang | Guizhou Go to Tianhetan in the morning; the caves and waterfalls are cool. Explore Qingyan Ancient Town in the afternoon; 📸 the alleys behind the main street are better for photos. ⚠️ Just look at the silver shops in the ancient town; don't make impulsive purchases. Choose a sunny day for the Gaopo Yunding Grassland; ⏰ go in the evening for windmills and sunset. Huaxi Park is great for a morning walk; it's full of locals. 🍜 Have Changwang noodles for breakfast and Siwawa (vegetable wraps) for afternoon tea. Stay in Huaguoyuan or Penshuichi; it's convenient to get anywhere. Great for families with kids, or just for the two of you to wander around. You don't have to visit all 8 places at once. Pick one she's been talking about recently, book your tickets, and go. I don't know if she'll praise you for a year when you get back, but at least for those few days, your ears will be quiet.

Some cities are naturally popular, while others have so much to offer but remain quietly, heartbreakingly overlooked. I’ve visited these 8 places one by one, and I feel they deserve to be seen by more people. 1️⃣ Laibin | Guangxi Dayao Mountain Panwangjie and Jinxiu Lotus Mountain are the kind of combination that leaves your legs shaking but your heart satisfied after the climb. The Panwangjie plank road is built on a cliffside with a sea of clouds beneath your feet. ⏰ I recommend heading up before 8:00 AM; if you go later, the fog clears and the light becomes too harsh, making for less-than-ideal photos. Lotus Mountain is more delicate, with stone peaks that look like they’ve been washed by water. 📍 It’s about a 40-minute drive from Jinxiu County to Lotus Mountain; ride-sharing is less of a hassle than waiting for the bus. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so carry enough water. 🍜 After descending, head to Jinxiu Old Street for a bowl of Yao-style oil tea. It’s salty, fragrant, and slightly bitter—you might frown at the first sip, but you’ll be hooked by the second. Perfect for those who enjoy hiking and tranquility. The stone steps can be slippery during the rainy season, so wear non-slip shoes. 2️⃣ Suzhou | Jiangsu Tiger Hill, Hanshan Temple, the Humble Administrator's Garden, Lingering Garden, plus a stretch of Jiangnan water town scenery—I don’t need to tell you about Suzhou’s reputation. But I do have some practical advice: ⚠️ You must book the Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden in advance; there’s basically no chance if you just show up on the day. The leaning pagoda at Tiger Hill is worth seeing. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the slanted light brings out the best layers of the pagoda. Don’t go to Hanshan Temple at noon—it’s packed. Go early in the morning to hear the bell ringing; that’s when it’s truly meaningful. 📍 Walk north from Pingjiang Road to Baita East Road; there are half as many tourists, but the water alleys are just as charming. 🚄 A taxi from Suzhou Station to the Humble Administrator's Garden costs about CNY 15, but if there’s traffic, taking the subway and walking is better. Perfect for first-timers in Jiangnan, as well as those who have been 3 times and want to come back. Just pick 1 garden to explore in detail; trying to see too many means you won’t remember any of them. 3️⃣ Yanbian | Jilin Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Zone is the most "un-Northeast" place I’ve encountered in Northeast China. The Golden Ding Buddha stands on the mountain, and looking at it from afar, it’s so quiet it feels unreal. ⏰ I recommend entering the scenic area after 3:00 PM; the tour groups have left, and the light is softer. 📍 It’s about a 20-minute taxi ride from downtown Dunhua; there are buses, but they run infrequently. ⚠️ The scenic area shuttle bus costs extra. If you’re fit, you can walk up; the forest along the way is beautiful. 🍜 Head back to the city for a bowl of Yanbian cold noodles—sweet, sour, and refreshing—paired perfectly with guobaorou (sweet and sour pork). Great for a slow trip with parents or for some solo downtime. In winter, snow covering the Golden Ding adds a different kind of solemnity. 4️⃣ Karamay | Xinjiang Urho Ghost City has a scary name, but it’s actually a wilderness theater formed by wind-eroded rock layers. ⏰ Go in after 7:00 PM; the sunset turns the rock walls a fiery orange-red. Going during the day is like being roasted. 📍 There’s a small train inside the scenic area, but I think walking a section is more rewarding—you can hear the wind whistling through the rock crevices. ⚠️ Don’t wear flip-flops; the gravel on the ground will hurt your feet. Hold onto your hat when it’s windy. 🚄 It’s about a 2-hour drive from downtown Karamay to Urho. I recommend hiring a car or driving yourself; public transport is basically not an option. 🍜 The portions of Dapanji (big plate chicken) in Urho town are generous; a small portion is enough for 2 people. Perfect for those who love the wilderness, not for those who fear the sun or wind. In summer, it’s still bright at 10:00 PM, which can mess with your sense of time. 5️⃣ Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia The Matryoshka dolls in Manzhouli are the kind of place where you "know it’s a tourist trap but can’t help taking photos." The massive complex of doll-shaped buildings is as brightly colored as an overturned palette. ⏰ After 8:00 PM, all the lights are on, and it looks 10 times better than during the day. 📍 The Matryoshka scenic area isn’t far from the city center; it’s just a base fare taxi ride away. ⚠️ Prices inside are on the high side. Just look at the architecture and take photos; it’s more cost-effective to buy Matryoshka souvenirs at small shops in the city. 🍜 Find a Russian restaurant in the city for borscht and rye bread—it’s warming. Great for families and those who love an exotic vibe. In winter, it’s so cold your phone might shut down automatically, so bring hand warmers. 6️⃣ Dandong | Liaoning Fenghuang Mountain, the Yalu River Broken Bridge, Kuandian Hekou, and Lvjiang Village—Dandong can be experienced in both rugged and gentle ways. Fenghuang Mountain is steep; ⏰ head up before 7:00 AM to avoid the crowds and the sun. The Broken Bridge is best visited in the evening; when the river breeze blows, you can really feel the history. 📍 The Broken Bridge and Andong Old Street are on the same route; after walking the bridge, head to the old street to eat menzi (a local starch jelly dish). Kuandian Hekou and Lvjiang Village are best for self-driving; 🚄 it’s about 2 hours from downtown Dandong. ⚠️ The best season for Lvjiang Village is May and October; the scenery is less impressive at other times. 🍜 The stewed river fish at the riverside farmhouses is fresh but bony, so eat slowly. Perfect for family trips—the elderly can walk the Broken Bridge, and the young can climb Fenghuang Mountain; there’s something for everyone. 7️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Mount Everest and Tashilhunpo Monastery—one is in the heavens, the other is on earth. For Everest Base Camp, ⏰ it’s best to go in April or October; there are fewer clouds, and the chances of seeing the "golden mountain" at sunrise are higher. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke; spend 2 days acclimatizing in Shigatse before heading up. 📍 Tashilhunpo Monastery is in the city and within walking distance; the afternoon debate session is worth seeing. 🚄 The bullet train from Lhasa to Shigatse takes about 3 hours and is more reliable than driving. 🍜 Tibetan noodles and sweet tea at the local sweet tea houses are cheap and filling. Suitable for those in good physical condition who yearn for the plateau. Not for those who are rushing their itinerary; this place requires you to slow down. 8️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake are an underrated pair in eastern Heilongjiang. Xingkai Lake is as big as the sea; ⏰ go in July during the summer—the lake breeze is cool, and you can walk barefoot on the beach. Hutou has fortress ruins and riverside scenery; 📍 it’s about a 1-hour drive from downtown Hulin to Hutou. ⚠️ Accommodation around Xingkai Lake is tight during peak season, so book in advance. 🍜 The white shrimp and lake fish by the lake are freshest when steamed. Perfect for a summer family getaway or for those looking for peace and quiet. In winter, the lake freezes over, offering a completely different scene. None of these 8 places are the "check-in and leave" type. Pick 2 or 3 and take your time—it’s more rewarding than rushing through. How many have you been to? Let’s chat in the comments.

