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

This business trip was arranged somewhat last minute. While quickly screening hotels, I happened to come across "Fuyang Yunwan Manting Hotel," a highly rated boutique hotel. Looking at the price, I was pleasantly surprised—the cost performance exceeded expectations, so I immediately booked a stay. From the environment to the service, every detail is worth sharing. The hotel's location is quite good, not far from Fuyang West Station, about a 15-minute taxi ride. For friends flying in, it’s only about 25 minutes from Fuyang Airport. The convenient transportation is a big plus for someone like me who travels frequently for work, so I don’t have to worry about missing connections and it saves a lot of transfer time. I booked their queen bed room, and as soon as I entered, I felt a comfortable yet stylish atmosphere. The room’s color tone is warm, the lighting soft, the bed is soft but supportive, and the bedding is clean with no odor. Especially the layout of the desk, chairs, and bedside sockets is reasonable, perfect for business work. It’s very convenient to write documents and handle emails at night. The view outside the window is also nice; although it’s not a bustling city center scene, it’s quiet and pleasant, ideal for rest. As a mid-range hotel leaning towards business travelers, its facilities are not compromised. The shower water pressure is stable, hot water is sufficient, and the toiletries are custom-made, showing attention to detail. The corridors and public areas are kept clean and tidy, and the elevator runs quietly and quickly. It’s worth mentioning that the lobby has 24-hour front desk service, so there are staff available even at night, providing a strong sense of security. The hotel is surrounded by a business district, with convenience stores and snack shops right downstairs. Within a five-minute walk, there are restaurants, supermarkets, milk tea shops, and even a cinema. This is especially convenient for families with children or students traveling, as they don’t have to go far to solve dining, accommodation, and entertainment needs. This hotel is very suitable for both business travelers and students. The price is affordable, the service is not compromised, and most importantly, the environment is quiet, making it very suitable for exams, studying, or short stays. For friends on a budget, it’s a very sincere choice. Fuyang Yunwan Manting Hotel is a hotel that truly achieves "affordable + quality experience." Whether you are a student seeking cost performance or a busy professional rushing day and night, this place can provide a peaceful and comfortable place to rest for the night.

🌿 The ultimate family trip in Fuyang! Ecological park feeding pigeons + fun check-in guide 🕊️ A must for family trips! The top choice to tire out the kids! Run freely on hundreds of acres of lawn + get up close to adorable animals 🚗 Travel tips 📍 Address: No. 666 Ouyangxiu Road, Yingquan District, Fuyang City Sightseeing buses stop on demand! A lifesaver for families with energetic kids✨ 🐦 Must-try activities 1️⃣ Pigeon Square Bring your own bread to unlock the fun of feeding pigeons! Watching the cuties peck and drink is super soothing 2️⃣ Ai Meng Amusement Park Alpacas and deer love cuddles! Feed for 10 yuan/portion and get amazing photos 3️⃣ Plant Kingdom The tropical rainforest greenhouse is breathtaking! Learn about rare plants and cool off 🌃 Night view highlights The light show starts promptly at 7:30 PM! The lake center tower and fireworks together create a stunning scene Weekend exclusive: NPC parade + check-in tasks (with small gifts!) 📸 Best photo spots ✔️ Lawn in front of the European-style windmill ✔️ Viewing platform at the end of the rainbow walkway ✔️ Ferris wheel silhouette at night 🍱 Food bonus Fuyang rolled flatbread at the park exit! Authentic and filling

"Stealing half a day of leisure from a busy life is better spent residing in Yunwan." Upon arriving in Fuyang, I was immediately captivated by Yunwan Manting Hotel, hidden beside the university town. It doesn’t feel like a cold temporary lodging. Instead, it feels like a guesthouse prepared by an old friend, blending convenience and poetry into every detail, giving a gentle sense of belonging to a hectic journey. The hotel’s location is exquisite, just a ten-minute drive from the West High-Speed Rail Station, making travel easy and relaxed; right downstairs is a bustling commercial area, with night markets, convenience stores, and specialty snacks just steps away, so no need to go far for food or shopping. Even better, it’s adjacent to Fuyang Normal University, where the scholarly atmosphere meets vibrant city life. Within walking distance, you can enjoy both the tranquility of a youthful campus and the lively hustle and bustle of everyday life, fulfilling all your travel, dining, and entertainment needs in one place. The moment you open the door, you understand what “a room filled with fragrance, a courtyard full of joy” means. The natural wood decor paired with large floor-to-ceiling windows lets sunlight pour in, making the 40㎡ space exceptionally bright and open. The same pillow cores and medium-firm mattresses as Atour provide a gentle embrace to relieve fatigue. Excellent soundproofing blocks outside noise, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep. The bathroom features a dry and wet separation, with shampoo, shower gel, and conditioner neatly arranged on the washstand, and thoughtful touches like disposable face towels and toilet seat covers show meticulous care. The facilities are surprisingly complete, as if all daily needs have been moved into the room. The HD projector screen hides the romance of private cinema; you can cozy up on the sofa to watch a movie, making the journey truly enjoyable. The fully automatic washing machine and free detergent keep you fresh and presentable even on long trips. The mini fridge stores fresh fruits and vegetables, the microwave heats takeout, and the water dispenser always has plenty of bottled water available—this thoroughness rivals a home experience. The long table design accommodates business work, and the high-speed internet is smooth and lag-free, whether you’re on a business trip, rushing work, or studying for exams, you can handle it all with ease. The most touching part is the just-right warmth. The front desk staff are enthusiastic and attentive, not only explaining room facilities in detail but also helping print exam admission tickets, offering free luggage storage, and even negotiating late check-out, full of human warmth. The free parking area downstairs comes with parking vouchers, so driving is worry-free; within a few kilometers around the hotel is Fuyang Ecological Park, perfect for family outings or romantic walks, making your stay more than just a rest stop but an extension of your travel. For less than 130 yuan, you get an experience far beyond expectations. It’s a quiet haven for students preparing for exams, an efficient station for business travelers, and a romantic retreat for couples. Here, you don’t have to compromise on facilities or tolerate noisy environments; just unpack your bags and fully enjoy the freedom of “cloud-hidden time without mundane matters, leisurely sitting in the courtyard with pure joy.” If you’re heading to Fuyang next time, consider making Yunwan Manting Hotel your stopover. Here, you can enjoy convenient transportation, comfortable living, and a poetic atmosphere all at once, making every departure full of anticipation and every stay a beautiful scene. After all, a good trip always needs such a warm corner to rest your body and mind.

Every time I come to Fuyang, I habitually stay near the high-speed rail station. First, to keep my itinerary from being disrupted by travel fatigue, and second, because I can always find unexpected value for money here. This time, I stayed at a place highly recommended by a friend—the Fuyang Yunwan Manting Hotel (Fuyang Normal University · High-Speed Rail West Station Branch). The day I arrived was evening, the sky was darkening, and the hotel entrance didn’t have flashy lights but exuded a clean and neat vibe. When I pushed the door open, the front desk girl smiled gently and spoke softly, as if afraid to disturb the traveler’s fatigue. After a simple check-in, I had a faint feeling: this place would make me feel very at ease. 🛏 The room was bigger than expected, and the details were more thoughtful than anticipated The first time I opened the door, I was stunned for a few seconds—the room was more spacious than it looked in the photos. The floor-to-ceiling window brought in a whole wall of light, and the curtain was gently lifted by the breeze, creating a scene as tender as a movie. The biggest surprise was the “little touches” standard in their rooms: Fully automatic washing machine: No need to worry about hand-washing travel clothes anymore. Large screen projector: Watching movies lying in bed at night turns the hotel into a small private cinema. Independent water dispenser + bottled water: No need to boil water or share communal water, creating a “full atmosphere” experience. The air in the room was especially fresh: maybe because of new renovations, or maybe the hotel really takes care in maintenance. The hotel doesn’t emphasize luxury, but every detail is “considerate for guests.” Especially the washing machine, which is a big plus for long-term business travelers and students interning here. 📍 Location is super convenient: high-speed rail, airport, shopping district—all within 10 minutes The location of Yunwan Manting can be said to firmly grasp the “essence” of what travelers want. Within walking distance to Fuyang Normal University and University Town Red Street · Perfect for grabbing a late-night snack or some small treats without worrying about transportation. Only a 5-minute drive from the High-Speed Rail West Station · My train the next day was an early one, so I didn’t have to squeeze into the subway or find a ride early in the morning, which made me feel much more relaxed. The surrounding commercial area is well-equipped: convenience stores, coffee shops, barbecue, rice noodles, and simple meals are all available. For a traveler who doesn’t want to walk far after stepping out, this “lively yet private” atmosphere is just right. Plus, the hotel is right next to the main road, so getting a ride is very quick, whether going to the airport or taking a stroll at Yingzhou West Lake. 🧳 Suitable for a wider range of people than I imagined This hotel doesn’t pursue a “cool and aloof” image but surprisingly fits many scenarios: ✔ Business travelers Stable internet, a desk large enough for two laptops, and the projector at night helps lighten the mood. ✔ Parents visiting students or accompanying exams in Fuyang Close to the school, walkable, no traffic jams or worries. ✔ Couples for travel photography / a short two-day rest Clean rooms, soft lighting, perfect for taking great photos. ✔ Students / those wanting short-term rentals Washing machine + projector + water dispenser + floor-to-ceiling window—this setup at this price point is honestly “PPT-worthy” to brag about. Yunwan Manting is the kind of hotel where “once you stay, you’ll understand why it has so many repeat guests.” 💰 Finally, the most concerned topic: value for money The price I paid this time really surprised me. The same location and room setup in a first-tier city would probably cost at least twice as much. In Fuyang, this price is already a “surprise near the high-speed rail station.” Especially during holidays, the price doesn’t skyrocket, which is very friendly for students and short-distance travelers. It’s not an internet-famous hotel, but it’s more genuine than many internet-famous hotels. After staying one night, I understood why this place is so popular. Yunwan Manting gave me a feeling of “stability.” Not the cold feeling of a luxury hotel, but a sense that someone truly cares about your comfort. The lighting brightness, the laundry detergent provided, the daily replacement of bottled water, clean sheets, projector setup—every detail quietly satisfies. If you’re planning to come to Fuyang, whether for a short stay or a few days of slow living, I really recommend trying this hotel. Perhaps, it will become your softest first impression of this city.

Lavendar Dreamland Farm is a nice place to enjoy the autumn weather. Functional rice fields and a pleasant walking path. Lots of greenery and a quiet, unspoiled environment. #triplocal

Henan’s summer is really overwhelming! Last month, I squeezed in the weekend and non-stop visited 4 underrated cities reachable by high-speed train within 2 hours — the longest trip is about 2 hours, with an average cost of 500–900 yuan for a great time🍃 This guide is verified by both experience and budget, so pick a city and copy the plan👇 🏛️ Xiangyang: a pilgrimage city for Three Kingdoms fans Why choose it: High-speed train from Xiangyang East to Zhengzhou East takes 1 hour 46 minutes, second-class seat from 214 yuan. Xiangyang ancient city, Tang city, Mi Gong shrine — a must-visit for Three Kingdoms fans. Prices are affordable and it’s ten times quieter than Luoyang or Xi’an. 2 days 1 night itinerary: · Day 1: Xiangyang Museum (learn about ancient city history) → Beijie Lu Jia Alley (Ming and Qing style street, try local snacks) → Xiangwang Mansion to see the green shadow screen (one of China’s four existing shadow screens) → Linjiang Gate overlooking the Han River → Tang city evening visit for night views + weekend live show “Dream of the Tang Dynasty” · Day 2: Mi Gong shrine (commemorating Northern Song calligrapher Mi Fu) → Yuliangzhou (“urban green heart” in the Han River) → 603 Cultural and Creative Park (filming location of “Hi, Mom”) → Madam City (built to honor Lady Han of the Eastern Jin dynasty) Accommodation: Near Xiangyang ancient city, within walking distance to Beijie and Linjiang Gate, 100–200 yuan per night. Food: Xiangyang beef noodles, yellow wine, guokui flatbread, pickled cabbage. Beijie Lu Jia Alley has concentrated snacks, 30–50 yuan per person to eat until full. Photo spots: Tang city night scene for hanfu photos; Linjiang Gate city tower for Han River aerial shots; 603 Cultural and Creative Park for industrial style + vintage filters. Tips: Visit Tang city in the afternoon, don’t miss the evening night views and weekend live show; rent a bike on the ancient city wall for 30 yuan/hour, the scenery is amazing. 🏯 Jincheng: a treasure trove of ancient architecture under the Taihang Mountains Why choose it: High-speed train from Zhengzhou to Jincheng takes about 1 hour, second-class seat from 56 yuan. Imperial city mansion, Wangmangling, Manghe scenic area — Shanxi ancient architecture plus Taihang mountain scenery, almost private with very few tourists. 2 days 1 night itinerary: · Day 1: Zhengzhou East → Jincheng East → Imperial city mansion (former residence of Qing dynasty scholar Chen Tingjing, a 5A-level official mansion) → dinner with Jincheng’s top ten dishes · Day 2: Wangmangling (watch sunrise over the sea of clouds on Taihang mountain peak) → Xiyagou cliff-hanging road (a world-class engineering marvel) → return trip Accommodation: In Jincheng city or near the Imperial city mansion, 100–250 yuan per night, with Taihang mountain views from the window. Food: Stir-fried cold noodles, clear soup helo noodles, Jincheng’s top ten dishes, stone-fried eggs, soup noodles with dumplings. Photo spots: Wear hanfu at the Imperial city mansion for official residence shots; use wide-angle for Wangmangling sea of clouds sunrise; capture the “person in a painting” effect on the cliff-hanging road. Tips: Early wake-up needed for Wangmangling sunrise, recommended to stay near the scenic area; Taihang mountain area is cool in mornings and evenings, bring a light jacket. 🌊 Fuyang: slow city in northern Anhui, 500 yuan per person for a great time Why choose it: High-speed train from Fuyang West to Zhengzhou East takes 1 hour 35 minutes to 2 hours, ticket price 157–203 yuan. Slow pace, low cost, strong festive atmosphere, perfect for families with kids and workers wanting to relax. 2 days 1 night itinerary: · Day 1: Fuyang West Station → Shuangqingwan Water Street (free to photograph Hui-style architecture like ink paintings) → Erli Jing night market for gelatiao noodles + soup → Wenfeng Tower + Kuixing Tower (Ming dynasty ancient towers, red walls and green trees for a time-travel feel) · Day 2: Fuyang Museum (free with reservation, impressive bronze exhibits) → Yingzhou West Lake (one of China’s four ancient West Lakes, with a poem by Su Shi, free admission) → Zifu Zen Temple (Song dynasty ancient temple, over 900 years old) → bring pillow bread for the return trip Accommodation: Near Wenfeng Park in downtown, chain hotels 120–250 yuan per night, convenient for night market. Food: Gelatiao (thick noodles with sesame sauce, 10–15 yuan), pillow bread (solid large bread, about 10 yuan), fenji (sour and spicy appetizer, 8–12 yuan), mahu, rolled bread (6 yuan each), diguo chicken. Erli Jing night market 30–50 yuan per person to eat until full. Photo spots: Wear hanfu or plain long dresses at Shuangqingwan Water Street for Hui-style ink painting effect; Yingzhou West Lake for poetic freshwater lake shots; Wenfeng Tower red walls for a time-travel vibe. Tips: Visit the ecological park in the afternoon, sunset on the reeds looks like a golden ocean; for gelatiao, choose old stalls, avoid eating on the main street of the scenic area. 🌉 Wuhan: popular but extremely convenient for a short high-speed train getaway Why choose it: High-speed train from Wuhan to Zhengzhou takes 1 hour 33 minutes to about 2 hours, second-class seat 244–293 yuan. Not exactly underrated, but with frequent trains and a 1.5-hour cross-city living circle, perfect for spontaneous trips. 2 days 1 night highlights: · Day 1: Yellow Crane Tower (climb for a distant view of the “top tower in the world”) → walk on the Yangtze River Bridge → breakfast at Hubu Alley (hot dry noodles, three-flavor bean skin, soup noodles) → evening boat cruise on the Yangtze River · Day 2: Hubei Provincial Museum (bronze bells + King Goujian’s sword, reservation required) → bike ride on East Lake greenway → relax at a café in Tanhualin arts district Accommodation: Near Yellow Crane Tower/Hubu Alley in Wuchang district or by Hankou riverbank, 150–350 yuan per night. Food: Hot dry noodles, fried dough rings, three-flavor bean skin, pork rib lotus root soup, Jingwu duck neck, soup dumplings, soup noodles. Zhao’s fried dough with shaomai on Liangdao Street limited to 600 per day, perfect with hot dry noodles. Photo spots: Yellow Crane Tower red walls (no need to climb for good shots); Yangtze River Bridge for river views; East Lake greenway in bright sportswear for energetic photos; Hubu Alley for lively street scenes. Tips: Climbing Yellow Crane Tower costs 70 yuan voluntarily, the red wall exterior is enough for photos; Zhao’s fried dough with shaomai on Liangdao Street is least crowded at 3 PM on weekdays; buying tickets on Tuesday can save up to 50 yuan compared to weekends. 📸 Photo tips for all 4 cities 📷 Xiangyang: Tang city night hanfu, Linjiang Gate Han River aerial, 603 Cultural and Creative Park industrial style 📷 Jincheng: Imperial city mansion official residence time travel, Wangmangling sea of clouds sunrise, cliff-hanging road dramatic shots 📷 Fuyang: Shuangqingwan Water Street Hui-style ink painting, Yingzhou West Lake freshwater poetry, Wenfeng Tower red walls time travel 📷 Wuhan: Yellow Crane Tower red walls, Yangtze River Bridge river views, East Lake greenway energetic shots 💡 Outfit tips: wear hanfu or new Chinese style in ancient cities and architecture; wear bright-colored jackets in natural scenic areas for contrast; wear cool street style by the Wuhan river. 🚨 Common pitfalls for all 4 cities 1. Book tickets on 12306 at least 15 days in advance! Weekend tickets are tight, Xiangyang, Jincheng, and Fuyang have fewer trains. 2. Bring a light jacket! Mountain areas (Jincheng Taihang Mountains) have big temperature differences day and night, it can get surprisingly cold. 3. Bring student ID! Most attractions like Imperial city mansion, Tang city, and Hubei Provincial Museum offer half-price tickets. 4. Avoid main streets in scenic areas for meals! Go to local residential or farmers’ markets nearby, the local fly-by-night eateries are the most authentic. 5. Museums are closed on Mondays. Fuyang Museum and Hubei Provincial Museum require advance reservations. 6. Tang city live show “Dream of the Tang Dynasty” only on weekends, plan accordingly. 7. Early wake-up needed for Wangmangling sunrise, recommended to stay near the scenic area. 8. Bring cash + power bank: some old shops only accept cash, and some mountain areas have weak signal. 🎒 Practical tips · Best time: late August to September is the golden period for these four cities, summer heat fades and autumn colors deepen; during National Day, Xiangyang and Wuhan are crowded, Fuyang and Jincheng remain relatively quiet. · Budget reference: 500–900 yuan per person for 2 days 1 night (including high-speed train, accommodation, tickets, and meals). · Must-bring list: ID + student ID, light jacket, sunscreen, comfortable flat shoes, power bank. · High-speed train + homestay combo: depart Friday night, return Sunday evening, no need to take leave for a perfect 2-day 1-night trip. · Buy “quiet car” tickets on 12306, catch up on sleep on the train and arrive refreshed. The true meaning of escaping Henan is to trade the shortest commute time for the longest relaxation. While others are packed like sardines on the Jingguang line, I’m already wearing hanfu and shooting night scenes in Xiangyang Tang city; while others queue for 2 hours at popular spots, I’m watching the sea of clouds sunrise on Jincheng Taihang mountain; while others sweat it out in Zhengzhou, I’m wearing hanfu and shooting Hui-style ink paintings on Fuyang Shuangqingwan Water Street🍃 These 4 cities, reachable by high-speed train in 1–2 hours, with fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and low prices, are the right way for Henan workers to spend their weekends. Pick the closest one and set off this weekend🚄✨ Escape Henan

01 Baoji city | Shaanxi At 6 AM on Mount Taibai, the mist hasn’t cleared yet, but the wind is already chilling. Wrapped in my windbreaker at over 3,000 meters elevation, I watch the sunlight slowly crawl over the ridges, feeling completely awake. The heat of over 30 degrees down in the city drops to zero here. From the visitor center, take the shuttle bus to Honghuaping, then transfer to the cable car up to Dayehai. Dew still clings to the pine needles along the way, and every step feels cool. In the afternoon, head to Famen Temple. Don’t rush into the underground palace; first, walk around the old temple. Ancient cypress trees shade the sky, and the copper bells at the eaves ring softly in the wind. Sitting on the stone steps to rest, your back feels cool and your mind calm. The Buddha Light Avenue is long. If you’re with elders or kids, it’s best to take the electric cart. It costs 20 yuan one way, saving your energy for the treasure hall to see the relics. By evening, arrive at Guanshan grassland, where the temperature drops again. Ride a horse along the stream, with grass tips brushing your ankles, cool and refreshing. Stay overnight in a Mongolian yurt. Remember to ask the owner for an extra blanket—the mountain’s big temperature swings can really wake you up cold. ⚠️ Signal is weak on the grassland. Download offline maps in advance. 🍜 Recommended: the town’s roasted lamb ribs, crispy outside and tender inside. Pair with milk tea to warm up. 02 Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The beauty of Yuanyang terraced fields is the kind you have to wait for slowly with your camera. At 5:30 AM, the Duoyishu viewing platform is already packed with tripods. I squeezed into the crowd to watch the morning light dye the layered paddies gold. Mist flows through the valleys like someone painting in the clouds. ⏰ Be sure to arrive before 7 AM. If you’re late, the mist clears and the light gets harsh, flattening the scene. Tickets cost 70 yuan and are valid for two days. Don’t rush to leave—the sunset at Bada is even more stunning. In the afternoon, visit Jianshui ancient town for a complete change of atmosphere. From the vast terraced fields to the lively town, the contrast is striking. The ancient town has no entrance fee, so take your time strolling. The Zhu family garden is worth a detailed visit. Tickets are 40 yuan to see the courtyard of a wealthy southern Yunnan family, with carved wooden door lintels and bluestone courtyards, every detail carefully crafted. 🍜 Any street stall selling grilled tofu is delicious. The fermented tofu has a crispy crust and juicy inside. Dip it in dry chili powder—I could squat by the roadside eating it all afternoon. ⚠️ UV rays are strong in Jianshui. Apply sunscreen thickly. I got a clear tan line on my first day. 03 Xiangyang city | Hubei Gulongzhong isn’t a place you just check in and leave quickly. I spent a whole afternoon slowly exploring the Three Visits Hall, Caolu Pavilion, and Hexagonal Well. The shade is so dense it feels like it’s melting. Walking on the stone path, you hear cicadas and flowing water. The temperature is 5 to 6 degrees cooler than downtown. ⏰ The best time to enter is after 3 PM. The light slants through the treetops, shining on the moss, giving your photos a natural filter. Tickets cost 82 yuan and include the shuttle bus. If your stamina is average, take the bus to the Gulongzhong archway, then walk down gently sloping paths—no strain. If you have kids, rest by the shallow creek near Baoxi Pavilion where they can play in the water. ⚠️ There are few dining options inside the park. Bring water and snacks or eat Xiangyang beef noodles in Longzhong town after, 15 yuan, spicy and satisfying. 04 Karamay city | Xinjiang Who says summer escapes have to be in the mountains? The Wuerhe World Devil City’s wind is the best air conditioner. Enter the park at 7:30 PM. The sun is still high, but the wind is already blowing hard through the yardang landforms, blowing away the 38-degree heatwave. Take the small train for a tour. Along the way, the “Sphinx” and “Peacock spreading its tail” are all wind sculptures. Watching them, you realize nature is the ultimate artist. 📍 Be sure to get off at the “Broken Bridge” stop and walk a bit on the dirt path deeper inside. It’s less crowded there, the yardang formations are denser, and the wind echoes between the stone pillars like whispers or sighs. ⏰ The hour before sunset offers the most magical light. The entire earth forest glows orange-red. From a high point, it really feels like another planet. ⚠️ The last small train leaves at 8:30 PM. Don’t miss it or you’ll have to walk 5 km out. Tickets cost 62 yuan, a good value. 05 Changchun city | Jilin Changchun’s summer is refreshingly cool, making you question if it’s really Northeast China. The Puppet Emperor’s Palace Museum is worth a morning visit. Tickets cost 60 yuan to see the last emperor’s desperate struggle. The architecture is Western style but filled with Japanese details inside. Walking the corridors, the wooden floors creak, and the weight of history is overwhelming. Renting an audio guide is recommended to catch all the details. In the afternoon, visit the World Sculpture Park, which is huge and takes about two hours to walk around. Slow down and focus on the indoor galleries. The air conditioning is strong, and you can avoid the scorching sun. 🍜 At night, visit the night market near Changying Century City. Try grilled cold noodles, sweet and sour pork, and big meat skewers. Expect to spend 30 to 40 yuan per person to eat your fill. Jingyue Lake is better saved for the next morning. Rent a bike and ride along the lake. The tree-lined paths are as cool as autumn, and the air smells of pine. ⚠️ Jingyue Lake is crowded on weekends. Try to visit on weekdays. 06 Fuyang city | Anhui Balihe surprised me with its unexpected beauty. The park is divided into several areas. Walking around takes 3 to 4 hours, but there are plenty of trees and water, and most paths are shaded. The World Scenery Garden features replicas of Greek temples and the Arc de Triomphe, a bit surreal but kids love it. The Chinese Splendor Garden’s lotus pond is in full bloom. Pink petals reflect on the clear water, and when the breeze blows, the whole pond seems to nod. ⏰ It’s best to arrive before 9 AM to beat the tour groups. The lake surface is as calm as a mirror. Tickets cost 80 yuan, 10 yuan cheaper if bought online in advance. If you bring elders, take the boat ride for 40 yuan per person to save their legs. 🍜 At the park entrance, try Fuyang rolled flatbread, 4 yuan each. It’s filled with bean sprouts, gluten, and egg skin, topped with garlic sauce. Eat it on the go—it’s refreshing and filling. ⚠️ There are few supply points inside the park. Bring enough water. 07 Ya’an city | Sichuan The coolness of Bifeng Gorge seeps up from the ground. Entering the canyon, the temperature drops 7 to 8 degrees from outside. The sound of the stream follows you, and the moist air feels like a spa for your lungs. I walked the right gorge, which takes about two hours. The plank road clings to the cliff, vines cover the sky overhead, and emerald pools lie beneath your feet. Every few steps, you want to stop and daydream. ⏰ The best time is after rain when the sun comes out. Mist rises along the cliffs, turning the whole gorge into a fairyland. Tickets include the panda base. After the gorge, visit the pandas. The round, fluffy bundles nap in the trees, melting hearts. ⚠️ The plank road is slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. If you have kids, the left gorge is easier with gentler paths and small waterfalls to play in. 08 Taiyuan city | Shanxi The coolness of Tianlong Mountain hides in the shadows of caves and ancient trees. I went in the morning, climbing from the mountain gate to the cave area. Pines and cypresses shade the path, and occasional mountain breezes sweep away the heat. Don’t miss the Maitreya statue in Cave 9, a Northern Qi sculpture with smooth lines and a peaceful expression. Standing before it, you can’t help but feel calm. On the way down, visit Jin Temple. Tickets cost 80 yuan. The Fish Pond Flying Beam and Nanlao Spring in front of the Holy Mother Hall are textbook examples of ancient architecture, worth a slow look. In the afternoon, switch to city leisure at Jinyang Lake Park. Walk halfway around the lake. The lake breeze mixed with mist feels better than air conditioning. The park is free and busiest at dusk. Locals stroll, fly kites, and play with kids, full of everyday life. 🍜 At night, go to Liuxiang for a bowl of tou nao with shaomai, Taiyuan’s summer favorite. The broth is rich, and though you sweat drinking it, you feel refreshed. ⚠️ Tianlong Mountain and Jin Temple are about an hour from downtown. If short on time, prioritize Jin Temple for its denser ancient architecture. After visiting these six places, the ones that let me fall asleep under a blanket are Mount Taibai and Bifeng Gorge. One is a high-altitude chill, the other a deep canyon’s moisture—both rare awakenings in summer. Which will you visit first? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll help you plan.

