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

Who would have thought that the pinnacle of Guangxi's landscapes isn't in Guilin, but in Hechi! Avoid the crowds and discover the pristine and healing karst secret spots here. Experience the highlights in 3 days and 2 nights without rushing, fully immersing yourself in the romantic wilderness✨ Day 1: Head straight to Fengshan Sanmenhai, take a boat through the underground river skylight—where mountains meet the sea and the sea embraces the mountains, creating a magical sensation. In the afternoon, check in at the first bend of the Hongshui River, a magnificent U-shaped river bend with mountain and water sunsets so beautiful they leave you speechless. Day 2: Unlock Du'an's twin skylights. The glassy water of Jiudun Skylight shines like sapphire, perfect for paddleboarding and healing the soul; during the high water season, Tunbang Skylight is covered with seaweed flowers across the river surface. In the afternoon, stroll through Bama Longevity Village, breathe fresh air by the Panyang River, and enjoy a slow-paced, relaxed lifestyle. Day 3: Explore the mysterious Baimo Cave, a natural oxygen bar where you can witness the spectacular light and shadow show inside the karst cave; in the afternoon, walk the cliffside plank road at the Cotton Sinkhole, ending with a breathtaking underground wonder. Along the way, savor Bama roasted fragrant pork and hemp soup, full of wild mountain flavors. Here, there is no commercial hustle and bustle, only healing landscapes and relaxation for body and mind—you won't want to leave once you arrive~

Du'an Underground River National Geopark, a truly lesser-known treasure spot in Guangxi✨! It boasts over 400 kilometers of the Disu Underground River, scattered with countless natural skylights, each frame a healing landscape painting🌿. The must-visit core is the Jiudun Skylight, the deepest known skylight in Du'an and the source of the Chengjiang River, hailed as the "Underwater Everest of China"🏔️. The source area is fenced off and swimming is prohibited, but the downstream waters are crystal clear, with emerald underground river water flowing year-round, exuding a cool blue tone💎. Visiting in midsummer is a super surprise! The water surface blooms with yellow and white sea flowers🌼, gently swaying with the waves, like dancing on water, creating an immersive atmosphere~ Every snap is a natural beauty without filters, peaceful and photogenic. Besides Jiudun Skylight, nearby skylights like Tunbang and Jiuling are also worth exploring. The jelly-colored river water is perfect for water play and paddleboarding, making it a wonderfully refreshing summer escape🌊. ✨Practical Guide 📍Transportation: Self-driving is recommended (about 2 hours from Nanning); after taking the high-speed train to Du'an Station, renting a car or hiring a driver is more convenient as public transport is limited. 🅿️Parking: Free and paid parking lots are available at all skylight spots, very friendly for self-driving travelers. 🌟Highlights: 1️⃣ Jiudun Skylight: Source of the Chengjiang River, see the emerald water + sea flowers (summer only). 2️⃣ Tunbang Skylight: Clear water, great for paddleboarding and water play, beginner-friendly. 3️⃣ Jiuling Skylight: Mountain-top boardwalk with panoramic views, stunning mountain and water scenery combined. 💡Tips: 1. Wear life jackets when playing in the water, children must be accompanied, beware of undercurrents⚠️. 2. Best scenery during the high-water season from May to October, when sea flowers bloom🌼. 3. Free entry; diving requires professional certification and prior notification🤿.

Stop focusing only on Guilin! Hechi is Guangxi's true "scenic blind box." Here, you'll not only find the songs of Liu Sanjie, but also the "Eye of the Earth" comparable to Jiuzhaigou, the Wine Sea Cave storing tens of thousands of jars of wine, and the mysterious longevity code. This guide will help you explore this severely underestimated, high-value city. 🌟 Why Hechi? · Hometown of Liu Sanjie: The birthplace of the Song Fairy culture, where folk songs echo through the mountains and rivers. · World's Longevity Hometown: Bama's longevity secrets attract health-conscious travelers worldwide. · Diving Paradise: Duan's underground river skylight clusters, with water as clear as glass, are a paradise for freediving enthusiasts. · High Value for Money: Compared to popular cities, prices here are affordable, and it boasts beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. 🗺️ Must-Visit Attractions (by Region) 1️⃣ Duan: Eye of the Earth, Jelly Water Wonderland · Jiudun Tianchuang / Tunbang Tianchuang: Free. Known as "China's Underwater Everest," July-August is the high-water season, also the best time for summer escape and diving. The water surface is as clear as a sapphire; you can paddleboard, dive, or even just sit by the water and relax – it's incredibly therapeutic. · Water Snowflake (Hai Cai Hua): If you're lucky, you might see the river covered in white water snowflakes (also known as 'Shuixing Yanghua'), like a fairyland. 2️⃣ Fengshan & Tian'e: Karst Essence · Sanmenhai: Take a boat through three skylights (water caves). The water is clearest in winter and spring. When the sun shines through, it feels like passing through the Earth's core. Admission including boat ticket is about 90-98 RMB. · Longjiang First Bend / Hongshui River First Bend: Climb high for a panoramic view of the U-shaped great bend; the aerial perspective is incredibly stunning. 3️⃣ Bama: Longevity Code · Longevity Village (Bapan Village): Visit centenarians and experience the local wellness atmosphere (be mindful of customs and avoid excessive disturbance). · Baimo Cave: Unique karst landform with extremely high negative oxygen ions. Many "migratory birds" come here for recuperation. Admission is about 75-85 RMB. · Bainiao Cave: Take a boat through alternating bright and dark water caves, experiencing the "three days and three nights" light and shadow changes. 4️⃣ Nandan: Wine Aroma and Yao Village · Dongtian Jiuhai (Wine Sea Cave): A winery hidden in a giant karst cave, holding a Guinness World Record. Tens of thousands of tons of wine are stored inside, with a rich aroma. Admission is about 85 RMB. · Geyasigu: Experience the customs of the White Trousers Yao ethnic group, see the Yao village and the underground grand canyon. · Nandan Hot Springs: Natural hot springs, a top choice for relaxation after hiking. 