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

Alxa Tengger Desert Travel Notes When it comes to the vast deserts of Northwest China, the Tengger Desert in Alxa is unavoidable. This sea of sand, whose name means "sky," is the fourth largest desert in China, spanning across Inner Mongolia, Gansu, and Ningxia. It is not an extreme wasteland; instead, it hides a gentle harmony of sand and water, making it the most suitable healing secret spot in northern Xinjiang travel for relaxing and letting loose. The core scenic area of the Tengger Desert is located in Alxa Left Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. Driving from Bayannur, you pass through gobi and desert landscapes with wide-open views and vast skies. Before entering the desert, you are already enveloped by the vast and desolate atmosphere of the Northwest. Simply search for the Tengger Desert Tourist Resort or major desert camps on your navigation, and you can reach it easily; transportation is very convenient. Unlike the monotony of other deserts, the most captivating feature of Tengger is the hundreds of natural lakes scattered throughout. The sand dunes roll continuously with delicate wave-like sand patterns. The golden sea of sand contrasts with the emerald lakes, dotted with oases, reeds, and waterfowl. Half barren, half vibrant, it sketches a unique desert landscape. When visiting Tengger, you must experience desert off-road dune bashing. Hop into a professional off-road vehicle and speed through the undulating dunes, plunging and climbing hills. The wheels kick up clouds of yellow sand, and the sensations of weightlessness and speed hit you—thrilling and exciting, it’s the wild joy unique to the desert. Screams of excitement fill the air, releasing all your stress. For a slower, romantic desert experience, ride a camel to stroll through the sea of sand. Accompanied by the melodious sound of camel bells, walk leisurely on the dunes, watching sunlight glisten on the sand grains with tiny golden sparkles. In the distance, lakes look like embedded jewels, and time seems to slow down. Evening is the best time, when the sunset dyes the sky orange-red. The grandeur of the desert sunset is breathtaking, and every photo you take is atmospheric and cinematic. Desert camping is an unmissable experience. At night in Tengger, you are completely free from city light pollution. Look up to see a sky full of stars, the Milky Way clearly visible. The stars hang low as if you could reach out and touch them. Lie on the dunes, watch the starry river flow, and listen to the wind—your heart fills with peace. Late at night, gather around a bonfire, enjoy authentic roasted whole lamb, sip milk tea, and feel the unique warmth of the Northwest. If you love tranquil scenery, explore the lakes in the desert. Wulan Lake, Swan Lake, and Emerald Lake each have their own charm. The water is clear, surrounded by yellow sand, with water birds playing, full of life. Standing by the lakeshore, watching the sand sea merge with the water completely overturns the stereotypical image of the desert. The photo opportunities are stunning. When traveling in Tengger, remember these practical tips: the best travel seasons are May to June and September to October, when the climate is mild and you avoid the intense heat; desert UV rays are very strong, so be sure to bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a magic scarf, and sand-proof shoe covers; the temperature difference between day and night is large, so bring a thick jacket; there is no unified ticket for the scenic area, and activities like off-roading and camping are charged separately, so it’s recommended to book camp packages in advance. The romance of Tengger is the grandeur of rolling yellow sand, the gentle coexistence of sand and water, and the healing starry sky. Here, leave behind worldly worries, embark on a desert rendezvous, feel freedom and vastness, and encounter the most captivating desert scenery in the Northwest.

Girls! Who knows about this! In the vast sands of Alxa, there’s a group of lakes as red as a heart and as pink as first love! 🚙 Five-lake crossing route: Ulan Lake, Camel Lake, Swan Lake, Hailuoqi Lake, Guitar Lake—see the ultimate clash of desert and colorful lakes all at once! 💓 Ulan Lake — "Heart of the Earth" The drone view is stunning! The water looks like flowing bright red blood, shaped like a beating heart, tightly wrapped by golden sand dunes. No filters needed; nature itself is the master colorist! 💗 Camel Lake — "Pink Secret Realm" To the naked eye, it’s strawberry milk color! Wearing a white dress squatting by the lake, the reflection plus pink water feels so dreamy it’s like you’re not on Earth. Every snap looks like a magazine cover! 🐫 How to play? Start from Yinchuan, 2 hours to the desert entrance, then transfer to an off-road vehicle to climb sand peaks and rush sand ridges—screams all the way! Local guides take you deep into the heart safely and thrillingly. Carpooling costs about 300-400 RMB per person. The lake colors are most vibrant from May to September, don’t miss it! 👗 Outfit Tips White/bright long dress + high-top Martin boots + sand-proof shoe covers. The desert has big temperature swings and strong winds, so bring a windbreaker too! While the lake water is bright red and the pink lake is vivid, let’s go! Tengger Desert

⛰Zhongwei-Alashan-Yinchuan Travel Guide🔥Super Comprehensive Guide, all your winter break activities are here⬇️ ✨Recommendation Index: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 ✨Suitable for: Families with children, luxury travelers, family trips, couples ✨Destinations: Zhongwei-Alashan-Yinchuan ✨Trip Duration: 5 days 🔥Product Highlights: Camp guide-led desert trekking, watching desert sunrise, astrophotography class, five-lake crossing to find Ulan Pink Lake ✅Itinerary Description: ✨Suggested Itinerary✨ 🎈DAY1: Nationwide → Yinchuan, stay at Yuehai or Hyatt, explore the night market, watch the sunset 🎈DAY2: Yinchuan, cross the five lakes by off-road vehicle, admire the red waters of Ulan Lake 🎈DAY3: Yinchuan → Tengger Hotel, camel riding at Shapotou, enjoy the scenery 🎈DAY4: Zhongwei, watch the desert sunrise, visit Beichangtan and Route 66 🎈DAY5: Zhongwei → Western Xia Imperial Tombs → Airport drop-off, explore the Western Xia Kingdom 🔅【Travel Preparations】🔅 🌟Winter Travel Essentials (Clothing, Accessories, Documents, etc.) 1️⃣Thermal underwear and socks: Pay attention to warmth 2️⃣Outerwear: Bring a down jacket or thick coat 3️⃣Hat + gloves: Prevent frostbite 4️⃣Power bank + data cable: Charge electronic devices 5️⃣Passport/ID card: Don't forget to bring them ⛳️Recommended Attractions⛳️ 📍Tengger Desert🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟: Majestic sand peaks, lakes like glaciers against the backdrop of the sand sea 📍Ulan Lake🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟: Red lake water like a gemstone 📍Shapotou🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟: Combines desert, Yellow River, and grassland scenery 🔥Activity Guide🔥 📍Tengger Desert Activities: The 2025 Ningxia Outdoor Sports Tourism Season will be held in Zhongwei. The National Desert Frisbee Invitational in September, the National Beautiful Desert Flag Football Sub-station Tournament in late July, and the 2nd Desert Ten Thousand-Person Trek in August – experience the grandeur of the Gobi and the beauty of competition. 📍Ulan Lake Activities: Ulan Lake, deep in the Tengger Desert, is known as the "Heart of the Earth," with water as vibrant red as a beating heart. Step on the sand and gaze at it to find tranquility. 📍Shapotou Activities: The Shapotou Winter Carnival is in full swing. Hetan Village Ice and Snow Carnival creates a rural happy valley ice and snow park; Yunshangge Northwest Snow Village offers photo opportunities and a non-powered snow play area; Xianglong Bay Ice and Snow World is perfect for kids. ‼️Independent travel, hassle-free👍 Don't just dream it, do it👇! Click the card below to book in advance

Alxa (Alashan) is a sparsely populated region in Inner Mongolia, known for its deserts, salt lakes, and vast open landscapes. This is not a classic tourist destination but rather an experience. Everything here feels almost alien: deserts, rocks, dried trees, salt flats, a sky free of visual noise, absolute silence, and a sense of isolation. It's a powerful place, but certainly not for everyone. This destination caters to niche tourism and is primarily focused on the domestic Chinese market. 🏜️ Key natural attractions: · Tengger Desert (腾格里沙漠, Tengger Desert) — one of China's largest deserts · Badain Jaran Desert (巴丹吉林沙漠, Badain Jaran Desert) — home to the tallest sand dunes in the country · Salt and semi-salt lakes within the deserts · Rocky plateaus and arid landscapes The region is characterized by minimal vegetation and vast distances between locations. 🦅 Tourism format: · Desert safaris · Photography tours · Watching sunrises and sunsets · Camping and overnight stays in the desert · Slow-paced itineraries without tight schedules This is not a place for active urban entertainment or classic sightseeing tourism. 🚗 How to get there: · Fly to Alxa Left Banner (阿拉善左旗) or Alxa Right Banner (阿拉善右旗) · Usually with a transfer via Hohhot or Lanzhou · Then, transfer by private driver or organized tour Independent travel without a car is challenging. ⛺️ Infrastructure: · Small hotels and guesthouses · Limited selection of cafes and shops · English is rarely spoken · Most routes require a guide Comfort level is basic. 💰 Costs (approximate): · Tour or driver per day: 600–1200 yuan · Accommodation: $30–70 per night · Entry fees to natural areas — minimal or none ☀️ Best time to visit: · September–October — the optimal season · Spring: possible sandstorms · Summer: very high temperatures · Winter: cold, minimal tourist flow 💎 Who it's for: · Those seeking an unconventional China · Desert and minimalism enthusiasts · Solo, mindful travelers · Photography and videography without crowds Alxa is not a tourist attraction but a space. If you want to see China without decorations, without crowds, and without noise, this is one of the most profound destinations. However, you should visit with awareness, understanding the conditions and travel format.

Planning a trip to Alxa this Lunar New Year? This 5-day travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Alxa and avoid any pitfalls! . 🌟 Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Beijing West Railway Station 🚄 and arrive in Yinchuan, ready to start your desert adventure! Day 2: Head deep into the Tengger Desert 🏜️ and experience the vastness and mystery of the desert. Day 3: Continue your adventure in the Tengger Desert and head to Ulan Lake 🌊 to admire the beauty of the lake and desert. Day 4: Visit the Alxa Desert Stone Museum 🏛️ and head to the Helan Mountain Guangzong Temple (South Temple) Ecotourism Area 🌳 to experience the combination of nature and culture. Day 5: Take the train 🚂 and arrive in Beijing in the morning, marking the end of your desert adventure! . Travel essentials: 👗 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, sweater, windproof and warm clothing. 👒 Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, windproof and sun protection. 🧴 Skincare: Sunscreen is a must, and don't forget lip balm. 🎒 Personal items: Water bottle, staying hydrated is key. 📸 Photography equipment: Camera, phone, capture beautiful moments. 🪪 Documents: ID card, cash, travel with peace of mind. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, painkillers, just in case. . Alxa, a mysterious and beautiful place, is waiting for you to explore and make your trip a spiritual adventure 🌄.

01 Baicheng | Jilin Bringing kids to Baicheng is all about "taking it slow." The Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area is the top choice; the water is expansive, the boardwalks are flat, and pushing a stroller is a breeze. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM for cool river breezes and fewer crowds, where you can see water birds wading on the shallows. Kids can squat by the observation deck and throw stones for half an hour. No need to stress about lunch; there are several farm-style restaurants at the entrance serving stewed river fish with corn cakes. The flavors are mild, so kids will enjoy them too. ⚠️ The sun is intense around 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM, so it's best to head back to the city for a nap rather than pushing through. Take a walk along the riverfront boardwalk in the evening when the light is soft and perfect for photos. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Baicheng Station to the scenic area, costing less than 20 yuan. The overall pace is relaxed, perfect for families who don't want to rush. 02 Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Libo Zhangjiang is one of those places that feels "worth it at first sight." The water is blue-green and crystal clear—kids will be mesmerized. 📍 The water near the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge is the shallowest, making it great for kids to splash around. Remember to pack an extra set of clothes. The shuttle buses inside the scenic area are convenient, and the walking distance between stops is short, so it's easy for seniors and children to keep up. 🍜 Grab lunch at a casual eatery near the Wolongtan stop; the rice noodles are decent, but don't set your expectations too high. ⚠️ The paths can be slippery during the rainy season, so wear non-slip shoes. Take a bamboo raft at Daqikong in the afternoon—the kids will be squealing with excitement. No need to rush; 3 hours is plenty. Stay in Libo County in the evening; the night market has plenty of snack stalls. The sour plum juice and grilled tofu are great for refueling after a day out with the kids. 03 Wuhan | Hubei Wuhan is huge, so don't try to do too much with kids—just pick one route and explore it thoroughly. I recommend the East Lake Greenway plus Yellow Crane Tower; it's perfect for one day. Start the morning at the East Lake Tingtao Scenic Area, rent a family bike, and ride along the lake—it's breezy and cool. 📍 There's a large lawn near Liyuan Square where kids can run around freely. Have lunch at Chuhe Hanjie; there are plenty of options and reasonable prices. Head to the Yellow Crane Tower in the afternoon. ⚠️ The elevator only goes to the 5th floor, and you'll need to take the stairs to the top, so a baby carrier is recommended for little ones. Looking at the Yangtze River Bridge from the top, kids will point at the trains and cheer for ages. Songyang Temple and the Huangpi Mulan Cultural Ecological Tourist Area are better for families with cars, as public transport isn't convenient. If you don't have a car, don't force it into your itinerary. There's a cable car at East Lake Moshan that kids love, but the lines are long on weekends, so go off-peak for a smoother experience. 04 Xuzhou | Jiangsu For a family trip to Xuzhou, I highly recommend Yunlong Lake. The lake is vast, and the lakeside paths are flat, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⏰ It's best to arrive after 5:00 PM when the sun isn't harsh, the lake breeze is comfortable, and you can catch the sunset. 📍 The beach area on Hunan Road is a kid favorite; they can play in the sand for 2 hours. No need to pack too much gear; you can rent umbrellas and picnic mats at the entrance for 10 yuan—super convenient. 🍜 For dinner, head to Fuguo Street. The braised pork (bazi rou) and rice noodles are authentic. Kids can have the noodles, adults can have the meat—everyone wins. ⚠️ Parking around Yunlong Lake is tight. On weekends, I recommend taking the subway to Pengcheng Square and then grabbing a taxi—it's just a base fare away. The overall cost is low, making it great for budget-conscious families. 05 Baise | Guangxi The lakes and canyons in Baise are the kind of places kids will want to visit again and again. The water in Haokun Lake is emerald green; take a boat tour—kids never get tired of boats. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM when the water is calm and the reflections are clear—no filters needed for photos. Tongling Grand Canyon is better for older kids; there are many stairs, but the waterfalls and caves are worth it. Don't push it with babies, as carrying them is too tiring. Chengbi Lake is more laid-back, with grassy banks perfect for a picnic. 🍜 Snacks in downtown Baise are cheap; kids will love the rolled rice noodles (juan tong fen) and fried treats. ⚠️ The scenic spots are far apart, so I recommend hiring a car or driving yourself. Stick to 2 spots a day and don't overdo it. Stay in the city center for easy evening strolls without disrupting the kids' schedules. 06 Haikou | Hainan Haikou is better for families than Sanya because it's slower-paced and more affordable. Qilou Old Street is great for an evening stroll; the architecture is charming, and kids will be fascinated by the windows and doors of the old-style arcade buildings. 📍 There's a coconut milk ching bo leung shop on Zhongshan Road that kids will get hooked on after one sip. The Volcano Park is a great place for kids to burn off energy. There aren't many stairs, and it's breezy with a wide view at the top. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's cool and less crowded. The Five Officials Temple is more cultural and might be boring for kids; it's okay for older children, but you can skip it with babies. ⚠️ The sun in Haikou is intense, so try to stay indoors at noon and head out after 4:00 PM. 🚄 Taxis are convenient in the city, and attractions aren't far apart. Choose accommodation in Longhua District—there's plenty of food, and it's on the way to the attractions. 07 Shigatse | Tibet When bringing kids to Shigatse, don't think about Mount Everest yet—the altitude is too high, and kids are prone to altitude sickness. Tashilhunpo Monastery is better for families; the architecture is magnificent, and kids will be curious about the prayer wheels and murals. ⏰ Get there right when it opens at 9:00 AM for fewer crowds and great lighting. ⚠️ Taking the train from Lhasa to Shigatse is the most comfortable option—it's 2.5 hours with great scenery, and the kids won't get too tired. Rest for half a day after arriving; don't rush to schedule attractions, as acclimatizing to the altitude is most important. If the kids are doing well, you can hire a car to Everest Base Camp, but allow at least 2 days and keep an eye on how they're reacting along the way. 🍜 There are Sichuan restaurants in downtown Shigatse that kids will be used to. Try Tibetan food, but don't make it a full meal. Overall, Shigatse is better for older kids; I don't recommend bringing babies. 08 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The Populus euphratica forests and deserts of Alxa are places where kids can truly be themselves. The Populus Euphratica Forest Tourist Area is most beautiful in autumn, a sea of gold where kids will run faster than anyone else while collecting leaves. ⏰ Mid-to-late October is the best time; in other seasons, the trees are green and it's just not the same. The Badain Jaran Desert is great for playing in the sand, but don't let kids go barefoot—the sand is hot. 📍 You can rent sand buggies in the scenic area; riding with your kids is exciting and safe. ⚠️ It's windy in the desert, so hats and sunglasses are a must, and apply sunscreen generously. 🚄 Transportation to Alxa isn't very convenient, so I recommend flying to Yinchuan and hiring a car from there. Choose accommodation in Ejina Banner town—the conditions are basic but clean. 🍜 Kids will love the hand-grabbed lamb; pair it with a bowl of yogurt for a full energy boost. Perfect for families who want to experience the wilderness with their kids.

From high-altitude meadows to colorful forest wonderlands, golden poplar forests, and azure lakes, experience the best of China's autumn colors all in one go🚩 📍 Daocheng Yading (Garze, Sichuan) The autumn in Daocheng Yading is the peak moment for the "last pure land on the blue planet." Chonggu Temple, Luorong Pasture, and Milk Lake—every step at an altitude of 4,000+ meters feels like walking inside an oil painting. ⏰ Open from April to November each year. The best autumn colors are in mid-to-late October. It is recommended to enter the park by 7:00 AM to avoid crowds. Remember to bring an oxygen canister and a windbreaker. 📍 Tengchong (Baoshan, Yunnan) There is no autumn bleakness here, only the rising steam of the Rehai Hot Springs and the golden carpet of Ginkgo Village. Soak in a volcanic hot spring, enjoy a bowl of pea starch jelly, and slow down to a pace you won't want to leave. 🍂 The best time to view the ginkgo trees is mid-to-late November. Admission to the Rehai Scenic Area is CNY 50. Remember to bring your own swimsuit. 📍 Huangling (Wuyuan, Jiangxi) An ancient village hanging on a cliff, autumn here is a carnival of "Shaiqiu" (sun-drying crops). Red chili peppers, yellow corn, and white hyacinth beans cover bamboo baskets, paired with terraced fields and Hui-style architecture, looking like an overturned palette. ⏰ Open 8:30 AM–8:30 PM. Admission is CNY 142. It is recommended to go to the viewing platform after 4:00 PM; the sunset combined with the sun-dried crops is stunning. 📍 Benxi (Liaoning) It is not called the "Maple Leaf Capital of China" for nothing. The red maples at Guanmenshan and Laobiangou are a translucent, vibrant red. The streams reflect the autumn colors of the mountains, and you will not want to stop walking along the hiking trails. 🍁 Mid-to-late October is the peak season. Some sections are free and accessible by car. It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes. 📍 Arxan (Hinggan League, Inner Mongolia) Autumn in Arxan National Forest Park is a magical combination of forests + volcanoes + heavenly lakes. The morning mist at Azalea Lake, the azure Tuofengling Heavenly Lake, and the reflections at Wusu Langzi Lake are like a fairyland. ⏰ Open 7:30 AM–5:30 PM. Admission is CNY 180. You need to transfer to a shuttle bus inside the scenic area. It is recommended to set aside a full day. 📍 Kanas (Buerqin, Xinjiang) Autumn in Kanas is God's private garden. Moon Bay, Fairy Bay, and Guanyutai (Fish Watching Pavilion)—the lake water shifts between green and blue, the birch forests are dazzlingly golden, and the morning mist in Hemu Village feels like a fairy tale. ⏰ Summer hours: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM; winter hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Admission is CNY 227. It is recommended to stay overnight in a wooden cabin to wait for the morning mist. 📍 Ejin Banner (Alxa, Inner Mongolia) The poplar forests "live for a thousand years without dying, stand for a thousand years without falling." Autumn here is a golden ocean. From the First Bridge to the Eighth Bridge, each has different poplar postures, with the Seventh Bridge being the most photogenic. ⏰ Open 7:00 AM–7:30 PM. The best time is early October. Remember to bring a windproof/sandproof mask and brightly colored clothing. 📍 Jiuzhaigou (Aba, Sichuan) Water is the soul of Jiuzhaigou. Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal, Long Lake... in autumn, the colorful forests are reflected in the emerald blue lakes, like an overturned jewelry box. ⏰ Open all year round. It is recommended to enter the valley by 8:00 AM. Don't miss Nuorilang Waterfall. Admission is CNY 169 + CNY 90 for the sightseeing bus. 💡 Practical tips · This route covers a large area, so it is recommended to visit in sections: Sichuan section (Daocheng + Jiuzhaigou), Yunnan section (Tengchong), Jiangxi section (Huangling), Northeast + Inner Mongolia section (Benxi + Arxan + Ejin Banner), and Xinjiang section (Kanas). · Clothing: Windbreaker + fleece + portable down jacket. Temperature differences in high-altitude areas are extreme; sunscreen is a must. · Avoid the National Day holiday; mid-to-late October is less crowded and the scenery is beautiful. · Altitude sickness medication, motion sickness medication, and a thermos are essential for long-distance road trips.

