Pingliang travel guide and discussion

Pingliang Loop, A journey of landscapes and stories. From the sacred Daoist land to the misty rain of Maiji, In this circle, no need to choose, just set off. The Dao begins at Kongtong, the spirit nourishes Liuhu The loop starts at Kongtong Mountain, the first mountain of Daoism. Majestic peaks, vast forests, seek the Dao at Kongtong, embrace the sea of clouds atop the mountain, and feel the profound heritage of a thousand years of Daoist culture. Descend to the warm springs of Liuhu, a pool of gentle spring water nurturing the ancient Liuhu for millennia, shimmering water, lush greenery, where hot springs and lake scenery blend, washing away travel fatigue, fully enjoying leisure and comfort. Hidden in deep valleys, ancient charm reflects millennia Head south to the verdant Haizhaigou, a deep canyon with waterfalls and flowing springs, where a glass skywalk spans the valley, an excellent place to get close to nature and relax. Arrive at Longquan Temple in Chongxin, with clear flowing springs, ancient pagoda trees standing tall and vigorous, the landscape is enchanting, step by step like a paradise on earth. Reach Lingtai, visit the hometown of Huangfu Mi, commemorate the unparalleled achievements of the acupuncture pioneer, and appreciate the profound and enduring culture of traditional Chinese medicine. Enter Jingchuan, where the thousand-year-old Wangmu Palace stands majestically, stone cave sculptures bear the Silk Road civilization, telling the ancient legend of the Queen Mother of the West. Enjoy the scenic views of Guanshan, recall the red revolutionary spirit Continue westward to Lotus Terrace deep in Guanshan, where towering peaks and pristine forests offer a tranquil and secluded place for hiking and encountering natural wilderness. The Yunyan Temple grottoes in Zhuanglang are embedded in cliff faces, with Buddhist niches and statues weathered by time, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans, known as the "Pearl of Longshan." Visit the Red Army Long March Memorial Hall in Jieshipu, Jingning, where the red land carries the glorious years, recalling the revolutionary journey, receiving the baptism of red spirit, and appreciating the hard-won peace of today. The loop ends at Maiji Mountain, where the cliffside grottoes are masterpieces of craftsmanship. The misty rain of Maiji marks a stunning finale to the entire journey. Seize the beautiful scenery, Embark on this travel loop, Wander through the mountains and waters of eastern Longdong, Explore a thousand years of cultural heritage, Encounter breathtaking landscapes.

#epictravelmoments ✨ I'm going to be honest with you — I almost skipped Jingchuan. Like, completely. It's this quiet little county in Gansu that nobody talks about, and I only ended up there because my train route had a layover and I had nowhere to be for six hours. Best accident of my entire travel life. Dayun Temple in Jingchuan isn't flashy. There's no neon signage, no crowds, no souvenir shops screaming at you. It's ancient, humble, and somehow that's exactly why it hit me so hard. So here's what happened. I wandered in expecting a quiet temple visit — maybe some old statues, nice gardens, take a few photos, move on. Then a guide told me about the underground palace. The one discovered in 1964 when workers accidentally broke through a stone slab and found this sealed chamber containing golden relics, bone relics, and silk scrolls dating back to the Sui Dynasty. Over 1,400 years old. I literally felt my skin prickle. They let visitors descend into the actual excavation site. It's cool, dim, and suddenly you're standing in this tiny stone chamber where monks once hid sacred treasures during wartime. The air felt different down there — heavy, still, almost reverent. I touched the stone wall and just... froze. You could feel centuries pressing against you. No Instagram moment could ever capture that weight. Afterward, I sat in the courtyard under this massive ancient pagoda, drank tea with an elderly caretaker who'd been there for decades, and we just talked. He smiled and said, "Most people rush through. You stayed." That sentence wrecked me. That's my epic travel moment — not a grand view or a perfect photo, but a quiet underground chamber that made time disappear. Question for you all — have you ever stumbled into a place so unexpectedly quiet and meaningful that it changed how you think about travel? I need to hear these stories! 👇 #epictravelmoments #dayuntemple #jingchuan #gansuchina #hiddentemple #travelstories #buddhistheritage

Girls, seriously, stop only focusing on the distant Sahara Desert. Tengger Desert has fewer people, beautiful scenery, and no queues❗ This desert is quieter than those abroad. You don’t have to compete for camel rides or sand surfing; the entire sand dune is yours! Not only can you see the Milky Way pouring down, but you can also take fairy-like photos by the pink lake. Every snap looks like a scene straight out of the movie "Dune" that will blow up your social feed😎 📍Zhongwei, Ningxia | Tengger Desert Area: Approximately 43,000 square kilometers Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October) with daily temperatures of 15-25°C, neither cold nor too sunny, and less wind and sand Tickets: Free entry to the desert itself; camp packages including dune buggy + camel riding + sand sliding + transfers cost about 240 RMB Accommodation: Choose desert tents, Moroccan tents for stargazing, or return to city hotels 🚩Travel Guide ◾ Desert off-road surfing: Drivers take you down sand slopes with weightlessness and drifting, 10 times more fun than a roller coaster ◾ Camel riding: Slow camel caravan across the dunes, great for sunset silhouette photos ◾ Sand sliding: Slide down sand ridges, suitable for kids and elders ◾ Five Lakes crossing: Off-road vehicles go deep inside to check in at Ulan Lake, Camel Lake, Swan Lake… ◾ Desert go-karts/motorcycles: Drive yourself, drift on sand, maximum fun 📆5 days 4 nights itinerary D1 Xi’an → Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area → Tongxin County D2 Tongxin County → Yellow River Grand Canyon Scenic Area → Western Xia Imperial Tombs → Yinchuan D3 Yinchuan → Western Film City → Tengger Desert → Desert entertainment → Stargazing camping D4 Desert sunrise → Sikouzi Scenic Area → Xi’an 📸Photo tips ◽ Outfit: White dress + denim hat + Martin boots ◽ Time: 1 hour after sunrise, 1 hour before sunset for beautiful light and shadows ◽ Spots: Shoot camel caravan silhouettes on sand ridges, aerial shots of desert smoke from high dunes, low-angle shots on roads capturing dune curves ◽ Evening sunset shot to experience “Lonely desert smoke straight, long river sunset round” ❤Tips 1️⃣ Strong sun exposure in the desert with no shade, prepare protection 2️⃣ Hot sand burns feet + sand causes abrasions, wear high-top shoes + sand gaiters 3️⃣ Daytime can reach 30°C+, but nights may drop below 10°C, bring a windbreaker or thick jacket 4️⃣ Dry heat in the desert causes dehydration, bring at least 2-3 bottles of water per person The beauty of Tengger can only be understood by seeing it with your own eyes. You don’t have to go to the Sahara to experience the same stunning scenes, maybe even better😍 For those who have been, tell me, which photo made you fall in love😎

#epictravelmoments 🐉 Okay, I need to tell you about Kongtong Mountain in Pingliang, Gansu, because this place just gave me one of those moments where you feel like the universe personally selected you for something special. And I'm still not over it. So Kongtong isn't your typical tourist mountain. It's one of the five sacred Taoist mountains in China — ancient, spiritual, and drenched in legend. People say it's where the Yellow Emperor went to seek wisdom from a sage. Yeah, that kind of mountain. I woke up at 4:30 AM — voluntarily, which should tell you something — to catch the sunrise from the highest peak. The trail up was pitch black, my headlamp barely cutting through the fog, and my legs were screaming. But when I finally crested that ridge, the sky just EXPLODED with color. Gold, pink, purple — all of it pouring over these jagged cliff faces and ancient temple rooftops that had been sitting there for over two thousand years. I stood there mouth open like an idiot. But here's the epic part. As the light hit the main plaza, an elderly man in a white uniform walked out and began doing this slow, flowing martial arts routine right on the edge of the cliff. Silhouette against the sunrise. No audience. No phone recording him. Just this quiet, powerful dance between a man and the mountain. I watched for twenty minutes without breathing. That right there — that single image — is burned into my memory forever. Afterward, I grabbed lamb soup from a tiny stall nearby and chatted with locals who told me Kongtong has been their spiritual home for generations. You could feel that history in every stone step. Sometimes epic travel moments aren't about the destination — they're about being in the right place at the right time and just... receiving it. So here's my question — have you ever accidentally witnessed something so beautiful on a trip that it almost felt like you weren't supposed to see it? Tell me everything — I'm living for these stories! 👇 #EpicTravelMoments #KongtongMountain #GansuChina #TaoistMountain #SunriseMagic #TravelStories

"👉Tired of the 'crowded' travel style❓ 🔥Why not try a 'reverse tourism' experience, enjoying niche, cultural, green, and cost-effective pleasures🥳 ✈️Lanzhou, with over 5,000 years of history, is an ideal starting point for reverse tourism. 🌅After touring Lanzhou, head 100 km south to the famous Kongtong Mountain to feel the Taoist charm and culture. 🔥Then go 180 km further south to explore the Buddhist art light of Maijishan Grottoes and the historical charm of Tianshui. 🧧Before returning, have some 'Tianshui spicy hot pot' to end your journey. ✨If you are tired of crowds and want to travel with family, Pingliang + Tianshui is a great choice for culture and scenery, experiencing the profound heritage of ancient Chinese civilization. 👉【Itinerary Overview】: 🗺️Schedule: · DAY1: Arrival in Lanzhou, free activities, stay in Lanzhou😰 · DAY2: Lanzhou → Kongtong Mountain (natural flora and fauna kingdom, Danxia landform), stay in Pingliang🏞️ · DAY3: Pingliang → Maijishan Grottoes (Buddhist art and scenic beauty), stay in Tianshui🙏 · DAY4: Tianshui → Fuxi Temple, Hu Family Residence, stay in Lanzhou🏠 · DAY5: End of trip, transfer to Lanzhou airport/station👋 👉【Tips】 1️⃣Local specialties: beef noodles, huidiaodiao, yangyu jiaotuan (potato paste), Lanzhou spicy hot pot, Sanpaotai, sweet fermented yogurt. 2️⃣Airport transport: From Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport to downtown, options include airport shuttle bus, taxi, ride-hailing, and intercity railway. The airport shuttle is affordable and usually runs every half hour. 👉【Premium Routes】: More routes available to explore Pingliang and Tianshui. 👇Don’t hesitate👇! Click the card below to book in advance, and consult for more destinations, routes, and guides."

Want to avoid the crowds during the mini holiday? Keep this 9-day in-depth travel guide for Gannan + Longnan! From Labrang Monastery's Tibetan studies secret realm to Zhagana's misty fairyland, check in at the sunset over the Yellow River's nine bends and eighteen curves, breathe in the oxygen among the waterfalls of Guan'egou, and finally visit the Maijishan Grottoes to see the thousand-year-old smiling Buddha statue, all without backtracking! · ------- 📒 Suggested itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou, check into your hotel and rest well to recharge for the upcoming journey💪. Day 2-3: Depart from Lanzhou to Labrang Monastery to experience the charm of the world’s Tibetan academic institution, stroll through the Sangke Grassland; then visit Gahai Lake to admire the vast misty bird sanctuary and enjoy the Swiss-like scenery of Langmusi🏞️. Day 4: Depart from Ruoergai, view the nine bends and eighteen curves of the Yellow River’s first bend on the grassland, and visit Huahu to appreciate the wetland flower sea and prairie lakes🌼. Day 5: Start a new journey in Diebu, explore the earthly fairyland Zhagana, and visit the ancient Ganchuan Trail canyon pass Lazikou🏔️. Day 6-7: Depart from Dangchang/Longnan, tour Guan'egou, known as Little Jiuzhaigou, to see forests, canyons, lakes, and waterfalls; then go to Tianshui to admire the Maijishan Grottoes, an exhibition hall of Eastern sculptural art, and feel the cultural atmosphere of the Chinese nation’s ancestor at Fuxi Temple🎨. Day 8-9: Depart from Pingliang, experience the Taoist sacred mountain Kongtong Mountain culture, and finally complete formalities at Lanzhou Airport to end a pleasant trip🛫! · ------- Notes: 🍯 Specialty prices: For Tibetan medicine and yak jerky, it is recommended to buy from official stores with transparent prices to avoid being ripped off~ 🙏 Customs and etiquette: Turn prayer wheels clockwise, do not point at Buddha statues inside temples, respecting beliefs is very important! ❄️ December climate: Daily average temperature ranges from -10℃ to 5℃, down jackets plus hats and gloves are essential, warmth and windproofing are key! 🍜 Food recommendations: Yak yogurt with highland barley cakes, sweet tea warms the stomach and tastes great, remember to eat Tibetan food while it’s hot! 📸 Photography etiquette: Smile and signal before taking photos of locals, getting their consent before pressing the shutter is friendlier~ · ------- Quickly gather your friends and set off together🚗 Missing Gannan will really make you regret it for a whole year😎