5️⃣ Yizhou: Hometown of Liu Sanjie · Hometown of Liu Sanjie: Take a boat trip on the Xiajian River, see Liuhe Village, and experience folk song duets and throwing embroidered balls. Admission + boat ticket is about 148 RMB. · Huaiyuan Ancient Town: A thousand-year-old ancient town with bluestone paths and a strong sense of local life. 🍜 Food & Drink (No-Fail Guide) · Danquan Wine: A Nandan specialty, available for tasting at Dongtian Jiuhai. Don't miss it if you like baijiu. · Yizhou Cuisine: Fruit sauce BBQ (a must-try! The sweet and sour fruit sauce dip is unique), Yizhou grilled fish, sliced meat noodles. · Bama Health Cuisine: Hemp seed soup, Bama fragrant pork, oil fish. · Hechi Boiled Noodles / Luosifen: The soul of local breakfast, with a fresh and spicy broth. 🚗 Recommended 3-5 Day Classic Itineraries Itinerary 1: Scenic Essence Route (3-4 days, self-driving recommended) · Day 1: Nanning/Liuzhou → Duan (play at Jiudun Tianchuang, stay in Duan) · Day 2: Duan → Bama (Baimo Cave, Longevity Village, stay in Bama) · Day 3: Bama → Fengshan (Sanmenhai) → Nandan (Dongtian Jiuhai, stay in Nandan) · Day 4: Nandan → Yizhou (Hometown of Liu Sanjie) → Return Itinerary 2: In-depth Slow Travel Route (5 days, including Nanning arrival/departure) · Day 1: Arrive in Nanning, rent a car to Duan, stay in Duan · Day 2: Water activities at Duan Tianchuang → Afternoon travel to Bama, stay in Bama · Day 3: In-depth tour of Bama (Baimo Cave, Bainiao Cave, Panyang River) · Day 4: Bama → Fengshan Sanmenhai → Nandan Hot Springs, stay in Nandan · Day 5: Nandan Dongtian Jiuhai → Return to Nanning 💡 Practical Tips · Best Season: · Water activities/diving: July-August (Duan Tianchuang has the most water and is coolest). · Best water clarity: Winter and spring (November-April), less rain, water is bluest and clearest. · Transportation: Hechi attractions are spread out, self-driving is highly recommended. High-speed rail is available to Yizhou, Duan, Nandan, etc., then rent a car or charter a car. · Cost: Overall prices are not high. Accommodation for 150-300 RMB can be very good, and dining is about 30-50 RMB per person. · Avoid Pitfalls: · Some areas of Duan Tianchuang are deep and cold. Non-professional divers should not dive rashly. Always wear a life jacket when paddleboarding. · There might be promotions for expensive health products near Bama Longevity Village; consume rationally. Hechi's beauty lies in its pristine nature and diversity, half ethereal landscapes and half vibrant local life. Pick a weekend and escape to this "Guangxi's Backyard Garden" to unwind!

Thought aquariums were already beautiful, until I arrived at the underwater forest in Du'an, Guangxi 🌳 I originally thought aquariums were beautiful, but after venturing into this natural underwater forest in Du'an, Guangxi, I was left speechless by the shock! Beneath the clear turquoise waves, aquatic plants sway like a forest, with light filtering through the water casting scattered reflections. It’s far more sophisticated than the artificial scenery of ordinary aquariums—healing and dreamlike 💧 🌿 Key Highlights | A natural secret surpassing aquariums ✨ Guangxi Du'an · Chengjiang River Sinkhole Cluster Immersive Underwater Forest: A natural underwater oasis formed by karst landforms, with over 300 underground river sinkholes connected, dense aquatic plants like a primeval forest gently flowing with the current 🌿 ✨ Stunning light and shadow atmosphere: Sunlight penetrates Class 1 water quality, casting mottled light underwater, with Tyndall effects everywhere, like stepping into a magical otherworld ✨ ✨ More unique than aquariums: Say goodbye to artificial setups, pure natural ecological scenery, lively and healing, every shot looks high-end 🐠 ✨ Quiet and exclusive: Hidden deep in Du'an, Hechi, Guangxi, no crowded tourist spots, almost the entire underwater forest to yourself, maximizing the experience 📸 Must-visit photo spots | Even beginners can capture stunning shots Du'an Tunbang Sinkhole · Underwater Forest Panorama: Low-angle overhead shots capturing emerald river water + swaying aquatic plants + karst mountain shadows in one frame, evoking an "Avatar" vibe, grand and healing. Du'an Disu River · Glass Water Surface Backlight Spot: Shoot backlit from 9-11 AM, sunlight penetrates the water surface creating golden edges, aquatic plant silhouettes are hazy and dreamy, no filter needed for original shots. Du'an Chengjiang River · Seaweed Flower River View (May-October only): The river surface is covered with white seaweed flowers, sailing through feels like passing through a flower river forest, soft-toned outfits make photos irresistibly gentle. Du'an Jiudun Sinkhole · Bamboo Raft/Paddleboard Interaction Spot: Ride a bamboo raft deep into the forest, side-sitting to capture aquatic plants surrounding the frame, full of dynamic feeling, like entering an underwater fairy tale world. ✨ Experience | Easy and healing, suitable for all groups No rushing, no crowds, fully immerse yourself in the greenery of Du'an’s underwater forest: 🌊 Slowly drift on a bamboo raft or paddleboard, watch aquatic plants sway and fish dart by, full of healing vibes 👨‍👩‍👧 Shallow and calm water, perfect for family outings to observe underwater creatures, easy for kids 💑 Super romantic for couples, quiet waters + light and shadow forest, atmosphere instantly elevated 🧘 Escape the noise, sit quietly by the shore watching water and light reflections, instantly releasing all fatigue 📍 Practical Info | Hidden gem, travel tips · Address: Chengjiang River Sinkhole Cluster, Du'an Yao Autonomous County, Hechi City, Guangxi (Tunbang Sinkhole is the core area) · Transportation: Drive and navigate to "Du'an Tunbang Sinkhole"; or take high-speed rail to Du'an Station then taxi about 30 minutes · Tickets: Free! Bamboo raft 30 RMB/trip, paddleboard 50-80 RMB/hour · Opening Hours: Open all day (daytime recommended for best light and shadow) · Best Time to Visit: May-October: Seaweed flowers in full bloom, most beautiful scenery · 9-11 AM: Soft sunlight, no water surface glare, highest chance for great photos 💡 Photo Tips | Easily capture forest-style masterpieces · Outfit: White/light blue dresses, forest-style long skirts, straw bags; avoid dark colors, match perfectly with turquoise water and greenery · Lighting: Prefer morning backlight or evening soft light, avoid harsh midday light · Composition: Use low-angle overhead shots and water reflection framing to add depth · Editing: Slightly brighten + reduce saturation to keep natural clarity, naturally healing filter 🌟 Final Summary Truly, after seeing the underwater forest in Du'an, Guangxi, ordinary aquariums just don’t compare! Pure natural underwater greenery, dreamy light and shadow, tranquil atmosphere, exclusive and stunning, healing and photogenic. Come to Du'an, Guangxi, for a romantic date with the underwater forest—it’s absolutely worth it ✨

