Pingdingshan travel guide and discussion

A window of sea, holding all the vastness; A bed of dreams, cradling all the tenderness; A sunrise, lighting up all the hope.

Hidden among the mountains of Ruzhou, Fengxue Temple is one of Henan's Four Great Buddhist Monasteries, yet it remains wonderfully peaceful and uncrowded. Stepping into the temple feels like travelling through centuries of Chinese history. Ancient pagodas from the Tang Dynasty, the remarkable Song Dynasty Hanging Bell Pavilion, elegant Jin Dynasty architecture, and a tranquil temple complex come together in perfect harmony with the surrounding mountains. From the higher viewpoints around the temple, the entire monastery unfolds beautifully against the forested landscape, revealing why this site has long been admired for its exceptional feng shui setting. Still an active place of worship today, Fengxue Temple offers not only remarkable historical architecture but also an atmosphere of serenity that invites visitors to slow down and appreciate its timeless beauty. 📍 Location: Fengxue Temple, Ruzhou, Henan, China 🏯 Highlight: One of Henan's Four Great Buddhist Monasteries with over a thousand years of history ✨ Feature: Tang Dynasty pagoda, Song Dynasty Hanging Bell Pavilion, Jin Dynasty architecture, ancient courtyards, mountain scenery, and panoramic viewpoints 🍃 Atmosphere: Quiet, spiritual, and deeply historic 📸 Best for: Heritage photography, temple architecture, cultural exploration, and peaceful walks 💡 Travel Tip: Climb to the surrounding viewpoints for the best perspective of the temple's harmonious layout nestled among the mountains. ✨ Signature feeling: Standing above the temple as ancient halls, towering pagodas, and green mountains come together in one timeless landscape. Some temples impress with crowds. Fengxue Temple captivates with tranquillity. 🏯🌿✨

Many people have heard the story of the Foolish Old Man moving mountains, but few have actually been to Wangwu Mountain. This is what Taoism calls the "Number One Grotto-Heaven," the place where the Yellow Emperor offered sacrifices to heaven. Beyond its rich cultural heritage, standing at the Tiantan Peak and looking out, the rolling Taihang Mountains unfold before you—a sense of openness you can only truly appreciate once you've been here. A one-day self-driving trip from Zhengzhou or Pingdingshan is completely feasible, and with proper planning, it won't be too tiring for seniors or children. 🎫 Actual travel costs and time Buying tickets online is more cost-effective. Seniors aged 60 and above can enter for free with their ID. The scenic area is open from 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, with ticket checks stopping at 4:30 PM. A full visit takes about 4–6 hours. ⚠️ I highly recommend buying a sightseeing bus ticket. The distance from the visitor center to the various spots is very long, and walking the whole way is exhausting, which isn't suitable for a one-day trip. The cable car is optional; for those with average stamina or traveling with family, I strongly recommend taking it to save two or three hours of climbing effort. Young people looking for a challenge can take the Tiantan Shenlu (Divine Road), which has over 5,000 steps and is quite a test for the knees. The parking lot at the foot of the mountain costs 10 yuan per day and has plenty of space. 🚗 Travel method: self-driving is the most comfortable Navigation search: Wangwu Mountain Scenic Area Visitor Center It takes about two and a half hours from Pingdingshan and two hours from Zhengzhou, with smooth highway conditions. Public transport requires transferring to rural buses in Jiyuan city, which is a hassle and not recommended for a one-day trip. 🗺 Two tested routes to avoid pitfalls Effort-saving family version | Suitable for seniors and children (4 hours) Take the sightseeing bus from the visitor center. First stop: Yangtai Palace. The ancient architecture here is well-preserved, with Ming and Qing dynasty halls, stone pillars, and carvings that are worth seeing. The bodhi tree in the courtyard is quiet; take a slow walk around to soak in the atmosphere of the ancient Taoist temple. Continue by bus to the Millennium Ginkgo Tree and the Fountain of Youth. The 2,000-year-old ginkgo tree has a thick trunk and looks especially beautiful when its leaves turn golden in autumn. Next to it is the Fountain of Youth, where many tourists collect spring water. Afterward, transfer to the cable car station and take the cable car up the mountain. After getting off the cable car, you still need to climb stairs for about 30 minutes to reach the Tiantan Peak (Golden Summit). Standing at the top, the layered Taihang Mountains are in full view. On clear days, the visibility is great, and if you're lucky after rain, you might encounter a sea of clouds. After exploring the summit, take the cable car back down the same way. Reminder: The cable car does not go directly to the summit; you still have to climb a section of uphill stairs after getting off, so be prepared. In-depth hiking version | Suitable for young people (5–6 hours) After checking in at Yangtai Palace and the Ginkgo Tree/Fountain of Youth at the foot of the mountain, take the cable car to the top of Tiantan Peak. After seeing the Golden Summit, you can walk down the mountain trails, taking part of the Tiantan Shenlu to experience the feeling of climbing ancient stone steps. The steps on the Shenlu are steep and dense, and going down puts a lot of pressure on the knees, so be sure to slow down. The forest along the way is dense with plenty of shade, so you can enjoy the mountain scenery as you walk. Follow the path back to the Foolish Old Man Square, then take the sightseeing bus back to the main entrance. ✅ Places worth stopping to see in detail 1. Yangtai Palace Be sure to stop by. Many people head straight for the climb and miss this. The stone carvings and pillars in the main hall are exquisite, authentic ancient architecture that is worth a slow stroll. 2. Millennium Ginkgo Tree and the Fountain of Youth Over 2,000 years old, this is a landmark of Wangwu Mountain. The golden leaves in autumn make for great photos. You can collect the spring water, but it's recommended to boil it before drinking. 3. Tiantan Peak (Golden Summit) The soul of Wangwu Mountain, at an altitude of 1,715 meters. Legend has it that the Yellow Emperor offered sacrifices to heaven here. On a clear day, you can see thousands of mountains stretching out, which is very refreshing. You can pray at the Taoist temple on the summit; incense and candles are available for purchase as needed, no need to be pressured by sales. 4. Foolish Old Man Sculpture Square You can check this out on your way down; it corresponds to the story of the Foolish Old Man moving mountains from the textbook. 🍜 Food and drink tips There aren't many shops on the mountain, and prices are on the higher side, so bring your own water and some snacks. There are simple instant noodles and snacks at the summit to tide you over. After descending, if you have time, you can stroll through Wangwu Old Street for some light snacks. If you want authentic local food, drive to Jiyuan city and be sure to try the Jiyuan beef meatball soup and "tu mo" (earth buns), which have a very local flavor. ⚠️ Practical tips from someone who's been there to avoid pitfalls 1. The wind at the summit is very strong, and the temperature is several degrees lower than at the foot of the mountain. Even if it's sunny, bring a jacket; don't try to tough it out in short sleeves. 2. Be sure to wear non-slip sports shoes. Whether it's the short flight of stairs after the cable car or the hiking trail, there are many steps, and some places can be slippery. 3. Pay attention to the last cable car, which usually stops running at 5:00 PM. Don't stay too late at the summit, as missing the cable car down is a hassle. 4. On holidays, try to enter the park around 8:00 AM to avoid peak queues for the sightseeing bus and cable car. 5. Don't trust solicitors on the side of the road who say they can drive you directly up the mountain; private cars are not allowed to drive up the mountain. 6. After rain, the mountain is very foggy, and you might not be able to see anything, so try to choose a sunny day for your trip. 💡 One-day itinerary reference Depart around 8:00 AM, have a simple lunch on the mountain, and head back around 4:00 or 5:00 PM. If you have time, you can explore Wangwu Old Street before leaving.

You guys, you have to understand!! I'm locked in on this BBQ spot!! 🔥 I've been here 3 times in a week and I'm still not tired of it. It's seriously addictive 🥹 🥩 [Food selection] Huge variety! Help yourself to all the fresh meat and seafood you want 🤤 The meat is super fresh, sizzling with juices when grilled—it's mind-blowing! The seafood portions are generous too; it's such a great deal ✨ 🍉 [Fruit & desserts] Tons of fruit to choose from 🍇🍈 Various mini cakes and canned yellow peaches—perfect for cleansing the palate! Having something sweet after BBQ is pure happiness 💕 🥣 [Sauce station] The selection is super complete! It's so much fun to mix your own dipping sauces, and everything tastes great no matter how you combine them. I manage to create a divine flavor every single time 👏 💪 [Value for money] Grab whatever you want—the value is off the charts! They restock quickly, so no need to wait around. This is the perfect spot for a gathering with friends! The service is great too, and the overall experience is amazing 🌟 📍 Address: West side of the south section of Chengpu Road, Zhanhe District, Pingdingshan City

Henan's Taihang Mountains are more than just Yuntai Mountain! Shennong Mountain in Qinyang, Jiaozuo is truly underrated! A 5A World Geopark, it features both the majestic and steep Taihang cliffs and a thousand years of cultural heritage. The stories of Emperor Shennong tasting herbs and praying for blessings have been passed down for millennia. The best part is the unique Dragon's Backbone Great Wall, with ancient pines on cliffs, wild macaque groups, and a sea of clouds at the summit. The scenery is grand and healing. It's the top choice for a one-day self-driving trip around Zhengzhou and Pingdingshan, suitable for all ages! 🎫 Basic Info (Tested) · Tickets: Peak season CNY 65, online booking is cheaper; seniors over 60 and children under 1.4m get free admission; students get half-price with ID · Opening hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, last entry at 4:30 PM. Recommended visit time: 4–6 hours · Parking: Official parking lot is CNY 10/day, no time limit. Private cars are not allowed up the mountain; you must use the designated shuttle service · Essential Transport Costs (Tested, no traps) 1. Round-trip shuttle bus CNY 25 ✅ Must-buy! The distance from the visitor center to the mountainside is very long. Walking is time-consuming and exhausting; this saves a lot of energy 2. Round-trip cable car CNY 70 (up CNY 40/down CNY 35). If you have average stamina or are traveling with seniors/children, go for it for an easy ascent; young people can hike up for an immersive experience 🚗 Transport Guide (Self-driving recommended) · From Zhengzhou: About 1.5 hours direct, smooth highway all the way · From Pingdingshan: About 2.2 hours, easy for a one-day round trip · Navigation: Shennong Mountain Visitor Service Center (Ziling Town, Qinyang) · Public transport: Requires transferring to rural buses + taxis. It's troublesome and time-consuming; not recommended for a one-day trip 🗺 Two "No-Retrace" Routes (Tested, optimal) 🔹 Easy & Effortless Version | For families, seniors, and those who prefer a relaxed pace (4 hours) Visitor Center > Shuttle Bus > Shennong Culture Square (photo op with giant Shennong bronze statue) > Macaque Garden > Cable Car up > Yitian Gate > Zhongtian Gate > Nantian Gate > Zijin Summit (main peak) > Longshoutai viewing platform > Cable Car down Minimal walking, no steep slopes. Focuses on an easy ascent to overlook the panoramic views of the Taihang Mountains without tiring your legs. 🔹 Essential Full Version | A must for young hikers (5–6 hours) Visitor Center > Shuttle Bus > Shennong Culture Square > Macaque Garden > Cable Car up > Zijin Summit (main peak) > Dragon's Backbone Great Wall (Baisong Ridge) ⭐ Core highlight > Yixiantian (A Thread of Sky) > Hike down the Shennong Ancient Trail > Return The entire Dragon's Backbone Great Wall is a Taihang wonder! One ridge with nine peaks winds and undulates like a giant dragon lying across the mountains, with steep cliffs on both sides of the narrow stone ridge. The thousand-year-old dragon-scale pines growing on the cliffs are a unique Asian landscape—rugged, ancient, and atmospheric. Perfect for photos. ✅ Must-Visit Highlights 1. Zijin Summit (Shennong Altar) The highest peak of Shennong Mountain, at an altitude of 1,028m, said to be where Emperor Shennong prayed to heaven. The summit offers a wide field of view with layered mountain ranges. On clear days, the distant mountains are crisp and transparent; after rain, you are very likely to encounter a sea of clouds. 2. Dragon's Backbone Great Wall · Baisong Ridge The entire ridge is thrilling and magnificent. Walking along it feels like strolling through the clouds. It is a unique landscape that sets Shennong Mountain apart from all other Taihang mountain ranges and is a must-visit soul-stirring spot. 3. Taihang Macaque Garden Thousands of wild macaques are free-roaming on the mountain, and you can see lively, cute monkey groups everywhere. Friendly reminder: Do not carry plastic bags and do not feed them, to avoid monkeys fighting for food or scratching you. 4. Shennong Culture Square An iconic photo spot upon entering the park. The giant bronze statue of Shennong is magnificent and full of cultural atmosphere, making it a great first stop for photos. 🍜 Food Guide · Few shops inside the scenic area, prices are high. We recommend bringing your own drinking water, snacks, and food · Must-try local Qinyang specialties after descending: Naotang donkey meat, donkey meat burger, Huaifu Hele noodles, iron stick yam, and starch noodles. Authentic Huaifu flavors with great value · Freshly roasted iron stick yam in the scenic area is soft, glutinous, and sweet. CNY 5/skewer, worth a try ⚠️ 2026 Latest Tips 1. Say no to roadside solicitors! There are no shortcuts to drive up the mountain. Everyone must park at the bottom and transfer. Beware of scams 2. The steps on the Dragon's Backbone Great Wall are narrow and cliffside. Don't take photos while walking; don't walk while taking photos. If you have a fear of heights, we recommend turning back at the middle section 3. The summit is very windy year-round. Bring a light jacket even on sunny days. Wear non-slip sneakers throughout the trip; the steps can be slippery 4. There are many people selling incense on the mountain. Consume rationally based on your needs; no need to follow the crowd 5. Enter the park at 8:00 AM on holidays to avoid peak queues for the shuttle bus and cable car for a better experience 🌟 Best Time to Visit ✅ Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November) are best. The sky is high and crisp, the forests are clear, and the Dragon's Backbone Great Wall is most photogenic ✅ Summer features lush forests and cool temperatures, making it a natural summer retreat ❌ Winter is very windy and cold at the summit with heavy fog, making for poor viewing 💡 Short Trip Suggestions One-day trip: Depart at 8:00 AM, have a simple meal on the mountain, and return easily by 4:00–5:00 PM If you have more time, combine with nearby attractions like Qinglong Gorge and Fenglin Gorge to fully enjoy the landscapes of Jiaozuo's Taihang Mountains

The Mid-Autumn & National Day holiday lasts for 8 days. What’s the biggest fear when traveling with kids? Getting tired, dealing with crowds, and bored children. I’ve selected these 8 places where kids can run and jump, or enjoy good food and sights, helping parents stay sane while kids burn off energy. 1️⃣ Kashgar | Xinjiang Kashgar Old City is most comfortable before 10:00 AM; the alleys are empty, and kids can run freely. 📍 The copperware shops on Wustangboyi Road—the tapping sounds will keep kids entertained for ages. The Pamir Plateau is better for older kids. The road to Baisha Lake is over 3,000 meters above sea level. ⏰ The light is best in the afternoon, but don't let kids run or jump too hard. It's windy at the Stone City in Taxkorgan, so make sure they wear hats. You can rest at a teahouse in the Old City. 🍜 Order a pot of brick tea and some naan; the kids can snack on the naan while you enjoy the tea, looking out at the mud walls and drying flower hats. ⚠️ Ask for the price before taking photos on horseback in the Old City to avoid being overcharged. 2️⃣ Weihai | Shandong My advice for Weihai: don't overdo it. If the kids can't wake up early for the sunrise at Chengshantou, skip it and go to Liugong Island instead. The boat ride is just over 10 minutes, and kids can watch the seagulls following the boat the whole way. Huaxia City is best in the afternoon. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, it's not as sunny. There's a small petting zoo inside where kids can feed rabbits and sheep for an hour. 📍 Try the mackerel dumplings at the east gate of Huancuilou Park—thin skin, generous filling. Kids can easily eat 6. ⚠️ Buy Liugong Island boat and admission tickets separately. Book in advance via their official account to avoid standing in the sun. Stay near the International Bathing Beach so you can take the kids to dig in the sand at night and easily rinse off back at the hotel. 3️⃣ Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is an underrated family destination. The Shimen Plank Road is built along the mountain; it's not stroller-friendly, but kids can walk it just fine. ⏰ Go in the morning, and you'll finish just in time for fish for lunch. Guhantai is small and takes an hour to explore. The courtyard has old osmanthus trees that smell amazing around the Mid-Autumn Festival. 📍 Tianhan Street by the Han River is full of families in the evening. Rent a scooter and let the kids run wild. 🍜 Hot noodles (re mian pi) and vegetable tofu are a must. Kids can have the noodles while you enjoy the tofu—add chili to your taste. ⚠️ The sightseeing car at the Shimen Plank Road exit has long lines. If you're with kids, I recommend walking back the way you came to avoid the crowds. 4️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan For the Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Giant Buddha area, the key is the cable car. After taking the Yaoshan cable car up, there's a flat path that isn't tiring. ⏰ In the morning, when the clouds clear, you can see the layered mountain ridges—kids will say it looks "like a painting." There's a square at the foot of the Giant Buddha where kids can run around, but don't let them climb the stairs—their legs will be jelly after hundreds of steps. 📍 Try the "lan guo cai" (stewed vegetable dish) with rice at the farmhouses near the entrance. 🍜 The portions are huge; one serving is enough for a family of 3. ⚠️ There's a big temperature difference between the mountain and the base, so bring a light jacket even for the Mid-Autumn/National Day holiday. If your child is under 4, I advise against the stairs at Yaoshan—taking the cable car both ways is easiest. 5️⃣ Changzhou | Jiangsu Changzhou is a veteran in family travel. Global Dinosaur Town is perfect for a full day. ⏰ Get there when it opens, head straight to the Dinosaur Gene Research Center, and watch the parade in the afternoon—the kids will be mesmerized. Tianmu Lake is great for the second day; take a boat tour and visit Longxing Island to see the animals. The Yancheng Spring and Autumn Tourist Area is more historical; if your kids aren't into ancient architecture, you can skip it and use the time to revisit Dinosaur Town. 📍 Dino Water Town next to Dinosaur Town has a noodle shop with non-spicy mushroom noodles that are perfect for kids. 🍜 ⚠️ Dinosaur Town gets extremely crowded during holidays. Renting a stroller is better than carrying the kids; the rental point is at the South Gate. 6️⃣ Yanbian | Jilin Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone in Dunhua is mainly for seeing the Giant Buddha and exploring the park. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds. Take the sightseeing car up so the kids don't have to walk too much. There's a wetland area at the foot of the mountain; the reeds turn white in autumn, making for great photos, and it's a good place for kids to run. 📍 Try a Korean-style restaurant in downtown Dunhua. 🍜 Order cold noodles and rice cakes; the noodles are sweet and sour, and kids love slurping them up. ⚠️ The Liuding Mountain ticket includes the sightseeing car; don't get tricked by touts at the entrance into buying extra packages. This area is best for a slow pace—2 days and 1 night is just right, don't overpack your schedule. 7️⃣ Yichun | Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest Park sounds rugged, but it's actually very kid-friendly. ⏰ Enter the park in the morning and walk the "Yixiantian" (A Thread of Sky) section; kids love squeezing through the rock crevices. The forest is rich in negative oxygen ions, so kids won't complain about being tired even after running all day. 📍 For dinner at a homestay outside the park, 🍜 order the stewed chicken with mushrooms—the mushrooms are locally foraged and delicious. ⚠️ It's cold in the forest area morning and night, so bring fleece jackets for the Mid-Autumn/National Day holiday. There are also lots of mosquitoes, so bring plenty of repellent. Yichun is best for a road trip as the attractions are spread out. If your kids get restless in the car, have snacks and cartoons ready to get through the 2-hour drives. 8️⃣ Xiangxi | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town is quietest before 7:00 AM. Walk along the Tuojiang River with the kids and watch the locals doing laundry. ⏰ Take a boat ride in the evening; the kids will be amazed when the lights come on. Dehang Canyon and Aizhai can be done in one day. There's a sightseeing path under the Aizhai Bridge—as long as the kids aren't afraid of heights, they'll be fine. Shibadong Village is better for older kids to walk the stone paths and see the mountains. 📍 At a ginger candy shop in Fenghuang Ancient Town, 🍜 let the kids watch the master pull the candy, then buy a bag—it's genuinely sweet. ⚠️ Negotiate the price for braided hair in the ancient town before you start. Xiangxi cuisine is spicy, so remember to ask for "no spice" when ordering for kids. These 8 places: Kashgar and Yichun are for families with plenty of time; Weihai and Changzhou are great for 3-day short trips; Hanzhong, Pingdingshan, Yanbian, and Xiangxi are perfect for slow-paced road trips. It'll be crowded during the Mid-Autumn/National Day holiday, so book tickets and hotels early. Don't force the kids to skip their naps—leaving some downtime is more important than rushing between attractions. Which one do you want to take your kids to most?