Details of Maiji Mountain Grand Scenic Area Winter and Spring Travel Benefits Good news! The winter and spring travel benefits at Maiji Mountain Grand Scenic Area have officially started, lasting until the end of March next year, guaranteeing you a whole winter of happiness~ 1. Half-Price Tickets for Unlimited Fun · Discount Period: From now until March 31, 2026 · Discount Details: Tickets to the two core scenic spots, Xianren Cliff and Shimen, are all half price · Highlights: The winter grottoes and mountain scenery are tranquil and magnificent, with fewer crowds and beautiful views, perfect for slowly appreciating the charm of the scenic area 2. One Ticket for Ten Attractions · Event Period: November 20, 2025 to February 28, 2026 · Collaborative Areas: Tianshui, Pingliang, Longnan, Guyuan, and Dingxi cities · Benefits: Purchase just one ticket to enjoy free access to ten popular attractions, including Maiji Mountain (excluding special grottoes), Xianren Cliff, Kongtong Mountain, and other famous scenic spots · Core Advantage: One ticket allows cross-city travel, offering excellent value for money 3. Ice and Snow Carnival Event · Opening Time: Mid-December · Location: Xianren Cliff Scenic Area · Event Theme: "Ice and Snow Dream-Seeking Carnival" · Event Content: Featuring stunning ice waterfalls built around Xianren Lake, along with an ice park, themed photo walls, and other interactive activities · Suitable For: Whether taking kids out, photography, or experiencing winter fun, it meets all needs This winter, don’t just stay at home! Invite your family and friends to Maiji Mountain Grand Scenic Area to unlock exclusive winter views and enjoy a relaxing and affordable nearby trip~

Hey guys! Looking for a less crowded yet beautiful place to visit this winter? Don’t miss this 9-day Gannan and surrounding areas itinerary! Experience the solemnity of Labrang Monastery, the Swiss-like charm of Langmu Temple, explore the hidden paradise of Zhagana, and visit Flower Lake, the starting bay of the Yellow River’s nine bends, and Maijishan Grottoes—all included! . Must-visit spots: 🏞️ Zhagana: Scenic and magical like a painting, Tibetan wooden houses built on the mountainside, enjoy pure pastoral beauty🌾 🌊 Guan’egou: Over twenty lakes scattered like stars, crystal-clear waters, steep mountains on both sides⛰️ 🗿 Maijishan Grottoes: A perfect blend of Buddhist art treasures and natural beauty, truly breathtaking💖 🏯 Fuxi Temple: Majestic ancient architecture complex, with opera stage, archways, grand gates full of historic charm🎎 🌄 Kongtong Mountain: A natural kingdom of flora and fauna, Danxia landform wonders, showcasing the grandeur of northern mountains💪 . 🌨️ Travel Essentials: Super practical checklist for traveling in Gannan in December! Warmth + practicality + photo-ready all in one! 🧥【Clothing】 December in Gannan starts at -10°C! Choose a long down jacket for wind protection, fleece-lined hiking pants + snow boots to lock in warmth, scarf, gloves, and hat set must be glued to you! 👓【Accessories】 Sunglasses aren’t just for style! The highland snow glare is dazzling, polarized lenses can save you; stick warmers on your phone’s back to prevent shutdown in cold! 💊【Medicine Kit】 Take altitude sickness medicine 3 days in advance! Bring Rhodiola capsules, painkillers for headaches, digestive aids for heavy lamb and beef meals, and band-aids for blisters. 📸【Photography Gear】 Keep camera batteries in inner pockets to stay warm! Use insulated covers for spare batteries, tripod for shooting Labrang Monastery’s morning mist, check drone no-fly zones in advance! 🍫【Energy Pack】 Chocolate for quick sugar boost! Thermos with ginger tea, beef jerky to stave off hunger, glucose oral solution for fast recovery, don’t let low blood sugar ruin your trip! 🪪【Documents】 ID card + student/military ID stacked together! Store electronic copies in the cloud, carry 500 yuan in small bills, some temples only accept cash for incense offerings! 🧴【Skincare】 Apply SPF50+ sunscreen generously! Mint-flavored lip balm, moisturizing cream + hand cream combo, the highland dryness will make you question life! . Quick, grab your friends and head to Gannan, private tours are ready, this trip is definitely worth it, just go for it! 😎

Autumn in Kongtong Mountain is truly amazing❗️The entire mountain is covered with golden fallen leaves, turning the valley into a fairy tale world✨ Every leaf sparkles under the sunlight, and when the wind blows, it looks like little fairies dancing💃 【Route tips🐾】 ☀️Arrive at the South Gate (Gansu Pingliang Kongtong District 304 Township Road) between 7-8 AM 🚌Take the 15-minute scenic shuttle bus directly to the cable car station 🚠Be sure to take photos while riding the cable car! The layers of colorful forests outside the window are breathtaking 🏞️The viewing platform is a must-visit! 360° unobstructed autumn views that hit you hard ✨Hidden activity: Walk to the cliffside plank road to unlock a drone’s eye view! 【Photo tips📸】 ➰Wear bright-colored clothes + caramel-colored coat ➰Golden light at 10 AM ➰Squat down to shoot close-ups of fallen leaves for the best shots ➰Make sure to find the right spot at the Cloud Sea Viewing Platform 【Useful info】 🎫Tickets 90 RMB | One-way cable car 60 RMB | Parking 10 RMB/day ⏰Open: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM 🏡Accommodation: Recommended "Songlin Xiaozhu" guesthouse (800 meters from the South Gate) ⚠️Wear non-slip shoes! Bring a thermos! Carry a backpack! ➖➖➖ I was stunned for 3 minutes when I saw the scene that day... This must be the magic of autumn🔮 The weeping willows by the lake, the ancient pagoda in the distance, the golden mountains everywhere—every snap is wallpaper-worthy! Mid-October is the perfect time to go! Friends, do you have any secret autumn wonderlands? Please share your recommendations~

, I was truly moved to tears by the beauty! 😍 Autumn at Kongtong Mountain is like God spilled a palette of colors, dressing the entire mountain in golden red~ Walking along the mountain paths, leaves gently fall from time to time, making the romance level off the charts 💯 【⚠️Super Detailed Check-in Guide】 ⏰Recommended Time: Mid to late October (best period to view red leaves) 📍Scenic Area Address: Kongtong Town, Kongtong District, Pingliang City, Gansu Province (40 minutes by car from the city center) 🚗Transportation Guide: · Self-driving: Navigate to "Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area South Gate," P: super large parking lot, very convenient! · Bus: There is a tourist shuttle line directly from the city center 🎫Ticket Information: ✔️Peak season ticket: 90 RMB/person ✔️Cable car one-way: 60 RMB/person (recommended to take up the mountain and walk down to save energy) 🌄Must-visit Spots: 1️⃣Main Peak Viewing Platform: 360° panoramic view with no blind spots, every shot looks like a masterpiece! 2️⃣Sea of Clouds Viewing Platform: If lucky, you can see a dreamy sea of clouds sunrise 🌅 3️⃣Red Leaf Forest Trail: Walking on the leaf-covered mountain path, the crunching sound is super healing 🍂 4️⃣Cliffside Walkway: Thrilling and great for photos, but be sure to stay safe~ 📸Photo Tips: · Best lighting time: 9-10 AM · Outfit suggestions: White/red tones stand out more in photos · Props to bring: Small daisy bouquet, straw hat, folding fan 💡Warm Tips: 1. Mountain wind and temperature difference are big, be sure to bring a thick jacket! 2. Wear non-slip shoes! Mountain paths can be slippery and easy to fall 3. Pack some chocolate and water to replenish energy 4. Be sure to try the local farmhouse dishes when going down the mountain, delicious and affordable~ This autumn’s trendiest travel destination is here! 👏 Friends who are tempted, hurry up and make plans, missing it means waiting a whole year!

平凉清真寺, Pingliang. The ethnic minority Hui or 回族。These people are muslin. The are a lot of people from this group in Pingliang , taking into account closest Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Due to the migration hundreds of years ago they also moved to the Gansu province. That was great chance to participate in their national marriage seremony and big honor to be invited by these gorgeous people! #tripaway#triplocal

We continue to explore small Gansu city Pingliang. This time I would like to introduce you small and modest park named Bao Ta Park (宝塔公园)。Nice place for walking or jogging. It is very silent inside, isolated from street noise and vehicle hustle. The pagoda represents ancient style engraved stones. #tripaway#triplocal

Lu hu pack especially beautiful in night. The big green area in the city center of Pingliang. This is the favorite place to take promenade for locals. Dimly light brings some invincible mysterious feelings. Every time I'm coming back to Pingliang I always spend at least an hour there. #tripaway#triplocal

崆峒山,Kong Tong Shan is located in the small Gansu city Pingliang 平凉。It is easy to get there by public transportion. Even most of Chinese people has no any idea about this place, foreign travelers almost never reach this location. But I would like to mention Kong Tong Shan 崆峒山 because this place is considered the land of Taoism origin. Yes, this is true. Exactly from Kong Tong Shan the Taoism religious and philosophy beliefs spread out and penetrated into other parts of China. There are several schools practicing qi kong and traditional medicine. Schools are not widely opened but accept new comers. This is hidden unexplored world, differing from that "well known" temple, where crowds of tourists arriving to watch the show. #triplocal