01 Ya'an | Sichuan Bifengxia is best visited early in the morning. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8:30 am. The air is filled with the scent of bamboo leaves and dew. There are few people, and you can hear the sound of the stream hitting the rocks. The ticket includes both the panda base and the canyon. See the pandas first, then go down to the canyon; don't do it in the wrong order. The pandas are most active around 9 am; they mostly sleep in the afternoon, so you'll only see a bunch of black and white pandas lounging on the wooden frames. The canyon trail takes about four hours in total. There are many steps, so if you have knee problems, it's recommended to only walk halfway to Qinglongtan and then turn back. There are vendors selling bamboo rice at the entrance of the scenic area for 10 yuan a serving. It's glutinous rice with bits of cured meat, perfect for a snack before climbing. ⚠️ Don't buy raincoats inside the scenic area; they cost 5 yuan at the small shops at the foot of the mountain, but double the price inside. It takes about half an hour by taxi from Ya'an city, or about 20 yuan per person if you share a ride. 02 Dalian | Liaoning For exploring Dalian, I suggest you abandon the idea of ​​"trying to see all the attractions in one day." Choose either Jinshitan or Tiger Beach. Jinshitan is more natural, with a long coastline perfect for leisurely strolls. The coastal erosion landforms in the geological park area are more spectacular than you might expect. The ticket includes a sightseeing bus, but the bus only goes to the main stops; you'll have to walk the rest of the way. Tiger Beach is an ocean park, a good choice for families with children. The penguin and beluga whale shows at the polar aquarium are worth the ticket price, but the queues during peak season can be incredibly long, so I recommend heading there as soon as it opens. Tangli Lake Park is free and a popular spot for locals to stroll. It's best to go in the evening when the lake reflects the western mountains, and the cool breeze is perfect for a rest after a long walk. Xinghai Square is more beautiful at night when the lights are on, but avoid eating seafood near the square; it's expensive and mediocre. 🚄 Metro Line 1 goes to Xinghai Square, while Jinshitan requires taking Light Rail Line 3, which takes about an hour. If you're on a tight budget, stay at a hostel near Qingniwa Bridge; a bed costs 60 yuan per night, and there's a bus hub downstairs. 03 Laibin | Guangxi Panwangjie in Dayao Mountain and Lianhua Mountain in Jinxiu County are not far apart, but you'll be exhausted if you try to visit them both in one day. Panwangjie is a newly built scenic area with well-constructed boardwalks. From the summit, you can see the entire Yao mountain cloud sea. ⏰ The light is best after 3 PM, and the mountain layers are clearly visible. Lianhua Mountain is more primitive, with more stone steps; it takes about two hours to climb. There's a small temple at the summit; it's quiet but not very popular. Tickets for both scenic areas are expensive: Panwangjie, including the cable car, costs about 120 yuan, while Lianhua Mountain's pure hike costs about 80 yuan. ⚠️ At the foot of Lianhua Mountain, some villagers will try to sell you a "backdoor" for free admission. Don't believe them; the backdoor is slippery and winding, and it's not worth saving a few dozen yuan. There's a Yao ethnic museum in Jinxiu County; it's free, and you can learn about the origins of the Panwang Festival after visiting it. For accommodation, I recommend staying in the county town. Guesthouses are around 100 RMB per night, and there's a night market with roasted Yao mountain chicken and rice wine – you can eat your fill for around 30 RMB per person. 🍜 For breakfast, head to the old street for a bowl of Yao-style oil tea (5 RMB). It's very ginger-flavored and a great way to perk up before hiking. 04 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is a place where you can slow down. A day is perfect for visiting the Shimen Plank Road and the Ancient Hantai. In the morning, go to the Shimen Plank Road, a section of the ancient Baoxie Road. Your feet are on suspended wooden planks above the Bao River; honestly, it was a bit tiring, but the scenery is truly unique. The plank road is about three kilometers long and takes a little over an hour to walk, not too strenuous. For lunch, head back to the city center. 📍 Hanzhong noodles on Dongguan Main Street – 6 RMB a bowl, with tofu and vegetables, a sour and spicy flavor, softer and more chewy than Xi'an's cold noodles. In the afternoon, visit the Ancient Han Terrace (free admission). It's the site of Liu Bang's former palace, now a museum. Inside, there's a rubbing of the "Shimen Song" stone inscription—a must-see for calligraphy enthusiasts. Go to the Han River in the evening; the river is wide open, and locals are fishing and walking their dogs on the banks. Find a step to sit on and enjoy the breeze—more comfortable than sightseeing. ⚠️ There are people selling "Ancient Plank Road Commemorative Coins" at the entrance of the Shimen Plank Road scenic area; they're pure copper-colored plastic—don't buy them. 🚄 A taxi from Hanzhong Station to the Shimen Plank Road takes about 15 minutes and costs 20 yuan. 05 Jiuquan|Gansu This Dunhuang route was the most difficult recommendation I made this time. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, and the Mogao Caves, are all world-class, but incredibly crowded during peak season. For the Mogao Caves, you must book in advance on the official website. Peak season tickets are released half a month in advance, with a daily limit of 6,000 tickets. If you can't get a reservation, you can only buy an emergency ticket, which only allows you to see four caves—a significantly less enjoyable experience. ⏰ For Mogao Grottoes, choose the first showing in the morning for better lighting and clearer visibility of the murals' colors. For Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, enter after 6 PM to avoid the scorching sun. Climb the dunes to watch the sunset; the moment the lights of Crescent Lake come on is worth the ticket price. Yadan National Geological Park and Yumenguan Pass are on the same route. A chartered car costs about 400 yuan for a day, or 100 yuan per person for four people sharing a car. However, the journey is long, taking eight hours round trip. If time is tight, you can skip Yadan and only visit Yumenguan Pass. ⚠️ Rent shoe covers at the entrance of Mingsha Mountain for 15 yuan. Actually, walking barefoot on the sand is more comfortable, although it will burn your feet. 🍜 Eat donkey meat noodles at the city's night market for 30 yuan per person, and apricot juice for 5 yuan a cup to cut through the greasiness. 06 Jining|Shandong Qufu's Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Cemetery, and Weishan Lake, one for culture and the other for water, offer completely different experiences. For the Three Confucian Sites (Temple of Confucius, Mansion of Confucius, and Cemetery of Confucius), it's highly recommended to hire a guide. Otherwise, you'll only see buildings and trees. A guide can tell you which cypress tree was planted by Confucius himself and which stele was inscribed by Emperor Qianlong. A combined ticket costs 140 yuan, half price for students. ⏰ The Temple of Confucius opens at 8:00 AM, so enter early. Tour groups don't arrive until 9:30 AM, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility in front of the Dacheng Hall. The Cemetery of Confucius is outside the city; take an electric cart to enter. It's full of ancient cypress trees, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Weishan Lake is far from Qufu, about a two-hour drive. The lake is large; take a boat into the reed marshes. Lotus flowers are in full bloom in summer, but they start to fade at the end of August, so arrive early to see peak bloom. ⚠️ There's a restaurant near the entrance of Weishan Lake Scenic Area that serves "wild lake fish," but it's expensive and the taste is mediocre. It's better to go back to the city and eat braised pork rice, which costs 15 yuan a bowl and is rich but not greasy. 🚄 There's a high-speed train from Qufu East Station to Jining city center, taking half an hour. 07 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests in Ejina only turn yellow at the end of September; you won't see the golden color if you go in August or September. However, the Badain Jaran Desert is unaffected by the seasons. If you insist on going in August or September, I suggest skipping the poplar forest scenic area to save on entrance fees and focus on enjoying the desert. The dunes of the Badain Jaran Desert are even wilder than the Singing Sand Dunes. Hire an off-road vehicle to venture into the heart of the desert; the driver will take you to the highest point, Da Sha Zao Hai Zi (Big Sand Date Lake), where the blue-green water contrasts beautifully with the golden dunes, creating an unreal effect. A chartered vehicle costs about 800 RMB per day; a shared ride for four people costs about 200 RMB per person, including lunch (watermelon and naan brought by the driver). ⏰ The light in the desert is softest between 5 PM and 7 PM, so you don't need filters for portrait photography. ⚠️ There is no cell phone signal in the desert; download offline maps in advance and arrange a return time with the driver. For accommodation, I recommend staying in the town of Alxa Right Banner; a standard room costs around 150 RMB. Avoid desert tent camps; they are expensive and cold. 🍜 In town, you can find hand-pulled mutton for 60 yuan per jin (500g), served with garlic and vinegar—the meat is fragrant and substantial. 08 Changsha|Hunan In Changsha, the joy of budget travel lies in the food. Tianxin Pavilion and Yuelu Mountain are both free attractions, but the experiences differ. Tianxin Pavilion is in the city center, a remnant of the ancient city wall; you can see it in half an hour, suitable for a quick stop if you're passing by. Yuelu Mountain is worth half a day. Enter from the south gate, first visit Yuelu Academy (tickets are 50 yuan, half price for students), then climb the mountain. From the summit, you can see a panoramic view of the Xiang River. ⏰ The best time to visit Yuelu Mountain is in the evening, when the sunset casts its light through the trees. On the way down, you can also stroll along the Hunan University snack street. The Hunan Provincial Museum is free, but you must book three days in advance via their official WeChat account. Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Tomb is the museum's prized possession. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Huaminglou is located in Ningxiang, about an hour's drive from the city center. It's the former residence of Liu Shaoqi, with a tranquil environment. However, if you're short on time, you can skip it, as there are plenty of delicious foods in Changsha city. 🍜 The classic black stinky tofu on Taiping Street costs ten yuan a serving. It's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with spicy pickled radish. Afterward, have a cup of Chayan Yuese (a popular bubble tea brand) – the Youlan Latte costs sixteen yuan with a thick creamy topping. For accommodation, stay at a hostel near the subway station at Wuyi Square. A bed costs fifty yuan, and Pozi Street is downstairs. There are still noodle shops open at 2 AM. Traveling in August and September is a bit hot, but there are fewer people and prices are lower, making off-peak travel a good deal. Of these places, I prefer Dalian and Jiuquan the most – one is cool, and the other is magnificent. Do you have any places you particularly want to visit? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some bad options. 01 Ya'an | Sichuan Bifengxia is best visited early in the morning. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8:30 AM. The air is filled with the scent of bamboo leaves and dew. There are few people, and you can hear the sound of the stream crashing against the rocks. The ticket includes both the panda base and the canyon. See the pandas first, then go down to the canyon; don't do it in the wrong order. The pandas are most active around 9 AM; they mostly sleep in the afternoon, so you'll only see a bunch of black and white balls sprawled on the wooden frames. The canyon trail takes about four hours in total. There are many steps, so if you have knee problems, it's recommended to only walk halfway to Qinglongtan and then turn back. There are vendors selling bamboo rice at the entrance of the scenic area for 10 yuan a serving. It's glutinous rice with bits of cured meat, perfect for a snack before climbing the mountain. ⚠️ Don't buy raincoats inside the scenic area. They cost 5 yuan at the small shops at the foot of the mountain, but double the price inside. It takes about half an hour by taxi from Ya'an city, and a shared ride costs about 20 yuan per person. 02 Dalian|Liaoning For Dalian, I suggest you give up the idea of ​​"checking off all the attractions in one day." Choose either Jinshitan or Tiger Beach. Jinshitan is more natural, with a long coastline perfect for leisurely walks. The coastal erosion landforms in the geological park area are more spectacular than expected. The ticket includes a sightseeing bus, but the bus only goes to the main stop; you'll have to walk the rest of the way. Tiger Beach is an ocean park, a good choice for families with children. The penguin and beluga whale shows at the polar aquarium are worth the ticket price, but the queues during peak season can be incredibly long, so it's recommended to go as soon as it opens. Tangli Lake Park is free and a popular spot for locals to stroll. It's best to go in the evening when the lake reflects the Western Hills, and the cool breeze is perfect for resting after a long walk. Xinghai Square is more beautiful at night when the lights are on, but avoid eating seafood near the square; it's expensive and mediocre. 🚄 Metro Line 1 goes to Xinghai Square, while Jinshitan requires taking Light Rail Line 3, which takes about an hour. If you're on a tight budget, stay at a hostel near Qingniwa Bridge; a bed costs 60 yuan per night, and there's a bus hub downstairs. 03 Laibin | Guangxi Panwangjie in Dayao Mountain and Lianhua Mountain in Jinxiu County are not far apart, but you'll be exhausted after a day trip. Panwangjie is a newly built scenic area with well-constructed boardwalks. From the summit, you can see the entire Yao mountain sea of ​​clouds. ⏰ The light is best after 3 PM, highlighting the distinct layers of the mountains. Lianhua Mountain is more pristine, with many stone steps; the climb takes about two hours. There's a small temple at the summit, quiet but not very popular. Both scenic areas are expensive: Panwangjie, including the cable car, costs about 120 yuan, while Lianhua Mountain's pure hike costs about 80 yuan. ⚠️ At the foot of Lianhua Mountain, villagers will try to sell you "private paths to avoid the entrance fee." Don't believe them; these paths are slippery and winding, not worth the extra few yuan. There's a Yao ethnic museum in Jinxiu County, which is free and teaches you about the origins of the Panwang Festival. For accommodation, I recommend staying in the county town. Guesthouses cost a little over 100 yuan per night, and there's a night market where you can eat your fill of roasted Yao mountain chicken with rice wine for about 30 yuan per person. 🍜 For breakfast, head to the old street for a bowl of Yao-style oil tea (5 yuan). It's strongly flavored with ginger, and a bowl before a hike is especially refreshing. 04 Hanzhong|Shaanxi Hanzhong is a place where you can slow down. A day is just right for the Shimen Plank Road and the Ancient Hantai. In the morning, go to the Shimen Plank Road, a section of the ancient Baoxie Road. Your feet are on suspended wooden planks above the Bao River; to be honest, it made my legs a little weak, but the scenery was truly unique. The plank road is about three kilometers long, taking a little over an hour to walk, not too strenuous. For lunch, go back to the city center and eat at Hanzhong Liangpi (cold skin noodles) on Dongguan Zheng Street. A bowl costs six yuan, with tofu and other side dishes. It's sour and spicy, and even softer and more chewy than Xi'an's Liangpi. In the afternoon, go to the Ancient Hantai (free admission). It's the site of Liu Bang's former palace, now a museum. Inside, there's a rubbing of the "Shimen Song" stone inscription; calligraphy enthusiasts shouldn't miss it. Go to the Han River in the evening. The river is wide open, and locals are fishing and walking their dogs on the banks. Find a step to sit on and enjoy the breeze; it's more comfortable than visiting tourist attractions. ⚠️ There are people selling "Ancient Plank Road Commemorative Coins" at the entrance of the Shimen Plank Road scenic area. They're pure copper-colored plastic; don't buy them. 🚄 A taxi from Hanzhong Station to the Shimen Plank Road takes about 15 minutes and costs 20 yuan. 05 Jiuquan|Gansu This Dunhuang route was the most difficult recommendation for me this time. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, as well as the Mogao Grottoes, are both world-class, but they're incredibly crowded during peak season. You must book the Mogao Grottoes in advance on the official website. Peak season tickets are released half a month in advance, with a daily limit of 6,000 tickets. If you can't book, you can only buy an emergency ticket, which only allows you to see four caves, resulting in a significantly less enjoyable experience. ⏰ For the Mogao Grottoes, choose the first showing in the morning. The lighting is good, and the colors of the murals are clearly visible. For Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, enter after 6 PM to avoid the scorching sun. Climb the sand dunes to watch the sunset; the moment the lights of Crescent Lake come on is worth the ticket price. Yadan National Geological Park and Yumenguan Pass are on the same route. A chartered car costs about 400 yuan for a day, or 100 yuan per person for four people sharing a car. However, the journey is long, taking eight hours round trip. If you're short on time, you can skip Yadan and only visit Yumenguan Pass. ⚠️ Rent shoe covers at the entrance of Mingsha Mountain for 15 yuan. Actually, walking barefoot on the sand is more comfortable, but it's very hot. 🍜 Eat donkey meat noodles at the city's night market for 30 yuan per person. Apricot juice is 5 yuan a cup, which helps cut through the greasiness. 06 Jining|Shandong Qufu's Three Confucian Sites and Weishan Lake offer completely different experiences – one is about culture, the other about water. For the Three Confucian Sites (Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Confucius Cemetery), it's recommended to hire a guide. Otherwise, you'll only see buildings and trees. A guide can tell you which cypress tree was planted by Confucius himself and which stele was inscribed by Emperor Qianlong. A combined ticket costs 140 yuan, half price for students. ⏰ Enter the Confucius Temple as soon as it opens at 8 am. Tour groups don't arrive until 9:30 am, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility in front of the Dacheng Hall. The Confucius Cemetery is outside the city. You can take an electric cart to get in; it's full of ancient cypress trees and perfect for a leisurely stroll. Weishan Lake is far from Qufu, about a two-hour drive. The lake is large, and you can take a boat into the reed beds. Lotus flowers are in full bloom in summer, but they start to fade at the end of August, so you need to go early to see the peak bloom. ⚠️ There's a restaurant selling "wild lake fish" near the entrance of Weishan Lake Scenic Area. It's expensive and the taste is average. It's better to go back to the city and eat braised pork rice; it's 15 yuan a bowl and not greasy. 🚄 There's a high-speed train from Qufu East Station, taking half an hour to Jining city. 07 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests in Ejina only turn yellow at the end of September. If you go in August or September, you won't see the golden color. However, the Badain Jaran Desert is unaffected by the season. If you insist on going in August or September, I suggest skipping the poplar forest scenic area to save on entrance fees and focus on the desert. The dunes of the Badain Jaran Desert are even wilder than those of the Singing Sand Dunes. Hire an off-road vehicle to venture into the heart of the desert; the driver will take you to the highest point, Da Sha Zao Hai Zi (Big Sand Date Lake), where the blue-green water contrasts beautifully with the golden dunes, creating an almost unreal effect. A day trip by car costs around 800 yuan; a shared ride for four people costs 200 yuan per person, including lunch (watermelon and naan brought by the driver). ⏰ The light in the desert is softest between 5 pm and 7 pm, so you don't need filters for portraits. ⚠️ There is no cell phone signal in the desert, so download offline maps beforehand and arrange your return time with the driver. For accommodation, I recommend staying in the town of Alashan Right Banner; a standard room costs around 150 yuan. Avoid desert tent camps; they are expensive and cold. 🍜 Eat hand-pulled mutton in town; it costs 60 yuan per jin (500g), served with garlic and vinegar—the meat is flavorful and substantial. 08 Changsha|Hunan In Changsha, the joy of budget travel lies in the food. Tianxin Pavilion and Yuelu Mountain are both free attractions, but the ways to experience them are different. Tianxin Pavilion is located in the city center, a remnant of the ancient city wall. It can be explored in half an hour, making it suitable for a quick stop if you're passing by. Yuelu Mountain is worth half a day. Enter from the South Gate, first visit Yuelu Academy (ticket price 50 yuan, half price for students), then climb the mountain. The summit offers a panoramic view of the Xiang River. ⏰ Visiting Yuelu Mountain in the evening is best, as the sunset casts light through the trees. On the way down, you can also stroll along the Hunan University snack street. The Hunan Provincial Museum is free, but reservations must be made three days in advance via their official WeChat account. The Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Tomb is the museum's prized possession. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, about an hour's drive from the city center. It's the former residence of Liu Shaoqi, with a tranquil environment. However, if you're short on time, you can skip it, as there are plenty of delicious foods in Changsha city. 🍜 The classic black stinky tofu on Taiping Street costs 10 yuan a serving. It's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with spicy pickled radish. Afterwards, enjoy a cup of Chayan Yuese tea; the Youlan Latte costs 16 yuan and has a thick milk foam. I stayed at a hostel near the subway station close to Wuyi Square; a bed was 50 yuan. Pozi Street was right downstairs, and there were still noodle shops open at 2 AM. Traveling in August and September is a bit hot, but there are fewer people and prices are lower, so traveling off-peak is actually a good deal. Of these places, I prefer Dalian and Jiuquan the most—one is cool, and the other is magnificent. Do you have any places you particularly want to go? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some bad choices.

8 hidden gems accessible by high-speed rail for family trips, uncrowded and fun 1️⃣ Leshan | Sichuan When visiting the Giant Buddha with kids, don't rush straight to the main entrance. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Leshan Station, then take a taxi to Jiadingfang. Stroll along the riverside boardwalk, where kids can see the side profile of the Giant Buddha without having to crane their necks in a crowd. Around 5:00 PM, the river reflection is soft, making it easy to take photos without fighting for a spot. The next morning, head to the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area. Enter through the North Gate to see Lingyun Temple first, then head down the Nine-Bend Plank Road. ⚠️ The plank road is narrow and steep. For very young children, we recommend carrying them instead of using a stroller. After seeing the Buddha, head straight to Zhanggongqiao Food Street. 🍜 You'll find "qiaojiao" beef (beef soup) and sweet skin duck here. Look for small shops packed with locals—you can't go wrong. If you have extra time, the Baoguo Temple area at the foot of Mount Emei is very peaceful. Just take a walk in the lower mountain area with the kids; don't push for the Golden Summit, as the cable car queue can be incredibly long. For accommodation, choose the area near Leshan Port for convenient evening riverside walks and easy access to the high-speed train station. 2️⃣ Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai This place is truly uncrowded. 📍 The First Bend of the Yellow River is in Dari County. Standing on the viewing platform, you'll see the Yellow River water is crystal clear, completely overturning the impression from your textbooks. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Xining, then hire a car. The drive takes about 5 hours. The road conditions are good but winding, so we recommend bringing motion sickness patches. It's windy on the grasslands, so bring an extra fleece jacket for the kids. Even in summer, the temperature drops rapidly once the sun goes down. The activities here are simple: enjoy the water, mountains, and yaks. The Yellow River Bay turns a golden pink at dusk. ⏰ The light is best around 7:00 PM, so you can head back to the county town for dinner right after. Tibetan food might not suit every child's taste, but yogurt and yak jerky are usually hits. ⚠️ The altitude here is nearly 4,000 meters. If your child is prone to altitude sickness, consult a doctor beforehand and don't push it. 3️⃣ Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Populus euphratica forests and deserts sound exhausting for parents? It can actually be quite relaxing. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Yinchuan, then hire a car for a 2-hour drive to Alxa Left Banner. On the edge of the Badain Jaran Desert, you can take the kids sand bashing in off-road vehicles. It's safer than you'd think, and the drivers are experienced locals. Walking in the desert is tough. Have the kids wear high-top shoes instead of sandals, as the sand can be hot. The Populus euphratica forest area is better for an autumn visit. ⏰ The leaves turn golden in early October; it's a bit more crowded then, but worth it. If you come in summer, head straight to the desert to play in the sand. Bring a sandboard and find a gentle slope—they can play for an entire afternoon. 🍜 For dinner, we recommend the camel meat pies in Ejin Banner—savory without being gamey, and very kid-friendly. For accommodation, choose a homestay in Badain Jaran Town; they are clean, affordable, and you can see the stars at night. ⚠️ There are many sections in the desert without signal, so download offline maps in advance. 4️⃣ Shaoyang | Hunan Mount Lang is not just one mountain, but a whole cluster of Danxia landforms. Just visiting the highlights with kids is enough. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Shaoyang Station, then take a bus to Xinning County. The whole trip takes about 2 hours. 📍 The "Whale Playing in the Sea" at Bajiaozhai is the core attraction. It looks like a fairyland in the early morning with the sea of clouds. ⏰ We recommend arriving at the cable car station before 8:00 AM, or you might be queuing until noon. The Lajiao Peak Scenic Area is relatively flat, making it suitable for a leisurely walk with seniors and children. There are boardwalks along the way, so no need to hike off-trail. You can take a bamboo raft on the Fuyi River at the foot of Mount Lang. The current is gentle, and kids can reach out to touch the water. Remember to wear non-slip sandals. 🍜 The blood duck in Xinning County is a must-try. It's slightly spicy and fragrant—kids can eat two bowls of rice with it. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the mountains, so be sure to bring insect repellent. Don't ask me how I know. 5️⃣ Ankang | Shaanxi Hidden between the Qinling Mountains and the Bashan Mountains, this place is several degrees cooler than Xi'an, making it a natural air-conditioned room in summer. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Ankang Station, have a bowl of steamed noodles in the city, then hire a car to Langao County to see Qianceng River. The river cascades down in layers, like countless small waterfalls strung together. Kids can take off their shoes and splash in the shallows—the water is cool but not bone-chilling. In the afternoon, head to the Fengyan Ancient Terraced Fields. 📍 Enter from the Xuanwo Town entrance. The terraces spread along the hillside; they are lush green after rice planting in late June, and a different sight when the rice turns yellow in September. There are stone paths between the terraces. Strollers aren't practical, but 5 or 6-year-olds can walk it just fine. 🍜 The local Ziyang steamed pot is worth a try. The chicken soup is rich, and it includes egg dumplings and pig's trotters—a big pot is enough for the whole family. For accommodation, choose a hotel in Hanbin District for easy access back to downtown Ankang and evening walks along the Han River. 6️⃣ Zaozhuang | Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient Town is better to visit at night than during the day, so don't rush in early in the morning. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Zaozhuang Station, then take a 30-minute taxi ride to the East Gate of the ancient town. Spend the afternoon walking around inside. 📍 The Canjiang Office and the Tianhou Palace are worth visiting with kids to learn about the history of this canal town. After dark, the lights come on. Take a sculling boat through the water alleys; the boatwoman will sing folk songs, and the kids will be wide-eyed with wonder. 🍜 The yellow flower beef noodles in the ancient town are a signature dish. The broth is rich, the noodles are chewy, and a bowl will make you feel right at home. ⚠️ Homestay prices in the ancient town fluctuate significantly and can double on weekends and holidays, so we recommend booking in advance. The next morning, you can go to the Canal Wetland Park outside the ancient town—it's uncrowded, has easy-to-walk boardwalks, and is great for kids to run around. 7️⃣ Hengshui | Hebei Hengshui Lake looks like an ordinary park, but it actually hides a complete wetland ecosystem. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Hengshui North Station, then take a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. With kids, we recommend taking the electric cart directly to Meihua Island. There is a circular wooden boardwalk on the island that takes about 40 minutes to walk. There are various water birds in the reeds, and kids can watch them for hours with binoculars. ⏰ 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM is the best time for bird watching—the birds are active and it's less crowded. For lunch, head back to the city for Jizhou braised pancakes. 📍 The old shop on Heping Road serves generous portions; the pancake strips soak up the meat juices, and kids can eat a whole plate. In the afternoon, you can go to the Lotus Garden on the east bank of Hengshui Lake. The lotus flowers are in full bloom in mid-July. If you get tired of walking, just sit in a lakeside pavilion and enjoy the breeze. ⚠️ There are two types of boats in the scenic area: large boats are fast but you can't see the birds, while small boats are slow but can go into the reed marshes. Definitely choose the small boat when traveling with kids. 8️⃣ Nanchang | Jiangxi Tengwang Pavilion is famous, but many people don't know that visiting in the evening is the best way to experience it. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Nanchang West Station, then take Metro Line 2 directly to Wanshou Palace Station. It's a 10-minute walk from there. Go up to the pavilion at 5:30 PM. First, watch the sunset over the Gan River from the fifth floor. As it gets dark, the pavilion lights up, and the whole building looks like it's floating in the night. ⚠️ Note: Entry to the pavilion stops after 7:00 PM, so don't cut it too close. The next morning, you can go to the Gan River Citizen Park on the north side of Tengwang Pavilion. This is where locals take their kids; there's a large lawn and a sand pit where kids can run around freely. 🍜 The clay pot soup and mixed noodles at Shengjinta Food Street are the standard Nanchang breakfast. The soup is fresh and the noodles are spicy—just order a non-spicy meat patty soup for the kids. If your child is interested in history, you can take your time explaining the murals and bronze sculptures inside the pavilion. If not, just take a quick look and finish in 20 minutes. Traveling with kids, the biggest fears are crowds and boredom. These eight places offer great scenery, delicious food, or are simply uncrowded and peaceful. They are accessible by high-speed rail, so no need to deal with connecting flights, and you can control the pace of your itinerary. Which ones have you visited with your kids? Or do you have other hidden gems? Let me know in the comments, and I'll check them out next time.

