Chibi travel guide and discussion

This is a 2-day 1-night travel guide for Xianning, with a budget controlled within 1000 RMB, helping you easily experience this charming city in Hubei known for its hot springs. Xianning 2-Day 1-Night Travel Guide (Budget 1000 RMB) 1. Introduction to Xianning Xianning is located in the southeastern part of Hubei Province and is a famous hot spring city in China, boasting abundant hot spring resources and beautiful natural scenery. It not only has historic cultural relics but also high-quality hot spring resorts, making it an excellent choice to relax and get close to nature. Xianning’s hot spring culture and landscape captivate visitors. 2. Itinerary Day 1: Hot Spring Experience and City Culture Morning: Xianning Hot Spring Museum (or Hot Spring Culture Experience Center) Learn about the history and cultural background of Xianning’s hot springs. Ticket: about 20 RMB Visit duration: around 1 hour Noon: Local Specialty Lunch in the City Recommended to try Hubei specialties such as fish cake, three-delicacy bean skin, and hot dry noodles. Cost: about 40 RMB Afternoon: Xianning Hot Spring Resort Area Choose a cost-effective hot spring resort to enjoy soaking in the hot springs and relax. Cost: about 150-200 RMB (including hot spring admission) Advance booking recommended Evening: Xianning Pedestrian Street or Night Market Stroll through the city night market, taste snacks, and experience local life atmosphere. Cost: about 30 RMB Accommodation Recommendation: Budget hotel or guesthouse near the hot springs Price: about 150-200 RMB/night Day 2: Natural Scenery and Cultural Exploration Morning: Chibi Ancient Battlefield Scenic Area About 40 minutes by car from Xianning city center, a famous Three Kingdoms cultural site with beautiful scenery. Ticket: about 50 RMB Transportation: bus or carpool about 30 RMB round trip Visit duration: 2-3 hours Noon: Local Farmhouse Restaurant in Chibi Taste authentic farmhouse dishes and experience rural flavors. Cost: about 40 RMB Afternoon: Xianning Museum or City Park for Leisure Take a relaxing walk and feel the city’s cultural atmosphere. Free or minimal cost Return trip 3. Budget Details (Per Person) Item Cost (RMB) Transportation (city bus + short-distance carpool) 100 Meals (three meals over two days) 120 Attraction tickets 120 Hot spring experience 180 Accommodation (1 night) 180 Others (snacks, souvenirs, etc.) 50 Total about 750 RMB With a sufficient budget, you can choose higher-end hot springs or enjoy more gourmet experiences. 4. Tips Be mindful of soaking time in hot springs to avoid discomfort. Chibi scenic area has large temperature differences between morning and evening; bring suitable clothing. Xianning is hot and humid in summer; pay attention to sun protection and hydration. Book hot spring tickets and accommodation in advance, especially during holidays. Hope this guide helps you easily explore Xianning and enjoy the perfect combination of hot springs and historical culture! If you need more detailed recommendations, feel free to ask me!

🔥 Ancient Red Cliffs Battlefield: Brush past Zhou Yu in the river breeze and listen to the great fire from a thousand years ago I always thought "Red Cliffs" was just a passage in textbooks until I stood on the rocky shore by the Yangtze River. The river breeze mixed with mist hit my face, and I truly understood what it means when people say "The landscape is like a painting, and countless heroes emerged in a moment." This deep tour guide of the Ancient Red Cliffs Battlefield will take you into the real scene of the Three Kingdoms. 📅 Before You Go: Preparation for a Journey Through a Thousand Years Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal, from March to May when flowers bloom and from September to November when the weather is clear and crisp. Avoid the scorching summer and the cold river winds in winter. If you want to watch performances, remember to avoid Mondays and Tuesdays (no shows), but holidays are normal. How to get there: Take the high-speed train to Chibi North Station, then take a taxi to the North City Bus Station (about 10 yuan), and then take a shuttle bus to Chibi Town (10 yuan per person, about 1 hour). From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the scenic area entrance. If driving, exit at "Chibi" on the Jinggang'ao Expressway and follow the tourist expressway straight to the site. Ticket information: Around 80 yuan at the gate, with discounts for seniors and students. Children under 6 years old or under 1.2 meters tall enter free, and seniors over 70 enter free. Accommodation recommendation: For an immersive experience, highly recommend Chibi Dingtou International Hotel—newly opened in 2025, right next to the ticket office, just a 1-minute walk to the park entrance. Featuring modern Chinese design and full smart home facilities, guests praise it as "perfect location, super convenient for travel." If on a budget, stay in Chibi city for more options. 🌟 One-Day Highlight Route: Re-reading the Three Kingdoms on the Ruins The scenic area is laid out in a loop, about 5 kilometers in total, taking 3-4 hours to tour without backtracking. First stop: Jinluan Mountain · Fengchu Nunnery (Pang Tong’s Study Place) Turn left at the entrance and climb the steps to Jinluan Mountain. Midway up the mountain is Fengchu Nunnery with white walls and blue tiles, simple and elegant. It is said to be where Pang Tong studied military books. In front of the nunnery stands a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree with branches like a giant umbrella, glowing golden in autumn. Standing there, you can almost hear the conversation between Pang Tong and Zhuge Liang from a thousand years ago. Second stop: Nanping Mountain · Baifeng Terrace (Zhuge Liang Borrowing the East Wind) Cross the Forgetting Bridge to the top of Nanping Mountain, the "main battlefield" where Zhuge Liang prayed for the east wind. The Baifeng Terrace from the Ming Wanli era stands quietly here. Close your eyes and you can see Kongming, with his feather fan and silk kerchief, looking up to the sky, borrowing the east wind that changed history. Behind Baifeng Terrace is the Stele Forest Museum, housing poems and essays praising Red Cliffs by famous writers through the ages. Third stop: Chibi Mountain · Zhou Lang Statue (Face to Face with a Hero) Turn to Chibi Mountain, where on the open rocky shore stands the stone statue of Zhou Yu—8 meters tall, dressed in battle robes, holding a sharp sword, his gaze piercingly proud facing the Yangtze River. Standing beneath the statue and looking up, you truly feel what "heroic and spirited" means. Nearby is Yijiang Pavilion, said to be Zhou Yu’s command post during the battle. Fourth stop: Cliff Inscriptions · The Characters "Chibi" (Soul Check-in Spot) Follow the steep stone steps down to the riverbank, where the huge characters "Chibi" are carved on the cliff by the river. Legend says Zhou Yu wrote them in high spirits after his victory. The strokes are vigorous and powerful, still clear after a thousand years of wind and rain. Above the characters is a "Luan" symbol carved by Tang dynasty’s Lü Dongbin, made to comfort the souls of the dead. Standing here, the Yangtze flows right beneath your feet, and across the river is Wulin, where Cao Cao once camped. Fifth stop: Red Cliffs Battle Exhibition Hall (Travel Back to the Three Kingdoms) On the way back, visit the exhibition hall with its spherical dome building, displaying historical materials related to the Battle of Red Cliffs and artifacts unearthed from the Han and Wei periods. Wax figures and sculptures recreate the battlefield scenes. Crossbows, meteor wooden horses, statues of strategists and generals from the Three Kingdoms—over 1700 years of history come alive here. 🍜 Taste of Red Cliffs: Must-Try Flavors Three must-eats: Red Cliffs Fish Cake (fresh and springy), smoked meat cooked with yellow-bone fish (savory and flavorful), and Red Cliffs Brick Tea (rich and sweet aftertaste). At the scenic area entrance, farmhouse dishes cost about 40-50 yuan per person; "Chibi Renjia" is recommended. For authentic flavors, visit "Yuxiang" restaurant in Chibi city. 💡 Tips from Experienced Travelers 1. Be sure to watch the performances! The scenic area offers live shows like "Opening Ceremony" and "Liu Bei’s Marriage Proposal." Confirm showtimes upon entry. 2. Wear comfortable shoes; the tour involves walking and climbing. Although there are stone paths, 3-4 hours of walking is not easy. 3. After 4 PM, the light and shadow are most beautiful. The cliff inscriptions glow golden in the slanting sun—perfect for photos. 4. Bring some historical knowledge. Review the Battle of Red Cliffs chapter in "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" before you go to deepen your experience tenfold. 5. Bring snacks and water. There are vendors inside but choices are limited. --- Standing by the Yangtze River, the water still flows eastward. The fires of battle have long been extinguished, but those two characters remain, that statue remains, and the heroic spirit remains. Go to Red Cliffs—not just to check in, but to brush past them in the river breeze, a thousand years ago. 🌊

If you think Wuhan is just a big city, think again. Surrounding Hubei province boasts world-class natural attractions, including mountains, valleys, cloud seas, ancient towns, and primeval forests. Here are 10 hidden spots recommended by locals in China—stunningly beautiful but still relatively unknown to foreigners. 📍 1. Suizhou Dahong Mountain (大洪山) Known as the "Paradise of Hubei," the sunset at Golden Summit is breathtaking. You can hike through nature and breathe in the fresh air. 📍 2. Yichang Bailihuang (宜昌百里荒) Dubbed the "Little Altay of Hubei," this area features high mountains, grasslands, sea of clouds, and wind turbines. It's perfect for a summer retreat. 📍 3. Yellowstone Xian Island Lake (仙岛湖) From a high vantage point, you can see over 1,000 small islands. This lake is ideal for photography, with numerous viewpoints and fun activities. 📍 4. Chibi Yanglou Town (赤壁羊楼洞) An ancient town from the Ming–Qing dynasties, it marks the starting point of the Tea Horse Road. Small bridges, streams, and blue brick houses create a Jiangnan-like ancient town atmosphere. 📍 5. Enshi Grand Canyon (恩施大峡谷) A massive karst canyon with towering cliffs, peculiar peaks, and underground rivers. CNN and China National Geography have named it "China's most beautiful paradise." 📍 6. Shennongjia (神农架) China's largest primeval forest, filled with waterfalls, valleys, cloud seas, and ancient woods. It’s also home to legends of the Shennongjia wild man. 📍 7. Enshi Jigongling Via Ferrata (恩施鸡公岭飞拉达) A Via Ferrata climbing route scaling a towering cliff, offering spectacular natural views. Below lies Butterfly Spring, a breathtakingly beautiful spot. 📍 8. Wudang Mountain (武当山) A sacred Taoist mountain filled with ancient temples, stunning architecture, and mountain views that resemble a celestial realm. 📍 9. Pingshan Grand Canyon (屏山峡谷) Called "China's Sipadan," you can boat through emerald-green waters surrounded by towering cliffs. The scenery is so beautiful it might bring tears to your eyes. 📍 10. Three Gorges Millennium Love (三峡千古情) A historical theme park of the Three Gorges, showcasing a thousand years of Yangtze River stories. Highlights include parades 🐎, battle horse performances 🌧, rain and water effects 🎬, and a grand show "Three Gorges Millennium Love" featuring legends like Dayu controlling floods, Wang Zhaojun, and Zhao Zilong. It's a massive and spectacular production. 📍 If you're looking for a trip to China with magnificent nature, fewer crowds, and off-the-beaten-path destinations, the Hubei–Enshi–Three Gorges area is one of the most beautiful regions in China that Thai travelers have yet to discover.

Besides checking in at popular spots in downtown Chongqing, 🌈🌈 there are many worthwhile places nearby. 👉Tiansheng Three Bridges feature 💪 unique karst landforms; 👉Fairy Mountain National Forest Park is affectionately called the "Pasture of the South" 🥰! 🌟At Jiuli City, admire Miao architecture, experience Miao ethnic customs, and feel the romantic Miao style~ You have to visit in person to truly appreciate 🌲 nature’s masterpiece! Enjoy a different kind of fun, gently drifting on a boat, embarking on a scenic mountain and water journey!! · 🎇🎇🎇Two-Day Trips Around Chongqing🎇🎇🎇 Private small groups, say goodbye to mixed tours, and say no to the tedious big group check-in spots and long waits for fellow travelers~ Local guides take you deeper into the experience, with pick-up and drop-off service, worry-free travel~ · 📌Three route options 1️⃣ Wujiang Red Cliffs + Tiansheng Three Bridges + Longshui Gorge + Fairy Mountain 2️⃣ Wujiang Red Cliffs + Tiansheng Three Bridges + Fairy Mountain + Jiuli City 3️⃣ Tiansheng Three Bridges + Fairy Mountain + Gongtan Ancient Town + Wujiang Gallery Cruise + Jiuli City · ✅Attraction introductions 🍃Tiansheng Three Bridges Wulong Tiansheng Three Bridges is a typical karst landform and a rare geological wonder tourist area. It was also a filming location for the movies "Curse of the Golden Flower" and "Transformers 4." The Tiansheng Three Bridges consist of three natural stone arch bridges: Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and Heilong Bridge. These three stone bridges connect the mountains on both sides of the canyon, creating the unique "three bridges enclosing two pits" landscape. The pits between the stone bridges are also called "tiankeng" (sinkholes). · ⛰︎ Longshui Gorge Longshui Gorge was formed millions of years ago by mountain-building movements. It features steep cliffs and deep gorges, a typical karst geological wonder where you can enjoy the thrill of walking through underground fissures. The gorge is 5 kilometers long, with about 2 kilometers accessible for sightseeing, divided into three sections: entrance fissure, mid-tunnel, and exit gorge. The gorge depth ranges from 200 to 500 meters, with towering cliffs and perilous rock walls on both sides. The valley is densely forested with pristine woods, continuous waterfalls, and streams, creating a magnificent scene. · 🏞️ Fairy Mountain National Forest Park Fairy Mountain National Forest Park is located in Wulong County, Chongqing. It boasts rare southern alpine meadow scenery, with its forests, unique peaks, grasslands, and snowfields known as the "Four Wonders of Fairy Mountain." It is praised as the "Little Switzerland of the East." · 🌊 Wujiang Red Cliffs The Red Cliffs viewing platform is an ancient-style corridor with upper and lower staggered levels. From here, you can enjoy the historically significant Wujiang Red Cliffs and the charming canyon scenery. · 🪁 Gongtan Ancient Town Gongtan Ancient Town is nestled in the Wuling Mountains. Its origins date back to the Shu Han period of the Three Kingdoms and was established during the Tang Dynasty, with over a thousand years of history. The town is surrounded by mountains and water, with the emerald Wujiang River flowing beneath it, like a green gem adorning the town. · ⛴︎ Wujiang Gallery Cruise Cruise route: Gongtan Ancient Town South Gate Tourist Center → Tutuo Gorge (round trip), about 20 KM. Duration is approximately 60 minutes. This section of the Wujiang River basin offers some of the most magnificent scenery, with clear water and green mountains, making the boat ride feel like traveling through a traditional Chinese ink painting. · 📷 Jiuli City Jiuli City on the left bank of the Wujiang River in Pengshui County is themed around the culture of Chiyou, the ancestor of the Miao people. It showcases traditional Miao culture and architecture, full of rich Miao ethnic charm. Key buildings include the Chiyou Grand Hall, Nine Gates, Jiuli Palace, Chiyou Divine Mansion, Jiuli Divine Pillars, Big Dipper Pavilion, Hundred Miao Culture Corridor, Visitor Service Center, Shopping Arcade, and a Food Street featuring Miao-style architecture. · 🧳Travel Essentials ▫️Documents: ID card, student ID 🪪 ▫️Sun protection: sun-protective clothing, sun umbrella, sunglasses, arm sleeves, small fan ▫️Others: stomach medicine, digestive tablets, Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid Other items depend on personal needs~

These seven major attractions are recommended for a 5-day, 4-night trip, with an economical budget of about 1700-2000 RMB per person. The itinerary is moderately paced and avoids backtracking. Itinerary Overview (5 days, 4 nights) · Day 1: Chibi Ancient Battlefield (ticket about 135 RMB, 3h) → Lushui Lake (boat ticket about 70 RMB, 2h) → Stay in Chibi (hotel about 120-150 RMB/night) · Day 2: Chibi → Tongshan Yinshui Cave (ticket including boat + train about 120 RMB, 2h) → Dajiugong Mountain (ticket about 60 RMB + shuttle bus 30 RMB, stay at a guesthouse near Yunzhong Lake about 130-160 RMB/night) · Day 3: Full day at Jiugong Mountain (Tonggubao, Yunzhong Lake, Shilong Gorge, 5h) → Stay in Tongshan (hotel about 110-140 RMB/night) · Day 4: Tongshan → Neichong Yao Ethnic Village (free, 2h) → Baiya Mountain (ticket about 60 RMB, 3h) → Stay in Chongyang (guesthouse about 110-140 RMB/night) · Day 5: Chongyang → Jinguì Lake (free, 2h) → Return trip Cost Breakdown (per person, economical) · Tickets + shuttle bus: about 470-530 RMB (including Chibi Ancient Battlefield, Yinshui Cave, Jiugong Mountain, Baiya Mountain, Lushui Lake boat tickets, etc.) · Accommodation: 4 nights about 470-590 RMB (choosing economical hotels/guesthouses) · Transportation: local taxis + short-distance buses about 300-350 RMB (self-driving fuel + parking fees not included) · Meals: about 400-450 RMB (80-90 RMB per day, eating local dishes) · Total: about 1700-2000 RMB per person Money-saving & Efficiency Tips · Buy combo tickets online in advance; students and seniors get half price with ID · Jiugong Mountain shuttle bus is a must-buy (mountain roads are dangerous); bring a light jacket for Yinshui Cave (constant temperature 18℃) · Stay at guesthouses or farm stays near scenic spots for better value

Good places to visit in September 2025! Take you into the Legend of the Three Kingdoms scene🔥 ##Day Trip The ancient battlefield of Chibi is a must-see! Located at No. 6, Wuhou Lane, Chibi Town, Chibi City, Xianning City, Hubei Province, it is open from 08:00-18:00 all year round (entry stops at 18:00) Highlights of the itinerary👇 1️⃣ Ancient Battlefield Site: Just stepping into the main entrance, you can already feel the magnificent atmosphere of the Three Kingdoms era war! There are restored models of war scenes on site, which immediately brings to mind the fierce battles in The Romance of the Three Kingdoms! Taking pictures is really super feel! 2️⃣ Natural scenery: Chibi not only has history, the Yangtze River flows by it, plus the green mountains and green trees surround it, it is really natural and humanistic at once, no blind spots in photography! The whole trip to Chibi not only gave me a deeper understanding of the history of the Three Kingdoms, but also allowed me to feel the beauty of nature. It is worth recommending! 100 ways to travel, there's always one for you ~ Let's go and take pictures 🤩📸

The Three Kingdoms Chibi Ancient Battlefield Scenic Area is located in Chibi, Xianning, Hubei Province. It covers an area of 3.5 square kilometers, and the entire scenic area route is 5 kilometers long. It is the only ancient battlefield site in China that still retains its original appearance among the seven ancient battles where the few defeated the many and the weak defeated the strong. The scenic area is divided into two areas: the cultural line and the experience line. The cultural line includes ancient relics such as Jinluan Mountain, where Pang Tong read military books, Nanping Mountain, where Zhuge Liang borrowed the east wind, and Chibi Mountain, the forward command post of the Sun-Liu allied forces. All the buildings in the experience area are built according to the basic elements of the Han Dynasty, and you will feel as if you have traveled back to the Three Kingdoms period.