Escape the crowded popular spots with your kids and come to Hechi, Guangxi! This hidden gem in northwest Guangxi boasts stunning karst landscapes, clear underground rivers, rich ethnic minority culture, fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and affordable prices—making it an ideal destination for family vacations and nature study trips! 🚗 Family Travel Transportation Guide ✈️ Flight: Arrive at Nanning Wuxu Airport, then take a 1-hour high-speed train to Hechi 🚄 High-speed train: Direct to Hechi West Station / Jinchengjiang Station, convenient travel 🚗 Local travel: Attractions are spread across counties; self-driving or chartering a car is recommended for more freedom and ease when traveling with kids ⭐ Easy 5-Day Family Itinerary D1: Pick up in Nanning → Check into hotel → Explore city and try local food, acclimate to climate D2: Nanning → Du’an Jiudun Skylight Cluster → Cotton Sinkhole Exploration → Cliffside Bookstore visit D3: Wuyang River Bamboo Rafting → Yao Wang Tian Xia Scenic View → Geyasi Valley Folk Experience → Bonfire Party D4: Nandan → Crystal Palace Exploration → Longevity Village Cultural Study D5: Sanmenhai Underground River Adventure → Return to Nanning for departure 🌄 Must-Visit Family Highlights 🌊 Sanmenhai: Take a boat through 7 natural water gates, immerse in exploring the underground river, as if entering a secret world on Earth, unlocking karst geological wonders with your kids 🕳 Cotton Sinkhole: A huge natural sinkhole with cliffside plank walks to enjoy the thrill of a subterranean adventure, plus the popular cliffside bookstore perfect for photo ops 🌌 Jiudun Skylight: A world-class underground river skylight with crystal-clear blue waters and misty surroundings like a fairyland, unlocking underwater wonders for kids 🏡 Longevity Village: The core village of the world’s longevity region, where kids can learn about longevity culture, try local specialty foods, and engage in fun educational activities ⛰ Geyasi Valley: A cultural hub of the White Trousers Yao ethnic group, where kids can try ethnic crafts, watch folk performances, and fully experience minority culture ⚠️ Family Travel Tips ✔️ Attractions are scattered; local small family tour groups are recommended for one-stop arrangements including accommodation, transport, and tickets, so you don’t have to plan everything yourself—super convenient for traveling with kids ✔️ Some trails in scenic areas can be slippery; make sure kids wear non-slip sports shoes and supervise them closely throughout ✔️ Guangxi has strong UV rays; remember to apply sunscreen on kids, bring mosquito repellent, and carry common medicines Accommodation 🏨Bama Cifu Lake Junlan Resort Hotel A wild luxury resort by Bama Cifu Lake with a kids’ playground and hot springs, offering longevity culture study programs—perfect for a one-stop family vacation 🏨Du’an Miluoto Resort Hotel A high-end hotel in Du’an’s core area, adjacent to the Jiudun Skylight Cluster, fully equipped family rooms, an excellent base for exploring underground rivers 🏨Nandan Danlu Mountain Homestay A unique homestay nestled in the mountains of Nandan, surrounded by karst peak forests, offering Yao ethnic cultural experiences, peaceful environment, ideal for families 🏨Fengshan Sanmenhai Wangyouju Homestay A boutique homestay near Sanmenhai Scenic Area, with secret mountain and water views right outside the window, walking distance to the entrance, very convenient for family travel ---

Guangxi is not just about Guilin or Yangshuo. The city of Hechi boasts mysterious karst landscapes and natural wonders. This is the home of: Jiudong Tiankeng – A giant sinkhole with crystal-clear blue waters Nongxiang Tiankeng – A spot to witness stunning Tyndall light effects “Yaowang Tianxia” – A cultural site of the Yao people + underground river “Jiangzhou Underground Corridor” – A 50 km long natural underground tunnel, once the longest natural cave in Asia This self-driving 3-day, 2-night trip dives deep into Hechi to explore its breathtaking natural beauty. ⭐ Day 1 – Nanning → Jiudong Tiankeng → Nongxiong Tiankeng → Jinchengjiang 🌀 Jiudong Tiankeng The water in the gorge is a stunning turquoise blue. Underwater flowers, Ottelia acuminata, cover the area. A paradise for paddleboarding and diving enthusiasts. Known in China as the “Blue Gem Dropped from Earth.” 🌤 Nongxiong Tiankeng Sunlight streaming through the cave’s opening creates a mesmerizing Tyndall effect. Every angle offers spectacular photo opportunities. Stay overnight in Jinchengjiang. ⭐ Day 2 – Du’an → Nandan → Dongtian Shengjing → Sanmenhai → Nandan Hotel ⭐ Dongtian Shengjing A massive karst cave featuring underground rivers, waterfalls, and narrow passages. The cave maintains a cool temperature of 16°C year-round, offering a refreshing escape. The scenery feels like stepping into a fantasy world. ⭐ Sanmenhai A crystal-clear blue lake nestled among karst mountains. When sunlight filters through the cave ceiling, the water sparkles like a “Crystal Palace.” Enjoy bamboo rafting on the lake, with its gradient hues creating an atmosphere reminiscent of “The Grave Robbers’ Chronicles.” Stay overnight in Nandan. ⭐ Day 3 – Bama → Mianhua Tiankeng → Little Three Gorges → Return to Nanning ⭐ Mianhua Tiankeng A sinkhole 326 meters deep, shaped like a cone. Descending feels like entering the “Center of the Earth.” Features aerial staircases with gaps leading downward. In the evening, visit a cliffside bookstore illuminated beautifully, creating a surreal atmosphere. ⭐ Little Three Gorges Towering mountains on both sides resemble intricate carvings. Mist envelops the peaks, and the emerald-green water reflects the mountains like a painting. ⭐ Hongshui River – First Bend A large U-shaped river bend. Enjoy the view from a gorge lookout point. In the evening, take a boat to witness the phenomenon of “Half Green, Half Red River.” ⭐ The Blue Knife Fish Storm – Tian’e A seasonal wonder where millions of blue knife fish shimmer in the water, creating a dazzling silver-like spectacle. 🌿 In summary, this route is the “Hidden Gem of Guangxi.” Perfect for those who love unique, mysterious natural landscapes, blue waters, caves, and giant sinkholes. It’s as stunning as something out of National Geographic but far less crowded than Guilin or Yangshuo.