The two things I fear most when traveling during the National Day holiday: an empty wallet and being crushed by crowds. I scoured the map and picked 8 niche cities that are uncrowded, affordable, and have real things to see. Don't ask why I'm not going to popular spots; the answer is I just want to enjoy a nice walk. 1️⃣ Lianyungang | Jiangsu I recommend getting an early start for Huaguoshan. ⏰ Enter the mountain before 7:30 AM while the fog is still lingering; you'll basically have the Water Curtain Cave to yourself for photos. Buy your attraction ticket online a day in advance, or you'll be waiting in line long enough to question your life choices. Don't go to Liandao at noon—it's too hot. Head to the beach after 4:00 PM when the light is soft and the sand isn't scorching. 📍 The reefs at Sumawan are better looking than those at Dashawan, and there are half as many people. For food, 🍜 pick your own seafood at Xugou Seafood Market and have a nearby shop cook it for you. You can eat your fill for about 70–80 per person. ⚠️ Don't buy from the first shop at the entrance of the scenic area; the prices are doubled. Great for seniors and children, with a slow pace. Two days and one night is enough. Staying in Lianyun District is more convenient than staying in the city center. 2️⃣ Tonghua | Jilin The rapeseed flower fields in Ji'an are at their peak in July. They'll be gone by the National Day holiday, but the autumn colors along the Yalu River will be in full swing. Don't make a special trip just for the flowers; just see them if you're passing by. The Goguryeo ruins are worth half a day. 📍 The General's Tomb and the Stele of King Gwanggaeto are close to each other and easy to visit on foot. ⚠️ Admission stops at 4:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff. Driving from Tonghua city center to Ji'an takes about 2 hours. 🚄 You can also take a train to Ji'an Station and then take a taxi. Don't buy wine at the scenic area; it's 30% cheaper at supermarkets in the city. Perfect for those who love history and quiet. Two days and one night is just the right pace. 3️⃣ Haibei | Qinghai This section of the Qilian Mountains is already cold by the National Day holiday. ⏰ Start your day after 10:00 AM and wait for the sun to warm up the roads, otherwise the wind at the mountain pass will cut right through you. The Heihe Grand Canyon and Lenglongling are great for a road trip. 📍 Head west from Qilian County, and the whole route is scenic. Amidongsuo is a great spot to view snow-capped mountains, but it's only worth it if the weather is good—don't force it on a cloudy day. ⚠️ You'll be at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, so avoid running or jumping, and get a good night's sleep beforehand. Fill up your gas tank in the county town; there are few stations on the road. Suitable for those with a car who can get up early. Three days and two nights is a safe bet—don't rush. 4️⃣ Tangshan | Hebei I recommend hiring a guide for the Eastern Qing Tombs, otherwise you're just looking at a bunch of buildings. 📍 The Yuling Underground Palace and the Empress Dowager Cixi's Tomb are the highlights; you can breeze through the rest. ⚠️ The scenic area is huge, so wear comfortable shoes. Nanhu and Kailuan are best visited in the afternoon. The industrial aesthetic is great for photos, and ⏰ the light at dusk is the most photogenic. The Kailuan National Mine Park is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Tangshan Banquet has a concentration of snacks. 🍜 You can try the Qizi sesame cakes and Gezha, but don't buy too much at once. Great for families, and also for wandering around alone. Two days and one night, not tiring. 5️⃣ Wenshan | Yunnan Puzhehei is less crowded during the National Day holiday than during the May Day holiday, but it's not empty. ⏰ Take a boat into the lake in the morning; the fog hanging on the mountainside looks ten times better than in the afternoon. 📍 It's a 20-minute climb to the Qinglong Mountain viewing platform, but the panoramic view of the lake is worth it. Stay one night in Xianrendong Village; it's so quiet at night that you can only hear the insects. 🍜 Lotus leaf scrambled eggs and sour soup fish are local specialties. Small restaurants at the village entrance are cheaper than those by the lake. ⚠️ Boat tickets are for specific routes, so ask clearly before buying. Suitable for couples and photography enthusiasts. Two days and one night—don't overschedule. 6️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang It's windy at Xingkai Lake during the National Day holiday, but the lake is so vast it makes you want to shout. ⏰ Go to the lakeside in the morning; it gets cold once the wind picks up in the afternoon. 📍 There's a viewing platform near Dangbi Town that offers the best view of the lake. You can combine the Hutou Fortress and the starting point of the Wusuli River into a one-day trip. It has a strong sense of history and is best explored at a leisurely pace. ⚠️ The outdoor exhibition area has no shelter, so bring a thick jacket. Eat cold noodles in Jixi city center. 🍜 A big bowl of cold noodles with spicy side dishes is cheap and filling. 🚄 A taxi from Jixi West Station to the city center costs about 20. Suitable for those who like border vibes and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Two days and one night is enough. 7️⃣ Fangchenggang | Guangxi I recommend staying one night at Leshan Ancient Fishing Village. ⏰ Go for a walk on the mudflats at low tide, and you can pick up small snails. 📍 The old banyan tree at the village entrance is a landmark. When taking photos, be careful not to step on the fishing nets drying there. The coastal road in Fangchenggang is great for cycling. Head out after 4:00 PM when the sea breeze is just right. 🍜 Seafood noodles and rolled rice noodles are local breakfast staples; they sell out before 10:00 AM. ⚠️ The UV rays at the beach are strong, so wear sunscreen even on cloudy days. Great for taking kids to catch seafood, or just for zoning out. Two days and one night to slow down the pace. 8️⃣ Jingzhou | Hubei I recommend going up to the Jingzhou Ancient City Wall in the evening. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the light hits the bricks and the colors look beautiful. 📍 The section at the East Gate's Binyang Tower is the most complete; it takes about an hour to walk the loop. The Jingzhou lantern folk customs are best seen at night; the lanterns are more interesting when lit up than during the day. ⚠️ Some alleys inside the ancient city are under construction, so just take a detour. 🍜 Zaotang noodles and fish cakes are local flavors. Look for small shops in the old town; don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. 🚄 A taxi from Jingzhou Station to the ancient city costs about 15. Suitable for bringing parents, and also for walking around slowly by yourself. Two days and one night, no rushing. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to visit again are Fangchenggang and Jingzhou. One is for zoning out, the other is for walking. Pick one, and don't wait until next year.

September to October: the summer heat has faded, and the gap before the National Day holiday is perfect. I've picked these 8 places, and they all have one thing in common: great scenery that won't break the bank. Don't rush to book your tickets—read this first. 1️⃣ Beihai | Guangxi Bottom line: Weizhou Island is worth visiting, but don't get ripped off. The ferry ticket and admission fee are fixed costs; book through official channels in advance and don't trust the package deals offered by touts at the pier. ⏰ Take the early ferry and arrive between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM for fewer crowds and better lighting. Stay in the Dishuidanping or Shiluokou area. Outside of holidays, you can find a guesthouse with a courtyard for just over 100 yuan. Renting an e-scooter costs 50–60 yuan a day and offers much more freedom than sightseeing buses. 🍜 For seafood, pick your own at Nanwan Market and have it cooked at a nearby shop for a per-pound fee—it's 30% cheaper than ordering directly from a menu. Avoid Beihai Silver Beach at noon, or you'll be scorched. ⏰ Go after 5:00 PM; at low tide, you can walk far out onto the mudflats. ⚠️ Silver Beach is free, but there's a fee for foot washing and storage, so bring your own towel. Perfect for students and young professionals. It's easy to keep costs under 800 yuan per person for 3–4 days. September can still have lingering typhoons, so check the weather before you go. 2️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning Yiwulu Mountain is one of those places where the name might put you off, but it's actually amazing. You can take a shuttle bus or carpool from downtown Jinzhou for just a few dozen yuan. ⏰ The autumn leaves start turning in mid-October. It's less crowded than during the National Day holiday and looks better than in September. The mountain isn't very high, but it's rocky with uneven steps. Wear soft-soled shoes—don't wear new shoes or you'll get blisters. 📍 The stretch from Guanyinge Pavilion to the main peak offers the best views, overlooking the entire Liaodong hilly region. ⚠️ Supplies on the mountain are scarce and expensive, so bring your own water and snacks. The stewed chicken and tofu skin at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are worth trying—you can eat your fill for 40–50 yuan. 🍜 Don't eat Jinzhou barbecue in the scenic area. Head back to the city and find a stall downstairs in an old residential area for the authentic taste. Great for those who like hiking but want to avoid crowds. Seniors can take the gentler routes, but don't push to reach the summit. A 2-day, 1-night trip is enough. 3️⃣ Xiangyang | Hubei Most people who visit Gulongzhong end up falling in love with Xiangyang city too. Gulongzhong is in the west of the city, accessible by bus, and the admission fee is reasonable. ⏰ Go in the morning when the light hits the archways and ancient trees best; it's backlit in the afternoon. Don't just stick to the main scenic area; head further in toward the thatched cottage and the Hexagonal Well area for a quieter experience. 📍 The stone steps in front of Sangu Hall are a great photo spot, but don't stand there too long and block the way. ⚠️ The Three Kingdoms souvenirs in the scenic area are overpriced, so just look. Back in the city, head to North Street and Guanjia Lane. 🍜 Xiangyang beef noodles with yellow rice wine are the standard local breakfast—a satisfying meal for 15 yuan. Take a walk along the Han River at night; the city wall lights look better than during the day. Perfect for trips with parents or history buffs. It's a slow-paced, low-cost destination. A 2-day, 1-night trip can be done for under 500 yuan per person. Remember to bring your student ID for discounts at some spots. 4️⃣ Yancheng | Jiangsu Dafeng Milu Deer Park is one of those places that sounds boring but is actually fascinating. There's a tourist shuttle from downtown Yancheng, or you can drive yourself. ⏰ The deer are active from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM; they mostly just lie around in the afternoon. The park is huge, so don't skimp on the electric shuttle bus—walking will tire you out. 📍 The Deer Viewing Platform and the semi-wild enclosure are the highlights; don't spend too much time in the feeding area at the entrance. ⚠️ Don't feed them your own food; it's against park rules and bad for the animals. September to October is the molting and mating season, so you might see the stags sparring or mud-bathing. If you have a telephoto lens, you're in luck; otherwise, it's just luck with a phone camera. 🍜 Back in the city, have a bowl of Dongtai fish soup noodles—it's incredibly savory. Great for families; kids will remember the "four-unlike" deer. A day trip is enough, costing just over 200 yuan per person. It's windy in the wetlands, so bring a jacket. 5️⃣ Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is a rare ethereal yet affordable spot in the Northwest. Take a taxi or bus from downtown Pingliang to the mountain gate. Admission and cable car tickets are separate; if you're fit, just hike. ⏰ Go the day after rain for a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds, but watch out for slippery steps. 📍 The classic route goes from Chaotian Gate up through Yaowang Cave to the Imperial City. Don't rush; take it slow for two hours. ⚠️ There are many Taoist temples on the mountain; don't get scammed by overpriced incense. Sincerity is what matters, not how much you spend. 🍜 After coming down, have some Pingliang mutton paomo. It's different from the Xi'an version—the broth is clearer. Pair it with a side of pickled garlic; 20 yuan will fill you up. It's cool on the mountain in the mornings and evenings from September to October, so a windbreaker is better than a short-sleeved shirt. Perfect for hikers and budget solo travelers. A 2-day, 1-night trip costs around 400 yuan per person. If the cable car line is long, walking up is actually faster. 6️⃣ Garze | Sichuan Garze is too big to see all at once. Pick two spots like Xinduqiao, Mugecuo, Daocheng Yading, or Hailuogou and explore them deeply rather than rushing through. September to October is the golden season for Western Sichuan, but also the busiest. Xinduqiao is free; the light is best in the morning and evening. ⏰ Get to the Ten-Mile Gallery before 7:00 AM to photograph the poplar trees in the backlight. The Daocheng Yading admission and shuttle bus are the biggest expenses. ⚠️ Know your limits for Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake—altitude sickness is no joke. Choose between Mugecuo and Hailuogou. Mugecuo is closer to Kangding, better if you're short on time. Hailuogou has glaciers and hot springs; stay in Moxi Town and 🍜 have a yak meat hot pot for 60–70 yuan per person. For transport, carpooling or hiring a car is recommended; shuttle buses take too long. Suitable for young people with high-altitude experience who don't mind roughing it. You can keep the budget to 300 yuan per person per day by sharing rooms and bringing your own snacks. It starts getting cold in late September, so bring a down jacket. 7️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Everest Base Camp and Tashilhunpo Monastery—one natural, one cultural. You can get there from Lhasa by train or hired car. ⏰ Seeing the golden sunrise on Everest is a matter of luck, but October is more reliable than September. ⚠️ Get your border permit in advance so you aren't stuck at the checkpoint. Tashilhunpo Monastery is in the city and within walking distance. Go in the morning for good light inside the halls and to avoid tour groups. 📍 The Maitreya Chapel and the Thangka Wall are the highlights; take your time. 🍜 Sit at a sweet tea house outside the monastery; a pot costs just a few yuan, and you can share a table with locals. The Everest route is at a high altitude; you'll stay in tents or the Rongbuk Monastery guesthouse, where conditions are basic. ⚠️ Avoid strenuous exercise and buy oxygen tanks as needed. Suitable for those in good health who can handle basic accommodation. Budget 400 yuan per person per day, mainly for transport and admission. 8️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake in Jixi are an underrated autumn destination in the Northeast. There's a shuttle bus from downtown Jixi to Hutou, but Xingkai Lake is on the other side, so driving or carpooling is recommended. ⏰ In early October, the tree corridors along the lake turn yellow; it's uncrowded and wild. The Hutou Fortress and the source of the Wusuli River are together; it takes two hours to walk around. 📍 Looking at the opposite bank from the riverside, the wind is strong enough to knock you over. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls are closed on Mondays, so check in advance. The free areas of Xingkai Lake are enough to enjoy; don't buy overpriced lake tour tickets. 🍜 Try the Xingkai Lake white shrimp and fish, but ask about the price before ordering. Jixi cold noodles and spicy dishes are the local soul food, costing just over 10 yuan. Perfect for those who like off-the-beaten-path autumn scenery and don't mind the distance. A 2-day, 1-night trip costs 350 yuan per person. September and October are so short—pick one nearby and one far away, and don't try to do too much. I highly recommend Shigatse and Garze for their unique scenery. Which one have you been to? Let me know in the comments.