We went on a two-day trip around Wuhan and visited Chibi. We went to Yangloudong Ancient Town and the Chibi Ancient Battlefield. This is a 5A-level scenic area and the site of the Battle of Chibi. Here's my conclusion: If you have time and money, or if you have a free annual pass, you can go. If you want to take your kids to learn about the Three Kingdoms, you can go. If you're a big fan of the Three Kingdoms, you can go. The tour route is a loop, so you don't have to retrace your steps. There are some uphill sections, but the mountain isn't high, so it's not tiring. The forest is dense, and the air is fresh. There are free performances in the scenic area. If you time it right, you can catch every show. It takes about 3–4 hours to walk through the entire scenic area. It's a bit desolate, but the ancient-style buildings are quite grand. 🕹️ Cliff Inscriptions After entering the scenic area, you'll mostly be walking on flat mountain roads. When you reach the cliff inscriptions, you'll be facing the Yangtze River, and the view is breathtaking. Legend has it that the words "Chibi" were written by Zhou Yu. 🚌 You can take bus 19 from Chibi City to the Chibi Ancient Battlefield.

Chibi is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. 2 days are enough to take in the beauty of this underrated gem. 🏯 Chibi ✨ Trip Highlights: Stroll through the old streets of Chibi city, enjoy the scenery at Gexian Mountain, see the lanterns light up at night in Yangloudong, and catch a romantic sunset by the Yangtze River. 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: City old streets > Gexian Mountain; Day 2: Yangloudong > Sunset by the Yangtze River. 🍜 Food Recommendations: Chibi fish cake, lotus root and pork rib soup, and dried long beans—savory, fresh, and comforting. ⚠️ Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for strolling the old streets, bring a jacket as it gets cool by the river, and arrive early to secure a spot for the sunset. The small city is very quiet overall, perfect for a slow stroll. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to get around. Choose a small hotel in the old town area for a clean and affordable stay. Visit off-peak to avoid crowds and skip the lines for photos. The small city is very quiet overall, perfect for a slow stroll. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to get around. Choose a small hotel in the old town area for a clean and affordable stay. Visit off-peak to avoid crowds and skip the lines for photos. The small city is very quiet overall, perfect for a slow stroll. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to get around. Choose a small hotel in the old town area for a clean and affordable stay. Visit off-peak to avoid crowds and skip the lines for photos. The small city is very quiet overall, perfect for a slow stroll. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to get around. Choose a small hotel in the old town area for a clean and affordable stay.

When traveling with parents, the biggest worries are: they can't walk far or they don't eat well. I've screened these eight places one by one—they have fewer slopes, flat roads, and plenty of spots to sit and rest. If you want to avoid the National Day crowds, pick a few and take it slow. 1️⃣ Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The boardwalk at the First Bend of the Yellow River is smooth, so parents can walk the whole way without getting winded. ⏰ The light is soft before 10:00 AM, making the water look like it's covered in silver foil. In the afternoon, the backlight makes for great silhouettes. 📍 The First Bend observation deck has an elevator to the top floor, so it's accessible even if they have trouble walking. The tent area at the foot of the mountain sells yak yogurt for 5 yuan a bowl. It was so sour my dad frowned, but he couldn't help taking a second spoonful. 🚄 It takes about 2 hours to charter a car from Maqên County, and the driver will usually wait at the entrance. ⚠️ The altitude is 3,600 meters, so don't let your parents walk fast as soon as they get out of the car. Have them sit in the car for 5 minutes to acclimate first. Staying in Maqên County is the safest bet. Hotels have heating, and you'll need a fleece jacket when going out at night. Room rates rise by 30% during the National Day holiday, so booking 10 days in advance can save you enough for a yak meat meal. 2️⃣ Longyan | Fujian After walking around the Yongding Tulou, my dad stared at the rammed earth walls for a long time, saying they were older than him. 📍 An elderly woman at the entrance of Chengqi Building sells Hakka sticky rice cakes, freshly pounded and coated in peanut powder. They're 3 yuan each—eat them while they're hot. Diantou Street in Changting Ancient Town is great for an evening stroll, as the arcade buildings provide shade. 🍜 Pork kidney soup and dried tofu in the alleys are a local dinner staple. Don't eat on the main street; walk 50 meters into the alleys and the prices drop. Guanzhai Mountain has a cable car, so parents can ride up and walk down slowly without putting pressure on their knees. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring a thermos of hot water. Arrive at the Tulou before 8:00 AM during the National Day holiday to avoid the tour buses. Stay at a guesthouse on the outskirts of Changting Ancient Town for easy parking and the ability to see the city wall lights at night. It's suitable for seniors and children, with mostly flat roads throughout. 3️⃣ Shaoyang | Hunan The most effortless way to see Langshan is the Bajiaozhai cable car. Going up to see the Danxia peaks, my mom said it looked like tofu floating in a pot of red soup. ⏰ Go early in the morning the day after rain for a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds, but the steps will be slippery, so make sure your parents wear non-slip shoes. 📍 The farmhouses at the foot of Lajiao Peak are famous for their blood-sauce duck and fern starch noodles. You can get stuffed for 40 yuan per person. Don't order too much; Hunan portions are generous. The "One Line of Sky" section in Tianyi Lane is narrow, and people on the heavier side have to turn sideways. My dad laughed the whole way through it. ⚠️ The cable car queue is long during the National Day holiday, so either catch the first one or go after 3:00 PM. Stay in Xinning County, a 20-minute drive from the scenic area entrance. The hotels are newer and half the price of those inside the scenic area. It's suitable for seniors who can walk okay but don't want to climb mountains. 4️⃣ Lanzhou | Gansu There's always a crowd around the Bronze Galloping Horse at the Provincial Museum. Take your parents early—get in at 9:00 AM and head straight to the second floor. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays. It's open as usual during the National Day holiday, but you need to book 3 days in advance. Grab tickets as soon as they're released on the official WeChat account. Take the Yellow River cable car at Baita Mountain Park to cross the river. Parents can see the Yellow River waterwheels from the cable car, which is less tiring than walking. 📍 After coming down the mountain, head to Dazhong Lane for a bowl of gray bean soup and a bowl of sweet fermented oats to refresh yourselves. 🍜 Get there early for beef noodles; the broth is clearest at 7:00 AM. The Mogouyan old-brand shop is crowded, so have your parents find a seat while you get the noodles. Be clear about whether you want wide or thin noodles, or the chef will be too fast for you to react. Stay near Xiguan Cross, where subway and bus access is convenient, and you can stroll to Zhongshan Bridge at night to see the night view. The temperature difference between morning and night in Lanzhou is large during the National Day holiday, so bring a light down jacket. 5️⃣ Zhongwei | Ningxia The "Hell Palace" at Gaomiao Temple is very realistic. My mom walked through it and said she'd have nightmares, but the wood carvings and paintings of the building itself are worth seeing. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's less crowded; the light hitting the eaves looks great. Shapotou is divided into the Yellow River area and the Desert area. With parents, stick to the Yellow River area—float down on a sheepskin raft and take a speedboat back. It's not too sunny and not tiring. 📍 The Wangwei Observation Deck is great for photographing the Yellow River's big bend. The light is best after 5:00 PM during the National Day holiday. ⚠️ Camel riding and sand surfing in the desert area have queues of at least an hour. If your parents have back problems, don't force it. Bottled water is 5 yuan in the scenic area, so carry two bottles in yourself. Stay near the Drum Tower in downtown Zhongwei. Go to Xiangyang Street at night for wormwood noodles and stir-fried noodles, costing about 30 yuan per person. It's suitable for parents who want to see the Yellow River without the hassle of the desert. 6️⃣ Xianning | Hubei The replica ancient warships at the Chibi Ancient Battlefield are docked by the river. My dad walked around them and said, "These ships are smaller than I thought." 📍 The cliffside carvings are genuine historical sites. The writing is faded, but you can feel the etchings. Take your time showing them to your parents. ⏰ The river breeze picks up after 4:00 PM. Sit on the stone bench in front of Fengchu Nunnery to rest and watch the cargo ships pass by slowly. 🍜 The Chibi fish cake and lotus root tips at the entrance are prepared in the local style. The fish cake is steamed to a bouncy texture, and the lotus root tips are sour, spicy, and appetizing. ⚠️ The electric cart in the scenic area is 20 yuan one way, but it's only a 20-minute walk, so you don't need to take it if you're not in a rush. It's not crowded during the National Day holiday, making it quieter than popular ancient towns. Stay in downtown Chibi; it's a 15-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. It's suitable for seniors who like Three Kingdoms stories but can't walk long distances, as the whole route is flat. 7️⃣ Lishui | Zhejiang The Jiuqu Yunhuan observation deck at Yunhe Rice Terraces has an escalator, so parents can see the panoramic view without climbing stairs. ⏰ The rice is just turning yellow during the National Day holiday. Arrive at 6:30 AM, and the mist rising from the valley floor looks like a pot of spilled milk. At the foot of Dinghu Peak in Jinyun Xiandu, an old man leading an ox across a stone bridge is a classic scene, but the ox is staged—it costs 20 yuan for a photo. 📍 The Zhutanshan riverside trail is flat, perfect for parents to walk slowly while accompanied by the sound of water. You need to take a ferry to enter Qingtian Shimen Cave. It's cool inside, but there are many steps. My mom walked halfway and rested in a pavilion while waiting for us. ⚠️ The three spots are scattered, so driving is most convenient; transferring by bus is too much of a hassle. Stay in downtown Lishui or Jinyun County and have a meal of mountain starch dumplings and pounded meat soup for about 25 yuan per person. It's suitable for families with plenty of time who like landscapes but don't want to climb mountains. 8️⃣ Linfen | Shanxi In the Hongdong Dahuaishu Ancestor Root-Seeking Garden, my dad spent a long time studying the genealogy wall in front of the replica big locust tree. 📍 You can look up surname tablets in the Ancestor Worship Hall for free. Parents of that generation really appreciate this. The water at the Yellow River Hukou Waterfall is high during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM. You can go down to the bottom of the waterfall via Dragon Cave, but the steps are steep, so seniors should assess their own ability. ⚠️ There's a lot of mist, so wipe your phone lens dry before taking photos, or they'll be full of spots. You need to wear a cotton coat to enter the Yunqiu Mountain Ice Cave group; it's -5°C inside. My parents wrapped themselves in the coats and laughed, saying it felt like being in a refrigerator. 🍜 Eat the heluo noodles and fried cakes at the foot of the mountain while they're hot. The fried cakes are made of yellow rice flour and are sweet and sticky. Stay in downtown Linfen and arrange one day each for Hukou and Yunqiu Mountain—don't rush. Traffic jams at Hukou are common during the National Day holiday, so leaving at 6:00 AM is the safest bet. It's suitable for parents who have a longing for their hometown; if they can't walk much, just walk less and enjoy the view while sitting. Of these eight places, I most recommend Golog and Linfen—one for the water, one for root-seeking. My parents talked about them for half a year after we got back. Where are you planning to take your parents for the National Day holiday? Let me know in the comments.

Don't want to deal with National Day crowds? 8️⃣ budget-friendly small cities that are actually worth it 01 Xianning | Hubei I recommend getting to the Chibi Ancient Battlefield early. ⏰ Arrive right when it opens at 8:30 AM to avoid the large tour groups. Buy your admission ticket in advance via the official account, as the lines on-site are enough to make you cry. 📍 Once inside, head straight toward Fengchu Nunnery and don't waste time on the imitation ancient street at the entrance. The items sold on that street are the same as everywhere else, you know how it is. After exploring the battlefield, drive 20 minutes to Yangloudong Ancient Town. The bluestone roads are worn smooth and shiny, with old tea shops on both sides. 🍜 Find a shop with "Chuan" brick tea, where you can drink tea all afternoon for CNY 10. ⚠️ There is a dedicated tourist bus from Chibi city to the battlefield, but it runs infrequently. Driving yourself is most convenient; parking costs CNY 10. Don't trust the people on the side of the road offering "free entry," as they'll just end up making you buy incense. 02 Baoshan | Yunnan Tengchong is just right for a National Day trip. The Volcano Geothermal Area and Beihai Wetland are not far apart, but trying to cram them into 1 day will exhaust you. I suggest splitting it into 2 days. ⏰ Go to Yunfeng Mountain at 7:00 AM to avoid lines for the cable car. The mist hasn't cleared at the summit yet, making it feel like you're walking on clouds. If you're afraid of heights, don't look down, as your legs will really go weak. Enter Heshun Ancient Town after 4:00 PM. The tour groups have left, and only locals walking their dogs are left in the alleys. 📍 Walk along the laundry pavilions by the Xianhe River to capture the quietest reflections of the ancient town. 🍜 The pea starch noodles with fried dough sticks in the ancient town cost CNY 6 per set, half the price of those on the main street. Choose a sunny day for Beihai Wetland. ⚠️ If you go on a cloudy day, it's just a patch of gray water grass, don't ask me how I know. Just take a look at the Big Boiling Pot in the Volcano Geothermal Area from a distance, as waiting 40 minutes to boil an egg isn't worth it. 03 Chengde | Hebei I've been to the Chengde Mountain Resort 3 times, and each time I've encountered new pitfalls. First, the main point: the resort is huge, so don't think you can finish it in 1 day. ⏰ Enter from Lizheng Gate at 7:00 AM and take the mountain loop bus to Er'madao first. That section of the city wall offers a bird's-eye view of the Little Potala Palace and is the most worthwhile photo spot in the entire resort. The ticket is CNY 40—don't skimp on it. Save the Jinshanling Great Wall for the second day. 📍 It takes 1.5 hours to get there from downtown Chengde; carpooling is recommended. After 3:00 PM, the light hits the city bricks, and there are far fewer people than at Badaling. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 5:00 PM; if you miss it, you'll have to walk down the mountain in the dark. As for food, 🍜 try the Laosan Lamb Soup outside the resort—the kind where locals line up. It's CNY 20 a bowl, served with a sesame flatbread. Don't eat inside the scenic area, as it's expensive and tastes bad. 04 Kashgar | Xinjiang Kashgar Ancient City doesn't require an admission ticket, but you should save enough room in your stomach. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and walk along Areya Road; the blacksmith and copperware shops will be clanging all the way. ⏰ Go to the Century-Old Tea House at 7:00 PM. Order a pot of brick tea and listen to Uyghur grandpas play the rawap. You'll need to snag a seat by the window on the second floor to watch the kids running home from school below. The Pamir Plateau and the Stone City are in Taxkorgan County, which requires a border permit. ⚠️ There are many people applying for permits during the National Day holiday, so get it done in advance in downtown Kashgar. The light is best at the Stone City ruins in the afternoon, but it's windy, so bring a thick jacket. 🍜 The baked buns in the ancient city are CNY 3 each and piping hot right out of the oven. Don't buy pre-cut cantaloupe on the side of the road, as there are many tricks with the weighing. 05 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan is an underrated provincial capital. You can combine Jinci Temple and Tianlong Mountain into 1 day, but the order matters. ⏰ Go to Tianlong Mountain in the morning. The grottoes are on the mountain, the air is good, and it takes 40 minutes to hike up. Many people take photos on the viral bridge, but the real highlights are the Buddha statues in the grottoes—the ones that were stolen and then recovered. Go to Jinci Temple in the afternoon. 📍 The Song Dynasty maid statues in the Hall of the Holy Mother all have different expressions. Don't hire unlicensed guides; rent an audio guide for CNY 20, as it explains things clearly. Go to Jinyang Lake Park in the evening. It's where locals go for a stroll; rent a bike and ride around the lake. ⚠️ The park is huge; if you walk, your feet will be ruined. 🍜 Go to Food Street in the evening and look for "Hao Ganggang Lamb Offal Soup," which locals have been eating since they were kids. 06 Zibo | Shandong Zibo is more than just barbecue. Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City is the underrated one. 📍 Enter from the North Gate, take a photo under the main street archway, and then duck into the alleys. Zhoucun sesame seed cakes are made and sold on the spot, CNY 10 a bag, and crispier than the ones in the supermarket. 🍜 Boiled pot and tofu boxes are local specialties; find a shop with the entrance full of old men. ⏰ Go around 3:00–4:00 PM; the tour groups have left, and the lanterns on the shops have just lit up. ⚠️ The ancient commercial city isn't big; you can finish exploring in 2 hours. Don't buy those "antiques"—they're all goods from Yiwu. Go back to Zhangdian in the evening for barbecue. The whole setup with small pancakes and green onions will fill 2 people up for CNY 80. Don't wait in line at viral shops; the ones downstairs in residential areas are better. 07 Baoting | Hainan Baoting is on the central line of Hainan, cooler than Sanya and quieter than Haikou. You can finish Binglanggu and Yanoda in 1 day, but you'll need the stamina for it. ⏰ Enter Binglanggu right when it opens at 8:30 AM. The Li ethnic grandmas' weaving skills are real, not a performance. 📍 Under the big banyan tree in the Intangible Cultural Heritage Village, you can hear the most authentic Li songs. ⚠️ Don't buy the silver jewelry in the scenic area; the prices are inflated. Go to Yanoda in the afternoon. It's humid in the rainforest, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 The coconut chicken at the entrance of the scenic area is cooked with local small coconuts, and the soup is sweet. It costs about CNY 150 for 2 people. It's suitable for bringing elderly people and children, and there are electric carts for the whole route. However, there are many people in the rainforest during the National Day holiday, and you'll have to queue for the glass skywalk. 08 Alxa | Inner Mongolia The Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest is just turning golden for the National Day holiday. But it's also really crowded. My advice: go in reverse. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 6:30 AM and take the shuttle bus to the innermost Badaoqiao first. Most people start from Yidaoqiao; if you go in reverse, you can capture reflections without people. Badain Jaran Desert is in Alxa Right Banner, not in the same direction as the Populus Euphratica Forest. ⚠️ The 2 places are 600 kilometers apart, so don't think about finishing them in 1 day. The desert off-road vehicles are worth riding, but if you get carsick, take medicine in advance. 📍 Erdaoqiao in the Populus Euphratica Forest is best for sunset photos. Bring enough water and dry food; there isn't much to eat inside. 🍜 Go back to town to eat camel meat pies—CNY 20 each, and they'll fill you up. It's crowded everywhere during the National Day holiday, but these 8 places will at least let you catch your breath. Pick 2 or 3 to string together; it's more comfortable than rushing around. Which one do you plan to visit first?

