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

Stepping into the depths of the valley where the Beaded Curtain Waterfall resides, I felt as if I had traveled through time, entering the thousand-year-old legend of the Beaded Curtain Waterfall. It is said that this waterfall has been a fairyland in the writings of literati and poets since ancient times, with its history tracing back to ancient eras when it was renowned for its beauty as the 'Water Curtain Cave.' The waterfall cascades down like a beaded curtain, not only a masterpiece of nature but also a bearer of countless historical and cultural accumulations. Walking on the bluestone path, I slowly approached the waterfall. The water droplets gently brushed my cheeks, bringing a touch of coolness, as if whispering tales of past glories. Beneath the waterfall, the rocks, sculpted by time, take on various shapes, each one a silent witness to the vicissitudes of the Beaded Curtain Waterfall. Standing before this tapestry woven by history and nature, I couldn't help but feel a surge of emotions. The Beaded Curtain Waterfall is not only a gift from nature but also a historical treasure, allowing one to appreciate the scenery while also feeling the profound cultural heritage. This journey has brought me not only visual shock but also spiritual touch and cleansing.

Everyone says to escape the heat in August you have to go to the Northeast, but I think the underrated Northwest and northern Shanxi are the real winners. On days with temperatures in the 30s, some people cram into air-conditioned rooms scrolling on their phones, while others are already wearing jackets at the foot of the Great Wall. These 8 places are my ultimate cool list—few people, wild scenery. Just follow this guide. 01 Xinzhou | Shanxi Summer at Yanmen Pass carries the scent of grass in the wind, never stifling. Arrive before 10 AM and the sunlight hits the fortress walls at an angle, casting a warm yellow glow. Tourists haven’t arrived yet, so you can almost have the entire ancient path to yourself. That day, I took the back mountain trail to avoid the crowd at the main gate and reached the “Yanmen Pass” stone tablet in half an hour. The wind was so strong I had to hold onto my hat. Visit Laoniuwan in the afternoon, where the Yellow River bends, its green water contrasting with the yellow loess cliffs like an oil painting. ⏰ The light is best after 6 PM, perfect for waiting until sunset dyes half the cliff red. Mount Wutai is a good place to stay overnight. At night, the temperature in Taihuai Town can drop to around 15℃, making it very comfortable to sleep under a blanket. ⚠️ Don’t buy incense at the scenic area entrance—it’s more than twice as expensive. Small shops in town sell it for 10 yuan. Xinzhou old town is worth visiting at night. Try knife-cut noodles with a bowl of Hunyuan cold jelly for 15 yuan to feel full. 02 Guangzhou | Guangdong Don’t laugh—Guangzhou’s coolness hides indoors and at night. During the hottest two hours of the day, I ducked into Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. The gray sculptures on the roof are clearer in the shade, and when you open the carved wooden doors, a rush of cool air hits you—it’s a different world from outside. After 5 PM, head to Baiyun Mountain. Take the gentle slope at the west gate, where the shade covers most of the path. At the summit plaza, you can watch the city lights come on. I recommend buying a ticket for the Ferris wheel at Canton Tower, but avoid weekends—lines can be so long you’ll question your life choices. 📍 After the tower, walk 10 minutes to Haixinsha by the Pearl River. The river breeze blows away most of the heat. Chimelong Water Park is a good hot-weather option for families. The afternoon session is less crowded. Two rounds on the lazy river will wash away the summer heat. 🍜 At night, go to Wenming Road. The dessert shops stay open until dawn. A bowl of mung bean soup with ginger milk is how locals spend summer. ⚠️ The Baiyun Mountain cable car stops running at 5 PM. Arrive early if you want to ride. 03 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia August in Alxa is sunny, but if you stand in the poplar forest, the wind is cool. The Ejina poplar forest tourist area still has green leaves in summer, a different vibe from the golden autumn. It’s so empty it feels like a private booking. I walked along the boardwalk, hearing only the rustling leaves and occasionally spotting a sand fox dart by. For Badain Jaran Desert, get up early—wake at 5 AM and enter the desert by 6 AM. The dunes’ lines are especially three-dimensional in the low-angle sunlight. Walking barefoot, the surface is warm but underneath is surprisingly cool. ⚠️ Cell signal in the desert is spotty. Download offline maps in advance. 🚄 Hire a car from town to the scenic area. One way costs about 150 yuan. Make sure to agree with the driver on how long to wait. If you have elderly or children, don’t try to hike through the sand. Riding a 4x4 over the dunes is enough—the weightless feeling is gentler than a roller coaster. ⏰ At 9 PM it’s still not completely dark. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. No special equipment needed—just use your phone’s long exposure to capture it roughly. 04 Qiqihar | Heilongjiang Zhalong Ecotourism Area is the most magical wetland I’ve seen. Arrive at 6:30 AM when the mist hasn’t lifted. Red-crowned cranes stroll among the reeds. When they spread their wings, the entire water surface glows. 📍 Walk to the crane viewing platform along a wooden boardwalk about 2 km long. It takes about half an hour at a leisurely pace. The daily crane release times are 9:30 AM and 2 PM. When the trainer blows the whistle, the cranes take off. It’s a scene worth waiting for. ⚠️ After 10 AM, the boardwalk is exposed to direct sun. Wear a hat. The wind is dry and not sticky. After watching the cranes, head back to the city for barbecue. Qiqihar’s barbecue is famous nationwide. The meat is mixed with onions and egg liquid, grilled on an iron plate sizzling with oil. 🍜 I recommend “Baokun Barbecue,” popular with locals. The average cost is just over 50 yuan per person. If you have time in the afternoon, stroll through Longsha Park. The shade is dense, and local elders play chess by the water. The pace feels like it’s stopped. 05 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou’s coolness hides in the shade of the Yan Emperor Mausoleum. The ancient trees tower over the scenic area. As soon as you enter, the temperature drops by at least 3 degrees. I walked along the central axis, flanked by cypress trees at least a hundred years old. The wind carries the scent of grass and wood. The mausoleum isn’t large and can be toured in two hours, but it’s worth walking slowly. Smoke curls from the incense burner in front of the main hall, creating a solemn atmosphere. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM for the fewest people and to hear birdsong. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants inside the scenic area, only small shops. Bring your own snacks and water. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhuzhou city center or take a bus to Yanling County and transfer. In the afternoon, visit Shennong Park. The riverside walkway has good shade, and the river breeze blows away half the heat. 🍜 At night, be sure to try a bowl of Youxian rice noodles. The broth is fresh and spicy, the noodles smooth. Locals eat this for breakfast and lunch. It costs 8 yuan a bowl—more authentic than any trendy spot. 06 Jiuquan | Gansu Dunhuang’s summer is scorching during the day but heavenly at dawn and dusk. I recommend staying near Mingsha Mountain. Enter the scenic area at 6 AM and climb the dunes barefoot. The sand is still cool. Watch the sunrise rise behind Crescent Lake. That moment makes waking up early worth it. You must book Mogao Caves in advance. Watch two movies at the digital center, then take the shuttle to the caves. The guide is detailed, and you can stay in each cave for 10 minutes. ⚠️ No photography inside the caves. Don’t take out your phone. During the hottest afternoon hours, visit Yadan National Geopark. It’s sunny but very windy, making it cool enough to stand. 📍 Yumen Pass is on the way to Yadan. Stop briefly. Don’t be fooled by the simple earth platform. Standing there, you’ll understand the poem “Spring breeze never passes Yumen Pass.” ⏰ No entry to Mingsha Mountain after 7:30 PM. To watch the sunset, enter before 6 PM, climb to the top, and wait. The sunset dyes the dunes golden red. When the wind blows, the sand hums—a unique experience. 07 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan’s coolness is dry and refreshing. Visit Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park at 8 AM. Walk the wooden boardwalk through the reeds. The breeze carries moisture but never feels stuffy. Visit Helan Mountain rock paintings in the afternoon. The mountain blocks most sunlight. Walk the trail flanked by rock walls carved with patterns from thousands of years ago. At sunset, the light and shadow highlight the lines clearly. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the Western Xia tombs. Secure your hat. The view is vast and open. Standing in front of the tomb tower, you can feel the desolation. 📍 Shuidonggou Tourist Area is great for families. Ride a donkey cart, take a boat, explore the soldier caves. Kids won’t want to leave. 🍜 At night, visit Huaiyuan Night Market. Spicy porridge, grilled eggs, and sweet fermented milk tea cost about 30 yuan per person—enough to eat until you can’t move. ⏰ It gets dark late in Yinchuan. At 8 PM it’s still light, so you can plan a relaxed schedule. 08 Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Chaka Salt Lake’s “Mirror of the Sky” needs no introduction, but I want to remind you to wear shoe covers. The salt crystals hurt your feet, and walking barefoot too long stings. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM for the calmest lake surface and clearest reflections. After 9 AM, the wind picks up and ripples disturb the mirror effect. Chaerhan Salt Lake is wilder than Chaka. Its green water and white salt flowers attract fewer tourists, so no need to fight for photo spots. 📍 Jade Lake near Mangya is so green it looks fake, but the road is rough. Don’t force low-clearance cars. Kunlun Mountain pass is high altitude and prone to altitude sickness. Don’t run or jump—walk slowly. ⚠️ Qinghai has a big temperature difference between day and night. Wear short sleeves during the day but bring a fleece jacket at night. Don’t tough it out. 🚄 These lakes are far apart. It’s best to hire a car or drive yourself. Visit no more than two in one day, or you’ll spend all your time traveling. 🍜 There are few supply points on the road. Keep water and snacks in the car. Fill up whenever you see a gas station.

01 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin When visiting Yanbian with your parents, start at Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area. It’s about an hour by car from Yanji city center. The roads are good and the driver is familiar with the route. There are electric carts at the entrance—don’t skip this. Take the cart to the mountainside to save your parents from climbing. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the air is cool and there are fewer people, so no waiting for photos. The Golden Ding Buddha stands in the distance. Walk slowly up the steps, resting along the way—it takes about half an hour. After descending, head to Dunhua city for a bowl of Korean cold noodles. The sweet and sour flavor with chewy noodles is a favorite among seniors. ⚠️ Remember to bring a light jacket. It’s windy in the mountains, and you can catch a chill on the electric cart ride back. 02 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is best explored at a relaxed pace, not rushed. I recommend visiting Qingyuan Mountain in the morning because the path from the foot of the mountain to Laojun Rock is gentle and easy for your parents to walk. 📍 There’s a stone terrace in front of Laojun Rock where you can sit and rest while enjoying the lush greenery of the mountain. In the afternoon, head to Chongwu Ancient Town. Don’t rush into the scenic area—first walk along the seaside boardwalk outside the ancient city walls. The wind and waves are strong, so it’s best for seniors to watch from a distance. Kaiyuan Temple is a must-visit. Sit under the east and west towers and listen to the wind chimes on the eaves—it’s more helpful than any travel guide. 🍜 For dinner, try the noodle soup near West Street with vinegar pork and fried egg. It’s warm and tender. ⚠️ The cliff inscriptions are scattered throughout Qingyuan Mountain. No need to find them all—just enjoy the ones you come across. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor Mausoleum is in Yanling County, Zhuzhou, a bit far from the city. It’s best to stay overnight in the county and visit the scenic area early the next day. 🚄 Take a bus from Zhuzhou Station to Yanling, about two hours. Buses aren’t frequent, so check the schedule before you go. The scenic area is shaded with trees and has smooth paths suitable for wheelchairs and canes. The plaza in front of the main hall is spacious, perfect for your parents to stroll slowly. After lunch, take a walk in the nearby Shennong Garden. The sound of the stream is constant and refreshing. ⚠️ There are few dining options in the scenic area, so bring snacks and water. ⏰ After 2 PM, tour groups increase. Try to finish visiting the main buildings in the morning. 04 Guilin | Guangxi Guilin’s landscape is best enjoyed by soaking it in. Xingping Ancient Town is quiet in the morning. The bamboo raft dock on the Li River isn’t busy yet. Walk along the riverside path with your parents—you don’t need to take a raft to see the mountain shapes featured on the 20-yuan bill. In the afternoon, visit Reed Flute Cave. The cave stays around 68°F year-round, like an air-conditioned room in summer. There aren’t many steps, and the stalactites lit up by the lights look like a palace. 📍 Don’t miss the viewing platform outside the cave, which overlooks the entire city of Guilin. Longji Rice Terraces are far from the city with winding mountain roads. Your parents may get car sick, so save this for the last day. Hire a car for the round trip and stop at Huangluo Yao Village for a cup of oil tea. ⚠️ The terraces can be slippery after rain. Avoid walking if it’s wet. 05 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Nuwa Palace can be done in one day. Visit Guangfu Ancient City in the morning. The city walls aren’t high, but the steps are steep. Have your parents use the gentle slope near the north gate. The old street inside has many shops selling crispy fish and braised pork knuckle. Pick a busy one to sit down and eat—the taste is usually reliable. In the afternoon, go to Nuwa Palace, about an hour by car. There’s a long hiking trail in the scenic area, but a cable car is available. Take it to the mountainside and walk a short distance to the main hall. ⏰ After 5 PM, the light softens. Standing at the Repairing Heaven Plaza looking back at Nuwa Pavilion, the whole mountain glows golden. ⚠️ Some courtyards in the ancient city require extra tickets. Ask at the entrance to avoid paying unknowingly. 06 Weihai | Shandong The sea breeze in Weihai is saltier and more generous than elsewhere. Chengshantou is at the easternmost point with strong winds and rough waves. Bring an extra windbreaker for your parents. 📍 Standing at Good Luck Cape offers an unreal, wide-open sea view. Huaxia City is best visited in the afternoon. The performances and ancient-style buildings are mixed indoors and outdoors. There are benches everywhere to rest. 🍜 For dinner, try the mackerel dumplings in Weihai city. The filling is generous and juicy, easy for seniors to chew. To get to Liugong Island, take a boat. ⏰ The first boat leaves before 9 AM. It’s windy on the boat, so choose a window seat inside. The Jiawu War Museum on the island is worth visiting, but the lighting is dim and the floor uneven. Help your parents walk slowly. ⚠️ The last return boat leaves at 4:30 PM. Don’t miss it. 07 Foshan | Guangdong Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain complement each other perfectly in one day—one refined, one wild. Visit Qinghui Garden in the morning. The garden is small but has winding corridors and many rock steps. Seniors can walk slowly and rest anywhere. There are stone benches by the pond to sit and watch the koi for half an hour. For lunch, try double-skin milk pudding in Daliang Street. It’s richer when served warm. Pair it with a small bowl of ginger milk pudding for a warm feeling. In the afternoon, go to Xiqiao Mountain. Don’t climb by yourself. Take the scenic bus from the south gate to Baofeng Temple, then walk along the flat path to the foot of the Guanyin statue. 🍜 After descending, visit a roast meat shop in Xiqiao Town. The char siu is a perfect mix of lean and fat, great with white rice. ⚠️ Qinghui Garden is crowded on weekends. Try to visit on a weekday morning. 08 Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Plants in Xishuangbanna grow more wildly than elsewhere. When traveling with your parents, slow down. The Dai Ethnic Cultural Park has several fixed daily song and dance shows. ⏰ The 2 PM show has the fewest people. After watching, explore the village. The tropical fruit juice sold roadside is freshly squeezed—avoid bottled juice. The Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences is worth a full day. The park is large, so take the electric cart or your legs will get tired. 📍 The best light for photos in the Hundred Flowers Garden is after 4 PM—soft and not harsh. The aerial walkway in the Primitive Forest Park sways a bit. If your parents are afraid of heights, stay below and watch the peacocks fly free. 🍜 For dinner, go to Gozhuang for hand-grabbed rice—sticky rice with roast chicken and lemongrass grilled fish. It’s tangy and appetizing. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes. Apply insect repellent before dusk. Traveling slowly with your parents is the fastest way. Visiting one less attraction and sitting on a bench a little longer is more meaningful than checking off three places. Which of these eight cities do you think is best for traveling with your parents? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Budget travel can still feel high-end. These 8 places have your late summer covered. 1️⃣ Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou ⏰ At 7:00 AM, the observation deck at Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village isn't crowded yet. Wooden houses are stacked from the foot of the mountain to the top, and the cooking smoke mixed with the morning mist is more beautiful than the night view. Admission is CNY 110, but if you enter the village after 7:00 PM, you can save on the shuttle bus fee; it only takes about 20 minutes to walk up. 📍 Stay at "Tianyuanju" halfway up the mountain. Open the window and you'll see terraced fields. A standard room in peak season is just over CNY 300, half the price of the trendy homestays at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 For lunch, go to "Anong Miaojia" in the village. A pot of sour soup fish is CNY 58 and enough for two. Don't order the cured meat platter; it's salty and tough—a total letdown. In the afternoon, take a bus to Zhaoxing Dong Village. The ride takes two hours and costs CNY 25. Zhaoxing is quieter than Xijiang. Under the Drum Tower, there's an elderly lady selling sticky rice wrapped around grilled meat for CNY 10 each. It smells so good you won't be able to walk past it. ⚠️ After 8:00 PM, the bar street along the Wuyang River in Zhenyuan Ancient Town gets very noisy. If you want peace and quiet, head toward Zhusheng Bridge. Xianghuoyan is outside the city; a taxi ride costs CNY 30. Don't go during the rainy season as the boardwalks are slippery. You can get by on CNY 150 per person per day for the whole prefecture. 2️⃣ Baise City | Guangxi The most stunning part of Baise isn't the famous Tongling Grand Canyon, but Haokun Lake. 📍 It takes about 1.5 hours by taxi from the city center. A chartered round trip costs CNY 260, which is most cost-effective if split between four people. The lake water is as green as jade. The boardwalk is free to walk on, and renting a bamboo raft costs CNY 80 for a relaxing half-hour ride. ⚠️ Admission to the Grand Canyon is CNY 115. The waterfalls inside are indeed spectacular, but there are many stairs, so elderly people with bad knees should be cautious. ⏰ Chengbi Lake is best visited after 5:00 PM when the sun slants down, making the lake surface shimmer with golden light. The cycling path around the lake is free. The "Xiagang Street" night market in the city is a local favorite. Grilled pig eyes are CNY 5 a skewer—try it if you're brave! If not, order the grilled sausage and pair it with iced soy milk—it's amazing. For accommodation, choose an express hotel near the bus station for under CNY 150; it's convenient for visiting attractions the next day. A three-day, two-night trip to Baise costs about CNY 500 per person. 3️⃣ Xuzhou City | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake is free, and it's where Xuzhou locals find their summer joy. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, rent a tandem bike for CNY 40 per hour, ride along the lake to Xiaonan Lake, and then loop back to Shayu Park. The whole trip takes two hours. ⏰ The breeze on Huxin Island is most comfortable after 6:00 PM, and you can watch the sunset paint the water orange-red. 🍜 If you get hungry from cycling at noon, go to "Lianglaifeng" on Hubei Road for spicy soup and pan-fried pork buns. You can get stuffed for CNY 15 per person. ⚠️ Don't buy the Yunlong Lake silverfish sold by street vendors by the lake; they are mostly fake. If you want to buy some, go to a legitimate supermarket. You can stroll around the Hubushan Pedestrian Street in the evening, but honestly, it's too commercialized—just take some photos and move on. A one-day, one-night trip to Xuzhou is under CNY 200. 4️⃣ Zhongwei City | Ningxia Admission to Shapotou is CNY 80; don't rush to buy a package ticket. 📍 After entering the scenic area, take the free shuttle bus to the Yellow River area to see the sheepskin rafts floating on the river—the scene is quite stunning. If you want to try sand sliding, just buy a separate CNY 40 ticket; it's a better value than the items in the package ticket. ⚠️ The surface temperature in the desert area can burn your feet after 2:00 PM, so don't walk barefoot. ⏰ Gaomiao Bao'an Temple is in the city center and is free to enter. The architecture is intricately carved and painted, and it's quiet with few people. "Majia Yangzasui" (lamb offal soup) at the temple entrance is CNY 15 a bowl, and the chili oil is incredibly fragrant. For accommodation, choose a hostel near the Drum Tower; a bed is CNY 50, and you can share a table for hand-grabbed lamb in the evening. A two-day, one-night trip to Zhongwei is CNY 300 per person. Remember, the point of Shapotou is the intersection of the Yellow River and the desert, not just a pile of activities. 5️⃣ Zhuzhou City | Hunan Admission to the Yandi Mausoleum is CNY 60, but it's free on Wednesday mornings, so plan your trip accordingly to save some money. 📍 The scenic area is filled with ancient cypress trees. It's quiet in the afternoon, and you can hear the rustling of leaves in the wind. The smell of incense in front of the main hall is very strong; if you don't like it, take a detour. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, the stuffed tofu at "Yanling Tucai Guan" at the entrance is CNY 28 a serving. It's rich in bean flavor, and the sauce is great for mixing with rice—you'll finish two bowls. ⚠️ Don't buy Shennong Baicao Tea inside the scenic area; it's CNY 50 for a small bag, while the same product in the supermarket is CNY 15. There's also Shennong Park in downtown Zhuzhou, which is free and perfect for an evening stroll. One day is enough for Zhuzhou, costing CNY 150 per person. 6️⃣ Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai This stop is the highlight of budget travel—top-tier scenery and well worth the money. 📍 Qarhan Salt Lake is free and has far fewer people than Chaka Salt Lake. The white salt flowers stretch to the horizon, and if you wear a red dress, any photo you take will look like a blockbuster. ⚠️ Admission to Chaka Salt Lake is CNY 60. When the weather is bad, the water pools are murky, so don't waste your money—check the weather forecast first. ⏰ Emerald Lake is in Mangya. A chartered round trip from Golmud costs CNY 600, which is very cost-effective if split between four people. In the light after 4:00 PM, the lake water shows layers of blue and green, like an overturned palette. The Kunlun Mountain Pass is at an altitude of 4,768 meters; don't run or jump, walk slowly, and carry a bottle of oxygen for CNY 15 just in case. For accommodation, choose a hostel in downtown Golmud; a bed is CNY 80, and the owner can help you find a carpool. Public transportation is scarce on this route, so carpooling is the biggest expense, but you can have a great time for CNY 300 per person per day. 7️⃣ Tianjin The attractions in downtown Tianjin are densely packed, making it perfect for walking. 📍 Start from the Italian Style Town. Walking from Marco Polo Square to Dante Square is free, and the architecture looks even better in person than in photos. 🍜 For lunch, go to the Liaoning Road snack street. You can eat your fill of shuligao (steamed pear cake), jianbing guozi (savory crepe), and guobacai (mung bean pancake soup) for CNY 20 per person. ⚠️ The horse-drawn carriage tour in the Five Great Avenues cultural tourism area is CNY 80 per person—don't take it. It's better to scan a shared bike and ride it yourself; the route is more flexible. ⏰ The Olympic Center Stadium looks cool after the lights come on in the evening; you can take photos from the outside for free without entering. Admission to Fantawild Adventure is CNY 230, and you can get a CNY 40 discount with a student ID, but if you're not a theme park fanatic, I suggest skipping it and saving the money for the Eight Treasure Tofu at "Guiyuan Restaurant." A two-day, one-night trip to Tianjin is CNY 350 per person. Stay near Tianjin Station for CNY 150 a night; it's convenient to go anywhere. 8️⃣ Leshan City | Sichuan Admission to the Leshan Giant Buddha is CNY 80. ⚠️ Be sure to book online in advance; the on-site queue will make you question your life choices. 📍 Enter from the North Gate, see Lingyun Temple first, and then go down the Nine-Turn Plank Road. ⏰ Arrive when it opens at 8:00 AM. The plank road is narrow, and if you're late, you'll be stuck for half an hour. 🍜 After seeing the Giant Buddha, take a bus for CNY 1 to Zhanggongqiao Food Street. A small portion of Qiaojiao beef is CNY 30, and the beef offal is tender and smooth. Half a sweet-skin duck is CNY 25; the skin is crispy and the meat is sweet—one person can finish half a duck. Admission to Mount Emei is CNY 160. If you're on a tight budget, don't take the Golden Summit cable car (CNY 120 round trip); hike to Qingyin Pavilion to see the monkeys—the scenery is beautiful enough. ⚠️ The monkeys on Mount Emei will snatch bags, so don't carry plastic bags in your hands. A two-day, one-night trip to Leshan is CNY 400 per person. The key is to balance eating and playing. Choose one of either the Giant Buddha or Mount Emei for an in-depth visit, and just get a taste of the other. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Qiandongnan and Leshan—one is rich in ethnic culture, and the other is full of local life. Tell me your budget in the comments section, and I'll help you pick some more.

1️⃣ Shanghai Don't just think of the Bund being crowded when Shanghai is mentioned. August in Shanghai actually hides several cool spots. My itinerary was to head straight to Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park in the morning. The underwater museum area is particularly photogenic, with its roof floating on the water and a unique world beneath. Before 10 AM, there are fewer people, and the wind blowing from the lake makes it several degrees cooler than the city center. At noon, go to Yu Garden. Don't rush to cross the Nine-Turn Bridge. Instead, detour to the second floor of the Mid-Lake Pavilion for a cup of tea. Outside the window is a lotus pond, and even the scorching sun won't stop you from relaxing. In the afternoon, visit Expo Park. It's much quieter now than it was during the expo. You can rest on the large lawn next to the Mercedes-Benz Arena, and when the evening breeze from the river picks up, you'll feel completely refreshed. If you plan to visit Disneyland Resort, I recommend buying an afternoon ticket. Enter at 3 PM and go for indoor rides first. Buzz Lightyear and Pirates of the Caribbean have shorter, cooler lines, and you'll be perfectly timed to watch the fireworks in the evening. ⚠️ Guangfulin is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 2️⃣ Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou I'd call Libo Zhangjiang a natural air-conditioned room. The water in Xiaoqikong is an unreal shade of green, and the hiking trail along Wolongtan is almost entirely shaded. When you reach Cuigu Waterfall, the mist hits your face, dropping the perceived temperature to just over 20 degrees Celsius. Remember to wear non-slip sandals; there's a section of the waterside trail that's particularly comfortable to walk through. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 AM. Before tour groups arrive, take photos of the Seven-Hole Bridge without crowds. After 10 AM, when it gets busy, head to the Water Forest. 🍜 There's plum juice sold at the scenic area entrance for CNY 5 a cup. It's sweet and sour, and more refreshing than iced cola. The entire park takes about 4 hours to walk through. If you're with seniors or children, you can just walk the section from Xiaoqikong to Laya Waterfall, as all the highlights are there. 3️⃣ Jiuquan | Gansu Dunhuang in summer is genuinely hot, but if you plan your time well, you can still enjoy it comfortably. Don't go to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring at noon; the sand surface can burn your feet. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 6 PM, climb the dunes to watch the sunset, and the moment Crescent Spring lights up, it's worth the price of admission. Mogao Grottoes must be booked in advance. Watch the 2 films at the Digital Exhibition Center first, then enter the physical grottoes. A guided tour takes about 2 hours, and the grottoes are cool and dry, making them the coolest spot in all of Dunhuang. Yumenguan Pass and Yadan National Geological Park are on the same route. I recommend carpooling or chartering a car. In the evening, watch the sunset over the "Ghost City" in Yadan. The wind is so strong you might not stand steady, but it's spectacular. ⚠️ Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a face towel are essential. Sunburn in the desert can happen in minutes. 4️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is one of those attractions suitable for those who want to escape the heat without the crowds. The entire mausoleum area is covered with ancient trees. The shaded path in the Luyuanbei section immediately drops the temperature by 3 degrees Celsius. The square in front of the main hall is spacious, but don't rush to take photos. First, visit the Shennong Garden on the left, which features various traditional Chinese medicinal plants, quite interesting to identify. 🍜 Try the mugwort rice cake at the scenic area entrance; it's sticky with a light fragrance. ⏰ I recommend arriving before 9 AM. The morning mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the red walls and green tiles with the moisture create a sense of ancient charm. 2 hours are enough to explore the entire scenic area, and the ticket price is reasonable, making it a good stopover. ⚠️ Burning high incense is not allowed in the mausoleum area, so don't buy incense and candles promoted at the entrance. 5️⃣ Taizhou | Zhejiang I advise you to visit Tiantai Mountain and Shenxianju on separate days. Shiliang Feipu Waterfall on Tiantai Mountain is hidden in a valley. When you walk to the bottom of the waterfall, mist fills the air, and a coolness rises from your feet. You won't want to leave in summer. Guoqing Temple is at the foot of the mountain, and both the Sui Pagoda and ancient camphor trees are worth seeing. The temple offers vegetarian meals for CNY 10 per person; the dishes are fresh and sweet, and cleaner than outside restaurants. Shenxianju, however, is a completely different scene. Suspension bridges and glass skywalks hang in the clouds, with strong mountain winds. Those with a fear of heights should be cautious. Taizhou Fucheng Cultural Tourism Zone is suitable for an evening stroll. Enter Ziyang Street from Xingshan Gate and walk all the way to Longxing Temple. The seaweed cakes sold by the roadside vendors are most fragrant when freshly baked. ⚠️ Shenxianju gets very crowded on holidays, so go early or choose a weekday. 6️⃣ Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia In summer, the Ulagai Grassland is in the low 20s Celsius during the day, and you'll need a jacket at night. Cell service is poor on the grassland, but it's perfect for completely unwinding. Drive into the grassland from Bayan Hoshuu Town, and every casual photo along the way looks like a wallpaper. Jiuguwan is a must-visit. ⏰ Climb the hillside around 5 PM to see the river winding through the grassland in 18 bends. The sunset dyes the grass golden, and the air is filled with the scent of grass. 🐴 Local herders can take you horseback riding for CNY 50 per ride, which is cheaper than in the scenic area. Stay in a yurt at night; the stars are so low they feel within reach. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes on the grassland, so mosquito repellent is a must-have. Don't forget sunscreen either, as the UV rays are very strong. 7️⃣ Yangzhou | Jiangsu Yangzhou summers are hot, but the mornings at Slender West Lake are surprisingly cool. ⏰ Enter the park at 6:30 AM and walk along Changdi Chunliu to Diaoyutai. The mist hasn't dissipated from the lake, and occasionally wild ducks glide across the water. The entire garden feels like your private backyard. Geyuan Garden and Heyuan Garden are next to each other and can be visited together. Geyuan's "Four Seasons Rockeries" use stones to represent spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Standing in front of "Summer Mountain" in summer, the wind blows through the holes of the Taihu stones, making it more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Heyuan's corridor design is ingenious; the entire garden has corridors for shade, so you won't get wet even on rainy days. 🍜 After your visit, go to Dongguan Street for a bowl of dry mixed noodles with pork kidney soup. You'll be full for CNY 12. ⚠️ Slender West Lake is very sunny during the day, so be sure to go early or after 4 PM in the evening. 8️⃣ Xianyang | Shaanxi Qianling Mausoleum is one of the most underrated attractions around Xi'an. Along the Sima Road at the foot of Liangshan Mountain, stone lions and horses have stood for over a thousand years. The wind blowing between the 2 mountains makes it much cooler than the city center. It takes about 20 minutes to climb the steps to the summit, but once you're up, the view is expansive, with the entire mausoleum area visible. Yuanjia Village Guanzhong Impression Experience Area is on the way back, suitable for an afternoon visit. The village is full of old brick houses, and cool breezes pass through the alleys. 🍜 You must try a bite of oil-splashed noodles. The biangbiang noodles are as wide as belts, and the chili is fragrant but not overly spicy. The yogurt is freshly made by local cows, CNY 6 a bottle, and so thick it clings to the cup. ⚠️ There's no shade in the Qianling scenic area, so a hat and umbrella are essential, or choose a cloudy day to visit. These 8 places offer various ways to cool down: some are perfect for getting into the water, some for exploring forests, and some are simply natural refrigerators. Where are you planning to cool off this summer? Let's chat in the comments.

