Mishan travel guide and discussion

The trip may be busy, but there's still time for soulful strolls, leisurely shopping, and relaxation. Day 1 🏨Hotel check-in. The easiest way to navigate your first trip is from the budget Guibinlou Hotel. A more expensive option is the neighboring Home Inn (New Mishan). 🍜Lunch. We go down to the convenience store across from the hotel and exit directly into the food court – try the noodles or dumplings there.👌🏻 🚌Tour time! The first day is a chance to get to know the city. Take an evening tour of Mishan. Tour companies combine this tour with an ice wine tasting at a unique local production facility and a visit to a rice factory. 🍤For dinner, be sure to try the crayfish at the street cafe near the hotel! Day 2 🥡Breakfast on the so-called "Food and Restaurant Street" Excursion to Lake Xingkai (the lake on the border between China and Russia). 🌊You can take a taxi to the new tourist area of ​​Lake Xingkai (known locally as Khanka) and climb to the observation deck overlooking the lake. 🏖️From July to August, spend this day visiting the outdoor water park "Tesi" just 30 km from the city – it offers several extreme slides and a wave pool. 🥟Dinner - Stop by the Running Dumpling or the Muslim Cafe Address: Lanzhou Beef Noodle Shop (Muslim Cafe) 黑龙江省鸡西市密山市黑龙江省鸡西市双胜楼108 🌆Take a stroll to the Twelve Arches Square or spend time by the dry fountain on the Second Ring Road – you'll definitely love the city's evening atmosphere! 💆If you still have some energy, stop by the Polina massage parlor in the alley opposite the Guibinlou Hotel. Day 3 Dedicate this day to shopping and relaxation. 🛍️"Expensive Street" - Chinese sports brands, "Subway" - whatever your heart desires! You can start shopping early in the morning; most stores are already open by 8:30. ⛩️Tour to the active Hongfa Buddhist Temple. The bus fare is 1 yuan! The place will fill you with its atmosphere and beauty.💫 🧖♀️Relax at the Hanka Water Complex. Thermal baths, massage, aroma saunas and steam rooms, a pool, and a relaxation area – all for 25 yuan.✨ Address: Mishan Water Complex, Mishan, 0107, China. #mishan #china2026

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

In any country, there is a small town with a special charm. Once you visit it, you will want to come back. In the Chinese province of Heilongjiang (黑龙江, Hēilóngjiāng), there is such a place: Mishan (密山, Mìshān). This locality is located between the cities of Jixi and Mudanjiang (牡丹江, MǔDānjiāng). My trip to Mishan, China, took place in July 2024. The bus ride from Vladivostok took 7-8 hours. The journey lasted 4 days. The weather in Mishan was beautiful in July. We visited a Buddhist temple, the Bavuwa Farm Park, an amusement park with a waterfall, took a ride on a traditional Chinese boat, and visited the Olympic Village. We were particularly impressed by the wine factory. The wine tasting was so delicious that every tourist purchased some wine. The factory offers a wide range of wines, including young grape wine, ice wine, and many other types of wine. The factory also has wine barrels that visitors can explore. We also enjoyed the food, which included an unlimited buffet with barbecue. Many types of meat and seafood can be grilled. There are many street vendors selling food (fried squid with spicy peppers, shrimp, and meat). I want to recommend a great beef soup with fresh flatbreads!! (You can order the boiled beef separately with the soup) The soup is delicious! The city is small by Chinese standards, but there are many attractions and beautiful natural parks in the surrounding area. China is a mystery, a magic, and a riddle. Few people manage to travel all over this amazing country, but visiting even the smallest town reveals a little bit of the curtain, behind which there is a lot of wonder. Mishan demonstrates the life of our eastern neighbors, helps to cope with illnesses, and gives impressions that remain for many years. Do you enjoy traveling in China?

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

Where to go for the 8-day Mid-Autumn and National Day holiday? These 8 places have fewer crowds and beautiful scenery 01 Kashgar | Xinjiang Going to Kashgar for National Day, flight tickets are painfully expensive, but the moment you land, you'll feel it's worth it. ⏰ Get into the Kashgar Old City before 10:00 AM. The alleys are just waking up, the baked bun ovens are steaming, and no one is fighting for photo spots. 📍 On Ustanboyi Road outside the Old City's East Gate, the sound of artisans hammering copper travels half the street. If you want to take portraits, crouching in a corner waiting for light and shadow is much more polite than chasing people. In the afternoon, head towards the Pamir Plateau. The Stone City is in Taxkorgan, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. ⚠️ Don't do a round trip in one day; the one-way trip takes 4–5 hours. Take motion sickness medicine in advance. 🍜 Back in the city, have lamb soup with naan; it's filling for just over CNY 20. Suitable for people with good stamina who can wake up early. Seniors and children should be cautious about the plateau section, but strolling through the Old City is fine. 02 Qingdao | Shandong During National Day in Qingdao, the Zhanqiao Pier is always packed. My advice is to do the opposite: ⏰ Go to Zhanqiao Pier at 7:00 AM. The seagulls aren't fed yet, and the light is soft. 📍 After that, take a taxi directly to Mount Lao. The Yangkou route is less strenuous than the Jufeng route; take the cable car up and hike for 20 minutes to reach the top. When the sea mist clears, it's worth the ticket price. Return to the city in the afternoon; the Olympic Sailing Center is best visited in the evening. The sailboat pier with the sunset is 10 times better than during the day. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea; you'll need a jacket in Qingdao in October. 🍜 For spicy stir-fried clams and draft beer on Taidong Pedestrian Street, don't eat at the entrance of tourist attractions. Suitable for couples and friends; you can hike and see the sea all in one day. If bringing seniors, choose the Taiqing route for Mount Lao. 03 Jixi | Heilongjiang Many people haven't even heard of Jixi. That's exactly why it's quiet during National Day. ⏰ Autumn at Xingkai Lake is perfect from late September to early October; the trees by the lake are half yellow and half green. 📍 Hutou Town is by the Wusuli River, with Russia on the other side. Watching the sunset by the river, the water is as wide as the sea. ⚠️ Public transport is limited here; it's best to drive or charter a car. 🍜 Try the Xingkai Lake white shrimp and lake fish at a farmhouse by the lake; it's fresher than in the city. Suitable for those who want to avoid crowds and aren't in a rush. The temperature difference between morning and evening in October is large, so don't hesitate to bring a down jacket. You can pick up lake stones with children, but don't go into the water; the wind is strong. 04 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan is an underrated provincial capital. ⏰ Go to the Jinci Museum in the morning; the Song Dynasty colored sculptures in the Hall of the Holy Mother are worth a slow look—allow at least 2 hours. 📍 The Tianlongshan Grottoes are in the mountains; driving is convenient, but public transport requires 2 transfers. Learn about the story of the return of the Buddha heads before you go; it makes the experience different. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, check in advance. In the evening, go to Jinyang Lake Park, where locals hang out; there's no admission fee. Cycling and catching the breeze by the lake is more comfortable than squeezing into tourist spots. 🍜 Try "tounao" (a local breakfast soup) and knife-cut noodles on Food Street. Outsiders might not be used to "tounao," so order a small bowl first. Suitable for traveling with parents; the pace is slow and costs are low. 05 Baoting | Hainan Don't just focus on Sanya for National Day in Hainan. Baoting is south of Wuzhishan, and it's much cooler in the rainforest. ⏰ Enter Yanoda Rainforest in the morning before the mist clears; it's like walking into a fairy tale. 📍 At the Betel Nut Valley Li and Miao Cultural Tourism Zone, see the Li brocade weaving and boat-shaped houses. Performance times are fixed; grab a schedule when you enter so you don't miss them. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes and insects in the rainforest; long pants and mosquito repellent are standard. If you wear sandals, expect to get bitten. 🍜 Bamboo rice in the scenic area is a bit expensive; go out to Baoting County to eat Wenchang chicken and Qingbuliang (a local dessert). Suitable for families; Yanoda has a water play area where kids can play for half a day. Seniors can walk on the boardwalks, but avoid hiking on unpaved trails. 06 Ordos | Inner Mongolia During National Day in Ordos, the grasslands have already turned yellow, but the desert is just right. ⏰ Enter Xiangshawan after 3:00 PM to avoid the midday sun; the light is also good for photos. 📍 Choose either Xiansha Island or Yuesha Island; the activities are similar. Camel riding and sand sliding are worth trying; off-road vehicles depend on your personal courage. ⚠️ The sand is hot; don't wear flip-flops. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan is in Ejin Horo Banner, an hour from the city. The mausoleum architecture is grand, and the guided tour is worth listening to. 🍜 Back in the city, have hand-grabbed mutton and milk tea; Mongolian portions are large, so order less. Suitable for families driving, as the roads are wide and there are fewer cars. It's near zero degrees at night in October, so bring warm clothes. 07 Beihai | Guangxi During National Day in Beihai, Silver Beach is packed like dumplings. My method is: ⏰ Go to Silver Beach at 6:30 AM. After low tide, the beach is wide enough to run on; crowds arrive after 9:00 AM. 📍 Book Weizhou Island ferry tickets in advance; you won't get them on the day. Rent an electric scooter on the island to tour around; Crocodile Mountain and Dishuidanping are on the way. ⚠️ Ferry tickets and island entry fees are calculated separately; don't get scammed by scalpers. 🍜 The sweet soup and rice rolls on Qiaogang Style Street are cheaper than on the Old Street. Eat the shrimp cakes while hot; they get fishy when cold. Suitable for couples and families with children; kids love digging for clams. October is the tail end of typhoon season, so check the weather before you leave. If bringing seniors, prepare motion sickness medicine for the boat. 08 Baishan | Jilin National Day at Changbai Mountain is one of the most reliable windows of the year to see Heaven Lake. ⏰ Arrive at the North Slope gate before 7:00 AM to queue for the shuttle bus; if you're late, the clouds and mist will roll in, and you won't see anything. 📍 Whether you can see Heaven Lake depends on luck, but the waterfall and Green Abyss Pool won't let you down. Hot spring boiled eggs are CNY 10 for 3; try them for the novelty. ⚠️ It's below zero on the mountain; down jackets and gloves are a must. 🍜 Try the iron pot stew and Korean-style cold noodles in Erdaobaihe Town; it's warming after coming down the mountain. Suitable for young people with good stamina; the West Slope has many stairs, while the North Slope is relatively less strenuous. If bringing seniors, choose the North Slope; the bus ride is long, but there's less walking. Accommodation prices double during National Day, so book a month in advance. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Kashgar and Changbai Mountain—one is far enough, the other is cold enough, and both have fewer crowds. Where are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments.

If you want to travel during the National Day holiday but are afraid of breaking the bank, I've picked 8 low-cost, smaller cities. They're less crowded, beautiful, and affordable for food and lodging. Most importantly, you won't be packed like sardines during the holiday. I'll go through them one by one, laying out the pros and cons so you can decide for yourself. 01 Ma'anshan | Anhui The Yangtze River Caishiji Cultural and Ecological Tourist Area is my biggest soft spot in Ma'anshan. 📍 Enter through the North Gate of Caishiji and walk south along the riverside boardwalk. You'll see the Yangtze River bend along the way; it's windy, but the view is expansive. ⏰ I recommend arriving before 8:00 AM. The river mist hasn't cleared yet, the lighting is great for photos, and there are only a few people around. Book your tickets in advance through official channels; check the daily announcements for details. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, head to the Yushan Lake area for a bowl of Dangtu braised pork noodles. It costs just over 10 yuan and is filling, with non-greasy pork. Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area; it's expensive and not good. ⚠️ Parking at Caishiji is limited during the National Day holiday, so I recommend taking a taxi or bus. It's suitable for seniors to walk around slowly, as there aren't too many stairs. 02 Tonghua | Jilin The Goguryeo ruins in Tonghua and the rapeseed flower fields in Ji'an have completely different vibes. The former is about stone structures and mountain city ruins, while the latter is about vast fields of flowers. ⏰ Visit the historical sites in the morning when the light hits the stone walls at an angle, making the textures clear. The rapeseed flower fields depend on the season; they're mostly finished by the National Day holiday, so don't get your hopes up too high. Check the flower conditions before you go. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Tonghua to Ji'an, taking over an hour. Driving yourself is more flexible. Staying in downtown Tonghua is cheaper than in Ji'an, and you can stroll along the river at night. ⚠️ Some sections of the ruins are on the mountain, so wear non-slip shoes. Keep a close eye on children, as there aren't many guardrails. Overall costs are low, with meals averaging 20–30 yuan per person. 03 Wuxi | Jiangsu I'll talk about these Wuxi spots separately because there are both traps and surprises. Lingshan Grand Buddha and Nianhuawan are great for a leisurely stroll, Three Kingdoms and Water Margin City is more family-oriented, and Huishan Ancient Town is the most down-to-earth. ⏰ Go to Nianhuawan in the evening when the lights come on; it's much more pleasant than during the day. Arrive early at Lingshan Grand Buddha to avoid lines. 📍 Enter Huishan Ancient Town from the main street and find an old shop to have a bowl of silver-thread noodles and xiaolongbao; it's half the price of what you'd find inside the scenic area. If you haven't seen the old TV series, you might find Three Kingdoms and Water Margin City boring. ⚠️ Lingshan and Nianhuawan will be crowded during the National Day holiday, and tickets aren't cheap, so I suggest looking into joint tickets in advance. Stay along the subway line in downtown Wuxi for easy access to all spots; don't stay inside the scenic areas. 04 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake in Jixi are a combination I personally feel is underrated. The surface of Xingkai Lake is ridiculously large; standing on the shore feels like looking at the ocean. ⏰ Go to Xingkai Lake in the afternoon; it's windy with big waves, and the colors are best at sunset. Hutou is more of a historical site, and a tour takes about 1–2 hours. 🚄 It's a bit of a distance from downtown Jixi to Xingkai Lake, so I recommend chartering a car or driving yourself, as public transport isn't very convenient. It's already chilly here during the National Day holiday, so bring a thick jacket. 🍜 The local cold noodles and lake fish are worth trying, but don't eat at the most prominent restaurants by the lake. Walk two streets in, and the prices will be normal. This is suitable for those who aren't in a rush and want to see a vast expanse of water. 05 Dali | Yunnan I don't recommend just focusing on the Ancient Town in Dali. Xizhou Ancient Town, the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Erhai Lake, and Nanzhao Folklore Island all have their own unique experiences. ⏰ Start your Erhai Lake loop in the morning and go clockwise for better lighting. Go to Xizhou in the afternoon; the rice paddies and tie-dyed fabrics look great in photos. Visit the Three Pagodas in the evening; it's backlit but atmospheric. 📍 Eat the Xizhou flaky pastry while it's hot; both sweet and savory are good. Take a boat to Nanzhao Folklore Island; it's windy, so hold onto your hat. ⚠️ Accommodation prices in Dali spike during the National Day holiday, so book in advance or stay in the Caicun or Longkan areas, which are cheaper than the Ancient Town. Don't rent sketchy electric scooters for the lake loop; deposits and battery life are often sources of disputes. It's suitable for couples and solo travelers who want to control their own pace. 06 Shenzhen | Guangdong I have to be honest about these spots in Shenzhen. Dameisha Beach Park is extremely crowded during the National Day holiday, Window of the World tickets are expensive, and OCT and Mission Hills are more for leisure. ⏰ Arrive at Dameisha before 7:00 AM to get a good spot; otherwise, it'll be packed like sardines. Enter Window of the World in the evening; it's more cost-effective to watch the night show. 📍 There are many dining options in the OCT Creative Culture Park, which are more affordable than inside the scenic area. Mission Hills is great for playing golf or soaking in hot springs, but just walking around isn't very interesting. ⚠️ Don't forget that you need to make a reservation to visit Dameisha during the National Day holiday. Shenzhen's subway is convenient, so just stay along the subway line; don't stay in beachside hotels, as they are expensive and noisy. It's suitable for families, but make sure you have enough budget. 07 Linyi | Shandong Linyi's Firefly Water Cave & Underground Grand Canyon and Yimeng Mountain offer a stark contrast in experience—one is underground, and the other is on a mountain. ⏰ Go to the Underground Grand Canyon in the morning when it's less crowded. It's cool inside the cave, so bring a light jacket. Hike Yimeng Mountain in the afternoon; the ridgeline looks beautiful at sunset. 📍 The boat ride in the Firefly Water Cave is the most worthwhile part, so don't miss it. Yimeng Mountain is vast, so just pick one route and stick to it; don't try to do too much. ⚠️ The ground in the cave is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. The cable car at Yimeng Mountain has long lines during the National Day holiday, so walk if you can. Overall costs are low, making it suitable for families with kids and those who love natural landscapes. 08 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei's Gaomiao Temple and Shapotou are located in the city and on the edge of the desert, respectively. Shapotou is the main event, where the Yellow River meets the desert—a striking sight. ⏰ Enter Shapotou in the morning to avoid long lines for sand sliding and sheepskin rafts. Visit Gaomiao Temple in the afternoon; the architecture is compact, and half an hour to an hour is enough. 🚄 It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Zhongwei Station to Shapotou; I recommend leaving early during the National Day holiday. Stay near the Drum Tower in the city center for convenient dining and lodging. ⚠️ You need to protect yourself from the sun and sand in the desert, so don't skimp on sunglasses. Sand sliding is an extra charge, so buy it only if you want to do it. It's suitable for those who want to see the desert without traveling too far. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Ma'anshan and Zhongwei—one by the river, one in the desert—both offer great contrast and are affordable. When traveling during the National Day holiday, don't try to do too much; picking two or three places to stay and relax is more comfortable than rushing around. Where are you planning to go? Let me know in the comments.

