Qumarleb County travel guide and discussion

Sisters! When you go to Qinghai, don’t just focus on the salt lakes and Chaka‼️ This time I went all in, flooring it into the Hoh Xil no-man’s land— a world natural heritage site, one of China’s largest uninhabited areas, known as the “forbidden zone of life.” What happened? I cried😭 Not from fear, but moved to tears! 📍 Where is Hoh Xil? Yushu Prefecture, Qinghai Province. About 200 km south from Golmud along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway (G109). The core area is near the Sonam Dargye protection station. 🚗 How to get there? ⚠️ Important reminder: Hoh Xil is not a tourist attraction! No tickets are required, but you must respect nature. Self-drive: Golmud → Kunlun Pass → Budo Spring → Sonam Dargye protection station → Tuotuo River. The entire route is paved, but altitude rises from 2,800 m to 4,600 m, so be sure to prevent altitude sickness. Charter/shared ride: Local travel agencies in Golmud offer one- or two-day tours to Hoh Xil, priced at 800–1,500 CNY per person. Drivers know the roads and can act as guides. Don’t hike on your own: This is no joke. No signal, wild animals, extreme weather— even locals don’t dare. 📅 Best time: June–August (weather is relatively stable, Tibetan antelope calving season, you can see lambs running with their mothers) 📸 Highlights & photo tips 1️⃣ Tibetan antelope 🦌 Near Sonam Dargye protection station, easiest to spot between 5–7 PM. Remember: stay quiet, don’t get out to chase! Use a telephoto lens (phone cameras won’t cut it, renting a camera is recommended). Seeing their white rumps as they run is super heartwarming💖 2️⃣ Kunlun Pass 🏔️ At 4,767 m altitude, surrounded by endless snow-capped mountains and fluttering prayer flags. You can stop here to take photos, but it’s windy and cold, so wear a windbreaker. 3️⃣ Budo Spring 💧 A magical spring that never freezes. Water temperature stays near 0°C year-round but never freezes. The ice-blue spring water against the snowy background is stunning. 4️⃣ Hoh Xil snow mountains and wilderness The overwhelming vastness can’t be captured even one-thousandth by a phone. Use a wide-angle lens, crouch low, and frame the sky, road, and wilderness together with a caption like “No one is here, yet life thrives.” ⚠️ Survival guide (key points!) Altitude sickness: Take Rhodiola 2 days in advance, bring oxygen, avoid bathing and strenuous activity. Clothing: Down jacket + windproof outerwear. It can snow even in summer❄️ Food: Self-heating rice, chocolate, hot water. No convenience stores along the way. Toilets: None! Use a cloth for privacy in the wild... Phone signal: Basically none once you enter the mountains. Download offline maps in advance. Don’t litter: Every plastic bag could be mistaken for food by Tibetan antelopes and cause death. 💡 Why strongly recommend? Because this is not a tourist spot, it’s the last pure land on earth. When your eyes meet those of a Tibetan antelope, you’ll understand what “life” really means. No commercial noise, only wind, snow mountains, and freedom. It’s not for enjoyment, it’s for reverence. Before you go, watch the movie Hoh Xil to better understand the weight of this land. After you go, remember to share your story with me—I’ll be waiting in the comments✨

When it comes to the Kunlun Mountains, most people have heard of its legends. The Kunlun World Geopark is located in the heartland of this "Ancestor of Ten Thousand Mountains." Stretching across western Qinghai, it combines majestic mountains, glaciers, canyons, and ancient landforms. It boasts magnificent natural scenery sculpted over billions of years and countless mythological tales. Stepping here, you can understand the unique grandeur and mystery of Kunlun. The park is situated south of Golmud City, built around the main Kunlun mountain range, with an average altitude exceeding 4,000 meters. It is a representative geological secret on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Over billions of years, tectonic movements, glacial erosion, and weathering have created richly layered geological landscapes. As a world-class geopark, it preserves the geological traces of plateau uplift and glacier evolution intact and serves as a natural classroom for studying the geomorphological changes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Far from urban noise, the endless mountain ranges and vast, desolate skies fully display the bold spirit of the western mountains. The entire park is full of highlights, with every scene unforgettable. The Kunlun Mountain Pass is a must-visit, marked by towering stone monuments and sculptures. Standing here, you can gaze at the overlapping mountain ranges stretching into the distance with an incredibly broad view. The famous Nachitai Spring flows year-round, its water clear and sweet, forming a lively pool in this cold region, especially vibrant. Further inside, the Kunlun Grand Canyon is steep and rugged, with colorful rock walls and a deep, narrow gorge. Walking through it, you can feel the power of nature’s craftsmanship. The majestic Yuzhu Peak is covered with snow and ice all year, its snowy summit piercing the clouds. The white snow contrasts with the deep blue sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Along the way, you can also see uniquely shaped strange rocks and glacial erosion landforms, with every step revealing the unique charm of geological wonders. Kunlun Mountain has been a cultural sanctuary since ancient times, where mythology and humanity intertwine. It has been revered as "China’s First Sacred Mountain" from ancient times to the present. Legends such as the Queen Mother’s Jade Pool and the immortal cultivation realm have been passed down through generations, casting a romantic and mysterious aura over the mountains. It is also an important section of the ancient Silk Road and the Qiangzhong Road, where caravans and travelers once passed, leaving a long historical imprint. The local ethnic groups living nearby hold deep reverence for Kunlun Mountain, and the sacred mountain belief is integrated into daily life, adding a warm cultural layer to this vast land. Finally, here are some practical travel tips. The best time to visit is from June to September when the temperature is suitable and roads are accessible. The park is at high altitude, so be sure to prepare for altitude sickness and avoid strenuous activities. The plateau has strong UV rays and large temperature differences between day and night, so sunscreen hats, sunglasses, and windproof thick jackets are essential. The scenic area is vast with widely spaced attractions, so self-driving or joining an official tour group is recommended. Please protect nature throughout your visit by not littering and preserving this pristine landscape. Dominating the plateau, Kunlun Mountain offers magnificent rivers and mountains and flowing myths. Enter Kunlun World Geopark, feel the vastness of heaven and earth at the foot of the sacred mountain, encounter natural wonders and millennia-old culture, and gain an unforgettable plateau journey.

🌈 While everyone rushes clockwise, we go against the flow and take the reverse Qinghai-Gansu big loop. Leave the crowds to the peak season, and keep the morning light, mirror lakes, sunsets, and starry skies all for you. 👭👭👭 ✅ 3 Core Advantages of the Reverse Route, Perfect for Peak Season Anxiety 💯 Gradual Altitude Increase, Avoid Altitude Sickness: Start with low-altitude adaptation in Zhangye and Dunhuang, then enter Qaidam Basin and Qinghai Lake, making it easy for elderly and children. 💯 Off-Peak Travel, Flexible Flight Options: Salt lake in the early morning with no crowds, exclusive sunset at Danxia Landform, U-shaped highway with perfect lighting for photos, say goodbye to queues. 💯 Relaxed Pace, Deep Immersion: No rushing, no ticking off check-ins, give time back to the scenery and romance back to the journey. 🚗 Recommended Itinerary: ➡️D1: Xining — Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea (late July) — Gangshika Snow Mountain — Qilian Grassland — Zhangye ➡️D2: Zhangye — Rainbow Danxia — Jiayuguan Fortress — Son of the Earth — Shazhou Night Market — Dunhuang ➡️D3: Mogao Caves — Mingsha Mountain / Crescent Spring — Dunhuang ➡️D4: Dunhuang — Heidu Mountain — Silk Road Heritage City — Dachaidan ➡️D5: Dachaidan — Emerald Lake — Water Yadan — U-shaped Highway — Golmud ➡️D6: Golmud — Kunlun Holy Spring — Wuji Dragon and Phoenix Palace — Kekexili Viewing Platform — Sonam Dargye Protection Station — Golmud ➡️D7: Golmud — Chaerhan Salt Lake — Qaidam Basin — Chaka ➡️D8: Chaka Salt Lake — Qinghai Lake — Riyue Mountain — Xining 🏯 Must-Visit Attractions ✅ Qinghai Lake: The sapphire of the plateau, healing contrast of rapeseed flowers and lake water ✅ Chaka Salt Lake: Mirror of the sky, barefoot reflections breathtakingly beautiful ✅ Chaerhan Salt Lake: China’s largest salt lake, magnificent and no less than Chaka ✅ Emerald Lake: Tiffany blue salt pool, stunning drone shots ✅ Heidu Mountain: The place on Earth most like the moon, effortlessly producing cinematic shots ✅ Mogao Caves: Millennium murals, a glimpse into Silk Road civilization ✅ Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: Sand and spring coexist, camel rides chasing sunsets are super romantic ✅ Rainbow Danxia: God’s spilled palette, sunset is breathtaking ✅ Kekexili: Kunlun as a screen, heaven and earth as borders, Kekexili stretches across the vast heart of the Earth’s Third Pole. Tibetan antelopes graze, wild yaks stand on peaks, every inch of land grows freedom and resilience. 🎖 Why Choose Us: 💥 Pure play, zero shopping, no hidden costs, formal electronic contract signed 💥 Small exquisite groups, stop whenever you want, travel freely and flexibly 💥 Experienced local guides, deep knowledge of Northwest China, familiar with unique photo spots 💥 No rushed travel, focus on thoughtful emotional service 💥 Exclusive free perks: free pick-up and drop-off + mineral water + drone aerial photography service ❓ Why choose this route? ♻️ Reverse off-peak travel to avoid crowds ♻️ Full coverage of culture and nature, including popular and hidden gems ♻️ Light luxury small private groups, no crowded buses, pure play with no tricks, immersive deep travel ♻️ Pure play with no tricks, immersive deep travel ♻️ Gradual altitude increase, friendly for altitude sickness beginners, no need to worry about planning, leave it to the professional team to unlock your Qinghai-Gansu trip. Learn about Northwest China travel, group tours, and customization by consulting the link at the bottom left to tailor your exclusive travel plan!

Who understands! After finishing "The Tree of Life," I was so moved I booked a flight overnight! The Tree of Life, Bolamula... I’ve traveled through all the unforgettable scenes from the show for you! Standing at the Kunlun Pass, the wind carries the faith and tenderness from the drama. This 9-day minimalist itinerary avoids detours and rushing, with altitude increasing gradually—perfect even for beginners‼️ 🎬 9-Day Guide|Just copy this plan 🎈 Day 1: Departure → Xining airport/train station pickup Altitude: Departure point → 2261m Must do: Rest upon arrival in Xining, visit Dongguan Grand Mosque, try hand-pulled lamb, and start adapting to the plateau. 🎈 Day 2: Xining → Riyue Mountain → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake Approx. 220km | Altitude: 2261-3200m Must do: See prayer flags at Riyue Mountain, photograph the blue lake and grasslands at Qinghai Lake. 🎈 Day 3: Chaka → Qaidam Basin → Chaerhan Salt Lake → Golmud Approx. 460km | Altitude: 3200-2670m Must do: Cross the Gobi Desert, capture the apple-green lake surface at Chaerhan Salt Lake. 🎈 Day 4: Golmud → Queen Mother’s Yaochi → Hoh Xil → Golmud Round trip approx. 480km | Altitude: 2670-4768m Must do: Explore the Kunlun secret realm, venture into Hoh Xil, encounter Tibetan antelopes, and feel Bolamula’s steadfastness. 🎈 Day 5: Golmud → Water Yadan → 315 U-shaped Highway → Dachaidan Approx. 340km | Altitude: 2670-3170m Must do: Check in at the "Fleet on the Sea," shoot cinematic scenes on China’s version of Route 66 along the 315 U-shaped Highway. 🎈 Day 6: Dachaidan → Emerald Lake → Heidushan → Dunhuang Approx. 240km | Altitude: 3170-1138m Must do: Photograph the emerald lake surface at Emerald Lake, unlock the romantic desert evening in Dunhuang. 🎈 Day 7: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain → Dunhuang Approx. 25km | Altitude: 1138m Must do: Touch millennium-old murals at Mogao Caves, ride camels at Mingsha Mountain to watch the sunset 🌞 🎈 Day 8: Dunhuang → Son of the Earth → Rainbow Danxia → Zhangye Approx. 365km | Altitude: 1138-1500m Must do: Watch the sunset at Rainbow Danxia, the layered patterns are breathtakingly beautiful. 🎈 Day 9: Zhangye → Qilian Grassland → Menyuan → Xining Approx. 280km | Altitude: 1500-2261m Must do: See the sea of rapeseed flowers in July 🌹, return to Xining for a perfect ending. ✨ Tips for Drama Fans to Avoid Pitfalls ❶ Gradual altitude increase; prepare altitude sickness medicine + oxygen bottle ❷ Wear white/light blue/cream colors for atmospheric photos at salt lakes and snowy mountains ❸ Do not feed or take unauthorized photos in Hoh Xil; respect the plateau’s wildlife ❹ Many unpaved roads; small group travel recommended for flexible stops and photo ops ❺ Book Mogao Caves tickets 10 days in advance; must grab tickets during peak season❗️ This route captures all the romance and desolation of "The Tree of Life"! Drama fans, save this article and follow it without worry‼️

Always wanted to take the kids to a distant snowy mountain wilderness, to experience the vastness and grandeur of the Kunlun Mountains. I've put together this exclusive 3-day, 2-night family itinerary for a family of three, covering Kunlun Holy Spring, Kunlun Pass, Yuzhu Peak, and Qarhan Salt Lake all in one go. The pace is relaxed and suitable for traveling with children, with a total budget controlled at 3800 yuan. No detours, no pitfalls, no rushed schedule, just an immersive experience to unlock the pristine beauty of the Kunlun Plateau. Families traveling with kids can just follow this guide! Xinjiang Kunlun Mountains (including Qinghai section) 3-day 2-night family trip (budget 3800 yuan for a family of three) Note: The Kunlun Mountains span across Qinghai and Xinjiang. The Golmud section in Qinghai has well-developed roads, is family-friendly, and is a popular destination. The Xinjiang section offers Kunlun Grand Canyon (4A). This trip focuses on the Qinghai section, with a convenient addition of Qarhan Salt Lake/Kunlun Grand Canyon, ensuring a relaxed pace. Budget Overview (3 people, total approx. 3780 yuan) · Transportation: Chartered car for 3 days (5-seater SUV, with driver) 1800 yuan · Accommodation: 2 nights at a business hotel in Golmud (triple room) 600 yuan (300/night) · Dining: 9 meals over 3 days (80/person/day) 720 yuan · Tickets: Kunlun Grand Canyon + Wuji Longfeng Palace 240 yuan (Adult 80×2 + Child 40) · Equipment/Miscellaneous: Oxygen tank + sunscreen + snacks 420 yuan 📅 Day1 Golmud → Kunlun Holy Spring → Wuji Longfeng Palace → Kunlun Grand Canyon (Overnight in Golmud) · Morning: Depart from Golmud (altitude 2800m, acclimatize to plateau), head south along G109. · Kunlun Holy Spring (Free): Altitude 3540m, a high-altitude, cold, non-freezing spring. The water is sweet; let the kids taste "ice mountain nectar." · Wuji Longfeng Palace (Ticket 30 yuan/person, half price for children): A Taoist holy site, home to the legend of the Queen Mother of the West. The architecture blends plateau and Taoist styles. · Afternoon: Kunlun Grand Canyon (Free, family-friendly route) · Drive 70km along G109, follow signs to enter. Take the non-wading route: Iron Bridge → 5-minute walk to the canyon edge → safely descend into the valley to see red rock walls + streams, look for marmots and pikas. Excellent for nature education. · Evening: Return to Golmud, stay at a business hotel; dinner of yak hot pot (approx. 60 yuan/person), drink butter tea to prevent altitude sickness. 📅 Day2 Golmud → Kunlun Pass → Yuzhu Peak Observation Deck → Sonam Dargye Protection Station (Overnight in Golmud) · Morning: · Kunlun Pass (Altitude 4767m, Free): A landmark on the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. Take photos at the monument, gaze at the continuous snow-capped peaks; walk slowly, no running or jumping, to prevent altitude sickness. · Yuzhu Peak Observation Deck (Free): Altitude 6178m, the main peak of the eastern Kunlun Mountains, perpetually snow-covered. See the reflection of the snow mountain, teach kids about glaciers. · Afternoon: Sonam Dargye Protection Station (Free, Science Museum) · On the edge of Hoh Xil, see specimens of Tibetan antelopes and wild yaks, listen to stories of ecological protection. A very meaningful family research trip. · Evening: Return to Golmud, eat hand-pulled lamb + yogurt; rest early to adapt to the altitude. 📅 Day3 Golmud → Qarhan Salt Lake → Return Trip · Morning: Qarhan Salt Lake (Ticket 100 yuan/person, half price for children) · China's largest salt lake, the "Mirror of the Sky." Play in the shallow water, take reflection photos; wear bright clothes for better pictures. There's a shallow children's area, safe and fun. · Afternoon: Return to Golmud, purchase specialties like Kunlun jade pendants and yak milk candy, end the trip. 👨👩👧 Family-Friendly & Avoid Pitfalls Tips 1. Altitude & Altitude Sickness: Golmud 2800m, Kunlun Pass 4767m. Take Rhodiola 1 day in advance; bring oxygen tanks for children, inhale oxygen immediately if uncomfortable; move slowly, no running or jumping. 2. Clothing: Plateau temperature difference can be 20℃+ between day and night. Bring thick down jackets/outerwear, hats, gloves, snow boots; bring an extra set of warm clothes for children. 3. Sun Protection: UV rays are extremely strong. Sunglasses, SPF50+ sunscreen, and sun hats are essential to avoid sunburn. 4. Road Conditions: The latter part of Kunlun Grand Canyon has 10km of washboard road. Choose an SUV for chartered car, ensure child seats are securely fastened. 5. Animals: Marmots, wild yaks, and Tibetan antelopes by the roadside. Observe from a distance, do not feed or chase, safety first. ✅ Budget Control Tips · Chartered Car: Book 3 days in advance, choose a 5-seater SUV for carpooling (perfect for 3 people), more fuel-efficient and hassle-free than self-driving. · Accommodation: Choose a triple business hotel in Golmud city center, cheaper than guesthouses in scenic areas, with complete amenities. · Dining: Focus on Tibetan cuisine + noodles, approx. 80 yuan/person/day, avoid overpriced restaurants in scenic areas.