8️⃣ Fun and Relaxing Places for a 3-Day Trip with Kids 01 Jinzhong | Shanxi Depart from Taiyuan South Station at 8 AM. The high-speed train takes half an hour to Jinzhong. From the station, take a taxi directly to Qiao Family Compound (approximately 30 yuan). The brick and wood carvings at Qiao Family Compound will dazzle children, but don't rush to see everything. Sit in the central courtyard first, letting the kids count the ridge beasts on the eaves – they can stay quiet for half an hour. Have lunch at a small restaurant outside the scenic area – 10 yuan a bowl, half the price of inside. In the afternoon, visit Wang Family Compound. ⚠️ There are many stairs here, making it inconvenient for strollers. It's recommended to carry the child or let them walk. Not recommended for children under three. Arrive in Pingyao Ancient City in the evening and stay at a guesthouse on South Street. After dropping off your luggage, go up to the city wall to watch the sunset; the light shining on the blue bricks is particularly beautiful. In the evening, have a bowl of oat noodles in the ancient city, then take the kids to browse the shadow puppet shops on Ming and Qing Dynasty Street. The kids can pick out a small shadow puppet for only 15 yuan. The next morning, go to Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Pingyao to Jiexiu Station (20 minutes), then take a taxi into the mountain. The kids loved the Water Curtain Cave and the Sky Bridge on Mianshan Mountain, but the railings are high, so hold hands. ⏰ It's recommended to descend the mountain before 2 PM to avoid long queues for the return bus. 02 Anyang|Henan Anyang is a good transit point for self-driving trips. It's a two-hour drive from Zhengzhou, with good highway conditions. Our first stop is Yinxu. 📍 The Tomb of Fu Hao and the Oracle Bone Cellars are must-sees. There's an interactive screen in the museum where kids can spell out oracle bone inscriptions themselves, which is much more interesting than just listening to lectures. ⚠️ Yinxu closes admission at 4:30 PM, so don't linger too late. At noon, we randomly picked a noodle shop on the north bank of the Huan River. The kids ate half a bowl of Anyang-style flat rice noodles with vegetables and fried dough. In the afternoon, we went to the Taihang Grand Canyon and stayed at a guesthouse in Shiban'yan Town. The view from the window was of the mountains, and the kids could gaze at the stream for hours. The next morning, we hiked the Peach Blossom Valley route. It was mostly flat, stroller-friendly, and the waterfalls were refreshing – perfect for cooling off in the summer. The glass walkway in the canyon requires a separate fee, and it's not recommended for children under five as it can be a bit shaky in strong winds. Before heading back, remember to buy a few kilograms of walnuts in town; they're cheaper than at the scenic area. 🚄 If taking the high-speed rail, it's about a 25-minute taxi ride from Anyang East Station to Yinxu. 03 Huzhou|Zhejiang I only recommend one place in Huzhou: Nanxun Ancient Town. Avoid the crowds at Xitang and Wuzhen. Nanxun's Hundred Houses area is almost deserted in the early morning. Take your kids for a walk along the river corridor and watch the old ladies washing vegetables by the river – it will be fascinating for them. In summer, the lotus flowers at Xiaolianzhuang are in full bloom, and the pond is shaded by trees; you can sit on a mat and enjoy the view for an entire afternoon. The Jiayetang Library is dimly lit; families with young children can skip it to save energy. For lunch, eat double-noodles near Zhang Shiming's former residence; choose your own toppings, and for kids, get a braised pork and egg dish—it's a filling 15 yuan. In the afternoon, take a 3-yuan human-powered rowboat across the river. The boatman rows slowly, allowing children to reach into the water; remember to hold them tightly. ⚠️ Nanxun is free after 5 PM, but the attractions close early. To save on entrance fees, enter the ancient town in the evening and stay overnight, then visit the paid attractions the next day when the park reopens. Choose a guesthouse on Nanxi Street; it's close to the river, allowing children to fall asleep quickly to the sound of the water. 04 Nanchong|Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is one of the few ancient cities I've seen where you can stroll around with a stroller. The roads are smooth, and there are no high stairs. It takes an hour and a half to drive from Nanchong city center. The parking lot is at the North Gate of the Ancient City, and the main street is just a short walk from where you park. The most worthwhile place to take kids in the Ancient City is the Gongyuan (Imperial Examination Hall), a simulation of an ancient examination hall. Children can sit in small cubicles and pretend to answer questions, which will make them laugh non-stop. Zhongtian Tower is a must-see; the wooden stairs are narrow, but once you reach the top, you can see the entire expanse of green-tiled roofs, making for excellent photo spots. For lunch, have Zhang Fei beef noodles; the broth is spicy, but order a bowl of clear soup wontons for the kids—the owner knows what to do. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on the Jialing River from Huaguang Tower Wharf; it's a 20-minute round trip, and the kids are captivated by the seagulls. ⚠️ Don't let children play in the vinegar foot bath shops in the Ancient City; the vinegar smell is too strong. Choose a courtyard inn within the Ancient City for accommodation; it's quiet at night, and you'll be woken up by birdsong in the morning, allowing the kids to wake up naturally. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive on Friday evening, as the Ancient City will be less crowded on Saturday morning. 05 Yichang|Hubei Yichang was the most physically demanding but also the most worthwhile stop on this trip. On the first day, we'll visit the Three Gorges Waterfall. It's a 40-minute taxi ride from the city center. The waterfall has a lot of mist, so dress your child in a quick-drying shirt and bring sandals; he could run back and forth under the spray ten times without getting bored. We'll have lunch at a local farmhouse near the scenic area entrance, enjoying stir-fried cured pork with dried tofu. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Three Gorges Family Village, which is essentially a Tujia village nestled against the mountains and by the water. The performances include throwing a embroidered ball and a traditional wedding lament, which the children will find captivating. ⚠️ The escalator at the Three Gorges Family Village costs extra; it's only a ten-minute walk up the stairs, so don't waste your money. On the second day, we'll go to the Qingjiang Gallery, taking a two-hour cruise to admire the green mountains on both sides. The children can eat snacks and enjoy the scenery on the boat, giving adults a chance to relax. The viewing platform for the Yangtze River Three Gorges is at Tanziling, offering a wide view, but it can be windy, so bring a hat. 🚄 It's a 15-minute taxi ride from Yichang East Railway Station to the city center. I recommend staying near Wanda Plaza for convenient dining and an evening stroll along the river to watch the light show. 06 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang is suitable for families with kids who want to see the sea but don't want the crowds in Sanya. Huguangyan Lake is a crater lake; a complete walk around it takes about two hours. The path is flat and easy to walk on, perfect for strollers. There are many large banyan trees along the lake; the shade is perfect around 3 or 4 pm. Spread out a picnic mat, eat fruit, and let your kids chase butterflies for ages. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes by the lake; remember to spray insect repellent. For lunch, eat oysters at a roadside stall outside the scenic area. Zhanjiang oysters are large and cheap, only 30 yuan for a dozen. The kids especially loved the garlic flavor—it was so fresh they licked their fingers! In the afternoon, visit the Maar Lake Volcano Museum near the entrance of Huguangyan Lake. There's an earthquake simulation experience there; the kids lined up to play. For dinner, go to Chikan Old Street for seafood congee at the old shop near Shuijingtou. The congee is full of shrimp and crab, and served with fried dough sticks—a local way of eating it. Stay near Jinsha Bay; take your kids to the beach in the evening to wade in the soft sand. ⏰ Zhanjiang summers are hot and humid. Activities are best done before 10 AM and after 4 PM, followed by a midday nap at the hotel. 07 Quanzhou|Fujian Quanzhou is my personal favorite place to recommend. It has both cultural and natural beauty, and the prices are low. On the first morning, we went to Qingyuan Mountain. The mountain isn't high, and Lao Jun Rock is at the foot, so you don't have to climb too long to see it. Kids take great photos making peace signs in front of the large rock statue. There's a stream in the mountain where kids can take off their shoes and wade in the cool water. In the afternoon, we went to Kaiyuan Temple. The large banyan trees under the East and West Pagodas provided comfortable shade. The pigeons in the temple weren't afraid of people; a bag of corn kernels kept the kids busy feeding them for an hour. ⚠️ Kaiyuan Temple closes to worshippers after 4 PM, but you can still visit, so don't go empty-handed. On the second day, we went to Chongwu Ancient City, about an hour's drive from Quanzhou city. We walked along the city wall by the sea; the sea breeze was strong, so bring a light jacket for the kids. There's a stone carving park in the ancient city with various stone lion sculptures; the kids easily walked the entire path. Lunch was in Chongwu Town, with fish rolls and sweet potato porridge—locals also eat this for breakfast; it's cheap and filling. The Quanzhou cliff carvings are on Qingyuan Mountain; the signs are clear, so no need to specifically look for them. 🚄 A taxi ride from Quanzhou Station to the city center takes 20 minutes. We chose accommodation near West Street and walked to the Bell Tower in the evening, enjoying local delicacies like sea worm jelly and agar jelly along the way. 08 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum in Zhuzhou is located in Yanling County. It's a two-hour drive from Zhuzhou city, but worth the trip. The scenic area is large, with shady trees, making it comfortable to stroll along the tree-lined paths. The square in front of the main hall is spacious, allowing children to run and jump without needing to be constantly held. There are sacrificial performances inside the hall, two times a day, at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM; if the timing is right, it's worth watching. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the main sacrificial hall. There are lockers at the entrance; please keep your phone safe. For lunch, we'll have spicy blood duck at a farmhouse restaurant outside the scenic area. Order steamed eggs for the kids. In the afternoon, we'll visit Shennong Garden, which has a herbal medicine display area. Let the kids smell the mint and perilla; it's more interesting than reading. On the way back, you can buy some yellow peaches in Yanling County. July is the peak season; they're sweet and crisp. 🚄 If you take the high-speed train to Yanling West Station, a taxi to the scenic area takes about 15 minutes. For accommodation, I recommend staying at a hotel near the scenic area. There will be fewer people early the next morning, and the temples will have a more ethereal feel in the morning mist. ⏰ The Yandi Mausoleum is open year-round, but entry closes at 5 PM. Plan your time accordingly. I've already scouted these eight places for you, perfect for a three-day trip with kids. The easiest are Nanxun and Langzhong, no problem with strollers throughout; the most surprising is Zhanjiang, cheap and fun; the most physically demanding but most worthwhile is Yichang. Which places have you taken your kids to? Share your thoughts in the comments! 8️⃣ Fun and Relaxing Places for a Three-Day Trip with Kids 01 Jinzhong | Shanxi Depart from Taiyuan South Station at 8 AM. The high-speed train takes half an hour to Jinzhong. From the station, take a taxi directly to Qiao Family Compound (approximately 30 yuan). The brick and wood carvings at Qiao Family Compound will dazzle your child, but don't rush to see everything. Sit in the central courtyard first, let your child count the roof ornaments – they can stay quiet for half an hour. Have lunch at a small restaurant outside the scenic area – 10 yuan a bowl, half the price of inside. In the afternoon, visit Wang Family Compound. ⚠️ There are many stairs here, making it inconvenient for strollers. It's recommended to carry your child or let them walk. Be cautious with children under three. Arrive in Pingyao Ancient City in the evening and stay at a guesthouse on South Street. After dropping off your luggage, go up to the city wall to watch the sunset; the light shining on the blue bricks is particularly beautiful. In the evening, have a bowl of oat noodles in the ancient city, then take the kids to browse the shadow puppet shops on Ming and Qing Dynasty Street. The kids can pick out a small shadow puppet for only 15 yuan. The next morning, go to Mianshan Mountain in Jiexiu. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Pingyao to Jiexiu Station (20 minutes), then take a taxi into the mountain. The kids loved the Water Curtain Cave and the Sky Bridge on Mianshan Mountain, but the railings are high, so hold hands. ⏰ It's recommended to descend the mountain before 2 PM to avoid long queues for the return bus. 02 Anyang|Henan Anyang is a good transit point for self-driving trips. It's a two-hour drive from Zhengzhou, with good highway conditions. Our first stop is Yinxu. 📍 The Tomb of Fu Hao and the Oracle Bone Cellars are must-sees. There's an interactive screen in the museum where kids can spell out oracle bone inscriptions themselves, which is much more interesting than just listening to lectures. ⚠️ Yinxu closes admission at 4:30 PM, so don't linger too late. At noon, we randomly picked a noodle shop on the north bank of the Huan River. The kids ate half a bowl of Anyang-style flat rice noodles with vegetables and fried dough. In the afternoon, we went to the Taihang Grand Canyon and stayed at a guesthouse in Shiban'yan Town. The view from the window was of the mountains, and the kids could gaze at the stream for hours. The next morning, we hiked the Peach Blossom Valley route. It was mostly flat, stroller-friendly, and the waterfalls were refreshing – perfect for cooling off in the summer. The glass walkway in the canyon requires a separate fee, and it's not recommended for children under five as it can be a bit shaky in strong winds. Before heading back, remember to buy a few kilograms of walnuts in town; they're cheaper than at the scenic area. 🚄 If taking the high-speed rail, it's about a 25-minute taxi ride from Anyang East Station to Yinxu. 03 Huzhou|Zhejiang I only recommend one place in Huzhou: Nanxun Ancient Town. Avoid the crowds at Xitang and Wuzhen. Nanxun's Hundred Houses area is almost deserted in the early morning. Take your kids for a walk along the river corridor and watch the old ladies washing vegetables by the river – it will be fascinating for them. In summer, the lotus flowers at Xiaolianzhuang are in full bloom, and the pond is shaded by trees; you can sit on a mat and enjoy the view for an entire afternoon. The Jiayetang Library is dimly lit; families with young children can skip it to save energy. For lunch, eat double-noodles near Zhang Shiming's former residence; choose your own toppings, and for kids, get a braised pork and egg dish—it's a filling 15 yuan. In the afternoon, take a 3-yuan human-powered rowboat across the river. The boatman rows slowly, allowing children to reach into the water; remember to hold them tightly. ⚠️ Nanxun is free after 5 PM, but the attractions close early. To save on entrance fees, enter the ancient town in the evening and stay overnight, then visit the paid attractions the next day when the park reopens. Choose a guesthouse on Nanxi Street; it's close to the river, allowing children to fall asleep quickly to the sound of the water. 04 Nanchong|Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is one of the few ancient cities I've seen where you can stroll around with a stroller. The roads are smooth, and there are no high stairs. It takes an hour and a half to drive from Nanchong city center. The parking lot is at the North Gate of the Ancient City, and the main street is just a short walk from where you park. The most worthwhile place to take kids in the Ancient City is the Gongyuan (Imperial Examination Hall), a simulation of an ancient examination hall. Children can sit in small cubicles and pretend to answer questions, which will make them laugh non-stop. Zhongtian Tower is a must-see; the wooden stairs are narrow, but once you reach the top, you can see the entire expanse of green-tiled roofs, making for excellent photo spots. For lunch, have Zhang Fei beef noodles; the broth is spicy, but order a bowl of clear soup wontons for the kids—the owner knows what to do. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on the Jialing River from Huaguang Tower Wharf; it's a 20-minute round trip, and the kids are captivated by the seagulls. ⚠️ Don't let children play in the vinegar foot bath shops in the Ancient City; the vinegar smell is too strong. Choose a courtyard inn within the Ancient City for accommodation; it's quiet at night, and you'll be woken up by birdsong in the morning, allowing the kids to wake up naturally. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive on Friday evening, as the Ancient City will be less crowded on Saturday morning. 05 Yichang|Hubei Yichang was the most physically demanding but also the most worthwhile stop on this trip. On the first day, we'll visit the Three Gorges Waterfall. It's a 40-minute taxi ride from the city center. The waterfall has a lot of mist, so dress your child in a quick-drying shirt and bring sandals; he could run back and forth under the spray ten times without getting bored. We'll have lunch at a local farmhouse near the scenic area entrance, enjoying stir-fried cured pork with dried tofu. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Three Gorges Family Village, which is essentially a Tujia village nestled against the mountains and by the water. The performances include throwing a embroidered ball and a traditional wedding lament, which the children will find captivating. ⚠️ The escalator at the Three Gorges Family Village costs extra; it's only a ten-minute walk up the stairs, so don't waste your money. On the second day, we'll go to the Qingjiang Gallery, taking a two-hour cruise to admire the green mountains on both sides. The children can eat snacks and enjoy the scenery on the boat, giving adults a chance to relax. The viewing platform for the Yangtze River Three Gorges is at Tanziling, offering a wide view, but it can be windy, so bring a hat. 🚄 It's a 15-minute taxi ride from Yichang East Railway Station to the city center. I recommend staying near Wanda Plaza for convenient dining and an evening stroll along the river to watch the light show. 06 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang is suitable for families with kids who want to see the sea but don't want the crowds in Sanya. Huguangyan Lake is a crater lake; a complete walk around it takes about two hours. The path is flat and easy to walk on, perfect for strollers. There are many large banyan trees along the lake; the shade is perfect around 3 or 4 pm. Spread out a picnic mat, eat fruit, and let your kids chase butterflies for ages. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes by the lake; remember to spray insect repellent. For lunch, eat oysters at a roadside stall outside the scenic area. Zhanjiang oysters are large and cheap, only 30 yuan for a dozen. The kids especially loved the garlic flavor—it was so fresh they licked their fingers! In the afternoon, visit the Maar Lake Volcano Museum near the entrance of Huguangyan Lake. There's an earthquake simulation experience there; the kids lined up to play. For dinner, go to Chikan Old Street for seafood congee at the old shop near Shuijingtou. The congee is full of shrimp and crab, and served with fried dough sticks—a local way of eating it. Stay near Jinsha Bay; take your kids to the beach in the evening to wade in the soft sand. ⏰ Zhanjiang summers are hot and humid. Activities are best done before 10 AM and after 4 PM, followed by a midday nap at the hotel. 07 Quanzhou|Fujian Quanzhou is my personal favorite place to recommend. It has both cultural and natural beauty, and the prices are low. On the first morning, we went to Qingyuan Mountain. The mountain isn't high, and Lao Jun Rock is at the foot, so you don't have to climb too long to see it. Kids take great photos making peace signs in front of the large rock statue. There's a stream in the mountain where kids can take off their shoes and wade in the cool water. In the afternoon, we went to Kaiyuan Temple. The large banyan trees under the East and West Pagodas provided comfortable shade. The pigeons in the temple weren't afraid of people; a bag of corn kernels kept the kids busy feeding them for an hour. ⚠️ Kaiyuan Temple closes to worshippers after 4 PM, but you can still visit, so don't go empty-handed. On the second day, we went to Chongwu Ancient City, about an hour's drive from Quanzhou city. We walked along the city wall by the sea; the sea breeze was strong, so bring a light jacket for the kids. There's a stone carving park in the ancient city with various stone lion sculptures; the kids easily walked the entire path. Lunch was in Chongwu Town, with fish rolls and sweet potato porridge—locals also eat this for breakfast; it's cheap and filling. The Quanzhou cliff carvings are on Qingyuan Mountain; the signs are clear, so no need to specifically look for them. 🚄 A taxi ride from Quanzhou Station to the city center takes 20 minutes. We chose accommodation near West Street and walked to the Bell Tower in the evening, enjoying local delicacies like sea worm jelly and agar jelly along the way. 08 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum in Zhuzhou is located in Yanling County. It's a two-hour drive from Zhuzhou city, but worth the trip. The scenic area is large, with shady trees, making it comfortable to stroll along the tree-lined paths. The square in front of the main hall is spacious, allowing children to run and jump without needing to be constantly held. There are sacrificial performances inside the hall, two times a day, at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM; if the timing is right, it's worth watching. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the main sacrificial hall. There are lockers at the entrance; please keep your phone safe. For lunch, we'll have spicy blood duck at a farmhouse restaurant outside the scenic area. Order steamed eggs for the kids. In the afternoon, we'll visit Shennong Garden, which has a herbal medicine display area. Let the kids smell the mint and perilla; it's more interesting than reading. On the way back, you can buy some yellow peaches in Yanling County. July is the peak season; they're sweet and crisp. 🚄 If you take the high-speed train to Yanling West Station, a taxi to the scenic area takes about 15 minutes. For accommodation, I recommend staying at a hotel near the scenic area. There will be fewer people early the next morning, and the temples will have a more ethereal feel in the morning mist. ⏰ The Yandi Mausoleum is open year-round, but entry closes at 5 PM. Plan your time accordingly. I've already scouted these eight places for you, perfect for a three-day trip with kids. The easiest are Nanxun and Langzhong, no problem with strollers throughout; the most surprising is Zhanjiang, cheap and fun; the most physically demanding but most worthwhile is Yichang. Which places have you taken your kids to? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Ultimate summer cool spots! These 8️⃣ cities stay around 20℃ in summer 01 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is naturally made to cure “heat phobia.” Wind blows through the canyon’s stone cracks, carrying moisture, feeling cooler than an air-conditioned room. I visited once in June. At noon, standing under the viewing platform, I didn’t sweat at all. 📍 Turn right at the entrance to take a sheepskin raft to Yinma Gorge, then switch to an electric cart into the canyon. The raft guide sings local folk songs, and the sound of water makes the tunes drift near and far, way better than white noise in headphones. ⏰ Enter the gorge after 4:30 PM. The light hits the stone pillars at an angle, turning the whole stone forest warm golden. Morning visits work too, but the fog hasn’t cleared, so photos may look hazy. ⚠️ Water vendors are spaced far apart in the park. Bring two bottles yourself and don’t count on buying more inside. Wear sneakers, not sandals, as the gravel paths can rub your feet. 02 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang’s coolness comes from the sea breeze. The wind from Lake Huaguangyan blows over Ma’er Lake, carrying the scent of water plants. At 3 PM by the lake, it feels 4 to 5 degrees cooler than downtown. 📍 Walk the east shore of the lakeside trail. It’s shady and you can see egrets on the small island in the lake. The west shore is exposed and scorching, so avoid it. ⏰ After 6 PM, go to the entrance of Leiqiong World Geopark Museum. The sunset hits the lake perfectly, the wind is strongest, and the crowd is smallest. 🍜 Walk 200 meters south from the park entrance to a small local shop selling clam leaf rice, a local afternoon snack. The rice is wrapped in clam leaves, paired with sea snail soup. It’s filling for 30 yuan. ⚠️ The park’s electric carts stop running at 5:30 PM. Enter early if you want to ride. Bring mosquito repellent as there are many bugs by the lake. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou’s coolness hides in the forest around the Yan Emperor’s Mausoleum. Ancient cypress trees filter the sunlight into fragments. Walking on the sacred path, mossy stone slabs underfoot and birdsong overhead, you won’t feel the heat all afternoon. 📍 Enter from the noon gate, pass the sacrificial plaza, then head to the back mountain. The cedar forest there is a local secret summer retreat, with twice the shade density of the front hall. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM to see morning mist flowing along the mountainside. After 10 AM, tour groups arrive and the quiet fades. ⚠️ Someone at the main hall entrance may offer “free guided tours” but will end up asking for incense money starting at 100 yuan. You can explore on your own without trouble. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Zhuzhou West Station, with carpool rides around 20 yuan per person. There’s a stall selling fern root cakes at the park entrance for 5 yuan each. They’re sticky and worth trying. 04 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan’s coolness comes from the layered stone steps and tree shadows. Climbing from Wuliang Temple, every step is shaded by tree canopies. Mountain wind blows up from the valley, making it even chilly halfway up. 📍 Enter from the main gate, visit Wuliang Temple first, then climb to Jiapian Stone. This is the most classic and shadiest section. Don’t take the cable car right away or you’ll miss the coolest mountain path. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 6:30 AM to see monks sweeping steps, dew still wet, and the air filled with pine needle scent. Descend around 2 or 3 PM to avoid the midday heat. ⚠️ Bottled water costs 8 yuan on the mountain, 3 yuan at the foot. Bring two bottles yourself. The stone steps are slippery when wet, so elderly and children should avoid the Jiapian Stone section. 05 Yichun | Jiangxi Mingyue Mountain Tourist Area is the kind of place where you feel cool as soon as you step in. Mountain springs flow along the trail, icy cold to the touch, keeping the summer temperature just above 20 degrees. 📍 Take the cable car from the park entrance to the mid-station, then hike the Qingyun plank road. The plank road hangs on a cliff with clouds below, and the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. This is the coolest and most photogenic spot in the park. ⏰ Take the cable car before 10 AM to avoid lines. Have a bowl of cold jelly at the snack shop at the plank road’s end at noon. It’s chilled with spring water and costs 5 yuan—refreshing. 🍜 After descending, visit Wentang Town. The local selenium-rich hot springs are perfect for foot baths. Outdoor pools cost 10 yuan per person. Locals spend afternoons chatting there. ⚠️ The cable car stops running at 5:30 PM. Don’t get stuck trying to descend at closing time. The summit is 7 to 8 degrees cooler than the base, so bring a light jacket. 06 Zhoukou | Henan Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum Cultural Tourist Area was a surprise—I expected it to be hot, but the whole park is densely covered by ancient cypress trees. Some are over a thousand years old, their canopies connected, letting only dappled light through. 📍 Enter from the noon gate, visit Tongtian Hall first, then head east. The cypress forest on the east side is the densest, with a woody scent in the breeze. It’s hard to leave in summer. ⏰ Enter after 3 PM for perfect light and long shadows, no filter needed for photos. Mornings are crowded with tour groups arriving one after another. 🍜 Walk 10 minutes south from the park to Taiqing Palace’s entrance, where a spicy soup shop sells only in the morning. The soup is thick enough to stand a spoon, served with fried dough sticks. It costs 10 yuan and is very filling. ⚠️ The park offers audio guides for 20 yuan each, but they’re unnecessary since there are text descriptions on the walls. If bringing elderly visitors, the park has wheelchair access, but the gravel path in the cypress forest is hard to push on. 07 Kunming | Yunnan Kunming is the kind of city where you don’t want to stay indoors. Visit Daguan Park at 4 PM. The Dianchi Lake breeze carries moisture. Sitting on a bench watching the Ferris wheel turn slowly, you’ll feel completely relaxed. 📍 Enter through Daguan Tower’s main gate, take the path on the right along Dianchi Lake. It’s less crowded and windy, with seagulls visible. Note that red-billed gulls only appear in winter; in summer, you’ll see wild ducks. ⏰ Ride the Ferris wheel at 6:30 PM to catch the sunset. Tickets cost 60 yuan. One rotation takes 20 minutes. The wind is strong enough to make holding your phone difficult, but the view is worth it. 🌄 Dongchuan Red Land requires a full day trip. Leave Kunming at 7 AM; it’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive. The Luoxia Valley viewing platform is a must-see. The red soil looks like it’s on fire in backlight. The wind is strong, so tie your hat or it will blow away. 🍜 Don’t buy food inside Kunming Expo Park—it’s expensive and bad. Take a taxi to nearby Jinmafang and try Qiaoxiangyuan’s crossing-the-bridge rice noodles for just over 20 yuan a set. The soup is hot enough to cook quail eggs, the real taste of Kunming. ⚠️ The Red Land is 2,500 meters above sea level. People prone to altitude sickness should avoid strenuous activity. Sunscreen is essential; the UV rays are intense. 08 Baise | Guangxi Haokun Lake’s coolness comes from the mix of water vapor and mountain shadows. The lake is emerald green, surrounded by mountains blocking half the sunlight. Taking a boat tour, the wind blowing over the water carries a cool, moist feeling. 📍 The park entrance is in Haokun Village. Walk a plank road to the lake’s central dock, then take a 40-minute boat tour. You can see a lone island in the lake and waterfalls in the mountains. ⏰ Go at 8 AM when the lake is still misty. As the boat cuts through the water, the mist rolls to both sides. By noon, the mist clears and the sun shines directly, making it a bit hot. 🏞️ Chengbi Lake is a half-hour drive from Haokun Lake. You can visit both in one day. Chengbi Lake is quieter with almost no tourists. There’s a grassy area by the lake where you can lay a mat and relax all afternoon, watching clouds and water without disturbance. 🍜 Xilin’s mountain scenery is great for hikers. At the foot of the mountain are several farm inns. Their chicken soup is rich and costs 70 to 80 yuan per chicken, enough for two people. Eating in the courtyard, the mountain breeze flows through the bamboo forest, so cool you won’t want to leave. ⚠️ Haokun Lake park closes at 6 PM. Boat tickets stop selling after 5 PM. The mountain roads are winding, so take motion sickness medicine in advance if needed.