The two things I fear most when traveling during the National Day holiday: running out of money and getting crushed by crowds. I've scoured train tickets and homestays to pick out 6 off-the-beaten-path places that are perfect for visiting in September and October. The autumn weather is crisp, prices haven't skyrocketed yet, so take your time and explore. 1️⃣ Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou The water at Libo Zhangjiang is at its best from September to October. The rainy season has just ended, the water is crystal clear, and there are far fewer people than during the summer break. ⏰ Enter the Small Seven Holes Scenic Area before 8:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and the bridges and water are still. By the time the tour groups flood in at 10:00 AM, you'll have finished taking photos and be ready to leave. 📍 Walk 200 meters upstream from Wolongtan to find a shallow beach where no one else is around; the water is mint-colored. Don't just crowd in line in front of the sign. 🍜 Go to the night market in Libo County after leaving the scenic area and look for sour soup beef noodles. A small bowl is about CNY 12, add a serving of freshly sliced beef, and the broth is refreshingly sour. ⚠️ The ticket for Zhangjiang Scenic Area plus the sightseeing bus isn't cheap. Student and senior IDs can save you a chunk. Don't lose your sightseeing bus ticket; they check it at every stop. Staying near Libo Ancient Town is the most convenient, and it's nice for evening walks. 2️⃣ Putian | Fujian In September, the sea breeze on Meizhou Island is no longer sticky. There are far fewer people visiting the island during the National Day holiday compared to Xiamen, and you don't have to fight for ferry tickets. ⏰ Go to Ewei Shenshi Garden after 4:00 PM. The sun hits the sea-eroded rocks at an angle, casting long shadows. The light is softest at this time, and the crowds have dispersed. 📍 You can capture the entire bay from the steps of Chaotian Pavilion in the Mazu Cultural Tourism Zone. You don't need a drone; a phone's wide-angle lens is enough. 🍜 You must try the Mazu noodles on the island. A bowl is around CNY 15 and packed with ingredients. Don't eat at the first row of shops by the pier; walk two alleys in, and the price drops immediately. ⚠️ Ferry capacity is limited during peak season, so buy tickets on official channels one day in advance. If you get seasick, take the large ferry; it's stable. Staying at a homestay on the island is more cost-effective than staying in the city, and you can catch the sunrise early. 3️⃣ Shaoguan | Guangdong October is just right for Danxia Mountain. It's too sunny to climb in the summer, and winter lacks a bit of color. The red rock layers in autumn paired with the blue sky make for a stunning contrast. ⏰ You have to get up at 4:00 AM to watch the sunrise at Changlao Peak. Don't complain about it being early; the moment the horizon turns red, you'll forget all about your sore legs. 📍 Go to the Yangyuan Stone viewing platform in the afternoon. The lighting shifts from backlight to front light, making the texture of the stone clearly visible. After taking photos, walk along the Xianglong Lake boardwalk on your way back; it's less crowded and cool. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, you can eat your fill of Nanxiong Meiling Goose King for about CNY 40 per person. It's genuinely spicy and goes perfectly with rice. ⚠️ Danxia Mountain tickets are valid for two days, so don't just come and go in one day. Stay at an inn at the entrance of the scenic area so you can re-enter the next day. Wear non-slip shoes, as the stone steps have moss. 4️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi in late September and early October is a hidden gem of autumn in Northeast China. The wind at Xingkai Lake starts to carry a chill, but the sky is unbelievably blue. ⏰ Go to the Xingkai Lake viewing platform at 5:00 PM. The lake surface is like a mirror, and the sunset falls right into it. There are fewer mosquitoes this season, so you can stand there peacefully for half an hour. 📍 Walk along the riverside trail around the Hutou Fortress ruins. It's quiet, and you can only hear the sound of the water. The opposite bank is Russia. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles are the signature dish, sweet and sour, and a bowl costs a little over CNY 10. Eat them with spicy side dishes and mixed dried tofu, just like the locals do. ⚠️ Xingkai Lake is far from the city, so driving or chartering a car is convenient. Bus schedules are infrequent, so don't rely on the last bus. The temperature difference between morning and evening in October is large, so bring a thick jacket. 5️⃣ Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain starts to change color in October, and the ginkgo trees turn yellow earlier than elsewhere. It's not crowded during the National Day holiday, and the ticket prices are friendly. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and the Ginkgo Valley looks like it's soaked in milk. After 10:00 AM, the sunlight filters through, and the leaves turn golden. 📍 The boardwalk next to Bailong Pool is easy to walk, suitable for both the elderly and children. The pool water reflects the shadows of the trees, making every photo look good. 🍜 Suizhou Guai Zi Fan (pork trotter rice) is CNY 20 a serving, with the pork trotter stewed until tender. Paired with a bowl of rice, it replenishes all the energy you spent climbing the mountain. ⚠️ Dahong Mountain Scenic Area is large, so buying a sightseeing bus ticket is recommended. Walking is too hard on your shoes, and the attractions are far apart. Stay in Suizhou city; it's also on the way to the museum the next day. 6️⃣ Zhangjiajie | Hunan Zhangjiajie is definitely crowded during the National Day holiday. But if you choose the right times for Wulingyuan and Tianmen Mountain, you can still have a comfortable trip. There's a high probability of seeing a sea of clouds in October. ⏰ Take the cable car to Tianmen Mountain at 7:00 AM to avoid the peak of tour groups. With the clouds and mist rolling beneath your feet, even the glass skywalk won't seem as scary. 📍 The Back Garden in Yuanjiajie, Wulingyuan, is quieter than the Hallelujah Mountains. It only takes ten minutes to walk there, and you can enjoy the viewing platform all to yourself for a while. 🍜 Sanxiaguo (three-pot dish) in the city costs about CNY 50 per person. Don't eat inside the scenic area; it's expensive and average. Go back to the city after descending the mountain for a proper meal. ⚠️ Zhangjiajie National Forest Park tickets are valid for four days, so don't throw them away. Cable cars and elevators charge extra, so budget accordingly. Stay at the entrance of Wulingyuan to enter the mountain early and save on queuing time. 7️⃣ Changchun | Jilin Autumn in Changchun is short, but early October is just right. The Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo and Jingyuetan are great—one for history, one for autumn colors. ⏰ Go to Jingyuetan at 3:00 PM and rent a bicycle to ride around the lake. The leaves are a mix of yellow and green, and they rustle when the wind blows. 📍 It's recommended to visit the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo in the morning when it's less crowded. The audio guide is CNY 20; listening to it before looking at the architecture gives you a different experience. 🍜 Grilled cold noodles in the alleys of Guilin Road are CNY 5 a serving, with added egg and sausage. There's an old-fashioned spicy hot pot outside the Changchun World Sculpture Park that costs CNY 10 and will fill you up. ⚠️ Changying Century City is suitable for bringing kids, but the lines for rides are long, so go early. Jingyuetan is huge, so don't expect to walk it all; cycling is the most energy-efficient way. It's cold at night in October, so wearing a thin down jacket is not an exaggeration. 8️⃣ Ma'anshan | Anhui Caishiji on the Yangtze River—the river breeze is just right in September and October. Li Bai drank wine here; now you can go, the tickets aren't expensive, and it's not crowded. ⏰ Climb Taibai Pavilion at 5:00 PM to watch the sunset over the Yangtze River. As the boats pass by slowly and the light dims bit by bit, it's so quiet you'll want to write a poem. 📍 Walk along the river on the Caishiji boardwalk. The river water is beneath your feet, and Cuiluo Mountain is on the opposite side. It takes 40 minutes to walk the whole way, and it's not tiring. 🍜 Ma'anshan Dangtu meat noodles are CNY 15 a bowl, with more meat than noodles. Locals eat this for breakfast; it's hearty. ⚠️ The scenic area isn't large; half a day is enough. Don't go at noon on holidays when tour groups flock there. Stay in the city; buses go directly there, and taxis aren't expensive either. For budget travel during the National Day holiday, choosing the right place is more important than saving money. These 6 places are perfect for visiting in September and October—the weather is great, and your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief. Pick one and take your time exploring.

Traveling with kids during the National Day holiday can be incredibly stressful due to long transfers. These 8 places have shuttle buses right outside the high-speed rail stations, making it easy for strollers to walk and kids to run, minimizing discomfort for adults. 01 Qingyuan | Guangdong The Lianzhou Underground River is the highlight of the trip. The temperature inside the cave is around 18 degrees Celsius year-round. During the National Day holiday, bring a light jacket for your child – a short-sleeved shirt on top and a long-sleeved shirt underneath. Don't be lazy! ⏰ Entering the cave before 10 AM minimizes the crowds. The boat ride and walking take about two hours, which is fine for children. The boat lights reflecting on the water will keep kids glued to their screens. 📍 There are mother and baby rooms at the entrance of the Lianzhou Underground River scenic area, but they are limited. It's recommended to arrange this in the city beforehand. 🚄 From Qingyuan Station to Lianzhou, you need to transfer to a bus, which takes about two hours. Give medication to children prone to motion sickness beforehand. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery; avoid wearing sandals. The cave photography services sold outside are expensive; using your phone's night mode is sufficient. For families with children, I recommend only visiting the underground river and having a meal of Qingyuan chicken in the city. Don't force yourself to visit other places; save your energy for the return trip. 02 Haixi | Qinghai Choose only one between Chaka Salt Lake and Emerald Lake; don't be greedy. For families with children, I recommend Emerald Lake; it's less crowded, the colors are clearly layered, and kids can spend half an hour playing with the salt crystals. ⏰ The lake only starts to look beautiful after 4 PM when the light dims. Going at noon is like paying to be baked in the sun; it's unbearable for both adults and children. The Chaka Salt Lake is ridiculously large; a drive around it is enough. There's no need to stop at every viewpoint. The Kunlun Mountains are nice to see from afar, but I don't recommend going deep into them with children. 📍 The Sichuan restaurants in Chaka Town are half the price of those in the scenic area, and the food is consistently good. 🚄 After getting off at Delingha or Golmud stations, it's recommended to hire a car, as public transportation is practically impractical with children. ⚠️ At an altitude of around 3,000 meters, if your child complains of a headache, don't force them; descend immediately. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential. Two days and one night is just right. Allocate half a day each for the salt lake and the Gobi Desert, and let your child catch up on sleep at the hotel for the rest of the time. 03 Huangshan|Anhui If choosing between Xidi and Hongcun, choose Hongcun if you have a stroller, as the stone-paved roads are relatively flat. Xidi's alleys are narrower with more steps, making you want to abandon the stroller. Chengkan Ancient Village is less crowded, suitable for letting children explore on their own. The village has winding waterways, so keep a close eye on them and don't let children approach the water alone. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is a good alternative on rainy days, with many indoor exhibition halls offering shelter from the rain and air conditioning. I suggest skipping Huangshan Scenic Area if you're traveling with young children. The cable car queues and hiking will be exhausting for both adults and kids. ⏰ Enter Hongcun before 7 AM. South Lake is less crowded, making it a comfortable place for taking photos and strolling with your child. 📍 The stall selling hairy tofu next to Moon Pond is not for kids; buy a sample to try first. 🚄 There are direct buses from Huangshan North Station to Hongcun, taking about an hour. ⚠️ Soundproofing in guesthouses in the village is generally poor; bring earplugs if you're bringing a young baby. One night in the ancient village is enough. The next day, head to the city center to explore the old streets for a more relaxed pace. 04 Shangrao|Jiangxi Huangling's autumn harvest is a signature event during the National Day holiday, but the cable car queues can be incredibly long. If you're traveling with children, either catch the first cable car or wait until after 3 PM. Choose between Sanqingshan and Guifeng. Sanqingshan has more boardwalks and wider views, suitable for older children who can walk independently. Guifeng has less of a climb, making it more child-friendly. Jiangwan in Wuyuan is more culturally focused, which kids weren't very interested in, but the large camphor tree at the village entrance is a comfortable place to rest in the shade. ⏰ Huangling has perfect light and crowds before 9 am. 📍 There are steamed cakes sold on Tianjie Street; kids love them hot. 🍜 Small restaurants in Wuyuan County are more affordable than those in the scenic areas; try the "hu doufu" (a type of tofu dish). 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Wuyuan Station to Huangling. ⚠️ B&B prices double during the peak autumn harvest season; book two weeks in advance. Two-day itinerary: One day in Huangling, one day in either Sanqingshan or Guifeng; don't cram all three in. 05 Changsha|Hunan Enter Yuelu Mountain through the East Gate with kids; the slope is gentle. The Aiwan Pavilion area is the most crowded; for a quieter experience, start from the South Gate and avoid the main road. The Provincial Museum requires advance booking; it's free but appointments are limited. The Mawangdui exhibition hall might be difficult for kids to understand, but the lighting and coffin models will attract their attention; half an hour should be enough. Tianxin Pavilion is best visited in the evening; watch the sunset from the city wall while kids run around in the plaza below. Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, far from the city center; you can skip it if time is tight. ⏰ Start climbing Yuelu Mountain before 8 AM for cooler, less crowded conditions. 📍 The food stalls along Denggao Road, especially the sugar-coated fried dough sticks, are generally loved by kids. 🍜 For rice noodles, it's recommended to eat at small shops in residential areas, not at the scenic area entrance. 🚄 Changsha South Railway Station has direct subway access to the city center. ⚠️ During holidays, the fireworks display at Orange Isle is extremely crowded; be cautious if you have children. Two days is just right: one day for Yuelu Mountain and the museum, and one day for leisurely strolling and dining in the city. 06 Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake was the most surprising stop on this trip. The lake is as large as the sea, and the sand is shallow, allowing kids to wade barefoot. It was already too cold to swim during the National Day holiday, but collecting seashells and building sandcastles was perfect. Around Hutou, there are wetlands and border river scenery, and the viewing platform offers a wide and open view. Just take the kids for a walk on the wooden boardwalk; don't let them venture too far out. ⏰ The wind subsides at Xingkai Lake after 3 pm, making it comfortable to stay by the lake. 📍 There are stalls selling grilled fish by the lake; you can try the freshly grilled ones. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles are a local specialty, sweet and sour, which kids might like. 🚄 It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Jixi Station to Xingkai Lake; hiring a car is recommended. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so bring a windproof jacket for your child; their hat might blow off. Spend a day at Xingkai Lake and half a day at Hutou Lake. Don't rush; this place is for slowing down. 07 Hangzhou|Zhejiang Don't plan to circle the entire West Lake with your child. Walking along the short stretch from Broken Bridge to Pinghu Qiuyue is enough. Rent a rowboat; kids will enjoy it ten times more than walking. Xixi Wetland is best visited in the morning. Take a rowboat through the reeds—it's quiet. The China Umbrella Museum is near Gongchen Bridge; it's indoor, free, and interactive—a top choice for rainy days. Prince Bay Park is great for tulips in spring. During the National Day holiday, it's just a regular green space, but the lawns are large, perfect for kids to run around on. ⏰ Arrive at Broken Bridge before 7 am at West Lake to avoid crowds. 📍 There are vendors selling Dingsheng cakes in the old street area west of Gongchen Bridge. 🍜 Find a local noodle shop for Pian'erchuan noodles; don't get ripped off by the lakeside. 🚄 Hangzhou East Railway Station is directly accessible by subway to Longxiang Bridge. ⚠️ During holidays, taxis are extremely difficult to find around West Lake; a combination of subway and walking is the most reliable option. Two-day itinerary: One day for West Lake and Prince Bay Park, one day for Xixi Wetland and the Umbrella Museum, combining indoor and outdoor activities. 08 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain is the grand finale. The autumn leaves weren't fully red by the time we went during the National Day holiday; they won't be at their peak until late October. However, it's less crowded then, and the temperature is comfortable, perfect for walking the boardwalk at the Eighteen Moon Pools with kids. The pools cascade down in layers, and kids can count as they walk, completing the entire path. The cable car is available, saving energy and offering expansive views. ⏰ Enter the mountain in the morning and finish the main boardwalk before noon. 📍 There are vendors selling roasted corn and potatoes at the scenic area entrance; enough to tide you over. 🚄 The journey from Bazhong Station to Guangwu Mountain takes about two hours; it's recommended to book a car in advance. ⚠️ Temperature differences are significant on the mountain, so pack a fleece for your child. Hotel prices rise during the autumn foliage season, so visiting off-peak is more cost-effective. Spend a day at Guangwu Mountain, and the remaining time enjoying Sichuan-style cold noodles in Bazhong city to wrap things up. Of these 8 places, I highly recommend Jixi and Bazhong – less crowded, kids can run around freely. For a hassle-free National Day holiday, choose two or three to visit consecutively; don't try to do too many. Which one are you planning to visit first? Traveling with kids during National Day is most dreaded by the hassle of transfers. These 8 places have shuttle buses right outside the high-speed rail station, allowing strollers to walk and kids to run, minimizing discomfort for adults. 01 Qingyuan|Guangdong The Lianzhou Underground River is the highlight of this trip. The temperature inside the cave is around 18 degrees Celsius year-round. During National Day, bring a light jacket for your child – a short-sleeved shirt on the outside and a long-sleeved shirt underneath. Don't be afraid of the extra effort. ⏰ Entering the cave before 10 AM minimizes the crowds. The boat tour plus walking takes about two hours, which is sufficient for children to complete the entire journey. The boat lights reflecting on the water will keep kids glued to their eyes for a long time. 📍 There are mother and baby rooms at the entrance of the Lianzhou Underground River Scenic Area, but there are only a few, so it's recommended to take care of them in the city before you go. 🚄 From Qingyuan Station to Lianzhou, you need to transfer to a bus, which takes about two hours. Give medication to children prone to motion sickness beforehand. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery, so don't wear sandals. The cave photography services sold outside are expensive; just use your phone's night mode. If you're traveling with kids, I suggest only visiting the Underground River and having a Qingyuan chicken dinner in the city. Don't force them to visit other places; save your energy for the return trip. 02 Haixi|Qinghai Choose only one between Chaka Salt Lake and Emerald Lake; don't be greedy. I recommend Emerald Lake for children; it's less crowded, the colors are clearly layered, and kids can spend half an hour playing with the salt crystals. ⏰ The lake only starts to look beautiful after 4 pm when the light is lower. Going at noon is like paying to be baked in the sun; it's unpleasant for both adults and children. The Qarhan Salt Lake is ridiculously large; a drive around it is sufficient, and there's no need to stop at every viewpoint. The Kunlun Mountains are nice to see from afar, but not recommended for families with young children. 📍 Sichuan restaurants in Chaka Town are half the price of those in the scenic area, and the food is consistently good. 🚄 After getting off at Delingha or Golmud stations, it's recommended to hire a car, as public transportation is practically impractical with children. ⚠️ At an altitude of around 3,000 meters, if your child complains of a headache, don't force them; descend immediately. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential. Two days and one night is just right. Allocate half a day each for the salt lake and the Gobi Desert, and let the child catch up on sleep at the hotel. 03 Huangshan|Anhui If choosing between Xidi and Hongcun, choose Hongcun if you have a stroller, as the stone-paved roads are relatively flat. Xidi's alleys are narrower with more steps, making you want to abandon the stroller. Chengkan Ancient Village is less crowded, suitable for children to explore on their own. The village has a winding waterway, so keep a close eye on children and don't let them go near the water alone. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is a good alternative on rainy days; it has many indoor exhibition halls where you can find shelter from the rain and enjoy air conditioning. I suggest skipping Huangshan Scenic Area if you have young children; the cable car queues and hiking will be exhausting for both adults and children. ⏰ Enter Hongcun before 7 am. There are no tourists at South Lake, making it a comfortable place for taking photos and strolling with kids. 📍 There's a stall selling hairy tofu next to Moon Pond; most kids won't like it, so buy a sample to try first. 🚄 There are direct buses from Huangshan North Station to Hongcun, taking about an hour. ⚠️ Soundproofing in guesthouses in the village is generally poor; bring earplugs if you're bringing a young baby. One night in the ancient village is enough; the next day, head to the city to explore the old streets for a more relaxed pace. 04 Shangrao | Jiangxi The autumn harvest in Huangling is a signature activity during the National Day holiday, but the cable car queues can be incredibly long. If you have kids, either catch the first cable car or wait until after 3 PM. Choose between Sanqingshan and Guifeng. Sanqingshan has more boardwalks and wider views, suitable for older children who can walk independently. Guifeng has less climbing, making it more child-friendly. Jiangwan in Wuyuan is more culturally focused, which kids might not be interested in, but the large camphor tree at the village entrance is a comfortable place to rest. ⏰ Before 9 AM, the light and crowds in Huangling are perfect. 📍 There are steamed cakes sold on Tianjie Street; kids love them hot. 🍜 Small restaurants in Wuyuan County are more affordable than those in the scenic areas; try the "hu doufu" (a type of tofu dish). 🚄 After getting off at Wuyuan Station, it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to Huangling. ⚠️ Prices for guesthouses double during the peak autumn harvest season; book two weeks in advance. Two-day itinerary: One day at Huangling, one day at either Sanqingshan or Guifeng. Don't try to cram all three in. 05 Changsha|Hunan Enter Yuelu Mountain from the East Gate with kids; the slope is gentler. The Aiwan Pavilion area is the most crowded; for a quieter experience, start from the South Gate and avoid the main road. The Hunan Provincial Museum requires advance booking; it's free but appointments are limited. Kids won't understand the Mawangdui exhibition hall, but the lighting and coffin models will attract their attention; half an hour is enough. Tianxin Pavilion is best visited in the evening; watch the sunset from the city wall while kids run around in the plaza below. Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, far from the city center; you can skip it if time is tight. ⏰ Start climbing Yuelu Mountain before 8 am for cooler, less crowded conditions. 📍 The snack stalls along Denggao Road; kids generally love the sugar-coated glutinous rice cakes. 🍜 For rice noodles, it's recommended to eat at small shops in residential areas, not near the scenic area entrance. 🚄 Changsha South Railway Station has direct subway access to the city center. ⚠️ During holidays, the fireworks display at Orange Isle is extremely crowded; be cautious if you're bringing children. Two days is ideal: one day for Yuelu Mountain and the museum, and one day for leisurely strolling and dining in the city. 06 Jixi|Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake was the most surprising stop on this trip. The lake is as large as the sea, and the sand is shallow, allowing children to wade barefoot. It was already too cold to swim during the National Day holiday, but collecting seashells and building sandcastles was perfect. The area around Hutou has wetlands and border river scenery, and the viewing platform offers a wide-open view. Just take children for a walk on the wooden boardwalk; don't let them venture too far out. ⏰ The wind subsides around Xingkai Lake after 3 PM, making it comfortable to stay by the lake. 📍 There are stalls selling grilled fish by the lake; you can try the freshly grilled ones. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles are a local specialty, sweet and sour, kids might love them. 🚄 It's about an hour and a half drive from Jixi Station to Xingkai Lake; hiring a car is recommended. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, bring a windproof jacket for your child, as their hat can easily blow away. Spend a day at Xingkai Lake and half a day at Hutou (Tibet Lake), don't rush, this place is for slowing down. 07 Hangzhou|Zhejiang Don't plan to circle the entire West Lake with kids; walking along the short section from Broken Bridge to Pinghu Qiuyue (Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake) is enough. Rent a rowboat; kids are ten times happier on a boat than walking. Xixi Wetland is best visited in the morning; take a rowboat through the reeds, it's quiet. The China Umbrella Museum is near Gongchen Bridge; it's indoor, free, and interactive, a top choice for rainy days. Prince Bay Park is for tulips in spring; during the National Day holiday, it's just a regular green space, but the lawns are large, perfect for kids to run around. ⏰ Arrive at Broken Bridge before 7 AM at West Lake to avoid crowds. 📍 There are vendors selling Dingsheng cakes in the old street area west of Gongchen Bridge. 🍜 Find a local noodle shop for Pian'erchuan noodles; don't get ripped off by the lake. 🚄 Take the subway directly from Hangzhou East Railway Station to Longxiang Bridge. ⚠️ During holidays, taxis are extremely difficult to find around West Lake; taking the subway and walking is the most reliable option. Two-day itinerary: One day at West Lake and Prince Bay Park, one day at Xixi Wetland and the Umbrella Museum, combining indoor and outdoor activities. 08 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain is the grand finale. The autumn leaves aren't fully red by the time you go during the National Day holiday; you'll have to wait until the end of October. But at this time, there are fewer people, the temperature is comfortable, and it's perfect for walking the boardwalk at Eighteen Moon Pools with kids. The pools cascade down in layers; kids can count as they walk and complete the entire path. The cable car is available, saving energy and offering a wide view. ⏰ Enter the mountain in the morning and finish hiking the main boardwalk before noon. 📍 There are vendors selling roasted corn and potatoes at the scenic area entrance; enough to tide you over. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Bazhong Station to Guangwu Mountain; it's recommended to book a car in advance. ⚠️ The temperature difference on the mountain is significant, so pack a fleece for your child. Hotel prices will be higher during the autumn foliage season; it's more cost-effective to come during off-peak times. Spend a day at Guangwu Mountain, and the remaining time enjoying a Sichuan-style cold noodle dish in Bazhong city to wrap things up. Of these 8 places, I highly recommend Jixi and Bazhong; they're less crowded, and kids can run around freely. For a hassle-free National Day holiday, choose two or three to visit consecutively; don't try to do too many. Which one are you planning to visit first?