01 Beijing When taking kids to Beijing in summer, don't rush to the Forbidden City right away; check the weather first. 🌞 On hot days, go boating at Beihai Park before 9 AM. There's a breeze on the lake, making it much cooler than on land. 📍 Enter through the North Gate of Beihai Park, rent a pedal boat for about CNY 40 for half an hour. Kids will love it so much they won't want to get off. At 2 PM, when the sun is strongest, hide in the corridor west of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests in Temple of Heaven Park. Ancient cypresses provide shade there. Sit on a stone bench and enjoy an old-fashioned popsicle; it's very comfortable. ⚠️ Remember to book tickets for the Forbidden City and Summer Palace 7 days in advance on their official accounts. Summer tickets sell out instantly, so don't expect to buy them on site. Enter the Summer Palace through the East Palace Gate and walk north along the east bank of Kunming Lake. There are half as many people as on the long corridor side, and the scenery is just as good. 🍜 For lunch, take the kids to Huguosi Snacks. Pea cake, Aiwowo, and Douzhi (fermented bean juice – kids usually don't like it, but it's worth a try). CNY 30 per person is enough to fill up. 02 Huangshi | Hubei Huangshi isn't a popular tourist city, but precisely because of that, prices and experiences are quite friendly. Chengyue Island is where locals stroll in the evening. It's free, not very big, and takes about half an hour to walk around. ⏰ Go to the island after 5 PM when the sun is lower. The lake sparkles, and cool breezes come one after another, making it more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. There are several old willow trees on the island with many stone benches underneath. Lay out a picnic mat and sit for an afternoon. If you have kids, remember to bring a net and a small bucket. You can catch small fish and shrimp in the shallow areas by the lake, and kids can spend two hours playing there. 🚄 A taxi from Huangshi North Station to Chengyue Island costs about CNY 20 and avoids traffic jams. ⚠️ There are no small shops on the island, so buy water and snacks in advance, or you'll be thirsty with nothing to drink. 03 Qiannan | Guizhou Summer in Libo Zhangjiang is that kind of damp, vibrant green coolness. When taking kids, don't try to see everything; just walking through the Xiaoqikong section is enough. 🌧️ Enter the scenic area two hours after it rains. The water level rises, and the Wolongtan Waterfall has its largest flow, with water so blue it looks unreal. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and take the sightseeing bus to Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge first. The bridge surface is slippery, so hold your child's hand. Walk along the boardwalk towards Laya Waterfall. The path is shaded by trees, and the stream is right by your feet, emitting a cool mist. Kids can wear sandals and go into the water. In shallow areas, it only reaches their ankles, is crystal clear, and you can see small fish swimming between their toes. 🍜 Grilled corn and fried small fish are sold at the scenic area entrance for CNY 10 per serving. The taste is average, but it's filling. ⚠️ Summer is the high-water season, but the scenic area may temporarily close during heavy rain, so check official announcements before you go. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is a hidden gem that many people pass by but never visit. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West." The rocks are strangely shaped, and kids won't feel tired climbing; they'll be too busy looking for "monster caves." ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8 AM. Climb the west route while it's cool; it takes about two hours to reach the summit. There's a large platform at the top where the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. Eating self-heating rice there is amazing. In the afternoon, go to Laole Mountain. Don't climb the main peak; take the eastern mountain-circling trail. It's gentle and not tiring, suitable for seniors and small children. 📍 The Laole Mountain Windmill Observation Deck is at the end of the trail. Large windmills spin overhead with a rumbling sound, captivating the kids. 🍜 At a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain, order a pot of local chicken stew. It's freshly killed and cooked, served with flatbread. A family of three can eat until full for about CNY 150. ⚠️ Water on the mountain is expensive, CNY 8 for a bottle of mineral water. Bring two bottles yourself. 05 Garzê | Sichuan Summer in Garzê is the ultimate escape from the heat, but the high altitude means not every child can handle it. If your child is over 8 years old and usually active, you can take the Xinduqiao to Daocheng Yading route. 🌄 At 6 AM in Xinduqiao, the morning mist hasn't dispersed, and light filters through the clouds onto the poplar forest. That golden glow can't be captured in photos. Mugecuo is better to visit in the afternoon. The lake is vast, and there's a horse ranch by the lake. Kids can ride a pony for CNY 60, and the horse-leading uncle is very patient. 📍 Luorong Pasture in Daocheng Yading is the highlight, but hiking there and back takes four to five hours. If you have kids, gauge your ability. It's recommended to ride a horse directly to Milk Lake, CNY 300 for one way, saving energy for the kids to enjoy the lake. 🍜 There's a yak hot pot restaurant in the town at the foot of Hailuogou Glacier. The soup is so fresh it's incredibly delicious, about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ In areas over 4,000 meters above sea level, if a child complains of a headache, descend immediately; don't push it. 06 Yulin | Guangxi Yulin isn't a mainstream tourist city, but precisely because of that, the cost of living is surprisingly low. Darongshan National Forest Park is the locals' "natural air conditioner"; the mountain is 7 to 8 degrees cooler than the city. 🌲 Drive up the mountain, and you'll be surrounded by fir forests. Roll down the car window, and the air is sweet. There's an alpine meadow at the summit where kids can run freely. The grass is soft, so falling doesn't hurt. ⏰ Go up the mountain after 3 PM. The sun shines obliquely, creating dappled light and shadow in the forest. No filters needed for photos. Yuntian Cultural City is a very peculiar building, magnificent on the outside, like a giant museum inside. The entrance fee is a bit expensive, so if you have kids, you can just take photos outside. 📍 Wanhua Tower is in the center of the old town, free to enter. From the tower, you can see all the rooftops of Yulin, and the dense tiles have a unique charm. 🍜 Downstairs, there's a shop selling Niuba noodles for CNY 10 a bowl. It's sweet and savory, and kids love it too. 07 Diqing | Yunnan Summer in Shangri-La means the grasslands are a sea of flowers, but the UV rays are also fierce. Baishuitai is a must-visit. It's a travertine terrace more spectacular than Pamukkale in Turkey, layered like rice paddies, with pale blue water. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The sun hits the water just right, making the colors most beautiful. In Pudacuo National Park, the wooden boardwalk section around Shudu Lake is the easiest. It takes an hour to walk around, and you can see wild ducks and small squirrels along the way. 🌿 The golden roof of Songzanlin Monastery is particularly dazzling in the afternoon, so remember to wear sunglasses. However, the monastery itself is solemn and majestic, so be quiet when taking children inside. Tiger Leaping Gorge is the most physically demanding. The steps are steep and narrow. It's not recommended for very young children to go down; viewing it from the observation deck is impressive enough. 🍜 There's a yak yogurt shop in Dukezong Ancient City, CNY 5 a cup. It's sour enough to make you wince but very refreshing. ⚠️ Sunscreen, sun hats, and lip balm are essential. It's so dry there you'll question everything. 08 Alxa | Inner Mongolia Alxa's Poplar Forest is an autumn fairy tale, but in summer, it has a different, quiet beauty. 🌳 In August, the poplar forest is a lush green, with very few tourists, and tickets are much cheaper. Walk along the boardwalk through the forest with your kids. The ground is sandy, and the dense leaves overhead provide cool shade. 🚗 Badain Jaran Desert is the highlight. To enter the desert, you must hire a local driver with a chartered car, about CNY 800 for a car, which allows you to play all day. Riding in an off-road vehicle over the dunes, kids will scream "again!" The feeling of weightlessness is more thrilling than a roller coaster. 📍 There are several lakes (haizi) in the desert, with water so blue it looks unreal. You can also find beautiful desert rose stones by the lakes. ⏰ At 7 PM, climb to the top of a dune to watch the sunset. The entire desert turns orange-red, and the sand blowing on your face is worth it. 🍜 Lamb skewers in town are CNY 2 each, grilled until sizzling with oil. Add a sprinkle of cumin, and kids can eat ten in one go. ⚠️ There's no phone signal in the desert, so download offline maps in advance. Bring plenty of water, at least three bottles per person. August travel doesn't have to mean crowds. These eight places, some off-the-beaten-path, some classic, all share the commonality of being budget-friendly and fun. Pick one near you, pack your bags, and go. Which one do you want to visit most? Let us know in the comments.

01 Baicheng | Jilin When visiting Baicheng with kids, don't rush to hit every attraction. First, learn to "slow down." I’d call the Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area the "gold standard" for effortless travel. ⏰ Arrive at 8:30 AM to beat the crowds and enjoy the cool river breeze. Stroll along the boardwalk; kids can chase butterflies and watch water birds while you just take a deep breath. There’s a Nenjiang Bay Wetland Science Museum inside where kids can touch specimens—much more engaging than just looking. 🍜 Don't settle for food in the scenic area. Drive 10 minutes to downtown Da'an and find a "braised river fish in an iron pot" restaurant. The fish is caught fresh that day, tender and with few bones—kids will love it mixed with rice. ⚠️ It gets sunny after 2:00 PM, so head back to your homestay for a nap. Come back out at 5:00 PM when the light is soft and the river glows gold—no filters needed for photos. Remember, Nenjiang Bay is all about "relaxation." Don't pack your itinerary; just rest whenever you feel like it. 02 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Populus euphratica forests and the Badain Jaran Desert make for a great "geology class" for kids, but you need to approach them differently. In the Populus Euphratica Forest Tourist Area, the leaves start turning yellow in late September and are at their peak in early October. Don't try to cover the whole area with kids. Take the shuttle bus to Erdaoqiao, where the reflection of the trees in the water makes for the best photos. Kids can collect fallen leaves to make specimens—more meaningful than buying souvenirs. ⚠️ The last shuttle bus is at 6:00 PM, so don't lose track of time. For the Badain Jaran Desert, don't try to hike it. Charter an off-road vehicle; the drivers are steady, and kids will be screaming with excitement in the back seat. 📍 A must-stop is Bilutu Peak. The dune lines look like waves, and kids can play in the sand for an hour. ⏰ Enter the desert at 4:30 PM when the light is angled, the sand patterns are clear, and it's not too hot. 🚄 It's about a 3-hour drive from Yinchuan to Left Banner. If you're with kids, I recommend staying overnight in Left Banner and heading into the desert the next day so they don't get tired. 03 Sanming | Fujian Dajin Lake and Taining Ancient City offer a perfect mix of activity and relaxation—one for water fun, the other for wandering through alleys. Take a boat tour on Dajin Lake. The whole trip takes about 3.5 hours, but kids won't be bored—there's commentary on how the "Danxia landform on water" was formed, and kids listen intently. 📍 Ganlu Temple is built right into the cliff face. Kids will ask, "How did the house grow on the mountain?"—it's much more intuitive than a textbook. ⚠️ Boat schedules are fixed, with one departure at 9:00 AM and another at 2:00 PM. Don't be late. Taining Ancient City is best for an evening stroll. With its bluestone paths and elderly people fanning themselves in front of old houses, it's full of local charm. 🍜 Eat the "nuangu bao" (warm mushroom buns) from street vendors while they're hot—soft skin and savory filling, kids will gobble them up. ⏰ The ancient city lights up at 7:00 PM. See that before you leave—it's worth the trip. 04 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Taoxichuan Ceramic Art Avenue is more fun at night than during the day. It's a district converted from an old porcelain factory, with red bricks and tall kilns—once the lights come on, the atmosphere is incredible. Kids can try pottery throwing for a few dozen yuan. Teachers guide them step-by-step, and they can take their creations home. ⚠️ Pottery experiences end at 8:30 PM, so get there early to secure a spot. The Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum is best visited in the morning when it's cool. Watching masters paint porcelain and fire kilns on-site will make kids ask, "Why does the mud get hard?"—a much better question than just reading display boards. 📍 The Fenghuo Xianshi Temple in the scenic area tells the story of kiln workers praying to the gods, which kids find fascinating. 🍜 For lunch, go to the "Hui Jia Chi Fan" (Go Home to Eat) restaurant. Try the stir-fried alkaline rice cakes with meat or the cold noodles—you can ask for non-spicy versions that kids can eat. This place is perfect: adults can appreciate the craft, and kids can play with mud—everyone gets what they want. When out of sight, kids eating shrimp and crab can stay quiet for half an hour. ⏰ The sea breeze is already cool in September, so add a light jacket in the evening to keep the kids from catching a chill. When traveling with kids, the biggest fear isn't that they'll get tired, but that the adults will try to hit every spot. I've tested these eight places for you. I've minimized walking as much as possible and prioritized sitting over standing. What are your secret, effortless travel routes? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll check them out for you next time.

Yinchuan Departure: 5-Lake Crossing + Zhongwei 2-Day Trip Travel Buddy Includes 5-lake crossing off-road vehicle, admission tickets, drone photography of two lakes and one sand dune, desert tent accommodation (no private bathroom), buffet dinner, breakfast, Shapotou admission ticket, and 2-day insurance (you can pay extra to upgrade to a scenic room with a private bathroom, or exchange the buffet dinner and Shapotou admission ticket for a scenic room with a private bathroom). 5-Lake Crossing + Zhongwei Desert Camping (2-Day Trip) DAY.01 Day 1 Yinchuan - Cross the 5 Lakes - Tengger Desert Camping in Zhongwei Pick-up from hotels in Yinchuan city, head to Tengger Desert in Alxa Left Banner; view the Western Xia Imperial Tombs from a distance, visit the Ming Great Wall ruins, and pass by the Hero Club Sculpture Plaza; arrive at the desert entrance and cross the 5 lakes; Swan Lake, Ulan Lake, Camel Lake, Guitar Lake, Desert Everest, view Haliuqi Lake from a distance (unlimited sandboarding, drone photography of two lakes and one sand dune, insurance, shoe covers), Desert Dream road sign, photo opportunities, then head to the Tengger Desert camp in Zhongwei; rest a while, have dinner; free time, enjoy free desert activities; unlimited sandboarding, desert sunset, sand dune stargazing, desert carnival night; bonfire party, fireworks show, rest. DAY.02 Day 2 Desert Camp - Shapotou - Route 66 - Return to Yinchuan Desert sunrise (watch on your own); breakfast at the camp (hearty buffet breakfast); free time, experience desert entertainment activities, take a vehicle to the 5A scenic spot Shapotou; go to Zhongwei Route 66; photo opportunities, tour ends, return to Yinchuan city; arrive in Yinchuan city (can be dropped off at Huaiyuan Night Market, train station, etc., ending the pleasant trip); Yinchuan travel chartered car, Yinchuan travel carpooling, Yinchuan travel travel buddy, 5-lake crossing, Tengger Desert camping, Zhongwei desert hotel, Shapotou, Route 66, Zhongwei travel chartered car, Zhongwei

Don't want to deal with crowds during Mid-Autumn, but still want to keep your budget to a minimum? I've dug up these 8 treasure spots. The scenery is stunning, the cost is low, and they're perfect for those who don't want to follow the crowd. 01 Leshan | Sichuan Don't rush to climb Mount Emei; see the Leshan Giant Buddha first. It opens at 8 AM; enter through the North Gate and exit through the East Gate to avoid the large tour groups that arrive after 10 AM. The path is narrow, so take it slow if you're with seniors or children, and don't try to push through. After seeing the Buddha, take a taxi directly to Zhanggongqiao. 📍 The beef soup place opposite Di Ba Fried Food—the soup is fresh, the meat is tender, and it's about CNY 30 per person. If you want to go up the mountain in the afternoon, the Golden Summit is too tiring; I suggest just walking from Qingyin Pavilion to Yixiantian (A Thread of Sky). It's a 2-hour round trip with cool water, perfect for escaping the "autumn tiger" heat. ⚠️ You need to book the Buddha ticket one day in advance via the official account; you basically can't buy same-day tickets on-site. 🚄 It takes over 50 minutes by high-speed train from Chengdu East Station. Stay near Leshan Port; you can take a walk by the river at night to see the Sleeping Buddha, and accommodation can be had for just over CNY 100. 02 Wuzhong | Ningxia Many people only head to Zhongwei in Ningxia, but Wuzhong is the city locals secretly visit for food. Head straight to the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon in the morning. The 108 Pagodas line the hillside; standing there watching the Yellow River bend, the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off, so hold on tight. I recommend buying the shuttle bus ticket in the scenic area; walking the whole way will kill your legs. For lunch, go back to the city for morning tea. 📍 Old Ma's Lamb Offal with fennel pancakes—the lamb soup is rich but not gamey. Break the pancake into the soup; you'll be sweating after a CNY 20 meal. In the afternoon, visit the Yellow River Tower for a panoramic view of Wuzhong. ⚠️ The canyon is windy, so don't wear a skirt, and sun-protection sleeves are more practical than an umbrella. If your budget is tight, stay in a small hotel in Litong District; it's clean and costs CNY 80 a night, half the price of those near the scenic area. 03 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Alxa isn't just about the Populus euphratica forest, but that's why you come in autumn. In early October, the forest is golden. In Ejin Banner, sunlight shines through the leaves, and the whole road is golden—perfect for photos. Tickets aren't cheap; I suggest buying the shuttle ticket from Erdaoqiao to Sidaoqiao, as that's where the highlight is, so don't waste money on the full route. After the forest, head to the Badain Jaran Desert. Off-roading is the soul of the trip; the driver will take you over big dunes—the weightlessness is better than a roller coaster. 💰 CNY 800 per vehicle; split by 4 people, it's CNY 200 each. ⚠️ The temperature difference in the desert is huge, and you'll be shivering when the wind blows in the evening, so a thin down jacket is a must. Stay in a yurt for one night; the Milky Way is so clear at night it looks fake. 04 Sanming | Fujian Sanming is a hidden gem in Fujian—few tourists, low prices. You must take a boat on Dajin Lake. Ganlu Temple is hidden in a cliff crevice, supported by a single pillar—it looks precarious but is very stable. The boat ticket is included in the scenic area ticket; the 2-hour ride is very comfortable. After getting off, go to Taining Ancient Town. At dusk, lanterns light up, and the stone roads turn a warm yellow. 📍 The Shangshu Mansion in the ancient town is worth entering; the Ming Dynasty architecture is well-preserved, and the wood carvings are stunning. For dinner, try the beef soup shop at the ancient town entrance—rich soup, chewy noodles, CNY 15 per person. ⚠️ The boat schedule for Dajin Lake is fixed, and there are no boats after 3 PM, so don't leave it too late. Stay in a guesthouse in the ancient town for about CNY 120; the view from the window is very photogenic. 05 Xinzhou | Shanxi You can see three types of landscapes in one trip to Xinzhou. First, Yanmen Pass. Standing on the gate tower, the mountains press in from both sides, and the wind rushes through the pass—you can imagine how hard it was for ancient guards. The area is small; you can finish in 2 hours. No need for the shuttle bus; walking is better. In the afternoon, go to Laoniuwan, where the Yellow River and the Great Wall meet. The water is jade-green, completely different from the muddy water you might expect. The light is best at dusk; the Great Wall towers and the river surface are gilded. The best spot is 200 meters west of the viewing platform. Leave the second day for Wutai Mountain. Don't drive into the mountain—the traffic will make you doubt life. Taking the scenic area bus is more worry-free. ⚠️ Wutai Mountain is at a high altitude and is cool even in August, so bringing a fleece jacket is a good idea. Stay in a guesthouse in Taihuai Town for CNY 150 including breakfast; it's good value. 06 Jingzhou | Hubei Jingzhou Ancient City is worth an overnight stay; it's prettier at night. After the city walls light up, the reflection in the moat is complete. Walk around the South Gate; it's quiet and uncrowded. The next morning, climb the wall from Yinbin Gate and walk to Xiaobei Gate. This section is well-maintained, and you can see the gray tiles of the old houses inside the city. For lunch, go to Daxian Alley for "morning hall noodles." 📍 Fushou Noodle Restaurant—the soup is made from eel bones, rich and fresh. Dip a fried dough stick in it; it's amazing. September coincides with the Lantern Festival season; the ancient city will be full of colorful lanterns. It's like traveling back to ancient times. Tickets are about CNY 30. ⚠️ It's a 15-minute taxi ride from Jingzhou Station to the ancient city; don't take the ones soliciting passengers on the side of the road, as using the meter is cheaper. Stay near the East Gate; you can see the lanterns from your window at night. 07 Longnan | Gansu Longnan is the "south" of Gansu—full of greenery, not at all like the desert. Wenxian Tianchi is hidden deep in the mountains; the lake is blue-green, surrounded by dense forests. The air in September is moist and cool. A 2-hour hike around the lake, and you'll barely meet anyone. In the afternoon, go to Guan'egou. There are waterfalls one after another in the canyon, and the sound of water is deafening. The section to Tongtianmen is the most spectacular, with water mist hitting your face—cool to the bone. ⚠️ The boardwalk in Guan'egou is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and don't try to tough it out in flip-flops. Stay in Dangchang County for about CNY 100 for a decent room. In the evening, have a bowl of potato paste with pickled vegetables and vermicelli—sour, spicy, and appetizing—for CNY 20 per person. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Lanzhou to Hadapu, then hire a car to get there; it's half the price of flying directly to Longnan Airport. 08 Tongren | Guizhou Fanjingshan is famous, but after Mid-Autumn, the crowds die down, so it's a good time to go. The path to the Red Clouds Golden Summit is steep, but the sea of clouds under your feet is worth it. I suggest taking the cable car up and hiking down to see more details of the mountain. ⏰ Arrive at the gate before 8 AM to avoid peak queues; the light is best before noon. In the afternoon, head down to Zhaisha Dong Village, not far from the foot of the mountain. The Drum Tower and Wind and Rain Bridge are authentic. If you're there at mealtime, you might catch a long-table banquet. 🍜 Sour soup fish is a must—the broth is sour and spicy, the fish is tender, CNY 40 per person. ⚠️ Fanjingshan tickets are limited, so book three days in advance via the official account; you basically can't get tickets on-site. Stay in Jiangkou County; it's close to the scenic area, and accommodation is just over CNY 100, more than half the price of guesthouses inside the scenic area. The Mid-Autumn holiday isn't long, and the budget is limited, but these 8 places are enough for you to pick one. For quiet scenery, go to Longnan or Tongren; for great food, go to Wuzhong or Jingzhou; for epic photos, head to Alxa. Do you have any hidden gems? Let's chat in the comments; my next destination depends on you.