Where to cool off in August? These 8 places have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and are reachable by high-speed train 01 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Depart from Chengdu in the morning. The high-speed train to Huanglong Jiuzhaigou station takes only two hours. From the station, take a taxi directly to Jiuzhaigou, about a 1.5-hour drive. Carpooling costs about 50 per person. August is the tail end of the rainy season in Jiuzhaigou, with the water at its fullest. The blue and green layers of Five Flower Lake and Long Lake look like a palette poured into the water. Don’t buy raincoats at the entrance; inside the park, they cost 10 each and are better quality. Have lunch at Nuorilang Restaurant. Boxed meals cost 30 each. The taste is average but fast. If you plan to visit Siguniang Mountain in the afternoon, it’s best to stay in Rilong Town, at 3,200 meters elevation. Don’t shower the first night. The sightseeing bus runs through Shuangqiao Valley, suitable for elderly and children. For hiking, choose Changping Valley. Turn back at Muliaozi, a 4-hour round trip with scenery worth the ticket price. The mountain road between Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou is winding. Take motion sickness medicine in advance. ⚠️ The Huanglong cable car stops running at 4 PM. Arrive before noon if you want to ride. It’s cold at the summit in August. A light down jacket is not too much. 02 Linyi City | Shandong Linyi is best explored underground in August. Firefly Water Cave and Underground Grand Canyon are two nearby attractions. You can buy a combined ticket to visit both in one day. The Underground Grand Canyon stays at 18 degrees year-round. Entering feels like going from a sauna into a freezer. Rafting costs 60 per person, lasts half an hour. The water splashes are light but the slope is steep. Be sure to hang your phone around your neck. In the afternoon, visit Yimeng Mountain. Guimeng Scenic Area is recommended. The cable car is 60 one way. Walking up takes three hours. The cliffside plank road at the top is sturdy, with waist-high railings, so even those afraid of heights can walk it. ⏰ After 4:30 PM, there are fewer visitors and a higher chance of sea of clouds. The cable car stops at 5 PM, so don’t miss the last ride down. 🆚 If you can only choose one between Firefly Water Cave and Underground Grand Canyon, I’d pick the Grand Canyon. The fireflies are actually few, and the light show takes up most of the cave. It’s better for entertaining kids. 03 Fuzhou City | Fujian Fuzhou is hot in August, but the early morning in Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is cool. Enter the alleys at 7 AM. Only locals walking dogs are on the stone paths. Lin Juemin’s former residence and Bing Xin’s former residence are next to each other. Admission is free with a QR code scan. Many shops sell meat swallow noodles. Tongli Meat Swallow is a long-established brand. A bowl costs 12. The skin is made from meat, crispy and springy when bitten. The sun is strong at noon. Hide in a teahouse on Nan Hou Street. Jasmine tea with taro paste. Sit for an hour to let the heat dissipate. After 3 PM, go to Yijin Lane. The waterside stage has storytelling performances. It’s okay if you don’t understand the Min dialect. Just admiring the carved gates of the old houses is worth it. ⚠️ The main street of Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is heavily commercialized. Don’t buy things on the main street. Walk to the side alleys. The creative shops in Guanglu Lane and Wenru Lane are about 30% cheaper than the main street. 04 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Qilian Mountains are at their greenest in August. It’s a three-hour drive from Xining, crossing Dabanshan Mountain at 3,940 meters elevation. Don’t run or jump at the mountain pass. The Heihe Grand Canyon is northwest of Qilian County. It’s windy in the canyon. Wearing a windbreaker is worth it. Amindongso means “thousand soldier outpost” in Tibetan. At the foot of the mountain are herders’ tents. Yogurt costs 10 per bowl. It’s sour enough to make you frown but rich in dairy flavor. In the afternoon, visit Lenglongling. It’s less crowded than the main peak of Qilian Mountain. The meadows are full of yaks. Keep your distance when taking photos. Don’t provoke them. Return to Qilian County town at dusk. Eat pit-cooked lamb, about 50 per person. Served with garlic and steamed bread, it’s filling. 📍 Oxygen tanks cost 25 each in Qilian County. Available at pharmacies. Buy one to keep in the car. Take a few breaths when you get short of breath climbing. 05 Wanning City | Hainan Wanning is cooler than Sanya. In August, the sea breeze drops the perceived temperature by 5 degrees. The sand on Shimei Bay beach is finer than Riyue Bay. Riyue Bay has bigger waves, good for surfing. Beginners can take a two-hour lesson at Riyue Bay’s club for 250. The coach will push the board. After falling three times, you can basically stand up. Have seafood at Jiajing Island Pier in Shimei Bay at noon. Fishermen catch and cook fresh. A plate of steamed sea urchin egg costs 45, half the price of Sanya. Rent an electric scooter in the afternoon and ride along the coast for 20 per hour. The coastal road from Shimei Bay to Riyue Bay has few people and cars. Silhouettes at sunset are easy to capture. ⚠️ Wanning’s UV rays are strong. Choose waterproof sunscreen and reapply after swimming. Check the tide schedule in advance. At low tide, you can find small crabs in the reef area but don’t catch them with your bare hands. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Alxa in August is sunny but dry during the day, and cool enough to need a blanket at night. The Populus euphratica forest tourist area is in Ejina Banner. The leaves aren’t yellow yet in August, but it’s so empty you can have the place to yourself. Tickets cost 80, half the price of October. Walking the wooden boardwalk in the park takes an hour. Red willow and saxaul trees cluster on the sand dunes. The wind blows sand into your face. Bring a face scarf. The Badain Jaran Desert is the main attraction. From Youqi, rent an off-road vehicle for 1,500, including driver and lunch. You can see five lakes. The water of Honghai Lake is pink, no filter needed for photos. There’s no phone signal in the desert. The driver is a local herder and knows the route. Don’t wander on your own. 🚄 Transportation to Alxa is inconvenient. The nearest high-speed train station is Zhangye, then a three-hour car ride. If your budget allows, fly directly to Alxa Left Banner Airport. Peak season tickets cost about 800. 07 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin August in Yanji is not hot. At night, you even need long sleeves. Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area is in Dunhua. It’s a 25-minute high-speed train ride from Yanji. Tickets cost 100 and include a sightseeing bus. The big Buddha at Zhengjue Temple is 48 meters tall. There are 288 steps. Climbing makes your legs weak. The wind at the top is strong and dries your sweat. Have lunch at a Korean restaurant in Dunhua city. Cold noodles cost 15 a bowl. The buckwheat noodles are freshly pressed. The broth has ice chips. It pairs perfectly with Guobaorou (sweet and sour pork). In the afternoon, return to Yanji and visit the popular wall opposite Yanbian University. It’s full of bilingual signs. Many people take photos and check in. Coffee shops sell Americanos for 18. It’s a nice place to rest. ⚠️ The ginseng candy sold in Liuding Mountain Scenic Area is priced at 50 per box. The same product costs 25 in city supermarkets. Don’t overpay. 08 Zhuzhou City | Hunan Zhuzhou is an underrated place to cool off in August. The Yan Emperor Mausoleum is in Yanling County. It’s a two-hour drive from Zhuzhou high-speed train station. Tickets cost 60. The park has many trees. Walking the shaded paths feels 5 degrees cooler than the city. The large sacrificial square in front of the mausoleum is big. There’s an opening ceremony at 9 AM with three bell strikes. The sound is deep and resonant. Have Hakka stuffed tofu for lunch in Yanling County town. It costs 20 per serving. The tofu is stuffed with meat and pan-fried golden on both sides. It goes well with chili sauce. In the afternoon, visit Taoyuandong, half an hour from Yan Emperor Mausoleum. The waterfall group has the most water. Standing by the pool, the mist hits your face and cools you quickly. ⚠️ The plank road at Taoyuandong is slippery. Wear non-slip shoes. Don’t wear slippers. 🚄 If you need to catch a high-speed train on the return trip, it takes only 15 minutes from Zhuzhou West Station to Changsha South. If your schedule is tight, stay in Zhuzhou city. Hotels average 200 per night, offering good value. Traveling in August, avoid crowded popular cities. These 8 places are either cool, less crowded, or both. Which one excites you the most? Share in the comments. I’ll help you avoid pitfalls.

1️⃣ Beijing If you only have two days, I advise you not to be greedy. The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park—two in one day is already the limit. ⏰ Arrive at the East Gate of the Temple of Heaven before 8 AM. Local elders have just finished their shuttlecock kicking. The front row in front of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests has fewer people and soft lighting. Don’t rush to leave after touring. Exit the east gate and head south. The Douzhi (fermented mung bean drink) shop near Ciqikou is more authentic than those at the scenic entrance. Pair it with fried dough rings for an energizing sip. 📍 In the afternoon, head to Beihai Park. Enter from the north gate, climb Qionghua Island first, and enjoy the breeze under the White Pagoda while looking toward Zhongnanhai. Don’t take the boat back. Walk along the east shore to Haopu Lane. It’s quiet and perfect for zoning out. After 5 PM, the light is just right for photographing the White Pagoda’s reflection without filters. ⚠️ Tickets for the Forbidden City and Summer Palace must be booked in advance, especially on weekends. Trying to get them the night before is almost impossible. It’s best to visit the Summer Palace in the afternoon. Tour groups crowd the Long Corridor in the morning, and you won’t be able to get through. 2️⃣ Huangshan City | Anhui Huangshan isn’t just about the mountains. If you only have a weekend, pick either Xidi, Hongcun, or Chengkan—don’t try to do all. I recommend Xidi. Hongcun is more famous, but the students sketching and tour groups turn Moon Pond into a marketplace. Xidi’s alleys are quieter. At the end of the cobblestone street, there’s a stall selling stinky tofu, sizzling on the iron griddle with chili sauce. Five yuan a serving, cheaper than restaurants. 🍜 For dinner, eat at a farmhouse restaurant at the village entrance. Stinky mandarin fish with scrambled eggs and stone ear mushrooms costs about 100 yuan for two. Stay in a guesthouse inside the village, not outside the village walls. After 9 PM, when the lanterns go out, that’s the real Huizhou atmosphere. ⚠️ Someone might try to pull you into crossing the “Ping’an Kan” in Chengkan. Ignore them. The ticket is expensive, and it’s very similar to Xidi and Hongcun. If you’re short on time, skip it. 3️⃣ Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei Enshi Grand Canyon is really tough on your legs. Let me be clear: with cable cars, elevators, and walking, you’ll easily hit 20,000 steps. If your knees aren’t strong, just choose Tusi City and the Qingjiang River cruise. Much easier. 📍 The canyon opens at 7:30 AM. Start with Yunlong Gorge. The plank road is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Reach Qixing Village before noon. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a sea of clouds. Don’t buy grilled sausages on the mountain. Ten yuan each, but the meat is mostly filler. After descending, go to Daughter City for Zhangguan Hezha, priced per person with unlimited side dishes. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from the high-speed rail station to the scenic area. Don’t take unlicensed taxis. Choose the 3 PM Qingjiang cruise. The sun hits the cliffs at an angle, and the water is emerald green—much better than the backlit morning view. 4️⃣ Xinyang City | Henan Jigong Mountain is for cooling off, not climbing. Take the scenic area shuttle bus straight to the summit, then walk down slowly. ⏰ Arrive at Baoxiao Peak before 10 AM. The mist hasn’t cleared, and you can see clouds flowing beneath your feet. Don’t buy Xinyang Maojian tea on the street at the summit. It’s expensive and broken leaves. On the way down, there’s an old villa turned Meiling Dance Hall. Tickets are 10 yuan. The decor is average, but the corridor windows are perfect for portraits. ⚠️ Don’t ride the mountain slide. It looks thrilling but just wears out your pants and leaves your backside sore for hours. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant halfway down. Nanwan fish head soup is the specialty. The fish is tender, and the broth is milky white. 5️⃣ Weinan City | Shaanxi Mount Hua, I recommend climbing at night. Not because I have great stamina, but because daytime cable car lines will make you question your life. Start from Yuquan Temple at 10 PM. Bring a headlamp and gloves, and just follow the crowd. The Qianshichang section is really steep. You’ll pull yourself up by the chains. Arrive at the East Peak by 4 AM, find a good spot, and wait for the sunrise. It’s totally worth it. 🍜 Instant noodles cost 15 yuan a cup on the mountain. Hot water is free. Bring your own self-heating rice to save 20 yuan and have a warm meal. After sunrise, walk the Plank Walk in the Sky. The insurance belt costs 30 yuan. Don’t complain about the price—falling there is no joke. ⚠️ Don’t take the North Peak cable car down. The wait is at least 2 hours. Take the Zhiqu Mount Hua route down. It’s less crowded and takes about an hour to reach the visitor center. Sore legs are normal. The next day, you’ll understand what it means to be “worn down by life.” 6️⃣ Zhuzhou City | Hunan The Yan Emperor’s Tomb is a quiet place. If you want a relaxed weekend without rushing through attractions, this is much more comfortable than those trendy check-in spots. 📍 There’s a small-scale ritual at the tomb area at 9 AM. The atmosphere is strong. Don’t take photos inside the main hall. One photo at the entrance is enough. The ancient tree in the backyard is very old. Its trunk takes three people to hug. Sitting under it, the breeze calms you completely. 🍜 Afterward, go to the county town for Youxian rice noodles. The broth is bone-based, the noodles thinner than those in Changsha. Add a fried egg for 7 yuan and eat until full. In the afternoon, visit the Mijiang Academy. It’s free, quiet, and the old wooden buildings shine with the polish of time. ⚠️ Don’t buy “Shennong herbal tea” sold at the scenic entrance. It’s just sweetened water. It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhuzhou Station. Carpooling is more cost-effective. 7️⃣ Yinchuan City | Ningxia Yinchuan’s attractions are spread out. If you only have two days, I’ve cut out the Western Xia Tombs for you. Not because they’re bad, but they’re too far. Half a day is gone, and you still won’t understand those mounds. 📍 On the first morning, visit Shuidonggou. The “Zhang San’s Shop” at the entrance is a reconstruction. Just take a look inside. The highlight is the hidden soldier cave, a centuries-old tunnel with twists and turns. The guide says it connects to the foot of the Great Wall. Coming out of it, you’ll fall in love with modern architecture again. ⏰ In the afternoon, go to Helan Mountain rock art. Visit near sunset when the light hits the cliff at an angle. The sun gods and human faces carved thousands of years ago look especially three-dimensional. The scenic area has a World Rock Art Museum. It’s best to visit the museum first, or you won’t understand the patterns on the mountain. 🍜 At night, you must go to Huaiyuan Night Market. Spicy porridge, grilled eggs, beef pancakes—eat your way through. Thirty yuan per person is enough to eat until you can barely walk. Stay in Xixia District, close to the night market and convenient for visiting Mingcui Lake the next day. That place is a wetland park where you can boat among reeds, perfect for resting after a long walk. 8️⃣ Jinan City | Shandong Jinan really has a lot of springs, but you need to learn how to explore the “Number One Spring Under Heaven” scenic area. Baotu Spring is crowded. Go at 7 AM before the tour groups arrive. Watch the three streams bubbling up. Spend five minutes and then leave. 📍 Exit Baotu Spring from the north gate, cross the street, and you’ll find Wulongtan, which is half as crowded. The spring water is so clear you can see fish tails. Follow the spring water channel east all the way to Daming Lake. Don’t take a car along the way. Qu Shui Ting Street and Baihua Island show old Jinan’s charm, with water seeping through the cobblestone cracks. ⏰ Visit Qianfoshan in the evening. Don’t climb too high. The Xingguo Zen Temple halfway up is enough. Sit on the temple steps and watch Jinan light up bit by bit. The air carries the scent of incense. After descending, go to Kuanhouli to find a braised pork dish. It’s fatty but not greasy, perfect with rice. Finish with a bowl of sweet porridge to complete your day. ⚠️ Don’t buy “spring water tea” at Baotu Spring’s entrance. It’s just regular tea mixed with cold boiled water. Remember, Jinan’s springs are for viewing, not drinking. Weekends are short but can hold so many mountains and waters. Pick one, buy a ticket, and go. Which one excites you the most? Let me know in the comments~

Budget travelers unite! These 8 places have fewer people and beautiful scenery in August and September 01 Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan 📍 Yuanmou Earth Forest, tickets cost about 70 yuan, with student ID you get half price. Enter the park at 8 AM. The slanting light makes the earth forest look like glowing red walls. It’s so quiet you can hear the wind through the ravines. The full route takes about two and a half hours. Remember to bring water as there are no supply points inside. ⚠️ Choose either Wumao Earth Forest or Yuanmou Earth Forest, don’t try to visit both. Wumao is larger, but Yuanmou’s viewing platform is more photogenic. After 4 PM, the light softens, perfect for portraits. 🍜 Have a bowl of lamb soup in the county town at noon, about 30 yuan per person to eat until full. The Yi ancient town is free to enter at night. When the lanterns light up, it feels like stepping into another era. But don’t buy silver jewelry randomly—ask about weight and craftsmanship fees first. 02 Wuxi City | Jiangsu Nianhuawan is better at night than during the day. Tickets are 120 yuan. Enter after 5 PM to see the lighting ceremony. Tang-style architecture combined with water curtain light shows is perfect for a slow stroll, don’t rush. Visit Lingshan Grand Buddha in the morning. The murals in the Brahma Palace have many details; a quick glance won’t do them justice. The Buddha hug requires queuing; if you have elderly or children, you can skip it and go straight to the Nine-Dragon Bath to watch the fountain show. Huishan Ancient Town is free. The ancestral halls are worth exploring. Don’t buy tofu pudding at the entrance; the third shop inside is authentic. Tickets for Three Kingdoms and Water Margin City are 90 yuan. If you’re not a fan of TV dramas, save the money and go to Taihu Lake for the breeze. 🚄 Taxi from Wuxi Station to Nianhuawan takes about 50 minutes. Carpooling is more cost-effective. 03 Huizhou City | Guangdong Huizhou West Lake is free, but don’t just visit the main gate. Enter from Fengzhuyuan and walk around to Gushan Suji. It’s less crowded with more trees. After 4 PM, the lake surface gets windy. Sitting on the Nine-Bend Bridge to watch the sunset is just right. Luofu Mountain tickets are 54 yuan, cable car is an additional 70 yuan. If your stamina is average, take the cable car up and then walk half an hour to Feiyun Peak. The best views are on the last stretch. At the foot of the mountain, there’s a Hakka tofu shop selling freshly ground soy milk for 3 yuan a cup, much cheaper than the 10 yuan ones inside the scenic area. Xunliao Bay is good for an overnight stay. Off-season homestays cost about 150 yuan. After the tide recedes at dusk, go to the beach to collect shells. It’s more comfortable than the daytime sun. ⚠️ At seaside food stalls, ask if seafood is priced by weight or by portion before ordering to avoid double charges at checkout. 04 Shangluo City | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge tickets are 80 yuan. Walking the full route takes four hours, so wear non-slip shoes. The sound of water is loud in the canyon, and phone signals are spotty, which is perfect for putting your phone down and listening to birdsong. Tianshu Gorge is wilder with narrow plank roads, so be cautious if you have children. But hiking lovers will love it here. The waterfalls come one after another, and the mist cools your face. Manchuan Pass Ancient Town is free. It preserves the old dock and guild halls. It’s less crowded in the afternoon. The bluestone pavement gets hot from the sun, so be careful if you wear sandals. Baita Temple is 3 km outside town. The tower is weathered, perfect for those who enjoy ancient architecture. ⚠️ Don’t plan Jinsi Gorge and Tianshu Gorge on the same day, your legs will be exhausted. 05 Fuzhou City | Fujian Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is free, but the main street is crowded. Walk deeper into the alleys for the real experience. The waterside theater stage at Yijin Lane is worth stopping for 10 minutes to listen to a segment of Min opera. Even if you don’t understand it, the tone is beautiful. 🍜 Tongli Meat Swallow is in an old alley, 12 yuan a bowl. The skin is made of meat and is chewy. Don’t buy near the tourist center; that place isn’t authentic. In the evening, sit at the rooftop café in Guanglu Lane. You can see the entire silhouette of the horse saddle walls. It’s more comfortable than walking around in the sun during the day. ⚠️ Many old residences are closed on Mondays. Plan your itinerary to avoid this day. 06 Zhuzhou City | Hunan Yan Emperor’s Tomb tickets are 60 yuan. The park is large, so it’s recommended to take the electric cart to the main hall and then walk down. The incense smell mixed with the scent of plants in front of the main hall is strong. Before 9 AM, it’s quiet and you can calmly read the inscriptions. If you’re not interested in sacrificial culture, just visit the outer Luyuanpi, which is free. The creek water is clear and perfect for a picnic. 🍜 There’s a Youxian rice noodle shop in the city. The broth is rich, and adding a fried egg makes it about 15 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don’t buy the “Shennong tea” sold inside the scenic area. It’s just ordinary herbal tea. Outside, it’s 3 yuan a bottle. 07 Anyang City | Henan Taihang Grand Canyon tickets are 100 yuan, including sightseeing bus. Peach Blossom Valley is the most photogenic section. The water is emerald green. The plank road runs along the cliff. Look down to see the water, look up to see the mountains. Yin Ruins tickets are 70 yuan. History enthusiasts can spend three hours here. The bronze patterns are incredibly detailed. But children might find it boring. Renting an audio guide is recommended, or it’s a wasted trip. ⏰ The canyon’s light is best after 3 PM. The mountain shadows slant down, so no filter is needed for photos. Visit Yin Ruins in the morning; it gets too hot in the afternoon, and the open-air site has no shade. ⚠️ The two places are in different directions. Plan two days instead of squeezing both into one. 08 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Zhagana tickets are 80 yuan. Go to Dariguan viewing platform at 6 AM. The clouds haven’t cleared yet, and the village looks like it’s floating on clouds. Staying one night at a Tibetan guesthouse costs about 150 yuan. Dinner is tsampa with butter tea. Don’t mind the richness; it’s cold at night, and the calories are just right. Langmu Temple tickets are 30 yuan. Gerdii Temple and Saichi Temple face each other across the stream. In the afternoon, you can watch the monks debate. Even if you don’t understand, the atmosphere is strong. Yeliguan Tourist Area is free and suitable for self-driving. The mountain roads have many curves, so take motion sickness medicine in advance if needed. Gahai Lake is by the national highway. You can see it just by parking. There are many water birds, and the light is softest at dusk. ⚠️ Gannan is at high altitude. Avoid running or jumping. Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must. The UV rays are stronger than you think. Among these eight places, Chuxiong and Gannan attract me the most—one looks like Mars, the other like a fairyland. Where do you plan to go first? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you avoid pitfalls.

Where to go for budget travel this summer? These 8 cities have fewer people, beautiful sights, and low expenses 01 Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan is the most surprising small city I discovered in northwest China this year. It has few tourists and prices so low it feels like stepping back 10 years. Start at 8 AM with Xumi Mountain Grottoes. Tickets cost just a few dozen yuan, but there’s plenty to see. Walk slowly along the mountain boardwalk. The Buddha statues inside the grottoes are better preserved than expected. The valley breeze is cool and refreshing. ⚠️ The grotto area has many steps. Wear sneakers. Don’t make my mistake of wearing sandals until my toes turned red. For lunch, head back to the city for a bowl of raw boiled noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth fresh, and 15 yuan per person is filling. Avoid outdoor walking in the afternoon. Visit the museum to enjoy air conditioning or take a nap at the hotel. Go out in the evening to explore the old town night market. 🍜 Guyuan’s cold noodles and lamb offal soup are ridiculously cheap. You can eat your fill for 10 yuan. 🚄 It’s just over an hour by high-speed train from Yinchuan, with many departures. Perfect for a two-day trip. 02 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Lianyungang is great for those who want to avoid the crowds in Qingdao or Weihai. The sea views are just as good, but costs are much lower. Head straight to Lian Island in the morning. The beach is clean, and on sunny days the water is a clear blue-green. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for fewer people and better light for photos without crowds. Electric carts on the island run on demand. If you’re not very fit, take the cart instead of walking the whole way. For lunch, return to the city for seafood. The Xugou area has many food stalls. Ask prices before ordering. Scallops and oysters are sold by piece. Don’t order king crab right away. In the afternoon, visit Huaguo Mountain. Don’t be intimidated by the word “hike.” The park shuttle can take you near Water Curtain Cave. The summit offers wide views and strong winds. Twenty minutes is enough. ⚠️ Monkeys in the mountains will snatch plastic bags. Keep snacks in your bag, not in your hand. In the evening, relax at the hotel, then go to Yanhe Alley for shrimp fried rice. Very satisfying. 03 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is the best value summer getaway I’ve seen. Summer temperatures average in the low 20s Celsius, and you’ll need a jacket in the morning and evening. Start at Xingkai Lake. The lake is so vast it looks like a sea. The sand is fine and soft, comfortable to walk barefoot. The water is cool and refreshing. Bring a light jacket because it’s windy by the lake. For lunch, have a hearty northeastern meal with sweet and sour pork, stir-fried potatoes and peppers, and fried pork strips. Portions are so large two people ordering three dishes will have leftovers. In the afternoon, visit Hutou, a quiet border town where you can hear birdsong. Walk along the riverbank and enjoy the peaceful view across the water. ⚠️ Drones are prohibited in border areas. Don’t waste time taking yours out. 🍜 Jixi’s cold noodles are a signature dish. They’re sweet and sour, served with spicy pickled vegetables. One bowl in summer refreshes you completely. Accommodation is cheap, with decent rooms for just over 100 yuan. Perfect for a relaxed two-day stay. 04 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou is overshadowed by Changsha but better for those seeking quiet for a few days. The main attraction is the Yan Emperor’s Mausoleum, reachable by bus from the city. The trip is a bit long but scenic. The mausoleum area is large, with ancient trees and a fresh herbal scent in the air. The main hall is solemn, and climbing the steps feels ceremonial. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM for fewer people and to enjoy the courtyard alone. For lunch, eat local farmhouse dishes near the entrance. Blood duck and cured meat are authentic. Expect to spend 30–40 yuan per person. In the afternoon, return to the city to stroll Shennong Park or relax in a teahouse. ⚠️ The Yan Emperor’s Mausoleum is closed Monday mornings. Plan accordingly. 🍜 Zhuzhou’s rice noodles differ from Changsha’s. The broth is lighter and the toppings generous. A bowl for breakfast energizes you for the day. Stay near the train station for convenient transport and evening river views. 05 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is the most underrated city in Guangxi. Its mountains and waters rival Guilin’s, but with half the tourists and half the cost. Start at Jiudun Skylight in the morning. The water is so clear you can see the stone patterns below. Sunlight makes the surface shimmer blue like jelly. If you can swim, jump in for a cool, thrilling dip. If not, wading at the shore is still pleasant. For lunch, head to Donglan. The route follows the Red Water River, a living landscape painting. ⏰ The best light is around 3–4 PM. The river glows golden, perfect for photos. Xiangbei Peach Blossom Land lives up to its name. You must take a bamboo raft to enter. The village is so quiet you can hear roosters crow. Sanli Yangdu is a surprise. Almost empty at dusk, the river surface is mirror-like. ⚠️ Hechi’s attractions are spread out. Driving yourself is easiest. Without a car, hire a local driver for about 300 yuan a day. It’s more cost-effective with a group. 🍜 Hechi’s rice noodle soup is a must-try. Sour bamboo shoots and fermented black beans make the broth rich. At 6 yuan a bowl, it’s a steal. 06 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan is a carb lover’s paradise. Summer mornings and evenings are cool, and daytime is bearable. Start by climbing Tianlong Mountain. The grottoes are more impressive than expected. From the summit, you can see the entire Taiyuan basin. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM. Morning light shines on the Buddha statues, whose expressions are so kind you won’t dare speak loudly. For lunch, head down to Jinci Museum, the best place to spend your ticket money. Song dynasty architecture and ancient trees are worth half a day. ⚠️ Hiring a guide at Jinci is ten times better than wandering alone. For a few dozen yuan, you’ll hear many stories. In the afternoon, visit Jinyang Lake Park. The lake is large, and the evening breeze is pleasant. It’s perfect for jogging or lying on the grass. 🍜 Taiyuan’s noodles—head noodles, knife-cut noodles, and bowl noodles—are more authentic at local old shops than in tourist areas. Stay near Liuxiang for easy access to the night food street. You can eat well for about 50 yuan. 07 Shenyang | Liaoning Shenyang is an underrated summer escape. Summer temperatures are just over 30°C, but the many trees and strong breeze make it feel much cooler than southern cities. Start at Beiling Park. Tickets are cheap. The pine trees around the Qingzhao Mausoleum are centuries old, and the shaded paths are cool to walk. ⏰ Go early to see locals doing morning exercises like tai chi and shuttlecock kicking. The atmosphere is lively. For lunch, visit Shenyang Expo Garden. The park is large and takes 2–3 hours to explore. The plant arrangements are beautiful. ⚠️ Food inside the park is expensive. Bring bread and fruit to save money for a milk tea. In the afternoon, visit Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda. It’s a quiet, lesser-known spot with an ancient, simple pagoda. You can hear the wind ringing bells. The Beita Falun Temple is nearby, a 5-minute walk. It features Tibetan Buddhist style, very different from other temples. 🍜 Shenyang’s chicken rack is iconic—grilled, fried, or smoked. Pair it with a bottle of Lao Xuehua beer for perfection. 08 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng is the ultimate escape from heat. The grasslands have big temperature swings, and you’ll need a blanket at night. Head straight to Hasahatu Stone Forest. Unlike Yunnan’s, these granite formations are rougher in shape. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light softens and the stones glow golden, perfect for photos. The park has sightseeing buses that save effort, but the last boardwalk section must be walked. The wind is strong enough to blow off hats. ⚠️ The grassland UV rays are strong. Apply sunscreen generously and don’t skimp on hats and sunglasses. For lunch near the park, try hand-held lamb and milk tea. The lamb is fresh and dipped in chive flower sauce, finger-licking good. 🚄 It’s over two hours by car from Chifeng city. Renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended. The grassland scenery along the way is a highlight, with plenty of spots to stop for photos. 🍜 For dinner back in the city, try the “duijia” sandwich, a Chifeng specialty. Crispy pastry filled with meat, served with lamb offal soup. The whole meal costs about 20 yuan and leaves you stuffed. None of these eight places will disappoint. Even with a tight budget and limited time, you can have a great trip. Which city do you most want to visit this summer? Share in the comments—you might inspire the next article.

01 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor’s Tomb isn’t a place you can just breeze through in two hours. If you’re driving, plan to spend at least half a day. Park in the scenic area lot and walk into the mountain. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds. The incense scent hasn’t been dispersed by the sun yet, and you can hear your footsteps clearly on the sacred path. The ancient cypress trees in front of the main hall are over a thousand years old. Touching the bark sends a cool sensation from your fingertips to your shoulders, more vivid than any explanation. 🍜 There are a few farmhouse restaurants outside the scenic area. Blood duck and You County dried tofu are must-tries. Expect to spend about 40 per person with generous portions. ⚠️ After 2 PM, tour groups gather, making it hard to quietly view the inscriptions inside the hall. Arrive early if you can. If you’re with elderly visitors, there’s a shuttle from the parking lot to the main hall for 10 per person. Don’t force those with mobility issues to walk. 02 Leshan | Sichuan Emei Mountain and the Leshan Giant Buddha can’t both be done in one day without compromises. My advice: spend the morning at the Buddha and the afternoon on the mountain, staying overnight at the Golden Summit. 📍 Enter the Buddha scenic area from the north gate. Take the Lingyun plank road down to the Buddha’s feet. This path is narrow and steep, so those with knee problems should be cautious. In peak season, the queue to descend can take at least an hour. ⏰ Arrive right at 8 AM when it opens to avoid the crowds. After seeing the Buddha’s feet, don’t rush off. The nearby Wuyou Temple is quiet and less crowded. The river breeze there is much more pleasant than being stuck in a crowd. Drive up the mountain in the afternoon. The road is winding, so new drivers should be careful. It’s best to switch to the scenic area shuttle bus at the visitor center. Book Golden Summit accommodations in advance. In peak season, standard rooms cost 500 to 800. Staying at the foot of the mountain and going up the next day adds about 2 hours of travel. ⚠️ The summit has a big temperature difference. Even in summer, nights are only in the teens Celsius. Don’t hesitate to bring a thin down jacket. 03 Jincheng | Shanxi The Imperial City Xiang Mansion is an underrated spot, but only if you don’t treat it like a “castle” to tour, but rather like a “maze” to explore. The entire complex is built along the mountain with winding alleys. Following the crowd can get you lost, but wandering on your own reveals many surprises. 📍 Walk west from the Imperial Library. There’s an inconspicuous alley leading straight to the city wall base. Climb up and you can see the brick-carved beast ridge on the mansion’s rooftops, which is much more impressive than looking up from the courtyard. ⏰ After 3 PM, the slanting light casts long shadows on the city wall, perfect for photos without filters. 🍜 Try the Yangcheng roast liver and Runcheng jujube cake at the scenic area entrance. They cost 8 to 10 per serving, just enough to snack on. ⚠️ The parking lot is a bit far from the entrance. Don’t trust roadside touts offering “shortcuts.” It’s only about a 10-minute walk to the main gate. If you have kids, the brick and wood carvings inside can be a treasure hunt game to keep them entertained. 04 Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Menghuan Great Golden Pagoda is best visited in the evening, not at noon. The midday sun reflects off the golden pagoda, causing glare and overexposed photos. ⏰ Arrive around 5:30 PM. Buy a cup of puluda from the snack stalls at the foot of the mountain and sip it while slowly climbing the steps. The pagoda is covered with over 10,000 gold leaf pieces. When the sunset hits, the entire pagoda seems to glow. You must remove your shoes to enter. The floor is warmed by the sun, and walking barefoot feels very comfortable. 📍 The viewing platform behind the pagoda overlooks Mangshi city. In the distance are layers of Dai bamboo houses. When evening smoke rises from cooking fires, the scene is especially peaceful. ⚠️ Some corners inside the pagoda have donation boxes. Donations aren’t mandatory, but monks may gesture. If you don’t want to donate, just smile and wave politely. Don’t rush off after seeing the pagoda. The tree-wrapped pagoda at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit. The pagoda is completely enveloped by banyan roots, which is quite magical. 05 Zhengzhou | Henan For Zhengzhou, I’ve organized the route to save you from getting lost in the city. 📍 Qinyu Water City is best in the morning. The water surface is wide open. Walking the boardwalk takes about 1.5 hours. Kids can catch small fish in the shallow water, so bring a change of sandals. Around noon, head to the museum. ⚠️ It’s closed on Mondays, so don’t go for nothing. Admission is free but you must book in advance via the official account and show your ID to enter. The museum’s treasure, the lotus crane square pot, is on the second floor. It can get crowded, so go right when it opens. In the afternoon, visit Songshan Shaolin. It’s just over an hour’s drive from the city. Don’t navigate to the Shaolin Temple parking lot; instead, set your destination to “Songshan Scenic Area Management Committee” for closer access to the cable car. ⏰ Shaolin martial arts shows are at 2 PM and 4 PM daily. Plan accordingly. Save Xiliu Lake for last. Evening is best to see the lake reflecting the sunset. It’s crowded with walkers but free and relaxing. 06 Meizhou | Guangdong Yannanfei Tea Plantation suits those who prefer a slow pace, not those rushing through attractions. The entire area is a series of layered tea hills with no must-see spots, but the air quality is unbelievably good. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM. There’s a light mist in the mountains, and the tea fields look like they’re veiled in gauze. Dew hangs on the leaf tips, and your pant legs will get wet after a walk. 📍 The viewing pavilion at the top offers the best view, showing the tea fields’ curves like green waves. 🍜 The Hakka restaurant in the scenic area serves authentic salt-baked chicken and stuffed tofu. It costs about 60 per person, a bit pricier than local farmhouses but with a cleaner environment. ⚠️ Don’t visit during the rainy season. The mountain roads get slippery, and the tea fields turn muddy. Your shoes will be ruined after a walk. If you bring elderly visitors, there’s a shuttle, but it’s best to walk at least part of the way to enjoy the tea field breeze. 07 Fuzhou | Fujian Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is often called commercialized, but I think you just haven’t opened it the right way. Don’t enter from the South Street main gate; it’s full of milk tea shops and souvenir stores. 📍 Enter from the side alley of Yijin Lane for the real old Fuzhou. The bluestone roads in the lanes are polished shiny, and moss in the corners is dark green. This is the true feel of old houses. ⏰ At 7 AM, the alleys are quiet with only elderly people exercising and soy milk shops opening. This is when the lanes feel most authentic. 🍜 Tongli meat swallow and Yonghe fish balls are on the main street, but locals prefer a no-signboard pot-edge paste shop deep in the alleys. It’s 5 per bowl with plenty of dried shrimp and seaweed. ⚠️ The waterside theater stage and Yan Fu’s former residence require a combined ticket for 90. If you’re not interested in old buildings, you can skip them. Just walking the alleys is enough. 08 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Jiangbulake, Five-Color Bay, and Tianshan Tianchi can’t be done in one day. Here’s a priority list. Tianshan Tianchi is a must, but don’t just take photos by the lake. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM and take the first shuttle up the mountain. Head straight to the Queen Mother of the West Temple area. It’s less crowded and offers a full view of the lake. Jiangbulake is best in the afternoon. The wheat fields and grasslands interlace, and the light creates rich color layers. ⚠️ The scenic area has poor signal, so offline maps are necessary. Five-Color Bay is best at sunset. The yardang landforms turn orange-red in the evening light, but it’s windy, so bring a windbreaker. 🍜 The big plate chicken and baked buns in Changji city are worth a special meal. They’re tastier and cheaper than in the scenic areas. 🚄 These spots are far apart. Driving yourself is the most convenient, but remember to fill up before entering the scenic areas, as gas stations are scarce inside.