Taking kids to Qinghai? Don’t follow the usual rushed routes anymore! This 7-day wild adventure in Hoh Xil covers salt lakes, snow mountains, uninhabited areas, and yardang landforms—all at a relaxed pace that won’t tire out moms. Perfect for first-time family travelers to follow blindly! 🌟 Must-Visit Hidden Gems for Kids · 🏔️ Hoh Xil: Take the kids to see Tibetan antelopes, check in at the Kunlun Pass, experience the vastness of the highland wilderness, tell stories about ecological protection, and learn while playing · 💧 Qinghai Lake: Avoid the crowds and find less popular spots, cycle along the lake with the kids, enjoy afternoon tea under the grassland sky, and immerse in the blue of Qinghai Lake · 💚 Dacaidan Emerald Lake: Layers of Tiffany blue and mint green waters like a spilled painter’s palette, perfect for taking stunning photos with the kids · 💎 Chaka Salt Lake: Asia’s largest salt lake, walk on the towering salt bridge, see the sparkling salt flowers, and teach kids about how salt lakes form · 🏜️ Obolian Yardang: Travel the Mars Road, check in at alien-like landforms, kids’ curiosity will be fully engaged, and they’ll have a blast · 🌊 Water Yardang: The world’s only water yardang landform, where lake water and yardang wonders blend, letting kids marvel at nature’s craftsmanship 🗓️ 7-Day Relaxed Family Itinerary D1 Arrive in Xining from various places, visit Ta’er Monastery, enjoy local specialties, and slowly adapt to the high altitude D2 Depart Xining → Light tour around Qinghai Lake → Watch sunset at Tianjun Stone Forest → Stay overnight in Tianjun D3 Tianjun → View scenery at Hala Lake → Stay overnight in Delingha, enjoy highland pasture views along the way D4 Delingha → Dacaidan Emerald Lake → Stay overnight in Lenghu Town, unlocking stunning salt lake views all the way D5 Lenghu → Oil Town → Heidushan → Obolian Yardang → Stay overnight in Xitai, fully immerse in northwest landforms D6 Xitai → Water Yardang → Chaka Salt Lake → Stay overnight in Golmud, check in at salt lake wonders D7 Golmud → Light trek in Hoh Xil → Return to Golmud, successfully conclude the trip 💡 Essential Tips for Family Travel 1. Altitude Sickness Prevention: Prepare oxygen bottles and glucose oral solutions in advance, avoid strenuous exercise throughout, encourage kids to drink plenty of water, and gradually transition from low to high altitude for easier adaptation 2. Clothing Advice: Strong UV rays on the plateau require comprehensive sun protection; large temperature differences between morning and night mean even in summer bring windbreakers and warm clothes, and pack extra sets of clothes for the kids 3. Supplies Preparation: Some road sections have few restaurants, so prepare favorite snacks, fruits, and travel meals for the kids in advance to avoid hunger-induced tantrums 4. Travel Safety: Choose reputable vehicle teams and experienced drivers, do not deviate from the route for off-road adventures, safety first when traveling with kids Accommodation 🏨Sofitel Xinhua Union Hotel A high-end brand hotel in Xining’s Haihu New District, equipped with an indoor children’s playground and family rooms, ensuring a top-notch stay experience 🏨Senyuan Quality Hotel Core hotel in Delingha city center, with oxygen-supplied rooms and complete family facilities, perfect for rest and transit during the trip 🏨Mars Camp Homestay Popular themed homestay near Obolian, featuring space capsule design, offering kids an immersive Mars experience with a great atmosphere 🏨Yellow River International Hotel Highly rated hotel in Golmud city center, 24-hour oxygen supply, thoughtful family services, the top choice for trips to Hoh Xil ---

The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop hides stunning snow mountains, salt lakes, Gobi deserts, and Danxia landforms✨ Spring is the best time to visit with fewer crowds and pristine scenery, creating an amazing atmosphere🌿 Must-have packing list + outfit formulas all organized for you✅ · - ✨ Trip Highlights ✅ Relaxed Travel: Private car transfers throughout, no need to carry luggage around, stop and go freely ✅ Selected Accommodations: Stay in highly rated local hotels all along the route, rest well after a day of exploring ✅ Key Attractions: Connect all the must-visit spots in Qinghai and Gansu, your social media grid will be full of stunning shots! ✅ Student Friendly: Easy to manage with great value for money! · - 🗺️ Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop 8-Day Itinerary Overview (No backtracking) D1: Xining - Riyue Mountain - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka D2: Chaka - Chaerhan Salt Lake - Wanzhang Salt Bridge - Golmud (overnight) D3: Golmud - Yuzhu Peak Viewing Platform - Wuji Longfeng Palace - Kunlun Mountain Pass - Hoh Xil - Sonam Dargye Protection Station - Golmud (overnight) D4: Golmud - U-shaped Highway - Water Yadan - Dachaidan (overnight) D5: Dachaidan - Dachaidan Emerald Lake - Heidushan & Yanzhishan - Dunhuang (overnight) D6: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring - Dunhuang (overnight) D7: Dunhuang - Son of the Earth - Wujie - Jiayuguan (view from afar) - Rainbow Danxia - Zhangye (overnight) D8: Zhangye - Biandukou - Qilian Grassland - Gangshika Snow Peak & Lianxin Lake - Xining · - 🎒 Essential Packing List for Spring ▫️ Documents: ID card, student ID (for discounts), some cash📂 ▫️ Sun Protection: SPF50+ sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, cooling sleeves, sun mask🧴 ▫️ Skincare: High-moisture cream, hydrating masks, lip balm, hand cream, moisturizing spray💧 ▫️ Medicines: Rhodiola (prepare in advance), portable oxygen canister, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills, band-aids💊 ▫️ Electronics: Phone, camera, power bank, charging cables, offline maps, selfie stick📱 ▫️ Others: U-shaped neck pillow (for long drives), thermos, disposable underwear, snacks🍪 · - 👗 Spring Outfit Formula (Great for photos and practical) Core: Big temperature difference between day and night, layer up and down, wear bright colors for photos📸▫️ Top: Long-sleeve T-shirt + light sweatshirt + windproof jacket / light down jacket🧥▫️ Bottom: Quick-dry pants / jeans + bare-leg solution (if you’re cold)👖 ▫️ Shoes: Comfortable hiking shoes / sneakers + waterproof shoe covers (for salt lakes / deserts)👟 ▫️ Photo Outfits: Red / white / off-white long dresses, ethnic-style shawls, small silk scarves✨ ▫️ Accessories: Sunglasses, hats, scarves (for warmth + sun protection + photo effect)🧣 · - 🌷 Spring Travel Tips ▫️ Altitude 2000-3200m, avoid strenuous exercise, drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness💧▫️ Dry weather, bring masks and lip balm, use daily💦▫️ Strong UV rays, physical sun protection is more effective than just sunscreen🌞 ▫️ Long distances between attractions, bring snacks and water to avoid hunger on the road🍎 ▫️ Salt lakes, Gobi, and Danxia are very photogenic, bright colors look great in any photo📸 · -- Avoid Pitfalls Tips (Save money and hassle💸) 1. Avoid Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake, take the herders’ trails or cliff paths instead for fewer people, better views, and cheaper costs💴, tested and no regrets! 2. Always wear shoe covers when entering Chaka Salt Lake, avoid stepping on crystallized areas❌, protect the salt lake and yourself, don’t be greedy! 3. No drones allowed at Rainbow Danxia🚫, some areas have weak signal, download offline maps in advance to avoid getting lost 4. Northwest China is 1 hour behind inland time⏰, don’t plan your schedule by inland biological clock, sleeping in won’t affect your trip! 5. No shower or alcohol on the first day🍷, slowly adapt to altitude sickness or you’ll feel awful and cry😭 -

I'm not going to Delingha anymore!! I want to go further, to Kekexili where Duojie patrolled his whole life, to Dunhuang where Baiju never went, to the Qinghai-Gansu loop that my camera never finished shooting. 🌲|Chasing the roots of the "Tree of Life," I traveled 3,000 kilometers No turning back, no rushing. I just want to hear the crack once on the blue ice of Qinghai Lake, wait outside Sonam Dargye Station for a herd of Tibetan antelopes to cross the road, and be a person carved by the wind at the sunset of the colorful Danxia. 🚩8 days, a journey about taking root Day 1: Xining—Riyue Mountain—Qinghai Lake—Chaka Town [Stay] Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake—Chaerhan Salt Lake—Golmud [Stay] Day 3: Golmud—Kunlun Mountain Pass—Kekexili Viewing Platform—Sonam Dargye Protection Station—Golmud [Stay] Day 4: Golmud—315 U-shaped Highway—Water Yadan—Emerald Lake—Dachaidan [Stay] Day 5: Dachaidan—Nanbaxian Yadan Landform—Heidushan—Dunhuang [Stay] Day 6: Morning at Mogao Caves—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Dunhuang [Stay] city center Day 7: Dunhuang—Jiayuguan—Zhangye Danxia Landform—Zhangye City [Stay] Day 8: Zhangye—Bianduxia—Qilian Grassland—Distant view of Gangshika Snow Mountain—End in Xining. 📌 Traveling in Qinghai, you only understand in the off-season: · The mirror surface of Chaka Salt Lake has no footprints, only you and the snowy mountains in the reflection · No queues at Emerald Lake, you can have the entire turquoise mine to yourself · Volunteers at Sonam Dargye Station are not busy and will tell you the migration map of Tibetan antelopes, their eyes welling up as they speak 🎞️| In the drama, someone asked Duojie: "Kekexili has nothing, why do you still guard it?" Duojie pointed to the Tibetan antelopes grazing in the distance: "If they are here, so am I." From Qinghai Lake to Dunhuang, from Kunlun Mountains to Qilian Mountains. Gradually understanding— The Tree of Life does not grow in lush, fertile places. It grows in permafrost zones, in the crevices of wind-eroded Yadan, in the worn boots of mountain patrol members, in the hearts of everyone who leaves Qinghai but keeps looking back. Not all roots must be planted in hometowns. Some roots, planted in oxygen-poor heights, can still grow into someone else's tree. · 🚘【Northwest Transportation Guide】 ✈️Major transport: Fly to Xining Caojiabao Airport / Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport 🚗Local transport: Self-driving recommended with car pick-up at Xining/Dunhuang stores 🚌Public transport: Attractions are too scattered! Strongly recommend carpooling/private car🚙 🌟【Qinghai-Gansu Travel "Avoid" List】 ❌Don't join low-price tours, too many traps to cry over😭 ❌Only buy A-class tickets for Mogao Caves! B-class tickets cover only 4 caves and no time selection⏳ ❌Sun protection is a must! Physical sunscreen > chemical sunscreen, hat + arm sleeves are the ultimate combo🧢 ❌Respect local customs! No bare shoulders or legs in temples🙏 ❌Book accommodation in advance! Last-minute bookings cost twice as much💸 🌟【Qinghai-Gansu Travel "Must-Do" List】 ✅Altitude caution: Qinghai Lake is 3,200 meters above sea level, avoid running or jumping! Altitude sickness risk🏔️ ✅Time difference reminder: Northwest gets dark late, you can slightly delay your schedule🌄 ✅Best photo times: Soft light in early morning and evening, high chance of great shots📷 ✅Food exploration: Lamb hot pot, old yogurt, sweet fermented barley… foodies don’t miss out · ✅ Accommodation Recommendations 1️⃣ Xining/Haizhu New District: Rich nightlife, design hotels with great photo opportunities (suitable for those with a good budget) 2️⃣ Delingha: Must-pass on popular routes, accommodations tight in peak season, book early 3️⃣ Dunhuang/Shazhou Night Market: The choice for artsy youth, hutong homestays to experience Northwest charm 4️⃣ Zhangye City: Convenient transport, close to Zhangye West Station and night market, many nearby attractions 5️⃣ Scenic area exits: Commercial atmosphere strong, good for browsing but shop carefully ·

2 Days 1 Night Kekexili Adventure Guide (Budget 2000 RMB) Suitable for: Travelers who love the wilderness, pursue extreme landscapes, and can adapt to high altitudes Core experiences: Tibetan antelope observation, Kunlun Snow Mountain, no-man’s land highway, starry Milky Way 📅 Itinerary Overview Day 1: Golmud → Kunlun Pass → Sonam Dargye Protection Station → Buzdong Spring Day 2: Buzdong Spring → Kekexili hinterland (Tibetan antelope watching) → Return to Golmud 💰 Budget Allocation (2 people traveling together, 1000 RMB per person) Item Cost (per person) Remarks Transportation 600 RMB Chartered/shared car round trip from Golmud (including fuel) Accommodation 150 RMB Simple bed at Buzdong Spring Protection Station Meals 150 RMB Bring your own dry food + simple hot meals Others 100 RMB Oxygen cylinder, medicine, miscellaneous expenses 🚗 Day 1: Golmud → Kunlun Pass → Buzdong Spring Morning: 7:00 Depart from Golmud by charter/shared car (4WD off-road vehicle recommended, 300 RMB per person/day). 9:30 Pass by Kunlun Holy Spring (free, can fill glacier water), distant view of Yuzhu Peak. Noon: 12:00 Arrive at Kunlun Pass (altitude 4768m), take photos at the monument, simple roadside meal (self-prepared). Afternoon: 14:00 Visit Sonam Dargye Protection Station (free, learn about Tibetan antelope conservation). 16:00 Arrive at Buzdong Spring Protection Station for check-in (bed 150 RMB/person, basic but warm). Night: 20:00 Stargazing near the protection station (no light pollution, Milky Way clearly visible). 🦌 Day 2: Buzdong Spring → Kekexili Hinterland → Golmud Early morning: 6:30 Depart at sunrise, head deep into Kekexili along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway, searching for Tibetan antelope and wild donkeys (higher chance in summer). Morning: 9:00 Arrive near Chumar River or Wudaoliang (frequent animal activity area), quietly wait for photos. 11:00 Return trip, possibly encounter Tibetan fox or wolves on the way (keep distance!). Afternoon: 14:00 Return to Golmud, stop to retake photos of Kunlun Snow Mountain. ⚠️ Important Tips Safety first: Travel in groups, no unauthorized entry into no-man’s land (advance registration required). Bring enough altitude sickness medicine (Rhodiola, ibuprofen), portable oxygen cylinders (30 RMB/can). Transportation advice: Shared rides are more cost-effective (hostels in Golmud can form groups), charter about 1200 RMB/day (price negotiable). Many large trucks on Qinghai-Tibet Highway, drive carefully. Minimal gear: -15℃ warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses (to prevent snow blindness), power bank (unstable power supply at protection station). 🌍 Soul experience: Touch the wilderness heartbeat of the world’s Third Pole at the lowest cost, perfect for "ascetic" travel lovers! Actual expenses may exceed budget (e.g., emergency treatment for altitude sickness or vehicle repairs).

Qinghai | You Must Visit Hoh Xil Once in Your Life Hoh Xil, means "green mountain ridge" or "beautiful girl" in Mongolian, and "desolate land under the northern Kunlun Mountains" in Tibetan. It is a forbidden zone for humans and a paradise for wild animals. · ————— I downloaded the movie "Kekexili: Mountain Patrol" directed by Lu Chuan to watch on the plane before I left. The movie says, "The story of Hoh Xil is hard to tell, only those who have really been there can understand." The movie is based on the true story of Sonam Dargye. This is heaven, hell, a pure land, and a place to witness life and faith. The last primitive wilderness in China, this is the last habitat of Tibetan antelopes. This is the wilderness, but not barren. Every alpine meadow interprets the power of life. · ————— The original plan was to spend two days there, but it was still early and the weather was good, so I went straight to the Jade Pool of the Queen Mother of the West after returning to the Wuji Dragon and Phoenix Palace. I was very lucky along the way, from continuous rain to bright sunshine, snow-capped mountains, jade pool, alpine meadows, I saw Tibetan wild donkeys, Tibetan gazelles, Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, and marmots. I didn't see the "egg yolk pie internet celebrity wolf" but took a photo with the "wolf friend" (see the picture later). The local driver was familiar with the road conditions and drove well, and we left the reserve safely before dark. · ————— Travel method: chartered car Departure: near Golmud Railway Station Departure time: 8:30 Return time: 20:30 Travel preparation: 1️⃣ I ate rhodiola and oxygen supplements for half a month, and didn't take a shower or wash my hair the day before. 2️⃣ I prepared 2 bottles of oxygen (I felt a headache and head swelling when the altitude was over 4,500 meters, and I used up both bottles). 3️⃣ ID card (ID card security check is required to enter and leave the reserve). 4️⃣ Keep warm and protect yourself from the sun, wear a hat and a jacket. Chartered car itinerary: Golmud ➡️ Kunlun Holy Spring (with a water toilet) ➡️ Wuji Dragon and Phoenix Palace (there are two destinations here, Route A is Sonam Dargye Protection Station, Route B is the Jade Pool of the Queen Mother of the West). Route A: Yuzhu Peak Viewing Platform (it snowed on the night of September 9, and the snow was particularly shocking) ➡️ Kunlun Pass (altitude: 4,768 meters, the breathtaking beauty, there are two wolf-like dogs and a Samoyed outside the platform, which are said to have grown up with humans and dogs, and you can pet them and take photos with them for a fee) ➡️ Yuxu Peak Viewing Platform ➡️ Hoh Xil Sonam Dargye Protection Station (the driver said the protection station was under repair and could not be visited, so I returned at Kunlun Pass) Route B: ➡️ Jade Pool Grassland (the most beautiful scenery is on the road) ➡️ Jade Pool of the Queen Mother of the West (not stunning, but it led me to the most beautiful no man's land)

Qiemo, located at the northern foot of the Kunlun Mountains, is known as the "Hometown of the Jade King." Legend has it that during the Queen Mother of the West's birthday banquet, a maidservant spilled a jade wine cup, and the fragments fell to Qiemo, transforming into jade stones, while the wine flowed to form the Tatleksu River. In the lobby of the Yudu Hotel, there is a 1,502-kilogram piece of bluish-white jade, certified by the Shanghai Great World Guinness Records. The Qiemo Jade Trading Center is worth visiting; the sugar-white jade is delicate and feels like solidified cream, but if you're not an expert, it's best to look more and buy less. The road from Qiemo County towards the Kunlun Mountains is open wilderness with no established mining tourism projects; you'll need a local acquaintance to guide you if you want to visit the mines. Just stroll through the market in the county town and listen to jade mining stories; don't impulsively go into the mountains.

The Kunlun Pass, located on National Highway G109 at an altitude of 4,767 meters, is a crucial point on the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. It's about a three-hour drive from Golmud; the road conditions are good, but the altitude increases rapidly. At the pass, there's a monument to Sonam Dargye and a cluster of prayer flags. The wind blowing in from the Kunlun Mountains makes the flags flutter loudly. Stopping to take photos is fine, but don't linger; the wind is biting cold, and headaches are a precursor to altitude sickness. Wear a windproof jacket and fleece; don't skimp on a hat and gloves. There's no shade or shops at the pass, so after taking your photos, continue downhill. On the return journey, you'll pass a spring that never freezes, its water a vibrant blue hue rising from the snow. The Kunlun Pass isn't the end; it's a boundary marker reminding you that the uninhabited area lies ahead. Standing here, the wind tells you what the edge truly means.

Hoh Xil is not a tourist area and there is no entrance fee, but it demands respect. From Golmud, travel south along G109 for about 200 kilometers to the Sonam Dargye Nature Reserve. The entire route is paved, and the altitude climbs from 2,800 to 4,600 meters. The best time to spot Tibetan antelopes is between 5 and 7 PM near the reserve. Remain quiet, do not get out of the vehicle to chase them, and use a telephoto lens as a last resort; a mobile phone will not be able to capture them. The Kunlun Pass is at an altitude of 4,700 meters, with prayer flags fluttering among the snow-capped mountains. The wind is so strong it's difficult to stand; a waterproof jacket is essential. Start taking Rhodiola rosea two days in advance, bring an oxygen cylinder, and avoid running, jumping, and showering. There are no convenience stores along the way; bring your own self-heating rice and hot water. Do not litter; every plastic bag could be mistakenly eaten by Tibetan antelopes. This place is not for enjoyment, but for reverence.