Stay for three days. These 8 cities will make you fall in love with travel again NO.1 Fangchenggang | Guangxi The sea in Fangchenggang isn’t the kind that stuns you at first glance, but it grows on you. I stayed in the port area. Opening the window, you can smell the salty sea breeze. Right downstairs is a seafood market popular with locals. At 6 AM, fishermen just dock, crabs still bubbling in their nets. Buy a pound of flower crabs and have them cooked at a nearby food stall. The cooking fee is 15 yuan, and the freshness will blow your mind. 📍 Lishan ancient fishing village is a 40-minute drive from downtown. After 3 PM, when the tide recedes, large areas of mangrove roots appear on the mudflats. Villagers dig for sandworms with small shovels. You can join in for 20 yuan. ⚠️ Don’t go at noon. The sun will scorch your scalp, and sunscreen won’t hold up. In the evening, return to the city and stroll along Beibu Gulf Avenue. When the streetlights come on, the sea looks like it’s covered in shattered silver. At that moment, you’ll realize how wonderful a small town can be. 🍜 At night, pick any noodle shop and order a bowl of seafood noodles for 10 yuan. The toppings outnumber the noodles. NO.2 Fuyang | Anhui What surprised me most in Fuyang was Bali River. It’s not as delicate as Jiangnan gardens but impresses with its openness. The scenic area is divided into several parks. Walking around takes three to four hours. Renting an electric cart for 30 yuan an hour saves a lot of effort. ⏰ Start the morning at the World Scenery Park. The miniature Zeus temple and Arc de Triomphe look amusingly “foreign” in photos, but don’t expect too much—it’s just a large park. At noon, outside the park, you can buy pillow buns for 10 yuan each. Filled with pickled beans and braised meat, they’re so filling they can replace two meals. In the afternoon, visit the Bird Language Forest. Peacocks roam at your feet, kids chase them, and adults rest in the shade. ⚠️ Bottled water inside the park costs 5 yuan. Bringing your own saves enough for a milk tea. Honestly, Bali River is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. If you’re rushing, it might feel boring. NO.3 Jilin Winter is the real Jilin City. After Songhua Lake freezes, the entire surface looks like a giant frosted glass pane that creaks underfoot. 🚄 It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from downtown to Songhua Lake Scenic Area, costing around 40 yuan. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the ice is still pristine. The slanting light reveals cracks like ink paintings. The park offers ice motorbikes and dog sled rides for 100 yuan each. Try it once but don’t overdo it—the wind bites your face. In the afternoon, head straight to Rime Island. ⚠️ Don’t go at noon. The rime is most beautiful from early morning until 10 AM. After 11 AM, the wind blows it off. When I arrived at 6:30 AM, the river mist hadn’t cleared, and willow branches were covered in ice crystals, like entering a crystal palace. There’s a farmhouse restaurant on the island where a hot bowl of sauerkraut pork soup will revive you. 📍 Remember to wear non-slip shoes. The ice is slipperier than you think. NO.4 Xianning | Hubei The Chibi ancient battlefield is more about atmosphere than entertainment. The park is grand, with tall Three Kingdoms statues at the entrance. But what gave me goosebumps was the cliffside inscription by the river—the characters for “Chibi” are authentic relics. Standing beneath, you can feel the weight of history. ⏰ After 4 PM, the crowds thin out. The river breeze carries a strong sense of “the great river flows east.” Inside the park is an ancient-style street selling Zhuge crossbows and folding fans for 20 yuan each. You can buy them for fun but don’t take them seriously. 🍜 Don’t rush to leave. Head to the city for Chibi fish cakes. They’re tender and springy, best dipped in vinegar, and better than any restaurant in the park. ⚠️ You can hire a guide at the entrance for 60 yuan, but if you’ve done your homework, it’s unnecessary. NO.5 Yichun | Jiangxi Mingyue Mountain—I’ve been twice, once on a sunny day and once in the rain. Completely different experiences. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Yichun downtown. Tickets plus round-trip cable car cost just over 200 yuan. ⏰ I recommend starting at 8 AM. After taking the cable car to the top, first visit Qingyun plank road—a glass walkway built along a cliff. The abyss below makes your legs weak, but when the sea of clouds rolls in, it’s worth it. At noon, have a bowl of vegetarian noodles at the mountaintop rest area for 15 yuan. The taste is average, but the view is stunning. In the afternoon, walk down to Moon Lake. The water is an unreal shade of blue, like an emerald set in the valley. ⚠️ Don’t take the zipline down. Waiting an hour for a two-minute ride isn’t worth it. Yichun is known for hot springs. After descending, find a hot spring hotel for about 300 yuan per person. Your skin will feel so smooth you could ice skate. NO.6 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Zhaoqing’s Star Lake is an underrated spot. The lake isn’t large but is surrounded by Seven Star Rock, creating a miniature Guilin vibe. Rent a small boat at Paifang Square in the morning and row to the lake’s center. The water is clear enough to see underwater plants swaying. ⏰ At 6 PM, the sunset turns the rocks golden—the peak beauty of the day. 📍 From the lakeside, it’s a 10-minute walk to Yanqian Village. There’s a lakeside boardwalk where locals like to stroll. 🍜 Have dinner in Yanqian Village. Order a wrapped steamed rice dumpling—a Zhaoqing specialty. Glutinous rice filled with mung beans and salted egg yolk, steamed until soft and fragrant with the leaf’s aroma. It costs 10 yuan each and fills you up for the night. ⚠️ Don’t buy crafts at the park entrance; prices are doubled. Star Lake is for slow-paced visits. If you only give it half a day, it won’t show you its best side. NO.7 Chongqing Three days in Chongqing wore out my feet. 📍 Dazu Rock Carvings are outside the city. 🚄 It’s a 40-minute high-speed train ride, and tickets cost just over 100 yuan but are worth it. The Song Dynasty sculptures, especially the Thousand-Hand Guanyin, shine with gold. Look closely, and each hand holds an eye—truly breathtaking. ⏰ Go in the morning when it’s less crowded. You can quietly stand before the Buddha statues and zone out. In the afternoon, return to the city. Jinyun Mountain is in Beibei. Take Metro Line 6 to Zhuangyuanbei Station, then a 15-minute taxi. The air on the mountain is incredibly fresh, with bamboo forests rustling. It’s perfect for relaxing your legs after the carvings. At night, return to Yuzhong District. Wulong Karst and the Yangtze Three Gorges are nearby. Three days isn’t enough to see everything. I chose the Yangtze Three Gorges—take the night cruise from Chaotianmen Pier for 120 yuan. The two-hour trip shows the riverbanks lit up like a starry sky reflected in the water. ⚠️ Chongqing’s hills will test your endurance. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t push yourself. NO.8 Nanping | Fujian Wuyi Mountain is my white moonlight. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Wuyishan North Station, then a 20-minute taxi to the park. Tickets plus shuttle bus cost over 200 yuan. The bamboo raft trip on Nine-Bend Creek requires a separate booking at 130 yuan per person. ⏰ I recommend the 8 AM slot when the water is calm and mist lingers. Jade Maiden Peak and King Peak on both sides look like they stepped out of a painting. The raft guide tells jokes and sings mountain songs. The hour-long trip flies by. Afterward, climb Tianyou Peak. Over 800 steps. Halfway up, you’ll be gasping, but the summit offers a full view of Nine-Bend Creek—worth every step. 🍜 After descending, eat smoked goose at Langu near Wuyigong. It’s spicy and pairs perfectly with a bowl of sweet and savory osmanthus rice cake—a perfect ending. ⚠️ Don’t buy tea at the park entrance. The market is tricky. For authentic rock tea, go to a long-established shop in town.

01 Heyuan|Guangdong Don’t rush into the city when you arrive in Heyuan. Head straight to Wanlv Lake pier. At 6:30 AM, the lake surface hasn’t been warmed by the sun yet. Mist clings to the mountainside, and the temperature is 4 to 5 degrees cooler than downtown, feeling like natural air conditioning. I took the first boat tour, which includes island access, lasting about three hours. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip shoes. Some steps on the island are covered with moss and are especially slippery when wet. Return to the city at noon for Hakka cuisine. Five-finger peach chicken and stuffed tofu are must-tries. 📍 Near the old town’s South City Market, there’s a small restaurant with generous portions for just over 40 yuan per person. The afternoon sun is strong, so avoid outdoor activities. Find a tea house to relax until 4 PM before heading out. In the evening, take a ride along the lakeside bike path. The breeze carries the scent of aquatic plants, making it very pleasant. 02 Changchun|Jilin Summer in Changchun is dry and cool. You might even need a light jacket in the morning and evening. Visit the Puppet Manchurian Palace Museum in the morning. It has many indoor exhibits, so you won’t mind the strong sun. Tickets cost 70 yuan. Rent an audio guide for 20 yuan. The visit takes about two hours. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays. Don’t go for nothing. In the afternoon, visit Changchun World Sculpture Park. The park is large and involves a lot of walking, but the shade is dense. I rented an electric scooter for 60 yuan an hour, which saved a lot of effort. In the evening, head to Changying Century City, where many attractions are indoors, perfect for families. Stay near Jingyuetan. The next morning, enter the park early and walk half the lakeside trail. The air is filled with the scent of pine trees. 🚄 It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from downtown, costing around 30 yuan. 03 Wenzhou|Zhejiang Wenzhou is hot in summer, but Yandang Mountain can save you. Enter Lingfeng Scenic Area. After 3 PM, the sunlight hits the rocks at an angle, making the textures look gilded. I climbed to Guanyin Cave, where the wind blows in and instantly dries the sweat. Tickets cost 50 yuan. The park closes at 6:30 PM, just in time to avoid the peak heat. The next day, visit the hometown of Liu Bowen in Wencheng County. The mountain valleys here are 6 to 7 degrees cooler than the city. 📍 The ancient residences in Wuyang Village have cool bluestone paths. For lunch, try Bowen pancakes at the village entrance. They cost 5 yuan each, freshly baked and flaky. ⚠️ The village roads are narrow. Don’t drive in. Park outside and walk 10 minutes. 04 Beijing Beijing’s summer heat is straightforward, but the Forbidden City and Summer Palace have their own charm. Arrive early at the Forbidden City. It opens at 8:30 AM. Walk along the central axis. The breeze at the Taihe Hall plaza is a crosswind, much cooler than outside. I rented an audio guide for 20 yuan. Listening while walking, two hours is just right to reach the Imperial Garden. ⚠️ Tickets sell out quickly in peak season. Book at least seven days in advance. Don’t expect to buy on the day. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace. Avoid entering from the East Palace Gate because it’s crowded. Enter from the North Palace Gate instead. Climb Longevity Hill first. The shade is dense, and the wind from Kunming Lake is cool. Walk down along the lake to the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. The evening light makes for perfect silhouette photos. Choose either the Temple of Heaven or Beihai Park. I chose Beihai and rented a boat for an hour. The wind on the lake is strong and the temperature is 3 to 4 degrees cooler than onshore. 05 Fangchenggang|Guangxi Fangchenggang’s coolness comes from the sea breeze. I stayed in the port area. In the morning, walk along Beibu Gulf Avenue. The sea breeze is salty, and the sun isn’t strong yet. Visit Fangchenggang Coastal Beach. It’s best to swim before 10 AM when the water is clear and the beach is less crowded. ⚠️ The beach feels like a hot iron plate at noon. Don’t walk barefoot. In the afternoon, drive to Leshan Ancient Fishing Village, about 30 minutes away. The village preserves old stone houses and narrow alleys that don’t get much sun. After the tide recedes in the evening, you can pick up small crabs on the mudflats. Bring a small bucket. Kids can play here all afternoon. 📍 At the village entrance, there’s a seafood stall. Boiled shrimp costs 68 yuan per jin, freshly caught and cooked, cheaper than in the city. 06 Wuxi|Jiangsu Wuxi’s summer is muggy, but the nights at Nianhuawan are cool. Enter the scenic area at 5 PM when the sun is weaker. Tang-style buildings light up, and the lake reflects shimmering lights. I watched a water curtain show by the lake. The mist felt cool on my face. Tickets cost 120 yuan. The park closes at 9 PM, perfect to avoid the daytime heat. During the day, visit the Lingshan Grand Buddha. Be sure to take the park’s electric shuttle for 30 yuan to avoid walking long distances under the sun. The Brahma Palace is well air-conditioned. Once inside, you won’t want to leave. ⚠️ Don’t count the steps at the Buddha’s feet. It’s exhausting. Pace yourself. 07 Fuyang|Anhui Fuyang’s coolness hides in the morning mist of Bali River. Enter the park at 6:30 AM. The lake is foggy, and birds sing nonstop in the reeds. I walked along the west embankment. The breeze carries moisture, unlike the sticky heat of the city. Tickets cost 50 yuan. Two hours is enough to finish before the sun rises high. At noon, eat Gelatiao noodles in the city for 8 yuan a bowl, served with two marinated eggs. It’s filling. 📍 The old shop on Renmin Road in Yingzhou District has chewy noodles and fragrant chili oil. The afternoon is too hot, so find a mall to enjoy air conditioning. In the evening, visit Kuixing Tower. Locals chat slowly on the square, fanning themselves, creating an enviably relaxed pace. 08 Yichang|Hubei Yichang’s coolness comes from the Yangtze River and the gorges. Visit the Three Gorges Folk Village early. It opens at 8 AM. Walk along the riverside plank road. The river breeze carries moisture and is 5 to 6 degrees cooler than downtown. I watched a Tujia wedding performance at Longjin Creek. Standing in the shade, the breeze picked up just as the show ended, making it very comfortable. Tickets include the boat ride and cost 180 yuan. I left at noon. In the afternoon, visit the Three Gorges Waterfall. Wear a raincoat to walk behind the waterfall. The water curtain hits you with a blast of cool air, stronger than any air conditioner. ⚠️ Raincoats cost 5 yuan at the park entrance. Don’t buy expensive ones. The Qingjiang Gallery is better for the next day. Take a boat tour. The deck wind is strong, so bring a light jacket. It gets cool on the river in the evening. 🚄 There are tourist shuttle buses from downtown to the scenic spots. One-way fare is 20 yuan. Avoid unlicensed taxis.

too dry and scorching + even the wind by the Huai River is hot 🥵 In July and August, Bengbu’s daytime temperature is 36–40℃, with ground temperatures easily exceeding 45℃. The dry heat of the northern Anhui plain mixed with the Huai River’s moisture makes going outside feel like stepping onto a hot grill. Afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds often strike unexpectedly. What’s worse is there aren’t many large indoor cooling spots, so after a few hours of exploring, you’ll need to find a place to hide. But! Bengbu has quietly become popular in recent years thanks to the “pearl girl,” the “north-south dividing line,” and its “carb bombs.” If you avoid midday heat, you can still enjoy food that will leave you leaning against the wall👇 🗓️ 2-day 1-night cooling itinerary (rest during the day, explore at night) Day 1 city landmarks (early start + night market finish) Huai River Cultural Square (check in at the pearl girl sculpture, Bengbu’s city icon) → Bengbu Museum (free, closed Mondays, reservation required, worth seeing Huai River basin relics and Shuangdun carved symbols, air conditioning saves lives) → leave by 11 AM for lunch → afternoon rest at the hotel → after 5 PM Zhanggongshan Park (climb to Wanghuai Tower for a full view of the Huai River + visit Zhuyuan lotus pond) → head straight to Miejian Street night market (Bengbu’s version of “Hui Min Street,” eat fried skewers, sesame cakes, and iced fermented rice until full) Day 2 mountain + water + carbs line (choose one) Option A: Longzi Lake Scenic Area (bike around the lake, open water with breeze, 2–3℃ cooler than downtown, very pleasant to stroll the lakeside trail at dusk) Option B: Tushan / Yuwang Palace (origin of the Great Yu flood control story, climb to overlook the Huai and Guo River confluence, “the first mountain of the thousand-mile Huai River,” but many steps and exposed to sun, must start before 8 AM and leave before 10:30 AM) 🍜 must-eats (carb happiness house, so cheap it hurts) Soul food: sesame cake with pork tenderloin (Bengbu’s national snack, any street stall is good, 5–8 yuan fills you up), iced fermented rice (night market staple, osmanthus honey + crushed ice + small rice balls), gelatiao (thick noodles from Fuyang, mixed with sesame sauce to addictive levels) Hardcore: Tuohu crab (autumn only, don’t order in summer), Huaiyuan pomegranate (sweet only after September), Hugou sesame cake, Laorenqiao beef, Bengbu crayfish (night market must-try) ⚠️ For sesame cake with pork tenderloin, look for roadside pushcart stalls—the more rundown, the better; don’t buy Huaiyuan pomegranates in summer from “specialty shops” near scenic spots—they’re green and sour 📌 survival tips · ☀️ No outdoor wandering from 11 AM to 4 PM. Wear sun-protective clothing + wide-brim hat + arm sleeves + SPF 50 + full gear. Bring plenty of water (the Huai River wind is strong but hot, which speeds dehydration) · 🎫 Bengbu Museum is free, reserve in advance via the official account; Zhanggongshan Park is free, climbing Wanghuai Tower costs about 10 yuan · 🚄 Bengbu South Station is a convenient high-speed rail hub (on the Beijing-Shanghai line), cheap taxi base fare in the city, and shared bikes are sufficient · 🏨 Stay near Huai River Cultural Square or Wanda business district for concentrated dining and shopping, close to the museum and night market · 🌀 The Huai River water level fluctuates greatly in summer, and riverside trails may close temporarily for flood control. Check “Bengbu Release” before heading out · 🌸 best seasons: April–May for spring blooms, or September–October for cool weather, ripe pomegranates, and fishing season; summer visits trade high heat for fewer crowds, no night market lines, and free sesame cake with pork tenderloin Summary: Summer in Bengbu isn’t unplayable, but you have to spend midday in museums and air-conditioned rooms and save your appetite for the night breeze at Miejian Street. If you’re afraid of dry heat and scorching sun, take the advice—come back in autumn to enjoy pomegranates and climb Tushan 🍂

People say traveling with kids is just taking them to a different place and ending up exhausted to the point of questioning life. But there are always a few cities where the pace is slow, the facilities are complete, and the scenery suits everyone, allowing you to push a stroller and still explore all day. I picked several cities that I’ve personally found “mom-friendly.” Some are so underrated that even locals feel sorry for you, while others are popular but hide uncrowded experiences. After reading this, you’ll know that traveling with kids doesn’t have to feel like a military march. 01 Baicheng | Jilin The most underestimated thing about this city is how it combines vastness with ease. 📍 Da’an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area. Enter after 3 PM, and the river breeze blows away the summer heat. Walk slowly along the wooden boardwalk, kids chasing water birds while you relax on a bench, with a wide view reaching the reed marshes on the opposite shore. 🚄 It’s about a 30-minute taxi ride from Baicheng Station, costing around 40 yuan. Don’t take roadside solicitors; booking a ride online is more convenient. Rent an electric cart inside the park to circle the route without much walking, so both elders and kids can keep up. ⏰ Around 5:30 PM, the river surface turns orange-red from the sunset. No filter needed for photos—every shot looks like a masterpiece. ⚠️ Remember to bring mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes are fierce by the river at dusk, and a bite can swell for three days. The small shop at the park entrance is expensive. If you run out of water, walk further inside; the second stall is 2 yuan cheaper. 02 Luoyang | Henan Luoyang has many attractions, but don’t be greedy with kids—limit yourself to two per day. Visit Longmen Grottoes in the morning. Enter through the northwest gate instead of the main entrance to avoid half the crowd. Kids might not be interested in the Buddha statues, but walking along the Yi River and seeing the caves densely packed like honeycombs on the cliff walls will make them ask “Who carved these?” and “How did they do it?” which is more effective than an audio guide. 🍜 For lunch, leave the scenic area and head to Longmen Town for a bowl of lamb soup with freshly baked fried spiral bread. Kids will get their hands greasy happily. In the afternoon, go to Wangcheng Park, which is better for burning off energy than Longmen. The zoo, amusement park, and peony garden are all in one park. Tickets are cheap, and kids can play until dark without wanting to leave. ⚠️ I suggest saving Laojun Mountain, Jiguan Cave, and Guanlin for next time. One is in the mountains with a four-hour round trip, which is too long for kids to sit still; the other is an ancient building complex with many stairs, making strollers inconvenient. When traveling with kids, learn to subtract so both adults and children can relax. 03 Fuyang | Anhui Bali River is one of the least tiring scenic spots I’ve seen because there’s almost no climbing. The entire park is built along the water with mostly flat paths, so you can push a stroller all the way. Kids love the koi pond right at the entrance. The fish are huge and scary; throwing in some fish food turns the water red with splashes. ⏰ I recommend entering at 8:30 AM when it’s less crowded, with more birds and the air filled with the fresh scent of aquatic plants. In the “World Scenery” area, miniature landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the pyramid, and the Temple of Zeus line up. Kids excitedly point and say, “Mom, look, that’s Paris.” Though a bit rough, it’s great to see famous landmarks without leaving the country. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Fuyang West Station, costing around 50 yuan. Food inside the park is expensive and average, so bring your own snacks. There’s a lawn at the entrance where you can spread a picnic mat and eat before continuing to explore. Travel groups arrive after 2 PM, so that’s when you should leave. 04 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is one of the quietest parks I’ve visited with kids. There’s no hawking or crowds, just Qiang watchtowers casting long shadows under the sun. Kids can run in the square, watch waterwheels on the covered bridge, and rest on stone steps eating popsicles when tired. 📍 The Qiang folk museum inside the park fascinates kids with colorful embroidery and silver jewelry, which is more interesting than reading text panels. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light softens, and the watchtowers’ outlines get a golden edge, making it the best time for photos. ⚠️ Dining options are limited inside the park. It’s better to eat lunch in Mianyang city before coming or bring snacks. Don’t rush back at night; the mountain roads are winding and hard to drive after dark. Safety always comes first when traveling with kids. 05 Shenzhen | Guangdong Shenzhen has so many attractions it’s hard to choose, but I only recommend two for kids: Window of the World and Dameisha Seaside Park. Visit Window of the World in the morning before tour groups arrive, so you can enjoy the Eiffel Tower and pyramid alone. Kids will run between miniature buildings like collecting stamps. 🍜 Don’t eat inside the park at noon—it’s expensive and bad. Turn right out the gate, take two subway stops to Baishizhou, and find a Chaozhou beef hotpot. Freshly sliced beef cooked for eight seconds, kids can eat two bowls of rice. In the afternoon, go to Dameisha. The beach is gentle with small waves, perfect for kids to splash and build sandcastles. ⏰ After 6 PM, the sun stops shining. Rent a sunshade and relax until dark. ⚠️ Overseas Chinese Town and Mission Hills are better for young adults without kids. The rides at Overseas Chinese Town have long lines, and kids can’t enter the golf courses at Mission Hills, so don’t waste your ticket money. 06 Jiayuguan | Gansu Don’t expect kids to understand the historical significance of the “First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven” in Jiayuguan, but you can let them watch a sunset. ⏰ Enter the park at 5:30 PM to avoid the midday heat. Walk slowly along the city wall. The wind carrying sand grains hits your face, and kids will excitedly say, “It feels like we’re in the desert.” 📍 From the tower, look far away. The snow line on the Qilian Mountains glows pink in the sunset, and the Gobi Desert stretches to the horizon. Kids might not grasp the desolation, but they’ll calm down. That vastness can’t be found in the city. There’s a small ancient weapon exhibit in the park, and boys will circle around the swords, spears, and halberds. ⚠️ The UV rays in Jiayuguan are strong. Apply sunscreen three times and don’t forget hats and sunglasses. There’s no shade in the park, so bring enough water—at least two bottles per person. After returning to the city, find a barbecue place. Lamb skewers with apricot skin juice are something even kids can gulp down. 07 Zhoushan | Zhejiang The sea in Zhoushan is the kind that makes kids scream with joy. 📍 Gouqi Island has the clearest water but a long boat ride, so it’s not recommended for babies. I suggest the Shengsi Archipelago instead. It’s a 1.5-hour boat ride from Shenjiawan Pier. Just as kids start to get restless, the boat docks. ⏰ Don’t rush to the attractions after landing. First, find a guesthouse to drop off your luggage. Most guesthouses face the sea, and opening the window means hearing the waves. In the afternoon, take kids to the beach. The sand here is finer than Dameisha’s, feeling like flour underfoot. Kids dig while you relax in a chair enjoying the sea breeze. That’s how the afternoon passes. 🍜 At night, ask the guesthouse owner to prepare a pot of steamed swimming crab, fresh enough to make your eyebrows raise. Kids can’t handle spicy food, so steamed is perfect. ⚠️ Although Putuo Mountain is famous, it’s crowded with pilgrims and has many stairs, making it pure torture with kids. If you want to see the sea, Shengsi Archipelago is enough. 08 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is an underrated city for families because it’s delicious, easy to explore, and not tiring. 📍 Kaiyuan Temple is a must-visit. The east and west towers look especially beautiful at sunset. Kids chase pigeons under ancient banyan trees while you sit on a stone bench listening to the bell. The temple doesn’t charge admission, which is very considerate. 🍜 For lunch, go to West Street and eat from one end to the other. Try the vermicelli soup, vinegar pork, and stone flower jelly. Kids tasting a bit of everything will be more satisfied than with a full meal. In the afternoon, visit Qingyuan Mountain. Don’t hike the whole way; take the park shuttle to the halfway point and walk a short distance to Laojun Rock. When kids see the big stone statue, they’ll ask “Who is he?” You can say, “That’s Laozi, the one riding the green ox.” They might not fully understand but will remember. ⚠️ Chongwu Ancient City and cliff inscriptions are better for older kids. The ancient city is full of stone steps, making strollers inconvenient. The cliff inscriptions require reading to understand, which young kids won’t have patience for. The essence of Quanzhou is in its streets and alleys. Walking around with kids, eating and drinking, is a hundred times better than rushing through attractions. Traveling with kids, the worst thing isn’t being tired—it’s being tired without meaning. These eight cities offer different experiences: some let you relax by the sea, some let you wander slowly in ancient towns, and some let you wait for a sunset on the Gobi Desert. Pick one and go. Don’t try to do too much. Spending three days in one city is better than rushing through five attractions. Share in the comments which city you’ve traveled to with kids and found the least tiring.