If cities had a scent, Xianning would surely smell of osmanthus. Named after the phrase "Wanguo Xianning" (Peace in all nations) from the I Ching, this city seems naturally endowed with a sense of calm and gentleness. Tucked away at the southern gateway of Hubei, bordering Wuhan to the north and Hunan to the south, it remains unassuming, quietly embracing the two most healing things in the world: warm springs and sweet fragrance. A trip to Xianning is a date with "fragrance." The fragrance of Xianning is the overwhelming, unapologetic scent of osmanthus in autumn. As the nationally renowned "Home of Osmanthus," the entire city is steeped in sweetness every golden autumn, with tiny golden blossoms scattered across every street and alley. There is no need to go looking for flowers; just take a stroll, and the fragrant breeze will cling to your clothes, making you want to brew this sweetness into cakes or honey and savor it. A trip to Xianning is a search for the warmth of "springs." As the "Hot Spring Capital of China," Xianning's springs are a gift from nature. Whether it's the dense cluster of springs in Xian'an District or the pools hidden in the mountains, as the warm current washes over your skin, the fatigue of travel and the tension of daily life instantly melt away. In this "City of Fragrance and Springs," there is nothing that a soak in a hot spring cannot solve. If there is, just have a bowl of Heshengqiao chicken soup. A trip to Xianning is also a conversation with "history." This place has not only gentleness but also strength. Standing by the river at the Red Cliffs Ancient Battlefield, watching the waves crash against the shore, you can almost smell the embers of the fires from a thousand years ago and feel the grandeur of "the landscape is like a painting, how many heroes there were in that era." And on the Ming and Qing dynasty stone streets of Yangloudong, the ruts worn by cartwheels hide not only the aroma of tea but also the prosperous dreams of the starting point of the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Xianning's cuisine also carries this character of blending north and south, both firm and gentle. The wild lotus root hot pot in Jiayu is starchy and stringy, the fish cake in Chibi is fresh and bouncy, the baotuo in Tongshan is soft and savory, and then there is the essential stir-fried cured meat with Chongyang bamboo shoots. In these flavors, you can taste the solidity of the mountains and the liveliness of the water. As the widely circulated couplet says: "Where my heart finds peace is Xianning." There is no rush or noise of a big city here. Instead, there is the fantasy of Yinshui Cave, the coolness of Jiugong Mountain, and the steaming, down-to-earth atmosphere found in every street and alley. If you are tired of drifting, why not take a trip to Xianning? Walk through the osmanthus rain, soak in a hot spring, drink a bowl of chicken soup, and listen to a story from the Three Kingdoms. Wanguo Xianning—may you find peace of body and mind here.

This Mid-Autumn Festival, I plan to do the opposite. Hotels in popular cities are three times more expensive, high-speed rail tickets are hard to come by, and at tourist attractions you can only see the backs of people's heads. Instead, I'll choose a few less-visited small towns and explore at my own pace. Here are 8 places that are less crowded, have delicious food, and are affordable. 01 Hangzhou | Zhejiang West Lake is beautiful, but you won't be able to squeeze onto the Broken Bridge during Mid-Autumn Festival. My advice is to get up early, ⏰ arrive at Su Causeway before 6:30 am, when the morning mist hasn't dissipated and the lake is so quiet it feels like you have the place to yourself. After 9 am, when the crowds surge in, leave immediately. Xixi National Wetland Park is a hidden gem in Hangzhou. Take a rowboat through the reeds, and the boatman will point out egrets. 📍 Enter from the Zhoujiacun entrance; there are half the number of people compared to the Longxiang Bridge entrance. In autumn, the reeds are just turning white, so you don't have to fight for a good spot to take photos. The China Umbrella Museum is west of Gongchen Bridge. It's free, but closed on Mondays, so don't waste your time. Inside, you can see how to open an oil-paper umbrella; kids will love it. After strolling around, take a walk along Xiaohe Straight Street and grab a bowl of Pian'erchuan noodles. Prince Bay Park is a sea of ​​tulips in spring, but quieter in autumn. Picnic mats on the lawn make it perfect for families with elderly members. ⚠️ Traffic restrictions apply around West Lake during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Taking the subway to Longxiang Bridge and then walking is the safest option. 02 Beijing For the Forbidden City, tickets for the Mid-Autumn Festival need to be booked seven days in advance; don't force yourself if you can't get them. The Summer Palace is more relaxed. Enter from the North Gate, climb Longevity Hill, and Kunming Lake will unfold below. ⏰ After 4 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely, making the outline of the Tower of Buddhist Incense particularly clear. The Temple of Heaven Park is a local hotspot in the morning. Grandpas play with diabolo, and grandmas dance with fans. Enter from the South Gate, walk across the Danbi Bridge, and the Echo Wall area is less crowded. 🍜 Afterwards, go to Ciqikou for douzhi (fermented mung bean juice). If it's your first time, sip slowly. Beihai Park is best visited in the evening. Rent a boat and row to the foot of the White Pagoda to watch the sunset paint the lake orange. 📍 Enter from the East Gate; it's closest. Don't go around from the South Gate. If there's a moon on Mid-Autumn Festival night, the White Pagoda against the full moon is more worthwhile than any other spot. ⚠️ Beijing experiences significant temperature differences between day and night during Mid-Autumn Festival; bring a light jacket. Take Metro Line 8 directly to the Temple of Heaven; don't take a taxi, the traffic will be unbearable. 03 Dehong|Yunnan The Meng Huan Golden Pagoda is in Mangshi, a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport. ⏰ The best time to go is around 6 PM, when the pagoda is bathed in the glow of the sunset, offering a panoramic view of the entire Mangshi Basin. Tickets are inexpensive; check the official announcement for details on the day. It's not as commercialized as Xishuangbanna. The area around the pagoda is quiet, and the sound of the prayer wheels is very soft. 📍 The steps in front of the pagoda are a great spot for panoramic photos; wearing light-colored clothing will enhance the shot. 🍜 Head down to Mangshi Night Market and try the local specialties: Sa Pie (撒撇), Pao Lu Da (泡鲁达), and roasted pork skin. Sa Pie might be a bit unusual for first-timers, as it's quite bitter, but has a sweet aftertaste. ⚠️ Dehong has strong UV rays, so don't skimp on hats and sunglasses. Suitable for those who want to escape the cold and experience exotic locales. It's still warm here during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so short sleeves are fine. It's not crowded enough to allow you to leisurely stroll around the pagoda without queuing. 04 Yancheng|Jiangsu Dafeng China Milu Deer Park – the name sounds off the charts, but it's surprisingly good. It's an hour and a half drive from Yancheng city. 🚄 Taking the high-speed train to Yancheng Station and then renting a car is the most convenient option. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM. The deer herds graze near the wetlands, very close to the boardwalk. Around midday, they retreat into the woods, so you'll only be able to see the grass. The park has electric carts, recommended for families with elderly members or children. 📍 The deer viewing platform is the best spot for photos; a telephoto lens can capture the antlers. The reeds turn yellow in autumn, creating a golden backdrop. ⚠️ Don't feed the deer; they look docile, but they can be aggressive and headbutt. 🍜 Back in the city, have Yancheng egg pancakes with pork tenderloin and crispy crackers—ten yuan is all you can eat. It's not crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival, making it suitable for families; kids can spend the whole morning watching the deer. 05 Zhanjiang|Guangdong Huguangyan is a crater lake with crystal-clear, almost greenish water. It's accessible by bus from Zhanjiang city center, or by high-speed rail to Zhanjiang West Station followed by a taxi (about 40 minutes). ⏰ Enter the park at 8 am and walk around the lake for two hours—it's cool. 📍 The best view of the lake is from the viewing platform next to Lengyan Temple; the water is as smooth as a mirror. Bougainvillea is still blooming along the lake in autumn, a beautiful contrast of red and green—no filter needed for photos. 🍜 After leaving the park, head to Chikan Old Street for seafood porridge and steamed rice cakes. Zhanjiang oysters are at their fattest during Mid-Autumn Festival, and the roadside stalls offer better value than restaurants in tourist areas. ⚠️ There are few restaurants inside Huguangyan Scenic Area; bring your own water. Suitable for those who want to see the water but don't want to go swimming. Zhanjiang is still hot during Mid-Autumn Festival, but there's a breeze by the lake. Not crowded, a pleasant walk around the lake. 06 Xianning|Hubei The ancient battlefield of Chibi is on the banks of the Yangtze River, about an hour's drive from Xianning city. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Chibi North Station, then a taxi, about half an hour away. ⏰ Go after 3 PM; the river breeze will be blowing, and it won't be sunny. 📍 The cliff carvings offer views of the Yangtze River; the stones have inscriptions and feel rough to the touch. The scenic area isn't large; you can see everything in two hours. ⚠️ Some performances inside require an additional fee; skip them if you don't want to see them. 🍜 Back in Xianning city, have Heshengqiao chicken soup; the soup is rich and the meat is tender, served with rice. The osmanthus flowers are in bloom here for Mid-Autumn Festival, filling the city with their sweet fragrance. Perfect for a leisurely stroll with parents. Less crowds, quiet riverside. Standing before the stone carvings, you can imagine the boats that once sailed the river. No need to squeeze in, take your time to enjoy the sights. 07 Jinzhou|Liaoning Yiwulü Mountain is located in Beizhen, Jinzhou, about a two-hour drive from the city center. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jinzhou South Station and then transfer to a bus. ⏰ Mid-October is the best time to visit for autumn foliage. Going during Mid-Autumn Festival is a bit early, but less crowded. 📍 Guanyin Pavilion is an old building at the foot of the main peak. Climbing it offers panoramic views of the valley. The stone steps are steep, so wear non-slip shoes. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring enough water. 🍜 Enjoy Jinzhou barbecue on the way down. The small skewers with garlic chili sauce are unique. The Goubangzi smoked chicken is also worth taking home. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, with significant elevation gain throughout. Lushan Mountain isn't fully red yet during Mid-Autumn Festival, but it's a tranquil green tinged with yellow. When you get tired, sit on a rock and listen to the wind rustling through the pine forest. 08 Beihai | Guangxi Weizhou Island Mid-Autumn Festival ferry tickets must be booked in advance; ⚠️ buying them on the day is basically impossible. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Beihai Station, then take a taxi to the International Passenger Port. Renting an electric scooter on the island is the most convenient option, costing only a few tens of yuan per day. 📍 Crocodile Mountain Crater is the core attraction; walk along the cliff face, watching the waves crash against the rocks. ⏰ Go to Dripstone Peak at 5 PM to watch the sunset; the sun dips into the sea, changing colors from orange to purple. Beihai Silver Beach has fine sand, but it's less crowded during Mid-Autumn Festival than during the summer holidays. Go at 7 AM, and there are only footprints on the beach. 🍜 Eat crab rice noodles and sweet soup in Qiaogang Town; the Vietnamese rice rolls are also authentic. Suitable for couples and families with children. Stay overnight on the island and go beachcombing the next day. ⚠️ Weizhou Island ferry schedules are affected by weather, so please allow for flexibility. Of these 8 places, I most want to revisit Dehong and Yancheng. One to see the Golden Pagoda, the other to see the Père David's deer. Avoid the crowds this Mid-Autumn Festival; choose a less crowded, smaller city and enjoy a leisurely trip. Which ones have you been to? Share your thoughts in the comments. This Mid-Autumn Festival, I plan to go in the opposite direction. Hotels in popular cities are three times more expensive, high-speed rail tickets are hard to come by, and you can only see the backs of people at tourist attractions. Instead, choose a few less-visited smaller cities and explore at your own pace. Here are 8 places that are less crowded, have delicious food, and are affordable. 01 Hangzhou|Zhejiang West Lake is beautiful, but you won't be able to squeeze onto the Broken Bridge during Mid-Autumn Festival. My suggestion is to get up early, ⏰ arrive at Su Causeway before 6:30 am, when the morning mist hasn't dissipated and the lake is as quiet as if you have the place to yourself. After 9 am, when tourists flood in, leave immediately. Xixi National Wetland Park is a hidden gem in Hangzhou. Take a traditional rowboat through the reed marshes, and the boatman will point out egrets. 📍 Enter from Zhoujiacun entrance; it's half the crowd compared to the Longxiang Bridge entrance. In autumn, the reeds are just turning white, so you don't have to fight for a good spot for photos. The China Umbrella Museum is west of Gongchen Bridge. It's free, but closed on Mondays, so don't waste your time. Inside, you can see how to open an oil-paper umbrella, which kids will love. After visiting, stroll along Xiaohezhijie Street and grab a bowl of Pian'erchuan noodles. Prince Bay Park is a sea of ​​tulips in spring, but becomes quieter in autumn. It's perfect for picnics on the lawn, ideal for families with elderly members. ⚠️ Traffic restrictions apply around West Lake during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Taking the subway to Longxiang Bridge and then walking is the safest option. 02 Beijing Tickets for the Forbidden City during the Mid-Autumn Festival need to be booked seven days in advance; don't force yourself if you can't get them. The Summer Palace is more relaxing. Enter from the North Gate, climb Longevity Hill, and Kunming Lake will unfold below. ⏰ After 4 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely, making the outline of the Fragrant Buddha Pavilion particularly clear. The Temple of Heaven Park is a local hotspot in the morning. Elderly men play with diabolo, and aunties dance with fans. Enter from the South Gate, walk across the Danbi Bridge; the Echo Wall area is less crowded. 🍜 Afterwards, go to Ciqikou for douzhi (fermented mung bean juice); if it's your first time, I suggest sipping slowly. Beihai Park is best in the evening. Rent a boat and row to the White Pagoda to watch the sunset paint the lake orange. 📍 Enter from the East Gate; it's the shortest route. Don't go around from the South Gate. If there's a moon on Mid-Autumn Festival night, the White Pagoda against the full moon is more worthwhile than any other vantage point. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in Beijing is significant during Mid-Autumn Festival; bring a light jacket. Subway Line 8 goes directly to the Temple of Heaven; don't take a taxi, the traffic will be unbearable. 03 Dehong|Yunnan The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda is in Mangshi, a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport. ⏰ The best time to visit is around 6 PM, when the Golden Pagoda shines brightly in the setting sun, offering a panoramic view of the entire Mangshi Basin. Tickets are inexpensive, but the exact price depends on the official announcement on the day. It's not as commercialized as Xishuangbanna. The area around the pagoda is quiet, and the sound of prayer wheels is very soft. 📍 The steps in front of the pagoda are a great spot for panoramic photos; wearing light-colored clothing will result in better shots. 🍜 Head down to the Mangshi Night Market and try the local specialties: Sa Pie, Pao Lu Da, and roasted pork skin. Sa Pie might be a bit unusual for first-timers, as it's quite bitter, but has a sweet aftertaste. ⚠️ Dehong has strong UV rays, so don't forget your hat and sunglasses. Suitable for those who want to escape the cold and experience exotic locales. It's still warm here during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so just bring short sleeves. There are so few people that you can leisurely stroll around the pagoda without queuing. 04 Yancheng|Jiangsu Dafeng China Milu Deer Park – the name sounds obscure, but it's surprisingly delicious. It's a 1.5-hour drive from Yancheng city center. 🚄 Taking the high-speed train to Yancheng Station and then renting a car is the most convenient. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM. The Père David's deer will be grazing near the wetlands, very close to the boardwalk. Around midday, they'll retreat into the woods, leaving you only to see the grass. Electric carts are available in the park; recommended for families with elderly members or children. 📍 The deer viewing platform is the best spot for photos; a telephoto lens can capture the antlers. In autumn, the reeds turn yellow, creating a golden backdrop. ⚠️ Do not feed the deer. While they appear docile, they can be aggressive and may butt you. 🍜 Back in the city, try Yancheng egg pancakes with pork tenderloin and crispy crackers; ten yuan is all you can eat. The area isn't crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival, making it suitable for families. Children can easily spend the whole morning watching the deer. 05 Zhanjiang|Guangdong Huguangyan is a crater lake with crystal-clear, almost greenish water. It's accessible by bus from Zhanjiang city center, or about a 40-minute taxi ride from Zhanjiang West Station by high-speed train. ⏰ Enter the park at 8 AM. A two-hour walk around the lake is refreshingly cool. 📍 The best view of the lake is from the viewing platform next to Lengyan Temple; the water is as smooth as a mirror. Bougainvillea is still blooming along the lake in autumn, a beautiful contrast of red and green—perfect for photos without filters. 🍜 After leaving the park, head to Chikan Old Street for seafood porridge and steamed rice cakes. Zhanjiang oysters are at their fattest during Mid-Autumn Festival, and the roadside stalls offer better value than the restaurants in the scenic area. ⚠️ There are few restaurants inside Huguangyan Scenic Area; bring your own water. Suitable for those who want to see water but don't want to go swimming. Zhanjiang is still hot during Mid-Autumn Festival, but there's a breeze by the lake. Not crowded, a pleasant walk around the lake. 06 Xianning|Hubei The ancient battlefield of Chibi is on the banks of the Yangtze River, about an hour's drive from Xianning city center. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Chibi North Station, then a taxi—about half an hour's ride. ⏰ Go after 3 PM; the river breeze will be refreshing, and it won't be too sunny. 📍 You can see the Yangtze River from the cliff carvings. The stones have inscriptions and feel rough to the touch. The scenic area isn't large; you can see everything in about two hours. ⚠️ Some performances inside require an additional fee; skip them if you don't want to see them. 🍜 Back in Xianning city, have Heshengqiao chicken soup—the broth is rich and the meat is tender, served with rice. The osmanthus flowers are in bloom here during Mid-Autumn Festival, filling the city with their sweet fragrance. It's a good place to bring your parents; you can stroll around at your own pace without getting tired. Few people, quiet riverside. Standing in front of the stone carvings, you can imagine the boats on the river in the past. No need to squeeze in; take your time to look around. 07 Jinzhou|Liaoning Yiwulü Mountain is located in Beizhen, Jinzhou, about a two-hour drive from the city center. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jinzhou South Station and then transfer to a bus. ⏰ The autumn leaves are best in early to mid-October. Going during Mid-Autumn Festival is a little early, but there will be fewer people. 📍 Guanyin Pavilion is an old building at the foot of the main peak. Climbing it offers a panoramic view of the entire valley. The stone steps are steep, so wear non-slip shoes. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring enough water. 🍜 On the way down, try Jinzhou barbecue. The small skewers with garlic chili sauce are unique. Goubangzi smoked chicken is also worth taking home. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, the entire route involves significant ascent. Lushan Mountain isn't fully red yet during Mid-Autumn Festival, but it's green with hints of yellow, and very peaceful. When you're tired, sit on a rock and listen to the wind rustling through the pine forest. 08 Beihai|Guangxi Weizhou Island Mid-Autumn Festival ferry tickets must be booked in advance. ⚠️ Buying them on the day is basically impossible. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Beihai Station, then take a taxi to the international passenger port. Renting an electric scooter on the island is the most convenient option, costing only a few tens of yuan per day. 📍 Crocodile Mountain Crater is the core attraction. The boardwalk follows the cliff face, with waves crashing against the rocks. ⏰ Watch the sunset at Dripstone Peak at 5 PM. The sun dips into the sea, its color shifting from orange to purple. Beihai Silver Beach has fine sand, but it's less crowded than during the Mid-Autumn Festival compared to summer vacation. Go at 7 AM; there are only footprints on the beach. 🍜 Eat crab rice noodles and sweet soup in Qiaogang Town; the Vietnamese rice rolls are also authentic. Suitable for couples and families with children. Stay overnight on the island and go beachcombing the next day. ⚠️ Weizhou Island ferry schedules are affected by weather; allow for flexibility. Of these 8 places, I most want to revisit Dehong and Yancheng. One to see the Golden Pagoda, the other to see the Père David's deer. Avoid the crowds during Mid-Autumn Festival; choose a small, less crowded town and enjoy a leisurely holiday. Which ones have you visited? Let's chat in the comments.