Who says Guangxi is only about Guilin's landscapes? Take the kids on a 3-day, 2-night self-drive trip in Hechi and be blown away by nature’s masterpieces—off the beaten path and super fun! 🚗 The itinerary is super reasonable, so it’s fun without tiring the kids! Day 1️⃣ Depart from Nanning, drive 2.5 hours to Jiudun Skylight, start with some local delicacies to recharge~ Jiudun Skylight really looks like a sapphire dropped from the heavens, with crystal-clear blue river water and stunning sea mustard flowers. The kids’ eyes lit up seeing people paddleboarding and diving, and they kept saying they want to play in the water next time~ In the afternoon, visit Nongxiang Sinkhole, where sunlight streams through the cave opening creating Tyndall light on the stalactites. The kids said it felt like stepping into a fairyland—perfect for photos! Stay overnight in Jinchengjiang to rest up for the next day~ Day 2️⃣ Depart from Du’an hotel, drive 2.5 hours to Nandan~ First stop is Dongtian Shengjing, a karst wonderland with underground rivers, waterfalls, and canyons. The cave stays a cool 16°C, comfortable and refreshing. The kids kept asking questions like they were in a nature class~ Next, visit Sanmenhai, where the turquoise lake is nestled among karst peaks. Sunlight filters through skylights onto the water, creating breathtaking light and shadow effects~ Take a bamboo raft ride through the bright and dark lakes. The kids said it felt like entering the mysterious world of “The Lost Tomb,” and they were thrilled the whole time~ Stay overnight at a hotel in Nandan for a good rest~ Day 3️⃣ Depart from Bama to Cotton Sinkhole, a spectacular 326-meter deep funnel sinkhole! Take the hollow ladder down to explore the earth’s core, and watch clouds drift beneath your feet from the mountaintop—the kids exclaimed how magical it was~ At 7:30 PM, the Cliffside Bookstore lights up, creating an immersive atmosphere like stepping into another magical world~ Finally, visit the Little Three Gorges, where the peaks on both sides look like they were carved by knives and axes—some resemble a fairy pointing the way, others like crouching beasts. The emerald-clear river reflects the stunning scenery, and the kids were amazed all along the way~ Afterward, return to Nanning~ There are surprises along the way! The U-shaped bend at the First Bay of the Hongshui River is breathtaking. Climb the viewing platform to overlook the canyon carved by the Red River. In the evening, take a boat ride to enjoy the “Half River Silver, Half River Red” scene—the kids watched in awe~ In summer, you can also witness the Tian’e blue knife fish storm, where millions of fish swirl like a vortex, shimmering like silver under the sunlight—just thinking about it is stunning~ The road conditions for the family self-drive are great, the attractions are not crowded, so no squeezing through crowds, and the kids can fully enjoy nature~ Hechi is truly a treasure trove. Family travelers, save this guide and just go for it! 🌟

Have you heard of the "Jiudun Skylight"? It is a sacred site for underwater cave diving in China, known as the gateway to the "Mount Everest of China’s underwater world." Don’t be intimidated by "diving"—for families with children, the Jiudun Skylight in winter reveals a completely different breathtaking scene: sapphire-clear spring water gushes from underground, and in the cold winter air, wisps of white mist rise from the water surface, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. No deep diving is needed here; you can be deeply moved by this pure blue right from the shore. 🔵 Jiudun Skylight Family Tour Guide Shore Viewing and Photography: The spring water is crystal clear, showing different layers from Tiffany blue to emerald green. The gentle winter sunlight sparkles on the water surface, creating a stunning view. This is a paradise for photography lovers—dress your child in bright colors for great photos. Water Experience (Safety First): You can let children dip their feet in the shallow, calm water downstream of the spring to feel the cool spring water (water temperature is low in winter, so avoid prolonged soaking). Stay far away from the main spring and deep water areas, as underwater conditions are complex with strong currents. Ecological Observation: The spring nourishes dense aquatic plants around, forming a unique underwater forest landscape. You can observe small fish swimming and swaying water plants with your children. Nearby Walks: Jiudun Skylight is located in Du’an Yao Autonomous County, surrounded by typical karst terrain and pastoral scenery. You can drive around nearby to enjoy the mountains and fields. ⚠️ Safety Tips and Winter Advice Core Rule: Strictly no scuba diving or free diving without certification and professional guides! Multiple diving accidents have occurred here. Child Supervision: Always hold your child’s hand and never let them approach the water unattended. Winter Clothing: The humidity by the water makes it feel colder; dress warmer than usual and wear scarves and hats. Environmental Awareness: Do not throw any trash into the water to protect this precious water source. 🚗 Transportation and Trip Planning Location: Jiudun Village, Du’an Yao Autonomous County, Hechi City, Guangxi. How to Get There: It is recommended to drive from Nanning, about 2 to 2.5 hours by car. Navigate to "Jiudun Skylight" to reach the destination. Visiting Time: As a core attraction, 1-2 hours is enough for sightseeing and photography. You can combine this with nearby attractions like Du’an Underground River National Geopark and Chengjiang National Wetland Park for a 1-2 day karst landscape tour in Du’an. 🏨 Stay Among Mountains and Waters | Accommodation Recommendations in Du’an and Nanning Accommodation options in Du’an County are limited; for more comfort, consider staying in Nanning: Du’an Miluoto Resort Hotel: One of the best hotels in Du’an County, decorated with ethnic characteristics, a good local base. Nanning Longguang Nalien Luxury Collection Hotel: A landmark hotel in Nanning, high-rise with unbeatable views and luxurious facilities. Nanning Qingxiu Mountain Marriott Hotel: Adjacent to Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area, quiet environment, strong resort feel. Nanning Shangri-La Hotel: Established five-star hotel with stable service, located in the bustling city center. Nanning Wanda Realm Resort Hotel: Located in Wuxiang New District, close to Guangxi Art Museum and other cultural facilities, modern design. The beauty of Jiudun Skylight is striking. That deep blue pool is unforgettable at a glance. Bringing children here is not just about sightseeing but also about helping them understand what "natural purity" and "geological wonder" mean. This vivid geography lesson quietly unfolds by this clear blue water.