Everyone says you need a cool place in summer, but who would have thought the coolest spots aren't in the mountains, but rather these 8 underrated cities? You won't need air conditioning during the day, and at night you'll need to drag the covers out – I've personally experienced it before to say this. Read on, each one is worth changing your train ticket for. 01 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian's coolness comes from the sea breeze, not air conditioning. I arrived at Xinghai Square at 3 PM, and the sea breeze hit me right in the face; it felt five or six degrees cooler than in the city center. Walking south along the square, you can see locals sitting on the steps, lost in thought, no one using umbrellas, and no one complaining about the heat. 📍 Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is best visited in the morning; around 9 AM, it's less crowded, the sand is still damp, and it feels cool to walk on barefoot. The trail in the Coastal Geopark isn't tiring, but the stone surface is slippery, so wearing non-slip shoes will make it more stable. For Tiger Beach Ocean Park, I suggest skipping the Polar Aquarium queue and going directly to the Marine Mammal Pavilion's outdoor area. After the sea lion show ends at 2 PM, the crowds thin out considerably. Watching the beluga whales swim around through the glass is a 30-minute, non-stop spectacle. ⚠️ For Tangli Lake Park, go after 6 PM. The light is perfect for reflecting on the lake, but the mosquitoes also start to swarm, so remember to use mosquito repellent. After a day of walking around, you'll definitely need a blanket at the hotel at night—not being fussy, but because the sea breeze is so strong. 02 Huangshi City | Hubei Province Huangshi's coolness is hidden in its lakes, and Chengyue Island is that underrated corner. I arrived at the island at 8:30 AM, and the lakeside path was almost deserted, except for a few elderly men doing their morning exercises. The lake water absorbed most of the heat; sitting under the shade of a tree, the breeze blowing across the water was more comfortable than a fan. The island isn't large; an hour is enough to walk around it. But don't rush off. Find a bench, sit down, and watch the city skyline shrouded in mist on the opposite shore—a tranquility you can't find in the city. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so bring enough water beforehand. At midday, when the sun is blazing, the lakeside pavilions are the best shelter. Around 2 or 3 pm, the perceived temperature is still not high, perfect for whiling away the time with a book. This place isn't suitable for a full day; it's better as a stopover on your Yellowstone itinerary. After exploring the city, come here to enjoy the breeze—ten times better than lying around in the hotel. 03 Pingdingshan City | Henan Province To find coolness in Pingdingshan, you have to go up the mountain, to the Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Buddha area. As you ascend, the temperature drops naturally. I took the cable car halfway up, and the wind rushed straight into my collar, instantly waking me up. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 7 am is the most comfortable; the mountain paths are full of shade, and you won't sweat even if you walk fast. The platform at the foot of the Buddha is quite spacious. Standing there and looking up, the imposing presence of the Buddha is much stronger than in photos. The mountain trail is divided into two sections. The first section is gentle and suitable for elderly people and children, while the second section has steep steps. Those with average stamina should turn back at the waterfall. I personally saw several young people sitting on the steps, panting, halfway up the mountain. Knowing your limits is no exaggeration. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there are stalls selling handmade cold noodles for five yuan a bowl. They're sour and spicy, and eating them with the mountain breeze is much more soulful than chain stores in city malls. After descending the mountain, don't rush off. In the evening, locals dance in the square at the entrance of the scenic area. That lively atmosphere is even more beautiful than the attraction itself. 04 Nanchang City | Jiangxi Province Nanchang is notoriously hot, but the Tengwang Pavilion scenic area is an exception. I climbed the pavilion at 5:30 pm. The wind from the Gan River rushed in from all directions. Standing on the highest level, the entire river was below me, and the heat was torn apart by the wind. Each floor of the pavilion has its own attractions, but the mural hall on the third floor is the most worthwhile to linger in. It's less crowded, quiet, and well-air-conditioned, allowing you to sit and appreciate the murals at your leisure. The corridor on the fifth floor is the best spot for taking photos; the evening light shines obliquely, shimmering the river with golden light, much more beautiful than the harsh daylight. ⚠️ Advance reservations are required to climb the pavilion; the queues on-site can be incredibly long. I saw someone wait for an hour without a reservation and had to come back another day. After 7 PM, the lights on the walkways around the scenic area come on, and a walk along the river is seven or eight degrees Celsius cooler than during the day. Locals stroll here, and you feel completely at ease among them. 05 Fuyang City | Anhui Fuyang's coolness comes from its water; the Balihe Scenic Area is a natural cooling pool. I arrived at 10 AM, and walking along the willow-lined lakeside, the wind gave me goosebumps. The scenic area is divided into East and West sections. The East section is the main attraction, with pavilions and towers built over the water, and bridges every few steps, with the constant sound of flowing water beneath. The West section is less crowded, featuring large lotus ponds. Late July is peak blooming season, with a vast expanse of pink and white lotuses, and a delicate fragrance wafting from the pond's edge. 📍 It's recommended to enter from the East Gate, walk along the waterfront promenade first, and then visit the lotus ponds in the West section. This route is the most efficient and avoids backtracking. The entire visit takes about three hours. If you get tired, you can rest in the pavilions by the water; the breeze from the water is more comfortable than in an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ Food inside the scenic area is expensive and generally mediocre. It's advisable to bring your own snacks. Afterward, you can grab a bowl of Taihe Banmian (a type of noodle dish) at a small restaurant near the entrance for ten yuan. The beef is generous, and the broth is spicy enough. This place is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, not for a rushed, check-through experience. The more hurried you are, the less you'll appreciate the beauty of the waterside. 06 Jiangmen City | Guangdong Jiangmen's coolness comes from the cross breezes through the watchtower clusters. I entered the Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Area at 2 PM, expecting to be unbearably hot, but as I walked into the village, the breezes in the alleys were more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Zili Village is the core, with watchtowers and houses interspersed, and the bluestone paths gleaming from countless footsteps. I went into a watchtower open to the public; the thick walls kept the heat out, and with the windows open, a direct draft flowed in, making it cool even while standing still. ⏰ The light is best after 4 PM, turning the gray walls of the watchtowers a warm golden hue, perfect for photos without filters. Around 6 PM, when the scenic area is about to close, most tourists have left, leaving you alone amidst the rice paddies and watchtowers—that sense of emptiness is incredibly luxurious. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the scenic area; long pants are more practical than shorts. The villages are quite far apart, so driving is the most convenient option. If you take a taxi, remember to book your return trip in advance, otherwise it will be difficult to get one in the evening. The pace here is very slow, making it suitable for bringing your parents. They can stroll and explore at their own pace, without rushing. 07 Nanping City | Fujian The coolness of Wuyishan comes from the double whammy of the streams and the shade of the trees. I entered the scenic area at 7 am and walked along the Nine-Bend Stream trail. The sound of water followed me all the way, and the air was filled with the damp scent of grass and trees. The temperature felt less than 25 degrees Celsius. The bamboo rafting is definitely worth the money. During the 90-minute ride, the stream water occasionally splashed on my feet, giving me a shiver. The raft guide will explain along the way and even let you touch the water in the shallows—the water is truly icy, spring water seeping from the cracks in the rocks. 📍 After disembarking, don't rush off. Turn right at the foot of Dawang Peak, and you'll find a cedar forest with stone tables and benches. Sit down and rest; the wind will carry the scent of tree bark through the trees. ⏰ The hottest time is from 11 AM to 2 PM. This is a great time to visit the teahouse near the scenic area entrance for a cup of Wuyi rock tea. It costs 20 yuan per person, and the owner will brew three infusions for you. Enjoy your tea and conversation—it's much better than walking under the scorching sun. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets must be purchased online a day in advance; they're almost impossible to get on-site. Wear sandals or Crocs, not sneakers—you can't avoid getting splashed. 08 Yichun City | Heilongjiang Yichun's coolness comes from its forests. The Tangwanghe Forest and its unique rock formations are the most underrated place in Northeast China during summer. I arrived at 9 AM and was immediately chilled to the bone; the temperature was only 18 degrees Celsius, so I had to wear a jacket. The scenic area is filled with tall red pines, sunlight filtering through the canopy and casting dappled shadows on the ground. Walking on the wooden boardwalk, the soft layer of fallen leaves crunches underfoot, and the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. 📍 The heart of the rock formation area is the "One Line Sky," a narrow passage between two massive rocks, barely wide enough for one person to pass sideways. Walking through, a chilling wind blows down from above, making your scalp tingle. The lighting here is dim; you'll need to use night mode on your phone to take clear photos. ⏰ Around noon, the sunlight shines perfectly on the highest point of the rock face, bathing the entire area in a warm yellow light—the most beautiful time of day. The entire scenic area takes about three hours to explore. Don't rush; take your time. When you get tired, sit on the wooden benches along the boardwalk and listen to the birdsong. 🚄 It's an hour and a half drive from Yichun city; hiring a car or driving yourself is recommended. On the return trip in the evening, the birch forests along the road are bathed in the golden light of the sunset—a scene more unforgettable than any other scenic spot. I've visited all 8 of these places in the summer, and every night I had to drag my blankets out of the closet. If you're also fed up with the dry chill of air-conditioned rooms, pick the nearest weekend and head out! Which city do you think should also be on this list? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll test it out next time. Everyone says you need to find a cool place in summer, but who would have thought the coolest places aren't in the mountains, but rather these 8 underrated cities. You don't need air conditioning during the day, and you still have to drag your blankets out at night—I can only say this after personally testing it. Keep reading; each one is worth changing your train ticket for. 01 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian's coolness comes from the sea breeze, not air conditioning. I arrived at Xinghai Square at 3 PM, and the sea breeze hit me in the face, making it feel five or six degrees cooler than in the city center. Walking south along the square, you can see locals sitting on the steps, lost in thought; no one is using umbrellas, and no one is complaining about the heat. 📍 Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is best visited in the morning, around 9 am when it's less crowded and the beach is still damp, feeling cool to the touch barefoot. The trail in the Coastal Geopark isn't tiring, but the stone surface is slippery, so wearing non-slip shoes will make it more stable. At Tiger Beach Ocean Park, I suggest skipping the Polar Aquarium queue and going directly to the Marine Mammal Pavilion's outdoor area. After the sea lion show ends at 2 pm, the crowds drop drastically, and you can watch the beluga whales swimming through the glass for half an hour without repeating yourself. ⚠️ Tangli Lake Park should be visited after 6 pm when the light is just right on the lake surface, and the mosquitoes start to swarm, so remember to use mosquito repellent. After a day of walking, you'll really need a blanket at the hotel at night—not being fussy, but because the sea breeze is so strong. 02 Huangshi City|Hubei Huangshi's coolness is hidden in its lakes, and Chengyue Island is that underrated corner. I arrived on the island at 8:30 am, and the lakeside trail was almost deserted, except for a few elderly men doing their morning exercises. The lake absorbs most of the heat; sitting under the shade of a tree, the breeze blowing across the water is more comfortable than an electric fan. The island isn't large; an hour is enough to walk around it. But don't rush off. Find a bench, sit down, and watch the city skyline shrouded in mist on the opposite shore—a tranquility you can't find in the city. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so bring enough water beforehand. At midday, when the sun is blazing, the lakeside pavilions are the best shelter. Around 2 or 3 pm, the perceived temperature is still not high, perfect for bringing a book to while away the time. This isn't suitable for a full day; it's better as a stopover on your Yellowstone itinerary. After exploring the city, come here to enjoy the breeze—ten times better than lying around in the hotel. 03 Pingdingshan City | Henan Province To find coolness in Pingdingshan, you have to go up the mountain, to the Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Buddha area. As you ascend, the temperature drops naturally. I took the cable car halfway up the mountain, and the wind rushed straight into my collar, instantly making me feel refreshed. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 7 AM is the most comfortable time. The mountain paths are shaded by trees, so you won't break a sweat even if you walk quickly. The platform at the foot of the Buddha is very spacious; standing there and looking up, the imposing presence of the Buddha is much stronger than in photos. The mountain trails are divided into two sections. The first section is gentle and suitable for elderly people and children, while the second section has steep steps. Those with average stamina can turn back at the waterfall. I personally saw several young people sitting on the steps, panting, halfway up the mountain. Knowing your limits is no joke. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there are stalls selling handmade cold noodles for five yuan a bowl. They're sour and spicy, and eating them with the mountain breeze is much more soulful than chain stores in city malls. After descending the mountain, don't rush off. In the evening, locals dance in the square at the entrance of the scenic area; the lively atmosphere is even more beautiful than the attractions themselves. 04 Nanchang City | Jiangxi Province Nanchang is notoriously hot, but the Tengwang Pavilion scenic area is an exception. I climbed the pavilion at 5:30 PM. The wind from the Gan River rushed in from all directions. Standing on the top floor, the entire river stretched out below me, the heat shimmering in the breeze. Each floor of the pavilion has its own attractions, but the mural hall on the third floor is the most worthwhile to linger in. It's less crowded, quiet, and the air conditioning is excellent, allowing you to sit and appreciate the murals at your leisure. The corridor on the fifth floor is the best spot for taking photos. The evening light shines obliquely, shimmering the river with golden light—far more beautiful than the harsh daylight. ⚠️ Advance reservations are required to climb the pavilion; the queues on-site can be incredibly long. I saw someone wait for an hour without a reservation and had to come back another day. After 7 PM, the lights on the walkways around the scenic area come on. A walk along the riverbank reveals a temperature seven or eight degrees lower than during the day. Locals stroll here, and you feel completely at ease among them. 05 Fuyang City | Anhui Fuyang's coolness comes from its water; the Balihe Scenic Area is a natural cooling pool. I arrived at 10 AM and walked along the willow-lined lakeside. A gust of wind gave me goosebumps. The scenic area is divided into East and West sections. The East section is the main attraction, with pavilions and towers built over the water. There's a bridge every few steps, and the sound of flowing water constantly beneath them. The West section is less crowded, with large lotus ponds. Late July is peak blooming season, a vast expanse of pink and white lotuses. Standing by the pond, you can smell their delicate fragrance. 📍 I recommend entering from the East Gate, walking along the water corridor first, and then going to the West section to see the lotuses. This route is the most efficient and avoids backtracking. The entire walk takes about three hours. If you get tired, you can rest in the pavilions by the water; the breeze from the water is more comfortable than in an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ Food inside the scenic area is expensive and generally mediocre. I suggest bringing your own snacks. Afterward, you can eat a bowl of Taihe Banmian (a type of noodle dish) at a small restaurant near the entrance for ten yuan. The beef is generous, and the broth is spicy enough. This place is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, not for a rushed, checklist-style visit. The more hurried you are, the less you'll appreciate the beauty of the waterfront. 06 Jiangmen City | Guangdong Jiangmen's coolness comes from the crosswinds through the watchtower clusters. I entered the Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Area at 2 PM, expecting to be unbearably hot, but as I walked into the village, the breezes in the alleys were more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Zili Village is the core, with watchtowers and houses interspersed, and the bluestone paths gleaming from countless footsteps. I went into a watchtower open to the public; the thick walls kept the heat out, and with the windows open, a direct draft flowed in, making it cool even while standing still. ⏰ The light is best after 4 PM, when the gray walls of the watchtowers turn a warm golden hue, perfect for photos without filters. Around 6 PM, as the scenic area is about to close, most tourists have left, leaving you alone amidst the rice paddies and watchtowers—that sense of emptiness is incredibly luxurious. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the scenic area, so long pants are more practical than shorts. The villages are quite far apart, so driving is the most convenient option. If you take a taxi, remember to book your return trip in advance, otherwise it will be difficult to get one in the evening. The pace here is very slow, making it suitable for bringing your parents. They can walk slowly and enjoy the sights at their own pace, without rushing. 07 Nanping City | Fujian The coolness of Wuyishan comes from the double whammy of the streams and the shade of the trees. I entered the scenic area at 7 am and walked along the Nine-Bend Stream trail. The sound of water followed me all the way, and the air was filled with the damp scent of grass and trees. The temperature felt less than 25 degrees Celsius. The bamboo rafting is definitely worth the money. After a 90-minute rafting trip, the stream water occasionally splashes on your feet, giving you a shiver. The raft guide will explain along the way and will even let you touch the water in the shallows—the water is truly icy, spring water seeping from the cracks in the rocks. 📍 After disembarking, don't rush off. Turn right at the foot of Dawang Peak, and you'll find a cedar forest with stone tables and benches. Sit down and rest; the wind will carry the scent of tree bark through the trees. ⏰ The hottest time is from 11 AM to 2 PM. This is a great time to visit the teahouse near the scenic area entrance for a cup of Wuyi rock tea. It costs 20 yuan per person, and the owner will brew three infusions for you. Enjoy your tea and conversation—it's much better than walking under the scorching sun. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets must be purchased online a day in advance; they're almost impossible to get on-site. Wear sandals or Crocs, not sneakers—you can't avoid getting splashed. 08 Yichun City | Heilongjiang Yichun's coolness comes from its forests. The Tangwanghe Forest and its unique rock formations are the most underrated place in Northeast China during summer. I arrived at 9 AM and was immediately chilled to the bone; the temperature was only 18 degrees Celsius, so I had to wear a jacket. The scenic area is filled with tall red pines, sunlight filtering through the canopy and casting dappled shadows on the ground. Walking on the wooden boardwalk, the soft layer of fallen leaves crunches underfoot, and the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. 📍 The heart of the rock formation area is the "One Line Sky," a narrow passage between two massive rocks, barely wide enough for one person to pass sideways. Walking through, a chilling wind blows down from above, making your scalp tingle. The lighting here is dim; you'll need to use night mode on your phone to take clear photos. ⏰ Around noon, the sunlight shines perfectly on the highest point of the rock face, bathing the entire area in a warm yellow light—the most beautiful time of day. The entire scenic area takes about three hours to explore. Don't rush; take your time. When you get tired, sit on the wooden benches along the boardwalk and listen to the birdsong. 🚄 It's an hour and a half drive from Yichun city; hiring a car or driving yourself is recommended. On the return trip in the evening, the birch forests along the road are bathed in the golden light of the sunset—a scene more unforgettable than any other scenic spot. I've been to all eight of these places in the summer, and every night I had to pull the blankets out of the closet. If you're also fed up with the dry chill of air-conditioned rooms, pick a weekend and go! Which city do you think should also be on the list? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll do a test next time.

Want to travel in August-September but worried about your wallet? Stop flocking to crowded popular cities. These places have stunning scenery and affordable prices; some you might not have even heard of. I've explored them for you and will share my honest experience. 01 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei is Yunnan's underrated summer gem. Lotus flowers cover the water's surface; take a willow-leaf boat through them, and the sound of oars cutting through the water is more hypnotic than any white noise. ⏰ Tip: Arrive at Qinglong Mountain Pier before 9:00 AM, when the mist hasn't dispersed and the light is just right. You won't have to fight for photo spots. The boat ticket plus sightseeing car package is just over CNY 100, which is much more reasonable than the CNY 200–300 you'd pay in Dali or Lijiang. At noon, find a lakeside restaurant in Xianrendong Village. Lotus leaf chicken and sour fish soup are their specialties. 🍜 A lotus feast set meal is enough for 3 people, costing about CNY 40 per person, and you'll be stuffed. Don't rush off in the afternoon; go to the top of Qinglong Mountain for panoramic views. There aren't many steps, so even seniors and children can climb slowly. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip shoes; the boardwalk can be a bit slippery after rain. 02 Fuyang | Anhui Bali River was more impressive than I expected. It's not one of those overly artificial scenic areas; wetlands, lakes, and ancient buildings are blended together, making it suitable for a leisurely full-day visit. 🚄 A taxi from Fuyang West Station takes about 30 minutes and costs CNY 50–60. It's even more cost-effective if several people share. The East District features Huizhou-style gardens, while the West District is a natural wetland, separated by an arched bridge. I arrived at 3:00 PM that day, first explored the West District, then returned to the East District in the evening to watch the sunset paint the white walls and dark tiles a honey color. The admission ticket is just over CNY 80, includes all areas, and has no hidden secondary fees. ⚠️ There are few dining options in the scenic area, so it's recommended to bring your own water and snacks. There's a Banmian noodle shop outside the entrance, serving a bowl for CNY 10, and the spicy oil is so fragrant it'll stop you in your tracks. 03 Taizhou | Zhejiang Tiantai Mountain, Taizhou Fucheng, and Shenxianju are 3 completely different places, but all are worth a separate trip. First, Tiantai Mountain: Guoqing Temple has no admission fee, and the Sui Pagoda and thousand-year-old camphor trees are just outside the temple. Go early in the morning when there's almost no one, and you can hear the monks sweeping leaves. ⏰ It's best to go in the morning, when the light filters through the trees onto the yellow walls. That kind of tranquility is something you can't buy in the city. Shenxianju is suitable for those with good stamina. The suspended walkways and suspension bridges will make your legs wobbly, but once the sea of clouds appears, it's all worth it. The admission ticket plus cable car is just over CNY 200. ⚠️ Those with a fear of heights should choose carefully; there's a glass skywalk that will truly make your legs shake. Taizhou Fucheng is more down-to-earth. The old city walls are next to the old streets. Eat your way through Mai Xia, Egg White Lamb Tail, and Bian Shi. You can eat until you're stuffed for about CNY 30 per person. Taxis between the 3 places average 40 minutes, making it suitable for a 2-day, 1-night trip. 04 Weihai | Shandong Weihai is a city I secretly adore. Chengshantou is known as the "End of the Sky." The sea breeze is strong enough to blow your hat into the sea, but standing on the cliff watching the waves crash against the rocks, that sense of vastness is indescribable. ⏰ The light is softest after 4:00 PM, and the sea surface looks like it's sprinkled with silver. The CNY 150 admission ticket is a bit expensive, but it includes a sightseeing car, so you don't have to walk the whole way, making it suitable for visiting with parents. Huaxia City is an artificial scenic area; I don't particularly recommend going out of your way for it. If you're short on time, you can skip it. However, Liugong Island is worth half a day. The boat ticket plus admission is CNY 130. The Sino-Japanese War Museum on the island is free, but ⚠️ it's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 🍜 After leaving the island, go to the seafood market near the pier. Pick your own live seafood and have the vendors prepare it. Processing fees are charged per dish. Two people can enjoy crab, mantis shrimp, and scallops for just over CNY 100. 05 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang is often jokingly called "the city brought by trains," but it hides many treasures nearby. Zhaozhou Bridge is more ancient than described in textbooks. The bridge surface is polished smooth, and walking on it, you can imagine the carriages and horses from over a thousand years ago. The admission ticket is CNY 40, and you can explore it in 30 minutes. It's suitable for a quick stop but not worth a special trip. In the city, I recommend visiting the Hebei Museum. It's free, but ⚠️ you need to book in advance on their official WeChat account. It's closed on Mondays. The jade burial suit from the Mancheng Han Tombs is here, and the real thing is 10 times more stunning than photos. 🍜 Across from the museum, there's a donkey meat sandwich shop. A freshly baked bun with hot donkey meat, plus a bowl of offal soup, costs CNY 20 and will make you sweat. In the evening, go to Zhengding Ancient City. The city walls are free to access. Watching the lights come on is more gentle than you'd imagine. 06 Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Visiting Ili in August or September, the grass hasn't fully yellowed yet, and the crowds are significantly smaller than in July or August. The grasslands of the Ili River Valley aren't something you can see all at once. The layered, three-dimensional grasslands of Kalajun stretch so far that even 2 hours of horseback riding won't reach the end. ⏰ The light is best after 6:00 PM. Herders drive their flocks home, and the sound of hooves and bells blend together like an impromptu symphony. Tulgen Apricot Blossom Valley is for viewing flowers in spring and grass in autumn. Visiting in September means fewer people, and the admission ticket is so cheap it's almost negligible. Gongnais Grassland is suitable for camping; the Milky Way at night is so clear it looks fake. ⚠️ The temperature difference on the grasslands is significant. Wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. Don't be lazy and forget to bring warm clothes. 🚄 It's recommended to rent a car from Yining, costing around CNY 500 per day, which is very cost-effective if 4 people share. 07 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area was cleaner than I expected. Transportation on the island relies on electric scooters and buses. Renting a small electric scooter for CNY 60 a day allows you to ride around the island, enjoying the sea breeze and stopping to wade in the water at beautiful beaches. The rocks at Ewei Shenshi Park have been eroded into strange shapes by the sea. At high tide in the evening, waves can crash onto the boardwalk. ⚠️ Don't get too close to the railing; you will get wet. Mazu Temple has strong incense offerings, but there's no admission fee. Locals come to worship on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month. 🍜 The seafood lo mein on the island was a pleasant surprise. The noodles soaked up the seafood broth, and a bowl costs CNY 15, which is more substantial than the CNY 30 versions in Xiamen's scenic areas. ⏰ It's recommended to stay overnight and wake up early the next day to watch the sunrise. There are so few people that the entire beach will be yours. 08 Lingshui County | Hainan Hainan is more than just Sanya. Lingshui is a hidden gem favored by locals. The water clarity at Fenjiezhou Island is so high you can see corals 10 meters underwater. Snorkeling costs just over CNY 200, half the price of Sanya. ⚠️ The boat ticket plus admission to the island is CNY 120. Buying online a day in advance can save you over CNY 10. Food on the island is expensive, so it's recommended to bring your own snacks. After leaving the island, go to the county town to eat Lingshui sour noodles. They're sour, spicy, and appetizing, costing CNY 12 a bowl. Nanwan Monkey Island is suitable for visiting with children. The cross-sea cable car offers views of the Tanka fishing rafts' white roofs forming a continuous stretch, creating a magical scene. ⚠️ The monkeys on the island will snatch things. Keep your backpack zippers closed and don't take out food in front of them. 🍜 In the evening, go to Xincun Pier. Fishing boats have just docked, and the seafood is fresh and cheap. Pick your own and have it prepared at a nearby food stall. You can eat until you're full for about CNY 80 per person. When traveling in August or September, make your money count. These places either have low admission fees, affordable prices, or so few people that you don't have to queue. Do you have any places you want to visit recently? Share in the comments, and I'll help you avoid pitfalls. travel travel escape travel