Must-see before your National Day trip! These 8️⃣ places are essential to make your life worthwhile 1️⃣ Baicheng | Jilin When you first hear "Baicheng," I bet your first thought is, "Where is that?" It's located in the westernmost part of Jilin, bordering Inner Mongolia. Visiting during the National Day holiday allows you to catch the most comfortable autumn weather at Nenjiang Bay. 📍The Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area is its highlight. Wetlands, river bays, and reed marshes blend seamlessly, and the wind makes it feel like the entire earth is breathing. ⏰ It's recommended to go after 3 PM. The sunlight shines obliquely on the river, giving the reeds a golden edge—no filters needed for photos. The walk to the viewing platform takes about 40 minutes; the path is flat, suitable for both the elderly and children. 🍜 Don't just grab a bite at the scenic area entrance. Back in Baicheng city, find a restaurant that serves river fish, stewed catfish, and corn cakes. A satisfying meal for around 50-60 yuan per person. ⚠️ Mosquitoes in the wetlands haven't completely disappeared during the National Day holiday; long sleeves and pants are more effective than sunscreen. 2️⃣ Altay|Xinjiang Altay is the strongest evidence of my "must-visit in my lifetime" motto. Going during the National Day holiday is perfect, coinciding with the tail end of autumn colors and the beginning of the first snowfall, allowing you to experience two seasons in one trip at Kanas and Keketuohai. 📍At Kanas, arrive at the transfer center at 7 am to catch the first shuttle bus into the lake area. The morning mist clings to the water; the Fairy Bay section is incredibly photogenic. ⚠️The Fish Viewing Platform has many steps; those with knee problems can simply walk on the lakeside boardwalk—the scenery is still worthwhile. 📍Keketuohai is better visited in the afternoon. The light in the Ertis River canyon is soft, and the stones are smooth and shiny from being washed by the water. Stay overnight in Fuyun County, 🍜 find a Kazakh-style milk tea shop, and enjoy the salty milk tea with baursak—it'll warm you to the toes. Don't just treat the people and culture of the Altay grasslands as a backdrop. Along the migration route, you can go into a herder's yurt, have a bowl of yogurt, and chat for a bit – it's more interesting than taking ten photos. 🚄 Hiring a car after landing at Altay Airport is the most hassle-free option. Book in advance for National Day; finding a car on the spot will double the price. The snow scenery in Northern Xinjiang depends on luck; in early October, there might only be a thin layer on the mountaintops. Check the latest weather forecast. 3️⃣ Shuozhou|Shanxi Many people stop in Shuozhou on their way to Datong, but Shahu Pass is worth a special trip. 📍Shahu Pass is located in Youyu County. It was a crucial pass for Shanxi merchants traveling west during the Ming and Qing dynasties. A section of the ancient fortress and pass ruins remain. The wind is so strong it can blow your hat off. ⏰ Arrive before 10 am; the sunlight coming from the east makes the earthen yellow walls appear particularly thick. After visiting the border crossing, don't rush off. The nearby Youyu Nanshan Forest Park is ablaze with autumn colors, and a drive around it is very pleasant. 🍜 In Youyu County, there's a restaurant that serves mutton. Their salt-fried mutton with oat noodles is a perfect combination of carbohydrates and meat—enough to keep you warm all day. ⚠️ The area around Shahu Pass has limited amenities. Bring your own water and snacks; don't expect everything to be available in the scenic area. 4️⃣ Jixi|Heilongjiang Jixi is located in the southeast corner of Heilongjiang. Even during the National Day holiday, you can already feel the early winter atmosphere. 📍Xingkai Lake is the main attraction. The lake is as large as the sea, and the sandy beach is soft and fine. Early October is cool but not biting, perfect for a leisurely walk along the lake. ⏰ In the morning, head to Hutou. See the Hutou Fortress ruins on the Ussuri River and the river view together. Standing on the riverbank, you can see the opposite bank. We returned to Xingkai Lake Town at noon and ordered a pot of lake fish stew with tofu. The fish was firm, and the soup was milky white. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night at Xingkai Lake is significant. During the National Day holiday, it's only in the teens (Celsius) during the day, but drops to single digits after sunset. A thick jacket is a must. 🚄 It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Jixi city to Xingkai Lake. Hiring a car or driving yourself is recommended, as public transportation is infrequent. It's suitable for those who enjoy quiet water views and is family-friendly, with shallow beaches for children to wade in. 5️⃣ Ankang|Shaanxi Ankang is the "southern part" of Shaanxi, with the Han River flowing through the city. The weather was pleasantly mild during the National Day holiday, making you want to stay longer. 📍Qianceng River is located in Lan'gao County. The stream cascades down the canyon in layers, and the stones are covered in green moss. Walking in feels like stepping into a natural air-conditioned room. ⏰ In the morning, visit Qiancenghe (Thousand-Layer River). For lunch, eat steamed noodles with spicy and sour konjac in Langao County. In the afternoon, drive to Fengyan Ancient Terraces. The rice has just been harvested this season, leaving golden stubble on the ridges. The entire hillside glows in the setting sun. ⚠️ The Qiancenghe trail is slippery; wear non-slip shoes, not white sneakers. There are several viewing platforms at Fengyan Ancient Terraces; the uppermost one offers the best view, but the road is narrow, so beginners should be cautious. It's suitable for taking elderly people on a leisurely stroll at a relaxed pace. 6️⃣ Longnan|Gansu Longnan is an "anomaly" in Gansu, with mountains, rivers, and bamboo forests. Visiting during the National Day holiday is a perfect way to avoid the dryness of Northwest China. 📍Guangegou is in Dangchang County. Waterfalls and lakes are strung together in the valley. In autumn, the leaves begin to change color, a mix of green, yellow, and red, a feast for the eyes. ⏰ Enter Guange Valley early in the morning, take the sightseeing bus to the innermost part, and then walk out – it saves energy. In the afternoon, go to Tianchi Lake in Wenxian County. Tianchi Lake is located on a mountaintop; the water is a deep, dark blue, and the surrounding forest is so quiet you can only hear birdsong. 🍜 The hand-pulled rice noodles and roujiamo (meat-filled buns) in Dangchang County are worth trying – cheap and filling. ⚠️ The mountain road to Tianchi Lake in Wenxian County is winding; drive slowly if you're driving, and those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Longnan Station to Guange Valley. I recommend allocating two days; one day is too rushed. Suitable for those who enjoy hiking and photography; even seniors can easily walk the main boardwalk of Guange Valley. 7️⃣ Yingtan|Jiangxi I initially thought Longhu Mountain in Yingtan was one of those "since you're already there" attractions, but I was proven wrong. 📍Longhushan Danxia landform combined with the Luxi River. Take a bamboo raft ride; the mountains on both sides look as if they've been cleaved by a knife, and the water is so clear you can see the bottom. ⏰ In the morning, take a bamboo raft ride. The sunlight shines through the water, making the mountain shadows exceptionally clear. In the afternoon, watch the hanging coffin performance. ⏰ There are fixed shows, so check the time in advance to avoid missing it. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a farmhouse restaurant serving braised chicken with chestnuts. The chestnuts are soft and powdery, and the chicken is flavorful. ⚠️ The bamboo raft dock and sightseeing bus station are scattered. Grab a map at the entrance, otherwise you might backtrack. During the National Day holiday, it gets very crowded; the bamboo raft queue can be at least an hour long, so going early is key. Suitable for the whole family; the rafting isn't thrilling, and children and the elderly can enjoy it. 8️⃣ Chongqing Chongqing is placed last because it's the most "heavy" of these eight. A trip to Chongqing during the National Day holiday is bound to be crowded, but any one of the four attractions – Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong Karst, and the Yangtze River Three Gorges – is enough to make for a substantial trip. 📍For Dazu Rock Carvings, it's recommended to go early in the morning. The cliff carvings in the Baoding Mountain area are so detailed they're breathtaking. ⏰ Hire a guide or rent an audio guide, otherwise, you'll just be looking at the rocks. 📍Jinyun Mountain is best climbed in the afternoon. It's not very high, the bamboo forests are cool, and the summit offers panoramic views of Beibei. 📍The Wulong Karst Three Natural Bridges and Longshuixia Gorge can be visited in one day. Wear comfortable shoes; the steps are numerous and challenging. 📍For the Yangtze River Three Gorges, taking a cruise from Chaotianmen is the easiest way to see the night view. The confluence of the two rivers is illuminated by lights. Tickets are in high demand during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 🍜 Chongqing has a lot of food, but don't just focus on hot pot. Chongqing noodles, tofu rice, and grilled pig brains are all worth trying. ⚠️ During the National Day holiday, Hongyadong and Jiefangbei are packed with people. If you want to take photos, go to Qianximen Bridge; the view is better and it's less crowded. These eight places, some remote, some crowded, but they all have one thing in common: after visiting them, you'll feel the travel expenses were worthwhile. If you haven't decided yet for National Day, pick one to go to! How many have you been to? Let's chat in the comments. Must-read before your National Day trip! These 8️⃣ places are a must-visit! 1️⃣ Baicheng|Jilin When you first hear Baicheng, I bet you're thinking, "Where is that?" It's located in the westernmost part of Jilin, bordering Inner Mongolia. Going during the National Day holiday means catching the most comfortable autumn in Nenjiang Bay. 📍The Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area is the highlight of this place. Wetlands, river bays, and reed beds blend seamlessly, and the wind makes it feel like the entire earth is breathing. ⏰ It's recommended to go after 3 PM. The sunlight shines obliquely on the river, giving the reeds a golden edge—no filters needed for photos. It's about a 40-minute walk to the viewing platform; the path is flat and suitable for both the elderly and children. 🍜 Don't just grab a bite at the scenic area entrance. Back in Baicheng city, find a restaurant that serves river fish, stewed catfish, and corn cakes. A hearty meal costs around 50-60 yuan per person. ⚠️ During the National Day holiday, mosquitoes in the wetlands haven't completely disappeared. Long sleeves and pants are more effective than sunscreen. 2️⃣ Altay|Xinjiang Altay is the strongest evidence for my "must-visit in my lifetime" motto. Going during the National Day holiday is perfect, coinciding with the tail end of autumn colors and the beginning of the first snowfall, allowing you to experience two seasons at once in Kanas and Keketuhai. 📍Arrive at the Kanas transfer center at 7 AM to catch the first shuttle bus into the lake area. The morning mist clings to the water; every photo of the Fairy Bay section is guaranteed to be stunning. ⚠️ The Fish Viewing Platform has many steps; if you have knee problems, just walk on the lakeside boardwalk – the scenery is still worthwhile. 📍Keketuohai is better visited in the afternoon. The light in the Ertis River canyon is soft, and the stones are smooth and shiny from the water's flow. Stay overnight in Fuyun County. 🍜 Find a Kazakh-style milk tea shop; the salty milk tea with baursak is incredibly warming. Don't just treat the Altay grasslands and its people as background scenery. Go into the yurts along the migration route, have a bowl of yogurt, and chat for a bit – it's more interesting than taking ten photos. 🚄 Hiring a car after landing at Altay Airport is the most hassle-free option. Book in advance for National Day; last-minute bookings will double the price. Snow in Northern Xinjiang is a matter of luck; in early October, there might only be a thin layer on the mountaintops. Check the latest weather forecast. 3️⃣ Shuozhou|Shanxi Many people stop in Shuozhou on their way to Datong, but Shahu Pass is worth a special detour. 📍Shahu Pass is located in Youyu County. It was a crucial pass for Shanxi merchants traveling west during the Ming and Qing dynasties. A section of the ancient fortress and pass ruins remain, and the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The sunlight from the east makes the thick, earthen-yellow walls appear particularly striking. After exploring the pass, don't rush off. The nearby Youyu Nanshan Forest Park is ablaze with autumn colors; a drive around it is very pleasant. 🍜 There's a restaurant in Youyu County that serves mutton. Their salt-fried mutton with oat noodles is a perfect combination of carbohydrates and meat—enough to keep you warm all day. ⚠️ Amenities around Shahu Pass are basic. Bring your own water and snacks; don't expect everything to be available inside the scenic area. 4️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is located in the southeastern corner of Heilongjiang Province. Even during the National Day holiday, the air already felt like early winter. 📍Xingkai Lake is the main attraction. The lake is vast, almost like a sea, and the sandy beaches are soft and fine. Early October brings a cool but not biting breeze, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the lake. ⏰ In the morning, head to Hulin (Tiger Head) to see the ruins of the Hulin Fortress on the Ussuri River and enjoy the river view. Standing on the riverbank, you can see the opposite bank. Return to Xingkai Lake Town for lunch. 🍜 Order a pot of lake fish stew with tofu; the fish is firm, and the broth is milky white. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night at Xingkai Lake is significant. During the National Day holiday, it's only in the teens (Celsius) during the day, but drops to single digits after sunset. A thick jacket is essential. 🚄 It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Jixi city to Xingkai Lake. Hiring a car or driving yourself is recommended, as public transportation is infrequent. It's suitable for those who enjoy quiet water views and is family-friendly, with shallow beaches for children to wade in. 5️⃣ Ankang | Shaanxi Ankang is the "southern part" of Shaanxi, with the Han River flowing through the city. The weather was pleasantly mild during the National Day holiday, making you want to stay longer. 📍Qianceng River is located in Lan'gao County. The stream cascades down the canyon in layers, and the stones are covered in green moss, making walking through it feel like stepping into a natural air-conditioned room. ⏰ Visit Qianceng River in the morning, have lunch in Lan'gao County with steamed noodles and spicy konjac, and drive to Fengyan Ancient Terraces in the afternoon. The rice has just been harvested this season, leaving golden stubble on the ridges, which glow in the setting sun. ⚠️ The Qianceng River trails are slippery; wear non-slip shoes and avoid white sneakers. There are several viewing platforms at Fengyan Ancient Terraces; the uppermost one offers the most panoramic view, but the road is narrow, so beginners should be cautious. It's suitable for families with elderly members to explore at a leisurely pace. 6️⃣ Longnan | Gansu Longnan is an "anomaly" in Gansu, boasting mountains, rivers, and bamboo forests. A trip during the National Day holiday is a perfect escape from the dryness of Northwest China. 📍Guange Valley is located in Dangchang County. Waterfalls and lakes are strung together in the valley, and in autumn, the leaves begin to change color, a dazzling mix of green, yellow, and red. ⏰ Enter Guange Valley early in the morning, take the sightseeing bus to the innermost part, and then walk out – this saves energy. In the afternoon, visit Tianchi Lake in Wenxian County. Located on a mountaintop, the lake water is a deep, dark blue, and the surrounding forest is so quiet you can only hear birdsong. 🍜 The hand-pulled rice noodles and roujiamo (meat-filled buns) in Dangchang County are worth trying – cheap and filling. ⚠️ The mountain road to Tianchi Lake in Wenxian County is winding; drive slowly and be aware of motion sickness. Those prone to motion sickness should take medication beforehand. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Longnan Station to Guange Valley. Two days are recommended; one day is too rushed. Suitable for hikers and photographers; even seniors can easily walk the main boardwalk of Guange Valley. 7️⃣ Yingtan|Jiangxi I initially thought Longhu Mountain in Yingtan was one of those "whatever you're doing here" attractions, but I was proven wrong. 📍Longhu Mountain features Danxia landforms and the Luxi River. Take a bamboo raft ride; the mountains on both sides look as if they've been cleaved by a knife, and the water is so clear you can see the bottom. ⏰ In the morning, take a bamboo raft ride; the sunlight shines through the water, making the mountain shadows exceptionally clear. In the afternoon, watch the hanging coffin performance. ⏰ There are fixed shows, so check the times in advance to avoid missing it. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a local restaurant serving braised chicken with chestnuts; the chestnuts are soft and powdery, and the chicken is flavorful. ⚠️ The bamboo raft dock and sightseeing bus station are scattered; grab a map at the entrance beforehand, otherwise you might backtrack. During the National Day holiday, it gets very crowded; the bamboo raft queue can be at least an hour long, so going early is the best strategy. Suitable for the whole family, the rafting is not thrilling and suitable for children and the elderly. 8️⃣ Chongqing Chongqing is last because it's the most "heavy" of these eight. Crowds are expected in Chongqing during the National Day holiday, but any one of the four attractions—Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong Karst, and the Yangtze River Three Gorges—is enough to make for a fulfilling trip. 📍For Dazu Rock Carvings, it's recommended to go early in the morning. The cliff carvings in the Baoding Mountain area are so detailed they'll leave you speechless. ⏰ Hire a guide or rent an audio guide, otherwise you'll just be looking at rocks. 📍Jinyun Mountain is best climbed in the afternoon. It's not very high, the bamboo forest is cool, and the summit offers panoramic views of Beibei. 📍The Wulong Karst Three Natural Bridges and Longshuixia Gorge are best visited in one day. Wear comfortable shoes; the steps are numerous and challenging. 📍Taking a cruise from Chaotianmen to see the night view of the Yangtze River Three Gorges is the most convenient. The confluence of the two rivers is ablaze with lights. Tickets are in high demand during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 🍜 Chongqing has a lot of food, but don't just focus on hot pot. Chongqing noodles, tofu rice, and grilled pig brains are all worth trying. ⚠️ Hongyadong and Jiefangbei are packed during the National Day holiday. If you want to take photos, go to the Qianximen Bridge; the view is better and it's less crowded. These eight places are a mix of remote and crowded, but they all have one thing in common: after visiting them, you'll feel the travel expenses were worthwhile. If you haven't decided yet for National Day, pick one and go! How many have you been to? Let's chat in the comments.