Heading out for National Day? These 6 spots have perfect autumn colors and fewer crowds 01 Wenzhou | Zhejiang For the National Day holiday, I rank Wenzhou as my top choice to avoid the crowds. Yandang Mountain Scenic Area is best visited before 7 AM. ⏰ At that time, Lingfeng Peak is still wrapped in thin mist, and before the tour buses arrive, you can hear your own footsteps. 📍 The Lingyan Feidu performance is held daily at 10 AM and 3 PM. Don't arrive right on time; get there 20 minutes early to grab a front-row seat. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, head to a food stall in Xianglingtou Village for a bowl of stir-fried rice noodles with stream fish. It’s a solid meal for about 40 yuan per person. Liu Bowen's Hometown is in Wencheng County, about a 2-hour drive from Yandang Mountain. I recommend saving this for the second day. ⏰ The afternoon light slanting into the temple makes the wood carving details look better than at noon. ⚠️ The scenic area stops entry at 5 PM, so don't wait until 4:30 PM to arrive at the gate. If traveling with seniors, visiting just Lingfeng and Lingyan in Yandang Mountain is enough. The boardwalk section at Fangdong has steep stairs, so skip it if you have bad knees. 02 Xianning | Hubei The Red Cliff Ancient Battlefield is the spot on this trip that is most dependent on the weather. ⏰ It's best to go after the rain. The river is misty, and the water vapor makes the characters on the cliff inscriptions stand out clearly. 📍 A taxi from Chibi North Station to the scenic area costs about 30 yuan. Don't take private cars soliciting passengers outside the station; they will take a longer route and overcharge you. ⚠️ I don't recommend the ancient warship experience in the scenic area. It costs 80 yuan per person, and you just go around a small pond. What’s truly worth your time is the trail from Fengchu Nunnery to Baifeng Terrace. It’s a slow 40-minute walk with ancient trees providing shade on both sides, so it’s not too sunny in the autumn. 🍜 For lunch, have fish cake and lotus root soup in Chibi Town outside the scenic area. Local eateries are half the price of those inside. This spot is great for kids as there are few stairs, and strollers can be used on most of the path. If you go in mid-to-late October, the river breeze is cool, so bring a light jacket. 03 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area had fewer people than I expected during the National Day holiday, which surprised me. 🚄 A taxi from Pingliang Station to the entrance of Kongtong Ancient Town costs about 25 yuan, then you can transfer to the scenic area shuttle. ⏰ I recommend taking the first cable car up the mountain at 8 AM; if you go later, you could wait 40 minutes in line. 📍 The autumn colors around Huangcheng are perfect in mid-October, with smoke trees and maples mixed with pines and cypresses, creating layered colors. Difficulty level: It takes about an hour to hike from Zhongtai to Huangcheng. If you have average fitness, just take the cable car round trip. ⚠️ Food options on the mountain are limited and expensive, so bring your own water and snacks. The lamb paomo in Kongtong Ancient Town at the foot of the mountain is worth trying; 🍜 20 yuan a bowl, with rich broth and tender meat. This is suitable for hiking enthusiasts. For regular tourists, the route of Zhongtai – Huangcheng – Leisheng Peak is enough for half a day. 04 Xiangxi | Hunan For Fenghuang Ancient Town, my advice is to stay for one night but not in the first row along the river. ⚠️ The bar street is still singing at 2 AM. If you are a light sleeper, choose a hillside inn; it’s quieter and cheaper. ⏰ The Tuojiang River at 6:30 AM is most like a painting. Mist rises from the water, and there’s no one fighting for a spot on the jumping stones. 📍 It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Fenghuang to Dehang Grand Canyon. The Aizhai Bridge viewing deck is on the way, and parking costs 10 yuan. The Liusha Waterfall in Dehang Grand Canyon still has decent water volume in October, and the full walk on the boardwalk takes about 2 hours. Shidong Village is best visited in the afternoon. The village is small and can be explored in 40 minutes, mainly to see the Miao architecture and terraced fields. 🍜 The sour soup fish in Aizhai Town is more authentic than inside Fenghuang Ancient Town, and it costs about 50 yuan per person. If traveling with seniors, note that the stone roads in Fenghuang Ancient Town are difficult for luggage; ask the inn in advance if they can pick you up. 05 Hengshui | Hebei Hengshui Lake is perfect for a National Day trip, just in time for the start of the migratory birds' journey south. ⏰ 6 AM to 7:30 AM is the golden time for birdwatching. 📍 The birdwatching platform next to Zhonghu Avenue has fewer people and a great view. 🚄 A taxi from Hengshui North Station costs about 20 yuan. ⚠️ I advise you to skip the boat tour. It costs 120 yuan per person for a 40-minute ride on the lake, which isn't as clear as walking along the shore. The cycling path around the lake is smooth. Rent a bicycle for 30 yuan a day, and you can ride around most of the lake in 3 hours. 🍜 The braised mixed fish in an iron pot at the lakeside fishing village is worth trying; dip the corn cakes in the broth. It costs about 60 yuan per person. This is suitable for families; bring binoculars and bread, and kids can spend the whole morning feeding the birds. In late October, the reeds turn yellow, which looks better in photos than in summer. Ticket prices and opening requirements are subject to official daily announcements. 06 Dongying | Shandong Yellow River Delta Eco-Tourism Zone: the alkali grass is perfectly red in October, which was an unexpected highlight of my trip. 📍 It takes about an hour to drive from Dongying city. I recommend driving yourself as bus schedules are infrequent. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light hits the wetlands, and the colors are most saturated. ⚠️ There is only a small kiosk inside the scenic area with instant noodles for 15 yuan, so bring enough water and food. The core attractions are the estuary and Bird Island, connected by the scenic area sightseeing bus, taking about 3 hours in total. 🍜 Back in the city, go to Yunhe Road to eat Yellow River Delta hairy crabs. October is when they are at their fattest. They are sold by the piece, so ask the price before ordering. This is suitable for photography enthusiasts; bring a telephoto lens to shoot birds. It’s windy, so have a hat and scarf ready. The last sightseeing bus is at 5:30 PM, so don't miss it. 07 Fuzhou | Fujian Three Lanes and Seven Alleys: the main street is crowded during the National Day holiday, but it gets quiet once you turn into the alleys. 📍 Enter from the Nanhou Street entrance and turn right at Yijinfang; that area with white walls and black tiles has few tourists. ⏰ After 5 PM, the lanterns light up, which makes for better photos than during the day. ⚠️ The internet-famous milk tea shop on the main street has a 40-minute queue, which isn't worth it. The jasmine tea in the alleys is 10 yuan a cup and more authentic. 🍜 Tongli Meat Swallow and Yonghe Fish Balls are both on Nanhou Street, right next to each other. Order a small portion of each to taste; you can get full for about 30 yuan per person. This is suitable for traveling with parents; the roads are flat, and there are stone benches everywhere if you get tired. The former residences of Yan Fu and Lin Juemin require advance reservations; they are free but have limited capacity. It’s still hot in Fuzhou in October, so short sleeves and a light jacket are enough. You can plan for half a day to a full day. 08 Hezhou | Guangxi Gupo Mountain, Huangyao Ancient Town, and Dongtan Ridge: I suggest splitting these three Hezhou spots into two days. ⏰ Enter Gupo Mountain at 8 AM. The waterfall group still has plenty of water in October; the route to Xian Gu Waterfall takes about 2 hours. 📍 Enter Huangyao Ancient Town after 4 PM. The tour groups have left, and the stone roads become quiet. ⚠️ The so-called specialty shops in the ancient town have high markups. Buy fermented beans at the market outside the town; it’s 30% cheaper. Dongtan Ridge is best visited the next morning. You need luck to see the sea of clouds, but the probability is higher in late October. 🚄 There is a special bus from Hezhou Station to Huangyao Ancient Town, taking about 1 hour. 🍜 Don't miss the fermented bean rice noodles and stuffed tofu in Huangyao; breakfast stalls open at 6 AM. If traveling with children, note that there are many monkeys in Gupo Mountain, so don't hold plastic bags in your hands. Driving yourself is the most convenient way to visit these three spots; public transport transfers take too much time. Of these six places, choose the Yellow River Delta if you want the most intense autumn colors, Kongtong Mountain if you want peace and quiet, and Fuzhou if you want to balance sightseeing with food. When traveling during the National Day holiday, waking up early is always the most effective strategy to avoid crowds. Which one are you planning to visit? Let's chat in the comments.

Survival guide🚨 Let's be honest: don't be overconfident when visiting Xianning in September. Some people rush to Jiugong Mountain at noon, only to fall apart when the wind hits them on the mountain. Others wear leather shoes to Yinshui Cave, where the slippery ground nearly makes them do the splits, leaving them regretting it for days. Don't trust the "low-price direct buses" or "free tours" at scenic spot entrances; many are just traps to take you to shopping locations, which is a total nightmare. In hot spring areas, towels and lockers are charged separately, so bringing your own is easiest. Always ask for prices before ordering at farmhouses to avoid a shock when the bill comes. Popular spots like Chibi and Lushui Lake are most crowded on weekend mornings. It's safer to book tickets on Trip.com in advance; the on-site lines are long enough to make you wonder why you didn't book ahead. Essential clothing👕 In September, daytime temperatures in Xianning can reach around 30°C, while mornings and evenings are about 21°C. A sudden rain or gust of wind might make you want to wrap yourself in a blanket. Short sleeves and light long pants are fine for city shopping. Bring a windbreaker for Jiugong Mountain's Yunzhong Lake and Tonggubao, as it's much cooler at night than at the base—dressing too lightly is a mistake. Yinshui Cave is cool with wet ground; wear non-slip sneakers, not sandals, or you'll regret it instantly. Bring an umbrella, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. There's a lot of walking and photo-taking during the osmanthus season, so a hat is more practical than hairspray. Don't listen to anyone who says you can wear high heels on stone streets; on old streets like Yangloudong, your feet will give up after a few steps. Transport guide🚄 The most convenient way to arrive from other provinces is by high-speed rail to Xianning North or Xianning South. It's a short trip from Wuhan. Once you arrive, taxis to the hot spring area or Qianshan are convenient. City buses are cheap and sufficient for short trips. For Chibi, Tongshan, and Chongyang, consider renting a car; the attractions are scattered, and not driving will waste half a day. The bus from Xianning Bus Station to Tongshan is about CNY 15, and from Tongshan to Jiugong Mountain's Yunzhong Lake is about CNY 20, but schedules are limited. If you're in a hurry, book a round-trip transfer or charter a car on Trip.com; don't just wait around. If driving, avoid entering the city at noon on holidays. Parking in the old city is tight; it's smarter to park further away and ride a shared bike. Remember not to take illegal taxis soliciting on the roadside; the price is negotiable, and you won't win an argument with the driver. Authentic food🍲 Heshengqiao chicken soup is a must-try—free-range chicken stewed with sweet potato vermicelli over low heat, resulting in a golden broth. It typically costs CNY 50–80 per person; adding tofu skin and vermicelli makes it even better. Tongshan Baotuo (sweet potato dumplings with meat filling) are chewy and filling; two or three are enough for one person. Street shops average CNY 30–40 per person. Osmanthus cake and osmanthus sugar lotus root on Xian'an Old Street are most fragrant in autumn; osmanthus cake costs just a few yuan per piece. Chibi fish chunks and cured meat platters with rice are very appetizing; old shops in the ancient town average about CNY 40 per person. For something lighter, head to the shores of Lushui Lake for fresh lake food; small stir-fried dishes cost just over CNY 50 per person. Honestly, simple meals inside scenic spots are overpriced and mediocre; it's better to go two kilometers outside the scenic area to find small restaurants where locals are queuing—it's cheaper and much better. Must-visit attractions🏞️ Three Kingdoms Chibi Ancient Battlefield: adult CNY 108, couple CNY 130, concession CNY 60. The cliff carvings, Baifeng Terrace, and a walk by the river are full of Three Kingdoms atmosphere. Hiring a guide saves effort; wandering around blindly often leads to a superficial experience. Lushui Lake has beautiful scenery: luxury cruise plus island access is CNY 78–79 for adults, CNY 155 for couples; Flying Cinema is CNY 30. You can just walk by the lake if you don't want to take a boat, but since you're here, it's recommended to book boat tickets on Trip.com to avoid queuing. Yinshui Cave (including small train and cruise) is CNY 107; with stalactites and an underground river, it's more comfortable than air conditioning in September. The cave is slippery, so don't run. Jiugong Mountain Shilong Gorge plus round-trip cable car is CNY 145–155; Yunzhong Lake is free to visit. If you want to see the sunrise, stay on the mountain—don't try to do a round trip in one day, or the early morning travel will exhaust you. For hot springs, take your pick: Sanjiang Forest (CNY 78, child CNY 29, family CNY 107); Yitang (joint ticket CNY 159, couple CNY 289, child CNY 49); Country Garden (night session CNY 158, child CNY 68, private hot spring room CNY 498 per session); Chongyang Langkou (CNY 48, couple CNY 96). Don't soak for too long at once; drink some water and walk around on the shore—that's true relaxation. I don't recommend visiting three hot springs in a row; your skin will give up before your wallet does.

01 Shizuishan | Ningxia Surprisingly, even during the National Day holiday, you could still find a corner of Shahu Lake that wasn't overrun by tour groups. It's about an hour's drive from Yinchuan, or a 40-minute taxi ride from Shizuishan Station by high-speed rail. The lake is much larger than I imagined; a desert area is hidden within the reed beds, sand and water blending together visually, creating a striking contrast, but it's incredibly photogenic. ⏰ Entering the lake area after 4:30 PM is the best time. The light shines obliquely on the reeds, with the outline of the sand dunes in the background; photos taken directly from your phone are sufficient. If you want to photograph birds, go early, between 6:30 and 7:30 AM. Egrets and herons forage in the shallows; there are fewer people, and the only sounds are the wind and flapping wings. 📍 The bird island boardwalk on the north side of the scenic area is quieter than the main pier. A complete walk takes about 40 minutes, suitable for taking elderly people for a leisurely stroll. ⚠️ Don't buy the package tickets at the entrance. Buying boat tickets and entrance tickets separately offers more flexibility. The exact price is subject to the official announcement on the day. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, head to Dawukou District to find liangpi (cold skin noodles) and yangzasu (lamb offal soup). The small shops in the alleys of the old town are more affordable than those at the scenic area entrance. Choose Dawukou District for accommodation; it's convenient for visiting Shahu Lake or transferring buses the next day. 02 Bayingol | Xinjiang Bayinbuluke, Taklamakan, and Tarim Poplar Forest—these three places are all in the same prefecture, which sounds tiring. However, the period around National Day is the window of opportunity for the poplar forests to start changing color. If you miss this week, most of the leaves will have fallen. ⏰ The Nine Turns and Eighteen Bends of the Bayinbuluke Grassland have a sunset time two hours later than in inland areas. Leaving at 7 pm is just right for the viewpoint. The wind is strong enough to blow your hat away; a windproof jacket is more useful than an umbrella. ⚠️ The scenic area shuttle bus stops running early. Don't be greedy for photos; if you miss the last bus, you'll have to walk back. The Taklamakan Desert Highway is suitable for self-driving, but avoid driving alone; follow a convoy or stay on the main roads. 📍 The mini-train in the Tarim Poplar Forest Park is worth taking; it saves you energy and allows you to explore deep into the forest. The poplars are yellow-green in early October, turning pure gold from mid-October onwards. 🍜 In Korla city, roasted buns and stewed pork are half the price of those around the scenic area. Staying in Korla as a transit point is convenient for traveling in all three directions. Suitable for those who can endure hardship and don't mind long journeys; be cautious if traveling with children. 03 Yantai|Shandong Penglai Pavilion, Changdao Island, and Longkou Nanshan: This route was less crowded than Qingdao and cheaper than Weihai during the National Day holiday. Penglai Pavilion itself isn't large, but its location is advantageous; standing on the city wall, you can see the dividing line between the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Sea, and on a clear day, you can see the color difference. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 am to avoid the tour groups. 📍 The Houhai boardwalk is quieter than the main pavilion, offering good views of the rocks and waves. ⚠️ Penglai Pavilion and Ocean Polar World are two different things; don't buy the wrong tickets. Changdao Island requires a boat ride. Boat tickets are in high demand during the National Day holiday, so book through official channels one day in advance. Staying on the North Island is quieter than on the South Island. Fishermen's guesthouses provide three meals a day; seaweed buns and mackerel dumplings are standard. Longkou Nanshan is suitable for families with elderly members; the Buddha statue and gardens offer leisurely strolls. Choose accommodation by the sea in Penglai District. You can watch the sunrise in the morning and enjoy seafood at Dengzhou Market in the evening. Suitable for family trips with a slower pace. 04 Xianning|Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield sounds imposing, but it's actually a riverside park. It's not crowded during the National Day holiday, and the river breeze is quite pleasant. Take the high-speed train from Wuhan to Chibi North Station, then a 20-minute taxi ride. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 3 PM. The light reflecting off the river will prevent glare when photographing the cliff carvings. 📍 Yijiang Pavilion offers the best river view, less crowded than the main sculpture area. ⚠️ The replica ancient warships within the scenic area are charged separately; inquire beforehand. You can enjoy hot springs in Xianning city, perfect if the temperature drops during the National Day holiday. 🍜 Heshengqiao Chicken Soup is a local specialty; go to the original location, not the one near the scenic area entrance. Staying near the hot spring area or Xianning North Railway Station is fine, depending on whether you want to soak in the hot springs or travel quickly. Suitable for traveling with parents; if they can't walk, they can take the sightseeing bus – it's perfectly acceptable. 05 Jixi|Heilongjiang Hutou Fortress and Xingkai Lake together evoke the border feel of Heilongjiang. It's already cool in Northeast China during the National Day holiday; bringing a light down jacket is perfectly reasonable. The drive from Jixi city to Hutou takes over two hours; hiring a car or driving yourself is recommended. ⏰ Mornings at Xingkai Lake are often foggy, the lake surface appearing as if veiled. Arriving at the lakeside before 7 AM allows for good photos. 📍 The lakeside viewing platform is less crowded than the beach area, offering a wider view. ⚠️ The underground fortifications at Hutou Fortress are cold; wearing too little clothing will leave you shivering. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles and spicy dishes are local favorites, enjoyed by many since childhood. The older shops in the city center are more authentic than those near the scenic area. Staying in Jixi city center is convenient for visiting Xingkai Lake the next day. Suitable for those who prefer a quiet environment and don't rush through attractions; it's also suitable for families with children. 06 Yingtan | Jiangxi Longhu Mountain's fame is overshadowed by Sanqing Mountain, but it's surprisingly peaceful during the National Day holiday. The Danxia landforms and the Luxi River make bamboo rafting the core experience. There's a direct bus from Yingtan North Station to the scenic area, taking about half an hour. ⏰ In the morning, the light is perfect for bamboo rafting, resulting in clear photos of the cliffs on both sides. 📍 The viewing platform at Fairy Rock requires climbing a flight of stairs; elderly people should proceed with caution. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets and sightseeing bus tickets are separate; don't assume one ticket covers everything. Tianshi Mansion and Shangqing Ancient Town can be visited along the way. The ancient town isn't overly commercialized; 🍜 chestnut roasted chicken and Luxi fish are local specialties. Staying in a guesthouse near the scenic area offers a quiet night and allows you to catch the first bamboo raft trip in the morning. Suitable for couples or friends, it's a slow-paced, low-energy trip. 07 Baise | Guangxi Haokun Lake, Tongling Grand Canyon, and Chengbi Lake—three places with three distinct atmospheres. Haokun Lake is surrounded by karst peaks, Tongling Grand Canyon features waterfalls and underground rivers, and Chengbi Lake offers expansive lake views. Guangxi is still hot during the National Day holiday, so bring short sleeves and sunscreen. ⏰ Visit Tongling Grand Canyon in the morning; it's cooler inside, and sunlight can penetrate the waterfalls. 📍 The lakeside road around Haokun Lake is perfect for driving. Just stop at any viewpoint you see; no need to specifically look for good spots. ⚠️ Tongling Grand Canyon has many slippery steps, so wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. 🍜 In Baise city, rice noodle rolls and pickled vegetables are cheaper than around the scenic area. Staying in Baise city is convenient as a transit point, allowing you to go in all three directions. Suitable for young people who enjoy natural scenery and are good at walking; keep a close eye on children. 08 Changsha|Hunan Changsha is included because while May Day Square and Yuelu Mountain are indeed crowded during the National Day holiday, the crowds at Tianxin Pavilion, Hunan Provincial Museum, and Huaminglou are much more dispersed. Tianxin Pavilion is in the city center, but not many people climb it; a walk along the city wall is quite pleasant. ⏰ Enter the Hunan Provincial Museum as soon as it opens and head straight to the Mawangdui exhibition hall; otherwise, the queue will circle three times. 📍 Enter Yuelu Mountain from the East Gate, visit Aiwan Pavilion, and exit from the South Gate. Stop by Hunan University for a bite to eat. ⚠️ Hunan Provincial Museum is closed on Mondays; make reservations in advance through official channels. Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, about an hour's drive from downtown Changsha, ideal for those driving. 🍜 For rice noodles in Changsha, go to the area downstairs in residential buildings; avoid the queues on the pedestrian street. Staying near Wuyi Square is convenient but expensive; staying near the Hexi University Town is cheaper and the subway is convenient. Suitable for everyone, but avoid the fireworks at Orange Isle during National Day; just watch from a distance. These eight places won't be too crowded during National Day. Pick one close to you, book your tickets, and go! Which ones have you been to, or do you have any less-visited recommendations? Share in the comments.