📍 [Location] Aolunbulage Town, Alxa Left Banner, Inner Mongolia (A visual feast of Danxia and Yardang composite landforms!) 🌟 [4 must-visit spots] 1️⃣ "Doctor's Hat" mushroom rock A viral landmark created by wind erosion 📸 Layered sandstone + thin pillar rock cap Every shot looks like a sci-fi blockbuster 🤳 2️⃣ A Glimpse of Sky Canyon The narrowest point only fits 1 person Look up to see just a glimpse of the blue sky ✨ The light streaming down is like a natural spotlight 💫 3️⃣ Colorful layered cliffs Stunning rock layers in red, orange, and yellow A natural palette with maxed-out color saturation 🎨 Driving through feels like being on the surface of Mars 🚗 4️⃣ Ancient rock painting treasure hunt Mysterious stone carvings from the ancient nomadic tribes of the Yin Mountains Follow the signs for an archaeological adventure 🔍 ⚠️ [Travel tips] ☀️ Sun protection essentials: Sunglasses + hat + sunscreen (The UV rays are strong enough to make you question reality) 💧 Bring at least 2L of water! The desert climate is incredibly dry ⏰ Best time to visit: 8–10 AM / 4–6 PM (The surface temperature at noon can fry an egg 🍳) 🚙 Road conditions: Sandy and dirt roads at the bottom of the canyon Off-road vehicles recommended (Sedans should proceed with caution!) 📝 [Travel advice] ✅ Total length is about 5 km ✅ Wear comfortable hiking shoes ✅ Do not climb! (The sandstone is extremely fragile) 🚩 [Nearby attractions] Ertuo Temple is not far away You can visit both in one trip! 💡 Need help planning your specific route? Leave a comment below and let me know~ 👇

01 Haidong | Qinghai Mid-Autumn in Haidong, don't rush to Ta'er Monastery to join the crowds. I prefer staying in Huzhu county seat, where you can hear Tu women practicing songs at night and wake up to wheat fields and danxia cliffs outside your window — much more atmospheric than staying in Xining. 📍 Huzhu Tu homeland park is worth spending half a day in. Enter before 10 AM for fewer visitors and to catch a Tu embroidery demonstration; the needlework on the women’s hands is so fine you can't look away. The wheel-of-autumn performance in the park runs at 11 AM, don’t miss it. 🍜 For lunch, eat at the farmhouse restaurant outside the park. Yangyu jinjin and goujiao-niao flatbreads are the signatures, portions are generous, and two people ordering three dishes will definitely be full. In the afternoon, hire a car to Youning Temple. The mountain road has 18 hairpin turns, but it's worth it once you arrive. The temple is tucked in a valley, and the golden roof dazzles in the afternoon sun. ⚠️ The main hall closes at 4:30 PM. If you want to go inside, be sure to arrive before 3 PM. ⏰ Return to Huzhu county seat by 6 PM. The live Tu wedding performance in the square usually starts then; it's free and the atmosphere is lively. 02 Jingmen | Hubei Jingmen is truly off the beaten path, which makes it perfect for Mid-Autumn when crowds are smaller. My approach: stay in Zhongxiang city center, close to Mingxian Tomb, and in the evening stroll the night market by Mochou Lake. Mingxian Tomb is an imperial tomb from the Ming dynasty; the most impressive part is the spirit way. ⚠️ Don’t take the battery car as soon as you enter. Walking in lets you feel the imposing presence of the stone statues. Walking the spirit way takes about 40 minutes and there's no shade, so bring water. 🍜 For lunch, drive 10 minutes out of the scenic area to Mochou village; the snack street there is about half the price of food inside the park. Try the kudzu starch balls and panlong greens — authentic Zhongxiang flavors. In the afternoon, head back to the city and walk around Mochou Lake wetland park. Osmanthus blooms by the lake at Mid-Autumn, and a breeze fills the air with sweet scent. ⏰ Around 5:30 PM the lake turns golden under the setting sun, no filter needed for photos. For accommodation, pick a guesthouse by Mochou Lake to fall asleep to the sound of water. It's quieter than the city center and the morning air is especially fresh. 03 Lianyungang | Jiangsu The Mid-Autumn dilemma in Lianyungang is whether to visit Huaguo Mountain or Lian Island. My answer: do both, but the order matters. Climb the mountain first, then go to the beach, or you'll be so sore the next day you might question your life choices. Huaguo Mountain opens at 7:30 AM; catch the first sightseeing bus up to Yunu Peak for the best chance of a sea of clouds at the summit. ⚠️ Monkeys on the mountain will snatch plastic bags, so zip your backpack tight — don't ask how I know. 🍜 For lunch after descending, try the vegetarian noodles at Haiqing Temple at the mountain base; the vegetarian toppings are surprisingly tasty and ¥10 a bowl will fill you up. In the afternoon, move on to Lian Island. 🚄 A taxi takes about 40 minutes. The most surprising spot for me wasn't Dasha Bay beach but Suma Bay. Walk the coastal boardwalk with reefs on your left and turquoise sea on your right; the sea breeze clears your head. ⏰ Wait for sunset at the Suma Bay viewing platform around 6 PM. When the sea turns orange-red, you’ll feel every step of the mountain climb was worth it. Sore legs the next day? Worth it. 04 Songyuan | Jilin The right way to spend Mid-Autumn in Songyuan is by Chagan Lake. This place is vast and sparsely populated, perfect for a quiet holiday. I booked a guesthouse in the Chagan Lake fishing village so the lake was right outside my window. Get up at 5:30 AM and you may see a thin mist over the water with fishing boats appearing like ink-wash painting scenes come to life. Jinchan Island is the core sight of Chagan Lake. To be honest, the island’s artificial attractions are average, but climbing the tower for the full view is truly breathtaking. ⏰ Go to the island before 10 AM, when the sun slants across the lake and flocks of waterbirds fly by — that view is worth the ticket. 🍜 For lunch, have a full-fish feast at a fisherman’s restaurant on the island; the stewed fathead fish with vermicelli is the specialty, and the fish is so tender it flakes apart with chopsticks. ⚠️ Note that lakeside restaurants sell fish by weight, so always ask the price before they weigh it. In the afternoon, return to the city and visit the Genghis Khan cultural park. The evening light on the sculptures is solemn and beautiful. There are few visitors, so it's great for a leisurely stroll. 05 Urumqi | Xinjiang For Mid-Autumn in Urumqi, spend a whole day wandering the International Grand Bazaar walking street — there’s something to do from morning until night. 📍 At 10 AM the walking street just opens and visitors haven't arrived yet. Start at the naan museum, where various shaped breads hang on the wall — more delicate than you’d expect. 🍜 Nearby you can buy fresh hot naan. A just-baked piyanzi naan costs ¥5 and is crispy outside, soft inside, and irresistible. At noon, go to Hongguang Hill. 🚄 Take Metro Line 2 to Hongguang Hill station and walk about 10 minutes. The hill isn’t high, but the viewing platform gives a panorama of Urumqi with the Tianshan peaks faintly visible in the distance. ⏰ After 4 PM the light is best for shooting the city panorama without backlight. Return to the Grand Bazaar at dusk when the night market sets up and the atmosphere is at its busiest. The smells of roasted buns, hand-pulled rice, and whole roasted lamb mix together; I always end up buying a bunch of snacks. ⚠️ One tip: dried fruit shops inside the bazaar are generally pricey, about 30% more than supermarkets. For souvenirs, go to the dried fruit wholesale area at East Ring Market for the same quality at a much better price. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests of Alxa are at their best in Mid-Autumn, showing a yellow-to-green gradient that I find more appealing than the uniform gold of late October. I recommend staying in a guesthouse in Ejina town, only a 10-minute drive from the poplar forest scenic area. ⚠️ Book well in advance during peak season. Mid-Autumn room rates can be double the usual price, and finding a room on the spot is unlikely. The poplar forest area is large; don’t try to see it all in one day. My route is to enter Erdaoqiao in the morning, where the water reflections are the most photogenic. ⏰ Before 9 AM the lake is calm and the poplar reflections are mirror-clear. Have hand-pulled mutton at a yurt in the scenic area for lunch, with a pot of milk tea — very comfortable. In the afternoon drive to the Badain Jaran Desert. The road takes about 2 hours but it's worth it. Desert off-roading is a must; when the driver surges down the dunes I screamed the whole way — super thrilling. 🍜 At night back in town, try Laoma barbecue for lamb skewers grilled over charcoal, smoky and delicious. After dinner, look up at the stars — the desert-edge sky makes the Milky Way visible to the naked eye. 07 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei’s charm is the pairing of Shapotou and Gao Temple Bao'an Temple—one sand, one temple—old and new. I suggest staying near the drum tower so most sights are within walking distance. Gao Temple Bao'an Temple is best visited in the morning. Built on the city wall platform, its multi-eaved pavilions are layered and elegant. ⚠️ The Five Hundred Arhats hall inside is very dim, and phone cameras struggle, but seeing it in person feels like stepping back in time. ⏰ Go right at opening at 9 AM for fewer people and time to take it all in. 🍜 For lunch, walk 10 minutes to Shangcheng Alley and have a bowl of artemisia noodles. The noodles are thin as hair, served with a sour-spicy broth that really wakes up the appetite. ¥8 a bowl, cheap and filling. Spend the afternoon at Shapotou. 🚄 A taxi takes about 20 minutes. The highlight is the Yellow River zip line — those few seconds sliding over the Yellow River with wind roaring in your ears and the river below are as thrilling as it gets. If you skip the zip line, ride a camel to the top of the dune to watch the sunset for an equally spectacular view. ⚠️ Shapotou gets windy in the afternoon; sunglasses and a headscarf are essential, or you'll bring half a kilo of sand back to your hotel. 08 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is the least visited of the eight, but Mid-Autumn is the best time at Xingkai Lake — not too hot, not too cold, with moisture in the air. Stay at a budget hotel in Mishan city for good value; Xingkai Lake is a 30-minute drive away. 🍜 In the evening try Jixi cold noodles at the city night market, served with spicy fish shreds and tossed dried tofu. Tangy and spicy, it hits harder than Korean cold noodles. The highlight of Xingkai Lake is the seemingly endless water surface that looks like the sea. ⏰ Get to the lakeshore at 5:30 AM for sunrise light spreading over the water and waves lapping the beach — that early wake-up feels worth it. ⚠️ It’s windy by the lake; bring a jacket. Hutou town is northwest of Xingkai Lake, a 40-minute drive. The town has a Guan Di temple built on a high terrace by the Ussuri River; the opposite bank looks like a foreign land. Standing in front of the temple watching the river makes you suddenly aware of the area's unique geography. On the way back to Mishan in the afternoon, stop by Dangbi town to buy some dried Xingkai Lake white shrimp — a local specialty that makes a great soup back home.

Trade 11 months of ordinary life for 21 days of splendor—Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest is a place you must visit with your loved one at least once in your lifetime.🍂 This is the autumn myth made famous by the movie "Hero" and one of the three largest remaining Populus euphratica forests in the world. "Living for a thousand years without dying, standing for a thousand years without falling, and remaining for a thousand years without decaying"—a 3,000-year vigil, all for this season of golden bloom, and all to meet you.🍂 📍Address: 100 meters east of Yidaoqiao, Dalaihubu Town, Ejina Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia 🎫Tickets: Main scenic area US$33.50/person (includes sightseeing bus for bridges 1–8, valid for re-entry within 48 hours); Populus euphratica forest + Heicheng/Strange Forest combo ticket is about US$56; Juyan Lake is US$10.50 (includes sightseeing bus). It is recommended to book in advance via the "Ejina Smart Tourism" mini-program. ⏰Golden Time: The core viewing period for 2026 is Oct 4–22, with leaf yellowing exceeding 80%; Oct 5–15 is the golden peak, with the most saturated colors. Best time of day: 6:30 AM–8:00 AM for reflections at the Second Bridge, and 5:30 PM–7:00 PM for the desert sunset at the Eighth Bridge. 🚗Transportation: ✈️Fly to Yinchuan/Jiuquan and charter a car (approx. 5–8 hours); 🚂Take the K7911 "Populus Euphratica Express" from Hohhot (approx. 15 hours); 🚗Drive via the G7 Beijing-Xinjiang Expressway, approx. 700 km from Yinchuan. 🏨Accommodation: Stay in Dalaihubu Town, a 10-minute drive from the scenic area. National Day rates are US$110–210/night; be sure to book 1–2 months in advance! 🍜Food: Hand-grabbed mutton (local Tan sheep boiled in clear water, tender and odorless), camel meat pie (crispy outside and tender inside), Juyan Lake wild fish, and copper pot mutton hot pot. · -- 📸Must-visit spots & best photo angles: 1️⃣ Second Bridge · Reflection Forest—The highest photo success rate in the entire area! When there is no wind in the morning, the Populus euphratica trees reflect on the water like an oil painting. 2️⃣ Fourth Bridge · Hero Forest—Filming location for "Hero," where the thousand-year-old trees are vigorous and powerful. 3️⃣ Seventh Bridge · Dream Forest—Highest golden rate, an entire forest of gold. 4️⃣ Eighth Bridge · Sand Sea Forest—Populus euphratica + Badain Jaran Desert + sunset, with camel caravan silhouettes for a cinematic feel. 5️⃣ Strange Forest Sunset—The silhouettes of dead Populus euphratica trees against the sunset glow are magnificent. 6️⃣ Juyan Lake Sunrise—Arrive before 6:00 AM to capture the reed marshes, seagulls, and sunrise in one frame. · -- 🗺️7-day itinerary: Day 1: Gather in Yinchuan, taste local delicacies. Day 2: Yinchuan → Western Dream Grand Canyon, explore Martian landscapes. Day 3: Ruoshui Jinshawan → Heishui City Ruins → Strange Forest sunset. Day 4: Juyan Lake sunrise → Full day at Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest (Second Bridge morning mist → Fourth Bridge Hero Forest → Seventh Bridge Dream Forest → Eighth Bridge desert sunset). Day 5: Ejina → Tengger Desert camp, bonfire and starry sky. Day 6: Desert Five Lakes off-road crossing → Return to Yinchuan. Day 7: Free time in Yinchuan, return home with memories. · -- ✨Highlights: Wear a red or white dress and take a set of "photos of a lifetime" in the golden forest; head to the Second Bridge at 5:00 AM to grab a spot for the morning mist; wait for a desolate and magnificent sunset in the Strange Forest; look up at the starry sky at the desert camp at night. ⚠️Tips: The temperature difference between day and night is huge, so bring a down jacket; the climate is dry, so stay hydrated and use sun protection; there is no public transport between scenic spots, so chartering a car is recommended (US$110–165/day for a 5-seater). It is only beautiful for 21 days a year, so don't miss it! This National Day, take your loved one and head to this 3,000-year golden promise! 🍁💛

Kids can't keep up? Here are 8 easy places to explore 1 Guilin | Guangxi ⏰ September is a great time to visit Guilin; there's less rain and the Li River is crystal clear. Don't force the kids to hike; just take a bamboo raft ride. They can enjoy the mountains and water without getting tired. Xingping Ancient Town is perfect for an evening stroll. The background for the 20-yuan banknote is right here. 📍 Walk to the riverside viewing platform to get the same shot. The town is small and can be explored in 30 minutes. There are jelly noodle stalls on the roadside—5 yuan a bowl, and kids love them. Reed Flute Cave is an indoor cave tour with flat paths throughout. It's dim, but there are few stairs. ⚠️ It's a constant 20°C inside the cave, so bring a light jacket for the kids. Don't wear sandals; the ground is slippery. The rice in Longji Rice Terraces turns yellow in September, but the mountain roads are winding—be careful if your kids get carsick. If you want to see the terraces without the hassle, stay at a homestay at the foot of the mountain. Watching the morning mist is more comfortable than climbing to the top. 🚄 It takes about 1.5 hours by taxi from Guilin Station to Xingping. Hiring a car is better for families with kids. 2 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia September is the most spectacular season for the Populus euphratica forests; the leaves turn a brilliant yellow. 📍 The area between Erdaoqiao and Sidaoqiao in the Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area is less crowded and has great views, so you don't have to squeeze onto the sightseeing bus. Kids love the Badain Jaran Desert. There's no line for sand sledding, and the dunes have gentle slopes. It feels warm when you step on them barefoot. ⚠️ There's no signal in the desert, so download offline maps in advance and bring double the amount of water and snacks. Families with elementary school kids should go for desert off-roading. The drivers are steady, and kids in the back seat will be squealing with excitement. For younger kids, just play at the bottom of the dunes—don't climb up, as it's exhausting. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8:00 AM when the light is soft and it's not too hot. Leave at noon for lunch, as the desert sand gets too hot in the afternoon. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Yinchuan Airport. Hiring a car is recommended so you can stop to see the camels along the way. 3 Jingmen | Hubei Xianling Mausoleum isn't the kind of "wow" attraction, but it's peaceful and low-effort. The whole park is shaded with flat stone paths, making it easy to push a stroller. ⏰ Go in after 3:00 PM when the light hits the red walls at an angle—great for photos. Kids not interested in ancient architecture? Don't worry, there are many squirrels in the park; kids can spend half an hour chasing them. 📍 The souvenir shop at the exit sells stamp books. Buy one and collect stamps as you walk around; it gives the kids a sense of purpose. If you're bringing seniors, the park's electric shuttle is worth it—10 yuan per ride to save their legs. ⚠️ There are no restaurants inside the park, but there are a few farm-style restaurants at the entrance. It costs about 40 yuan per person, and the fish head with tofu is their signature dish. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Jingmen Station, perfect for a half-day stopover if you're traveling by high-speed rail. 4 Longyan | Fujian Yongding Tulou is a living museum; kids will feel like they're on an adventure exploring in and out. 📍 Zhenchenglou and Chengqilou are must-sees. People still live in these buildings, and the bamboo poles for drying clothes and the stoves give it a real, lived-in feel. It's dim inside the Tulou and the stairs are narrow. ⚠️ Hold young kids' hands and don't let them run too fast. There are fewer tourists above the second floor, making it better for panoramic shots. Changting Ancient Town is great for an evening stroll. There's a snack street by the city wall. 🍜 The pork kidney soup and "dengzhan" cakes are worth trying. If the kids can't handle spicy food, get them some taro dumplings. If you're bringing middle or high schoolers to Mount Guanzhai, just hike a bit and turn back. The view from the top is similar to the view from halfway up, so why push yourself? ⏰ It's still hot in Longyan in September. Visit the Tulou in the morning, go back to the hotel for a nap in the afternoon, and head out again in the evening for a comfortable pace. 5 Datong | Shanxi Yungang Grottoes are a must-visit, but don't try to see too much. 📍 The open-air Buddha in Cave 20 is iconic. After seeing it, head east with the kids—it's less crowded and you can take your time. It's dim inside the caves. ⚠️ Don't use flash. If the kids are scared, tell them in advance, "These are made of stone and won't move." The Hanging Temple has long lines; be careful if you have young kids, as the stairs are narrow and steep. If your kids are in elementary school or older, it's worth going up. Standing on the walkway looking down, they'll say, "The ancients were amazing." Mount Heng and the Hanging Temple are on the same route, but don't plan on hiking the mountain. It's windy in September and cold at the top. ⏰ Arrive at the Hanging Temple at 8:00 AM to avoid lines, then head to Yungang. The light is better in the afternoon. 🍜 You can find delicious knife-cut noodles at any old shop in Datong. It's 10 yuan a bowl, and kids can finish a whole one. 6 Qingdao | Shandong Qingdao is neither cold nor hot in September, and the sea breeze is just right. Don't go to Zhanqiao during the day—⚠️ it's packed with tour groups. ⏰ Go at 6:30 AM; seagulls will be flying around, and kids can spend half an hour feeding them bread. For Mount Lao, take the Yangkou route with kids. Take the cable car up and walk a short distance to the summit to see both the sea and mountain views. Don't force young kids to hike; playing in the water on the beach after the cable car ride is more practical. 📍 Go to the Olympic Sailing Center in the evening. The sailboats are docked, the lights are on, and the seaside promenade is flat and stroller-friendly. If you have elementary school kids, take a 40-minute sailboat trip. The waves are small, and the kids will be squealing with excitement. 🍜 Have seafood near the Olympic Sailing Center in the evening. Don't order the expensive stuff—clams and mackerel dumplings are enough. You'll be stuffed for 50 yuan per person. 🚄 Qingdao Station is close to Zhanqiao; staying here makes it easy to get anywhere. 7 Baiyin | Gansu Yellow River Stone Forest is one of those places that "photos can't capture the grandeur of." 📍 Take a sheepskin raft into the scenic area. It's the first time kids will see one, and their eyes will go wide. Walk through the canyon after entering; the stone pillars on both sides look like they were cut with a knife. ⚠️ It's a gravel path the whole way, so wear sneakers, not sandals. Families with kids should take a donkey cart—20 yuan per ride. The kids will have fun, and the adults can save their energy. ⏰ The light turns warm after 4:00 PM, and the stone forest turns golden—no filters needed for photos. There are few supply points in the scenic area, so bring your own water. 🍜 There are roasted potatoes for sale at the entrance for 5 yuan each—a great snack if the kids get hungry. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Lanzhou, perfect for a road trip, and the scenery along the way is great. Younger kids might find it monotonous, but elementary school kids will ask, "How were these stones formed?"—a perfect opportunity for some science education. 8 Changzhou | Jiangsu Global Dinosaur Town is a paradise for young kids, ⚠️ but don't rush to the popular attractions as soon as you enter. 📍 Go to the China Dinosaur Museum first. It's cool indoors, and kids will be excited for half an hour just looking at the skeletons. For young kids, play in the Dream Manor—the carousel and bumper cars aren't too intense and have short lines. Elementary school kids can go for "Jurassic Journey"—remember to buy a raincoat, you will get wet. Tianmu Lake is great for the second day. Take a boat tour around the lake; it's quiet, and kids can watch the fish from the deck. Spring and Autumn Yancheng is less crowded and perfect for a slow stroll. The ancient architecture and chime bell performances are a novelty for kids. ⏰ Dinosaur Park opens at 9:00 AM. Arrive at the gate at 8:30 AM to queue and save an hour of waiting. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Changzhou Station to the Dinosaur Park. Stay at a hotel near the park for a relaxing two-day trip. 🍜 Food inside the park is expensive. Take the kids outside to eat; there are many choices at the nearby Wanda Plaza, and you can get full for 30 yuan per person.