When taking parents on a trip, the biggest fear isn't the distance, but the hassle. Changing locations 3 times a day, climbing hills, waiting in line for 2 hours just to take a 5-minute photo—parents end up more exhausted than if they were at work. I've selected these 6 cities because they have a slow pace, flat terrain, and food that's easy on the palate, with plenty of places to sit down when you get tired. Not rushing is the right way to travel with parents. 1️⃣ Laibin | Guangxi The Panwangjie and Lianhuashan mountains in Jinxiu are the kind of places that "look steep but are stable to walk on." Panwangjie has a cable car, and once you're up, the boardwalks are mostly flat. ⏰ Before 9:00 AM, the clouds and mist haven't dispersed yet, and parents walking on them feel like they're stepping on cotton. Lianhuashan has more stairs, but there's a pavilion every so often. My parents would walk for 10 minutes and rest for 5, which actually let them take a closer look at the azaleas along the way. 📍 At the Yao ethnic restaurants in Jinxiu county, order a serving of oil tea and bamboo rice; it's a comfortable meal for about CNY 40 per person. ⚠️ It's windy on Panwangjie mountain, so bring a light jacket for your parents. Don't believe the "you don't need long sleeves in summer" advice. It gets foggy easily in the mountains in the afternoon, and visibility drops quickly, so I recommend heading down the mountain before 3:00 PM. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to get from Liuzhou to Laibin by high-speed train, then another 2-plus hours by bus to Jinxiu. The whole trip isn't too tiring for seniors. 2️⃣ Haidong | Qinghai The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Hometown Garden and Youning Temple—one is lively, the other quiet—make for a perfect half-day. In the Hometown Garden, you can watch the Tu people's "Lunziqiu" (swing) and Anzhao dance. ⏰ The 2:00 PM show has the fewest people, so parents can sit in the front row and watch at their leisure. Youning Temple is on a mountain, but cars can drive right to the entrance, and it's just a few steps to the main hall, so no mountain climbing is required. 📍 Don't let parents drink too much of the Mingliu wine at the entrance of the Hometown Garden; it has a strong kick. 🍜 The "ga mianpian" (noodle pieces) and hand-grabbed mutton in Ping'an District are served with hot soup and tender meat, making them easy to eat even if they have dental issues. ⚠️ Haidong is at an altitude of just over 2,000 meters, which is usually fine, but don't let your parents take long showers on the first day. 🚄 The high-speed train from Xining to Haidong takes about 20 minutes, which is more convenient than staying in Xining, and hotel prices are also a chunk cheaper. 3️⃣ Zibo | Shandong Zhoucun Ancient Mall is about more than just barbecue. Walk slowly down the main street; the ticket shops, dye houses, and sesame seed cake shops are all lined up. Parents are much more interested in these "time-honored brands" than in trendy shops. ⏰ Arrive at 8:30 AM when the shops are just opening; there's no one on the street, so you don't have to dodge crowds for photos. 📍 The freshly baked Zhoucun sesame seed cakes in the middle of the main street are thin, crispy, and savory. Buy 2 bags to snack on along the way. ⚠️ Some "free guided tours" in the ancient mall will eventually try to get you to buy things; just politely decline. 🍜 For lunch, find a Boshan cuisine restaurant. The tofu boxes and crispy pot dishes are soft, tender, and flavorful—much better for seniors' digestion than barbecue. 🚄 It takes about half an hour and costs around CNY 30 to take a taxi from Zibo Station to Zhoucun. Half a day is enough here, and you can still go back to the city center for a nap in the afternoon. 4️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake are the kind of "not tiring but far enough" border scenery. Take your time looking through the exhibition halls at the Hutou Fortress. Once you come out, you're at the source of the Wusuli River. With the river breeze blowing, parents can stand there and chat for a long time. Xingkai Lake is even simpler; the lake is so big you can't see the other side. ⏰ Go to the lakeside at 5:30 PM; the light is soft, and the mosquitoes haven't started their shift yet. 📍 At the river fish restaurants in Hulin city, order a pot of stewed mixed fish with corn cakes dipped in the soup. It costs just over CNY 100 for 3 people. ⚠️ The wind by Xingkai Lake is strong, so be sure to prepare a windbreaker for your parents, even in summer. 🚄 There is a train from Jixi to Hulin that takes over 2 hours. It's slow, but the seats are spacious. Accommodation conditions by the lake are average, so I recommend staying in Hulin city. 5️⃣ Handan | Shandong Guangfu Ancient City and the Nuwa Palace—one flat, one steep—are perfect to split into 2 days. Guangfu Ancient City is located in the wetlands and has intact city walls. Rent a tricycle to take your parents around. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the city walls, so you don't need filters for your photos. 📍 The crispy fish and braised pork elbow outside the South Gate are authentic old Handan flavors. Buy half a jin to take back to the hotel as a late-night snack. You have to climb a bit for the Nuwa Palace, but the cable car can save you most of the effort. ⚠️ The stairs on the mountain are narrow. If you have many seniors, I suggest turning back at Zhongtian Gate; even young people have to hold onto the walls for the section above that. 🍜 You can pick up some Shexian walnuts and persimmon cakes on the way. 🚄 There is a bus from Handan Station to Guangfu Ancient City that takes about 1 hour, or a taxi costs around CNY 50. 6️⃣ Xishuangbanna | Yunnan The Dai Ethnic Park, Tropical Botanical Garden, and Tropical Rainforest Park sound like a lot, but you can actually take it slow. In the Botanical Garden, you can hop on and off the electric carts. ⏰ Visit the west area before 10:00 AM when there's plenty of shade and it's not too sunny. There's a water-splashing performance in the Ethnic Park in the afternoon; parents can just watch the fun without having to join in. 📍 The giant water lilies and strangler figs in the Botanical Garden are sights you won't see elsewhere. 🍜 The Lao iced coffee and pineapple rice at the Jinghong night market are sweet and very popular with seniors. ⚠️ Xishuangbanna is hot and humid. Don't plan outdoor activities between 12:00 PM–3:00 PM; going back to the hotel for a nap is the most practical thing to do. 🚄 It takes about 1 hour to fly from Kunming to Xishuangbanna, and it's a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport to Gaozhuang. Watch the afternoon peacock release show at the Forest Park; don't rush to get there early. 7️⃣ Datong | Shanxi The Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, and Mount Hengshan sound hardcore, but you can actually break them down into a very relaxed itinerary. The Yungang Grottoes are flat the whole way, and electric carts take you directly to the front of the caves. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light shines obliquely into the caves, making the details of the Buddha statues clearly visible. 📍 Take a photo of your parents in front of the open-air Great Buddha at Cave 20; it's worth more than any other spot. The Hanging Temple is better viewed from afar than climbed. If your parents' legs aren't great, just take photos from below. You have to buy a separate ticket to climb up, and you'll have to wait in line. ⚠️ The Hengshan cable car has long lines during peak season. If you're with seniors, I suggest skipping the summit and just walking around the temple complex at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 Have a bowl of Datong knife-cut noodles and lamb offal soup in the morning to stay warm until noon. 🚄 There is a tourist bus from Datong South Station to the Yungang Grottoes, which takes about 40 minutes. 8️⃣ Nyingchi | Tibet Bomi, Basum Lake, the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, and the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon—the scenery on this route is so packed that you actually need to be selective. There's a boardwalk on the island in the middle of Basum Lake; it takes 40 minutes to walk around slowly. ⏰ In the morning, there's no wind on the lake, and the reflection of the snow-capped mountains is clearest. 📍 The stone pot chicken in Lulang Town is fresh and tender; my parents drank 2 bowls. You don't need to walk the whole way at the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. Take the sightseeing bus to the viewing platform; whether you see Namcha Barwa or not is all down to luck. ⚠️ Nyingchi is at an altitude of about 3,000 meters. Don't wash your hair on the first night, and have glucose ready. There are many curves on parts of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, so if your parents get carsick, have them take medicine beforehand. 🚄 The high-speed train from Lhasa to Nyingchi takes over 3 hours, which is much steadier than driving. None of these 6 cities require non-stop walking. When taking parents on a trip, it's okay to see 1 less attraction; just don't let them sit in the car for too long or stand in the sun for too long. Which city do you most want to take them to, or which one have you already been to? Let me know in the comments, and I'll help you plan a more detailed, slow-paced itinerary.