8 cities to travel with kids in September without getting tired 1️⃣ Huzhou | Zhejiang Nanxun Ancient Town shows two very different faces at dawn and dusk. ⏰ Enter the scenic area before 8:00 AM. The riverside at Bai Jian Lou is almost empty and kids can run freely. After 10:00 AM tour groups flood in and you may have to queue even to take photos. If you bring kids to Nanxun, the aim isn't to see every sight. 📍 Enter from the south gate, walk along the river to the Zhang Shiming former residence, then turn back. The one-way distance is under 1 km, and strollers are totally fine. Stop by Guanghui Bridge to sit and watch the boats for a while—kids can stay calm for a long time. 🍜 For lunch, go outside the town to Zhuangyuan Lou and order a bowl of double-topped noodles, with crispy pork and fried fish served separately. Kids eat the noodles and adults eat the toppings, so no one gets shortchanged. The restaurants inside the scenic area are expensive and mediocre—avoid them. ⚠️ The old town's stone pavements are uneven, so use a stroller with large wheels. From 2:00–4:00 PM in September it's the sunniest and hottest; it's best to return to the hotel for a nap then. Bai Jian Lou looks ten times better after the lights come on at dusk, so don't rush off. 2️⃣ Jingzhou | Hubei Riding on the Jingzhou city wall with kids is seriously underrated. ⏰ Go up on the wall after 4:30 PM, when the sun is milder and the breeze from the moat is pleasant. A full loop takes about 40 minutes. 📍 Rent a parent‑child bike from Binyang Tower at the east gate. The deposit and rental together are under CNY 100. The child sits on the front crossbar while the adult pedals; the city wall road is smooth and it's much less hassle than hunting for parking in the city. September is also lantern season around Mid‑Autumn. There are lantern displays near the Guan Di Temple at night—it's not huge, but enough to excite kids. 🍜 After the lights, head to Zhang Juzheng Street for Jingzhou fish cake. It has a texture similar to luncheon meat but fresher; kids usually like it. ⚠️ Watch out for grass in the brick joints on the wall—don't ride too close to the edge. Parking inside the old city is tight, so park outside the east gate lot and walk in. The pace here is relaxed, good for groups with elders and kids. 3️⃣ Xiamen | Fujian Xiamen is the least stressful city to get around among these eight. 🚄 Take high‑speed rail to Xiamen station, then the subway to a hotel near Zhongshan Road—no car needed. Gulangyu is best in the morning. Book the 8:30 AM ferry three days in advance via official channels. Once on the island, avoid crowds on Longtou Road and head toward Bishan Road where it's quieter and more tree cover, and strollers can pass. Sunlight Rock has stairs—skip it if you have small kids. In the heat of the afternoon, go to the Railway Culture Park. 📍 This former railway trail is about 4 km long and well shaded, so strollers and scooters work fine. There's a small shop at the Hongshan tunnel entrance—grab an ice pop and rest. Put Nanputuo Temple and the botanical garden on the same day. The botanical garden's rainforest area sprays mist in the morning and kids love it. ⚠️ Nanputuo's vegetarian cakes have lines; have one person queue while another watches the kids by the release pond and the turtles. Xiamen is still hot in September—bring spare clothes and sunscreen. 4️⃣ Foshan | Guangdong Qinghui Garden is the most kid‑friendly among Lingnan gardens. ⏰ Go in at opening (9:00 AM) when it's quiet and the light is good. The garden is small—half an hour is enough to see it—but the koi pond and rockery can keep kids entertained for an hour. 📍 Right outside Qinghui Garden is Huagai Road pedestrian street. Order cold double‑skin milk from Minxin Old Shop—give each child their own bowl and there won't be fights. Ximei beef offal next door opens only in the afternoon, so don't go too early. Xiqiao Mountain is suitable for a full day. 🚄 It's about a 40‑minute drive from Foshan city center, or you can take the subway to Nanzhuang and transfer to a bus. There's a cable car up the mountain—don't try to tough out the hike with kids; the round‑trip cable car saves effort. ⏰ Go to Baiyun Cave in the afternoon to play in the water—water levels in September are still enough. Bring a change of clothes for the kids. ⚠️ Dining options on Xiqiao Mountain are limited and pricey, so bring bread and fruit. At the foot of the mountain, Qiaoyuan Mountain Villa serves farmhouse dishes; the tofu pudding and free‑range chicken are good. Expect about CNY 50 per person. 5️⃣ Guangyuan | Sichuan The golden rule for Jianmenguan with kids is: don't do the whole hike. 🚄 Take high‑speed rail to Jianmenguan station; a bus from the station goes directly to the scenic area's north gate. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups. 📍 Enter from the north gate, take the cable car up to Xiannü Corridor, then walk the plank road to the gate tower. This section is about 2 km with moderate steps—kids 6 and older can walk it by themselves. After checking in at the gate tower, return the same way and take the cable car down—the whole trip can be done in about 3 hours. ⚠️ Don't try to enter from the south gate and hike the full route—that's an extreme route and will break you when you have kids. The tofu banquet in the scenic area is overpriced; better eat back in Guangyuan city. 🍜 The NuHuang steamed cold noodles are worth a try—the noodles are made from rice sheets and have a sour‑spicy flavor; ask for a non‑spicy version for kids. In September Guangyuan is cool in the mornings and evenings and hot at noon—bring a light jacket for the kids. Weather at Jianmenguan changes quickly, so a disposable raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. 6️⃣ Beijing September is the most comfortable time of year in Beijing. Visiting the Forbidden City with kids, aim for tickets around 8:30 AM. Enter through the Meridian Gate, head straight to the three main halls, then walk to the eastern six palaces. The central axis is the most crowded; the sides are quieter. 📍 What kids like in the Palace Museum aren't the main halls but the Clock Gallery and the Treasure Gallery. The little moving automata clocks in the Clock Gallery can hold a child's attention for half an hour. ⚠️ These two galleries require separate tickets—book them in advance on the mini program. Choose either the Summer Palace or the Temple of Heaven. At the Summer Palace, enter via the North Gate and take a boat on Suzhou Street to the Seventeen‑Arch Bridge—kids enjoy the boat. At the Temple of Heaven, enter through the south gate; the Echo Wall and Circular Mound feel magical to children. Beihai Park is nice at dusk for boating and viewing the White Pagoda. 🚄 Beijing's subway is convenient, but morning and evening rush hours in September are crowded—avoid 7:30–9:00 AM when traveling with kids. Choose accommodation along subway lines outside the 2nd Ring Road for better value. 🍜 Huguosi snack shop's pea jelly (wandouhuang) and ludagun ("donkey roll") are usually kid‑friendly. 7️⃣ Qiandongnan | Guizhou The viewing platform's night view at Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is a highlight, but don't stay up on the mountain with kids. 📍 Stay at a guesthouse near the village entrance so strollers are convenient and you don't have to carry luggage up steps. ⏰ Take the shuttle up to the viewing platform at 6:00 PM and come down after the lights go on—you don't need to wait until it's fully dark. Zhaoxing Dong Village is much quieter than Xijiang. The drum towers and flower bridges are good for slow walks and kids can play by the river. 🍜 For the Dong village sour soup fish, choose Jiangtuan fish—it has fewer bones. Street sticky rice wrapped with roasted meat costs about CNY 5 each and makes a perfect snack for kids. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is worth an overnight stay. The Wuyang River runs through the town—an evening riverside stroll is very pleasant. ⚠️ Boat tours in the ancient town are split into two sections—choose the short one as the longer section repeats the scenery. Xianghuo Rock is a canyon locals visit—water levels are sufficient in September. 🚄 It's about a 1‑hour drive from Zhenyuan, and the trails suit slightly older kids. Qiandongnan's overall pace is slow, ideal for families who aren't rushing their itinerary. 8️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is the least visited of these eight cities, but September is a good time to go. Xingkai Lake is so vast it feels like a sea—it's about a 1.5‑hour drive from Jixi city center to the lakeshore. ⏰ Arrive around 3:00 PM for soft light; the lakeside beach lets kids play the whole afternoon. Hutou is a town on the Ussuri River with fortress ruins and a riverside park. Bring binoculars to show kids the Russian village across the river. 🍜 Hutou's river fish stewed with tofu is tender—the kids can eat a bowl of rice soaked in the soup. ⚠️ Accommodation options around Xingkai Lake are limited—stay in Jixi city. In September Jixi has large temperature swings: around 20°C at noon and only a few degrees in the mornings and evenings. No need for a down jacket, but bring a warm coat. Transport in Jixi is mainly self‑drive with few public options. If you don't drive, hire a car for about CNY 300 per day. Few people, big scenery, and low costs make it great for families wanting to avoid crowds. Of these eight cities, if I could pick only one to take kids to, I'd choose Huzhou. September is just right—not too hot or cold—and Nanxun's slow pace suits both adults and children. Where are you planning to take the kids in September? Chat in the comments and I'll help check whether your route makes sense.

Traveling with parents, the biggest fear is an overpacked itinerary. They say "anything is fine," but start looking for a chair after two steps. I've screened these 8 places based on less climbing, fewer transfers, and plenty of places to sit. It's crowded everywhere during the National Day holiday, but choosing the right base and timing makes a huge difference. 1️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou Town is best visited in the morning. Taking the highway from downtown Jixi is smooth, so your parents won't get jostled. 📍 There's a flat boardwalk next to the Hutou Visitor Center, so you can see the Wusuli River without climbing stairs. I recommend staying by Xingkai Lake for one night. ⚠️ Don't try to do a round trip in one day; the drive is too long for seniors. Choose a low-floor room to avoid waiting for elevators. 🍜 Have river fish for lunch in Hutou Town; it's stewed soft, so it's easy to chew. Ask about prices before ordering; items sold by weight can easily exceed your budget. ⏰ Sit by the Xingkai Lake beach in the evening, but head back inside if it gets windy. It's cool by the lake morning and evening during the holiday, so bring a light down jacket for your parents. Admission and opening status are subject to official daily announcements. 2️⃣ Dalian | Liaoning Choose either Golden Pebble Beach or Laohutan; don't try to do both. I recommend Golden Pebble Beach for parents. 📍 The Golden Coast is flat, and you can rent a parasol to sit for the afternoon. Laohutan Ocean Park has many shows, but the venues are far apart, which can tire seniors out. Xinghai Square is best in the evening. ⏰ The light is soft after 5:00 PM. The square is large but has plenty of benches, so you can walk and rest in intervals. Wheelchair rentals are available near the square if needed. Tangli Lake Park is less crowded and great for a morning stroll. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown; public transport requires transfers, so it's not recommended. Stay in the Zhongshan District or near Xinghai for convenient dining. 🍜 Try the menzi and seaweed buns; they're soft. ⚠️ Check prices at seaside food stalls before ordering, and don't make your parents stand in line. 3️⃣ Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia You don't need to pick specific spots in the grasslands; the road itself is the scenery. I recommend hiring a car instead of driving yourself. The driver knows the route and can stop whenever you want, so your parents don't have to watch the GPS. ⏰ Leave before 9:00 AM for good light and before the dew on the grass dries. 📍 There's a boardwalk at the Morigele River viewing platform, so you can get photos of the winding river after just a short walk. Stay in downtown Hailar, not in a grassland yurt. ⚠️ It's cold at night, and the restrooms are far away, which is inconvenient for seniors. Hotels in the city have reliable hot water and are more comfortable. 🍜 Order a small portion of hand-grabbed meat and ask the restaurant to stew it until tender. The milk tea is salty, so check if your parents like it first. The grasslands are already yellow during the National Day holiday, so you're going for the vastness, not the green grass. Admission and opening status are subject to official daily announcements. 4️⃣ Nanping | Fujian When I took my parents to Wuyi Mountain, we did the bamboo raft and flat paths. ⏰ Choose the first bamboo raft ride of the morning; it's not as hot, and the water is calm. 📍 Once you board at the Jiuqu Stream pier, you're seated the whole time without needing to walk, which is the part seniors like best. Don't climb Tianyou Peak. ⚠️ The steps are steep, and queuing up and down during the National Day holiday is even worse. Just walk around Wuyi Palace at the foot of the mountain to see the old buildings. Stay in the resort area, close to the pier. 🍜 The Langu smoked goose is a bit salty, so ask the restaurant to use less salt. Eat the light biscuits while they're hot, and give the softer side to your parents. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Wuyishan North Station to the resort area. Bamboo raft tickets are in high demand during the holiday, so book in advance. Admission and opening status are subject to official daily announcements. 5️⃣ Yanbian | Jilin Liuding Mountain is great for a leisurely stroll. 📍 There's a shuttle bus from the scenic area entrance to the Golden Buddha; just take it with your parents—don't try to save the money. There are too many stairs to walk up, and it's hard on the knees. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's less crowded and the light is better. It's windy at the summit, so bring a scarf for your mom. 🍜 Head down to downtown Dunhua for cold noodles; they're sweet and sour, which is appetizing. I don't recommend taking parents to dog meat restaurants, as not everyone is comfortable with that. Stay near Dunhua Station for easy transfers. ⚠️ The shuttle bus lines are long during the National Day holiday, so go early. Admission and opening status are subject to official daily announcements. 6️⃣ Yili | Xinjiang The Yili River Valley is perfect for a slow-paced trip with a hired car. Choose either Kalajun or Gongnais Grassland. I recommend Gongnais for parents because the roads are flat, and the car can drive close to the viewing spots. There are no flowers at Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley during the National Day holiday. ⚠️ Don't be fooled by photos online; they only bloom in spring. You're just looking at valleys this time of year, so it's fine if you're passing by, but don't make a special trip. ⏰ Take a walk by the Yili River in the evening; the locals do it too, and the atmosphere is relaxed. 📍 Yining's Six-Star Street is a great place to sit and have a bowl of yogurt; the streets are flat and wheelchair-accessible. Stay in downtown Yining; don't change hotels every day. 🍜 Ask the restaurant to heat the pilaf and baked buns thoroughly. There's a large temperature difference between morning and evening during the holiday, so keep a jacket with you. Admission and opening status are subject to official daily announcements. 7️⃣ Xuzhou | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake is my top choice for an effortless trip with parents. 📍 The path around the lake is completely flat. Rent a four-person bike; your parents can sit while you pedal. It takes over an hour to circle the lake, and you don't have to rush. ⏰ It's best to go in the evening; the sunset hits the lake, and you won't need filters for your photos. ⚠️ Don't go at noon; there's little shade, and it's too hot. 🍜 There's braised pork and rice noodles by the lake; they're soft and flavorful. The pancakes for the pot chicken are a bit hard, so order less if they have trouble chewing. Stay near Yunlong Lake so you can take another stroll in the morning. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Xuzhou East Station. The lake is crowded during the holiday, so rent and return the bike early. Admission and opening status are subject to official daily announcements. 8️⃣ Wuhu | Anhui When taking parents to Fantawild Adventure, choosing the right park is important. ⚠️ Don't go to the park with many thrill rides; seniors will just end up sitting and waiting. Choose the park with more performances and indoor attractions; there are many shows, and you can go inside to enjoy the AC when you get tired of walking. ⏰ Watch a big show in the morning to secure your seats, then explore slowly in the afternoon. 📍 Wheelchair rentals are available in the park; ask on the right side after entering. 🍜 Food in the park is expensive, so you can bring some soft bread and water. Go to the city for shrimp roe noodles after leaving; the thin noodles are easy to chew. Stay in the Jinghu District and take a walk in Binjiang Park at night. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Wuhu Station to Fantawild. Queues are long during the holiday, so check your budget for fast-track passes. Ticket prices and opening requirements are subject to official daily announcements. Of these 8 places, Xuzhou's Yunlong Lake is the easiest on the legs, and Yili in the evening is the most photogenic. When traveling with parents, planning two spots a day is enough. Which one are you planning to visit first for the National Day holiday?