🍂 A 3,000-year rendezvous | The ultimate photo guide to Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest 📸 "Living for 1,000 years without dying, standing for 1,000 years without falling, and remaining intact for 1,000 years after falling." In the vast desert of Alxa, Inner Mongolia, the Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest holds its 3,000-year vigil, just to trade it for 21 days of extreme splendor every autumn 🍁. When the golden hues meet the azure sky, every frame is an unedited autumn epic. This comprehensive photo guide will help you easily enter this golden fairy-tale world and capture the ultimate romance of the Great Northwest in your lens! ✨ 📍 Core photo spots & travel route 🚶‍♀️ Classic bridge: Crossing the golden corridor ✅ Bridge 2 – Reflection Forest: The "mirror of the sky" in the desert! Perfect water reflections of golden poplars. In the calm early morning, wear a red dress and stand by the bridge, using the water for composition to easily capture a romantic blockbuster like "La La Land" 🌅. ✅ Bridge 4 – Hero Forest: Filming location for the movie "Hero"! The poplars here are the tallest and thickest, with vigorous postures. Wear a red dress or cape and walk through the forest to instantly become the movie protagonist, with full martial arts atmosphere 🎬. ✅ Bridge 7 – Dream Forest: The first place in the scenic area to turn yellow! Near the desert, with dappled light and shadows. Perfect for hiking and wandering; every snapshot is a healing scene, as if falling into a golden dream 🍂. ✅ Bridge 8 – Sand Sea Kingdom: A beautiful intersection of poplars and the Badain Jaran Desert! This is the ultimate spot for shooting desert sunsets, where the setting sun gilds the poplars in warm orange, capturing the desolation and grandeur of "the lone smoke in the desert" 🐫. 🌅 Nearby highlights: Unmissable light and shadow ✅ Juyan Lake – Sunrise: A great place to see reed marshes, water birds, and the rising sun. It is recommended to set off at 5:30 AM and wait at Observation Deck 3 for the stunning moment when the first rays of sunlight pierce through the morning mist 🌊. ✅ Heicheng – Strange Tree Forest: A dark-style blockbuster of dead wood and yellow sand! Under the evening sunset, the dead poplars look like a desert sculpture group. Shoot silhouettes against the light for a tragic and beautiful effect 🌇. 💡 Photography tips ⏰ Golden shooting time ✅ Peak viewing period: Oct 4–Oct 18 (leaf yellowing rate over 85%, most saturated colors, best for photos). ✅ Daily light: 6:30 AM–8:30 AM for morning mist and Tyndall effect; 5:00 PM–6:30 PM for warm sunset orange and stunning silhouettes 📸. 👗 Clothing & gear guide ✅ Clothing advice: Highly recommend red or white long dresses, or ethnic-style shawls, which are extremely eye-catching in the golden world 👗. ✅ Essential gear: The temperature difference between day and night in the Northwest can exceed 20°C, so be sure to use the "onion layering method" (short sleeves + windbreaker + light down jacket) 🧥. UV rays are extremely strong and it's windy/sandy, so the three-piece sun protection set (sunglasses + wide-brimmed hat + magic headscarf) must be worn at all times ☀️. ⚠️ Travel tips & avoiding pitfalls ✅ Tickets & transport: Ticket is ¥150 + shuttle bus ¥40 (the scenic area is huge, strongly recommend buying the shuttle bus ticket). The scenic area has one-way traffic; recommended route: Entrance → Bridge 2 → Bridge 4 → Bridge 7 → Bridge 8 → Return 🚌. ✅ Accommodation alert: During peak season (October), housing in Dalaihub Town is extremely tight and prices double, so be sure to book 1 month in advance! Do not trust roadside solicitors offering to "take you to the wild poplar forest"; trespassing into protected areas will result in fines 🏨. ✅ Ecological red line: Poplars grow extremely slowly and the ecosystem is fragile. Do not break branches, climb, or carve on trunks. Take your trash with you to let this 3,000-year-old beauty continue 🚫. 🍜 Northwest flavors beyond the lens While chasing light and shadow, don't forget to use your taste buds to feel the temperature of this land 😋. Back in Dalaihub Town, you must try the tender, non-gamey hand-grabbed mutton (dipped in garlic sauce is amazing), sand onion scrambled eggs, and sand onion buns; then have a cup of mellow, warming camel milk wine or sweet and sour sea buckthorn juice to instantly heal the fatigue of the journey 🍲. The beauty of Ejina lies in the extreme colors it burns with its life 🌿. Bring this guide, come to this golden secret realm, and keep your 3,000-year romantic rendezvous! 🌌

A 3-day stay: 8 cities where you can truly relax 01 Kashgar | Xinjiang 📍 At 10:00 AM, the sun has just climbed over the earthen walls of the Ancient City of Kashgar. Don't rush to explore the main streets; instead, duck into the alleys behind the "Artisan Bazaar," where the clinking of coppersmiths is more atmospheric than any background music. 🍜 Lunch: Grab some pot meat at a local eatery, served with naan. The meat is tender, the broth is flavorful, and it costs about CNY 30 per person to get stuffed. In the afternoon, hire a car to the Pamir Plateau. The blue of Baisha Lake is unreal—the wind is strong enough to blow your hat into the lake, so hold on tight. ⚠️ The light is best at the Stone City after 6:00 PM, but the wind is also at its strongest, so bring a thick jacket. The altitude is high here, and you'll be out of breath after a few steps, so don't push yourself. In the evening, head back to the Ancient City. The second floor of the century-old teahouse is packed with locals. Sip some herbal tea with a piece of rock sugar and listen to them play the rawap—time really slows down here. 02 Yongzhou | Hunan Many people don't know what there is to do in Yongzhou, but let me tell you, Shangantang Ancient Village is enough to keep you occupied for a whole day. 🚄 Take a bus from Yongzhou Station to Jiangyong County, then transfer to a local minibus. The route is a bit winding, but it's worth it. There's no admission ticket for the ancient village. The Xie-Mu River flows in front of the village, and that three-arch stone bridge dates back to the Song Dynasty—you can still feel the carvings on the bridge railings when you step on it. There's a small shop next to the "Wenchang Pavilion" in the village where the auntie sells freshly steamed mugwort cakes. They're CNY 5 each, sweet but not cloying. ⚠️ The stone paths in the village are slippery, so don't wear flip-flops on rainy days. After exploring the village, sit by the rice paddies at the edge of the village in the evening and watch the cooking smoke mix with the mist. That kind of tranquility is something you can't buy in the city. 03 Lhasa | Tibet ⏰ On your first day in Lhasa, don't rush to the Potala Palace. Spend half a day soaking up the sun in Jokhang Temple Square instead. Watch the pilgrims prostrating themselves, and smell the yak butter lamps mixed with Tibetan incense drifting through Barkhor Street. The next morning, head to the Potala Palace. Remember to book via the official mini-program 1 day in advance. The admission ticket is CNY 200, but you'll definitely be out of breath climbing those 13 flights of stairs. Walk slowly, don't take photos, and just take it all in. In the afternoon, head to Namtso Lake. A shared car costs about CNY 300 per person round trip. You'll have to cross the Nagenla Pass on the way, which is at an altitude of 5,190 meters. A headache is normal, so don't panic. 🍜 Back in the city in the evening, drink a bowl of sweet tea, eat some Tibetan noodles, and get a warm, cozy sleep. ⚠️ Be sure to bring SPF 50+ sunscreen. The high-altitude UV rays will teach you a lesson in no time. 04 Wuxi | Jiangsu Wuxi is just right for a "Zen-like" 3-day trip. In the morning, head to Lingshan Grand Buddha to embrace the Buddha's feet and see the Nine Dragons Bathing the Buddha. The admission ticket is CNY 210, which isn't cheap, but it's impressive. In the afternoon, head to Nianhuawan. The Tang and Song dynasty-style architecture hides a bunch of teahouses and craft shops. It's especially photogenic when the lights come on in the evening—perfect for wearing Hanfu. The next day, go to Huishan Ancient Town. It's lined with ancestral halls, and tofu pudding and scallion oil pancakes are the standard pairing. 📍 The crab roe xiaolongbao at "Qinyuan Xiaolong" by the entrance of Jichang Garden is worth the wait. ⚠️ Don't try to squeeze the Three Kingdoms and Water Margin film base into 1 day; your legs will give out after walking through both. Just pick 1. I recommend the Three Kingdoms City; there's an equestrian show every day, and it's really exciting to watch in person. This place is great for bringing parents along—the pace isn't fast, and the food is palatable. 05 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia If you only have 3 days, spend all your time in the Populus euphratica forest and the desert. 🍂 Mid-October is when the Populus euphratica forest is at its most spectacular. It's a sea of gold, and when the wind blows, the leaves fall like a golden rain. You must take the shuttle bus in the scenic area, or you'll walk until your legs give out. Desert off-roading is the main event. The sand dune lines in the Badain Jaran Desert are even more exaggerated than internet filters, and the weightlessness of sand bashing is both thrilling and addictive. ⚠️ Before entering the desert, put your phone and camera in a sealed bag. Sand gets everywhere, and repairing a lens once will cost you enough to break your heart for half a year. Stay in a yurt near the scenic area at night. Have lamb skewers with beer and look up at the Milky Way. It's truly cold, but also truly beautiful. 06 Anyang | Henan Anyang is an underrated city. 3 days is enough to understand both its "writing" and "landscape." Reserve the first day for the Yin Ruins. The admission ticket is CNY 70. Oracle bone inscriptions, bronzeware, and the Tomb of Fu Hao—every single piece is a national treasure. ⚠️ The Yin Ruins Museum is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. On the second day, go to the Taihang Grand Canyon. It's a 1.5-hour drive from the city. The Peach Blossom Valley and the Taihang Sky Road in the canyon are the highlights. It takes about 4 hours to walk the whole route, so I suggest taking the sightseeing bus if you have bad knees. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, eat a bowl of bianfen noodles with oil pancakes in Linzhou County. It's spicy, hot, and satisfying, costing just over CNY 10 per person. This place is perfect for people who love history and hiking—a mix of activity and tranquility that won't bore you. 07 Fuyang | Anhui Balihe in Fuyang isn't very famous, but it's a very comfortable place to stroll around. 📍 The scenic area is divided into 2 zones: World Scenery and Splendid China. They're essentially miniature landscapes, but the lake is vast, and the wind blowing through the willow trees makes it perfect for aimless wandering. The admission ticket is CNY 80. I suggest entering the park after 3:00 PM when the light is soft and there are fewer people. If you have kids, you can rent a pedal boat to watch the sunset in the middle of the lake—the kids will be happy, and you'll be worry-free. 🍜 In the evening, go to downtown Fuyang to eat gelatiao. It's thick noodles mixed with sesame paste, served with a bowl of egg drop soup. You can eat until you're full for CNY 10. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are fierce at Balihe in the summer, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent. This place is perfect for people who don't want to rush through attractions and just want to find a place to lie flat. 08 Qinhuangdao | Hebei In 3 days, Qinhuangdao is enough for you to see both the sea and the pass. On the first day, go to Beidaihe. Watching the sunrise at Pigeon Nest Park is a must. Getting up at 4:30 AM is painful, but the moment you see the sun jump out from the sea level, it's worth it. On the second day, go to Shanhaiguan. The "First Pass under Heaven" city tower still retains its grandeur. The admission ticket is CNY 40, and you can see the rooftops of the entire old town from the top of the tower. 🍜 At noon, eat "Four-Strip" buns on Guancheng West Road. They're pork and scallion filling, served with millet porridge. It's a time-honored brand that won't disappoint. ⚠️ When at the seafood food stalls in Beidaihe, be sure to ask about the price before weighing. Some shops play the "market price" trick. This place is suitable for taking kids to catch the sea, or for sitting alone on the beach and zoning out. Once the sea breeze blows, all your worries will dissipate. Three days is neither too long nor too short—just enough to put your life on mute. Of these 8 cities, some heal you with their scenery, some fill you up with their food, and some calm you down with their history. Which one do you want to visit the most? Let's chat in the comments section; maybe we'll run into each other under the same sky.

🔥🌤Ulan Lake (Heart of the Earth) 📍Address: Deep in the Tengger Desert, Alxa Left Banner, Inner Mongolia. You must take the "Five Lakes Crossing" off-road vehicle route; private cars cannot enter the desert. ✅Key Takeaway: You cannot see the heart shape from the ground; only drone aerial photography can capture the full heart. I. Best Time to Visit (Crucial) 1. Season (Lake Redness) · July–September (Top Choice): Dunaliella salina blooms, turning the lake a deep, wine-red color with maximum saturation. · April–May, September–October: Less wind and sand, comfortable temperatures, suitable for camping and stargazing; the color is more pinkish. · March (Not Recommended): Dust storms everywhere, the lake surface looks gray. 2. Daily Golden Hours for Photography · Sunrise 6:00 AM–9:00 AM / Sunset 4:00 PM–7:00 PM (Backlit golden rim shots are stunning) · ❌Avoid midday 11:00 AM–3:00 PM: The lake surface reflects light and looks white, making it impossible to capture the red color. · Duration: 20–30 minutes for the lake alone; 3–4 hours for the entire Five Lakes Crossing. II. Cost Breakdown (No General Admission Fee) 1. Herdsman Environmental Fee: 20 yuan/vehicle, cash only, be sure to bring small change. 2. Off-road Transportation (Required, regular sedans/SUVs cannot enter the desert) · Carpooling (per person): 300–350 yuan/person (4 people per vehicle for the Five Lakes Crossing) · Private Charter: 900–1,000 yuan/day (4-seater, flexible timing) · All-inclusive Day Tour: 680 yuan/person (includes transfers, guide, light meal, drone photography, insurance) 3. Optional Expenses · Drone Rental: 300 yuan/day (highly recommended to bring your own) · Camel Riding: 50 yuan/person · Desert Camping Tent: 300 yuan/tent III. Transportation Options (3 Choices) Option 1: From Yinchuan (Most Popular) Drive from Yinchuan city center to Bayan Hot Town, Alxa Left Banner (2.5h), park your car in the parking lot outside the desert (10 yuan/day), and transfer to a 4WD off-road vehicle to enter the desert. Option 2: From Zhongwei Zhongwei city center to the Tengger Desert entrance (1.5h), then carpool directly for the Five Lakes Crossing route. Option 3: Local Tour Book a Five Lakes Crossing day tour directly in Bayan Hot Town; it's worry-free and you won't get lost. ⚠️Important Reminder: Absolutely do not drive into the desert alone! There is no mobile signal in the deep desert, and it is very easy to get stuck or lost. You must follow a local guide convoy. IV. Photo Spots & Photography Tips (Key to Great Shots) 💥Must-Visit Spots 1. Drone Aerial View (No. 1): Fly to a height of 80–120 meters and shoot vertically downward to perfectly capture the complete heart outline, with white salt veins looking like blood vessels. Drones cannot take off on windy days, so be sure to choose a calm, sunny day. 2. High Point on the Dunes by the Lake: Shoot wide-angle landscape photos of golden sand + red lake from the ground. 3. Salt Flat Trail: Shoot portraits + lake reflections from a low angle; do not step on the soft salt crust. 1. Outfits Pure white or pure black long dresses are the best choice; the contrast between the yellow sand and red lake is very strong. Red clothing also looks great. 2. Pitfalls The lake looks gray on cloudy days; the red color is more intense after rain; from a ground-level perspective, you can only see a salt lake, not the heart shape. V. Classic Itineraries (2 Options) One-Day Short Trip (Return the same day) Bayan Hot Town → Desert Entrance → Off-road vehicle Five Lakes Crossing (Ulan Lake + Camel Lake + Swan Lake, etc.) → Ulan Lake sunset drone shoot → Return. Two-Day In-depth Trip (Recommended, for viewing the Milky Way) Day 1: Enter the desert in the afternoon, shoot the sunset at Ulan Lake, stay at a desert camp (Damo Biaoju), and watch the Milky Way at night. Day 2: Desert sunrise in the morning, visit the remaining salt lakes, return at noon. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Bayan Hot Town (City accommodation, best value) · Comfort Choice: Alxa Jinjiang Metropolitan Hotel, clean, includes breakfast, free parking, best place to stay before the crossing. · Budget Choice: Mandu Hotel, priced around 100 yuan, convenient location. 2. Desert Camping (For stargazing) Damo Biaoju (next to Camel Lake), adjacent to Ulan Lake, features starry sky wooden cabins and tents; the same camp as seen in "See You Again."   VI. Essential Items + Safety Warnings (Must Read) Gear Checklist 1. Sun Protection Trio: SPF50+ sunscreen, anti-sand face mask, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat (UV rays are extremely strong). 2. Supplies: 3L of drinking water per person + dry food; power bank (no power in the desert); offline maps (no signal throughout the trip). 3. Photography: Drone (most important), tripod (for stargazing), camera sand cover. 4. Clothing: Thin windbreaker, as there is a large temperature difference between day and night; anti-sand shoe covers, as salt crystals are sharp and can easily cut your feet; walking barefoot on the salt lake is prohibited.

Where to go with kids for National Day? These 6️⃣ places are uncrowded and fun 01 Handan | Hebei Guangfu ancient city and Wa Huang Palace: one is best for a slow stroll, the other for hiking and views. They are close together and can be done on the same day. Start the morning at Guangfu ancient city. Enter through the south gate and exit the north gate so you don't backtrack. The walled town is small but the walls are intact; walking the full circuit with kids takes about 1 hour. Inside there's Wu Yuxiang's former residence — it's quiet and a good place to tell stories about tai chi, which is more interesting than just looking at old buildings. 🍜 For lunch, eat a bowl of crispy fried fish at the city gate, with a corn flatbread on the side; kids can eat that too. In the afternoon, go to Wa Huang Palace. ⚠️ Remember to navigate to the scenic area's parking lot — don't follow an old map into village lanes. Wa Huang Palace is built on a cliff and the steps are steep; carry smaller children in a carrier or hip seat, while older kids can climb on their own. The summit has wide views and strong winds, so bring an extra jacket for the kids. Ticket prices follow the official notice for the day, but overall it's much cheaper than popular attractions. 02 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forest and the desert make this the wildest stop for National Day. If your child has never seen a desert, Badain Jaran is more impressive than the Tengger and also less crowded. ⏰ The best time for the poplar forest is early morning, when light hits the golden leaves at an angle and every photo looks like a wallpaper. The boardwalks in the scenic area are well maintained and you can push a stroller, but to get deeper into the forest for photos you need to walk — wear running shoes. In the afternoon, head to the Badain Jaran Desert. 📍 Take an off-road vehicle from the scenic entrance; the drivers go fast and kids will scream with excitement. There are no shops in the desert, so pack water and snacks in advance. ⚠️ Don't let kids run barefoot on the dunes at noon — the sand surface can be very hot. Watch the sunset from a sand ridge at dusk, where it can be windy; give kids a windproof hat. 03 Ya'an | Sichuan Bifeng Gorge is one of those places where kids can play all day and adults don't get exhausted. The park's flow is well designed so you don't have to climb repeatedly. It's best to enter from the panda base entrance, see the giant pandas first, then head down into the gorge. 🐼 Pandas are more active in the morning and mostly sleep in the afternoon, so start early. The gorge has many waterfalls and a lot of mist, and the paths can be slippery — give kids non-slip shoes. 🍜 Near the scenic entrance they sell Ya'an ta ta noodles; the noodles are springy and the red oil is fragrant but not spicy, so kids can enjoy it. ⚠️ Grilled sausages and drinks inside the park are pricey, so bring a water bottle and snacks. Walking the whole gorge takes about 3 hours; families with average stamina can do half the route and return from the elevator entrance without forcing the full loop. 04 Wuhu | Anhui Fantawild theme park is the only pure amusement park day on this itinerary and is great for letting kids burn off energy. Wuhu Fantawild has several zones; for young children choose Dream Kingdom, where rides are mild and lines are not too long. 📍 Get there right at 9:00 AM and start with indoor attractions like the magic castle and the water-flooding Jinshan to avoid the midday sun. In the afternoon, enjoy outdoor rides like the carousel and the small flying ships at a relaxed pace. You can rent a mobility scooter in the park, but it's expensive; if your child is over 6, walking is usually fine. ⚠️ Food in the park is both expensive and average, so eat at the snack street outside the gate first or bring some bread. 🍜 After the park, go into town for a bowl of shrimp roe noodles and some pan-fried buns — kids will eat clean. Fantawild tickets are sold for day sessions and night sessions; if you only want half a day, a night ticket can be more cost-effective. Check the official notice for current prices. 05 Xianning | Hubei The Red Cliffs historic battlefield is a wow-factor place for kids who love Three Kingdoms stories. The scenic area is built along the river and has recreated military camps, warships, and an eight‑trigram maze that kids can climb through — it's more fun than you might expect. ⏰ Arrive around 2–3 PM for good light and less backlighting in photos. 📍 Enter through the main gate, see the Battle of Red Cliffs relief wall first, then let the kids explore the eight‑trigram maze; they will happily run around inside it. The cliff carving that reads "Red Cliffs" by the riverside is a must-see, but watch your step — the stones can be slippery, so hold the kids' hands. 🍜 There are many farmhouse restaurants outside the scenic area; try a portion of Red Cliffs fish cake — it's tender and boneless, and kids love it. ⚠️ There isn't much shade in the scenic area, and it can be hot at midday during National Day, so give kids hats. Two hours is enough to see the whole area, so it makes a good stop on the way back rather than a full-day trip. 06 Anshan | Liaoning Qianshan looks low but is tougher than it seems. Since there are cable cars and electric carts, you can take it easy with kids. Take the cable car up to the midpoint, then walk to the summit so kids get the experience of climbing without getting completely exhausted. 📍 Go up from the Wuliangguan direction for a gentler route and better scenery. It can be windy at the top, so bring a light jacket for the kids. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is expensive, so buy it at the base and carry it up. 🍜 After descending, try a Niuzhuang stuffed pancake at the scenic entrance — thin crust and generous filling, kids can eat two. If you have time, swing by the nearby Jade Buddha Garden, but don't expect too much — it's just a temple. 07 Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia scenic area is the most colorful stop on this route. The red Danxia cliffs against the green bamboo sea look magical to kids. 📍 The core area is Foguangyan, where the red rock face looks like a giant wall and can feel imposing from below. For kids, do the loop trail — it takes about 2 hours, the paths are smooth, and you can push a stroller. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM for the best light and the reddest rock colors; the cliffs darken after midday. 🍜 At the park entrance they sell Chishui specialty tiaosi candy — sweet and crispy — a small bag makes a great snack for kids. ⚠️ Summers in Chishui are hot and humid; although National Day is cooler, there are still many insects, so bring insect repellent. The park is small, so it's best combined with a visit to Zunyi city; it’s not worth making a separate long trip. 08 Zaozhuang | Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient City is best visited at night. The daytime city is ordinary, but when the lights come on the water alleys, stone bridges, and rowed boats come alive. 📍 Enter the west gate around 5:30 PM, walk the main street to Fuxing Square, and watch an iron flower performance. Kids will be mesmerized by the sparks — it's a rare sight elsewhere. After the show, stroll along the water alleys; you can take a boat if you like. Boat tickets aren't cheap, but kids enjoy the gentle rocking. 🍜 The ancient city has many snacks; try the savory pancakes and Huanghua beef noodles — portions are generous and filling for a family of three. ⚠️ Guesthouse prices in the ancient city fluctuate a lot. During National Day, book at least 2 weeks in advance or you may have to stay in the city center. If you're with a baby, the streets are quieter after 9:00 PM and strollers are easier to push, but many shops will be closed by then, so plan accordingly. Traveling with kids is all about avoiding crowds, long lines, and meltdowns. These eight places are either beautiful and uncrowded, easy on energy, or easy for kids to enjoy. Which ones are you planning to take the kids to? Share in the comments — you might find fellow travelers.