I just returned from a trip to Pingdingshan. To be honest, this city has a lot of depth, with mountains, water, and rich history. But if you come in September–October without doing your homework, it's very easy to get exhausted and stressed out 😭. I've put together a real, tested guide, so if you're planning to travel during this time, be sure to read this before you head out 📝 🏯 Must-visit attractions | Attraction highlights Yaoshan (Shiren Mountain) ⛰️ Pingdingshan's premier mountain scenic area and a well-known mountain in the Central Plains. With strange peaks, bizarre rocks, waterfalls, and streams, the autumn forest is a tapestry of red, yellow, and green, making the autumn scenery particularly stunning. The view from the top is expansive, and you can overlook the rolling mountains. However, there is a significant elevation change, and the temperature difference between the top and bottom of the mountain is very noticeable. Hiking consumes quite a bit of energy. Sansu Garden 📜 A park commemorating the three Su family members—Su Shi, Su Zhe, and Su Xun—and their final resting place. With ancient-style courtyards, stone inscriptions, and a memorial hall, it is full of literary atmosphere. There are many ancient trees in the park. In September–October, as the autumn wind blows, fallen leaves cover the courtyards. It is quiet and suitable for those who love history and classical literature to stroll slowly. Xiangshan Temple 🏮 A thousand-year-old temple with simple, grand architecture and a serene atmosphere. The ancient cypress trees in the courtyard and the red walls against the autumn trees make for great photos. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is not crowded, making it a comfortable place to wander and relax. Fengxue Temple 🌳 A rare ancient temple in the Central Plains that does not charge an admission ticket. It dates back over a thousand years, and the pagoda forest and ancient halls inside are well-preserved. Hidden in the mountains and forests, the environment is secluded. The ancient temple, clear springs, and old trees blend together, creating a perfect autumn vibe that locals love. Baigui Lake National Wetland Park 🌊 A free wetland park in the city with an expansive lake surface and a long trail around the lake. In autumn, the reeds turn yellow, making it perfect for walking, catching a breeze, and watching the sunset. It's free and just right for relaxation. Apozhai 🏔️ Mountain scenery with Great Wall-style walkways. It's great for hiking and enjoying the autumn mountain views, perfect for those who love outdoor trekking. 🗺️ Classic itinerary | 4 days and 3 nights (September–October autumn version) Day 1: Arrive in downtown Pingdingshan, visit Baigui Lake Wetland Park in the afternoon, and have local food in the city in the evening to rest and adjust. Day 2: Full day at Yaoshan Scenic Area to see the autumn colors of the strange peaks. Take the cable car to save energy, and return to the city or stay in Yaoshan Town in the evening. Day 3: Experience the history of Song Dynasty scholars at Sansu Garden, then head to Fengxue Temple to visit the thousand-year-old temple and feel the quiet of the mountain forest. Day 4: Wander around Xiangshan Temple, explore the old town to eat and buy souvenirs, then head home. 👉 Simplified 2-day version D1: One-day trip to Yaoshan to experience the autumn scenery of the Central Plains mountains. D2: Sansu Garden + Fengxue Temple, a route focused on humanities and ancient architecture. ⚠️ Travel tips to avoid pitfalls (Exclusive to September–October ❗) 1. September–October is the peak season for Yaoshan's autumn scenery, and the number of tourists surges on weekends. Try to travel on weekdays, go up the mountain early, and avoid the midday crowds. The cable car queue on the mountain can be very long during holidays, so reserve enough waiting time and don't arrive at the last minute. 2. The temperature difference between the top and bottom of the mountain is a trap! The temperature in the city is comfortable, but it is windy and cold at the top of Yaoshan. Many people go up wearing only thin clothes and end up freezing. Do not judge the weather on the mountain based on the city temperature. 3. The attractions are scattered! Yaoshan, Sansu Garden, and Fengxue Temple are far from each other and not in the same area. Public transport is infrequent, and transferring takes a lot of time. It is not recommended to rely entirely on buses; self-driving or chartering a car is preferred. 4. Do not easily trust low-priced one-day mountain tours on the side of the road. Many small groups will take you to shopping spots. Try to choose official channels. 5. In early September, the leaves in the mountains have not turned red on a large scale. If you want to see the spectacular autumn colors, try to come in mid-to-late October. Don't have too high expectations for the autumn scenery in early September. 6. Prices at small shops in the mountain scenic areas are relatively high. Prepare drinking water, chocolate, and other energy snacks before entering the mountain to reduce your load. 7. Fengxue Temple is free, but parking spaces are tight during holidays, and it is easy to not find a spot if you arrive late. It is recommended to hire a guide for Sansu Garden, otherwise, you might not understand much of the historical background. 💡 Travel tips ✅ Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night is large in September–October. Bring a long-sleeved jacket for the city, and be sure to bring a windbreaker or a thin down jacket for Yaoshan. There is a lot of walking and hiking, so wear non-slip and comfortable sports shoes 👟. The ultraviolet rays in the mountains are strong, so prepare a hat and sunscreen. ✅ Transportation: Taxis are convenient within the city. If you want to visit surrounding mountain and cultural attractions, self-driving is the most worry-free way. Public transport takes a long time, and the interval between buses in many places is very long. ✅ Must-try food: Lushan Languo Cai (stewed dish), Hele noodles, Pingdingshan tofu dishes, and Ruzhou fenpi (starch noodles). Look for small shops often frequented by locals for authentic and affordable flavors. ✅ Accommodation: If visiting Yaoshan, you can stay in Yaoshan Town, which is close to the scenic area. For cultural attractions, stay in downtown Pingdingshan, where there are more dining options. ✅ Mindset: Pingdingshan is suitable for slow travel; don't pack your itinerary too full. Running between attractions is exhausting, so prioritize what you want to see and don't feel the need to check off everything. 💭 Summary Pingdingshan is actually an underestimated city by many. It has both the majestic autumn scenery of the Central Plains mountains and the culture of the three Sus and thousand-year-old temples—it has both humanities and landscapes 🍂. But I really don't recommend coming here rashly in September–October without a plan. Scattered attractions, the huge temperature difference at the top of Yaoshan, and the crowds on weekends are all real problems that will affect your experience. If your schedule is flexible, prioritize coming on weekdays in mid-to-late October. You can encounter the full autumn scenery and avoid large crowds of tourists. If you like landscapes and history, and you plan your trip well, Pingdingshan will give you quite a surprise.

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

Want to "lie flat" in Sept–Oct? These 5️⃣ off-the-beaten-path cities are uncrowded and budget-friendly 01 Guangzhou | Guangdong To be clear, Guangzhou isn't exactly "off-the-beaten-path," but in Sept–Oct, the brutal summer heat has passed, and the evening river breeze makes it breathable. If you want to "lie flat," don't be greedy; just plan one main area per day. 📍 No need to buy a ticket to go to the top of Canton Tower. Just head to the riverside promenade at 6:00 PM to watch the tower light up. Use the money you saved for a late-night snack. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is best visited in the morning; it's less crowded and the lighting is good. The brick and wood carvings are worth a slow look. After exploring, turn into the old alleys of Liwan. 🍜 A bowl of wonton noodles plus a plate of rice noodle rolls is more authentic than restaurant food in tourist areas. Don't force yourself to hike to Moxing Ridge at Baiyun Mountain. Take the cable car from the South Gate, walk a short distance, and you'll reach the viewing platform—it's easy for seniors and children. 🚄 Subway plus taxi is the most stress-free way to get around. Avoid taking the bus during morning and evening rush hours. For a comfortable visit to Chimelong, choose a weekday; wait times for popular attractions can be cut in half. ⚠️ Prices are the same on weekends and holidays, but the crowds are overwhelming. Families with kids should consider splitting the visit over two days. 02 Pingdingshan | Henan Pingdingshan is underrated. In Sept–Oct, Yaoshan starts to show autumn colors. The red leaves aren't at their peak yet, but it's uncrowded and the temperature is comfortable. You can do Yaoshan and the Central Plains Buddha on the same day. Go up Yaoshan in the morning and take the cable car to save your legs. It's windy at the summit, so remember to bring a jacket. ⏰ Get up the mountain before 10:00 AM while the mist is still there—it's perfect for photos. Go to the Central Plains Buddha in the afternoon. There are many steps, so if you have bad knees, just take the sightseeing shuttle. 📍 Don't buy incense at the scenic area; prices are doubled compared to the bottom of the mountain. 🍜 After coming down, find a local eatery for a bowl of hot and sour soup with a sesame flatbread—it's half the price of the restaurants on the mountain. ⚠️ Dining options on the mountain are limited and expensive, so it's safer to bring your own snacks. This route is perfect for those who want to avoid crowded mountains. Driving yourself is most convenient; public transport transfers will waste half a day. 03 Ma'anshan | Anhui Ma'anshan is very close to Nanjing—a 20-minute high-speed train ride—but the tourist volume is on a completely different level. A top choice for "lying flat." The Yangtze River Caishiji Cultural and Ecological Tourism Area is the core. Walk along the riverside boardwalk, stop and go, and watch the cargo ships pass by slowly; the pace will naturally slow down. ⏰ The light is soft after 4:00 PM, and the river surface glitters with gold. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, walk along the river to Taibai Pavilion, and then loop back without retracing your steps. The boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a Dangtu braised pork noodle shop. The noodles are chewy, and the portion of meat is generous. ⚠️ The kiosks inside the scenic area are a bit pricey, so buy water beforehand. Suitable for couples or solo travelers looking to clear their heads. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Ma'anshan East Station, then it's about a 20-minute taxi ride—less hassle than parking if you drive. 04 Haibei | Qinghai Sept–Oct is the most comfortable time of the year in Haibei. The summer crowds have receded, the grasslands are turning yellow, and the snow line on the Qilian Mountains is descending, creating richer color layers. Any road at the foot of the Qilian Mountains looks great. ⏰ Go once in the early morning and once at dusk; the light is completely different. The Heihe Grand Canyon is best visited in the afternoon. It's windy in the canyon, so wear a windbreaker. Lenglongling and Amidongsuo are suitable for hiking enthusiasts. 📍 You must take the shuttle bus inside the Amidongsuo scenic area. The hiking section is at a high altitude, so know your limits. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night can reach 15 degrees, so don't worry about the weight of a down jacket. 🍜 The hand-grabbed mutton and yak yogurt in Qilian County are worth trying. Book accommodation in advance; many guesthouses start closing after October. Driving is the best option; public transport is infrequent. Perfect for people who want to quietly enjoy the scenery without rushing. 05 Jingmen | Hubei Jingmen doesn't have a high profile, but the Xianling Mausoleum is worth a special trip. In Sept–Oct, the osmanthus flowers in the park are in bloom, and it smells sweet when you walk in. The Xianling Mausoleum Cultural Area is large but has few tourists, so you can take your time exploring. ⏰ Go in the morning when the light hits the red walls best. 📍 Take the sightseeing shuttle from the visitor center to the core area to save yourself two kilometers of unnecessary walking. ⚠️ There's not much shade in the park, so bring a hat and sunglasses on sunny days. 🍜 Back in the city, find an Aizi pie shop, eat them while hot, and pair them with a bowl of rice tea to cut the greasiness. Suitable for those interested in ancient architecture and a quiet atmosphere. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jingmen Station, then it's about a 30-minute taxi ride. Buses are available but infrequent. 06 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Sept–Oct is the golden period for Yangzhou, but tourists are concentrated on weekends. If you want to "lie flat," choose a weekday, and the whole city is yours. For Slender West Lake, I recommend entering at 7:00 AM. The morning mist hasn't cleared, and Wuting Bridge looks like it's floating on the water. ⏰ After 8:00 AM, tour groups start arriving, and the experience drops off a cliff. Just choose one between Ge Garden and He Garden. The Four Seasons Rockery in Ge Garden is more exquisite, while the covered corridors in He Garden are better for photos. 📍 The two gardens are not far apart—a 15-minute walk. 🍜 Don't queue at the "internet-famous" restaurants for morning tea. Find one crowded with locals and order a round of dried tofu shreds, soup dumplings, and jade siu mai. ⚠️ The "Three Springs" restaurants are famous but expensive; it depends on your budget. Suitable for those who like a slow pace and morning tea. The city is small, and you can basically get anywhere for the base taxi fare. 07 Qiqihar | Heilongjiang In Sept–Oct, the Zhalong Ecological Tourism Area in Qiqihar enters its most comfortable season. The reeds turn golden, the red-crowned cranes start to gather, and the wind carries the scent of grass. To see the cranes at Zhalong, you have to catch the release time. ⏰ There's one show at 10:00 AM and another at 2:00 PM. Arrive at the crane viewing platform half an hour early to grab a spot. 📍 It's about a 40-minute drive from the city; chartering a car is easier than waiting for the bus. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the wetlands, so wear long sleeves, long pants, and use mosquito repellent. 🍜 Back in the city, you must have Qiqihar barbecue—marinated meat with onions, grilled over charcoal. It's more satisfying than any Michelin-starred meal. Suitable for families with kids and photography enthusiasts. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Qiqihar South Station, then it's about a 20-minute taxi ride into the city. 08 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Sept–Oct in Jingdezhen is neither cold nor hot, perfect for slowly wandering around the Taoxichuan Ceramic Art Avenue. There are markets on Friday and Saturday nights with twice as many stalls as usual. Taoxichuan is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, the lights come on; the old factory buildings with warm lighting look great in every photo. 📍 Don't bargain too hard at the market; many are student works, and the prices are already fair. The Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum is best visited in the morning to watch master craftsmen throwing clay and painting porcelain. ⚠️ Experience activities cost extra, so ask clearly before you start. 🍜 The cold noodles and fried dough sticks wrapped with mochi at Fuzhou Alley will fill you up for just a few yuan. Suitable for those interested in handmade crafts and markets. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jingdezhen North Station, then it's about a 15-minute taxi ride to Taoxichuan. Out of these cities, choose Haibei if you want to completely clear your head, Yangzhou if you want to eat well, and Jingdezhen if you want to explore while having fun. Which one do you want to visit most?

As soon as school starts in September, airline tickets and hotels are quietly downgraded. October has not yet reached the crowded level of National Day, so this window period is really suitable for going out. I picked 8 places, with early autumn in the northeast and evening breeze in the northwest, with few people, good scenery, and friendly prices. Looking down, there is always one that can cram your vacation. 01 Baicheng|Jilin When visiting Baicheng for the first time, I suggest going straight to the Daanenjiangwan Tourist Area. ⏰ Heading to the scenic spot at 8 am, the fog has not dissipated, the river surface seems to be covered with a layer of tulle, more than ten times better than noon. 📍The wetland canyon in Nenjiang Bay is very flat, so there is no pressure to push a stroller or take the elderly away. The whole journey can be completed in more than two hours of slow strolling, so there is no need to rush. 🍜 After shopping, go out to find a river fish restaurant and order a pot of stewed river fish. The fish meat is firm and the soup is milky white. Fifty or sixty per person can eat very full. Don't eat at the first house at the entrance of the scenic spot. It's more practical to walk two streets inside. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the end of September, so you have to bring a thin down jacket or a rush jacket. In addition, some areas of Nenjiang Bay will have traffic restrictions in the autumn. Check the official announcement before departure. Don't find out that you can't enter until you get to the door. Suitable for people who want to avoid the crowds and just want to watch the water and watch birds in peace. 02 Baoding|Hebei Baoding I recommend self-driving, because Qingxiling, Baishishan, Yesanpo, Anxin Baiyangdian these four places are far away, public transportation transfer will consume most of your patience. ⏰ White Rock Mountain must catch the first wave up the mountain at 7:30 am, the probability of sea of ​​clouds is the highest. Late you can only see the head of people and the cable car queue. The glass canyon is charged separately. If you are afraid of heights, you can still see the good scenery by walking next to the ordinary trail. 🍜Yesanpo is suitable for a night, eat roasted whole lamb by the Juma River in the evening, with local stickers. The accommodation is in the area of ​​Gou Gezhuang, which is much cheaper than the entrance of the scenic spot. You can walk to the riverside. ⚠️ The boats in Baiyangdian are divided into large boats and small wooden boats, the price difference is quite large. If you want to watch the reeds in peace, choose a small wooden boat, but remember to negotiate the price and route first, don't get on the boat in confusion. The Western Mausoleum of the Qing Dynasty is suitable for those interested in ancient architecture. If you are purely looking at the scenery, you can skip it. The autumn leaves in Baishishan have just begun in October, with far fewer people than in Xiangshan. 03 Harbin | Heilongjiang I know you will be stunned when you see "Harbin Ice and Snow". There are no ice sculptures in Harbin from September to October, and the Ice and Snow World is not open either. But it is precisely because of this that flights are cheap, Central Avenue is not crowded, but comfortable. ⏰ Hagia Sophia Church has the softest light after 4pm, there are many pigeons in the square, there is no need to grab a seat for taking pictures. Go in and listen to a small concert. The tickets are not expensive and worth the price. 📍 Volga Manor is a bit far from the city, take a car over forty minutes or so. The birch forest turns yellow in autumn, with Russian architecture, an extra layer of warm tones than in winter. You can rent bicycles in the manor and ride slowly. 🍜 The Madier popsicles on Central Avenue are still the same price, so you can eat them while you go. If you want to eat a main meal, go to Lao Dao Wai. The rib buns with millet congee from Zhang Bao's shop are eaten by locals. ⚠️ This season, the temperature difference between morning and evening in Harbin can reach ten degrees. Wear a sweatshirt at noon and add a jacket at night. Don’t expect to see the ice sculptures, put your expectations on the architecture and autumn colors and you will have more fun. 04 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the most comfortable time of the year from September to October. It's too sunny in summer and too cold in winter. For these two months, the mountain breeze is cool and silky, and it's not dry even after a day. 📍 Baquan Gorge is the core, it is recommended to enter by boat, cableway out, save half the energy. The sound of the water in the canyon is so loud that I can only cry. ⏰ From 10 am to 2 pm, sunlight can shine into the bottom of the canyon, and the water is green. 🍜 There are few choices for eating in the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own dry food. After going down the mountain, we went to Huguan County Town to have a bowl of lamb soup with a siu biscuit. We ate 20 pieces and felt warm. ⚠️ The queue for cruise ships and cableways at Baquan Gorge will be long on weekends. If you can choose a working day, choose a working day. If you are taking the elderly, you basically don’t have to climb up and down the ropeway, but there are still some steps, so you can do it according to your ability. Those who like to hike can walk the whole trail, four hours or so, the scenery is definitely worth it. 05 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou, hidden in the mountains. There have not been many tourists. Go from September to October, the rice fields along the way are just golden, and the fragrance of rice is all the way out of the car window. 📍The building of Emperor Yan's Mausoleum follows the central axis all the way up, walk slowly for about an hour and a half. ⏰ The morning is the least crowded, the smell of incense mixed with the moisture in the mountains, very quiet. You can stop and look at the ancient tree in front of the temple. It is very old. 🍜 Yanling's yellow peach is still coming to an end at this time, buy directly when you encounter a seller on the road. The blood duck and stuffed tofu in the county town are local practices, rather spicy, can not eat spicy to say in advance. ⚠️ It takes more than two hours to drive from Zhuzhou city to Yandi Mausoleum. It is recommended to drive or take a bus to Yanling County and then transfer. Purely for seeing the mausoleum may feel monotonous, it is more appropriate to treat it as a walk between the mountains. Suitable for bringing elders, slow pace, steps are not steep. 06 Haidong | Qinghai Haidong is the east gate of Qinghai, and many people use it as a transit point to Xining. In fact, Mutual Aid Tu Homeland Garden and Youning Temple are worth staying alone for a day. 📍 Mutual Assistance Tu Homeland Garden You can watch the Tu Wheel Autumn Performance, and you can also turn twice yourself, more fun than imagined. ⏰ The afternoon performance is less crowded, no need to crowd. You can have a sip of the barley wine in the garden. Don't be greedy for a glass, it will be strong afterward. 🍜 Mutual help's eight-brow pork and steamed pot dumplings are a specialty. The dumplings are broken and dipped in boiled tea to eat, the more you chew, the more fragrant. Youning Temple is in the mountains, with fewer tourists. The old man who turns the prayers walks slowly, and you just follow. ⚠️ End of September Haidong morning and evening is very cool, thin cotton clothes belt on. Youning Temple is a religious place. Don't talk loudly when you enter. Check if there are any signs before taking pictures. Suitable for friends who want to experience different ethnic styles and do not want to be crowded. 07 Pingding Mountain | Henan I recommend the combination of Yaoshan-Central Great Buddha in two days. Climbing Mount Yao is physically demanding, but the Central Plains Buddha takes a flat road. After a hard day's work, you will be so tired that you are not in the mood to see the scenery. 📍Yao Shan From the cableway station to Yuhuang Peak, round trip about three hours. ⏰ The red leaves begin to change color in mid-October, earlier than Xiangshan, and much less people. If you don't want to climb, take the ropeway to the middle station. It's enough to walk around nearby. 🍜The pot dishes and wild vegetables at the farmhouse at the foot of the mountain are worth eating, the portions are large, two people order a dish and a soup is enough. Don't eat at the few restaurants at the entrance of the ropeway, walk a kilometer down, the price and taste are real. ⚠️ In the Central Plains Great Buddha Scenic Area from the main door to the Buddha front there is a short road, there is a ferry, it is recommended to sit, save the effort to climb the lotus seat. The weather in Yaoshan is changing faster. Raincoats are more effective than umbrellas. If you have children, the Yaoshan Cableway and the Central Plains Buddha are easy, but some sections of the Yaoshan Trail have steep steps, so it is good for children. 08 Southwest Guizhou | Guizhou Autumn comes late in southwest Guizhou, with less rain from September to October, and the Maling River Gorge and Wanfeng Forest are entering their most photogenic time. 📍The canyon of the Maling River Canyon is close to the cliff, the waterfall is at hand, the water mist is all over the face. ⏰ Go in the morning, the sun can shine into the canyon, the probability of rainbow appearance is high. Walk the whole process more than two hours, many steps, knees are not good cautious. 🍜 Lamb powder and brush heads in Xingyi city are standard for breakfast. A bowl of flour and a cage of brush heads can be eaten for 10 yuan. The fried rice with eggs at the foot of Wanfenglin is also famous, using local rice with rice. ⚠️ Wan Feng Forest is suitable for renting electric cars or bicycles to stroll slowly, Guan Feng Road is all the way, no need to deliberately find. Wear non-slip shoes in the canyon of the Maling River. Wear non-slip shoes. From September to October, the temperature in southwestern Guizhou is over 20 degrees during the day, so you need to wear a thin coat at night. Suitable for people who like natural scenery and don't mind walking. These 8 places are considered a good time to visit from September to October. If you only have two or three days, I will give priority to Baicheng, Changzhi or Haidong. If you have plenty of time, you can stay for a few more days in Baoding and Qianxinan. Where you plan to go, or have been, the comment section says. As soon as school starts in September, airline tickets and hotels are quietly downgraded. October has not yet reached the crowded level of National Day, so this window period is really suitable for going out. I picked 8 places, with early autumn in the northeast and evening breeze in the northwest, with few people, good scenery, and friendly prices. Looking down, there is always one that can cram your vacation. 01 Baicheng|Jilin When visiting Baicheng for the first time, I suggest going straight to the Daanenjiangwan Tourist Area. ⏰ Heading to the scenic spot at 8 am, the fog has not dissipated, the river surface seems to be covered with a layer of tulle, more than ten times better than noon. 📍The wetland canyon in Nenjiang Bay is very flat, so there is no pressure to push a stroller or take the elderly away. The whole journey can be completed in more than two hours of slow strolling, so there is no need to rush. 🍜 After shopping, go out to find a river fish restaurant and order a pot of stewed river fish. The fish meat is firm and the soup is milky white. Fifty or sixty per person can eat very full. Don't eat at the first house at the entrance of the scenic spot. It's more practical to walk two streets inside. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the end of September, so you have to bring a thin down jacket or a rush jacket. In addition, some areas of Nenjiang Bay will have traffic restrictions in the autumn. Check the official announcement before departure. Don't find out that you can't enter until you get to the door. Suitable for people who want to avoid the crowds and just want to watch the water and watch birds in peace. 02 Baoding|Hebei Baoding I recommend self-driving, because Qingxiling, Baishishan, Yesanpo, Anxin Baiyangdian these four places are far away, public transportation transfer will consume most of your patience. ⏰ White Rock Mountain must catch the first wave up the mountain at 7:30 am, the probability of sea of ​​clouds is the highest. Late you can only see the head of people and the cable car queue. The glass canyon is charged separately. If you are afraid of heights, you can still see the good scenery by walking next to the ordinary trail. 🍜Yesanpo is suitable for a night, eat roasted whole lamb by the Juma River in the evening, with local stickers. The accommodation is in the area of ​​Gou Gezhuang, which is much cheaper than the entrance of the scenic spot. You can walk to the riverside. ⚠️ The boats in Baiyangdian are divided into large boats and small wooden boats, the price difference is quite large. If you want to watch the reeds in peace, choose a small wooden boat, but remember to negotiate the price and route first, don't get on the boat in confusion. The Western Mausoleum of the Qing Dynasty is suitable for those interested in ancient architecture. If you are purely looking at the scenery, you can skip it. The autumn leaves in Baishishan have just begun in October, with far fewer people than in Xiangshan. 03 Harbin | Heilongjiang I know you will be stunned when you see "Harbin Ice and Snow". There are no ice sculptures in Harbin from September to October, and the Ice and Snow World is not open either. But it is precisely because of this that flights are cheap, Central Avenue is not crowded, but comfortable. ⏰ Hagia Sophia Church has the softest light after 4pm, there are many pigeons in the square, there is no need to grab a seat for taking pictures. Go in and listen to a small concert. The tickets are not expensive and worth the price. 📍 Volga Manor is a bit far from the city, take a car over forty minutes or so. The birch forest turns yellow in autumn, with Russian architecture, an extra layer of warm tones than in winter. You can rent bicycles in the manor and ride slowly. 🍜 The Madier popsicles on Central Avenue are still the same price, so you can eat them while you go. If you want to eat a main meal, go to Lao Dao Wai. The rib buns with millet congee from Zhang Bao's shop are eaten by locals. ⚠️ This season, the temperature difference between morning and evening in Harbin can reach ten degrees. Wear a sweatshirt at noon and add a jacket at night. Don’t expect to see the ice sculptures, put your expectations on the architecture and autumn colors and you will have more fun. 04 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the most comfortable time of the year from September to October. It's too sunny in summer and too cold in winter. For these two months, the mountain breeze is cool and silky, and it's not dry even after a day. 📍 Baquan Gorge is the core, it is recommended to enter by boat, cableway out, save half the energy. The sound of the water in the canyon is so loud that I can only cry. ⏰ From 10 am to 2 pm, sunlight can shine into the bottom of the canyon, and the water is green. 🍜 There are few choices for eating in the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own dry food. After going down the mountain, we went to Huguan County Town to have a bowl of lamb soup with a siu biscuit. We ate 20 pieces and felt warm. ⚠️ The queue for cruise ships and cableways at Baquan Gorge will be long on weekends. If you can choose a working day, choose a working day. If you are taking the elderly, you basically don’t have to climb up and down the ropeway, but there are still some steps, so you can do it according to your ability. Those who like to hike can walk the whole trail, four hours or so, the scenery is definitely worth it. 05 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou, hidden in the mountains. There have not been many tourists. Go from September to October, the rice fields along the way are just golden, and the fragrance of rice is all the way out of the car window. 📍The building of Emperor Yan's Mausoleum follows the central axis all the way up, walk slowly for about an hour and a half. ⏰ The morning is the least crowded, the smell of incense mixed with the moisture in the mountains, very quiet. You can stop and look at the ancient tree in front of the temple. It is very old. 🍜 Yanling's yellow peach is still coming to an end at this time, buy directly when you encounter a seller on the road. The blood duck and stuffed tofu in the county town are local practices, rather spicy, can not eat spicy to say in advance. ⚠️ It takes more than two hours to drive from Zhuzhou city to Yandi Mausoleum. It is recommended to drive or take a bus to Yanling County and then transfer. Purely for seeing the mausoleum may feel monotonous, it is more appropriate to treat it as a walk between the mountains. Suitable for bringing elders, slow pace, steps are not steep. 06 Haidong | Qinghai Haidong is the east gate of Qinghai, and many people use it as a transit point to Xining. In fact, Mutual Aid Tu Homeland Garden and Youning Temple are worth staying alone for a day. 📍 Mutual Assistance Tu Homeland Garden You can watch the Tu Wheel Autumn Performance, and you can also turn twice yourself, more fun than imagined. ⏰ The afternoon performance is less crowded, no need to crowd. You can have a sip of the barley wine in the garden. Don't be greedy for a glass, it will be strong afterward. 🍜 Mutual help's eight-brow pork and steamed pot dumplings are a specialty. The dumplings are broken and dipped in boiled tea to eat, the more you chew, the more fragrant. Youning Temple is in the mountains, with fewer tourists. The old man who turns the prayers walks slowly, and you just follow. ⚠️ End of September Haidong morning and evening is very cool, thin cotton clothes belt on. Youning Temple is a religious place. Don't talk loudly when you enter. Check if there are any signs before taking pictures. Suitable for friends who want to experience different ethnic styles and do not want to be crowded. 07 Pingding Mountain | Henan I recommend the combination of Yaoshan-Central Great Buddha in two days. Climbing Mount Yao is physically demanding, but the Central Plains Buddha takes a flat road. After a hard day's work, you will be so tired that you are not in the mood to see the scenery. 📍Yao Shan From the cableway station to Yuhuang Peak, round trip about three hours. ⏰ The red leaves begin to change color in mid-October, earlier than Xiangshan, and much less people. If you don't want to climb, take the ropeway to the middle station. It's enough to walk around nearby. 🍜The pot dishes and wild vegetables at the farmhouse at the foot of the mountain are worth eating, the portions are large, two people order a dish and a soup is enough. Don't eat at the few restaurants at the entrance of the ropeway, walk a kilometer down, the price and taste are real. ⚠️ In the Central Plains Great Buddha Scenic Area from the main door to the Buddha front there is a short road, there is a ferry, it is recommended to sit, save the effort to climb the lotus seat. The weather in Yaoshan is changing faster. Raincoats are more effective than umbrellas. If you have children, the Yaoshan Cableway and the Central Plains Buddha are easy, but some sections of the Yaoshan Trail have steep steps, so it is good for children. 08 Southwest Guizhou | Guizhou Autumn comes late in southwest Guizhou, with less rain from September to October, and the Maling River Gorge and Wanfeng Forest are entering their most photogenic time. 📍The canyon of the Maling River Canyon is close to the cliff, the waterfall is at hand, the water mist is all over the face. ⏰ Go in the morning, the sun can shine into the canyon, the probability of rainbow appearance is high. Walk the whole process more than two hours, many steps, knees are not good cautious. 🍜 Lamb powder and brush heads in Xingyi city are standard for breakfast. A bowl of flour and a cage of brush heads can be eaten for 10 yuan. The fried rice with eggs at the foot of Wanfenglin is also famous, using local rice with rice. ⚠️ Wan Feng Forest is suitable for renting electric cars or bicycles to stroll slowly, Guan Feng Road is all the way, no need to deliberately find. Wear non-slip shoes in the canyon of the Maling River. Wear non-slip shoes. From September to October, the temperature in southwestern Guizhou is over 20 degrees during the day, so you need to wear a thin coat at night. Suitable for people who like natural scenery and don't mind walking. These 8 places are considered a good time to visit from September to October. If you only have two or three days, I will give priority to Baicheng, Changzhi or Haidong. If you have plenty of time, you can stay for a few more days in Baoding and Qianxinan. Where you plan to go, or have been, the comment section says.