8 cities where traveling with kids is easy, tested and hassle-free 01 Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan When traveling with kids in Chuxiong, the biggest concerns are sun exposure and too much walking. I’ve shortened the routes for you. 📍 Head straight to Wumao Earth Forest in the morning. Don’t try to see too much—stick to the core area and take the electric cart to save 2 kilometers of walking under the sun. There’s little shade in the earth forest, so make sure kids wear hats and carry water bottles around their necks. Two hours is enough to explore. Afterward, have a bowl of cold jelly noodles right at the park entrance so the kids won’t get hungry. In the afternoon, visit the Yi Ancient Town. The paths are mostly flat, so strollers are no problem. There’s a small shop selling freshly baked Yi-style flatbread that’s crispy outside and soft inside. Kids can snack while walking, keeping them calm for half an hour. ⚠️ After 6 PM, tour groups leave, and the town really relaxes. Take some photos when the lights come on, then leave before it gets too late. Yuanmou Earth Forest is more spectacular but has many stairs, better for older kids or dads carrying toddlers. For little ones, I recommend staying at Wumao for less hassle. 02 Yingtan City | Jiangxi How to enjoy Longhu Mountain without getting tired? My answer: take the bamboo raft, don’t hike. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Yingtan North Station to the scenic area. With kids, it’s best to stay at a guesthouse right at the park entrance and enter early the next day. ⏰ The first bamboo raft at 8:30 AM has the fewest people. The river is calm, kids can enjoy the Danxia landforms on both sides and even touch the water. The ride lasts 40 minutes, sitting still with zero physical effort. After the raft, walk along a flat boardwalk where strollers can pass. There’s a hanging coffin performance along the way that will captivate kids for a while. ⚠️ Avoid hiking trails at noon when the sun is strong and the paths are steep. Even adults get out of breath. For lunch, head to Longhu Mountain Town outside the park. Any restaurant will do—try the chestnut chicken and Shangqing tofu. Kids can eat two bowls of rice mixed with sauce. Take a nap at the guesthouse in the afternoon for a perfect schedule. 03 Fuyang City | Anhui Bali River is an underrated spot for kids. It’s large but doesn’t require exhausting walking. Start by taking the sightseeing bus to the core area and begin at the World Scenery Park. The park features replicas of famous buildings, and kids love recognizing world landmarks. You just follow along and take photos. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light softens, making photos better and crowds thinner. There are many snack stalls in the park—grilled sausages, hand-grabbed pancakes, fresh juice—for quick refueling. ⚠️ Don’t rent the two-person bikes. They look fun but are tiring—hard to pedal uphill and hard to brake downhill. With kids, stick to the electric cart. It costs 10 yuan per ride and saves your energy for the night market. Fuyang’s night market is on Yingzhou Road. Grilled gluten and rolled flatbread are kids’ favorites. After eating, head back to the hotel for a good sleep. 04 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is truly beautiful but tiring. However, if you choose the right way, kids won’t fuss. 📍 Drive in from the east gate. The ring road around the lake is well-paved, so you can enjoy the views without getting out. When you find a pretty bay, stop and let the kids throw stones by the lake for about 20 minutes. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the lake is calm with clear reflections—no filter needed for photos. The wind picks up in the afternoon, so bring a windbreaker for the kids. Don’t bring toddlers to Anjihai Grand Canyon. There are no railings by the cliffs. I saw a parent holding their child’s wrist tightly the whole time, palms sweaty. Older kids can visit but must be held or closely supervised. Hot springs in Wenquan County are better for families. The water temperature is just right, and kids sleep deeply after soaking. Stay at a hotel in Wenquan County so you can soak again at night. It’s relaxing for both adults and kids. 05 Dongying City | Shandong At the Yellow River estuary, seeing the “yellow and blue convergence” once is enough with kids. 🦢 At the Yellow River Estuary Ecotourism Area, take a boat first. The boat ride to the convergence point takes about 40 minutes. Kids can watch seagulls on deck and feed them bread crumbs, which they love. ⚠️ Boat trips are infrequent. During peak season, line up an hour early. Arrive before 9 AM to avoid groups. After the boat, visit the bird release area. Shows are at 10:30 AM and 3 PM daily. When the red-crowned cranes fly overhead, kids will scream with excitement. The park paths are flat and stroller-friendly but windy, so secure hats tightly. For meals, go to Dongying city. Try the Yellow River Estuary hairy crabs. They’re a bit pricey but sweet and fun for kids to peel and eat. On the way back, kids will likely nap, giving you a break. 06 Quanzhou City | Fujian Quanzhou is best enjoyed slowly. Don’t rush with kids—two attractions a day is enough. 📍 In the morning, visit Qingyuan Mountain. Don’t hike the whole way—turn back at Laojun Rock. The trail is gentle with plenty of shade. Kids can pick up fallen leaves while walking. It takes about half an hour. After seeing the Laojun statue, there’s a tea stall at the foot of the mountain where you can sit on bamboo chairs and drink Tieguanyin tea while kids enjoy mung bean cake. Rest well before moving on. In the afternoon, visit Kaiyuan Temple. The lawn under the East and West Pagodas is perfect for kids to run around. ⚠️ Photos are not allowed inside the main hall. Remind kids of the rules beforehand. Afterward, stroll and snack along West Street—try vermicelli soup, vinegar pork, and stone flower jelly. Kids won’t get tired walking and eating. Chongwu Ancient City suits older kids. The sea breeze on the city wall is strong and can give toddlers headaches, so I suggest skipping it. The cliff inscriptions are more selective—kids uninterested in history will get bored in 10 minutes. 07 Luoyang City | Henan Luoyang’s rich history is easy to appreciate with kids. 📍 Visit Longmen Grottoes, entering from West Mountain and exiting East Mountain. The West Mountain grottoes are concentrated. After seeing the Vairocana Buddha, head back—don’t cross the bridge. ⚠️ There are many stairs, so strollers are impractical. Use a hip seat carrier—dad carries, mom supports. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, crowds thin out. The sunset on the Buddha’s face will make kids ask, “Why is the Buddha smiling?” Perfect time for a story. The next day, visit Wangcheng Park, a local favorite for families. The zoo and playground are together, so kids can play all morning. After a nap at the hotel, head to Old Town’s Cross Street for a water banquet. Kids will find the peony jelly soup similar to vermicelli and enjoy it. Laojun Mountain and Jiguan Cave are better for older kids. Toddlers should skip them due to long cable car lines and big temperature differences in the mountains, which can cause colds. 08 Shijiazhuang City | Hebei What surprised me most in Shijiazhuang was how much more vivid the Zhaozhou Bridge is compared to textbooks. 📍 The Zhaozhou Bridge scenic area is small and can be seen in an hour. The bridge surface is stone, and kids can touch the thousand-year-old wheel ruts—more vivid than any picture book. There’s a small river under the bridge where kids can play in summer. Bring an extra set of clothes. ⏰ The park opens at 9 AM. Arrive early to avoid crowds and take photos without waiting. ⚠️ Don’t buy so-called “antiques” at the park entrance—they’re all cheap goods from Yiwu. For meals, go to Zhaoxian County town. Try donkey meat sandwiches with a bowl of mixed noodle soup. Kids will get messy but you’ll just smile watching them. If you have energy in the afternoon, visit Chang’an Park for a stroll. It’s a relaxing spot locals enjoy. Traveling with kids in Shijiazhuang doesn’t require much planning. Slow down and you’ll find surprises. After visiting these eight cities, the easiest to travel with kids are Quanzhou and Chuxiong. The former has no worries about food or drink, and the latter has very short routes. When traveling with kids, don’t try to do too much—one main attraction a day is enough. Use the rest of the time to relax and eat. Happy kids and low stress for you—that’s a pass. What other cities have you visited that are easy with kids? Share in the comments, and I’ll check them out next time.

Catch the last days of summer vacation. Travel smart without spending a lot 01 Anshun | Guizhou When bringing kids to Anshun, the first stop is the Huangguoshu Waterfall. ⏰ Arrive right when it opens at 8 AM. Fewer people and gentle mist. Strollers can go most of the way. The large escalator saves your legs going up and down, so kids won’t fuss about being carried. The waterfall is loud, so remember to bring earplugs for the kids. After seeing the waterfall, don’t rush off. Head to Duopotang, the path is flat and you can explore it in half an hour. In the afternoon, go to Longgong. It’s cool as soon as you enter the cave. Take a boat to see the karst caves. Kids won’t have enough eyes to take it all in. 📍 At the exit, you can rent an audio guide for 20 yuan. Kids can listen to science explanations, which is more interesting than just looking. ⚠️ The cave steps are slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. Stay overnight in Anshun city. A taxi back takes about 40 minutes. 🍜 Grab a bowl of rice noodles at a street stall for about 10 yuan per person. Kids can eat it too. 02 Nantong | Jiangsu The best way to enjoy Nantong is to stroll around Hao River in the evening. ⏰ After 5 PM, the sun isn’t harsh. The river breeze is strong. Push the stroller for a walk under shady trees. It’s very relaxing. Hao River has no entrance fee. There’s a boat dock along the river. Tickets are 60 yuan per person, half price for kids. The full ride lasts 40 minutes. The guide tells stories about Zhang Jian, and kids can remember some of it. 📍 Board the boat near the clock tower and get off at South Street. You can buy water or a baked flatbread there for a quick snack. ⚠️ Avoid going during the day. The sun is direct with no shade, and kids get tired after 10 minutes. Stay in the old town by Hao River. You can walk downstairs for an evening stroll, and parking is convenient. 03 Fuyang | Anhui Fuyang’s Bali River is perfect for wearing out kids. The park is large but flat. Rent an electric cart and adults won’t get tired after a day. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. Start at the World Scenery Area. There are many replica buildings, and kids love recognizing country names. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant inside the park. A dish of clay pot chicken plus two vegetable dishes costs 70–80 yuan, enough for three people. In the afternoon, visit the Bird Language Forest. Peacocks and parrots aren’t afraid of people. Kids can chase and feed them for an hour. 📍 At the park exit, local salted duck eggs are sold for 5 yuan each. Perfect to take home with congee. ⚠️ Weekends are crowded. Visit on weekdays for a better experience. 04 Hengyang | Hunan At Hengyang’s Nanyue Hengshan scenic area, don’t rush to the summit. With kids, take the eco-friendly bus to the mid-mountain pavilion, then walk a gentle slope. The scenery is just right and you won’t overexert yourself. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM. The mist hasn’t cleared yet, and it’s cool in the mountains. It’s perfect for summer heat relief. Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain, separate from Hengshan. Don’t confuse the two. The temple ticket is 40 yuan, kids enter free. There are many ancient trees and strong incense offerings. Show kids the ancient architecture—it’s more vivid than textbooks. 📍 Don’t buy incense at the temple entrance. Prices are half as much further inside. 🍜 After descending, have a bowl of pork bone rice noodles in Nanyue Town for 8 yuan. The broth is rich, and kids can finish both noodles and soup. Stay in a guesthouse in town for just over 100 yuan a night. It’s clean. 05 Shenyang | Liaoning Shenyang’s Beiling Park is my top city spot for outings with kids on this trip. Tickets are 6 yuan, kids enter free. The Qing Zhaoling Mausoleum is inside the park. ⏰ Enter after 3 PM. The sunlight hits the red walls at an angle, great for photos. There’s plenty of shade, and strollers are easy to push throughout. Shenyang Expo Garden is farther from the city but less crowded. 📍 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride. The park is large. Rent a tandem bike to ride and enjoy the flowers. Kids sit in front, adults pedal without getting tired. ⚠️ Food inside the park is expensive and average. Bring sandwiches and fruit. The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and Beita Falun Temple are next to each other, good for a quick visit. The pagoda is simple and the temple quiet. Tell kids “this pagoda is older than the Forbidden City,” and they’ll be amazed. Return to the city in the evening and have dumplings at Laobian. About 30 yuan per person, very filling. 06 Xinyang | Henan Xinyang’s Jigong Mountain is a summer win. The mountain is 7–8 degrees cooler than the city. You’ll need a light jacket in the morning and evening. ⏰ Take the park shuttle bus to the summit, then walk downhill. It’s all downhill, so kids won’t get tired. 📍 Baoxiao Peak is a must-see with wide views of the mountains. Kids will ask, “Why are the clouds under our feet?” It’s more intuitive than any geography lesson. There’s a narrow but easy path called Red Matchmaker Alley lined with old Republic-era villas. Tell stories along the way; kids love it. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, try Xinyang hot dry noodles. It’s different from Wuhan’s version, with tofu sheets and bean sprouts. A bowl costs 4 yuan, and kids can eat half. ⚠️ Mountain lodging is basic. It’s best to make a day trip. 07 Chengde | Hebei Chengde’s Mountain Resort and surrounding temples offer the best value among these eight cities. Tickets cost 130 yuan but you can spend a whole day there. ⏰ Enter at 9 AM. Start in the palace area and listen to the guide explain how Emperor Qianlong managed state affairs here. Kids will be fascinated. In the afternoon, go to the lake area and rent a rowboat to drift slowly on the water. 📍 Yanyu Tower was a filming location for the TV show “My Fair Princess.” Kids get excited and shout, “Xiaoyanzi lived here!” ⚠️ Some mountain areas have many steps, making strollers inconvenient. Skip these with small kids and go straight to the plains area. Jinshanling Great Wall is a 1.5-hour drive from the city. It’s less crowded and easier to climb than Badaling. With kids, only hike the west section. The slope is gentle, and a round trip takes two hours, finishing just in time for sunset. Stay in a guesthouse near the Mountain Resort. The night market is right outside, with lamb skewers for 5 yuan each. Kids will get messy but love it. 08 Hechi | Guangxi Few people know about Hechi, but its scenery is pristine. Donglan’s mountains and waters have no entrance fee. 📍 Drive along the Hongshui River. The landscape looks like an ink painting. Kids can lean on the car window and watch quietly for half an hour. Jiudun Skylight is a paradise for divers. With kids, just watch from the shore. The water is as clear as glass, and fish swim back and forth. Kids can lean on the railing and watch for a long time. ⏰ After 2 PM, sunlight shines into the water, revealing underwater caves. It’s magical. Xiangbei’s Peach Blossom Land requires a 20-minute bamboo raft ride. Kids will feel like they’re on an adventure. An old lady in the village sells warm mugwort rice cakes for 2 yuan each. Kids love them. Sanli Yangdu is best at sunset when the river glows golden. No filter needed for photos. Stay in the county town. Standard rooms under 150 yuan are common. ⚠️ Attractions are far apart. Rent a car and visit one spot per day for a comfortable pace. Among these eight places, I most want to revisit Chengde and Hechi. One offers rich culture, the other wild mountain scenery. Both are places kids will talk about all summer. Where are you planning to go first? Share in the comments.

8 cities that make traveling with kids easy and stress-free 1️⃣ Fuyang | Anhui When visiting Fuyang with kids, don’t rush to the attractions. Slow down your pace first. Balihu is known for being flat, with almost no uphill paths, making it smooth to push a stroller. It’s best to arrive before 9 AM, take a boat ride on the lake first. It can be windy on the water, so bring an extra light jacket for the kids. For lunch, eat at a farmhouse restaurant outside the scenic area. Order the local clay pot chicken and dip the flatbread in the broth—kids often enjoy it more than home-cooked meals. In the afternoon, head to the shallow riverbank area where kids can spend two hours splashing in the water and playing in the sand while adults relax in the shade. ⚠️ Mosquitoes increase after 4 PM, remember to apply insect repellent. You can rent an electric cart at the entrance for 30 yuan per round, which saves a lot of walking. 2️⃣ Shuozhou | Shanxi Shuozhou is great for kids to experience a more “wild” kind of scenery. Shahu Pass isn’t a manicured park; it has many rocky paths, so strollers are tricky—using a baby carrier is recommended. If the child is older, let them walk on their own. The route is short, and a slow one-hour walk is enough. The best surprise is at sunset when the warm light hits the ancient Great Wall ruins, and kids love chasing their shadows. If you go in the morning, stop by Youyu County for a bowl of lamb and bean noodles. The soup is rich and the noodles smooth, and kids can usually finish half a bowl. ⚠️ There’s little shade here, so wear hats in summer. The whole walk is under 6,000 steps, making it quite easy. 3️⃣ Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The focus of visiting Bayingolin with kids is not checking off sights but relaxing and enjoying the scenery. On the Bayinbuluke grassland, kids can run freely. The grass is soft like a carpet, so falling doesn’t hurt. After 6 PM, visit the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns viewing platform. The light is perfect to see the reflection of nine suns, which excites kids a lot. The next day, go to the Taklamakan Desert. Don’t climb the dunes on foot; take the park’s off-road vehicle instead. Kids scream with joy, saying it feels like a roller coaster. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is best in autumn. By mid-October, the leaves turn completely yellow, covering the ground with fallen leaves. Kids love picking up branches to play sword fights. ⚠️ The desert surface temperature is high at noon, so try to visit before 10 AM or after 5 PM. The whole trip is by car, so little walking is needed. 4️⃣ Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is my most worry-free stop with kids because the old town is small and attractions are close together. Start the morning at Kaiyuan Temple. The big banyan tree under the East and West towers provides plenty of shade, and kids can feed pigeons on the stone benches. Right outside is West Street, where you can snack while walking—try the vermicelli soup, vinegar pork, and stone flower jelly. Every shop is reliable. In the afternoon, go to Qingyuan Mountain. Don’t hike the whole way; take the park shuttle bus to Laojun Rock, then walk down for 10 minutes to the bottom. The cliff carvings are right by the path, which kids interested in reading will enjoy. Chongwu Ancient City is a bit farther, about a 30-minute taxi ride. The sea breeze is strong, so it’s most comfortable in the evening. There are many small stalls selling fish rolls under the ancient city wall, which are warm and delicious. ⚠️ Kaiyuan Temple closes at 5 PM, so don’t arrive too late. You’ll walk just over 10,000 steps all day, but with plenty of breaks, it won’t feel tiring. 5️⃣ Zaozhuang | Shandong The top spot to take kids in Zaozhuang is the ancient town of Tai’erzhuang. The best part is the two different experiences during day and night. During the day, it’s less crowded. Take the kids on a rowboat ride where the boatwoman sings folk songs that captivate children. For lunch, find a savory pancake stall in the town. The freshly made crispy pancake wrapped with egg and vermicelli is so good that kids can eat half a pancake by themselves. When it gets hot in the afternoon, visit the canal museum inside the town. It has air conditioning and old photos to look at. After 7 PM, the lights come on, and the reflections on the river are beautiful. Kids will lean on the bridge railing and watch for a long time. ⚠️ Some small shops in the ancient town sell souvenirs at inflated prices, so don’t rush to buy. If staying overnight, choose a hotel outside the ancient town. It’s half the price and only a 10-minute walk away. 🚄 A taxi from Zaozhuang station costs about 20 yuan. 6️⃣ Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan is a quiet place with few people and beautiful scenery, perfect for a peaceful trip with kids. The Xumi Mountain Grottoes surprised me the most because there aren’t many stairs to climb. The Buddha statues are right by the path, so kids can look at them while walking, like visiting a natural museum. Morning visits are best when sunlight slants into the grottoes, making the Buddha’s expressions clear. For lunch, eat at a farmhouse restaurant at the mountain base. Try the raw boiled noodles in lamb broth. The noodles are chewy, and kids can slurp down a big bowl. In the afternoon, visit the Xumi Mountain Museum. It has air conditioning and displays restored murals. Kids often ask why the Buddha’s hand gestures differ, which is quite interesting. ⚠️ Some steps in the grotto area are steep, so a baby carrier is recommended for little ones. The whole visit takes about two hours at a slow pace with few steps, making it a good transition stop. 7️⃣ Baishan | Jilin When visiting Changbai Mountain with kids, don’t try to do everything at once. Choose one route. The North Slope is the easiest. The park’s shuttle bus takes you directly to the summit. From there, a 10-minute walk leads to Tianchi Lake. Kids seeing such blue water for the first time will be stunned and then ask if there’s a monster in the lake. Just make up a story. After descending, visit the underground forest. The wooden boardwalk is flat, surrounded by tall fir trees. The air is moist, and kids feel like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale. For lunch, eat Korean cold noodles in Erdaobaihe town. The sweet and sour flavor is refreshing and perfect for cooling down. Kids often drink all the soup. ⚠️ Weather at Tianchi changes quickly. Arrive before 9 AM for the best chance of clear views. It often fogs in the afternoon. It’s windy on the mountain, so bring a windbreaker for the kids. 8️⃣ Harbin | Heilongjiang Visiting Harbin in winter with kids is all about ice and snow. Be sure to buy tickets for the afternoon session at Harbin Ice and Snow World. Enter at 3 PM while it’s still light to see the ice sculptures’ details, then stay until 6 PM when the lights come on, transforming the scene. Kids love the ice slides the most. The wait is about 30 minutes, but the 10-second slide is worth the joy. The next day, visit Volga Manor. It’s much less crowded than downtown. The Russian-style buildings in the snow look like fairy tale castles. Kids can build snowmen and have snowball fights. When tired, warm up in the manor’s café. The best photo spot is outside Saint Sophia Cathedral, but don’t pay to go inside. It’s small and can be seen in five minutes. ⚠️ The grilled red sausage on Central Street costs 15 yuan each. It’s pricey but worth trying. Dress kids in three layers: thermal underwear, fleece, and down jacket. Put two pairs of socks inside their pants to avoid cold feet.