Xiangshuiguan🍃 is breathtaking! It's not Kanas, it's not New Zealand, it's Du'an, Hechi, Guangxi No need to travel abroad, Guangxi is home to a hidden gem of a landscape✨ Surrounded by karst peaks, the jelly-colored waters of the Chengjiang River fill the riverbed. From May to October, it's covered in pure white Ottelia flowers. The sound of the waterfall is music to the ears, and photos look perfect straight out of the camera—no filters needed. 📍Address: Xiangshuiguan, Du'an, Hechi, Guangxi 🎫Admission: Free, no entry fee 🚗Driving: 2.5 hours from Nanning | 30-minute drive from Du'an County 🅿️Parking: ¥10/time on the roadside, free parking if dining at the farmhouse restaurant opposite ✅Must-do experiences 1. Xiangshui tiered waterfall A 3-meter tiered waterfall. The sound of water hitting the rocks is distant and resonant. In summer, the water volume is abundant and super refreshing. You can wade and trek in the shallows. 2. The flowering Chengjiang River Ottelia flowers (seasonal, May–October), which only grow in high-quality water. The flowers bloom in the early morning, making it the best time for photos. Boating on the river creates a perfect atmosphere. 3. Ancient Ming Dynasty stone arch bridge The vintage bluestone bridge paired with karst peaks and green water makes for an excellent spot for traditional-style photos. It's a niche spot, so it's not crowded. 4. Mountain top viewing platform A 10-minute hike to the top offers a bird's-eye view of the winding river and pastoral peaks. The light and shadows at sunset are legendary. 5. Affordable boating experience Bamboo raft boat rides are ¥10/person, and paddleboards are ¥30/hour. It's a great value to leisurely cruise through the flower-filled river. 💡Travel tips ▫️Best season: May–October (Ottelia flowers in bloom + comfortable for water activities). The scenery is less impressive during the dry winter season ▫️Gear: Non-slip water shoes, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. The rocks underwater are slippery, so please be careful ▫️Food: Farmhouse goose meat by the river, local jelly noodles, and double-skin milk—authentic snacks to beat the heat ▫️Niche combo: Stop by Tunbang Tianchuang and Jiudun Tianchuang on the way to check off all the Du'an jelly-water secret spots at once

1️⃣ Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain isn't a gentle hill; it's the kind that will make your legs turn to jelly. 🚄 Get off at Pingxiang North Station, and it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to the foot of the mountain. Don't trust the "fast track" touts on the side of the road; just use the main entrance. The cable car has 2 sections. You must take the first one; for the second, it depends on your stamina. I suggest taking it up and walking down, otherwise, you won't be able to walk down stairs the next day. The mountain top meadows are greenest from June to September. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the entire ridge look like it's covered in gold dust—no filters needed for photos. Renting a tent costs about CNY 120; remember to pick a spot far from the restrooms, or the smell will teach you a lesson at midnight. ⚠️ It gets ridiculously windy at the top at night. A thin jacket won't cut it; bring a fleece—don't ask me how I know. Don't take the "Diaomazhuang" wild trail on the way down. It looks close, but it actually adds 2 hours. If your knees aren't great, just go back the way you came. 2️⃣ Longyan | Fujian Longyan is an underrated place; both the Tulou and the ancient city are worth a special trip. 📍 Yongding Tulou King scenic area, admission CNY 90. Don't rush to take photos when you get in. Follow a guide for 10 minutes to hear the background, then look at those rammed-earth walls—you'll feel the money was well spent. People still live in the Tulou, with laundry hanging on the 2nd and 3rd floors; it's full of life. Don't snap photos directly at people's windows; be polite. Changting Ancient City is free and best visited at dusk. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the lights come on, and the stone road on Dian-tou Street shines. The lantern cakes sold on the side of the road are CNY 5 each—crispy and fragrant right out of the fryer. Guanzhishan is in Liancheng, a bit far from the city center, but the water route at Shimen Lake is perfect for bringing elderly people and children. The boat ticket is included in the admission, so no extra charge. ⚠️ The "free guides" in the Tulou scenic area will take you to shopping spots; just politely decline. You can explore on your own without any issues. 3️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Hechi's landscape rivals Guilin's, but with half the crowds and much friendlier prices. The Donglan landscape is typical karst terrain, with water as green as jade. ⏰ Before 9 AM, there's no wind on the water, so the reflection is perfect; after 10 AM, it gets blurry. Jiudun Sky Window is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. If you don't dive, just watch from the shore—the water is so clear you can count the stones at the bottom. But don't go in; the water temperature is in the low teens year-round, and cramps are no joke. You need to take a bamboo raft into Xiangbei Fairyland; the boat ticket is CNY 60 for about an hour round trip. You'll pass through several karst caves along the way, so remember to bring a thin jacket—it's cool inside. Sanli Yangdu is better for cycling. Rent an e-bike and cruise slowly along the riverbank. There's roasted corn sold on the side of the road for CNY 5 an ear—it's very sweet. ⚠️ The attractions in Hechi are far apart; plan for at most 2 a day, or you'll spend the whole time on the road. 4️⃣ Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan isn't a "take a look and leave" kind of attraction; it's worth spending a whole day to slowly explore. The Pass City admission is CNY 110, which includes the Hanging Wall Great Wall and the First Pier. The 3 spots are quite far apart, so I suggest doing the Pass City first, then the Hanging Wall, and finally the First Pier—it's on the way and saves backtracking. ⏰ It's best to visit the Pass City in the morning when the light shines from the east, making the "First Greatest Pass under Heaven" plaque on the tower clearly visible. In the afternoon, it's backlit, and everything looks dark. Climbing the Hanging Wall is more tiring than you'd think; the steps are high and steep. If your knees aren't great, just look from below; don't force it. The First Pier is actually just a dirt platform, but standing there looking at the Taolai River Canyon, the sense of desolation can't be captured in photos. 🍜 "Masongji Beef Noodles" in the city is worth a special trip. A bowl of noodles with extra meat and an egg is just over CNY 20, and the broth is so fresh you'll drink it all. ⚠️ Some people at the Pass City gate sell "night tour tickets"—don't buy them. You can't see anything inside at night. 