Don't want to deal with the National Day crowds? These 8 niche cities are the ultimate autumn hidden gems. 01 Lanzhou | Gansu Heading northwest for National Day, Lanzhou is often treated as a transit stop where people stay one night and leave. I advise you to stay for two days. ⏰ Go to the time-honored Mogouyan Beef Noodles at 7:00 AM. The people in line are mostly locals; tourists don't start pouring in until after 8:00 AM. When ordering, ask for "erxi" (thin noodles), add chili oil separately, and remember the soup is more precious than the noodles. After eating, walk along the Yellow River to the Zhongshan Bridge. Across the bridge is Baita Mountain Park. The steps aren't steep, and you can reach the base of the White Pagoda in 20 minutes for a bird's-eye view of the Yellow River flowing through the city. 📍 You must book the Provincial Museum in advance. It's closed on Mondays, so don't waste a trip. The real "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" is on the second floor. ⚠️ The Zhengning Road Night Market is packed after 6:00 PM. If you want to eat comfortably, go at 5:30 PM. For the milk egg sweet fermented rice, look for the old Ma's stall—don't buy from the first one you see. 🚄 The intercity high-speed train from Zhongchuan Airport to the city takes 40 minutes, saving half the time compared to a taxi. It's suitable for traveling with elderly family members. It's windy by the Yellow River, so bring a jacket. 02 Baise | Guangxi Autumn in Baise is quiet, but Haokun Lake will show you its true colors. ⏰ Arrive at Haokun Lake before 10:00 AM. The water is calm, the reflections are clearest, and the boat ride to the center of the lake feels like gliding into a painting. Tongling Grand Canyon is best visited in the afternoon. It's cool in the canyon, and you'll get soaked standing under the waterfall for 3 minutes, so bring quick-dry clothing. 📍 The Chengbi Lake loop road is great for cycling. You can rent bikes next to the dam parking lot and ride half the loop in 2 hours. 🍜 Try the rolled rice noodles on Wenming Street in the city for breakfast—they're 2 yuan each and come with yellow peel sauce. ⚠️ There are many steps in Tongling Grand Canyon, so don't push yourself if you have bad knees. If you take a sedan chair, negotiate the price beforehand. Baise isn't a popular destination during National Day, and hotel prices are significantly lower than in Nanning, making it perfect for those on a budget who still want to see beautiful scenery. 🚄 A taxi from Baise Station to Haokun Lake takes about 1 hour; carpooling is more cost-effective. 03 Huizhou | Guangdong Huizhou is the backyard garden hidden by Shenzhen residents, so it's not as crazy during National Day. ⏰ People start exercising at Huizhou West Lake at 6:00 AM. There are few tourists on the Su Causeway, and the light hits the Sizhou Pagoda at an angle, so you don't have to fight for a photo spot. Luofu Mountain is worth a full day. After taking the cable car up, you still need to walk 40 minutes to Feiyun Peak. It's windy at the summit, so bring a windbreaker. 📍 The sand at Xunliao Bay is fine, but it gets crowded during National Day. I suggest going in the evening—the sunset is 10 times better than at noon. 🍜 Try the "Ama" stuffed tofu in Qiaodong Market. Locals have been eating it since childhood, and you can eat your fill for 20 yuan per person. ⚠️ Buy tickets for Luofu Mountain and the cable car separately. Online package deals are 20 yuan cheaper, but pay attention to the usage times. It's great for couples and families; you can easily push a stroller around the West Lake, and Xunliao Bay has shallow water areas. 🚄 A taxi from Huizhou North Station to West Lake takes about 25 minutes. 04 Bortala | Xinjiang You might not recognize the name Bortala, but you've definitely seen photos of Sayram Lake. ⏰ It's cold enough to wear a down jacket at Sayram Lake during National Day. Arrive at the lake before 8:00 AM; morning mist clings to the water, and there are more swans than tourists. 📍 Anjihai Grand Canyon is closer if you're coming from Kuitun. There are no railings on the edge of the canyon, so don't stand too far back when taking photos—the wind is strong enough to push you. The mountains and waters of Wenquan County are golden in autumn, perfect for soaking in hot springs after walking along the boardwalk. 🍜 Try the naan-pit meat and milk tea in Bole city—any place you walk into will be good, averaging 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ The speed limit on the Sayram Lake loop road is strict, so don't think about speeding; the interval speed cameras are very accurate. It's great for road trips and photography, but accommodation by the lake is in high demand during National Day, so book a month in advance. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Bole Station to Sayram Lake. 05 Nanping | Fujian Nanping's main attraction is Wuyi Mountain, but don't just focus on Tianyou Peak during National Day. ⏰ Take the first bamboo raft on the Nine-Bend Stream at 7:30 AM. The light is soft, the water is calm, and the boatman will tell stories along the way. In the afternoon, head to the "Rock Bone and Flower Fragrance" roaming path near the Dahongpao mother trees. It's less crowded, the tea fields are layered, and it's an easy walk. 📍 Song Street next to Wuyi Palace is great for an evening stroll. Whether you buy tea or not, drink 3 cups before deciding. 🍜 For Zixi noodles and Langgu smoked goose in the resort area, locals recommend eating on the old street—it's 30% cheaper than in the scenic area. ⚠️ There's a 2-hour wait to climb Tianyou Peak during National Day. If you're with elderly family members, skip it and go to Taoyuan Cave instead. It's perfect for hikers and tea lovers. You must book the Nine-Bend Stream bamboo raft 3 days in advance; there are basically no tickets available on-site. 🚄 A taxi from Wuyi Mountain North Station to the scenic area takes about 20 minutes. 06 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Autumn in Mudanjiang is short, but the Diaoshuilou Waterfall at Jingpo Lake is worth the trip. ⏰ Arrive at Jingpo Lake at 10:00 AM. The waterfall's water volume is smaller than in summer, but the water is clearer. A walk around the boardwalk by the pool takes 40 minutes. In the afternoon, head back to the city. The park along the Mudanjiang River is great for a stroll. The river breeze is cool, so wearing a thin down jacket isn't an exaggeration. 📍 The Maogong Mountain viewing platform in the Jingpo Lake scenic area has a great angle for sunset, but there are no streetlights on the way down, so you must leave before 5:00 PM. 🍜 Try the Korean-style cold noodles and rice cakes on Dongyi Pedestrian Street in the city. It's 15 yuan per person, and the cold noodle soup is full of ice chips. ⚠️ The Jingpo Lake cruise has long lines during National Day. If you want to save time, just visit the waterfall and the Underground Forest. It's perfect for people who like quiet autumn scenery. If you come the week after National Day, hotel prices are cut in half. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Mudanjiang Station to Jingpo Lake. 07 Yushu | Qinghai Yushu is for those who aren't afraid of a long journey. ⏰ You can't just enter Hoh Xil, but if you drive along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway to the Kunlun Mountain Pass, you can see Tibetan antelopes running in the distance. The morning light is good, so bring a telephoto lens. Parts of the Sanjiangyuan National Park are open, but you need to report in advance—don't just wander in. 📍 In the evening at Gesar King Square in Jiegu Town, locals dance the Guozhuang. Just stand to the side and watch; don't hold your phone up to their faces to film. 🍜 Try the yak yogurt and tsampa in Yushu city. You might not be used to the first bite, but it's delicious after adding sugar. ⚠️ The altitude is 3,700 meters. Don't shower or run around on the first day. If you have a headache, use oxygen—don't try to tough it out. It's suitable for road trippers with high-altitude experience. Accommodation options are limited during National Day, so book in advance. 🚄 Renting a car after landing at Yushu Batang Airport is the most convenient option. 08 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei is where the desert meets the Yellow River. During National Day, it's half as crowded as Shapotou is during peak season. ⏰ Get to Shapotou as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM. You won't have to wait in line for sand sliding or sheepskin rafts. Leave after 10:00 AM when the tour groups arrive. 📍 Gaomiao Temple is in the city. After 4:00 PM, the light shines through the halls, and you can see the details of the brick carvings clearly. It's free, but don't wear shorts inside. 🍜 Try the haozi noodles and stir-fried latiao around the Drum Tower. Locals eat this for lunch, and it's 20 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't buy the full package for Shapotou activities. Just choose one between sand sliding and the Yellow River zipline. Riding a camel for 15 minutes is enough. It's great for families; there's an elevator to the dunes in the desert area, so you don't have to climb. 🚄 A taxi from Zhongwei South Station to Shapotou takes about 30 minutes. These 8 places are perfect for National Day. Which one do you want to visit first?

Worried about getting tired traveling with kids during National Day? These 5 places are worry-free and fun 01 Shigatse | Tibet Taking kids to the plateau? Don't rush to Everest Base Camp. Shigatse city is at an altitude of about 3,800 meters. We recommend using it as your first stop to acclimate for two days. ⏰ Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in the morning. The kora path is gentle and barely stroller-friendly. You might need to carry younger kids for a bit. The debating courtyard is lively after 3:00 PM, and elementary schoolers will be mesmerized. Please check official announcements for ticket prices and opening hours. Photography is prohibited inside the halls; keep your phone away. Stay in the old town near Beijing Road, where sweet tea houses are right outside. 🍜 Tibetan noodles with sweet tea are kid-friendly. For Everest, we recommend chartering a car for two days. The road is bumpy, so have motion sickness patches ready. ⚠️ Don't trust roadside touts offering "Everest round-trip in one day"; it's impossible. 02 Haixi | Qinghai This route is suitable for elementary schoolers and up; younger kids might get fussy during the long drives. 🚄 Fly into Golmud or Delingha and rent a car. Avoid driving at night. ⏰ Arrive at Emerald Lake before 10:00 AM for less wind, better reflections, and fewer crowds for photos. Qarhan Salt Lake is less crowded than Chaka. The salt crust is sharp, so have kids wear thick-soled shoes. The line for the small train at Chaka Salt Lake is long; we recommend walking in with kids. ⚠️ At an altitude of around 3,000 meters, avoid bathing, running, or jumping on the first day. Stay in Delingha city for easy supplies. You can return from Kunlun Mountain Pass in one day. 🍜 Order the mild version of the lamb hot pot; kids can have it with yogurt. It's windy at Kunlun Mountain Pass, so bring windbreakers and keep an oxygen canister handy for peace of mind. 03 Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan is a paradise for younger kids; there's plenty of sand. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4:00 PM to avoid the sun and hot sand while sand sliding. The cable car peak is in the morning, so plan accordingly. Xiansha Island has many activities like camel riding and small trains. Buying a package ticket is more cost-effective; please check official announcements for pricing. ⚠️ Don't run barefoot in the shaded areas of sand dunes; there are many hidden pits. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan is more cultural and suitable for middle and high schoolers; rent an audio guide. Stay in Kangbashi for new hotels, wide roads, and evening fountain shows. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Dongsheng West Station to Kangbashi. 🍜 Hand-grabbed mutton with milk tea; kids can just eat the plain meat. 04 Guangzhou | Guangdong Guangzhou is a safe bet for National Day family travel—it's hot, but manageable. ⏰ Enter Chimelong at 9:00 AM. Hit the Panda Pavilion first, then the rides, and leave when it gets crowded in the afternoon. Focus on animals for younger kids, and add the amusement park for elementary schoolers. We recommend visiting Canton Tower in the evening to catch both the 🌆 sunset and night views. The Ferris wheel line is long, so book tickets online in advance; check official announcements for rules. You can finish touring the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall in half an hour; the wood and brick carvings are interesting and great for elementary schoolers. Stay in the Zhujiang New Town or Hanxi Chimelong area; the former is convenient for night tours, and the latter is easier for families. 🍜 Order shrimp dumplings and siu mai for dim sum; kids love them. Hike Baiyun Mountain in the evening via the gentle slope at Yuntai Garden, which is easy for seniors too. 05 Jinhua | Zhejiang Hengdian is great for middle and high schoolers; younger kids will just be watching the spectacle. 🚄 Take the light rail from Yiwu Station to Hengdian; it's half the price of a taxi. ⏰ The Qin King Palace is less crowded in the morning. Go to Dream Valley in the afternoon for water activities, and don't miss the night show. Buy tickets individually or as a package; check official announcements for rules. ⚠️ The shuttle bus between scenic spots has long lines, making strollers a burden. Shuanglong Scenic Area is great for escaping the heat, but the caves are slippery, so hold your child's hand. Stay near Wansheng Street in Hengdian for plenty of dining options. 🍜 Try Dongyang Womian (noodle soup) or virgin boy eggs if you're brave. For elementary schoolers, we recommend picking only two scenic spots; doing too much will be exhausting. 06 Guilin | Guangxi The Li River bamboo raft is the highlight; the section from Xingping to Nine-Horse Mural Hill is the most stable. ⏰ Get on the raft before 9:00 AM while the mist is still on the river—it's like a painting. Make sure younger kids wear life jackets and don't reach for the water. Reed Flute Cave has a constant temperature and is a good backup for rainy days, but there are many steps, so be careful if carrying a child. The Longji Rice Terraces are golden during National Day. The cable car line is at least an hour long, so we recommend staying at a guesthouse on the mountain to watch the sunrise the next day. ⚠️ Don't trust "low-price bamboo rafts" at the pier; they'll likely overcharge you halfway. Stay in Xingping Ancient Town, right by the river. 🍜 Choose the swordfish for beer fish; it has fewer bones. Have Guilin rice noodles for breakfast; kids can mix them themselves. 07 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Touring the three mountains is suitable for seniors and kids; the pace is slow. ⏰ Visit Jinshan in the morning, have pot-lid noodles at Xijindu at noon, take the ferry to Jiaoshan in the afternoon, and finish by viewing the river scenery at Beigushan. Jinshan Temple has many steps; leave your stroller at the entrance. Jurong Maoshan is suitable for elementary schoolers and up. The cable car saves energy; check official announcements for ticket and cable car prices. ⚠️ Don't accept "free incense" from stalls on the mountain; they'll ask for donations later. Stay near Xijindu for comfortable evening walks. 🍜 Try the pork aspic with vinegar; kids can eat it like a snack. It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from Zhenjiang Station to Jinshan, and the bus is also convenient. 08 Yichun | Heilongjiang Yichun during National Day is a palette of colors and less crowded. 🚄 Fly to Harbin and transfer to a train to Yichun, or fly directly to Lindu Airport. ⏰ The morning light at Tangwanghe Forest Park is great. The boardwalks between the stone forests are gentle, so younger kids can walk on their own. ⚠️ Temperatures in the forest area are near freezing in the morning and evening, so don't skimp on down jackets. There's little food in the scenic area, so bring bread and hot water. Stay in Tangwanghe Town, which is close to the scenic area entrance, so you won't have to rush in the morning. Elementary schoolers can pick pine cones and identify tree species, while middle and high schoolers can take longer hiking trails. 🍜 Order the pork rib hot pot; kids will fight over the corn cakes. Walk slowly on slippery boardwalks and don't run.

8 must-visit small cities for a reverse National Day trip 01 Baoshan | Yunnan Head to Tengchong for the National Day holiday; airfare is significantly cheaper than Dali, and it's less crowded. 🚄 Land at Tuofeng Airport and take a taxi to Heshun Ancient Town (about 40 minutes). Don't rush into the scenic area; drop your luggage at your guesthouse first. Heshun Ancient Town is best explored before 7:00 AM. 📍 At that time, only locals are at the laundry pavilion by the Xian River. The light hits at an angle—perfect for photos. Afterward, grab a bowl of pea starch noodles. ⚠️ Just browse the jade shops in the ancient town; don't make impulsive purchases. Visit Beihai Wetland after 4:00 PM. Boat and admission tickets cost just over 100 yuan. The grass mats feel soft underfoot, like stepping on a wet sponge. ⏰ Boats stop running at 6:30 PM, so don't arrive right at closing time. Save the Tengchong Volcano and Geothermal Area for the second day. The "Big Boiling Pot" spring is spectacular, but the sulfur smell is strong. The Yunfeng Mountain cable car is very steep; if you're afraid of heights, your legs might shake, but the scenery is worth the ticket price. 02 Shantou | Guangdong Nan'ao Island is the most worthwhile stop in Shantou, but be prepared for traffic jams when heading to the island during the National Day holiday. 🚄 Take bus 161 from Shantou Station to the island; it's less stressful than driving yourself, as two-hour traffic jams on the bridge are common during holidays. Renting an e-bike on the island is the most flexible option, costing 80–100 yuan per day. 📍 Riding from Houzhai Town to Qing'ao Bay along the island loop road is refreshing, and it's freer than taking a sightseeing bus. ⚠️ Don't eat seafood near the pier; the prices are inflated. For food, grab a bowl of oyster omelet with fish ball soup in Houzhai Town in the morning. 🍜 Choose an oyster omelet with crispy edges; the soggy ones aren't cooked properly. In the afternoon, visit the Tropic of Cancer Square; when it's not crowded, you can capture the vast coastline. Staying in Qing'ao Bay is convenient for sunrise, but hotel prices double during the National Day holiday. If you're on a budget, stay in Houzhai Town; there are more dining options, and it's a 10-minute bike ride to the beach. 03 Guyuan | Ningxia Xumishan Grottoes is the least popular spot on this trip; you basically won't have to wait in line during the National Day holiday. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Guyuan Station to the grottoes. It's recommended to charter a car for the round trip, as it's hard to get a taxi back. The grottoes are carved into red sandstone and feature statues from the Northern Wei to Tang dynasties. 📍 The Great Buddha in Cave 51 is the best preserved. ⚠️ Some caves are locked with iron gates; don't force them open—viewing them from the outside is just as good. ⏰ Before 10:00 AM, the light shines into the caves at an angle, making it best for photos. In the afternoon, you'll be shooting against the light, and faces will be dark. If bringing elderly travelers, be careful; the steps are steep and lack railings, so take it slow. The museum at the foot of the mountain is worth a 30-minute visit to understand the history of the grottoes. On the way back to the city, stop for a bowl of Guyuan mutton paomo; the soup is rich, the meat is tender, and it's lighter than the version in Xi'an. 04 Yushu | Qinghai Hoh Xil and Sanjiangyuan National Park are already quite cold during the National Day holiday. 🚄 Land at Yushu Batang Airport and charter a car to enter the nature reserve; it costs 800–1,000 yuan per day, but carpooling is more cost-effective. ⚠️ The altitude is over 4,500 meters, so altitude sickness is no joke. Arrive in Yushu city two days early to acclimate; don't rush in right after getting off the plane. Start taking Rhodiola rosea a week in advance; it's useless if you start after arriving. 📍 The Sonam Dargye Protection Station is a spot where you can park and take photos. Seeing Tibetan antelopes depends on luck; by October, they have already migrated deeper into the reserve. The wetlands in Sanjiangyuan are vast; ⏰ when the light is good in the afternoon, the water surface looks like crushed silver. Bring enough dry food and hot water; there are no restaurants in the reserve. Take all your trash with you and don't feed the wildlife. This trip is suitable for those who are physically fit and can endure hardship; be cautious if traveling with children. 05 Karamay | Xinjiang Urho Ghost City is windy but uncrowded during the National Day holiday. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Karamay Station to Urho. It's recommended to join a one-day tour, as arranging transportation yourself is too much hassle. The Yardang landforms look best at dusk; ⏰ enter the scenic area after 6:00 PM, when the light turns the mounds a golden red. 📍 Walk 200 meters deeper from the viewing platform for fewer crowds and better photo angles. ⚠️ The small train in the scenic area costs extra, but it's actually not far to walk. The wind is strong enough to blow your hat off, so wear a tight one. Wear sand-proof shoes; fine sand getting into sneakers is very uncomfortable. You can have a big plate of chicken when you return to the city. 🍜 Restaurants in Karamay serve generous portions; a small size is enough for two people. Choose accommodation in the city center; don't stay near the scenic area, as there's nothing there at night. 06 Shigatse | Tibet Mount Everest Base Camp and Tashilhunpo Monastery—one is in the clouds, the other is in the city. 🚄 You need to charter a car from Shigatse Station to Mount Everest; it's a two-day round trip. Prices are high during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in the morning; ⏰ it opens at 9:00 AM. Follow the locals on their kora; the atmosphere is quieter than the Potala Palace. 📍 The bronze Buddha in the Maitreya Chapel is worth seeing, but photography is not allowed inside the hall. At Mount Everest, ⚠️ temperatures drop below -10°C at night in October, so a sleeping bag and down jacket are must-haves. The tent guesthouses at the base camp have basic facilities; be cautious if you are a neat freak. Altitude sickness is even more intense than in Yushu, so have oxygen bottles ready. If the weather is good, ⏰ you can see the golden sunrise on the mountain around 5:00 AM. Don't get upset if you can't see it; plateau weather changes in an instant. 07 Taizhou | Zhejiang Tiantai Mountain, Taizhou Prefecture City, and Shenxianju are scattered; it's recommended to pick two for the National Day holiday. 🚄 Get off at Taizhou West Station; it's closest to Linhai Ancient City, a 20-minute taxi ride away. Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Area is best explored in the evening. 📍 Eat the "egg white sheep tail" on Ziyang Street while it's hot; it tastes fishy when cold. ⚠️ There's an extra charge for night tours of the city wall; it's free to go up during the day, and the view is just as good. Leave a full day for Shenxianju; the cable car line can be an hour long during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Arrive at the South Gate before 7:30 AM to save a lot of time. There's a line for photos at Ruyi Bridge; if you're afraid of heights, take the plank road on the side. Tiantai Mountain is suitable for those who like temples and waterfalls; Shiliang Waterfall is most spectacular after rain. Choose the Prefecture City if traveling with elderly people, as it's mostly flat. Choose Shenxianju if traveling with children; the cable car and plank road make it easy. 08 Yantai | Shandong Penglai Pavilion, Changdao Island, and Longkou Nanshan—these three spots in Yantai are enough for a three-day trip. 🚄 It's about an hour and a half from Yantai Station to Penglai; taking the high-speed train to Penglai City Station is closer. Enter Penglai Pavilion as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM to ⏰ avoid tour groups. 📍 The rear corridor offers the best view of the sea. ⚠️ The cable car and the pavilion have separate fees, so think before you buy. Don't count on seeing a mirage; that's a rare, unpredictable event. You need to take a boat to Changdao Island; book ferry tickets in advance for the National Day holiday. Stay at a fisherfolk guesthouse on the island. 🍜 The mackerel dumplings and seafood noodles are hearty. The sunset at Jiuzhang Cliff is worth waiting for; it's windy, so wear a jacket. Longkou Nanshan is best for the last day; the Great Buddha is spectacular, but it's quite commercialized. ⚠️ Don't get scammed into paying for incense; sincerity is what matters. Depart from Yantai Station on your way back and pick up some apples. Take a reverse trip to these eight small cities during the National Day holiday; it's more comfortable than crowding into popular destinations. Which one do you want to visit most? Let's chat in the comments.