Everyone says traveling in peak season means crowds, but some places truly shine in August and September, with no strain on your wallet. Stop fixating on trendy cities. These 8 underrated destinations have fewer people, beautiful scenery, and low costs. With a budget of 500 yuan, you can enjoy a VIP experience. 1️⃣ Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia Don’t think the grasslands are only green in summer. From late August to early September in Hulunbuir, the grass tips turn golden, cattle and sheep graze on gentle slopes, and the breeze carries the warm scent of hay and earth. Starting from Hailar, take a bus deep into the grasslands, where the scenery flows like a moving painting. 📍 The cliff by the Morigele River is soft-lit at 4 PM. The whole river winds like a silver ribbon through the meadows. Every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy. ⚠️ Don’t rent horses at the scenic area entrance—it’s expensive and crowded. Head to a herder’s own pasture instead. For 80 yuan, you can ride for half an hour and chat with the locals. Stay in a Mongolian yurt in Chen Barhu Banner for about 150 yuan a night. Open the door at night to see the Milky Way. 🍜 For breakfast, try pot tea with hand-pulled meat, about 20 yuan per person to eat your fill. 🚄 Shared rides from Hailar city to the grassland interior cost about 50 yuan per person. Be sure to negotiate the price in advance. 2️⃣ Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island’s fame is overshadowed by Xiamen, but it’s the real hidden gem. At the end of August, the sea breeze brings a cool, salty freshness—not humid or stifling. Take the ferry from Wenjia Pier, round-trip tickets cost 45 yuan. Island buses are 1 yuan per ride, hop on and off as you please. 📍 The sea-view boardwalk behind the Mazu Temple at 6 PM. The sunset turns the sea orange-red. After the pilgrims leave, only the sound of waves and birds remain. ⚠️ The island’s UV rays are strong. Don’t skimp on sunscreen—I forgot my neck that day and got a red ring by night. For lunch, visit a fishermen’s homestay in Gongxia Village. A plate of stir-fried oysters and a bowl of seaweed rice cost about 40 yuan per person. Stay in an off-season seaside guesthouse for just over 100 yuan a night. 🍜 At night, order salt and pepper mantis shrimp at a food stall by the pier. Eating it with the sea breeze is pure comfort. 3️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang sounds dull, but if you visit the Zhaozhou Bridge, you won’t be disappointed. This 1,400-year-old stone bridge is even more impressive than textbooks describe. In August and September mornings, mist rises from the Xiao River under the bridge. Walking on the polished bluestone slabs, you can feel the chisel marks left by Sui dynasty craftsmen. 📍 The ancient locust tree at the west end of the bridge is the best spot to photograph the entire bridge. No one competes for it before 8 AM. ⚠️ The bridge is a cultural relic. Don’t climb over the railings. Security is strict, and fines are serious. After visiting the bridge, don’t rush off. Try a set of donkey meat sandwiches at Zhaozhou Donkey Meat Restaurant near the bridge. The crust is crispy, the meat flavorful but not dry. About 25 yuan per person. 🚄 Take the bus from Shijiazhuang Station to Zhaoxian County. The trip takes 1.5 hours and costs 8 yuan. 4️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning Yiwulü Mountain is one of those places “known to northerners but unfamiliar to southerners,” which makes it perfectly peaceful. In September, the maple leaves are half red, pine needles cover the steps softly. Enter through the mountain gate and head straight to Dachao Yang Temple. The thousand-year-old pine tree’s canopy shades the sky. When the wind blows, the pine waves sound like ocean waves. 📍 The sea-view pavilion halfway up offers a distant view of the golden rice fields of Beizhen Plain, like a spilled palette. ⚠️ Water on the mountain is expensive. Bring two bottles and avoid wasting money at supply points. After descending, try smoked chicken at a local Beizhen restaurant. The meat is firm with a strong smoky flavor. Half a chicken costs 30 yuan. Stay at a budget hotel near the train station. A standard room is 120 yuan, clean and tidy. 🍜 For breakfast, have Jinzhou egg cake, as tender as tofu pudding, 2 yuan a bowl. Pair it with fried cake for perfection. 5️⃣ Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajue Mountain isn’t famous in Jiangxi, but its canyon rafting is perfect in late August when the water temperature is just right—not cold or hot. Take the shuttle bus up the mountain, change clothes, and raft down. The big drops splash water all over you, and screams echo through the valley. The whole trip takes 1.5 hours. Your limbs go weak, but you feel refreshed. 📍 The rafting ends at the ancient town entrance. Wander the stone-paved streets and old wooden houses with no signs of over-commercialization. ⚠️ Don’t bring your phone rafting unless you have a waterproof bag. I almost lost mine in the rapids. Tickets plus rafting cost 180 yuan, including the shuttle bus. Stay at a farmhouse near the scenic area for about 80 yuan per person, breakfast included. 🚄 Take the bus from Fuzhou Station to Zixi County, then taxi to the scenic area. Total cost under 30 yuan. 6️⃣ Haikou | Hainan Haikou is overshadowed by Sanya, but in September, after typhoon season, the sky is crisp blue and the sea breeze isn’t sticky. Start at Qilou Old Street, with its weathered walls and old window frames, like stepping into a South Seas dream from last century. At 8 AM, the old tea shop is full. A pot of black tea and two pineapple buns cost 6 yuan and can keep you seated all morning. 📍 The lotus pond at Wugong Temple is perfect at 3 PM. The red walls and green tiles reflect on the water. No one competes for the best photo spot. ⚠️ The wild pineapple forest in Volcano Park has many mosquitoes. Wear long pants and bring insect repellent. Don’t ask how I know. 🍜 At night, visit the Haida South Gate night market. Fried snacks, herbal jelly, and Hainan rice noodles cost about 30 yuan per person—enough to leave you full. Stay at a hostel near Qilou for 50 yuan a night. The old street is right outside. 🚄 Take the bus from Haikou East Station to Volcano Park. The ride takes 40 minutes and costs 5 yuan. 7️⃣ Fuyang | Anhui Balihe sounds off the beaten path, but it’s a hidden gem of northern Anhui’s water towns. In August and September, lotus leaves stretch to the horizon, flowers still blooming, and egrets rise and fall among the reeds. Rent a small boat. The boatman rows slowly. The water and bird sounds blend, and time seems to slow down. 📍 The birdwatching platform in the lake center is magical at dusk. Flocks of egrets return to roost, their wings skimming the water. You just want to sit quietly. ⚠️ Don’t take the sightseeing bus inside the park. It’s short and expensive. Walking is more relaxing. Tickets cost 60 yuan, half price for students. For lunch, try the farmhouse restaurant at the park entrance. A bowl of steamed silverfish egg and a plate of stir-fried water chestnuts cost about 35 yuan per person. 🚄 Shared rides from Fuyang West Station to the park cost 25 yuan per person and take half an hour. 8️⃣ Taizhou | Zhejiang Shenxianju in Taizhou has a high chance of sea clouds in September. Enter the mountain at 6 AM. The cable car slowly rises over rolling clouds. The peaks float like islands above the clouds. Walking on the cliffside plank road makes your legs tremble, but the view of the ink-wash mountain ridges is breathtaking. 📍 The Nantian Bridge viewing platform is the best spot to watch the sea of clouds at sunrise. Be sure to grab the easternmost spot. ⚠️ The temperature varies greatly on the mountain. Bring a light jacket. I wore short sleeves and shivered in the wind. Tickets cost 110 yuan. The cable car round-trip is 100 yuan. After descending, visit Guoqing Temple on Tiantai Mountain. The Sui plum trees are still there, the ancient pagoda stands tall, and the temple’s incense is light—perfect for zoning out. 🍜 At night, eat egg white lamb tail on Ziyang Street in Taizhou’s old city. Crispy outside, tender inside, 10 yuan a serving. Order an extra to take away. Stay in a guesthouse in Linhai Old Town for about 120 yuan per person. Open the window to the lively old street. I’ve weighed these 8 places carefully. The biggest surprises were Jinzhou and Fuzhou—one by the mountains, one by the water—both the kind of places you feel lucky to have found. Do you have any travel plans coming up? Share in the comments. Maybe next time I’ll follow your route.

01 Anshun|Guizhou Anshun is known for its waterfalls, but don’t just focus on Huangguoshu. 📍Huangguoshu Waterfall. Tickets plus shuttle bus cost just over 200 yuan in peak season. After 3 PM, the crowds thin out noticeably. The mist on your face feels cool, much more comfortable than the dry heat in the morning. ⚠️ Remember to book online one day in advance. Buying tickets on-site can make you question your life choices. After seeing the main waterfall, don’t rush off. The steep slope pond walking trail is free and the scenery rivals the main area. 🍜 After the waterfall, try the wrapped rolls and rice noodles in town. Eight yuan a serving, sour and spicy, perfect for cooling down. No need to stay near the scenic area. Stay in Anshun city center, a half-hour taxi ride away, with hotel prices half as much. The next day, visit Longgong. The boat ride into the karst cave is especially cool. The cave temperature is 7–8 degrees lower than outside, so bring a light jacket. 🚄 Anshun West Station has a direct bus to the scenic area for five yuan. Avoid unlicensed taxis at the entrance. 02 Lishui|Zhejiang Lishui is the kind of place you want to stay longer, but two days is just right. Day one: 📍Yunhe terraced fields. Get up early for sunrise. Leave at 5 AM and be at the Jiuguyunhuan viewing platform by 6 AM. The mist climbs from the mountain base, better than any filter. After sunrise, go back to your guesthouse for a nap. Have lunch in Chongtou town with fresh chicken stew, cooked on the spot and delicious. In the afternoon, walk down the terraced field trail. The Baiyin Valley section is quiet, with the sound of the stream accompanying you. Day two: 📍Jinyun Xiandu. The Dinghu Peak rock is impressive, but the best photos are at Zhutan Mountain. The stone bridge with morning mist makes every shot look like an ink painting. ⚠️ Xiandu Scenic Area is free after 4 PM. If you only want sunset shots, plan to enter then. 🍜 You must try the baked flatbread. Jinyun baked flatbread with wontons fills you up for 10 yuan. Qingtian Shimen Cave is more off the beaten path and worth a detour. The waterfall is hidden in the mountains, a 20-minute walk, with so few people you can have the whole pool to yourself. Driving is easiest. The mountain roads are good but winding, so don’t speed. 03 Fuyang|Anhui Don’t underestimate Fuyang. Balihe can surprise you. 📍Balihe Scenic Area has several parks. World Scenery and Splendid China are the highlights. One day is just right. ⏰ Start with World Scenery in the morning when the light is best. The European-style buildings look clean in photos. Have a bowl of gelatiao noodles at the park entrance for six yuan at noon. The noodles are chewy and perfect with a marinated egg. In the afternoon, visit Splendid China. The ancient architecture with lake views is most photogenic at sunset. ⚠️ The electric cart inside the park costs 30 yuan per person, but the walking distance is only about 3 km, so it’s not necessary. Families with kids can visit the bird park. Peacocks and parrots aren’t afraid of people, and kids will love it. 🍜 At night in the city, the rolled flatbread and chicken noodle soup at Fuyang night market are worth the wait. Expect to spend about 20 yuan per person and leave full. 🚄 A taxi from Fuyang West Station to Balihe takes about 40 minutes. The flat rate is 60 yuan without a meter. Remember to negotiate. 04 Yinchuan|Ningxia Yinchuan’s coolness is the dry kind unique to northwest China. There’s a big temperature difference between morning and night, so a light jacket is essential. 📍Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park is half an hour from the city. Row a boat through the reeds, and the breeze carries the scent of lotus leaves. ⏰ Arrive at 6 AM. The lake is misty and the waterfowl are still asleep. The whole lake feels like it’s yours. Tickets are cheap, but boat rental is extra. Hand-rowed boats are affordable; electric boats aren’t necessary. In the afternoon, visit 📍Helan Mountain rock carvings. See the face of the sun god, with carvings from 3,000 years ago still visible. The rock carving museum is free. The guide explains everything in detail, which is better than wandering on your own. ⚠️ Cell signal is weak on the mountain. Download offline maps in advance to avoid getting lost. Lingwu Shuidonggou is larger. Don’t miss the hidden soldier cave section. The tunnels are cool, like natural air conditioning. The Western Xia tombs are at the other end. If short on time, choose one. I recommend Shuidonggou for a richer experience. 🍜 At night, visit Huaiyuan night market. Try the spicy porridge and grilled eggs. Expect to spend about 30 yuan per person and leave full. 05 Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan Xishuangbanna’s summer is green, hot but refreshing. 📍Dai Ethnic Garden. Don’t just stroll the main street. Go deeper into the village. Pineapple rice and lemongrass grilled fish under the bamboo houses are the soul of the place. ⏰ Enter the park around 3 or 4 PM to avoid the hottest sun. The Dai water-splashing square has several sessions daily. If you don’t mind getting wet, join in. 🍜 At night, go to the Gaozhuang Starlight Night Market. Hand-grabbed rice with Lao beer costs about 50 yuan per person. The atmosphere is lively. Day two: 📍Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden. You must hire a guide. Walking alone is a waste. See the blood tree, giant water lilies, and dancing grass. Without a guide, you won’t know what to look for. ⚠️ The park is huge. Wear comfortable shoes, not sandals. There are many mosquitoes, so bring repellent. The peacock release shows at the primitive forest park are at 10 AM and 3 PM. Plan your visit to catch them. 🚄 There’s a tourist shuttle from the city to the botanical garden every half hour. Avoid roadside drivers who charge double. 06 Chongzuo|Guangxi Chongzuo is a hidden gem in Guangxi with few people and wild scenery. 📍Detian Transnational Waterfall is half in China and half in Vietnam. Take a bamboo raft close to the base. The roar of the water is thrilling. ⏰ Arrive at 8 AM when it opens. The crowds are small and the mist hasn’t cleared. The waterfall looks like it’s pouring from the sky. ⚠️ Bamboo rafts cost 30 yuan per person and are worth it. Don’t sit in the front row or you’ll get soaked. After the waterfall, visit 📍Mingshi Tianyuan. Rent a bike for 20 yuan and ride along the rice fields. The mountains on both sides look like ink paintings. Take your time for a two-hour ride. 🍜 Have lunch in Mingshi village with Vietnamese rice noodles and roast suckling pig. Expect to spend about 40 yuan per person. In the afternoon, visit 📍Zuojiang Huashan rock paintings. Take a boat to see the red figures on the cliff walls. These 2,000-year-old graffiti still have bright colors. The round-trip boat ride takes 1.5 hours. It’s windy, so bring a jacket. 🚄 There is a bus from Chongzuo to Detian, but driving yourself is easiest. The scenery along the way feels like traveling through an art gallery. 07 Dongying|Shandong Dongying’s highlight is the Yellow River estuary, one of China’s youngest landforms. 📍Yellow River Estuary Ecotourism Area is at its most beautiful in autumn. The reeds turn golden and the wind makes them look like waves. ⏰ Enter the park at 3 PM when the light is softest. Walk the wetland boardwalk. Egrets and red-crowned cranes are everywhere. ⚠️ The park is large. It’s best to take the sightseeing bus. Walking is too far and the summer sun can be overwhelming. 🍜 After visiting the estuary, return to the city for Lijin pan-fried buns. Thin skin, big filling, paired with mung bean soup, very comforting. Dongying seafood is cheap. The Yellow River hairy crabs are fattest in autumn, but you can still get swimming crabs now. Raw marinated with porridge is incredibly fresh. 🚄 There’s a bus line from the city to the park, but the last return bus is at 6 PM. If you stay late, take a taxi and save the driver’s number in advance. 08 Shenyang|Liaoning Shenyang’s autumn comes early. August and September are perfect for avoiding the heat. 📍Beiling Park, also known as the Qing Zhaoling Mausoleum, has cheap tickets. The park itself is free, but there’s a fee to enter the tomb. ⏰ Go at 6 AM. Locals exercise in the morning. Rows of willow trees line the lake, and the air smells of pine. The park has over a thousand ancient pines over 300 years old. The shade blocks the sun completely, making for a very pleasant walk. ⚠️ The tomb closes at 5 PM. Don’t arrive just before closing. In the afternoon, visit 📍Shenyang Expo Garden. The park is huge and impossible to see in one day. Focus on the rose garden and lily tower. 🍜 At night, go to Xita Street, a Korean ethnic food street. Cold noodles, grilled eel, spicy rice cakes. Expect to spend about 50 yuan per person and leave satisfied. 📍The Wugou Jingguang Stupa is in Beita Park. The tower is old but dignified. It’s quiet and perfect for peaceful reflection. 📍Beita Falun Temple is right next door. It’s not busy but beautifully built. Spin the prayer wheel once and your mind will calm. Stay in Shenyang’s Shenhe District for convenient subway access. It’s easy to get to any attraction. From late August to late September, these places have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, or both. If your budget is limited but you want a comfortable trip, pick two or three to combine. It’s a hundred times better than squeezing into popular cities. Where do you want to go most? Share in the comments.

Who would have thought staying near the train station wouldn’t be a letdown! The location is super convenient and easy to find. Check-in at the front desk was really fast, and they even offered to help with my luggage since I had a lot! The room is fully smart-enabled—you can close the curtains and turn off the lights just by voice command. The projector’s resolution is great too; I watched a movie in bed at night! Breakfast is included, and it’s not just a simple meal but a buffet with dozens of options. The noodles are handmade and freshly made—so delicious! Afternoon tea and late-night snacks are free. That bowl of wonton at night was really comforting. Paying just over 100 yuan for a four-star experience—no exaggeration, it truly exceeded my expectations. Perfect for anyone visiting Fuyang. 📍Orange·Boyue Hotel (Fuyang Train Station branch)

Where to go on a small budget in August and September? These 6 places are less crowded and fun 01 Xiangyang | Hubei The ticket for Gulongzhong is just over 80 yuan, not cheap, but you can spend most of the day there with one ticket. It opens at 8 AM, so get in early. Start at the stone archway and slowly walk up the ancient cypress path. The shade is thick, so the late August sun won’t wear you out. The stone path between Sangu Tang and Caolu Pavilion is especially photogenic when it’s quiet. The moss and gray tiles look much better than the newer replica buildings. ⚠️ In the afternoon, tour groups arrive and the experience is halved, so be sure to go early. 🍜 Don’t rush to leave. On Longzhong Road outside the gate, there’s a tofu noodle shop. A bowl costs 6 yuan, with fragrant but mild chili oil. Pair it with 2-yuan soy milk for breakfast and lunch in one. 🚄 A taxi from Xiangyang East Station costs about 30 yuan. Carpooling is cheaper—split among four people, it’s less than 10 yuan each. 02 Chenzhou | Hunan For Chenzhou, I split Gaoyiling and Dongjiang Lake into two days, one per day, which is just right. Gaoyiling’s Danxia landform is best two hours before sunset. The light on the red rocks looks like charred charcoal. When you reach the middle of the plank road and look back, the ridgeline connects to a water pool, creating a layered effect. Tickets are 80 yuan, parking is free, but ⚠️ bottled water inside costs 8 yuan. Bring two bottles to save 20 yuan. For Dongjiang Lake, you must get up early. Arrive before 6:30 AM at Bridge No. 2 to catch the classic mist over Little Dongjiang. The fisherman’s net casting is a scheduled show, happening every half hour between 7 and 8 AM. Don’t wait around; shoot and go. Mangshan Wuzhifeng is for those in good shape. The cable car plus elevator costs over 200 yuan. If your budget is tight, skip this day. Gaoyiling and Dongjiang Lake alone are worth the ticket price. 03 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Xinghu is truly a local backyard. The 78-yuan ticket covers the wetland park and Seven Star Crags, but I recommend buying only the Xinghu ticket for 50 yuan. Walk along the lake dike for at least two hours. Enter from the north gate, first see the karst peaks of Seven Star Crags. The water reflections are softer than the real view. At the east gate bridge, turn right into an alley with a shop selling wrapped steamed rice dumplings for 6 yuan each. The mung bean paste and pork melt into the rice, much better than the 20-yuan set meals inside the park. ⏰ After 5 PM, the light is just right. The lake glows golden, and many locals jog or stroll. Blend in and you won’t feel like a tourist. ⚠️ The sightseeing shuttle costs 25 yuan one way, but the lake dike is flat and walkable. Save the money for two desserts. 04 Fuyang | Anhui I initially rejected the Balihe scenic area, thinking “Northern Anhui water town” sounded ordinary. But it’s divided into three parts: world scenery, splendid China, and blue wave tours. You can’t finish it in one day. Tickets are 90 yuan, half price for students. The world scenery area is key. The mini Zeus temple and Arc de Triomphe feel plastic, but with water and flying birds, they create a strangely relaxing vibe. 🍜 Snacks inside are expensive and average. Bring your own food. ⚠️ Don’t take the electric cart. The walking paths are shaded, and the September breeze is more comfortable than the cart. The biggest surprise is the lotus flowers at Nanhu, still blooming in late August. The pink and white flowers against the gray-blue water create a Jiangnan illusion. The whole visit takes about four hours. Outside the gate, locals sell dried sweet potatoes—10 yuan for three bags, tastier than the souvenir shop’s. 05 Xinxiang | Henan Between Baoquan and Bali Gou, I prefer Baoquan. Bali Gou tickets are 100 yuan. The scenery is impressive but involves a lot of uphill walking, which is tough for elders and kids. Baoquan tickets are 78 yuan and include round-trip shuttle buses. The water is a clear green, like jade embedded in the canyon. The route is simple: take the bus to the end, then walk downhill along the plank road. It’s all downhill, so easy on the legs. Between Jade Sea and Jade Girl Waterfall, the mist is refreshing. In September afternoons, you won’t want to leave. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The light penetrates the water, revealing stone patterns below. ⚠️ Water activities inside cost an extra 50–80 yuan, but wading in the shallow areas is enough fun without paying. 🍜 At the exit, there’s a bowl of helo noodles for 15 yuan. The lamb soup base is rich and flavorful. After hiking, one bowl is a perfect recharge. 06 Xianyang | Shaanxi Xianyang is 15 minutes by high-speed train from Xi’an, but prices drop a tier. Qianling tickets are 100 yuan, half price for students. The highlight is Wu Zetian’s wordless stele and the stone statues lining the sacred way. The atmosphere is palpable just standing there. ⚠️ The tour guide costs 80 yuan, but a phone audio guide works fine and covers the same content. Save the money for a meal. After Qianling, don’t rush. Visit Yuanjia Village’s Guanzhong Impression Experience, free entry. The old Guanzhong street stretches from the entrance to the stage, and the aroma of chili oil is irresistible. 🍜 Lao Lv’s lamb blood noodle soup is 15 yuan. The chili is fragrant but not overpowering, and the noodles are smooth. Next door, the baked noodles cost 10 yuan and fill you up. ⏰ After 6 PM, fewer tourists remain. Sit under the old locust tree and drink tea for 5 yuan with unlimited refills. Watch the sunset turn the blue brick walls orange. It’s much more peaceful than the hustle of Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter. 🚄 A taxi from Xianyang West Station to Qianling costs about 60 yuan. Carpooling with four people is best. 07 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia The Matryoshka doll scenic area in Manzhouli costs 150 yuan, which hurts the wallet. But here’s a money-saving tip: skip the ticket and just take photos at the Matryoshka Square outside. The square is free. The giant doll buildings stand there, their colors so vivid they don’t look real. At dusk, the lights make it magical, full of Russian charm. For portraits, the light after 4 PM is slanted, making the reds and golds especially photogenic. 🍜 I don’t recommend the Russian restaurants at the park entrance—they’re expensive and not authentic. Two streets in, there’s a small place called “Masha Western Restaurant.” The borscht and rye bread cost 40 yuan and fill you up. ⚠️ Manzhouli has a big temperature difference between day and night. Bring a jacket even in August evenings. Staying at the Matryoshka hotel costs 500–600 yuan per night, which isn’t necessary. A regular hotel in town costs under 200 yuan. A taxi to the park is 10 yuan. 08 Ganzhou | Jiangxi For Ganzhou, I suggest heading straight to Shicheng. Shicheng isn’t a county town but an ancient village under Tongtianzai. Entry is free. The lotus pond in the village still blooms in late August. White walls and black tiles with pink lotus flowers show typical southern Jiangxi style. Walk 20 minutes further to Tongtianzai. Tickets are 60 yuan. The Danxia landform’s cracked stones look like a turtle shell. Climb up to see the whole Shicheng basin. The view is so wide it doesn’t feel southern. Sanbai Mountain is far from Shicheng and better for a separate day. The Dongjiangyuan waterfall area is loud with water sounds, so you have to shout to talk, but the oxygen is intoxicating. Tickets are 90 yuan and include the shuttle. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the mountains. Wear long pants and bring insect repellent. 🍜 In town, “Laobiao Local Cuisine” serves southern Jiangxi stir-fried fish for 38 yuan. The fish is so tender chopsticks can’t hold it. Eat it with rice—you’ll want two bowls. The taxi between the two spots costs about 120 yuan. If time is tight, pick one. Shicheng is more photogenic; Sanbai Mountain suits hikers. To be honest, I’ve personally visited all eight places. The biggest surprises were Fuyang and Ganzhou. Their names sound obscure, but the scenery and prices are very competitive. The core tips for traveling on a small budget are: choose core tickets, eat in alleys, and avoid staying near scenic spots. Have you recently been to any underrated places worth it? Share in the comments. My next destination might be your recommendation.