Where to take the kids for Mid-Autumn and National Day? 8️⃣ lesser-known cities to broaden their horizons 01 Yulin | Shaanxi When taking kids to see Danxia landforms, most people think of Zhangye first. I suggest you take a detour to Yulin instead. The red sandstone of Wave Valley is most vibrant before 10:00 AM, and ⏰ in the afternoon, the backlight makes it look gray. 📍 The boardwalks in Longzhou Town, Jingbian, are divided into east and west routes. Take the west route with kids; it's a gentler slope and takes about 40 mins to complete. The Yellow River side in Jia County is best visited in the evening. The water is muddy yellow, and kids will ask why it's different from their textbooks. It's the perfect time to explain soil erosion on the Loess Plateau—more effective than hearing it ten times in a classroom. Hongshixia is north of Yulin city. The canyon isn't long, but it's packed with stone carvings. ⚠️ The steps are slippery; don't let go of children under 5. 🚄 A taxi from the city center costs around CNY 20. Stay near Yulin Old Street; have a bowl of lamb offal soup in the evening—let the kids drink the soup while you eat the meat. 02 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," and the rocks are unique. Don't just take the cable car up; 📍 enter from the South Gate and take the Mila Mountain loop. It takes 2.5 hours, and you can crawl through rock crevices along the way. Kids can't resist this kind of "cave exploring." It's 3–4 degrees cooler on Laole Mountain than in the city, making September the perfect time to visit. ⏰ Head up after 4:00 PM for cooler temperatures and to catch the sunset. There's a grassy slope at the summit where kids can run around. Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. Try the spicy soup and pan-fried buns on Wenming Avenue in Zhumadian city—two bowls of soup and four buns cost less than CNY 20. ⚠️ Don't buy the "wild kiwifruit" inside the scenic area; most are brought in from elsewhere. Suitable for children over 4 who can walk on their own. 03 Honghe | Yunnan Yuanyang Rice Terraces start being flooded in September, and the mirror effect begins to appear. ⏰ Arrive at Duoyishu at 6:30 AM to wait for the sunrise. If the kids can't wake up, go to Bada in the evening instead—the light is just as good, and there are fewer people. Jianshui Ancient Town is perfect for a leisurely stroll. 📍 The steam pot chicken at Lin'an Hotel has a clear, rich broth that kids will love—they can drink two bowls. Take the meter-gauge train in the ancient town; it's a 40-minute ride to Shuanglong Bridge. Kids are more excited about the train than the ancient architecture. ⚠️ The viewing platforms for the terraces are far apart, so driving yourself is most convenient. The mountain roads are winding; give motion-sick kids medicine in advance. Stay in Xinjie Town; don't stay in the homestays within the terraces—it's pitch black at night, which is a hassle with kids. Suitable for families with children over 5 who can handle long car rides. 04 Xianning | Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield sounds intense, but it's actually a large park. Focus on Fengchu Nunnery and Baifeng Terrace; they have great stories, and kids love hearing about Zhuge Liang borrowing the east wind. ⏰ Go in the morning; 3 hours is enough to explore. 📍 Walk 1 km to the right of the scenic area exit to find a Heshengqiao chicken soup restaurant. The free-range chicken is stewed until tender, and kids can eat a whole bowl with rice. ⚠️ Avoid weekends; there are many study tour groups, and it's noisy. Weekdays in September are less crowded, making the experience much better. 🚄 It's a 40-minute taxi ride from Xianning North Station. Suitable for elementary school students who have some concept of the Three Kingdoms stories; younger kids will find it boring. 05 Chengdu | Sichuan Here's my ranking of places around Chengdu to broaden kids' horizons. For fireflies at Tiantai Mountain, ⏰ they're still around in September, but fewer than in July. 📍 Near the stream by Xiaojiawan, they are most active 1 hour after dark. ⚠️ Don't use flashlights, don't catch them—just watch. For Mount Qingcheng/Dujiangyan, just visiting the Dujiangyan scenic area is enough with kids. Explain the Yuzui, Feishayan, and Baopingkou points, and kids will have a concept of "water conservancy projects." If you can't climb Mount Qingcheng, take the cable car. Anren Ancient Town has trams and a complex of mansions; kids can ride the tram 3 times. For the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, ⏰ arrive at 7:30 AM to watch the pandas eat breakfast; they sleep after 10:00 AM. 🍜 There's a dandan noodle shop at the entrance; it's mildly spicy and kid-friendly. Stay in Dujiangyan city and enjoy the breeze at Nanqiao Bridge in the evening—it's less hassle. 06 Jinhua | Zhejiang At Hengdian World Studios, take the kids to the Qin King Palace and the Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival. ⏰ Watch a show at the Qin King Palace in the morning, and rent Hanfu for photos at the Riverside Scene in the afternoon. Kids are curious about "filming"; 📍 Guangzhou Street and Hong Kong Street have street performances with lots of interaction. The Shuanglong Scenic Area features caves and streams; it's cool in summer and comfortable in September. ⚠️ There are many steps inside the cave; don't bring a stroller. 🍜 In Jinhua city, try the bone marrow soup—let the kids gnaw on the bones while you drink the soup. 🚄 Hengdian doesn't have a high-speed railway station; the nearest is Yiwu Station, a 40-minute taxi ride away. Suitable for children interested in acting and costumes, preferably over 6. Don't rush to 2 scenic spots in 1 day; it's tiring for both you and the kids. 07 Chizhou | Anhui For Mount Jiuhua, don't plan on climbing Tiantai with kids. 📍 Just walk around Jiuhua Street, visit Huacheng Temple and the Hall of the Flesh Body Bodhisattva, and listen to the stories. ⏰ There are fewer cars going up the mountain before 7:00 AM, so no traffic jams. There's a cable car at Baisui Palace; kids enjoy the mountain views from the cable car more than walking. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are high; bring your own water and snacks. 🍜 The vegetarian noodles on Jiuhua Street are CNY 10 a bowl; if the kids don't like them, eat after going down the mountain. It's cool on the mountain in the morning and evening in September, so bring a light jacket. Suitable for families who don't mind temples and hiking. If the kids are active and might get bored, go to Pingtian Lake in Chizhou city instead for a relaxing bike ride around the lake. 08 Haidong | Qinghai At the Huzhu Tu Nationality Hometown Park, watch the "Lunziqiu" (swing) performance with the kids; they can even go up for a few turns. 📍 The Tu ethnic costume experience in the park costs CNY 30 per set and is great for photos. Youning Temple is east of Huzhu county town; it's quiet. Spin the prayer wheels with the kids and explain the basics of Tibetan Buddhism. ⚠️ Don't take photos or speak loudly inside the halls. ⏰ Qinghai starts getting cold in September, with temperatures below 10°C in the morning and evening; bring down jackets. 🚄 It's a 1-hour drive from Xining to Huzhu. For food, I recommend the braised meat noodles in Huzhu county town, which are kid-friendly. Suitable for children who have already adapted to high altitudes; be cautious about taking very young children. This route is much less crowded than Qinghai Lake during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays. None of these 8 places are crowded "internet-famous" spots. Yulin and Chizhou are the most worry-free; Honghe and Haidong are the most photogenic. When traveling with kids, travel less and sit down for a bowl of noodles more—it's more important than checking off a list. Which one have you been to? Let me know in the comments.

Finally found Hubei's best ancient town for a relaxed short stay! No commercial hustle or crowds. The streets are filled with the scent of tea from blue bricks, and the bluestone paths hold centuries of Tea Road stories. No hiking or long walks required. Stroll the old streets at an unhurried pace, sip tea and daydream. Perfect for a short getaway, a weekend escape, or a trip with parents. Field‑tested, all practical tips included ✅ 🚗 Getting there | Easy, worry‑free short trip ▫️ Driving: 1.5h from Wuhan, 1h from Yueyang/Xianning. The town has a huge free parking lot, so parking is stress‑free, and the roads are smooth and easy to drive. ▫️ Public transport: take the high‑speed train to Chibi North station, then a 20‑minute bus or taxi directly to the town. No complicated transfers, very convenient for a commuter‑style trip. ▫️ Getting around inside: the town is compact and flat for walking, with no steep slopes or steps. Seniors, kids, and those who prefer an easy pace can finish exploring without exhausting walks. 🏡 Accommodation tips | Real experience so you don't pick a dud ▫️ Not recommended to stay inside the old town: the guesthouses are older, there are more mosquitos, and amenities are basic, so value for money is low. ▫️ Best option: stay in Zhaoliqiao town or hotels in downtown Chibi. Facilities are newer, clean, and comfortable, about a 10‑minute drive away, and quiet at night for a good rest. ▫️ Short day trip: no need to stay overnight—same‑day return is totally relaxed and unhurried. 📅 1-day/2-day relaxed itinerary 🌿 1‑day | Essential highlights Stroll Ming and Qing bluestone street → visit the blue‑brick tea museum → wander the Lei family compound → taste tea and local snacks on the old street → return after seeing the old street at dusk 🌙 Two‑day slow stay | Immersive, healing vacation Day 1: arrive in the afternoon, wander the Ming and Qing bluestone street, see the century‑old single‑wheel cart ruts, browse artsy shops and old tea houses, and wait for the lanterns at dusk to fully soak up the atmosphere Day 2: in the morning visit the blue‑brick tea museum and the Lei family compound, try hands‑on tea making, spend the afternoon sipping tea and zoning out, eat local farmhouse dishes, then return at an easy pace ✅ Must‑visit highlights | top picks with zero complaints 🍵 Ming and Qing bluestone street (free) The soul of the town. A 1.2 km, century‑old bluestone road with ruts of varying depth that are traces of millennia of tea transport along the Tea Road. Simple white‑walled houses with dark tiles line the street. It's quiet and uncrowded, with minimal commercialization. No need to aim for staged photos—just wander, feel the breeze, and take pictures. When the lanterns come on at dusk, the scene is gentle and healing. 🏛️ China Blue‑Brick Tea Museum (free) A niche educational museum that is quiet and uncrowded, with air conditioning for comfort. Learn in detail about the history of the Tea Road and the blue‑brick tea production process. The exhibits are rich and engaging, perfect for a calm visit and great for photos. 🎋 Lei family compound (low admission fee) A late Ming/early Qing Anhui‑style courtyard with blue bricks, dark tiles, and carved doors and windows. The layout is elegant and simple. It's peaceful with few visitors—taking your time here lets you feel the charm of century‑old residential architecture. A must for fans of historic buildings. 🌳 Surrounding tea plantations Tea gardens stretch around the town for thousands of acres, a sea of green and an abundance of tea fragrance. Free to walk and unwind, great for fresh, healing photos, and off the beaten path without tourist crowds. 🧩 Niche immersive experiences ▫️ Handmade blue‑brick tea DIY: press your own tea brick and carve a keepsake inscription. Very ceremonial—great for families and couples ▫️ Old tea house slow sipping: CNY 10 a bowl for freshly brewed blue‑brick tea, rich with a sweet finish. Sitting and zoning out for an afternoon is extremely relaxing ▫️ Ancient‑style photoshoot: many affordable hanfu rental shops on the street. Simple, muted outfits fit the old‑street vibe and make for easy photo ops 🍜 Must‑try local food favored by locals ✅ Blue‑brick milk tea/steaming teapot milk tea: a town specialty with strong tea aroma and great looks and taste ✅ Chibi fish cake: springy and tender, fresh without fishiness, a local signature you must try ✅ Sweet potato starch pork: pork wrapped in sweet potato starch and steamed, savory and tender, a hearty farmhouse staple ✅ Wild lotus root stewed with ribs: silky and pulling in strands, the broth is fresh and flavorful—perfectly warming in fall and winter ✅ Blue‑brick tea‑boiled eggs, handmade rice cakes, freshly pounded glutinous rice cakes: inexpensive street snacks full of local life ✅ Dongcha hotpot: tea aroma infuses the broth, resulting in a fresh, non‑greasy, uniquely distinctive flavor 💡 Food tips: old‑street snacks are slightly marked up. For proper meals, choose farmhouse restaurants in the town's residential area—clearly priced and more authentic for better value. Local food tends to be spicy, so tell the owner in advance if you don't eat spice. ❗ Real pitfalls to avoid from field testing 1. No climbing or long walks—the town is flat and meant for slow strolling, making it very suitable for all ages. 2. The town's focus is quiet relaxation, so it's not for those seeking lively night markets or densely packed attractions. 3. The bluestone road is even but a bit slippery; in wet weather it gets slick, so wear non‑slip flat shoes. 4. Don't buy tea souvenirs randomly on the main street. Look for official local tea factory stores for reliable quality and fair prices. 5. Day‑to‑night temperature differences are moderate, but there are many mosquitoes in wooded areas—bring insect repellent. 6. The museum is closed on Mondays; plan your visit accordingly to avoid arriving to find it closed. ✨ Final thoughts Yangloudong is a seriously underrated hidden gem on the Tea Road! No influencer‑style hustle and gimmicks—just blue bricks, tea aroma, old streets, and evening breezes. No rushing, no getting caught up in hustle culture—slow down, wander the old streets, and sip clear tea. It's the best weekend cure 🌿

Stumbling upon Yangloudong while driving south was an unexpected surprise on this trip. Today is October 5, the middle of the Golden Week holiday. It is not crowded like downtown Wuhan, and it is much quieter, making it a great place to stop, rest, and wander around. Yangloudong is located in Chibi City, not far from the Wushen Expressway. It is one of the sources of the Great Tea Road, and this Ming and Qing dynasty stone-paved street is a key cultural relic protection unit in Hubei Province. In ancient times, it was the starting point for Eurasian tea trade. Large quantities of brick tea departed from here, traveling north through Mongolia to Russia. It was once a bustling tea town where "tea merchants gathered." The heart of the ancient town is the Yangloudong Ming and Qing stone-paved street. The bluestone slabs have been polished smooth and shiny by centuries of wheels and footsteps. The road surface bears uneven grooves, all marks left by the wheelbarrows that once transported tea. The old houses on both sides are traditional brick dwellings with wooden lattice windows and horse-head walls, preserving the texture of ancient southern Hubei residences. It is not overly commercialized; many local elderly people still live on the old street, giving it a very authentic, lived-in feel. The ancient town is small; a slow stroll takes 2–3 hours. You can walk the stone-paved street from end to end. Along the street, small shops sell local brick tea, rice cakes, and handmade oil, all local specialties. A small stream flows along one side of the town, with murmuring water and distant mountains in the background. Visiting on a cloudy day creates an exceptionally quiet and serene atmosphere. 📌 Suggested Route 1. Entrance Archway: Check in at the "Yangloudong Ming and Qing Stone-Paved Street" stone gate; entering it leads to the main old street. 2. Main Stone-Paved Street: Stroll slowly, view the old shop sites and traditional dwellings, and look for the ancient wheel ruts on the stone slabs. 3. Streamside Trail: Walk along the small river; the white walls and blue bricks against the backdrop of distant mountains make for great photos. 4. Tea Culture Exhibition Spots: Learn about the production of brick tea and the history of the Great Tea Road. 🍵 Food Along the Way You can try local rice cakes, tea snacks, and brick tea. Small street-side eateries offer authentic home-style southern Hubei dishes. There is no need to wait in line, making it perfect for a quick meal during a road trip. There are no overpriced "internet-famous" restaurants, and prices are reasonable. 🚗 Driving Tips (Perfect for a stopover on the way from Wuhan south to Guangzhou) Yangloudong is very close to the Wushen Expressway. If you are driving south, you can stop here for a short rest. ✅ Pros: Avoid the crowds at highway service areas, stretch your legs, and take care of everything in one stop: exploring the ancient town, eating, and refueling. ✅ Time Suggestion: Stay for about 2 hours. No need to stay overnight; it is suitable as a mid-trip rest stop. 🎫 Free admission. Enter the old street directly; no advance reservation required. ⚠️ Golden Week Oct 5 Visit Reminder There are not many tourists today, making for a much more comfortable experience compared to popular attractions. The ancient town's stone-paved roads are uneven, so watch your step if you have children with you. Shop opening hours on the old street are quite casual, and many small shops close in the evening. This is not a grand, large-scale scenic area, and there are no large amusement facilities. Its charm lies in the wheel ruts on the stone roads, the old brick houses, and the dusty stories of the Great Tea Road. If you are tired of the crowds, turning in here to slow down and feel the quiet of the ancient tea town is a rare moment of relaxation on a road trip.