8️⃣ places that you won’t get tired of traveling with your parents, slow pace and good experience 01 Chizhou City|Anhui Mount Jiuhua is not just about burning incense and worshiping Buddha. Take your parents and walk slowly. Two days is just right. 🚄 Get off at Chizhou Station, take a taxi to the visitor center for about forty minutes, do not take the black car on the roadside to attract customers, regular taxis charge by the meter more worry-free. ⏰ Go up the mountain before 9am, the cable car queue is short and the air is the clearest. If your parents have bad knees, buy a round-trip cableway ticket directly. Don't feel sorry for that little money. There are many steps to climb the mountain, so you can see more of the two temples with the energy you save. There are many vegetarian restaurants in Jiuhua Street under the mountain. Find one with dried asparagus and plum vegetables hanging at the door. Order a vegetarian assorted pot with a bowl of white congee, which is much better than the fast food in the scenic spot. ⚠️ On weekends, there will be a long queue on the cableway down the mountain after 3pm. Try to get down before 2pm. On the return trip, you can also buy some yellow essence cake in Kecun Old Street as a souvenir. 02 Zhuzhou City|Hunan Many people think that the scenic spot of Emperor Yan's Mausoleum is "just a temple", but taking the elderly there is a different meaning. 📍From Zhuzhou city drive over about an hour and a half, navigation directly search the Yandi Mausoleum Scenic Area parking lot, plenty of parking space. It is most comfortable to enter the park after lunch, the day is westward, the forested avenue is cool, while walking while looking at the forest of steles, the elderly will not feel tired. 🍜The mugwort dumplings at the entrance of the scenic spot are worth buying, freshly steamed, soft and non-sticky, five dollars a piece. There is a fixed worship ceremony in the sacrificial square every day, ⏰ The one at two o'clock in the afternoon can just catch up, the scene is solemn, parents will see very seriously. ⚠️ Electric vehicles in the park only go to the main hall, the imperial monument garden behind you have to walk yourself, the stone road is flat, but the wheelchair is not easy to push, the elderly with limited mobility should choose carefully. On the way back, we went to the county town of You County to eat a bowl of You County noodles. The soup is fresh and spicy, which is cheaper than restaurants around the scenic spot. 03 Shannan City|Tibet The beauty of Yamdrok Yongcuo is the kind of beauty that makes you want to cry when you stand there without making a sound. 🚄 Charter a car from Lhasa, take the airport highway and turn to Provincial Highway 307, the whole journey is about two hours, the road is good, but the altitude is climbing. If parents go to Tibet for the first time, it is recommended to adapt in Lhasa for two days before going to Sheep Lake. ⏰ Arrive at Gangbara Pass before 10 am, the lake is the bluest color, the sun has not steamed up the water vapor, visibility is extremely high. 📍 Don’t rush down the mountain. Stop at the observation deck halfway up the mountain. You can see the arc of the lake shoreline, so you don’t have to rush to take pictures. ⚠️ The wind is strong by the lake, the hat must have a rope, otherwise it will fall into the lake if it blows. At noon, eat Tibetan noodles with sweet tea in Langkazi town. They are hot and can relieve the chills caused by altitude sickness. On the return trip in the afternoon, let the master stop for ten minutes at the Yajiang River Valley observation deck, where you can see groups of Tibetan mastiffs and prayer flags. The elderly like this kind of liveliness. 04 Guilin City | Guangxi Take your parents to play in Guilin. Don't force a boat trip to the two rivers and four lakes. Walk around Yangshuo. The pace is half slow. Xingping Ancient Town is the essence. 📍 Take a shuttle bus from Yangshuo Bus Station to Xingping, every twenty minutes, the fare is ten dollars. ⏰ Entering the town after 4pm, the tour group withdrew, the old street quieted down, the stone road was warmed by the sunset, you can see the locals washing vegetables by the river. 🍜The loose cake sweet soup shop in Zhenkou, a bowl of osmanthus cool powder costs five dollars, sweet but not greasy. Lute Rock is more suitable for the elderly than Silver Rock, the whole way electric cars flatten the road, no need to climb steps, the lights in the cave lights out the stalactite statue Crystal Palace, my mother "wow" three times inside. The next day to the Dragon Ridge Rice Terraces, ⚠️ the ropeway only reaches the top of the Golden Buddha, to see the seven stars with the moon to walk another twenty minutes mountain road, the elderly with bad knees are recommended to stop at the top of the Golden Buddha to take a panoramic view. Don't miss the sunset on Mount Yuntai, but you have to climb 400 steps from the foot of the mountain to the observation deck. 05 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area is one of the most "heart-saving" scenic spots I have taken my parents to. 🚄 Take a taxi from Yanji West Station to about half an hour, tickets plus sightseeing car together to buy, the car directly delivered to the foot of Jinding Buddha. ⏰ The door opens at 8:30 in the morning and enters, few people, the sun slant on the Buddha, the golden light shines, the elderly see the heart joy. The scenic trail is gentle, less than 10,000 steps down the whole journey, two hours of walking and stopping is enough. 📍 Vegetarian buffet at Zhengjue Temple in the mountains, 30 dollars a person, not much variety of dishes, but cleanly done, tofu soup especially fresh. ⚠️ Small stalls selling souvenirs in the scenic area have a high premium. The same string of Buddhist beads is half cheaper at the foot of the mountain than at the top of the mountain. After returning to Yanji city, I took my parents to the service building opposite Yanda to eat cold noodles with pot buns, sweet and sour taste, noodles bouncy, they will love. 🍜 Don't order too much Korean barbecue in the evening. The portion of Yanbian is plentiful. Two portions of meat and one portion of bibimbap are enough for three people. 06 Hangzhou City|Zhejiang Take your parents to play in Hangzhou, don't just stare at the broken bridge and the snow, people will be forced to doubt life. My recommended way to walk is: in the morning to Prince Edward Bay Park, ⏰ before 7:30 to enter, the tulip field has not been occupied by tourists, the air is full of grass smell. Exit the north gate of Prince Edward Bay and walk along the Yanggong Embankment to the West Lake. The road is densely green and shaded, making it easy to push a wheelchair. At noon, we ate farmhouse cuisine in Maojiabu. 📍Choose the one with the sauced duck hanging at the door. Order a piece of onion and oil catfish. The fish is freshly killed and the meat is firm. Afternoon to Xixi Wetland, ⚠️ electric boat and rocking boat choose electric boat, fast and stable, rocking boat although poetic but an hour down the elderly waist can not stand. 🍜 In the evening, go around to Xiaohezhi Street, the Chinese Umbrella Museum is nearby, free, exquisite exhibits, parents can see with gusto. Dinner was settled at the old pavilion by the canal. A portion of sliced ​​​​karikawa plus two small dishes was 40 per person, which was comfortable to eat. 07 Nanchong City|Sichuan The ancient city of Yuzhong is the perfect destination in my heart for "taking my parents on a trip". 🚄High-speed rail to Yuen Chung Station, it only takes 10 minutes by taxi to enter the ancient city. In the ancient city, I chose the inn near the river for accommodation. I could see the Jialing River by the window on the second floor. I fell asleep listening to the sound of water at night. My mother slept deeper than at home. ⏰ At 6:30 in the morning, taking advantage of the tourists did not come in, took my parents on the stone road from Huaguang Building to Zhongtian Building, the shop door panel has not been removed, can smell the vinegar shop wafting out of the fragrance of Baoning vinegar. 🍜Eat a bowl of beef noodles for breakfast. The noodles in the stew are alkaline noodles with red-broiled beef noodles. They are spicy and fragrant. My dad even drank the soup. Visit Zhang Fei Temple and Gongyuan during the day. Tickets are 111. The elderly are half price. Remember to bring your ID card. ⚠️ Don't worry about attracting customers in the ancient city. The starting price is 50. In fact, it's only ten minutes away by yourself. In the afternoon, go to Jinpingshan Park, the mountain is not high, the cable car round trip is 40 dollars, the summit can overlook the whole ancient city, the green tile roofs are connected together, very spectacular. 08 Beijing When I take my parents to play in Beijing, the biggest fears are "tired" and "crowded". My plan is: the first day of the Forbidden City, ⏰ open at 8:30 in the morning to enter, from the Meridian Gate straight to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, while the large troops are still taking pictures, first see the core three halls. ⚠️ Treasure Hall and Clock Hall buy tickets separately, but worth it, the elderly will sigh "the things used to be really exquisite" After visiting the Forbidden City, don't go to Jingshan Park to climb the Wanchun Pavilion. If you are exhausted, you can take a taxi directly to Beihai Park. You can go boating or sit on a bench by the lake to see the White Tower. The next day arranged for the Summer Palace, 📍 Enter from the East Palace Gate, walk along the promenade to Foxiang Pavilion, this road is all flat, with canopy shade, not afraid of rainy days. ⚠️ The Kunming Lake cruise stops at 4pm. If you want to take the boat, you should take advantage of it. The Temple of Heaven Park is placed on the last day, buy joint tickets into the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the echo wall is now not allowed to approach, but standing in the center of the circle and shouting, you can still hear the echo. 🍜 Lunch is settled at the Nanmen Shabu Shabu Temple, hand-cut lamb with sesame sauce, 80 per person, the elderly are satisfied. Beijing's attractions have many washrooms, not far apart, which is particularly friendly to the elderly. 8️⃣ places that you won’t get tired of traveling with your parents, slow pace and good experience 01 Chizhou City|Anhui Mount Jiuhua is not just about burning incense and worshiping Buddha. Take your parents and walk slowly. Two days is just right. 🚄 Get off at Chizhou Station, take a taxi to the visitor center for about forty minutes, do not take the black car on the roadside to attract customers, regular taxis charge by the meter more worry-free. ⏰ Go up the mountain before 9am, the cable car queue is short and the air is the clearest. If your parents have bad knees, buy a round-trip cableway ticket directly. Don't feel sorry for that little money. There are many steps to climb the mountain, so you can see more of the two temples with the energy you save. There are many vegetarian restaurants in Jiuhua Street under the mountain. Find one with dried asparagus and plum vegetables hanging at the door. Order a vegetarian assorted pot with a bowl of white congee, which is much better than the fast food in the scenic spot. ⚠️ On weekends, there will be a long queue on the cableway down the mountain after 3pm. Try to get down before 2pm. On the return trip, you can also buy some yellow essence cake in Kecun Old Street as a souvenir. 02 Zhuzhou City|Hunan Many people think that the scenic spot of Emperor Yan's Mausoleum is "just a temple", but taking the elderly there is a different meaning. 📍From Zhuzhou city drive over about an hour and a half, navigation directly search the Yandi Mausoleum Scenic Area parking lot, plenty of parking space. It is most comfortable to enter the park after lunch, the day is westward, the forested avenue is cool, while walking while looking at the forest of steles, the elderly will not feel tired. 🍜The mugwort dumplings at the entrance of the scenic spot are worth buying, freshly steamed, soft and non-sticky, five dollars a piece. There is a fixed worship ceremony in the sacrificial square every day, ⏰ The one at two o'clock in the afternoon can just catch up, the scene is solemn, parents will see very seriously. ⚠️ Electric vehicles in the park only go to the main hall, the imperial monument garden behind you have to walk yourself, the stone road is flat, but the wheelchair is not easy to push, the elderly with limited mobility should choose carefully. On the way back, we went to the county town of You County to eat a bowl of You County noodles. The soup is fresh and spicy, which is cheaper than restaurants around the scenic spot. 03 Shannan City|Tibet The beauty of Yamdrok Yongcuo is the kind of beauty that makes you want to cry when you stand there without making a sound. 🚄 Charter a car from Lhasa, take the airport highway and turn to Provincial Highway 307, the whole journey is about two hours, the road is good, but the altitude is climbing. If parents go to Tibet for the first time, it is recommended to adapt in Lhasa for two days before going to Sheep Lake. ⏰ Arrive at Gangbara Pass before 10 am, the lake is the bluest color, the sun has not steamed up the water vapor, visibility is extremely high. 📍 Don’t rush down the mountain. Stop at the observation deck halfway up the mountain. You can see the arc of the lake shoreline, so you don’t have to rush to take pictures. ⚠️ The wind is strong by the lake, the hat must have a rope, otherwise it will fall into the lake if it blows. At noon, eat Tibetan noodles with sweet tea in Langkazi town. They are hot and can relieve the chills caused by altitude sickness. On the return trip in the afternoon, let the master stop for ten minutes at the Yajiang River Valley observation deck, where you can see groups of Tibetan mastiffs and prayer flags. The elderly like this kind of liveliness. 04 Guilin City | Guangxi Take your parents to play in Guilin. Don't force a boat trip to the two rivers and four lakes. Walk around Yangshuo. The pace is half slow. Xingping Ancient Town is the essence. 📍 Take a shuttle bus from Yangshuo Bus Station to Xingping, every twenty minutes, the fare is ten dollars. ⏰ Entering the town after 4pm, the tour group withdrew, the old street quieted down, the stone road was warmed by the sunset, you can see the locals washing vegetables by the river. 🍜The loose cake sweet soup shop in Zhenkou, a bowl of osmanthus cool powder costs five dollars, sweet but not greasy. Lute Rock is more suitable for the elderly than Silver Rock, the whole way electric cars flatten the road, no need to climb steps, the lights in the cave lights out the stalactite statue Crystal Palace, my mother "wow" three times inside. The next day to the Dragon Ridge Rice Terraces, ⚠️ the ropeway only reaches the top of the Golden Buddha, to see the seven stars with the moon to walk another twenty minutes mountain road, the elderly with bad knees are recommended to stop at the top of the Golden Buddha to take a panoramic view. Don't miss the sunset on Mount Yuntai, but you have to climb 400 steps from the foot of the mountain to the observation deck. 05 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area is one of the most "heart-saving" scenic spots I have taken my parents to. 🚄 Take a taxi from Yanji West Station to about half an hour, tickets plus sightseeing car together to buy, the car directly delivered to the foot of Jinding Buddha. ⏰ The door opens at 8:30 in the morning and enters, few people, the sun slant on the Buddha, the golden light shines, the elderly see the heart joy. The scenic trail is gentle, less than 10,000 steps down the whole journey, two hours of walking and stopping is enough. 📍 Vegetarian buffet at Zhengjue Temple in the mountains, 30 dollars a person, not much variety of dishes, but cleanly done, tofu soup especially fresh. ⚠️ Small stalls selling souvenirs in the scenic area have a high premium. The same string of Buddhist beads is half cheaper at the foot of the mountain than at the top of the mountain. After returning to Yanji city, I took my parents to the service building opposite Yanda to eat cold noodles with pot buns, sweet and sour taste, noodles bouncy, they will love. 🍜 Don't order too much Korean barbecue in the evening. The portion of Yanbian is plentiful. Two portions of meat and one portion of bibimbap are enough for three people. 06 Hangzhou City|Zhejiang Take your parents to play in Hangzhou, don't just stare at the broken bridge and the snow, people will be forced to doubt life. My recommended way to walk is: in the morning to Prince Edward Bay Park, ⏰ before 7:30 to enter, the tulip field has not been occupied by tourists, the air is full of grass smell. Exit the north gate of Prince Edward Bay and walk along the Yanggong Embankment to the West Lake. The road is densely green and shaded, making it easy to push a wheelchair. At noon, we ate farmhouse cuisine in Maojiabu. 📍Choose the one with the sauced duck hanging at the door. Order a piece of onion and oil catfish. The fish is freshly killed and the meat is firm. Afternoon to Xixi Wetland, ⚠️ electric boat and rocking boat choose electric boat, fast and stable, rocking boat although poetic but an hour down the elderly waist can not stand. 🍜 In the evening, go around to Xiaohezhi Street, the Chinese Umbrella Museum is nearby, free, exquisite exhibits, parents can see with gusto. Dinner was settled at the old pavilion by the canal. A portion of sliced ​​​​karikawa plus two small dishes was 40 per person, which was comfortable to eat. 07 Nanchong City|Sichuan The ancient city of Yuzhong is the perfect destination in my heart for "taking my parents on a trip". 🚄High-speed rail to Yuen Chung Station, it only takes 10 minutes by taxi to enter the ancient city. In the ancient city, I chose the inn near the river for accommodation. I could see the Jialing River by the window on the second floor. I fell asleep listening to the sound of water at night. My mother slept deeper than at home. ⏰ At 6:30 in the morning, taking advantage of the tourists did not come in, took my parents on the stone road from Huaguang Building to Zhongtian Building, the shop door panel has not been removed, can smell the vinegar shop wafting out of the fragrance of Baoning vinegar. 🍜Eat a bowl of beef noodles for breakfast. The noodles in the stew are alkaline noodles with red-broiled beef noodles. They are spicy and fragrant. My dad even drank the soup. Visit Zhang Fei Temple and Gongyuan during the day. Tickets are 111. The elderly are half price. Remember to bring your ID card. ⚠️ Don't worry about attracting customers in the ancient city. The starting price is 50. In fact, it's only ten minutes away by yourself. In the afternoon, go to Jinpingshan Park, the mountain is not high, the cable car round trip is 40 dollars, the summit can overlook the whole ancient city, the green tile roofs are connected together, very spectacular. 08 Beijing When I take my parents to play in Beijing, the biggest fears are "tired" and "crowded". My plan is: the first day of the Forbidden City, ⏰ open at 8:30 in the morning to enter, from the Meridian Gate straight to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, while the large troops are still taking pictures, first see the core three halls. ⚠️ Treasure Hall and Clock Hall buy tickets separately, but worth it, the elderly will sigh "the things used to be really exquisite" After visiting the Forbidden City, don't go to Jingshan Park to climb the Wanchun Pavilion. If you are exhausted, you can take a taxi directly to Beihai Park. You can go boating or sit on a bench by the lake to see the White Tower. The next day arranged for the Summer Palace, 📍 Enter from the East Palace Gate, walk along the promenade to Foxiang Pavilion, this road is all flat, with canopy shade, not afraid of rainy days. ⚠️ The Kunming Lake cruise stops at 4pm. If you want to take the boat, you should take advantage of it. The Temple of Heaven Park is placed on the last day, buy joint tickets into the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the echo wall is now not allowed to approach, but standing in the center of the circle and shouting, you can still hear the echo. 🍜 Lunch is settled at the Nanmen Shabu Shabu Temple, hand-cut lamb with sesame sauce, 80 per person, the elderly are satisfied. Beijing's attractions have many washrooms, not far apart, which is particularly friendly to the elderly.

01 Shanghai Coming to Shanghai in August? Don’t rush to the crowded Bund. This itinerary is perfect for those who want to avoid the heat, high prices, and boredom. In the morning, visit the Expo Park, but don’t just stick to the China Art Museum. 📍 The old venue renovation area along Expo Avenue is less crowded and shaded, ideal for a slow walk. Many free exhibitions require advance booking through official channels. Same-day reservations are almost impossible. ⚠️ Most venues are closed on Mondays, so don’t go for nothing. In the afternoon, head to Yuyuan Garden, but avoid buying snacks near the Nine-Bend Bridge—they’re expensive and average. 🍜 Walk to the old town area around Fangbang Middle Road, where locals line up for pan-fried buns and cold noodles, costing just over 20 yuan per person. Yuyuan Garden tickets cost 40 yuan in peak season, half price for students. The garden is small and can be explored in an hour. Guangfulin Cultural Site is in Songjiang. Take Metro Line 9 to University Town Station, then a taxi for about 15 yuan. The underwater museum is photogenic, but the indoor air conditioning is strong in summer, so bring a light jacket. Tickets cost 30 yuan. The best lighting and fewer people are after 4 PM. At the Disney Resort, skip the park if your budget is tight. 📍 Disneytown is free to explore, and you can watch fireworks at night without a ticket. The view from the corner of Star Lake is also good. ⚠️ Nearby homestays double their prices in peak season. Staying along Metro Line 11 is more cost-effective. 02 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Too many people at Qinghai Lake? Head south—Hainan Prefecture is a hidden gem for reverse travel. Riyue Mountain tickets cost 40 yuan. It’s 3,500 meters above sea level with strong wind and intense sun. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and see morning light on the grass slopes, with cattle and sheep slowly crossing the road. Don’t rent horses at the entrance—it’s expensive. Go further in where herders charge half the price. Guide National Geopark’s Danxia landforms are much less crowded than Zhangye. Tickets cost 60 yuan and include a sightseeing bus. Walking the whole route takes about two hours. ⚠️ UV rays are extremely strong in the afternoon. Sunglasses and hats are a must. 📍 At the park exit, Huangheqing Bridge offers a surprising view of the Yellow River’s clear water at dusk. Stay in Guide County for just over 100 yuan in a clean standard room. 🍜 Local hand-pulled lamb with yogurt costs about 40 yuan per person and is very filling. The temperature difference between morning and evening in August is large, so a light down jacket is not too much. 03 Laibin|Guangxi Guangxi’s summer getaway isn’t just Guilin and Yangshuo. Laibin’s Jinxiu Lotus Mountain is a cool spot locals keep secret. Tickets cost 80 yuan, including shuttle buses up and down the mountain. The mountain looks like lotus petals, and the boardwalk along the cliff is easy to walk. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared. The mountain looks like an ink painting. The view is ordinary when the sun comes out in the afternoon. ⚠️ Don’t buy “wild lingzhi mushrooms” sold at the foot of the mountain—they’re mostly cultivated. 🍜 After descending, go to Jinxiu County town for Yao ethnic oil tea with sticky rice cakes. One bowl costs 5 yuan, warming and refreshing. Stay in a county homestay for about 120 yuan even in peak season. 🚄 It takes about two hours by bus from Liuzhou, with half the crowds of Yangshuo and twice the experience. 04 Jiaozuo|Henan Yuntai Mountain is famous, but if you visit in August, avoid peak times. Enter at 7 AM when the park opens. Red Stone Gorge is less crowded, and you won’t have to wait for photo spots. Tickets cost 120 yuan and include a sightseeing bus. The park is easy to get around, suitable for seniors and kids. Qingtian River is next to Yuntai Mountain and much less crowded. ⏰ Visit in the afternoon for a boat ride on the lake, with green mountains reflecting on the water, offering a cool escape. Tickets cost 60 yuan; boat tickets are extra but worth it. Shennong Mountain features macaques and ancient temples, with moderate hiking difficulty. ⚠️ Don’t feed the monkeys—they grab things and can scratch. 📍 The Longji Great Wall at the summit offers wide views and strong wind, so secure your hat. Stay in Jiaozuo city for about 150 yuan in a chain hotel. 🍜 At night, visit Tanan Road night market where locals eat stewed noodles and grilled skewers. It costs about 30 yuan per person, half the price inside the park. 05 Qingyuan|Guangdong Guangdong’s summer isn’t just about the coast; there’s also underground rivers. Lianzhou Underground River stays 18 degrees year-round, so bring a jacket. Tickets cost 120 yuan, including a boat ride and guide. The tour lasts about two hours, walking through the first half to see stalactites and boating through the underground river in the second half. ⏰ Visit after 2 PM when tour groups are fewer. It’s so quiet you can hear water droplets. ⚠️ The “specialty street” at the park exit is overpriced. Don’t be impulsive. 🍜 Back in Lianzhou city, try Dongpo cured meats. Locals recommend the “Old Brand Dongpo Cured Meat Shop.” It costs about 30 yuan per person. The cured duck claypot rice is so good you’ll lick the bowl. 🚄 It’s about a three-hour bus ride from Guangzhou, less crowded than Qingyuan rafting. August here is cool, perfect for those who dislike heat but don’t want to travel far. 06 Anshan|Liaoning For a summer escape in Northeast China, don’t just go to Changbai Mountain. Anshan’s Qianshan is less crowded and scenic, with tickets costing 80 yuan. Qianshan is known as the “Pearl of the Northeast.” The mountains aren’t very high but have many temples and ancient pines. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7 AM and hike the classic route from Wuliang Temple to Longquan Temple, about three hours. 📍 At the summit, Xianren Terrace offers wide views of Anshan city. ⚠️ Bottled mineral water on the mountain costs 10 yuan per bottle. It’s cheaper to bring two bottles yourself. 🍜 After descending, go to Anshan city to eat “Lao Siji” sweet and sour pork and stir-fried vegetables. It costs about 40 yuan per person. Northeast dishes are so large that two people can’t finish three dishes. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by high-speed train from Shenyang to Anshan, making same-day trips feasible. August is cool in the mountains with plenty of shade, ideal for beginner hikers. 07 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Yan Emperor Mausoleum in Yanling County, Zhuzhou, isn’t well known but worth a special visit. Tickets cost 60 yuan. The park is large, and it’s recommended to take the sightseeing bus for 20 yuan. ⏰ Visit in the morning, starting with the main hall, then stroll through Shennong Garden. The park has ancient trees and few people, perfect for a slow walk. 📍 Behind the mausoleum is a stele forest with inscriptions of sacrificial texts from various dynasties, a delight for calligraphy lovers. ⚠️ Don’t pay attention to those asking for incense at the park entrance. Incense is provided free inside. 🍜 Back in town, try Yanling yellow peaches, in season in August. They’re sweet and crisp, selling for 10 yuan per 3 jin at roadside stands. 🚄 It takes about two hours by bus from Zhuzhou city. Stay in the county for just over 100 yuan. This is a quiet place for those who want to relax without commercial distractions. 08 Fuzhou|Fujian Don’t visit Sanfang Qixiang during the day—it’s hot and crowded. ⏰ After 5 PM, when tour groups leave, the blue stone streets reveal their charm. 📍 Enter from Nanhou Street, first visit Langguan Alley, then Yijin Lane. Many old houses are open for free, such as the former residences of Yan Fu and Lin Juemin, but ⚠️ they close at 5:30 PM, so watch the time. 🍜 Try “Tongli meat swallow” and “Yonghe fish balls” in the alleys, local favorites since childhood, costing about 20 yuan per person. Avoid the “internet-famous” olive juice—it’s overly sweet. In the evening, visit the bar street by Antai River. Order a drink and enjoy the night view, which is more comfortable than during the day. 🚄 Metro Line 1 goes directly to Dongjiekou Station, making transportation convenient. Stay in Gulou District, where you can find good hotels for under 200 yuan. Reverse travel in August lets you have fun on a budget. Which of these eight places do you want to visit most? Share in the comments.