Who would have thought that deep in the vast desert lies a crescent-shaped lake✨ Half yellow sand and Gobi, half clear water and reeds. With no light pollution at night, you can look up and see the entire Milky Way—a dream come true for desert lovers! 📍Moon Lake, Tengger Desert, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia 🚗Transportation ✅Long-distance travel: It is best to take a train to Yinchuan Station, which is closer to Moon Lake; alternatively, arrive at Bayan Hot Town, Alxa Left Banner. ✅Local travel: There are no public buses directly to the scenic area. Chartering a car or carpooling is the best option, and round trips from Yinchuan are very convenient. Regular private cars cannot drive into the heart of the desert; you must transfer to the scenic area's 4WD off-road vehicles at the entrance to enter the lake area. 💡The desert roads are bumpy. Do not attempt to drive a regular car through them; follow the instructions of the scenic area staff. 🏨Accommodation recommendations ✅Inside Moon Lake Scenic Area | Yurts/lake-view rooms 260–450 CNY Staying inside the scenic area has huge advantages! You can watch the sunrise and sunset, view the starry sky at night, and avoid the hassle of traveling back and forth, making for a full experience. ✅Hotels in Alxa Left Banner | 140–260 CNY With complete facilities and many dining options, you can stay in the county town if you are on a budget and enter the scenic area during the day. 💡Desert accommodations are limited, so be sure to book in advance for holidays. Desert temperatures are low at night, so remember to stay warm in the yurts. 💰Budget reference (2 days, 1 night, excluding long-distance travel) 650–950 CNY per person Includes admission tickets and the 4WD desert transfer. The main expenses are accommodation and special experience activities. The natural scenery is stunning, perfect for those who want to experience a desert secret spot. 🍜Dining recommendations ✔️Hand-grabbed mutton: The local mutton is fresh and tender, a must-try hearty dish in the desert ✔️Cold tossed sand leeks: A local desert wild vegetable, refreshing and palate-cleansing ✔️Salty milk tea and milk skin: Traditional Mongolian dairy products ✔️Camel meat pie: A unique flavor, worth a try 💡Dining options inside the scenic area are limited and prices are on the higher side, so you may want to bring some snacks and drinking water. ✨Must-do recommendations 🌙Moon Lake core area A crescent-shaped desert oasis with rolling yellow sand on one side and swaying reeds on the other, featuring crystal-clear lake water. Climb the surrounding sand dunes for a bird's-eye view; the lake's outline is stunning, and the lighting at sunset is legendary—perfect for photos. 🚙4WD desert surfing Ride an off-road vehicle through the undulating sand dunes. It's bumpy and exciting, allowing you to feel the vastness of the Tengger Desert along the way. A must-do activity upon entering the park. 🐫Camel riding Slowly traverse the sea of sand for an immersive experience of the desert scenery, full of atmosphere. ✨Desert stargazing Far from city lights, the Milky Way is clearly visible at night. Lie on the sand dunes and watch the starry sky for a truly romantic experience. 📸Sand dune hiking Take a light hike up the surrounding sand dunes to overlook the entire lake and the boundless desert—a healing experience to clear your mind. 💡Travel tips 1. The desert UV rays are extremely strong. Be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. Also, bring a mask as it can be windy and sandy. 2. There is a huge temperature difference between day and night. It is hot during the day and very cold at night, so a thick jacket is essential. 3. Respect the desert ecosystem. Do not trample on vegetation, and take all your trash with you. 4. The scenic area's 4WD vehicles are the main transportation to the lake. Follow the staff's instructions and do not leave the designated tour route. 5. If you are not physically fit, avoid long hikes in the sand. Walking on sand is very strenuous, so know your limits. ✨Final thoughts I have seen many lakes, but Moon Lake in the desert is truly special🌙 Surrounded by yellow sand, it features a pool of clear water, sunsets, sand dunes, and the Milky Way—all in one place. Get away from the crowds, immerse yourself in the romance of this desert oasis, and if you love niche natural scenery, this place is truly worth the trip!

Mid-Autumn Festival reverse travel: These 8 niche destinations have fewer crowds and beautiful scenery 01 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia While others crowd into Ejina Banner to see the poplars, I prefer to head straight into the Badain Jaran Desert. The desert in mid-autumn isn't too dry during the day, and it's cool enough in the morning and evening to need a light jacket. 📍 Charter an off-road vehicle from Badain Jaran Town to head deep into the desert. The driver will take you over sand dunes and to find the "haizi" (lakes). That splash of pink lake is hidden among the sand mountains; once the car stops, you'll feel the soft, fine sand under your feet. ⏰ The light is softest after 5:00 PM, casting long shadows along the sand ridges—perfect for photos without filters. The Populus euphratica forest area doesn't turn fully yellow until early October, so visiting during the Mid-Autumn Festival lets you see the transition from green to yellow, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. ⚠️ Signal is poor in the desert, so download offline maps in advance. Bring some cash, as it's often the only way to buy water in the scenic area. 02 Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou isn't just a transit stop; it's a city of carbs worth flying to specifically. 🚄 Take the intercity high-speed train from Zhongchuan Airport to Lanzhou Station. It takes half an hour and is faster and cheaper than a taxi. I recommend visiting White Pagoda Mountain Park in the evening. Climb to the platform halfway up the mountain, and you'll see the Yellow River flowing through the city below. As the lights of Lanzhou turn on across the river at dusk, the scene is more authentic than any night view promotional video. The Bronze Galloping Horse at the Provincial Museum is a must-see. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM to avoid lines and take your time. After you're done, don't rush to grab a taxi; walk ten minutes to the Zhengning Road Night Market. 🍜 For the milk and egg fermented glutinous rice soup, look for the "Maye" stall—the line is the longest, but it's worth it. ⚠️ The museum is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Eat Lanzhou beef noodles in the morning; the first batch of broth is the freshest, and by the afternoon, you're just left with noodles without the soul. 03 Linfen | Shanxi Linfen has been underrated for too long. The Hongdong Dahuaishu Ancestor Root-Seeking Garden isn't just a scenic spot; it's an emotional space. Walking through the gate, you'll see walls covered in ancestral tablets. Many people stand in front of their own family names in a daze, needing no words for those few minutes. There's a relief sculpture in the park depicting the great migration in the early Ming Dynasty; it's a moving experience. You must visit the Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River in the morning. The spray is heavy, so a raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. Standing on the viewing platform, you can feel the Yellow River crashing into the spout, the roar vibrating in your chest. Mount Yunqiu is better in the afternoon. If you can't hike, just take the cable car halfway up and walk along the plank road to see the canyon. ⏰ At dusk, the light slants into the valley, turning the stones golden. ⚠️ The wind at Hukou Waterfall is strong enough to blow your hat off, so make sure your phone lanyard is secure. 04 Nanyang | Henan What surprised me most about Nanyang is the Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling Dinosaur Site Park—this place packs two worlds into one scenic area. Spend the morning at the Dinosaur Site Park; the giant dinosaur skeletons stand in glass sheds, leaving children wide-eyed and adults looking up in awe. In the afternoon, head to Laojieling. The mountain isn't high, but the vegetation is dense, and the air smells like soil and leaves after the rain. ⏰ Around the Mid-Autumn Festival, it's chestnut season in the mountains. Villagers sell freshly roasted chestnuts at the entrance for CNY 10 a bag. Peeling them as you walk is better than any snack. ⚠️ The park is large, so don't expect to see it all in one day; just stick to the main route. Cable car lines get longer after 4:00 PM. It's suitable for seniors and children, with electric shuttle buses available throughout, so you don't have to walk too much. 05 Wuzhong | Ningxia Wuzhong gives me more of a "real Ningxia" feeling than Yinchuan. The Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area sounds hardcore, but it's surprisingly refreshing once you're inside. 📍 Take a boat from the entrance through the canyon. The cliffs on both sides have been carved into layers by the Yellow River, and the water shimmers with a grayish-green hue in the sunlight. After getting off the boat, you can hike a section of the Great Wall ruins. It's not long, but standing high up and watching the Yellow River bend—that sense of vastness can't be captured in photos. ⏰ The light is good after 3:00 PM, and the reflection on the water isn't too harsh. Afterward, the hand-grabbed lamb in downtown Wuzhong is the main event. 🍜 The rib meat at Guoqiang Shouzhua is so tender you don't even need dipping sauce. Pair it with Eight-Treasure Tea to cut the grease. You can eat until you're stuffed for about CNY 60 per person. ⚠️ The canyon is windy, so bring a hat and sunglasses, and don't wear a skirt. 06 Shaoyang | Hunan Not many people know about Mount Langshan, but everyone who has been there says it's "worth it." It's a Danxia landform, but unlike other places that are bare, it's lush and green. 📍 Bajiaozhai is the core area. After taking the cable car up, you have to walk along a plank road with cliffs right beneath your feet. If you're afraid of heights, your legs might get weak, but the moment you reach the viewing platform and see the sea of clouds surging between the Danxia peaks, all the effort is worth it. ⏰ Go up the mountain before 7:00 AM to see the sea of clouds; if you're late, you'll only see fog. After coming down, head to Tianyi Lane. That stone crevice is so narrow you have to turn sideways to pass through, and looking up, you'll see a sliver of sky—it's incredibly fun. ⚠️ There are many stairs in Langshan, so seniors with bad knees should be careful. There are few supply points in the scenic area, so carry your own water and snacks. It's suitable for couples and friends with good stamina; the whole route takes about four hours. 07 Changchun | Jilin Autumn in Changchun is beautiful in an understated, profound way. You must visit the Museum of the Imperial Palace of the Manchu State. It's not about how magnificent the architecture is, but after walking through it, you'll have a more three-dimensional understanding of that period of history. 📍 The stained glass windows of the Tongde Hall are perfect for pausing when the light shines through. Changchun World Sculpture Park is great for an afternoon stroll. The park is large, with artworks scattered across lawns and among the trees. When you're tired, sit by the lake for a while and watch the swans paddling slowly. ⏰ Around 5:00 PM, the setting sun stretches the shadows of the sculptures, and the whole park becomes as quiet as another city. Jingyuetan is worth setting aside a whole morning for. Rent a bike and ride halfway around the lake; the air smells of pine trees. In autumn, the leaves aren't fully yellow yet, but that mix of green and yellow is even more appealing. ⚠️ The Museum of the Imperial Palace of the Manchu State is closed on Mondays. Changying Century City is better for kids; adults might find it a bit childish. 08 Yichun | Jiangxi Yichun's Mingyue Mountain is the kind of place where "you only understand why it's called the City of the Moon after you've been there." 📍 There's a huge round stone at Moon Square at the foot of the mountain. Around the Mid-Autumn Festival, the scenic area sets up lights, and when they light up at night, it really looks like the moon has fallen to earth. Take the cable car up the mountain. The Qingyun Plank Road at the summit is built on a cliff, with clouds and mist beneath your feet and layers of mountains in the distance. You'll see a waterfall every so often as you walk, with the sound of water echoing in the valley. ⏰ I recommend going up the mountain in the morning, having a bowl of vegetarian noodles on the mountain for lunch, and then heading down to Wentang Town in the afternoon to soak your feet. The hot spring water there is natural, and there are foot-soaking pools everywhere along the street. It costs CNY 5 per person. Sit down, soak your feet in the hot water, and all the fatigue of the day will vanish. ⚠️ The temperature at the summit is 7–8 degrees lower than at the foot of the mountain, so bring a jacket. Don't try to be tough by wearing short sleeves. Traveling during the Mid-Autumn Festival doesn't mean settling for less by choosing niche destinations. These eight cities offer great food, deep experiences, and lower costs. Most importantly, you won't have to deal with massive crowds. Do you have any hidden, niche destinations in mind? Share them in the comments, and I'll go next time.

No. 1 Guangyuan | Sichuan For the first stop of National Day I picked Guangyuan. Not because Jianmen Pass is famous, but because it’s perfect for low-cost yet hardcore fun. Take the high-speed train to Guangyuan station, then a taxi from the station to Jianmen Pass Scenic Area takes about 40 minutes, with a fare of about CNY 50; carpooling is more economical. Remember to reserve your ticket on the official account a day in advance to save queuing time. The most worthwhile route at Jianmen Pass is the bird path — so narrow you can only squeeze sideways, with a cliff under your feet. When the wind blows your legs go weak, but finishing it feels great. ⚠️ If you’re afraid of heights, don’t force it — take the plank road instead, the views are still good. The park is full of tofu banquets; don’t eat at the first place by the gate. Walk about 200 meters in and you’ll find a long-established shop where the price is about CNY 30 per person and the Jianmen tofu is tender and flavorful. After 4 PM the light is best; standing on the pass tower and looking north, the ridgeline slices through the clouds like the back of a knife, and every phone photo looks cinematic. Take it slow and five hours is enough. Stay overnight in the city; budget hotels are a little over CNY 100 and clean. No. 2 Baoding | Hebei Baoding is underrated. Qing Western Tombs, Baishi Mountain, Yesanpo, and Baiyangdian are spread in four directions — two days and one night means you have to choose. My plan: spend day 1 at Baishi Mountain and the morning of day 2 at Qing Western Tombs before heading back in the afternoon. The suspended plank path at Baishi Mountain is built along a kilometer-high cliff; walking on it feels like stepping on clouds. The glass walkway costs an extra CNY 20 if you want a thrill. It opens at 8 AM, so go in right at opening when it’s less crowded, the mountain breeze is cool, and you won’t wait for photo spots. Qing Western Tombs are much quieter than the eastern ones; the Yongzheng-era tomb’s underground palace is open and the temperature drops noticeably when you enter — the solemn atmosphere is hard to describe. ⚠️ Note that the tombs are far apart — don’t expect to walk between them; take the park shuttle, it’s a CNY 30 pass and worth it. At this season the reeds at Baiyangdian are just turning yellow; take a boat through the waterways, with the creak of the oars and water birds calling — perfect for zoning out. Food on the lake is pricey — a stewed mixed-fish dish can be CNY 80 — so bring snacks and save your budget for Baishi Mountain. No. 3 Shigatse | Tibet The Everest base camp in Shigatse is on many people’s must-go list, but going during National Day requires preparation. First, 5,200 meters altitude is no joke — you may experience hypoxia, headaches, and sleeplessness. I suggest spending a night in Shigatse to acclimatize and visit Tashilhunpo Monastery. The monastery’s white exterior is especially photogenic after 3 PM, and the circumambulation path is full of worshippers; join them for a lap and you’ll smell butter and Tibetan incense mixed together. You need a border pass to go to Everest base camp, which you can get for free at the Shigatse administrative hall with your ID. 🚄 The drive from the city to base camp takes about 4 hours, passing the Gaula Pass — with luck you can see five 8,000-meter peaks at once. ⚠️ The tent camp at base camp is basic. Dorm beds are CNY 100 per person, nights drop below freezing, and you must bring a warm sleeping bag. Everest permits are CNY 400 per vehicle plus CNY 180 per person — not cheap, but when you see the sun turning the peak golden for those few minutes you’ll think it was worth it. Weather during National Day is unstable; whether you see the summit depends on luck, so keep expectations even. No. 4 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forest in Ejina Banner turns golden for only about 20 days a year, and National Day usually hits the tail end of peak color. I went on Oct 2 last year and the leaves were about 70% yellow — under the sun the whole forest looked like it was on fire. Tickets are CNY 240, expensive, but the reflection forest between Second and Fourth Bridge is unforgettable, with poplars mirrored on the water. The Badain Jaran Desert is nearby; off‑roading in a 4x4 is CNY 300 per person — the drivers are fearless, and the ride up and down the dunes feels like a roller coaster, so don’t try it if you have heart problems. ⚠️ Accommodation in Ejina Banner is a weak point — during National Day a standard double room can go for CNY 700–800. I recommend booking a family guesthouse early; conditions are basic but can save you half the price. Desert temperatures vary greatly — short sleeves at noon, and a down jacket as soon as the sun sets, so don’t tough it out. The forest is most beautiful at around 6 PM when the low sun stretches the shadows and the gold is a color no palette can reproduce. No. 5 Qiannan | Guizhou Libo’s Little Seven‑Arch Bridge sounds small but will wear your legs out. The park is split into the Big Seven‑Arch and Little Seven‑Arch; here’s the truth: Little Seven‑Arch is the highlight — skip Big Seven if you’re short on time. Enter from the east gate, take the shuttle to Wolong Pool, then walk downstream. Wolong Pool is emerald green like a piece of jade in the valley; the boardwalk by the pool is quiet before 9 AM and the water is mirror‑calm. Further down at Cuigu Waterfall the spray hits your face and is refreshingly cool. The Seven‑Arch Bridge is the iconic photo spot — the best light is 11 AM–2 PM and the reflections are clear, but it’s also the most crowded; get there early for empty shots. ⚠️ Trails can be slippery, wear non‑slip shoes and avoid sandals. Tickets are CNY 110 including the shuttle; remember to reserve in advance. After Little Seven‑Arch, there’s a stall outside the gate selling yangmei soup for CNY 10 a cup — sweet and sour and revitalizing, better than any soft drink. No. 6 Anqing | Anhui I think Mount Tianzhu in Anqing is a hidden gem overshadowed by Huangshan. Tickets are CNY 130, half the price of Huangshan, but the scenery is just as good. Enter from the south gate; the cable car up is CNY 80 — fit hikers can skip it but the climb takes about 3 hours and the steps are steep, so don’t force it if your knees are bad. Tianzhu Peak is the core attraction — a massive rock shooting into the clouds; standing below and looking up will make your neck ache and you still won’t see the top. Liandan Lake sits mid‑mountain with green water and pine surrounds; sitting on a rock and eating a packed lunch there beats any fancy meal. After 2 PM fog is likely as clouds roll up from the valley and Tianzhu Peak appears and disappears like a living ink painting. ⚠️ Supplies are limited on the mountain — bring enough water. A bottle is CNY 3 at the base and CNY 10 at the top. Don’t descend the same way; go down via the West Gate Village route to see a sky fissure so narrow you have to squeeze sideways — bigger people might get stuck. No. 7 Shaoguan | Guangdong Danxia Mountain is Guangdong locals’ backyard garden. Yangyuan Stone and Yinyuan Stone are the two must‑see spots — one masculine, one feminine — nature doesn’t bother hiding its contrasts. Tickets are CNY 100 and valid for two days, so don’t rush. I recommend staying in a guesthouse outside the park for about CNY 150 a night; you can eat a farmhouse meal in the evening with local chicken and mountain snails as specialties — about CNY 50 per person is filling. The Yangyuan viewing platform is quiet before 8 AM; sunrise light hits the pillars and the contours pop. After seeing Yangyuan Stone, climb the steep steps of Ximei Fort — nearly vertical, you’ll need hands and feet, but the view at the top repays the effort: the whole Danxia landscape spreads below with red sandstone rolling like waves. In the afternoon head to Xianglong Lake and take a CNY 30 boat; the water is calm and the red cliffs reflect perfectly — great for a slow cruise. ⚠️ Danxia gets intense sun in summer; National Day is suitable but bring sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. No. 8 Huangshi | Hubei Huangshi isn’t a tourist hotspot, but Chengyue Island by Cihu is a place to slow down. The island sits in the middle of the lake and you cross by an arch bridge with no entrance fee. The island is full of osmanthus trees and National Day often hits their bloom, so the whole island smells sweet. Walking the lakeside path takes about 40 minutes and the lake breeze hits your face while the opposite skyline gets a golden rim at sunset. ⚠️ Drinks on the island are priced at a premium, so bring water. After Chengyue Island, you can visit Huangshi National Mine Park; the continent’s largest sinkhole there is shocking — tickets are CNY 30 and looking down from the edge you can’t see the bottom. 🍜 At night go to Huangshi port to try fish‑head rice soup at a local place packed with locals — the fish head is tender and the broth mixed with rice will fill you twice over. Expect about CNY 40 per person and great value. Spending CNY 500 over 5 days — the biggest secret is avoiding the popular spots in popular cities. Jianmen Pass in Guangyuan, Baishi Mountain in Baoding, and Little Seven‑Arch in Libo are typical spots with few people and great views. The other places offer flexible budgets for any taste. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Share in the comments and I’ll tell you if it’s worth it.

Just got back from Alxa, Inner Mongolia, in mid-August. There were 2 of us, and the total cost per person was about CNY 2,800 (including major transportation). This trip focused on a deep experience of Juyan Lake, a desert oasis, without rushing the itinerary or falling for tourist traps. We got up at 4:00 AM to chase the sunrise, feed seagulls, and eat wild fish. This is a field-tested guide with practical tips that beginners can follow directly to easily enjoy this "desert heaven." Detailed itinerary [Juyan Lake Scenic Area, 40 km north of Dalaihubu Town, Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia] 4:30 AM – 9:00 AM Transportation: We stayed in Dalaihubu Town and arranged a legitimate chartered car the night before. We departed from town at 4:30 AM and drove about 40 to 50 km north along the road, which took about 50 minutes. We recommend booking a car a day in advance; there are no streetlights on the road in the early morning, so it's important that the driver is familiar with the road conditions. Admission ticket: CNY 75/person (includes scenic area shuttle bus). We recommend booking your ticket one day in advance via the "Ejin Smart Tourism" mini-program and entering the park by scanning your ID card. How to play: In mid-August, the sunrise at Juyan Lake is roughly between 5:40 AM and 6:40 AM. The scenic area opens around 5:30 AM. We arrived at 5:40 AM and took the shuttle bus directly to Observation Deck No. 2 (Donggui Pier). This is widely considered the best spot to watch the sunrise, with an open, unobstructed view and the highest concentration of seagulls. When the first rays of morning light pierce the silence of the desert, golden light spills over the lake, reeds, and flying seagulls—it's breathtaking. After watching the sunrise, walk along the wooden boardwalk to Observation Deck No. 3 (Xianzong Pier). There is a statue of Laozi riding an ox here, with relatively fewer tourists and an open water surface perfect for taking reflection photos. Field-tested tips: You must go early to get a good spot! Tour groups leave as early as 5:00 AM, so we recommend leaving town at 4:30 AM. It is very cold by the lake in the early morning; the actual perceived temperature is only around 10°C, so you must bring a thick jacket. Wearing red or bright-colored clothing makes for great photos. There are shuttle buses circulating between the three observation decks in the scenic area, making it very convenient to take the bus from Deck No. 2 to Deck No. 3 after watching the sunrise. [Juyan Lake Scenic Area – Donggui Pier and surrounding area] 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM Don't rush off after the sunrise! After 9:00 AM, the sunlight is perfect. There are large reed marshes near Pier No. 2 with wooden boardwalks weaving through them, which are excellent for capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the reeds and water. You can spend CNY 30 to buy a bag of seagull food sold officially by the scenic area to feed the seagulls by the pier. The red-billed gulls will swarm around you, making for great photos. For a deeper experience, you can take a speedboat tour of the lake (about CNY 80/person, an official scenic area project) to view the intertwined landscape of desert and wetlands from the water and experience the poetic imagery of "a lonely plume of smoke in the vast desert, a long river reflecting the setting sun." About 2 hours is enough for this. [Juyan Fishery Stove Fish, Dalaihubu Town, Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia] 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM It's about a 50-minute drive back to Dalaihubu Town from Juyan Lake. For lunch, we headed straight to a local institution that has been open for 20 years—Juyan Fishery Stove Fish. They stew wild Juyan Lake fish in an iron pot; the fish are caught and prepared on the spot, and the portions are generous. We ordered the soy-braised fish with tofu. The fish was delicate, tender, and had no fishy taste at all, and the broth was rich. One fish and two side dishes were plenty for two people. The cost was about CNY 70 per person. [Dalaihubu Town – Town stroll] 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM The sun is too strong at noon, so we recommend finding a milk tea shop in town to rest and relax with a bowl of authentic Mongolian milk tea. In the afternoon, you can visit the Ejin Museum (free, closed on Mondays) to learn about the history and culture of the Juyan frontier. In the evening, just stroll around town and buy some local muskmelon as a snack; Ejin muskmelons are incredibly sweet. Must-try local food, field-tested 1. Soy-braised wild Juyan Lake fish Full address: Juyan Fishery Stove Fish, Dalaihubu Town, Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Average cost: About CNY 70 Must-order signature dishes: Soy-braised wild Juyan Lake fish, tofu, roasted naan Honest review: The fish comes from Juyan Lake, nurtured by snowmelt from the Qilian Mountains, and the meat is tender with few bones. The soy-braised method is the most flavorful, and the tofu is super delicious after soaking up the broth. Finally, dip the roasted naan into the fish broth; the satisfaction of carbs plus fresh broth is amazing. Suitable for 2–3 people to share; one meat dish and one fresh dish is just right. 2. Hand-grabbed mutton Full address: Yihe Mongolian Restaurant, Dalaihubu Town, Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Average cost: About CNY 80 Must-order signature dish: Boiled hand-grabbed mutton Honest review: They use local beach sheep, boiled in cold water with just a little salt until tender. The mutton is fresh, tender, and not gamey. Eat it by hand or cut it with a knife, and dip it in a little salt for the purest flavor. Although August isn't the season when mutton is fattiest, the meat is still firm and springy. This is a place locals often visit, so you won't be disappointed. Complete, compliant, and practical tips Transportation guide Major transportation: Fly to Jiayuguan or Jiuquan, then transfer to a long-distance bus to Ejin Banner. There are daily buses from Jiuquan Bus Station to Ejin Banner, taking about 5 hours. You can also take the K7911/2 "Populus Euphratica Special Train" from Hohhot directly to Ejin Station. Local transportation: There is no public transportation directly to Juyan Lake from Dalaihubu Town, so chartering a car is the best option, generally costing CNY 100–200 per car. Refuse all unlicensed vehicles and private car hires; be sure to book through official channels. Accommodation recommendations We recommend the central area of Dalaihubu Town, where you can walk to dining and shopping districts, making travel convenient. There are many choices for hotels and family guesthouses in town, which are clean, comfortable, and offer good value. We do not recommend staying in remote areas, as it will be inconvenient to depart for the sunrise in the early morning. Honest guide to avoiding pitfalls 1. Refuse private tour guides soliciting business at the scenic area entrance and low-price sales tactics; use only official channels. 2. Do not buy overpriced local specialties at the scenic area entrance; it is more cost-effective to buy specialties like Ejin muskmelons at official stores in town. 3. For tickets, only use official channels like the "Ejin Smart Tourism" mini-program; do not trust private agents. 4. Although August is not the golden season for the Populus euphratica forest, there are relatively fewer tourists, making for a more comfortable off-peak experience. Essential items for your trip (August exclusive) High-SPF sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses (desert UV rays are extremely strong); thick jacket (the perceived temperature is only around 10°C when watching the sunrise, a must-bring!); comfortable flat shoes or non-slip hiking shoes; portable water bottle (you need to hydrate quickly in the desert); power bank; ID card (for scanning to enter the park). This trip to Juyan Lake was relaxing and healing. The thrill of chasing the sunrise in the early morning, the joy of feeding seagulls, and the satisfaction of eating wild fish—every moment was worth it. The pace was relaxed without rushing, the destination was niche and uncrowded, and the food was great. We had a high-quality experience for less than CNY 3,000 per person. It is especially suitable for friends who love natural scenery and are looking for an immersive experience. This is a field-tested guide that beginners can follow directly without thinking. The Populus euphratica forest will turn yellow in September, so hurry up and go while it's still uncrowded!