5️⃣ Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin in winter is cold, but it's worth it. Admission to the Ice and Snow World is CNY 330. ⏰ Entering at 3:30 PM is best; it's not dark yet, so you can explore the ice sculptures first. Once the lights come on at 5 PM, the whole park looks like it has a new face—you get to see both the pure look of the day and the splendor of the night. It's really cold inside; stick a warm patch on your phone, or it will shut down after a few photos. Volga Manor is in the suburbs, about a CNY 50 taxi ride away. It mimics Russian-style architecture and looks great after snow, but it's boring in the summer—just bare. You don't need to buy a ticket to enter St. Sophia Cathedral; just take photos in the square outside. ⚠️ Those people in mascot costumes in the square who ask to take photos with you will charge you after—anywhere from CNY 20 to CNY 50. If you don't want to pay, just wave your hand in advance. 🍜 The Madieer popsicle on Central Street is CNY 5 each. It's creamy and rich. Eating a popsicle at minus 20 degrees is the ultimate experience, but don't overdo it, or your stomach won't handle it. 6️⃣ Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan isn't just about the Huangshan Scenic Area; the surrounding ancient villages are the real treasure. Just pick one between Xidi and Hongcun. I chose Hongcun because the morning at Nanhu Lake is just too beautiful. ⏰ Get to Nanhu Bridge at 6:30 AM. The water is as flat as a mirror, with the white walls and black tiles reflected in it—that view alone is worth the ticket price. Admission is CNY 104, valid for 3 days. If you stay at a homestay inside, you can ask the owner to take you in to save on the ticket, but homestay prices are generally expensive—around CNY 300 in the off-season, and double that in peak season. Chengkan Ancient Village is quieter than Hongcun, with an admission of CNY 107. It's much less crowded and perfect if you like to stroll slowly. 📍 That thousand-year-old osmanthus tree at the village entrance smells intoxicating in the autumn, but it's just a big tree in the summer. ⚠️ Don't go into those "free tea tasting" shops in the ancient villages; it's just a sales pitch. If you're shy, just don't go in. For the Huangshan Scenic Area itself, I suggest taking the cable car up and down. The steps on the hiking trail down will make you question your life choices. 7️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is the kind of place that makes the flight worth it just for one look. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Urumqi to Bole, then charter a car. It's about a 2-hour trip one way. Admission is CNY 70. If you drive yourself, the loop around the lake is about 90 km, which takes a whole day with stops. ⏰ Around 5 or 6 PM, the lake turns an unreal shade of blue, like paint was poured into it. People will think you Photoshopped it. Anjihai Grand Canyon is in the Kuitun direction, a bit far from Sayram Lake, but it's worth the detour. Standing on the edge of the canyon looking down, the shock is indescribable in words. ⚠️ Never climb over the railing for a photo; there's a 100-meter-deep cliff right below. The hot springs in Wenquan County are real hot springs, and your skin feels smooth after soaking, but the facilities are average, so don't have high expectations. 🍜 The lamb skewers in Bole city are CNY 3 each. They're a mix of fat and lean, grilled until sizzling, and paired with a bottle of Wusu beer—perfect. 8️⃣ Benxi | Liaoning Autumn in Benxi is like "the whole city covered in golden armor," but it's also cool in the summer. Benxi Water Cave is the longest underground river in Asia. Admission is CNY 110. You take a boat in for about 40 minutes. It's a constant 12 degrees in the cave, so you need to wear a jacket in the summer, or you'll be shivering. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid waiting in line; after 10 AM, tour groups arrive, and you could wait for an hour. Huanren Wunv Mountain is near the county town. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps. You can see the panoramic view of Huanlong Lake from the top, and the water is as green as jade. Guanmen Mountain National Forest Park is the place to see red leaves. 🍜 From late September to mid-October every year, the mountains are covered in red leaves, but it's crowded, so I suggest going on a weekday. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus in the Guanmen Mountain scenic area is CNY 10 one way. Don't save this money; it takes over an hour to walk up, and there's no scenery along the way. The Xiaoshi lamb soup in downtown Benxi is worth a try—CNY 20 a bowl, with rich broth and tender meat, paired with a sesame flatbread—so comforting. Of the 8 places, I most recommend Sayram Lake and Hongcun—one is the ceiling of natural scenery, the other is the top-tier of cultural charm. For the rest, it depends on your preferences. If you like hiking, go to Wugong Mountain; if you like history, go to Jiayuguan. Let's chat in the comments—how many have you been to? Or if you have any hidden gems, feel free to share them.

A 2-hour drive from Nanning, Du'an is known as the "Capital of World Sky Windows," with over 300 underground river sky windows scattered among karst peaks. Tunbang Sky Window is the most popular one. Admission is free, and the water is so clear it looks like melted Tiffany blue sapphire. When the sun shines directly, paddling a transparent paddleboard on the water feels like floating in mid-air. The best part—from May to October, sea cabbage flowers are in full bloom, covering the river with white petals, earning it the name "the river that blooms." The water temperature stays around 20°C year-round, providing an instant cool-down when you jump in during summer. · -- ✨Highlights "Glass water" paddleboarding: Rent a transparent paddleboard or kayak for about CNY 30–80/hour. Floating on the jelly-like sea, your photos will naturally glow. The river that blooms: The sea cabbage flowers are a summer and autumn exclusive. They require extremely high water quality; their presence means the water is pure enough to drink directly. Swim with blue-blade fish: In the shallows, schools of fish will swim around you. You can see underwater forests and stalactites just by snorkeling. Nearby attractions: Jiuling Sky Window and Jiudun Sky Window (the "Underwater Mount Everest of China") are right next to Tunbang, less than a 10-minute drive away. 🗓️2-day, 1-night itinerary Day 1: 2-hour drive from Nanning → Paddleboarding and swimming at Tunbang Sky Window → Stay at a homestay near the sky window or the Miluotuo Hotel in the county seat Day 2: Morning visit to Jiudun Sky Window → See the sea cabbage flowers along the Chengjiang River → Return trip 🍜Quick bites Du'an sour pickles: Fruits soaked in sour water, a great way to beat the heat Black goat hot pot: A Du'an signature dish with tender meat and fresh broth 📌Must-know tips · Free admission, parking is CNY 10/time · Wear water shoes, as there are many rocks on the riverbed · Wear a life jacket; the deepest parts are dozens of meters deep with strong undercurrents · Do not apply chemical sunscreen before entering the water, as it harms the sea cabbage flowers · The light is best from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, when the water color is most transparent Final thought: Go now before it gets crowded. The blue of Du'an is worth the detour.