01 Fuyang | Anhui At 5:30 AM, Fuyang's morning market is already bustling. 📍On Dongguan Old Street, oil tea with savory steamed buns is the local default combination. One bowl fills you up and settles your stomach. Bali River is better suited for the afternoon, with its wide-open waters and wind blowing from the lake's center, carrying the astringent scent of reeds. Don't rush off; wait until the evening light dyes the water golden—that's when it's most beautiful. ⚠️Electric carts in the scenic area charge by section. Walking the entire route takes about 2 hours, so wearing comfortable shoes is more cost-effective. 🍜For lunch, find a Gelatiao noodle shop on Yingzhou Road. The noodles are chewy and mixed with sesame paste and chili oil, much more satisfying than fast food in the scenic area. This place is suitable for those who want to slow down; a day and a half is enough, no need to rush. 02 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Between Xizhou Ancient Town and Shuanglang, I choose Xizhou. 📍The yellow wall of the Zhuanjiao Building is usually empty before 10 AM, allowing you to have the entire alley to yourself. For Xizhou Baba, look for the "Suxiangyuan" shop; the freshly baked crispy pastry with rose sugar is sweet but not cloying. At the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, don't just photograph the reflection pool. Go around to the hillside behind the pagodas to see them framed with Cangshan Mountain—an excellent photo spot. For cycling around Erhai Lake, choose the Haixi section, about 15 kilometers from Caicun to Xizhou. The road is flat and the scenery is beautiful. Bike rental is around CNY 30 per day. ⚠️Nanzhao Style Island tickets are a bit expensive; if you're short on time, skipping it is no loss. In the evening, wait for the sunset in Panxi Village. The water looks like shattered silver, and it's windy, so remember to bring a light jacket. It's suitable for a two-night stay, dedicating one day to Haixi and one day to Xizhou and the ancient city. 03 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Kambula is one of those places where you know it's "worth it" at first glance. 📍Lijiaxia Reservoir divides Danxia Mountain in two. A boat tour and a land route offer completely different experiences. I recommend entering by boat and exiting from the East Gate to avoid backtracking. ⏰From 10 AM to 2 PM, the sunlight directly hits the red rocks, making the colors most saturated. ⚠️Cell signal is weak in the scenic area, so download offline maps in advance. The mountain roads have many turns, so motion-sick friends should prepare medication. This place is suitable for self-driving, about 2 hours from Xining, perfect for a day trip. If you have ample time, stay one night in Guide and the next day see the clear waters of the Yellow River, known as "The Yellow River is clear in Guide," which is more relaxing than rushing. 04 Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The beauty of Sayram Lake is an indescribable blue. 📍Enter from the East Gate and cycle counter-clockwise around the lake. The afternoon light hits the water perfectly, making it sparkle like scattered diamonds. Don't waste too much time at the first parking spot; the further you go, the fewer people there are, and the cleaner the scenery. Anjihai Grand Canyon offers another kind of shock. Standing on the cliff edge, with a bottomless crack below, the wind rushes up from the valley, making your legs weak. ⚠️There are no guardrails at the canyon edge, so keep a safe distance when taking photos. The mountains and waters of Wenquan County are perfect for a relaxing soak after a long walk; the natural hot springs have just the right temperature. This place is suitable for self-driving, a three-day, two-night trip, with one day for Sayram Lake and one day for the canyon and hot springs, a perfect pace. 🍜In the evening, have a Big Plate Chicken in Bole city. The portion is generous, too much for two people to finish. 05 Xinzhou | Shanxi I advise you to visit Yanmen Pass and Mount Wutai on separate days; don't be greedy. The desolation of Yanmen Pass is etched into its stones. 📍The wind on the pass city wall is strong enough to blow off your hat. Looking down from the city tower, you can imagine the ancient battles. ⏰After 4 PM, there are fewer tourists, and the slanted light on the city walls is best for photos. At Mount Wutai, don't just rush to Dailuo Peak; the smaller temples in Taihuai Town are quieter. The white pagoda of Tayuan Temple is most beautiful at dusk. Laoniuwan is where the Yellow River and the Great Wall meet. 📍It's about an hour from Pianguan County, and the road conditions are average, but the moment you see the first bend of the Yellow River, it's worth it. ⚠️The entrance fee for Mount Wutai is CNY 135. Vehicle reservations must be made in advance on the official account, and it's hard to book during peak season. Suitable for self-driving, a three-day, two-night trip, one day for Yanmen Pass and one and a half days for Mount Wutai. 06 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is more solemn than I imagined. 📍Entering through the Meridian Gate and walking along the sacrificial avenue, the cypress trees on both sides absorb all sound, making your footsteps echo distinctly. ⏰There's an opening ceremony at 9 AM, which is worth seeing, but remember to arrive 10 minutes early. Photography is not allowed inside the mausoleum, so use your eyes to remember the carvings. 🍜Afterward, eat a bowl of Youxian rice noodles in Luyuan Town. The broth is fresh, the toppings are generous, and CNY 10 will fill you up. ⚠️It's advisable to hire a scenic guide, otherwise, many details might be missed. This place is suitable for history enthusiasts; half a day is enough. If you have more time, visit Jiubujiang National Geological Park along the way. The caves and waterfalls are good, but it's in a different direction from Emperor Yan's Mausoleum, so don't plan them for the same day. 07 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Mount Putuo and Gouqi Island: one for tranquility, one for wildness. The incense smoke at Mount Putuo is thickest in the early morning. 📍Disembark at Duangu Pier, first visit the Guanyin of the South Sea, then walk through the Purple Bamboo Forest to the Guanyin Temple that Refused to Leave. This route has fewer people and serene scenery. ⚠️The vegetarian buffet on the island is CNY 38 per person; don't miss it, it's cleaner and more affordable than outside restaurants. Gouqi Island presents a different face. 📍The sand at Dawan Beach is coarse, but the sea is a clear green. Go to Shanhaichigu for sunset in the evening; it's so windy you can barely stand, but the view is worth it. Shengsi Islands are suitable for an overnight stay. The guesthouse owner will take you fishing for CNY 200 per boat, and you can cook and eat what you catch directly. 🍜Seafood noodles are a must-try; the broth is so fresh it'll make your eyebrows drop. This place is suitable for a three-day, two-night trip, one day for Mount Putuo and two days for Gouqi Island and Shengsi. 08 Wanning | Hainan Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay: I want both. Shimei Bay's beach is gentle, perfect for relaxing. 📍Enter from the China Resources Shimei Bay International Yacht Club area; it's much less crowded. Riyue Bay is a surfer's paradise; the waves are bigger than Shimei Bay. Board rental is CNY 80 per day, and a coach is CNY 200 per hour, so even beginners can get started. ⏰The waves are best after 3 PM, but the sun is also intense, so apply sunscreen three times. 🍜In the evening, eat Southeast Asian cuisine in Xinglong Town. Curry fish balls and Hong Kong-style milk toast are specialties, costing around CNY 50 per person until you're stuffed. ⚠️The popular coffee shops in Riyue Bay are crowded, and you have to queue for photos. It's better to go to Jiuli Bookstore in Shimei Bay; it's less crowded, and the sea is right outside the window. This place is suitable for a two-night stay, one day for Shimei Bay and one day for Riyue Bay plus Xinglong Town. None of these 8 cities are "must-visit," but each is worth spending three days to experience. Which one do you want to visit most recently? Let's chat in the comments; maybe we'll meet at a street corner.

Traveling with your parents, these 8 places are easy and fun 1️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan Yandi Mausoleum is truly a reliable choice for traveling with elderly family members. 🚄 After taking the high-speed train to Zhuzhou West Station, charter a car for about an hour. The road is smooth and comfortable. The main paths in the scenic area are wide with few steps, so you can push a wheelchair for most of the route. Arrive before 9 AM when the air smells of grass and trees, and it’s quiet with few people. There’s a large square in front of the sacrificial hall where elders can stand, admire the flying eaves and dougong brackets, take photos, and relax without rushing. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant outside the scenic area. Order You County blood duck with tofu soup, mildly spicy and appetizing, easy for elders to enjoy. ⚠️ Travel groups gather after 2 PM, so it’s best to avoid that time. The pace is slow, and three hours is enough so elders won’t get tired. 2️⃣ Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli Matryoshka Doll Square sounds like a place for kids, but parents get more excited than young people once inside. 🍜 Enter the park after 6 PM. The sunset lights up the doll paintings, making the colors especially photogenic. The park isn’t large; just follow the main path for a loop with no uphill walking. You can enter the Matryoshka Hotel lobby for free to see the dome covered in Russian patterns. My mom stood there for ten minutes without moving. ⚠️ Souvenir shops inside the park sell the same dolls for twice the price outside, so don’t rush to buy. Afterward, have a Russian-style dinner on the pedestrian street with borscht and rye bread, soft and easy to chew. When the street lights come on at night, the whole town looks like a fairy tale, perfect for a leisurely walk with elders. 3️⃣ Bazhong | Sichuan At Guangwu Mountain, I recommend skipping the cable car and taking your parents on the wooden plank trail at the mountain base. 📍 The trail runs from the entrance to the natural gallery. It’s flat with Qinggang oak forests on both sides. In autumn, the leaves mix yellow and green like a painting. The air is humid and sweet with every breath. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant near the entrance with cured meat stewed with dried bamboo shoots, salty and tender, perfect with rice. ⚠️ The temperature difference on the mountain is large, so bring a fleece jacket for your parents. If they have good mobility, take the sightseeing bus to Heixiong Valley to see the stream. It’s a 20-minute ride and easy. Half a day is just right, leaving time to rest in the city in the afternoon. 4️⃣ Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Bingzhongluo and Nanjiluo sound wild, but the roads are better than expected. The Nujiang First Bend viewing platform in Bingzhongluo is right by the road. Get off and walk 50 meters with no uphill, and your parents can stand and admire the spectacular river bend. Nanjiluo has hiking routes of different lengths. For elders, take the short loop on the lakeside wooden trail. The altitude is low, and a slow one-hour walk completes the loop. ⏰ Early morning mist on the lake makes the reflection clearest. There’s a small Lisu restaurant in the village. Their lacquer oil chicken is the signature dish, with rich broth and tender meat, perfect for warming the stomach. ⚠️ Signal is weak in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance. This place suits parents who like quiet, with few people and pristine scenery. 5️⃣ Yulin | Shaanxi In Yulin, I combined Wave Valley, Red Stone Gorge, and Jia County Yellow River in one day. Start with Wave Valley in the morning. The Danxia landform looks like frozen waves under the sun. The plank road is smooth and easy for elders. Have lamb noodles in the city at noon. Yulin’s lamb isn’t gamey, and the broth is fresh. In the afternoon, visit Red Stone Gorge. The canyon is short, with dense stone carvings on both sides. Walking through feels like reading a book made of stone. ⏰ Arrive at Jia County Yellow River before 4 PM. The silhouette of Xianglu Temple in the sunset is especially beautiful, and the river surface glistens gold. ⚠️ Some areas in Wave Valley have no guardrails. Don’t let elders climb over to take photos. The day is a bit long, but each car ride is kept under 40 minutes, so the pace isn’t rushed. 6️⃣ Ganzhou | Jiangxi In Ganzhou, I recommend Shicheng and Sanbai Mountain, two places with completely different styles. Tongtianzai in Shicheng features Danxia landforms alongside Hakka walled villages. There’s flat ground at the foot of the mountain, so elders can just visit the walled village and lotus pond without climbing and still see the highlights. Sanbai Mountain is the source of the Dong River, with intoxicatingly fresh air. The scenic area’s electric carts take you directly to the main waterfall, followed by a short gentle slope. The waterfall mist cools you off, especially in summer. 🍜 Shicheng’s taro dumplings have smooth skins and flavorful filling, easy for elders to chew. ⚠️ After rain, the steps at Sanbai Mountain are slippery, so have your parents wear non-slip shoes. Two days is just right, one place per day, no rushing or late nights. 7️⃣ Suzhou | Jiangsu Take your time in Suzhou. Tiger Hill, Hanshan Temple, and the Humble Administrator’s Garden are best split over two days. Visit Tiger Hill in the morning. The pagoda leans slightly. Elders can stand at the base and look up without climbing. There’s plenty of shade and stone benches to rest. In the afternoon, go to Hanshan Temple to hear the bell and see the stele corridor. The nearby Maple Bridge scenic area is flat and easy to walk. Reserve the second day for the Humble Administrator’s Garden. ⚠️ Be sure to book your entry time in advance on the official account, as waiting in line is exhausting. The garden has many covered corridors, so rain won’t be a problem. The framed views and garden design are easy for elders to appreciate and enjoy. 🍜 Have lunch on Pingjiang Road at a long-established restaurant. The squirrel-shaped mandarin fish is slightly sweet. Order crab roe tofu for your parents to be safe. Suzhou’s pace is naturally slow, perfect for savoring with elders. 8️⃣ Beijing For Beijing, I’ll share an efficient itinerary for the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park. Start with the Forbidden City on day one. ⏰ It opens at 8:30 AM. Enter through the Meridian Gate and walk straight along the central axis to Shenwu Gate. You can see the main halls in two hours without detours. Have lunch on Jingshan Front Street afterward. In the afternoon, visit Beihai Park just north of the Forbidden City. Walk to the White Pagoda and Five Dragon Pavilion, then sit under the willow trees by the lake to relax. Elders can rest for a long time here. Day two is for the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven. Enter the Summer Palace from the East Palace Gate and walk along the Long Corridor to the Marble Boat. The path is shaded and won’t expose you to the sun. The Temple of Heaven’s highlight is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Just walk around the Echo Wall once. Don’t let elders walk too much. ⚠️ The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. The steps to the Tower of Buddhist Incense in the Summer Palace are steep, so elders with mobility issues should admire it from below. Beijing’s attractions are large, so plan only one per half day to match energy levels. Among these eight places, I personally recommend Bazhong and Suzhou the most. One is a natural oxygen bar, the other a gentle water town. Both are places where your parents can slow down and smile. Do your parents prefer mountains or gardens? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you refine your itinerary.

Where to budget travel in August? These 8 places have fewer people, beautiful scenery, and low costs 01 Yushu | Qinghai In August, Yushu has daytime temperatures just above 20 degrees Celsius, and you’ll need a jacket at night. This place isn’t for those seeking comfortable hotels but is perfect if you want to see authentic landscapes. 📍 Hoh Xil is not a day trip; it takes three to four hours one way from the city. It’s best to rent a car, and splitting the cost among four people is more economical. You can see Tibetan antelopes and wild donkeys along the way, but don’t let the driver speed—animals may cross the road at any time. ⏰ Leave at 7 AM and return before 3 PM for the best light and to avoid the strong afternoon winds on the plateau. The core area of Sanjiangyuan National Park is off-limits, but the surrounding Longbaotan Wetland is free and a good spot to see black-necked cranes. Bring binoculars. ⚠️ Yushu is 3,700 meters above sea level. Don’t shower or drink alcohol on the first day. Take rhodiola a week in advance for it to be effective. Stay near Jiegu Avenue, where standard rooms cost just over 100 yuan. For meals, go to Tibetan restaurants around Yak Square. A bowl of butter tea plus a serving of tsampa fills you up for about 10 yuan. 02 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou isn’t a tourist city, which makes the Yan Emperor’s Mausoleum peaceful. Take a bus from Zhuzhou city to Yanling County, about two hours, costing around 30 yuan. The entrance fee is 80 yuan, half price for students. The park closes at 4 PM, so don’t arrive late. The Shennong Hall in front of the mausoleum is worth a slow visit. The painted eaves and wood carvings have many details. Joining a tour group for explanations is more interesting than reading signs. 🍜 After the park, try “Yanling Hakka Restaurant” in the county town. Order stuffed tofu and mugwort rice cakes. It costs about 30 yuan per person and is much better than boxed meals near the park entrance. ⚠️ There’s an ancestral ceremony on weekend mornings with many people. To get empty shots, visit on a weekday afternoon. For elderly visitors, electric carts are available inside the park for 10 yuan per person, so you don’t have to climb many steps. 03 Shizuishan | Ningxia The beauty of Shahu Lake lies in its half desert, half lake landscape, but in August, sun protection is more important than the scenery. Tickets plus boat ride cost 120 yuan. Buying online in advance saves 10 yuan. Take the boat to the desert area first; don’t waste time at the dock. The real dunes are across the lake. 📍 Sand sliding costs 30 yuan per ride. You climb up and slide down yourself, which is tiring but better value than camel riding. Camel rides cost 100 yuan for a short route and are less cost-effective. ⏰ The light at 5 PM is best. The dunes’ textures cast long shadows, so no filter is needed for photos. ⚠️ Bottled water in the park costs 10 yuan per bottle. Bring two bottles yourself. Many touts offer “shortcuts to see Shahu Lake” outside the entrance—don’t trust them. The official route included in the ticket is enough. It’s better to stay in the city. A taxi takes about 20 minutes. Budget hotels cost around 150 yuan, half the price of homestays in the park. 04 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli’s nights look like a spilled candy box, with Russian-style buildings lit up all over the streets, making you feel like you’ve crossed a border. The Matryoshka Doll Park ticket costs 100 yuan, but you can see it for free outside. Inside mainly has amusement facilities and exhibitions. Families with kids can go in, but adults alone can save the money. 📍 Visit Beihu Park at dusk, a local spot for walks with views of the city skyline and soft sunset light. 🍜 Russian restaurants are everywhere. Skip the popular spots with lines and try “Masha Western Restaurant,” an old place with generous portions of borscht and grilled sausage. It costs about 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ Manzhouli has a big temperature difference between day and night. Bring a light jacket for August nights. The border gate park is north of the city, a 10-yuan taxi ride. Don’t buy Matryoshka dolls at the park entrance; the same items are half the price in city supermarkets. 05 Datong | Shanxi Datong is a hidden gem for reverse travel in August. Days are just over 30 degrees Celsius, and nights are cool enough to skip the air conditioning. Yungang Grottoes tickets cost 120 yuan. It’s recommended to hire a guide; otherwise, you’ll just see stones without the stories. The open-air Buddha in Cave 20 is iconic, with morning light perfectly illuminating its face. Hanging Temple is in Hunyuan County, an hour from the city. Tickets cost 115 yuan, plus 100 yuan for climbing. Honestly, just viewing from below is enough; the climb and wait aren’t worth it. Mount Hengshan (North Peak) is next to Hanging Temple. Tickets cost 45 yuan, with cable car fees extra. If you’re average fitness, take the cable car halfway up, then hike 40 minutes to the summit. The views are worth it. ⚠️ Datong’s knife-cut noodles are everywhere. Skip the tourist spots and go to “Oriental Knife Noodles” in the old town. A bowl with a braised egg and dried tofu costs 15 yuan and is very filling. 🚄 Taxi from Datong Station to Yungang Grottoes costs about 20 yuan. There’s also a direct bus for 1 yuan, but it’s slower. 06 Shigatse | Tibet Shigatse is higher than Lhasa, but August has the best oxygen levels of the year. Everest Base Camp isn’t open to everyone. You need a border permit from Shigatse, free but only available on weekdays at the government office. It takes six to seven hours one way from the city. Plan two days and stay in a tent guesthouse near Rongbuk Monastery for 100 yuan per person. Conditions are basic but you can see the stars. Tashilhunpo Monastery is in the city. Tickets cost 80 yuan and it closes at 5 PM. The Jampa Buddha statue inside is the largest copper Buddha in the world. Standing before it makes your worries feel small. ⏰ The prayer path circles the monastery. Join locals for an evening walk. No ticket needed, and you can hear the prayer wheels turning. ⚠️ Accommodation in Shigatse is more expensive than Lhasa. Standard rooms start at 300 yuan and require advance booking in peak season. For meals, go to Tibetan restaurants on Shanghai Middle Road. A pot of sweet tea and a serving of Tibetan noodles cost 20 yuan and warm you up. 07 Anqing | Anhui August is hot in Anqing, but the coolness of Tianzhu Mountain balances the heat. Tianzhu Mountain tickets cost 130 yuan. Cable cars cost 80 yuan each way. It’s best to take the cable car one way and hike the other to protect your knees. The main peak, Tianzhu Peak, is over 1,400 meters high and takes two hours to climb. The wind at the top dries sweat instantly. 📍 Liandan Lake is halfway up the mountain. The water is emerald green. Sitting on the rocks by the lake is more comfortable than any air-conditioned room. 🍜 After descending, eat at “Tianzhu Mountain Local Cuisine” in Qianshan County. The mountain rice noodles with braised pork are the specialty. It costs about 40 yuan per person with generous portions. ⚠️ August is rainy season. Check the weather before climbing. Wet stone steps are slippery, so don’t force it. Cable cars stop running at 4:30 PM. Plan your time well or you’ll have to walk down, which is exhausting. Accommodation is recommended at a farmhouse at the mountain base for 150 yuan per night. Opening your window in the morning reveals mountain mist, a better experience than city hotels. 08 Yingtan | Jiangxi Longhu Mountain is the birthplace of Taoism, but don’t be put off by the “religious site” label. The Danxia landform and Luxi River are the real highlights. Tickets plus sightseeing bus and bamboo raft cost 230 yuan. It sounds expensive, but the 40-minute bamboo raft ride with cliff tombs and hanging coffins performances on both sides is worth it. 📍 Elephant Trunk Hill viewing platform is the highlight. It’s a 20-minute walk along the high-altitude plank road with wide views. The red Danxia cliffs look like they’ve been set on fire in the sunlight. ⏰ Enter the park at 8 AM. Take the bamboo raft first, then walk the plank road. Have lunch in Shangqing Ancient Town outside the park. Chestnut braised chicken is a specialty and costs about 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ Ignore the fortune-telling Taoist priests in the park—they’re scams. The Celestial Master Mansion is in the ancient town. Tickets cost 60 yuan. Skip it if you’re not interested in Taoist culture. 🚄 Taxi from Yingtan North Station to the park takes about 30 minutes. Shared rides cost 20 yuan per person. Stay at inns near the park entrance for about 120 yuan. You can hear the sound of the Luxi River at night. Travel in August, avoid crowded places. These eight destinations are either cool, cheap, or less crowded—pick one. Where are you going this summer? Share in the comments to help those planning trips next month.

🌸 Zhuzhou 🌟 Highlights: Shennong Valley National Forest Park oxygen bar 🌲 Beautiful scenery at Jiuxian Lake, cultural heritage of Emperor Yan's mausoleum 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: Guangzhou South → Zhuzhou West → Shennong Valley → see waterfalls and breathe negative ions Day 2: Jiuxian Lake → Emperor Yan's mausoleum → return 🍜 Food recommendations: Zhuzhou rice noodles are fresh and fragrant, chopped chili fish head is spicy and tasty, assorted dried tofu is flavorful 💡 Tips: Bring insect repellent for the forest park, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sun protection 🏔️ Shaoguan 🌟 Highlights: Danxia Mountain World Natural Heritage site 🌋 Nanhua Zen Temple, hometown of the Sixth Patriarch, spectacular Ruyuan Grand Canyon 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: Guangzhou South → Shaoguan → Danxia Mountain → see Yangyuan Stone and Elder Peak Day 2: Nanhua Temple → Ruyuan Grand Canyon → return 🍜 Food recommendations: Shaoguan copper spoon cake is crispy, mountain snails are fresh and tender, prime minister noodles are smooth 💡 Tips: Climbing Danxia Mountain requires stamina, cable car available, wear non-slip shoes for canyon paths 🌊 Qingyuan 🌟 Highlights: Exciting Gulong Gorge glass bridge 🌉 Lianzhou underground river cave wonders, picturesque Yingxi peak forest corridor 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: Guangzhou → Qingyuan → Gulong Gorge → glass bridge rafting Day 2: Yingxi peak forest → Lianzhou underground river → return 🍜 Food recommendations: Qingyuan chicken skin is crispy and meat tender, lei cha porridge warms the stomach, hand-cut noodles are chewy 💡 Tips: Bring a change of clothes for rafting, avoid glass bridge if afraid of heights, bring sun protection and insect repellent 🏘️ Jiangmen 🌟 Highlights: Kaiping Diaolou World Heritage 🏰 Chikan ancient town arcade style, Bird Paradise banyan tree wonder 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: Guangzhou → Jiangmen → Kaiping Diaolou → see Sino-Western architecture Day 2: Chikan ancient town → Bird Paradise → return 🍜 Food recommendations: Jiangmen roast goose has crispy skin and fragrant meat, rice rolls are smooth, Waihai noodles are refreshing 💡 Tips: Diaolou are scattered, self-driving or charter recommended, ancient town is great for slow strolls, bring a camera