Ladies! This 5-day Xining and beyond itinerary is super practical! You can visit popular lakes, explore Hoh Xil to spot Tibetan antelopes, and enjoy a flexible schedule that's stress-free and fun. Save this now! · ------------------- Check out the highlights below for more ways to explore↓ · ------------------- 🚗 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Xining – Private transfer from airport/station – Free time – Stay in Xining Day 2: Riyue Mountain – Qinghai Daotang River Scenic Area – Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area – Chaka Salt Lake Day 3: Wusute Water Yardang Geological Park – U-shaped Road – Qarhan Salt Lake Day 4-5: Wuji Longfeng Palace – Kunlun Mountain Pass – Jie Sang Suonan Dajie Martyrs Memorial – Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve – Hoh Xil Nature Reserve Budongquan – Tour ends in Golmud with complimentary private transfer to airport/station Visit all the popular lakes, explore Hoh Xil, spot the "spirits of the plateau" (Tibetan antelopes), and experience the magnificent scenery of the Northwest. · ------------------- Must-visit attractions: 🌊 Qinghai Daotang River Scenic Area: The river is crystal clear and winding—perfect for an autumn visit! The shimmering water against the golden grasslands on both banks, with snow-capped mountains and blue skies in the distance, and cattle and sheep grazing slowly—it's like walking through a painting~ ☁️ Chaka Salt Lake: The salt is as white as snow and reflects the sky, making it a real-life "Mirror of the Sky"! The sunset in midsummer is incredible, with pink and purple hues covering the lake surface. Walking barefoot on the soft salt lake and taking the small train into the center of the lake makes for photos that look like they're from a fairyland. There are also amazing salt sculptures! 🧂 Qarhan Salt Lake: A treasure trove for photos and sightseeing! There's also the incredible Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge. You can start by visiting the Salt Lake Museum to see salt flower crystals, then stroll along the salt bridge to catch the breeze. Every photo you take will be a healing masterpiece! · ------------------- Essential travel tips: 1. Choose official taxis at the airport and don't trust roadside solicitors🙅‍♀️; 2. Hand-grabbed lamb goes well with garlic to cut the grease, and be sure to try the local liangpi (cold skin noodles)🍜; 3. In September, the temperature difference between day and night in Xining is large, so bring a light jacket for mornings and evenings🧥; 4. Don't run or jump while traveling on the plateau; take it slow to adapt to the altitude more comfortably🏞️. · ------------------- ↓Tap the card below to customize a private tour with a flexible itinerary for a stress-free and relaxing trip

Starting from Golmud, we drove along the G109 Qinghai-Tibet Highway, heading all the way to the Yuzhu Peak viewing platform and Budongquan. We truly witnessed the majestic grandeur of the Kunlun Mountains, with endless rugged peaks and vast, magnificent scenery, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of China's landscape. Along the way, snow-capped mountains stood in the clouds, and the wilderness was vast and boundless. The snow-covered Yuzhu Peak was imposing. The crystal-clear Budongquan flows year-round, appearing exceptionally lively and healing on the desolate plateau. The world is vast, and people feel small against the scenery; every frame is a grand Northwest landscape painting that strikes the heart with awe. 🚗 Real road conditions & driving tips The road from Golmud to the scenic area is complex, with many washboard roads and potholes. The ride is bumpy, and the route is heavily trafficked by large trucks, with high speeds and dense curves. Although the view on the plateau section is open, driving risks are high. ⚠️ Be sure to slow down throughout the journey, do not overtake in oncoming lanes, and do not stop on the road to take photos. Only park in designated scenic pull-offs. The altitude is high and temperature fluctuations are significant, so fill up on gas in advance, prepare windproof clothing, prevent altitude sickness, respect the mountain roads, and travel safely.

First time in Haixi-Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture? Stop following the same old routes! This 2-day flexible itinerary lets you stop for photos whenever you want and discover authentic experiences. Save this for later. · ------------------- Recommended attractions: 💚 Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area: A new trending spot! The water is clear and colorful, like an overturned palette. Blue, green, and white interweave like a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains and Gobi desert. Every photo is a "sky mirror" masterpiece✨ 🧂 Qarhan Salt Lake: A hidden gem! See the lush salt lake wonderland, walk across the Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge to experience the magic of salt-paved roads, and visit the Salt Lake Museum to discover the stunning details of salt flower crystals📸 🏯 Wuji Longfeng Palace: The Buddha statues are solemn and exquisite, the sculptures are lifelike, and the Tibetan atmosphere is incredible🙏 🏔️ Kunlun Mountain Pass: Standing here, you can take in the magnificent scenery of the East and West Kunlun Mountains. The view is breathtaking! 🦌 Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve Sonam Dargye Protection Station: A healing secret spot hidden in the green ridges, like a gentle girl on the plateau💙 · ------------------- 🌄 Clothing: Bring a thick jacket and long-sleeved T-shirts. In September, the temperature difference between day and night in Haixi and Yushu is large, so you need to stay warm and protected from the wind in the morning and evening 👟 Footwear: Bring non-slip hiking shoes and soft-soled slippers. There are many mountain roads in the scenic areas, and these will also be comfortable for daily relaxation 🪪 Documents: Bring your ID card and student ID. Some attractions and accommodations in Tibetan areas require real-name verification 🧴 Personal care: Bring high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer. The plateau has strong UV rays and is dry 📱 Electronics: Bring a power bank, camera, and adapter. Power supply in some pastoral areas may be unstable 💊 Medicine: Bring altitude sickness medication, cold medicine, and stomach medicine. Adapting to the plateau is important for your trip · ------------------- That's it for the tips for this Haixi-Yushu group tour. Save this and get ready to go✨

Don't want to deal with crowds during National Day? These 8 top-rated hidden gems are stress-free, personally tested. 01 Xinyang | Henan Heading to Xinyang for National Day was the best off-peak decision I've made in the last 2 years. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Xinyang East Station, and you can be in the mist of Jigong Mountain after a 40-minute taxi ride—much more comfortable than queuing for cable cars at popular peaks. The best way to experience Jigong Mountain is in the morning. ⏰ Get to Baoxia Peak before 9:00 AM while the clouds are still rolling beneath your feet; if you go later, you'll only see the backs of other people's heads. Don't rush to take photos of the century-old villas on the mountain; walk along the boardwalk first, where the cool air seeps out from the cracks in the rocks. Don't eat on the mountain. 📍 Head back to the city center; the stewed dishes and stir-fried shrimp with Xinyang Maojian tea around Xiaonanmen are the real deal. The slight bitterness of the tea in the dish pairs perfectly with rice. ⚠️ Restaurants on the mountain are twice as expensive and the food is mediocre. This place is great for parents—the steps are gentle, the shade is dense, and there are stone benches everywhere if you get tired. Two days and one night is enough; don't try to do too much. Xinyang East Station 02 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is the most underrated place in Zhejiang in my opinion. It's not for checking off a list; it's for zoning out. The slower you go, the better it looks. You need to get to Yunhe Rice Terraces early. ⏰ Arrive at the Jiuqu Yunhuan viewing platform before sunrise, and the mist will roll up from the valley floor like someone pouring milk into the fields. Jinyun Xiandu has a different vibe; Dinghu Peak stands by the stream and looks most like a painting in the early morning mist. 📍 The photography spot at Zhutan Mountain is crowded with pros, so walk 200 meters downstream if you want some peace and quiet. Don't overlook Qingtian Shimen Cave; the waterfall and cliff carvings are together, and it's quiet enough to hear the water hitting the rocks. 🚄 Renting a car at Lishui Station is the most stress-free option; public transport between attractions is a hassle. ⚠️ The terraces depend on the weather, so don't force it on rainy days—the fog is so thick you'll question your life choices. Perfect for couples and photography enthusiasts; a 3-day, 2-night trip is just right. Dinghu Peak 03 Dehong | Yunnan National Day in Dehong is summer. The moment I got off in Mangshi, even short sleeves felt hot, but I felt relaxed. You must visit the Menghuan Grand Golden Pagoda in the evening. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the light slants down, making the pagoda glow with a warm golden hue. Standing on the steps, you can overlook the entire Mangshi basin. 📍 The mountain road below the pagoda is where locals go for evening strolls, with fewer tourists. Food is the main event in Dehong. 🍜 Sa pie, pao lu da, and grilled rice balls—just sit at any roadside stall; the sour and spicy flavors will wake you up. ⚠️ Sa pie comes in bitter and lemon versions; don't be a hero and order the bitter one your first time—it's an acquired taste. 🚄 Mangshi Airport is small but convenient; it's a 10-minute taxi ride to the city. Perfect for those who want to escape the cold without the crowds of Sanya. With a mix of Dai and Burmese flavors, you can explore it all in 2 days. Menghuan Grand Golden Pagoda 04 Haixi | Qinghai For the Haixi route, I advise against trying to finish it in one day. Between the salt lakes and the Kunlun Mountains, there are hundreds of kilometers of wilderness, but also hundreds of kilometers of pure joy. Qarhan Salt Lake is the hardcore option; salt flowers form on the lake surface, and it crunches when you step on it. Chaka Salt Lake is famous and crowded; ⚠️ if you want to capture reflections, get in before 7:00 AM. If you go later, the wind picks up and the mirror surface shatters. Emerald Lake is a pleasant surprise; 📍 the area west of Da Qaidam is unrealistically green and free to enter. The wind at Kunlun Mountain Pass can blow right through you; ⏰ the light is best after 3:00 PM, and the view of Yuzhu Peak is worth the gas money. 🚄 I recommend renting a car in Golmud, as public transport is basically non-existent. Suitable for experienced drivers; be cautious if bringing children, as the altitude and driving distances are significant. Ticket prices and opening rules are subject to official daily announcements; don't trust old guides online. Haixi, Qinghai 05 Nyingchi | Tibet National Day in Nyingchi is the gentlest time of the year in Tibet. The rainy season has just passed, and the chances of seeing the snow-capped mountains are incredibly high. Basum Lake is best visited in the morning; the Cuozong Temple on the island in the middle of the lake is cute and small. ⏰ Before 10:00 AM, the lake surface is as flat as glass. Bomi has a wilder vibe; 📍 there are no peach blossoms in Peach Blossom Valley this season, but the glaciers and highland barley fields are a perfect match, and October is harvest time for the barley. Don't just take the sightseeing bus at the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon; walk along the boardwalk to smell the pine resin. For the section of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway entering Nyingchi, 🚄 I recommend driving slowly from Bomi towards Bayi; the stops along the way are more photogenic than the scenic spots themselves. ⚠️ Although the altitude is lower than Lhasa, don't jump around on the first day; take it easy for a day before heading up the mountain. Suitable for those visiting Tibet for the second time who want to avoid altitude sickness, and for couples looking for a quiet place to stay. Basum Lake 06 Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan is the "toughest" stop on this trip. Wind, sand, city walls—everything is straight, with no subtlety. You must visit the Pass City in the afternoon. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the earthen walls, turning them a reddish-yellow. Standing on the watchtower looking at the snow line of the Qilian Mountains, you'll suddenly understand the phrase "The First Pass Under Heaven." 📍 Don't miss the First Pier of the Great Wall outside the Pass City; it's a lonely pier on the Gobi Desert, and the wind is so strong it's hard to talk. Food is simple; 🍜 the barbecue and cuoyu noodles around the Fuqiang Market in the city center are filling and affordable. ⚠️ Water sold inside the Pass City scenic area is twice as expensive, so bring your own. 🚄 Jiayuguan South Station is close to the city center, just a minimum taxi fare away. Suitable for history buffs and those who want to take photos with a desert vibe; one day is enough, don't overschedule. Jiayuguan, Gansu 07 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is tucked away by the Qinling Mountains, making it just right for National Day—not too cold, not too hot, and the whole city smells of osmanthus. Shimen Plank Road is best walked in the morning. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM; the plank road clings to the cliff, with the Baohe River below, and the sound of the water drowns out the noise of the crowds. Guhantai is in the city center; 📍 the cliff carvings in the Hanzhong Museum are worth a close look—they're free but require a reservation. Go to the Han River in the evening. Once the river breeze blows, you'll feel completely relaxed. Locals drink tea and play cards; tourists can just sit along with them, and no one will rush you. 🍜 Hot noodles and vegetable tofu are the standard breakfast; have a bowl of jiangshui noodles for lunch—the sourness is appetizing. ⚠️ Some sections of the plank road are narrow, so wear non-slip shoes and don't go on rainy days. Suitable for a slow stroll with elderly family members; two days and one night is very comfortable. Guhantai 08 Yulin | Guangxi Yulin is a place with polarized reviews online, but after visiting it myself, I think it's been misunderstood for too long. Darong Mountain National Forest Park is a pleasant surprise. ⏰ Enter the mountain in the morning; mist hangs on the pine trees, and as the altitude rises, it feels like the season has changed. Yuntian Cultural City looks exaggerated from afar, but once inside, you'll realize the wood and stone carvings are true craftsmanship. 📍 Take your time exploring the main building; two hours won't be enough. Wanhua Tower is by the river, and it looks great for silhouettes after the lights come on at night. 🍜 You must try Yulin beef jerky and raw ingredient noodles; the beef jerky gets more fragrant the more you chew. ⚠️ Don't follow the touts around the scenic area; it's cheaper to take a taxi yourself. 🚄 It's not far to take a taxi from Yulin Station to the various attractions. Suitable for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path Guangxi experience; two days is just right. Don't expect it to be overly refined, but it's very authentic. Yuntian Cultural City Of these 8 small cities, the ones I most want to visit again are Xinyang and Haixi. One is suitable for bringing family, and the other is suitable for a long solo drive. Pick one and head out for National Day.