Taking parents out for National Day, what are the worst things? Rushing between sights, standing in line, and having to look for a seat every few steps. I picked these 5️⃣ places: slow pace, easy walking, spots where you can sit and enjoy the view. Tried and tested—worry free. 1️⃣ Hohhot | Inner Mongolia If you bring your parents to Hohhot, don’t rush the sights at first—let them adjust to the open air and bright sun. ⏰ Arrive at Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Scenic Area before 9:00 AM. The light hits the canyon walls at an angle, the boardwalk is gentle, and you can walk a bit then rest without getting tired. 📍 There are several viewing platforms in Laoniuwan. The innermost platform, where you can see the big bend of the Yellow River, is half as crowded as the entrance. If your parents have weak knees, take the park’s electric shuttle to the main section and walk from there to save effort. In the afternoon, head to the Cilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area. The grasslands are wide and windier than the city—bring a light jacket for your parents. 🍜 For dinner back in town, eat shaomai sold by tael—8 pieces per tael—served with brick tea to cut the oiliness. About CNY 30–40 per person is comfortable. ⚠️ Ask the price before riding horses on the grassland to avoid last‑minute surcharges. During National Day the temperature can swing by more than 10°C between morning and night, so a jacket is not just for show. 2️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is good for families who want to avoid crowds. 🚄 Take a high‑speed train from Harbin for a little over 2 hours, then taxi toward Xingkai Lake; you’ll see large wetlands along the way. ⏰ Schedule Xingkai Lake for the morning when the surface is calm. There are benches by the viewing platform, so your parents can sit and watch waterbirds for a whole morning. The lakeside wind is strong—bring hats and scarves and don’t tough it out. In the afternoon go to Hutou; the riverside promenade is well paved and wheelchair friendly. 📍 The section by Riverside Square has the widest views, and the opposite shore looks almost foreign—no need to squeeze for photos. 🍜 Try the local cold‑water fish stew—the broth is fresh. Ask whether it’s priced by the jin (Chinese half kilo) or by portion before ordering. ⚠️ Mosquitoes at the lake can still be active during National Day—bring repellent. This stop is overall low cost, suitable for budget‑conscious families. 3️⃣ Lianyungang | Jiangsu Lianyungang is a hidden gem in my book—mountains and sea, with a slow pace. ⏰ Go to Huaguo Mountain early. Take the scenic shuttle to mid‑mountain and walk a bit further; parents with average fitness can still reach the Water Curtain Cave area. 📍 The path toward Yunu Peak has many steps—if knees are bad, don’t force it. Watching the sea of clouds from a mid‑mountain platform is more worthwhile. There are many monkeys on the mountain—don’t carry plastic bags in your hands, they’ll snatch them. In the afternoon visit Liandao Island. The seaside boardwalk is flat—take a slow walk in the sea breeze. 🍜 Eat seafood near Liandao; ask prices before ordering. Mantis shrimp and clams are safest to order by portion. ⚠️ UV levels at the coast can still be high during National Day—don’t skimp on hats and sunscreen. 🚄 There are direct buses from the city to Liandao, and taxis cost only a few dozen yuan—no need to charter a car. 4️⃣ Zibo | Shandong Zibo is more than barbecue—bring your parents to Zhoucun Ancient Commercial Town. ⏰ Go in before 10:00 AM when the streets are less crowded. The bluestone streets are even, and the old shops open early so you can wander in peace. 📍 The sesame pancake shops midstreet make them fresh to order—thin, crisp, and savory. Buy two to eat while you walk. If your parents like old architecture, slowly look at the door headers and plaques—you can spend a whole morning. 🍜 Have Boshan cuisine for lunch inside the ancient town. Tofu box and suguo (crispy pot) are local dishes—salty and savory, perfect with rice. ⚠️ Some handicrafts in the ancient town are overpriced—bargain if you like them, don’t impulse buy. In the afternoon head back to the city and sit in a park—Zibo has plenty of public green space and benches. This stop is for fully slowing down—don’t pack the schedule. 5️⃣ Yulin | Shaanxi Yulin’s attractions are spread out, but each is worth lingering over. ⏰ Schedule Wave Valley in the morning. When the sun hits at an angle the red rock patterns show up best. The boardwalk loop takes a little over an hour and is gently sloped. 📍 The Yellow River bend near Jia County has many curves—if you drive, make sure your parents are seated comfortably. The viewing platforms have convenient parking and the bend of the Yellow River is breathtaking. In the afternoon go to Hongshixia Gorge—the canyon is cool, with many stone carvings that are interesting to read slowly. 🍜 In Yulin city try lamb noodles—the broth is rich and the noodles have good bite; a bowl warms you up. ⚠️ Some parts of Wave Valley have weak signal—download offline maps in advance so your parents don’t get separated. This stop suits families who like natural scenery. Walking isn’t excessive, but keep up sunscreen and hydration. 6️⃣ Golog | Qinghai Golog is high altitude—check your parents’ health before bringing them. ⏰ Arrange the Yellow River’s first bend in the morning when the light is best. The viewing platform has a boardwalk—go slowly and don’t rush. 📍 The first bend’s viewing platform offers wide vistas; the Yellow River here makes a gentle arc. It’s windy, so bring a thick jacket. If your parents get short of breath, rest more often and don’t push. 🍜 Try yak yogurt and tsampa locally. The flavors are sour—order a small amount first. ⚠️ On the first day at high altitude avoid bathing and strenuous activity; start taking rhodiola a few days in advance if advised. The scenery here is unbeatable, but the pace must be the slowest. Best for parents in good health who want a different view. 7️⃣ Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang follows a cultural and ancient architecture route. ⏰ Go to Xibaipo in the morning and take your time through the exhibits—indoors and out of the sun, it’s good for parents. 📍 The square outside the museum is wide—walking and resting are comfortable. In the afternoon visit Zhaozhou Bridge. The bridge deck is flat and wheelchair accessible. Standing on the bridge and looking at the thousand‑year stone arch, parents will likely be moved. 🍜 In Zhaoxian county try donkey meat bing—crispy outside, tender inside—pair it with a bowl of millet porridge. ⚠️ Some Xibaipo exhibits are closed on Mondays—check official notices before you go. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Shijiazhuang to Zhaozhou Bridge; a taxi takes about an hour, and half a day is enough. This stop is rich in culture, with light walking—good for parents who like history without too much fatigue. 8️⃣ Fuzhou | Fujian Finish in Fuzhou for the most relaxed pace. ⏰ In the morning stroll Sanfang Qixiang. The alleys are flat and lined with old houses—parents can walk and look, and rest in a teahouse when tired. 📍 Midway down Nanhou Street there’s a long‑established fish ball shop—the fish balls are freshly cooked, springy, and the broth is clear. 🍜 Rouyan and guobianhu are also worth trying—the flavors are light and suitable for elders. In the afternoon find a stone bench under a big banyan tree in the alleys and watch people pass by. ⚠️ Sanfang Qixiang gets crowded during National Day—mornings are quieter than afternoons, so avoid the evening rush. This stop has convenient transport and many dining and lodging options—a perfect way to end the trip. Of these 5️⃣ places I most recommend Hohhot and Fuzhou—one vast and one mellow, both easy for parents to get around. Where are you planning to take your parents for National Day? Share in the comments.

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

Want to travel during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day but afraid of crowds and breaking the bank? I've selected 8 low-cost small cities that are less crowded, offer authentic scenery, and have manageable expenses. A quick note: ticket prices and opening rules mentioned below are subject to official announcements on the day of your visit. 1️⃣ Jiaozuo | Henan Red Stone Gorge at Yuntai Mountain is truly beautiful, but visiting during National Day means you'll just be looking at the back of people's heads. My advice is to arrive at the ticket gate before 6:30 AM and enter Red Stone Gorge at 7:00 AM. It's less crowded, the water is clear, and you won't have to queue for photos. The admission ticket plus the sightseeing bus is a fixed cost; students and seniors get discounts, so remember to bring your ID. Qingtian River is better for the second day. Taking a boat into the canyon, with the cliffs closing in on both sides, the breeze is cool. ⚠️ Boat tickets and admission tickets are calculated separately. Don't get tricked by "package tickets" at the entrance; buy what you need. Shennong Mountain is for those with good stamina; the round trip to Baisong Ridge takes four to five hours, so skip it if you have bad knees. Staying in downtown Jiaozuo is half the price of staying at the scenic area entrance. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jiaozuo Station, then take a bus or taxi to Yuntai Mountain, which takes about an hour. There are many snacks around Minzhu Road in the city center; you can get full on spicy soup and fried pancakes for CNY 10. Suitable for students and budget-conscious couples; you can manage a three-day trip for CNY 500 per person. 2️⃣ Chizhou | Anhui Jiuhua Mountain is a sacred site for Ksitigarbha, and it's popular for incense offerings, but accommodation prices double during National Day, so you must book in advance. ⏰ I suggest going up the mountain in the afternoon and staying for one night, then heading to Tiantai early the next morning to watch the sunrise. It's much more comfortable than squeezing onto the cable car during the day. The cable car queue starts at an hour; if you have the stamina, just walk up—it takes two hours to reach the top. Homestays around Kecun at the foot of the mountain are cheaper than those on the mountain, costing just over CNY 100 a night. 🍜 The vegetarian meals are worth trying; they cost CNY 20 per serving and are light yet filling. Admission prices are high during peak season, but teachers, seniors, and students get discounts—don't forget your ID. There are direct shuttle buses from Chizhou Station to Jiuhua Mountain, taking about an hour. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are high, so buy water and dry food in town before heading up. Suitable for solo travelers and couples who want peace and quiet and can handle hiking. A two-day trip costs about CNY 400 per person. 3️⃣ Garzê | Sichuan This route is suitable for self-driving or chartered cars; public transport is very troublesome. Xinduqiao is a photographer's paradise. ⏰ In mid-to-late October, the poplar trees turn yellow, and the light is softest before 8:00 AM. The water in Mugecuo Lake is fake-blue, but the altitude is high, so don't run or jump—walk slowly. Daocheng Yading is the main event. The admission ticket plus the sightseeing bus is not cheap, and you also need to ride a horse or hike. ⚠️ The entire Milk Sea area is over 4,500 meters above sea level, so those with severe altitude sickness should not push themselves. Hailuogou Glacier is closer and suitable for those traveling with seniors; taking the cable car saves energy. Choose Kangding or Xinduqiao for accommodation as a transit point; it's cheaper than inside the scenic area. 🚄 Depart from Chengdu via the Yakang Expressway; it takes about six hours to drive to Kangding. Suitable for those who have a car, have time, and are physically fit. A five-day trip costs CNY 1,500 per person, which is high for budget travel, but it's worth it. 4️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang This place is so off the beaten path that even locals rarely mention it. Hutou is a border town by the Wusuli River. ⏰ Go watch the sunset over the river in the evening; the opposite bank is Russia, and it's quiet enough to hear the water. Xingkai Lake is as big as the sea, and the beach is free. You can play in the water in summer and watch the reeds in autumn. Accommodation in downtown Jixi is cheap; you can stay in a clean standard room for CNY 100. 🍜 Cold noodles and barbecue are local specialties; you can eat very well for CNY 30 a meal. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Jixi Station to Xingkai Lake, or CNY 200 to charter a car for the day. ⚠️ It's already cold in Northeast China in October, so bring a thick jacket. Suitable for those who want to avoid crowds and like border scenery. A two-day trip costs CNY 300 per person, offering great value. 5️⃣ Jinzhong | Shanxi Just choose between the Qiao Family Compound and the Wang Family Compound; I recommend the Wang Family Compound as it's larger and the brick carvings are more detailed. ⚠️ Visiting both will cause aesthetic fatigue and cost more money. Entering the Pingyao Ancient City is free, but the all-inclusive attraction ticket is not cheap, so buy as needed. Jiexiu Mianshan is suitable for those who like hiking and ancient architecture. ⏰ Go in the morning, as the light is blocked by the mountains in the afternoon. Staying outside the ancient city in Pingyao is cheaper than inside, starting from CNY 80 a night. 🍜 Wantuo and Kaolaolao are local dishes, costing CNY 10 per serving. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Pingyao Ancient City Station, then walk into the city. There are many shuttle buses from Taiyuan to various points in Jinzhong. Suitable for students and history buffs. A three-day trip costs CNY 450 per person. 6️⃣ Wuzhong | Ningxia The Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon is the core attraction. ⏰ Go in the morning and take a boat to see the canyon; the Yellow River water is clear here. The 108 Pagodas are worth climbing, but there are many steps, so seniors should assess their physical condition. The admission ticket plus the boat ticket is just over CNY 100, with half-price for students. Staying in downtown Wuzhong costs about CNY 100 a night. 🍜 Hand-grabbed mutton and sheep offal soup are the signature dishes, costing CNY 40 a meal. 🚄 The high-speed train from Yinchuan to Wuzhong takes 20 minutes, and it takes about half an hour by taxi to the scenic area. ⚠️ The sun is strong in Ningxia, so don't skimp on sunscreen. Suitable for those who want to see the clear Yellow River and eat mutton. A two-day trip costs CNY 350 per person. 7️⃣ Changde | Hunan The Peach Blossom Spring Tourist Area is the one written about by Tao Yuanming. ⏰ It's most beautiful when peach blossoms bloom in spring; visiting during National Day means seeing greenery. The scenic area is large, so taking the sightseeing bus saves energy, though walking is also fine; you can finish touring in three hours. The admission ticket is not expensive, and students get discounts. Stay near the River Street in downtown Changde; it's convenient for visiting the night market in the evening. 🍜 Changde rice noodles are the soul of breakfast, costing CNY 8 a bowl, plus a tiger-skin egg. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Changde Station to Peach Blossom Spring. ⚠️ Dining inside the scenic area is expensive, so eat outside. Suitable for those traveling with seniors and children who want a slow-paced tour. A two-day trip costs CNY 300 per person. 8️⃣ Shaoxing | Zhejiang Lu Xun's Former Residence and Shen Garden are next to each other. ⏰ Go before 8:00 AM to avoid the crowds. The Sanwei Study and Hundred Grass Garden are free but require a reservation. Lanting is in the suburbs; calligraphy enthusiasts shouldn't miss it, and the admission ticket is a few dozen yuan. Anchang Ancient Town is quieter than Wuzhen, with sausages and soy sauce ducks hanging all over the corridor sheds. 🍜 Have a bowl of Anchang sausage noodles for CNY 15. 🚄 It costs about CNY 20 by taxi from Shaoxing North Station to Lu Xun's Former Residence. Staying near Cangqiao Straight Street is convenient for getting around. ⚠️ You can try the yellow rice wine milk tea, but don't buy the expensive gift boxes. Suitable for literary youth and couples. A two-day trip costs CNY 400 per person. Of these 8 places, Jiaozuo and Chizhou are suitable for hiking and sightseeing, Garzê and Jixi are suitable for avoiding crowds, Jinzhong and Wuzhong are suitable for eating and strolling, and Changde and Shaoxing are suitable for a slow-paced trip. Which one do you want to visit first? Let's chat in the comments section.

September is the most comfortable travel window of the year. Summer crowds have thinned and the National Day rush hasn’t arrived yet. Airfare and hotels are on sale, and attractions have shorter lines. Pick one of these 8 places — traveling off-peak is just right. 01 Enshi | Hubei First, the conclusion: pick either Enshi Grand Canyon or Qingjiang for an in-depth visit — don’t try to do both, or your legs will be shot. ⏰ Enter the canyon at 7:30 AM for the shortest cable car lines. Walking the cliffside walkway takes about 3 hours. The midsection’s “one-incense” viewpoint is a must for photos, but don’t squeeze on the viewing platform — walk another 50 meters and the crowd will be half as big. 📍 In the afternoon, head to Qingjiang and take a boat to see Butterfly Cliff. The water is calm, making it suitable for older travelers. Shennong Stream’s boatmen culture area is more about local stories — go if you like that; skip it if you just want scenery. 🍜 Back in town at night, try he zha and cured pork around the Wuyangba area. Two hours is enough to wander Tusi City and appreciate the architecture — don’t buy the silver jewelry sold at the entrance. ⚠️ The canyon has many steps; bring knee braces if your knees are weak. Walkways get slippery when wet, so wear shoes with good grip. Buy tickets online a day in advance to avoid wasting time in line. 02 Tai'an | Shandong Night climbing Mount Tai isn’t for everyone. ⏰ To save effort, take the cable car to Zhongtianmen at 3 PM, then walk the 18-passage route. If you want to see sunrise, start from Hongmen at 10 PM and arrive at Nantianmen before dawn; rent a military coat to stay warm while you wait. In September, nights at the summit are around 10°C, so a lightweight hard shell jacket is cleaner than a rented coat. 📍 Descend via the Tianzhufeng route for fewer people and wilder scenery, but the signs are sparse so go with a companion. The Hongmen route has many steps; elderly visitors should use the cable car both ways. 🍜 Near the old county office at the mountain base there’s a congee soup shop that only serves until 10 AM. Have a bowl with a fried dough stick after your climb — your stomach will thank you. ⚠️ Instant noodles at the summit cost CNY 15 and bottled water CNY 10, so bring two bottles from below. On holidays, cable car lines start at 2 hours; traveling in September can save you half that time. 03 Suqian | Jiangsu Hongze Lake wetlands are perfect for travelers who don’t want to rush. ⏰ Enter the park before 9 AM to catch the reeds still misty and the most birds. Take the 40-minute boat through the reed maze — the breeze is pleasant. Lotus season lasts into mid-September, so hurry if you want to see blooms. 📍 The birdwatching platform is deep in the park — bring binoculars. Families can rent tandem bikes and cycle the lakeside loop in about 1 hour. 🍜 After the park, go to Sihong county for small fried fish potstickers — lake seafood is fresh and reasonably priced. Avoid eating at the park entrance; it’s expensive and average. ⚠️ The wetlands have many mosquitoes — wear long pants and bring insect repellent. After 4 PM the light is slanted and great for photos, but return boat times are limited — check the last boat. 04 Guoluo | Qinghai The first bend of the Yellow River is perfect in September. The grass hasn’t fully yellowed, and crowds are already smaller. ⏰ Arrive at the viewpoint around 4 PM and wait for sunset. The river makes a big bend here and the water reflects like a sheet of copper. It’s windy — secure your hat. 📍 It’s about a 2-hour drive from Maqin county; road conditions are average, so hiring a car is recommended. At 3,600 m altitude, don’t overexert yourself the first day — take it slow. 🍜 In town, try Tibetan food. Sample a little tsampa and butter tea first. Yak yogurt is very sour — add sugar if needed. ⚠️ Altitude sickness varies by person — start taking rhodiola a week early if you use it. Nights in September approach freezing, so bring a down jacket. Signal is spotty; download offline maps beforehand. 05 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Old Niu Bay and Cilechuan grassland make a perfect day trip combo. ⏰ Visit Old Niu Bay in the morning where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. Take a boat through the gorge — the water is green, unlike the Yellow River you may imagine. It takes about 20 minutes to walk down the plank road to the riverbank. 📍 In the afternoon, head to the Cilechuan grassland. The grass is still green in September. Horse rides cost about CNY 50 per lap — negotiate first. Evening light is soft and ideal for portraits. 🍜 Back in the city, try shaomai sold by the liang — one liang equals 8 pieces. Pair it with brick tea to cut the richness. The Kuangxiangzi area has many longtime shops. ⚠️ The grassland has big temperature swings between day and night — T-shirts at noon, a jacket at night. Parts of Old Niu Bay are under repair; check road conditions before you go. Don’t wear slippers for horse riding. 06 Wenzhou | Zhejiang Mount Yandang plus the hometown of Liu Bowen — one scenic, one cultural — two days well spent. ⏰ On Yandang Mountain, start with Lingfeng. See the daytime view, then return at 7 PM for the night scene — it’s the same mountain with two personalities. Dalongqiu still has decent water flow in September and is more impressive after rain. 📍 On day two, go to Wencheng. Liu Bowen’s hometown is in the hills, with well-preserved temples and archways. Families can tell kids the history for a more vivid lesson than textbooks. 🍜 At the foot of Yandang eat seafood noodles — generous toppings. In Wencheng try pulled noodles made in a lighter local style. ⚠️ Book a guide for the Lingfeng night scene, or you’ll miss the meanings behind the pictorial rocks. Yandang’s attractions are spread out — self-driving or hiring a car is convenient, buses can be slow. 07 Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia has good water flow in September and the waterfalls are at their best. ⏰ Start at Foguangyan in the morning — the circular Danxia cliffs with waterfalls take about 2 hours to loop. In the afternoon visit Sidonggou where four-level waterfalls connect; the path is gentle and suitable for kids. 📍 Chishui Great Waterfall has a big drop — you’ll get misted if you stand close, so bring a waterproof pouch for your phone. The bamboo sea is on a different route and can be skipped if you’re short on time. 🍜 In Chishui city try bamboo-shoot dishes and cured pork; tofu pudding and grilled fish are also worth trying. Restaurants cluster around Binjiang Road. ⚠️ Distances between attractions are large — driving yourself is most convenient. Steps get slippery after rain — wear shoes with good grip. Tickets are sold by attraction, so plan which sites you want to visit. 08 Jixi | Heilongjiang Hutou and Xingkai Lake — an underrated pick for northeastern autumn. ⏰ Visit Hutou in the morning, the start of the Ussuri River — the river looks boundless. By late September the forests start changing color, with yellow and red intermingled. 📍 In the afternoon go to Xingkai Lake — it feels like the sea, with fine sand beaches. Watch the sunset from the viewing platform; it’s windy, so wear a jacket. Lakeside stalls sell freshly grilled fish. 🍜 In Jixi’s city center try cold noodles and spicy sides — the cold noodles are sweet and sour and pair well with spicy pickles. ⚠️ Xingkai Lake is far from the city — drive or hire a car. By late September temperatures can be single digits in the morning and evening — don’t skip thermal leggings. Mosquitoes are active at dusk by the lake, so bring repellent. These 8 places have fewer people and lower prices in September. Pick 2–3 that form a route and it will be more relaxing than rushing around. Which one do you most want to visit? Share in the comments.