Don't want to deal with the National Day crowds? These 8 places are tried and tested, quiet, and budget-friendly. 01 Pingdingshan | Henan Want to hike during the National Day holiday but afraid the highway will be a parking lot? I suggest heading to Pingdingshan. ⏰ Arrive at the Yaoshan cable car station before 7:00 AM to save 40 minutes of queuing. If you arrive later, you'll be shuffling up the mountain shoulder-to-shoulder. The red leaves at Yaoshan start changing color in early October. After taking the cable car, walk the Qinglongbei section—the sound of the wind rustling through the valley is much quieter than you'd imagine. 📍 The Central Plains Buddha is not far from Yaoshan, so you can easily fit it into the same day. There are many steps at the foot of the Buddha; if you're with seniors, take the sightseeing shuttle instead of climbing. ⚠️ Staff selling incense in the scenic area are very pushy. Keep your wits about you—you don't have to buy the most expensive bundle to pray. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, head to Lushan County for a bowl of mutton soup with a flatbread—you'll be stuffed for 20 yuan. During the National Day holiday, homestays around Yaoshan double in price. Stay in the city and drive 40 minutes; the money you save is enough for two tanks of gas. 02 Qiannan | Guizhou Libo Zhangjiang is my personal pick for the best value National Day destination. The water is still green, and there are far fewer people than at Huangguoshu Waterfall. ⏰ Enter the Xiaoqikong scenic area as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM. Take the sightseeing shuttle to the innermost Wolongtan, then walk your way out—it's all downhill and saves energy. 📍 You must wear non-slip shoes for the Water Forest section. The rocks are mossy, and I saw people slip into the shallow water. If you have children, you might want to walk only the first half; the second half is slippery and very difficult if you're carrying a child. ⚠️ Disposable raincoats sold in the scenic area cost 10 yuan each; buy them in advance and bring them with you. 🍜 The grilled fish by the Zhangjiang River in Libo County is worth trying. The sour soup base with river fish costs just over 100 yuan for two people. Book your National Day accommodation half a month in advance. Inns in the ancient town are more expensive than in the county, but they're more convenient for evening strolls—it's up to you to decide what's worth it. 03 Shangluo | Shaanxi This route in Shangluo is perfect for a road trip. The attractions are scattered, but the scenery along the way is beautiful and there are no traffic jams. It takes about 4 hours to walk the entire Jinsixia Canyon. ⏰ Enter before 10:00 AM for the best light. It's cool in the canyon, so a light jacket is just right for the National Day holiday. 📍 Tianshuxia has even fewer people. The patterns on the rocks look like characters, making it perfect for a leisurely visit, not for those rushing to check off sights. You can visit Mancuanguan Ancient Town and Baita Temple on the same afternoon. The ancient town is small, with one main street from start to finish. ⚠️ Some shops on the street sell things unrelated to the ancient town, so just browse. Baita Temple is quiet; sitting in the pagoda forest for a while is much more comfortable than squeezing into popular temples. 🍜 In Shangluo city, try the cold noodles and sticky rice cakes—cheap and filling. 🚄 It's a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Xi'an, perfect for a short, quiet National Day getaway for Xi'an locals. Choose accommodation in Shangzhou District for easy access to all attractions. 04 Wenzhou | Zhejiang Yandang Mountain isn't exactly "off the beaten path" during the National Day holiday, but it's much better than the areas around Hangzhou. ⏰ For the Lingfeng night view, wait until it's completely dark; entering around 6:30 PM is perfect. Spend the day visiting Dalongqiu and Lingyan first. 📍 The Fangdong plank road offers incredible views, but be careful if you're afraid of heights—my legs felt a bit weak when I walked it. ⚠️ Buses connect the scenic areas, but the last bus is at 5:30 PM. If you miss it, you'll have to take a taxi, so check the schedule in advance. Liu Bowen's Hometown is in Wencheng, which is in a different direction from Yandang Mountain, so don't try to cram them into the same day. If you only have two days, I suggest sticking to Yandang Mountain—a leisurely pace is more comfortable than rushing. If you're with seniors, take the cable car up to Lingyan to save some climbing. 🍜 Have Wenzhou sticky rice and fish ball soup for breakfast, and eat stir-fried rice noodles at the foot of Yandang Mountain. Homestays on the mountain are expensive during the National Day holiday; stay in Xianglingtou Village, which is a 10-minute walk to the scenic area entrance and reasonably priced. 05 Xiangxi | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town will definitely be crowded during the National Day holiday, but Dehang and Aizhai can help you avoid the main crowds. ⏰ Stroll along the Tuojiang River in Fenghuang before 7:00 AM. The tour groups haven't woken up yet, so you won't have to fight for photo spots. 📍 The Aizhai Bridge observation deck is worth visiting. It's windy in the canyon, so hold onto your hat. ⚠️ Don't just follow people soliciting photos in Fenghuang Ancient Town; ask about the price first before deciding. Dehang Grand Canyon is great for hiking. The round trip to the Liusha Waterfall takes two hours, which can be tiring for children. Shibadong Village is well-developed now; drive up to see it and experience the changes in the mountain village. 🚄 Get off at Jishou East Station; it's convenient for both Fenghuang and Dehang. 🍜 Try the blood duck and sour radish in Fenghuang, and have Miao-style sour soup when you leave Dehang. Don't choose accommodation in the first row along the Tuojiang River—the bars are noisy at night. Walk a couple of steps into the alleys for a quieter and cheaper stay. 06 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan is an underrated city for the National Day holiday, with concentrated attractions and no crowds. ⏰ Enter the Jinci Museum as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM. The light on the Song Dynasty colored sculptures in the Hall of the Holy Mother is just right. If you arrive later, it gets noisy once the tour groups arrive. 📍 Take the special bus line to the Tianlongshan Grottoes. The mountain road is winding, so take motion sickness medicine in advance if you need it. ⚠️ Don't trust the "guides" soliciting business outside Jinci; the official guides are on the left side after entering. Jinyang Lake Park is perfect for the evening. Rent a bicycle and ride around the lake—the breeze is comfortable. If you have children, you can go in the afternoon; there's a sandy area by the lake. Taxis in downtown Taiyuan are cheap. Choose accommodation in Yingze District; it's close to everything. 🍜 Have "tounao" (a local soup) with shaomai for breakfast—it's how the locals eat, though visitors might not be used to it. Look for small shops for knife-cut noodles; they're more authentic than the trendy ones. Hotel prices in Taiyuan don't increase much during the National Day holiday, offering great value. 07 Guyuan | Ningxia The Xumishan Grottoes are a treasure I discovered this year; you can count the number of people visiting during the National Day holiday on one hand. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light shines obliquely into the caves, making the outlines of the Buddha statues very clear. If you go in the morning, you'll be facing the light and won't see them clearly. 📍 The grottoes are scattered on the hillside, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water—there's none for sale on the mountain. ⚠️ Some caves are under renovation, so check the opening status before you go to avoid a wasted trip. It takes about an hour to drive from downtown Guyuan to Xumishan. I recommend driving yourself or chartering a car, as public transport is infrequent. This is suitable for people who like to quietly view grottoes, not for those looking for a lively experience. Guyuan is already cool in October, so bring a thick jacket. 🍜 Try the mutton cuomian (hand-rubbed noodles) and shouzhuayangrou (hand-grabbed mutton) in Guyuan—the portions are generous and the taste is authentic. Stay in the city and stroll through Guyanling Park in the evening; one day is just right. 08 Zhuhai | Guangdong Zhuhai isn't exactly cool during the National Day holiday, but the sea breeze is more comfortable than the inland heat. ⏰ Go to Lovers' Road after 5:00 PM when the sun isn't as harsh. Ride a shared bike along the coast from Xianglu Bay to the Love Post Office. 📍 I recommend buying tickets for Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in advance. ⚠️ Queues are long during the National Day holiday, so head to the Whale Shark Pavilion and Penguin Pavilion first, and watch the shows in the afternoon. Families with children should stay directly in Hengqin and spend two days at Chimelong. For couples or friends, one day is enough for Lovers' Road and the New Yuanming Palace; go to the Xiawan Night Market for seafood in the evening. 🚄 It's a one-hour high-speed train ride from Guangzhou, perfect for a short trip. 🍜 Eat Hengqin oysters and boat congee in Zhuhai; prices at the Xiawan Night Market are half those in the scenic areas. Choose accommodation in Jida or Gongbei for easy access to Lovers' Road and Chimelong. When traveling during the National Day holiday, peace and quiet often go hand in hand with saving money. Head to less crowded places, and you'll have a better experience. Of these eight, I most recommend Libo and Xumishan—one for the water, one for the grottoes—and neither is crowded. Where are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments.

Must-read before you travel in September! These 5 places are less crowded and cheaper 01 Taizhou | Jiangsu In September, the summer heat in Taizhou has faded, and the reeds in Qin Lake are starting to sprout. ⏰ Enter the wetland park before 8:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and the water is full of egrets—it's ten times better than coming at noon. 📍 Enter Qin Lake Wetland Park through the main gate. Take the boat first, then walk the boardwalk—don't reverse the order. The boat ticket is included in the admission ticket, so don't let touts at the entrance trick you into buying another one. 🍜 After leaving the park, head to the Jiangyan urban area for a bowl of fish soup noodles. Most old shops close by 2:00 PM, so don't delay. The soup is milky white, and it pairs perfectly with a plate of scalded dried tofu shreds. ⚠️ I don't recommend the "farmhouse meal packages" around Qin Lake; they are overpriced and the food is pre-made. It's safer to eat back in the city. Suitable for seniors and children; the boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly. Mosquitoes are still active in September, so wear long pants and use mosquito repellent—don't skip this step. 02 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Bottom line: Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge are too much to cover in one day, so I suggest choosing one. If you want a relaxing trip, go to Zhaozhou Bridge; if you want to hike mountain roads, go to Xibaipo. 📍 Zhaozhou Bridge is in Zhao County, about a one-hour drive from downtown Shijiazhuang. The bridge itself isn't large and can be seen in half an hour. The highlight is the old Wenhe River bed under the bridge; in autumn, the water level is low, allowing you to see the bridge foundation structure clearly. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM. The light hits the bridge at an angle, so photos won't have glare. For lunch, go to Zhao County town for donkey meat burgers. Freshly baked buns with hot donkey meat are better than the ones at the scenic area entrance. Xibaipo has many mountain roads. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Shijiazhuang Station, but they are infrequent, so driving is more flexible. It's cool in the mountains in the morning and evening in September, so bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Both sites may be closed for maintenance on Mondays, so check official announcements before you leave to avoid a wasted trip. 03 Pingdingshan | Henan Visit Yaoshan this season for the sea of clouds and the cool weather. ⏰ Head up the mountain early in the morning on the day after rain for the best chance of seeing the sea of clouds, which usually dissipates by noon. 📍 The Yaoshan cable car has two sections. I recommend taking the first section and walking the second, as the scenery along the stone steps is better. The full hike up and down takes about six hours; if you have bad knees, don't push yourself. The Central Plains Buddha is right at the foot of the mountain, so stop by on your way. There are steps at the foot of the Buddha; I counted them, and your legs will shake after climbing up, so know your limits. 🍜 The lan guo cai (stewed vegetable dish) in Lushan County is worth trying—a big pot of stew with rice, and you'll be stuffed for about 30 yuan per person. Food in the scenic area is expensive and mediocre. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts and those looking to escape the heat. The temperature on the mountain in September is 7–8 degrees lower than in the city, so bring a windbreaker. 04 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia In September, Manzhouli is in the low 20s (°C) during the day, but you'll need a jacket at night. The Matryoshka Scenic Area is a landmark, but I'll be honest: taking photos outside is free, but the admission ticket inside isn't cheap. ⏰ Go to the Matryoshka Square after 6:00 PM. Once the lights turn on, the colors look much better than during the day. 📍 There's a photo spot on the east side of the square where you can frame the large Matryoshka doll and the sunset together. 🍜 There are Russian restaurants on the China-Soviet Golden Street in the city center. You can try the borscht and rye bread, but don't order too much as the portions are large. For something more affordable, go to Wudao Street for Mongolian food—try the hand-grabbed mutton with milk tea. ⚠️ The National Gate Scenic Area and the Matryoshka Scenic Area are different, so don't confuse them. Pay attention to signs when taking photos in border areas, and don't point your phone in restricted directions. Suitable for couples and photography enthusiasts. In September, there are half as many tourists as in the summer vacation, and accommodation prices have dropped. 05 Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is still ridiculously blue in September, but it's windy, so hold onto your hat. ⏰ Enter from the East Gate in the morning and drive counter-clockwise around the lake; the light is favorable, so your photos won't be backlit. 📍 Park near Dianjiangtai and walk a few steps to the lakeshore; the water is clear enough to see the stones. Anjihai Grand Canyon is far away and requires a separate day. There are no railings at the edge of the canyon, so ⚠️ don't get too close for photos. The landscapes of Wenquan County are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and soaking in a hot spring will relieve your fatigue. 🍜 The mixed noodles and baked buns in Bole city are genuinely delicious and better than what you'll find in the scenic area. Suitable for self-driving travelers. The Duku Highway may be restricted in September due to weather, so check road conditions before you leave. Accommodation by the lake is expensive; staying in Bole city is more cost-effective. 06 Chizhou | Anhui There are fewer people at Mount Jiuhua in September, so you won't have to wait in long lines for the cable car. ⏰ Take the first cable car up at 7:00 AM to catch the silhouette of the temples in the morning mist. 📍 Tiantai Peak is the main peak; it takes about an hour to climb. The steps are steep, so if you have bad knees, take a sedan chair. You can stop by the Hundred-Year-Old Palace (Baisui Gong) halfway up; the Flesh Body Hall is over there. 🍜 There is vegetarian food on the old street in Kecun at the foot of the mountain; the dried bamboo shoots and tofu are good. Don't eat on the mountain, as prices are doubled. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes quickly, so a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. The temperature difference between morning and evening in September is large, so a light down jacket is not an exaggeration. Suitable for those visiting for Buddhist worship or hiking. Buy admission and cable car tickets separately, and book in advance through official channels to avoid wasting time queuing on-site. 07 Wenzhou | Zhejiang There is less rain at Yandang Mountain in September, so the waterfalls have average water volume, but the mountain formations are clearly visible. ⏰ Enter Lingfeng after 4:00 PM to see both the day and night views—one ticket for both. 📍 The night view of Lingfeng relies entirely on your imagination; it's only interesting if you follow a guide for the commentary. Otherwise, it's just a pile of rocks. The Fangdong boardwalk is worth walking, but the chain bridge is a bit shaky, so think twice if you're afraid of heights. The hometown of Liu Bowen is in Wencheng, a two-hour drive from Yandang Mountain, so it's better to dedicate a separate day to it. 🍜 Have sticky rice and fish ball soup in downtown Wenzhou for breakfast; locals have been eating this since childhood. ⚠️ The scenic spots at Yandang Mountain are scattered, so driving is most convenient. Take the high-speed train to Yandangshan Station, then take a taxi into the scenic area. Suitable for family trips. September is the end of typhoon season, so check the weather forecast before you leave. 08 Yushu | Qinghai September is the most comfortable time of the year for Hoh Xil and the Three-River-Source region. ⏰ Leave in the morning and arrive at the viewing platform before noon, as it gets windy in the afternoon. 📍 You can see Tibetan antelopes along the Hoh Xil route; don't get out of the car to chase them, just watch from a distance. Some areas of the Three-River-Source National Park have visitor limits, so ⚠️ you must book in advance—you won't get in without a reservation. The altitude is high, so arrive in Yushu two days early to acclimate. Take Rhodiola rosea in advance; don't wait until you arrive to start taking it. 🍜 There is Tibetan food in Jiegu Town, Yushu. Order a small amount of tsampa and butter tea first, and add more once your stomach has adjusted. Suitable for those with high-altitude experience. It's near freezing at night in September, so bring a down jacket and a warm sleeping bag. If driving, check your vehicle condition, as there are few gas stations along the way. These five directions are all worth visiting in September. Taizhou and Chizhou are suitable for short weekend trips, while Bortala and Yushu are better for long holidays. Which one do you want to visit first?