Everyone says popular cities are overcrowded, but true travelers have already ventured into underrated smaller towns. These eight cities aren't labeled "trendy" destinations, but their vibrant local life will pull you out of your travel guide and immerse you in the lives of the locals. I've scouted them out for you, and I've also encountered some pitfalls; just follow along. 01 Guiyang | Guizhou The soul of Guiyang isn't in Qianling Mountain, but in Huaxi. I arrived at Huaxi Park at 3 pm that day; the river was so clear you could see the water plants swaying. Locals were playing cards at small tables on the bank, and no one was using selfie sticks. A ten-minute walk further in is the Tianhetan Tourist Resort, the real highlight. Tickets are around 80 yuan, and you can explore both the dry and water caves in one go. The stalactites inside the caves are illuminated with a bluish glow, and the cool air is much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ The steps inside the caves are slippery; wear non-slip shoes, don't try to wade through in flip-flops. After leaving Huaxi, take a taxi to Qingyan Ancient Town, about a half-hour drive. The area near the town entrance is the most bustling, filled with the aroma of braised pig's feet and rose sugar, but don't rush to buy anything. 📍 Walk to the foot of the North Gate city wall; the old-established braised pig's feet there are the most authentic—tender, fall-off-the-bone, and dipped in chili paste—so spicy you'll gasp for breath but still want another bite. ⏰ After 5 PM, the tour groups leave, and the stone-paved streets are bathed in the warm orange glow of the setting sun, revealing the true beauty of the ancient town. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is best visited early the next morning. At an altitude of over 1600 meters, the winding mountain road can be dizzying, but the wind at the summit, the view of grassy slopes and windmills, makes it worthwhile. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Guiyang city; hiring a car is recommended. On the way back, buy some locally grown corn from a roadside vendor—it's incredibly sweet. 02 Weifang | Shandong The most underrated place in Weifang is Qingzhou Ancient City. Don't confuse it with Taierzhuang; here, there are no bars or live singers lining the streets, only local residents playing chess under the city gates. Entry to the ancient city is free, but the Ouyuan Garden and the Memory of the Ancient City Cultural Exhibition Hall require separate tickets (50 yuan for a combined ticket). I suggest you only explore the main street; the old houses on both sides are still inhabited, with dried radishes drying in front of them—more vibrant than any imitation ancient architecture. ⏰ Go to Beimen Street at 7 am. The soy milk and fried dough stick stalls are just setting up, the hot oil sizzling as the fried dough sticks turn golden and crispy. Locals squat by the roadside drinking tofu pudding; try it yourself—the salty broth with chive blossom sauce is incredibly delicious. ⚠️ After noon, with the influx of tourists, the main street changes its atmosphere, filled with grilled sausages and stinky tofu. If you want to take some empty shots, you have to go early. The ancient city isn't large; you can walk through it in two hours, but don't rush. 📍 Fan Gongting Park outside the South Gate is a great place to visit around 3 PM. The willows along the lake cast long shadows, and sitting on a stone bench is much more comfortable than being crowded in the ancient city. It's a good place to bring elderly people; the paths are flat, the pace is slow, and there are benches to rest every few steps. 03 Sanming|Fujian The most worthwhile place to spend time in Sanming is Dajin Lake. The entrance fee plus boat ticket is 160 yuan. The boat is a small tour boat that can seat dozens of people, but don't worry about the crowds. Once the boat enters the lake, the Danxia landforms on both banks come into view, and the water is as green as jade; you'll instantly feel calm. The entire trip takes about three hours, stopping at two islands along the way. You absolutely must visit Ganlu Temple; that temple is embedded in the rock face, supported by only one pillar. It looks precarious, but it has stood there for over 800 years. Taining Ancient City is right next to Dajin Lake; it's a ten-minute walk from where the boat docks. The ancient city has no entrance fee, but after 6 PM, shops gradually close, and the streets become so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. 📍 Shangshu Mansion is a Ming Dynasty building; the entrance fee is 25 yuan. It's worth going inside to see the wood and brick carvings. The flowers, birds, fish, and insects are carved with lifelike detail, far more refined than modern machine carvings. 🍜 For lunch, try the Jade Roll in the ancient city. It's basically a thin pancake rolled with shredded mushrooms and pork, but the wrapper is so thin that the juice bursts out when you bite into it. ⚠️ Don't buy it at the entrance of the scenic area. Walk two streets in; the unsigned little shop is the authentic one. This place is suitable for travelers who appreciate a combination of culture and nature; a day is just right. 04 Yichun|Jiangxi Mingyue Mountain in Yichun is the kind of place where you'll curse yourself for coming after climbing up, but once you reach the top, you'll shut up. Tickets are 120 yuan, and the cable car round trip is 150 yuan. I suggest you take the cable car directly up the mountain; don't try to hike, that section is all steps, and your legs will be exhausted after two hours. After getting off the cable car, walk along the Qingyun Plank Road, suspended on the edge of a cliff, with a sea of ​​clouds below. The plank road sways slightly in the wind, and your palms will be sweaty. ⏰ It's best to go up the mountain after 2 PM. Tour groups usually leave in the morning, so there are fewer people on the plank road, and you can hear your own breathing and the wind. Reach Moon Lake, where the mountain reflections are visible. Rest on the rocks by the lake, bringing some snacks and water, as food on the mountain is expensive and not very good. ⚠️ The temperature at the summit is seven or eight degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain; even in summer, bring a light jacket. After descending the mountain, don't rush off. 📍 Wentang Town is at the foot of the mountain; soaking your feet is a must. The town's ancient hot spring has a year-round water temperature of 68 degrees Celsius. Locals bring buckets to fetch water for foot baths. You can find a seat, rent a bucket for ten yuan, and the water will scald your feet until they turn red, but you'll feel completely refreshed afterward. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Yichun Station, suitable for hiking enthusiasts, but those with average stamina can easily complete the trip by cable car. 05 Kashgar|Xinjiang Kashgar's vibrant atmosphere is the kind where you'll be enveloped in the steamy heat of the naan pits as you walk down the street. Entry to Kashgar Old City is free, but don't follow the crowds down the main street. 📍 Enter from the east gate, turn right, and venture into the alleyways—that's where the real Uyghur living area is. Children play football in the alleys, old men sit in their doorways basking in the sun, and the blacksmith's shop echoes with the clanging of metal. If you raise your camera, they'll smile and wave, but they won't shy away. ⏰ At 9 AM, head to the Id Kah Mosque square. Flocks of pigeons take flight, their flapping wings mingling with the calls of vendors. Buy a bag of naan bread, break it up to feed the pigeons, and the locals watch and smile. The Pamir Plateau is a different story. A chartered car from Kashgar takes about three hours one way. The road conditions are average, but once you reach the foot of Muztagh Ata, with the glacier right before your eyes, you'll feel the bumpy ride was worth it. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke. Prepare oxygen cylinders beforehand and avoid strenuous exercise. Stone City is located near Tashkurgan County. The entrance fee is 30 yuan. The ruins are built on a rocky mountain, offering views of distant snow-capped mountains and grasslands. 🍜 In the evening, return to the old city and eat "gangzirou" (stewed mutton in an enamel pot). The broth is clear, the meat tender, and it's served with naan bread—warming and comforting. This place isn't for those in a rush; it's for slowing down, staying a couple of nights, and experiencing the long, slow sunsets brought on by the time difference. 06 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the kind of place where, standing at the entrance of Baquan Gorge, you'll think, "How can this mountain be so imposing?" The entrance fee is 100 yuan, including a sightseeing bus and boat ride; the entire tour takes about four hours. First, you take a boat through the canyon. The water is turquoise, and the cliffs on both sides are as if cut by a knife. As the boat passes, the sound of the water echoes through the valley, and a cool breeze blows in your face. After disembarking, you walk along the boardwalk. One section is suspended in mid-air, with a deep pool below; those afraid of heights should hold onto the rock face. ⏰ Arriving before 10 am is best. The sunlight shines obliquely down from the top of the canyon, making the water shimmer with gold—no filters needed for photos. ⚠️ The canyon is humid, and the steps are slippery. Wear non-slip shoes, and don't wear skirts; they'll all be blown up by the wind. The Taihang Grand Canyon and Baquan Gorge are connected. Those with good stamina can complete the tour in one day, but it's recommended to only visit Baquan Gorge, as the best parts are there. 📍 Hongdou Gorge at the exit is ablaze with red leaves in autumn, but in summer it's just an ordinary canyon; you can skip it if you're short on time. This area is suitable for those who enjoy hiking and natural scenery. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, just take the boat and sightseeing bus section; don't force yourself to climb the boardwalk. 07 Fuyang|Anhui Fuyang's Balihe is the kind of place you might mistake for an ordinary reservoir if you drive by. But once you buy a ticket (40 yuan), you'll discover a hidden gem. It's actually a man-made scenic area, but its strength lies in its expansive lake and abundant waterbirds. Go around 4 or 5 pm, and the sunset paints the lake golden, with flocks of egrets flying overhead—it's quieter than any wetland park. 📍 The "World Scenery" area within the scenic area features miniature replicas of the Arc de Triomphe and the Sacred Heart Cathedral. While a bit rustic, it's surprisingly photogenic. 08 Yangzhou|Jiangsu The "wind" in Yangzhou's Slender West Lake is well-deserved. The entrance fee is 100 yuan, but I suggest entering from the south gate and walking along the lake. Don't take a boat; while the rowboats have a picturesque atmosphere, the boatmen will try to sell you their services and give you a lot of noise. When you reach the Twenty-Four Bridges, don't rush to take photos. The long embankment with willows along the bridge is at its most beautiful after 5:30 pm, when the tourists have left and the willow branches droop to the water. A gentle breeze creates shimmering reflections on the lake – that's when Slender West Lake is at its most captivating. If I had to choose between Ge Garden and He Garden, I'd choose Ge Garden. The entrance fee is 45 yuan. The garden isn't large, but the design of the four seasons' rockery is amazing, using stones to represent spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Walking around it feels like a year has passed. He Garden is more exquisite, but it's too crowded, the corridors are narrow, and you don't have the time to appreciate the details. Everyone says popular cities are overcrowded, but those who truly know how to travel have already ventured into underrated small towns. None of these eight cities have a "trendy" label, but their vibrant local atmosphere will pull you out of your travel guide and immerse you in the lives of the locals. I've scouted the area for you, and I've also encountered some pitfalls; just follow along. 01 Guiyang | Guizhou The soul of Guiyang isn't in Qianling Mountain, but in Huaxi. I arrived at Huaxi Park at 3 PM that afternoon. The river was so clear you could see the water plants swaying. Locals were playing cards at small tables set up on the bank; no one was using selfie sticks. A ten-minute walk further in leads to Tianhetan Tourist Resort, the real highlight. Tickets are around 80 yuan. You can walk through both the dry and water caves in one go. The stalactites inside the caves were illuminated with a bluish glow, and a cool breeze greeted you—much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ The steps inside the caves are slippery; wear non-slip shoes, don't try to wade through in flip-flops. After leaving Huaxi, take a taxi to Qingyan Ancient Town, about a half-hour drive. The entrance to the ancient town is the liveliest part, with the aroma of pig's feet and rose sugar mingling together, but don't rush to buy anything. 📍 Reach the foot of the North Gate city wall; that old-established braised pig's feet shop is the real deal—soft, tender, and falling off the bone. Dipped in chili paste, it's so spicy you'll gasp for breath, yet still want another bite. ⏰ After 5 PM, the tour groups leave, and the stone-paved streets are bathed in the warm orange glow of the setting sun, revealing the true face of the ancient town. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is best visited early the next morning. At an altitude of over 1600 meters, the winding mountain road can be dizzying, but the wind at the summit, with its vast expanse of grassy slopes and windmills, makes it worthwhile. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Guiyang city. Hiring a car is recommended. On the way back, buy some locally grown corn from a roadside vendor—it's incredibly sweet. 02 Weifang|Shandong The most underrated place in Weifang is Qingzhou Ancient City. Don't confuse it with Taierzhuang; here, there are no bars or live singers everywhere, only local residents playing chess under the city gate. Entry to the ancient city is free, but the Ouyuan Garden and the Ancient City Memory Cultural Exhibition Hall inside require separate tickets (50 yuan for a combined ticket). I suggest you only explore the main street; the old houses on both sides are still inhabited, with dried radishes drying in front of them—more vibrant than any imitation ancient architecture. ⏰ Go to North Gate Street at 7 AM. The soy milk and fried dough stick stalls are just setting up, the hot oil sizzling as the fried dough sticks turn golden and crispy. Locals squat by the roadside drinking tofu pudding; try it yourself—the salty broth with chive blossom sauce is incredibly delicious. ⚠️ After noon, the main street changes its charm as tourists flock there, filled with grilled sausages and stinky tofu. If you want to take some still photos, you must go early. The ancient city isn't large; you can walk through it in two hours, but don't rush. 📍 At Fan Gongting Park outside the South Gate, go around 3 PM. The willows by the lake cast long shadows; sitting on a stone bench and daydreaming is much more comfortable than being squeezed into the ancient city. This place is suitable for bringing elderly people; the paths are flat, the pace is slow, and there are benches to rest every few steps. 03 Sanming | Fujian The most worthwhile place to spend time in Sanming is Dajin Lake. The entrance fee plus boat ticket is 160 yuan. The boat is the kind that can seat dozens of people, but don't worry about the crowds. As soon as the boat enters the lake, the Danxia landforms on both sides come into view, and the water is as green as jade; you'll instantly feel at peace. The whole trip takes about three hours, stopping at two islands along the way. Ganlu Temple is a must-see; that temple is embedded in the rock wall, supported by only one pillar. It looks precarious, but it has stood there for over 800 years. Taining Ancient City is right next to Dajin Lake, a ten-minute walk from the shore. There's no entrance fee to the ancient city, but after 6 pm, the shops gradually close, and the streets are so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. 📍 Shangshu Mansion is a Ming Dynasty building. The entrance fee is 25 yuan. It's worth going inside to see the wood and brick carvings; the flowers, birds, fish, and insects are carved so vividly, far more detailed than modern machine carvings. 🍜 For lunch, eat Jade Rolls in the ancient town. They're basically thin pancakes rolled with shredded mushrooms and pork, but the wrappers are so thin that the juice bursts out when you bite into them. ⚠️ Don't buy them at the entrance of the scenic area. Walk two streets in; the unsigned little shop is the authentic one. This place is suitable for travelers who appreciate a combination of culture and nature. One day is just right. 04 Yichun|Jiangxi Mingyue Mountain in Yichun is the kind of place where you'll curse yourself for coming after climbing up, but you'll shut up once you reach the top. The entrance fee is 120 yuan, and the cable car round trip is 150 yuan. I suggest you take the cable car directly up the mountain; don't try to hike. That section is all steps, and your legs will be exhausted after two hours. After taking the cable car down, walk along the Qingyun Plank Road, suspended on the edge of a cliff with a sea of ​​clouds below. The plank road sways slightly in the wind, and your palms will be sweaty. ⏰ It's best to start climbing after 2 PM. Most tour groups leave in the morning, so there are fewer people on the plank road, and you can hear your own breathing and the wind. Reach Moon Lake, where the mountain reflections are beautiful. Rest on the rocks by the lake, bringing some snacks and water, as food on the mountain is expensive and not very good. ⚠️ The temperature at the summit is seven or eight degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain; even in summer, bring a light jacket. After descending, don't rush off. 📍 Wentang Town is at the foot of the mountain; a foot bath is a must. The ancient well hot spring in town has a year-round water temperature of 68 degrees Celsius. Locals bring buckets to fetch water for foot baths. Find a place to sit, rent a bucket for ten yuan, and although the water will scald your feet, you'll feel completely refreshed afterward. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Yichun Station, suitable for hiking enthusiasts, but those with average stamina can easily complete the trip by cable car. 05 Kashgar|Xinjiang Kashgar's vibrant atmosphere is the kind where you'll be enveloped in the steam from the naan bread pits as you walk down the street. Entry to Kashgar Old City is free, but don't follow the crowds down the main street. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, turn right, and venture into the alleyways—that's where the real Uyghur living area is. Children play football in the alleys, old men sit in their doorways basking in the sun, and the blacksmith's shop echoes with the clanging of metal. If you raise your camera, they'll smile and wave, but they won't shy away. ⏰ At nine in the morning, go to the Id Kah Mosque square. Flocks of pigeons take flight, the flapping of wings mingling with the calls of vendors. Buy a bag of naan bread, break it apart to feed the pigeons, and the locals will watch and smile. The Pamir Plateau is a different story altogether. A chartered car from Kashgar city takes about three hours one way. The road conditions are so-so, but once you reach the foot of Muztagh Ata, with the glacier right before your eyes, you'll feel the bumpy ride was worth it. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke. Prepare oxygen cylinders in advance and avoid strenuous exercise. Stone City is located near Tashkurgan County. The entrance fee is 30 yuan. The ruins are built on a rocky mountain, and from there you can see distant snow-capped mountains and grasslands. 🍜 In the evening, return to the old city and have "gangzirou" (a type of stewed mutton in an enamel pot). The broth is clear and the meat is tender, served with naan bread—it's incredibly warming. This place isn't for those in a rush; it's better to slow down, stay a couple of nights, and experience the long twilight brought on by the time difference. 06 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the kind of place where, standing at the entrance of Baquan Gorge, you'll think, "How can these mountains be so imposing?" The entrance fee is 100 yuan, including a sightseeing bus and boat ride. The entire hike takes about four hours. First, take a boat through the canyon. The water is turquoise, and the cliffs on both sides are sheer and vertical, as if cut by a knife. The sound of the water echoes through the valley as the boat passes, and a cool breeze blows across your face. After disembarking, walk along the boardwalk. One section is suspended in mid-air, with a deep pool below. Those with a fear of heights should hold onto the rock face. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely down from the top of the canyon, making the water shimmer with gold. No filters are needed for photos. ⚠️ The canyon is humid, and the steps are slippery. Wear non-slip shoes, and avoid wearing skirts, as they will be blown up by the wind. The Taihang Grand Canyon and Baquan Gorge are connected. Those with good stamina can hike them both in a day, but it's recommended to only visit Baquan Gorge, as the best parts are there. 📍 At the exit, Hongdou Gorge is ablaze with red leaves in autumn, but in summer it's just an ordinary canyon. You can skip it if you're short on time. This area is suitable for those who enjoy hiking and natural scenery. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, just take the boat and sightseeing bus; don't force yourself to climb the boardwalk. 07 Fuyang | Anhui Fuyang's Balihe Reservoir is the kind of place you might mistake for an ordinary reservoir if you drive by. But once you buy a ticket (40 yuan), you'll discover a hidden gem. It's actually a man-made scenic area, but its strength lies in its expansive lake and abundant waterbirds. Go around 4 or 5 pm, and the sunset paints the lake golden, with flocks of egrets flying overhead—it's quieter than any wetland park. 📍 The "World Scenery" area within the scenic area features miniature replicas of the Arc de Triomphe and the Sacred Heart Cathedral. While a bit rustic, it's surprisingly photogenic. 08 Yangzhou | Jiangsu The "wind" in Yangzhou's Slender West Lake is well-deserved. The entrance fee is 100 yuan, but I suggest entering from the south gate and walking along the lake. Don't take a boat; while the rowboats have a picturesque atmosphere, the boatmen will try to sell you their services and give you a lot of noise. When you reach the Twenty-Four Bridges, don't rush to take photos. The long embankment with willows along the bridge is at its most beautiful after 5:30 pm, when the tourists have left and the willow branches droop to the water's surface. A gentle breeze creates shimmering reflections on the lake—that's when Slender West Lake is at its most captivating. If I had to choose between Ge Garden and He Garden, I'd choose Ge Garden. The entrance fee is 45 yuan. The garden isn't large, but the design of the four-season rockery is amazing, using stones to represent spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Walking around it feels like a year has passed. He Garden is more exquisite, but it's too crowded, the corridors are narrow, and you don't have the time to appreciate the details.

Everyone says that going out in summer is just paying to suffer – expensive airfares, soaring hotel prices, and tourist attractions packed like sardine cans. But after spending half a month sifting through maps, I've unearthed these 8 places: less crowded, beautiful scenery, and prices still at levels seen three years ago. Some places even made me wonder if I'd wandered into the wrong movie set – the entrance fees are ridiculously cheap, yet the scenery rivals 5A-level attractions. Go before the crowds discover them! 01 Ningde City | Fujian The name Taimu Mountain sounds like a sect from a fantasy novel, and it truly feels that way once you step inside. Rocks upon rocks, old tree roots sprouting from the crevices, and the wind at the summit is so strong it can make your face contort. I arrived at 3 pm that day, and the sunlight slanted across the mountainside, giving the entire granite a warm golden glow. The entrance fee isn't expensive, but remember to wear non-slip shoes; there's a section of almost vertical steps where you need to hold onto the chains for safety. Baishuiyang is a completely different story. The stream water in August is just the right temperature; walking barefoot in it makes your soles itch from the rushing water. The entire riverbed is a giant slab of stone, the water only ankle-deep, allowing children to run freely. A short walk further in from the adjacent Yuanyang Creek, the water is emerald green, reflecting the trees on both sides, perfect for sitting and daydreaming for half an hour. ⚠️ Afternoon mountain rains come quickly, so carry rain gear with you; don't be lazy. For the Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu, it's best to arrive before sunrise. Before dawn, photographers have already set up their tripods and are waiting. When the sun peeks out, the puddles on the mudflats resemble shattered mirrors, and fishermen carrying their fishing rods cast long shadows as they walk by. After watching the sunrise, return to town for a bowl of seafood noodles; the broth is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off. 🚄 A taxi from Ningde Station to Taimu Mountain takes about an hour; hiring a car is even more convenient. 02 Ningbo City|Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu Lake are adjacent and can be visited as a single destination. What impressed me most about Tianyi Pavilion wasn't the library, but the ancient trees and moss in the courtyard; time seemed to move at a slower pace. Moon Lake is right there; the best time to visit is around 5 pm, when the lake is bathed in the orange-pink glow of the setting sun. Locals stroll and walk their dogs along the lake, a completely different pace from the tourist areas. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area is famous, but I recommend heading straight to Xuedou Mountain. The waterfalls on the mountain have a high flow in August, and you can hear the sound of the water from afar. Climbing to Miaogao Terrace and looking down, you see mist swirling in the valley. Chiang Kai-shek used to escape the summer heat here; he certainly knew how to choose a place. At the foot of the mountain, there's a small shop selling layered cakes; the freshly baked cakes are incredibly flaky, delicious in both sweet and savory varieties. Qiantong Ancient Town was the most unexpected stop on my trip. There weren't overly commercialized shops, and villagers were still washing clothes and vegetables by the river. Walking along the cobblestone path into the town, the air was filled with the smell of logs and burning firewood. The wood carvings on the lintels of the old houses were incredibly intricate, depicting theatrical stories, each one a story in itself. 🍜 The tofu pudding at the town entrance is only sold until 10 AM; it's so smooth and tender that you can't even pick it up with chopsticks. 03 Jiujiang City | Jiangxi Province Lushan Mountain needs no introduction, but many people don't know it. Going at the end of August is perfect to avoid the summer crowds and long queues for the cable car. I recommend staying overnight on the mountain. In the early morning, Hanpokou is almost deserted, with a sea of ​​clouds churning below and Poyang Lake appearing as a white line in the distance. After watching the sunrise, head to San Die Quan (Three-Tiered Spring). The steps will leave your legs sore, but seeing the waterfall cascade down from the mountaintop makes it all worthwhile. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the mountain is significant; a light jacket is essential. Lushan West Sea offers another way to experience it. This body of water hides over a thousand islands. Boating through it reveals a clear, turquoise blue-green water. The islands are relatively undeveloped; finding a secluded island to lie on for an afternoon, listening to the sound of the water lapping against the shore, is more therapeutic than any trendy cafe. The boat ticket plus entrance fee is just over 100 yuan, a very reasonable price for a scenic area. Jiujiang city at the foot of the mountain is also worth a day's stay. The riverside walkway near Xunyang Tower is full of locals strolling in the evening. Find a restaurant and order a dish of stone fish with fried eggs. The stone fish is a freshwater fish from Poyang Lake, incredibly flavorful, and you could easily eat three bowls of rice with it. 🚄 From Jiujiang Station to the Lushan cable car, it takes about half an hour by taxi. 04 Songyuan City | Jilin Chagan Lake is famous in winter, but it has a completely different face in summer. In August, the lake is as vast as the sea, and the wind carries the fragrance of aquatic plants. Jinchan Island is in the center of the lake, shaded by lush trees. A walk around the island takes less than an hour, and you can see wild ducks and water birds along the way. The most comfortable thing to do is find a shady spot to sit and gaze at the lake; time flies by. Fishermen sell freshly caught fish by the lake, killing and grilling them on the spot, sprinkling them with cumin and chili powder—the skin is crispy, and the meat is tender and juicy. 🍜 Next to the grilled fish stall is a fish soup noodle shop. The broth is made from fish bones, white as milk; remember to order a bowl. I ate the whole thing that day, soup and noodles, until my belly was round and full. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake in the evening; long pants and mosquito repellent are essential for survival. You don't necessarily need to stay inside the scenic area; it's about a 40-minute drive from Songyuan city to the lake, and the prices are much cheaper. 🚄 A taxi from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake costs about 50 yuan. 05 Baoting County | Hainan Hainan isn't just Sanya; Baoting is a local's secret summer retreat. The Binglang Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Area is like a living ethnic museum. Li grandmothers sit under the eaves weaving Li brocade, their fingers flying, the threads shimmering silver in the sunlight. The boat-shaped houses, human-shaped bone hairpins, and nose flute performances in the scenic area are all captivating. Yanoda Rainforest offers a completely different experience. Upon entering, you first take an electric cart, then follow the boardwalk into the rainforest. The air is humid, the plants are a deep, almost black, and sunlight filters through the layers of leaves, creating dappled patterns. The most thrilling activity is wading through waterfalls—climbing upstream along the stream, the water reaching your knees, a cool sensation rising from your feet to your head—perfect for summer. The two scenic areas are not far apart, but it's recommended to split them into two days, one for each day, otherwise your legs will protest. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and waiting for photos. Buying tickets online in advance is significantly cheaper than buying them on-site; remember to compare prices. 06 Ordos City | Inner Mongolia The sand at Xiangshawan sings—this slogan is no exaggeration. While sandboarding, the sand beneath you makes a buzzing sound, like musical instruments vibrating within the sand layers. Climbing to the top of the dunes, you're surrounded by undulating golden curves, the sand rippling in the wind. Late August in the desert isn't as scorching as midsummer; walking barefoot on the sand feels subtly warm. Genghis Khan Mausoleum and Xiangshawan are in opposite directions, but both deserve a separate day. The entire park is solemn and dignified, the blue and white palace-style buildings standing out against the grassland. Once inside, don't rush; listen to the guide's explanation of the history, and you'll understand the significance of this mausoleum. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside. Please put your phone away and respect the rules. Sun protection is paramount in the desert. Sunglasses, a mask, and high SPF sunscreen are essential. 🚄 From Ordos city to Xiangshawan, a taxi takes about an hour; hiring a car for the round trip is more cost-effective. The camel riding experience within the scenic area is worth trying; the camel caravans traversing the sand ridges offer breathtaking views that will make you want to sing. 07 Fuyang City | Anhui The name "Balihe" (八里河) doesn't actually mean "eight li" (八里). It comes from the eight lake sections built along its banks. The entire scenic area boasts expansive waters, with reed beds stretching as far as the eye can see, bamboo rafts weaving through the water, and dense aquatic plants and lotus leaves on both sides. The lotus flowers in August are still in their late bloom, a few pink and white blossoms scattered about. Dragonflies perch on the flower tips, flying away as soon as people approach. There's a monkey island in the scenic area where monkeys leap and frolic among the trees, unafraid of people. Families with children can feed the monkeys on the island; staff will provide corn kernels, but please don't feed them yourself. ⏰ The light is softest after 3 PM, the lake surface shimmering with golden light—no filter needed for photos. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, you must try a bowl of noodles at a noodle shop in town. The noodles are thick and chewy, topped with beef broth and chili oil. Eating it while sweating profusely will leave you feeling completely refreshed. The entrance fee to Balihe is inexpensive; including the boat ticket, it's less than 100 yuan per person, which is quite affordable for a scenic area. 🚄 About a 40-minute taxi ride from Fuyang West Railway Station. 08 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Gannan is the furthest but most worthwhile place on the list. Zhagana is nestled deep in the mountains, surrounded by stone mountains like city walls. In the early morning, opening the guesthouse window, the morning mist hasn't dissipated, smoke rises from the Tibetan-style wooden houses, and the barley on the hillside is golden—like an oil painting. ⏰ The hour before and after sunrise is the most beautiful time here, so don't sleep in. Langmusi is not a single temple, but two temples on either side of the Bailong River. The prayer wheels in the temple are worn smooth, and the old women spin them round and round, chanting scriptures. Standing on the hillside behind the temple, you can see the red-tiled roofs of the entire town and herds of yaks on the distant grasslands. The altitude here is over 3,000 meters, so walk slowly and don't rush. Yeliguan and Gahai Lake are in another direction. The canyon at Yeliguan appears as if cleaved by a giant axe, with the stream roaring through the valley. Gahai Lake is a high-altitude wetland, teeming with waterbirds in August; standing on the wooden boardwalk, the wind carries the scent of moisture and grass. ⚠️ Gannan has a high altitude and large temperature differences between day and night, so a windproof jacket and sun hat are essential. After visiting these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: budget travel isn't about settling, but about spending money on truly worthwhile destinations. That ten-yuan bowl of fish soup noodles is more memorable than any trendy restaurant, and that undisturbed lake is more therapeutic than any touristy spot. Where are you planning to go soon? Share your thoughts in the comments; maybe the next place I discover will be your hometown. Everyone says that traveling in summer is just paying to suffer—expensive airfares, soaring accommodations, and tourist attractions packed like sardine cans. But after spending half a month sifting through maps, I've unearthed these eight places: less crowded, beautiful scenery, and prices still at levels seen three years ago. Some places even made me wonder if I'd wandered onto the wrong set—the tickets were ridiculously cheap, yet the scenery rivaled a 5A-level scenic spot. Go before the crowds find out! 01 Ningde City | Fujian The name Taimu Mountain sounds like a sect from a fantasy novel, and it truly feels that way once you step inside. Stones piled upon stones, old tree roots emerging from the crevices, and the wind at the summit is so strong it could make your face contort. I arrived at 3 pm that day, and the sunlight slanted across the mountain walls, giving the entire granite a warm golden hue. The ticket price wasn't expensive, but remember to wear non-slip shoes; there's a section of almost vertical steps where you need to hold onto the chains for safety. Baishuiyang is a completely different story. The stream water in August was just the right temperature; walking barefoot in it made my soles itch. The entire riverbed is a giant slab of stone, the water only ankle-deep, allowing children to run freely. The adjacent Yuanyangxi Stream requires a walk further in; the water is emerald green, reflecting the trees on both sides, perfect for sitting and daydreaming for half an hour. ⚠️ Afternoon mountain rains come quickly, so always carry rain gear; don't be lazy. For the Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu, it's best to arrive before sunrise. Even before dawn, photographers have already set up their tripods and are waiting. When the sun peeks out, the puddles on the mudflats resemble shattered mirrors, and fishermen carrying their fishing rods cast long shadows. After watching the sunrise, head back to town for a bowl of seafood noodles—the broth is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! 🚄 A taxi from Ningde Station to Taimu Mountain takes about an hour; hiring a car is even more convenient. 02 Ningbo City | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu Lake are adjacent and can be visited as one place. What impressed me most about Tianyi Pavilion wasn't the library, but the ancient trees and moss in the courtyard; time seemed to move slowly there. Yuehu Lake is right next to it; the best time to go is around 5 pm. The lake surface is dyed orange-pink by the sunset, and locals stroll and walk their dogs along the lake—a completely different pace from the tourist areas. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area is famous, but I recommend heading straight to Xuedou Mountain. The waterfalls on the mountain have plenty of water in August, and you can hear the sound from afar. Climbing to Miaogaotai and looking down, the valley is shrouded in mist. Chiang Kai-shek used to escape the summer heat here; he certainly knew how to choose a place. At the foot of the mountain, there's a small shop selling layered cakes; the freshly baked cakes are so crispy they crumble, and they're delicious in both sweet and savory varieties. Qiantong Ancient Town was the most unexpected stop on this trip. There weren't overly commercialized shops, and villagers were still washing clothes and vegetables by the river. Walking along the cobblestone path into the town, the air was filled with the smell of logs and firewood. The wood carvings on the lintels of the old houses were incredibly intricate, depicting scenes from traditional operas—each story could be told for ages. 🍜 The tofu pudding at the town entrance is only sold until 10 AM; it's so smooth and tender that you can't even pick it up with chopsticks. 03 Jiujiang City | Jiangxi Lushan Mountain needs no introduction, but many people don't know about it. Going at the end of August is perfect for avoiding the summer crowds, and you won't have to wait in long lines for the cable car. I recommend staying overnight on the mountain. In the early morning, Hanpokou is almost deserted, with a sea of ​​clouds churning below and Poyang Lake appearing as a white line in the distance. After watching the sunrise, head to San Die Quan (Three Cascades Spring). The steps will leave your legs aching, but seeing the waterfall cascade down the mountain is worth it. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the mountain is significant, so a light jacket is essential. Lushan West Sea offers another way to experience it. This body of water is dotted with over a thousand islands. A boat trip through the water reveals a clear, turquoise blue-green hue. The islands are relatively undeveloped; finding a secluded island to relax on for an afternoon, listening to the lapping of the waves, is more therapeutic than any trendy cafe. The boat ticket plus entrance fee is just over 100 yuan, a very reasonable price for a scenic area. Jiujiang city at the foot of the mountain is also worth a day. The riverside walkway near Xunyang Tower is bustling with locals taking a stroll in the evening. Find a restaurant and order a dish of stone fish with fried eggs. Stone fish is a freshwater fish from Poyang Lake, incredibly flavorful, and you could easily eat three bowls of rice with it. 🚄 From Jiujiang Station to the Lushan Cableway, it takes about half an hour by taxi. 04 Songyuan City | Jilin Chagan Lake is famous in winter, but it's a completely different story in summer. In August, the lake is as vast as the sea, and the wind carries the fragrance of aquatic plants. Jinchan Island is in the center of the lake, shaded by lush trees. A walk around the island takes less than an hour, and you can see wild ducks and water birds along the way. The most comfortable thing to do is find a shady spot to sit and gaze at the lake; time flies by. Fishermen sell freshly caught fish by the lake, killing and grilling them on the spot, sprinkling them with cumin and chili powder—the skin is crispy, and the meat inside is tender and juicy. 🍜 The fish soup noodles next to the grilled fish stall have a broth made from fish bones, as white as milk. Remember to order a bowl! I ate the whole thing, soup and noodles, until my belly was round and full. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake in the evening, so long pants and mosquito repellent are essential for survival. You don't necessarily need to stay inside the scenic area; it's about a 40-minute drive from Songyuan city to the lake, and the prices are much cheaper. 🚄 A taxi from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake costs about 50 yuan. 05 Baoting County | Hainan Hainan isn't just Sanya; Baoting is a local's secret summer retreat. The Binglang Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Area is like a living ethnic museum. Li grandmothers sit under the eaves weaving Li brocade, their fingers flying, the threads shimmering silver in the sunlight. The boat-shaped houses, human-shaped bone hairpins, and nose flute performances in the scenic area are all captivating. Yanoda Rainforest has a completely different feel. Upon entering the scenic area, first take an electric cart ride, then follow the boardwalk into the rainforest. The air is humid, the plants are a deep, almost black, and sunlight filters through the layers of leaves, creating dappled patterns. The most thrilling activity is wading through waterfalls—climbing upstream along the stream, the water reaching above your knees, a cool sensation rising from your feet to your head—perfect for summer. The two scenic areas are not far apart, but it's recommended to split them into two days, one for each day, otherwise your legs will protest. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and waiting for photos. Buying tickets online in advance is significantly cheaper than buying them on-site; remember to compare prices. 06 Ordos City | Inner Mongolia "The sand at Xiangshawan sings," this slogan is no exaggeration. While sandboarding, the sand beneath you makes a buzzing sound, like musical instruments vibrating within the sand. Climbing to the top of the dunes, you're surrounded by undulating golden curves, the sand rippling in the wind. Late August in the desert isn't as scorching as midsummer; walking barefoot on it feels subtly warm. The Genghis Khan Mausoleum and Xiangshawan are in opposite directions, but both deserve a separate day. The entire park is solemn and dignified, with its blue and white palace-style buildings standing out against the grassland. Once inside, don't rush; listen to the guide's explanation of its history to truly understand the significance of this mausoleum. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside. Please put your phone away and respect the rules. Sun protection is paramount in the desert. Sunglasses, a mask, and high SPF sunscreen are essential. 🚄 From Ordos city to Xiangshawan, a taxi takes about an hour; hiring a car for a round trip is more economical. The camel riding experience within the scenic area is worth trying; the camel caravans traversing the sand dunes offer breathtaking views that will make you want to sing. 07 Fuyang City | Anhui Balihe (Eight Mile River) doesn't actually have eight miles; its name comes from the eight lake sections built along its course. The entire scenic area boasts expansive waterways, with reed beds stretching as far as the eye can see, bamboo rafts weaving through the vegetation, and dense aquatic plants and lotus leaves lining both sides. The August lotus blossoms are still in their twilight, a few pink and white flowers blooming sporadically, dragonflies perched on the tips of the blossoms, flying away as soon as people approach. There's a monkey island within the scenic area, where monkeys leap and frolic among the trees, unafraid of people. Families with children can feed the monkeys on the island; staff will provide corn kernels, but please don't feed them to the monkeys yourself. ⏰ The light is softest after 3 PM, the lake surface shimmering with golden light, perfect for photos without filters. 🍜 Once outside the scenic area, a bowl of noodles at a local noodle shop is a must. The noodles are thick and chewy, topped with beef broth and chili oil; eating them while sweating profusely will leave you feeling completely refreshed. The entrance fee to Balihe is inexpensive, less than 100 yuan per person including the boat ticket, quite affordable for a scenic area. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Fuyang West Railway Station. 08 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Gannan is the furthest but most worthwhile place on the list. Zhagana is nestled deep in the mountains, surrounded by stone mountains like city walls. Opening the guesthouse window in the early morning, the morning mist hasn't dissipated, smoke rises from the Tibetan-style wooden houses, and the golden barley on the hillside is like an oil painting. ⏰ The hour before and after sunrise is the most beautiful time here, so don't sleep in. Langmusi is not a single temple, but two temples on either side of the Bailong River. The prayer wheels in the temple are worn smooth, and the old women spin them round and round, chanting scriptures. Standing on the hillside behind the temple, you can see the red-tiled roofs of the entire town and herds of yaks on the distant grasslands. The altitude here is over 3,000 meters, so walk slowly and don't rush. Yeliguan and Gahai Lake are in another direction. The canyon at Yeliguan appears as if cleaved by a giant axe, with the stream roaring at its bottom. Gahai Lake is a high-altitude wetland, teeming with waterbirds in August; standing on the wooden boardwalk, the wind carries the scent of moisture and grass. ⚠️ Gannan has a high altitude and large temperature differences between day and night, so a windproof jacket and sun hat are essential. After visiting these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: budget travel isn't about settling, but about spending money on truly worthwhile destinations. That ten-yuan bowl of fish soup noodles is more unforgettable than any trendy restaurant, and that undisturbed lake is more healing than any touristy spot. Where are you planning to go soon? Share your thoughts in the comments; maybe the next place I discover will be your hometown.