Once the National Day holiday ends, flight and hotel prices drop across the board, and wait times at attractions are cut in half. These 8 places in October offer perfect autumn scenery and fewer crowds—the perfect travel window for savvy travelers. 01 Shennongjia | Hubei October in Shennongjia is the most vibrant half-month of the year. Red birch, yellow smoke bush, and fir trees change color in layers, painting the landscape from the foot of the mountain to the peak. ⏰ We recommend entering the Shennongjia Ecological Tourism Area before 10:00 AM. Morning mist hangs in the forest, and the light is as soft as a filter. By the afternoon, as the mountain breeze picks up, leaves fall faster than you can turn a page. 📍 The Shennongding area is the main highlight. With high altitude and large temperature differences, a single layer plus a jacket is enough during the day in October, but you will need a fleece as soon as the sun sets. ⚠️ Some road sections in the scenic area are winding and foggy. We recommend experienced drivers for road trips; beginners should not push themselves. 🚄 You can arrive from either Yichang or Shiyan. After arriving by high-speed train, transfer to a bus for about a 3-hour ride. Suitable for photography enthusiasts and those who want a quiet walk. The leaves are most translucent in mid-to-late October; miss it, and you will have to wait until next year. 02 Haixi | Qinghai In October, Haixi has so few tourists that you can practically have the entire salt lake to yourself. The salt flowers at Chaka Salt Lake are blindingly white under the autumn sun, and the green of Emerald Lake remains intense, though the wind is much harsher than in summer. ⏰ We recommend entering Chaka Salt Lake after 3:00 PM. The light hits at an angle, making reflections clearest. Shooting against the light in the morning results in gray, washed-out photos. 📍 The wind at Kunlun Mountain Pass is strong. Don't spend more than 10 minutes outside the car taking photos, or your ears will hurt. ⚠️ Accommodation options in the salt lake area are limited. We recommend staying in Golmud city and departing in the morning; the drive takes about 2 hours. 🍜 Golmud's "kang" pot lamb and yak yogurt are worth a try—they are warming and filling. Suitable for road trippers and scenery lovers who don't mind the cold. The salt lake does not freeze in October, but the day-night temperature difference can reach 15 degrees, so don't think a down jacket is too heavy. 03 Yichun | Heilongjiang October in Yichun is the grand finale of autumn in Northeast China. In the Tangwanghe Forest Stone Scenic Area, red pines, white birches, and maples grow together, and the gaps between the rocks are filled with fallen leaves that crunch underfoot. ⏰ Light filters through the forest between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, so you won't need to edit your photos. 📍 The stone forest and forest areas are intertwined, and the walking routes are clear, making it easy even for seniors to walk slowly. ⚠️ The leaves fall quickly after mid-October. For the best golden views, try to visit around October 10. 🚄 There is a train from Harbin to Yichun that departs in the evening and arrives in the morning, saving you one night's accommodation. Suitable for those looking for a short weekend trip; 2 days and 1 night is just right. 🍜 The stewed chicken with mushrooms in Yichun city uses local hazel mushrooms, which are very fresh. Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. 04 Taizhou | Jiangsu In October in Taizhou, the reed catkins at Qinhu Wetland are in bloom, looking like snow when the wind blows. There are far fewer tourists than in Yangzhou, and the pace is slow enough to make you want to just zone out. ⏰ We recommend visiting Qinhu in the morning. Take a boat deep into the wetlands to see many water birds, and the light is steady. 📍 The old street of Qintong Ancient Town is worth a stroll. Fish balls and "duan" crabs are local specialties. 🍜 A bowl of fish ball soup costs CNY 10 and is fresh without being fishy. ⚠️ Dining inside the Qinhu scenic area is expensive; we recommend returning to the ancient town to eat. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Taizhou Station to Qinhu. Suitable for families with seniors and children; the wetland trails are flat and stroller-friendly. The "duan" crabs are plump in October, but don't buy them at the scenic area entrance; the ancient town market is a better deal. 05 Fuzhou | Fujian In October in Fuzhou, the summer heat has faded, and you can sit comfortably under the banyan trees in Three Lanes and Seven Alleys. There are half as many tourists as in the summer, so you can walk through the alleys at a leisurely pace. ⏰ Enter the alleys after 5:00 PM. When the lanterns light up, the white walls and black tiles against the warm light look ten times better than during the day. 📍 The main street of Nanhou Street is crowded, but turn into the nearby Langguan Lane or Ta Lane, and it becomes quiet immediately. 🍜 Tongli Meat Swallow and Yonghe Fish Balls are nearby. The skin of the meat swallow is as thin as paper, and the fish balls are juicy when you bite into them. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls in Three Lanes and Seven Alleys are closed on Mondays; check before you go. Suitable for city walk enthusiasts and those traveling with parents. Fuzhou is not stuffy in October, and short sleeves are just right for the evening. 06 Mianyang | Sichuan In October in Mianyang, the Beichuan Qiang City Tourism Area is surprisingly uncrowded. Autumn colors dye the mountains, and the stone walls and watchtowers of the Qiang village are set against yellow leaves, quiet and substantial. ⏰ We recommend arriving in the morning. First, visit the Qiang Folk Museum, then walk through the watchtower area. The mountain breeze is cool in the afternoon, so bring a jacket. 📍 The ruins of the old Beichuan county seat and the Qiang City are separate; don't go to the wrong place. ⚠️ The atmosphere in the ruins area is solemn; be mindful when taking photos and don't speak loudly. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Mianyang Station. Suitable for those interested in culture and architecture, and also suitable for families, but explain the background to children in advance. 🍜 Mianyang rice noodles are a breakfast staple. Both red soup and clear soup are fine, and a double portion costs CNY 6. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi In October in Shangluo, the leaves in Jinsixia are red, the water in Tianshuxia is still clear, and the persimmons in Manchuanguan Ancient Town hang on the branches unpicked. ⏰ We recommend entering Jinsixia at 8:00 AM. It takes about 4 hours to finish. The light is blocked by the mountains in the afternoon, making the gorge quite dark. 📍 The Mule Gang Guild Hall and Wuchang Guild Hall in Manchuanguan Ancient Town are worth seeing, and the pagoda forest at Baita Temple is very photogenic in the autumn colors. ⚠️ There are many steps in Jinsixia; if you have bad knees, bring a hiking pole. 🚄 It takes half an hour by high-speed train from Xi'an to Shangluo, suitable for a short weekend trip. 🍜 Walnut buns and rolled noodles in Shangluo are local favorites. The small eateries in the ancient town are more reliable than the restaurants in the scenic area. The red leaves are at their peak in mid-to-late October, but it's cold in the mountains morning and night, so bring a thin down jacket. 08 Sanya | Hainan In October in Sanya, it's the tail end of typhoon season, tourists haven't flooded in yet, and hotel prices are one-third of what they are during the Spring Festival. The coastline of Daxiaodongtian is quiet, the water at Wuzhizhou Island is still crystal clear, and there are no lines at Tianya Haijiao and Yalong Bay. ⏰ We recommend taking the first boat to Wuzhizhou Island in the morning and leaving after 3:00 PM to avoid tour groups. 📍 The public section of Yalong Bay beach is free, and the sand is fine, making it suitable for kids to play in the water. ⚠️ There is still a possibility of typhoons in October; check the weather forecast before you leave and don't force it. 🍜 Choose a busy seafood processing shop in the First Market. Mango rice rolls and "qingbuliang" (a local dessert) are great for afternoon tea. Suitable for those who want to avoid peak travel times and are afraid of getting sunburned. The UV rays in Sanya in October are weaker than in summer, but don't skimp on sunscreen. These 8 places are perfect for an October trip. Pick one, book your tickets, and go.

Tight budget in October? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and cheaper 01 Yichang|Hubei In October, the river breeze in Yichang begins to carry a coolness, and the autumn colors of the Three Gorges are gradually painting the hillsides on both banks. ⏰ Visit the Three Gorges Family Scenic Area in the morning. Most tour groups don't arrive until after 9:30 am, so going early allows you to capture the reflections of the stilted houses along the Qingjiang River. The light is so soft that you don't need a filter. 📍 The Three Gorges Waterfall is best visited in the afternoon. The water volume is less than in summer, but there are so few people that you can hear the muffled sound of the water hitting the pool. Wearing a raincoat to walk through the waterfall path won't leave you soaked. Also, allow at least half a day for the Qingjiang Gallery. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from the city to the Geheyan Wharf. It's recommended to stay overnight in Changyang County to catch the first ferry at 8:30 am the next day. ⚠️ The ferry ticket and the attractions on both banks are a package deal. Don't believe the "shortcut boats" soliciting customers at the wharf; they offer a shortened route and are more expensive. For food, try a hot pot of fatty fish at a riverside restaurant; it'll cost around 60-70 yuan per person and you'll be full. Avoid the first restaurant near the scenic area entrance. In October, the temperature difference between day and night in Yichang is nearly 10 degrees Celsius; a light jacket and short sleeves are best. For the elderly, the Three Gorges Family Scenic Area has many steps; taking the cable car up and down is recommended to save knees. Students can choose just the Qingjiang Gallery and the Three Gorges Waterfall; a two-day, one-night trip will cost around 300 yuan. 02 Hangzhou|Zhejiang In October, osmanthus blossoms are the main attraction in Hangzhou. The air around Manjuelong is sweet, but don't just focus on one particular road. ⏰ At 6:30 am, Prince Bay Park is almost deserted; the dew on the lawn gives photos a cool tone. The plane trees along Beishan Street by West Lake are starting to turn yellow; riding a shared bike from Broken Bridge to Yanggong Causeway is more liberating than taking a boat. For Xixi Wetland, it's recommended to enter from the Zhoujiacun entrance. 📍 The "Autumn Reeds in Snow" spectacle doesn't reach its full potential until mid-November; in October, you'll mainly see persimmons and withered lotus leaves. The China Umbrella Museum is located west of Gongchen Bridge. It's free, but closed on Mondays. ⚠️ Don't go there empty-handed. The umbrella wall inside is great for photos, but the lighting is dim, so remember to increase the exposure on your phone. For food, don't buy Dingsheng cake on the main street of Hefang Street. Head towards Dama Lane; the scallion pancakes are five yuan a pair. The one with the long queues of locals is the reliable one. Stay near Longxiang Bridge or Fengqi Road subway stations for convenient access to West Lake and Xixi Wetland. Hostel beds are available for under 100 yuan. Hangzhou has many tourists in October, but it's much better than during the May Day and National Day holidays. 03 Changchun|Jilin In October, Changchun truly lives up to the description of "clear skies and crisp air." I recommend allocating three hours to the Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum. ⏰ After 2 PM, tour groups disperse, and only footsteps echo in the Tongde Hall corridor. 📍 After leaving the museum, take Light Rail Line 4 to Changchun World Sculpture Park. The outdoor exhibition area is more beautiful than the indoor one; the autumn leaves paired with bronze sculptures create a striking contrast. Changying Century City is suitable for families with children, but ⚠️ some outdoor attractions may be closed in October due to strong winds, so check official announcements before you go. Jingyuetan is the highlight. Rent a bicycle and cycle around the lake; 🚄 take Light Rail Line 3 to its final stop, which is right next to the main entrance. In mid-October, the birch forest along the lake is completely yellow, and the slanting sunlight at 3 pm makes for beautiful photos from every angle. For food, try the chicken soup tofu skewers and grilled cold noodles in Guilin Road Hutong; you can eat your fill for around 20 RMB per person. Staying near People's Square makes it easy to get around in all directions. October temperatures in Changchun can drop to zero degrees Celsius, so you don't need a down jacket, but a thick coat and scarf are essential. This is suitable for those who want to see the autumn colors of Northeast China but don't want to crowd into popular autumn destinations. 04 Liuzhou | Guangxi In October, Liuzhou's summer heat has subsided, and the river breeze is just right. Chengyang Eight Villages is located in the Dong ethnic region. 🚄 From Liuzhou Station, take a high-speed train to Sanjiang South Station (about an hour and a half), then transfer to a bus. ⏰ It's recommended to stay overnight in the village. Watching the mist rise from the covered bridge over the waterwheels in the early morning is much more atmospheric than during the day. The Drum Tower and stilted houses are scenic; you don't need to specifically look for good spots. Longtan Park is in the city center and is free. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and head straight to Dalongtan (Great Dragon Pool). The karst peaks are reflected in the water; in October, the water level is stable, and the reflections are clear. ⚠️ Some people in the park will try to get you to take a "bamboo raft tour" of the pool, but it only takes about 40 minutes to walk around the lake, so it's not worth the money. The Liujiang River night view is Liuzhou's highlight. ⏰ The musical fountain starts at 8 pm; arrive at the riverside park half an hour early to secure a good spot. Food is Liuzhou's forte. Don't just go to those trendy snail rice noodle shops! 📍 Check out the old shops near Qingyun Market; a couple of liang (50g) of noodles with duck feet costs just over ten yuan. Stay near the Wuxing Pedestrian Street for convenient late-night snacks. In October, Liuzhou's daytime temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius; short sleeves and a light shirt are sufficient, perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy a satisfying meal. 05 Jiangmen | Guangdong October in Jiangmen is the most comfortable season for Kaiping Diaolou (watchtowers). The rice paddies begin to turn from green to yellow, and the watchtowers stand in the middle of the fields, looking as if they've grown out of the earth. 🚄 Take the intercity train from Guangzhou South to Kaiping South Station (about an hour). A taxi from the station to Zili Village costs about twenty yuan. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive around 8:30 am, before the morning mist dissipates, for the best views of Mingshi Tower and the surrounding rice paddies. Liyuan Garden and Majianglong can be visited together in the afternoon. 📍 The watchtower clusters in Majianglong, nestled in a bamboo forest, are more tranquil and have half the number of tourists as Zili Village. ⚠️ A combined ticket for several watchtower scenic spots is more cost-effective than buying individual tickets, but if you only visit Zili Village and Liyuan Garden, individual tickets are fine; don't get tied to the package deal. Kaiping is still hot at midday in October, so bring a hat and water. For food, tofu dumplings and beef brisket with radish near Chikan Ancient Town cost 10 yuan a serving, half the price of what you'd find in the scenic area. Staying in Kaiping city or Chikan town is fine; hotels in the city center are around 100 yuan. Jiangmen is occasionally affected by typhoon tails in October, so check the weather forecast before you go. Suitable for those who like old architecture and want to avoid the sweltering summer heat of Guangdong. 06 Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai October in Haixi is a less-traveled answer to the autumn scenery of Northwest China. 🚄 Driving or hiring a car from Xining for the loop route is recommended, at least two days. The Kunlun Pass is windy; ⏰ depart after 10 am. The sun is strong, but the temperature may drop below freezing; down jackets and sunglasses are essential. Chaka Salt Lake is less crowded in October, and the salt crystals shimmer like shattered glass in the sunlight. 📍 Be careful not to step on the thinner salt crusts when taking photos near the Wanzhang Salt Bridge. Emerald Lake is more worthwhile than Chaka Salt Lake. ⚠️ The "Mirror of the Sky" effect at Chaka in October is only average; strong winds cause ripples on the water, and the entrance fee plus the mini-train is not cheap. The free area of ​​Emerald Lake is sufficient; the lake's color changes with the light, ⏰ reaching its peak saturation after 4 PM. Stay overnight in Da Qaidam, then head to Chaka the next day. The autumn colors of the Gobi Desert along the way are stark and direct. Food and accommodation options are limited. In Da Qaidam town, a pot of mutton stew costs around 50 RMB per person. After peak season, you can find standard rooms for around 100 RMB. The temperature difference between day and night in Haixi in October exceeds 15 degrees Celsius, so staying warm is paramount. Suitable for experienced drivers and those who want to photograph empty landscapes. Public transportation is inconvenient, so solo travel without a car is not recommended. 07 Yichun | Heilongjiang Yichun in October is a hidden gem of autumn colors in Northeast China. In the Tangwanghe Forest and Rock Scenic Area, red pines, birches, and maples grow together. The peak season is from late September to early October, with the last few days still possible in early October. 📍 It takes about two hours to drive from Yichun city to Tangwanghe. It's recommended to stay overnight in Tangwanghe town and enter the scenic area early the next morning. The scenic area is divided into two parts: the Stone Forest and the Forest. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus only goes to the Stone Forest entrance; you have to walk to get to the rest of the area. For the elderly and children, it's recommended to only walk the Stone Forest loop, which takes about two hours. The boardwalks in the Forest area are slippery, and in October, the ground is covered with fallen leaves, so wear non-slip shoes. 🚄 There is no high-speed rail in Yichun. A train from Harbin takes seven to eight hours, making self-driving or joining a small tour group more suitable. For food, a bowl of hand-pulled noodles with mushroom sauce at a noodle shop in town costs 15 yuan; it's hot and filling. The lowest temperature in Yichun in October can reach -5 degrees Celsius, so bring thermal underwear and a light down jacket. With very few tourists, you can take photos without having to hide from crowds, making it ideal for those who want a quiet autumn view and don't mind the hassle of travel. 08 Xinzhou | Shanxi In October, both Yanmen Pass and Wutai Mountain in Xinzhou are at their best. The slopes on both sides of the Great Wall at Yanmen Pass turn golden. ⏰ In the morning, the sunlight shines from the east, making the outline of the gate tower clearest. 📍 A taxi from Daixian County to Yanmen Pass costs about 40 yuan. It's recommended to combine this visit with the Daizhou Ancient City Confucian Temple visit; half a day is sufficient. Laoniu Bay is located in Pianguan, where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. In October, the water is bluish-green. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly. Wutai Mountain is already cold in October; you'll need a down jacket in Taihuai Town in the mornings and evenings. ⏰ Some peaks may be closed due to snow after mid-October; check the scenic area's announcements before you go. 📍 Xiantong Temple and Tayuan Temple are next to each other and can be visited on foot. Avoid taking those touting minibuses. For food, vegetarian restaurants in Taihuai Town cost around 30 yuan per person, and knife-cut noodles are available everywhere for around 10 yuan. Staying in Xinzhou city center is convenient for getting to Yanmen Pass, while staying in Taihuai Town is suitable for an early morning hike in the mountains. In October, Xinzhou experiences large temperature differences between day and night; it's sunny at midday and chilly in the morning and evening. This is suitable for those interested in ancient architecture and frontier scenery, and who can accept the dispersed nature of Shanxi's attractions. If you're on a tight budget, choose Yanmen Pass and Daizhou Ancient City; a day trip will cost less than 100 yuan. These eight places are perfect to visit in October, offering both fewer crowds and lower prices. Choosing two or three along your route is much more comfortable than a rushed, checklist-style trip. Which one would you like to visit first? Tight budget in October? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and cheaper 01 Yichang|Hubei In October, the river breeze in Yichang begins to carry a coolness, and the autumn colors of the Three Gorges are gradually painting the hillsides on both banks. ⏰ Visit the Three Gorges Family Scenic Area in the morning. Most tour groups don't arrive until after 9:30 AM, so arriving early allows you to capture the reflections of the stilted houses along the Qingjiang River. The light is so soft you don't need a filter. 📍 The Three Gorges Waterfall is best visited in the afternoon. The water volume is lower than in summer, but there are fewer people, allowing you to hear the muffled sound of the water hitting the pool. Wearing a raincoat while walking along the waterfall path won't leave you soaked. Always dedicate at least half a day to the Qingjiang Gallery. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from the city to Geheyan Wharf. It's recommended to stay overnight in Changyang County to catch the first ferry at 8:30 AM the next day. ⚠️ The ferry ticket and the tickets for the attractions on both banks are a package deal. Don't trust the "shortcut boats" offered at the wharf; they shorten the route and are more expensive. For food, order a large fish hotpot at a riverside restaurant; it will be filling for around 60-70 RMB per person. Avoid eating at the first restaurant near the scenic area entrance. In October, the temperature difference between day and night in Yichang is nearly 10 degrees Celsius. A light jacket and short sleeves are the most comfortable. For seniors, the Three Gorges Family Scenic Area has many steps, so it's recommended to take the cable car up and down to save your knees. Students can choose just the Qingjiang Gallery and the Three Gorges Waterfall; a two-day, one-night trip should cost around 300 yuan. 02 Hangzhou|Zhejiang In October, osmanthus blossoms are the main attraction in Hangzhou. The air around Manjuelong is sweet, but don't just focus on one particular road. ⏰ At 6:30 in the morning, Prince Bay Park is almost deserted, and the dew on the lawns gives photos a cool tone. The plane trees along Beishan Street by West Lake are starting to turn yellow. Riding a shared bike from Broken Bridge to Yanggong Causeway is more liberating than taking a boat. For Xixi Wetland, it's recommended to enter from the Zhoujiacun entrance. 📍 The "Autumn Reeds in Snow" spectacle doesn't reach its full potential until mid-November; in October, you'll mainly see persimmons and withered lotus leaves. The China Umbrella Museum is west of Gongchen Bridge; it's free, but closed on Mondays, ⚠️ so don't miss it. The umbrella wall inside the museum is great for photos, but the lighting is dim, so remember to increase the exposure on your phone. For food, don't buy Dingsheng cake on the main street of Hefang Street. Head towards Dama Lane; the scallion pancakes are five yuan a pair, and the one with the long queues of locals is the reliable one. Stay near Longxiang Bridge or Fengqi Road subway stations for easy access to West Lake and Xixi Wetland. Hostel beds are available for under 100 yuan. October in Hangzhou has many tourists, but it's much better than the first three days of May Day and National Day holidays. 03 Changchun|Jilin In October, Changchun truly lives up to the phrase "crisp autumn air." It's recommended to allow three hours for the Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum. ⏰ After 2 PM, tour groups disperse, and only footsteps remain in the Tongde Hall corridor. 📍 After leaving the museum, take Light Rail Line 4 to Changchun World Sculpture Park. The outdoor exhibits are more beautiful than the indoor ones; the autumn leaves paired with bronze sculptures create a strong contrast. Changying Century City is suitable for families with children, but ⚠️ some outdoor attractions may be closed in October due to strong winds. Check official announcements before you go. Jingyuetan is the highlight. Rent a bicycle and cycle around the lake. The main entrance is right next to the terminal station of Light Rail Line 3. In mid-October, the birch forest along the lake is completely yellow. The afternoon sunlight at 3 pm makes for beautiful photos from every angle. For food, try the chicken soup tofu skewers and grilled cold noodles in Guilin Road Hutong. You can eat your fill for around 20 RMB per person. Stay near People's Square for easy access in all directions. October temperatures in Changchun can drop to zero degrees Celsius, so you don't need a down jacket, but a thick coat and scarf are essential. This is suitable for those who want to see the autumn colors of Northeast China but don't want to crowd into popular autumn destinations. 04 Liuzhou | Guangxi In October, the summer heat in Liuzhou has subsided, and the river breeze is just right. Chengyang Eight Villages is located in the Dong ethnic region. Take a high-speed train from Liuzhou Station to Sanjiang South Station (about an hour and a half), then transfer to a bus. ⏰ It's recommended to stay overnight in the village. Watching the mist rising from the covered bridge over the waterwheels in the early morning is much more atmospheric than during the day. No need to specifically look for good spots to photograph the Drum Tower and the stilted houses; every walk reveals a scenic view. Longtan Park is located in the city center and is free. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and head straight to Dalongtan (Dragon Pool). The karst peaks are reflected in the water; in October, the water level is stable, and the reflections are crystal clear. ⚠️ Some people in the park will try to persuade you to take a "bamboo raft tour" around the lake, but it only takes about 40 minutes to walk around the lake, so it's not worth the money. The Liujiang River night view is Liuzhou's trump card. ⏰ The musical fountain starts at 8 pm; arrive at the riverside park half an hour early to secure a good spot. Food is Liuzhou's forte. Don't just go to the trendy snail rice noodle shops; 📍 check out the old shops near Qingyun Market—two liang (100g) of noodles with duck feet costs just over ten yuan. Staying near the Wuxing Pedestrian Street makes it convenient for late-night snacks. In October, Liuzhou's daytime temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius; short sleeves and a light shirt are sufficient, suitable for travelers on a budget who want to eat to their heart's content. 05 Jiangmen | Guangdong October in Jiangmen is the most comfortable season for the Kaiping Diaolou (watchtowers). The rice paddies begin to turn from green to yellow, and the watchtowers stand in the middle of the fields, seemingly growing out of the soil. 🚄 From Guangzhou South Railway Station, take the intercity train to Kaiping South Station (about an hour). A taxi from the station to Zili Village costs about 20 yuan. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive around 8:30 am, before the morning mist dissipates, when the layers of light on Mingshi Tower and the surrounding rice paddies are at their best. Liyuan Garden and Majianglong can be visited together in the afternoon. 📍 The watchtower clusters in Majianglong, nestled in bamboo groves, are more tranquil, with half the number of tourists compared to Zili Village. ⚠️ A combined ticket for several watchtower attractions is more cost-effective than buying individual tickets, but if you only plan to visit Zili Village and Liyuan Garden, individual tickets are fine; don't be bound by the package deal. Kaiping is still hot at midday in October, so bring a hat and water. For food, tofu puffs and braised beef with radish near Chikan Ancient Town cost 10 yuan a serving, half the price of those in the scenic area. Staying in Kaiping city or Chikan town is fine; city hotels are around 100 yuan. Jiangmen is occasionally affected by typhoon tails in October, so check the weather forecast before you go. Suitable for those who like old architecture and want to avoid the sweltering summer heat of Guangdong. 06 Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai October in Haixi is a less-traveled answer to the autumn scenery of Northwest China. 🚄 Driving or hiring a car from Xining for the loop is recommended, at least two days. The Kunlun Pass is windy, ⏰ depart after 10 am; the sun is strong but the temperature may drop below zero, so down jackets and sunglasses are essential. Chaka Salt Lake is less crowded in October; the salt crystals look like shattered glass in the sunlight. 📍 Be careful not to step on the thin salt crust near the Wanzhang Salt Bridge when taking photos. Emerald Lake is more worthwhile than Chaka Salt Lake. ⚠️ The "Sky Mirror" effect at Chaka in October is mediocre; strong winds cause ripples on the water, and the entrance fee plus the mini-train is not cheap. The free area of ​​Emerald Lake is sufficient; the lake's color changes with the light, ⏰ reaching its peak saturation after 4 PM. Spend one night in Da Qaidam, then head to Chaka the next day. The autumn colors of the Gobi Desert along the way are stark and direct. Food and accommodation options are limited. In Da Qaidam town, a pot of mutton stew costs around 50 yuan per person. After peak season, you can find a standard room for around 100 yuan. The temperature difference between day and night in Haixi in October exceeds 15 degrees Celsius, so staying warm is paramount. Suitable for experienced drivers and those wanting to photograph aerial landscapes. Public transportation is inconvenient, so solo travel without a car is not recommended. 07 Yichun | Heilongjiang October in Yichun is a hidden gem of Northeast China's autumn colors. In the Tangwanghe Forest and Rock Scenic Area, red pines, birches, and maples blend together. ⏰ Late September to early October is the peak season, and you can still catch the tail end in early October. 📍 It takes about two hours to drive from Yichun city to Tangwanghe. It's recommended to stay overnight in Tangwanghe town and enter the scenic area early the next morning. The scenic area is divided into two parts: the Stone Forest and the Forest. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus only goes to the Stone Forest entrance; you have to walk to get to the rest of the area. For the elderly and children, it's recommended to only walk the Stone Forest loop, which takes about two hours. The boardwalk in the Forest area is slippery, and in October, fallen leaves cover the ground, so wear non-slip shoes. 🚄 There is no high-speed rail in Yichun. Taking a train from Harbin takes seven to eight hours, so driving or joining a small tour group is more suitable. For food, a bowl of hand-pulled noodles with mushroom sauce at a noodle shop in town costs 15 yuan; it's hot and filling. The lowest temperature in Yichun in October can reach -5 degrees Celsius, so bring thermal underwear and a light down jacket. There are very few tourists, so you don't have to hide from crowds when taking photos. It's suitable for those who want to quietly enjoy the autumn colors and don't mind the travel. 08 Xinzhou|Shanxi In October, Yanmen Pass and Wutai Mountain in Xinzhou are at their best. The hillsides on both sides of the Yanmen Pass Great Wall are golden yellow. ⏰ In the morning, the sunlight shines from the east, making the outline of the gate tower clearest. 📍 A taxi from Daixian County to Yanmen Pass costs about 40 yuan. It's recommended to combine the visit with the Daizhou Ancient City Confucian Temple visit; half a day is sufficient. Laoniu Bay is located in Pianguan, where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. In October, the water is bluish. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly. Wutai Mountain is already cold in October; you'll need a down jacket in Taihuai Town in the mornings and evenings. ⏰ Some peaks may be closed due to snow after mid-October; check the scenic area's announcements before you go. 📍 Xiantong Temple and Tayuan Temple are next to each other and can be visited on foot. Don't take those touting minibuses. For food, vegetarian restaurants in Taihuai Town cost around 30 yuan per person, and knife-cut noodles are available everywhere for around 10 yuan. Staying in Xinzhou city is convenient for visiting Yanmen Pass, while staying in Taihuai Town is suitable for an early morning hike into the mountains. October in Xinzhou sees significant temperature differences between day and night, with midday sun and chilly mornings and evenings. It's suitable for those interested in ancient architecture and frontier scenery, and who can tolerate the spread-out nature of Shanxi's attractions. For those on a tighter budget, consider Yanmen Pass and Daizhou Ancient City; a day trip will cost under 100 yuan. These eight places are perfect to visit in October, offering both fewer crowds and lower prices. Choosing two or three along your route and combining them is much more comfortable than a rushed, checklist-based approach. Which one would you like to visit first?