The most romantic thing to do in spring 🌷 Is to walk into a quiet, ancient temple with the person you love or your best friend. Spring at Xiangshan Pumen Temple is truly so gentle! Red walls, ancient pagodas, spring breezes, blooming flowers... the Zen atmosphere is off the charts 💗 Far from the city's hustle and bustle, it's perfect for a slow stroll, taking photos, praying for blessings, or just zoning out~ 🗺️ A divine itinerary (easy and relaxing) Temple Gate Lotus Steps ➝ Red Wall Corridor ➝ Guanyin Pagoda ➝ Release Pond ➝ Backyard Lawn The route is progressive with plenty of photo spots, making it super comfortable to walk and shoot along the way! 📸 Treasure photo spots | A must-shoot for besties/couples ✔️ Red Wall Light & Shadow Corridor | The ceiling of Zen atmosphere Afternoon sunlight filters through the branches onto the red walls, creating gorgeous, dappled light and shadows. Perfect for shots of backs, profiles, or walking side-by-side—gentle, quiet, and with a built-in vintage filter ✨ ✔️ Guanyin Pagoda & Release Pond | Healing, vintage vibes The ancient pagoda reflected in the water, framed by spring flowers and plants, is clean and healing. Every shot looks like a scene from a period drama! ✔️ Backyard Lawn | Relaxed vacation vibes Quiet, uncrowded, and full of greenery. Lay out a picnic mat, sit, chat, and soak up the sun—effortless relaxation at its best 🌿 💃 Photo poses for couples/besties ✅ Candid shots walking slowly side-by-side along the corridor ✅ Holding hands, turning back, and looking at each other gently ✅ Looking at the pagoda together or looking down at the pond Natural interactions, not stiff—even raw photos look amazing! 👗 Spring outfit suggestions (super photogenic) ▪️ Light-colored long dresses, white/apricot shirts ▪️ New Chinese style, simple cotton and linen outfits Clean and gentle, a perfect match for the red walls and ancient architecture 💯 There are many steps on the mountain paths, so prioritize comfortable flat shoes! 🍃 Exclusive spring activities | Maximize the gentle atmosphere 🙏 Hang a prayer ribbon: Write down your wishes together for peace and prosperity year after year 🧺 Have a light picnic on the lawn, enjoy the spring breeze, and soak up the sun—it heals all unhappiness 🚶 Take a slow walk through the woods, listen to the wind, and clear your mind—super stress-relieving 🍵 Healing food | Eat your way through without any misses 🥢 Vegetarian meal in the temple Light, elegant, clean, and refreshing—you'll feel incredibly calm and healed after eating 🔥 Xiangshan Courtyard (stop by on your way down) Roast tea by the fire + authentic farmhouse dishes After visiting the ancient temple, take your time drinking tea and enjoying a meal—a perfect little spring moment ✨ You must come here with someone important in the spring 🌷 Seek peace of mind and keep your date with the Zen of spring~

When traveling with parents, a slow pace is the top priority. I've scouted these 8 places for you—they have few stairs, beautiful scenery, and easy-to-eat food, and are accessible even with a wheelchair. No altitude sickness, no marathon walking, perfect for taking your elders out. 1️⃣ Pingdingshan City | Henan It's most efficient to visit Yaoshan and the Central Plains Buddha on the same day. Go see the Buddha in the morning; get there right when it opens at 8:30 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting—your parents won't have to push through crowds to pay their respects. Inside the scenic area, take the shuttle bus directly to the foot of the Buddha. There are few stairs, so even those with bad knees can manage. Have a bowl of braised noodles at the entrance for lunch, rest up, and then head up the mountain. In the afternoon, go to Yaoshan. Do not buy the full-course cable car plus hiking ticket; your elders won't have the stamina for it. Just take the one-way cable car to the transfer station, take a look at the granite peaks, and head back down the same way. Two hours is plenty. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own warm water and small snacks. There is a free shuttle bus from the parking lot at the foot of the mountain to the ticket office; don't let touts trick you into taking an unlicensed taxi. 2️⃣ Hohhot City | Inner Mongolia Split Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon and Chilechuan Grassland into two days; don't try to do both at once. Laoniuwan is quite far from the city, taking 2.5 hours one way, so chartering a car is the most stress-free option. ⏰ Arrive at the viewing platform at 3:00 PM; the sun hits the bend of the Yellow River at an angle, making the water colors look their best. The canyon boardwalk is flat with high railings, so it's not tiring to walk while holding on. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants in the scenic area, so buy some beizi (baked flatbread) and milk tea in the city before you leave; having a picnic on the cliff edge is actually more enjoyable. Chilechuan Grassland is much more relaxed, just 40 mins from the city. You don't need to buy a ticket to enter the core area; the free trails on the perimeter offer the same "sky like a yurt" views. Rent a tandem bike—you pedal, and your parents sit in the back and enjoy the breeze. You can tour the area in half an hour. 3️⃣ Xinzhou City | Shanxi Xinzhou's attractions are scattered. I suggest you skip Yanmenguan Pass entirely and save your time for Mount Wutai and Laoniuwan. Yanmenguan has steep stairs and strong winds; I've seen several elders sit down halfway up to catch their breath—it's really not worth the trouble. Stay at least one night at Mount Wutai; don't try to go there and back in one day. The Bodhisattva Summit and Xiantong Temple in Taihuai Town are close by, just a 10-min walk away. The paths are flat and smooth, making it easy to push a wheelchair. ⏰ Go to Wuye Temple at 6:00 AM; it's the most popular spot but won't be crowded yet, so your parents won't have to push through crowds to make a wish. Choose accommodation in the town center; don't try to save money by staying on the outskirts, or you'll spend an extra hour commuting back and forth every day. Visit Laoniuwan on your way back; it's a 3.5-hour drive from Mount Wutai. 4️⃣ Handan City | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Wahuang Palace—one is flat and one is steep—are perfectly arranged in this order. Go to Guangfu Ancient City in the morning; there are electric carts outside the city walls that take you around for 40 yuan, so you don't have to walk. After getting off, enter from the East Gate and stroll slowly along the main street. You can sample and buy crispy fish and braised pork knuckle from the small shops on both sides. 🍜 Have the crispy fish for lunch in the city; the bones are stewed until soft, so it's easy for elders to chew. Go to Wahuang Palace in the afternoon, but just visiting the main building complex at the foot of the mountain is enough. Although the Wahuang Pavilion on the mountainside is spectacular, it requires climbing some quite steep stairs. I accompanied my mom halfway up and we turned back; it's really tough on older legs. There is a Butian Lake at the foot of the mountain that you can walk around; the path is flat, the lake breeze is cool, and it's more suitable for a slow stroll. ⚠️ Guangfu Ancient City only gets quiet after 5:00 PM when the tour groups leave, which is actually better for taking photos. 5️⃣ Longyan City | Fujian The Tulou (earthen buildings) and Changting Ancient City in Longyan have completely different styles. I suggest visiting the Tulou first and then the ancient city for a smoother route. At the Yongding Tulou King scenic area, there are electric carts at the entrance that take you to the foot of Chengqi Building, so you don't have to walk up that long slope in the sun. The stairs inside the building are narrow and steep, so just let your parents look at the stoves and the courtyard on the first floor; don't force them to climb up. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM before the tour groups flood in, so you can quietly feel the coolness of the rammed earth walls. In the afternoon, head to Changting Ancient City, and the pace will immediately slow down. 📍 The bluestone road on Diantou Street is polished until it shines and is comfortable to walk on. The city wall path along the Tingjiang River is the highlight; the lighting is best around 5:00 PM. Elders can sit on the stone benches and watch the river view, resting for half an hour without needing to get up. I advise you to skip Guanzhai Mountain; the hiking intensity is high and not suitable for elders. 6️⃣ Laibin City | Guangxi The highlight of Laibin is Jinxiu Dayao Mountain, but don't try to visit both peaks in one day. Just choose either Panwangjie or Lianhua Mountain. I recommend Panwangjie because it has a cable car that goes straight to the top, so elders don't have to climb a single step. After taking the cable car up, walk along the boardwalk on the cliff edge; the path is flat with railings, and the view is of the entire karst peak forest spread out beneath your feet. ⏰ Go up the mountain before 10:00 AM while the clouds and mist haven't dissipated yet; the peaks appearing and disappearing are more ethereal than on a sunny day. There is a rest area at the top selling Yao-style oil tea, which is savory, fragrant, and warming—get a bowl for your parents to rest their feet. Lianhua Mountain is suitable for elders with more energy; there are more stairs, but the path is densely shaded, so it's not sunny to walk in the summer. 7️⃣ Jiaxing City | Zhejiang Choose either Wuzhen or Xitang; don't go to both, as the scenery is too similar and can easily lead to aesthetic fatigue. I vote for Wuzhen because the barrier-free facilities in Xizha are more thorough. Take the free shuttle boat from the visitor center into the scenic area, saving you from walking that long stretch at the entrance. The main roads in the scenic area are all flat stone slabs, making it easy to use wheelchairs and canes. 📍 The riverside teahouse under the White Lotus Pagoda is the most comfortable spot of the whole trip. Order a pot of Hangzhou chrysanthemum tea, sit down, and watch the sculling boats pass by; elders can sit there for an entire afternoon. 🍜 Have lunch at a small riverside restaurant next to the homestay; order a portion of white water fish and stinky tofu. The fish has few bones and the meat is tender, making it easy for elders to eat. ⚠️ The night lights in Wuzhen Xizha don't turn off until 10:00 PM, so don't rush to leave. It's most beautiful after 6:00 PM when the tourists disperse and the lanterns light up. 8️⃣ Harbin City | Heilongjiang Harbin's Ice and Snow World in winter is visually stunning but also truly cold. When taking elders, warm gear is a must: stick heat patches on their waist and back, and hats and scarves are indispensable. Make sure their shoe soles are thick and non-slip. ⏰ Enter the park at 3:30 PM, play in the indoor pavilions first to warm up, and then watch the translucency of the ice sculptures after the lights come on at 4:30 PM; you won't have to endure the minus 20-degree weather for too long. Volga Manor is more relaxed than Ice and Snow World and is suitable for parents to stroll around slowly. The Russian-style buildings in the manor are rich in color and look like an oil painting after the snow. There are electric carts in the park, so you can get on and off at each attraction without walking too much. 🍜 Have lunch at the Golden Ring Western Restaurant in the manor; eat borscht and beef stew—the heating is sufficient, and it's just right to warm up.

September, just before school starts, still has that lingering summer heat, but the crowds have thinned out. The two things parents fear most when traveling with kids are waiting in lines and rushing around. I’ve screened the following places based on the "kids can walk on their own, parents won't have a breakdown" standard. 01 Pingdingshan | Henan The Yaoshan Mountain and Zhongyuan Buddha route is perfect for September. It’s still hot at the base, but cool on the mountain, so bring a light jacket for the kids. ⏰ Take the cable car up Yaoshan in the morning; the lines are half as long as on weekends. The loop trail at the top takes about 2 hours. The steps aren't too steep, and kids over 6 can walk it themselves. Have lunch at a local farmhouse at the base and try the Lan Guo Cai. 📍 Any of the restaurants on the main street of Yaoshan Town are fine; it costs about 40 per person. In the afternoon, head to the Zhongyuan Buddha. The steps to reach the Buddha are quite long, so I recommend taking the sightseeing shuttle for younger kids. ⚠️ The Buddha scenic area stops entry at 5:00 PM, so don't wait until 4:30 PM to arrive. This route is great for families who want to see mountains without doing too much climbing. Driving is the most convenient, with a 20-minute drive between the two spots. Take the high-speed train to Pingdingshan West Station and then a taxi, which takes about 1 hour. Crowds are thin on September weekends, so same-day booking is fine. Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to official daily announcements. 02 Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake has a limited-time view in September: the lake water starts changing colors—pink, green, and yellow—like an overturned palette. ⏰ Go after 4:00 PM when the light hits at an angle, making the colors most vivid; going at noon will be a wasted trip. What kids find most interesting is the area where you can float in the water; the salt water has high buoyancy, so even if they can't swim, they won't sink. ⚠️ Remember to bring a bottle of fresh water to rinse off, as your skin will feel tight after getting out. 📍 Enter the Salt Lake scenic area through the main gate and head right for fewer crowds. Two hours is enough to explore the Salt Lake itself. If you want to add more, visit the Chi Shen Temple; it covers the history of salt transport and is engaging for kids. It takes about 25 minutes by taxi from Yuncheng North Station to the Salt Lake. It gets windy by the lake in the September evenings, so pack long pants for the kids. 03 Tongren | Guizhou There's a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds at Fanjingshan in September, but you need to book tickets in advance. ⏰ Be in the first group to enter the mountain at 7:00 AM to avoid tour groups, so you won't get stuck on the steps at the Red Cloud Golden Summit. If you're bringing kids, definitely take the cable car; don't try to walk up those 9,000 steps. The Mushroom Stone is a landmark; the line for photos is short, so take them early. 📍 After exiting the upper cable car station, turn left and head toward the Old Golden Summit direction for fewer crowds and open views. ⚠️ The temperature at the summit is about 10 degrees lower than at the base, so bring a fleece even in September. You can stay overnight at the Zhaisha Dong Village at the foot of the mountain, where there are bonfires in the evening that kids can dance around. It's about a 1-hour drive from Tongren Station to Fanjingshan. Tickets and cable car rides require time-slot reservations; specific rules are subject to official daily announcements. This route is suitable for families with at least moderate stamina. 04 Shaoguan | Guangdong There is fog in the morning at Danxiashan in September, and you'd have to wake up at 5:30 AM to see the sunrise at Zhanglao Peak. Don't chase the sunrise with kids; ⏰ take the cable car up at 8:00 AM when half the fog has cleared, and the red rocks against the green trees look perfect. The Zhanglao Peak loop takes 3 hours; don't do the whole thing—it's easiest to walk to the Guari Pavilion and turn back. The path near Yangyuan Stone is flat and stroller-friendly, suitable for younger kids. 📍 Take a boat from the Xianglong Lake pier; it's a 20-minute ride that kids will enjoy. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "combo tickets" at the scenic area entrance; it's more cost-effective to buy individual tickets as needed. There are direct buses from Shaoguan Station to Danxiashan, taking about 50 minutes. It's still sunny in the afternoons in September, so bring plenty of hats and water. This route is suitable for families who want to see the landscape without climbing mountains; the cable car plus boat ride makes for a perfect day trip. 05 Chengdu | Sichuan I've ranked these four spots around Chengdu by "least tiring." Tiantai Mountain is great for water play; the stream water is still warm in September, and kids can splash around and catch small fish. Choose either Mount Qingcheng or Dujiangyan; Dujiangyan has more flat ground and is stroller-friendly, while Mount Qingcheng requires climbing, so assess your stamina. Go to Anren Ancient Town in the afternoon; the old streets are cool, and kids love the tram. 📍 The Liu's Manor in the ancient town tells stories from the Republic of China era; regardless of whether the kids understand, the architecture itself is beautiful. ⚠️ You must get to the Panda Base early; ⏰ enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM, as the pandas basically go back inside to sleep after 9:00 AM. There are high-speed trains or buses from Chengdu East Station to these spots. The Panda Base is directly accessible via Metro Line 3. It's much less crowded on weekdays in September, making for a better experience. This is suitable for families who don't want to drive and prefer to rely on public transportation. 06 Beihai | Guangxi Beihai is still hot in September, but the typhoon season is almost over, and the seawater temperature is just right. You need to book ferry tickets to Weizhou Island in advance; ⏰ choose the 8:00 AM departure, as the waves are smaller and kids are less likely to get seasick. Rent an electric scooter on the island for about 60 per day; it's more flexible than taking the sightseeing shuttle. Watch the sunrise at Wucaitan, pick up shells at Shell Beach, and take a 2-hour walk around Crocodile Mountain Park. ⚠️ Book accommodation on the island in advance, as it can get full on September weekends. Beihai Silver Beach is best visited in the evening; ⏰ it's not as sunny after 5:00 PM, and the sand is fine, so kids can play until dark. It's a 20-minute taxi ride from Beihai Station to Silver Beach. For seafood, go to Qiaogang Style Street; local restaurants like Yuexiang Xiaochu cost about 70–80 per person. Ferry tickets and island entry policies are subject to official daily announcements. This is suitable for families who want to enjoy the sea without flying too far. 07 Huangnan | Qinghai September is the most comfortable time of the year in Kanbula; it's not too cold or too hot, and the Danxia landforms against the Yellow River water create rich colors. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM when the light hits the red rocks best. The scenic area requires taking a sightseeing shuttle and a boat, taking about 4 hours in total, so kids won't have to walk much. It's windy on the boat ride at Lijiaxia Reservoir, so bring a windbreaker for the kids. 📍 Buy a package ticket at the visitor center that includes both the shuttle and the boat; it's easier than buying them separately. ⚠️ The altitude is around 2,500 meters; it's usually fine, but don't let the kids run too hard. Driving is the most convenient way to get around Huangnan; it's about a 2-hour drive from Xining. There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening in September; wear short sleeves at noon and bring a jacket for the morning and evening. This is suitable for families who want to see unique landscapes without hiking. Specific ticket prices and boat schedules are subject to official daily announcements. 08 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Shicheng and Sanbaishan are perfect for escaping the heat in September. Sanbaishan has high forest coverage; ⏰ walk the glass bridge section in the morning before the fog clears, and it feels like you're in the clouds. The entire plank road is flat, and you can use a stroller for most of it, making it suitable for younger kids. Lotus viewing in Shicheng is a July activity; in September, visit Tongtianzhai, which has Danxia landforms and doesn't require much climbing. 📍 Eat taro dumplings and meatballs in Shicheng County; any small street-side shop will do. ⚠️ There is little food available on Sanbaishan Mountain, so bring your own snacks. It's about a 2-hour drive from Ganzhou Station to Shicheng, and another hour from Shicheng to Sanbaishan. Driving is recommended as public transport is infrequent. Crowds are thin on September weekends, and accommodation is easy to book. This route is suitable for families who want to escape the lingering summer heat without traveling too far. When traveling with kids, skipping one line and sitting for a while longer is more important than checking off a few spots. Of these eight places, I most recommend Pingdingshan and Tongren for September—they're cool, the routes are smooth, and there's plenty for kids to do. Which one have you been to? Let me know in the comments.

Guys! I just got back from Henan, and I’m completely healed by the profound history and breathtaking landscapes of this Central Plains region! 😭 I had such a headache planning this, so I’ve put together this super comprehensive guide based on my own trip! The images are for reference only; please rely on actual conditions. If you’re planning to go, save this now and just follow my itinerary! ✨ 📍Basic attraction info Henan, the cradle of Chinese civilization! It’s not just about ancient capitals and history; it also has stunning natural scenery! · Zhengzhou-Kaifeng-Luoyang Loop (4 days, 3 nights): Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, Shaolin Temple, Songyang Academy, Millennium City Park, Kaifeng Prefecture—a whirlwind tour of ancient capitals. · Anyang-Xinxiang-Jiaozuo Loop (3 days, 2 nights): Yinxu, Red Flag Canal, Taihang Grand Canyon, Yuntai Mountain, Qingtian River, Baligou—a tour of mountains, water, and spiritual landmarks. · Nanyang-Pingdingshan-Xinyang Loop (4 days, 3 nights): Yaoshan Mountain, Central Plains Buddha, Laojieling, Xixia Dinosaur Relics Park, Nanwan Lake, Jigong Mountain—a summer retreat and exploration route. 🗺️Tested perfect itinerary (combining the three loops) 👉Loop 1 (4 days, 3 nights): Zhengzhou + Kaifeng + Luoyang Day 1: Zhengzhou City → Dengfeng Shaolin Temple → Songyang Academy. Day 2: Luoyang Longmen Grottoes → White Horse Temple. Day 3: Kaifeng Millennium City Park → Kaifeng Prefecture. 👉Loop 2 (3 days, 2 nights): Anyang + Xinxiang + Jiaozuo Day 1: Anyang Yinxu → Linzhou Red Flag Canal. Day 2: Taihang Grand Canyon → Baligou. Day 3: Yuntai Mountain → Qingtian River. 👉Loop 3 (4 days, 3 nights): Nanyang + Pingdingshan + Xinyang Day 1: Pingdingshan Yaoshan Mountain → Central Plains Buddha. Day 2: Nanyang Laojieling → Xixia Dinosaur Relics Park. Day 3: Xinyang Nanwan Lake. Day 4: Jigong Mountain. 🏨Accommodation recommendations (options for every budget) 🏡Zhengzhou: Stay near Erqi Square. It’s a transportation hub, making it super convenient for food and entertainment. 🏡Luoyang: Stay near the Longmen Grottoes or the Luoyang Old Town area to experience the nightlife of the ancient capital. 🏡Kaifeng: Stay near Millennium City Park to experience the Song Dynasty martial arts vibe. ⛰️Mountain trips: Taihang Grand Canyon, Yuntai Mountain, Jigong Mountain, and other scenic areas have unique homestays and hotels inside—open your window to see the mountains! 🍜Food recommendations (highly recommended!) · Zhengzhou: Fang Zhongshan Hu-la Soup, Braised Noodles (Hui Mian). · Luoyang: Water Banquet near the Longmen Grottoes (recommend Peony Swallow Dish), Beef Soup. · Kaifeng: Soup Dumplings (Guan Tang Bao), Bucket Chicken. · Anyang: Bianfen Noodles, Daokou Roasted Chicken. · Jiaozuo/Xinxiang: Wild wood ear mushrooms and yams from Yuntai Mountain. · Xinyang: Nanwan Lake fish head, Xinyang stewed dishes. 📸Legendary photo guide (get ready for likes on social media) 1. Longmen Grottoes: Get a shot with the Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple—it’s breathtaking! 2. Millennium City Park: Wear Hanfu to capture the Song Dynasty street vibe, and watch the molten iron fireworks show at night. 3. Yinxu: Take a photo in front of the oracle bone script stele to touch 3,000 years of history. 4. Yuntai Mountain/Taihang Grand Canyon: Capture the magnificent canyon scenery from the glass skywalk and observation decks. 5. Central Plains Buddha: Take a low-angle shot of the world’s tallest Buddhist statue. 6. Jigong Mountain/Nanwan Lake: Capture the lake views and the summer villa clusters. 💡Practical tips & avoiding pitfalls (hard-learned lessons) 1. Transportation: Attractions in Henan are very spread out. I highly recommend chartering a car or renting one! After arriving in major cities by high-speed rail, it’s best to rent a car locally. 2. Temperature difference: There’s a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains (Taihang Grand Canyon, Jigong Mountain, Laojieling)! Bring a warm jacket. 3. Avoiding scams: Ignore people soliciting dining near scenic spots; find reputable restaurants instead. Museums and heritage sites are usually closed on Mondays, so book in advance! 4. Clothing: You’ll be walking a lot while visiting ancient capitals and hiking canyons, so be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip sneakers! 5. Timing: Don’t cram 4 spots into one day; you’ll be exhausted from traveling. Plan for 2–3 spots at most per day and slow down to enjoy it! 🙏A wonderful encounter with the Central Plains awaits—get it planned now! Henan Travel Guide