Most people squeeze into crowded attractions to see the backs of others’ heads, but these lesser-known cities accessible by high-speed rail offer undiminished scenery and double the experience. I’ve gathered a few places I’ve visited or that friends have tested, with all the key info covered. Just follow along and enjoy. 01 Shangrao | Jiangxi Shangrao is seriously underrated. Mount Sanqing and Huangshan both feature granite peak forest landscapes, but Sanqing has far fewer visitors and well-maintained boardwalks. If you take the Waishuangxi cable car up at 7 AM, the sunlight hits the Giant Python Peak just right, and the whole mountain feels like it’s yours. Don’t be greedy and try to do the big loop; the Nanqingyuan circuit plus the West Coast is enough for a full day. Be sure to get down before 4 PM—cable car lines can be so long you’ll question your life choices. Huangling in Wuyuan and Jiangwan have different vibes. Huangling’s autumn drying scenery is stunning, but a smarter plan is to stay in Xiaoyong Village at the foot of the mountain. At 6 AM, before the tour groups arrive, you get the entire Tianjie Street to yourself. Jiangwan is better in the afternoon. The well at the entrance of the Xiaojiang ancestral hall still has fresh water—scoop some to wash your face and feel the coolness rush from your fingertips to the back of your head. Guifeng is not far from downtown Shangrao. Take the high-speed train to Yiyang Station, then a 15-minute taxi ride. The best part is that every mountain and rock looks like a turtle. Walking along the boardwalk, every turn reveals a new “turtle” resting on the cliff. ⏰ Morning visits are recommended. The slanting light on the Danxia landform makes the red glow almost burning. 02 Shiyan | Hubei Shiyan isn’t just about Wudang Mountain. From Shiyan East Station, it’s about a 40-minute taxi ride to the Wudang Mountain scenic entrance, costing around 70 yuan. Don’t buy incense at the foot of the mountain—it’s outrageously expensive. It’s cheaper inside the park. The best way to experience Wudang is a night climb. Start from Nanyan Palace at 10 PM with a flashlight, walk the ancient divine path, and reach the Golden Summit in two hours just in time for sunrise. It’s windy at the top, so bring a windbreaker. Don’t go back the same way—take the cable car down from Qiongtai for a completely different view. Shiyan city itself is worth half a day. Next to People’s Park is an old restaurant serving Sanhe soup, made with beef bone broth, vermicelli, and marinated eggs. One bowl will revive you. 🚄 There is a bus from downtown to Wudang Mountain Station, but a taxi is recommended to save time and get more rest. 03 Fuyang | Anhui Balihe in Fuyang sounds rustic but surprises with its scenery. It’s a wetland formed by the flooding of the Huai River, covering an enormous area. Enter from the east gate and it takes a whole afternoon to reach the west gate. The most relaxing way to enjoy it is renting a boat to row to the lake’s center and watch the birds. Egrets, herons, and wild ducks are everywhere. The sound of wings flapping rises as the oars skim the water. ⚠️ Wear long sleeves—mosquitoes near the water are fierce. I got seven bites on my legs that day. Balihe is great for seniors and kids—flat paths and wide views with no climbing. There’s a birdwatching tower inside the park. Climb to the top for a full view of the wetland. The light is best at 6 PM when the water turns golden, making every photo wallpaper-worthy. Tickets cost 80 yuan, and buying online in advance saves 10 yuan. 04 Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Bayanbulak Grassland sounds far, but it’s only a four- to five-hour drive by car from Korla Airport. The sunset over the winding rivers is spectacular, but time it right—summer sunsets are at 9:30 PM, so don’t show up at 7 PM to claim a spot. The wind can cut right through you. The Taklamakan Desert is better for deep exploration. Enter from Luntai County and drive two hours along the desert highway to see poplars and sand dunes intertwined. Don’t join a tour—rent a car and drive slowly. Stop at beautiful dunes, walk barefoot on the fine sand that feels like flour slipping through your toes, offering an indescribable healing feeling. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is a golden ocean in autumn, but leaves fall by late October. If you only have the National Day holiday, go in early October when the leaves are yellow and sunlight filters through the branches, creating a fairy-tale dappled effect. 📍 There’s a lookout tower in the park where you can see the entire poplar forest stretching to the horizon. 05 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng’s Hashhatu stone formation is much less crowded than A’shatu Stone Forest but just as impressive. The stones scatter across the grassland like giant blocks tossed by giants. Up close, each stone is three times taller than you. It’s best to hire a car for a full-day trip from Chifeng city. Drivers know the area well and will take you to the back of the stone formation, where a natural viewing platform offers a panoramic view. ⚠️ Don’t buy so-called “grassland specialties” at the park entrance—they’re overpriced and fake. Buy authentic ones back in the city. The stone formation is next to the Keshiketeng Banner grassland. From June to August, the grass is greenest and wildflowers cover the hillsides. Sit on any patch of grass and listen to the wind rushing past your ears—this vastness can’t be found in any city. 06 Wuzhong | Ningxia Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon in Wuzhong is one of the most magnificent sections of the upper Yellow River. It’s a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Yinchuan, then a 15-minute taxi from the station to the park. The highlight is the 108 towers built along the mountain, neatly arranged from base to summit. Climb the steps, and with each level, the view of the Yellow River widens. At the top tower, the river bends dramatically below—a breathtaking sight you have to see in person. The park has a Yellow River altar with free guided tours after 3 PM, explaining river management and water culture. After listening, you’ll see the river in a whole new light. 🍜 At the exit, there’s a place selling lamb offal soup with rich broth, best eaten with flatbread. It’s more authentic than any restaurant inside the park. 07 Daxing'anling | Heilongjiang Beiji Village isn’t just for winter visits. In summer, you can experience the midnight sun—at 10 PM, it’s still bright, and the whole forest is bathed in soft light. It’s a half-hour drive from Mohe Airport, with a 50-yuan one-way car rental. The best way to enjoy Beiji Village is a walk along the Heilongjiang River, with Russian forests on the opposite bank. Walk to the northernmost outpost, and beyond that is the border. Standing there in the river breeze gives an indescribable sense of vastness. ⏰ Get up at 2 AM for a chance to see the aurora, but don’t expect too much—it’s all about luck. Autumn in the Daxing'anling forest is the real highlight. In mid-September, birch trees turn bright yellow and pines dark green. Driving through, every bend reveals a new scene. Don’t forget your drone—footage will blow up your social feed. 08 Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City is Weifang’s most underrated spot, bar none. It’s less crowded than Tai’erzhuang Ancient City, more intact than Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City, and free to enter. Take the high-speed train from Weifang North Station—20 minutes—and a 10-yuan taxi to the ancient city. The must-see is Ouyuan Garden, with its delicate rockeries and ponds, more grand than Suzhou gardens. The light is best after 2 PM, shining through flower windows onto the bluestone slabs, casting long shadows. 📍 The garden has a Ming Dynasty tassel tree that blooms snowy white in April, filling half the street with fragrance. At the east gate of the ancient city is the Old Locust Tree pan-fried bun shop. The buns have thin skin, generous filling, and a crispy bottom. One bite and the juice bursts out. ⚠️ They only sell until 2 PM, so don’t be late. After eating, walk around the ancient city wall. At dusk, the wall glows warm orange with long shadows—a quietness you won’t find in any trendy city. If you’ve been to three of these eight places, I admit defeat. Share in the comments which ones you’ve visited or want to visit most. I can tell you more about them.

A small budget can still feel upscale. These 8️⃣ places are amazing 01 Huizhou | Guangdong Huizhou is all about "spending little to see big views." Don’t sleep in—start your day at Huizhou West Lake. Free admission. Stroll slowly along Su Causeway. The lake breeze beats air conditioning any day. 📍 Sit under the old banyan tree at Diancuizhou. Locals play chess there, creating a great atmosphere. For lunch, head to Qiaodong for a bowl of grandma’s noodles, 5 yuan each. The crispy outside and chewy inside beat the mass-produced snacks near the scenic area entrance by miles. In the afternoon, head straight to Luofu Mountain. Tickets cost about 60 yuan, but if you just want fresh air and not the temples, the outer hiking trails are enough, and the scenery is still great. ⚠️ Don’t buy “herbal medicine” on the mountain—it’s hard to tell real from fake and you’ll just be paying tuition. In the evening, go to Xunliao Bay. Staying at a guesthouse is half the price of a hotel. It’s a 5-minute walk to the beach. At night, listen to the waves while drinking beer. You can have a late-night snack for about 30 yuan per person. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Huizhou South Station. A taxi to the West Lake area costs about 25 yuan. Avoid unlicensed “black taxis” that are expensive and take detours. 02 Fuyang | Anhui Fuyang is an easily overlooked treasure. The Balihe Scenic Area really exceeds expectations. 🎫 Tickets cost 80 yuan, but students get half price, so bring your student ID. The whole park is divided into several zones. The world scenery and bird forest are the highlights. Don’t linger at the entrance. The deeper you go, the fewer people and the wilder the views. ⏰ It’s best to enter after 3 PM when the light is soft. You won’t have to fight for photo spots and can avoid large tour groups. There’s a suspension bridge inside that sways as you walk. If you’re afraid of heights, be cautious, but the views are worth it. 🍜 Afterward, eat a bowl of gelatiao noodles in Yingshang County for 7 yuan. The chili oil is addictive and much better than the 20-yuan boxed meals inside the park. ⚠️ Don’t buy so-called “special gift packs” at the park entrance. The same products are half the price in supermarkets. 03 Zaozhuang | Shandong Tai’erzhuang Ancient City looks ten times better at night than during the day. 🌙 Night tickets are cheaper, and when the lights come on, the water alleys reflect red lanterns, creating an atmosphere you can’t get in daylight. Enter after 4 PM. Walk the main street first, visit the Deputy General’s Office and Tianhou Temple, then find a riverside restaurant for spicy chicken. You can eat your fill for about 50 yuan per person. Don’t rush to leave after dark. Go to Fuxing Square for the night view. 📍 The waterside steps are the perfect spot, and no one will crowd you. ⚠️ Accommodation inside the ancient city is overpriced. In peak season, a standard room can cost 400–500 yuan. It’s better to stay outside the city. A taxi to the ancient city starts at the base fare. 🚄 A taxi from Zaozhuang Station costs about 20 yuan. Avoid those who shout prices at the exit. Use a ride-hailing app for transparent pricing. 04 Xianyang | Shaanxi Xianyang is so close to Xi’an it feels like the same city, but prices are much friendlier. Qianling Mausoleum is a must-see. Tickets cost 100 yuan, but a group tour with a guide is 20 yuan per person. Don’t skip the guide. Without it, you’re just looking at a pile of stones. The story of the “double emperor joint burial” of Wu Zetian and Emperor Gaozong is legendary. ⏰ Visit Qianling in the morning when the light is perfect. The statues lining the sacred way look especially photogenic in the sun. At noon, head to Yuanjia Village’s Guanzhong Impression Experience Area. Entry is free, and the snack street inside is the real highlight. 🍜 Handmade noodles cost 15 yuan a bowl. The chili flavor is intense and much better than the touristy spots in Muslim Street. ⚠️ Yuanjia Village is crowded on weekends. Visit on weekdays for a better experience. For lodging, choose Xianyang’s old town. Chain hotels cost about 150 yuan, half the price of Xi’an city center. The subway to Xi’an takes about 40 minutes. 05 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia In August, Hulunbuir’s grass is still green, but prices have dropped significantly from July. This is the best time for a bargain. Don’t rush into the scenic areas on day one. Drive from Hailar toward Erguna. The grasslands along the way are even more beautiful than the paid parks. Free scenery is the real luxury. 📍 When passing near the Jinzhanghan tribe, turn onto a dirt road. After 10 minutes, you’ll find a deserted grassy slope with herds of cattle and sheep, blue skies, and white clouds. Every photo is wallpaper-worthy. Stay in a yurt for 150–200 yuan a night. The conditions are basic, but the experience is unforgettable. At night, look up to see the Milky Way. 🍜 Must-try dishes are hand-pulled meat and pot tea. You can eat well for about 80 yuan per person. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is big. Wear short sleeves during the day but bring a jacket for the evening. 🚄 After flying into Hailar, renting a car is recommended. It costs about 200 yuan per day, half the price of a private tour. 06 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayingolin is a hidden gem where you can see grasslands, deserts, and poplar forests all in one place. Start with Bayinbuluke Grassland. Tickets plus shuttle bus cost 140 yuan, but the sunset over the winding rivers is worth it. ⏰ Enter the park at 6:30 PM. No need to rush in the morning. The half hour before sunset is the best time. The reflections of the nine suns are truly spectacular. The next day, visit the Taklamakan Desert. Avoid the paid desert parks. Navigate directly to the roadside of the Tak Zhong Highway. You can enter the desert freely. The golden dunes stretch to the horizon, and it’s so empty it feels like a private event. ⚠️ There’s no signal in the desert. Bring enough water—at least two bottles per person. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is best visited in October. In August, the leaves are still green, but tickets are cheap at 40 yuan to see thousand-year-old poplars. Stay in Korla city. Hotels cost just over 200 yuan. Food is good, and baked buns cost 3 yuan each, dripping with flavor. 07 Nanyang | Henan Nanyang is a great summer escape with the motto “high mountains, far from the emperor.” The Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling Dinosaur Site Park has a long name but delivers. The mountain roads are well maintained and easy to walk. Waterfalls and forest oxygen bars along the way instantly cool you down. The breeze at the summit is much more comfortable than air conditioning. 🎫 Tickets plus cable car cost about 150 yuan. If you’re fit, hiking up can save the cable car fee. It takes about two and a half hours to reach the top, and the views along the way are worth it. The dinosaur park is great for kids. The animatronic dinosaurs may look a bit “plastic,” but kids love them so much they won’t want to leave. 🍜 After descending, have a bowl of lamb noodle stew in Xixia County for 12 yuan. The broth is rich and the noodles chewy. ⚠️ Weather on the mountain changes quickly. A raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. Don’t ask how I know. 08 Enshi | Hubei Enshi Grand Canyon is perfect to visit in August and September. The humidity is high, and the chance of seeing a sea of clouds is good. Tickets plus shuttle bus cost about 155 yuan. Trust me, when you see the “incense stick” rock formation, you’ll think it’s worth it. ⏰ Enter the park at 8 AM to catch the light before it gets too harsh. The mist and sunlight in the canyon create natural filters in your photos. The Shennong Stream Cable Boat Culture Area can take a whole day. Take a boat ride and watch the cable boat pullers perform. That raw, rugged feeling is something you won’t find in the city. Enshi Tusi City tickets cost 50 yuan. It tells the history of the Tujia people. You can finish in an hour, so don’t spend too much time there. 🍜 For dinner, you must try Enshi small potatoes and cured pork ribs hot pot. You can eat until you can’t move for about 60 yuan per person. ⚠️ The cliffside plank road in the canyon is not for those afraid of heights, but the views are truly breathtaking. 🚄 After taking the high-speed train to Enshi Station, a taxi to the scenic area costs about 50 yuan. Shared rides can save half the cost. budget escape friendly travel the beaten path