Take 3 days off to visit these 8 places for a short getaway—less crowded, quiet, and affordable 01 Zhongwei | Ningxia Take 3 days off and head northwest. The more I think about it, the more perfect Zhongwei seems. It's uncrowded, affordable, and while it's windy, it doesn't ruin the fun. ⏰ Enter Shapotou after 4:00 PM when the sand isn't scorching and the light is softer. Lines for sand sliding, sheepskin rafts, and the Yellow River zipline are short, making it much more comfortable than the harsh midday sun. Admission and activities are charged separately; don't buy a package ticket at the entrance. It's more cost-effective to pay for individual activities once you're inside. 📍 Gaomiao Temple is tucked away in the old town of Zhongwei. It's a compact Ming and Qing dynasty structure, and the "Hell Palace" level is quite interesting. After exploring, stop by Gulou North Street for a bowl of haozi noodles. It costs just over 10 yuan, is sour and spicy, and will warm you right up. Stay near the Drum Tower so you can walk to Gaomiao Temple and the night market. ⚠️ Food inside the Shapotou scenic area is expensive and mediocre, so bring enough water. Three days is just right—no need to rush. 02 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Don't try to see all of Zhoushan at once; traveling between islands takes half a day. With 3 days off, I suggest picking just one or two islands—don't overdo it. 📍 Putuoshan is perfect for the first day. Take a boat from Zhujiajian Wugongzhi Pier in the morning; it takes about 10+ mins. You'll rely on walking and buses on the island, so wear comfortable shoes. There are many stairs at the Nanhai Guanyin statue, so if you're with seniors, take the bus to the cable car station before heading up. Choose between Gouqi Island and Shengsi Islands. Go to Gouqi if you want to see sea farms and abandoned villages; go to Shengsi if you want to walk on the beach and eat seafood noodles. 🚄 Book ferry tickets in advance via the "Zhoushan Haixing Ferry" WeChat official account. Tickets are rarely available on-site, especially on weekends. 🍜 You can eat at the Shenjiamen night food stalls, but ask for prices before ordering and stand nearby when they weigh your food. Staying in Zhujiajian or Shenjiamen is fine, and both are convenient for catching a boat the next day. ⚠️ During typhoon season (July, August, and September), ferry schedules can be canceled at any time, so leave a buffer day. 03 Zibo | Shandong Zibo is more than just barbecue. Take 3 days off to visit—spend the first day eating, and the second and third days exploring at a leisurely pace. 📍 Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City is worth half a day. Dajie Street, Sixi Street, and Yinzi Street are all connected, and the old buildings still house the original banks, dye houses, and sesame seed cake shops. Go in the morning when it's less crowded. As shops open, you can watch masters making Zhoucun sesame seed cakes—they're so thin they're translucent, and a bag costs 10 yuan. 🍜 For lunch, eat "boiled pot" or "tofu box" near the ancient city; it's cheaper than inside the scenic area. Save the barbecue for the evening. Just find a place in Zhangdian District that's crowded with locals—wrap the meat in small pancakes with green onions and dipping sauce. You'll be stuffed for 50–60 yuan per person. Stay in Zhangdian for convenient transportation. ⚠️ Some small attractions in the ancient city charge separate admission. Buy a pass only if you need it; don't buy one if you aren't planning to see everything. Spend half a day of your 3-day trip at the Ceramics and Glaze Museum—it's free and worth seeing. 04 Chizhou | Anhui Chizhou is an underrated destination. Mount Jiuhua is famous, but the city of Chizhou itself is quiet and perfect for a 3-day slow-paced trip. 📍 For Mount Jiuhua, I recommend staying on the mountain or near the Kecun Transfer Center. Head up the mountain on the first afternoon to avoid the morning rush of tour groups. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, Huacheng Temple and the Hall of the True Body are almost empty. The scent of incense mixes with the mountain mist, making for a very peaceful walk. The cable car to Baisui Palace often has long lines, so if you're fit enough, just walk up—it takes 40 mins. 🍜 You can try the vegetarian food on the mountain, but it's not cheap—a bowl of noodles costs 20–30 yuan. After heading down, go into Chizhou city to eat "xiaoba" (small savory pastries) and Ruanqiao braised duck. Local breakfast shops open at 6:00 AM. ⚠️ Mount Jiuhua admission and cable car tickets are charged separately; book in advance during peak season. Staying in Kecun is half the price of staying on the mountain, but it takes more time for transfers. If you're traveling with seniors, stay on the mountain to save effort. 05 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang's seafood and sweet soups are reasons enough for me to take 3 days off and fly over. The city isn't crowded, and the pace is slow. 📍 Huguangyan is a volcanic crater lake. A loop around the lake is about 7 km, and you can bike it in an hour. ⏰ Get there before 8:00 AM when the lake is misty and the boardwalk around Maar Lake is almost empty. Admission is around 50 yuan, with half-price for students. 🍜 Eating in the city is the highlight. In Chikan Old Street, the fried dough sticks and beef brisket noodles at Shuijingtou have lines in the morning. Buy seafood at Xiashan Seafood Market and take it to a nearby shop to have it cooked—ask about the cooking fee before you commit. Grab a bowl of sweet potato starch balls or "qingbuliang" (a refreshing herbal dessert) at a sweet soup shop in the afternoon. Staying in Xiashan or Chikan is fine, and taxis are affordable. ⚠️ When weighing seafood at the market, check if there's water in the bag. Three days is enough to eat and explore—don't rush. 06 Shaoyang | Hunan Langshan Mountain in Shaoyang is a low-key gem among Danxia landforms. Take 3 days off to visit—it's uncrowded, and the ticket prices are more reasonable than some famous mountains nearby. 📍 Langshan is divided into several areas, and Bajiaozhai is the most famous spot for watching the sunrise. ⏰ Leave Xinning County at 4:00 AM, drive to the foot of the mountain, and hike for 40 mins to the top. When the sea of clouds and the "Whale Playing in the Sea" rock formations appear together, it's worth the price of admission. You can visit Tianyi Lane and Lajiao Peak in the afternoon. The lane is narrow, so larger people will need to turn sideways to pass through. 🍜 In Xinning County, try the blood-sauce duck and pork blood meatballs. The local flavors are strong and go great with rice. Staying in the county seat is cheaper than staying at the scenic area entrance, and it's convenient for morning departures. ⚠️ The areas are far apart, so driving yourself is best. If you don't have a car, charter one or take the scenic area shuttle. Tickets are valid for 2 days, so don't try to rush it all in one day. This trip is for those who can walk; seniors should assess their own ability. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Pingliang is in eastern Gansu. Kongtong Mountain is a sacred Taoist site, but it has never had many tourists. A 3-day trip here is surprisingly peaceful. 📍 For Kongtong Mountain, start from the ancient town and head up through Zhongtai, Chaotian Gate, and Huangcheng. ⏰ The day after rain is the most beautiful, with clouds rising in the mountains and stone steps that are wet but not slippery. Take the cable car up one way and walk down; if you have bad knees, do the opposite. Admission plus the cable car costs just over 100 yuan. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, eat Pingliang lamb paomo and heluo noodles. The broth is clearer than the paomo in Xi'an, and the portions of meat are generous. There's also Jingning roast chicken in the city—take some to go as a snack. Staying in Kongtong Ancient Town or the city is fine; the ancient town is quiet at night. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water. Spend one of your 3 days visiting the Jingchuan Queen Mother Palace or Liuhu Park and take it slow. 08 Fuzhou | Fujian Fuzhou is a candidate city for my retirement. Take 3 days off to visit—don't rush to see attractions, just soaking in the city is comfortable enough. 📍 Go to Three Lanes and Seven Alleys early. ⏰ Arrive at Nanhou Street before 8:00 AM when shops are closed and you only hear locals taking walks and sweeping. Visit the former residences of Lin Juemin and Yan Fu one by one—most are free. After exploring, turn into Ta Lane for a bowl of "guobianhu" (pot-edge paste) and an oyster cake—a 10-yuan breakfast. 🍜 For lunch, go to Daming Road or Laoyaozhou Street and try fish balls, "rouyan" (meat wontons), and "laohua" (noodle soup). In the afternoon, head to Yantai Mountain for old Western-style houses and river views, and spend the afternoon in a cafe. In the evening, take a walk along the Min River and watch the lights on Jiefang Bridge. Stay near Dongjiekou or Three Lanes and Seven Alleys; it's directly accessible by subway. ⚠️ The main street of Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is very commercialized; it's better to explore the side alleys. Three days is just right—not tiring. Of these eight places, the ones I most want to visit again are Chizhou and Fuzhou. One has quiet mountains, the other has a slow-paced city. If you took 3 days off, which one would you choose?

abbreviated as "Wei," is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It is located in the central-western part of Ningxia, at the head of the Yellow River's "front loop," and lies in the transition zone between the Ningxia Plain and the Loess Plateau. As of 2025, the permanent resident population is approximately 1.09 million, and the registered population is approximately 1.22 million. In the first year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty (1403), it was reorganized from the Right Guard into Ningxia Zhongwei. In the second year of the Yongzheng reign of the Qing Dynasty (1724), it was renamed Zhongwei County, belonging to Ningxia Prefecture, while Haiyuan County belonged to Pingliang Prefecture. In 1933, Zhongwei County was divided into Zhongwei and Zhongning counties. In 2004, the State Council approved the establishment of the prefecture-level city of Zhongwei. Zhongwei features the Shapotou Scenic Area, the Yellow River, Gaomiao Temple, the Drum Tower, and the vibrant local atmosphere around the Drum Tower. Zhongning County Under the jurisdiction of Zhongwei City. In the 22nd year of the Republic of China (1933), the area east of Shengjinguan Shanhe Bridge was separated from Zhongwei County to establish Zhongning County. In 2004, Zhongwei City was established, and Zhongning County was placed under its jurisdiction. It is the birthplace and authentic origin of the world's goji berries. In 1961, it was named a Chinese goji berry production base county by the Ministry of Agriculture, and in 1995, it was named the "Hometown of Chinese Goji Berries" by the State Council. Just passing through. The county town is quite ordinary, with few bus routes and not much worth photographing.

Kongtong Mountain, located west of Pingliang city, is visible as soon as you look up. While not particularly high, many people try to squeeze it into a half-day trip, heading up at noon and returning by evening. Only after actually climbing it do you realize that the temples on the front mountain and the cliffs on the back mountain are at opposite ends, with a significant distance between them. To see it at a leisurely pace, you need to set aside a full day and be prepared with enough stamina and time. Getting to Pingliang is not difficult. You can take a train to Pingliang Station or drive from the direction of Xi'an or Lanzhou. Once you enter the city, there is still a distance to the scenic area, which can be covered by taxi or chartered car. For convenience, stay in the city the night before and set off early the next morning; if you arrive late, you will have to look for parking further away from the mountain gate. Choosing your route: Kongtong Mountain is part of the Liupan Mountain range, located in the Kongtong District of Pingliang, where the Jing River and Yanzhi River converge at the foot of the mountain. There are generally three ways to ascend: taking a sightseeing bus to the Zhongtai area and then hiking up, which is the most common approach; walking all the way from Chaotian Gate, which involves endless stairs and requires some physical effort; or taking the cable car if you want to avoid fatigue, though you will still have to walk the remaining distance. The three routes have different entry and exit points, so be careful not to get confused; going up one way and down another can save you from climbing many repetitive stairs. If you are traveling with elderly people or children, make full use of the sightseeing bus and cable car, and choose a gentle section to explore at a leisurely pace. Three religions on one mountain: The temples and pagodas on the mountain are clustered together, and the fact that Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism all have a presence here is what makes it special. The Imperial City, also known as Taihe Palace, is a relatively large complex; standing in the courtyard and looking around, you can take in the entire mountain view. Leisheng Peak is built against the cliff face; the path is narrow, and wind blows up from the valley, so hold onto the railing as you walk. Qipan Ridge, Sanhuang Tower, and Hunyuan Pavilion are each located at different ends, and you can easily spend half a day stopping and exploring them. Several temples are built into the crevices of the cliffs with deep valleys beneath your feet, so be sure to hold the railings. The Lingkong Tower in the Pagoda Courtyard has stood for who knows how many years, and the brick carvings on the tower body are still visible. Falun Temple is a Buddhist complex located not far from the Taoist temples, with incense burning separately for each, undisturbed by the other. There is a local legend that the Yellow Emperor once sought wisdom from Guangchengzi on this mountain, and several temple names follow this theme, though you would have to do your own research to verify the historical evidence. After the climb, there is a lake at the foot of the mountain: Tanzheng Lake, also known as the Kongtong Reservoir. The water is calm, and you can walk around the lake or take a boat to see the trees on both banks. If your legs are tired from the climb, this is the perfect place to relax. The lake is often covered in a thin mist, with the outlines of the distant mountains fading layer by layer. The boardwalk follows the lake and is easy to walk, making it a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon. Finding a place to rest and eat: Most dining and accommodation options are in the Pingliang city area, where you can choose from various inns and hotels not far from the scenic area. Pingliang's lamb soup is rich and fragrant, and it pairs perfectly with a piece of mo (flatbread). Heluo noodles are chewy and served with savory sauce, warming the stomach. Jingning roast chicken and jar-steamed mo are common local foods that you can find in small street restaurants. There are few places to buy food and water on the mountain, and the options are limited, so it is safer to pack some dry food in your backpack. If you want a more comfortable stay, choose a hotel in the city center, which is also convenient for strolling around in the evening. Autumn is the perfect time to visit. From September onwards, the trees on the mountain turn yellow and red, and a sea of clouds often appears during this time. Standing on high ground in the early morning and looking down, you can see the clouds and mist slowly flowing through the ravines, which is even more beautiful than on a clear day. There are many stairs, so wear shoes with good grip, as the stone surfaces can be slippery after rain. It is several degrees cooler on the mountain than in the city, so don't leave your jacket in the car. Memorize your route before heading up, as the signal in the mountains is unstable and it can be difficult to look things up. Tickets for admission, the cable car, and the sightseeing bus are calculated separately, and prices vary by season, so it is fine to check the daily price board at the window before purchasing. There will be significantly more people on the mountain on the 1st and 15th of the lunar month and during temple fairs, so avoid these times if you want peace and quiet. The mountain is noticeably more crowded on weekends during peak season, so visiting on a weekday will be more relaxed. There are many ways to eat noodles here; Jiangshui noodles and Saozi noodles are common and refreshing. After this trip, your legs will be sore, but when you look back at the green mountain visible from the city, it seems different from when you first arrived.