Where to take the kids for the Mid-Autumn Festival? 8 off-the-beaten-path cities that are uncrowded and budget-friendly 1️⃣ Hohhot | Inner Mongolia When visiting Hohhot with kids, don't just stick to the city center. The Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area is a hidden gem. The Yellow River makes a huge bend here, flanked by loess cliffs. Kids standing on the observation deck will ask, "Why is the water green?" ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM for the softest light and to avoid backlighting in photos. The canyon trail has railings; strollers work for the first half, but the second half has many stairs, so a baby carrier is recommended. The Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourist Area is best in the afternoon. The grassland isn't steep, so kids can run freely. Rent a tandem bike to complete the main loop in an hour. 📍 The grass is thickest on the right side after entering through the North Gate. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the city for shaomai. They're priced by the wrapper (a "liang" is 8 pieces), and kids will be full after 3 or 4. ⚠️ It's windy on the grassland. Bring a light down jacket for the Mid-Autumn Festival; don't just wear a hoodie. 2️⃣ Wenzhou | Zhejiang I recommend the Yandang Mountain Scenic Area for families with elementary school-aged children or older. You need a guide for the Lingfeng night view, otherwise, you'll just see dark mountain silhouettes. Kids will only stay engaged if they hear the stories. ⏰ Enter Lingyan at 4:00 PM to watch the cliff-crossing performance; the kids will be amazed. ⚠️ The performance has scheduled times. Check the daily schedule before entering the mountain to avoid missing it. Liu Bowen's Hometown in Wencheng is great for a leisurely stroll. The old houses have high thresholds, so hold onto younger kids. 📍 At the end of the stone path in front of the temple, there's a shop selling green tofu for CNY 5 a bowl—it's very refreshing. 🚄 There's a direct shuttle bus from Wenzhou South Station to Yandang Mountain, taking about 1 hour. Stay in Xianglingtou Village; there are many homestays, and it's quiet at night. 🍜 For breakfast, have a bowl of clear soup rice noodles with a fried egg—kids can finish it all. 3️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia Tourist Area is perfect for the Mid-Autumn Festival. The waterfall still has plenty of water, but it's not as scorching as in summer. Take the kids on the Foguangyan loop; it takes about 2 hours, and kids 4 and older can walk it themselves. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8:00 AM; it's less crowded, and the mist hasn't cleared yet, making it look like a fairyland for photos. ⚠️ The steps are slippery. Have the kids wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. 📍 There's bamboo rice for sale at the entrance for CNY 10 each. It's sticky rice with cured meat—perfect for a kid's lunch. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Zunyi city center to Chishui. I recommend staying in Chishui the night before. Suitable for children 6 and older; younger ones are too heavy to carry. 🍜 For dinner, have Chishui tofu pudding. The dipping sauce is slightly spicy, so ask the owner to prepare a non-spicy bowl for the kids. 4️⃣ Huangshi | Hubei Chengyue Island is in the middle of Ci Lake. It's a local spot for taking kids out, with few tourists. There's a lawn and a children's play area on the island where kids can run around. ⏰ Go at 5:00 PM for the cool lake breeze and to watch the sunset. 📍 Enter the island from the Hangzhou East Road entrance and walk along the lakeside trail for about 20 minutes to reach the children's area. ⚠️ There are few shops on the island, so bring your own water and snacks. Suitable for ages 3–10; stroller-friendly with flat paths throughout. 🍜 After leaving the island, go to Ci Lake Road for fried skewers—about CNY 20 per person. 🚄 It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from Huangshi North Station to Ci Lake. There are lights by the lake on Mid-Autumn night, but it's not crowded—perfect for a stroll. 5️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan Mountain and the Central Plains Buddha can be visited in one trip without getting too tired. The Central Plains Buddha is great for seniors and kids; the steps are gentle. There's a line to "embrace the Buddha's feet," but it moves quickly. ⏰ Visit the Buddha in the morning and have a vegetarian meal at the entrance for about CNY 30 per person. Take the cable car up Yaoshan Mountain in the afternoon. ⏰ Head down before 3:00 PM to avoid lines for the cable car. ⚠️ The temperature at the top of Yaoshan is 5–6 degrees lower than at the base, so bring a jacket for the kids. 📍 The boardwalk to the right of the upper cable car station has the best view. Don't go left; the trees block everything. Suitable for ages 5 and up who can walk on steps. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Lushan County for lamb soup—CNY 15 a bowl. Kids can soak flatbread in it. 6️⃣ Dehong | Yunnan The Menghuan Golden Pagoda is in Mangshi. The weather is just right for the Mid-Autumn Festival—not stuffy. The pagoda is solid and you can't go inside, but you can walk around the perimeter to spin prayer wheels. Kids will be interested in the glittering golden spire. ⏰ Go at 8:00 AM; the light hits the pagoda, so you won't need filters for your photos. ⚠️ You must take off your shoes to enter the pagoda area, so have the kids wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. 📍 There's an observation deck below the pagoda with a panoramic view of Mangshi. 🚄 Mangshi has an airport; it's a 40-minute flight from Kunming. Suitable for ages 4 and up; younger kids won't appreciate the architecture. 🍜 After coming down, go to Best Food City for Paoluda and Sa Pie. Kids can just have the Paoluda—CNY 6 a cup. Stay near Mangshi Square for convenient evening strolls. 7️⃣ Pingxiang | Jiangxi For Wugong Mountain, you need to choose the right route when traveling with kids. Take the cable car to Zhong'an, then walk for half an hour to the Golden Summit. Kids can climb this section of steps on their own. ⏰ Take the first cable car at 7:00 AM to avoid crowds. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit. Bring a windbreaker for the Mid-Autumn Festival, and make sure the kids' hats have chin straps. 📍 Kids can sit on the grassy slope next to the Golden Summit monument and watch the clouds. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Pingxiang North Station to Wugong Mountain. Suitable for ages 6 and up; it's too tiring to carry younger ones up. 🍜 After coming down, have Pingxiang stir-fried rice noodles with an egg for CNY 10. Stay at a homestay at the foot of the mountain and take a different route the next day. 8️⃣ Tianjin Tianjin is perfect for a 3-day, 2-night Mid-Autumn trip—no rushing. The Italian Style Town is great for a morning visit; it's uncrowded, and kids can run around. 📍 There's an ice cream shop next to Marco Polo Square—CNY 15 for two scoops. Take the kids to a ball game or concert at the Olympic Center Stadium for a great atmosphere. ⚠️ The area gets congested during events, so taking the subway is the most reliable option. Kids will love taking a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Five Great Avenues Cultural Tourist Area. ⏰ Go at 4:00 PM when the light hits the Western-style buildings at an angle. Save Fantawild Adventure for the last day to let the kids burn off energy. 🍜 For dinner, go to Nanshi Food Street, but don't have a full meal inside—it's expensive. Find a small restaurant in a residential area nearby; you can eat well for CNY 40 per person. Suitable for ages 3 and up. Strollers are easy to use in the Five Great Avenues, but you'll need to rent one at Fantawild.

What's the biggest fear when traveling with kids during National Day? Crowds, cranky kids, and parents feeling more exhausted than at work. I've screened these 8 places based on "ease" and "fun factor." They suit kids of different ages and leave some breathing room for adults. No rushing, just follow my lead. 1️⃣ Zhuhai | Guangdong For young kids, Chimelong International Ocean Resort is the top choice, but don't rush in as soon as it opens. ⏰ Enter after 10:00 AM. See the Dolphin Theater first, then visit the Whale Shark Pavilion to avoid peak tour group times. The pavilion is air-conditioned, so bring a light jacket for your child. Eat near the Chimelong Hengqin Bay Hotel at noon; it's one-third cheaper than inside the park. After 3:00 PM, head to the tunnel at the exit of the Whale Shark Pavilion. It's less crowded, and you can get a clean shot of the entire aquarium wall. In the evening, head to Lovers' Road, rent a tandem bike, and ride from the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue to Yeli Island. The sea breeze is cool, and your child might even fall asleep on the bike. ⚠️ This road is busy on weekend evenings, so don't ride too far. The return point on Yeli Island is the most convenient. 2️⃣ Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan is a surprise for families with elementary school kids. The stairs at Xumishan Grottoes aren't great for toddlers, but kids over 8 will love the sense of exploration in "climbing mountains to find caves." ⏰ Go early in the morning when the light hits the Buddha statues at an angle, making the colors look most three-dimensional. Don't try to see all the caves; focus on Cave 5 and Cave 6. The signs are clear, and kids can read them themselves. Head down in the afternoon to the Xumishan Museum at the foot of the mountain. It takes half an hour to see, and there's a restored grotto model that kids can touch. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Guyuan lamb "xiao jiu mian" (small dough noodles) at the entrance. The soup is fresh, the noodles are soft, and kids will eat it better than at home. ⚠️ The steps in the grotto area are slippery, so don't go if it's raining. 3️⃣ Qingdao | Shandong Qingdao is great for families who know how to "prioritize." For Mount Lao, skip the long Taiqing Palace route. Take the kids to the Yangkou Scenic Area, take the cable car up and walk down. You can see the main sights in two hours, which is just right for their energy levels. ⏰ Head down before 2:00 PM and rush to Zhanqiao Pier to see the seagulls. They are still active at this time, and kids can feed them breadcrumbs. In the evening, head to the Olympic Sailing Center. The Lover's Dam area is flat and stroller-friendly. Don't take a sailboat tour; the lines are long and it's expensive. Just walking along the dam and watching the sunset turn the sails gold is worth it. 🍜 In the evening, go to Minjiang Road for seafood dumplings. Get half portions of mackerel and cuttlefish fillings for the kids to try. ⚠️ The Mount Lao cable car stops running at 4:00 PM, so don't cut it too close. 4️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan The Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area is better for older elementary school kids with good stamina. The main draw here is "size"—the Buddha is 208 meters tall, and kids will be amazed standing at its feet. Don't rush to pray; take the scenic shuttle bus to the mountainside, then climb a flight of stairs to the Buddha's toes. The whole trip takes about 40 minutes, which kids can handle. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM for good light and photos without backlighting. In the afternoon, head to the stream near the Yaoshan gate. The water is shallow, perfect for kids to splash around in, and much easier than hiking. ⚠️ Incense sold inside the scenic area is overpriced, so buy small bottles of water in the city beforehand. 🍜 After heading down, go to Lushan County for "lan guo cai" (stewed vegetable dish). The portions are large, and with rice, kids will be full. 5️⃣ Fangchenggang | Guangxi Fangchenggang is for parents who want to "chill out." Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the tide goes out, revealing a large mudflat where kids can carry small buckets to dig for crabs. Locals are often there catching seafood. The village has old houses and blue-brick alleys; it's a relaxing 30-minute walk. The next morning, head to the beach along the Fangchenggang coast. It's less crowded than Bailangtan Beach, with fine sand and gentle waves, making it safe for young kids to play in the water. ⚠️ The mudflats in the fishing village are slippery, so have your child wear non-slip sandals, not flip-flops. 🍜 For lunch, order the sipunculid worm porridge at the food stalls at the village entrance. It's fresh and sweet, and kids usually like it. 6️⃣ Yongzhou | Hunan Shanggantang Ancient Village in Yongzhou is perfect for families who want their kids to experience "slow history." There's no admission fee for the village. The Xie-Mu River winds around it, and the stone paths are flat, making it easy for strollers and seniors. ⏰ Before 8:00 AM, it's quiet, and you can hear villagers washing clothes—very picturesque. Walk with your kids across the ancient bridges and through the gate towers, and count the over 200 well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty houses. It's like a living history lesson. ⚠️ There are no restaurants in the village, so head to the nearby Xiacengpu Town for lunch, a 10-minute drive away. 🍜 I recommend the blood duck dish. It's slightly spicy, and kids can eat it with rice. In the afternoon, sit in the shade by the river, let the kids play with water guns, and take a break. 7️⃣ Shannan | Tibet Yamdrok Lake is not suitable for very young children due to the high altitude and risk of altitude sickness. But if your child is over 10 and you've already acclimated in Lhasa for at least two days, it's worth a visit. ⚠️ Don't stay at the viewing platform for too long; it's windy. Have the driver take you directly to the lakeside pasture area. It's less crowded there, and the lake water is an unreal shade of blue. ⏰ The light is softest after 2:00 PM. Standing by the lake, you can see three different shades of blue in the water. Have oxygen tanks and chocolate ready, as kids can easily get out of breath when running around. 🚄 It takes about 6 hours round-trip by chartered car from Lhasa. I recommend setting aside a full day and not combining it with other attractions. 🍜 On the way, have some Tibetan noodles in Nangartse County. They're hot and filling. 8️⃣ Anshun | Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall is a classic, but you need a strategy when traveling with kids. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM and head straight to the main waterfall. It's less crowded, and the mist is everywhere—kids will be amazed by the "flying water." Don't rush to Doupotang; take the kids to the Water Curtain Cave first. The line is about 40 minutes, but the experience of putting on a raincoat and going inside is something kids will remember for a year. In the afternoon, head to the Dragon Palace. You can take a boat into the karst cave at the entrance, which young kids will find fascinating. The cave is dim, so just hold their hands. ⚠️ There are many stairs in the scenic area, so strollers aren't practical. I recommend using a hip seat or baby carrier. 🍜 For lunch, have Anshun beef noodles outside the scenic area with a braised egg. Kids need to be full to have the energy to keep walking. Of these 8 places, my personal favorites are Zhuhai and Anshun—one is stress-free, the other is breathtaking. When traveling with kids during National Day, don't overpack your itinerary. Plan only one main attraction per day and leave half a day for flexibility. Let me know in the comments: where are you planning to take your kids?

September and October, after school starts, are the golden window for traveling with kids. Flight and hotel prices drop, you won't be staring at the back of people's heads at attractions, and the weather is just right. I've picked 8 places perfect for a slow-paced family trip, with food, fun, beaches, and grasslands. Just follow this guide. 1️⃣ Foshan | Guangdong When visiting Foshan with kids, don't just focus on the Ancestral Temple. I suggest spending the morning at Qinghui Garden. 📍 The rockeries and fish ponds there can keep kids occupied for an hour. Remember to enter through the side gate; the main path is too crowded with tour groups. Walk a few steps inside to find quiet corridors, perfect for sitting and enjoying the breeze. 🍜 At noon, turn left after leaving the garden and walk 10 minutes to Huagai Road. Double-skin milk and fried milk are on this street. Look for the long-established shop; don't rush to pay at the first one you see at the entrance. In the afternoon, don't drive up Xiqiao Mountain; getting stuck halfway up is a real mood killer. 🚄 Take the sightseeing bus from the foot of the mountain to Baofeng Temple Station, then walk 10 minutes to see the Guanyin statue. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes on the mountain. Be sure to start heading down before 5:00 PM. There are few streetlights after dark, and walking at night with kids isn't safe. If the kids still have energy, you can stop by the National Arts Studio on your way down. 2️⃣ Wuzhong | Ningxia Many people head straight to Zhongwei when visiting Ningxia, but Wuzhong is actually the locals' backyard for weekend family outings. The core activity at the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area is taking a boat to see the cliffs and ancient pagodas on both banks. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM for the best light; the Yellow River water looks emerald green, but turns yellow after noon. For younger kids, I recommend the short boat trip, which takes about an hour round-trip, so they won't get bored. Don't rush off after getting off the boat; 📍 the Yellow River Altar Square at the exit is enough to keep kids running around for half a day, and you can see real sheepskin rafts. 🍜 Head back to the city at noon for a bowl of Wuzhong morning tea beef noodles. It's CNY 8 a bowl, and the portion of meat is even more generous than in Lanzhou. ⚠️ If driving, navigate directly to the North Gate of the scenic area; the South Gate area is under construction and easy to get lost in. 3️⃣ Heihe | Heilongjiang From late September to early October, the volcanic poplars in Wudalianchi start turning yellow, making the whole scenic area look like an overturned palette. When visiting with kids, there are two main things to see: the crater of Laoheishan and the springs of Wenbo. 📍 There are wooden boardwalks throughout Laoheishan, so you can even use a stroller. It's windy at the summit, so remember to put an extra fleece layer on the kids. The water temperature in the Wenbo area is around 10–20°C year-round. In autumn, you can see white mist rising from the water, which kids will think looks like a fairyland. 🍜 Try the mineral water tofu sold at the entrance; it's so tender you can't even pick it up with chopsticks. It's unique when paired with the local dipping sauce. ⚠️ The distance between the Third Pool and the Fifth Pool is far, so don't try to do it all in one day. Just choosing Laoheishan and Wenbo is enough. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from Heihe city, and the scenery along the way is even more beautiful than the scenic area itself. 4️⃣ Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Autumn in Kanbula is that kind of red and yellow that doesn't need filters. When visiting with kids, I suggest taking the scenic area sightseeing bus. Don't drive yourself; the mountain roads are narrow and passing other cars is scary. 📍 The sightseeing bus goes to the final stop, Dehong Village. After getting off, walk a short distance along the boardwalk to see the entire Lijiaxia Reservoir embedded in the Danxia landform. ⏰ 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM is when the light is softest. With the red mountains reflecting in the green water, kids will point at the mountains and shout, "It looks like the Flaming Mountains!" 🍜 The yak yogurt at the entrance is CNY 5 a cup. It's so sour it makes kids frown, but add a little sugar and they'll fight over it. ⚠️ The altitude here is nearly 3,000 meters. If kids run too fast, they might get out of breath, so have a thermos and chocolate ready. The whole tour takes about 3 hours, which is a perfect pace for seniors and kids—no need to rush. 5️⃣ Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island is worth an overnight stay with kids; don't try to do a round trip in one day. 📍 After arriving on the island, rent an electric scooter and ride along the island loop road. The sea breeze is cool, and kids sitting in the back can see fishing boats and the Mazu statue the whole way. 🍜 In the evening, go to the seafood stalls by the pier. Order a plate of stir-fried rice noodles and a seaweed pot; it costs about CNY 40 per person and you'll be stuffed. The next morning, before the tour groups arrive on the island, take the kids to Eweishan Geopark. ⏰ The beach is almost empty before 8:00 AM, and you can find intact little seashells. ⚠️ The sun is harsh at noon on the island, so sun hats and cooling sleeves are a must. If your kids are afraid of boats, give them motion sickness medicine in advance. The speedboat takes 20 minutes, but it can be bumpy when the waves are high. 6️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan Many people think the Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Buddha combination is just about praying and hiking, but there's a more relaxed way to do it with kids. 📍 The Foquan Temple square at the foot of the Great Buddha is very spacious. Kids can run around and watch the pigeons, and looking up at the 208-meter Great Buddha is a powerful visual experience. 🍜 The Lushan Lan Guo Cai (stewed dish) sold at the mountain entrance comes in huge portions; a family of 3 just needs to order one serving and add a bowl of noodles. If you want to hike, take the cable car up Yaoshan, then walk down a gentle slope to see the red leaves. ⏰ Mid-October is the best time for red leaves; the mountains are covered in smoke trees that turn as red as fire. ⚠️ Don't buy incense from vendors at the foot of the mountain; the scenic area provides 3 sticks of incense for free. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from Pingdingshan city, all on highways with good road conditions. 7️⃣ Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia In late September, the grass in the Ulagai Grassland has been rolled into bales, creating a golden expanse that looks like a carpet stretching to the horizon. 📍 After navigating to the Ulagai Management Area, drive deeper along the county road. When you see rows of traditional carts, turn right. That's a herdsman's pasture where you can take the kids horseback riding. ⏰ The light at 5:00 PM is the softest. Taking backlit photos of kids riding horses makes every shot look like a movie still. 🍜 In the evening, have hand-grabbed mutton at a herdsman's home, paired with pot tea. The meat is rich and flavorful without being gamey, so kids can eat it too. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is huge. Wear short sleeves during the day, but you must have a down jacket for the evening—don't try to tough it out. If staying in a yurt, choose one with a private bathroom; the wind at the public restrooms at night will make you question your life choices. 8️⃣ Lingshui | Hainan When bringing kids to Hainan, I advise against the crowds in Sanya. Fenjiezhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island in Lingshui are the real kings of value. 📍 The sand on Fenjiezhou Island is fine and soft, and the water is so clear you can see your toes. Kids can soak in the water all afternoon. ⏰ Take the first boat to the island in the morning; it's the least crowded, and you can snag a good spot under a sun umbrella. The monkeys on Nanwan Monkey Island are free-roaming, so kids will be both scared and excited to see them. ⚠️ Don't carry plastic bags; the monkeys will snatch your food. I've seen a girl's mango get snatched away in an instant. 🍜 The coconut milk Qingbuliang (dessert) sold on the island is packed with ingredients—it's like a bowl of dessert. At CNY 10, it's a great deal in Hainan. Plan one day for each island for a relaxed pace, perfect for a slow-paced family trip. Of these 8 places, the ones that move me the most are Kanbula and Ulagai—one for the mountains, one for the grasslands. Both offer scenes that kids will remember for a long time. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Or do you have any secret off-peak spots? Let's chat in the comments.