August budget traveler’s blessing, these 8 cities have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and low costs 01 Huizhou | Guangdong Huizhou is perfect for those who don’t want to rush through attractions and just want a change of scenery. Last time I went, I spent less than 400 yuan in two days. 📍Huizhou West Lake has free admission. The best time to go is 7 AM when the lake is shrouded in mist, locals jog along the shore, and tourists haven’t arrived yet. After touring, exit from the north gate and walk 10 minutes to Qiaodong Market. A plate of rice rolls and a bowl of pork offal porridge cost just over 10 yuan. In the afternoon, head to Luofu Mountain. Don’t rush to buy the cable car ticket. The shaded trail from the foot to mid-mountain takes about 40 minutes and isn’t tiring. The Chongxu Ancient Temple is worth a stop. ⚠️Mineral water on the mountain costs 8 yuan. Bring two bottles yourself. Xunliao Bay is good for an overnight stay. Off-season seaside homestays cost about 150 yuan. Watch the sunset at 5:30 PM. The sand is fine and comfortable to walk barefoot. Choose seafood stalls a street away from the beach to save about 30% on prices. If short on time, you can skip Xunliao Bay. Luofu Mountain and West Lake are already worth the trip. 02 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng is truly an underrated place. 🚄 It’s a three-hour high-speed train ride from Beijing. Once you get off the train, you feel surrounded by grasslands. The Hasahatu Stone Forest tourist area ticket is 80 yuan, half price for students, but the impact inside far exceeds the ticket price. The granite stone forest looks like giant beasts growing from the ground. The wind whistling through the cracks sounds hollow. In August, the grass is green, and the gray-white stone forest looks stunning without any filters. ⚠️There are no proper restaurants in the scenic area. Bring snacks and water. There are barbecue stalls at the entrance but they are expensive. After visiting the stone forest, stop by a nearby herder’s home for a bowl of milk tea for 5 yuan, which is filling. Stay overnight near the train station in an economy hotel for 120 yuan including breakfast. The night market in Chifeng city has grilled lamb chops worth trying, but avoid places labeled “internet famous.” Walk into the alleys where locals fill the stalls for the real experience. 03 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang is a small city best explored at a leisurely pace. You can see the highlights in one or two days. Jinshan and Beigu Mountains are close to each other. Tickets are affordable: 60 yuan for Jinshan, 40 yuan for Beigu. Start at Jinshan in the morning. The yellow walls of Jiangtian Zen Temple look great under August sunlight. The White Dragon Cave inside has many legends. Joining a tour group to listen for a bit is interesting. For lunch, find a noodle shop. Zhenjiang pot cover noodles with braised meat cost about 15 yuan per person. In the afternoon, visit Beigu Mountain. From the top of Beigu Tower, you can see where the Yangtze River meets the Grand Canal. It’s windy, so hold onto your hat. Maoshan in Jurong is a bit farther, a 40-minute bus ride from the city. There’s an old deity statue and Jiuxiao Wanfugong temple on the mountain. A casual walk takes about two hours. ⚠️The Maoshan cable car stops running at 4:30 PM. Don’t arrive too late. Overall, Zhenjiang is budget-friendly. You can find decent economy chain hotels for 150 yuan, perfect for travelers on a budget who want good food. 04 Guiyang | Guizhou Guiyang is really cool in summer. The average temperature in August is 25°C, and you still need a light blanket at night. Tianhetan Tourist Resort is half an hour from the city. Tickets including boat ride cost 90 yuan. The combination of caves and waterfalls takes two to three hours to explore. The mist makes it feel much cooler than summer. In the afternoon, visit Qingyan Ancient Town. Avoid the crowded main street. Enter from the south gate and wander to the back alleys. The stone lanes are quiet. A portion of braised pig’s feet costs 15 yuan, paired with sour plum juice, cheaper than the main street. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is for hiking lovers. At 1,600 meters elevation, the grass slopes roll and the wind is strong. ⚠️Remember to bring a light jacket. Huaxi Park is free and great for an evening stroll. Locals often walk there. Stay near the fountain in Guiyang city for convenient metro access. Chain hotels under 200 yuan are available. Don’t miss Guiyang’s sour fish soup and silk rolls. You can eat your fill for about 50 yuan per person. 05 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is Guangxi’s hidden gem. There are so few tourists you can have the scenic spots to yourself. Donglan’s mountains and waters are free. Walk along the Hongshui River. The karst peaks reflect in the water. August morning mist makes the mountain peaks appear and disappear, much quieter than Guilin. Jiudun Tianchuang is a favorite for diving enthusiasts. Even if you don’t dive, you can enjoy the water’s color from the shore. It’s as blue as a gem. ⚠️The road to Tianchuang includes a dirt section. Don’t drive a sedan on rainy days. Xiangbei Paradise requires a bamboo raft ride. The boat ticket is 30 yuan. The water is calm, and bamboo forests line both banks. After landing, there’s a small village selling handmade brown sugar and bamboo rice. Bamboo rice costs 10 yuan. The glutinous rice mixed with cured meat is very fragrant. Sanli Yangdu is great for cycling. Rent a bike for 20 yuan a day and ride slowly along the river. Stop when you see cows crossing. Hechi’s accommodations are basic but affordable. A clean standard room costs 80 yuan, ideal for budget travelers. 06 Qingdao | Shandong August is peak season in Qingdao, but costs are manageable if you avoid crowded popular beaches. Laoshan ticket costs 120 yuan, but the south trail is really worth it. Climb from Taiqing Palace. The sea and mountain views are wide open. Rest at roadside tea stalls for 10 yuan a bowl of Laoshan green tea. Zhanqiao Pier is free but crowded after 9 AM. For photos with fewer people, go before 7 AM. Seagulls haven’t been fed yet and will fly with you. The Qingdao Olympic Sailing and Marine Culture Tourism Area is best visited at dusk. Sailboats return to port, lights come on, and walking along the coast is free and refreshing. Avoid staying near May Fourth Square. Stay closer to Shibei District along the metro line. Hotels for 180 yuan are just as good. Don’t miss the beer houses. A mug of draft beer costs 15 yuan, paired with spicy stir-fried clams. Locals hang out there. ⚠️Avoid the big food stalls near the scenic spots. The food is average and expensive. Walk a few streets further for authentic options. 