In Sep–Oct, flights and hotels start to drop, and people aren't as crazy as during summer break. I picked 8 places where you can have a decent trip for about CNY 300–500 per person. Quick note: I'm not trying to please everyone — save where it makes sense and splurge where it's worth it, and I'll call out any pitfalls. 01 Xuzhou | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake is the place in Xuzhou I keep going back to. There is no entrance fee, and a loop around the lake is about 10 km. If you don't feel like walking, rent a shared bike — in half an hour you can ride to the stand of metasequoias on Hunan Road. ⏰ Arrive after 4 PM for slanted light on the water that makes photos easy. Don't order at the lakeside restaurants, where a clay-pot chicken can cost CNY 80–90. 📍 Instead, head to small neighborhood restaurants near Hubushan. A small clay-pot chicken is about CNY 40, enough for two with a flatbread. In Xuzhou, braised pork is eaten for breakfast — about CNY 10 a bowl, very filling. ⚠️ Parking around Yunlong Lake is tight on weekend afternoons. If you drive, park a little farther away and walk in. The paths are flat and stroller-friendly, so it's good for older people and kids. 02 Dali | Yunnan Between Xizhou Ancient Town and Dali Old Town, I prefer Xizhou. It has about half the crowds, and when the rice paddies turn yellow — usually late Sep to mid‑Oct — the wind makes the whole field rustle. ⏰ Go before 8 AM; tour groups haven't arrived yet and all you hear in the alleys is the sound of sweeping. Don't blindly book an all-day private driver around Erhai — CNY 300–400 a day isn't worth it. 🚄 Rent a scooter in Xizhou and ride to Haishi (Sea Tongue) Park — it's about 30 km round trip and costs around CNY 50. Admission to the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple is CNY 75; personally I think taking photos from outside is enough, whether to go in depends on your interest. Nanzhao Folk Island requires a boat; boat ticket plus admission is just over CNY 100, so skip it if your budget is tight. 🍜 Try Xizhou crispy pastries for CNY 5 each — get one sweet and one savory. Staying in Xizhou is cheaper than Shuanglang; you can get a standard double room for about CNY 150. ⚠️ In October Dali has big temperature swings between day and night. Daytime is short sleeves, but bring a jacket for the evening — don't bring only dresses. 03 Greater Khingan Range | Heilongjiang Beiji Village starts getting cold by late September, but the autumn colors are incredible. The birch forests turn all yellow and the larches still have green, like a spilled palette. ⏰ The best window is the last week of September to early October; go later and roads may be closed by snow. There is a shuttle from Mohe to Beiji Village for about CNY 20, while a taxi costs over CNY 100. 📍 Mail a postcard at the village's northernmost post office — getting the cancellation stamp costs CNY 5, which feels more genuine than buying souvenirs. Walk the boardwalk in the forest-wind area; your feet will crunch through thick fallen leaves. ⚠️ Accommodations start rising in price this season, with standard rooms from about CNY 200. Booking ahead can save a few dozen. Suitable for people who can tolerate cold; be cautious bringing small children — temperatures below freezing in the morning and evening are no joke. With a budget under CNY 1,000 you can do three days. 04 Ningbo | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake are next to each other and can be visited together. Admission to Tianyi Pavilion is CNY 30, and the library area is so quiet you can hear pages turning. ⏰ Go in the morning for the best light. Entry stops at 4 PM, so don't get stuck at closing time. Xikou Tengtou tourist area is family friendly; Tengtou village has pick‑your‑own fruit and a small tourist train, admission about CNY 80. I prefer Qiantong Old Town — it's less commercial. The three local specialties are tofu, smoked tofu, and hollow tofu; you can fill up for CNY 10. The old town itself doesn't charge an entrance fee; a combined ticket for small sights is CNY 40 — pick what you want to see. 🚄 Ningbo metro reaches near Tianyi Pavilion. To get to Qiantong you need to transfer at Ninghai; driving is more convenient. ⚠️ Qiantong is crowded on weekends; weekdays are a very different experience. A hostel bed in Ningbo city is CNY 60, about half the price of staying near the attractions. 05 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli's Matryoshka-themed park is the kind of place that's worth seeing because you're there. Admission is just over CNY 100. To be honest, the attractions inside are average, but the architecture is very photogenic. ⏰ Go at dusk — when the lights come on it looks ten times better than in daylight. 📍 You can take photos outside Matryoshka Square for free; if you want to save money, stick to the perimeter. Admission to the Border Gate scenic area is CNY 80, visit if it interests you. 🍜 Russian restaurants' borscht and rye bread are worth trying. Expect about CNY 60 per person to fill up — portions are large, so don't order too much. ⚠️ By October Manzhouli has heating on and it's windy outdoors — bring hats and scarves. In low season standard rooms are around CNY 120, much cheaper than summer. Good for photographers and those wanting a border-town vibe. 06 Linyi | Shandong The Firefly Water Cave and the underground Grand Canyon are in the same direction and can be visited together. The canyon rafting is an extra CNY 60 — optional in my view. ⏰ Go into the cave in the morning for fewer people and cool temperatures. The cave stays in the mid-teens °C, so summer visits are most comfortable. The Yimeng Mountain area is large; choose either Guimeng or Yunmeng and don't try to do everything. Admission is around CNY 80; the cable car is extra. 📍 At the foot of Mengshan there's a stir-fry restaurant where a small portion is about CNY 50, enough for 2–3 people. ⚠️ Cell signal is weak on the mountain — download offline maps first. Best for self-driving; public transport requires inconvenient transfers. With about CNY 300 per person you can do two days. A guesthouse at the foot of the mountain is just over CNY 100 a night. 07 Xianning | Hubei Admission to the Red Cliff battlefield is just over CNY 100; to be honest, the value is so-so. But visit in Sep–Oct and the riverside breeze is cool, and walking among the reconstructed ancient buildings is fairly pleasant. ⏰ After 3 PM the light is softer and better for photos. 📍 The Three Kingdoms–themed performances in the park run on a schedule — check the timetable at the entrance so you don't miss them. ⚠️ Food inside the scenic area is expensive and not great. Bring snacks or head into Xianning city to eat. Xianning is known for its hot springs, but in autumn it's a bit early for soaking — late October is when it gets comfortable. Good for people interested in Three Kingdoms history; if you're just after scenery, don't expect too much. A budget hotel in town is about CNY 120 a night. 08 Urumqi | Xinjiang The International Grand Bazaar is Urumqi's liveliest spot, though locals don't usually shop there. ⏰ Go in the evening — the night market is when it gets interesting. 🍜 Grilled stuffed buns are CNY 3 each, and pilaf is just over CNY 20 — cheaper than tourist restaurants. Red Hill offers a nice city panorama with cheap admission. Dabancheng is windy — the place mentioned in the song about girls with long braids — it's fine to visit if you're passing by, but not worth a special trip. The International Grand Bazaar pedestrian street has free evening song-and-dance shows. 🚄 Taxis in the city start at CNY 10 and buses are CNY 1. Get a transit card to save more. ⚠️ In October Urumqi is cold in the mornings and evenings but sunny during the day — bring sunscreen and a jacket. It's a good transit hub for Xinjiang trips. A hostel bed is about CNY 50. I ranked these places: if your budget is tight pick Xuzhou or Linyi, if you want autumn color pick the Greater Khingan Range, if you want photo ops pick Manzhouli. Which would you rather visit? Say so in the comments.

Avoid the crowds during National Day? These 6️⃣ places offer beautiful autumn colors and are reasonably priced. 01 Xiangtan | Hunan If you want to avoid the crowds during National Day but don't want to travel too far, Xiangtan is an underrated option. Let me start with Caojia'ao Waterfall. Hidden in the mountains, you can easily find it by searching its name on navigation apps, but the last stretch of road is narrow, so be patient when passing other vehicles. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for optimal light on the mist, making photos easy and filter-free. Water volume depends on the weather; it's relatively stable in September and October. Wear non-slip shoes, as the rocks are covered in moss. Shaoshan Tourist Area is famous, so it will definitely be crowded during National Day, but it's less crowded than top-tier tourist spots. 📍 Walk from the Bronze Statue Square towards the former residence. Arriving before 8:30 AM will help you avoid tour groups. ⚠️ The queue inside the former residence is long. If you're with elderly people, it's recommended that one person queue while the other takes children to the outside. Eating in the scenic area is a bit expensive, so I usually drive to the city center for a bowl of rice noodles, which costs around ten yuan. Two days and one night is just right. Staying in Xiangtan city center, hotel prices are only two or three hundred yuan during the National Day holiday. It's suitable for bringing parents on a trip; the pace is slow and not tiring. 02 Weifang | Shandong I didn't have high expectations for Qingzhou Ancient City at first, but I found it quite interesting to explore. During the National Day holiday, the ancient city was filled with national flags, creating a lively atmosphere without being overwhelming. ⏰ I recommend entering the ancient city after 4 pm, when tour groups have left and the light is softer, perfect for taking photos of the Ouyuan Garden and the archway. 📍 There's a stall selling honey-glazed pastries under the old locust tree on Ouyuan Street. They're freshly fried, a large piece for five yuan, and very sweet. ⚠️ There are some stalls in the ancient city offering "free samples." If you don't buy anything after trying the samples, you might look a bit embarrassed—you know what I mean—just avoid them. The main street is heavily commercialized; wander into the alleys on either side, and you'll see locals drying quilts and playing chess—that's the true essence of an ancient town. In terms of transportation, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Weifang Station to Qingzhou Ancient Town. Alternatively, you can take the high-speed rail to Qingzhou Station and then a 15-minute taxi ride. It's suitable for couples or friends to stroll around at a leisurely pace. Wear comfortable shoes, as walking on the cobblestone streets for too long will make your feet sore. 03 Yancheng | Jiangsu Dafeng China Milu Deer Park is a great place to bring children, and also suitable for people like me who want to see some wild animals. During the National Day holiday, the deer enter their mating season, and the male deer's call sounds like muffled thunder—quite impressive. ⏰ Enter as soon as the park opens in the morning; the deer are very active. By midday, they're mostly still. 📍 The park is divided into an electric cart area and a walking area. Electric cart tickets are sold separately, but I recommend buying them, as the park is very large, and your legs will be exhausted after walking around. ⚠️ Do not feed the deer! Do not feed the deer! Do not feed the deer! The staff have been shouting themselves hoarse trying to get people to tease the deer with bread. The deer-viewing platform is the best spot for photos; bring a telephoto lens, or even a phone can capture a rough shot. It's about an hour and a half drive from Yancheng city center, so driving is recommended as public transportation is inconvenient. Tickets are a few yuan cheaper online than on-site, but check the official announcement for the day. Stay in Dafeng city center and have some fish soup noodles for dinner—it's incredibly delicious. 04 Xianning|Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield sounds impressive, but it's actually a riverside park with a cluster of antique-style buildings. It wasn't too crowded during the National Day holiday, and the river breeze was quite pleasant. ⏰ It's best to go in the evening when the sunset reflects on the river, giving you that "Great River Flows East" feeling. 📍 The Baifengtai and Yijiangting pavilions within the scenic area are great spots for viewing the river; don't just wander around the commercial street in front. ⚠️ The prices for "ancient costume photoshoots" in the commercial street are inflated. Ask before you go, or you might be charged 50 yuan per photo. The real gems to see are the cliff carvings along the river. The inscriptions are heavily weathered, but the sense of time they evoke is irreplaceable. It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Xianning North Station. Suitable for those with a bit of history interest; those just looking at the scenery might find it underwhelming. Stay in Xianning city; hot spring hotels are heavily overpriced during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 05 Quanzhou|Fujian Personally, I think Quanzhou is one of the best value-for-money options for the National Day holiday. People start climbing Qingyuan Mountain as early as 6 am; local elders bring their teapots up to make tea, and you can just follow along. 📍 The platform in front of Laojun Rock, ⏰ in the morning light, makes the rocks look like they're plated with gold. The cliff carvings in Quanzhou are scattered throughout the mountains; don't try to see them all at once, just pick a few that are conveniently located along your route. The East and West Pagodas of Kaiyuan Temple are very crowded during the National Day holiday. I suggest viewing them from the courtyard, sitting under the banyan tree, and listening to the pigeons and wind chimes. Chongwu Ancient City is far from the city center, about an hour's drive. It's windy by the sea, so bring a light jacket. 🍜 Oyster omelets at the entrance of the ancient city cost 20 yuan a serving, more expensive than in the city, but with generous portions. ⚠️ West Street is packed with people. Walk into the side alleys, like Pei Alley, which are much quieter and have small cafes. Quanzhou is best explored at a leisurely pace; three days is more than enough. Public transportation is convenient, so driving isn't necessary. 06 Xianyang|Shaanxi I've been to Qianling Mausoleum twice. The advantage of going during the National Day holiday is that the grass on Liangshan Mountain has turned yellow, which, combined with the lifelike stone statues, creates a strong sense of desolation. ⏰ Go up the mountain after 3 pm; the sunlight is at an angle, making the lines on the inscriptionless stele clearer. ⚠️ There are many steps; guide elderly people according to their physical abilities. It only takes about 40 minutes to reach the end. Yuanjia Village, a Guanzhong-style food experience area, is essentially a snack village, but it's done with care. 🍜 Recommended: Handmade noodles and chili oil, freshly made, around ten yuan. 📍 At the vinegar workshop at the end of the village, you can watch the vinegar-making process; the smell is pungent but interesting. It gets crowded during the National Day holiday, so arrive before 10 am for easy parking. There's a tourist bus from Xianyang to Qianling Mausoleum, or you can take a taxi, about an hour. Yuanjia Village is in Liquan County, conveniently located from Qianling. Suitable for families; half a day can easily pass by with plenty of food and drinks. For accommodation, it's recommended to stay back in Xianyang, as there are more options. 07 Haidong|Qinghai Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park: It's already a bit chilly in Qinghai during the National Day holiday, but the autumn colors are vibrant; the forests in Huzhu are a brilliant golden yellow. ⏰ In the morning, visit the Homeland Park to watch Tu women perform the Anzhao dance; lively but not overwhelming. 📍 The wheel swing in the park is worth trying, but two spins can cause dizziness, so proceed with caution. Youning Temple is located on the outskirts of Huzhu County. It's quiet with few tourists; you can hear your own footsteps. ⚠️ Remove your shoes before entering the temple halls and avoid stepping on the thresholds – this is basic respect. In October, Haidong experiences significant temperature differences between day and night. The midday sun is warm, but you'll need a down jacket as soon as the sun sets. The drive from Xining to Huzhu is about an hour, and driving is the most convenient option. It's suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds at Qinghai Lake; the road conditions are good, and the autumn scenery along the way is comparable to the scenic spots. For food, you can try Huzhu's local specialty, Bamei pork, and highland barley wine, but don't overindulge, as it's easy to get drunk at high altitudes. 08 Jinzhong | Shanxi Choose either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound. I chose the Wang Family Compound; it's larger, less crowded, and the brick and wood carvings are more impressive. ⚠️ The queue to enter the Qiao Family Compound during the National Day holiday can be as long as half an hour; the Wang Family Compound is a bit better. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM; the lighting and crowds are just right. Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu is perfect for a National Day visit; the leaves on the mountain are turning red and yellow, creating distinct layers. 📍 The Shuitaogou trail is suitable for hiking; the boardwalk follows the stream and is cool. Pingyao Ancient City is honestly too crowded during the National Day holiday. I suggest entering the city in the evening, staying overnight, and walking around the city wall before 7:00 AM; that's when Pingyao truly shines. 🍜 Find the bowl-shaped rice cakes and kaolao (a type of steamed bun) in the alleys; the ones on the main street are expensive and generally mediocre. Driving between the various locations in Jinzhong is convenient; take the highway from Taiyuan. Suitable for those who enjoy ancient architecture and noodles; also suitable for families with elderly members, but be aware that Mianshan Mountain has many steps. Buy tickets online in advance to save queuing time. Don't try to do too much during the National Day holiday; choose two or three places to relax in. I personally recommend Quanzhou and Jinzhong—one is mild and lush, the other rich and vibrant—both offer stunning autumn colors. Where are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments. Don't want to be crammed in during the National Day holiday? These 6️⃣ places have perfect autumn colors and are reasonably priced. 01 Xiangtan | Hunan If you want to avoid the crowds during the National Day holiday without traveling too far, Xiangtan is an underrated option. Let me start with Caojia'ao Waterfall. This place is hidden in the mountains; you can find it by searching its name on navigation apps. However, the last stretch of road is narrow, so be patient when passing other vehicles. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for the best lighting. The light shines obliquely on the mist, so you won't need a filter for photos. The waterfall's water volume depends on the weather; it's relatively stable in September and October. Wear non-slip shoes, as the rocks are covered in moss. Shaoshan Tourist Area is famous, so it will definitely be crowded during the National Day holiday, but it's less crowded than the top tourist attractions. 📍 Walk from the bronze statue square towards the former residence. Arriving before 8:30 AM will help you avoid tour groups. ⚠️ The queues inside the former residence are long. If you're bringing elderly people, it's recommended that one person queue while the other takes the children around the perimeter. Food inside the scenic area is relatively expensive; I usually drive to the city center for a bowl of rice noodles, which costs around ten yuan. Two days and one night is just right. Staying in Xiangtan city center, hotel prices during the National Day holiday are only two to three hundred yuan. It's suitable for bringing parents on a trip—slow-paced and not tiring. 02 Weifang|Shandong I didn't have high expectations for Qingzhou Ancient City at first, but I found it quite interesting to explore. During the National Day holiday, the ancient city was filled with national flags, creating a lively atmosphere without being overwhelming. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the ancient city after 4 PM, when tour groups have left and the light is softer, perfect for photographing the Ouyuan Garden and the archway. 📍 Under the old locust tree on Ouyuan Street, there's a stall selling honey-glazed pastries. They're freshly fried, a large piece for five yuan, and very sweet. ⚠️ Some stalls in the ancient city offer "free samples." If you don't buy anything after trying them, you'll look rather unpleasant—you know what I mean, just avoid them. The main street is heavily commercialized; wander into the alleys on either side, where you'll see locals drying their blankets and playing chess—that's the real ancient city. Regarding transportation, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Weifang Station to Qingzhou Ancient City. You can also take the high-speed rail to Qingzhou Station and then a 15-minute taxi ride. It's suitable for couples or friends to stroll around at a leisurely pace. Wear comfortable shoes, as walking on the cobblestone streets for too long will make your feet sore. 03 Yancheng|Jiangsu Dafeng China Milu Deer Park is a great place to bring children, and also suitable for people like me who want to see some wild animals. During the National Day holiday, the deer enter their mating season, and the male deer's call sounds like muffled thunder—quite impressive. ⏰ Enter the park as soon as it opens in the morning; the deer are very active then, but by midday they're all lying down and not moving. 📍 The park is divided into an electric cart area and a walking area. Electric cart tickets are sold separately, but I recommend buying them as the park is huge and your legs will be exhausted after walking. ⚠️ Do not feed the deer! Do not feed the deer! Do not feed the deer! I saw people teasing the deer with bread, and the staff's voices got hoarse from shouting. The deer viewing platform is the best spot for photos; bring a telephoto lens, or you can get a decent shot with your phone. It takes about an hour and a half to drive there from Yancheng city. I recommend driving, as public transportation is not very convenient. Tickets are a few yuan cheaper online than on-site, but the exact price depends on the official announcement on the day. Stay in Dafeng city and have some fish soup noodles for dinner—it's incredibly delicious. 04 Xianning|Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield sounds impressive, but it's actually a riverside park with a group of imitation ancient buildings. It wasn't too crowded during the National Day holiday, and the river breeze was quite pleasant. ⏰ It's best to go in the evening when the sunset reflects on the river, giving you that "Great River Flows East" feeling. 📍 The Baifengtai and Yijiang Pavilion in the scenic area offer excellent views of the river; don't just wander around the commercial street in front. ⚠️ The "ancient costume photo" services on the commercial street are overpriced. Ask before you take photos, or you might be charged 50 yuan per photo. The real gems to see are the cliff carvings along the river; the inscriptions are heavily weathered, but the sense of time they evoke is irreplaceable. It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Xianning North Station. Suitable for those with a history enthusiast; those just looking at the scenery might find it average. Stay in Xianning city; hot spring hotels are heavily discounted during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 05 Quanzhou|Fujian Personally, I think Quanzhou is one of the best value-for-money options for the National Day holiday. People start climbing Qingyuan Mountain as early as 6 am; local elders even bring teapots to brew tea—just follow them. 📍 The platform in front of Laojun Rock, ⏰ in the morning light, makes the rocks look like they're plated with gold. Quanzhou's cliff carvings are scattered throughout the mountains; don't try to see them all at once, just pick a few that are conveniently located along your route. The East and West Pagodas of Kaiyuan Temple are very crowded during the National Day holiday, so I suggest viewing them from the courtyard, sitting under the banyan trees, and listening to the pigeons and wind chimes. Chongwu Ancient City is far from the city center, about an hour's drive; it's windy by the sea, so bring a light jacket. 🍜 Oyster omelets at the entrance of the ancient city cost 20 yuan a serving, more expensive than in the city, but with generous portions. ⚠️ West Street is packed with people; try walking into the side alleys, like Pei Alley, which are much quieter and have small cafes. Quanzhou is best explored at a leisurely pace; three days wouldn't be too long. Public transportation is convenient, so you don't need a car. 06 Xianyang|Shaanxi I visited Qianling Mausoleum twice. The advantage of going during the National Day holiday is that the grass on Liangshan Mountain has turned yellow, which, combined with the lifelike stone statues, creates a strong sense of desolation. ⏰ Go up the mountain after 3 pm; the sunlight is at an angle, making the lines on the inscriptionless stele clearer. ⚠️ There are many steps, so please be mindful of the physical limitations of elderly people. It takes about 40 minutes to walk to the end. Yuanjia Village, a Guanzhong Impression Experience Area, is essentially a snack village, but it's done with care. 🍜 I recommend the handmade noodles and chili oil, made fresh to order, around ten yuan. 📍 At the vinegar workshop at the end of the village, you can watch the vinegar-making process; the smell is pungent but interesting. It gets crowded during the National Day holiday, so arrive before 10 am for easy parking. There's a tourist bus from Xianyang to Qianling Mausoleum, or you can take a taxi, which takes about an hour. Yuanjia Village is in Liquan County, on the way from Qianling. It's suitable for families; you can easily spend half a day eating and drinking. For accommodation, I recommend staying back in Xianyang, as there are more options. 07 Haidong|Qinghai Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park: It's already a bit chilly in Qinghai during the National Day holiday, but the autumn colors are in full bloom, and the forests in Huzhu are a vibrant golden yellow. ⏰ In the morning, visit the Hometown Garden to watch Tu ethnic minority women perform the Anzhao dance; it's lively but not overwhelming. 📍 You can try the wheel swing in the park, but two spins can make you dizzy, so proceed with caution. Youning Temple is located on the edge of Huzhu County; it's less crowded and quiet enough to hear your own footsteps. ⚠️ Remove your shoes before entering the temple halls and avoid stepping on the thresholds—this is basic respect. In October, Haidong experiences significant temperature differences between day and night; the midday sun is warm, but you'll need a down jacket as soon as the sun sets. The drive from Xining to Huzhu is about an hour, and driving is the most convenient option. It's suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds at Qinghai Lake; the road conditions are good, and the autumn scenery along the way is comparable to the scenic spots. For food, try the local Bamei pork and highland barley wine, but don't overindulge, as it's easy to get drunk at high altitudes. 08 Jinzhong | Shanxi Choose either the Qiao Family Compound or the Wang Family Compound. I chose the Wang Family Compound; it's larger, less crowded, and the brick and wood carvings are a real treat. ⚠️ During the National Day holiday, the queue to enter the Qiao Family Compound can be as long as half an hour, while the Wang Family Compound is much better. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 am; the lighting and crowds are just right. Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu is perfect for a National Day visit; the leaves on the mountain are turning red and yellow, creating distinct layers. 📍 The Shuitaogou trail is great for hiking; the boardwalk follows the stream and is quite cool. Pingyao Ancient City is honestly too crowded during the National Day holiday. I suggest entering the city in the evening, staying overnight, and walking around the city wall before 7 am – that's when Pingyao truly feels like Pingyao. 🍜 Find the bowl-shaped rice cakes and kaolao (a type of steamed bun) in the alleys; the ones on the main street are expensive and generally mediocre. Driving between the various points in Jinzhong is convenient; take the highway from Taiyuan. This is suitable for those who enjoy ancient architecture and noodles, and it's also suitable for families with elderly members, but Mianshan Mountain has many steps, so consider this carefully. Buying tickets online in advance can save you queuing time. When traveling during the National Day holiday, don't try to do too much; choose two or three places to spend time in at your own pace. I personally recommend Quanzhou and Jinzhong; one is mild and pleasant, the other is rich and vibrant, both offering stunning autumn colors. Where are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments!