Looking to save money during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays? Here are 8️⃣ budget-friendly destinations I've personally tested and proven. 01 Luoyang | Henan If you're going to Luoyang for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, I advise you not to just focus on the Longmen Grottoes. While the entrance fee is there, the real savings lie in the timing and order of your visit. ⏰ Arrive at the Longmen Grottoes before 7:30 AM. The West Hill Grottoes are less crowded and have softer lighting. After visiting the East Hill, take the shuttle bus back, saving you the energy of walking back and forth. Ticket prices and reservation rules are subject to official announcements on the day of your visit; don't trust unlicensed guides offering "skip-the-line" services. 📍 Guanlin is best visited in the afternoon. Sitting and relaxing under the ancient cypress trees for half an hour is free. Wangcheng Park has a chrysanthemum exhibition in autumn; it's mostly locals strolling around, so a quick walk is a good way to relax. I recommend choosing between Laojun Mountain and Jiguan Cave. Seeing the sea of ​​clouds at Laojun Mountain is a matter of luck, and the cable car plus entrance fee isn't cheap. Jiguan Cave is a karst cave, accessible even in the rain; choose it if you're on a tight budget. 🍜 For food, the soup shops at the Old Town Cross Street are the most affordable in the morning; a bowl of beef soup with flatbread costs just over ten yuan. Avoid crowded accommodations near the scenic area entrance; staying along the subway line can save you half the price. ⚠️ During holidays, the cable car queue at Laojun Mountain can be as long as two hours; be cautious if you're traveling with elderly people or children. 02 Baiyin|Gansu If you're tired of the crowds at popular tourist attractions, the Yellow River Stone Forest in Baiyin is worth serious consideration. It's less crowded, has a wilder landscape, and is more affordable—the kind of place where "not following the crowds can actually be a bargain." 📍 The Stone Forest is located in Jingtai County, a drive from downtown Baiyin. Driving or carpooling is recommended; public transportation is infrequent, and taking a taxi can easily exceed your budget. ⏰ Enter the valley after 4 PM when the light shines obliquely on the stone pillars, creating the best photo opportunities. There are donkey carts and sheepskin rafts available in the scenic area; if you want to save money, you can hike the main valley and back, which takes about two hours. 🍜 Eat at a farmhouse outside the scenic area. A bowl of noodles with two side dishes costs around 20 RMB per person. Don't eat at the first place at the entrance; walk about 200 meters in for a more reasonable price. ⚠️ It's windy, so bring a hat and scarf. Book accommodation in advance during peak season; finding a room on-site can lead to inflated prices. 03 Huzhou|Zhejiang Nanxun Ancient Town is one of the few "quiet" options among the ancient towns of Jiangnan. If you want to avoid crowds during Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day but still enjoy the water town experience, it's safer than Zhouzhuang or Wuzhen. ⏰ Enter the ancient town before 8 AM. The free-admission area is enough to explore; buy a combined ticket for the core attractions as needed. Don't buy a full-price ticket as soon as you enter; visit Baijianlou first. 📍 The riverside section of Baijianlou is the most pleasant, with white walls and black tiles reflected in the water, making it easy to take photos without having to fight for a good spot. Zhang Shiming's former residence and Jiayetang Library are worth visiting; you can skip the other smaller shops. 🍜 Shuangjiao noodles are a local specialty, costing around ten yuan a bowl. Dingsheng cake is best eaten hot, as it hardens when cold. A leisurely afternoon at a riverside teahouse costs only twenty or thirty yuan. ⚠️ During holidays, tour groups flock here after noon. For a quieter experience, stay overnight; Nanxun is truly beautiful in the early morning and evening. 04 Panjin|Liaoning The Red Beach is seasonal, reaching its peak redness during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays. However, let me clarify: the main expense here isn't the entrance fee, but transportation. 📍 The Red Beach scenic corridor is long, with shuttle buses connecting the attractions. If you're not driving, public transportation from Panjin city is limited, making carpooling more practical. ⏰ The light is best between 9 and 11 am, revealing the vibrant red of the Suaeda salsa. Afternoon backlighting results in darker photos. The viewing platform is crowded, but it becomes less crowded further in. 🍜 Panjin river crabs are the main attraction, but they are expensive within the scenic area. Buy from the city market and have it steamed at a processing shop; you can save half the price per person. Rice with crab roe is worth it. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes; they'll be ruined in the muddy mudflats. It's windy, so bring a jacket. 05 Quanzhou|Fujian Quanzhou is my go-to place for "low-cost, high-satisfaction." It has a high density of attractions, cheap snacks, and convenient public transportation; you won't feel ripped off even during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays. 📍 Kaiyuan Temple is quietest in the morning. Sit for a while under the East and West Pagodas and listen to the pigeons and the bell. Climb Qingyuan Mountain in the afternoon, visit Lao Jun Rock, and then head down; don't force yourself to do the whole climb. Quanzhou's cliff carvings are scattered throughout the mountains; if you like calligraphy, take your time to find them. Visit Chongwu Ancient City to see the sea, take a walk around the city wall; it's windy but comfortable in the evening. 🍜 Rice noodle soup with fried dough sticks for breakfast—it'll cost around ten yuan. Order ginger duck and sea worm jelly according to your own comfort level; don't force yourself. The shops on West Street are more affordable than those near the scenic area entrance. 🚄 Between attractions in the city center, public transport and walking are sufficient; taking a taxi can lead to traffic jams. Staying near West Street means you'll have plenty of restaurants right outside your door. ⚠️ Kaiyuan Temple has limited opening hours; check the daily announcement before you go. 06 Chongqing Chongqing is budget-friendly, but only if you don't follow the crowds to popular photo spots. Choose two from four options: Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong, and the Yangtze River Three Gorges. 📍 Dazu Rock Carvings are worth a dedicated trip. The Baodingshan sculptures have many details; hire a guide or rent an audio guide, otherwise you won't understand them. Tickets are not cheap, but worth it. Jinyun Mountain is suitable for locals to climb on weekends; tourists can skip it. For Wulong Karst and the Yangtze River Three Gorges, it depends on whether you want to enjoy the mountains or the water; the former is more physically demanding, the latter more time-consuming. 🍜 In the city center, a small bowl of noodles costs around 7-8 yuan (about 300 grams). For hot pot, look for restaurants near residential buildings; you can eat well for 50-60 yuan per person. Don't eat inside Hongyadong; the price doubles. ⚠️ During holidays, book boat and train tickets for Wulong and the Three Gorges in advance. Be aware that the photo booth for the light rail passing through the building might have a 30-minute wait for a 3-second shot. 07 Hefei|Anhui Hefei is often used as a transit point, but Sanhe Ancient Town is worth spending half a day on. It's not far from the city center, inexpensive, and suitable for those on a tight budget who want to see some old architecture. 📍 There are shuttle buses from Hefei South Railway Station to Sanhe Ancient Town, or you can share a ride. The ancient town itself doesn't have an entrance fee; you can buy a combined ticket for smaller attractions as needed. ⏰ It's best to arrive in the morning and walk the main street before noon. Places like Yiren Alley and Wangyue Pavilion are conveniently located along the way; no need to specifically seek them out. 🍜 Sanhe rice dumplings are a specialty; eat them while they're hot. A simple stir-fry with rice at a local restaurant will cost around 30-40 yuan per person. Don't eat at the first restaurant near the entrance; it's more affordable further in. ⚠️ On holidays, the main street is packed with people; explore the quieter alleys along the river. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uncomfortable. 08 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is the least popular destination in this list, and the one I most recommend to those who truly want to avoid crowds. Hutou and Xingkai Lake are best visited in autumn. 📍 Xingkai Lake offers expansive views; a walk along the lake is free, and the wind is strong enough to wake you up. Hutou has river views and wetlands, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⏰ From late September to early October, the reeds along the lake turn yellow, creating beautiful layers for photos. Be prepared for large temperature differences between day and night, so don't skimp on your down jacket. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles and spicy vegetables are local specialties; the cold noodles are sweet and sour, and the spicy vegetables are eaten together. A meal costs around 20-30 yuan per person, which is quite reasonable. 🚄 It takes some time to drive from Jixi city to Xingkai Lake, so I recommend driving yourself or joining a local day tour. Public transportation is limited, so check in advance. ⚠️ The attractions here are scattered, so don't try to see them all in one day. Staying overnight and taking your time is the right way to travel on a budget. These eight places have in common that they are less crowded and you won't easily overspend. If you want to save money during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, choosing the right place is more important than being frugal. Which one do you most want to go to, or which one have you already tried and failed? Share your thoughts in the comments. Want to save money during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays? 8️⃣ Low-cost destinations I've personally tested and proven safe 01 Luoyang|Henan If you're going to Luoyang during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, I advise you not to just focus on the Longmen Grottoes. Entrance fees are necessary, but the real money-saving points are in the timing and order of your trip. ⏰ Arrive at Longmen Grottoes before 7:30 AM. The West Hill Grottoes are less crowded and have softer lighting. After visiting the East Hill, take the shuttle bus back to save energy from walking repeatedly. Ticket and reservation rules are subject to official announcements on the day; don't trust unlicensed guides offering "skip-the-line" services. 📍 Guanlin is best visited in the afternoon. Half an hour of relaxing under the ancient cypress trees is free. Wangcheng Park has a chrysanthemum exhibition in autumn; it's mostly locals strolling around, a good place to relax. I recommend choosing between Laojun Mountain and Jiguan Cave. Seeing the sea of ​​clouds at Laojun Mountain is luck-based, and the cable car and entrance fee are not cheap. Jiguan Cave is a karst cave, accessible even in rainy weather; choose it if you're on a budget. 🍜 For food, the soup restaurants at the Old Town Cross Street are the most affordable in the morning; a bowl of beef soup with flatbread costs just over ten yuan. Avoid crowded accommodations near the scenic area entrance; staying along the subway line can save you half the cost. ⚠️ During holidays, the cable car queue at Laojun Mountain can be as long as two hours; be cautious if you're traveling with elderly people or children. 02 Baiyin | Gansu If you're tired of the crowds at popular tourist spots, the Yellow River Stone Forest in Baiyin is worth serious consideration. Less crowded, more natural, and with manageable costs, it's the kind of place where "not following the crowds can actually be a bargain." 📍 The Stone Forest is located in Jingtai County, a drive from downtown Baiyin. Driving or carpooling is recommended, as public transportation is infrequent and taking a taxi on the spot can easily exceed your budget. ⏰ Enter the valley after 4 PM, when the light shines obliquely on the stone pillars, creating the best photo opportunities. Donkey carts and sheepskin rafts are available within the scenic area, but if you want to save money, you can hike the main valley and back, which takes about two hours. 🍜 Eat at farmhouses outside the scenic area. A bowl of noodles with two side dishes costs around 20 RMB per person. Don't eat at the first restaurant at the entrance; walk about 200 meters further in for more affordable prices. ⚠️ It's windy, so bring a hat and scarf. Book accommodation in advance during peak season; finding rooms on-site can lead to inflated prices. 03 Huzhou | Zhejiang Nanxun Ancient Town is one of the few quieter options among the ancient towns of Jiangnan. If you want to avoid the crowds during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays while still enjoying a water town experience, it's a safer choice than Zhouzhuang or Wuzhen. ⏰ Enter the ancient town before 8 AM. The free areas are plenty of space to explore; buy combined tickets for key attractions only as needed. Don't buy full-price tickets as soon as you enter; visit Baijianlou first. 📍 The riverside section of Baijianlou is the most pleasant, with white walls and black tiles reflected in the water, making it easy to take photos without having to fight for a good spot. Zhang Shiming's former residence and Jiayetang Library are worth visiting; other smaller shops can be skipped. 🍜 Shuangjiao noodles are a local specialty, costing around ten yuan a bowl. Dingsheng cake is best eaten hot, as it hardens when cold. A leisurely afternoon at a riverside teahouse costs only twenty or thirty yuan. ⚠️ During holidays, tour groups flock there after noon. For a quieter experience, stay overnight; Nanxun truly shines in the early morning and evening. 04 Panjin | Liaoning The Red Beach is a seasonal attraction, reaching its peak redness during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays. But let me clarify: the main expense here isn't the entrance fee, but transportation. 📍 The Red Beach scenic corridor is quite long, with shuttle buses connecting the attractions. If you're not driving, public transportation from Panjin city is limited, making carpooling more practical. ⏰ The light is best between 9 and 11 am, showcasing the vibrant red of the Suaeda salsa. Afternoon light is backlit, resulting in darker photos. The viewing platform is crowded, but it becomes less crowded a few steps further in. 🍜 Panjin river crabs are the main attraction, but they're expensive in the scenic area. Buy them at the city market and have them cooked at a processing shop; you can save half the price per person. Rice with crab roe is worth it. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes; they'll be ruined by the muddy mudflats. It's windy, so bring a jacket. 05 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou represents "low cost, high satisfaction" in my mind. With numerous attractions, affordable snacks, and convenient public transportation, you won't feel ripped off during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays. 📍 Kaiyuan Temple is quietest in the morning. Sit for a while under the East and West Pagodas, listening to the pigeons and the bells. Hike Qingyuan Mountain in the afternoon, visit Lao Jun Rock, and then head down; don't force yourself to hike the entire way. Quanzhou's cliff carvings are scattered throughout the mountains; if you like calligraphy, take your time to find them. Enjoy the sea view from Chongwu Ancient City, take a walk around the city wall; the evening breeze is strong but pleasant. 🍜 A simple breakfast of rice noodle soup with fried dough sticks costs around ten yuan. Try ginger duck and sea worm jelly according to your own comfort level; don't force yourself. The shops on West Street are more affordable than those near the scenic area entrance. 🚄 Between attractions in the city center, public transportation and walking are sufficient; taking a taxi can lead to traffic jams. Stay near West Street, and you'll find plenty of restaurants. ⚠️ Kaiyuan Temple has limited opening hours; check the daily announcement before you go. 06 Chongqing Chongqing is budget-friendly, but only if you don't get swayed by trendy photo spots. Choose two from the four main areas: Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong, and the Yangtze River Three Gorges. 📍 Dazu Rock Carvings are worth a dedicated trip. The Baodingshan sculptures are intricate; hire a guide or rent an audio guide, otherwise you won't understand them. Tickets aren't cheap, but they're worth it. Jinyun Mountain is suitable for locals to hike on weekends; tourists can skip it. For Wulong Karst and the Yangtze River Three Gorges, it depends on whether you want to enjoy the mountains or the water; the former is more strenuous, the latter more time-consuming. 🍜 A small bowl of noodles in the city center costs around 7-8 yuan. For hot pot, find places near residential buildings; you can eat well for 50-60 yuan per person. Avoid eating inside Hongyadong; prices double. ⚠️ Book boat and bus tickets for Wulong and the Three Gorges in advance during holidays. For the photo spot where the light rail passes through a building, wait in line for half an hour for a three-second shot; consider the time commitment. 07 Hefei | Anhui Hefei is often used as a transit point, but Sanhe Ancient Town deserves a dedicated half-day. It's not far from the city center, inexpensive, and suitable for those on a tight budget who still want to see some old architecture. 📍 There are shuttle buses from Hefei South Railway Station to Sanhe Ancient Town, or you can share a ride. The ancient town itself doesn't have an entrance fee; you can buy a combined ticket for smaller attractions as needed. ⏰ Arrive in the morning if possible, and finish exploring the main street before noon. Places like Yiren Alley and Wangyue Pavilion are conveniently located along the way; no need to specifically seek them out. 🍜 Sanhe rice dumplings are a specialty; eat them while they're hot. A small stir-fry with rice at a local restaurant will cost around 30-40 RMB per person. Don't eat at the first restaurant near the entrance; it's more affordable further in. ⚠️ On holidays, the main street is crowded; exploring the riverside alleys is much quieter. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uncomfortable. 08 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is the least popular destination in this list, and also the one I most want to recommend to those who truly want to avoid crowds. Hutou and Xingkai Lake are best visited in autumn. 📍 Xingkai Lake offers expansive views; a walk along the lake is free, and the wind is strong enough to wake you up. Hutou offers river views and wetlands, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⏰ From late September to early October, the reeds along the lake turn yellow, creating beautiful layers for photos. Be prepared for significant temperature differences between day and night, so don't hesitate to wear a down jacket. 🍜 Jixi cold noodles and spicy vegetables are local specialties. The cold noodles are sweet and sour, and the spicy vegetables are mixed together. A meal costs around 20-30 RMB per person, very affordable. 🚄 It takes some time to drive from Jixi city to Xingkai Lake, so I recommend driving yourself or joining a local day tour. Public transportation is limited, so check in advance. ⚠️ The attractions here are spread out, so don't try to see them all in one day. Staying overnight and taking it slow is the right way to travel on a budget. These eight places have in common: less crowded and less likely to overspend. If you want to save money during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, choosing the right destination is more important than scrimping and saving. Which one would you most like to go to, or which one have you already fallen into a trap of? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Worried about the cost of traveling with kids during the National Day holiday? These 8 budget-friendly cities are tried, tested, and stress-free. 01 Huanggang | Hubei This small city at the southern foot of the Dabie Mountains hasn't seen crazy hotel price hikes during the National Day holiday. I took my kid along the Luotian Tiantangzhai route. We arrived at the foot of the mountain before 8:00 AM, when the mist hadn't cleared and the steps weren't too hot. ⏰ The light is softest between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, perfect for photos. 📍 There's a shallow creek next to the lower cable car station at Tiantangzhai where kids can play in the water for half an hour. For Guifeng Mountain in Macheng, I recommend going in the afternoon; it's cooler after 4:00 PM. The azalea season is over, but the forest is dense and great for a slow walk. 🍜 For food at the foot of the mountain, try the chestnut chicken and hanging pot at local farmhouses. You can get full for about CNY 40 per person. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and snacks. If traveling with seniors, I recommend taking the cable car both ways, as the hiking steps are tough on the knees. 02 Pingdingshan | Henan For the Yaoshan Mountain and Central Plains Grand Buddha area, I recommend splitting it into two days. Day 1 for Yaoshan, Day 2 for the Grand Buddha. Enter Yaoshan at 7:30 AM and take the cable car part of the way; it's just right for a child's stamina. ⏰ The waterfalls are full after the rain, so it's worth the wait. 📍 In the commercial street at the entrance of the Grand Buddha scenic area, the third vegetarian restaurant you see as you go in is half the price of the ones at the entrance. 🍜 Lushan stew is a local specialty, and a small portion is enough for a family of three. ⚠️ It's windy at the top of Yaoshan, so bring a light down jacket for the National Day holiday. There are many steps at the Grand Buddha, so strollers aren't practical; a baby carrier is recommended. Choose accommodation in Lushan County; it's cheaper than staying at the scenic area entrance and only a 20-minute drive away. 03 Zaozhuang | Shandong I've been to Taierzhuang Ancient City three times. It's really crowded during the National Day holiday, but it looks better at night than during the day. ⏰ Enter the city after 4:00 PM and stay until 8:00 PM to see the lights; the kids won't get too tired. 📍 Enter through the East Gate and turn right. The alley next to Fuxing Square is less crowded and great for photos. 🍜 Pancake rolls and beef noodles are local favorites and cheaper in the alleys than on the main street. ⚠️ Accommodation inside the ancient city is expensive and noisy, so I recommend staying in the Taierzhuang District outside the city, which is a 10-minute taxi ride away. Buy attraction tickets online in advance to avoid long queues on the day. If you take the kids on a sculling boat, choose the evening trip to avoid the sun. 04 Jixi | Heilongjiang The route through Hutou and Xingkai Lake is already a bit chilly during the National Day holiday. ⏰ It's most comfortable between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. You'll need a jacket in the morning and evening. 📍 The Wusuli River Starting Point Square in Hutou Town has a great view, though it's windy by the river. 🍜 The local restaurants serve great Xingkai Lake white shrimp and lake fish for about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so bring repellent. Some lakeside stalls close after the National Day holiday, so bring your own snacks. Choose accommodation in Mishan city; it's cheaper than staying by the lake and a 40-minute drive away. If traveling with seniors, be aware of the strong wind by the lake and don't sit for too long. 05 Yili | Xinjiang Yili River Valley has autumn scenery during the National Day holiday. The Kalajun and Gongnaisi grasslands have turned yellow, but it's a different kind of beauty. ⏰ Start after 10:00 AM and return before 6:00 PM, as it gets dark quickly. 📍 Take the shuttle bus to the last stop at Kalajun Grassland and walk back a bit; it's less crowded and the scenery is better. Don't make a special trip to Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley as there are no flowers this season. Gongnaisi Grassland is great for horseback riding with kids; choose the led-horse option. 🍜 Eat noodles and baked buns in Yining city; it's much cheaper than in the scenic areas. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in Yili during the National Day holiday is large, so bring both light down jackets and short sleeves. If driving, note that gas stations are far apart, so fill up whenever you see one. 06 Xining | Qinghai You can visit Ta'er Monastery and Dongguan Mosque in one day, but don't rush if you're with kids. ⏰ Enter Ta'er Monastery as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM to avoid crowds. Rent an audio guide; kids can listen to it too. 📍 Go to the street around Dongguan Mosque in the afternoon; you can have dinner after you finish exploring. 🍜 For hand-grabbed lamb and sweet fermented grain, choose a restaurant with lots of locals; you can't go wrong. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the halls of Ta'er Monastery, so keep an eye on your kids. It's already chilly in Xining during the National Day holiday, with temperatures below 10°C in the morning and evening, so bring a thick jacket. Choose accommodation in the city center for easy access to both spots. Altitude sickness is generally not an issue, but don't let the kids run around too vigorously. 07 Zhangzhou | Fujian Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, Nanjing Tulou, and the Coastal Volcanic National Geopark are spread out, so I recommend renting a car. ⏰ Enter Yunshuiyao village at 7:00 AM before the tour groups arrive; it's quiet. 📍 Choose Tianluokeng and Yunshuiyao for the Tulou; seeing too many can get repetitive. 🍜 Hakka stuffed tofu and preserved vegetable pork belly are well-made at the local farmhouses in the village. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea at the Volcanic Park, so bring a windbreaker for the National Day holiday. There's an extra fee to go upstairs in the Tulou, so ask in advance. Choose a homestay in Yunshuiyao village for a quiet night so the kids can sleep early. If traveling with seniors, take the Tulou steps slowly. 08 Chongqing Don't try to visit the Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong Karst, and the Yangtze Three Gorges all at once. If you're with kids, I recommend choosing two. ⏰ Enter the Dazu Rock Carvings at 8:30 AM and hire a guide, otherwise you won't understand what you're seeing. 📍 Take the elevator down at Wulong Three Natural Bridges, walk to the end, and then take the bus back; it's on the way and not tiring. Jinyun Mountain is great for hiking in the afternoon as there's plenty of shade. 🍜 Chongqing noodles and bean curd rice are cheaper at street-side shops than in scenic areas. ⚠️ Hongya Cave and Ciqikou are extremely crowded during the National Day holiday, so be cautious if you're with kids. Book the Yangtze Three Gorges cruise in advance; there won't be tickets on the day. Choose accommodation near a light rail station for easy travel. Order mild spicy for hot pot so the kids can eat it too. Of these eight places, I most recommend Huanggang and Zhangzhou—they are less crowded and cost less. Yili's autumn scenery is worth the trip, but be prepared for the cold mornings and evenings. Where are you planning to take your kids for the National Day holiday? Let's chat in the comments.