01 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou ⏰ From late September to mid-October, the water in Libo is at its clearest. The reflection of the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge is so clear you can count the crevices in the stones, and the water in Wolongtan is so blue it looks like spilled paint. Remember to book your tickets in advance through the official WeChat account; the queues at the site during peak season can be incredibly long. 🍜 At the tofu and grilled fish stall at the Yaoshan intersection outside the scenic area, a serving costs 58 yuan and is enough for two people. The fish is freshly killed and grilled, and the tofu is so tender you can barely pick it up with chopsticks. Don't buy the 15-yuan grilled sausages inside the scenic area; turn left after exiting and you can find the same item for only 8 yuan at a small stall. Staying in Libo County is more cost-effective; you can find a standard room with a balcony for 80-120 yuan. Enter the scenic area at 7 am to avoid the large tour groups. Enter from the east gate, walk through Xiaoqikong first, and then head to Wolongtan; the entire route is downhill and won't strain your legs. Boating on Yuanyang Lake costs 30 yuan per person; paddling yourself is more fun than hiring a boatman. ⚠️ After 3 PM, tour groups flock to the boardwalk, making it impossible to take photos. 02 Weihai City | Shandong Chengshantou or Huaxia City, which would you choose? I choose Chengshantou. Huaxia City is an artificial landscape, with an entrance fee of over 100 yuan, and you get tired of it after two hours. Although Chengshantou's entrance fee is close to that, the sense of vastness while watching the sunrise over the Yellow Sea from the easternmost reef of China's coastline is worth the price. 🚄 A taxi from Weihai Station to Chengshantou costs about 60 yuan, or 20 yuan per person if you share a ride. After watching the sunrise, don't rush to leave. Drive west along the coastal road; Xianghai Beach is free, and the sand is finer than in the city. For lunch, go back to the city and eat seafood. The mackerel dumplings on the back street of Weigao Plaza cost 38 yuan a plate, with generous fillings. In the afternoon, go to Liugong Island. The ferry ticket includes round-trip tickets and admission to the island's expo park, costing about 122 yuan. The island preserves relics from the First Sino-Japanese War and buildings from the British concession, but ⚠️ the last ferry leaves at 4 PM, so don't miss it. If you're short on time, have lunch at the seaweed bun stall near the pier; it's 15 yuan per person, all you can eat. 03 Huanggang City | Hubei Luotian Tiantangzhai and Macheng Guifeng Mountain offer two experiences: one for water activities, the other for rock climbing. Tiantangzhai's waterfalls are the best way to cool down in late September; the glass walkway hangs above the waterfalls, and the spray feels refreshing on your face. Guifeng Mountain is more rugged; its shape resembles a giant tortoise shell, and climbing to the top offers views of the Dabie Mountains. Those with knee problems should be cautious. ⏰ Entering Tiantangzhai at 6:30 AM maximizes the chance of seeing a sea of ​​clouds. The entrance fee plus shuttle bus is about 100 yuan, and the cable car is 60 yuan one way. I recommend taking the cable car up and down; the whole trip takes about four hours. At the foot of the mountain, Luotian hot pot is a must-try. It's a stew of cured pork, dried bamboo shoots, and tofu skin, costing around 40 yuan per person – you'll be sweating buckets! We chose a farmhouse near the scenic area entrance for 60 yuan a night, including breakfast. The next day, we headed to Guifeng Mountain. The entrance fee was 75 yuan, and the round-trip cable car was 100 yuan. There's a high-altitude meadow at the summit; the wildflowers were still blooming in September, making it a wonderful place to sunbathe. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain costs 8 yuan a bottle, so it's better to bring a couple. 04 Beijing Visiting the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park in one day is unrealistic. I'll break it down according to your stamina. The Forbidden City and Beihai Park are adjacent, so visit the Forbidden City first. Exit through the Shenwu Gate and enter Beihai Park directly through the North Gate, where you can also see the Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park along the way. The Temple of Heaven is further away, so allocate half a day for it. The Forbidden City entrance fee is 60 yuan and must be booked seven days in advance through the official WeChat account. It's closed on Mondays. ⏰ Head straight to the Hall of Supreme Harmony at 8:30 am when it opens, taking photos of the gold-brick floor and white marble railings while it's still relatively quiet. After 10 am, tour groups flood in, so head to the East and West Six Palaces, where the crowds are much smaller. Beihai Park entrance fee is 10 yuan. Looking out over Zhongnanhai from the White Pagoda, with boats gliding through the willow-lined lake, it's the most comfortable scene in Beijing's autumn. The Temple of Heaven's combined ticket is 34 yuan, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The best photos are taken after 4 pm when the sunlight shines obliquely on the blue tiles. ⚠️ The Echo Wall is currently fenced off, so don't waste time finding the right angle. In the evening, go to Niujie for Jubao Yuan hot pot. It costs about 80 yuan per person; the hand-cut mutton with sesame sauce is a hundred times better than those trendy restaurants in Nanluoguxiang. 05 Anqing City | Anhui Autumn at Tianzhu Mountain is a mix of granite and red leaves. The pine trees in Xiguanzhai have grown for five hundred years in the cracks of the rocks, their roots clinging to the cliff face like natural sculptures. The section from Nanyue Gate to Liandan Lake has gentle steps, making it easy to walk and suitable for families with parents. Entrance fee plus shuttle bus: approximately 130 yuan; cable car: 50 yuan one way. ⏰ Head up the mountain before 8 AM; the full view of Tianzhu Peak is only visible after the fog clears. Rest at a tea stall by Liandan Lake at noon; tea eggs and corn are only 5 yuan each – a great deal. Avoid the Dongguan route down the mountain; the steps there are steep and long, so those with knee problems should skip it. Accommodation: A clean and hygienic budget hotel in Qianshan city center for 90 yuan per night. In the evening, visit the Wanhe Road night market. Shanfen Yuanzi with braised pork is a specialty of Anqing; a small portion is 15 yuan. The chewy skin wraps around a savory pork filling; I could easily eat two bowls! 🚄 There's a direct bus from Anqing Station to the Tianzhu Mountain Visitor Center for 10 yuan; a taxi costs about 50 yuan. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests in October are a golden sea. The entrance fee to the Ejina Banner Poplar Forest Tourist Area is about 180 yuan, which is said to be expensive online, but the area from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge, where sunlight filters through the yellow leaves and dapples the river, creates a rich autumnal scene that is hard to find elsewhere. 🍜 At the entrance of the scenic area, there are stalls selling Hami melons for one yuan a slice, so sweet they're almost sickening. Inside, roasted camel meat skewers are 15 yuan a skewer; not cheap, but worth trying, the meat is firm and chewy. For accommodation, consider guesthouses in Dalaihob Town, 280 yuan a night, which is reasonable during peak season, but⚠️ hygiene conditions vary, so check reviews beforehand. The Badain Jaran Desert is in the direction of Dongfeng Town. A chartered car costs 800 yuan a day and can see Badain Lake and Bilutu Peak. If you're on a tight budget, I suggest only visiting the poplar forest; you can get a general feel for desert landscapes when you see the Danxia landforms in Zhangye. ⏰ The best time to view the Populus euphratica forest is only about two weeks in mid-October; once the leaves fall, only bare branches remain. 07 Dalian City | Liaoning Jinshitan and Tiger Beach are two contrasting attractions: one a natural wonder, the other an amusement park. The choice is clear. Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is free, and the core area of ​​the geological park only costs 60 yuan. A walk along the seaside boardwalk, seeing the strangely shaped rocks formed over millions of years, is more worthwhile than paying for man-made performances. Tiger Beach Ocean Park costs 180 yuan; families with children can go for it, but couples and solo travelers should save their money. Tangli Lake Park is a popular local stroll spot, free of charge. At 6 pm, the sunset paints the water orange-red, and the reed beds along the lake and the distant mountains create a tranquil scene. ⏰ The light is soft at this time; photos taken directly from your phone are perfect for wallpapers. Xinghai Square offers a light show at night. The square itself is free, but I suggest avoiding the seafood stalls there; they dare to charge 58 yuan for a single serving of grilled squid. If you want seafood, go to the Heishijiao Market. Pick your own live shrimp and crabs; the processing shops next door charge 20 yuan. You can eat your fill for about 50 yuan per person. 08 Ya'an City | Sichuan The main itinerary for Bifengxia is: enter the canyon to see the waterfalls, then go to the panda base to see the pandas. The entrance fee, including the panda base, is about 118 yuan, which is considered good value for Sichuan scenic spots. ⏰ Arrive at the panda base before 9 am, just in time for the keepers to feed the pandas. They are all playing in the outdoor area, and after lunch, they retreat to their air-conditioned rooms to sleep. The waterfalls in the canyon surprised me even more than the pandas. The Qingyun Ladder has a 120-meter drop, and the sound of the water is deafening. Standing on the viewing platform, the mist hits you in the face; it must be even more refreshing in summer. The boardwalk is about four kilometers long, taking about two hours to walk. There are many steps, so those with strollers should skip it. I chose to stay in a guesthouse in Bifengxia Town near the scenic area entrance for 80 yuan a night. The owner will help you plan your route. 🍜 The local specialty, Yingjing Bangbang Chicken, costs 38 yuan for half a chicken. The chicken is soaked in red oil, making it both numbing and spicy; you could easily eat two bowls of rice with it. 🚄 There's a special bus from Ya'an Station to the scenic area for 12 yuan, running once an hour. Don't take unlicensed taxis; they'll rip you off. For these eight places, I've kept my budget around 1000 yuan for travel in September and October. I highly recommend Qiannan and Alashan; their natural landscapes are irreplaceable, while other places have more artificial elements. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let's chat in the comments. 01 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou ⏰ From late September to mid-October, the water in Libo is at its clearest. The reflection of the Xiaoqikong Ancient Bridge is so clear you can count the cracks in the stones, and the water in Wolongtan is a vibrant blue, like spilled paint. Remember to book tickets in advance through the official WeChat account; the queues at the venue during peak season can be incredibly long. 🍜 At the Yaoshan intersection outside the scenic area, there's a tofu and grilled fish stall. One serving costs 58 yuan and is enough for two people. The fish is freshly killed and grilled, and the tofu is so tender you can barely pick it up with chopsticks. Don't buy the 15-yuan grilled sausages inside the scenic area; turn left after exiting and the same sausage is only 8 yuan at the stall. Staying in Libo County is more cost-effective; you can find a standard room with a balcony for 80-120 yuan. Enter the scenic area at 7 am to avoid the large tour groups. Enter from the East Gate, walk through Xiaoqikong first, then to Wolongtan; the whole way is downhill and won't strain your legs. Boating on Yuanyang Lake costs 30 yuan per person; paddling yourself is more fun than hiring a boatman. ⚠️ After 3 pm, tour groups flock there, making the boardwalk too crowded to take photos. 02 Weihai City|Shandong Which would you choose, Chengshantou or Huaxia City? I choose Chengshantou. Huaxia City is an artificial landscape; the entrance fee is over 100 yuan, and you get bored after two hours. Although the entrance fee to Chengshantou is similar, the breathtaking view of the Yellow Sea sunrise from the easternmost reef on China's coastline is well worth the price. 🚄 A taxi from Weihai Station to Chengshantou costs about 60 yuan, or 20 yuan per person if shared. After watching the sunrise, don't rush off. Drive west along the coastal road; Xianghai Beach is free, and the sand is finer than in the city. For lunch, return to the city for seafood. Try the mackerel dumplings on the back street of Weigao Plaza; they're 38 yuan a plate with generous fillings. In the afternoon, head to Liugong Island. The ferry ticket, including round-trip tickets and the island's expo park, costs about 122 yuan. The island preserves relics from the First Sino-Japanese War and buildings from the British concession, but ⚠️ the last ferry departs at 4 PM, so don't miss it. If time is limited, have lunch on the island at the seaweed bun stall near the pier; it's 15 yuan per person, all you can eat. 03 Huanggang City | Hubei Luotian Tiantangzhai and Macheng Guifeng Mountain: one for water activities, the other for rock climbing. The waterfalls at Tiantangzhai are the best way to cool down in late September; the glass walkway hangs above the falls, and the spray feels refreshing on your face. Guifeng Mountain, on the other hand, is more rugged, its shape resembling a giant tortoise shell. Climbing to the summit offers views of the Dabie Mountains, but those with knee problems should be cautious. ⏰ Entering Tiantangzhai at 6:30 AM maximizes the chances of a sea of ​​clouds. The entrance fee plus shuttle bus is about 100 yuan, and the cable car is 60 yuan one way. I recommend taking the cable car up and down, which takes about four hours. At the foot of the mountain, Luotian hot pot is a must-try—a stew of cured pork, dried bamboo shoots, and tofu skin, costing around 40 yuan per person and enough to make you sweat. Accommodation is at a farmhouse near the scenic area entrance, 60 yuan per night including breakfast. The next day, head to Guifeng Mountain. The entrance fee is 75 yuan, and the round-trip cable car is 100 yuan. There's an alpine meadow at the summit; the wildflowers haven't faded in September, and it's incredibly comfortable to lie there and sunbathe. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain costs 8 yuan a bottle; it's more practical to bring two. 04 Beijing Visiting the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park in one day is unrealistic. I'll break it down according to your physical condition. The Forbidden City and Beihai Park are adjacent, so visit the Forbidden City first. Exit through the Shenwu Gate and enter Beihai Park directly through the North Gate. Along the way, you can also see the Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park. The Temple of Heaven is further away, so allocate half a day for it. Forbidden City tickets are 60 yuan and must be booked seven days in advance through the official WeChat account. It's closed on Mondays. ⏰ Head straight to the Hall of Supreme Harmony when it opens at 8:30 am to take photos of the gold-brick floor and white marble railings while there are fewer people. After 10 am, tour groups flood in, so head to the East and West Six Palaces, where the crowds are much smaller. Beihai Park tickets are 10 yuan. From the White Pagoda, you can see Zhongnanhai, and boats gliding through the willow trees on the lake—a truly comfortable scene in Beijing in autumn. A combined ticket for the Temple of Heaven costs 34 yuan and includes the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The best photos are taken after 4 PM when the sunlight shines obliquely on the blue tiles. ⚠️ The Echo Wall is currently fenced off, so don't waste time finding the right angle. In the evening, go to Niujie Street for Jubao Yuan hot pot; it costs about 80 yuan per person. The hand-cut mutton with sesame sauce is a hundred times better than those trendy restaurants in Nanluoguxiang. 05 Anqing City | Anhui Autumn at Tianzhu Mountain is a mix of granite and red leaves. The pine trees in Xiguan Village have grown for 500 years in the cracks of the rocks, their roots clinging to the cliff face like natural sculptures. The section from Nanyue Gate to Liandan Lake has gentle steps, making it easy to walk and suitable for bringing parents. Entrance fee plus shuttle bus: approximately 130 yuan; cable car: 50 yuan one way. ⏰ Go up the mountain before 8 AM; you can only see the full view of Tianzhu Peak after the fog clears. We stopped for lunch at a tea stall by Liandan Lake. Tea eggs and corn were only 5 yuan each – a great deal! Don't go down the mountain through Dongguan; the steps there are steep and long, so those with bad knees should skip it. We stayed in a clean and hygienic budget hotel in Qianshan city for 90 yuan a night. In the evening, we went to the Wanhe Road night market. Shanfen dumplings with braised pork are a specialty of Anqing; a small portion was 15 yuan. The chewy skin wrapped around the savory meat filling – I could easily eat two bowls! 🚄 There's a direct bus from Anqing Station to the Tianzhushan Visitor Center for 10 yuan, or about 50 yuan by taxi. 06 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests in October are a golden sea. The entrance fee to the Ejina Banner Poplar Forest Tourist Area is about 180 yuan. Online reviews say it's expensive, but the area from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge, where sunlight filters through the yellow leaves and dapples the river, creates a truly unique and intense autumn scene. 🍜 At the entrance of the scenic area, there are stalls selling Hami melons for one yuan a slice; they're so sweet they're almost sickening. Inside, they sell roasted camel meat skewers for 15 yuan a skewer—not cheap, but worth trying; the meat is firm and chewy. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Dalaihob Town; it's 280 yuan a night, which is reasonable during peak season, but⚠️ hygiene conditions vary, so check reviews beforehand. The Badain Jaran Desert is in the direction of Dongfeng Town. A chartered car costs 800 yuan a day and can see Badain Lake and Bilutu Peak. If you're on a tight budget, I suggest only visiting the Populus euphratica forest; you can get a general feel for desert landforms when you see the Danxia landforms in Zhangye. ⏰ The best time to view the Populus euphratica forest is during the two weeks of mid-October; once the leaves fall, only bare branches remain. 07 Dalian City|Liaoning Jinshitan and Tiger Beach—one is nature, the other amusement park; the choice is clear. Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is free to enter, while the core area of ​​the geological park only costs 60 yuan. A walk along the seaside boardwalk, seeing the strangely shaped rocks formed over millions of years, is more worthwhile than paying for man-made performances. Tiger Beach Ocean Park costs 180 yuan; families with children can go for it, but couples and solo travelers should save their money. Tangli Lake Park is a popular local stroll spot, free to enter. At 6 pm, the sunset paints the water orange-red, and the reeds along the lake and the distant mountains create a tranquil scene. ⏰ The light is soft at this time; photos taken straight from your phone are wallpaper-worthy. Xinghai Square offers a light show at night. The square itself is free, but I suggest avoiding the seafood stalls there; they can charge 58 yuan for a single plate of grilled squid. For seafood, go to Heishijiao Market, where you can choose your own live shrimp and crabs. The processing shops next door charge 20 yuan, and you can eat your fill for around 50 yuan per person. 08 Ya'an City | Sichuan The main itinerary for Bifengxia is: enter the canyon to see the waterfalls, then go to the panda base to see the pandas. The entrance fee, including the panda base, is about 118 yuan, which is considered good value for money among Sichuan scenic spots. ⏰ Arrive at the panda base before 9 am, just in time for the keepers to feed the pandas. They are all playing in the outdoor area, and after lunch, they retreat to their air-conditioned rooms to sleep. The waterfalls in the canyon surprised me even more than the pandas. The Qingyun Ladder has a drop of 120 meters, with a thunderous roar. Standing on the viewing platform, the mist hits you in the face; it must be even more refreshing in summer. The boardwalk is about four kilometers long, taking about two hours to walk. There are many steps, so those with strollers should skip it. I chose to stay in a guesthouse in Bifengxia Town near the scenic area entrance, costing 80 yuan a night. The owner will help you plan your route. 🍜 The Yingjing Bangbang Chicken sold in town costs 38 yuan for half a chicken. The chicken is soaked in red oil, both numbing and spicy, and you can easily eat two bowls of rice with it. 🚄 There are direct buses from Ya'an Station to the scenic area, costing 12 yuan, running once an hour. Don't take unlicensed taxis; they'll rip you off. For travel in September and October, I've kept my budget around 1000 yuan for these eight places. I highly recommend Qiannan and Alashan; the natural landscapes in these two places are irreplaceable, while the other cities have more artificial elements. Where are you planning to go for National Day? Let's chat in the comments.