01 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Don’t just take the main entrance road at Slender West Lake. Enter from the south gate and stroll along the lake toward the Twenty-Four Bridges. At 7:30 AM, there are fewer people, the mist on the water hasn’t cleared, and the reflections of Wuting Bridge and the White Pagoda are clearer than during the day. 🎫 Buy tickets one day in advance from the official account to save about 10 yuan compared to buying on site. Ge Garden is right on Dongguan Street. After visiting, head into the nearby alley for morning tea. 🍜 Try Yechun’s crab roe soup dumplings—the skin is so thin it breaks at the touch of chopsticks. Bite a small hole first to sip the soup, then eat the skin. Visit He Garden in the afternoon; the light and shadows on the covered bridge and the stone mountain house make for the best photos. ⚠️ After 4 PM, tour groups gather, so try to enter before 3 PM. After a full day, save room for Dongguan Street’s lotus root starch balls—they’re sweet but not greasy and way better than trendy milk tea. 02 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Qilian Mountains aren’t just a mountain—they’re a vast expanse that leaves you speechless. Driving from Xining, crossing the Daban Mountain pass, you suddenly see a scene of snow-capped peaks and grasslands intertwined. That breath-taking feeling still lingers with me. The canola flowers at Lenglongling bloom wildly in July, a sea of golden flowers stretching up to the snow line. You can stop anywhere to take photos—they’re all wallpaper-worthy. The Heihe Grand Canyon lies west of Qilian County. The road is rough, so low-clearance cars shouldn’t try it. The wind howls loudly in the canyon, causing ringing in your ears if you stand too long, but that raw feeling can’t be bought in any city no matter the price. Amu Dongsuo is a sacred mountain for locals. At sunrise, the peak turns red, and the morning prayer flags flap loudly in the wind. It’s perfect for quietly spending half an hour alone. ⚠️ Altitude starts at 3,700 meters. Bring sunscreen and an oxygen tank. Don’t push yourself with running or jumping. 03 Fuyang | Anhui Many people’s first reaction to Fuyang is “Where is that?” but Bali River will leave you speechless. This isn’t a delicate scene of small bridges and flowing water—it’s a natural lake left by the Huai River’s flooding, with a water surface as vast as the sea, stretching beyond the horizon. ⏰ Afternoon is the best time to visit. The sunlight turns the water into sparkling silver. Taking a boat through the reed marshes, you might see egrets gliding overhead. Tickets aren’t cheap, but the advantage is fewer people and almost no lines even on holidays. 🍜 Afterward, head to the county town for a bowl of Fuyang gelatiao noodles. The noodles are as thick as chopsticks, mixed with sesame paste and chili oil—a real carb bomb. ⚠️ Food inside the scenic area is expensive and average. Bring some snacks and eat a proper meal afterward. 04 Xi’an | Shaanxi In Xi’an, after three days you’ll feel like it’s crowded everywhere. After a week, you’ll start to understand why some people choose to stay. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Warriors Museum is a must, but ⚠️ avoid weekends and don’t take a one-day tour group for convenience. Taking the subway and bus yourself is actually easier. Pit 1 is the most impressive. Standing at the railing looking down, you see the army lined up neatly 2,000 years ago. The sense of pressure is stronger than any documentary. The Shaanxi History Museum is free but hard to get tickets for. Tickets are released at midnight seven days in advance. If you’re slow, you’ll have to try for paid exhibitions. 🏛️ The bronze artifacts inside give you goosebumps—the craftsmanship from 3,000 years ago is unreal. Visit the Xi’an city wall at dusk. Rent a bike and ride from the south gate to the east gate. ⏰ The light on the wall is best at sunset. The bricks are still warm from the day’s sun, and the wind blowing through the battlements carries the city’s mixed street noise. The Qinling Zhongnan Mountains are best for a full day alone. Take the subway to Weiqu Nan, then transfer to a bus. Once in the mountains, the air cools instantly. ⛰️ The hiking trails vary from steep to gentle. If your stamina is average, turn back at the temple halfway up. Don’t push yourself. 05 Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan is the place in northwest China I most want to revisit. The fortress itself is impressive. The rammed earth walls have stood on the Gobi Desert for hundreds of years. Standing on the city tower looking west, the snow-capped Qilian Mountains shine in the distance. Beyond the fortress lies endless desert. The poem “West of Yangguan, no old friends” automatically comes to mind. ⏰ Visit after 4 PM when the light hits the walls at an angle, making the rammed earth textures look like carvings. ⚠️ No need to take the electric shuttle inside the scenic area. It’s a 15-minute walk to the fortress gate. Don’t rush to leave afterward. Walk around the north side of the fortress to see a ruined earth wall stretching into the Gobi Desert. That’s the real wild Great Wall—no one manages it, but the wind is strong enough to cut through you. 🍜 Any barbecue place in town beats those in the tourist area. Lamb skewers cost 5 yuan each, with a good mix of fat and lean. Pair with a bottle of chilled Yellow River beer. A meal costs about 50 yuan per person, and you’ll leave full. 06 Jincheng | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu sounds like a man-made attraction, but it’s actually a well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty fortress. It’s the hometown of Chen Tingjing. The whole village is surrounded by walls and has housed several generations. The alleys are narrow, and the stone roads are polished shiny from foot traffic. ⏰ Visit in the morning to catch the “welcome ceremony”—a kind of traditional costume performance. Honestly, it’s a bit cheesy, but kids enjoy it. The real highlight is the brick and wood carvings—on door lintels, window frames, and eaves. Every detail hides a lion or lotus flower carved into the wood. 🏠 It’s best to hire a guide, or you’ll miss many stories. ⚠️ Don’t expect the “imperial meal” sold inside the scenic area—it’s just ordinary group food. Afterward, go to Yangcheng County for a bowl of zagui, a lamb offal soup with flatbread. It’s warming and hearty. This spot is perfect for elderly visitors. The paths are flat and easy for walking and resting. 07 Kashgar Prefecture | Xinjiang Kashgar Old Town isn’t a tourist spot—it’s a living maze. The alleys are dense, with sunlit earth-colored walls shining. Kids play soccer at alley entrances, elders dry apricots at their doors, and the smell of baked naan drifts from deep inside the alleys, mixed with the scent of wool from carpet shops. 📍 Enter from the gate next to the Id Kah Mosque, turn right, and wander all the way to the Artisan Bazaar. The rhythmic hammering from the copper shops is captivating. The most charming thing about Kashgar Old Town is its doors—blue, green, red, all carved with flowers. Behind each door feels like a hundred stories are hidden. The Pamir Plateau deserves a full day. Drive up the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway. The water in White Sand Lake is an unreal shade of blue, and the snow-capped Muztagh Ata looms ahead on the road. ⏰ Visit Stone City at dusk. Glacial meltwater flows at your feet with Muztagh Ata in the background. That view makes the bumpy trip worth it. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke. Buy oxygen tanks in Kashgar in advance. Pharmacies sell them for 20 yuan each. Don’t wait until you reach Taxkorgan. 08 Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou The night view of Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is stunning, but from the viewing platform, you’ll see the whole hillside lit up with sparkling guesthouse lights, like a giant theme park. To truly experience the village, get up early. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, tourists are still asleep. The village’s roosters crow and dogs bark, the main sounds. Only the old women sweeping the cobblestone streets are awake. Smoke rises from the stilt house roofs—that’s the real Qianhu Miao Village. Zhaoxing Dong Village is much quieter. Old men nap in the drum tower, people wash vegetables under the wind and rain bridge, and the Dong folk song performance at dusk is worth seeing—when the girls start singing, the whole village falls silent. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is better for an overnight stay. The Wuyang River runs through the center. At night, the bar music is a bit loud, but early morning by the river, old women wash clothes and boatmen repair boats. That everyday feeling is comforting. ⚠️ The trail to Xianghuo Rock is tough. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid going on rainy days. 🚄 There are high-speed trains or buses between these places in Guizhou, but the mountain roads are winding. Allow at least half a day for travel.

Stay three days. These 8 cities will make you not want to leave 1️⃣ Baoshan | Yunnan 📍 Stay two nights in Heshun Ancient Town. Don’t rush to check in. At 6 AM, the stone-paved streets are still quiet, but grandmas are already pounding clothes under the laundry pavilion. Walk along the creek and you can smell breakfast cooking smoke. The ancient town ticket is 55 yuan. If you stay in a guesthouse inside, you don’t need to buy the ticket again. Remember to confirm with the owner. ⏰ In the afternoon, go to Tengchong Volcano Hot Sea. Don’t go at noon—it’s so hot you’ll question life. Enter after 5 PM. The sulfur smell mixed with mountain breeze, sit by the foot bath pool for a while. Your feet will turn red from the heat but feel comfortable. The ticket includes the hot spring foot bath. Don’t buy any extra “VIP packages”—they’re not worth it. 🚄 On the second day, rent a car to Yunfeng Mountain. It takes most of the day round trip. The temple at the top is busy with incense. The steps are steep, so if your knees aren’t good, just have tea at the foot of the mountain. On the way down, stop by Beihai Wetland. The grass floats on the water, and when you step on it, it sways. From May to October, the grass is greenest. In other seasons it turns yellow, but don’t be disappointed—it actually adds layers to your photos. ⚠️ Don’t buy “volcanic rock” souvenirs at the scenic entrance. Most are wholesale from the foot of the mountain. 2️⃣ Zhangzhou | Fujian Yunshuiyao Ancient Town and Nanjing Tulou—I suggest you pick one, don’t be greedy. If time is tight, choose Yunshuiyao. The ticket is 60 yuan. The old banyan tree by the creek shades the sky. At dusk, light filters through the leaves and hits the earth walls—any photo you take will look great. Nanjing Tulou is more impressive, but the scenic spots are scattered. Without a car, you’ll walk yourself tired. 🍜 For lunch in Yunshuiyao, have a bowl of bamboo shoot and pork noodles. The roadside shops are more authentic than the popular restaurants. It costs 15 yuan and fills you up. The owner will ask if you want to add “special stuffed tofu.” I advise you to save room to buy grass jelly in town. ⏰ Binhai Volcano National Geopark is in Zhangpu. It takes two hours to drive from Yunshuiyao. If time is tight, don’t force it. To see the columnar joints, you have to wait for low tide. Check the tide schedule in advance. At high tide, you can only stand on the boardwalk and stare blankly—there’s nothing to see. 3️⃣ Fuyang | Anhui Bali River sounds rustic, but it’s really big. The whole scenic area is divided into four parks. Walking through all of them means at least 20,000 steps in a day. If you have elderly or kids, buy a sightseeing bus ticket at the entrance. Don’t try to tough it out. ⏰ Enter after 3 PM for the best light and fewer people. First go to the world scenery area. The miniature Arc de Triomphe and Great Wall are a bit “rustic,” but kids love them. Then head to the bird forest. Peacocks will fan their tails right by your feet. Don’t feed them bread you bring. If the staff sees you, you’ll be fined. ⚠️ Don’t take the boat in the park. The wait is half an hour, the ride is 20 minutes, and the view is about the same as from the shore. Save the 60 yuan and after leaving the park, have a bowl of gelatiao noodles with a marinated egg in town. It costs 6 yuan and smells so good you won’t want to leave. 4️⃣ Baise | Guangxi Haokun Lake was my biggest surprise this trip. It’s over an hour’s drive from Baise city. The road is average, but the moment you see the lake, it’s worth it. The water is as green as jade, the mountain reflections lie inside, and when the wind blows, it breaks into pieces. The ticket is 50 yuan. The boat ride costs extra. I recommend taking it; otherwise, you only see half the lake. 🍜 For lunch, eat freshly caught fish at a farmhouse by the lake. Two and a half pounds steamed, served with a plate of sour vegetables. It costs about 40 yuan per person. The owner will enthusiastically recommend “wild river shrimp.” The price is double, and the taste is just so-so. You decide. 📍 Tongling Grand Canyon and Haokun Lake are in different directions. Don’t plan both in one day. The canyon requires walking one and a half hours of stairs. Waterfalls crash overhead, spraying mist on your face. It’s cool in summer but the path is slippery. Wear non-slip shoes. Don’t wear sandals. ⏰ Chengbi Lake is better visited at dusk. The sunset dyes the water orange-red. Locals run and stroll there. There are hardly any tourists. Sitting on a stone bench by the lake, listening to the water and watching the distant mountains, you suddenly understand what “staying a while” means. 5️⃣ Yangzhou | Jiangsu Slender West Lake has “slender” in its name, but walking it is anything but. Enter from the south gate and exit from the north. A slow stroll takes over three hours. The area around the Twenty-Four Bridges is the most crowded, too packed to take photos. Instead, turn into the small path behind Little Jinshan Hill. No one’s there. Willows hang over the water, and when the wind blows, you feel completely calm. 📍 Choose between Ge Garden and He Garden. I prefer Ge Garden. He Garden’s carvings are exquisite but too well maintained, like a show home. Ge Garden’s seasonal rockeries are the real masterpiece. They use stones to represent spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Walking around feels like going through a whole year. 🍜 For morning tea, go to Yi Garden. Avoid Fuchun Teahouse (too many tourists, service can’t keep up). Hot shredded tofu, three-diced buns, crab roe soup dumplings—two people will be full for about 60 yuan. After eating, it’s a ten-minute walk to Ge Garden. ⚠️ The Slender West Lake combo ticket includes Ge Garden and He Garden but must be used within one day. If time is tight, don’t buy the combo. Buying separately is more flexible. 6️⃣ Tianjin The Italian Style Area feels like two different places by day and night. During the day, it’s packed with tour groups holding little flags. After 9 PM, when the lights come on, there’s hardly anyone by the fountain in Marco Polo Square. Sitting on the steps feels like being in a small southern European town. 📍 The Five Great Avenues are better explored by bike. There are shared bikes at the entrance. Avoid the “sightseeing car” rides—they’re expensive and smell strongly of horses. Ride along Machang Road, turn into Chongqing Road. The plane trees shade the sky. The balconies of the small Western-style buildings hang flowers. It’s more beautiful than any guidebook. ⏰ The Olympic Sports Center Stadium is worth a visit when there’s no event. It’s quiet, with a large lawn perfect for lying on a picnic blanket all afternoon. Evening is best. The sunset turns the “water drop” shape golden. 🚄 Fantawild Adventure in Binhai New Area is an hour from downtown. If you have kids, stay at a nearby hotel the night before. Otherwise, the round trip will tire both kids and adults. Tickets cost 260 yuan. There are often discounts in the off-season. Check the official mini program before booking. 7️⃣ Dongying | Shandong The Yellow River Estuary Ecotourism Area is the least “touristy” scenic spot I’ve seen. No commercial streets, no souvenir shops, just a wooden boardwalk stretching into the reed marsh. At the end, you see the Yellow River flowing into the sea—half yellow, half blue. The wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. ⏰ Mid-October to November, the reeds turn white and glow in the sunset. It’s the most beautiful time of year. Summer is too sunny. There’s no shade on the boardwalk, so apply sunscreen thickly. ⚠️ There are no restaurants in the park, only a few sausage stands. Bring your own water and snacks. Otherwise, walking for three hours hungry will really break you. 🚄 It’s an hour and a half drive from Dongying city. The road is good but there are no service areas. I suggest leaving early in the morning so you can finish and have lunch back in the city. 8️⃣ Lhasa | Tibet Potala Palace—first, about booking. During peak season, you must book tickets seven days in advance on the official mini program. If you can’t get one, scalpers outside charge three times the price. I don’t recommend buying from them. Inside the palace, there are many stairs and you walk slowly. Don’t rush to take photos. Stop to catch your breath and look up at the white walls and red windows. The colors are so vivid they don’t seem real. 📍 Jokhang Temple, go at 8 AM and follow the crowd of pilgrims around. The sunlight slants on the golden roof, incense smoke rises, and the whole square smells of butter tea. The ticket is 85 yuan. It’s worth it. ⏰ Namtso Lake is four hours from Lhasa by car, at 4,700 meters altitude. Not everyone can adapt. I suggest putting it on the last day of your trip, after your body has adjusted to altitude sickness. The lake is unbelievably blue. The wind is strong and can give you a headache. Wear a hat and don’t run or jump. ⚠️ If time is tight, choose either Namtso or Yamdrok Lake. Namtso is more majestic. Yamdrok is closer and easier for a day trip. One last thing: among these eight cities, I’m most reluctant to leave Baoshan and Yangzhou. One is perfect for daydreaming, the other for eating. Do you have your answer? Let’s chat in the comments.

Fuyang, an underrated cultural city in northern Anhui, offers ancient pagodas and poetic West Lake scenery, lively night markets and Song Dynasty-style streets, as well as a national museum and an ocean-themed park. This curated travel guide features 8 essential spots covering history, nature, nightlife, and family activities, perfect for a 2–3 day in-depth visit. 🏯 Wenfeng Tower & Yingzhou West Lake Wenfeng Tower: Built in the 35th year of the Kangxi reign, this octagonal, seven-story brick pagoda with dense eaves is a landmark of Fuyang. Climb the tower for panoramic city views. Plan about 30 minutes here. Yingzhou West Lake: Known alongside Hangzhou West Lake as “Hang-Ying” during the Tang and Song dynasties, poets Su Shi and Ouyang Xiu once wrote verses here. The lake is wide and surrounded by green trees, blending southern garden styles, ideal for a leisurely stroll. Location: Both are in Yingzhou District, Fuyang. Wenfeng Tower is near downtown, and West Lake is on the city’s west side. Highlights: Capture ancient architecture and city views at Wenfeng Tower; photograph lake views, corridors, greenery, and sunsets at West Lake. Tips: Pleasant weather in spring and autumn; wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection or rain gear; walking or biking around West Lake is more enjoyable. 🌃 Erli Jing Night Market & Bali River Scenic Area Erli Jing Night Market: A 700-meter-long vibrant street combining leisure, shopping, and entertainment. It’s bustling at night and a popular local spot. Free entry. Best visited in the early evening. Bali River Scenic Area: A national 5A-level attraction in Yingshang County featuring lakes, wetlands, and gardens. Long embankments lined with green willows and scattered islands have earned it the title “World Wonder.” Tickets cost about 90 yuan per person. Plan a full day here. Transportation: Take public transit or a taxi to Erli Jing within the city; Bali River is best reached by car or tourist shuttle. Activities: Experience the lively night market atmosphere; enjoy the lake scenery and photo opportunities at Bali River, great for family outings. Tips: Use sun protection and stay hydrated in summer; keep an eye on your belongings in the crowded night market. 🏮 Qinghe Song Street & Shuangqing Bay Water Street Qinghe Song Street: A recreation of Song Dynasty streets, artistic and creative by day, dazzling with lights and often hosting music and opera performances by night. Free entry. Best after 4 PM for the night view. Shuangqing Bay Water Street: Northern Anhui’s first waterfront leisure street, charming at night, combining leisure, culture, and tourism. The street is built along the water, with antique-style buildings and lighting creating a beautiful scene. Free entry. Best visited in the evening. Highlights: Song-style lantern street, creative shops, Qinghe night views, and opera shows. Nearby spots: Can be combined with Yingzhou West Lake, Wenfeng Tower, and Erli Jing Night Market for a full day. Tips: Crowded at night, keep your belongings safe and be respectful while visiting. 🏛️ Fuyang Museum & Yaotai Hanhai Ocean Park Fuyang Museum: A national first-class museum with rich collections showcasing Fuyang’s historical and cultural heritage. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), closed Mondays except public holidays. Free entry with valid ID. Plan 1.5–2 hours for a visit. Yaotai Hanhai Ocean Park: An ocean-themed park combining science education and entertainment, with many exhibits suitable for families. Open 9 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Adult tickets cost about 150 yuan; children, students, and seniors about 75 yuan. Transportation: Take bus routes 18, 23, 39, or K105 to “City Museum” stop for the museum; drive or take public transit to “Ocean Park” stop for the ocean park. Recommendations: Focus on the “Fuyang history and culture” exhibit at the museum; enjoy marine life, dolphin shows, and polar animal encounters at the ocean park. Tips: The museum is cool inside, bring a light jacket in summer; some ocean park areas are outdoors, so use sun protection. This guide covers Fuyang’s historical sites, natural beauty, nightlife, and family-friendly parks. Whether you’re a culture lover, photography enthusiast, or family traveler, you’ll find great spots to explore. Customize your itinerary based on your interests and time to experience the unique charm of Fuyang

8 cities you must visit in your lifetime. How many have you checked off? 1️⃣ Zhenjiang | Jiangsu ⏰ At 9 AM, Jinshan Park is still free of tour groups. Don’t rush into the temple; walk around to the west side by the lake to see the reflection of Jinshan in the water—it’s more worthwhile than buying a ticket to go inside. To reach Jiaoshan, take a ferry for a few minutes. The river breeze is refreshing, perfect for a slow walk. Beigu Mountain is right by the river. From the top, you can see where the Yangtze River meets the Grand Canal, with a wide-open view. Each of the three mountains has its own charm: Jinshan for the pagoda, Jiaoshan for the steles, and Beigu Mountain for the river. Walking all three in a day totals about 20,000 steps. 🍜 At noon, head down to the area near Daxi Road for a bowl of guogai noodles. The noodles are chewy, toppings are your choice, and don’t forget to add a serving of braised pork. ⚠️ Maoshan is in Jurong, about an hour’s drive from the city. If you go in the afternoon, it’s best to rent a car or drive yourself. The last bus back leaves just after 5 PM. The temples on the mountain are busy with incense, and there are many steps. If you’re with elderly people, just walk the first half. 2️⃣ Guangzhou | Guangdong 📍 The Canton Tower lights up at 7 PM, but the best photo spot isn’t right under the tower. It’s at the south end of Huacheng Square, across the Pearl River, where you can capture the full reflection of the tower. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is best visited in the morning before 10 AM when it’s less crowded. The brick and wood carvings are worth a close look. Tickets cost around ten yuan. ⚠️ It’s closed on Mondays, so don’t go then. For Baiyun Mountain, I recommend entering through the west gate. It’s less crowded with more trees. From the mid-mountain viewing platform, you can see the entire Tianhe skyline. 🍜 After coming down, head straight to Baohua Road in Xiguan for a bowl of wonton noodles and a serving of rice rolls. For 30 yuan, you’ll be full. Chimelong is better for families with kids. The evening circus show is more exciting. If you play on the rides during the day, remember sunscreen—you might question your life while waiting in line under the sun. 🚄 The Guangzhou Metro Line 10 reaches most spots. Don’t take a taxi—you’ll get stuck in traffic and regret it. 3️⃣ Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Riyue Mountain isn’t in Xining city. It’s over an hour west by car. At 3,500 meters elevation, it’s windy, so bring a windbreaker. The prayer flags at the mountain pass flap loudly in the wind. Standing there, you’ll see the grasslands on each side are completely different colors—one green, one yellow—as if cut by a knife. Guìdé National Geopark is farther but worth it. The red Danxia landform contrasts sharply with the green oasis, with colors so vivid they seem unreal. ⏰ The light is best around 4 or 5 PM. The rocks heat up in the sun, making photos look like the surface of Mars. 🍜 On the way, stop at Garang Township for a meal. Hand-pulled lamb with garlic slices costs about 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ The altitude is high here. Don’t run or jump. I’ve seen someone get altitude sickness from excitement while taking photos, crouching by the roadside using oxygen. It’s best to rent a car for a day trip, leaving at 8 AM and returning to Xining by 8 PM. 4️⃣ Haikou | Hainan Wugong Temple is quieter than expected, with many old trees and cool ground, perfect to visit before 10 AM. The temple honors five historical figures. If you don’t know their stories, you can finish in 10 minutes. It’s worth renting an audio guide for 5 yuan. Qilou Old Street is best visited at dusk when the sun casts long shadows on the white walls and the Nanyang-style arcade columns. 🍜 At the street corner, there’s a Qingbuliang stall with rich coconut milk base. A bowl costs 10 yuan—I drank two bowls myself. Volcano Crater Park is half an hour from the city. Climb up to see the crater bottom, which is unbelievably green. ⏰ It’s too sunny at noon. Go after 3 PM, or you’ll get roasted on the volcanic rock paths. ⚠️ At the park entrance, someone sells “volcanic rock” bracelets. Don’t buy them—they’re just ordinary stones picked up roadside. Back in the city at night, Haidian Island’s night market sells three oysters for 10 yuan with garlic chili sauce. Eat and then leave. 5️⃣ Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is a classic summer retreat, about 5 or 6 degrees cooler than the city below. Go up before 7 AM when the fog hasn’t lifted. The whole mountain looks like it’s soaked in milk. Baoxiao Peak is the highest point and a good spot for sunrise, but it depends on the weather. The day after rain is clearest. There are old villas from the Republic of China era on the mountain, some converted into guesthouses. Staying overnight isn’t expensive. 🍜 The hot dry noodles in town are different from Wuhan’s. The sesame sauce is richer and the noodles thinner. ⚠️ The winding road up the mountain can cause motion sickness. Bring medicine in advance. ⏰ Autumn is better, with red leaves covering the mountain in October, adding a layer of color beyond summer. If you only have half a day, take the cable car up and walk down. It takes about 3 hours and is just right for your stamina. 6️⃣ Fuyang | Anhui Bali River isn’t a river but a huge wetland park divided into several themed areas. I suggest taking the electric cart to the innermost “World Scenery” area and then walking back to avoid crowds. The lakeside boardwalk is long and flat, great for elderly visitors with few steps. 🍜 At the park entrance, they sell Fuyang gelatiao—thick noodles mixed with sesame sauce, served with egg soup. For a little over ten yuan, you’ll be full. ⏰ After 4:30 PM, there are fewer visitors. The sunset turns the water golden, and wild ducks dart through the reeds. ⚠️ Weekends are crowded. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds in photos. Families can rent a small boat to feed fish in the lake center. Fish food costs 5 yuan per pack and lasts about half an hour. 7️⃣ Longyan | Fujian Yongding Tulou is accessed from Hongkeng Village. The ticket includes several large round buildings. Zhencheng Lou is the grandest, with wood carvings and ironwork inside. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM to photograph the Tulou cluster without tourists. The sun just hits the rooftops, and cooking smoke hasn’t dispersed. Changting Ancient City doesn’t need a special visit but is worth a quick stop if nearby. The city walls are well preserved but heavily commercialized. 🍜 In the ancient city, the pork kidney soup is cleanly prepared with a clear broth. Served with noodles, 20 yuan fills you up. Guanzhai Mountain is more demanding than the Tulou. It takes two hours to climb. The summit overlooks the entire valley and is worth the ticket price. ⚠️ Some people sell tea inside the Tulou. Don’t buy it. The small shops downstairs sell it for 10 yuan a pack, which is more reasonable. 🚄 A taxi from Longyan Station to the Tulou area takes about 40 minutes. Shared rides cost about 30 yuan per person. 8️⃣ Yongzhou | Hunan Shanggantang Ancient Village is hidden in a mountain valley, about an hour and a half by car from Yongzhou city. The village is built along the Xie Mu River. The bluestone paths are polished shiny from foot traffic. Old houses still have faded slogans on the walls. There are no tickets, no ticket offices, and no tour groups—just a few grandmas selling homemade pickled radish at their doorsteps. ⏰ After 6 PM, most visitors leave. The sunset shines on the tiles of Wenchang Pavilion, and the whole village feels forgotten by time. 🍜 At the village entrance, a farmhouse restaurant serves authentic blood duck with a pot of rice. It costs about 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ There are no streetlights in the village. You must leave before dark, or you risk twisting your ankle walking on the stone paths in the dark. It’s best to allow half a day and combine it with the Jiangyong Nushu Ecological Museum for a day trip. The two spots are about a half-hour drive apart. I’ve been to seven of these cities, only adding Yongzhou this year. Each city left a little regret—Zhenjiang missed the sea of clouds at Maoshan, Guangzhou missed the Chimelong fireworks. But that’s travel—some regrets give you a reason to go back. How many have you checked off? Which one made your trip worthwhile? Let’s chat in the comments.