While others are crammed into popular cities and facing crowds, I think these off-the-beaten-path destinations are the perfect way to experience August and September. All-inclusive for 500 RMB per person, including food, accommodation, and activities, students can easily save up their living expenses for two weeks and head there. 01 Shangluo | Shaanxi Take the high-speed train southeast from Xi'an, and it's an hour and a half to Shangluo, a cool place nestled in the Qinling Mountains. Jinshixia Gorge entrance fee is just over 100 RMB, half price for students. The water in the gorge is emerald green, and the entire hike takes three hours, no rush. After exiting the gorge at noon, find any noodle shop in town; a bowl of oil-splashed pulled noodles costs 8 RMB, the spiciness is irresistible. Tianshuxia Gorge is even less crowded; the boardwalk follows the stream, and after 3 pm, the sunlight slants into the forest, making the moss shimmer, perfect for leisurely photography. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is free; there are still houses on the old street, and the smoke rising from their chimneys in the evening gives it a more vibrant feel than purely commercialized ancient towns. Baita Temple is located on the outskirts of the county town. The ginkgo tree inside is said to be a thousand years old; its leaves just begin to turn yellow in mid-September. Sitting under the tree, drinking a bowl of tea for 3 yuan, can while away an afternoon. ⚠️ Jinshixia Gorge occasionally closes during the rainy season, so check the scenic area's announcements before you go. For accommodation, stay in Shangzhou city; hostel beds are 40 yuan a night, clean and adequate. 02 Xianning|Hubei From Wuhan, it's a half-hour high-speed train ride to Xianning. I went there specifically for the Chibi Ancient Battlefield, but don't have too high expectations. The scenic area was built later. Its advantage lies in the strong winds along the river. Standing on the rocks of the ancient battlefield, imagining the scene of the burning of the camps, is still quite exhilarating. The entrance fee is 80 yuan, half price for students. Two hours is enough to explore. The truly interesting part is Chibi Town outside the scenic area. Walking along the river embankment, you can see sand-carrying boats one after another, the river wind blowing your hair wildly. The fish offal hot pot at the restaurants in town costs 20 yuan for a large pot; it's so spicy you'll sweat, and with two bowls of rice, it's a complete meal. 🚄 A taxi from Xianning North Station to the ancient battlefield costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is more cost-effective. Return to the city center in the afternoon. Qianshan Forest Park is free; climbing a slope and seeing the bamboo forest is more comfortable than being crowded in the scenic area. Stay in Xian'an city; chain hotels cost a little over 100 yuan and are clean. 03 Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi is a volcanic geological park. Go at the end of August; you'll need a jacket in the mornings and evenings, but short sleeves are fine under the midday sun. Laoheishan is a must-climb; walking around the crater takes forty minutes. The ground is black volcanic rock, making a crunching sound underfoot, like walking on the moon. At Erlongquan at the foot of Yaoquan Mountain, locals collect water in buckets; the water is icy and has a rusty taste, supposedly from minerals—don't drink too much. The entrance fee plus sightseeing bus is 110 yuan; student discounts are available. Ignore the vendors selling mineral mud masks in the scenic area; they sell things for double the price of ten yuan a box online. 📍 Take a bus from Beian Station to Wudalianchi Town. The journey takes one hour and costs 15 yuan. Stay in a family-run guesthouse in town; a large kang (heated brick bed) room costs 50 yuan per person. It's comfortable to sleep with a blanket at night. Autumn colors in the Wenbo area begin in early September; the birch leaves turn yellow, reflecting on the water, more beautiful than the summer green. ⚠️ It's windy in Laoheishan; make sure your hat is on tight. 04 Hefei|Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town doesn't charge an entrance fee, which is great for students. Take a tourist bus from Hefei city center; it takes an hour and a half and costs 5 yuan. The main street of the ancient town is the standard commercial street, with rice dumplings, taffy, and fried tofu rolls—you can easily get half full by trying them all. But the real flavors are in the back alleys. Turn into a narrow alley, and you'll find a tofu pudding stall that's been open for twenty years. It's savory, with dried shrimp and pickled vegetables, and costs 3 yuan a bowl—more affordable than the trendy shops on the main street. Three hours is enough to explore the ancient town. Yang Zhenning's former residence requires a separate ticket (20 yuan), but I personally think it's unnecessary to go inside; just take a photo at the entrance. ⚠️ The main street is crowded on weekend afternoons, so I recommend arriving before 10 am. You can still hear locals greeting each other in the alleys. Back in Hefei city, go to Huaihe Road Pedestrian Street and have a bowl of duck oil pancakes from Luzhou Roast Duck Restaurant (2.5 yuan each, incredibly crispy). Stay near Hefei South Railway Station; a hostel bed costs 50 yuan, convenient for catching your train the next day. 05 Putian|Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area was the furthest stop on this trip, but it was worth it. Take the high-speed rail to Putian Station, take a bus to Wenjia Wharf, then take a ferry to the island. The ferry ticket plus entrance fee is 85 yuan; student discounts are available. Rent an electric scooter on the island for 50 yuan a day. Riding around the island, the wind rushes past your ears, the sea is on your left, and stone houses on the hillside are on your right—it feels like the whole island is yours. The Mazu Ancestral Temple is a must-see. Standing at the highest point, the view of the bay is breathtakingly blue, unlike anything you'd see along the Fujian coast. The boardwalk at Goose Tail Stone Park is less crowded. Go around 4 PM; the waves are quite loud then, and sitting on the rocks can make you lose track of time. 🍜 Eat seafood noodles on the island for 15 yuan a bowl—generous portions! Stay in a guesthouse on the island for about 70 yuan per person; the sea is right outside your window. ⚠️ Ferries are suspended during typhoon season, so check the weather before you go. In September, after summer vacation, the island is half the size, doubling the experience. 06 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. It's a two-hour drive from the city center, but worth the trip. The mausoleum area is vast, with towering ancient cypress trees. In the afternoon, it's less crowded; walking along the sacred path, you can only hear your own footsteps. The architectural details of the sacrificial hall are beautiful, and the colors of the painted eaves are still vibrant. Tickets are 60 yuan, half price for students. Outside the mausoleum area is Shennong Garden, which grows various medicinal herbs. There are information boards nearby, so you can visit it like a botanical garden. 🍜 The Hakka stuffed tofu in Yanling County is quite good, 15 yuan a serving. The tofu is stuffed with minced meat and pan-fried until golden brown on both sides. Served with a bowl of bitter vegetable soup, it's very comforting. 🚄 There are direct buses from Zhuzhou West Station to Yanling County, a two-hour journey costing 35 yuan. Accommodation in the county town is a chain hotel, costing just over 100 yuan. If time is limited, you can split your trip between Zhuzhou city and the Yan Emperor's Mausoleum into two days, staying one night in the city and heading to the mausoleum area early the next morning. 07 Ya'an | Sichuan Bifengxia is north of Ya'an. It only takes an hour by high-speed train from Chengdu to Ya'an, and there are tourist buses to the scenic area right outside the station. The selling points of Bifengxia are the canyon and the panda base. The entrance fee plus the sightseeing bus is 100 yuan, with student discounts. Hiking the entire canyon takes more than three hours. The path is easy to walk, but there are many steps; those with knee problems are advised to turn back halfway. The panda base is located inside the scenic area. Feeding time is from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, during which the pandas roam outdoors. They all retreat indoors to enjoy the air conditioning in the afternoon when it gets hot, so it's essential to go in the morning. The canyon has many waterfalls, and the mist makes the temperature feel several degrees lower than outside; visiting in August feels like a natural air-conditioned room. 🍜 The Yingjing Bangbang Chicken sold at the scenic area entrance costs 45 yuan for half a chicken. It's fragrant with red oil, the chicken meat is firm, and it's enough for two people with a bowl of clear soup noodles. For accommodation, stay in Ya'an city; hostels cost 50 yuan per night. In the evening, you can go to the covered bridge to enjoy the night view; the river breeze is refreshing. 08 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is worth climbing, but don't overexert yourself. Take the high-speed train from Xi'an to Pingliang (two hours). From the station, take bus number 13 directly to the mountain gate for 2 yuan. The entrance fee is 110 yuan, half price for students. There are two routes up the mountain: the cable car goes directly to the Central Platform, saving energy but missing the Taoist temples along the way; the hike starts from the Wenda Palace and takes about two hours to reach the Central Platform. The path is shaded by trees, so it's not too hot, but the steps are steep, so those who don't exercise regularly should be prepared. The Central Platform is the core area, containing the Imperial City and Leisheng Peak. The Taoist buildings are built into the mountainside, and in some places you have to squeeze through sideways. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit; bring a light jacket if you go in September, as the temperature drops quickly after sunset. 🍜 In Pingliang city at the foot of the mountain, a bowl of mutton soup costs 25 yuan; the meat is plentiful and the broth is delicious. For accommodation, stay in a chain hotel in the city; it's around 120 yuan and the conditions are good. Kongtong Mountain is suitable for those with good physical fitness. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, just take the cable car up and down and explore the Central Platform. These eight places each have their own way of experiencing things, but they all have in common: they are inexpensive and offer a good experience. Avoiding crowds and spending your budget wisely is the key to budget travel. Do you have a destination in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments. While others are crammed into popular cities and enduring seas of people, I think these off-the-beaten-path destinations are the perfect way to experience August and September. All-inclusive for food, accommodation, and activities, around 500 RMB per person – students can easily save up their living expenses for two weeks and head there. 01 Shangluo | Shaanxi Take the high-speed train southeast from Xi'an for an hour and a half to Shangluo, a cool place nestled in the Qinling Mountains. Jinshixia Gorge entrance fee is just over 100 RMB, half price for students. The water in the gorge is emerald green, and the entire hike takes three hours without rushing. After exiting the gorge at noon, find a noodle shop in town and enjoy a bowl of oil-splashed pulled noodles for 8 RMB – the spiciness is irresistible! Tianshuxia Gorge is even less crowded. The boardwalk follows the stream, and after 3 pm, the sunlight slants into the forest, making the moss shimmer – perfect for leisurely photography. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town is free, and the old streets still have houses. The smoke from their chimneys rises in the evening, giving it a more vibrant atmosphere than purely commercial ancient towns. Baita Temple is on the edge of the county town. The ginkgo tree in the temple is said to be a thousand years old; its leaves just begin to turn yellow in mid-September. Sitting under the tree with a 3-yuan bowl of tea can while away an afternoon. ⚠️ Jinshixia Gorge occasionally closes during the rainy season, so check the scenic area's announcements before you go. For accommodation, stay in Shangzhou city; hostel beds are 40 yuan a night, clean and adequate. 02 Xianning|Hubei From Wuhan, it's a half-hour high-speed train ride to Xianning. I went there specifically for the Chibi Ancient Battlefield, but don't have too high expectations. The scenic area was built later. Its advantage lies in the strong winds along the river. Standing on the rocks of the ancient battlefield, imagining the scene of the burning of the camps, is still quite awe-inspiring. The entrance fee is 80 yuan, half price for students. Two hours is enough to visit. The truly interesting part is Chibi Town outside the scenic area. Walking along the river embankment, you can see sand-carrying boats one after another, the river wind blowing your hair wildly. A large pot of fish offal hot pot at a restaurant in town costs 20 yuan. It's so spicy you'll sweat, but with two bowls of rice, it's a complete meal. 🚄 A taxi from Xianning North Station to the ancient battlefield costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is cheaper. Return to the city in the afternoon. Qianshan Forest Park is free; climbing a slope to see the bamboo forest is much more comfortable than being crammed into tourist attractions. Stay in Xian'an city; chain hotels cost a little over 100 yuan and are clean. 03 Heihe|Heilongjiang Wudalianchi is a volcanic geological park. If you go at the end of August, you'll need a jacket in the mornings and evenings, but short sleeves are fine under the midday sun. Laoheishan is a must-climb; walking around the crater takes 40 minutes. The ground is covered in black volcanic rock that crunches underfoot, like walking on the moon. At Erlongquan at the foot of Yaoquan Mountain, locals collect water in buckets. The water is icy, and a sip tastes rusty, supposedly from minerals—don't drink too much. The entrance fee plus sightseeing bus is 110 yuan; student discounts are available. Ignore the vendors selling mud masks in the scenic area; they sell the same thing for double the price online (10 yuan a box). 📍 Take a bus from Beian Station to Wudalianchi Town. The journey takes one hour and costs 15 yuan. Stay in a family-run guesthouse in town; a large kang room costs 50 yuan per person. It's comfortable to sleep with a blanket at night. Autumn colors in the Wenbo area start to appear in early September; the birch leaves turn yellow, reflecting on the water, more beautiful than the summer green. ⚠️ It's windy at Laoheishan; make sure your hat is on tight. 04 Hefei|Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town doesn't charge an entrance fee, which is great for students. Take a tourist bus from Hefei city center; it takes an hour and a half and costs 5 yuan. The main street of the ancient town is a typical commercial street, with rice dumplings, nougat, and fried tofu rolls; you can easily get half full by sampling them. But the real flavor is in the backstreets. Turn into a narrow alley, and you'll find a tofu pudding stall that's been open for twenty years. It's savory, with dried shrimp and pickled vegetables, and costs 3 yuan a bowl—much more affordable than the trendy shops on the main street. Three hours is enough to explore the ancient town. Yang Zhenning's former residence requires a separate ticket (20 yuan), but I personally don't think it's necessary to go inside; just take a picture at the entrance. ⚠️ The main street is packed on weekend afternoons, so I recommend arriving before 10 am. You can still hear locals greeting each other in the alleys. Back in Hefei city, head to Huaihe Road Pedestrian Street for a bowl of duck oil pancakes from Luzhou Roast Duck Restaurant—2.5 yuan each, incredibly crispy. Stay near Hefei South Railway Station; a hostel bed costs 50 yuan, convenient for catching your train the next day. 05 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area was the furthest stop on this trip, but it was worth it. Take the high-speed rail to Putian Station, then a bus to Wenjia Wharf, and then a ferry to the island. The ferry ticket plus entrance fee is 85 yuan; student discounts are available. Rent an electric scooter on the island for 50 yuan a day. Ride around the island, the wind rushing past your ears, the sea on your left, and stone houses on the hillside on your right – it feels like the whole island is yours. The Mazu Ancestral Temple is a must-see; standing at the highest point overlooking the bay, the seawater is a blue unlike anything you'd see along the Fujian coast. The boardwalk at Ewei Shenshi Park is less crowded; go around 4 pm, the waves are loud, and sitting on the rocks can make you lose track of time. 🍜 Eat seafood noodles on the island for 15 yuan a bowl – generous portions. Stay in a guesthouse on the island for 70 yuan per person; the sea is right outside your window. ⚠️ Ferries are suspended during typhoon season, so check the weather before you go. In September, after summer vacation, the island is half the size, doubling the experience. 06 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. It's a two-hour drive from the city center, but worth the trip. The mausoleum area is vast, with towering ancient cypress trees. In the afternoon, it's less crowded; walking along the sacred path, you can only hear your own footsteps. The architectural details of the sacrificial hall are beautiful, and the colors of the painted eaves are still visible. Tickets are 60 yuan, half price for students. Outside the mausoleum area is Shennong Garden, which grows various medicinal herbs and has informational signs; you can visit it like a botanical garden. 🍜 The Hakka stuffed tofu in Yanling County is quite good, 15 yuan a serving. The tofu is stuffed with minced meat and pan-fried until golden brown on both sides, served with a bowl of bitter vegetable soup—very comforting. 🚄 There are direct buses from Zhuzhou West Station to Yanling County, a two-hour journey costing 35 yuan. Stay in a chain hotel in the county town for a little over 100 yuan. If time is limited, you can split your trip between Zhuzhou city and the Yan Emperor Mausoleum into two days, staying one night in the city and heading to the mausoleum area early the next morning. 07 Ya'an | Sichuan Bifengxia is north of Ya'an. It only takes one hour to get from Chengdu to Ya'an by high-speed rail, and there are tourist buses to the scenic area right outside the station. The selling points of Bifengxia are the canyon and the panda base. Tickets plus sightseeing bus cost 100 yuan, with student discounts. The entire canyon hike takes over three hours. The path is easy, but there are many steps, so those with knee problems are advised to turn back halfway. The panda base is inside the scenic area. Feeding time is from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, during which the pandas are active outdoors. They all retreat indoors to enjoy air conditioning in the afternoon when it gets hot, so it's essential to go in the morning. The canyon has many waterfalls, and the mist makes it feel several degrees cooler than outside; in August, it feels like a natural air-conditioned room. 🍜 At the scenic area entrance, there's a stall selling Yingjing Bangbang Chicken (45 yuan for half a chicken). It's fragrant with chili oil, the chicken meat is firm, and it's enough for two people with a bowl of clear soup noodles. For accommodation, stay in Ya'an city; hostels are 50 yuan per night. In the evening, you can go to the covered bridge to enjoy the night view; the river breeze is refreshing. 08 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is worth climbing, but don't overexert yourself. Take the high-speed train from Xi'an to Pingliang (two hours). From the station, take bus number 13 directly to the mountain gate (2 yuan). The entrance fee is 110 yuan, half price for students. There are two routes up the mountain: the cable car goes directly to the Central Platform, saving energy but missing the Taoist temples along the way; the hike starts from the Wenda Palace and takes about two hours to reach the Central Platform. The path is shaded by trees, so it's not too hot, but the steps are steep, so those who don't exercise regularly should be prepared. The Central Platform is the core area, containing the Imperial City and Leisheng Peak. The Taoist buildings are built into the mountainside, and in some places you have to squeeze through sideways. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit; bring a light jacket if you go in September, as the temperature drops quickly after sunset. 🍜 In Pingliang city at the foot of the mountain, a bowl of mutton soup costs 25 yuan; the meat is plentiful and the broth is delicious. For accommodation, stay in a chain hotel in the city; it's around 120 yuan and the conditions are good. Kongtong Mountain is suitable for those with good physical fitness. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, just take the cable car up and down and explore the Central Platform. These eight places each have their own way of experiencing things, but they all have in common: they are inexpensive and offer a good experience. Avoiding crowds and spending your budget wisely is the real key to budget travel. Do you have any destinations in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments.

01 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Zhaoqing is a small city I've secretly loved for a long time. When Xinghu Lake spreads out, it looks like a natural ink painting. Go to the East Gate of Qixingyan at 7 AM. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and the lake surface looks like it's covered with a thin veil. Rent a rowboat and drift slowly; it's much quieter than an electric boat. The boatman will point out the cliff carvings on Shishi Rock. At noon, skip the scenic area restaurants. Exit the North Gate and walk along Yanquan Village. The villagers make homemade tofu pudding with ginger syrup, 3 yuan a bowl, tender beyond belief. ⚠️ A reminder: Qixingyan tickets and boat tickets are sold separately. If you’re not in a hurry, don’t buy the combined ticket. Walking along the lake dike is more pleasant. After 5:30 PM, the light is just right. Standing on the central dike looking west, all seven rock peaks reflect in the water. At that moment, you’ll realize Guangdong isn’t just about skyscrapers. 02 Wuxi | Jiangsu I’ve been to Wuxi three times, and each time a different corner has captured me. Nianhuawan is best visited at dusk. When the Tang-style street lights come on, it feels like walking into a Zen theater. But don’t have a full meal there; a bowl of noodles costs 50 yuan and doesn’t taste worth the price. Lingshan Grand Buddha is best early. It opens at 9 AM. Head straight to the Buddha’s feet. When it’s less crowded, standing under the lotus pedestal and looking up is truly mesmerizing. Huishan Ancient Town is the most photogenic. In the clay figurine shop, the master molds Afu live. For 50 yuan, you can take a small figurine home. 📍 In the ancient town, the borrowed-view window at Jichang Garden catches slanting light at 3 PM. Whoever takes photos there looks great. The CCTV Wuxi Film Base for Three Kingdoms and Water Margin is great for kids or Hanfu wearers. The Three Kingdoms City and Water Margin City tickets are combined. There’s a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. ⚠️ The Nianhuawan parking lot is full on weekends. It’s better to take the subway and transfer to the shuttle bus. Don’t rely on luck. 03 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Dali isn’t a place to check off your list; it’s a place to stay. Xizhou Ancient Town before 9 AM is for locals. By the rice fields, you only hear cows and birds. The corner buildings haven’t been taken over by tour groups yet. Buy a piece of broken crispy pastry filled with sweet rose paste for 4 yuan, and pair it with freshly baked milk fan from the ancient town, eating as you walk. The Erhai Lake loop is 130 km. Don’t try to finish it in one day. The west side of the lake is good for cycling, the east side for driving to watch the sunset. The reflection pool of the Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple has the best light in the morning. You don’t need to squeeze onto the viewing platform to shoot the pagoda reflections. The west side of the pool is the least crowded. You need to take a boat to Nanzhao Style Island. One hour is enough to explore the island. The wind is strong in Xiaguan, so tie your hat tight. ⚠️ The light gets harsh after 4 PM at Chongsheng Temple, and the pagodas can be overexposed. Try to visit in the morning. Staying at Caicun Pier is more comfortable than inside the old town. You can see the lake from your window and hear the waves at night. 04 Xinyang | Henan Xinyang’s Jigong Mountain is the least Henan-like mountain I’ve seen. The mountain isn’t high, but there’s a lot of clouds. Hiking after rain is best. The stone steps are wet, and the air smells of pine needles. Start from the hiking trail in the morning. It takes two hours to reach Baoxiao Peak. The wind is strong at the top, but you can see the entire Nanwan Lake cutting into the mountain base. Don’t go back the same way. Circle around from Yilu direction. Along the way, there are old villas from the Republic of China era with red walls and green windows, as if forgotten by time. At the foot of the mountain, there’s a place serving Xinyang stewed dishes. The Gushi goose with chestnuts costs about 40 yuan per person and is so good you’ll feel like leaning against the wall to rest. ⏰ Jigong Mountain has a big temperature difference between morning and evening in summer. Bring a light jacket and don’t just rely on the weather forecast. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Xinyang East Station. Carpooling is more cost-effective, about 20 yuan per person. 05 Taizhou | Zhejiang Taizhou’s best feature is that the sights and city are separate. Guoqing Temple on Tiantai Mountain has no admission fee. The Sui Dynasty pagoda has stood in the rice fields for over a thousand years. When you enter the temple gate, the incense mixes with the moss scent, and your heart instantly calms. Walk the Xiake Ancient Trail to Shiliang Waterfall. The waterfall isn’t big, but the wind under the bridge hole cools you completely if you stand for five minutes in summer. To visit Shenxianju, take the cable car up. Enter from the south gate and exit from the north gate, so you don’t have to backtrack. The cliffside plank road is thrilling but safe. If you’re afraid of heights, just walk close to the mountain wall. The Taizhou Prefecture cultural tourism area is in Linhai. Climb the Jiangnan Great Wall at dusk from Lansheng Gate. Eat your way down Ziyang Street with egg white lamb tail, wheat shrimp, and seaweed cakes. For about 30 yuan per person, you’ll be full. ⚠️ The plank road at Shenxianju is slippery when wet. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. Stay near the Linhai ancient city wall. When the lights come on at night, the old city feels alive. 06 Jingmen | Hubei Jingmen’s highlight is Mingxian Tomb, but many don’t know why it’s special. This Ming Dynasty imperial tomb is hidden in a pine forest. The spirit way is very long, and the stone slabs are polished shiny by time. The most amazing parts are Yaotai and Ming Tower. The glazed tiles shine golden at 3 PM, when there are the fewest visitors. The wind passing through the stone statues sounds like someone speaking far away. ⚠️ The Mingxian Tomb tour route is one-way. Enter from the new red gate. Don’t enter from the old red gate; it’s a detour and you’ll miss the main axis. After visiting the tomb, take a walk around Mochou Lake. The lake isn’t big, but at dusk, egrets return to their nests. Locals stroll on the dike. For food, Panlong cuisine is Jingmen’s specialty. It’s rich but not greasy and goes best with steamed lotus root. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Jingmen West Station. Agree on the price with the driver for the round trip. 07 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou’s Yandi Tomb is a place where you’ll find peace for a long time. The entire tomb area is spacious with towering ancient cypresses. The incense in front of the main hall burns continuously from morning to night. It’s best to arrive before 9 AM. The morning light slants into the hall entrance. When it’s quiet, you can hear the wind chimes at the eaves. There’s a free guide in the sacrificial area who tells the story of Yandi tasting hundreds of herbs and making farming tools. Half an hour with the guide is much better than reading materials. ⏰ The incense smoke is strong inside the hall. If you’re sensitive, wear a mask. Outside the tomb area is Luyuanpi, where the Mi River winds around the mountain. People fish by the shore. For 10 yuan, you can buy a bamboo rod and sit all afternoon. 🚄 It’s about an hour’s drive from Zhuzhou city center. The roads are good, but don’t navigate to the scenic area’s back gate. That road is full of potholes. 08 Chongqing You can’t see all of Chongqing in one trip, but for first-timers, Dazu Rock Carvings and Wulong must be top priorities. Dazu Rock Carvings are on Baodingshan. The morning light is best. Every hand of the Thousand-Hand Guanyin has a different expression. Don’t just rush through. Hire a guide. Listening to the stories is more enjoyable than just looking at the stones. Wulong Karst Tourist Area is divided into Tian Sheng San Qiao and Fairy Mountain. Walk the valley floor at Tian Sheng San Qiao. When you take the elevator down, the sinkhole looms overhead, making you feel tiny. Fairy Mountain grassland is best in the afternoon. It’s windy but the views are wide open. You don’t need filters for road photos. Jinyun Mountain is best saved for the last day. It’s less crowded. Walking two hours through the bamboo forest will refresh your lungs. The Yangtze Three Gorges cruise departs from Chaotianmen. The night cruise through Qutang Gorge is so windy you can barely stand, but Kuimen looks like it was carved by a knife under the moonlight. ⚠️ Start with mild spicy when ordering Chongqing hotpot. The local mild spicy is equivalent to medium spicy elsewhere. Staying near Jiefangbei is convenient but noisy. Staying on Nanbin Road is quiet, and the river view is worth the price. The Yangtze cable car line has long queues. It’s better to take Metro Line 2 across the river, which also offers good views. complaints travel escape and history scenery journey the beaten path travel

01 Jixi | Heilongjiang In August, Jixi’s mornings and evenings are just above 20 degrees Celsius. Wear a short-sleeve shirt with a light jacket. Don’t oversleep. Arrive at Hutou before 9 AM. The river breeze mixed with mist feels refreshing, and kids will shout “cool” after running a few steps. Hutou Scenic Area is small. Walk along the riverside trail with the Heilongjiang River on one side and boundary markers and old forts on the other. Even young kids can finish the walk without being carried. In the afternoon, head to Xingkai Lake. Don’t rent a boat right away. Let the kids play on the beach and collect shells first. The water is shallow and safe below the knees. ⚠️ UV rays on the lakeshore are stronger than in the city. The sun is strongest from 2 PM to 4 PM. Take a break under the lakeside trees with a mat and some watermelon. Go back in the water when the sun is lower. 🍜 Have stewed river fish for lunch in Hutou town. The fish soup mixed with rice is so good kids will want seconds. 02 Luoyang | Henan Luoyang’s summer is humid but has many attractions. The key is to plan the order right. Longmen Grottoes must be visited early. ⏰ It opens at 7:30 AM. Start at West Mountain to see the Vairocana Buddha. The slanting light at this time makes the Buddha’s expression most serene, and there are fewer people. It’s stroller-friendly. By 9:30 AM, tour groups arrive, but you’ll already be cooling off at the East Mountain pavilion. Avoid Guanlin in the afternoon; kids won’t understand the inscriptions and may get restless. Go straight to Wangcheng Park, where the zoo and amusement park are connected. After seeing pandas and tigers, kids can ride the mini train and play until dark. Lao Jun Mountain and Jiguan Cave each need a full day. Jiguan Cave stays around 18 degrees year-round. Wear long sleeves in August. The cave steps are slippery. Babies should be carried or worn; strollers aren’t suitable. ⚠️ Lao Jun Mountain cable car stops running at 4 PM. Go up in the morning with kids to avoid missing out. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan Many people just pass through Zhuzhou, but it’s worth a dedicated visit. The Yan Emperor’s Tomb is in Yanling County, a 1.5-hour drive from the city on the highway with smooth roads. The cemetery is spacious with towering ancient cypresses. Even at noon in August, the shade is continuous and cool. Kids can run around the main hall plaza while adults explore the sacrificial culture. 🍜 Try the mugwort rice cakes at the entrance. They’re freshly pan-fried with a crispy shell and sticky inside. At 5 yuan each, they’re better than city dessert shops. ⏰ After 2 PM, there are fewer visitors. Hire a guide for a tour. Kids can understand the story of Shennong tasting hundreds of herbs. ⚠️ The park clears visitors by 5 PM. Don’t arrive too late. On the way back to the city, stop by the Xiang River for a stroll. The river breeze will blow away the heat. 04 Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan August is the rainy season in Xishuangbanna, but showers come and go quickly. Don’t be scared by the weather forecast. Start the morning at the Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It’s the coolest spot in the prefecture, with a dense canopy that makes it feel 5 degrees cooler than the city. Walk with kids through the Hundred Flowers Garden and the Exotic Flowers Garden. Sensitive plants and dancing plants can keep young kids squatting and playing for half an hour. In the afternoon, visit the Primitive Forest Park to watch peacock releases. ⏰ There are three shows daily. The 2:30 PM show has the fewest people. Stand on the second level of the viewing platform for eye-level views. The Dai Ethnic Style Park is better in the evening. Tickets are cheaper after 6 PM, and you can catch Dai bamboo house song and dance performances. ⚠️ The fresh juice sold in the park is watered down. It’s better to buy a whole coconut from a street vendor. 🚄 A taxi between the botanical garden and forest park costs about 40 yuan. Avoid unlicensed taxis. 05 Wuzhong | Ningxia Wuzhong in August is cool in the mornings and evenings but scorching at noon. Plan your itinerary accordingly. Arrive at the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area before 10 AM. Take a boat tour first. The reddish-brown cliffs contrast sharply with the blue-green Yellow River water this season. Kids will shout from the bow, “It looks like a painting.” After disembarking, walk a section of the boardwalk to see the 108 pagodas. The pagoda group stretches from the foot to the top of the mountain. Counting the steps is a fun game for kids. ⚠️ Avoid outdoor activities from 12 PM to 3 PM. Find a local restaurant in the city for hand-held lamb. Wuzhong’s lamb has no gamey smell, and kids can eat it with their hands. 🍜 Try the cold noodles with a sour and spicy flavor, paired with a cup of eight-treasure tea. Adults get refreshed, and kids’ appetites open. Return to the scenic area at 5 PM to watch the sunset. The light turns the pagodas golden, twice as beautiful as in the morning. 06 Jinzhong | Shanxi Jinzhong is not hot in August, but attractions are spread out. Traveling with kids means cutting down on stops. Choose either Qiao Family Compound or Wang Family Compound. My advice: kids under 10 go to Qiao Family Compound. It’s compact and can be toured in half an hour without tiring. Older kids can visit Wang Family Compound, which is larger and offers stories about architectural ranks and family traditions. Pingyao Ancient City is worth an overnight stay but avoid staying in the city center. Dragging luggage on cobblestones is exhausting. Stay at a guesthouse outside the west gate, a 5-minute walk to the city. Early the next morning, climb the city wall. ⏰ It’s free before 8 AM, with fewer people and strong winds. Kids can run a lap. Mianshan in Jiexiu needs a full day. The mountain roads are many, so it’s not recommended for babies but fine for elementary school kids and up. ⚠️ The Mianshan scenic area bus stops running at 5:30 PM. You must descend before 4 PM. 🍜 Pingyao’s bowl-shaped pancakes and kaolao noodles are popular with kids. Street stalls taste more authentic than big restaurants. 07 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong in August is cooler than Xi’an and drier than Chengdu, making it a comfortable summer retreat. The Shimen plank road must be walked in the morning. The plank road hangs on the cliff of Shimen Reservoir. Below is emerald river water. Kids will be amazed that the path is “built in midair.” The plank road is about 3 kilometers long, flat with no steep slopes. A 6-year-old can finish it alone. For lunch, visit the Ancient Han Platform, which is actually the Hanzhong Museum. It has few exhibits but a quiet courtyard with shade from ancient trees. Kids can feed koi fish in the courtyard. In the afternoon, go to the Han River. Avoid the riverfront plaza. Walk upstream to a wetland park where locals fish and stroll. ⏰ From 6:30 PM to 7 PM, a thin mist rises over the river, and the lights on the opposite bank just come on. It’s the most comfortable time of day. 🍜 Hanzhong’s hot rice noodles with tofu and vegetables are sour, spicy, and fresh. Kids eat the mild spicy version, adults the regular. 08 Huanggang | Hubei Huanggang’s August temperatures differ between the mountains and the city. Luotian Tiantangzhai is windy, with the mountaintop around 20 degrees year-round. The cable car line is long, so arrive before 8 AM. After reaching the summit, don’t rush to the glass plank road. If kids are afraid of heights, take the forest trail nearby. The pine needle-covered path feels soft underfoot. In the afternoon, visit Macheng Guifeng Mountain. There are no azaleas in summer, but it’s less crowded, and the cable car has almost no line. ⏰ The best light is from 3 PM to 5 PM, when the mountain’s turtle-back patterns are especially clear. ⚠️ Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring a disposable raincoat; it’s more practical than an umbrella. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, try the farmhouse hanging pot stew with cured meat, potatoes, and dried green beans. Kids can eat a big bowl with rice. Before heading back to the city, buy some Luotian chestnuts. August is the season for fresh, sweet, and crunchy chestnuts.

🥵 Avoid these pitfalls August in Zhuzhou honestly feels like a "steam room" with ground temperatures often exceeding 50℃. Being outdoors at noon is pure torture. Shennong Valley stays around 18℃ at night. Without a light jacket, the temperature at the mountain top feels like a crash. The guesthouse owner will try to sell you one for 50 yuan—don’t be the sucker. We really don’t recommend buying tickets for the noon session at Fantawild Adventure. Waiting in line under the sun for 2 hours or more will break anyone. The truth is, early session tickets or night tickets after 4 PM are the way to go—Fantawild night tickets cost 93.90 yuan, Dream Kingdom night tickets 69 yuan, both cooler and great for photos. Avoid the unlicensed taxis at Zhuzhou West Station exit asking for 50 yuan to the city. Take bus T60 instead. It costs 2 yuan and goes straight to downtown. The driver might even share some stories with you. What locals call "mildly spicy" is actually very spicy for outsiders. When ordering Youxian dried tofu or Liling stir-fried pork, be sure to say "very very mildly spicy" or you’ll be burning up—don’t say we didn’t warn you. 👗 What to wear August has frequent showers, so a dual-purpose umbrella for sun and rain ☂️ is a must in your bag. For mountain spots like Shennong Valley and Jiuxian Lake, wear slip-resistant sneakers or water shoes. High heels and white sneakers are just asking for trouble—the waterfall stone steps are covered in moss, and one fall will hurt your pride. For sun protection, Shennong Valley rents sun-protective clothing for 10 yuan each. Physical sun protection is unbeatable! When playing in Yunlong Water Park, wear a long-sleeve rash guard. It’s 10 times more effective than sunscreen. The "Escape from Dinosaur Island" ride at Fantawild will definitely get you wet. The park sells raincoats for 20 yuan each, but they’re single-use. It’s better to buy disposable raincoats online in advance for 9.9 yuan with free shipping. 🚄 Transportation guide Out-of-town travelers should prioritize arriving at Zhuzhou West Station by high-speed rail. It takes just 20 minutes from Changsha South Station. City travel relies on the monorail and buses, costing just 2 yuan to get around downtown. It’s convenient to reach the Xiangjiang riverside and Zhongguling shopping district. Driving is most flexible for distant suburbs, but the mountain roads have many curves, so beginners should drive carefully. Distances between counties are long, so don’t try to visit two scenic spots in one day. Shennong Valley, Jiuxian Lake, and Yunshang Dayuan each require at least 2 hours one way by car. Trying to squeeze them in will only exhaust you. To visit Shennong Valley in Yanling, take the high-speed train from Changsha to Yanling Station (about 1.5 hours), then transfer to a direct shuttle. 🍜 Local food Zhuzhou’s summer is a combo of chilled watermelon and spicy feasts 🌶️. Breakfast must include a bowl of Youxian rice noodles with pickled long beans. For main meals, try Youxian blood duck (duck blood wrapped in meat, sour and spicy), Youxian dried tofu, Liling stir-fried pork, and Xiandu sauce duck. July and August are peak season for Yanling yellow peaches. Don’t miss roadside stalls selling 3 jin for 10 yuan. Look for local produce from Miandu and Shidu. Zhongguling night market is the liveliest at night, with Liling fried noodles, stinky tofu, jumping frog, grilled beef fat, and spicy crayfish on the menu. Don’t overdo it at the night market snacks. The 4-yuan watermelon coconut drink and 5-yuan mango sago look cheap but can fill you up fast. 🎯 Must-visit spots Visiting Zhuzhou in August, honestly, pure city tours are a bit dull. Head to the water, caves, and mountains: 🏞️ Shennong Valley National Forest Park: Ticket plus shuttle bus 102 yuan. Average temperature in July is about 23℃. The Pearl Curtain Waterfall area is chilling enough to make you shiver—a true natural air-conditioned room. ⛲ Jiuxian Lake: Ticket plus sightseeing bus and boat 102 yuan. Known as the Little Thousand Islands Lake of Hunan. The Yulin 300-meter zipline flies over the lake. White Dragon Cave stays at 18℃ year-round. 🎢 Zhuzhou Fantawild Adventure: Adult ticket 299 yuan. Two-day ticket (Adventure + Dream Kingdom) 450 yuan. Summer half-price 149 yuan for students aged 15–24 with exam ID. 🏛️ Yan Emperor Mausoleum: Ticket 60 yuan. Red walls, ancient trees, and lotus flowers make for perfect traditional-style photos. Free entry for those over 65 or under 18. 🏺 Liling Ceramic Museum: Free with reservation. The underglaze polychrome porcelain changes color under natural light. The ceramic valley architecture has a cyberpunk vibe. 🎡 Yunlong Water Park: Adult ticket 109 yuan, student ticket 89 yuan. The big funnel and wave pool offer an amazing weightless feeling. Zhuzhou Museum and Liling Ceramic Museum are closed on Mondays, so plan your route accordingly. Booking tickets on Trip.com in advance is cheaper than buying on-site. For popular summer scenic spots, book guesthouses at least 3–5 days ahead to avoid price hikes and no availability.