Some cities are like that; you don't go with high expectations, but after visiting, you find yourself longing for them. Here are 8 places with incredibly high tourist ratings; I'll introduce them one by one, and you can choose whichever you like. 01 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan is the kind of city that "doesn't compete or fight for attention, but has a solid foundation." I don't recommend treating it as a stopover; dedicate a whole day to it, and the pace is just right. ⏰ In the morning, start with the Jinci Museum. The Song Dynasty painted sculptures in the Shengmu Hall are worth standing and looking at for ten minutes. Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to official announcements on the day. During peak season, arrive early for fewer crowds and better lighting. 📍 In the afternoon, head to Tianlong Mountain. The grottoes are hidden in the mountains, and the road is winding; driving is the best option. If taking the bus, the service is infrequent, so avoid taking the last bus back. In the evening, finish at Jinyang Lake Park. The lake is expansive, and the breeze makes you feel completely relaxed. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Suitable for families with elderly members and children; the path is flat and the pace is slow. 🍜 In the evening, try a bowl of "tou tou" (a type of soup) with shumai (steamed dumplings). Locals eat this for breakfast too, so feel free to have it as a late-night snack. 02 Hengyang|Hunan The essence of Hengyang can be summed up in one word: climbing. For the Nanyue Hengshan Scenic Area, those with average stamina shouldn't attempt the entire hike. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Hengshan West Station, then take a taxi up the mountain (about half an hour). To save energy, take the scenic area shuttle bus to the halfway point and then hike up. ⏰ If you want to see the sunrise, stay on the mountain the night before and get up at 3 AM. If you're not going to see the sunrise, go up in the morning and come down before 3 PM to avoid the crowds. The Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain; it's very popular and the architecture is well-organized. ⚠️ If someone tries to offer you "free incense" at the temple, they'll most likely want you to donate money; use your discretion. 📍 The rice noodle stalls on the mountain were better than I expected, ten yuan a bowl, and the hot soup kept me going on the climb. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, and also for those who just want to enjoy the scenery by car; the cable car and park shuttle buses are the best options. The rime ice in autumn and winter is a limited-time event; if you happen to see it, consider yourself lucky. 03 Jixi|Heilongjiang Jixi is an underrated northeastern border town—quiet, inexpensive, and with wild scenery. I recommend driving, as public transportation in this area is insufficient. 📍 First, go to Hulin, a small town on the Ussuri River; the other side of the river is another country. The river breeze is strong, and it gets cool standing there for a while in summer. ⏰ The riverside lighting is best in the evening, making for clean and easy photos. Don't expect any trendy photo spots; the main attraction here is the open space. Xingkai Lake is the highlight; it's as big as the sea. 🚄 The drive from Jixi city is quite long, so leave early and allow at least half a day. 🍜 Be sure to try the fish by the lake; it's stewed until very flavorful. Ask about the price before ordering, as prices by weight can easily exceed your budget. Suitable for those who prefer tranquility and want to see the vast rivers and lakes. ⚠️ Roads are icy in winter; don't drive yourself if you don't have snow driving experience. 04 Pingdingshan|Henan Many people come to Pingdingshan specifically for Yaoshan Mountain and the Central Plains Buddha. Climbing the mountain and seeing the Buddha are perfect for a day trip. ⏰ Climb Yaoshan in the morning; the cable car will save you a lot of energy. There are many steps on the mountain, so wear non-slip shoes; don't wear new shoes that might cause blisters. 📍 The Central Plains Buddha is below; the bronze statue is enormous, and you have to look up to see it up close. Stand back a bit for photos, otherwise, it won't fit in the frame. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Pingdingshan city center, or you can take a taxi or share a ride; it's more cost-effective if you share with others. ⚠️ The temperature difference between the mountain and the foot of the mountain is significant; bring a jacket even in summer. Water and snacks in the scenic area are relatively expensive, so bring your own. Suitable for family trips; seniors can take the cable car, while younger people can hike—each can do their own thing. 🍜 On the way down, find a bowl of Henan-style braised noodles—wide noodles and thick broth—the most comforting meal after a long day. 05 Xiamen|Fujian I know Xiamen well, but let me clarify: Gulangyu Island isn't bad, it's just crowded. For a comfortable experience, timing is more important than the specific attractions. ⏰ Take the earliest ferry to Gulangyu Island; the island is incredibly quiet before 8 am. Book your ferry tickets in advance; check the official announcement for specific schedules. 📍 Don't just walk along Longtou Road on the island; head towards Neicuo'ao—the old villas and bougainvillea are the real gems. Return to the main island in the afternoon. The Railway Culture Park is great for a stroll; it's converted from old railway tracks, with plenty of shade. Nanputuo Temple is free; you can bring two boxes of vegetarian cakes. ⚠️ The temple is very crowded, so don't block the entrance for photos. The succulent and rainforest areas of Xiamen Botanical Garden are worth half a day. The rainforest area has timed misting, so arrive at the right time. 🚄 Buses and subways on the island are sufficient; taxis tend to get congested. Suitable for couples and families, but it can be hot and humid in summer, so bring your own water. 🍜 For satay noodles, look for small street vendors; avoid the ones near the scenic area entrance. 06 Ningbo|Zhejiang Ningbo is the kind of city that "grows more charming the more you explore"—it's not noisy, but it's captivating. I'll break it down into three parts for you. 📍 Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu Lake are adjacent; visit the library first, then stroll around the lake. Tianyi Pavilion is the oldest existing private library, and the gardens within are more exquisite than you might expect. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. ⏰ In the afternoon, visit the Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area. The mountains, water, and villages are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The section near Xuedou Mountain has many steps, so older visitors should proceed with caution. Save Qiantong Ancient Town until evening. After the tourists have left, the stone-paved streets and streams reveal their true beauty. 📍 The town's tofu and wheat cakes are signature dishes; eat them while they're hot. 🚄 The Ningbo Metro can reach most parts of the city. For Xikou and Qiantong, it's recommended to drive or hire a car, as bus transfers take time. Suitable for those who appreciate culture and ancient towns; pace is up to you. 🍜 Find a bowl of seafood noodles in the city center; generous portions and more reasonably priced than in the tourist areas. 07 Yingtan|Jiangxi Yingtan is basically a destination for Longhu Mountain. The Danxia landform combined with Taoist culture can be fully explored in a day, but don't try to do too much. ⏰ In the morning, take a bamboo raft down the Luxi River. The mountains on both banks seem to rise directly from the water; this view is ten times better than from the shore. The queue for the bamboo rafts is long, so go early. 📍 After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk to watch the hanging coffin performance. Shows are scheduled, so ask about the times before entering the scenic area to avoid missing it. ⚠️ Some sections of the mountain path are narrow, and it gets very crowded during peak season, so wear comfortable shoes. The steps can be slippery in the rain, so walk slowly. 🚄 There is a direct bus from Yingtan Station to Longhushan, and taxis are also inexpensive. The scenic area ticket includes the sightseeing bus; specific rules are subject to the official announcement on the day. Suitable for those who enjoy natural scenery and light hiking; also suitable for families with children. The bamboo rafts are very stable. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a local restaurant and order braised chicken with chestnuts—perfect with rice. 08 Tai'an | Shandong The city of Tai'an is entirely defined by Mount Tai. But let me be honest: climbing Mount Tai at night isn't for everyone. ⏰ If you want to see the sunrise, climb at night. Start from Hongmen at 10 PM and hike slowly for five or six hours to the top. If your stamina is average, take a bus to Zhongtianmen and then climb. 📍 It's windy and cold at the summit. Don't worry about the appearance of your coat; survival is paramount. ⚠️ During holidays, it's incredibly crowded. If you want to take sunrise photos, arrive early to secure a good spot. Climbing during the day is also an option. You'll see more of the mountain scenery and stone carvings, and with half the crowds, the experience is actually better. 🚄 There are buses from Tai'an Station to Hongmen, and a taxi costs around 20 yuan. Don't rush down the mountain. Dai Temple is worth visiting; the ancient cypress trees and stone carvings are the highlights. 🍜 Find a restaurant at the foot of the mountain and enjoy a Taishan tofu feast for a light and refreshing end. Suitable for those with good stamina, and also for those who just want to enjoy the scenery from the cable car. Elderly people and children are advised to hike during the day, avoiding the crowds at night. Of these 8 places, I most want to revisit Jixi and Ningbo—one wild, the other peaceful. How many have you been to? Share your numbers in the comments and let's see who the true travel enthusiast is! Some cities are like that; you don't have high expectations before you go, but after you've explored them, you'll find yourself longing for them. The following 8 places have incredibly solid tourist reputations. I'll describe them one by one, and you can choose whichever you prefer. 01 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan is the kind of city that "doesn't compete or fight for attention, but has a rich history." I don't recommend treating it as a stopover; dedicate a whole day to it—the pace is just right. ⏰ Start your morning at the Jinci Museum. The Song Dynasty painted sculptures in the Holy Mother Hall are worth standing and looking at for ten minutes. Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to official announcements on the day. Arrive early during peak season for fewer crowds and better lighting. 📍 In the afternoon, head to Tianlong Mountain. The grottoes are hidden in the mountains, and the road is winding, so driving is the best option. If you take the bus, the service is infrequent, so avoid taking the last bus back. In the evening, finish at Jinyang Lake Park. The lake is expansive, and the breeze is incredibly relaxing. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Suitable for families with elderly members and children; the path is flat and the pace is slow. 🍜 In the evening, find a bowl of "tou tou" (a type of soup) with "shaomai" (a type of steamed dumpling). Locals eat this for breakfast, so feel free to have it as a late-night snack. 02 Hengyang|Hunan The essence of Hengyang can be summed up in one word: climbing. For the Nanyue Hengshan Scenic Area, those with average stamina shouldn't attempt the entire hike. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Hengshan West Station, then take a taxi up the mountain (about half an hour). To save energy, take the scenic area shuttle bus to the halfway point and then walk up. ⏰ If you want to see the sunrise, stay overnight on the mountain and get up at 3 AM. If you're not going to see the sunrise, go up the mountain in the morning and come down before 3 PM to avoid the crowds. Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain, very popular with worshippers, and the buildings are well-organized. ⚠️ If someone tries to persuade you to offer "free incense" at the temple, they'll most likely want you to donate money; decide for yourself. 📍 The rice noodle stalls on the mountain are better than expected; a bowl costs ten yuan, and the hot soup will keep you climbing. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, and also for those who just want to see the scenery by car; the cable car and scenic area shuttle buses are sufficient. The rime ice in autumn and winter is a limited-time event; if you encounter it, consider yourself lucky. 03 Jixi|Heilongjiang Jixi is an underrated northeastern border town—quiet, inexpensive, and with wild scenery. I recommend driving, as public transportation in this area is insufficient. 📍 First, go to Hulin, a small town on the Ussuri River; the other side of the river is another country. The river breeze is strong; even in summer, standing there for a while can get chilly. ⏰ The riverside lighting is best at dusk, making for clean, natural photos. Don't expect any trendy photo spots; the main attraction here is the open space. Xingkai Lake is the highlight; it's as vast as the sea. 🚄 The drive from Jixi city is quite long, so leave early and allow at least half a day. 🍜 You must try the fish by the lake; it's stewed to perfection. Ask about the price before ordering, as prices by weight can easily exceed your budget. Suitable for those who prefer tranquility and want to see a large river and lake. ⚠️ In winter, the roads are icy; don't drive yourself if you don't have snow driving experience. 04 Pingdingshan|Henan Many people come to Pingdingshan specifically for Yaoshan Mountain and the Central Plains Buddha. Climbing the mountain and seeing the Buddha are perfectly balanced in one day. ⏰ Climb Yaoshan in the morning; the cable car will save you a lot of energy. There are many steps on the mountain, so wear non-slip shoes and avoid wearing new shoes that might cause blisters. 