The two things parents fear most when traveling with kids: the hassle of the journey and having nothing to do once you arrive. These 8 destinations are all accessible by high-speed rail, and you can easily get around without renting a car. Pick one for the weekend and go—don't wait until the kids have a long break. 1️⃣ Chuxiong | Yunnan Yuanmou Earth Forest is the kind of place that photos just can't do justice. Get to the scenic area before 9:00 AM; the light hits the earth pillars at an angle, casting long shadows, and kids will feel like they've stepped into the age of dinosaurs. ⚠️ There's little shade in the Earth Forest, so be sure to bring enough hats and water. Strollers aren't very practical here, so a baby carrier is recommended. Wumou Earth Forest is a bit smaller than Yuanmou, but it's less crowded, making it a great place for kids to run around. You only need to choose one of the two; I took my kid to Wumou, and it took about 2 hours to walk the loop—not tiring at all. Head back to downtown Chuxiong in the afternoon; the Yi Ancient Town is perfect in the evening. 🍜 The small stalls in the ancient town selling grilled milk fans and cold chicken rice noodles are more kid-friendly than you might think. ⏰ I recommend arriving after 5:00 PM. It's too hot during the day, and the lanterns only look right when they light up at night. Take the high-speed rail to Chuxiong Station, then it's about a 20-minute taxi ride to Yi Ancient Town. You'll need to transfer at the bus station to get to the Earth Forest. If you're traveling with kids, I recommend hiring a car to avoid the stress of waiting for buses. 2️⃣ Pingxiang | Jiangxi If you're taking kids to Wugong Mountain, here's the bottom line: take the cable car both ways, don't push it. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Pingxiang North Station. There's a direct bus from the station to the Wugong Mountain Visitor Center, which takes about an hour. If you have young children, take the combination of the Jinding Cable Car and the Zhong'an Cable Car. The boardwalk to the Golden Summit after you get off is relatively flat, and kids over 4 can walk it themselves. ⏰ Get on the cable car before 10:00 AM and head down before 3:00 PM to avoid the peak queues. The weather on the mountain changes in an instant, so raincoats are more useful than umbrellas. ⚠️ Instant noodles at the summit cost CNY 15 per cup, so bring some snacks and hot water yourself. The meadows are beautiful, but don't expect your kids to cooperate for photos—they'd rather chase the clouds. If your child is under 3, I advise against going to Wugong Mountain for now; wait until they're a bit older. There are hot spring hotels at the foot of the mountain; stay for a night and head up the next day for a much more comfortable pace. 3️⃣ Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia The Matryoshka Scenic Area in Manzhouli will basically drive kids wild with excitement. 📍 The Matryoshka Hotel, Matryoshka Square, and the Russian Circus are all in one place and within walking distance. 🍜 The Russian-style restaurants in the scenic area serve borscht and kebabs that kids love, but be prepared for the "scenic area" prices. ⏰ Arrive after 3:00 PM, explore the square first, then have dinner, and watch the circus in the evening—the timing works out perfectly. Staying a night at the Matryoshka Hotel is a unique experience; the rooms are designed like the inside of a nesting doll, and kids will keep asking why. ⚠️ Book at least two weeks in advance during peak season; there are basically no rooms if you try to book last minute. Take the high-speed rail to Manzhouli Station, then it's about a 15-minute taxi ride to the Matryoshka Scenic Area. The National Gate Scenic Area is also nearby, but kids usually aren't that interested in boundary markers, so you can skip it if you're short on time. 4️⃣ Xianning | Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield is great for elementary school students who have some concept of the Three Kingdoms story. 📍 Start by looking at the panoramic sand table to explain the Battle of Red Cliffs to your kids; they'll be more engaged as they walk through. ⏰ Go in the morning and you'll finish by noon. There's a street with antique-style buildings in the scenic area selling little trinkets—they're inexpensive, and buying a wooden sword will keep the kids happy for the rest of the trip. ⚠️ The live performance has fixed showtimes every day, so ask about the schedule as soon as you enter to avoid missing it. The show includes pyrotechnics, which might scare very young children, so sitting in the back is safer. Take the high-speed rail to Chibi North Station, then it's about a 20-minute taxi ride to the ancient battlefield. You can stop by a hot spring in downtown Xianning on the way; if you're soaking with kids, choose the cooler pools and limit it to 15 minutes. 5️⃣ Dongying | Shandong The Yellow River Delta Ecological Tourism Zone is a pretty cool place to take kids to see where the Yellow River meets the sea. 📍 The scenic area is huge, so you must take the sightseeing bus—don't even think about walking. ⏰ Autumn is the best time to go; the seepweed turns red, and there are more migratory birds. Bring binoculars, and kids can quietly watch birds for a long time. ⚠️ There are few dining options in the scenic area, so bring enough food and water. The sightseeing bus stops at several viewing points, with the furthest being the estuary pier. It's windy, so bring a windbreaker for your kids. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Dongying South Station, then it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. I recommend leaving early. If your kids aren't that interested in natural landscapes, you can move Dongying down your list. But if they like animals and wide-open spaces, this place is great for running around and exploring—much better than being cooped up at home. 6️⃣ Chengde | Hebei The Chengde Mountain Resort and the surrounding temples are perfect for a two-day, one-night trip. ⏰ On the first morning, enter the resort through the Lizheng Gate and take the mountain tour bus to Er'madao for a bird's-eye view of the Little Potala Palace—kids will feel like they're on a roller coaster. You can go boating in the lake area of the resort, and kids' enthusiasm for boating is always high. 🍜 Come out at noon for Chengde cold noodles and lamb soup—the portions are large and affordable. On the second day, go to the Jinshanling Great Wall; it's less crowded than Badaling, and the steps are gentler. ⚠️ If you're with kids, you can turn back after reaching the second watchtower; don't push to reach the highest point. Take the high-speed rail to Chengde South Station, then it's about a 20-minute taxi ride to the resort. You'll need to hire a car or drive yourself to the Jinshanling Great Wall. Arrange your return ride in advance, or you might be stranded when you come down. 7️⃣ Wanning | Hainan Choose either Shimei Bay or Riyue Bay. I recommend Shimei Bay for families with kids—the waves are smaller, the sand is fine, and it's perfect for digging in the sand and wading in the water. 📍 There's a shaded coconut grove by the beach at Shimei Bay where you can lay out a mat and spend the whole afternoon. Riyue Bay is better for older kids who want to surf; there are clubs where they can try it out. ⏰ Go into the water after 4:00 PM when the sun isn't as harsh. ⚠️ Be sure to put a life jacket on your kids; don't rely solely on swim rings. 🍜 Kids are more open to trying Wanning's Hou'an rice noodles and Qingbuliang (chilled dessert) than you might think—they usually love the coconut milk base. Take the high-speed rail to Wanning Station, then it's about a 25-minute taxi ride to Shimei Bay. If you're staying at a beach hotel, choose one that includes breakfast—it's one less hassle when traveling with kids. 8️⃣ Nantong | Jiangsu The Hao River is a moat that circles downtown Nantong. Taking a boat tour with kids is relaxing and easy. 📍 The Hao River cruise pier is near Haoxi Road. The night cruise is better than the day cruise; the lights shine on the old buildings along the banks, and kids will watch quietly for a long time. ⏰ The 6:30 PM boat is the best choice—it's not completely dark yet, but the scenery is already lit up. The loop takes about 40 minutes, which is manageable for kids. 🍜 After getting off the boat, find something to eat near South Street; the Nantong clam cakes and "gangpan" (a local flatbread) are worth a try. ⚠️ The walkway along the Hao River is suitable for strollers, but there's a flight of stairs at the cruise pier, so you'll need to take a detour with a stroller. Take the high-speed rail to Nantong Station, then it's about a 15-minute taxi ride to the Hao River. The Nantong Museum is also by the Hao River; it's free, and it's a perfect 30-minute stop while you're there with kids. These 8 places: Nantong and Chengde are the most hassle-free, Wugong Mountain and Shimei Bay are the most photogenic, and the Matryoshka dolls in Manzhouli are the most exciting for kids. Pick one and head out this weekend.

This National Day, come to the Chibi Ancient Battlefield for a city-wide challenge! 🔥 Take on the Three Kingdoms arena, complete challenges, and win Chibi prizes—it's going to be epic! With 238 events running in rotation and 100 Three Kingdoms NPCs interacting with visitors, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time in an instant. ✨ The Hubu Alley food market is here, offering 40 local delicacies to satisfy your cravings—a true feast for the senses! 🍢 As night falls, watch thousands of Kongming lanterns drift into the sky. The atmosphere is incredible, and the romance is off the charts! 🏮 Chibi is also launching the "Three Exemptions, Three Guarantees" initiative, designed with your comfort in mind: 👇 ✅ Free attraction tickets for college students with a valid student ID ✅ Free parking in state-owned parking lots ✅ Free shuttle bus service ✅ Re-entry allowed within 2 days with your ticket ✅ Government canteens open to the public ✅ Priority compensation for tourism complaints With all your dining, accommodation, and travel needs covered, don't hesitate—come and experience it! 💪 Be sure to visit the Linjiang Cliff Carvings and watch the thrilling "Zhao Zilong Rescues the Heir" equestrian performance. 🏇 Standing by the river, feeling the mighty Yangtze flow eastward, you'll be filled with heroic spirit! Spend your day exploring historical sites, taking on challenges, and watching live performances, then enjoy the lantern blessing ceremony at night. Your itinerary is perfectly planned. Whether you're planning a family educational trip or a weekend getaway with friends, come to Chibi this National Day to immerse yourself in the epic history of the Three Kingdoms. It's absolutely worth the trip! 📸 This National Day, come to the Chibi Ancient Battlefield for a city-wide challenge! 🔥 Take on the Three Kingdoms arena, complete challenges, and win Chibi prizes—it's going to be epic! With 238 events running in rotation and 100 Three Kingdoms NPCs interacting with visitors, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time in an instant. ✨ The Hubu Alley food market is here, offering 40 local delicacies to satisfy your cravings—a true feast for the senses! 🍢 As night falls, watch thousands of Kongming lanterns drift into the sky. The atmosphere is incredible, and the romance is off the charts! 🏮 Chibi is also launching the "Three Exemptions, Three Guarantees" initiative, designed with your comfort in mind: 👇 ✅ Free attraction tickets for college students with a valid student ID ✅ Free parking in state-owned parking lots ✅ Free shuttle bus service ✅ Re-entry allowed within 2 days with your ticket ✅ Government canteens open to the public ✅ Priority compensation for tourism complaints With all your dining, accommodation, and travel needs covered, don't hesitate—come and experience it! 💪 Be sure to visit the Linjiang Cliff Carvings and watch the thrilling "Zhao Zilong Rescues the Heir" equestrian performance. 🏇 Standing by the river, feeling the mighty Yangtze flow eastward, you'll be filled with heroic spirit! Spend your day exploring historical sites, taking on challenges, and watching live performances, then enjoy the lantern blessing ceremony at night. Your itinerary is perfectly planned. Whether you're planning a family educational trip or a weekend getaway with friends, come to Chibi this National Day to immerse yourself in the epic history of the Three Kingdoms. It's absolutely worth the trip! 📸

Three Kingdoms Red Cliff Ancient Battlefield ▪️Adult ticket: CNY 80/person. We recommend booking online 1 day in advance for better value ▪️Scenic area shuttle bus: CNY 20/person The park is quite large, and walking can be tiring. We recommend taking the shuttle bus to easily explore the entire area✨ ⭐️Must-visit spots, follow this guide👇 ▫️Battle of Red Cliffs Exhibition Hall Rich in exhibits, it fully recreates the history of the Battle of Red Cliffs in an easy-to-understand way. It's perfect for both self-driving trips and educational family outings. ▫️Statue of Zhou Yu A landmark standing on the Red Cliff headland! Crafted from 26 granite blocks and standing 8.58 meters tall, it perfectly captures the youthful spirit of Zhou Gongjin. ▫️Cliff Carvings The bold "Red Cliff" characters carved into the riverside cliff have weathered a thousand years of storms. Seeing them in person by the river instantly immerses you in history. ▫️Three Kingdoms Sculpture Garden Stone sculptures of Three Kingdoms figures are everywhere. With their intricate details, you'll feel fully immersed as you stroll through. ⭐️All-day National Day performances, from day to night, for a packed itinerary! 🌅Morning must-see: Opening welcome ceremony War drums roar, city gates open wide, warhorses gallop, and soldiers in ancient costumes line up to welcome guests. With Three Kingdoms NPCs parading and interacting, the atmosphere is incredible. During the day, there are also performances like "Zhou Yu Inspects the Troops" and "Oath of the Peach Garden." You'll encounter NPCs everywhere, so there's never a dull moment. ⛩️Three Kingdoms Red Cliff Arena Carnival During the 7 days of National Day, Han-style ancient arenas will host a rotation of events, with a total of 238 fun activities! ✅Han Army Training Ground: Cuju, pitch-pot, and Gomoku. Experience traditional Han Dynasty games—fun for both adults and children ✅Wolong Mystery Box: Three Kingdoms trivia challenges. Learn history while you play ✅Bronze Bird Stage: Singing and dancing battles, Pictionary, and more—full of variety show-style fun 🌃Nighttime highlight | Live-action play "Borrowing the East Wind" With flames, mist, and lighting effects, plus the sound of war drums, it recreates the stunning scene of the Battle of Red Cliffs. There's also a mass Kongming lantern blessing ceremony—the atmosphere is truly legendary. If you enjoy slow-paced cultural travel and want to immerse yourself in Three Kingdoms culture, the Red Cliff Ancient Battlefield is definitely worth a visit!