After checking out Zhenbao Island, we weren’t about to let a little rain stop us from adventuring! 💪🌧️ Next up: Tiger Head Fortress, located in Dongjiang Town, Mishan, Heilongjiang Province (address: Dongjiang Town, Mishan, Heilongjiang), which was once a hardcore Japanese military base stacked with massive artillery. This fortress is like a living history lesson – the vibes are honestly unreal and kinda chilling.😮 Back then, the Japanese did the most trying to defend this place, but that anti-fascist spirit came through like a tsunami – and the fortress fell. It’s wild to see this spot now and imagine all that went down. You can explore the fortress daily from 8am-5pm, and trust me, it hits differently when you’re soaking up the story IRL. "Eliminate fascism, freedom belongs to the people!" (If you know, you know. 😉) History buffs – Tiger Head Fortress is a must-see for your Mishan itinerary! Peep Trip.com for easy ticket booking so you don’t miss a thing.

Don't want to deal with the crowds during National Day? These 6 niche small cities are amazing. 01 Nanning | Guangxi When I want to avoid the crowds during National Day, Nanning is the first place that comes to mind. Qingxiushan Scenic Area is huge. Once you enter, take the sightseeing bus to Guanyin Zen Temple, then walk down slowly. The path is lined with tropical plants, making it easy for seniors and children. ⏰ It's most comfortable to go up the mountain after 4:00 PM; the light is soft and the breeze is cool. Fubo Temple is by the Yongjiang River. It's not big, and the atmosphere is quite peaceful. 📍 Sit for a while under the row of old banyan trees in front of the temple and watch the boats go by on the river—it's much better than squeezing into popular tourist spots. ⚠️ If you enter Qingxiushan before 9:00 AM on holidays, you can still find parking. If you're late, you'll be circling for a spot. 🍜 Head down to Zhongshan Road; the sour and spicy Laoyou rice noodles are appetizing, and steamed rice rolls are a solid choice for breakfast. For accommodation, choose somewhere along Metro Line 1 for easy access in any direction. Nanning is perfect for those who don't want to rush and just want to take it slow and eat well. 02 Ordos | Inner Mongolia I was skeptical about the sand at Xiangshawan (Resonant Sand Bay) actually making a sound, but once I got there, I realized it really does hum when the wind blows. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM while the sand dunes are still undisturbed for clean photos. The cable car line is long, so I recommend visiting Xiansha Island first, then coming back for the small train. The Genghis Khan Mausoleum Tourist Area is far from the city center. 🚄 It takes about 1 hour by taxi from Dongsheng; ride-sharing is more cost-effective. The mausoleum area is huge, so wear comfortable shoes—don't wear flip-flops. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in the desert is significant. Even during National Day, bring a thick jacket; the wind at night will wake you right up. 🍜 Have a meal of hand-grabbed mutton in the city, paired with milk tea to cut the grease. Overall, it's suitable for people who want to see unique landscapes but don't like climbing mountains. A 2-day, 1-night trip is just right—don't overpack your itinerary. 03 Dongying | Shandong The Yellow River Delta Eco-Tourism Area is the "wildest" stop on this trip. The wetland reed marshes stretch as far as the eye can see. ⏰ It's best to go in the evening; the sunset dyes the water orange, and flocks of migratory birds fly by. 📍 Take the sightseeing bus from the scenic area entrance to Yuanwang Tower, then transfer to the bus heading toward the river estuary. ⚠️ There are few dining options inside, so bring your own water and snacks—don't expect to find food everywhere you go. It's windy, so your hat might blow away. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Dongying South Station. It's great for photography enthusiasts and families with children to see birds, wetlands, and the Yellow River entering the sea. It's not too crowded during National Day, but sightseeing bus departures are limited, so get there early. 04 Leshan | Sichuan I suggest splitting Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei into 2 days; trying to cram them into 1 will just leave you exhausted. For the Giant Buddha, choose the cruise. ⏰ Take the first boat at 8:00 AM to avoid waiting in line to climb the Nine-Turn Plank Road—it saves your legs. For an easier time on Mount Emei, take the cable car to the Golden Summit. ⚠️ The temperature at the summit is 10 degrees lower than at the base, so rent a coat—don't try to tough it out. 📍 Stay a night near Baoguo Temple for the smoothest start to your mountain climb the next morning. 🍜 In the city, Zhanggongqiao Food Street is a must for "qiaojiao" beef and sweet-skin duck. Leshan is perfect for foodies who hate crowds—eating is more important than sightseeing here. Book your cruise tickets for National Day in advance; you might miss out if you try to buy them on-site. 05 Suqian | Jiangsu Hongze Lake Wetland is so quiet it doesn't feel like National Day. Take a boat through the reed maze. ⏰ Go in the morning when there are the most water birds and the light is clear. 📍 The cycling paths in the scenic area are well-maintained; renting a bike to cruise around slowly is more relaxing than taking the bus. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the wetlands, so bring long pants and insect repellent—don't try to be brave in a short skirt. Admission and boat tickets are charged separately, so check the official channels in advance. 🍜 Afterward, head to the city for a meal of Siyang "biaoji" (steamed pork with starch) with a bowl of rice—it's very satisfying. Suqian is perfect for a short 2-day, 1-night trip; the pace is slow and it's affordable. Your parents will love it if you bring them along. 06 Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake is as big as the sea; standing on the shore with the wind blowing, you'll be stunned. ⏰ Go see the sunrise in the early morning; the mist hasn't cleared from the lake yet, and it's so quiet that only the sound of the water remains. 📍 Take a walk along the riverside boardwalk in Hutou; the border river scenery is very unique. ⚠️ It's already cold here during National Day; you'll need a shell jacket with a fleece layer to handle it. The lake fish feast is a specialty, but ask about the price before ordering—don't be shy. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Jixi city center to Xingkai Lake; driving yourself is the most convenient option. It's suitable for people who want to see a big lake, eat fish, and enjoy some peace and quiet. It really is uncrowded, but it's also really cold—don't skimp on clothes. 07 Zhangye | Gansu You have to pick the right time for the Colorful Danxia. ⏰ Enter after 4:00 PM; when the slanting sun hits it, the colors are truly "seven-colored." If you go at noon, you'll just see a bunch of gray, dusty mountains. ⚠️ You can't fly drones in the scenic area, so don't bother bringing one. Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple is in the city; you can see it in 30 minutes on your way, and the reclining Buddha is huge. Mati Temple and Liqian Ancient City are best visited together on a self-driving day trip. 📍 The climb up the grottoes at Mati Temple is a bit steep, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 In the city, try the "cuoyu" noodles and beef "xiaofan"—they're cheap and filling. Zhangye is great for those who drive; the attractions are scattered and public transport is a hassle. Danxia is crowded during National Day, so don't delay booking your tickets. 08 Honghe | Yunnan Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces and Jianshui Ancient Town—one is for looking at the sky, the other for people-watching. The terraces ⏰ only start being flooded in November. If you go during National Day, you'll see green waves of rice, which has its own charm, but don't expect the mirror effect. You need to wake up early to see the sunrise at Duoyishu, and it's cold. Jianshui Ancient Town is slow and leisurely. 📍 Wander through Chaoyang Tower, Zhu Family Garden, and Shuanglong Bridge. 🍜 Sit at a street stall and eat grilled tofu as it's being cooked, and have a bowl of "caoya" rice noodles. ⚠️ There are many inns in the ancient town; check if they have air conditioning before booking, and be aware of the large temperature difference between day and night. Honghe is suitable for people willing to spend a few extra days; set aside 1 day each for the terraces and the ancient town—don't rush. This route isn't completely packed during National Day yet, so go early. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to visit again are Zhangye and Honghe. One for the colors, one for the light and shadows. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let me know in the comments.

The summer vacation is over, so flight and hotel prices have dropped significantly. The weather is neither too cold nor too hot; it would be a waste not to travel during this window. I've picked 8 places where you can spend less without compromising on the experience. I've either been to these places myself or done thorough research, so feel free to copy my itinerary. 01 Tianjin The core of budget travel in Tianjin is simple: don't eat in tourist areas. Just take photos in the Italian Style Town; the restaurants around Marco Polo Square are expensive and mediocre. Walk two blocks north to Shengli Road, where you can have a comfortable meal at a small restaurant for about CNY 30 per person. For the Five Great Avenues, I recommend renting a shared bike; walking will wear your legs out. The light at Minyuan Square is best after 4:00 PM, and sitting on the lawn for a while is very pleasant. ⏰ Go in the evening; it's too sunny during the day. The Olympic Center Stadium is great for an evening stroll. Tickets for Fantawild Adventure are not cheap, so if you're on a tight budget, skip it and use the money saved to eat well. ⚠️ Some of the villas in the Five Great Avenues require separate tickets, so check clearly at the entrance before entering. 02 Nujiang | Yunnan Bingzhongluo is the kind of place where you'll want to stay an extra two days. The Nujiang First Bend viewing platform is free. In the morning, when there's fog, it looks like an ink wash painting, but it's rather plain at noon. ⏰ Go early in the morning; it's worth getting up for. Nanji Luo is suitable for hiking enthusiasts, but there is still a lot of rain in September–October. The roads are slippery, so regular sneakers won't work; you need non-slip shoes. 📍 To get to Bingzhongluo, transfer at Gongshan County. There aren't many shuttle buses, so ask about the schedule in advance. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Bingzhongluo Town; you can get one for just over CNY 100 in the off-season. Don't expect too many dining options, but the lacquer oil chicken at local small restaurants is worth a try. ⚠️ There are few gas stations along the Nujiang River, so if you are driving, fill up whenever you see one. 03 Beijing Budget travel in Beijing isn't impossible; you just need to know how to choose. The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park—the total admission for all four is just over CNY 100, which is more reasonable than many "internet-famous" attractions. You must book the Forbidden City in advance; you basically can't get a ticket on the day. ⏰ Enter at 8:30 AM and head straight to the central axis; it's less crowded and better for photos. For the Summer Palace, enter from the North Palace Gate, climb Longevity Hill, and then take a boat; it's more comfortable than squeezing through the East Palace Gate. In the morning at the Temple of Heaven, you'll see older gentlemen walking their birds and singing opera—that's the real essence, and it's more interesting than the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests itself. Boat rentals at Beihai Park are charged by the hour; splitting one among four people is the most cost-effective. ⚠️ The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 04 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is so off the beaten path that many people haven't even heard of it, but September–October is the perfect time to visit. Xingkai Lake is less crowded at this time, the lake surface is vast, and it's windy, so bring a jacket. ⏰ The light hits the lake at an angle around 3:00–4:00 PM, which is great for photos. The Hutou area has wetlands and river views, suitable for a slow walk rather than rushing through an itinerary. 📍 There are shuttle buses from Jixi city to Xingkai Lake, but they are infrequent, so carpooling or driving is recommended. As for food, Jixi cold noodles are a local specialty; they are different from the Korean style and have a sweet and sour flavor. For accommodation, budget hotels in the city are around CNY 100; those by the lake are expensive and have average conditions, so I recommend staying in the city. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so don't wear a skirt. 05 Datong | Shanxi The Yungang Grottoes are the absolute highlight of this trip; the ticket is over CNY 100 but worth it. ⏰ Go in the morning; the light comes from the east, making the facial details of the Buddha statues clear. It's backlit in the afternoon, making it difficult to take photos. The Hanging Temple and Mount Heng (Northern Hengshan) can be done in one day, but you need to buy a separate ticket to climb the Hanging Temple. If you are afraid of heights, just look from below; no need to force yourself. Hiking Mount Heng takes three to four hours round trip; those with average stamina should take the cable car. There are direct buses from Datong city to Yungang for a few yuan. Any shop with a lot of locals for knife-cut noodles will be good. ⚠️ The Hanging Temple has visitor limits, so book your climbing ticket in advance during peak season. 06 Yichang | Hubei The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River and the Qingjiang Gallery offer two completely different feelings. The Three Gorges are magnificent, while the Qingjiang Gallery is elegant. If you are short on time, choose one; don't be greedy. The Three Gorges Tribe scenic area is divided into water and mountain sections. It takes most of the day to walk the whole thing; if you are with elderly people, I suggest only visiting the water section. ⏰ Take a boat on the Qingjiang Gallery in the morning; it's most beautiful when the fog hasn't cleared. The Three Gorges Waterfall is more enjoyable in the summer; the water volume is lower in September–October, but it's less crowded and quieter. 📍 There are tourist shuttle lines from Yichang East Station to various scenic spots, which saves a lot compared to taking a taxi. ⚠️ Cruise tickets are divided into several tiers; standard class is enough, don't get talked into upgrading. 07 Pingdingshan | Henan The Yaoshan Mountain and Central Plains Buddha combination—one for hiking and one for seeing the Buddha—can be done in one day, but it will be tiring. I suggest splitting it into two days and taking it slow. The round-trip cable car at Yaoshan is not cheap; if you have good stamina, walk up. The streams and small waterfalls along the way are more interesting than the summit. ⏰ Go after the rain; the water volume is sufficient, and the air is good. The Central Plains Buddha scenic area is quite large, and there is still some distance from the entrance to the Buddha statue, so leave enough time. There are shuttle buses from Pingdingshan city to Yaoshan, but check the early bus schedule in advance. The local "languo" dish is worth a try; it's cheap and the portions are large. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are doubled, so bring enough water yourself. 08 Turpan | Xinjiang Turpan in September–October is finally not so scorching, but it's still hot during the day, so don't skimp on sun protection. Flaming Mountains is just for seeing the landscape; take photos and leave, no need to stay long. Kumtag Desert is close to the city; go in the evening when the sand isn't too hot for your feet, and the sunset is beautiful too. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the desert after 6:00 PM. 📍 A taxi from Turpan city to the desert park costs CNY 20–30. Grapes in Grape Valley are sweet at this time, but they are expensive inside the scenic area; buying from roadside stalls is more cost-effective. Turpan's mixed noodles and baked buns are more worth eating than big plate chicken. ⚠️ Don't wear sandals in the desert; getting sand in them is uncomfortable. You basically won't go wrong visiting these 8 places in September–October. I highly recommend Datong and Turpan; one for grottoes and one for the desert. The experiences are very different, and neither costs much. Which one do you plan to visit first?