Taking parents on a trip is most stressful when you turn a vacation into a forced march. I’ve picked these 8 places, and they all have one thing in common: you can sit down every few steps, and there’s a view wherever you sit. The pace is slow, the paths are easy to walk, restrooms are easy to find, and you won’t be stressed about meal times. 1️⃣ Suqian | Jiangsu Hongze Lake Wetland is big enough to hold a whole day’s worth of my parents’ chatter. ⏰ Get to the park before 9:00 AM. The mist hasn’t cleared from the reed marshes yet, and the boat ride through the waterways is so quiet you can only hear the oars. If you’re traveling with seniors, I recommend taking the sightseeing cart to the core area before switching to a tour boat. This saves you two kilometers of unnecessary walking. 📍 You can rent wheelchairs at the visitor center at the main entrance of the Wetland Park. Ask at the window about the deposit and procedures—don’t worry about the hassle. 🍜 Head back to the city center for lunch to have Siyang bacon and Hongze Lake fish head. Choose a small restaurant in the old town; the portions are large, so don’t order too much. ⚠️ The reeds shed fluff in October, so have a mask ready for your parents. People with rhinitis should be especially careful. 2️⃣ Changji | Xinjiang The wheat fields in Jiangbulake were just harvested in late September, and the golden haystacks are more photogenic than a sea of flowers. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light slants down, and the silhouette of the Tianshan Mountains unfolds layer by layer. My mom stood there watching for ten minutes without saying a word. Wucaiwan is best visited in the evening. The sunset burns the Yadan landforms into an orange-red color, but it’s windy, so bring a windbreaker for your parents. 📍 For Tianshan Tianchi, I recommend taking the shuttle bus to the lower cable car station, then transferring to go up to Mayashan Mountain. This saves you the steepest climb. 🚄 A taxi from Urumqi to downtown Changji takes about 40 minutes. For trips to Jiangbulake and Wucaiwan, I recommend chartering a car or joining a small one-day tour, as driving the mountain roads yourself isn’t senior-friendly. ⚠️ The altitude at Tianchi is nearly 2,000 meters. If your parents have high blood pressure, ask a doctor first. 3️⃣ Qinhuangdao | Hebei The sea at Beidaihe isn’t stunning, but it has the advantage of being flat. ⏰ Go to Pigeon Nest Park at 6:30 AM to watch the sunrise. The boardwalk has no stairs, so it’s wheelchair-accessible. 📍 After watching the sunrise, head over to Liuzhuang Seafood Market. Pick your own crabs and find a small shop nearby to cook them; it’s more practical than the restaurants in the scenic area. 🍜 Eat the mantis shrimp and teppanyaki squid while they’re hot; they get fishy when cold. Shanhaiguan Old Dragon Head is worth half a day. The slope of the city wall is gentle; my dad even made it up with his cane. ⚠️ Don’t buy pearl or seashell crafts at the entrance of the scenic area. The prices are inflated; the same items are half the price at supermarkets in the city. 4️⃣ Zhangzhou | Fujian The cobblestone roads in Yunshuiyao Ancient Town aren’t kind to seniors’ knees, so wear soft-soled shoes. ⏰ Arrive before 7:00 AM, before the tour groups flood in. Under the banyan trees, only the locals are drinking tea. For the Nanjing Tulou, choosing Tianluokeng and Yunshuiyao is enough. The stairs inside the buildings are steep, so it’s fine for parents to just sit in the courtyard downstairs and look. 📍 You can taste the Hakka rice wine in the Tulou homes, but don’t buy too much—it makes your luggage heavy. The Binhai Volcanic National Geopark is best for the afternoon. The basalt columnar joints are lined up along the seaside; it’s windy, but the path is flat. ⚠️ The electric carts inside the Volcano Island scenic area cost extra. Ask about the route clearly before buying tickets. 5️⃣ Jingdezhen | Jiangxi The Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative District was converted from old factory buildings. With red brick chimneys and glass curtain walls, my parents were even more enthusiastic about taking photos than I was. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, all the stalls are out. The prices for handmade porcelain range from tens to thousands of yuan—don’t bargain too aggressively. 📍 Taoxichuan has a market on weekends, but it’s quiet on weekdays. Check the schedule before you go. 🍜 Try the cold noodles and fried dough sticks wrapped in sticky rice cakes as snacks in the park. For a full meal, go to Zhejiang Road for alkaline noodles. At the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum, you can watch master craftsmen throwing pottery. My dad squatted there watching for half an hour. ⚠️ The prices in the porcelain shops inside the scenic area are inflated. If you want to buy, go to the Sculpture Porcelain Factory or the International Trade Ceramics City; the same quality is 30% cheaper. 6️⃣ Shannan | Tibet The blue of Yamdrok Lake is the kind of blue that makes you shut up the moment you see it. ⏰ Arrive at the Gangbala Pass before 10:00 AM. The clouds haven’t gathered yet, and the lake surface looks like satin. If you’re taking your parents, I recommend chartering a car from Lhasa for a one-day round trip. Don’t rush; stop twice in the Yarlung Zangbo River Valley to let your parents acclimate to the altitude. 📍 There’s a fee for taking photos with Tibetan mastiffs at the pass. Ask about the price beforehand, and if you aren’t taking a photo, don’t raise your phone. ⚠️ The altitude at Yamdrok Lake is 4,400 meters. Have your parents acclimate in Lhasa for two days beforehand, and keep Rhodiola and oxygen bottles ready. It’s windy, so bring hats and scarves, and don’t push yourselves. 7️⃣ Ningbo | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake is great for a slow stroll. The garden is small but exquisite. My dad spent a long time looking around the Mahjong Origin Exhibition Hall. ⏰ Get there as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM; the tour groups don’t arrive until after 10:00 AM. In the Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area, take your parents on the small train for a tour—it saves energy. 📍 The three treasures of Qiantong Ancient Town—tofu, dried tofu, and hollow tofu—are made and sold fresh on the old street. Eat them while they’re hot. 🚄 It takes about an hour by bus from downtown Ningbo to Xikou, or about 80 yuan by taxi. Qiantong Ancient Town and Xikou are not in the same direction, so do them on two separate days; don’t try to cram them into one. ⚠️ Some old houses in Qiantong charge separate small admission fees. A joint ticket is more cost-effective; ask at the window. 8️⃣ Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is the most physically demanding stop on this trip, but the cable car can save the day. ⏰ Take the first cable car up the mountain at 8:00 AM. The fog hasn’t cleared, and the Taoist temples are hidden in the clouds. 📍 The stairs from Zhongtai to Huangcheng are steep. If your parents can’t walk it, just head back to Zhongtai the way you came to drink tea. 🍜 The mutton paomo and Jingning roast chicken at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are ten times better than the instant noodles on the mountain. 🚄 A taxi from Pingliang Station to Kongtong Mountain takes about 20 minutes. You can also take a bus, but they are infrequent. ⚠️ The temperature on the mountain is 5–6 degrees lower than in the city. If you go in October, bring a light down jacket for your parents. Of these 8 places, I highly recommend taking your parents to Suqian and Ningbo first—the roads are flat, the food is soft, and the pace is slow. Where are you planning to go for the National Day holiday? Let’s chat in the comments, and I’ll help you see if it’s too tiring.

National Day reverse travel | 8 lesser-known cities with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery 01 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is, in my opinion, the "most underrated mountain in the Northwest." It's not too crowded during the National Day holiday. Take the scenic bus to Zhongtai, then climb the Sky Ladder; the whole trip takes about 3 hours. ⏰ Enter the park before 7:30 AM while the mist is still lingering; it's perfect for photos of Xiangfeng Douli. 📍 You can rest at Wendao Palace near Zhongtai, but don't eat lunch on the mountain—it's expensive and mediocre. After descending, go to Kongtong Ancient Town for a bowl of lamb paomo; it's just over ¥20, with rich broth and tender meat. ⚠️ The cable car stops running at 5:00 PM, so don't cut it too close when heading down. Best route for seniors: Take the bus to Zhongtai, visit Chaotian Gate, and return the same way. If you're fit, hike up the Sky Ladder, but the steps are steep, so be careful if you have bad knees. There's a big temperature difference at the summit during the National Day holiday, so bringing a light down jacket is worth it. 02 Guangyuan | Sichuan I've been to Jianmen Pass twice, once on a sunny day and once after the rain. Honestly, after the rain is its highlight—clouds and mist wrap around the 72 peaks of Jianmen, making it look like a living ink wash painting. 🚄 It only takes 15 minutes by high-speed train from Guangyuan Station to Jianmenguan Station. After exiting the station, take a taxi for ¥10 to the North Gate of the scenic area. ⏰ Walk the Bird Path in the morning and the Ape Path in the afternoon. The Bird Path is narrow and one-way; friends who are a bit larger might need to turn sideways. The Ape Path is more thrilling but has long lines; allow at least 2 hours during the National Day holiday. 📍 On the Tofu Feast street next to the pass tower, I recommend the "pregnant" tofu and "landslide" tofu; it costs about ¥40 per person. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes; the soil is red and won't wash out. If you can only choose one spot, I'd pick the pass tower + Bird Path; you can skip the Ape Path. Suitable for those who love hiking and Three Kingdoms culture; if you have kids, just stick to the flat paths around the pass tower. 03 Quzhou | Zhejiang Kaihua Root Palace Buddhist Cultural Tourism Zone—I thought it was a small exhibition hall from the name, but once inside, I discovered it's a massive world of root carvings. 📍 The 500 Arhats root carving corridor is the most stunning, with faces of various expressions carved into individual pieces of deadwood. ⏰ I recommend allowing 3 hours; after 4:00 PM, the light slants into the hall, which is best for photographing the details of the carvings. Visit Mount Jianglang and Nianbadu on the same day. The Three-Piece Stone of Mount Jianglang will make your legs shake on the climb, but the "Thread of Sky" is definitely worth it. Nianbadu Ancient Town was a pleasant surprise; it's not overly commercialized. 🍜 The copper gong cake and tofu pot are local flavors, and you can get full for ¥10. ⚠️ The Langfeng plank road on Mount Jianglang has crowd limits during the National Day holiday, so go early to queue. I recommend staying in Nianbadu Town; it's quiet at night, and it's on the way to Mount Jianglang the next day. Best for self-driving; public transport transfers are too much of a hassle. 04 Chuxiong | Yunnan Yuanmou Earth Forest—I would call it "the wrinkles of the Earth." Wumao Earth Forest is denser than Langbapu Earth Forest. ⏰ Enter at 5:30 PM; the light hits the earth pillars, turning them golden to reddish. 📍 There is no shade in the scenic area, and you'll get scorched if you go in the afternoon, so be sure to bring a hat and water. Yi People's Ancient Town is in downtown Chuxiong and is only worth visiting at night. 🍜 Grilled milk fan, tuotuo meat, and mushroom hot pot—you can get stuffed for ¥60 per person. ⚠️ Don't just buy silver jewelry in the ancient town; it's hard to tell the real from the fake. Stay near the ancient town so you can walk back to your hotel after exploring at night. The Earth Forest is great for photography enthusiasts and geology lovers. If you bring children, make sure they don't climb the earth pillars, as they can easily collapse. Chuxiong is much less crowded than Dali or Lijiang during the National Day holiday, but the UV rays are just as strong, so apply sunscreen liberally. 05 Qinhuangdao | Hebei I suggest splitting Beidaihe and Shanhaiguan into two days. For Beidaihe, go to the seaside. ⏰ Go to Pigeon Nest Park at 5:00 AM to wait for the sunrise; there are half as many people during the National Day holiday compared to summer vacation. 📍 The coastal plank road from Pigeon Nest to Tiger Stone takes about 40 minutes, and the sea breeze is pleasant. In Shanhaiguan Ancient City, there are always people taking photos under the "First Pass Under Heaven" plaque. 🍜 The pork and green onion steamed buns at Sitiao Baozi Shop cost ¥12 per steamer and go well with millet porridge. ⚠️ Don't trust the people offering horse rides for photos in the ancient city; they say ¥10 per photo but will charge you ¥50 in the end. For accommodation, choose the area near Liuzhuang in Beidaihe; there are many homestays, and prices during the National Day holiday are 30% cheaper than in summer. Suitable for traveling with parents; the pace is slow. Buy seafood at the Shitang Road Market and have a small shop nearby cook it for you—it's more authentic than a restaurant. 06 Kashgar | Xinjiang Kashgar Ancient City—once I went in, I didn't want to leave. 📍 The century-old teahouse on Wusitangboyi Road charges ¥5 for a pot of tea; sit for an afternoon and watch the locals play music and sing. ⏰ Go to the East Gate of the ancient city in the evening to watch the opening ceremony, then duck into the small alleys—getting lost is the right way to play. For the Pamir Plateau and the Stone City, I recommend chartering a car for two days. 🚄 Depart from Kashgar along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway; White Sand Lake and Karakul Lake are must-stops. The Stone City is in Taxkorgan; the ruins against the snow-capped mountains at sunset are worth the price of admission. ⚠️ You need a border defense permit to go to Taxkorgan; get it in Kashgar before you leave. 🍜 The baked buns in the ancient city are ¥3 each; they're piping hot right out of the oven but delicious. Suitable for friends with plenty of time who love culture. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in Kashgar during the National Day holiday; wear short sleeves at noon and a down jacket at night. 07 Dongguan | Guangdong Many people just pass by the Humen Bridge, but I went specifically to see it. 📍 The viewing platform next to Weiyuan Fort is the best spot to photograph the Humen Bridge. ⏰ Arrive at 4:30 PM; the light hits from the side, making both the bridge and the sea look great. ⚠️ Weiyuan Fort is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. There isn't much to eat nearby, so I recommend going to the center of Humen Town for roast goose rice noodles. 🍜 There's an old shop called "Feizai Roast Goose" where the rice noodles are smooth and the roast goose skin is crispy; it's ¥25 a bowl. Suitable for a self-driving stopover or a day trip from Shenzhen or Guangzhou. If you make a special trip, you can combine it with a visit to the Humen Clothing Wholesale Market, but don't go during the National Day holiday—it's packed. Overall, Humen Bridge is great for photo ops; one hour is enough. 08 Anshun | Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall—be prepared for crowds if you go during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Enter the park before 7:00 AM and take the escalator directly to the bottom of the waterfall to photograph the Water Curtain Cave before the tour groups arrive. 📍 You will get wet in the Water Curtain Cave, so buy a raincoat in advance; they sell them for ¥15 each in the scenic area. Dragon Palace is a half-hour drive from Huangguoshu; you take a boat into the karst cave. ⏰ Go in the afternoon when the light shines in from the cave entrance, reflecting off the stalactites. ⚠️ There are many steps inside Dragon Palace, so be careful if traveling with seniors. 🍜 In the Xiaoshizi Street area of downtown Anshun, the local favorites are guojuan (wrapped rolls) and duoduofen (spicy rice noodles); it costs about ¥20 per person. I recommend staying in downtown Anshun; it's half the price of staying near the scenic area, and it's a 40-minute taxi ride away in the morning. Suitable for those with good stamina who want to see both the waterfall and the cave in one trip. Huangguoshu has crowd limits during the National Day holiday, so book one day in advance on the official platform; ticket prices and opening requirements are subject to the official daily announcement. Of these eight places, I most recommend Pingliang and Kashgar—one for off-the-beaten-path landscapes, the other for exotic culture. If you don't want to squeeze into Dali or Lijiang during the National Day holiday, pick one and go. Which one have you been to, or do you have even more obscure recommendations? Let's chat in the comments.