Want to travel during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays but afraid of crowds? I've scouted these 8 places for you—accessible by high-speed rail, stunning scenery, and most importantly, there's space for your tripod. Let's get straight to the point. 1️⃣ Heyuan|Guangdong The wind at Wanlv Lake truly carries a touch of "green." I arrived at the lake at 7 am; the mist hadn't yet dissipated, and the mountain shadows pressed against the water's surface like a thin veil that hadn't yet woken up. 📍 I recommend taking the first boat from Jinghuayuan Wharf—less crowded and more reliable tickets. You don't need to get off at all the islands in the middle of the lake; just pick one to walk around, saving your energy for the lakeside trail later. For lunch, I ate Hakka stuffed tofu at the scenic area entrance. The tofu was so tender you had to be careful picking it up with chopsticks. The owner said the lake fish was caught that day; I ordered steamed, and the fish had a slightly sweet taste. ⏰ After 2 PM, the light becomes harsh and unsuitable for photographing the lake. This is a good time to escape the sun at the Wanlv Lake Windmill Corridor; the breeze will instantly soothe you. ⚠️ A word of caution: water and drinks inside the scenic area are twice as expensive as outside. Bringing your own two bottles is perfectly acceptable. The entire trip will take at least 20,000 steps, so wear comfortable shoes and don't push yourself. 2️⃣ Changzhi|Shanxi I admit, I didn't have high expectations for the Huguan Taihang Grand Canyon before going, having seen many mountains in the north. But the waterway in Baquan Gorge truly impressed me. 📍 Take a sightseeing bus from the scenic area gate to the pier, then take a boat through the canyon. The water is a vibrant green, like a whole bottle of paint has been poured on it. When the boat turns, the wind rushes in from the gorge entrance, giving you goosebumps. After disembarking, walk uphill along the boardwalk. There's a section with almost vertical steps; I counted over two hundred. ⚠️ If you're not in great shape, just take the elevator up. Don't push yourself; save your energy for the view from the summit. From the top, you can overlook the entire canyon, with the folds of the Taihang Mountains spread out below. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, I went to Huguan County and had a bowl of mutton stew noodles. The noodles were thick and hearty, and the broth was savory and delicious. The owner said the sheep here are free-range on the mountain, and the meat is indeed firm. ⏰ I recommend arriving at the scenic area before 8 am to avoid tour groups; the entire canyon will be filled with the sound of your camera shutter. 3️⃣ Lianyungang|Jiangsu I visited Huaguo Mountain and Lian Island, one in the mountains and the other by the sea, in one day. My conclusion is: don't follow my example; you'll exhaust yourself. The first half of Huaguo Mountain isn't very interesting. The Water Curtain Cave has a 20-minute queue when it's crowded; it's just a small cave. 📍 The truly interesting part is Jade Maiden Peak, the highest point in Jiangsu. Climbing to the top, the wind was so strong it could blow your hat off, and the view was so expansive you could see the distant horizon. In the afternoon, we went to Lian Island. The beach was cleaner than in the city, and the sand was soft and fine underfoot. I rented an umbrella and lay there for an hour, almost falling asleep to the sound of the waves. ⏰ Around 5 pm, the sunset turned the sea orange; at this time, no filter was needed for photos. ⚠️ At the entrance of Lian Island scenic area, some people will try to solicit customers by saying they'll "take you to see the wild beaches." Don't believe them; the beaches in the official scenic areas are already good enough. 🚄 A taxi from Lianyungang Station to Lian Island costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is even cheaper. Don't visit Huaguo Mountain and Lian Island on the same day; your legs will really protest. 4️⃣ Wanning|Hainan To be honest, I'm tired of Sanya; Wanning is where I really want to relax. Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay have completely different styles, and I visited both. Shimei Bay is quiet, with a long beach and few tourists. 📍 I found a hammock under a coconut tree and spent the afternoon there, the wind blowing gently from the sea, salty and moist. Riyue Bay is much more lively, with groups of surfers, the waves filled with screams and laughter. I signed up for a trial lesson; the instructor was a local, tanned, and spoke with a Hainanese accent. I fell three times when I first got on the surfboard, but when I successfully stood up on the fourth time, the sea breeze was blowing in my face—it was worth it. 🍜 A random roadside stall selling Qingbuliang (a type of sweet soup) was incredibly generous with its ingredients: coconut milk base topped with taro balls, red beans, and watermelon. One bowl and I felt completely refreshed. ⏰ After 6 pm, the bar street in Riyue Bay starts to light up. The music isn't too loud, perfect for sitting and enjoying an ice-cold beer while watching the sky darken. ⚠️ High SPF sunscreen is a must; the UV rays at the beach are relentless. 5️⃣ Zhuzhou|Hunan Before going to Zhuzhou, a friend asked me, "What's fun there?" I couldn't answer. But the trip to the Yan Emperor Mausoleum was definitely worthwhile. 📍 The mausoleum area is vast, with towering ancient trees and gleaming bluestone steps worn smooth by countless footsteps. I hired a guide and listened to the story of Yan Emperor tasting hundreds of herbs along the way; the words in my textbooks suddenly felt warm. Afternoon sunlight filtered through the leaves, scattering fragments on the ground. I sat in the long corridor to rest, the wind carrying the scents of grass, trees, and incense, and I felt completely at peace. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the park after 2 PM to avoid the midday sun and when the light is softer. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, I ate a bowl of Youxian rice noodles at a nearby farmhouse restaurant. The broth was made from bones, and the noodles were so smooth they slid right into my mouth. ⚠️ Some stalls in the scenic area sell so-called "blessed" souvenirs at inflated prices; just look and don't buy anything. This place is more suitable for history buffs to stroll around at their leisure; it might be boring for children. 6️⃣ Ningbo|Zhejiang I spent three days in Ningbo, visiting Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake, Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area, and Qiantong Ancient Town. Each place has its own unique charm. 📍 Tianyi Pavilion is best visited in the morning, when the sunlight shines obliquely through the wooden windows of the library, allowing you to see dust motes floating in the beams of light. Moon Lake is right next door; a walk around the lake brings a refreshing breeze carrying the scent of willows. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area offers a completely different experience, with its old streets reminiscent of the Republic of China era. Approaching, you can smell the sweet aroma wafting from the pastry shops. I tried a layered pastry; it was incredibly flaky. ⏰ The afternoon light casts a warm glow on the gray tiles of the old houses, perfect for taking photos. Qiantong Ancient Town is much quieter than Wuzhen. I arrived in the evening; the lanterns were just lit, and the stream flowed past the doors, making the stone paths glisten with moisture. 🍜 A tofu shop in town made fresh, smooth tofu pudding. Add a spoonful of chili oil, and it was so fragrant I even drank the soup! ⚠️ The roads in the ancient town are slippery; wear non-slip shoes, don't wear high heels and you'll suffer. The three places aren't far by taxi, but doing it all in one day is too rushed; I suggest splitting it into two days. 7️⃣ Hengshui|Hebei Hengshui Lake is much bigger than I imagined, so big that I feel calling it a "lake" is a bit of an understatement. 📍 I rented a bicycle by the lake and rode along the lakeside road for over an hour. The reeds rustled in the wind, and water birds occasionally took flight from the grass. ⏰ The lake is calmest at six in the morning, with mist clinging to the surface like a traditional Chinese ink painting. At noon, I found a fish restaurant by the lake. They served fish stewed in an iron pot with cornbread. The fish was freshly caught, and the meat was so tender it fell apart with the touch of chopsticks. Dipping the flatbread in the fish soup is savory and filling. 🍜 The owner said the fish are at their fattest this season; they'll be hard to find after October. ⚠️ The electric carts in the scenic area aren't really necessary; the roads are very flat, and walking or cycling is much more enjoyable. It's suitable for bringing elderly people for a relaxing trip—the roads are easy to walk on, and the air is fresh. The overall cost is low; you can eat quite comfortably for around 100 yuan per person. 8️⃣ Pingdingshan|Henan Yaoshan—Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area, to be honest… 📍 The Buddha is at the foot of the mountain, and it's breathtaking from afar. Getting closer, you have to crane your neck so high your hat might fall off. Standing at the Buddha's feet, I felt incredibly small, but that sense of insignificance was surprisingly comforting. ⏰ I recommend taking the cable car up the mountain first and exploring from top to bottom. The mountain path winds around the cliff face, with deep valleys below; you can hear the wind whistling through the air when it's strong. The autumn leaves on Yaoshan Mountain don't turn red until mid-October. I went too early, which was a slight disappointment, but the mountain's unique rock formations and pine trees were already quite impressive. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 4:30 PM. Don't miss the last train, or you'll have to walk down for three hours. 🍜 The Lushan hot pot at the scenic area entrance has incredibly large portions; one serving is enough for two people. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Pingdingshan West Station. Booking in advance is recommended. Half a day is enough to explore the whole area; don't overschedule. Of these eight places, I personally most want to revisit Wanning and Changzhi. One is perfect for relaxing and unwinding, while the other is ideal for a truly awe-inspiring experience. Remember to book your train tickets and accommodations early if you're traveling during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays. If you've been to these places, share in the comments, and I'll see if I've missed any good food or fun activities. Want to travel during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays but worried about crowds? I've scouted these 8 places for you. They're accessible by high-speed rail, the scenery is stunning, and most importantly, there's space for your tripod. Let's get straight to the point. 1️⃣ Heyuan|Guangdong The wind at Wanlv Lake truly carries a sense of "green." I arrived at the lake at 7 am; the mist hadn't yet dissipated, and the mountain shadows pressed against the water's surface like a thin veil that hadn't yet woken up. 📍 I recommend taking the first boat from Jinghuayuan Wharf. It's less crowded, and the tickets are more reliable. You don't need to get off at all the islands in the middle of the lake; just pick one to walk around on, saving your energy for the lakeside trail later. For lunch, I ate Hakka stuffed tofu at the scenic area entrance. The tofu was so tender you had to be careful picking it up with chopsticks. The owner said the lake fish was caught that day; I ordered steamed, and the fish had a slightly sweet taste. ⏰ After 2 PM, the light becomes harsh and unsuitable for photographing the lake. This is a good time to escape the sun at the Wanlv Lake Windmill Corridor; the breeze will instantly soothe you. ⚠️ A word of caution: water and drinks inside the scenic area are twice as expensive as outside. Bringing your own two bottles is perfectly acceptable. The entire trip will take at least 20,000 steps, so wear comfortable shoes and don't push yourself. 2️⃣ Changzhi|Shanxi I admit, I didn't have high expectations for the Huguan Taihang Grand Canyon before going, having seen many mountains in the north. But the waterway in Baquan Gorge truly impressed me. 📍 Take a sightseeing bus from the scenic area gate to the pier, then take a boat through the canyon. The water is a vibrant green, like a whole bottle of paint has been poured on it. When the boat turns, the wind rushes in from the gorge entrance, giving you goosebumps. After disembarking, walk uphill along the boardwalk. There's a section with almost vertical steps; I counted over two hundred. ⚠️ If you're not in great shape, just take the elevator up. Don't push yourself; save your energy for the view from the summit. From the top, you can overlook the entire canyon, with the folds of the Taihang Mountains spread out below. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, I went to Huguan County and had a bowl of mutton stew noodles. The noodles were thick and hearty, and the broth was savory and delicious. The owner said the sheep here are free-range on the mountain, and the meat is indeed firm. ⏰ I recommend arriving at the scenic area before 8 am to avoid tour groups; the entire canyon will be filled with the sound of your camera shutter. 3️⃣ Lianyungang|Jiangsu I visited Huaguo Mountain and Lian Island, one in the mountains and the other by the sea, in one day. My conclusion is: don't follow my example; you'll exhaust yourself. The first half of Huaguo Mountain isn't very interesting. The Water Curtain Cave has a 20-minute queue when it's crowded; it's just a small cave. 📍 The truly interesting part is Jade Maiden Peak, the highest point in Jiangsu. Climbing to the top, the wind was so strong it could blow your hat off, and the view was so expansive you could see the distant horizon. In the afternoon, we went to Lian Island. The beach was cleaner than in the city, and the sand was soft and fine underfoot. I rented an umbrella and lay there for an hour, almost falling asleep to the sound of the waves. ⏰ Around 5 pm, the sunset turned the sea orange; at this time, no filter was needed for photos. ⚠️ At the entrance of Lian Island scenic area, some people will try to solicit customers by saying they'll "take you to see the wild beaches." Don't believe them; the beaches in the official scenic areas are already good enough. 🚄 A taxi from Lianyungang Station to Lian Island costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is even cheaper. Don't visit Huaguo Mountain and Lian Island on the same day; your legs will really protest. 4️⃣ Wanning|Hainan To be honest, I'm tired of Sanya; Wanning is where I really want to relax. Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay have completely different styles, and I visited both. Shimei Bay is quiet, with a long beach and few tourists. 📍 I found a hammock under a coconut tree and spent the afternoon there, the wind blowing gently from the sea, salty and moist. Riyue Bay is much more lively, with groups of surfers, the waves filled with screams and laughter. I signed up for a trial lesson; the instructor was a local, tanned, and spoke with a Hainanese accent. I fell three times when I first got on the surfboard, but when I successfully stood up on the fourth time, the sea breeze was blowing in my face—it was worth it. 🍜 A random roadside stall selling Qingbuliang (a type of sweet soup) was incredibly generous with its ingredients: coconut milk base topped with taro balls, red beans, and watermelon. One bowl and I felt completely refreshed. ⏰ After 6 pm, the bar street in Riyue Bay starts to light up. The music isn't too loud, perfect for sitting and enjoying an ice-cold beer while watching the sky darken. ⚠️ High SPF sunscreen is a must; the UV rays at the beach are relentless. 5️⃣ Zhuzhou|Hunan Before going to Zhuzhou, a friend asked me, "What's fun there?" I couldn't answer. But the trip to the Yan Emperor Mausoleum was definitely worthwhile. 📍 The mausoleum area is vast, with towering ancient trees and gleaming bluestone steps worn smooth by countless footsteps. I hired a guide and listened to the story of Yan Emperor tasting hundreds of herbs along the way; the words in my textbooks suddenly felt warm. Afternoon sunlight filtered through the leaves, scattering fragments on the ground. I sat in the long corridor to rest, the wind carrying the scents of grass, trees, and incense, and I felt completely at peace. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the park after 2 PM to avoid the midday sun and when the light is softer. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, I ate a bowl of Youxian rice noodles at a nearby farmhouse restaurant. The broth was made from bones, and the noodles were so smooth they slid right into my mouth. ⚠️ Some stalls in the scenic area sell so-called "blessed" souvenirs at inflated prices; just look and don't buy anything. This place is more suitable for history buffs to stroll around at their leisure; it might be boring for children. 6️⃣ Ningbo|Zhejiang I spent three days in Ningbo, visiting Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake, Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area, and Qiantong Ancient Town. Each place has its own unique charm. 📍 Tianyi Pavilion is best visited in the morning, when the sunlight shines obliquely through the wooden windows of the library, allowing you to see dust motes floating in the beams of light. Moon Lake is right next door; a walk around the lake brings a refreshing breeze carrying the scent of willows. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area offers a completely different experience, with its old streets reminiscent of the Republic of China era. Approaching, you can smell the sweet aroma wafting from the pastry shops. I tried a layered pastry; it was incredibly flaky. ⏰ The afternoon light casts a warm glow on the gray tiles of the old houses, perfect for taking photos. Qiantong Ancient Town is much quieter than Wuzhen. I arrived in the evening; the lanterns were just lit, and the stream flowed past the doors, making the stone paths glisten with moisture. 🍜 A tofu shop in town made fresh, smooth tofu pudding. Add a spoonful of chili oil, and it was so fragrant I even drank the soup! ⚠️ The roads in the ancient town are slippery; wear non-slip shoes, don't wear high heels and you'll suffer. The three places aren't far by taxi, but doing it all in one day is too rushed; I suggest splitting it into two days. 7️⃣ Hengshui|Hebei Hengshui Lake is much bigger than I imagined, so big that I feel calling it a "lake" is a bit of an understatement. 📍 I rented a bicycle by the lake and rode along the lakeside road for over an hour. The reeds rustled in the wind, and water birds occasionally took flight from the grass. ⏰ The lake is calmest at six in the morning, with mist clinging to the surface like a traditional Chinese ink painting. At noon, I found a fish restaurant by the lake. They served fish stewed in an iron pot with cornbread. The fish was freshly caught, and the meat was so tender it fell apart with the touch of chopsticks. Dipping the flatbread in the fish soup is savory and filling. 🍜 The owner said the fish are at their fattest this season; they'll be hard to find after October. ⚠️ The electric carts in the scenic area aren't really necessary; the roads are very flat, and walking or cycling is much more enjoyable. It's suitable for bringing elderly people for a relaxing trip—the roads are easy to walk on, and the air is fresh. The overall cost is low; you can eat quite comfortably for around 100 yuan per person. 8️⃣ Pingdingshan|Henan Yaoshan—Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area, to be honest… 📍 The Buddha is at the foot of the mountain, and it's breathtaking from afar. Getting closer, you have to crane your neck so high your hat might fall off. Standing at the Buddha's feet, I felt incredibly small, but that sense of insignificance was surprisingly comforting. ⏰ I recommend taking the cable car up the mountain first and exploring from top to bottom. The mountain path winds around the cliff face, with deep valleys below; you can hear the wind whistling through the air when it's strong. The autumn leaves on Yaoshan Mountain don't turn red until mid-October. I went too early, which was a slight disappointment, but the mountain's unique rock formations and pine trees were already quite impressive. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 4:30 PM, so don't miss the last one, otherwise it will take three hours to walk down. 🍜 The Lushan hot pot at the scenic area entrance has incredibly large portions; one serving is enough for two people. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Pingdingshan West Station; booking in advance is recommended. Half a day is enough to explore the whole area; don't overschedule. Of these eight places, I personally most want to revisit Wanning and Changzhi. One is perfect for relaxing and unwinding, while the other is ideal for a truly awe-inspiring experience. For Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day travel, remember to book your train tickets and accommodations early. If you've also been to these places, share in the comments, and I'll see if I've missed any good food or fun activities.

I saw many people sharing photos of the rice paddies in Xiao'er City, so I made a special trip while I had some free time this autumn. This is a filming location for the TV series "Mountains and Rivers." Over 400 mu of rice paddies spread out at the foot of the mountain, with the distant Funiu Mountains as a backdrop and white-walled houses scattered among the fields. Walking along the rainbow path, the wind ripples through the rice, and the scent of grain fills the air, giving you the illusion of being in Jiangnan. Without the hustle and bustle of large tourist attractions, it offers an authentic rural experience. It's perfect for a weekend road trip to relax and take photos, with a slow, comfortable pace. 🌾 Best time to visit · Mid-September–around National Day is the golden period. The rice is entirely golden, the rice waves look their best, and it's the peak time for photography. Harvesting begins after National Day, and once it's done, the expansive rice paddy landscape is gone. · June–July features lush green seedlings. It's a sea of green, less crowded, and quiet, making it perfect for enjoying the pastoral scenery. Try to visit on weekdays, as the village entrance is prone to traffic jams on weekends. The light is softest at sunrise and sunset, creating the best atmosphere for photos. 🎫 Ticket and cost information It is completely free with no admission fee or scenic entrance gate; it's just an ordinary village and fields. You can park on the roadside at the village entrance, but parking is limited on peak weekends. There are no fixed opening hours, so you can visit during the day. 1–2 hours is enough to walk around the rice paddies and take photos. There is a small supermarket in the village, but it has limited stock, so it's recommended to bring your own water and snacks. 🚗 Road trip experience Search for "Lushan Xiao'er City Village (Zhaocun Town)" in your navigation app; it's near National Highway 311 and easy to find. It takes 1 hour and 40 minutes from downtown Pingdingshan and about 40 minutes from Lushan County. The rainbow road leading into the village is narrow, making it difficult for cars to pass each other on weekends. It's safer to park at the village entrance and walk into the rice paddy path. ✅ One-day road trip loop After visiting Xiao'er City, you can take the Funiu No. 1 Stone Forest Highway. If you have enough time, you can also visit Wenshu Temple to see the ancient ginkgo trees. This route allows you to see pastoral scenery, mountain forests, and ancient temples in one go without backtracking. Head down the mountain to Zhaocun Town for a meal; the local "Languo" dish and farmhouse cuisine are authentic and affordable. 🗺 Two ways to explore 🌿 Leisure & photography | Families, parents with kids, and photography enthusiasts Park at the village entrance, walk onto the rainbow path, and stroll slowly along the field road. The path runs right through the middle of the rice paddies, so you can walk, watch the rice waves, and find angles for photos. There's no need to wander into the fields; just follow the paved path, enjoy the breeze, smell the fragrance of the grain, look at the distant mountains and villages, and soak in the rural atmosphere—it's relaxing and easy. ⛰ Road trip loop | For those who love mountain roads After visiting Xiao'er City, head directly to the Funiu No. 1 Tourist Highway. Drive along the winding mountain roads through forests and stone forests, and stop at safe parking spots along the way to gaze at the mountains. If you have enough time, take a detour to Wenshu Temple to see the thousand-year-old ginkgo trees before heading back for a full day's itinerary. ✅ Must-visit spots 1. Hundred-acre rice paddies + rainbow path ⭐ Core highlight This expansive, continuous stretch of rice paddies is also a filming location for TV series. The newly built, colorful rainbow path winds through the fields, surrounded by rice on both sides. In the evening, as the sunset shines, the golden rice waves against the backdrop of distant green mountains and villages make for stunning pastoral photos. Many people wear light-colored clothing or Hanfu to take photos, which look fantastic. ⚠️ Important reminder: These are the villagers' crops. Please do not step into the rice paddies or damage the rice. Only walk on the paved path and respect the farmers' crops. 2. Distant view of the village Stand at a slightly higher point on the path and look toward the village. With the houses scattered about and the rice paddies surrounding the village, it's perfect for panoramic shots. If you're lucky, you might even see egrets flying by the fields, which really enhances the pastoral atmosphere. 3. Surrounding mountain roads Xiao'er City itself isn't large, so don't just focus on the village. The scenery along the surrounding Funiu No. 1 Highway is fantastic, with rolling mountains in the distance. The views along the road are just as worth stopping for. 🍜 Food and accommodation tips The village only has small convenience stores and very few dining options, so it's not recommended to eat there. After you're done exploring, drive to Zhaocun Town, where there are many restaurants with affordable prices. Try the local "Languo" dish or farmhouse stir-fry. If you want to stay overnight, there are standard hotels in the town, or you can look for homestays toward Yaoshan. There are many mosquitoes in the fields, so be sure to carry mosquito repellent with you. ⚠️ Tips from a seasoned traveler 1. On weekends and during the National Day holiday, there are large crowds. The road into the village is narrow and prone to traffic jams, so it's recommended to leave early, travel off-peak, and avoid forcing your car onto the rainbow path. 2. The rice paddies are the villagers' crops. It is strictly forbidden to step into the paddies for photos or damage the crops. Please be a responsible traveler. 3. Some parts of the field paths can be muddy, so wear comfortable flat shoes. There are many mosquitoes in summer and autumn, so be prepared with sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 4. There are no large-scale tourist facilities like public restrooms, so facilities are limited. 5. If you arrive late in the harvest season, the expansive rice paddies will be gone. Check the status of the rice growth before you go to avoid a wasted trip. 6. There are many large vehicles on the surrounding national highways, so drive safely. 💡 Personal thoughts After seeing too many crowded, paid tourist attractions, coming to Xiao'er City feels very relaxing. There are no flashy artificial landscapes—just mountains, villages, and thousands of acres of rice paddies combined. The wind rustles through the rice ears, and the air is filled with the fragrance of grain. There's no need to rush; just walk along the field ridges and quietly experience the unique autumn of the western Henan countryside. It's well worth a short weekend trip.