You can still visit 8 places on a tight Mid-Autumn budget 01 Zhangzhou | Fujian For the 3-day Mid-Autumn Festival, if you want to see mountains and water on a budget, Zhangzhou ranks in the top 3. The Tulou (earthen buildings) and Yunshuiyao are on the same route, perfect for combining into one day. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by high-speed train from Xiamen North Station to Nanjing Station. There is a dedicated scenic area shuttle bus when you exit the station; ignore the private cars soliciting passengers. Walking along the stream in Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, the old banyan trees and cobblestone paths are free. Admission tickets for individual Tulou sites are subject to official daily announcements. ⏰ Enter Yunshuiyao after 4:00 PM. The light hits the Tulou walls at an angle, so you won't have to fight for a photo spot. Staying in Shuyang Town is half the price of staying inside the scenic area. Wake up early the next day to visit the Coastal Volcanic National Geopark to see the basalt columnar joints; you can only walk to the rocky beach at low tide. ⚠️ The Volcanic Park and the Tulou are in opposite directions. Trying to cram both into one day will leave you exhausted. It's more comfortable to choose one. 02 Chenzhou | Hunan Chenzhou has become popular for a reason these past 2 years. You can see Danxia landforms, lakes, and sea of clouds all in one trip, but the attractions are spread out, so you have to pick and choose. Gaoyiling Danxia has no admission fee; the red cliffs paired with green water are stunning. ⏰ Go up before 7:00 AM for fewer crowds and cooler weather. For the misty scenery at Little Dongjiang in the Dongjiang Lake Tourist Area, the best time is between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM; the mist dissipates if you go later. Gaoyiling Tourist Area and Gaoyiling Danxia are the same area, so don't plan them separately. Mangshan Five-Finger Peak is suitable for those with good stamina; the cable car and plank road loop takes most of the day. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Chenzhou West Station. For Dongjiang Lake, it's recommended to stay in Zixing city center, which is about a 20-minute taxi ride away. ⚠️ During holidays, the Dongjiang Lake mist-viewing platform will have crowd control measures; check official announcements in advance. 03 Fuzhou | Jiangxi Fuzhou is an underrated transit stop. A trip specifically for Dajue Mountain is worth it. Dajue Mountain is known for its canyon rafting and cable car. ⏰ Enter the mountain in the morning, take the cable car up first to see the panoramic view, and then go rafting in the afternoon. Doing it in reverse will leave you exhausted. You will get soaked while rafting, so bring a change of clothes and a waterproof bag for your phone. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Fuzhou Station to Dajue Mountain; ride-sharing is more cost-effective than chartering a car. Stay in Fuzhou city center, stroll through Wenchangli Old Street in the evening, and eat some local stir-fry, which is cheaper than inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Rafting is heavily weather-dependent and may be suspended on rainy days, so call to confirm before you set off. 04 Weifang | Shandong The highlight of Weifang is the Qingzhou Ancient City Tourist Area. It's perfect for the Mid-Autumn Festival—the weather isn't hot, and it's comfortable to walk through the streets and alleys. Qingzhou Ancient City has no general admission fee; only individual sites like Ouyuan Garden and Fucai Gate charge fees. ⏰ Go up to the Fucai Gate city wall after 5:00 PM to see the old street lights turn on; it looks better than during the day. 📍 The old locust tree Huoshao (baked flatbread) and Misan-dao (honey-glazed pastry) on Ouyuan Street are perfect for eating on the go. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by high-speed train from Weifang Station to Qingzhou Station, and there is a bus directly to the ancient city from the station. Stay at a homestay in the ancient city; it's quiet at night, and you can take photos in the morning before the tourists arrive. ⚠️ Some "free guided tours" in the ancient city will eventually take you to buy things; just politely decline. 05 Nanjing | Jiangsu Nanjing is crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but you can still have a decent trip on a tight budget if you choose the right areas and times. The Presidential Palace and the Confucius Temple-Qinhuai River Scenic Belt are not far apart, just 2 or 3 subway stops. The Presidential Palace is closed on Mondays, ⚠️ so don't make a wasted trip. Go to the Confucius Temple in the evening; the boat ride on the Qinhuai River has long lines, so walking along the river is enough. Niushoushan Cultural Tourist Area is in the suburbs. The Usnisa Palace is worth seeing; buy tickets online in advance. Xuanwu Lake is free; ⏰ go cycling around the lake in the evening to see the city wall and the sunset. Stay near Xinjiekou or the Confucius Temple; the subway is convenient, and hostel beds can be found for under CNY 100. 🚄 It takes about half an hour to transfer to the subway from Nanjing South Station to get into the city center. 06 Anshun | Guizhou Anshun is the king of value in Guizhou. Huangguoshu Waterfall plus Dragon Palace is perfect for 2 days. The water volume of Huangguoshu Waterfall is still sufficient during the Mid-Autumn Festival. ⏰ Enter the scenic area before 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups. Doupotang and Tianxing Bridge are included in the general admission ticket. The second half of Tianxing Bridge has fewer people and better scenery, so don't turn back halfway. Taking a boat to see the caves in Dragon Palace is cool and suitable for seniors. 🚄 It takes about half an hour from Guiyang North Station to Anshun West Station, then transfer to the direct scenic area shuttle. Staying in Anshun city center is cheaper than staying in Huangguoshu Town, and there is more food. ⚠️ Raincoats inside the scenic area are more expensive than outside, so bring your own. Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to official daily announcements. 07 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is an off-the-beaten-path destination in Northeast China. Going during the Mid-Autumn Festival is just in time to catch the tail end of the Xingkai Lake fishing season; it's uncrowded and wild. Xingkai Lake is divided into the Big Lake and Small Lake. The Big Lake is like the sea, and the beach is free. ⏰ The light by the lake is soft after 4:00 PM, perfect for relaxing. Hutou is in the direction of Hulin, featuring fortress ruins and the starting point of the Wusuli River. It has a strong sense of history and is worth exploring slowly. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Jixi Station to Xingkai Lake; self-driving or ride-sharing is recommended. Stay in Jixi city center and have a meal of cold noodles and barbecue in the evening; the cost per person is not high. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, and the temperature difference between morning and evening is large during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so bring a jacket. 08 Shanghai You can still visit Shanghai on a tight budget during the Mid-Autumn Festival; the key is to avoid the Disney peak and lines at trendy shops. The Expo Park Riverside Promenade is free. ⏰ Go in the evening to see the lights on both sides of the Huangpu River. Yuyuan Garden is crowded during the day; go in before 9:00 AM to photograph the Nine-Turn Bridge. Guangfulin Cultural Relics is in Songjiang; the underwater museum is unique, and you can get there by subway and bus. Disney Resort tickets are expensive; if you're on a tight budget, just stroll around the town—you don't need to enter the park to see the fireworks. Stay along the subway lines, such as Zhongshan Park or Caoyang Road, which are cheaper than the city center. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to transfer to the subway from Hongqiao Station to get into the city center. ⚠️ Both Yuyuan Garden and Disney have crowd control measures during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so book in advance. Of these 8 places, Zhangzhou and Anshun are best for a 3-day Mid-Autumn trip, and Jixi is suitable for those who want peace and quiet. Pick one, and save the rest for next year.

Some cities, you don't have high expectations before you go, but by the time you leave, you're already planning your next visit. I've ranked these 8 places based on my own experience. No sugarcoating—I'll give credit where it's due and offer warnings where necessary. 1️⃣ Xining | Qinghai ⏰ Get to Ta'er Monastery early, as arriving before 8:00 AM helps you avoid the large tour groups. The Butter Sculpture Hall and the pile embroidery are near the Grand Sutra Hall. Just follow the locals circumambulating, and you won't miss anything. Admission and tour guide rules are subject to official daily announcements. 📍 The lighting at Dongguan Mosque is best at 4:00 PM, when the white arches and green domes look serene in the slanting sunlight. Visitors can enter the courtyard outside of prayer times, but please dress modestly. 🍜 Head to Mojia Street in the evening for hand-grabbed lamb with garlic, followed by a bowl of yogurt to cleanse the palate. I don't recommend the places with the biggest signs at the street entrance; walk a few steps into the alley for better prices and more authentic flavors. ⚠️ Xining has a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket even in summer. The altitude is 2,200 meters, so avoid taking very hot showers on your first day. 2️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is a place easily overlooked, but Xingkai Lake is worth a special trip. ⏰ To watch the sunrise at Xingkai Lake, you need to wake up at 4:00 AM. The lake surface is as flat as glass, and the fishermen's boats are already out. The trees along the lake ridge line up perfectly, making for great photos from any angle. 📍 Hutou Fortress is in the direction of Hulin, about a two-hour drive from downtown Jixi. I recommend driving yourself or hiring a car, as public transport is infrequent and you don't want to be rushing. 🍜 The stewed fish by the lake is cooked with lake water, making the meat firm. Dipping the corn cakes into the soup is a pro tip. Be cautious of restaurants soliciting customers at the entrance; it's safer to head into town. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so hold onto your hat. July and August are the most comfortable months; the roads are basically closed in winter. 3️⃣ Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain is an underrated spot—it's uncrowded, full of trees, and the air smells like pine needles. ⏰ Hike to the Golden Summit in the morning. The steps aren't too steep, and you can reach it in two hours at a leisurely pace. After the rain, clouds and mist rise from the valley, which is even more spectacular than on a sunny day. Cable car and admission rules are subject to official daily announcements. 📍 Bailong Pool is at an altitude of about 800 meters. The water is emerald green, surrounded by rows of dawn redwoods. If you're bringing elderly travelers, take the scenic shuttle bus nearby and walk the flat path; don't force the climb. 🍜 You must try the Suizhou "Guai Zi Fan" (pork trotter rice) at the foot of the mountain. The pork trotters are stewed until the meat falls off the bone, and it goes perfectly with rice. Shiitake mushrooms are also a local specialty; you can take some dried ones home. ⚠️ Cell signal in the mountains can be spotty, so download offline maps in advance. There are many mosquitoes in summer, so long pants are a better choice than shorts. 4️⃣ Nanchong | Sichuan I've been to Langzhong Ancient Town twice—once in peak season and once in the off-season—and the experiences were very different. 📍 There is no general admission fee for the ancient town, but places like Zhang Fei Temple and the Examination Hall charge separately. I recommend buying a combined ticket, which is more cost-effective than individual tickets. Please refer to official daily announcements for details. ⏰ The ancient town at 7:00 AM is at its most authentic. The stone paths are still damp, the vinegar workshops are just opening, and the air is filled with a tangy aroma. After 10:00 AM, the tour groups arrive, and it gets crowded. 🍜 Baoning vinegar is the signature here; you should try a vinegar foot soak. Beef noodles come in dry or soup versions—I prefer the dry version, as the chili oil is fragrant but not overpowering. ⚠️ Riverside inns have live bar music at night, so avoid rooms facing the river if you're sensitive to noise. Staying near Zhongtian Tower is the most convenient, but also the most expensive. 5️⃣ Kashgar | Xinjiang Kashgar is the place I found hardest to leave among these eight. The alleys of the old town are like a maze, but getting lost is part of the fun. 📍 Kashgar Ancient City is almost empty before 9:00 AM. The earthy yellow walls paired with blue wooden doors make for great photos anywhere you stand. Children will greet you on their way home from school. ⏰ You need a full day for the Pamir Plateau. Departing from Kashgar along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, you'll pass Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake. The Stone City is in Taxkorgan, where the ruins are illuminated in gold at sunset. 🍜 Eat the "gangzi" meat (meat stewed in a mug) and baked buns in the old town while they're hot. Order a pot of brick tea at the century-old teahouse and listen to the locals play and sing—an afternoon will fly by. ⚠️ You need a border permit to visit the Pamirs; get it in Kashgar before you leave. Altitude sickness varies from person to person, so avoid strenuous running or jumping. 6️⃣ Shenzhen | Guangdong Shenzhen isn't just about skyscrapers; its beaches and parks are impressive. 📍 Dameisha Beach Park is free, but you need to book in advance during peak season. Arrive before 8:00 AM while the beach is still clean; after 10:00 AM, it gets packed. Showers and lockers are available for an extra fee. ⏰ Window of the World and OCT are best visited in the evening, as it's too hot during the day. Splendid China and the Folk Culture Village are connected, making for a full day of exploring with kids. Admission rules are subject to official daily announcements. 🍜 There are many small eateries in the OCT Creative Culture Park with more reasonable prices than inside the scenic areas. Mission Hills is great for golfing or soaking in hot springs; you can buy day passes even if you're not staying at the hotel. ⚠️ The Shenzhen Metro is very convenient, but Dameisha limits entry during holidays, so don't wait until you're at the gate to find out you can't get in. Check the weather forecast during typhoon season in summer before heading out. 7️⃣ Kunming | Yunnan The beauty of Kunming is that you don't have to rush. It's not flashy, but it's comfortable to be in. 📍 The long couplet at Daguan Park is worth reading, and the view of Dianchi Lake from the pavilion is expansive. In winter, when the red-billed gulls arrive, Haigeng Dam is full of people feeding the birds. ⏰ Visit the Dongchuan Red Land after the rain, when the red soil and green wheat create a striking contrast. It's about a three-hour drive from downtown Kunming; I recommend staying overnight to capture the morning and evening light. 🍜 Zhuanxin Farmers' Market is the local canteen, featuring tofu pudding rice noodles, grilled "erkua" (rice cakes), and various mushrooms. The Expo Garden is great for a walk with elderly travelers—the park is large, but the paths are flat. ⚠️ UV rays are strong in Kunming, so wear sunscreen even on cloudy days. During mushroom season, only eat wild mushrooms at reputable restaurants; don't pick them yourself. 8️⃣ Shaoxing | Zhejiang Shaoxing is the one I personally recommend the most. It has a scholarly atmosphere but isn't pretentious. 📍 Lu Xun's Native Place and Shen Garden are next to each other; they are free but require a reservation. The plum blossom deer painting in Sanwei Study is still there, and people are always reciting poems in front of the "Chaitoufeng" stele in Shen Garden. Reservation rules are subject to official daily announcements. ⏰ Lanting is best visited in the morning when the light in the bamboo forest is soft; sitting for a while by the "winding stream" is very peaceful. Visit Anchang Ancient Town in the afternoon, where sausages and soy-sauce ducks hang from the corridors, extending the festive New Year atmosphere from winter into spring. 🍜 You can try the aniseed beans and yellow rice wine at Xianheng Hotel, but locals prefer the small eateries on Cangqiao Straight Street. Eat the stinky tofu freshly fried, and add the sauce yourself. ⚠️ Wupeng boats charge by the boat, not by the person, so ask clearly before sharing a boat. The old town has many stone paths, so wear comfortable shoes. If you've been to 6, you're a pro. I counted mine, and I'm just barely passing. You'll have to check out the rest for me.

Small budget trips for September–October: 8 off-the-beaten-path cities that are less crowded and save money 1️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning In September and October, the summer heat in Jinzhou has faded, and the sea breeze starts to feel cool. Mt. Yiwulu is the highlight of this trip. Admission tickets are affordable, and you can save even more with a student ID. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the mountain before 9:00 AM; it's less crowded and the light is softer. Take a bus from Jinzhou Station to Beizhen and then transfer. The whole trip takes less than two hours, 🚄 which is smoother than you'd expect. There are many stone steps on the mountain. If you have bad knees, walking halfway is enough, as the scenery in the second half is quite repetitive. 🍜 Don't rush off after coming down the mountain. Try the soup-filled buns and lamb soup on the streets of Beizhen; you can eat until you're full for about 15 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose the Beizhen county seat; a standard room is 80–90 yuan per night, which is significantly cheaper than in the city center. ⚠️ In October, the temperature difference between day and night in the mountains can reach 10 degrees. A combination of a short-sleeved shirt and a jacket is the safest bet. This route is perfect for those who want to hike but don't want to deal with the crowds at Mt. Tai. 2️⃣ Wuhan | Hubei Wuhan is still hot in September and only truly comfortable in October. I recommend visiting Yellow Crane Tower Park in the evening. ⏰ Climb the tower after 5:00 PM, and the river breeze will make you feel refreshed. Admission is 70 yuan; whether it's worth it depends on how much you care about the tower itself. East Lake is more worth your time than Yellow Crane Tower. Cycling around the greenway takes two hours, and bike rental is 20 yuan. 📍 Enter from Liyuan Square and head towards Moshan; it's less crowded and the scenery is expansive. Songyang Temple is in Huangpi. It's not very busy, which makes it peaceful and perfect for just zoning out. The Mulan Cultural Ecological Tourism Zone is more family-oriented; if you don't have kids, you can skip it and save half a day's energy. 🍜 For breakfast, go to Liangdao Street. Hot dry noodles are 5 yuan and doupi is 6 yuan; don't eat inside the scenic areas. For accommodation, choose a hotel along Metro Line 2; budget hotels are around 120 yuan. ⚠️ Yellow Crane Tower is closed for maintenance on Mondays, so check before you go. This route is for those who can walk a lot—expect at least 20,000 steps a day. 3️⃣ Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia In late September, the grass in Hulunbuir starts to turn yellow, but that golden color is exactly what makes it beautiful. There is no admission fee for the grasslands; the real cost is hiring a car, which is about 400 yuan per day, or you can negotiate a ride-share for about 150 yuan per person. 🚄 Get off at Hailar Station and head north towards the Morigele River; there are free photo spots all along the way. ⏰ The backlight at 4:00 PM is perfect for photographing the grasslands; every shot looks like a wallpaper. Don't be cheap when staying in a yurt; the 80-yuan ones don't have hot water. The ones around 150 yuan have private bathrooms, and you can see the stars at night. 🍜 Hand-grabbed meat is sold by the jin (500g). Two jin is enough for four people; pair it with milk tea to cut the greasiness. ⚠️ After October, the wind on the grasslands is strong; a windbreaker is more practical than a down jacket. This route is suitable for those driving themselves or ride-sharing, as public transportation is basically non-existent. 4️⃣ Hainan | Qinghai Don't be fooled by the name; this Hainan is in Qinghai, not the island. Riyue Mountain is at an altitude of 3,500 meters. ⏰ It's best to go in the morning when the light is best. The prayer flags rustle in the wind, and standing there for a while will calm your mind. The Danxia landforms at Guide National Geopark are much less crowded than those in Zhangye. Admission plus the sightseeing bus is less than 100 yuan. 📍 Take a bus from Xining to Guide, which takes two and a half hours. The Yellow River along the way is unbelievably clear. Stay in Guide county seat; a standard room is just over 100 yuan, which is half the price of staying by Qinghai Lake. 🍜 Local yogurt is 5 yuan a bowl; sprinkle some white sugar on it for the perfect balance of tartness. ⚠️ The altitude is high, so don't take a shower or run around on the first day, and take Rhodiola rosea in advance. This route is for those who want to avoid crowds and see unique landscapes. It may snow after October, so check road conditions before you set off. 5️⃣ Songyuan | Jilin Chagan Lake is famous for its winter fishing, but visiting in September and October is the real bargain. The lake is vast, and the reeds are just starting to turn yellow. ⏰ Go to the lakeside boardwalk in the evening; the sunset can dye the entire lake orange. You need to take a boat to Jinchan Island. The boat ticket is 30 yuan. There isn't much commercial activity on the island, so it's perfect to bring some snacks for a picnic. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake, or 20 yuan per person for a ride-share. 🍜 Stewed lake fish with tofu is a must-order, but don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. Walk two streets into town, and the price will be cut in half. For accommodation, choose a lakeside homestay; you can get one with a balcony for 100 yuan. ⚠️ The wind by the lake is harsh in October, so bring a hat and scarf. This route is for those who want to stay quietly for two days; there aren't many attractions, but it's relaxing. 6️⃣ Shizuishan | Ningxia Shahu (Sand Lake) is the place on this trip that most resembles the "Jiangnan region beyond the Great Wall," with half desert and half lake. Admission plus boat ticket is 120 yuan. ⏰ Take the first boat at 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups. 📍 It only takes 40 minutes to take a train from Yinchuan to Shizuishan, and the ticket is just over 10 yuan. It costs 30 yuan to take a taxi from the train station to Shahu; there are buses, but the wait is long. 🍜 Eating inside the scenic area is expensive. Go outside to Dawukou District; cold noodles are 8 yuan and lamb skewers are 3 yuan—a comfortable meal. For accommodation, choose Dawukou; budget hotels are around 100 yuan. ⚠️ The UV rays in the desert area are strong, so don't skimp on sunscreen. Camel riding and sand sliding are extra; if you want to save money, just watch. This route is suitable for those with kids or those who want to take great desert photos; half a day is enough to finish exploring. 7️⃣ Jixi | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake in Jixi is great in September, just in time for the end of the fishing season, when fish are fat and prices are low. There is no admission fee for the lake. ⏰ Go to the lakeside early in the morning before the fog clears; the fishing boats chugging out look like a scene from a movie. Hutou is in Hulin, a two-hour drive from Jixi city center. 🚄 There are trains to Hulin Station, then you can transfer. The Hutou Fortress ruins are free, but there are many steps, so it's not recommended for the elderly. 🍜 Xingkai Lake white shrimp are sold by the basin for 60 yuan, which is a better deal than in restaurants. For accommodation, choose Dangbi Town; farmhouses are 80 yuan including breakfast. ⚠️ After October, the wind by the lake is so strong you can't stand, so a windbreaker is a must. This route is for those who don't mind the hassle and want to see border lake scenery; transportation is the biggest cost. 8️⃣ Lianyungang | Jiangsu Huaguoshan (Flower Fruit Mountain) and Liandao (Lian Island)—one for hiking and one for seeing the sea—are perfect for a two-day trip. Admission to Huaguoshan is 90 yuan. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7:30 AM to avoid the crowds; the Water Curtain Cave section is the coolest. The sea at Liandao is cleaner than you'd imagine. 📍 The boardwalk from Dashawan Beach towards Sumawan is less crowded and has great scenery; it takes 40 minutes to walk the whole way. 🚄 It takes about an hour to take the BRT from Lianyungang Station to Liandao, and the fare is 2 yuan. 🍜 Buy seafood at Xugou Market and have it cooked; you can eat until you're full for 60 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose Lianyun District; you can get a sea-view room for 120 yuan. ⚠️ The monkeys at Huaguoshan will snatch bags, so don't carry plastic bags up the mountain. This route is for those who want to hike and see the sea in one go. The seawater is cold in October, so forget about swimming. These eight places are perfect for visiting in September and October, right between the peak and off-peak seasons—less crowded, cheaper, and the weather isn't too extreme. Pick two or three to combine, and you can keep your budget very low. Which one do you want to visit most, or do you have other off-the-beaten-path recommendations? Let's chat in the comments.

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

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

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

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

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