Three days is enough to be fulfilling, but there is no need to cram the mountain and the city into the same day. Stay in Pingliang City first, dedicate the second day entirely to Kongtong Mountain, and then take your time exploring Kongtong Ancient Town. This way, you do not have to rush to the mountain on your arrival day, and you can get a good night's sleep before hiking. The cover route is for reference only. Please follow on-site information for specific transfers. Day 1 | Pingliang City: Get to know the city Pingliang Museum > Liuhu Park > Green Space Plaza. Start by visiting the museum to learn about Pingliang's history and local culture, then take a walk in Liuhu Park. In the evening, head to the area around Green Space Plaza for dinner and rest. If you arrive late, save the museum for the third day. Do not cut your rest time short just to rush. Choose accommodation in the city for easier access to dining and supplies. Local specialties like mutton paomo, heluo noodles, and liangpi are great options. 🙂 Practical tips: Arrival transportation, check-in, and attraction opening hours may affect your schedule for the day, so check official information before you leave. If you cannot make it to the museum during opening hours, just enjoy a relaxing walk in Liuhu Park. There is no need to force it into your itinerary. Day 2 | Kongtong Mountain: Save your energy for the mountain Kongtong Ancient Town Visitor Service Center > Zhongtai > Huangcheng > Leisheng Peak. In the morning, head from the city to the Kongtong Ancient Town area. Follow on-site signs to take the scenic area transport to Zhongtai, then explore Huangcheng and Leisheng Peak along the scenic route. For a more relaxed pace, focus on the Zhongtai and Huangcheng areas, and only continue toward Leisheng Peak if you have enough energy. Do not treat distant spots like Xiangshan as mandatory stops. Kongtong Mountain is known for its mountain architecture and natural scenery, so allow extra time for climbing, descending, and taking photos. ⛰️ Scenic area transport and walking routes are subject to daily operations and on-site guidance. Wear non-slip shoes suitable for long walks, and bring water and a light jacket. You can stock up on water and simple snacks in the ancient town. If you stay in the city, leave early for a more relaxed experience. If you want to avoid the hassle of traveling back and forth the next day, consider staying near the ancient town. Day 3 | Kongtong Ancient Town: Take it slow, catch up, and head home Kongtong Ancient Town > Pingliang Cultural Market > Pingliang Museum (if not visited on the first day). Spend the morning slowly exploring the ancient town, checking out the local goods and intangible cultural heritage displays in the streets. For lunch, try heluo noodles, guokui, or tangyougao. If you did not visit the museum on the first day, head back to the city in the afternoon to see it, then depart according to your travel schedule. Allow enough time to pick up your luggage and get to the station. Do not overschedule your time before leaving the city. 🧳 How to have a comfortable day on the mountain The ancient buildings of Kongtong Mountain are scattered throughout the mountainous scenic area, connected by walking paths and scenic transport. It is not suitable to estimate travel time based solely on straight-line distances on a map. Boarding points, open areas, and service arrangements may change, so check official scenic area announcements before purchasing tickets and departing. Follow the signs on the day, and if you run out of energy, just head back the way you came to areas you have already visited. Staying in the city or near the scenic area each has its advantages. Staying in the city on your arrival day makes it easier to find food and supplies. If you prefer being closer to the mountain transfer area in the morning, you can stay near the ancient town on the second night. Pingliang Red Beef and Eight-Treasure Tea are great to enjoy slowly after your hike. If you have extra energy in your itinerary, take a moment to sit and relax. This three-day trip starts in the city, focuses on the mountain, and ends in the ancient town—a perfect pace.

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.

What’s the scariest part of traveling with kids? Changing trains until your legs give out, or having your child roll around on the station floor. These 8 destinations have scenic shuttle buses right outside the high-speed rail station—parent-tested and stress-free. 1️⃣ Chongqing The bottom line: Chongqing is great for kids, but don't overdo it—one district per day is enough. At the Thousand-Hand Guanyin statue in the Dazu Rock Carvings, kids can spend 10 minutes just counting the hands. The Baodingshan loop is stroller-friendly with few stairs. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and catch the slanted morning light. Rent an audio guide; kids will treat it like a treasure hunt. Jinyun Mountain is best visited after the rain. The stone paths in the Bamboo Sea are slippery, so hold your child's hand. 📍 There's a tofu pudding restaurant next to the lower cable car station that opens at 11:00 AM—it's incredibly tender. At the Wulong Karst Three Natural Bridges, take the elevator straight to the bottom of the gorge. A 4-year-old can walk the whole route, but don't push it on the uphill section at the exit—take the sightseeing shuttle instead. For the Yangtze River Three Gorges, choose a short cruise—the 2-hour night cruise from Chaotianmen Pier keeps kids entertained with lights and boats. ⚠️ Hongya Cave is packed at night. It's nearly impossible to navigate with a stroller, so head to the opposite bank on Nanbin Road for a panoramic view instead. 2️⃣ Yongzhou | Hunan Shangantang Ancient Village is an underrated spot for kids. The village is small, and the Xiemu River under Buying Bridge is shallow. In summer, let the kids splash around and catch small fish—just remember to bring a change of clothes. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the Ming and Qing dynasty walls, making photos look great without filters. It's about a 1-hour taxi ride from Yongzhou Station. Driving or hiring a car is recommended, as taking 2 buses is too much of a hassle. 🍜 The oil tea sold by the auntie at the village entrance costs 3 yuan a bowl. It's fragrant with toasted rice, and kids can easily drink half a bowl. There's no entrance fee for the village, but some individual old houses charge 5 or 10 yuan, so keep some small change handy. This is perfect for slow-paced families. Strollers can barely manage the stone paths, so a baby carrier is recommended. ⚠️ There aren't any decent restaurants in the village, so bring your own snacks and water—don't count on finding food there. 3️⃣ Aba | Sichuan In Jiuzhaigou, take the right side of the Y-shaped route with kids. The boardwalk from the Primeval Forest to Arrow Bamboo Lake is flat and stroller-friendly. ⏰ Enter the park at 7:30 AM and take the sightseeing bus directly to Long Lake, then work your way down to avoid the large tour groups. At Mount Siguniang's Shuangqiaogou, you can take the sightseeing bus the whole way and just hop off at each stop for photos. The risk of altitude sickness for kids is low, but keep them from running and jumping. The Five-Color Pond in Huanglong is at a high altitude, so it's best to skip it if your child is under 5. Try Munigou instead—it's less crowded and the water is just as beautiful. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Chengdu East Station to Zhenjiangguan, then transfer to the direct scenic shuttle—it's much easier than driving. ⚠️ Lunch inside the park is limited to instant noodles and self-heating meals, so bring a thermos for hot water. Stay at a hotel near the park entrance—don't stay too far away so the kids can return to the room for a nap. 4️⃣ Yuncheng | Shanxi The colorful salt fields at Yuncheng Salt Lake will have kids squealing with excitement when they see the pink and green water. ⏰ The colors are most vibrant from June to September. Go after 4:00 PM to avoid the sun. 📍 There's a small train ride by the salt lake that costs 20 yuan per loop—kids love it. But don't buy the "Salt Lake souvenir salt" sold on the roadside; it's just regular coarse salt. 🍜 In the city, try the Jiezhou mutton paomo. Kids find it fun to break the bread into the soup themselves, and the broth is fresh and not gamey. It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Yuncheng North Station to the salt lake. This is suitable for kids over 3 who can walk and run. ⚠️ Don't let kids walk barefoot on the muddy salt flats; the salt crystals are sharp. Wear old sandals instead. 5️⃣ Weihai | Shandong The seaside boardwalk at Chengshantou is stroller-friendly, but it's windy, so bring a windbreaker for your child. ⏰ Go see the sunrise in the early morning; the kids can keep sleeping in the carrier while you take photos. 📍 The Xixiakou Shendiaoshan Wildlife Zoo is nearby. It has a huge variety of animals, and you won't be able to finish it in half a day. At Huaxia City, the old mine has been turned into a lake. Take a boat to see the fountains, and there's a live performance at night—the light show alone is worth the price of admission. Take a boat to Liugong Island and feed the seagulls from the deck. Tear the bread into small pieces, and the kids can feed them the whole way. 🍜 Mackerel dumplings on the island are more expensive than in the city, so it's better to eat after you get off the island. 🚄 A taxi from Weihai Station to the various attractions costs 20 to 40 yuan. ⚠️ Buy your Liugong Island ferry tickets online a day in advance, as the lines on-site are very long. 6️⃣ Changchun | Jilin Take the kids to the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo. The focus isn't on history, but on the old-fashioned telephones and gramophones—kids will study them like antique toys. ⏰ Go in the morning and leave by noon. 📍 The Changchun World Sculpture Park is right next door, with plenty of grass for kids to run around on. Changchun Movie Wonderland is suitable for kids over 5, with special effects movies and dubbing experiences that can keep them busy all afternoon. Rent a tandem bike at Jingyuetan; the kids can sit in the front while you ride around the lake. In autumn, the ground is covered in fallen leaves. 🍜 The stir-fried rice noodles and grilled cold noodles in the alleys of Guilin Road are a hit with kids—they'll eat more than the adults. 🚄 You can take the subway directly from Changchun Station to the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo. ⚠️ Many facilities at Changchun Movie Wonderland are under maintenance on Mondays, so check the official website before you go. 7️⃣ Pingliang | Gansu When visiting Kongtong Mountain with kids, take the cable car up and walk down. The cable car cabins are small, and kids get excited looking at the forest below. ⏰ Take the first cable car at 8:00 AM before the mist clears—it feels like stepping into a painting. 📍 There's a large flat area at Zhongtai where kids can run around while you rest and have some tea. The section down from Chaotian Gate has steep stairs, so hold hands tightly. If your child is under 5, it's recommended to take the cable car back down the same way. 🍜 Try the heluo noodles at the local farmhouses at the foot of the mountain. The sour soup is appetizing, and kids can easily finish a small bowl. It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Pingliang Station to Kongtong Mountain. ⚠️ There aren't many places to buy water on the mountain, so carry enough with you. This is suitable for children over 5 who can walk a bit of the mountain trail on their own. 8️⃣ Yuxi | Yunnan The beach at Fuxian Lake is pink—it's actually crushed seashells—and kids can spend half a day digging in the sand. ⏰ The water isn't cold after 5:00 PM, and it's so clear you can see your toes. 📍 There are family-friendly homestays in Guanglong Town, right by the lake. Be cautious about the winding mountain roads in the Ailao Mountains when traveling with kids; there are many curves that can cause motion sickness, so have motion sickness patches ready. However, the sea of clouds and terraced fields on the mountain will leave older children in awe. 🍜 Try the small-pot rice noodles in downtown Yuxi. Ask for them without chili, and the kids will slurp them right up. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Yuxi, then it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to Fuxian Lake. ⚠️ The UV rays by the lake are strong, so reapply sunscreen every 2 hours—don't be lazy about it. Of these 8 places, I highly recommend Weihai and Yuxi—one for the ocean and one for the water, perfect for letting the kids burn off all that energy. Which of these have you taken your kids to? Share your tips and tricks in the comments.