Don't want the National Day crowds? 8 budget-friendly, "reverse travel" small cities, tested and approved 01 Chongzuo | Guangxi When I want to avoid crowds during National Day, Chongzuo is the first place that comes to mind. Tickets for Detian Transnational Waterfall plus the sightseeing bus cost just over CNY 100. Arrive before 10:00 AM, before the tour groups heat up the mist, and you can hear the water thumping against the rocks from the second-level observation deck. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Nanning Station to Chongzuo (about 1 hour), then carpool to Daxin County for around CNY 50 per person. Don't just take a bamboo raft at Mingshi Scenic Area. Rent a bicycle and ride along the river. The rice paddies just start turning yellow in early October, and when the wind blows, it looks like someone shaking out a blanket. 📍 Set your location to "Mingshi Village Committee." Ride two kilometers west to find a deserted river embankment where you won't have to fight for a photo spot. Staying in Daxin County is half the price of staying at the scenic area entrance, and you can have a bowl of sour porridge in the evening to whet your appetite. ⚠️ Water levels during the dry season are hit-or-miss. Check official water reports before you go, and don't trust anyone on the side of the road who "guarantees" it will be spectacular. 02 Haixi | Qinghai Haixi is a paradise for budget travelers and a test for altitude sickness. Qarhan Salt Lake has far fewer people than Chaka. The salt crystals look like broken glass in the sun. Wearing a red dress makes for great photos, but the wind is strong enough to blow your hat into the brine. 🚄 Carpooling from Golmud Station to the salt lake takes about an hour; drivers usually charge CNY 80 round trip. The light at Emerald Lake only gets soft after 4:00 PM. Stay a night in Dachaidan Town; a standard room costs just over CNY 200 during National Day. The wind at Kunlun Mountain Pass is harsh, so bring a down jacket. I actually recommend skipping Chaka Salt Lake; the line for the small train can be exhausting unless you rush in at 7:00 AM. ⚠️ Attractions in Haixi are often 200–300 kilometers apart. Chartering a car starts at CNY 600 per day, so it's most cost-effective to split it with four people. 🍜 Dachaidan's "kang" pot lamb; a small portion is enough for two. 03 Shannan | Tibet The blue of Yamdrok Lake is the kind of blue that makes you forget about altitude sickness. Carpool from Lhasa via Gangbala Pass. As you wind your way up and turn the corner, the entire lake suddenly hits your eyes. 🚄 It takes about two hours from downtown Lhasa. Carpooling costs CNY 150–200 per person, half the price of chartering a car. Don't stop at the first observation deck for too long; keep driving down to find quieter cliffside spots. ⏰ There's no wind on the lake before 10:00 AM, so the reflection is perfect. Bring a thermos of sweet tea; sitting there for half an hour is worth more than taking 100 photos. Stay in the old town in eastern Lhasa; hostel beds are around CNY 50 during National Day, and you can pick up carpooling info there. ⚠️ The pass is nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. Don't jump or run. If you get a headache, turn back—there's no shame in it. 04 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Zhaoqing Star Lake is my personal favorite getaway near Guangzhou and Foshan. Tickets for Seven Star Crags are CNY 70, but the greenway along the lake is free after 6:00 PM. Locals ride bikes and walk their dogs there—just follow them. 📍 Head north from Paifang Square, cross the bridge, and you'll find the best spot for sunset photos. 🚄 It's a 30-minute trip from Guangzhou South to Zhaoqing East, then about 20 minutes by bus to the Paifang. Staying in Yanqian Village is more interesting than staying downtown. Homestays are usually over CNY 100, but you have to accept that they rise to CNY 300 during National Day. 🍜 Buy "guo zheng zong" (sticky rice dumplings) freshly wrapped on the street for CNY 5 each; they're better than the gift-box versions. ⚠️ Don't take the Star Lake cruise. It costs CNY 80 for a short loop; you're better off saving your legs for the greenway. 05 Xinzhou | Shanxi With Yanmen Pass and Laoniu Bay, Xinzhou brings the Great Wall and the Yellow River together. Tickets for Yanmen Pass are CNY 90. I recommend going up after 3:00 PM when the tour groups have left. The wind blows through the pass, and you can hear the flags snapping. 📍 Stay a night in Dai County; a standard room is CNY 120, cheaper than at the scenic area entrance. Laoniu Bay is in Pian County, where the Yellow River makes a big bend. The dates are perfectly ripe during National Day. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Xinzhou West Station to Dai County, but you'll need to transfer to get to Pian County; carpooling is CNY 80 per person. I recommend setting aside two days for Mount Wutai; accommodation in Taihuai Town triples during National Day, so book in advance. ⚠️ Buy Mount Wutai tickets and sightseeing bus tickets separately. Book via the official WeChat account and don't use scalpers. 06 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Mount Lu and Mount Lu West Sea—one for hiking, one for water activities—are perfect for avoiding crowds during National Day. Mount Lu tickets are CNY 160, and the sightseeing bus is CNY 90. Stay a night in Guling Town on the mountain and watch the sea of clouds from Five Old Men Peak in the morning; it's more comfortable than squeezing into the Three-Tier Spring. ⏰ Arrive at Hanpo Pass before 6:30 AM, when the light cuts diagonally into the clouds. Mount Lu West Sea has half the crowds. Boat tours of the islands cost just over CNY 100, and the dawn redwood forests start changing color in October. 🚄 A taxi from Jiujiang Station to the Mount Lu cable car costs CNY 40; it's a one-hour shuttle bus ride to West Sea. 🍜 Try the radish cakes at Simatou in downtown Jiujiang for CNY 2 each; eat them while they're hot. ⚠️ Prices on Mount Lu are high; bottled water is CNY 5, so carry two bottles up yourself. 07 Kunming | Yunnan Kunming is a transit hub for budget travel and an underrated destination. There are no black-headed gulls at the Dianchi Haigeng Dam in October, but riding a bike and catching the breeze in the evening is free. Tickets for Daguan Park are CNY 20; climbing Daguan Pavilion to see the long couplet is more interesting than you'd think. 📍 Zhuanxin Farmers Market is where locals shop; you can get full for CNY 10. Dongchuan Red Land is three hours from the city. In October, potato flowers and buckwheat alternate. The light at Luoxiagou is best at 4:30 PM; carpooling is CNY 150 per person. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Kunming Station to Dongchuan; I recommend staying in Huashitou Village, where homestays are CNY 120. Tickets for the Expo Garden are CNY 30, suitable for a stroll with elderly family members. ⚠️ The Red Land attractions are scattered, and it's hard to get around without a car, so find travel companions in advance. 08 Dalian | Liaoning The seawater in Dalian is cold by National Day, but the seafood is at its peak. Admission to the Golden Pebble Beach National Tourist Resort is free, but the Geological Park costs CNY 60. The "Dinosaur Exploring the Sea" rock formation is only fully visible during low tide in the morning. 🚄 Take Light Rail Line 3 from Dalian Station to Golden Pebble Beach for CNY 8, saving CNY 100 compared to a taxi. Tickets for Laohutan Ocean Park are CNY 220; I recommend just going to the nearby Fisherman's Wharf to see the boats for free. Locals camp at Tangli Lake Park, and you can feed seagulls at Xinghai Square in the evening—bread crumbs work better than seagull feed. 🍜 At the Heishijiao morning market, sea urchins are CNY 15 each, opened and eaten on the spot. ⚠️ Ask for prices at seaside food stalls before ordering, and don't trust "market price." Stay along the Xi'an Road subway line; budget hotels can be found for under CNY 200. Of these eight places, the ones I most want to visit again are Chongzuo and Shannan. One has roaring water, the other has intense blue. Pick one and head out for National Day.

Your 5-day Xining itinerary is here! Visit popular lakes, explore Hoh Xil for a chance to see Tibetan antelopes, and enjoy private car and guide services with flexible scheduling. Travel with ease and peace of mind—save this now! · - Read on for more highlights and discover more ways to explore ↓ · - ✨ Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Xining > Private airport/station transfer > Free time > Stay in Xining Summary: Arrive in Xining, rest up, and enjoy some free time. Day 2–3: Riyue Mountain > Qinghai Daotang River Scenic Area > Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area > Chaka Salt Lake > Wusute Water Yadan Geological Park > U-shaped Highway > Qarhan Salt Lake Summary: Visit popular lakes and discover Qinghai's stunning salt lakes and scenic highways. Day 4: Wuji Longfeng Palace > Kunlun Mountain Pass > Jie Sang Suonandajie Martyr Memorial > Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve > Hoh Xil Nature Reserve Budongquan Summary: Explore Hoh Xil, pay tribute to heroes, and catch a glimpse of the plateau's wildlife, the Tibetan antelopes. Day 5: Tour ends in Golmud > Private airport/station transfer Summary: A perfect end to your Northwest tour. Safe travels home. · - Tips: 1. ✈️ Choose licensed taxis at the airport and confirm with the driver that the meter is running for peace of mind 2. 📸 The white pagodas at Ta'er Monastery and the Qinghai Lake loop road are perfect photo spots, so remember to bring a wide-angle lens 3. 🍜 Hand-grabbed mutton is best paired with garlic, and be sure to try the liangpi at a local shop 4. 🏔️ Temperatures on the plateau fluctuate significantly between day and night, so bring a light jacket, even in summer 5. 🙏 Remove your hat when entering temples, and please respect local customs by not touching Buddha statues or prayer wheels -- Ready to start your journey? Tap the card below to easily plan your trip~