📍 The Central Plains Buddha is below; the bronze statue is enormous, and you have to look up to see it up close. Stand back a bit for photos, otherwise it won't fit in the frame. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Pingdingshan city center, or you can take a taxi or share a ride; it's more cost-effective if you share the cost among several people. ⚠️ There's a significant temperature difference between the mountain and the foot of the mountain; bring a jacket even in summer. Water and snacks in the scenic area are relatively expensive, so bring enough. Suitable for family trips; the elderly can take the cable car, and the younger generation can hike—everyone can do their own thing. 🍜 Find a bowl of Henan-style braised noodles on the way down the mountain—wide noodles and thick broth—the most comforting meal after a long day. 05 Xiamen|Fujian I know Xiamen well, but let me clarify first: Gulangyu Island isn't bad, it's just crowded. For a comfortable trip, timing is more important than the specific attractions. ⏰ Take the earliest ferry to Gulangyu Island; the island is incredibly quiet before 8 AM. Ferry tickets need to be booked in advance; specific schedules are subject to official announcements on the day. 📍 Don't just walk along Longtou Road on the island; head towards Neicuo'ao. The old villas and bougainvillea are the real gems. Return to the main island in the afternoon. The Railway Culture Park is great for a stroll; it's converted from old railway tracks, with plenty of shade. Nanputuo Temple is free; you can take a couple of boxes of vegetarian cakes home. ⚠️ The temple is very crowded; avoid blocking the entrance for photos. The succulent and rainforest areas of the Xiamen Botanical Garden are worth half a day. The rainforest area has timed misting, so arrive at the right time. 🚄 Buses and the subway on the island are sufficient; taxis tend to get congested. Suitable for couples and families, but it can be hot and humid in summer, so bring water. 🍜 For satay noodles, look for small street-side shops; avoid the ones near the scenic area entrance. 06 Ningbo | Zhejiang Ningbo is the kind of city that grows more charming the more you explore it. It's not noisy, but it's captivating. I'll break it down into three parts for you. 📍 Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu Lake are adjacent. Visit the library first, then stroll around the lake. Tianyi Pavilion is the oldest existing private library, and the gardens in its courtyard are more exquisite than you'd expect. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, don't make a wasted trip. ⏰ In the afternoon, go to Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area. The mountains, water, and villages are perfect for a leisurely walk. The section on Xuedou Mountain has many steps, so older people should proceed with caution. Save Qiantong Ancient Town until evening. After the tourists have left, the stone-paved streets and streams reveal their true beauty. 📍 The town's tofu and wheat cakes are signature dishes; eat them while they're hot. 🚄 The Ningbo Metro can reach most parts of the city. For Xikou and Qiantong, I recommend driving or hiring a car, as bus transfers take time. Suitable for those who appreciate culture and ancient towns; pace is up to you. 🍜 Find a bowl of seafood noodles in the city center—generous portions and more reasonably priced than in the tourist areas. 07 Yingtan | Jiangxi Yingtan is basically a must-visit for Longhu Mountain. The Danxia landform combined with Taoist culture can be fully explored in a day, but don't try to do too much. ⏰ In the morning, take a bamboo raft down the Luxi River. The mountains on both sides seem to rise directly from the water; this view is ten times better than from the shore. The raft queue is long, so go early. 📍 After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk to watch the hanging coffin performance. Shows are scheduled; ask for the time before entering the scenic area to avoid missing it. ⚠️ Some sections of the mountain path are narrow, and it gets very crowded during peak season, so wear comfortable shoes. The steps can be slippery in the rain, so walk slowly. 🚄 There are direct buses from Yingtan Station to Longhu Mountain, and taxis are also inexpensive. The scenic area ticket includes the sightseeing bus; specific rules are subject to the official announcement on the day. Suitable for those who enjoy natural scenery and light hiking; also suitable for families with children, as the bamboo rafts are very stable. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a local restaurant and order braised chicken with chestnuts – perfect with rice. 08 Tai'an | Shandong The city of Tai'an owes its fame entirely to Mount Tai. But let me be honest: climbing Mount Tai at night isn't for everyone. ⏰ If you want to see the sunrise, climb at night. Start from Hongmen at 10 PM and hike slowly for five or six hours to the top. If your stamina is average, take a bus to Zhongtianmen and then climb. 📍 It's windy and cold at the summit; don't worry about the appearance, rent a coat – survival is key. ⚠️ During holidays, it's extremely crowded; arrive early to secure a good spot for sunrise photography. Climbing during the day is also possible; you'll see more of the mountain scenery and stone carvings, and with half the crowds, the experience is actually better. 🚄 There are buses from Tai'an Station to Hongmen; a taxi costs around 20 yuan. Don't rush off the way down the mountain; Dai Temple is worth visiting, especially the ancient cypress trees and stone inscriptions. 🍜 Find a restaurant at the foot of the mountain for a Taishan tofu feast—a light and refreshing way to end the day. Suitable for those with good stamina, and also for those who just want to enjoy the scenery from the cable car. It's recommended that the elderly and children go up the mountain during the day, avoiding the nighttime crowds. Of these 8 places, I most want to revisit Jixi and Ningbo—one wild, the other peaceful. How many have you been to? Share your numbers in the comments and let's see who's the real travel enthusiast!

Don't crowd into popular spots for National Day! These 8 hidden gems are uncrowded and affordable 01 Chuzhou | Anhui Langya Mountain is one of those places whose name doesn't do it justice. Most people only remember "The Old Drunkard's Pavilion," but don't know how comfortable it is to visit in autumn. ⏰ Enter from the North Gate before 9:00 AM. It's less crowded, the fog hasn't lifted yet, and the stone steps are damp and a bit slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 📍 The stream next to the Old Drunkard's Pavilion has water sounds that drown out tourist chatter, perfect for sitting and zoning out for 10 minutes. If you have trouble walking, take the scenic shuttle halfway up, then walk 20 minutes to Nantian Gate. Don't push yourself to do the whole thing. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to that time-honored shop on Fengle Avenue for Langya crispy candy paired with a bowl of red bean paste. It's just the right amount of sweet. ⚠️ During National Day, the cable car line can reach one hour. To save time, go early or just take the trail. This place is great for a leisurely stroll with parents, not for rushing through. 02 Putian | Fujian You need to take a ferry to Meizhou Island. Buy the ferry ticket and island entry ticket separately. ⏰ I recommend catching the 7:30 AM ferry; you can see the sea surface dyed orange by the sunrise from the deck. 📍 You'll regret wearing flip-flops on the stone steps in the Mazu Cultural Tourism Zone; the steps are narrow and dense. Ewei Shenshi Park on the island is quieter than the main scenic area, and you can find small snail shells in the crevices of the reefs. 🍜 For lunch, have Xinghua braised noodles near the pier and add an order of fried seaweed. It's very flavorful. ⚠️ Don't lose your return ferry ticket; it's checked when leaving the island. It's great for couples or solo travelers looking to catch a breeze, but not suitable for strollers due to the many slopes. 03 Xishuangbanna | Yunnan Don't try to hit all three spots in one day, or you'll be exhausted. The Dai Minority Park is best visited ⏰ after 4:00 PM. The Water Splashing Square isn't as sunny, and you won't have to crowd into the front row to watch the performance. 📍 I recommend setting aside a whole morning for the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden. Take the electric cart in the west area and walk the rainforest trail in the east area. The strangler figs and buttress roots are worth crouching down to see. The peacock release at the Primitive Forest Park is ⏰ at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If you go late, you'll only see the backs of people's heads. 🍜 In the evening, go to the Gaozhuang Night Market for grilled "luosuo" (a local snack) and pineapple rice. Don't eat inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Banna is still muggy in October, so bring mosquito repellent and wear quick-dry clothing. This place is great for families, but the rainforest trail can be tough for seniors, so know your limits. 04 Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan and the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan are far apart, so I recommend splitting them over two days. ⏰ Enter Xiangshawan after 3:00 PM. The sand won't burn your feet, and the lines for sand sliding and camel riding are shorter. 📍 The Xiansha Island side is less crowded, and taking photos barefoot on the sand ridges is cleaner than at the cable car entrance. 🍜 Food in the scenic area is expensive and mediocre, so bring your own naan and yogurt. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan Tourism Zone is more about soaking in the atmosphere. ⏰ Go in the morning for better light. Don't wear short skirts on the steps in front of the mausoleum palace; it's windy. ⚠️ There's no direct bus between the two places, so chartering a car or driving yourself is more convenient. A taxi costs over 100 one way. It's suitable for those who want to see unique landscapes. It's okay for families, but don't expect too many interactive activities. 05 Leshan | Sichuan For Mount Emei and the Leshan Giant Buddha, my advice is to pick one and explore it deeply. For Mount Emei, ⏰ take the first sightseeing bus at 6:30 AM to Leidongping, then hike for half an hour to catch the cable car. You'll have a higher chance of seeing the sea of clouds at the Golden Summit. 📍 The trail at Qingyin Pavilion is great for hiking enthusiasts, with the sound of water all the way, but there are many steps, so seniors should be cautious. If you only want to see the panoramic view of the Leshan Giant Buddha, 📍 go directly to Taiyang Island for a distant view and save the energy of waiting in line for three hours. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Zhanggong Bridge for "qiaojiao" beef and sweet skin duck. It's half the price of what you'd pay at the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ The Giant Buddha plank road has limited capacity during National Day, so you need to grab reservation tickets in advance. It's suitable for people with good stamina who want to hike; those just looking to check it off a list will be disappointed. 06 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is one of the few humid mountains in the Northwest. ⏰ It's best to go the day after rain, when clouds and mist wrap around the mountainside like an ink wash painting. 📍 Walking up from Chaotian Gate, the section from Zhongtai to Huangcheng is the steepest. The railings are iron chains, so hold on tight. If you don't want to hike, take the cable car to Zhongtai, then stroll slowly to Yaowang Cave. Two hours is enough. 🍜 The "helo" noodles and steamed chicken at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are worth trying, and the portions are generous. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water. Don't wear white shoes; the loess is hard to wash off. This place is suitable for those who like quiet and Taoist culture, but not for young children, as many steps lack railings. 07 Weinan | Shaanxi Mount Hua is crowded during National Day, but climbing at night can help you avoid most of the crowds. ⏰ Start from Yuquan Temple at 10:00 PM and arrive at the East Peak in the early morning to wait for the sunrise. Remember to rent a military-style overcoat; the wind on the summit is harsh. 📍 The Plank Road in the Sky requires an extra fee for a safety harness and has long lines. If you're afraid of heights, skip it; watching the sunset at the West Peak is more worthwhile. If you go up during the day, take the West Peak cable car to save four hours of energy. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Huayin city for "dadao" noodles and "xue" noodles. A hot soup will bring you back to life. ⚠️ Bring your own gloves and headlamp; they're expensive on the mountain. It's suitable for young people with good stamina. If bringing seniors, take the West Peak cable car round trip and don't attempt the Zhiqu Huashan trail. 08 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake are in the same direction, so you can visit both in one day by chartering a car. ⏰ Go to Hutou first in the morning. It's cold by the river, so wear a windbreaker and look at the forests and boundary markers on the opposite bank. 📍 Go to the Xingkai Lake viewing platform in the afternoon. The lake looks like the sea, and the sound of waves hitting the beach is very relaxing. 🍜 For lunch, have lake fish stewed with tofu in Hutou Town. Choose a small restaurant and don't trust the touts. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so carry mosquito repellent with you. In October, you'll need a light down jacket here; it's 5–6 degrees cooler than in the city. It's suitable for self-driving and photography enthusiasts. Public transport is infrequent, so it's very inconvenient without a car. These eight places will at least save you from staring at the backs of people's heads during National Day. Pick one near you and check the official announcements again before booking. Which one have you been to, or which one do you want to visit most? Let us know in the comments.