Don't want crowds during National Day? 8️⃣ low‑budget small cities I tried and found fun 1️⃣ Yulin | Shaanxi If you go to Yulin for National Day, my first thought was: why isn't this place famous yet. Few people, wide open scenery, and low costs — a 3-day, 2-night trip can be done for about CNY 600 per person. Don't go to Wave Valley at noon. ⏰ After 3:00 PM the light slants in, and the red sandstone striations look like they were carved with a knife. 📍 It's about an hour by hired car from Jingbian county; carpooling costs about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ Some areas in the scenic spot have no railings, wear slip‑resistant shoes, and don't edge close for photos. Huanghe in Jia county is best at dusk, where the river makes a big bend right below your feet and the wind can blow your hat away. Red Stone Gorge is close to Yulin city — a taxi is about CNY 20 — and after visiting, stop for a bowl of mutton offal soup, the broth is rich and the meat portion generous. Choose lodging near old Yulin city; a standard room is a little over CNY 100, and you can stroll to the drum tower at night for a view. Good for people who can walk and aren't picky about accommodation; it can be a bit tiring with elderly family members. 2️⃣ Pingliang | Gansu I only recommend one place in Pingliang: Kongtong Mountain. But that one place is enough to keep you busy all day. ⏰ Arrive at the mountain gate before 7:30 AM to avoid most tour groups. There are two ways up: the cable car saves effort but lines are long; hiking the Chaotianmen trail is steeper but more interesting, and the scenery is worth it. 📍 Near Yaowang Cave halfway up there are vendors selling tea in bowls, CNY 10 a bowl — sit for 10 minutes before continuing. 🍜 After descending, try Pingliang mutton noodles in town. It’s different from Xi'an’s version: the soup is clearer and you tear the bread yourself. About CNY 25 per person will leave you full. ⚠️ During National Day the cable car line can exceed an hour. Either go early or hike the whole way. Suitable for people with moderate fitness; take kids on the cable car up and down if needed. 3️⃣ Changde | Hunan Changde is an easy city to pass through, but Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Land) is worth making a stop for. ⏰ I recommend entering the Taohuayuan scenic area after 2:00 PM, first take the boat along Qin Creek — the water narrows and trees line both banks; it’s so quiet you can hear the oars. 📍 After getting off the boat, walk around Wuliu Lake. Don't rush to take the electric cart — walking often leads you to small courtyards with few people. 🍜 After the scenic area, go to He Street in Changde for a bowl of beef rice noodles, about CNY 15, with generous toppings. ⚠️ Taohuayuan ticket prices are not cheap in peak season. Buying online a day in advance can save some money; follow the official price that day. Choose lodging near He Street; at night there's a purple river cruise — the lighting is modest but the walk is pleasant. Good for people who don't want to climb and prefer a relaxed pace. 4️⃣ Suzhou | Jiangsu Suzhou will definitely be crowded over National Day, but there are ways to handle it. My strategy: enter gardens early, explore alleys late. ⏰ Be at the Humble Administrator's Garden and Tiger Hill for the first entry at 7:30 AM — fewer people and better light. 📍 After Tiger Hill, don't take a taxi right away. Walk along Shantang Street to Duseng Bridge — this stretch feels more lived‑in than the scenic spots. Hanshan Temple is best at dusk; the bell and the canal boats together are more atmospheric than daytime. I strongly advise against visiting the Lingering Garden at noon during National Day — it's shoulder to shoulder and the atmosphere is gone. ⚠️ All gardens require advance reservations; you can rarely book on the day. 🍜 For food, avoid the main part of Guanqian Street and turn into Pishi Street, where a bowl of Fengzhen big pork noodles is just over CNY 20. You don't need to hunt for Jiangnan water‑town scenery — walk north from Pingjiang Road and it gets quieter. Suitable for early risers who can walk; strollers can be a hassle. 5️⃣ Fuyang | Anhui Balihe in Fuyang — honestly I didn't expect much at first, but it turned out great for family visits. 📍 The scenic area is split into sections like Birdsong Forest and Splendid China. Don't try to see everything; focus on the lake area and the Twelve Flower Islands. ⏰ Take a boat before 9:00 AM — the lake is misty and photos look like ink paintings. 🍜 In Fuyang city try gelatiao noodles — thick noodles mixed with sesame paste, CNY 8 for a large bowl, locals eat it for breakfast. ⚠️ Parking at Balihe is tight during holidays; take a taxi or public transit. Driving yourself may have you circling for a spot. Choose lodging near Yingzhou Wanda; chain hotels are around CNY 150. Good for families with kids or elderly relatives — flat paths, lots of boats, not tiring. Young people may find the attractions a bit old‑fashioned. 6️⃣ Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan was the biggest surprise on this trip — desolate and lush landscapes coexist. ⏰ Go to Mingcui Lake at dawn; reed beds host water birds and it’s quiet even during National Day. Visit the Helan Mountain rock carvings in the afternoon when the sun turns the cliffs golden and the engravings are clearer. 📍 Reserve half a day for Shuichenggou; the concealed troop caves and the canyon stretch are fun to hike, and it’s about an hour's drive from the city center. Don't just ride the sightseeing bus around the Western Xia Tombs — get off and walk a bit. The ochre tomb platforms look especially lonely in the desert. ⚠️ Attractions are far apart; it's inconvenient without a car. Rent a car or share a ride. 🍜 Back in the city, have hand‑pulled mutton — CNY 60 per person gets you a great meal. Good for people who enjoy northwest landforms and don't mind driving long distances. 7️⃣ Jinhua | Zhejiang I'll split Jinhua into two parts: Hengdian and Shuanglong. Hengdian Film City is unbearably crowded over National Day. ⏰ Either enter right at opening or come for the night shows after 4:00 PM. 📍 Choose either Qinwang Palace or the Riverside Scene at Qingming Riverside — both are similar in style, no need to do both. ⚠️ Shops inside that rent costumes for photos are overpriced. If you want to dress up, rent outside and bring it in. Shuanglong scenic area is relatively quiet; the caves are cool, and it feels like air conditioning in summer. 🍜 In Jinhua city try ham pot and crispy cakes. The freshly baked crispy cakes are the best, CNY 2 each. Choose lodging near Jinhua station for convenience in both directions. Good for couples or groups of friends; for pure family trips with kids, Hengdian is more suitable. 8️⃣ Yichun | Jiangxi Save the last stop for Mingyue Mountain in Yichun — a nice way to cap a low‑budget trip. ⏰ Take the cable car before 8:00 AM — the clouds haven't dispersed and the boardwalk looks like it's floating. 📍 The flat stretch by Moon Lake is perfect for a slow walk and fine for elderly companions. ⚠️ The summit is about 5–6°C colder than the base; bring a jacket in October. 🍜 After descending, soak in a hot spring in town. Guesthouses there run a bit over CNY 100 a night, and packages that include soaking are better value. About CNY 300 per person for a two‑day, one‑night trip is doable. Mingyue Mountain suits those who want to hike without it being brutal — the cable car plus boardwalk combo makes it manageable for average fitness. If you go at the tail end of National Day, you'll find noticeably fewer people. Among these eight places, my top picks are Yulin and Yinchuan — wide open scenery, low costs, and fewer crowds. Which one are you thinking of starting from?

When traveling with parents, the two biggest fears are too much walking and complicated transfers. I've selected 8 destinations where you can take transport instead of walking, and take it slow instead of rushing. Let's be clear: pace is more important than checking off sights, and your parents' happiness is more important than good photos. 01 Nanjing | Jiangsu When taking parents to Nanjing, I usually schedule the Presidential Palace for the morning. Get there right when it opens; it's less crowded, there's plenty of shade, and there are chairs everywhere if you get tired. ⏰ I recommend arriving at 8:30 AM. Leave by 10:30 AM to perfectly avoid the big tour groups. In the afternoon, head to the Confucius Temple—Qinhuai Scenic Area, but don't try to squeeze in through the main entrance. 📍 Take a leisurely stroll in from the Dongshuiguan Ruins Park side. The path along the river is gentle and wheelchair-accessible. 🍜 Grab a bowl of duck blood vermicelli soup, but don't buy it in the main tourist area; walk a couple of steps into Gutong Lane for normal prices. Save Niushou Mountain for the second day. There's an elevator to the underground palace, and you basically don't have to climb the section around the Usnisa Palace. ⚠️ The scenic area is large, so take the sightseeing shuttle if you need to. Don't save that 20 yuan; your parents' knees are more valuable than the money. Save Xuanwu Lake for the evening. Walking half the lake is enough; rent an electric boat for an hour, and with the breeze, my mom could fall asleep. 02 Pingliang | Gansu Many people are put off by Kongtong Mountain just because it's a "mountain." But I think it's actually suitable for parents. There's a cable car to go up, and the plank road after getting off is gentle. You can reach the main viewing platform in just over an hour with stops. ⏰ Take the first cable car at 7:30 AM; the clouds and mist haven't cleared yet, so you don't need filters for photos. 📍 There's a rest area near Zhongtai where you can get free hot water. Bringing a thermos for your parents is very practical. ⚠️ Don't believe the touts at the foot of the mountain who say it "only takes 40 minutes to walk up"—that's 40 minutes for young people. Buy admission and cable car tickets separately; check official announcements for current prices. There are vendors selling Jingchuan jar buns at the foot of the mountain; buy a couple to keep handy for snacks. 03 Xiangxi | Hunan I've taken my parents to Fenghuang Ancient Town twice, and my only advice is: stay in the lower reaches of the Tuojiang River. The bar street upstream is noisy until 11:00 PM, while the downstream area is quiet, and you can still see stilt houses when you open the window. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Fenghuang Ancient Town Station, then take a taxi for about 20 minutes to get into the ancient town—don't take unlicensed cabs. You can spend a day on Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai. Aizhai Bridge has a sightseeing passage with direct elevator access. You walk a short section of the glass plank road; my dad said he wasn't afraid, but he was gripping the railing for dear life. ⏰ Go to Aizhai after 4:00 PM; the light hitting the canyon walls makes the colors look best. Shibadong Village is great for a slow stroll; the stone paths are flat, and every household has peppers and corn drying at their door. 🍜 Have a meal of Miao-style sour fish soup in the village; it's mildly sour and easy for seniors to chew. ⚠️ The ladies in the ancient town braiding colorful hair will follow you for half a street. If you don't want it, just smile and wave them off—don't engage. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West." The rocks look strange, but the paths are well-maintained. Enter through the south gate with your parents and take the "magic carpet" (conveyor belt) up the mountain to skip the steepest stairs. 📍 It only takes about 10 minutes from the magic carpet exit to the Stone Monkey Courtyard, and the whole way is a gentle slope. ⏰ I recommend going in the morning; tour groups crowd the place in the afternoon, and the line for the magic carpet can be 40 minutes long. The Laoleshan area is better for the evening, but it's windy at the top, so bring a light jacket for your parents. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is 5 yuan a bottle; it's not embarrassing to carry two up yourself. Staying one night in Zhumadian city is enough; choose a hotel near the high-speed train station for easy transfers the next day. 🍜 For breakfast, have a bowl of hot and sour soup with pan-fried buns; it only costs about 10 yuan for two people. This place isn't flashy, but it's solid, and your parents' generation will like it. 05 Shangrao | Jiangxi I took my parents to Sanqing Mountain and Wuyuan over two days. For Sanqing Mountain, take the Jinsha cable car up and walk the Nanqingyuan loop. See the "Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain" and "Oriental Goddess" and then leave. The whole trip takes 2.5 hours—don't overdo it. ⏰ The cable car opens at 7:00 AM; catch the first wave up and get down before 10:00 AM to perfectly avoid the crowds. ⚠️ The steps on the mountain can be slippery; have your parents wear non-slip shoes, not new ones. Choose either Jiangwan or Huangling in Wuyuan. I took my parents to Huangling; the cable car goes directly to Tianjie (Sky Street). The peppers and chrysanthemums drying for autumn were displayed on the windowsills, and my mom took 80 photos. 📍 There's a shop at the end of Tianjie selling steamed rice cakes; they're freshly steamed, soft, and easy to chew. If you're short on time, skip Guifeng; the hiking intensity is higher than Sanqing Mountain, and seniors won't be able to handle it. 06 Sanya | Hainan Going to Sanya during the National Day holiday is hot, but parents love it. Daxiao Dongtian and Tianya Haijiao both have flat seaside plank roads. If you get tired, take the sightseeing shuttle; you don't have to climb a single step the whole way. ⏰ Go to Tianya Haijiao at 7:00 AM; it's not too hot, and the light is soft. 📍 You have to queue to take photos next to the "Nantian Yizhu" rock, but if you walk 50 meters to the left, the angle is the same and no one is fighting for it. Take a boat to Wuzhizhou Island; there's an electric shuttle loop on the island. Take your parents for a ride and get off at Guariyan (Sun-Watching Rock) to take a look. ⚠️ Prices on the island are high—a bowl of noodles is 40–50 yuan—so eat your fill at the pier before getting on the island. Yalong Bay is great for the evening; the sand is fine. My mom took off her shoes to splash in the water and was as happy as a child. 🚄 A taxi from Sanya Station to Yalong Bay is about 40 yuan; there are also direct buses, but they are slow. 07 Karamay | Xinjiang Urho Ghost City sounds scary, but it's actually perfect for parents. You ride a small train through the whole scenic area and get off at four viewing platforms to take photos. It's windy but the roads are flat, so it's not tiring at all. ⏰ Enter after 6:00 PM; the sun shines obliquely on the Yardang landforms, and the whole area of mounds is golden red. 📍 The second viewing platform has the best angle; don't spend too long at the first stop. ⚠️ It's windy in the Ghost City, so bring a hat with a strap. My mom's sun hat was blown away once, and she chased it for 200 meters. There's no shade in the scenic area, so apply sunscreen thickly. Stay one night in Karamay city, and go see Black Oil Mountain the next day. The pumpjack is right by the road; my dad stared at it for 10 minutes and said this thing is really interesting. 08 Ma'anshan | Anhui Caishiji on the Yangtze River is a place I personally really like. The plank road along the river is well-paved. It takes 40 minutes to stroll slowly from the main gate to Sanyuan Cave, and the river breeze keeps it from feeling stuffy. ⏰ Go at 4:00 PM; the sun isn't harsh, and cargo ships pass slowly on the river. 📍 You can sit and rest on the stone steps next to Taibai Pavilion and watch the river flow. My dad said it's better than watching TV at home. ⚠️ Don't engage with people selling calligraphy and paintings in the scenic area; just look and keep walking. Admission isn't expensive; check official announcements for current prices. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a shop selling Dangtu braised pork noodles; the noodles are chewy, and the meat is stewed until tender, so it's easy for parents to eat. Ma'anshan is close to Nanjing—a 10-minute high-speed train ride—so you can combine it into one trip with Nanjing without backtracking. Of these 8 places, I personally recommend Nanjing, Sanya, and Ma'anshan. One has convenient transport, one is flat the whole way, and one is quiet and affordable. When taking parents out during the National Day holiday, walking a little less and sitting a little more is better than anything else. Where are you planning to take them? Let's chat in the comments section.