Everyone says only popular cities are worth visiting, but I don’t buy it. Some places have unfamiliar names, yet their scenery and food are surprisingly impressive. These eight cities are on my personal hidden list. If you’ve been to half of them, you’ll understand why I say this. 01 Guangyuan | Sichuan I really admire Jianmen Pass. Don’t just listen to the legend of “one man guarding the pass.” You have to stand on the gate tower yourself, see the cliffs on both sides split as if cut by a knife, feel the wind rushing through the narrow pass making your clothes flutter, and then you’ll understand what “Shu Road is hard” really means. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM to catch the mist and fewer people on the plank road, so you can hear your footsteps echoing in the canyon. I took the cable car up and walked down. On the bird trail going down, I held onto the iron chains and stepped on narrow stone stairs. My calves trembled, but when I looked down at the village and terraced fields below, it felt worth it. ⚠️ If you’re afraid of heights, don’t force it. Take the nearby detour trail instead. The views are just as good, and safety comes first. There are few shops in the scenic area, so bring a bottle of water. Don’t count on buying anything along the way. 02 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo feels like a treasure hidden in the Qinling Mountains. The water in Jinshixia is emerald green. Walking along the canyon, there’s a pool every three steps and a waterfall every five. The sound of water drowns out all distractions. I squatted by a pool to wash my face, and the coolness ran from my fingertips to the back of my head, instantly waking me up. Tianshu Gorge is quieter. The patterns on the cliff look like writing. If you stare at them, you can zone out for half an hour. Manchuan Pass ancient town is small but full of life. I bought a freshly baked walnut cake on the old street. It was so crispy it crumbled in my mouth, filled with walnut aroma. Baita Temple is tucked in a mountain hollow. It’s not crowded, which makes it peaceful. Sitting under the ancient pagoda listening to wind chimes, time seems to slow down. 🍜 The local sauerkraut noodles are worth trying. The sour and spicy flavor is appetizing. After a long walk, a bowl will revive you. 🚄 These spots are a bit far apart. Driving yourself is easiest. Trying to see them all in one day is rushed. Splitting into two days is more comfortable. 03 Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Ili’s summer is the kind of color that makes you forget your phone. On the Kalajun grassland, the grass is so green it looks oiled. Cattle and sheep scatter on the slopes, clouds cast shadows on the ground, and you just want to lie down and watch time pass. I rode a horse for two hours. My backside hurt from the bumps, but when I reached a high point and saw where the snow mountains met the grassland, it was worth it. Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley is best visited in April when wild apricot flowers cover the hills in pink and white. When the wind blows, petals fall all over you. Gongnaisi grassland is better for camping. At night, the stars are so dense it’s scary, and the Milky Way hangs right overhead. ⚠️ The grassland has big temperature swings. Wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. 📍 In Nalati town, there’s a Kazakh milk tea that’s salty. It’s best paired with baursak, filling and warming you up. 04 Weifang | Shandong What surprised me most in Weifang wasn’t the kites but Qingzhou ancient city. This city has a steady, old-fashioned vibe. The city walls are old, the stone roads polished shiny, and old shops along the street sell Longsheng pastries and Qingzhou peaches. I arrived at 3 PM. The sunlight turned the walls a warm orange, and the shadows stretched long. Walking the streets felt like stepping back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. ⏰ After 5 PM, the light is perfect for photos. The ancient city is free to enter, but some small attractions inside require separate tickets. I don’t think it’s necessary to visit them all. Just pick Ouyuan Garden for a stroll. 🍜 Lao Huaishu fried buns are a must-try. Fresh from the pan, the bottoms are crispy, and the meat filling is juicy. Be careful not to burn your mouth. ⚠️ Holidays get crowded. To get empty shots, come early. I arrived at 8:30 AM, and the streets were still quiet. 05 Xilingol League | Inner Mongolia Ulagai grassland is the closest place I’ve seen to the “vast sky and boundless plains.” Looking out the car window, the sea of grass stretches to the horizon. The road is a black line cutting straight into the skyline. I hired a car with a local Mongolian driver who played long songs along the way. Occasionally, a herd of horses passed by, their manes fluttering in the wind. 📍 I recommend staying deep in the grassland at a herder’s home in a yurt. At night, gather around the fire to eat hand-pulled meat. The aroma of meat mixed with firewood fills the air. Outside, the wind howls, but inside, it’s warm and comforting. ⚠️ Signal is weak on the grassland. Download offline maps in advance and avoid going too far off the beaten path. ⏰ The grass is greenest in July and August. By September, it turns yellow. Come early if you want to see green. 06 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian’s sea is different from the southern coast. The reefs at Jinshitan are golden yellow. At sunset, the entire coastline glows gold. Waves crash on the rocks, splashing white foam. I walked three kilometers along the coastal boardwalk. The wind was so strong my hat almost flew off, but the sea view was expansive. Laohutan Ocean Park is great for kids. I didn’t go in, but the seagulls at the entrance aren’t afraid of people. They flock around if you tease them with bread crumbs. Tangli Lake Park is quiet, a local spot for walks. Willow trees shade the lakeside. When tired, sit on a bench and watch the light shimmer on the water. It’s very relaxing. Xinghai Square is best at night when the lights come on. The sea breeze makes it pleasant. 🍜 I recommend eating seafood near Heishijiao. It’s half the price of the scenic area. Spicy stir-fried clams with cold beer is amazing. 🚄 Public buses are convenient in the city, but Jinshitan is far. Take the light rail line 3 directly there. 07 Taizhou | Zhejiang Taizhou has both mountains and sea. Tiantai Mountain is peaceful and spiritual. The water from Shiliang Waterfall crashes down from dozens of meters, spraying a cool mist. I climbed to Huading Temple and sat under an ancient pine, listening to the wind rustling through bamboo. My mind instantly calmed. ⏰ Visit after rain for the fullest waterfall and most impressive flow. In Taizhou’s old city scenic area, Ziyang Street is the highlight. The bluestone road is lined with old shops selling egg white lamb tail, wheat shrimp, and food rolls. Try them all—you’ll need a bigger stomach. The hanging plank road at Shenxianju is built on a cliff. Walking on it, you see the abyss below. If you’re nervous, hold the rock wall and move slowly. The view is truly vast, with mountains spreading out like an ink painting. ⚠️ Hiking is tiring. Wear non-slip shoes. Don’t wear sandals. 08 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou’s must-visit is the Yan Emperor Mausoleum. It’s different from other tombs. It doesn’t feel oppressive but more like a large park. Ancient trees tower overhead, shading the paths. Walking on the sacred way, you naturally slow your steps. I happened upon a ritual ceremony with bells and drums ringing and incense smoke curling. Watching people in traditional dress bowing made history feel close. 🍜 After the scenic area, find a small shop in town to try Youxian dried tofu. It’s spicy and satisfying. Paired with rice, you won’t stop eating even sweating. 📍 The Meishui River is nearby. Take an evening walk along the river. The water reflects the sunset, and the cool breeze is perfect for digestion. ⚠️ The scenic area is lush and green. Mosquitoes are fierce in summer. Remember to bring insect repellent. None of these eight cities compete on popular lists, but each hides a corner that stays in your heart. Do you have a city you secretly love? Share in the comments. Maybe next time I’ll visit it for you.

Zero-Negative-Review Cities: Worth Visiting 3! NO.1 Qingdao | Shandong In Qingdao, my advice is simple: don't overschedule. Sleep in before heading out. Go to Zhanqiao Pier first in the morning, but avoid the pier. 📍 The beach west of Zhanqiao Pier is half the size, offering views of Huilan Pavilion and flocks of seagulls—much more comfortable than taking tourist photos on the pier. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the tide is low, allowing you to walk further. Dedicate the afternoon to Laoshan Mountain. Don't try to do too much; just choose the Yangkou Scenic Area route. Take the cable car up and hike down; it takes about two hours, offering classic panoramic views of the sea and sky. ⚠️ Ignore any unlicensed guides trying to get you to take a ride at the foot of the mountain. The official scenic area bus costs only ten yuan to get you to the entrance. Return to the city center in the evening and head to the Olympic Sailing Center. The sailing marina at sunset is brightly lit, and the sea breeze is pleasantly cool. Take a stroll along Lover's Dam, find a bench to sit on—it's more worthwhile than queuing for trendy restaurants. 🍜 In the evening, find a small restaurant in the old town, order a plate of spicy stir-fried clams and some draft beer, and you'll be stuffed for about 50 yuan per person. The joy of Qingdao isn't really in the tourist attractions. NO.2 Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan City, I advise you not to just focus on the main peak of Huangshan. The ancient villages of Huizhou are the true soul of this land. Hongcun and Xidi—if you only have one day, choose Hongcun. The reflections in Moon Pond at dawn are worth getting up at 6:30 am. 📍 The stone bridge next to Nanhu Academy is the best spot for portrait photography; with the water and distant mountains as the background, no filter is needed. ⏰ After 4:30 pm, when the tourists leave, Hongcun reveals its true beauty. If you prefer quiet, go to Chengkan. Smaller than Hongcun, but more pristine. Elderly villagers sit at the alleyway entrance weaving bamboo baskets. If you ask for directions, they'll put down their work, stand up, and point you to the end of the alley. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is actually a cluster of scattered villages. The Tangyue Memorial Archway Group and Tangmo are close together and can be visited in half a day. ⚠️ There are electric carts being sold at the entrance of the archway group; don't take them, it's only a ten-minute walk. For Huangshan Scenic Area, it's recommended to take the cable car up and hike down, only hiking the West Sea Grand Canyon section. Those with average physical fitness shouldn't attempt the entire route. Your legs will be shaking for three days after descending, ruining the rest of your trip. NO.3 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Dali isn't for taking photos; it's for relaxing. The more you rush, the more ordinary it seems. For Erhai Lake, don't just circle the lake. Find an afternoon, rent an electric scooter, and ride to Xizhou Ancient Town for a stop. 📍 The corner towers and rice paddies of Xizhou are much more captivating than those trendy glass dolls along the roadside. ⏰ The rice turns golden from late September to mid-October. Visiting at other times will allow you to see the green rice paddies, which are also beautiful. For the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, I recommend visiting in the morning. The sunlight shines from the east, reflecting the pagodas in the pond, creating the most classic angle of the entire scenic area. ⚠️ The "package ticket" sold at the entrance includes an electric cart, but it's only a ten-minute walk to the pagodas, so don't waste your money. Nanzhao Folk Island is suitable for families with elderly people and children. The boat ride is short, the island's paths are flat, and a complete loop takes about forty minutes. Standing on the island overlooking Erhai Lake, the wind is strong, but the view is extremely expansive. 🍜 In the evening, return to the old town and find a Bai ethnic restaurant on Renmin Road. Order spicy and sour fish and milk fan (a type of cheese). Don't order too much; the portions are larger than you expect. NO.4 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is the kind of place that makes you wonder, "Why isn't it more popular yet?" It lacks the hustle and bustle of Lijiang, preserving the relaxed atmosphere typical of Sichuan ancient cities. Staying overnight is a must. As evening falls and the tourists disperse, the lanterns light up, and the ancient city truly begins to breathe. 📍 Zhongtian Tower is the highest point in the ancient city. For ten yuan, you can climb the tower and see the entire expanse of green-tiled rooftops. ⏰ After 8 pm, the shops downstairs close, and it's so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. During the day, stroll along the Jialing River. The mountains on the opposite bank and the ancient city face each other across the river, creating a clean and serene scene. ⚠️ Don't buy "Zhang Fei Beef" in the ancient city; it's twice as expensive as outside, but the taste is just as good. 🍜 For breakfast, head to the market area outside the ancient city and find a beef noodle shop with a long queue of locals. A bowl of noodles with a braised egg costs eight yuan, and it's much tastier than any place in the tourist area. NO.5 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan has been underestimated for too long. It's not a trendy tourist destination, but every place there is truly worthwhile. The Jinci Museum is, in my opinion, the most worthwhile place to visit in Taiyuan. The Song Dynasty painted sculptures in the Holy Mother Hall instantly convey the meaning of "living cultural relics." ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens in the morning. There are fewer people, and the sunlight shines obliquely on the Fish Pond Bridge in front of the hall. The tranquility is something you can't experience during the midday crowds. ⚠️ There's a newly built "Jinci Park" outside Jinci. It's free, but not very interesting. Just walk through it to reach the actual museum entrance. Tianlong Mountain is suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The grottoes aren't large, but their rugged location is a major advantage. A mountain breeze will invigorate you. 📍 The platform at the top of the mountain offers panoramic views of Taiyuan city, with excellent visibility on a clear day. The round trip takes about three hours; remember to wear non-slip shoes. Jinyang Lake Park is best visited in the evening. I happened to catch the sunset that day, and the lake was dyed orange-red. In the distance, you could see people jogging, walking their dogs, and flying kites—the gentle beauty of the entire city was concentrated here. ⚠️ There are tandem bicycles for rent at the park entrance, but the cycling path and walking path are mixed, making the experience less than ideal; walking is better. NO.6 Zhuzhou|Hunan Zhuzhou isn't a tourist city, but the Yan Emperor Mausoleum is worth a special trip. It's not in the city center, but in Yanling County. After taking the high-speed train to Zhuzhou West Station, it's another hour and a half drive. 📍 I recommend hiring a car directly; a round trip costs around 400-500 yuan, which isn't expensive if split among four people. The mausoleum area is large, but the core is the sacrificial hall and the tombs behind it. The murals and reliefs in the main hall are rich in detail and worth taking your time to appreciate. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM when the sunlight shines directly on the square in front of the hall, making the building outlines exceptionally clear. The light becomes flatter in the afternoon. ⚠️ There are stalls selling "blessed souvenirs" at the entrance of the scenic area; the prices are inflated, so don't buy them. What's truly worth taking home is the Yanling yellow peach from a nearby shop; visit in July and August, and they're incredibly sweet. 🍜 For lunch, eat near the scenic area. I recommend the braised pork belly with preserved vegetables and the blood duck; both are local farm-style dishes, with generous portions, and cost around 30 RMB per person. NO.7 Guilin|Guangxi The beauty of Guilin can only be truly appreciated by avoiding the crowds. Xingping Ancient Town is the starting point of the most scenic section of the Li River. 📍 The mountain on the Li River featured on the 20 RMB note appears completely black in photos taken after 3 PM due to backlighting. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM for the soft light and a light mist over the river – that's when it's most beautiful. Longji Rice Terraces are a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Guilin city. ⚠️ Don't do a day trip; it's too rushed. Stay overnight and get up early the next morning to see the sea of ​​clouds. Ping'an Village has the largest terraces, while Jinkeng Village has a higher viewing platform. For first-timers, Ping'an Village is sufficient. September, when the rice turns golden, is the most spectacular season. Reed Flute Cave is best visited in the afternoon. It's cool inside, especially comfortable in summer. A guided tour is available, taking about forty minutes. 📍 The "Crystal Palace" inside the cave is the largest space, with stunning lighting effects; even your phone can capture professional-looking photos. Yuntai Mountain in the city shouldn't be expected to be amazing. It's essentially a city park, but its advantage lies in its proximity to the city center. A twenty-minute hike in the evening offers panoramic views of Guilin from the summit, and it's free. NO.8 Bijie | Guizhou Bijie is a place I've kept hidden away for a long time, both afraid it will become too popular and feeling it deserves it. Zhijin Cave is the most breathtaking karst cave I've ever seen, bar none. The interior is as vast as an underground palace; the widest hall could fit several buildings. The entire walk takes two hours, and you'll constantly look up in awe, until your neck aches. ⏰ Enter the cave around 10 am for the best lighting and to see the stalagmite patterns most clearly. ⚠️ The cave maintains a constant temperature year-round; even in summer, bring a light jacket. The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is only worth visiting during its blooming season. From late March to mid-April each year, the mountainsides are ablaze with rhododendrons, ranging from light pink to deep purple, a breathtaking display of color. 📍 Visit the Pudi Scenic Area and Jinpo Scenic Area together; the "Soma Flower Sea" in Jinpo is the most photogenic spot of the entire trip. ⚠️ Once the flowers are past their blooming season, the scenic spots aren't very interesting anymore, so be sure to check the flower information before you go. 🍜 The snacks in Bijie city surprised me. In the evening, I went to the night market in Qixingguan District, and had hot pot with sour soup rice – we ate until we were stuffed for about 30 yuan per person. Guizhou's spiciness is fragrant, not dry, so it's palatable even for people from other regions. I've been to each of these eight cities more than once. If I had to pick the most worthwhile, Qingdao, Langzhong, and Bijie would be my top three. How many have you been to? Let's chat in the comments. A list of cities with zero negative reviews – if you've been to 3, it's worth it! NO.1 Qingdao | Shandong In Qingdao, my advice is simple: don't overschedule your trip, sleep in until you naturally wake up before heading out. Go to Zhanqiao Pier first in the morning, but avoid the crowds on the bridge. 📍 The beach on the west side of Zhanqiao Pier is half the size, and you can see Huilan Pavilion and flocks of seagulls – much more comfortable than taking tourist photos on the bridge. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the tide is low, allowing you to explore further. Dedicate the afternoon to Laoshan Mountain. Don't try to do too much; just choose the Yangkou Scenic Area route. Take the cable car up and hike down; it takes about two hours, offering classic panoramic views of the sea and sky. ⚠️ Ignore any unlicensed guides trying to take you to their vehicles at the foot of the mountain. The official scenic area bus costs only ten yuan to reach the entrance. Return to the city center in the evening and visit the Olympic Sailing Center. The sailing marina is brightly lit at sunset, and the sea breeze is pleasant. Take a walk along Lover's Dam, find a bench to sit on—it's more worthwhile than queuing for trendy restaurants. 🍜 In the evening, find a small restaurant in the old town, order a plate of spicy stir-fried clams and some draft beer, and you'll be stuffed for about fifty yuan per person. The true joy of Qingdao isn't in the tourist attractions. NO.2 Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan City: I advise you not to just focus on the main peak of Huangshan. The ancient villages of Huizhou are the true soul of this land. Between Hongcun and Xidi, if you only have one day, choose Hongcun. The reflections in Moon Pond at dawn are worth getting up at 6:30 am. 📍 The stone bridge next to Nanhu Academy is the best spot for portrait photography; with the water and distant mountains as the background, no filter is needed. ⏰ After 4:30 pm, when the tourists leave, Hongcun reveals its true beauty. If you prefer tranquility, go to Chengkan. Smaller than Hongcun, but more pristine. Elderly villagers sit at the alley entrance weaving bamboo baskets; if you ask for directions, they will put down their work and stand up to point you to the end of the alley. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is actually a cluster of scattered villages. Tangyue Archway Group and Tangmo are close together and can be visited in half a day. ⚠️ There are electric carts being sold at the entrance of the archway group; don't take them, it's only a ten-minute walk. For Huangshan Scenic Area, it's recommended to take the cable car up and hike down, only exploring the West Sea Grand Canyon section. For those with average physical fitness, don't attempt the entire route. Your legs will tremble for three days after descending the mountain, ruining the rest of your trip. NO.3 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Dali isn't for taking photos; it's for relaxing and unwinding. The more rushed you are, the more ordinary it seems. Erhai Lake: Don't just circle the lake. Spend an afternoon renting an electric scooter and stopping at Xizhou Ancient Town. 📍 The corner towers and rice paddies of Xizhou are far more captivating than those trendy glass domes along the roadside. ⏰ The rice turns golden from late September to mid-October. Going at other times allows you to see the green rice paddies, which are also beautiful. The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are best visited in the morning. The sunlight shines from the east, reflecting the pagodas in the pond, creating the most classic angle of the entire scenic area. ⚠️ The "package ticket" sold at the entrance includes an electric scooter, but it's only a ten-minute walk to the pagodas. Don't waste your money. Nanzhao Folk Island is suitable for families with elderly people and children. The boat trip is short, the island's roads are flat, and a complete loop takes about 40 minutes. Standing on the island overlooking Erhai Lake, the wind is strong, but the view is extremely expansive. 🍜 In the evening, return to the ancient city and find a Bai ethnic restaurant on Renmin Road. Order spicy and sour fish and milk fan (a type of cheese). Don't order too much; the portions are larger than you expect. NO.4 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City is the kind of place that makes you wonder, "Why isn't it more popular yet?" It lacks the hustle and bustle of Lijiang, preserving the relaxed atmosphere typical of Sichuan ancient cities. Staying overnight is a must. As the tourists disperse in the evening and the lanterns light up, the ancient city truly begins to breathe. 📍 Zhongtian Tower is the highest point in the ancient city. For ten yuan, you can climb the tower and see the entire expanse of green-tiled rooftops. ⏰ After 8 pm, the shops downstairs close, and it's so quiet you can hear your own footsteps. During the day, stroll along the Jialing River. The mountains and the ancient city on the opposite bank offer a clean and picturesque view. ⚠️ Don't buy "Zhang Fei Beef" inside the ancient city; it's twice as expensive, but the taste is just as good. 🍜 For breakfast, go to the area near the market outside the ancient city and find a beef noodle shop with a long queue of locals. A bowl of noodles with a braised egg costs eight yuan, and it's much tastier than any place in the tourist area. NO.5 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan has been underestimated for too long. It's not a trendy tourist destination, but every place there is truly exceptional. The Jinci Museum is, in my opinion, the most worthwhile place to visit in Taiyuan. The Song Dynasty painted sculptures in the Shengmu Hall instantly convey the meaning of "living cultural relics." ⏰ Go in as soon as it opens in the morning. There are fewer people, and the sunlight shines obliquely on the Fish Pond Flying Bridge in front of the hall. The tranquility there is something you can't experience during the midday crowds. ⚠️ There's a newly built "Jinci Park" outside Jinci Temple. It's free but not very interesting; just walk through it to the actual museum entrance. Tianlong Mountain is suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The grottoes aren't large, but their rugged location and the mountain breeze are invigorating. 📍 The platform at the summit offers panoramic views of Taiyuan city; on a clear day, visibility is excellent. The round trip takes about three hours; remember to wear non-slip shoes. Jinyang Lake Park is best visited in the evening. I happened to catch the sunset; the lake was dyed orange-red, and in the distance, you could see joggers, dog walkers, and kite flyers—the gentle beauty of the entire city was concentrated here. ⚠️ There are tandem bicycles for rent at the park entrance, but the cycling path and walking path are mixed together, making the experience less than ideal; walking is better. NO.6 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou isn't a tourist city, but the Yandi Mausoleum is worth a special trip. It's not in the city center, but in Yanling County. After taking the high-speed train to Zhuzhou West Station, it's another hour and a half drive. 📍 It's recommended to hire a car directly. A round trip costs around 400-500 yuan, which isn't expensive if split among four people. The mausoleum area is large, but the core is the main sacrificial hall and the tombs behind it. The murals and reliefs in the hall are rich in detail and worth taking your time to appreciate. ⏰ Arrive before 10 am, when the sunlight shines directly on the square in front of the hall, making the building outlines particularly clear. The light becomes flatter in the afternoon. ⚠️ There are stalls selling "blessed souvenirs" at the entrance of the scenic area; the prices are inflated, so don't buy them. What's truly worth taking home is the Yanling yellow peach from a nearby shop; go in July and August, and they're incredibly sweet. 🍜 For lunch, eat near the scenic area. I recommend the braised pork belly with preserved vegetables and the blood duck; both are local farm-style dishes, with generous portions, and cost around 30 yuan per person. No. 7 Guilin | Guangxi Guilin's beauty can only be truly appreciated by avoiding the crowds. Xingping Ancient Town marks the starting point of the most scenic section of the Li River. 📍 The mountain featured on the 20 RMB note along the Li River will appear completely black in photos taken after 3 PM due to backlighting. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM for softer lighting and a light mist over the river – that's when it's most beautiful. Longji Rice Terraces are a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Guilin city. ⚠️ Don't do a day trip; it's too rushed. Stay overnight and get up early the next morning to see the sea of ​​clouds. Ping'an Village has the largest terraces, while Jinkeng Village offers a higher viewing platform. For first-timers, Ping'an Village is sufficient. September, when the rice turns golden, is the most spectacular time of year. Reed Flute Cave is best visited in the afternoon; the cave is cool, especially pleasant in summer. A guided tour is available for about 40 minutes. 📍 The "Crystal Palace" inside the cave is the largest space, and the lighting effects are stunning; even your phone can take amazing photos. Don't have too high expectations for Yuntai Mountain in the city. It's basically a city park, its advantage being its proximity to the city center. A 20-minute hike in the evening offers panoramic views of Guilin from the summit, and it's free. NO.8 Bijie | Guizhou Bijie is a place I've kept hidden away for a long time, both afraid it will become too popular and feeling it deserves it. Zhijin Cave is the most breathtaking karst cave I've ever seen, bar none. The interior is as vast as an underground palace; the widest hall could fit several buildings. The entire walk takes two hours, and you'll constantly be looking up in awe, until your neck aches. ⏰ Enter the cave around 10 am for the best lighting and to see the stalagmite patterns most clearly. ⚠️ The cave maintains a constant temperature year-round; even in summer, bring a light jacket. The Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is only worth visiting during its blooming season. From late March to mid-April each year, the mountainsides are ablaze with rhododendrons, ranging from light pink to deep purple, a breathtaking spectacle. 📍 Visiting the Pudi and Jinpo scenic areas together is recommended, with Jinpo's "Soma Flower Sea" being the most photogenic spot. ⚠️ Once the blooming season is over, the scenic areas become less appealing; be sure to check the flower information beforehand. 🍜 The snacks in Bijie city surprised me. At the night market in Qixingguan District, we had hot pot with sour soup rice, and ate until we were stuffed for about 30 yuan per person. Guizhou's spiciness is fragrant, not dry, making it palatable even for outsiders. I've visited each of these eight cities more than once. If I had to pick the most worthwhile, Qingdao, Langzhong, and Bijie would be my top three. How many have you visited? Let's chat in the comments!

Don’t want to travel far on the weekend? These four cities are just 1–3 hours away by high-speed train, offering rich culture and beautiful landscapes—perfect for a short trip🌿 Trip highlights✨ Zhuzhou: Shennong Valley admission is 80 yuan, with cool mountain streams for summer relief. Yan Emperor’s Mausoleum admission is 62 yuan, where you can experience ancient farming culture. Zhongguling night market is free to explore, full of lively city vibes. Changde: Liuyue Lake is free, great for a relaxing bike ride around the lake. Taohuayuan Scenic Area admission is 128 yuan, with a full countryside atmosphere. Daxiaohe Street is free, and the night lights make for great photos. Yueyang: Yueyang Tower admission is 70 yuan, climb the tower to overlook the vast Dongting Lake. Junshan Island combo ticket is 80 yuan, a small island by Dongting Lake. Zhangguying Ancient Village admission is 45 yuan, featuring Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Pingxiang: Wugong Mountain admission is 70 yuan, enjoy alpine meadows and sunset cloud seas. Nielong Cave admission is 60 yuan, a constant-temperature cave perfect for summer cooling. Anyuan Memorial Hall is free, offering a glimpse into red culture. Itinerary plan for a 2–3 day short trip. Day 1: Arrive by high-speed train, check out free city spots, visit the night market and try local snacks. Day 2: Explore the main attractions, choose between natural scenery or ancient villages, no rush. Day 3: Visit remaining spots, buy souvenirs, then head back. Food recommendations😋 Zhuzhou: Zhongguling night market snacks like shaved jelly and grilled beef fat, about 30 yuan per person. Changde: Changde rice noodles cost 8–12 yuan, sauce-marinated duck makes a great souvenir, local restaurants average 45 yuan per person. Yueyang: Yueyang barbecue and marinated snacks, about 40 yuan per person, fresh Dongting fish is worth trying. Pingxiang: Lotus blood duck, Pingxiang stir-fried pork, farmhouse restaurants average 50 yuan per person, fresh and spicy flavors. Travel tips💡 High-speed trains are very convenient, with most city trips taking 1–3 hours. Budget hotels cost 130–240 yuan per night; booking in advance is recommended for weekends. Climbing Wugong Mountain requires good stamina; wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection and rain gear. Temperature varies greatly in caves and mountain areas, so carry a light jacket. Most memorial halls and museums are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Compare prices around attractions and prioritize local favorite shops. No need for long-distance travel—unlock new scenery on the weekend, enjoy great food and beautiful landscapes, and feel the joy of a short trip.