Want to avoid the crowds this National Day? These 6 destinations are stress-free, tested by me. 01 Xianning | Hubei If you're looking for a less crowded place for National Day, Xianning is a good choice. The Chibi Ancient Battlefield is in Chibi Town, a bit of a distance from downtown Xianning. I recommend driving yourself or taking an intercity train to Chibi North Station and then taking a taxi. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The light hits the river at an angle, so you won't be shooting against the sun. I don't really recommend the faux-ancient street inside the scenic area. The things they sell are the same as everywhere else. What's truly worth seeing are the cliff carvings by the river and the Yijiang Pavilion. Standing there, you can imagine the scene of the naval battle from back then. It takes about two hours to walk the main route. Wear comfortable shoes, as the stone paths can be a bit slippery. 🍜 After you come out, go to downtown Chibi for a bowl of fish cake and some lotus root soup—that's how the locals do it in the morning. If you're bringing seniors, there are electric carts in the scenic area, so don't force them to walk. ⚠️ The crowds get significantly larger in the afternoon during the National Day holiday, so get there early if you want some peace and quiet. 02 Sanya | Hainan Sanya during National Day is definitely hot, but the sea is truly blue. Don't be greedy and try to visit all four bays; just pick two and explore them in depth. Daxiao Dongtian is best visited in the morning; the rocky coastline has great layers, and 📍 the coconut grove path at the foot of Nanshan is almost empty if you walk in. You need to take a boat to Wuzhizhou Island. ⏰ I recommend catching the first boat; after 10:00 AM, the lines will leave you sunburnt. The water activities on the island are expensive. If you want to snorkel, you're better off going to the Yalong Bay public beach—the water is clear and it's free. As for those two rocks at Tianya Haijiao, honestly, you'll regret it if you don't go, but you'll regret it even more if you do. Save the admission fee for seafood instead. ⚠️ Hotel prices double during National Day, so book a month in advance. For food, buy ingredients at the First Market and have a restaurant cook them for you; it's more reliable than the restaurants in the scenic areas. If you're bringing kids, just hang out at Yalong Bay—the sand is fine, the waves are small, and adults can just relax. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid the tourist traps.

Spontaneous travel! These 8 cities are accessible by high-speed rail, less crowded, beautiful, and you can have a great time on a 500 budget. 1. Xianning | Hubei 🍜 Early morning, go to the Chibi Ancient Battlefield. Don't rush to the main gate. First, walk around the imitation ancient street next to it. There's a small stall at the end of the street selling hot dry noodles with egg wine for 6 yuan a bowl, ten times better than the 15 yuan ones inside the scenic area. ⏰ Before 9:00 AM, enter the scenic area. It's less crowded, and you can take photos of the Zhou Yu statue without random people in the background. The area isn't big; two hours of slow walking is enough. No need to hire a guide; just scan for an electronic guide at the entrance. ⚠️ The souvenir shops inside selling "Three Kingdoms weapons" have inflated prices; even cutting the price in half is still too expensive. Return to the city in the evening and take a walk along the Gan River; it's more worthwhile than hanging around the scenic area. 2. Hengyang | Hunan 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Hengshan West Station, which is much closer than Hengyang East Station. It only takes 20 minutes to take a taxi to Nanyue Grand Temple. Choose accommodation in Nanyue Town, not the city center, or you'll have to take a detour to get up the mountain the next day. ⏰ At 3:00 PM, go to Nanyue Grand Temple first. The red walls against the sunset look great, and the light and shadows are beautiful. Plus, the tour groups have mostly left by then. The next morning, start climbing Mount Heng at 6:00 AM. Take the eco-friendly bus to Nantianmen, then walk for half an hour to Zhurong Peak. It saves energy without missing the scenery. 🍜 There's a "Lijun Fish Noodles" shop at the foot of the mountain. The broth is fresh, and locals line up to eat there. It's 12 yuan a bowl. ⚠️ Mineral water on the mountain is 10 yuan a bottle. Bring two bottles yourself, and the money you save is enough to buy incense. 3. Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan 📍 Yuanmou Earth Forest and Wumao Earth Forest—you only need to visit one. I chose Yuanmou Earth Forest because it's larger and has richer color layers. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 4:30 PM. The sunlight hits at an angle, turning the earth forest golden red. Any photo you take with your phone will look like a blockbuster. You can finish walking the boardwalks in the scenic area in two hours; no need to take the battery car. Go to the Yi People's Ancient Town at night; it's too hot and boring during the day. 🍜 The mutton hot pot with buckwheat cakes in the ancient town costs 50–60 yuan for two people, and you'll be stuffed. ⚠️ There's no shade in the Earth Forest. Don't force yourself to walk around between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, or you'll get sunburned. Stay in Chuxiong city center; you can get a clean chain hotel for 150, which is more cost-effective than staying around the scenic area. 4. Chongzuo | Guangxi Go to Detian Transnational Waterfall in the morning. ⏰ Before 11:00 AM, the water volume is high, and the sun hasn't fully hit the viewing platform yet, so the mist from the waterfall can create small rainbows. Take a bamboo raft to the bottom of the waterfall for 30 yuan; you can touch the boats from Vietnam on the other side, which is quite interesting. Mingshi Scenic Area is better for the afternoon. Rent a bicycle and ride along the ridges; the green rice paddies paired with karst mountains look like walking into an ink wash painting. 🍜 The Vietnamese baguettes sold at the entrance of the scenic area, filled with grilled meat and pickled radishes, cost 8 yuan each and taste better than those in proper restaurants. ⚠️ Don't buy "Vietnamese specialties" inside the Detian scenic area; many are goods from Yiwu. Choose a homestay near Mingshi Scenic Area; you can see the mountains as soon as you open the window. 5. Xiamen | Fujian Gulangyu Island isn't as crazy crowded now, but you still need to book your ferry ticket on their official WeChat account a day in advance; buying it on-site is basically impossible. Don't head straight to Sunlight Rock when you get on the island. First, dive into the small alleys. ⏰ In the early morning, Longtou Road hasn't woken up yet. The bluestone roads paired with the carved windows of old villas have more character than the commercial streets. The Railway Culture Park is free; the old tracks have been turned into a walking trail, and both sides are planted with bougainvillea, perfect for resting when you're tired of walking. Nanputuo Temple and the Botanical Garden are next to each other, so you can visit them together. 🍜 Don't eat Shacha noodles in the scenic area. Go to the old shops in Baijia Village. Add pork liver and tofu; it's 20 yuan a bowl, and the broth is so thick it coats the spoon. ⚠️ Be cautious with seafood restaurants on Gulangyu Island. They are lively when weighed, but shrink once they hit the table. 6. Shigatse | Tibet 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Lhasa to Shigatse; it takes two and a half hours and is much more comfortable than chartering a car. Don't rush straight to the Everest Base Camp to see Mount Everest; spend a day in the city first to acclimatize to the altitude. Go to Tashilhunpo Monastery at 3:00 PM. ⏰ The sunlight shines on the golden roof, and the shadows of the prayer wheels are stretched long. There are few tourists, so you can quietly watch the monks debating scriptures. 🍜 There's a Tibetan noodle shop in the city. Yak meat noodles with sweet tea cost 15 yuan; it's warming and filling. ⚠️ You need a border permit to see Mount Everest. You can get it at the government service centers in Lhasa or Shigatse; don't wait until you're at the foot of the mountain to think about it. ⏰ May to October is the best window to see Mount Everest. In winter, the clouds are thick, and you'll likely make the trip for nothing. 7. Yantai | Shandong Penglai Pavilion is famous, but honestly, the ancient buildings inside have heavy traces of renovation. I recommend walking along the seaside boardwalk below the pavilion. ⏰ At 5:30 PM, the sunset dyes the sea orange, and looking out at Changdao Island, it looks like it's floating in the mist. If you want to see real island life, take a boat from Penglai Pier to Changdao Island. It's a 40-minute voyage. Stay in a fisherman's homestay; 180 yuan covers food and lodging, and the landlady makes mackerel dumplings with thin skins and lots of filling. Don't go to Longkou Nanshan; the ticket is expensive, and the content is like a hodgepodge. 🍜 There's a "Rongxiang Seafood" in Yantai city center where locals go for gatherings. Braised sea cucumber with scallions is just over 100 yuan, much more cost-effective than in the scenic area. ⚠️ Buy Changdao ferry tickets in advance during peak season; the wind is strong after 3:00 PM, and it's easy for sailings to be suspended. 8. Anshun | Guizhou You need to hurry for Huangguoshu Waterfall. ⏰ Rush in as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM. Walk Doupotang first, then go down to Tianxing Bridge, and finally reach the Great Waterfall. This way, you can perfectly avoid the tour groups. You must go to the Water Curtain Cave. Wear a raincoat and go inside. Standing behind the waterfall and looking out, the sound of the water makes your ears buzz; you can't find that feeling anywhere else. Dragon Palace is a half-hour drive from Huangguoshu. Take a boat into the karst cave; the underground river paired with colorful lights is like entering the center of the earth. 🍜 The "Duoduo Fen" hot pot on "Gufu Street" in Anshun city center, with a sour and spicy soup base and rice tofu, costs about 40 yuan per person, and you'll be stuffed. ⚠️ Raincoats in the Huangguoshu scenic area cost 5 yuan each; don't buy the 10 yuan ones at the parking lot. 🚄 There are direct buses from the high-speed rail station to the scenic area, which saves half the cost compared to taking a taxi. Of these eight cities, the ones that surprised me the most were Chongzuo and Anshun. The former is like a forgotten landscape painting, while the latter hides two worlds: the waterfall and the center of the earth. Which city struck a chord with you? Tell me in the comments section, and I'll go scout it out for you next time.

🌻🌺 The Ancient Battlefield of the Three Kingdoms at Chibi (Wu Chibi, 5A) is a must-visit for study tours, families, and Three Kingdoms history enthusiasts. 📍 Basic info · Address: No. 6 Wuhou Lane, Chibi Town, Chibi City, Xianning · Open: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM · Duration: 3–4 hours; allow half a day if you want to see the show · Admission: Standard price ¥135, advance purchase approx. ¥108; half price for students and seniors aged 60–69; free for those over 70 and children under 1.2m Note: Wu Chibi (here) ≠ Wen Chibi (Dongpo Chibi in Huangzhou), don't go to the wrong place! 🚗 Transportation 1. Driving (recommended): Approx. 1.5 hours from Wuhan; parking at the attraction is approx. ¥10/day for small cars. 2. Public transport: Take the high-speed train to Chibi North Station, then take a tourist shuttle or ride-share to the attraction, approx. 40 minutes. 🗺️ Recommended route (no backtracking) Highlights: Cliff carvings, Wind-Praying Altar, Yijiang Pavilion, Fengchu Hermitage, and the Battle of Chibi Exhibition Hall. 1. Entrance Watchtower → Thirty-Six Stratagems Corridor → Statue of Zhou Yu (great for photos) 2. Battle of Chibi Exhibition Hall: Features 4D/VR, historical materials on the Battle of Chibi, a must-visit for family study tours 3. Cliff carvings (core photo spot): The large "Chibi" characters carved into the riverside cliff, offering a great atmosphere facing the Yangtze River 4. Yijiang Pavilion: Zhou Yu's command post, great for riverside views 5. Wind-Praying Altar (Wuhou Palace): Where Zhuge Liang is said to have borrowed the east wind, features scheduled short performances 6. Fengchu Hermitage: Where Pang Tong lived in seclusion, features a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree in the courtyard (said to have been planted by Pang Tong himself), stunning for photos in autumn 7. Dongfeng Street (Three Kingdoms immersive street), leads to the exit Tips: The attraction has small roving performances, pick up a program schedule upon entry; the large-scale night show "Chibi: Borrowing the East Wind" requires a separate ticket and only runs at night. 🏨 Accommodation options 1. Stay near the attraction entrance (recommended, saves time and effort) ✅ Dintu International Hotel (Chibi Ancient Battlefield of the Three Kingdoms Branch): Upscale, new hotel, smart rooms, includes laundry and gym, only 500m from the attraction, suitable for families, best facilities. ✅ Jie Dongfeng Hotel: Budget-friendly, good value, clean and simple, choose this if on a budget, over 800m from the attraction. 2. Stay in Chibi city center: More hotel choices, suitable for same-day round trips. 🍲 Dining recommendations (near the attraction) ✅ Chibi Dingwei Fish Restaurant: Highly-rated local restaurant, signature beef bones and grilled fish, fish is freshly killed, generous portions, not far from the attraction, great for family meals. ✅ Chibi Town Farmhouse Stir-fry & BBQ Snacks: Farmhouse dishes, yellow catfish hot pot, local specialties, good value, suitable for a quick meal.

September–October is the golden period for budget travel. The summer crowds have faded, flight and hotel prices are starting to ease, the autumn colors in the north are just beginning to appear, and the south is finally less muggy. Here are 8 small cities where you can enjoy a great experience without spending a fortune. Take your time exploring. 1️⃣ Changji | Xinjiang Tianshan Tianchi Lake is famous, but from September–October, I recommend focusing on Jiangbulake instead. After the wheat harvest, you'll find golden haystacks with snow-capped mountains in the background. It's much less crowded than Tianchi, and the admission ticket plus shuttle bus is cheaper too. ⏰ Enter the valley before 10:00 AM. The light is angled, so you won't be shooting against the sun when photographing the haystacks. Wucaiwan is best visited in the evening. The Yadan landforms are dyed orange-red by the sunset, but the wind is strong enough to blow your hat away. ⚠️ Bring a windbreaker; don't just wear a thin jacket. If you must visit Tianshan Tianchi, just take the shuttle bus to the lakeside; the boat tour isn't great value. For transportation, if you're starting from Urumqi, I recommend chartering a car or carpooling to Jiangbulake and Wucaiwan, as public bus schedules are limited. 🍜 The oil-drenched meat noodles in Qitai County are affordable and filling—one serving will keep you full until the afternoon. 2️⃣ Longyan | Fujian Yongding Tulou is the main event, but don't just head for the most famous ones. The Chuxi Tulou cluster has fewer tourists, and people still live in the buildings. In October, the rice fields turn yellow, and the Tulou are surrounded by gold, which looks better than in peak season. 📍 The viewing platform at the entrance of Chuxi Village is the easiest spot for an overhead shot of the entire Tulou cluster. Changting Ancient City is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The lanterns on Diantou Street light up at night, and enjoying the breeze by the Tingjiang River is free. ⚠️ Some old houses within the ancient city require separate tickets. If you want to save money, just walk through the alleys; the atmosphere is just as good. Mount Guanzhai is great for hiking enthusiasts. Take a boat on Shimen Lake to see the Danxia landforms. If you have average stamina, just stick to the highlights. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Longyan Station to Yongding, but taking a high-speed train to Changting is faster. Don't try to cram both into one day. 3️⃣ Suqian | Jiangsu This stop in Suqian is mainly for the Hongze Lake Wetland. From September–October, the reeds start to turn yellow, and migratory birds begin to return. Taking a boat through the reed marshes is the core experience. ⏰ Birds are most active in the early morning and evening; it's hot and there are fewer birds at noon. The wetland is large, and walking will be tiring. I recommend buying a ticket that includes the sightseeing bus, taking it to the furthest point first, and then exploring your way back. ⚠️ Dining options in the park are limited and pricey, so bring your own water and snacks. There is a tourist shuttle line from the city to the wetland. You can also take a taxi, but be sure to book your return trip in advance. 🍜 Head back to the city for a bowl of Suqian rolled noodles—cheap and refreshing. It's suitable for traveling with seniors and children; the paths are flat and the pace is slow. 4️⃣ Weinan | Shaanxi Mount Hua is the only focus of this stop. The temperature is just right from September–October, making the climb comfortable. Many people hike at night to watch the sunrise, but the temperature at the summit in October is near freezing at night. ⚠️ Don't believe anyone who says "summer clothes are enough"; a windbreaker and gloves are a must. If you want to save energy, take the West Peak cable car up and the North Peak cable car down. You can cover all 5 peaks (East, South, West, North, and Center) in 1 day. If you want to save money, hike at night to save on 1 night's accommodation, but make sure your stamina is up to it. 📍 The Plank Road in the Sky and the "Hawk Turning Around" require separate fees. If you are afraid of heights, don't force it. 🚄 There is a free bus from Huashan North Station to the tourist center; don't get sidetracked by touts. 🍜 A bowl of "Dadao" noodles at the foot of the mountain tastes best after the climb. 5️⃣ Guangzhou | Guangdong Guangzhou is finally bearable in October. You don't necessarily have to go up the Canton Tower; taking photos of the night view from Huacheng Square and the Binjiang Road on the opposite bank is free, and the angles are good. ⚠️ Tickets for the tower top are time-slotted. It's easy to miss out if you buy them on-site during peak season, so book in advance. Visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall to see the details of Lingnan architecture; the brick and wood carvings are worth a close look, and the admission ticket is cheap. Hike up Baiyun Mountain in the evening to watch the city sunset from Moxing Ridge; it's breezy and cool. Chimelong is great for kids, but the tickets aren't cheap, so skip it if you're on a tight budget. 🚄 The subway covers almost all locations, so staying along the subway line is the most convenient. 🍜 For morning tea, don't just stick to the trendy spots; the teahouses on the streets of the old town are more affordable. 6️⃣ Wenzhou | Zhejiang Yandang Mountain has less rain from September–October, making it refreshing for viewing mountains and waterfalls. The night view of Lingfeng Peak is a highlight, as the peaks seem to change shapes in the night. ⏰ It's more interesting to follow a guide after 7:00 PM; it's easy to get confused if you look on your own. The water volume of Dalongqiu Waterfall is decent in autumn—a bit less than in midsummer, but there are fewer people. Fangdong and Lingyan are suitable for those who like walking on plank roads. The Hometown of Liu Bowen is in Wencheng, which is in a different direction from Yandang Mountain. ⚠️ Don't plan to visit both on the same day; it takes too much time on the road. 🚄 There is a high-speed railway station at Yandang Mountain, and it's very close to the scenic area. 🍜 The local seafood noodles are hearty, and the price depends on the season. It's suitable for a 2-day weekend trip; don't try to do too much. 7️⃣ Chengdu | Sichuan There are many choices for this stop in Chengdu, depending on how you want to spend your money. Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan are suitable for a 1-day trip. The front mountain has many Taoist temples, while the back mountain is more for hiking; if it's your first time, the front mountain is a safe bet. In Dujiangyan, see the water conservancy project and walk across the Anlan Suspension Bridge. Tiantai Mountain is in Qionglai; the firefly season is over in autumn, but the mountain forest is cool and uncrowded, making it a good place to escape for some peace and quiet. Visit Anren Ancient Town to see the old mansions, and the Jianchuan Museum Cluster is worth a visit. ⚠️ There are many museums, so just pick 2 or 3; don't try to visit them all. Go to the Giant Panda Base early. ⏰ Pandas are active in the morning and basically just lie around after 10:00 AM. 🚄 You can get there by subway and scenic area shuttle buses; don't drive yourself and get stuck in traffic at the entrance. 🍜 The "fly restaurants" in the city are much more cost-effective than those in the scenic areas. 8️⃣ Xianning | Hubei Xianning's main attraction is the Ancient Battlefield of Chibi. The weather is comfortable from September–October, and the breeze by the river is not muggy. The scenic area features reconstructed ancient buildings and cliff carvings. 📍 The section along the river offers the best view, with an expansive look at the Yangtze River. The historical atmosphere here is strong, making it suitable for those interested in the Three Kingdoms stories. If you are just looking for scenery, don't set your expectations too high. ⚠️ The scenic area is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes; don't wear new shoes that might cause blisters. 🚄 Get off at Chibi North Station and transfer to a bus. There aren't many departures, so check your return trip in advance. 🍜 Xianning has many local osmanthus products, which are perfect in autumn. They are inexpensive and make great souvenirs. It's suitable for a 1-day trip with a slow pace. These 8 places are not expensive to visit from September–October. The autumn colors in Changji and the Tulou in Longyan are the most photogenic, while Suqian and Xianning are suitable for a relaxing short trip. Which one do you want to visit first?