September is the most comfortable window between summer vacation and National Day. Airfares have dropped, attraction lines are shorter, and the weather is mild. I've picked 8 small cities that are affordable and easy to explore. Read on. 01 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is the star of this trip. It's cool on the mountain in the mornings and evenings in September, and just right for climbing during the day without getting too sweaty. 📍 Take Bus 9 from the city center to Kongtong Ancient Town, then transfer to the scenic area shuttle. The whole trip takes less than an hour. If you're not feeling up for a hike, take the cable car up and walk down—it's easier on the knees. ⏰ It's best to enter the park before 8 AM; it's less crowded and the mist hasn't cleared yet, making for great photos of the mountain gate and pagoda forest. It gets sunny at the top by noon, so bring a light jacket. 🍜 After heading down, go to Kongtong Ancient Town for a bowl of lamb soup and a piece of guokui (flatbread) for just over CNY 20. Stay in the city center at night; a standard room is CNY 120–150. Don't stay on the mountain—it's expensive and damp. ⚠️ Don't accept any "blessed" items sold in the scenic area; they'll follow you for three streets. Check official channels for daily prices on attraction tickets and cable cars. 02 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Huguangyan is a volcanic crater lake. It takes over an hour to walk around, and since it's still hot in September, try to go early. 📍 Enter through the East Gate and walk counter-clockwise along the boardwalk. The Maar Lake water is unusually quiet, perfect for just zoning out. Renting a bike makes it easier; a single bike is about CNY 20. ⏰ It's coolest from 7 AM to 9 AM, with a light mist over the lake. After 10 AM, the sun gets intense, so hide in the nearby Geological Museum to enjoy the AC and check out the exhibits. 🍜 Leave the scenic area and go to Mazhang for white-cut chicken and boji ji (steamed rice noodle rolls) for about CNY 30 per person. Choose a hotel near Chikan Old Street so you can explore the arcade buildings at night. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "volcanic mud masks" at the scenic area entrance—they are unverified products. You can take Bus 9 to Huguangyan, or a taxi from Chikan for about CNY 40. 03 Pingdingshan | Henan You can combine Yaoshan and the Central Plains Buddha in one day, but don't be too ambitious—pick one to focus on. 📍 Take the Yingfeng cable car up Yaoshan and follow the ring trail to Yuhuang Peak. In September, the red leaves aren't fully turned yet, but the upside is fewer crowds. The Central Plains Buddha is in Lushan County; a taxi from Yaoshan costs about CNY 30. ⏰ Climb Yaoshan in the morning and head down before 3 PM. Visit the Buddha in the evening; the sunset hitting the golden statue looks ten times better than at noon. 🍜 Lushan Lan Guo Cai (stewed dish) is a local specialty; a big pot with rice is over CNY 20. Stay in Lushan County; you can find a clean place for CNY 100. ⚠️ There are many stairs at the Buddha scenic area, so take the sightseeing car if your knees aren't great. Water is expensive on Yaoshan, so bring your own. Buy tickets for the two locations separately; don't trust roadside "discount combo tickets." 04 Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajueshan is known for rafting and its canyon. The water temperature is still fine in September, but check if it's open on the day you plan to go. 📍 Dajueshan is in Zixi County. Take a bus from Fuzhou Station to Zixi, then a taxi—about 1.5 hours total. The standard route includes the ancient town, cable car, and glass skywalk. ⏰ Rafting starts after 10 AM. Wear quick-dry clothes, not cotton. Walk the canyon trail in the afternoon; there's plenty of shade and it's cool. 🍜 Zixi bread is a local must-try; any shop on the street will do, and it's just a few yuan each. Stay in Fuzhou at night, near the Wenchangli district, for just over CNY 100. ⚠️ You will get soaked rafting, so buy a waterproof phone pouch beforehand—they are expensive in the scenic area. Water levels in September depend on the weather, so check official announcements before you go. 05 Changde | Hunan Peach Blossom Spring Tourist Area. September isn't peach blossom season, but it's less crowded and cheaper, which is actually perfect for a leisurely stroll. 📍 Take the tourist bus from Changde Station to Peach Blossom Spring, about 50 minutes. The core experience is the Qinxi boat ride plus the Qingu walk, which takes 3 hours total. ⏰ Take the boat in the morning; the mist on the water looks like a painting. Walk through Qingu in the afternoon; the bamboo forests and rice paddies are great for photos, and the rice starts turning yellow in September. 🍜 You have to eat Changde rice noodles—get the beef noodles with a tiger skin egg for just over CNY 10. Stay in downtown Changde near Liuye Lake; it's nice for an evening walk. ⚠️ Hotel prices double during peach blossom season, so going in September is a great deal. Food in the scenic area is expensive, so bring your own snacks. Check online for daily prices on boat rides and attraction tickets. 06 Yuncheng | Shanxi You can still see the "colorful" effect at Yuncheng Salt Lake in September, but it depends on the weather and light, so don't get your hopes up too high. 📍 The Salt Lake is south of the city; you can get there by Bus 33. To capture the color blocks, you need a windless, sunny day, and the side lighting is best after 4 PM. ⏰ Go in the evening and catch the sunset on the way. If you go at noon, it's just a sheet of white and too bright to keep your eyes open. 🍜 Yuncheng lamb soup and Wenxi boiled cakes are local staples. Stay in the Yanhulu District; a standard room is about CNY 100, and a taxi to the Salt Lake is about CNY 10+. ⚠️ Some parts of the Salt Lake are production areas, so don't wander off—follow the signs. As for the "salt water floating" experience, it's up to you, but I don't recommend it—low value for money. 07 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Beidaihe plus Shanhaiguan. The seawater is cool in September, but it's less crowded and hotel prices are cut in half. 📍 Stay near Liuzhuang in Beidaihe; guesthouses are just over CNY 100. Watch the sunrise at Geziwo in the morning, and walk the city walls at Shanhaiguan Ancient City in the afternoon. ⏰ Sunrise is around 5:30 AM, so check the time in advance. The light is soft in Shanhaiguan after 4 PM, and you won't be shooting against the sun when taking photos under the "First Pass Under Heaven" plaque. 🍜 Sitiao buns with lamb soup are a local classic. Buy seafood at the market and have a restaurant cook it for you; it's cheaper than ordering directly. ⚠️ It's a bit too cold to swim in September, so bring a windbreaker. You can refuse the "guides" soliciting business in Shanhaiguan Ancient City; it's more relaxing to explore on your own. Bus 34 connects Beidaihe and the city center. 08 Chongqing Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong Karst, and the Three Gorges—Chongqing is too big to see it all at once, so pick two to explore in depth. 📍 For Dazu Rock Carvings, take the high-speed train from Chongqing West Station to Dazu South, then a taxi. The Baodingshan reclining Buddha and Thousand-Hand Guanyin take at least 3 hours to see in detail. Jinyun Mountain is in the city and is good for a half-day trip. ⏰ Go to Dazu in the morning for the best light. Wulong Karst and the Three Gorges each require a full day. There's less rain in September, so the roads are easy to travel. 🍜 Try Youting crucian carp in Dazu and bowl lamb in Wulong. Stay in Jiefangbei or Guanyinqiao for easy transit; hostels are CNY 60–70, and hotels start at CNY 200. ⚠️ Don't try to do Wulong and the Three Gorges on the same day—you'll be exhausted. Dazu Rock Carvings tickets and sightseeing car fees are calculated separately; check official info in advance. It's still hot in Chongqing in September, so bring sunscreen and Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid. These 8 places are affordable in September. I highly recommend Pingliang and Changde—they are uncrowded, have a slow pace, and don't cost much. Which one are you planning to visit first?

The first year my mom retired, she joined a tour group to the Northwest and spent three days in bed when she got back. I learned my lesson. Now, when I pick places for her, I only look for two things: flat roads and a slow pace. I’ve handpicked these 8 destinations, so even those who aren't as mobile can enjoy them comfortably. 1️⃣ Ningbo | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake are right next to each other, perfect for a single morning. ⏰ Arrive at Tianyi Pavilion by 8:30 AM to avoid the crowds and enjoy the shade. Sitting on the veranda listening to the wind turn the pages of a book is even better than looking at the exhibits. Moon Lake is right next door. The path around the lake is completely flat, and there are plenty of stone benches to rest on if you get tired. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area is best for the afternoon. The village is as clean as a showroom, but avoid weekends—it gets noisy when the tour groups arrive. I saved Qiantong Ancient Town for the second day. ⚠️ The stone paths in the ancient town can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes if you go after the rain. 🍜 The Qiantong "three treasures" tofu with wheat cakes in town is a hearty meal for just over 10 yuan. Ningbo is great for a two-night stay. No climbing, and it's accessible by bus and subway. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Ningbo Station. A taxi to Tianyi Pavilion is just the base fare. 2️⃣ Qiqihar | Heilongjiang Zhalong Ecotourism Area is basically for seeing red-crowned cranes. ⏰ Don't miss the flight demonstrations at 9:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Seeing the cranes soar overhead is worth the price of admission. The wetland boardwalk is flat and wheelchair-accessible. ⚠️ It's windy, so bring a light jacket even in summer. The mosquitoes are even more enthusiastic than the cranes, so don't skimp on the repellent. 📍 Walk 200 meters north of the Crane Viewing Platform; there's a small hill with a better view and fewer people. Qiqihar's barbecue is a must-try—marinated meat with onions, grilled yourself. It's best to visit in summer; winter is too cold for seniors. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Qiqihar South Station. It's about a 40-minute taxi ride to Zhalong. 3️⃣ Nanjing | Jiangsu Don't try to cram the Presidential Palace, Confucius Temple, Niushou Mountain, and Xuanwu Lake into one day. My itinerary: Presidential Palace in the morning, Xuanwu Lake in the afternoon, Confucius Temple in the evening, and a separate half-day for Niushou Mountain. A walk through the Presidential Palace takes about two hours and is mostly flat. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Rent a boat on Xuanwu Lake and row slowly to see the reflection of the city walls. The Confucius Temple looks best when the lights come on at night, but 🍜 don't eat duck blood vermicelli soup inside the scenic area. Head toward Laomendong instead—it's half the price. You need to take the shuttle bus up to Niushou Mountain. The underground palace is stunning, but there are many stairs. If mobility is an issue, just explore the area around the Usnisa Palace. Nanjing's subway is convenient. Staying in Xinjiekou makes it easy to get anywhere. 4️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou For the Chishui Danxia Tourist Area, I went for the Sidonggou and Foguangyan scenic spots. ⏰ It's best to go after the rain when the waterfalls are full and the water mist makes the red rocks look vibrant. Sidonggou has boardwalks the whole way with gentle slopes. It takes about two hours to walk, and there's a section where you can take a bamboo raft. ⚠️ The stairs at Foguangyan are quite steep. If you have bad knees, turn back at the viewing platform—don't push yourself. 📍 The tofu pudding rice at the entrance is a must, especially the dipping sauce. It's a filling meal for 10 yuan. There are shuttle buses from Chishui city to the scenic area, but they are infrequent, so ride-sharing is recommended. It's great for escaping the summer heat, but bring a long-sleeved shirt as it's cool in the mornings and evenings. 5️⃣ Wanning | Hainan Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay: one is quiet, the other is lively. Shimei Bay is best in the morning; the beach is flat, the waves are small, and it's comfortable to walk barefoot. Go to Riyue Bay in the afternoon to watch the surfers—it's lively even if you don't go into the water yourself. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the sunset at Shimei Bay turns the sea orange—no filters needed for photos. ⚠️ There are many reefs at Riyue Bay, so don't go into the water barefoot; you could easily get cut. 🍜 Stop by Xinglong for Nanyang-style coffee and pastries while you're in the area. Wanning is perfect for a winter getaway to escape the cold. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Wanning Station. It's about a 30-minute taxi ride to Shimei Bay. Stay in a seaside homestay where you can see the ocean right from your window. 6️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Mount Everest Base Camp and Tashilhunpo Monastery: one is far, one is near. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in the morning. ⏰ Get there before 9:00 AM to catch the monks' morning chanting; the scent of yak butter mixed with the chanting is very peaceful. To be honest, the Mount Everest route is challenging for those over 50. The altitude is high and the roads are bumpy. ⚠️ If you have high blood pressure or heart conditions, don't take the risk—just enjoy the view of the snow-capped mountains from Shigatse city. 📍 Follow the locals for a walk around the prayer path outside the monastery; it's a flat, 30-minute walk. Shigatse city isn't big. Stay near the monastery and you can explore on foot. You need a border permit for Mount Everest, so get it in advance at your place of residence or in Lhasa. 🍜 Try the Tibetan noodles and sweet tea, but don't overdo it. 7️⃣ Yichang | Hubei I split the Yangtze Three Gorges, Three Gorges Tribe, Three Gorges Waterfall, and Qingjiang Gallery into two days. Day 1: Three Gorges Tribe and the waterfall. Day 2: Boat trip on the Qingjiang Gallery. Three Gorges Tribe is nestled between mountains and water, but there are many stairs. ⚠️ If mobility is an issue, take the cable car up and down to save energy. You can wear a raincoat to get close to the Three Gorges Waterfall; the mist on your face feels great in the summer. The Qingjiang Gallery tour is entirely by boat, which is the least strenuous. ⏰ The morning departures have better light and clearer mountain views. Yichang is best visited in spring or autumn; it's muggy in the summer. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Yichang East Station. There are tourist shuttle lines to each scenic area. 🍜 You can find "cold shrimp" (a local dessert) and radish dumplings at street stalls. 8️⃣ Pingliang | Gansu I was worried I wouldn't be able to climb Kongtong Mountain, but I found out you can take a shuttle bus to Zhongtai and then walk up slowly. ⏰ Take the first bus at 7:30 AM. The clouds and mist haven't cleared yet, and the Taoist temples hidden in the fog look like a painting. There are many stairs between Zhongtai and Huangcheng. ⚠️ If you have bad knees, just explore around Zhongtai—the ancient trees and stone tablets are worth seeing. 📍 There's a night market at Kongtong Ancient Town at the foot of the mountain. Pingliang mutton paomo is lighter than the version in Xi'an, making it suitable for seniors. Pingliang is cool in the summer, making it a great choice for escaping the heat. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Pingliang Station. It's about a 20-minute taxi ride to Kongtong Mountain. Of these 8 places, I highly recommend Ningbo and Yichang—one is culturally rich, the other is easy on the legs. If you're not sure where to take your parents, let me know about their mobility in the comments, and I'll help you choose.