Avoid the crowds this Mid-Autumn Festival — these 8 off‑beat spots really delivered 01 Yulin | Shaanxi The landforms in Wave Valley look like red silk crumpled by the wind. After 4 PM the light slants in and the textures become so three‑dimensional you feel like you could reach out and touch them. 📍 Navigate to the Wave Valley Scenic Area main entrance. Don't trust people on the roadside who offer to lead you down unofficial paths—saving on the ticket could put you into unprotected sandy areas. ⏰ It takes about 3 hours to walk the whole scenic area. There are many steps, so if you have elderly people or children, just do the highlights. The Jia County section of the Yellow River is best seen not from the viewing platform but from a sudden bend you encounter while driving along the Yanhuang Highway; the river looks like liquid metal at sunset. Red Stone Gorge is better visited in the morning—cliff carvings are clearest between 9–11 AM. The park is small; an hour is enough. ⚠️ Yulin has large day‑to‑night temperature swings. Bring a light jacket if you go at Mid‑Autumn. 02 Dongying | Shandong The Yellow River estuary isn't a jaw‑dropping spot at first glance, but the moment you see the yellow and blue meet is worth the trip. 📍 Take a boat from the Yellow River Estuary Ecotourism Area. Whether you can see a clear boundary depends on the wind, waves, and water volume that day—ask the dock staff before you go. ⏰ Try to catch an early boat when it's less crowded and the sea is calmer. The park also has large wetlands and reedbeds; in autumn the reed flowers are white and perfect for a stroll. ⚠️ Boat tickets and park tickets are sold separately—don't let touts sell you a suspicious "combo ticket" at the entrance. After seeing the estuary, stay for sunset on the embankment; the water turns golden and the wind carries a salty aroma—it's a very quiet moment. 03 Shenyang | Liaoning Autumn in Beiling Park is the most comfortable version of Shenyang for me: the ginkgoes aren't fully yellow yet, but the pines are a deep green. Go at 6 AM to see locals doing tai chi and walking birds. The large park is free; only entering the Zhaoling core area requires a ticket. 📍 The park is big. Enter from the main gate and walk along the main road to the baoding, then circle back around the lake—about 2 hours. Shenyang Expo Park is good for kids, but flower shows attract crowds during the Mid‑Autumn holiday. ⚠️ I recommend entering after 2 PM to avoid morning tour groups. Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda is tucked into a residential area; the tower is weathered and sees few visitors—ideal for those who like quiet historical buildings. The north pagoda and Falun Temple are connected; worship activity is light, so it's peaceful. 🍜 After touring, go to Xita Street for a bowl of cold noodles—sour and spicy, perfect for refreshing yourself. 04 Wuzhong | Ningxia The Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon is best experienced by "looking at the water first, then the mountains." 📍 Take a sightseeing boat into the canyon from the park entrance. The river cliffs are carved into layered textures, and the water shifts from green to blue under sunlight. The 108 pagodas stand on the riverbank slope—climb the steps and count them; the ordered rows are very photogenic. ⏰ The full route takes about 4 hours. It's best to arrive in the morning and rest in the shade beneath the pagodas at noon when the sun is high. ⚠️ Boat departures are irregular; in the low season they may wait until a boat is full. If you're short on time, call ahead. Wuzhong's morning‑tea culture deserves at least half a day: pulled noodles, eight‑treasure tea, and beef side dishes—you can eat your fill for about CNY 30 per person. 🍜 Don't just stick to the restaurants at the park entrance—walk a short distance into the old town for more authentic options. 05 Fuyang | Anhui Balihe is the kind of place that makes you think, "I didn't expect Anhui to have water like this." The park is divided into several areas, with World Scenery and Splendid China the main draws. The miniatures aren't very detailed, but the lake is wide and open. 📍 Enter from the east gate and walk the lakeside boardwalk to link the areas into a loop—about 3 hours. ⏰ Lighting is best after 5 PM; the lake reflections soften and most of the crowds have thinned out. ⚠️ Food inside the park is pricey and average—bring snacks and eat after you leave. Balihe is for a slow pace: boating, feeling the breeze, birdwatching. If you're not rushing through sights, you can easily spend half a day. 🚄 It's about a 40‑minute taxi ride from Fuyang city center. There is no direct bus, so driving or carpooling is recommended. 06 Dongguan | Guangdong Humen Bridge isn't a place to climb the bridge so much as a place to view the bridge. 📍 The best viewpoint is near the old Weiyuan Fort site. The fort's weathered walls framed with the modern bridge in the distance create a sense of time travel. ⏰ Light is nicest from 4–6 PM, and the sea breeze is cooler then. The area has deep historical traces, but I'll leave that for you to feel in person. After viewing the bridge, head to Humen town for seafood—coastal eateries' boiled shrimp and steamed fish are reasonably priced; a decent meal costs about CNY 70–80 per person. ⚠️ You cannot park on the bridge to view it, so don't expect to. There's also a naval battle museum nearby—it's free but requires a reservation and is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 07 Fuzhou | Jiangxi Dajue Mountain is best known for rafting, but water is cool at Mid‑Autumn. I prefer taking the cable car up the mountain to enjoy the views. 📍 The cable car takes about 20 minutes. Beneath you, layers of green unfold, and the summit suddenly opens up to ridgelines that look like ink‑wash paintings. There's a Dajueyan Temple set into the cliff; incense offerings are sparse, making it a good place to sit and stare. ⏰ Half a day is enough. Arrive early in the morning to ride the cable car before tour groups and save queue time. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain—bring a bottle of water and travel light. If you have energy after descending, stroll the ancient town at the foot of the mountain: bluestone streets lined with old wooden buildings, with little commercialism. 08 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia The best time to see the poplar forests is early October. Mid‑Autumn may be a little early, but the Badain Jaran Desert is worth visiting any time. 📍 You must take a local 4x4 into the desert. The driver will let you surf the dunes, and the weightless feeling is more thrilling than a roller coaster. ⏰ Sunset in the desert is late—it doesn't get dark until about 7:30 PM. Climb a dune around 6 PM to wait for sunset; the whole sea of sand turns orange‑red and is worth taking 100 photos. ⚠️ Temperature swings in the desert are extreme—short sleeves at noon, a fleece by evening. Don't tough it out. 🍜 At night, eat hand‑pulled mutton at a herder's home with brick tea; the meat's aroma mixed with wood smoke is an experience you won't find in the city. If the poplar forest is already half yellow when you go, that's another kind of beauty.

A boon for budget travelers! These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and more scenic in September and October, and you can have a great time even on a budget of 500 RMB. 01 Yantai City | Shandong In September, the sea breeze in Yantai starts to feel cool, but the sun is still warm. It's not like Qingdao, where people throng the streets; it's more suitable for a leisurely stroll. I recommend going to Penglai Pavilion early. It opens at 8 am, so if you arrive at 7:30 am, you can capture the almost untouched beauty of the Danxia landform. Tickets are a little over 100 RMB, half price for students—remember to bring your student ID. Don't buy "Penglai Noodles" at the entrance; they're expensive and mediocre. Walk two streets away, and you'll find street vendors selling them for 6 RMB a bowl—that's what locals eat. You need to take a boat to Changdao Island; the boat ticket is 45 RMB. The most worthwhile spot on the island is Jiuzhang Cliff. At sunset, the light shining on the sea-eroded cliffs creates a beautiful orange-red hue—it looks amazing even straight from the camera. ⚠️ Accommodation on the island costs 300+ RMB during peak season, but drops to around 100 RMB after mid-September. Before booking your guesthouse, make sure to check if it includes pier pick-up and drop-off. I have reservations about Longkou Nanshan. If you're not interested in Buddhist culture, you can skip this trip. The entrance fee is 120 RMB, and the area is quite large; walking the whole thing takes half a day. Not recommended for elderly people with mobility issues. 02 Dalian City | Liaoning In Dalian in autumn, the sky and sea are exceptionally blue, and importantly—the wind isn't as strong. I recommend spending a whole day at Jinshitan. The geological park entrance fee is 60 RMB, and the unique rock formations are very photogenic. However, don't rent electric carts; the walking trail is only 3 kilometers long, and you can walk, stop, and take photos—two hours is enough. In the evening, go to the Golden Coast; locals are there beachcombing, and you can join them to dig for small crabs—a free and enjoyable experience. Tiger Beach Ocean Park—honestly, I don't think the 200+ RMB entrance fee is worth it. If you've been to an aquarium before, skip this. However, if you're bringing children, the dolphin show can indeed keep them quiet for an hour; weigh the pros and cons yourself. Tangli Lake Park is free, less crowded, and a popular spot for locals to stroll. A walk around the lake's boardwalk takes about 40 minutes. In autumn, the maple leaves turn red, creating a very Japanese-style photo opportunity. 📍 Take bus 535 directly from the city center; don't take a taxi, it's often congested. Go to Xinghai Square at night. The lights come on, the sea breeze is refreshing, and it's very pleasant. Food around the square is relatively expensive; if you walk a little further to the vicinity of Heping Square, a bowl of seafood noodles costs 25 yuan and is very generous with the ingredients. 03 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin Yanji isn't large, but the density of delicious food is incredibly high. A two-day, one-night stay will basically fill you up completely. Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area is in Dunhua, a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Yanji. The entrance fee is 100 yuan, including the sightseeing bus. The Golden Buddha statue on the mountain is breathtaking, but I think the Zhengjue Temple at the foot of the mountain is even more worthwhile. The architectural color scheme is incredibly photogenic, and it's less crowded. ⚠️ Don't go up the mountain after 3 PM; the light is poor, and the sightseeing bus stops running at 4:30 PM. Back in Yanji city, the floating market is a must-visit. It opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 AM, so you'll have to get up early. 🍜 Rice cakes, blood sausage, and soybean paste soup—you can eat your fill for around 30 RMB per person. The kimchi sold by the Korean aunties in the market is much better than the supermarket kind; you can vacuum-pack it to take away. In the evening, go to the "Instagrammable" wall opposite Yanji University, but don't have high expectations—it's just a building wall. The real delicacy is the ginseng chicken soup in the nearby alley; a pot costs 45 RMB, and the soup is incredibly flavorful. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Late September to mid-October is the peak season for the poplar forests. The entire forest turns golden; a gust of wind rustles the leaves, like a shower of gold coins. The Ejina Populus euphratica Forest Tourist Area costs 240 yuan for admission, which isn't cheap, but it's only open for 20 days a year, so it's worth it. The scenic area is vast, with eight bridges. I recommend starting from the second bridge, where there's water and the reflections are most beautiful. The fourth bridge is a filming location for the movie "Hero," but it's crowded, so take a couple of photos and leave. ⚠️ The food inside the scenic area is expensive and unpalatable; bring your own food and water. For the Badain Jaran Desert, if you're short on time, you can just visit the outer perimeter. Find a local driver; 200 yuan will take you to the edge of the desert to watch the sunset. This is much cheaper than taking an off-road vehicle inside the scenic area (500 yuan per person). The desert sunset is truly breathtaking; the sense of tranquility is something you'll never experience in the city. 📌 Transportation to Ejina is a major expense. I recommend booking your round-trip train tickets in advance, especially during the National Day holiday, when even hard sleeper berths are hard to come by. Book your accommodation in advance as well; if you try to find one upon arrival, you'll have to sleep on the train. 05 Yinchuan City | Ningxia Yinchuan is an underrated gem of a city. It's inexpensive, not crowded, and boasts unique scenery. Helan Mountain Rock Paintings: Entrance fee 70 RMB. The rock paintings on the mountain are tens of thousands of years old. If you look closely, you can almost touch the carvings, giving you a wonderful feeling of conversing with the ancients. There's a Han Meilin Art Museum within the scenic area, which is free and worth a visit. ⚠️ It's windy on the mountain; bring a jacket even in September. Western Xia Imperial Tombs: Entrance fee 75 RMB including sightseeing bus. It's a complex of tombs from the Western Xia Dynasty. The rammed earth towers are particularly imposing in the open field. Visit at dusk, when the setting sun turns the earthen towers golden, creating a desolate yet romantic atmosphere. 📸 The famous "Oriental Pyramid" photo spot is at the sightseeing bus terminal; don't go to the wrong one. I recommend choosing between Shuidonggou and Mingcui Lake. Shuidonggou is a prehistoric site with the Ming Great Wall and hidden military caves. The entrance fee is 60 yuan, and while there are many activities, it can be a bit tiring. Mingcui Lake is a wetland park, more suitable for families with elderly members and children. Enjoy walking along the boardwalks, bird watching, and a more relaxed experience. If you enjoy hiking, choose Shuidonggou; if you just want to unwind, choose Mingcui Lake. 06 Yichun City | Jiangxi Province I would call Mingyue Mountain in Yichun the "king of cost-effectiveness for budget travelers." The entrance fee is 90 yuan, and the sightseeing bus is 25 yuan one way, but you can completely avoid taking the bus. Hiking up the mountain takes only 3 hours, with waterfalls and bamboo forests along the way—the scenery is far better than taking the bus. At the summit, there's a Qingyun Plank Road built on a cliff. A complete loop takes 40 minutes. Below you is a sea of ​​clouds, and in the distance, continuous mountain ranges—the sense of openness makes it worth the ticket price. 🍜 There's only one restaurant on the mountain; a plate of fried noodles costs 25 yuan. The taste is so-so, but it's at the top of the mountain, so it's understandable. At the foot of the mountain is Wentang Town, where soaking in the hot springs is the real deal. Hot spring hotels in the town range in price from 100 to 1000 yuan; just choose the cheapest old-fashioned one—the water quality is the same. After soaking in the hot springs, go to the town for a bowl of Runtian rice noodles with a braised egg—so comforting. ⚠️ Don't go to Mingyue Mountain on rainy days; the boardwalk is slippery, and it's all foggy, so you can't see anything. Check the weather forecast before you go. 07 Zhangzhou City|Fujian Zhangzhou is suitable for those who like culture and coastlines. It's not as commercialized as Xiamen, and prices are much lower. Nanjing Tulou (Hakka earthen buildings)—the entrance fee is 90 yuan, and you can see four or five classic buildings in a day. The "Four Dishes and One Soup" (Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster) is the most photogenic; standing on the viewing platform and taking pictures downwards, the staggered round earthen buildings embedded in the valley look like an alien base. Yuchang Building (the Leaning Building) is worth a visit; the pillars inside are all leaning, yet they've stood for centuries—it's quite amazing. Yunshuiyao Ancient Town is included in the combined ticket with the Tulou (earthen buildings), so you don't need to buy a separate ticket. The ancient town is built along a stream and features large banyan trees, stone bridges, and old houses. 🍜 The flatbread sold in town costs 3 yuan each; it's freshly baked, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—delicious! ⚠️ It gets very crowded on weekends, so it's best to stay overnight and get up at 6 am to explore; the whole ancient town is yours to explore. Binhai Volcanic National Geological Park is located in Zhangpu, about a two-hour drive from the city center. The entrance fee is 80 yuan. You can see columnar jointed basalt—those neatly arranged hexagonal stone pillars left by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago—very impressive. There are also large areas of black reefs along the coast, perfect for taking cool photos. 08 Jingmen City | Hubei Jingmen is located in the middle of Hubei Province, neither by the sea nor by mountains, but it has a special place—Xianming Mausoleum. It's the joint tomb of the parents of the Jiajing Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The entrance fee is 60 yuan, but I think it's worth it. The spirit path inside is very long, and the stone statues (human figures and animals) on both sides are well-preserved. Walking on it, with pine and cypress trees on both sides, rustling in the wind, creates a solemn feeling that you can't find anywhere else. ⚠️ The Mingxian Mausoleum scenic area isn't large; you can see it all in about 2 hours. There aren't many places to eat nearby, so it's best to eat in the city before going. A taxi from the city to the scenic area takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. If you have extra time, you can visit Longquan Park in the city. It's free, a popular spot for locals to stroll, and there's a small lake where you can boat for 30 yuan per hour. It's a good place to relax after visiting the Mingxian Mausoleum. Jingmen isn't the kind of city that immediately wows you, but if you like history and tranquility, it can provide a comfortable weekend. · Of the 8 places, if I had to choose the most worthwhile, I would choose Alxa League and Zhangzhou. One is desolate to the extreme, the other gentle to the core. September and October are perfect – not too hot, not too cold, and less crowded. Pick one and go! A budget of 500-800 RMB is enough for a fantastic trip. Let's chat in the comments – where do you want to go first? A boon for budget travelers! These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and beautiful in September and October, and you can have a great time on a budget of 500 RMB. 01 Yantai City | Shandong In September, the sea breeze in Yantai starts to feel cool, but the sun is still warm. It's not like Qingdao, where people throng the streets; it's more suitable for a leisurely stroll. I recommend going to Penglai Pavilion early. It opens at 8 am, so arrive at 7:30 am to capture the almost untouched beauty of the cliffs. Tickets are a little over 100 RMB, half price for students – remember to bring your student ID. Don't buy "Penglai Noodles" at the entrance; they're expensive and mediocre. Walk two streets away, and you'll find a street stall where a bowl costs 6 RMB – that's what the locals eat. You need to take a boat to Changdao Island; the boat ticket costs 45 yuan. The most worthwhile spot on the island is Jiuzhang Cliff. At sunset, the light shining on the sea cliffs creates a beautiful orange-red hue, even straight from the camera. ⚠️ Accommodation on the island costs 300+ yuan during peak season, but drops to around 100 yuan after mid-September. Before booking a guesthouse, make sure to check if it includes ferry service. I have reservations about Longkou Nanshan. If you're not interested in Buddhist culture, you can skip this trip. The entrance fee is 120 yuan, and the area is quite large; walking the whole thing takes half a day. Not recommended for elderly people with mobility issues. 02 Dalian City | Liaoning In Dalian in autumn, the sky and sea are exceptionally blue, and importantly—the wind isn't as strong. I recommend spending a whole day at Jinshitan. The geological park entrance fee is 60 yuan; the unique rock formations are very photogenic, but don't rent electric carts. The walking trail is only 3 kilometers long; walking, stopping, and taking photos at your own pace, two hours is enough. In the evening, head to the Gold Coast. Locals are out beachcombing; you can join them and dig for small crabs – a free and enjoyable experience. Tiger Beach Ocean Park: Honestly, at 200+ RMB, I don't think it's worth it. If you've been to an aquarium before, skip this. However, if you have children, the dolphin show can definitely keep them quiet for an hour; weigh the pros and cons yourself. Tangli Lake Park: Free, less crowded, a popular spot for locals to stroll. A walk around the lake's boardwalk takes about 40 minutes. In autumn, the maple leaves turn red, creating a very Japanese-style photo opportunity. 📍 Take bus 535 directly from the city center; don't take a taxi, it's congested. Go to Xinghai Square at night. The lights come on, the sea breeze is refreshing. Food around the square is relatively expensive. If you walk a little further to the Peace Square area, a bowl of seafood noodles costs 25 RMB and is very generous with the ingredients. 03 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin Yanji isn't large, but the density of delicious food is ridiculously high. A two-day, one-night stay will basically fill you up completely. Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area is located in Dunhua, a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Yanji. The entrance fee is 100 yuan, including the sightseeing bus. The Golden Buddha statue on the mountain is impressive, but I think the Zhengjue Temple at the foot of the mountain is even more worthwhile; its architectural color scheme is incredibly photogenic, and it's less crowded. ⚠️ Don't go up the mountain after 3 PM, as the lighting is poor, and the sightseeing bus stops running at 4:30 PM. Back in Yanji city, the floating market is a must-visit. It opens at 6 AM and closes at 9 AM, so you'll have to get up early. 🍜 Rice cakes, blood sausage, and soybean paste soup—you can eat your fill for about 30 yuan per person. The kimchi sold by the Korean aunties in the market is much more fragrant than the supermarket kind; you can vacuum-pack it to take away. In the evening, go to the "Instagrammable" wall opposite Yanji University, but don't have high expectations—it's just a building wall. The real delicacy is the ginseng chicken soup in the nearby alley; a pot costs 45 yuan, and the soup is incredibly flavorful. 04 Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Late September to mid-October is the peak season for the Populus euphratica forest. The entire forest turns golden, and the rustling leaves in the wind sound like a shower of gold coins. The Ejina Populus euphratica Forest Tourist Area costs 240 yuan for admission, which is honestly not cheap, but it's only there for 20 days a year, so it's worth it. The scenic area is very large, with eight bridges. I suggest starting from the second bridge, where there's water and the reflections are most beautiful. The fourth bridge is a filming location for the movie "Hero," so be prepared for crowds and take a couple of photos before moving on. ⚠️ The food inside the scenic area is expensive and not very good; bring your own food and water. For the Badain Jaran Desert, if you're short on time, you can just visit the outer perimeter. Find a local driver; for 200 yuan, they can take you to the edge of the desert to watch the sunset. This is much cheaper than taking an off-road vehicle inside the scenic area (500 yuan per person). The desert sunset is truly breathtaking; the sense of tranquility is something you'll never experience in the city. 📌 Transportation to Ejina is the biggest expense. It's highly recommended to book your round-trip train tickets in advance, especially during the National Day holiday, when even hard sleeper berths are hard to come by. Book your accommodation in advance as well; otherwise, you'll have to sleep on the train. 05 Yinchuan City | Ningxia Yinchuan is an underrated gem of a city. Low cost of living, not crowded, and with unique scenery. Helan Mountain Rock Paintings: Entrance fee 70 RMB. The rock paintings on the mountain are tens of thousands of years old. If you look closely, you can almost touch the carvings, giving you a wonderful feeling of conversing with the ancients. There's a Han Meilin Art Museum within the scenic area, which is free and worth a visit. ⚠️ It's windy on the mountain; bring a jacket even in September. Western Xia Mausoleums: Entrance fee 75 RMB including sightseeing bus. It's the mausoleum complex of the Western Xia Dynasty. The rammed earth towers are particularly imposing in the open field. Visit at dusk, when the setting sun turns the earthen towers golden, creating a desolate yet romantic scene. 📸 The famous "Oriental Pyramid" photo spot is at the sightseeing bus terminal; don't go to the wrong one. I recommend choosing between Shuidonggou and Mingcui Lake. Shuidonggou is a prehistoric site with the Ming Great Wall and hidden military caves. The entrance fee is 60 yuan, and while there are many activities, it can be a bit tiring. Mingcui Lake is a wetland park, more suitable for families with elderly members and children. Enjoy walking along the boardwalks, bird watching, and a more relaxed experience. If you enjoy hiking, choose Shuidonggou; if you just want to unwind, choose Mingcui Lake. 06 Yichun City | Jiangxi Province I would call Mingyue Mountain in Yichun the "king of cost-effectiveness for budget travelers." The entrance fee is 90 yuan, and the sightseeing bus is 25 yuan one way, but you can completely avoid taking the bus. Hiking up the mountain takes only 3 hours, with waterfalls and bamboo forests along the way—the scenery is far better than taking the bus. At the summit, there's a Qingyun Plank Road built on a cliff. A complete loop takes 40 minutes. Below you is a sea of ​​clouds, and in the distance, continuous mountain ranges—the sense of openness makes it worth the ticket price. 🍜 There's only one restaurant on the mountain; a plate of fried noodles costs 25 yuan. The taste is so-so, but it's at the top of the mountain, so it's understandable. At the foot of the mountain is Wentang Town, where soaking in the hot springs is the real deal. Hot spring hotels in the town range in price from 100 to 1000 yuan; just choose the cheapest old-fashioned one—the water quality is the same. After soaking in the hot springs, go to the town for a bowl of Runtian rice noodles with a braised egg—so comforting. ⚠️ Don't go to Mingyue Mountain on rainy days; the boardwalk is slippery, and it's all foggy, so you can't see anything. Check the weather forecast before you go. 07 Zhangzhou City|Fujian Zhangzhou is suitable for those who like culture and coastlines. It's not as commercialized as Xiamen, and prices are much lower. Nanjing Tulou (Hakka earthen buildings)—the entrance fee is 90 yuan, and you can see four or five classic buildings in a day. The "Four Dishes and One Soup" (Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster) is the most photogenic; standing on the viewing platform and taking pictures downwards, the staggered round earthen buildings embedded in the valley look like an alien base. Yuchang Building (the Leaning Building) is worth a visit; the pillars inside are all leaning, yet they've stood for centuries—it's quite amazing. Yunshuiyao Ancient Town is included in the combined ticket with the Tulou (earthen buildings), so you don't need to buy a separate ticket. The ancient town is built along a stream and features large banyan trees, stone bridges, and old houses. 🍜 The flatbread sold in town costs 3 yuan each; it's freshly baked, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—delicious! ⚠️ It gets very crowded on weekends, so it's best to stay overnight and get up at 6 am to explore; the whole ancient town is yours to explore. Binhai Volcanic National Geological Park is located in Zhangpu, about a two-hour drive from the city center. The entrance fee is 80 yuan. You can see columnar jointed basalt—those neatly arranged hexagonal stone pillars left by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago—very impressive. There are also large areas of black reefs along the coast, perfect for taking cool photos. 08 Jingmen City | Hubei Jingmen is located in the middle of Hubei Province, neither by the sea nor by mountains, but it has a special place—Xianming Mausoleum. It's the joint tomb of the parents of the Jiajing Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The entrance fee is 60 yuan, but I think it's worth it. The spirit path inside is very long, and the stone statues (human figures and animals) on both sides are well-preserved. Walking on it, with pine and cypress trees on both sides, rustling in the wind, creates a solemn feeling that you can't find anywhere else. ⚠️ The Mingxian Mausoleum scenic area isn't large; you can see it all in about 2 hours. There aren't many places to eat nearby, so it's best to eat in the city before going. A taxi from the city to the scenic area takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. If you have extra time, you can visit Longquan Park in the city. It's free, a popular spot for locals to stroll, and there's a small lake where you can boat for 30 yuan per hour. It's a good place to relax after visiting the Mingxian Mausoleum. Jingmen isn't the kind of city that immediately wows you, but if you like history and tranquility, it can provide a comfortable weekend. · Of the 8 places, if I had to choose the most worthwhile, I would choose Alxa League and Zhangzhou. One is utterly desolate, the other is tender to the core. September and October offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds—choose one and go! A budget of 500-800 RMB is enough for a fantastic trip. Let's chat in the comments: which one do you want to go first?