01 Jiaozuo | Henan In summer, Jiaozuo's true trump card is Yuntai Mountain. Don't associate Jiaozuo with coal mines; the steam rising from Hongshixia Gorge makes the perceived temperature five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city. ⏰ Head to Hongshixia Gorge at 8 AM. The boardwalks haven't been taken over by tour groups yet. The sound of the waterfall drowns out all other noises, and the moment the water splashes on your face, you'll feel like air conditioning is unnecessary. After walking through the gorge, don't rush off. Take the scenic shuttle bus to Zhuyu Peak. At an altitude of 1300 meters, the wind will make you need to dig your jacket out of your bag. In the afternoon, head to Qingtian River. Take a boat trip through the gorge; the water reflects a green light, and the trees on both banks completely block the sun, making the boat a natural fan. Shennong Mountain is more suitable for those who enjoy climbing stairs. The boardwalk on Baisongling is suspended on the cliff face, with a bottomless abyss below. The wind is strong enough to instantly dry your sweat. ⚠️ Remember, rain in the mountains can come suddenly; a light raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. For accommodation, choose the riverside service area; it's close to the scenic area entrance. In the evening, grab a bowl of Henan-style braised noodles—about 30 yuan per person, and you'll be stuffed. 🚄 The high-speed train from Zhengzhou East Station to Jiaozuo only takes 40 minutes; two days on a weekend are enough to visit all three places. 02 Zhuzhou|Hunan In Zhuzhou's summer, to escape the heat, head south to Yanling County. The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum itself isn't a mountain, but the entire scenic area is enveloped by ancient trees. Camphor and cypress trees filter the sunlight into fragments, making it almost completely shaded while walking along the sacred path. ⏰ Entering after 3 PM is the most comfortable; the light slants through the treetops, creating stunning photos of the red walls and yellow tiles in the shadows. The sacrificial square in front of the hall is spacious, but don't just stand there. Go around to the stele forest on the back mountain; it's less crowded there, and the sound of the wind whistling through the cracks in the rocks is quieter than any guided tour. 🍜 Don't rush off afterward; the Hakka stuffed tofu and mugwort cakes in the county town are worth saving for dinner. ⚠️ The Yandi Mausoleum is closed Monday mornings, so don't make a wasted trip. If you want to fill your weekend, you can visit Shennong Valley National Forest Park, which is only a half-hour drive from the Yandi Mausoleum. The mist from the waterfalls will refresh you. However, my advice is not to overdo it. A visit to the Yandi Mausoleum plus a Hakka meal is already the greatest respect you can show to summer. There's not much to avoid in Zhuzhou city itself; it gets like a sauna when it gets hot. So don't waste time in the city; take the high-speed train directly to Yanling Station, and it's a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. 03 Jining | Shandong I'll divide Jining's summer into two parts: Qufu and Weishan Lake. The three Confucian sites in Qufu's Ming Dynasty city owe their success to the shade of the trees. The centuries-old cypress trees in the Confucius Temple intertwine their branches, leaving only fragments of the sky. Walking along the paths, your feet are on cool stone slabs, and your head is covered in dense greenery. ⏰ Enter as soon as the gates open at 7 AM, before the tour groups arrive; the breeze in front of the Dacheng Hall is clean. The Confucius Mansion's back garden is less crowded; sitting on the stone benches by the artificial hill, you can hear the cicadas chirping but it's not noisy. The Confucius Cemetery is larger, but my advice is not to walk the entire way. Take an electric cart to the vicinity of Confucius's tomb; that section has the densest trees and the coolest breeze. Dedicate the other half of the day to Weishan Lake. In summer, Weishan Lake isn't just about the lake itself, but about the lotus flowers. When the lotus flowers bloom across the vast expanse, boats glide through the reeds, flanked by lotus leaves taller than a person. As the boats pass, the mist mingles with the fragrance of lotus blossoms. 🍜 The lakeside fishing village experience is worth trying: stewed mixed fish, stir-fried lotus root, and salted duck eggs, all freshly caught from the lake. ⚠️ Remember to bargain for a boat ride; there's a significant price difference between chartering a boat and sharing one. 🚄 High-speed rail directly from Qufu East Station. Driving between Qufu and Weishan Lake takes about an hour and a half, making a two-day, one-night trip perfect. 04 Quzhou|Zhejiang Quzhou's summer is underestimated. Kaihua Root Palace Buddhist Kingdom sounds like a solemn place, but once inside, you'll find it's actually a huge garden. Over 500 root-carved Buddha statues are scattered throughout the various halls, but the garden itself is truly cool. Waterside pavilions, corridors, and artificial hills filter out the heat layer by layer. ⏰ Enter the garden after 4 PM. The light comes from the west, making the root carvings appear particularly three-dimensional. There are also fewer people, allowing for a leisurely appreciation. Jianglang Mountain·Eighteen Capitals is more suitable for those with good stamina. The three-slab stone of Jianglang Mountain is a landmark, but don't rush to the summit immediately. First, walk along the eighteen bends at the foot of the mountain. The stream flows along the steps; take off your shoes and step in—the cool air will rise from your feet. Reaching the "One Line Sky" section, the wind blew in through the cracks in the rocks, instantly drying the sweat. Ershibadu is at the foot of the mountain, an ancient town, but much quieter than Wuzhen or Xitang. Sitting in the courtyard of an old house, drinking a bowl of mung bean soup, listening to the rain pattering on the banana leaves, an afternoon would pass by in a flash. ⚠️ Jianglang Mountain is closed on rainy days; check the weather forecast before you go. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Quzhou Station to Kaihua. Jianglang Mountain is in Jiangshan, about 40 minutes from Quzhou. 05 Yingtan|Jiangxi In Yingtan's summer, Longhu Mountain is the only answer. But my advice is, don't just focus on the hanging coffin performances and coffin-raising ceremonies; those are for tour groups. The real coolness comes from the bamboo rafts on the Luxi River. ⏰ Arrive at the Shangqing Town pier before 8 am; the raft operators haven't started taking big orders yet, and the river is so quiet you can hear the water. Bamboo rafts drifted downstream, the Danxia landforms on both banks blocking most of the sun. Water vapor rose from the river, much more comfortable than air conditioning. The whole trip took an hour and a half. After disembarking, we arrived at Zhengyi Temple, where the ancient well water was drinkable—icy cold and sweet. In the afternoon, we went to the Mosquito-Free Village. The name wasn't for nothing; there really were no mosquitoes. We sat under a camphor tree at the village entrance and dozed off, the wind rustling through the bamboo forest—better than a nap in the hotel. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Tianshi Chestnuts" at the scenic area entrance; they're expensive and not tasty. A large bag costs only five yuan at the town's market. 🍜 Shangqing Tofu is a must-try; it's so tender you can scoop it with a spoon. Pair it with a bowl of chestnut braised chicken, and two people can eat their fill for eighty yuan. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Yingtan North Station to the Longhushan Visitor Center. 06 Mianyang|Sichuan In Mianyang's summer, Beichuan Qiang City is a special place. It's not a traditional summer resort, but the wind changes as you ascend the altitude. The entire tourist area is built in a valley, surrounded by oak forests. After 3 PM, the forest breeze carries the coolness of the vegetation, and sitting on the stone steps under the watchtowers, your sweat will naturally dry. ⏰ At 6 PM, the setting sun bathes the watchtowers of the Qiang village in gold. Most tourists have left, and the village is so quiet you can hear the stream. 🍜 Qiang-style cured meat and cornmeal dumplings are standard fare. The farmhouses in the village cost around 40 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry at the entrance of the scenic area; it's hard to tell if it's real or fake. Go to the old shops in town if you want to buy some. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, Beichuan Qiang City is much easier than Jiuzhaigou. The entire route is flat, with no climbing required. When you get tired, find a teahouse to sit down; a bowl of covered tea costs 10 yuan and you can sit there for an afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Mianyang Station, perfect for a leisurely weekend visit. 07 Baishan | Jilin In Baishan, summer has only one main attraction: Changbai Mountain. But let me clarify, Changbai Mountain isn't just one mountain; it's an entire summer resort system. ⏰ Arrive at 6 AM. The mist over Tianchi Lake hasn't risen yet; the clouds are reflected on the water. The wind is biting, so a windproof jacket is a must. After seeing Tianchi Lake, don't rush down. Walk along the boardwalk through the underground forest, a two-kilometer stretch. The trees completely block out the sky, leaving only a sliver of light. Soft moss carpets your feet, and the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. In the afternoon, go to Changbai Waterfall. Don't just stand on the viewing platform taking pictures; walk down the steps. The spray is more effective than any humidifier. 🍜 In Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain, Korean cold noodles are a must-try. The soup is icy, and the noodles are buckwheat. One bowl will make you feel completely refreshed. ⚠️ Whether you can see Tianchi Lake is entirely up to luck, so don't have high expectations. But even with fog, the scenery below is worth the ticket price. 🚄 High-speed rail directly connects to Changbaishan Station. There are many accommodations in the town, and you can find a clean place for around 100 RMB per person. 08 Baoding|Hebei I'll break down Baoding's summer by region. Baishi Mountain is a true hardcore summer retreat. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, the wind on the glass walkway at the summit is so strong it can blow your hat off, and the perceived temperature drops directly to below 20 degrees Celsius. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid the cable car queue. The entire loop takes about four hours, and the sea of ​​clouds on the mountain is ten times more spectacular than what you see from below. Yesanpo is better for water activities. The streams in Bailixia follow the canyon, and the water is shallow enough to wade in. Kids can play with water guns all afternoon. However, my suggestion is not to stay in Yesanpo; after visiting Yesanpo, go directly to the Western Qing Tombs. Summer at the Western Qing Tombs offers a different kind of coolness. Ancient pine forests provide ample shade, and walking along the sacred path, you're surrounded by pebbles and centuries-old pine branches. The wind whistles through the trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere more peaceful than any other scenic spot. 🍜 The lotus flowers in Baiyangdian Lake in Anxin are in bloom. Take a boat into the lake; the lotus leaves are taller than a person. The boatman will casually pick a lotus seed pod for you—fresh and sweet. ⚠️ Negotiate the boat fare for Baiyangdian Lake in advance. Ask whether it's charged by the hour or by the route before boarding. 🚄 A taxi from Baoding Station to Baishi Mountain takes about an hour and a half. The Western Qing Tombs are in Yi County, about an hour from Baishi Mountain. 01 Jiaozuo|Henan In summer, Jiaozuo's true highlight is Yuntai Mountain. Don't associate Jiaozuo with coal mining. The steam rising from Hongshixia Gorge makes the perceived temperature five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city. ⏰ Head to Hongshixia at 8 AM. The boardwalk hasn't been taken over by tour groups yet. The sound of the waterfall drowns out all other noises, and the moment the water splashes on your face, you'll feel like air conditioning is unnecessary. After walking through the canyon, don't rush to leave. Take the scenic shuttle bus to Zhuyu Peak. At an altitude of 1300 meters, the wind will blow so strong you'll need to take your jacket out of your bag. In the afternoon, head to Qingtian River. Take a boat trip through the canyon. The water reflects a green light, and the trees on both banks completely block out the sun, making the boat a natural fan. Shennong Mountain is more suitable for those who enjoy climbing stairs. The boardwalk on Baisongling is suspended on the cliff face, with a bottomless abyss below. The wind is strong enough to dry your sweat instantly. ⚠️ Remember, rain in the mountains can come suddenly. A light raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. Choose accommodation near the shore service area, close to the scenic area entrance. In the evening, go out for a bowl of Henan-style braised noodles; it's only 30 yuan per person and you'll be full. 🚄 The high-speed train from Zhengzhou East Station to Jiaozuo only takes 40 minutes. Two days on a weekend are enough to visit all three places. 02 Zhuzhou | Hunan In Zhuzhou's summer, to escape the heat, head south to Yanling County. The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum itself isn't a mountain, but the entire scenic area is enveloped by ancient trees. Camphor and cypress trees filter the sunlight into fragments, making it almost completely shaded while walking along the sacred path. ⏰ The most comfortable time to enter is after 3 PM. The light slants through the treetops, creating stunning photos of the red walls and yellow tiles in the shadows. The sacrificial square in front of the hall is spacious, but don't just stand there. Go around to the stele forest on the back mountain; it's less crowded there, and the sound of the wind whistling through the cracks in the rocks is quieter than any guided tour. 🍜 Don't rush off after leaving. The Hakka stuffed tofu and mugwort cakes in the county town are worth saving for dinner. ⚠️ The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum is closed Monday mornings, so don't waste your trip. If you want to fill your weekend, you can also visit Shennong Valley National Forest Park, only a half-hour drive from the Yan Emperor's Mausoleum. The mist from the waterfalls will refresh you. My advice is, don't try to do too much. A visit to the Yan Emperor's Mausoleum plus a Hakka meal is already the greatest respect you can show to summer. There's not much to avoid in Zhuzhou city itself; it gets like a sauna when it gets hot. So don't waste time in the city; take the high-speed train directly to Yanling Station, and it's a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. 03 Jining | Shandong I'll divide Jining's summer into two parts: Qufu and Weishan Lake. The three Confucian sites in Qufu's Ming Dynasty city owe their success to the shade of the trees. The centuries-old cypress trees in the Confucius Temple intertwine their branches, leaving only fragments of the sky. Walking along the paths, your feet feel the cool stone slabs, and your head is enveloped in dense greenery. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7 am, before the tour groups arrive; the air in front of the Dacheng Hall is clean. The back garden of the Confucius Mansion is less crowded; sitting on the stone benches by the artificial hill, you can hear the cicadas chirping but don't feel restless. The Confucius Cemetery is larger, but my advice is not to walk the entire way. Take an electric cart to the vicinity of Confucius's tomb; that section has the densest trees and the coolest breeze. Dedicate the other half of the day to Weishan Lake. In summer, Weishan Lake isn't just about the lake itself, but about the lotus flowers. When the lotus ponds bloom, boats glide through the reeds, surrounded by lotus leaves taller than a person. As the boats pass, the mist and fragrance of lotus blossoms waft over you. 🍜 The lakeside fishing village experience is worth trying. They offer stewed mixed fish, stir-fried lotus root, and salted duck eggs, all freshly caught from the lake. ⚠️ Remember to bargain for a boat ride; there's a significant price difference between chartering and sharing a boat. 🚄 High-speed rail directly connects to Qufu East Station. Driving between Qufu and Weishan Lake takes about an hour and a half, making two days and one night a perfect trip. 04 Quzhou|Zhejiang Quzhou is an underrated city in summer. Kaihua Gengong Buddhist Kingdom sounds like a solemn place, but once inside, you'll find it's actually a vast garden. Over 500 root-carved Buddha statues are scattered throughout the various halls, but the garden itself is truly cool. Waterside pavilions, covered corridors, and artificial hills filter out the heat layer by layer. ⏰ Entering the garden after 4 PM allows the sunlight to shine from the west, highlighting the three-dimensional textures of the root carvings. With fewer people, you can take your time to appreciate them. Jianglang Mountain and Ershibadu are more suitable for those with good stamina. The three-slab stone of Jianglang Mountain is a landmark, but don't rush to the summit immediately. First, walk along the eighteen bends at the foot of the mountain. The stream flows along the steps; take off your shoes and step in—the coolness will rise from your feet. Reaching the "One Line Sky" section, the wind seeps in through the cracks in the rocks, instantly relieving the sweat. Ershibadu is located at the foot of the mountain, an ancient town, but much quieter than Wuzhen or Xitang. Sitting in the courtyard of an old house, drinking a bowl of mung bean soup, and listening to the rain pattering on the banana leaves, an afternoon will pass by in no time. ⚠️ Jianglang Mountain may be closed on rainy days; check the weather forecast before you go. 🚄 It takes about an hour by taxi from Quzhou Station to Kaihua. Jianglang Mountain is in Jiangshan, about 40 minutes from Quzhou. 05 Yingtan | Jiangxi In Yingtan's summer, Longhu Mountain is the only answer. But my advice is, don't just focus on the hanging coffin performances and coffin-raising ceremonies; those are for tour groups. The real coolness comes from the bamboo rafts on the Luxi River. ⏰ Arrive at Shangqing Town Wharf before 8 am. The raft operators haven't started taking big orders yet, and the river is so quiet you can hear the water. The bamboo raft floats downstream, the Danxia landforms on both banks blocking most of the sun, and the rising steam is much more comfortable than air conditioning. The whole trip takes an hour and a half. After disembarking, you'll reach Zhengyi Temple. The ancient well water in the temple is drinkable—icy cold and sweet. In the afternoon, go to the Mosquito-Free Village. The name isn't for nothing; there really are no mosquitoes. Sit under the camphor tree at the village entrance and take a nap; the wind whistles through the bamboo forest—better than taking a nap in the hotel. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Tianshi Chestnuts" at the scenic area entrance; they're expensive and not tasty at all. A large bag costs only five yuan at the town's market. 🍜 Shangqing Tofu is a must-try; it's so tender you can scoop it with a spoon. Pair it with a bowl of braised chicken with chestnuts, and two people can eat their fill for eighty yuan. 🚄 It takes about half an hour by taxi from Yingtan North Station to the Longhushan Visitor Center. 06 Mianyang|Sichuan In Mianyang's summer, Beichuan Qiang City is a special place. It's not a traditional summer resort, but the wind changes as you ascend the altitude. The entire tourist area is built in a valley, surrounded by oak forests. After 3 pm, the wind in the forest carries the coolness of the grass and trees; sitting on the stone steps under the watchtower, your sweat will dry on its own. ⏰ At 6 pm, the setting sun paints the watchtowers of the Qiang village golden. Most of the tourists have left, and the whole village is so quiet you can hear the stream. 🍜 Qiang-style cured pork and cornmeal porridge are a standard dish. A farmhouse restaurant in the village costs around 40 yuan per person, and the portions are generous. ⚠️ Don't buy silver jewelry at the scenic area entrance; it's hard to tell if it's real or fake. Go to the old shops in town if you want to buy some. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, Beichuan Qiang City is much easier than Jiuzhaigou. The entire route is flat, no climbing required. When you get tired, find a teahouse to sit down; a bowl of covered tea costs 10 yuan and you can sit there for an afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Mianyang Station, perfect for a leisurely weekend trip. 07 Baishan|Jilin In summer, Baishan has only one main attraction: Changbai Mountain. But I want to clarify first: Changbai Mountain isn't just one mountain, it's an entire summer resort system. ⏰ Arriving at 6 am, the mist over Tianchi Lake hadn't yet risen. The clouds were reflected on the water, and the wind was biting; a windproof jacket was a must. After visiting Tianchi Lake, don't rush down the mountain. Take the boardwalk through the underground forest; it's two kilometers long. The trees completely block out the sky, leaving only a sliver of light. Soft moss carpets your feet, and the air is filled with the scent of pine resin. In the afternoon, go to Changbai Waterfall. Don't just stand on the viewing platform taking pictures; walk down the steps. The spray is more effective than any humidifier. 🍜 In Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain, Korean cold noodles are a must-try. The soup is icy, and the noodles are buckwheat—one bowl and you'll feel completely refreshed. ⚠️ Whether you see Tianchi Lake is entirely up to luck, so don't have high expectations. But even with fog, the scenery below is worth the price of admission. 🚄 The high-speed train goes directly to Changbaishan Station. There are many accommodations in the town; you can find a clean place for around 100 yuan per person. 08 Baoding | Hebei I'll talk about Baoding's summer by region. Baishi Mountain is a true hardcore summer retreat. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, the glass walkway at the summit is so windy it can blow your hat off, and the perceived temperature drops to below 20 degrees Celsius. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid the cable car queue. The entire loop takes about four hours, and the sea of ​​clouds at the mountain is ten times more spectacular than from below. Yesanpo is better for water activities. The streams in Bailixia Gorge flow along the canyon, and the water is shallow enough to wade in; children can play with water guns all afternoon. However, my suggestion is not to stay overnight in Yesanpo. After visiting Yesanpo, go directly to the Western Qing Tombs. Summer at the Western Qing Tombs offers a different kind of coolness. Ancient pine forests provide ample shade. Walking on the sacred path, your feet are on loose stones, and your head is covered by centuries-old pine branches. The wind whistles through the forest, creating a quieter atmosphere than any other scenic spot. 🍜 The lotus flowers in Baiyangdian Lake in Anxin are in bloom. Take a boat into the lake; the lotus leaves are taller than a person. The boatman will casually pick a lotus seed pod for you—fresh and sweet. ⚠️ The boat fare for Baiyangdian Lake needs to be negotiated in advance. Clarify whether it's charged by the hour or by the route before boarding. 🚄 A taxi from Baoding Station to Baishi Mountain takes about one and a half hours. The Western Qing Tombs are in Yi County, about an hour's drive from Baishi Mountain.

People say July and August trips mean crowds, but early September flights and hotel prices are cut in half. At the attractions, you’ll finally hear birds instead of tour guides’ loudspeakers. I’ve checked out these eight spots for you—either the admission is fair, the scenery is stunning, or they’re so off the beaten path even locals don’t crowd in. Stop fixating on popular cities. Change direction and treat your wallet and eyes to a break. NO.1 Datong | Shanxi Datong is seriously underrated. The Yungang Grottoes tickets aren’t cheap, but after seeing the open-air Buddha in Cave 20, you’ll feel it’s worth every penny—the calm carved by Northern Wei artisans can’t be captured in photos. I recommend visiting the Hanging Temple after 4 PM when the sunlight hits the wooden walkways at an angle, the crowds thin, and the breeze cools down. As for Mount Heng, don’t try to hike the whole way. Take the cable car halfway up, then walk 40 minutes to Tianfeng Ridge. You’ll save enough energy to enjoy a bowl of Hunyuan cold noodles on the way down. ⚠️ The Hanging Temple limits visitors. Book through the official WeChat account three days in advance to avoid disappointment at the gate. Stay inside the ancient city walls. Evening strolls with night views are much more interesting than lodging near the train station. NO.2 Lu’an | Anhui Lu’an is one of those places you can’t figure out on the map but love once you get there. The waterfall clusters at Tiantangzhai still have strong flow in late August. Standing under Jiuying Waterfall, the mist hits your face—ten times better than air conditioning. The mountain boardwalks are well built but slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid flip-flops. Wanfo Lake is best in the afternoon. Rent a pedal boat and drift to the center. The breeze will relax you completely. 🍜 Don’t miss the chestnut chicken at the park entrance. The chestnuts are locally harvested and soft. Book a room in the county town for just over 100 yuan a night. It’s clean, and you can start your day with a 5-yuan bowl of potstickers at the market. 🚄 It’s about an hour by taxi from the high-speed rail station to Tiantangzhai. Shared rides cost around 30 yuan per person. Avoid overpriced unlicensed taxis. NO.3 Anshun | Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall is famous, but most people only know the main fall. I suggest entering the park at 7:30 AM and heading straight to the main waterfall. You can see rainbows in the mist, and the boardwalk is nearly empty. You’ll hear the muffled splash into Rhinoceros Pool. By 9 AM, tour groups flood in, but you’ll have moved on to the lower section of Tianxing Bridge—that’s the real gem. The Silver Chain Waterfall hides in the trees, sounding like thousands of pearls dropping on jade plates. When I visited Dragon Palace, it was quiet. The boat ride into the cave with low-hanging stalactites felt like an adventure. ⚠️ Tickets must be booked a day in advance on the official mini program. On-site tickets are almost never available. Stay at a guesthouse in Huangguoshu Town, just a five-minute walk to the park entrance. It saves an hour compared to staying in Anshun city. NO.4 Jiuquan | Gansu Mogao Caves in Dunhuang require booking tickets half a month in advance. If you get one, it’s worth it. Photos aren’t allowed inside, but every detail the guide shares is more vivid than any picture. Follow the guide closely and don’t just look around on your own. For Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, I recommend entering after 6 PM when the sand cools. Walking barefoot feels warm, not hot. Climb to the dune top for sunset. When the moon rises, the Crescent Lake lights up. The desert’s quietness makes you want to sit for a long time. Yardang Geopark and Yumen Pass are on the same route. A shared day tour costs about 200 yuan per person, but it’s a long trip. Bring plenty of water and snacks; there are no shops on the way. ⚠️ Emergency tickets for Mogao Caves allow visits to only four caves. Regular tickets cover eight. Don’t confuse them. NO.5 Longyan | Fujian Yongding Tulou are awe-inspiring when you stand right in front of them. Dozens of families live in the round buildings. The courtyard dries preserved vegetables. Grandmas sit on doorsteps shelling beans. Time seems to stop. The Tulou clusters in Hongkeng Village are the most concentrated. Zhencheng and Chengqi Lou are both worth a visit. Changting Ancient Town is much quieter than Fenghuang. People play chess by the city walls. The bluestone slabs on the main street are polished shiny. In the evening, find a spot near Jichuan Gate to watch the sunset over the Ting River—it’s very soothing. Climbing Guanzhai Mountain takes two hours, but the boat ride on Shimen Lake at the top is worth it. The water is as green as jade. 🍜 Changting’s dried tofu and pickled pig kidney are specialties. Street stalls sell a bowl for 10 yuan, more authentic than big hotels. Stay inside Changting Ancient Town to enjoy night walks. Lodging near the Tulou is basic and not recommended overnight. NO.6 Shanghai You might ask, how is Shanghai budget travel? The Guangfulin Cultural Site’s underwater museum costs just a few dozen yuan. Half the building is submerged, and walking inside feels like traveling through time. It’s so quiet you can take your time. Yuyuan Garden is worth a visit, but avoid the crowded Nine-Bend Bridge. Instead, go to the lakeside pavilion behind it, order tea, and relax for half an hour. It’s much more comfortable than squeezing through crowds. The Expo Park is now an exhibition and leisure area, free to enter, great for casual strolls and photos. There’s a weekend market too. Forget Disney. Tickets are expensive and lines long. If you must take kids, set an alarm to grab early access passes. Spending 100 yuan more can save you two hours in line, but honestly, I advise budget travelers to skip it. Stay along Metro Line 11 toward Jiading. It’s half the price of downtown and only 40 minutes by subway to the city center. ⚠️ Yuyuan Garden is closed on Mondays. Don’t go for nothing. NO.7 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou isn’t a traditional tourist city, but the Yan Emperor Mausoleum is worth a special trip. It’s about 1.5 hours by bus from downtown. Tickets are affordable. The park is large with towering ancient cypresses and incense burning. History lovers can spend hours at the stele forest and sacrificial hall. If you’re just passing through, the thousand-year-old cedar tree is enough. 🍜 The You County rice noodles in town have a broth so fresh it’ll surprise you. A bowl costs 8 yuan. Add a fried egg for a satisfying meal. ⚠️ The park clears visitors at 5 PM. Arrive early. Stay in Zhuzhou city. Evening walks along the Xiang River offer free river views more pleasant than any paid attraction. 🚄 Taxi from Zhuzhou West Station to Yan Emperor Mausoleum costs about 120 yuan. Shared rides are cheaper for groups. NO.8 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Dali’s Erhai Lake isn’t a sea, but it’s more relaxing than one. Xizhou Ancient Town is quieter than Dali Old Town. The rice paddies are bright green in August and September. The wind ripples the fields in waves. The “Ama Ying pea noodles” shop in town serves a sour and spicy bowl for 5 yuan. It’s worth the line. The Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple have pricey tickets, but standing beneath them and looking up is solemn and worthwhile. Nanzhao Style Island sits in the middle of Erhai. It’s a 20-minute boat ride. The island is small, but walking around with the sea breeze clears all worries. ⏰ The best time to bike around Erhai is before 8 AM. The sun isn’t strong, and the lake is misty—like a painting. ⚠️ When renting an electric bike to circle the lake, check the battery level carefully. Running out of power halfway and pushing the bike is no fun. Stay near Caicun Pier. It’s right by Erhai, cheaper and quieter than lodging in the old town. These eight places, visited from late August to mid-September, offer fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. With a budget of 2,000 to 3,000 yuan, you can enjoy a comfortable trip. Planning a trip soon? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you plan.

August–September relaxation guide: these 8️⃣ places have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, direct high-speed train access, and are budget-friendly 1️⃣ Yichang | Hubei The Three Gorges Dam is famous, but the real place to relax is Qingjiang Gallery. ⏰ Arrive at the visitor center before 9 AM. The boat trips just start, and there are few people. Sit on the left side of the upper deck. The river breeze flows into your collar, and the green mountains on both sides slowly pass by like ink paintings. The whole trip takes two hours. Just sit back and zone out as the water changes from dark green to bright green. At noon, visit the Three Gorges Folk Village Scenic Area. Don’t rush into the village; first, have a fish hot pot at a farmhouse restaurant across the river. 🍜 The fish meat is so tender it slips off your chopsticks. The broth with radish is the freshest. In the afternoon, take the boat again. The riverside boardwalk in the scenic area is flat and easy for both elderly and children. The stilted buildings in Bawang Village look especially photogenic in the afternoon light, but don’t stay too long—after 5 PM, the light turns slanted. Avoid weekends at the Three Gorges Waterfall. When the water flow is strong, walking through the water curtain leaves you soaked but cool. ⚠️ Remember to bring a raincoat. It costs 15 yuan at the entrance and 20 yuan inside the scenic area. Stay near Wanda Plaza at night and go to Jiefang Road pedestrian street for cold shrimp. The old brand with brown sugar flavor is at the innermost alley—don’t get lost. 2️⃣ Anqing | Anhui Tianzhu Mountain is the kind of mountain where the climb feels worth it but isn’t exhausting. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Anqing Station, then a taxi about 40 minutes to the visitor center. It’s best to take the cable car to the mid-mountain, then hike to Tianzhu Peak. The whole hike takes about two hours. The steps aren’t steep; just wear shoes with good grip. ⏰ Start climbing around 2 PM. The mountain blocks half the sun, so there are many shady spots. It’s windy at the top, so bring a light jacket. After descending, don’t rush off. Near Sanzu Temple at the foot of the mountain is a tofu shop. The soy milk is freshly ground and costs 3 yuan a bowl. It’s so thick it clings to the spoon. Stay in Qianshan city center; it’s half the price of staying on the mountain. At night, go to Wanhe Road for mountain rice balls with braised pork. The rice balls are chewy, the meat tender, and a bowl of rice completes the meal. ⚠️ The temple is closed on Mondays. Don’t plan your visit then. 3️⃣ Tianshui | Gansu Maiji Mountain Grottoes are different from Dunhuang. They’re hidden in the woods, with Buddha statues layered on the cliff walls. Walk along the sky-high plank road with hollow iron plates underfoot. Looking down might make your legs weak, but the view is worth it. ⏰ It’s best to enter right at 8 AM when it opens. There are fewer people, and the sunlight slants on the clay sculptures, bringing their expressions to life. Wushan Water Curtain Cave is far from the city but worth a special trip. The cliff carvings inside are rougher than those at Longmen Grottoes. The giant Buddha at Lashao Temple is over 40 meters tall. Looking up from below, your neck might ache, but it’s worth it. Fuxi Temple is in the city. After visiting, head to the alley opposite to try guagua noodles. 🍜 Made from buckwheat, topped with chili oil and sesame paste, it’s sour and spicy, costing 6 yuan a bowl. ⚠️ The Maiji Mountain plank road closes on rainy days. Check the weather forecast before you go. Stay in Qinzhou District, a 10-minute walk to Fuxi Temple. At night, stroll along the Ji River scenic line. 4️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor’s Tomb is in Yanling County, a bit far from the city but very peaceful. The whole scenic area feels like a large park with ancient trees towering and the air filled with the scent of plants. ⏰ Enter after 3 PM when most visitors have left. The sunset shines through the treetops onto the red walls, perfect for photos. You can light incense at the censer in front of the main hall. Three sticks cost 10 yuan, not expensive. Behind the hall is a bamboo forest that rustles in the wind. Sitting there to rest is more relaxing than sightseeing. 🍜 At the entrance, they sell mugwort rice cakes—three for 5 yuan, warm, with glutinous rice skin and sesame filling. Sweet but not greasy. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Zhuzhou West Station, then a bus about two hours to Yanling County. Stay in a county hotel for just over 100 yuan a night. It’s clean. ⚠️ The park is closed Monday mornings. Don’t arrive too early. At night, try Yanling stuffed tofu—tofu filled with meat, stewed in a clay pot, perfect with a bowl of rice. 5️⃣ Tangshan | Hebei The awe of Qing East Tombs comes from the silent sense of vastness and richness. The whole tomb area is bigger than the Forbidden City. Stone statues stand along the sacred path. When the wind blows, it feels like they’re speaking to you. ⏰ Arrive at 8:30 AM. Take the electric cart to Qianlong Yuling first. The stone carvings in the underground palace are worth a half-hour look. At Cixi Tomb, the phoenix is above and the dragon below. Look closely to understand the craftsmanship. South Lake · Kailuan Scenic Area is better visited in the evening. The former coal mining subsidence area has been turned into a lake. The water is clear, the trees green, and you can’t tell its old look. 📍 Enter from the east gate and walk along the lake to Love Island. You’ll catch the sunset with the lake shining golden. ⚠️ The tombs are far apart. Don’t try to save money by walking. Your feet will be exhausted after a day. 🍜 Have lunch outside the tomb area with leicha noodles made from mung bean flour. They’re fried and dipped in garlic sauce—a Tangshan specialty. Stay in Lunan District. At night, go to Xinjie for chess piece pancakes. The meat filling tastes better than the red bean paste. 6️⃣ Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Manzhouli Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area feels like a colorful dream, full of Russian-style spires and round towers. ⏰ Enter at 4 PM. Start at Matryoshka Square, where rows of dolls of all sizes line up. You won’t stop taking photos. Then visit the Russian Style Park and watch a circus show lasting about an hour. The ticket is included in the entrance fee. The real highlight is after dark. The whole city lights up in golden lights, like a fairy tale castle. 📍 Walk from Matryoshka Square to Zhongsu Street, about 2 km. The whole way is Russian architecture, especially atmospheric at night. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Manzhouli Station. The city isn’t big; taxis cost under 10 yuan. Stay at the Matryoshka Hotel. It’s expensive but worth it. The rooms are all doll-themed. 🍜 Go to Mengxiangyuan for roasted lamb chops. Crispy outside, tender inside, dipped in cumin and chili powder, paired with a bottle of Hailar beer. ⚠️ It gets chilly at night after September. Bring a jacket and don’t just wear short sleeves. 7️⃣ Qingyuan | Guangdong Lianzhou Underground River is the kind of place that makes you say “wow” as soon as you enter. The cave entrance looks like a big mouth. Inside, the temperature drops 10 degrees—a natural air conditioner. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. Light slants in from the entrance, and the stalactites glisten with moisture. Take a boat tour of the underground river. The boatman poles the boat, and the stalactites hang so low you have to duck. After getting off the boat, walk the dry path. There’s a high boardwalk where you can look down at the emerald-clear river. The whole trip takes two hours. You’ll come out with a cool face. 🍜 At the entrance, they sell Dongpo dumplings—rice noodle wrappers filled with meat, steamed and drizzled with soy sauce. Five yuan a serving. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Qingyuan Station, then a bus about two hours to Lianzhou. Stay in Lianzhou city center. At night, go to Huangchuan South Road for beef offal hot pot. The radish soaks up the broth and tastes better than the meat. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. If you have time, you can also take a boat on Huangchuan Three Gorges, but visiting two spots in one day is tiring. 8️⃣ Xinxiang | Henan The water in Baoquan Tourist Area is a clear blue-green. The mountain valleys are full of waterfalls and shallow pools. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 AM. Walk the canyon boardwalk with the sound of water following you. At Jade Pool, sunlight shines on the water like a transparent gem. There’s a flat stone by the pool where you can sit and listen to the water for half an hour. Bali Valley and Baoquan have different styles. Bali is wilder with tall waterfalls. The mist cools your face. 📍 Climb from Yixiantian. The steps are steep but short. At the top, the view opens up, and the mountain breeze refreshes you. Elderly and children can take the flat path below. Don’t force the climb. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Xinxiang East Station, then a taxi about an hour to Baoquan. Stay in Huixian city center; it’s cheaper than inside the scenic area. 🍜 At night, try red-braised lamb. The meat is tender, the broth rich, and it’s best with baked flatbread. ⚠️ Both Baoquan and Bali are mountain water scenic areas. The paths get slippery after rain. Wear non-slip shoes. These two spots each take about half a day. Don’t schedule both on the same day or your legs will protest. Of these eight places, I miss Qingyuan’s underground river and Manzhouli’s night view the most. The former is cool to the bone, the latter feels like stepping into a fairy tale. If you’ve been, share in the comments which place surprised you the most?