September and October bring the start of autumn. There is no need to crowd into popular tourist spots. These 8 hidden gems offer stunning scenery and affordable prices. Perfect for students and budget travelers—save this list now! 01 Shuozhou | Shanxi Shahu Kou sounds intense, but visiting it feels like stepping onto a historical drama set. 🚄 Take the train to Shuozhou Station and hire a local driver for the round trip. It costs less than 80 per person and is much more flexible than a tour group. 📍 The ancient stone road under the bridge still bears deep cart ruts. Standing here, you can almost see the grand spectacle of camel caravans passing through the pass in the past. Don't just stare at the gate tower; walk slowly up the western slope to take in the entire valley's autumn colors. The yellow earth paired with golden leaves is desolate yet beautiful. ⏰ The light is soft after 3:00 PM, making it great for portraits without harsh glare, and the scenery has rich layers. In the village, a serving of oat noodles (kaolaolao) with lamb sauce costs just over 20 and is hot and filling. ⚠️ Most of the old silverware sold at the entrance is not authentic, so just take a quick look. Before leaving, be sure to walk a short section of the West Pass ancient road for a powerful sense of history. 02 Suqian | Jiangsu You don't have to travel far south to see autumn wetlands. The autumn scenery at Hongze Lake Wetland in northern Jiangsu is just as impressive. 🍜 Start your morning in town with a bowl of Luoma Lake silver fish soup and pot stickers for 10, then head into the park at a leisurely pace. 📍 Taking a boat through the reed marshes is a must-do activity. The ticket and boat combo costs just over 100 for a 40-minute ride. The breeze carries the fresh scent of reeds. ⏰ Migratory birds arrive in mid-October. Bring binoculars to watch flocks of swans and egrets. Avoid weekend afternoons when tour groups crowd the wooden boardwalks. We recommend entering before 9:00 AM to explore the forest oxygen bar first, then visit the dawn redwood forest. Sunlight filtering through the treetops onto the water makes every photo look like a wallpaper. The paths are flat, making it easy to visit with strollers or elderly family members. 03 Baoting | Hainan Hainan is more than just the beaches of Sanya; the Baoting rainforest is a hidden gem. Betel Nut Valley and Yanoda are not far apart, making them perfect for a full-day itinerary. 📍 Spend the morning at Betel Nut Valley. The Li ethnic boat houses and weaving performances are the highlights. Tickets are about 90, and you can easily spend 3 hours exploring without seeing the same thing twice. 🍜 Bamboo rice paired with Shanlan wine at the entrance costs 10 per serving. The bamboo fragrance mixed with the sweetness of sticky rice is a better deal than the park's boxed lunches. Head to Yanoda in the afternoon. ⏰ Enter after 2:00 PM to avoid the peak tour group hours. Waterfall trekking is worth a try. ⚠️ The rainforest has many mosquitoes, so long pants and insect repellent are essential. On the way back, stop in Baoting town for Lingshui sour noodles—the sweet, sour, and spicy flavors paired with iced coconut water are the perfect end to the trip. 04 Chongzuo | Guangxi Chongzuo, on the border with Vietnam, offers great value in autumn. You can cover Detian Waterfall and Mingshi Countryside in 2 days and 1 night for about 500 per person. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Nanning to Chongzuo South Station, then carpool to Shuolong Town for about 30 one way. 📍 The Detian Waterfall ticket plus shuttle is 110 and is well worth it. ⏰ Enter with the first batch at 8:30 AM when the boardwalks are empty. The mist hits your face, and you can see both Detian Waterfall and the Ban Gioc Waterfall on the Vietnamese side—a majestic sight with both falls cascading down. In the afternoon, head to Mingshi Countryside. Besides bamboo rafting, you can rent a bike for 20 to ride along the greenway. 📍 Around Longtou Mountain, the golden rice fields paired with karst peaks feel like walking through a landscape painting. ⚠️ The Vietnamese yogurt and coffee sold at the entrance are mostly rebranded products; buy local specialties at the supermarkets in Shuolong Town. Stay at a Mingshi village homestay where you can open the window to see the landscape—150 per night including breakfast is a great deal. 05 Qiannan | Guizhou Libo Zhangjiang is low-key and stunning. While the water volume in autumn isn't as high as in summer, the lake is clearer, like emerald. The ticket plus shuttle is 130, with half-price for students—remember to bring your ID. 📍 We recommend entering from the East Gate. Visit the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge first and tour upstream; it's uphill, but there are fewer tourists. The Water Forest is perfect for children to walk barefoot on the cool stones with the stream flowing over their ankles. ⏰ Try to arrive at Wolong Pond before 11:00 AM when the sunlight slants across the lake, giving the blue-green water a natural filter. ⚠️ Snacks inside the park are overpriced, so we don't recommend buying them. The bean curd grilled fish on the street at the East Gate exit is about 50 per person and tastes authentic. If you don't have much energy, you can skip the Mandarin Duck Lake boating and save your time for Daqikong, where the natural bridge is magnificent. 06 Mianyang | Sichuan The Beichuan Qiang City tourist area is not just an artificial attraction; it feels more like a living, breathing town. 📍 Banaqia Commercial Street is the core, with Qiang watchtowers and stilt houses lined up along the river, offering rich and healing colors. 🎫 There is no general admission ticket for the tourist area, but special exhibition halls charge separately, ranging from 20–40, which is budget-friendly. 🍜 Street-side corn stir-fry and buckwheat jelly are 10 a bowl—a must-try Qiang specialty snack that is spicy and satisfying. ⏰ Around 5:00 PM, the Qiang women in the square start dancing the Salang dance. Tourists can join in, hold hands, and dance in a circle—it's lively and full of local atmosphere. ⚠️ Most of the large Qiang embroidery items at the scenic area are machine-made. If you want to buy handmade pieces, you can go to Yong'an Town to have them custom-made by veteran embroiderers. Economy hotels in the new town are 120 including breakfast; they are clean and quiet, and a taxi to the scenic area is only 5. 07 Yingtan | Jiangxi Longhu Mountain is a Taoist mountain with unique charm. 🎫 The combined ticket for admission, shuttle, and bamboo raft is just over 200 and can keep you busy for a full day. 📍 First, take a bamboo raft on the Luxi River. The 40-minute journey features Danxia landforms on both sides paired with autumn leaves, and the river water is crystal clear. After the raft, head to the hanging coffin performance venue. ⏰ There are shows daily at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. After watching the performance, you can ponder the thousand-year-old mystery. ⚠️ Do not trust the "Taoist priests" who approach you to tell your fortune; they are just actors. If you like hiking, take the Elephant Trunk Hill trail—it's a 1.5-hour walk with fewer people and beautiful scenery. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, head to downtown Yingtan for beef bone noodles, which are 15 a bowl, rich, and flavorful. 🚄 A taxi from Yingtan North Station to the scenic area is about 30; carpooling is cheaper. 08 Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan and the Central Plains Giant Buddha are perfect for an autumn day trip, especially during the red leaf season. 🎫 The Yaoshan ticket plus round-trip cable car is just over 200. If you only want to see the red leaves, you can take the cable car to the halfway point and walk 20 minutes to the viewing platform to save energy. 📍 The Central Plains Giant Buddha is near the entrance of the scenic area. It is the world's tallest bronze standing Buddha; standing at its feet and looking up is a shocking and calming experience. ⏰ Mid-October to early November is the best time to view the red leaves. Smoke trees and maples are mixed with evergreen pine forests, creating a rich tapestry of red, yellow, and green autumn colors. ⚠️ Do not look for unofficial guides at the entrance; official guides have clearly marked prices at the ticket hall. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Lushan county town to eat Languocai, a local specialty stew, paired with corn grits porridge for about 20 per person—it's warm and comforting. 🚄 A taxi from Pingdingshan West Station to the scenic area is about 50. We recommend booking your return car in advance, as it is inconvenient to hail a taxi at night.

"The immortal waits to ride the yellow crane, the traveler has no heart to follow the white gull." Baigui Lake National Wetland Park is a 4A-level scenic spot in Pingdingshan, known as the "Little Erhai" of Henan, and a rare urban wetland treasure in southern Henan. The lake is vast, water meets sky, reeds sway, and birds fly, showcasing the beauty of the northern landscape with a southern charm. Walking into the park, long wooden boardwalks wind deep into the wetlands, weaving through reeds and water plants, with sparkling lake water visible at every step. Luqiwan Square offers a wide view and is a great spot for bird watching. Every winter, flocks of red-billed gulls arrive from afar, circling the lake and becoming a unique lakeside sight. The park features attractions like the Good Person Park, Buddha Hand Stone, and Twin Pavilions. Large, open lawns are perfect for picnics and camping. Spring brings blooming flowers, summer features swaying lotus ponds, autumn turns the reeds golden, and the evening sunset paints the lake with afterglow—the atmosphere is perfect. Strolling along the loop trail, the breeze brushes your face, and water birds occasionally skim the surface. Local residents walk and chat, children laugh and run—the place is full of life. After your visit, try Pingdingshan's Heluo noodles or Languo dish to taste the authentic flavors of Eagle City. 💡Travel tips ✅Admission: Free. Free parking 📍Navigation: Baigui Lake National Wetland Park ⏰Best time to visit: Sunset for views, winter to see red-billed gulls, and spring and autumn for walking around the lake ✨Tips: The wooden boardwalk is damp near the water, so watch your step. Please do not feed the wild birds and help protect the wetland ecosystem. A pool of clear water holds the scenery, and the lakeside is full of joy. Come to Baigui Lake to experience the unique beauty of the wetlands in Eagle City.

Many visitors to the Taihang Mountains in Henan focus only on the natural scenery, overlooking Yunmeng Mountain in Qi County. It is more than just a mountain; it is the legendary "First Ancient Military Academy in China" where Guiguzi lived in seclusion and taught his disciples. Sun Bin, Pang Juan, Su Qin, and Zhang Yi all studied here. The cultural depth is incredible, making it a perfect one-day road trip from Zhengzhou or Pingdingshan. 🎫 Essential travel information Admission: Adult tickets are CNY 60. Admission is free for seniors aged 60 and over, with only a CNY 6 insurance fee. Booking online in advance is slightly more cost-effective. Hours: 8:00 AM–5:30 PM. Last entry is at 5:00 PM. We recommend allowing 4–5 hours for your visit. Parking & transportation: Private vehicles are not permitted inside the scenic area. Please park at the official lot at the foot of the mountain for CNY 10 per day. A free shuttle bus runs from the parking lot to the ticket office. We highly recommend purchasing a sightseeing bus ticket to reach the top; hiking the entire way takes 1.5 hours and involves many steps, which is physically demanding. Seniors and children should not attempt to hike the whole way. ⚠️ Important: When navigating, make sure to select [Qi County Yunmeng Mountain Scenic Area]! There is another Yunmeng Mountain in Hebei known for its waterfalls, so be careful not to go to the wrong one. 🗺 Recommended itinerary (no backtracking) Visitor Center > Sightseeing bus to the top > Ancient Military Academy Ruins (The highlight!) ✅ Guiguzi Shrine + Water Curtain Cave The entire stone cave is where Guiguzi once lectured. You will feel an instant chill upon entering, and the stone walls are preserved with numerous ancient inscriptions. Outside, you will find Tianshu Cliff and Sheshen Terrace, featuring profound stone carvings that provide a perfect historical backdrop for photos. This is the soul of Yunmeng Mountain. ✅ Military Altar, General's Altar, and Cliffside Stele Forest Each stone carving quietly tells stories from the Warring States period. Standing here, you can almost imagine the scholars of the School of Diplomacy debating and strategizing. History buffs should take their time exploring this area. ✅ Nantian Gate & Bagua City Located at the highest point of the mountain, this spot offers panoramic views of the rolling Taihang Mountains. Many visitors come here to pray for blessings. ✅ Yunmeng Grassland A gentle meadow atop the mountain. Visiting in autumn, when the sky is clear and the air is crisp, is especially pleasant. It is a great place to take a break and capture stunning photos of the surrounding mountains. After exploring the grassland, follow the trail down the mountain and take the sightseeing bus back to the Visitor Center. 🍜 Dining recommendations There are few shops on the mountain, and prices are relatively high, so we recommend bringing your own drinking water and snacks. After descending, head to Qi County to try local specialties like Heluo noodles, steamed dishes, donkey meat, and Hutu noodles. They are authentic and offer great value. 📌 Travel tips 1. Be sure to wear non-slip sneakers, as there are many steps throughout the route. It is windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket even on sunny days. 2. Do not trust roadside solicitors who claim they can drive you directly up the mountain. Private vehicles are prohibited; do not fall for this trap. 3. Purchase incense and candles on the mountain only as needed. Be a rational consumer and do not feel pressured by sales pitches. 4. On rainy or cloudy days, the mountain is often covered in heavy fog, making it impossible to see the panoramic views. Try to plan your trip for a sunny day. 5. During holidays, try to set off early. Arriving at 8:00 AM means fewer crowds and shorter lines for the sightseeing bus. 💡 Itinerary suggestions For a one-day trip, we recommend departing at 8:00 AM, having a quick lunch on the mountain, and heading back around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. If you have extra time, you can stop by the Chaoge Ancient City and Zhaixing Terrace to round out your experience with some Yin-Shang culture.

After traveling all over the country, these eight places are my top recommendations. They might not be the most "viral" spots, but they have incredibly high visitor satisfaction ratings. Honestly, every single one is worth a dedicated trip. 1️⃣ Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The Qilian Mountains here aren't just a single mountain range; they're an entire rolling ocean of green. In July, the grasslands look like a freshly washed velvet carpet, and you can hear the rushing water of the Heihe Grand Canyon from far away. 📍 Drive from Mole Town toward Amidongsuo. The grassy slopes along the way are filled with yaks grazing. No one is rushing you, and time just seems to slow down. ⏰ Lenglongling is most beautiful after 6:00 PM. The sunset dyes the snow-capped peaks a soft pink, adding a touch of gentleness that you don't see during the day. ⚠️ Don't rush. The altitude is nearly 4,000 meters, so it's normal to get winded after a few steps. Be sure to have an oxygen canister ready before entering the valley. The hiking section of the Heihe Grand Canyon is suitable for adults in good physical condition. Seniors and children should stick to the observation deck. June–August is the golden period. Late September is also beautiful when the grass turns yellow, but the wind is harsh, so you'll need a down jacket. 2️⃣ Pingdingshan City | Henan The combination of Yaoshan and the Spring Temple Buddha is impossible to cover in one day, so I recommend splitting it into two. Spend the first morning hiking the mountain: take the cable car from the mountain gate to Erdaoya, then hike for another hour to see the sea of clouds. It's manageable even for those with average fitness. 🍜 Try the lamb braised noodles with flatbread in Yaoshan Town at the foot of the mountain. You can get stuffed for CNY 15—it's much better value than the fast food inside the scenic area. Save the second day for the Grand Buddha. Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid the crowds and enjoy the soft light. Standing at the feet of the Buddha and looking up is an indescribable, awe-inspiring experience. ⚠️ The last shuttle bus in the scenic area is at 5:30 PM. Don't get too caught up in the fun and miss it, or you'll have a 40-minute walk to the parking lot. The weather in the mountains changes quickly; a raincoat is more useful than an umbrella, so remember to keep one in your bag. I've visited all eight of these places on my own dime, and none of them were just for "clout." Haibei and Hinggan League are perfect if you love natural scenery; Pingdingshan and Suqian are better for short weekend trips. The places that stick with me the most are Bayanbulak and Arxan—the sense of vastness there is something I couldn't shake for days after returning. How many of these have you been to? Let's chat in the comments: which city surprised you the most?

With 3 days off for Mid-Autumn Festival, you already know how pricey high-speed rail tickets and hotels get in popular cities. I searched around and picked out 8 lesser-known towns that are the opposite of the usual choices – uncrowded, cheap, and with great food. 01 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang doesn't have a huge presence in southern Jiangsu, but it has the solid foundation of the Three Mountains and One Ferry. Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigu Mountains line up along the Yangtze River, and you can cover them all in a day without rushing. ⏰ Start with Jinshan in the morning – the temple-wrapped-mountain layout is rare, and climbing up gives you a panoramic view of the river. Jiaoshan requires a ferry ride to the island, with the boat ticket included in the admission fee; the forest of steles on the island is worth a slow browse. Beigu Mountain is best in the evening – watch the sunset at Ganlu Temple Pier, with the river breeze blowing, far more comfortable than squeezing into Nanjing's Xuanwu Lake. 🍜 Don't miss guogai noodles – those old shops on Daxi Road open at 6:00 AM. Yao meat paired with ginger shreds and vinegar is how locals eat breakfast. Jurong's Maoshan is in the suburbs; if you have an extra day, it's worth a visit – strong Taoist atmosphere, low hills, and easy for seniors to walk. ⚠️ The combo ticket for the Three Mountains is cheaper online than at the gate, but note it's only valid for the day of purchase – don't split it across two days. A taxi from Zhenjiang Station to Jinshan costs about CNY 20, and buses are convenient too. 02 Meizhou | Guangdong Meizhou is the heartland of the Hakka people, and visiting during Mid-Autumn means you'll catch the pomelo season. The whole city moves at a slow pace, and prices are so low you'll wonder if you're really in Guangdong. Yannanfei Tea Garden is the core attraction – terraced tea fields spread out layer by layer. ⏰ Go in the early morning before the fog lifts, and you won't need a filter for your photos. You can try tea-picking and lei cha (pounded tea) – the hands-on kind – which kids will love. 📍 Qiaoxi Ancient Village is right near the tea garden, with well-preserved old Hakka roundhouses. Blue bricks, gray tiles, and red lanterns make it feel more authentic than some trendy ancient towns. Meizhou pickled noodles with sanjidi soup is the classic combo – you can't go wrong walking into any breakfast spot. 🚄 Meizhou West Station to Yannanfei is about a 40-minute drive; self-driving or a chartered car is recommended since buses are infrequent. During Mid-Autumn, pomelos are ripe, and roadside orchards let you pick your own at half the supermarket price. 03 Pingdingshan | Henan Pingdingshan sounds like an industrial city, but the Yaoshan area is a hidden gem. Mid-Autumn is the perfect time – the mountains are starting to show autumn colors, and crowds are still thin. Yaoshan and the Central Plains Giant Buddha are on the same route. ⏰ Climb the mountain in the morning, then see the Buddha in the afternoon. The Yaoshan cable car has two sections – the first goes halfway up, the second to the top; if you're average on stamina, get a round-trip ticket. The summit offers wide views, and with luck, you might catch a sea of clouds. 📍 The Central Plains Giant Buddha sits at the foot of Yaoshan – the bronze statue is massive, and standing before it is awe-inspiring. The scenic area isn't overly commercialized, but food options are limited, so bring your own snacks. ⚠️ Yaoshan and the Giant Buddha are ticketed separately – don't buy the wrong one. Pingdingshan West Station to Yaoshan is about a 1.5-hour drive; carpooling is more economical than a taxi. It's a good choice for bringing parents – the climb is manageable, and the cable car saves effort. 04 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Zhoushan isn't exactly off the beaten path for Mid-Autumn, but there are plenty of places less crowded than Putuoshan. It all depends on which island you pick. Putuoshan Scenic Area is the standard option, and Mid-Autumn crowds are much better than during May Day. ⏰ Take the first ferry in the morning to avoid tour groups. Gouqi Island and Shengsi Islands are better for pure relaxation – the seawater is bluer than around the main island, and homestay prices haven't spiked to crazy levels yet for Mid-Autumn. 📍 From Shanghai, it's about a 1.5-hour ferry to Shengsi Islands, then another transfer to Gouqi Island. Getting around the islands relies on buses and e-bikes; renting an e-bike for a day costs about CNY 80, and riding around the island is a pleasure. 🍜 Seafood noodles are a must – the old shops in Caiyuan Town on Shengsi have generous portions. ⚠️ Mid-Autumn ferry tickets sell out fast – book 3 days in advance through official channels, and don't trust scalpers. Island weather is unpredictable; check the wind forecast before you go, as ferry cancellations are common. 05 Urumqi | Xinjiang For Mid-Autumn, Urumqi has much cheaper flights than in summer, and the weather is cooler. The city has a diverse, eclectic vibe – a couple of days of eating and strolling is enough. The Grand Bazaar is the landmark. ⏰ Go in the evening when the lights come on and the atmosphere is just right. The Grand Bazaar pedestrian street is great for buying dried fruits and handicrafts – start haggling at half the asking price. Hongguang Mountain is on the north side of the city; the summit offers a panoramic view, perfect for an evening stroll. 📍 Dabancheng is about a 1.5-hour drive from the city – windmill forests plus ancient city ruins, and you can stop for a meal of Chaiwopu spicy chicken on the way. 🚄 The city's metro and buses cover the main attractions, and taxis are affordable. ⚠️ At the bazaar, ask the price before weighing dried fruits – some stalls quote per kilogram, others per jin (500g), so be clear. Mid-Autumn brings big temperature swings between day and night, so bring a jacket. 06 Anshun | Guizhou Anshun gets overshadowed by Guiyang, but Huangguoshu and Longgong are both on its turf. For Mid-Autumn, the waterfall still has plenty of water, and crowds are half of what they are in summer. Huangguoshu Waterfall is the main event. ⏰ Enter before 8:00 AM to get photos of the Water Curtain Cave without people. It's best to enter from Duopotang and exit at Tianxingqiao, so you don't backtrack. Longgong is a karst cave with an underground river – you take a boat inside, and it's pleasantly cool, perfect for Mid-Autumn. 📍 Don't miss the Silver Chain Waterfall in the second half of Tianxingqiao – many group tour visitors turn back at Gaolaozhuang. 🍜 Anshun guojuan (rice rolls) and duoduo fen (a spicy hot pot) are local specialties, with a cluster of snack stalls around Gufu Street. ⚠️ The Huangguoshu ticket covers three scenic areas, but the sightseeing bus is extra – getting the combo ticket saves hassle. Anshun West Station to Huangguoshu is about 40 minutes with a direct bus. It's family-friendly, but Tianxingqiao has many steps, so strollers are inconvenient. 07 Chengdu | Sichuan Chengdu isn't exactly off the beaten path, but during Mid-Autumn, locals head to the outskirts, leaving the city center relatively empty. I recommend a few contrarian spots. Tiantai Mountain is in Qionglai. ⏰ Around Mid-Autumn, fireflies are still in their final phase – after 8:00 PM, walk along the mountain path and you'll see scattered green glows. Qingcheng Mountain and Dujiangyan are classic options, but Mid-Autumn crowds are far lighter than National Day; the Fish Mouth water-dividing feature at Dujiangyan is best viewed in the morning. Anren Ancient Town is quieter than Kuanzhai Alley, with well-preserved mansion complexes. 📍 The Jianchuan Museum Cluster is also there – you could spend a whole day and not repeat a thing. For the Chengdu Panda Base, get there early – ⏰ it opens at 7:30 AM; if you're late, the pandas head back inside to sleep. 🍜 For eating in the city, don't just focus on Chunxi Road – the small eateries in Yulin and Jianshe Road are more reliable. ⚠️ Both the Panda Base and Dujiangyan require advance reservations; same-day tickets may not be available. 08 Jincheng | Shanxi Jincheng is in the southeastern corner of Shanxi, with Huangcheng Xiangfu as its biggest draw. For Mid-Autumn, the ancient castle paired with autumn colors, and so few people you can take your time with photos. The Huangcheng Xiangfu Eco-Cultural Tourism Area is the former residence of Chen Tingjing, tutor to Emperor Kangxi. The castle-style complex is built into the mountainside. ⏰ There's a "Welcoming the Emperor" performance at 10:00 AM – watch it before exploring the inner city. Heshan Tower and the Hidden Soldier Cave are worth a close look, and walking the city wall takes about an hour. 📍 The nearby Guoyu Ancient City is more rustic, with fewer visitors – ideal for those who prefer quiet. 🍜 Jincheng's guoyou rou (fried pork) and he le noodles are local flavors; the small eateries outside the scenic area are cheaper than inside. ⚠️ Huangcheng Xiangfu and Guoyu Ancient City are ticketed separately – the combo ticket is a better deal, but watch the time. Jincheng East Station to Huangcheng Xiangfu is about a 40-minute drive with a tourist shuttle. It's great for those interested in ancient architecture; if you're just there for photos, 2 hours is enough. Of these 8 places, my personal favorites are Zhenjiang and Anshun. One is a riverside town where you can have a bowl of noodles and watch the sunset; the other lets you stand under a waterfall and feel the mist. Don't join the crowds this Mid-Autumn – pick one and book your ticket.