When traveling with parents, the two biggest worries are rushing and climbing. With crowds during the National Day holiday, choosing the right destination is more important than choosing an expensive one. Here are 8 spots with a slow pace, manageable elevation, and convenient dining and lodging. I'll go through them one by one. 1️⃣ Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Bottom line: Choose either Chaka or Emerald Lake, don't try to do both. Parents have limited energy, and the two salt lakes are very similar; visiting both is just exhausting. ⏰ Go to Chaka Salt Lake in the morning. The light is even, it's relatively less crowded, and the small train saves walking. 📍 Emerald Lake is in Dachaidan. The water colors are more varied and vibrant. It's best for photos between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM. It's windy, so remember to bring hats for your parents. Kunlun Mountain Pass is at a high altitude; it's not recommended for those over 60 to stay long. Just view the snow-capped mountains from the car. Qarhan Salt Lake is huge; driving around is better than walking. ⚠️ Don't tough out altitude sickness; take Rhodiola rosea a few days in advance. Stay in Delingha or Dachaidan town; don't stay by the lake, as it's cold at night. Prices double during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 2️⃣ Jilin Songhua Lake is for boat rides, not for hiking. It's much more comfortable for parents to enjoy the breeze on a boat than to walk around the lake. ⏰ Wusong Island is famous in winter. There's no rime in October, so don't be fooled by the name. If you want to see the scenery, just drive slowly along the Songhua Lake loop road and stop wherever you like. 🍜 Eat Wula Manchu hot pot in the city; the copper pot with sauerkraut and pork is popular with seniors. 📍 There are many old shops around Henan Street; don't eat at the entrance of tourist attractions. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night by the lake is significant; you'll need a light down jacket during the National Day holiday. Stay by the river in the city; it's more convenient for evening strolls than staying in the lake area. Boat tickets and cable car operations are subject to daily announcements. 3️⃣ Huangshan City | Anhui I advise caution regarding Huangshan Scenic Area for parents. The cable car queues and stairs are hard on the knees. If you really want to go, go up via Yungu Temple in the back mountain and down via the front mountain; the cable car saves effort. Choose either Xidi or Hongcun; I prefer Hongcun. Nanhu Bridge is empty before 7:00 AM, and the light is soft. 📍 Sitting by Moon Pond and relaxing is better than rushing between attractions. Chengkan Ancient Village is less crowded, and its Bagua layout is interesting, making it perfect for a slow stroll. In the Ancient Huizhou Culture Tourism Zone, you can see the archway complex and Bao's Garden together; half a day is enough. ⚠️ The stone paths in ancient villages are slippery; have your parents wear non-slip shoes. You must book tickets for the National Day holiday; buying them on-site often leads to disappointment. Staying in a homestay outside the village is quieter and cheaper than staying inside. 4️⃣ Zhanjiang City | Guangdong Huguangyan is a volcanic crater lake. The loop around the lake is 7 km; if you can't walk it, take the electric cart. The air is good with high negative oxygen ions, perfect for a slow, morning-exercise-style walk for parents. 📍 Enter through the East Gate, visit the Maar Lake Museum first, then walk along the lake for a bit. ⏰ It's most comfortable between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM; it gets too hot at noon. 🍜 Eat white-cut chicken and seafood porridge in the city; don't eat inside the scenic area. Stay in the old Chikan district, stroll through the arcade buildings, and have a bowl of beef offal in the evening. ⚠️ Zhanjiang is still hot during the National Day holiday; bring sun hats and Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid. Huguangyan tickets are cheap, but the electric cart costs extra; ask clearly before boarding. It's typhoon season by the coast, so check the weather before you leave. 5️⃣ Chenzhou City | Hunan Gaoyiling Danxia looks dangerous, but there are boardwalks. However, there are many stairs, so walking halfway is enough for parents. You need to get to Dongjiang Lake early. ⏰ Arrive at Bridge No. 2 before 6:30 AM for the morning mist and fishermen casting nets; it dissipates if you're late. Taking a boat is less tiring than walking. Mangshan Wuzhifeng has cable cars and elevators with good accessibility, suitable for seniors with limited mobility. The boardwalks on the mountain are flat; a slow walk takes two hours. ⚠️ There is no shade at Gaoyiling; it's sunny during the National Day holiday, so bring umbrellas and water. Dongjiang Lake and Mangshan are in different directions; don't schedule them for the same day. Stay in Zixing city and eat Dongjiang fish. 6️⃣ Xiamen City | Fujian You must book Gulangyu ferry tickets in advance; there's basically no chance on-site during the National Day holiday. Don't buy a joint ticket when you get to the island; just pick Sunlight Rock and Shuzhuang Garden, and take the rest as it comes. The Railway Culture Park is a converted abandoned railway; it's flat and easy to walk, perfect for a stroll with parents. 📍 Enter from the West Gate of the Botanical Garden, walk through to Hongshan Tunnel; it's shaded the whole way. Nanputuo Temple is free, the vegetarian cakes are delicious, and it's less crowded in the morning. The rainforest area of the Xiamen Botanical Garden looks great during the misting period, but the ground is slippery, so hold onto your parents. ⚠️ There are many slopes on Gulangyu; don't drag a suitcase. Stay near Zhongshan Road or Xiamen University for convenient ferry access. Ask for the unit price at seafood stalls before ordering. 7️⃣ Yancheng City | Jiangsu Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve is the least tiring spot on this trip. Take the sightseeing bus into the core area; the milu deer are right by the bus, so parents don't have to walk. ⏰ Go in the morning when the animals are active. 📍 Get off at Guanlutai and Fengshentai to take a look; watch the rest from the bus. The National Day holiday is during the milu molting season, so their colors are mixed. 🍜 In Yancheng, eat lotus root starch balls and fish soup noodles; they are light and popular with seniors. Stay in Dafeng city; it's a half-hour drive away. ⚠️ The park is large; don't count on walking. Buy electric cart tickets separately. It's windy by the sea, so bring a jacket. Ticket and sightseeing bus prices are subject to official announcements. 8️⃣ Kunming City | Yunnan Kunming is the final stop of this trip. The altitude is moderate, the climate is comfortable, and it's a good place for parents to relax. Visit Daguan Park to see Dianchi Lake and the long couplet; the buildings aren't tall, so you can climb slowly. Feeding seagulls by Dianchi Lake is for winter; there are no seagulls during the National Day holiday, so don't get your hopes up. Dongchuan Red Land is far, a three-hour trip one way; if your parents get carsick, don't go. If you really go, choose either Luoxiagou or Dama Kan. ⏰ The light is good after 4:00 PM. Kunming Expo Garden is large and flat; rent an electric cart to tour it to save effort. 📍 Stay near Cuihu Lake in the city for morning strolls and a bowl of small-pot rice noodles. ⚠️ It's cool in Kunming in the morning and evening; don't pack away your jackets. The roads to the Red Land are winding; have motion sickness medicine ready. Return tickets for the National Day holiday are tight, so book in advance. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Yancheng and Kunming—one is effortless, and the other is comfortable. Where have you taken your parents that felt relaxing? Let me know in the comments.

The biggest fear when traveling during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day isn't spending money, but paying to suffer. I've picked 8 niche small cities that are uncrowded, affordable, and have real sights to see. I've written this based on my actual itinerary, so you can just copy my homework. 01 Jingmen | Hubei The Ming Tomb was the most unexpected highlight of my trip. ⏰ Enter after 4:00 PM, when most tour groups have left. The red walls against the setting sun make for great photos without having to fight for a spot. Admission tickets are affordable; please check the official announcement for the exact price on the day. It costs around CNY 20 to take a taxi from Zhongxiang city. 🚄 You can also take a bus from Jingmen Station, but the schedule is infrequent, so I recommend taking a taxi. Don't leave right away after exploring; there are small stalls set up by villagers near Moshou Lake where you can get rice tea and Panlong vegetable and eat until you're full for CNY 10. ⚠️ There is no shade inside the Ming Tomb, so it will still be sunny during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. Bring a hat and enough water. Seniors can just walk the flat outer loop; the inner loop has many stairs, so don't force it if you have trouble walking. This place is perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and see some real historical sites. A leisurely half-day is enough; no need to rush. 02 Yinchuan | Ningxia I split the 4 spots—Mingcui Lake, Helan Mountain Rock Art, Shuidonggou, and the Western Xia Tombs—into 2 days. On the first day, head east from the city to Mingcui Lake to see the reeds and water birds. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM, when the lake is foggy and at its most beautiful. You'll need to climb a bit at Helan Mountain Rock Art, so wear comfortable shoes. 📍 The Sun God rock art is 20 minutes in from the gorge entrance, so don't walk past it. After seeing it, you can stop by Zhenbeipu on the way, but the film studio is usually crowded, so I skipped it. On the second day, head toward Lingwu to visit Shuidonggou and the Western Xia Tombs. The soldier caves at Shuidonggou are quite cool, and I recommend taking the scenic bus at the Western Xia Tombs because it's too sunny to walk. 🍜 For dinner, have some hand-grabbed lamb downtown. Laomao is a bit more expensive but reliable, and smaller shops can also be a pleasant surprise. ⚠️ The Western Xia Tombs stop admitting visitors at 5:00 PM, so don't cut it too close. Overall costs are low, with total admission tickets coming to just over CNY 200. 03 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Beidaihe for the sea and Shanhaiguan for the city. ⏰ Get to Beidaihe early; there are the fewest people at the beach after 6:00 AM. Check the tides in advance if you want to watch the sunrise at Pigeon Nest. I entered Shanhaiguan from the South Gate of the ancient city. 📍 After taking photos under the First Pass Under Heaven tower, I ducked into the alleys. The main street is full of shops and not very interesting. The Sitiao Baozi shop has long lines and the taste is average, so I don't recommend it. Homestays in Beidaihe are more cost-effective than hotels; booking in advance for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day can save you half the cost. 🚄 A taxi from Qinhuangdao Station to Beidaihe costs around CNY 40; buses are available but slow. ⚠️ Ask for the price before ordering at seaside food stalls, especially for seafood sold by weight. This place is great for kids to dig in the sand and for couples to watch the sea. The pace is slow, and 2 days is just right. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the one I'd recommend more than Laole Mountain. ⏰ Enter the mountain before 9:00 AM, before the fog clears, when the stones look like they're growing out of the clouds. It's a filming location for Journey to the West, but don't expect any amusement facilities; it's purely for hiking and looking at rocks. Laole Mountain is windy and cool at the summit, so bring a jacket. 📍 Enter Chaya Mountain from the South Gate and exit from the North Gate; it's a continuous route without backtracking. Have some di guo ji (braised chicken) at a farmhouse at the foot of the mountain for CNY 40 per person. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so carry enough water yourself. The stairs are steep, so seniors should be cautious about doing the whole route; you can take the cable car to save energy. It's not too crowded here during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, which is much more comfortable than those influencer mountains. It's suitable for people who like hiking and photography. It's also family-friendly, but don't bring a stroller. 05 Huizhou | Guangdong West Lake, Luofu Mountain, and Xunliao Bay offer 3 different ways to play. West Lake is free; ⏰ go in the evening, walk around the lake after the Sizhou Pagoda lights up. There are many locals taking a stroll and few tourists. Luofu Mountain takes a full day; climbing up to Chongxu Ancient Temple will make your legs sore. 🍜 Tofu pudding at the foot of the mountain is CNY 5 a bowl and helps relieve fatigue. Xunliao Bay is worth staying for 1 night; ⏰ go beachcombing at low tide to find plenty of small crabs and seashells. 🚄 There is a special line from Huizhou South Station to Xunliao Bay, but the schedule is infrequent, so driving yourself is more reliable. ⚠️ Seaside homestays will increase prices during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so book 2 weeks in advance. West Lake is suitable for seniors, Luofu Mountain for those with good stamina, and Xunliao Bay is best for families with kids. Play separately; don't cram everything into 1 day. 06 Shangrao | Jiangxi I picked 2 compatible spots: Sanqingshan, Wuyuan Jiangwan, Guifeng, and Huangling. For Sanqingshan, ⏰ get on the cable car as soon as it opens at 7:00 AM, or you'll be waiting in line for at least an hour. The Nanqingyuan Giant Python section is the most worthwhile; it takes 4 hours to walk the loop. The "shaiqiu" (sun-drying autumn harvest) in Huangling is only at its peak around the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day; ⏰ the light hitting the drying trays is best at 10:00 AM. I had to choose between Jiangwan and Guifeng, and I chose Guifeng for its Danxia landform and fewer crowds. 🍜 Wuyuan steamed cake and paste tofu are half the price at street shops compared to inside the scenic area. 🚄 It takes 20 minutes to transfer from Shangrao Station to Wuyuan by high-speed rail. ⚠️ Accommodation on Sanqingshan is expensive and basic, so I recommend staying at the foot of the mountain. Huangling cable car tickets and admission tickets are bundled; please check the official announcement for the exact price on the day. It's suitable for photography and leisurely strolling; don't rush. 07 Zibo | Shandong Zhoucun Ancient Mall is about more than just BBQ. ⏰ Go in the morning when the streets and alleys have just opened and the sesame cake ovens are just heating up. 📍 North of Yinzishi Street, there are several time-honored dye houses and banks that you can look at but not buy from; just stroll around. 🍜 Zhoucun sesame cakes are only crispy when freshly baked; the bagged ones aren't as good. Boiled pot and tofu box are local dishes; look for small shops in the alleys. ⚠️ The main street is very commercialized; it's only interesting if you walk into the side alleys. I didn't queue for Zibo BBQ because there were too many people. 2 hours is enough to explore the Ancient Mall; it's suitable for a stopover, not a special trip. It's more relaxed here than in Zhangdian during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. 08 Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Kunlun Mountain, Qarhan Salt Lake, Emerald Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake—this route requires self-driving or chartering a car. ⏰ Emerald Lake's colors are clearest after 4:00 PM, and Chaka Salt Lake has fewer people and clearer reflections in the morning. Qarhan Salt Lake is much larger than Chaka and has fewer people; 📍 driving across the Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge is a great experience. Kunlun Pass is windy, and ⚠️ the altitude is high, so don't run or jump, and bring an oxygen tank. 🚄 Golmud is the base; chartering a car costs CNY 600–800 per day, and carpooling is cheaper. 🍜 Have some kang guo lamb (pan-roasted lamb) in Golmud to warm up at night. It's cold in Qinghai morning and night during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so bring a down jacket. It's suitable for travelers who can endure some hardship and want to see grand scenery. Families with kids should be cautious; the altitude is a threshold. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to return to are Jingmen and Golmud. One is quiet, and the other is vast. Pick one, and don't be greedy.