Only by setting off off-peak in September do you understand what comfort really means 01 Yuncheng | Shanxi In September, the Yuncheng Salt Lake already has a chill in the breeze, but the lake water is still warm. ⏰ It's best to go after 4:30 PM. When the light hits at an angle, the pink and orange of the salt flats really show their colors. 📍 Enter from the entrance near Chishen Temple. You don't need to buy a sightseeing shuttle ticket; it's a 20-minute walk to the area where the colors are most intense. If you want to take photos of the reflections, crouch down low. Don't wear white shoes; salt mud is hard to wash off. 🍜 Afterward, go to Jiezhou Town for a bowl of lamb paomo with half a portion of flatbread. Locals start lining up at 5:00 PM. ⚠️ The salt lake is not a beach. Do not enter the water. It's more corrosive than you think. Suitable for bringing seniors, as the paths are flat and you can turn back anytime if you get tired. September is uncrowded, so you don't have to fight for a photo spot. 02 Jixi | Heilongjiang September in Jixi is the most comfortable time of autumn in Northeast China. It gets cool quickly around Hutou Fortress, so you'll need an extra jacket in the morning. ⏰ Arrive at Hutou before 10:00 AM for good light and fewer crowds. 📍 Walk 200 meters east from the Xingkai Lake viewing platform to find an unmanaged beach that is much quieter than the main entrance. Bring a folding chair and you can sit there all afternoon. 🍜 Have lake fish for lunch in Dangbi Town; it's stewed until tender and served with rice. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so hold onto your hat. I've seen one fly into the lake with my own eyes. Driving is most convenient; it's 40 minutes between the two spots. Suitable for couples or those seeking peace and quiet. It's also fine for families, but keep a close eye on the kids. 03 Hechi | Guangxi In September, the rain in Hechi has subsided quite a bit, but the mountains are still green. The landscapes of Donglan are best visited in the morning when the mist hasn't fully cleared. 📍 It's a 20-minute drive from Donglan County; navigate to the area near Pohao Lake. The water at Jiudun Tianchuang is incredibly clear. ⏰ When the sun shines directly down at noon, you can see the stones at the bottom. But do not enter the water. There are many undercurrents, and even locals don't swim there. Xiangbei Shangri-La and Sanli Yangdu can be visited on the same day. The former is suitable for a leisurely walk, while the latter is for bamboo rafting. ⚠️ Agree on the price for the bamboo raft beforehand; don't ask after you've boarded. 🍜 There's a fresh-pressed rice noodle shop in Du'an County; add the sour bamboo shoots yourself, but don't overdo it. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts. Seniors will have no problem walking the flat path in Xiangbei. 04 Jining | Shandong Qufu Ming Ancient City is best visited in the morning. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM before the tour groups arrive. 📍 Enter from the Wanren Palace Wall, walk along the central axis first, then turn to the stele pavilion on the east side to avoid the crowds. Among the "Three Confucius Sites," I recommend the Confucius Temple the most. You can walk through the Confucius Mansion quickly, and the Confucius Forest depends on your stamina. ⚠️ Don't buy incense at the entrance; it's not allowed inside. Go to Weishan Lake in the afternoon. 🚄 It's a 1.5-hour drive from Qufu East Station to Weishan Lake. There aren't many lotus flowers left in September, but the lotus seed pods are just right. Take a boat into the lake, but don't take those small boats that solicit passengers. 🍜 The salted duck eggs and century eggs at Weishan Lake are half the price at roadside stalls compared to inside the scenic area. Suitable for bringing parents; there are electric carts if you get tired of walking. 05 Jinzhou | Liaoning Visit Mount Yiwulü in September. The leaves are just starting to change color—not intensely, but it's peaceful. ⏰ Arrive at the mountain gate at 7:30 AM to catch the first wave of morning mist. 📍 Hike up from the Beizhen Temple side. Take the old path; the steps are gentle, making it suitable for a slow climb. The newly built cable car is fast, but you'll miss the pine forests along the way. ⚠️ There are few places to buy water on the mountain, so bring enough yourself. Don't wear flat-soled sneakers; the stone paths are slippery. 🍜 After descending, go into Beizhen city to eat Goubangzi smoked chicken. Look for the time-honored brand and don't buy it at the scenic area entrance. Suitable for people who like hiking. It's also fine for families, but the child must be able to walk for two hours. 06 Huzhou | Zhejiang September in Nanxun Ancient Town features morning mist and evening lights. ⏰ Enter the ancient town after 4:00 PM. You don't need to buy a general admission ticket; small attractions charge separately. 📍 Walk along the river from Baijianlou to the back door of the Zhang Shiming Former Residence; that section is almost empty. If you want to take photos, crouch under the bridge arch for soft lighting. 🍜 You must try the "double-topping" noodles; get a piece of crispy pork and a piece of fried fish. ⚠️ Don't eat on the main street; walk a few steps into the alleys, and the price will be half as much. Suitable for couples or solo travelers looking to zone out. It's best to stay for one night; Nanxun before 7:00 AM is its true self. 07 Yushu | Qinghai In September, the grass in Yushu has started to turn yellow, but the sky is unbelievably blue. You cannot enter Hoh Xil casually. ⚠️ You must go with a legitimate tour group; don't trust those soliciting passengers on the roadside. 📍 There are open areas in the Sanjiangyuan National Park; it's a two-hour drive from Jiegu Town. ⏰ Go in the morning; it's windy in the afternoon. The altitude is high, so don't take a shower, run, or jump on the first day. 🍜 There's a Tibetan restaurant in Jiegu Town. The butter tea is salty; if you're not used to it, order sweet tea instead. Suitable for people in good health who can adapt to altitude sickness. September is less crowded than July and August, but the temperature is also lower, so bring a down jacket. 08 Wuzhong | Ningxia September is the perfect time to visit the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon. ⏰ Enter after 3:00 PM when the light hits the cliffs, showing the most authentic colors. 📍 Take a boat from Qingtongxia Town into the canyon. Don't take a speedboat; only the slow boat allows you to clearly see the pagodas on both banks. The 108 Pagodas are on the shore; it's a 20-minute climb up. ⚠️ It's windy and sandy, so don't just put your camera lens cap anywhere. 🍜 Return to Wuzhong city center to eat hand-grabbed lamb, served with garlic and vinegar; don't dip it in too much sauce. Suitable for bringing seniors, as the boat is stable and the paths are flat. The Yellow River water is not muddy in September, so you can see reflections. Traveling in September is all about fewer crowds, cooler weather, and not being in a rush. Pick one of these eight places that's close to you and go. Which one have you been to, or which one do you want to visit the most? Let us know in the comments.

When traveling with parents, the biggest fear isn't the cost—it's the rushing. Three attractions a day, thousands of steps, and by the time you're back at the hotel, your legs don't even feel like your own. I've selected these 8 destinations with one core principle: plenty of flat paths, a slow pace, and places to sit down for tea whenever you get tired. 01 Guangzhou | Guangdong Guangzhou is the kind of city where parents won't complain about being tired. It has a dense metro network, plenty of parks, and food that's soft and easy to eat. ⏰ In the morning, head to the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. You only need half an hour to see the gray sculptures on the roof ridges; there's no climbing involved, and it's not strenuous for seniors to stand. Afterward, duck into the old alleys of Liwan for a bowl of boat congee. For cheung fun (rice noodle rolls), choose the kind made fresh in drawers—they're soft, smooth, and easy on the teeth. In the afternoon, there's no need to go to the top of the Canton Tower. Just walk slowly along the river at Huacheng Square and take photos of the tower at sunset. ⚠️ The observation deck on the tower has long queues, and ticket prices vary by the day—it's really not worth the hassle for seniors. Don't hike up Baiyun Mountain from the South Gate; take the cable car to the middle of the mountain and walk on the flat paths—it's much easier on the knees. Chimelong is great for families with grandchildren; the park is large, wheelchairs are available for free, and it's perfect for a leisurely day. 🚄 Metro Line 3 goes directly there, which is more reliable than taking a taxi. 02 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is perfect for "going wherever you feel like." The attractions in the old town are close together, so there's no need to rush. Kaiyuan Temple is my top pick. Sit for a while under the East and West Pagodas and watch the pigeons land on the stone steps—your parents will find plenty to talk about on their own. 📍 Enter from West Street; the mianxianhu (noodle soup) shop at the entrance with vinegar meat opens at 7:00 AM. ⏰ I recommend going up Qingyuan Mountain before 8:00 AM. The slope to Laojun Rock is gentle, and it's a slow 40-minute walk. If your stamina is average, just turn back at Laojun Rock; don't push yourself to the summit. For sea views, visit Chongwu Ancient City. The city walls are flat and easy to walk, but it's windy, so remember to bring a jacket. The area with the cliff carvings is great for seniors who enjoy calligraphy—it's quiet, and they can stand there for a long time. ⚠️ Ask for the price before ordering at the seaside seafood restaurants; don't let the term "market price" catch you off guard. 03 Pingliang | Gansu Pingliang is all about Kongtong Mountain, but don't let the word "mountain" scare you. ⏰ In the morning, take the scenic area shuttle bus to the Middle Terrace. From there to the Pagoda Courtyard, there's a gentle boardwalk that seniors can walk while holding the railing. You can skip the truly steep sections entirely. There are Taoist temples and ancient trees on the mountain, and the air is cool—it's a great summer escape. 📍 There are rest pavilions near the Middle Terrace; bring your own thermos for hot water, which is more practical than buying bottled water. ⚠️ Dining options on the mountain are limited and expensive, so I recommend eating your fill at the foot of the mountain before heading up. For a trip with parents, keep it to a half-day itinerary. In the afternoon, head back to the city center for some Guanguan tea, paired with slowly broken-off pieces of steamed bun—this is the true rhythm of Pingliang. 04 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is a hidden gem in Northeast China—it's uncrowded, has blue skies, and no queues, making it perfect for parents who dislike crowds. You must visit Xingkai Lake. The lake is as vast as the sea, and the shore is all flat sandy beach. If you get tired of walking, just bring a folding stool, sit down, and watch the water. ⏰ Evening is the best time to go; the wind is light, the light is soft, and you don't need filters for your photos. Over at Hutou, there are river views and wetlands, and the boardwalks are smooth enough even for wheelchairs. 🍜 For lunch, have some lake fish by the shore. Choose the clear-stewed version rather than red-braised; it's fresh and easier on seniors' stomachs. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in the Northeast in autumn is significant, so bring a light down jacket by late September. The mosquitoes by the lake are fierce, so don't skimp on the insect repellent. 🚄 Chartering a car from downtown Jixi is the most stress-free option, as bus schedules are infrequent. 05 Jingzhou | Hubei The Jingzhou Ancient City Wall is the main attraction, but you don't need to walk the whole thing. 📍 Go up from Binyang Tower at the East Gate and walk south for a bit before coming down—it's less than a kilometer, and the brick surface is flat. It's windy on the wall, so prepare a hat for your parents. ⏰ It's most comfortable to go up after 4:00 PM; it's not too sunny, and you can watch the sunset over the moat. Afterward, stroll down Zhang Juzheng Street; the bluestone road is flat, and it's lined with snacks. The Jingzhou lantern folk customs are best seen at night; when the lights come on, the old town comes alive. 