Where to travel on a budget in August and September? These 6️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive 1️⃣ Bijie | Guizhou The entrance fee to Zhijin Cave is 80 yuan, with a 50% discount for students. Guided tours are free, but you need to gather a group. The temperature inside the cave is 16 degrees Celsius year-round; in summer, you'll need long sleeves. Don't trust the aunties renting jackets at the entrance; just bring your own light jacket. The tour inside the cave takes about two hours. The paths are well-maintained, making it easy for the elderly and children to walk. The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is the main attraction in spring, but don't be disappointed if you go in August; wildflowers are blooming on the grasslands. From Zhijin Cave, take a bus to Qianxi and then transfer; the whole journey takes about 3 hours, and the total fare is less than 40 yuan. It's recommended to stay in Qianxi County; standard rooms cost 80 to 120 yuan. In the evening, you can go to the old street for hot pot; a meal for three people will only cost 60 yuan. ⚠️ Selfie sticks are prohibited inside Zhijin Cave; they will be stopped if brought inside. Storage is free. 🚄 There's a direct tourist bus from Bijie High-Speed ​​Railway Station to Zhijin Cave, costing 25 yuan. The last bus departs at 5 PM, so don't miss it. 2️⃣ Qingyuan|Guangdong The entrance fee for Lianzhou Underground River is 120 yuan. While not cheap, it includes a boat ticket and guided tour, with a two-hour visit, making it relatively good value for a karst cave in Guangdong. The cave has two levels. First, you walk to see stalagmites and stalactites, then take a boat through the underground river. The water is so clear you can see the pebbles on the bottom. It's recommended to arrive before 10 AM when it's less crowded and the guides provide more detailed explanations. In the afternoon, with many tour groups, the echoes in the cave become loud, making it difficult to hear. There are farmhouses near the entrance where a plate of Lianzhou cabbage stir-fried with cured pork costs 20 yuan, with unlimited rice—much better than the fast food in the scenic area. 🚄 The bus ride from Qingyuan city to Lianzhou takes about 2.5 hours and costs 55 yuan. It's recommended to stay in Lianzhou city; guesthouses are around 120 yuan per night, and there's a night market downstairs where you can try the beef offal and fried glutinous rice cakes. ⚠️ The cave is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Don't buy the sandals at the cave entrance; your feet will hurt after walking through them. 3️⃣ Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Riyue Mountain is 3520 meters above sea level. In August, there's a large temperature difference between day and night; wear short sleeves at midday and a light down jacket in the evening. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. The main attractions are historical traces of Princess Wencheng's journey to Tibet and the grassland scenery. There's a mural exhibition in the Riyue Pavilion, which is free. Guide National Geological Park is a two-hour drive from Riyue Mountain. The entrance fee is 60 yuan, including the sightseeing bus. The Danxia landforms are vibrant, and the light is softest after 4 pm, so you don't need a filter for photos. A taxi ride from Guide County costs about 30 yuan. You can arrange a round trip with the driver; it's cheaper than hiring a car. For accommodation, choose Guide County. A standard room costs just over 100 yuan. In the evening, you can eat Yellow River carp, prepared two ways for 80 yuan. ⏰ Riyue Mountain is windy; keep your hat on tight. Don't take it off for photos; it's not worth getting a headache. 📍 The "Seven-Colored Peak" viewing platform in the geological park is best visited half an hour before sunset for fewer crowds and better views. 4️⃣ Pingdingshan|Henan The entrance fee to Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area is 100 yuan, including a round-trip cable car ride. After taking the cable car up, walk along the boardwalk to the foot of the Buddha. The whole journey takes about 3 hours. The boardwalk is gentle, suitable for bringing parents. The Buddha is 208 meters tall; standing at its base and looking up will strain your neck, but it's awe-inspiring. The vegetarian buffet at the scenic area entrance costs 35 yuan per person. The food is fresh and better than the instant noodles on the mountain. I recommend staying in Yaoshan Town. Guesthouses cost 60-80 yuan per night, and you can hear birds chirping in the morning. A bowl of spicy soup with fried dough sticks costs only 6 yuan. ⚠️ Be wary of people selling incense and candles at the foot of the mountain, saying "you must buy them to enter the temple." Don't believe them; the temple provides three sticks of incense for free. 🚄 A taxi from Pingdingshan West Station to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes. A shared taxi costs 15 yuan per person; avoid unlicensed taxis that will charge 50 yuan. 5️⃣ Xiangtan|Hunan Caojia'ao Waterfall is located outside the Shaoshan Scenic Area. There's no entrance fee, and locals come here to swim in the summer. The water is clear and only knee-deep, perfect for children. There's a vendor selling cold noodles near the waterfall for 5 yuan a bowl, topped with mint and brown sugar—a refreshing treat after a long walk. Within the Shaoshan tourist area, the former residence is free, but advance reservations are required on the official website. There's a daily limit; I couldn't get a reservation and could only see it from the outside. The bronze statue square is free, and it's less crowded after 4 PM, making it a good time to stroll around. I recommend staying in a guesthouse in Shaoshan Town for 100 yuan a night. The owner will tell you which restaurant serves the authentic Mao-style braised pork. 📍 A taxi from Caojia'ao Waterfall to the former residence costs 15 yuan, but traffic can be congested after 3 PM during peak season. Walking is a better option, taking only 25 minutes. 🍜 The rice noodle shops in town are only open in the morning. The toppings are freshly stir-fried, and a bowl costs 8 yuan. Don't miss it if you sleep in. 6️⃣ Xinzhou|Shanxi The entrance fee to Yanmen Pass is 90 yuan. The scenic area is very large; walking the entire Great Wall takes about 3 hours. If you're not in good physical condition, I suggest only walking the eastern section, as the scenery is the best. It's windy on the gate tower; even in August, you'll need a windproof jacket. From Yanmen Pass, drive for an hour to Laoniu Bay. The Yellow River makes a large bend here, and there are earthen cave dwellings along the banks where you can stay and eat. A cave dwelling costs 80 yuan per night. Dinner includes Yellow River carp and oat noodles (kaolao), totaling 70 yuan for two people. ⚠️ The boat ticket to Laoniu Bay costs 60 yuan, the journey takes half an hour, and the scenery is average. I suggest saving this money and climbing to the viewing platform for a panoramic view is more worthwhile. The entrance fee to Wutai Mountain is 135 yuan. It's crowded during peak season, but after students return to school at the end of August, the crowds are halved. Staying in Taihuai Town, a hostel bed costs 50 yuan per night, and vegetarian meals are 10 yuan for a full meal. ⏰ The sunrise at Wutai Mountain at 5:30 am has a high chance of seeing a sea of ​​clouds. After watching, you can catch the morning prayers at the temple. 🚄 There are direct buses from Xinzhou Station to Wutai Mountain, a two-hour journey, costing 35 yuan, half the price of hiring a car. 7️⃣ Altay Region|Xinjiang The entrance fee to Kanas plus the shuttle bus costs 230 yuan, expensive, but worth the scenery. The water of Kanas Lake in August is a deep blue-green, even more intense than in photos. It's recommended to stay in a cabin outside the scenic area for 150 yuan per night. The owner will help you find a driver to share a ride into the scenic area, which is 20 yuan cheaper than the official shuttle bus. The entrance fee to Keketuohai is 90 yuan. The birch forests in the canyon start to turn yellow in early September, but you can still see a lush green view at the end of August. The shuttle bus within the scenic area costs 5 yuan one way; you can take it if you can't walk. The cultural experience on the Altay Grassland is free. After leaving Keketuohai, the herders along the way will warmly offer you milk tea; give them 5 or 10 yuan, but don't give more. ⚠️ The temperature in Kanas at night in August is only 5 degrees Celsius. Bring a down jacket; don't believe the claim that "you don't need to bring thick clothes in summer." 📍 The snow scenery in Northern Xinjiang only appears at the end of September; you won't see it in August. Don't be misled by travel guides. 8️⃣ Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Zhagana entrance fee: 80 yuan. In the early morning of August, clouds and mist rise from the stone city, like an ink painting. Staying in a guesthouse in Dongwa Village costs 120 yuan per night. The window faces Fairy Beach, and you can get up at 6:30 am to see the morning mist, saving you the trouble of squeezing into a good spot at the viewing platform. Langmusi entrance fee: 30 yuan. The temple and Gerdeng Temple face each other across the river, and both can be visited. The monks in the temple chant sutras at 4 pm; you can sit quietly outside the hall to listen, but please don't take pictures. Yeliguan Tourist Area entrance fee: 70 yuan. It mainly features forests and streams. The hiking trail is well-maintained, taking about two hours to complete, suitable for those who enjoy exploring forests. Gahai Lake entrance fee: 50 yuan. In August, the lakeside is full of wildflowers. A walk around the lakeside boardwalk takes about an hour. ⚠️ Gannan is at an altitude of over 3000 meters. Don't run or jump, as altitude sickness is likely. 🚄 There are only two buses a day from Hezuo City to Zhagana, at 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If you miss them, you'll have to hire a car, which will cost double. Accommodation is all in towns near the scenic area. Standard rooms cost 80 to 150 yuan. Meals are mainly Tibetan cuisine; try the butter tea and tsampa. A bowl of butter tea costs 5 yuan and you can get refills. Of these 8 places, I personally recommend Bijie and Gannan the most. One is a summer retreat, and the other is less crowded. Where are you planning to go in August and September? Let's chat in the comments! Remember to check official announcements, as ticket prices and opening hours are subject to change. Where to travel on a budget in August and September? These 6️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive 1️⃣ Bijie | Guizhou The entrance fee to Zhijin Cave is 80 yuan, with an additional half price for students. Guided tours are free, but you need to gather a group. The temperature inside the cave is 16 degrees Celsius year-round; you'll need long sleeves in the summer. Don't trust the aunties renting jackets at the entrance; just bring your own light jacket. A visit inside the cave takes about two hours. The walkways are well-maintained, making it easy for the elderly and children to walk. The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is the main attraction in spring, but don't be disappointed if you go in August, as wildflowers on the grasslands are in bloom. From Zhijin Cave, take a bus to Qianxi and then transfer; the entire journey takes about 3 hours and the total fare is less than 40 yuan. It's recommended to stay in Qianxi County; standard rooms cost 80 to 120 yuan. In the evening, you can go to the old street for hot pot; a meal for three people will only cost 60 yuan. ⚠️ Selfie sticks are prohibited inside Zhijin Cave; they will be stopped if brought inside. Storage is free. 🚄 There is a direct tourist bus from Bijie High-Speed ​​Railway Station to Zhijin Cave; the fare is 25 yuan. The last bus departs at 5 PM, so don't miss it. 2️⃣ Qingyuan|Guangdong The entrance fee for Lianzhou Underground River is 120 yuan. Although not cheap, it includes a boat ticket and a guided tour, and the entire visit takes two hours, making it relatively good value for money among Guangdong's karst caves. The cave has two levels. First, you walk through it to see the stalagmites and stalactites, then take a boat across the underground river. The water is so clear you can see the pebbles on the bottom. It's recommended to arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and allow for more detailed explanations from the guides. In the afternoon, with many tour groups, the echoes in the cave become very loud, making it difficult to hear anything. There are farmhouses near the entrance; a plate of stir-fried Lianzhou cabbage with cured pork costs 20 yuan, with unlimited rice – much better than the fast food in the scenic area. 🚄 The bus ride from Qingyuan city to Lianzhou takes about 2.5 hours and costs 55 yuan. It's recommended to stay in Lianzhou city; guesthouses cost 120 yuan per night, and there's a night market downstairs where you can try the beef offal and fried glutinous rice cakes. ⚠️ The cave is slippery; wear non-slip shoes. Don't buy the sandals at the entrance; your feet will hurt after walking through them. 3️⃣ Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Riyue Mountain is 3520 meters above sea level. In August, the temperature difference between day and night is significant; short sleeves are suitable for midday, but a light down jacket is needed in the evening. The entrance fee is 40 yuan. The main attractions are historical traces of Princess Wencheng's journey to Tibet and grassland scenery. There is a mural exhibition in the Riyue Pavilion, which is free. Guide National Geological Park is a two-hour drive from Riyue Mountain. The entrance fee is 60 yuan, including the sightseeing bus. The Danxia landforms are vibrant, and the light is softest after 4 pm, so no filter is needed for photos. A taxi from Guide County costs about 30 yuan; you can arrange a round trip with the driver, which is cheaper than hiring a car. For accommodation, choose Guide County. A standard room costs just over 100 yuan. You can eat Yellow River carp in the evening, a two-course meal for 80 yuan. ⏰ It's windy at Riyue Mountain, so make sure your hat is tight. Don't take it off for photos; it's not worth getting a headache. 📍 The "Seven-Colored Peak" viewing platform in the geological park is best visited half an hour before sunset for fewer crowds and better views. 4️⃣ Pingdingshan|Henan The entrance fee to Yaoshan-Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area is 100 yuan, including round-trip cable car ride. After taking the cable car up the mountain, walk along the boardwalk to the foot of the Buddha. The entire journey takes about 3 hours. The boardwalk is gentle and suitable for families with parents. The Buddha is 208 meters tall; looking up from its base will strain your neck but is awe-inspiring. The vegetarian buffet at the scenic area entrance is 35 yuan per person. The food is fresh and much better than the instant noodles on the mountain. It's recommended to stay in Yaoshan Town. Guesthouses cost 60-80 yuan per night. You can hear birds chirping in the morning. Spicy soup with fried dough sticks in town costs only 6 yuan. ⚠️ Be wary of people selling incense and candles at the foot of the mountain, saying "you must buy them to enter the temple." Don't believe them; the temple provides three sticks of incense for free. 🚄 A taxi ride from Pingdingshan West Station to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes. A shared ride costs 15 yuan per person; avoid unlicensed taxis which will charge 50 yuan. 5️⃣ Xiangtan|Hunan Caojia'ao Waterfall is located outside the Shaoshan Scenic Area. No entrance fee is required, and locals come here to swim in the summer. The water is clear and only knee-deep, suitable for children. There are vendors selling cold noodles near the waterfall for 5 yuan a bowl, topped with mint and brown sugar – a refreshing treat after a long walk. Within the Shaoshan tourist area, the former residence is free but requires advance reservation on the official website. There's a daily limit; I couldn't get a reservation and could only see the outside. The bronze statue square is free, and it's less crowded after 4 pm, making it a good place to stroll. I recommend staying in a guesthouse in Shaoshan Town for 100 yuan a night. The owner will tell you which restaurant serves authentic Mao-style braised pork. 📍 A taxi from Caojia'ao Waterfall to the former residence costs 15 yuan, but traffic can be congested after 3 PM during peak season. Walking is recommended; it only takes about 25 minutes. 🍜 The rice noodle shop in town is only open in the morning. The toppings are freshly stir-fried, and a bowl costs 8 yuan. Don't miss it if you sleep in. 6️⃣ Xinzhou|Shanxi The entrance fee to Yanmen Pass is 90 yuan. The scenic area is very large; walking the entire Great Wall takes about 3 hours. If you're not in great shape, it's recommended to only walk the eastern section, as the scenery is the best. It's windy on the gate tower; even in August, you'll need a windproof jacket. After descending from Yanmen Pass, drive for an hour to Laoniu Bay. The Yellow River makes a large bend here, and there are earthen cave dwellings along the banks where you can stay and eat. A cave dwelling costs 80 yuan per night, and dinner is Yellow River carp and oat noodles (kaolao), 70 yuan for two people, all you can eat. ⚠️ The boat ticket to Laoniu Bay costs 60 yuan, the journey takes half an hour, and the scenery is so-so. I suggest saving this money and climbing to the viewing platform for a panoramic view is more worthwhile. The entrance fee to Wutai Mountain is 135 yuan. It's crowded during peak season, but after students return to school at the end of August, the crowds are halved. Staying in Taihuai Town, a hostel bed costs 50 yuan per night, and vegetarian meals are 10 yuan for a full meal. ⏰ The sunrise at Wutai Mountain at 5:30 am has a high chance of seeing a sea of ​​clouds, and you can even catch the morning prayers at the temple afterward. 🚄 There are direct buses from Xinzhou Station to Wutai Mountain, a two-hour journey, costing 35 yuan, half the price of hiring a car. 7️⃣ Altay Region|Xinjiang The entrance fee to Kanas plus the shuttle bus costs 230 yuan, expensive, but worth it for the scenery. The water in Kanas Lake in August is a deep blue-green, even more intense than in photos. I recommend staying in a cabin outside the scenic area. It costs 150 yuan per night. The owner will help you find a driver to share a ride into the scenic area, which is 20 yuan cheaper than the official shuttle bus. The entrance fee to Keketuohai is 90 yuan. The birch forests in the canyon start to turn yellow in early September, but you can still see a lush green view at the end of August. The shuttle bus in the scenic area costs 5 yuan one way; you can take it if you can't walk. The cultural experience on the Altay Grassland is free. After leaving Keketuohai, the herders along the way will warmly offer you milk tea; just give them 5 or 10 yuan, don't give more. ⚠️ In August, the temperature in Kanas at night is only 5 degrees Celsius, so bring a down jacket. Don't believe the saying "you don't need to bring thick clothes in summer." 📍 The snow scenery in Northern Xinjiang only starts to appear at the end of September; you won't see it if you go in August. Don't be misled by travel guides. 8️⃣ Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Zhagana entrance fee: 80 yuan. In the early morning of August, clouds and mist rise from the stone city, like an ink painting. Staying in a guesthouse in Dongwa Village costs 120 yuan per night. The window faces Fairy Beach, and you can get up at 6:30 am to see the morning mist, saving you the trouble of squeezing into a good spot at the viewing platform. Langmusi entrance fee: 30 yuan. The temple and Gerdeng Temple face each other across the river, and both can be visited. The monks in the temple chant sutras at 4 pm; you can sit quietly outside the hall to listen, but please don't take pictures. Yeliguan Tourist Area entrance fee: 70 yuan. It mainly features forests and streams. The hiking trail is well-maintained, taking about two hours to complete, suitable for those who enjoy exploring forests. Gahai Lake entrance fee: 50 yuan. In August, the lakeside is full of wildflowers. A walk around the lakeside boardwalk takes about an hour. ⚠️ Gannan is at an altitude of over 3000 meters. Don't run or jump, as altitude sickness is likely. 🚄 There are only two buses a day from Hezuo City to Zhagana, at 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If you miss them, you'll have to hire a car, which will cost double. Accommodation is all in towns near the scenic area. Standard rooms range from 80 to 150 yuan. Meals are mainly Tibetan cuisine; you can try butter tea and tsampa. A bowl of butter tea costs 5 yuan and you can get refills. Of these eight places, I personally recommend Bijie and Gannan the most. One is a great place to escape the summer heat, and the other is less crowded. Where are you planning to go in August or September? Let's chat in the comments! Remember to check official announcements, as ticket prices and opening hours are subject to change.

I. Pingdingshan's 4 top attractions (scenery + culture, perfect for September autumn) 1. Yaoshan Scenic Area (5A) | Yaoshan Town, Lushan County Best for autumn scenery in September, with early red leaves and frequent cloud seas. The Qinglongbei cliff boardwalk, climbing Yuhuangding (Jade Emperor Peak), and the Jiuqu Waterfall make it the top choice for hiking. 2. Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area | Shangtang Village, Lushan County Home to the world's tallest bronze standing Buddha at 208 meters, backed by the Yaoshan mountains. September offers crisp autumn air, providing clear views for climbing and paying respects to the Buddha. You can embrace the Buddha's feet for blessings. It's on the way to Yaoshan, so they can be visited together. 3. Sansu Garden (4A) | Ciba Town, Jia County The cemetery of the "Three Sus," featuring ancient cypress trees and stone tablets. It has a rich literary atmosphere. With fewer tourists in September, the autumn scenery is serene, perfect for quietly reflecting on Song Dynasty history and culture. 4. Xiangshan Temple (Ancestral Temple of Guanyin) | Daxiangshan Road, Baofeng County A thousand-year-old temple from the Eastern Han Dynasty and a sacred site for Guanyin. It features serene bamboo forests and numerous ancient stone tablets. It is not very commercialized, making it full of Zen atmosphere in autumn. II. Complete 2-day, 1-night September autumn road trip guide (dining + accommodation + travel + tickets + outfits + tips) (I) Pre-trip preparation (exclusive to September) 1. Weather & outfits (most important) · City temperature: 25–30℃; Yaoshan mountain area has a day-night temperature difference of 12℃+, with temperatures at the summit dropping to 14–16℃ at night, accompanied by strong winds and fog. · Outfits: Short sleeves + thin windbreaker/knit jacket + long pants + non-slip hiking shoes. · Essentials: Sunscreen, umbrella, thin jacket (essential for watching the sunset), mosquito repellent. · Note: All rafting activities are suspended in September. Focus on hiking and enjoying the autumn scenery; no need to bring water play gear. 2. Transportation (self-driving preferred) ✅ Self-driving (preferred): The entire route is via highway. The route from Lushan → Jia County → Baofeng is smooth, and you won't need to backtrack. There are many curves when driving down from Yaoshan; do not drive into the mountains at night. ✅ Public transport: Take the high-speed train to Pingdingshan West Station, then take a taxi to the scenic areas. There are very few shuttle buses between attractions, so independent travel is not recommended. 3. Tickets (cheaper if booked online in advance) 1. Yaoshan: Admission CNY 65 + scenic transport CNY 35; cable car is CNY 80 one-way, CNY 150 round-trip (if you have average stamina, taking the cable car up is a must). 2. Zhongyuan Buddha: Adult ticket is about CNY 35; there is an extra charge for the elevator to the Buddha's feet. 3. Sansu Garden: Admission CNY 20. 4. Xiangshan Temple: Admission is only CNY 5, offering great value. (II) Itinerary (scenery route on day 1, cultural route on day 2) Day 1 Lushan scenery route: Zhongyuan Buddha → Yaoshan, stay at a homestay at the foot of Yaoshan Morning 8:30 AM–12:00 PM | Zhongyuan Buddha Scenic Area (3 hours) Start early to avoid tour groups. Visit the giant bronze Buddha, climb to the lotus pedestal to embrace the Buddha's feet, ring the auspicious bell, and gaze out at the autumn mountains of Yaoshan. The light mist creates a great atmosphere. Lunch + accommodation (all-in-one, recommended) ✅ Recommended: Yaoshan Yujianni Homestay 📍 Located in Shangtang Village, Zhaocun Town, Lushan County, just 2.3 km from the Buddha. It has an elevator, is clean and hygienic, and offers free parking. Signature dishes include firewood-braised chicken with sauce, wild mountain vegetables, and stir-fried meat with wild mushrooms. Farmhouse breakfast is included in the room rate. It's a one-stop shop for dining and accommodation, so you don't need to look for restaurants. ✅ Alternative: Yaoshan Jukelai Homestay Features smart rooms throughout. Also located near the Buddha. The "diguo" chicken (pot-cooked chicken) and "languo" vegetable stew are authentic. Great value, suitable for young travelers. Afternoon 1:30 PM–6:00 PM | Yaoshan Scenic Area (20-minute drive) Route: Scenic shuttle bus → cable car up → Qinglongbei cliff boardwalk → Yuhuangding (Jade Emperor Peak). Wait for the sunset at the summit in the evening. On sunny days in September, you are very likely to see a sea of clouds. The red leaves and autumn scenery are perfect for photos. ⚠️ Be sure to descend before 5:00 PM. It gets foggy in the mountains in the evening, and the mountain roads are unsafe. Accommodation: Continue staying at the same homestay to save the trouble of returning to the city. Day 2 Cultural heritage route: Sansu Garden → Xiangshan Temple, return trip Morning 8:30 AM–12:00 PM | Jia County Sansu Garden (1.5-hour drive from Yaoshan) Spend 2 hours visiting the Sansu cemetery and the Dongpo stele forest. It's quiet with few people, allowing you to immerse yourself in Song Dynasty poetry culture. It's great for taking photos in traditional style. Lunch (near the scenic area) ✅ Weifeng Xincun Restaurant, just 2 km from Sansu Garden. Authentic farmhouse dishes, affordable and good value. Must-try: Jia County lamb heluo noodles, local steamed bowl dishes (kouwan), and lamb flatbread. Afternoon 2:00 PM–4:30 PM | Baofeng Xiangshan Temple (40-minute drive from Jia County) Spend 2 hours here. Free parking. The ancient temple and bamboo forest are serene. Visit the Guanyin Pagoda and ancient Song Dynasty stone tablets. It's full of Zen atmosphere, a relaxing way to end the trip. Dinner alternative (at the entrance of Xiangshan Temple) ✅ Lianhua Villa, just 200m from the east gate of Xiangshan Temple. The pot-cooked stir-fried chicken and iron-pot stewed chicken are generous in portion. The farmhouse dishes are authentic. You can dine right after visiting the temple. (III) September autumn travel tips 1. Scenery advantage: September is the golden season for autumn travel in Yaoshan. You avoid the summer crowds, the temperature is comfortable, the red leaves are just starting to appear, and cloud seas are frequent. It is one of the best times of the year for hiking. 2. Accommodation booking: Homestays in Lushan are in high demand on weekends; be sure to book 2 days in advance. Prioritize farmhouse homestays that offer both dining and accommodation to save time and worry. 3. Hiking pace: Try to enter Yaoshan early. It gets foggy in the mountains in the afternoon, which will block your view. If you have limited stamina, take the cable car up and down; do not hike the whole way. 4. Must-eat food list · Lushan: Firewood-cooked pot chicken, Lushan "languo" vegetable stew, wild mountain vegetables · Jia County: Lamb heluo noodles, lamb flatbread, red beef · Baofeng: Iron-pot stew, farmhouse steamed bowl dishes (kouwan), pot-cooked stir-fried chicken 5. Self-driving safety: There are many continuous curves when driving down from Yaoshan. The road is slippery when it rains. Do not drive into the mountains at night.