Perfect for a National Day trip! 6️⃣ Less Crowded Autumn Gems 1️⃣ Hinggan League | Inner Mongolia Heading north during the National Day holiday, the autumn scenery in Hinggan League is unlikely to disappoint. The larch trees in Arxan National Forest Park begin to change color from the end of September, reaching a vibrant golden-green hue by early October, like a spilled palette. ⏰ Arrive at Camel Peak Heavenly Lake before 7 AM. The morning mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the lake is so still you can hear your own breathing. Later, buses will be crammed in with people. For the section of the unfrozen river, it's recommended to go after 4 PM. The sunlight shines obliquely, steam rises from the river, and herds of cattle wade leisurely. Every snapshot on your phone will be a screensaver. 🚄 The train journey from Ulanhot to Arxan takes about four hours, costing a few tens of yuan for a hard seat. However, trains are infrequent, so book in advance. ⚠️ Food options are limited and expensive within the scenic area; it's recommended to buy snacks and water in Yiershi Town. Early October evenings are already below freezing, so don't worry about the weight of your down jacket. The Tianchi boardwalk is fine for the elderly and children; it's entirely made of wooden steps, but don't rush there too early or too late. The two hours around midday when it's warmest are the most comfortable. 2️⃣ Zhangye|Gansu I advise against only going to the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye. The afternoon light there is backlit, resulting in hazy, gray photos. ⏰ Arrive at 7:30 AM as one of the first groups; the light is perfect, and the colors look like they've been painted. Of the four viewing platforms at Rainbow Mountains, go directly to platform number four, Hongxia Platform, for the widest view. The other platforms are optional. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and take the shuttle bus in order; don't wander around aimlessly. In the afternoon, we went to Mati Temple. The grottoes are carved into the red sandstone walls. Climbing the Thirty-Three Heavens Grotto is so narrow that only one person can squeeze through sideways; even a slightly overweight person would struggle, but it was worth it the moment you crawled out. 🍜 A bowl of fish-shaped noodles and small rice dishes at Ganzhou Market in the city center cost only a dozen yuan and I was stuffed. ⚠️ The Great Buddha Temple and Liqian Ancient City are "since we're already here" types of places. The Great Buddha Temple is okay for seeing the reclining Buddha, but Liqian Ancient City is mostly newly built, and the entrance fee is not cheap. If you're short on time, skip it. In October, the temperature difference between day and night in Zhangye can be as high as fifteen degrees Celsius. Wear short sleeves at midday and a down jacket in the morning and evening; don't push yourself. 🚄 The high-speed train from Lanzhou to Zhangye takes about three hours. A taxi from the station to the city center costs around twenty yuan. 3️⃣ Hengyang|Hunan Climbing Mount Heng during the National Day holiday will definitely be crowded, but the autumn colors of Nanyue are truly stunning. ⏰ Either start climbing at 4 AM to reach Zhurong Peak before sunrise to see the sea of ​​clouds, or start after 3 PM, stay overnight at the summit, and descend slowly the next day after watching the sunrise. 📍 The classic route starts at Nanyue Grand Temple, walks through Fanyin Valley to the Martyrs' Shrine, and then up to Nantianmen. The entire route is on stone steps; those with knee problems can take the eco-friendly bus to Nantianmen and then walk the last hour. Nanyue Grand Temple is at the foot of the mountain; allocate two hours to explore it. The wood and stone carvings are worth examining closely, but the incense is so strong it can irritate your eyes. 🍜 For tofu casserole and Hengshan crispy tripe at the foot of the mountain, find restaurants frequented by locals; don't follow those soliciting customers at the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ Accommodation at the summit is doubled in price during the National Day holiday and difficult to book; book two weeks in advance. Renting a military-style overcoat costs 50 yuan, deposit not included; bringing your own light down jacket is cleaner. If you're traveling with elderly people, take the bus to Nantianmen and walk the gentler section; don't push yourself the entire way. 4️⃣ Putian|Fujian Meizhou Island is much quieter than Gulangyu Island in Xiamen during the National Day holiday. 🚄 Take a bus from Putian Station to Wenjia Wharf (about an hour), then a 20-minute ferry ride to the island. Buy your ferry and entrance tickets in advance through their official WeChat account; the queues on-site can be incredibly long. ⏰ Once on the island, visit the Mazu Ancestral Temple first. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid the tour groups and enjoy a peaceful sea view. Then rent an electric scooter for a few dozen yuan a day and ride around the island. 📍 The sea-eroded landforms at Ewei Shenshi Park are best visited at low tide in the afternoon, when the crevices in the rocks are teeming with small crabs. Golden Beach is best visited in the evening; the sand is fine and comfortable for barefoot walking. 🍜 For seafood on the island, go to the stalls next to the farmers' market. Ask about prices and portions before ordering; don't be shy. Mazu noodles and peace cakes are a good breakfast option for a little over ten yuan. ⚠️ Guesthouse prices on the island skyrocket during the National Day holiday. Staying in Putian city and making a day trip is possible, but allow plenty of time for the ferry. Don't miss the last ferry; check the daily announcement for specific times. 5️⃣ Daxinganling | Heilongjiang Visiting Beiji Village during the National Day holiday is a gamble on the weather. If you win, the birch forests will be a golden yellow, and the Heilongjiang River will be a deep, almost black, blue. If you lose, you'll be covered in sleet. ⏰ Late September to early October is the golden window; any later and the leaves will have fallen, leaving only bare branches. 📍 Send a postcard from the northernmost post office, take a photo in front of the northernmost house—it's cliché, but you're already there. The truly beautiful part is the road from Beiji Village to Mohe city. The Daxinganling forest unfolds all along the way, with birch and larch trees alternating. Even stopping at any viewpoint is better than in the scenic areas. 🚄 The train from Harbin to Mohe takes one night; a sleeper berth is more comfortable than flying. 🍜 The iron pot stew and cold-water fish in Mohe city are generous portions; a small pot is enough for two or three people. ⚠️ Accommodation in Beiji Village is scarce during the National Day holiday. Mohe city has more options and is cheaper; it's an hour's drive. Temperatures are below freezing in the mornings and evenings, so gloves, hats, and scarves are essential. 6️⃣ Kaifeng|Henan Kaifeng is incredibly crowded during the National Day holiday, but the chrysanthemum exhibition at Qingming Riverside Park is definitely worth it. ⏰ Enter the park as soon as it opens at 8:30 am. First, watch the "Bao Gong Welcoming Guests" performance, then walk against the flow of people towards the Rainbow Bridge. 📍 For the "Great Song Dynasty: The Defense of Tokyo" live-action performance at Qingming Riverside Park, arrive 20 minutes early to secure a good seat; the best view is from the middle towards the back. The Porcelain Tower in the Iron Pagoda Park is ten times more beautiful than at midday when the sunlight shines on its brown glazed tiles after 4 PM. 🍜 The Drum Tower Night Market opens after 6 PM. For soup dumplings, go to Huang Family Old Shop; don't buy from the first stall at the night market. For almond tea and stir-fried mung bean jelly, look for the stalls with long queues—you can't go wrong. Choose either the Xiangguo Temple or the Bao Gong Temple; both are reconstructions. The Thousand-Hand Guanyin wood carving at the Xiangguo Temple is more impressive. ⚠️ Tickets for the Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden may be subject to visitor limits during the National Day holiday, so buy online in advance. Food inside the scenic area is expensive and generally mediocre; eating at the night market is the better option. Rent an audio guide if you have children, otherwise, just enjoy the sights. 7️⃣ Tangshan|Hebei The Eastern Qing Tombs are underrated; even during the National Day holiday, they weren't crowded. 🚄 Take a bus from Tangshan Station to Zunhua (about 1.5 hours), then take a taxi to the scenic area. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM and hire a guide, otherwise you'll only see empty buildings and mounds of earth. The stone carvings in the underground palace of Yuling Mausoleum and the gilded and painted decorations of Cixi Mausoleum are much more interesting with a guided tour. The stone statues along the Sacred Way are lifelike, and in autumn, the yellow leaves create a peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, return to the city and visit Nanhu-Kailuan. Nanhu Park is free; rent a bicycle and ride around the lake. Experience the mine shaft at Kailuan National Mining Park—wear a helmet and ride in the cage; kids will be excited. 🍜 Try the chess-piece-shaped sesame cakes and glutinous rice cakes at Tangshan Banquet as a snack. ⚠️ The tombs in the Eastern Qing Tombs are far apart; driving is the most convenient option. If you're not driving, take the scenic area shuttle bus; don't even think about walking. It's windy in Tangshan in October, so wear a hat with a drawstring. 8️⃣ Haixi | Qinghai The Haixi route is perfect for a trip during the National Day holiday, but be prepared for some hardship. ⏰ Chaka Salt Lake and Emerald Lake require a sunny day; on cloudy days, they're just gray water puddles—don't ask me how I know. 📍 The Chaka Salt Lake's "Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge" is like driving onto another planet, with white salt crusts on both sides. Emerald Lake has the best light after 3 PM, showcasing the lake's layered colors from green to blue; find a secluded spot to take your time photographing. Chaka Salt Lake is incredibly crowded during the National Day holiday. To capture the "Mirror of the Sky" effect, you'll need to venture deeper into the area, taking the small train to the end and then walking for about 20 minutes. The wind at Kunlun Pass is so strong it could blow you away; ⏰ Arrive around noon, avoid going in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the freezing cold. ⚠️ The entire route is at an altitude of around 3,000 meters; bring altitude sickness medication and oxygen cylinders, and avoid jumping or running. 🚄 Renting a car and driving yourself in Xining is the only comfortable option; forget about public transportation. Book accommodations in advance, as Da Qaidam and Chaka Town are expensive and fully booked during the National Day holiday. 🍜 There are few places to eat along the way, so bring plenty of self-heating rice and naan bread. Of these six places, Hinggan League and the Greater Khingan Mountains are best visited during the season; if you don't go during the National Day holiday, you'll have to wait until next year. Zhangye and Haixi depend on the weather, so keep an eye on the forecast before you go. Kaifeng and Putian are suitable for those who don't want the hassle of traveling; just eat and explore. Which one would you choose? National Day is the perfect time to go; here are 6️⃣ less crowded autumn gems: 1️⃣ Hinggan League | Inner Mongolia Heading north during the National Day holiday, the autumn in Hinggan League will generally not disappoint. The larch trees in Arxan National Forest Park begin to change color from the end of September, reaching a golden hue mixed with dark green by early October, like a spilled palette of colors. ⏰ Arrive at Tuofengling Tianchi before 7 AM. The morning mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the lake is so quiet you can hear your own breathing. Later, buses start cramming in crowds. For the section of the river that doesn't freeze, I recommend going after 4 PM. The sunlight shines at an angle, steam rises from the river, cattle graze leisurely, and every photo you take will be a perfect screensaver. 🚄 The train from Ulanhot to Arxan takes about four hours, a hard seat costs a few tens of yuan, but there are few trains, so book in advance. ⚠️ Food options are limited and expensive in the scenic area. I recommend buying snacks and water in Yiershi Town. In early October, nights are already below freezing, so don't worry about the weight of your down jacket. The Tianchi boardwalk is fine for the elderly and children; it's all wooden steps, but don't rush there too early or too late. The two hours around midday when it's warm are the most comfortable. 2️⃣ Zhangye|Gansu I advise you not to only go for the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye. The afternoon light there is backlit, resulting in hazy, gray photos. ⏰ Arrive early at 7:30 AM as part of the first wave; the lighting is perfect, and the colors look like they've been painted. Of the four viewing platforms for the Rainbow Mountains, go directly to platform number four, Rainbow Cloud Platform, for the widest view. The other platforms are optional. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and take the shuttle bus in order; don't wander around aimlessly. In the afternoon, detour to Mati Temple. The grottoes are carved into the red sandstone walls. Climbing the Thirty-Three Heavens Grotto is so narrow that only one person can squeeze through sideways; even a slightly overweight person will struggle, but it's worth it once you emerge. 🍜 Eat fish-shaped noodles and small meals at Ganzhou Market in the city center; you can eat your fill for just over ten yuan. ⚠️ The Great Buddha Temple and Liqian Ancient City are "since you're already here" types of places. The Great Buddha Temple is decent for seeing the reclining Buddha, but Liqian Ancient City is mostly newly built, and the entrance fee is expensive; skip it if you're short on time. In October, the temperature difference between day and night in Zhangye can be as high as 15 degrees Celsius. Wear short sleeves at midday and a down jacket in the morning and evening; don't push yourself. 🚄 The high-speed train from Lanzhou to Zhangye takes about three hours. A taxi from the station to the city center costs around 20 yuan. 3️⃣ Hengyang|Hunan Climbing Hengshan during the National Day holiday will definitely be crowded, but the autumn colors of Nanyue are truly breathtaking. ⏰ Either start climbing at 4 AM to reach Zhurong Peak before sunrise to see the sea of ​​clouds, or start after 3 PM, stay overnight at the summit, and slowly descend after watching the sunrise the next day. 📍 The classic route starts at Nanyue Grand Temple, walks through Fanyin Valley to the Martyrs' Shrine, and then up to Nantianmen. The entire route is on stone steps; those with knee problems can take the eco-friendly bus to Nantianmen and then walk for the last hour. Nanyue Grand Temple is located at the foot of the mountain; allocate two hours to explore it. The wood and stone carvings are worth examining closely, but the incense is so strong it can irritate your eyes. 🍜 For tofu casserole and Hengshan crispy tripe at the foot of the mountain, find restaurants frequented by locals; avoid those soliciting customers at the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ Accommodation on the mountaintop is double the price and difficult to book during the National Day holiday, so book two weeks in advance. Rent a military-style overcoat for 50 yuan, deposit extra; bring your own light down jacket for cleaner clothes. If you're traveling with elderly people, take a bus to Nantianmen and walk the gentler section; don't try to endure the entire hike. 4️⃣ Putian|Fujian Meizhou Island is much quieter than Gulangyu Island in Xiamen during the National Day holiday. 🚄 Take a bus from Putian Station to Wenjia Wharf (about an hour), then a 20-minute ferry to the island. Buy your ferry and entrance tickets in advance through their official WeChat account; the queues on-site can be incredibly long. ⏰ Once on the island, first visit the Mazu Ancestral Temple. Arrive before 8 am before the tour groups arrive, allowing for a peaceful sea view. Then rent an electric scooter for a few dozen yuan a day and ride around the island. 📍 The sea-eroded landforms at Ewei Shenshi Park are best visited at low tide in the afternoon; the crevices between the rocks are teeming with small crabs. Golden Beach is best enjoyed in the evening; the sand is fine and comfortable for barefoot walking. 🍜 For seafood on the island, go to the stalls next to the farmers' market. Ask about prices and portions before ordering; don't be shy. Mazu noodles and peace cakes are a good breakfast option, costing just over ten yuan. ⚠️ Guesthouse prices on the island skyrocket during the National Day holiday. Staying in Putian city and making a day trip is possible, but allow plenty of time for the ferry. Don't miss the last ferry; check the daily announcement for specific times. 5️⃣ Daxinganling | Heilongjiang Visiting Beiji Village during the National Day holiday is a gamble on the weather. If you win, the birch forests will be a golden expanse, and the Heilongjiang River will be a deep, almost black, blue. If you lose, you'll be covered in sleet. ⏰ Late September to early October is the golden window; any later and the leaves will have fallen, leaving only bare branches. 📍 Send a postcard from the northernmost post office, take a photo in front of the northernmost shop—it's cliché, but you're already here. The truly beautiful part is the road from Beiji Village to Mohe city. The forest scenery of the Greater Khingan Mountains unfolds along the way, with birch and larch trees alternating. Any viewpoint you find is better than any scenic spot. 🚄 The train from Harbin to Mohe is an overnight journey; a sleeper berth is more comfortable than flying. 🍜 The iron pot stew and cold-water fish in Mohe city are generous portions; a small pot is enough for two or three people. ⚠️ Accommodation in Beiji Village is scarce during the National Day holiday. Mohe city offers more options and is cheaper; it's an hour's drive. Temperatures are below freezing in the mornings and evenings, so gloves, hats, and scarves are essential. 6️⃣ Kaifeng|Henan Kaifeng is incredibly crowded during the National Day holiday, but the chrysanthemum exhibition at Qingming Riverside Park is definitely worth it. ⏰ Enter the park as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM. First, watch the "Bao Gong Welcoming Guests" performance, then walk against the flow of people towards the Rainbow Bridge. 📍 For the "Great Song Dynasty: The Defense of Tokyo" live-action performance in Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden, arrive 20 minutes early to secure a good spot; a seat towards the back of the middle offers the best view. The Porcelain Tower in Iron Pagoda Park is ten times more beautiful after 4 PM when the sunlight shines on the brown glazed tiles. 🍜 The Drum Tower Night Market opens after 6 PM. For soup dumplings, go to Huang Family Old Shop; don't buy from the first stall at the night market. For almond tea and fried jelly, look for the stalls with long queues—you can't go wrong. Choose either the Xiangguo Temple or the Bao Gong Temple; both are reconstructions. The Thousand-Hand Guanyin wood carving at the Xiangguo Temple is more impressive. ⚠️ Tickets for Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden may be subject to visitor limits during the National Day holiday; buy online in advance. Food inside the scenic area is expensive and generally mediocre; eating at the night market is the better option. For families with children, rent an audio guide; otherwise, you'll just be looking at the sights. 7️⃣ Tangshan|Hebei The Eastern Qing Tombs are underrated; even during the National Day holiday, they weren't crowded. 🚄 Take a bus from Tangshan Station to Zunhua (about an hour and a half), then take a taxi to the scenic area. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM and hire a guide; otherwise, you'll only see empty buildings and mounds of earth. The stone carvings in the underground palace of the Yuling Mausoleum and the gilded and painted decorations of the Cixi Mausoleum are much more interesting with a guide explaining their details. The stone statues along the Sacred Way are lifelike, and in autumn, the yellow leaves create a peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, return to the city and visit Nanhu·Kailuan. Nanhu Park is free; rent a bicycle and ride around; the lake is expansive. At Kailuan National Mining Park, experience going down into the mine shaft—wear a helmet and ride in a cage; the kids will be excited. 🍜 Try the chess-piece-shaped sesame cakes and glutinous rice cakes at Tangshan Banquet as snacks. ⚠️ The tombs in the Eastern Qing Tombs are far apart, so driving is the most convenient option. If you're not driving, take the scenic area shuttle bus; don't even think about walking. It's very windy in Tangshan in October, so wear a hat with a drawstring. 8️⃣ Haixi | Qinghai The Haixi route is perfect for the National Day holiday, but be prepared for some hardship. ⏰ Chaka Salt Lake and Emerald Lake must be visited on a sunny day; on a cloudy day, it's just a gray, muddy mess. Don't ask me how I know. 📍 The Thousand-Foot Salt Bridge at Chaka Salt Lake is like driving onto another planet, with white salt deposits on both sides. Emerald Lake has the best light after 3 PM, with the water displaying layers of green to blue. Find a quiet corner to take photos. Chaka Salt Lake is extremely crowded during the National Day holiday. To photograph the "Mirror of the Sky," you have to go deeper into the area, taking the small train to the end and then walking for about 20 minutes. The wind at Kunlun Pass is so strong it could blow you away; ⏰ Arrive around noon, avoid going in the early morning or late evening to avoid the cold. ⚠️ This route is at an altitude of around 3,000 meters. Bring altitude sickness medication and oxygen cylinders; avoid jumping or running. 🚄 Renting a car in Xining is the only comfortable way; forget about public transportation. Book accommodations in advance, as Da Qaidam and Chaka Town are expensive and fully booked during the National Day holiday. 🍜 There are few places to eat along the way, so bring plenty of self-heating rice and naan bread. Of these six places, Xing'an League and the Greater Khingan Mountains are most seasonal; if you don't go during the National Day holiday, you'll have to wait until next year. Zhangye and Haixi depend heavily on the weather, so keep an eye on the weather forecast before you leave. Kaifeng and Putian are suitable for those who don't want the hassle of traveling; just eat well and explore. Which one would you choose?

Taking my parents out for National Day, these 5️⃣ places let you move slowly without wearing out your legs 1️⃣ Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Taking parents up to the plateau, the biggest worries are altitude sickness and having to rush. I’ve done this Haixi route before, and you can control the pace. 📍 Chaerhan Salt Lake has far fewer people than Chaka Salt Lake. Salt formations bloom along the shore, and my parents crouched down to touch them for ages. ⚠️ Don’t touch the salt lake water with your bare hands. It’s highly alkaline—rinse with clean water immediately if it gets on you. ⏰ Visit Emerald Lake after 4 PM if possible. The slanted light makes the water show layers of green and blue, and the wind dies down. Chaka Salt Lake is more famous, but the little train line can be an hour long. If elders have mobility issues, take the boardwalk and stroll slowly. The Kunlun mountain pass is at high altitude—don’t stay long. Get off to take a photo and then get back in the car. Stay in Delingha city, not right by the lake; it gets cold at night. 2️⃣ Tangshan | Hebei I didn’t expect much from Tangshan, but I ended up enjoying a very pleasant walk around the Eastern Qing Tombs. The stone figures lining the sacred way at the Eastern Qing Tombs are atmospheric, shaded by pines and cypress. My parents could walk a bit and then rest, so they didn’t get tired. ⚠️ The sightseeing electric carts in the park charge extra. If your legs are fine, it’s only about a 20-minute walk to the main tombs—choose based on how everyone feels. 📍 At Nanhu and Kailuan, the Kailuan National Mine Park has an underground exploration, but you need a helmet and there are stairs. If elders have bad knees, stick to the surface exhibits. In the evening, locals stroll around Nanhu—rent a three-person bike and ride a loop around the lake for a breeze without sun exposure. 🍜 Buy Tangshan maltose candy and qizi sesame cakes from the old street stalls while they’re fresh from the oven. Don’t buy them at the park entrance—they’re more expensive and not as fresh there. 3️⃣ Xiangyang | Hubei I spent half a day at Gulongzhong. The hill isn’t high, but there are many steps—bring a walking stick to save your parents’ energy. 📍 In front of the Three Visits Hall, there’s an old cypress tree. Sit in its shade and listen to the guide tell the Three Kingdoms stories—my parents listened even more attentively than I did. ⚠️ People in the park may try to do fortune telling or palm reading—don’t engage, just walk away. ⏰ Enter the park before 9 AM when it’s cooler and less crowded, and head back to the city by noon. Xiangyang beef noodles are a must—don’t eat them in the park. Take a taxi to Fancheng Old Street, where a bowl is about ¥15. Drink it with local yellow wine; my parents said it felt so good. This is suitable for elders who like a slow pace and have some interest in history. In summer, bring Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid for the humid mountain air. 4️⃣ Liuzhou | Guangxi Liuzhou is more than just luosifen—bring your parents and I recommend Chengyang Eight Villages. The Dong villages’ wind-and-rain bridges and drum towers have wood that has darkened to a shine. 📍 By the Yongji Bridge in Chengyang, there’s an old woman selling oil tea for ¥5 a bowl—savory with a bitter note, my parents liked it. ⚠️ Accommodation in the villages is basic. If that’s an issue, stay in Liuzhou city. Longtan Park is free. In the morning, locals practice tai chi and sing folk songs—bring your parents to join the fun; it’s more interesting than shopping. Book the Liuzhou night cruise a day in advance and sit on the open-air upper deck for a pleasant river breeze. 🍜 Don’t order luosifen too spicy for your parents—choose mild with duck feet, and pair it with a bowl of iced soy milk to cool down the heat. 5️⃣ Changde | Hunan Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Spring) is the kind of place whose name alone makes it perfect for taking parents to daydream. 📍 Take a boat into Qinxi. The peach blossoms are for spring, but in autumn you’ll see reeds and rice fields, and the colors are beautiful. ⚠️ Some performances in “Qinren Village” cost extra—ask before you watch so you don’t pay without meaning to. ⏰ After 3 PM the light is softer, and photos of your parents’ backs turn out especially well. Stay one night in Taohuayuan ancient town; opening the window in the morning to mountain mist is worth more than rushing back to the city. 🍜 Changde rice noodles are a great breakfast—choose beef or ribs, the broth is fresh. This is ideal for elders who don’t want to climb mountains, just stroll and watch the water. 6️⃣ Baicheng | Jilin Da’an Nenjiang Bay is off the beaten path, but it’s perfect for taking parents. The wetland boardwalk is flat like a road—wheelchairs are fine. 📍 The birdwatching tower at Nenjiang Bay lets you see egrets and wild ducks in autumn; my parents spent ages holding up their phones to take photos. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are common in the wetlands—wear long sleeves and pants and use insect repellent. ⏰ Go to the river at about 5 PM; the sunset turns the water orange. It gets chilly—remember to give your parents an extra layer. Tickets are affordable; check the official notice for current prices. 🍜 Baicheng food leans toward northeastern flavors—sweet-and-sour pork and stewed river fish come in large portions, so don’t overorder. 7️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Taking parents to Everest Base Camp—I’ll be honest: go only if everyone has the capacity. At 5,200 m the oxygen is thin. If your parents have high blood pressure or heart problems, stay in Shigatse city and explore there. 📍 The kora path at Tashilhunpo Monastery is perfect to follow with locals in the morning. It’s slow paced and peaceful. ⚠️ Remove hats before entering the monastery, avoid stepping on thresholds, and ask before taking photos. If health allows, hire a car to Everest and spend a night in Dingri County to acclimatize. ⏰ To see Everest’s golden sunrise, you must get up early. It’s cold—bring a down jacket and heat packs. This is suitable only for elders who are in strong health and don’t suffer from altitude sickness. 8️⃣ Ningbo | Zhejiang I’d call Ningbo the “comfort ceiling” for taking parents. 📍 Tianyige and Moon Lake sit next to each other. When you get tired, sit on a stone bench and feed the fish. ⚠️ Tianyige is closed Monday mornings—don’t show up empty-handed. Xikou Tengtou scenic area is good for a sightseeing bus so your parents don’t have to walk much. Qiantong ancient town is far from the city but worth staying a night. ⏰ Early morning the stone alleys are empty and the soy milk stalls open—¥3 a bowl with a wheat cake. My parents said it tasted like going back to childhood. 🍜 For Ningbo tangyuan, go to Gang Ya Gou, but expect a long line—you can also take them back to the hotel. This is for elders who don’t want fuss and just want a quiet few days. Pick one of these eight places that’s close to you and take your parents on a slow National Day trip. Don’t rush, don’t climb—sit down and enjoy a hot bowl together, that’s what matters most.