🍜 Zaotang noodles are a local breakfast staple—the broth is rich, the noodles are soft, and they go well with a guokui (flatbread). ⚠️ Parking around the ancient city is difficult during holidays, so I recommend taking a taxi to the East Gate. 06 Haikou | Hainan Haikou is quieter than Sanya and has a slower pace, making it suitable for parents who dislike noise. ⏰ In the morning, head to Wugong Temple; the courtyard has thick shade, so you can sit without being in the sun. Afterward, take a taxi to Qilou Old Street. The Nanyang-style buildings are lined up, the paths are flat for a leisurely stroll, and when you're tired, you can step into a tea shop for some "laoba" (old dad) tea. You need to pick the right time for the Volcano Park. ⏰ Go in before 9:00 AM while it's cool. The park has electric carts that take you directly to the main crater, saving you from a long climb. 📍 Be sure to try the volcanic lychees sold in the volcanic rock villages if they're in season. ⚠️ Haikou has intense sun and occasional showers in the afternoon, so try to schedule activities for the morning and evening, and return to the hotel for a nap at noon. 🍜 For dinner, have a bowl of Hainan rice noodles—they're sour, spicy, and appetizing, and easy for seniors to eat. 07 Tangshan | Hebei Tangshan is an underrated, comfortable city with wide roads, large parks, and low costs. The Nanhu and Kailuan area is perfect for a slow stroll. Nanhu Park is all flat ground and water features; rent a sightseeing car to go around, and your parents can just sit and enjoy the scenery. ⏰ Go in the evening; it's cool by the lake, and there are fountains. The Eastern Qing Tombs are a bit further away, but they're worth it. The stone statues along the Spirit Way are lined up, the ground is flat, and it's not tiring to walk. 📍 I recommend hiring a guide; otherwise, you're just looking at stones, and having the stories makes a huge difference. ⚠️ The Eastern Qing Tombs cover a large area, so don't try to see it all—picking the Yuling and Cixi Mausoleums is enough. 🍜 In the city, try the Qizi biscuits and Geza—they're both soft, traditional local flavors. 08 Xilin Gol | Inner Mongolia For a grassland trip with parents, Xilin Gol is closer than Hulunbuir and less crowded. Wulagai Grassland is the highlight. There's no mountain climbing here; you can drive deep into the grassland, find a flat grassy slope to stop, lay out a mat, and just sit and watch the clouds. ⏰ The grass is greenest from July to August; it turns yellow in September, so don't delay if you want to see the green. 📍 Don't miss the sunset by Wulagai Lake; the lake surface is flat, the reflections are clear, and your parents won't get tired of standing there taking photos for half an hour. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland can reach 15 degrees—short sleeves during the day and a cotton jacket at night, so don't find it troublesome. 🍜 For the hand-grabbed lamb, choose the lamb—it's tender and goes well with chive flower sauce. The milk tea is salty; try a sip before deciding whether to add sugar. I personally would most like to take my parents back to Quanzhou and Jingzhou—there's a story every two steps and food as soon as you sit down. Where are you planning to take your family for the National Day holiday? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you see if it's too tiring.

8️⃣ Comfortable and Less Crowded Places for a Three-Day Mid-Autumn Festival Stay 01 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is perfect for this season. It's five or six degrees Celsius cooler on the mountain than in the city, so you'll need a light blanket at night. ⏰ It's recommended to go up the mountain after 3 PM. The light filtering through the windows of the old villas makes for great photos without filters. 📍 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Xinyang East Railway Station to the Jigong Mountain gate. Avoid private cars soliciting passengers on the roadside, as they may take you on a longer route. The scenic area bus takes you to the top; those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. The old houses from the Republican era on the mountain are worth exploring at a leisurely pace, but don't expect every house to be open. Some are dilapidated and only their exteriors are visible. ⚠️ Restaurants at the top are expensive and mediocre; it's better to bring your own bread and fruit. Suitable for bringing elderly people to escape the summer heat. The paths are gentle, and there are stone benches to sit on whenever you get tired. Chestnuts and kiwis are available at local stalls around the Mid-Autumn Festival, and are cheaper than down in the mountains. 02 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake are not close, so it's recommended to split them into two days. Go to Hutou on the first day and save the second day for Xingkai Lake. Don't try to do it all in one day; the journey will be too rushed. 🚄 There are buses from Jixi Station to Hutou, but the frequency is low, so it's best to check the return time in advance. Xingkai Lake is better suited for driving; the lakeside roads are very comfortable to drive on. ⏰ The sunset at Xingkai Lake is the highlight. Arrive at the lakeside around 4:30 pm and wait; the sky will change from blue to orange and then to purple. It's windy, so bring a jacket. Don't wear a skirt; you'll be blown around. 🍜 When eating fish at the lakeside fishing village, ask about the price before ordering, as being charged by weight can easily exceed your budget. There's a small shop near Hutou that makes cold noodles; they're sweet and sour, perfect with spicy vegetables. There weren't many people during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the reeds by the lake were starting to turn yellow, creating a layered effect for photos. If you're bringing children, be aware that there are no railings along the water's edge, so keep a close eye on them. 03 Chengdu|Sichuan There are many places around Chengdu where you can stay for three days, but avoid the crowded main entrance of Dujiangyan Scenic Area during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Tiantai Mountain and Anren Ancient Town are much quieter. 📍 Tiantai Mountain is suitable for an overnight stay. There are many guesthouses in the mountains; choose one near the stream so you can fall asleep to the sound of water at night. ⏰ Go out for a walk on the trails at 6:30 in the morning; the mist hasn't dissipated yet, making it feel like walking through a painting. If you absolutely must go to Qingcheng Mountain-Dujiangyan, be among the first to enter at 7:00 AM. Leave after 10:00 AM when tour groups arrive. ⚠️ The Republic of China Mansions complex in Anren Ancient Town closes for entry at 5:00 PM, so don't arrive right on time. The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base will definitely have long queues during the Mid-Autumn Festival. If you want to see the pandas active, arrive at the entrance at 7:30 AM; they'll all be sleeping later. 🍜 The small, unassuming restaurants outside the base are half the price of those inside, and the food is even better. For families with children, Anren Ancient Town offers trams and hands-on workshops, which are more interesting than just sightseeing. Couples can choose to stay two nights at Tiantai Mountain for a leisurely experience. 04 Linzhi | Tibet Bomi and Basongcuo are perfect destinations during the Mid-Autumn Festival, as the rainy season has just ended and the lake water is at its most beautiful. However, there's a significant temperature difference between day and night, so bring both down jackets and short-sleeved shirts. 🚄 The scenery along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway from Linzhi to Bomi is all along the road; it's recommended to hire a car or share a ride, rather than taking a bus, as there's not enough time to take photos. The entrance fee and sightseeing bus to Basongcuo aren't cheap, but they're worth it. 📍 There's a temple on an island in the middle of Basongcuo; a complete tour takes about twenty minutes. ⏰ Before 9 am, the lake is calm, and the reflections are clearest. After 10 am, the wind picks up, and you won't be able to take photos. The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon still has a high water volume during Mid-Autumn Festival, but whether you can see Namcha Barwa from the viewing platform depends entirely on luck, so don't have too high expectations. ⚠️ Due to the high altitude, don't shower or drink alcohol on the first day; acclimatize gradually. Suitable for those with good physical fitness; the elderly and children should consider carefully. Hiking in the Gangyun Spruce Forest in Bomi is very comfortable; the path is flat, and sneakers are fine. 05 Jincheng | Shanxi The Huangcheng Xiangfu Ecological and Cultural Tourism Area isn't too crowded during Mid-Autumn Festival. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive at 8:30 am to watch the opening ceremony first, then slowly explore the inner city. 📍 The Heshan Tower in the Xiangfu is worth climbing; the steps are steep, so wear non-slip shoes. ⚠️ Audio guides in the scenic area are expensive to rent. Actually, you can just listen to the tour guides from other tour groups; they'll explain the key points. 🍜 Can you believe that people in Jincheng eat instant noodles for breakfast? The local way is to cook instant noodles with meatballs and a poached egg, and eat it with garlic. Breakfast stalls are readily available in the city center. A taxi from Jincheng East Station to Huangcheng Xiangfu takes about 40 minutes. Public buses are available but slow. Suitable for those interested in ancient architecture; two hours is sufficient for photography. Around Mid-Autumn Festival, Shanxi is cool in the mornings and evenings, but sunny at midday, so bring a light jacket. The farmhouses outside the Xiangfu are more affordable than the restaurants inside; order braised pork and he luo noodles. 06 Southeast Guizhou | Guizhou Choose only one to stay in: Xijiang Miao Village or Zhaoxing Dong Village. Don't visit both, or you'll get tired of them. Xijiang is more commercialized, but the night view is indeed beautiful; Zhaoxing is quieter. 📍 Stay in a guesthouse halfway up the mountain in Xijiang; the balcony offers panoramic views. ⏰ Lights turn on at 7 PM; arrive half an hour early to secure a good spot. ⚠️ Long table banquets in the Miao villages are overpriced; if you want to eat sour fish soup, go to Kaili city center. The drum tower and covered bridge in Zhaoxing Dong Village are worth taking your time to explore. In the morning, elderly people sing Dong folk songs at the bridgehead for free. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is best visited in the evening; once the lights come on along the Wuyang River, take a boat trip. Xianghuoyan has moderate water levels during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the hiking trails are not difficult, making it suitable for families with children. 🚄 High-speed rail and buses connect various attractions in southeastern Guizhou; check the timetables in advance. 🍜 Try the sour soup fish, beef offal soup, and pickled fish if you like; otherwise, eat rice noodles. There's a bonfire party in the village on Mid-Autumn Festival night; you can join in the fun, but don't buy any silver jewelry. 07 Tai'an | Shandong There are quite a few people climbing Mount Tai at night during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but fewer than during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Start from Hongmen at 10 PM, walk slowly, and arrive at Nantianmen around 4 AM, just in time to watch the sunrise. 📍 The Eighteen Bends section is the most tiring; don't push yourself, rest if you can't walk anymore. ⚠️ Renting a military-style overcoat at the summit is expensive; bringing your own light down jacket is more cost-effective. A flashlight is essential, as there are no lights on the mountain path. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Tai'an city to eat san tang (a type of soup) with fried dough sticks—a standard breakfast for locals. There's a tofu pudding stall near Hongmen that gives generous amounts of broth. If you're traveling with elderly people, I recommend taking the cable car up, starting the climb from Zhongtianmen. The temperature at the summit during Mid-Autumn Festival is close to zero degrees Celsius, so bring gloves and a hat. Buy your tickets and cable car tickets in advance through official channels; queuing on-site will waste time. Night climbing is not suitable for children; it's too strenuous. Climbing during the day is also possible, but it's still hot during the day during Mid-Autumn Festival, so proceed according to your physical condition. 08 Xing'an League | Inner Mongolia Go to Arxan National Forest Park during Mid-Autumn Festival; fewer people and beautiful scenery, but it's really cold. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 AM. First, take the sightseeing bus to the furthest point, Camel Peak Heavenly Lake, then explore the rest of the way. 📍 Be sure to get off the bus and walk along the section of the unfrozen river; the water is steaming, and the banks are already frosty. ⚠️ Food options within the scenic area are limited and expensive; bring your own self-heating rice and hot water. 🚄 Arxan has a train station, but it's more convenient to get there from Ulanhot. Hiring a car is recommended, as the distances between attractions are long, and waiting for the sightseeing bus takes time. Arxan in Mid-Autumn Festival is a tapestry of gold and dark green, with half the birch forests turning yellow. It's suitable for those who enjoy tranquility and photography. If you're traveling with children, be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop below freezing in the mornings and evenings. 🍜 Enjoy hand-pulled mutton and milk tea in the city center to warm up. Staying within the scenic area is expensive, while staying in Arxan city center is cheaper but requires daily commutes; weigh the pros and cons yourself. 8️⃣ Comfortable and Less Crowded Places for a Three-Day Mid-Autumn Festival Stay 01 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is perfect for this season. It's five or six degrees Celsius cooler on the mountain than in the city, so you'll need a light blanket at night. ⏰ It's recommended to go up the mountain after 3 PM. The light filtering through the windows of the old villas makes for great photos without filters. 📍 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Xinyang East Railway Station to the Jigong Mountain gate. Avoid private cars soliciting passengers on the roadside, as they may take you on a longer route. The scenic area bus takes you to the top; those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. The old houses from the Republican era on the mountain are worth exploring at a leisurely pace, but don't expect every house to be open. Some are dilapidated and only their exteriors are visible. ⚠️ Restaurants at the top are expensive and mediocre; it's better to bring your own bread and fruit. Suitable for bringing elderly people to escape the summer heat. The paths are gentle, and there are stone benches to sit on whenever you get tired. Chestnuts and kiwis are available at local stalls around the Mid-Autumn Festival, and are cheaper than down in the mountains. 02 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake are not close, so it's recommended to split them into two days. Go to Hutou on the first day and save the second day for Xingkai Lake. Don't try to do it all in one day; the journey will be too rushed. 🚄 There are buses from Jixi Station to Hutou, but the frequency is low, so it's best to check the return time in advance. Xingkai Lake is better suited for driving; the lakeside roads are very comfortable to drive on. ⏰ The sunset at Xingkai Lake is the highlight. Arrive at the lakeside around 4:30 pm and wait; the sky will change from blue to orange and then to purple. It's windy, so bring a jacket. Don't wear a skirt; you'll be blown around. 🍜 When eating fish at the lakeside fishing village, ask about the price before ordering, as being charged by weight can easily exceed your budget. There's a small shop near Hutou that makes cold noodles; they're sweet and sour, perfect with spicy vegetables. There weren't many people during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the reeds by the lake were starting to turn yellow, creating a layered effect for photos. If you're bringing children, be aware that there are no railings along the water's edge, so keep a close eye on them. 03 Chengdu|Sichuan There are many places around Chengdu where you can stay for three days, but avoid the crowded main entrance of Dujiangyan Scenic Area during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Tiantai Mountain and Anren Ancient Town are much quieter. 📍 Tiantai Mountain is suitable for an overnight stay. There are many guesthouses in the mountains; choose one near the stream so you can fall asleep to the sound of water at night. ⏰ Go out for a walk on the trails at 6:30 in the morning; the mist hasn't dissipated yet, making it feel like walking through a painting. If you absolutely must go to Qingcheng Mountain-Dujiangyan, be among the first to enter at 7:00 AM. Leave after 10:00 AM when tour groups arrive. ⚠️ The Republic of China Mansions complex in Anren Ancient Town closes for entry at 5:00 PM, so don't arrive right on time. The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base will definitely have long queues during the Mid-Autumn Festival. If you want to see the pandas active, arrive at the entrance at 7:30 AM; they'll all be sleeping later. 🍜 The small, unassuming restaurants outside the base are half the price of those inside, and the food is even better. For families with children, Anren Ancient Town offers trams and hands-on workshops, which are more interesting than just sightseeing. Couples can choose to stay two nights at Tiantai Mountain for a leisurely experience. 04 Linzhi | Tibet Bomi and Basongcuo are perfect destinations during the Mid-Autumn Festival, as the rainy season has just ended and the lake water is at its most beautiful. However, there's a significant temperature difference between day and night, so bring both down jackets and short-sleeved shirts. 🚄 The scenery along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway from Linzhi to Bomi is all along the road; it's recommended to hire a car or share a ride, rather than taking a bus, as there's not enough time to take photos. The entrance fee and sightseeing bus to Basongcuo aren't cheap, but they're worth it. 📍 There's a temple on an island in the middle of Basongcuo; a complete tour takes about twenty minutes. ⏰ Before 9 am, the lake is calm, and the reflections are clearest. After 10 am, the wind picks up, and you won't be able to take photos. The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon still has a high water volume during Mid-Autumn Festival, but whether you can see Namcha Barwa from the viewing platform depends entirely on luck, so don't have too high expectations. ⚠️ Due to the high altitude, don't shower or drink alcohol on the first day; acclimatize gradually. Suitable for those with good physical fitness; the elderly and children should consider carefully. Hiking in the Gangyun Spruce Forest in Bomi is very comfortable; the path is flat, and sneakers are fine. 05 Jincheng | Shanxi The Huangcheng Xiangfu Ecological and Cultural Tourism Area isn't too crowded during Mid-Autumn Festival. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive at 8:30 am to watch the opening ceremony first, then slowly explore the inner city. 📍 The Heshan Tower in the Xiangfu is worth climbing; the steps are steep, so wear non-slip shoes. ⚠️ Audio guides in the scenic area are expensive to rent. Actually, you can just listen to the tour guides from other tour groups; they'll explain the key points. 🍜 Can you believe that people in Jincheng eat instant noodles for breakfast? The local way is to cook instant noodles with meatballs and a poached egg, and eat it with garlic. Breakfast stalls are readily available in the city center. A taxi from Jincheng East Station to Huangcheng Xiangfu takes about 40 minutes. Public buses are available but slow. Suitable for those interested in ancient architecture; two hours is sufficient for photography. Around Mid-Autumn Festival, Shanxi is cool in the mornings and evenings, but sunny at midday, so bring a light jacket. The farmhouses outside the Xiangfu are more affordable than the restaurants inside; order braised pork and he luo noodles. 06 Southeast Guizhou | Guizhou Choose only one to stay in: Xijiang Miao Village or Zhaoxing Dong Village. Don't visit both, or you'll get tired of them. Xijiang is more commercialized, but the night view is indeed beautiful; Zhaoxing is quieter. 📍 Stay in a guesthouse halfway up the mountain in Xijiang; the balcony offers panoramic views. ⏰ Lights turn on at 7 PM; arrive half an hour early to secure a good spot. ⚠️ Long table banquets in the Miao villages are overpriced; if you want to eat sour fish soup, go to Kaili city center. The drum tower and covered bridge in Zhaoxing Dong Village are worth taking your time to explore. In the morning, elderly people sing Dong folk songs at the bridgehead for free. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is best visited in the evening; once the lights come on along the Wuyang River, take a boat trip. Xianghuoyan has moderate water levels during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the hiking trails are not difficult, making it suitable for families with children. 🚄 High-speed rail and buses connect various attractions in southeastern Guizhou; check the timetables in advance. 🍜 Try the sour soup fish, beef offal soup, and pickled fish if you like; otherwise, eat rice noodles. There's a bonfire party in the village on Mid-Autumn Festival night; you can join in the fun, but don't buy any silver jewelry. 07 Tai'an | Shandong There are quite a few people climbing Mount Tai at night during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but fewer than during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Start from Hongmen at 10 PM, walk slowly, and arrive at Nantianmen around 4 AM, just in time to watch the sunrise. 📍 The Eighteen Bends section is the most tiring; don't push yourself, rest if you can't walk anymore. ⚠️ Renting a military-style overcoat at the summit is expensive; bringing your own light down jacket is more cost-effective. A flashlight is essential, as there are no lights on the mountain path. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Tai'an city to eat san tang (a type of soup) with fried dough sticks—a standard breakfast for locals. There's a tofu pudding stall near Hongmen that gives generous amounts of broth. If you're traveling with elderly people, I recommend taking the cable car up, starting the climb from Zhongtianmen. The temperature at the summit during Mid-Autumn Festival is close to zero degrees Celsius, so bring gloves and a hat. Buy your tickets and cable car tickets in advance through official channels; queuing on-site will waste time. Night climbing is not suitable for children; it's too strenuous. Climbing during the day is also possible, but it's still hot during the day during Mid-Autumn Festival, so proceed according to your physical condition. 08 Xing'an League | Inner Mongolia Go to Arxan National Forest Park during Mid-Autumn Festival; fewer people and beautiful scenery, but it's really cold. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 AM. First, take the sightseeing bus to the furthest point, Camel Peak Heavenly Lake, then explore the rest of the way. 📍 Be sure to get off the bus and walk along the section of the unfrozen river; the water is steaming, and the banks are already frosty. ⚠️ Food options within the scenic area are limited and expensive; bring your own self-heating rice and hot water. 🚄 Arxan has a train station, but it's more convenient to get there from Ulanhot. Hiring a car is recommended, as the distances between attractions are long, and waiting for the sightseeing bus takes time. Arxan in Mid-Autumn Festival is a tapestry of gold and dark green, with half the birch forests turning yellow. It's suitable for those who enjoy tranquility and photography. If you're traveling with children, be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop below freezing in the mornings and evenings. 🍜 Enjoy hand-pulled mutton and milk tea in the city center to warm up. Staying within the scenic area is expensive, while staying in Arxan city center is cheaper but requires daily commutes; weigh the pros and cons yourself.