I visited Kongtong Mountain in early September with two elderly relatives who have limited mobility, so I did a lot of research beforehand. I've compiled some practical information for others traveling with seniors. 👇 📍 The Visitor Center is located inside Kongtong Ancient Town. Walk through the ticket hall to reach the ticket gate, then take a shuttle to Zhongtai/Xiangshan. 🎫 Admission Adult: CNY 112 Scenic shuttle: One-way to Zhongtai CNY 32 / to Xiangshan CNY 48 🚌 Two standard routes 1️⃣ Energy-saving mode: Visitor Center → Shuttle to Xiangshan → Hike down to Zhongtai (stairs can be as steep as 75 degrees) → Shuttle back to Visitor Center 2️⃣ Hiking mode: Visitor Center → Shuttle to Zhongtai → Hike along the trail to Xiangshan → Shuttle back to Visitor Center The scenic shuttles to Zhongtai and Xiangshan are two different routes and split at the ticket gate, so be careful not to take the wrong one. Purchase your return shuttle ticket separately when heading down; only one-way tickets are sold online. For those who choose to hike the whole way without the shuttle, you are true fitness champions—most people can't manage that. 👴 My actual route (senior-friendly version) Since the shuttle to Xiangshan involves a 40+ minute drive on winding mountain roads, it was too much for us, so we decided to skip Xiangshan. We took the shuttle to Zhongtai, hiked up to Chaotian Gate, then came back down, explored Zhongtai, and finally took the shuttle back to the Visitor Center. The pace was relaxed, and it was manageable for the seniors. As the center of the mountain, Zhongtai offers expansive views. The four surrounding platforms unfold like a lotus flower, and the Lingkong Pagoda stands right here. This Ming Dynasty brick pagoda has a century-old pine tree growing on its top; "Ancient Pagoda Supporting a Pine" is one of the 12 scenic spots of Kongtong. 👕 Clothing Early September: Short sleeves + a jacket. Be sure to use sun protection! The UV rays on the mountain are intense. With its Danxia peaks and Taoist architecture, the steep Leisheng Peak, the Lingkong Pagoda, and the magnificent sea of clouds, September is the perfect time to climb Kongtong Mountain!

Don't want to be packed on National Day? These 8️⃣ places are cheap and quiet 01 Lhasa | Tibet Visiting Lhasa over National Day means plane tickets are the second most expensive all year, but once you're there you won't spend much. ⏰ Line up at the west gate of the Potala Palace at 7:00 AM. Reservation tickets open on official channels 7 days in advance, about CNY 200. Don't rush to climb once inside; walk slowly, altitude sickness is no joke. 📍 Barkhor Street around Jokhang Temple is free. Walk clockwise with the circumambulating pilgrims for about 40 minutes — it gives a better feel of daily life in Lhasa than entering the main hall. A pot of sweet tea in a teahouse is CNY 5, and you can sit all afternoon without being rushed. A same-day trip to Namtso is too rushed; I recommend carpooling over 2 days, just over CNY 300 per person, staying in lakeside tents or in Dangxiong County. ⚠️ People offering yak photo ops at the lake may raise prices on the spot, so agree on the price before taking out your phone. Suitable for: people who can tolerate altitude sickness and who aren't in a hurry. During National Day, Lhasa city lodging is about 30% higher than usual, but still reasonable compared with other popular cities. For first-timers, stay near Barkhor Street or Xianzudao so you can walk to the main sites and avoid taxis. 02 Guiyang | Guizhou Guiyang is a hidden choice to avoid crowds during National Day, with nearby attractions all focused on natural scenery and cheap tickets. ⏰ Start the morning at Huaxi Park — it's free and a local morning exercise spot; an hour is just right. Tianhetan scenic area is about CNY 50, featuring caves and waterfalls; the full route takes about 3 hours. ⚠️ Elevators and the sightseeing boat inside cost extra; you can still walk the trails, so don't be fooled by bundled tickets at the entrance. Visit Qingyan Ancient Town in the afternoon to avoid tour-group peaks. The town itself is free, but an internal combo ticket is CNY 80. I suggest just strolling the main street and trying a bowl of braised pork trotter and rose candy. 🍜 Jinbixuan's braised pork trotter is worth the queue — avoid prepacked vacuum pork from roadside vendors. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is best at sunset; drive or charter a car to see the sunset and windmills, and bring a jacket because it's windy. It's family-friendly, with lots of space for kids to run. Using Guiyang metro plus taxis is the most economical; attractions are far apart so don't expect to hop between them by bus. 03 Altay | Xinjiang Altay is already in autumn by National Day. Kanas and Keketuohai are in full golden-season mode, but crowds are about half of July and August. ⏰ The best period for Kanas is late Sept–early Oct, when the birch forest is full of yellow and the lake is unrealistically blue. Tickets plus shuttle are about CNY 230; staying inside the scenic area is expensive, while lodging in Jiadengyu is cheaper but means more commuting. I suggest staying one night in Hemu Village to see the morning mist — it's worth the ticket. ⚠️ Hemu lodging doubles during National Day, so book a month in advance. Keketuohai isn't a sea but a canyon and the Irtysh River. The ticket is CNY 90; shuttle costs extra. The Altay grassland culture refers to nomads moving herds along the route; you'll still see this in September, but much less in October. For northern Xinjiang snow scenery you need to wait until late October — you probably won't see snow at National Day, so don't be fooled by online photos. Fly to Altay or transfer in Ürümqi and take the train. Local car charters run about CNY 500–700 per day; carpooling is cheaper. Suitable for photographers and those who can rough it a bit — accommodations are basic but the scenery is unbeatable. 04 Pingliang | Gansu Mount Kongtong in Pingliang is not busy at National Day. Tickets are CNY 110, and a one-way cable car is CNY 50. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM. It takes about 4 hours to hike up; taking the cable car saves about half the effort. I suggest taking the cable car up and walking down — if your knees are bad, take the cable car both ways. 📍 Zhongtai is the core area, with the main temple cluster; go further up to Xiangshan Temple for panoramic views. ⚠️ Food on the mountain is expensive and not tasty, so bring dry food and water. One night in Pingliang city is enough; go to Mount Kongtong the next day and return in the afternoon. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Xi'an to Pingliang in about 2 hours, tickets just over CNY 100, cheaper than flying. Suitable for people who like hiking and Taoist culture. During National Day most visitors are local or from nearby provinces, so it won't be unbearably crowded. 🍜 Try Pingliang mutton paomo and Jingning roast chicken — small city eateries in town are about half the price of stalls near the scenic area. Overall, two days and one night can be done for about CNY 400 per person. 05 Benxi | Liaoning Benxi Water Cave requires queuing at National Day. ⏰ Arrive at the entrance at 7:30 AM to be in the first group, or you could wait 2 hours. Tickets are CNY 140 and include the boat; the cave boat ride to see the stalactites lasts 40 minutes, and you can visit the geology museum after. Huanren's Wunv Mountain ticket is CNY 80; you can hike to see Goguryeo ruins, and fit hikers can summit in 2 hours. Guanmenshan National Forest Park is ideal for hiking, and the maples turn red in early Oct; tickets are CNY 90, and a full hike takes about 5 hours. ⚠️ Benxi's attractions are spread out and inconvenient without a car; I recommend driving or carpooling. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Shenyang to Benxi in about 30 minutes, tickets are CNY 25, but you'll still need taxis or a charter to reach the scenic spots from Benxi station. Stay in Benxi city for more options and lower prices; homestays near attractions surge in price at National Day. Suitable for short trips from Shenyang — two days and one night cost about CNY 500 per person. 🍜 Try Benxi's local mutton soup in the morning before heading to the mountain. 06 Wenzhou | Zhejiang Yandang Mountain in Wenzhou is less crowded than you might think at National Day because many travelers flock to Hangzhou. ⏰ Yandang Mountain is best after rain, when the waterfalls are full and the scenery is clear. The Lingfeng night view has a separate ticket, CNY 50 — entry after 7:00 PM lets you see the peaks' silhouettes. Choose either Dalongqiu or Xiaolongqiu; I recommend Dalongqiu for its bigger drop, tickets are CNY 50. Choose between Fangdong and Lingyan — Lingyan has a free cable-crossing performance, but for busy times you need to stake out a spot early. Liu Bowen's hometown is in Wencheng, ticket CNY 60 — mainly a cultural stop for history buffs. ⚠️ Public buses and taxis connect the Yandang spots, but driving is most convenient. 🚄 From Wenzhou South station the high-speed train to Yandangshan takes 20 minutes, ticket CNY 15; there's a bus from the station. Stay in Xianglingtou Village for many homestays; a decent place during National Day is around CNY 300. Suitable for family trips — the mountain isn't high, and elderly visitors can usually manage. 🍜 Start the day with Wenzhou fish balls and glutinous rice — the local way to eat. 07 Jinan | Shandong Baotu Spring and Daming Lake will definitely be crowded at National Day, but Baotu Spring scenic area ticket is CNY 40 and worth it. ⏰ Enter at opening, 7:00 AM, see Baotu Spring first then head to Daming Lake, and leave before noon to avoid the crowds. Qianfoshan ticket is CNY 30; go in the afternoon and it takes about an hour to climb for a full view of Jinan. ⚠️ There are temple fairs at Qianfoshan during National Day, which are crowded but lively. If you want to avoid the crowds, arrive before 8:00 AM. Jinan's charm is its springs. Heihu Spring and Wulongtan are free and are where locals collect water — more authentic than Baotu Spring. 📍 Furong Street and Kuanzhouli are heavily commercialized; I suggest Qushuiting Street for a quieter, old-Jinan feel. Use Jinan metro plus shared bikes — attractions are concentrated in Lixia District. Stay near Spring City Square to walk to main sights. Suitable for short trips — two days and one night cost about CNY 400 per person. 🍜 Bazirou and tianmo are Jinan breakfast staples; Chaoyixing is cheap and filling. 08 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Yangzhou's Slender West Lake ticket is CNY 100 — pricey but worth it. ⏰ Enter at 7:30 AM, spend 3 hours, and walk from the south gate to the north gate so you don't retrace your steps. ⚠️ There are paid night tours of Slender West Lake during National Day; I recommend sticking to daytime visits. Choose either Geyuan or Heyuan — Geyuan ticket is CNY 45 with lots of bamboo and famous rockeries, while Heyuan ticket is CNY 45 with more refined architecture, great for photos. You can do both; the combo ticket is cheaper. The old streets of Yangzhou are more interesting than the main sights. 📍 Stroll Dongguan Street at night and try Yangzhou fried rice and tang gansi (hot shredded tofu). 🍜 Morning tea at Quyuan and Yechun has lines, but roadside shops' sanding bao and layered oil cake are just as good and cheaper. 🚄 From Nanjing take a high-speed train to Yangzhou in 40 minutes, tickets are about CNY 30. Stay near Dongguan Street; homestays cost CNY 300–500 during National Day. Suitable for a slow pace — Yangzhou is small and you can see the main sights in two days and one night for about CNY 500 per person. When traveling over National Day, you can usually have either low cost or peace and quiet, not both. Among these eight places, Lhasa and Altay are the farthest but most rewarding; Guiyang and Benxi are the cheapest; Yangzhou and Jinan are the most relaxed. Which will you choose?