07 Lingshui | Hainan Lingshui is a budget alternative to Sanya. The seawater is just as good, and prices are friendlier. The Fenjiezhou Island ticket plus boat ride costs 160 yuan, half the price of Wuzhizhou Island. The island’s beach is white and clean, and the water is clear enough to see coral reefs. At the end of August, there are fewer people, and you can even have a small beach to yourself. Snorkeling costs extra, but you can see small fish in shallow water with your own mask. Nanwan Monkey Island is reached by a cross-sea cable car. The monkeys are wild and will snatch plastic bags. ⚠️Don’t hold food in your hands and keep your backpack zipped. The island is shady and walking around won’t cause sunburn. In Lingshui town, you can get a sea view room for 120 yuan. The nearby night market sells Qingbuliang (a local dessert) for 8 yuan a bowl, with plenty of toppings. Buy seafood at the market and have it cooked at a nearby restaurant. The cooking fee is 10 yuan per jin, half the price of Sanya. To save money, two days in Lingshui is enough: one day for Fenjiezhou Island, one day for Monkey Island plus Yitian Ancient Village. Perfect. 08 Chongqing Chongqing is hot in August, but budget travel costs are really low. Transportation and food are cheap. Dazu Rock Carvings ticket costs 110 yuan. It’s a two-hour bus ride from the city. This world cultural heritage site has exquisite stone carvings. Joining a guided tour reveals many stories. ⚠️The indoor area has air conditioning, but the outdoor area has little shade. Bring a sun umbrella. Jinyun Mountain is free and accessible by metro plus bus. It takes two hours to hike from the foot to the top. The forest is dense and several degrees cooler than the city. Wulong Karst Tourist Area is far but worth a full day. The spectacular photos of the Three Natural Bridges can’t capture the real view. You have to see it in person. ⚠️There are many steps in the scenic area. Be cautious if you have knee problems. If you don’t take a cruise on the Yangtze Three Gorges, take the 2-yuan ferry at Chaotianmen Pier to cross the Yangtze River and enjoy the scenery on both sides. The effect is not bad. Stay near Jiefangbei in renovated old neighborhoods. You can get a river view room for 150 yuan. Avoid the internet-famous hotpot restaurants. Go to the nine-grid hotpot under residential buildings. You can eat your fill for 50 yuan per person. Half of Chongqing’s joy is walking the streets, and the other half is fishing meat out of your bowl.

Budget-friendly, off-the-beaten-path travel in August: these 8️⃣ spots are uncrowded, beautiful, and affordable 01 Jiayuguan | Gansu Don't just rush to Dunhuang when you think of the Northwest; Jiayuguan in August is even more captivating. Enter the pass scenic area after 5:30 PM; the light hits the gate tower perfectly, and most tourists have left, so you can stroll through the inner, outer, and urn cities at your leisure. Tickets aren't expensive, but ⚠️ remember to book in advance on the official platform; queuing on-site will waste a lot of time. After seeing the pass, don't rush off; 📍 the Hanging Wall Great Wall is only a 30-minute drive away. Hike up for the sunset; the view is even more expansive than at the pass. 🍜 In the evening, head near Jingtie Market for a bowl of Hu Guo (thick soup); it's rich and filling, and you can get full for just over 20 CNY. The temperature difference between day and night is large here in August, so bring a light jacket—don't be fooled by the hot sun during the day. 02 Suizhou | Hubei If you want to escape the heat without the crowds, Dahongshan in Suizhou is worth a detour. In August, the average temperature in the mountains is 7–8 degrees lower than in the city. Walking through the Millennium Ginkgo Valley, the shade is thick, and the occasional breeze makes it feel nothing like summer. Drive directly to 📍 Lingguanya, then walk up to the Golden Summit; there aren't many steps, so seniors and children can take their time. ⚠️ Supplies are limited on the mountain, so buy water and snacks in town beforehand. The Dahongshan ticket includes the scenic shuttle bus, and overall costs are low. Choose a farmhouse stay at the foot of the mountain for over 100 CNY a night, breakfast included. For a cheap and cool getaway, this is much better value than the popular famous mountains. 03 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Yangzhou isn't just about the "flowery March"; the early mornings in August are still worth waking up for. Slender West Lake opens at 6:00 AM; get there for the first wave of visitors and walk along the Long Causeway of Spring Willows. The mist on the lake hasn't dissipated yet, making it much more comfortable than the muggy daytime. Geyuan and Heyuan are in the old town and close to each other—just pick one. Geyuan's four-season rockeries are more interesting, while Heyuan's corridors are great for portraits; it depends on what you prefer. 🍜 At noon, head near Dongguan Street for a bowl of dry noodles with pork kidney soup; it's just over 10 CNY and much more substantial than the set meals in the scenic area. ⚠️ It's hottest around 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM, so don't plan any strenuous outdoor walking. Find a teahouse to drink tea and listen to storytelling, then explore Pishi Street after 5:00 PM when it's lively but not scorching. 04 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwushan isn't just about autumn red leaves; visiting in August offers a different kind of coolness. In the Taoyuan scenic area, the creek follows the boardwalk; you can hear the water right by your feet. If you get tired, find a rock to sit on and dip your feet in the water—it's bracingly cold. Seeing the sea of clouds from the top of Xianglushan depends on luck, but the chances are higher in the early morning. If you want to catch the clouds, stay at Tieluba Village at the foot of the mountain and take the first bus up the next morning. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so take motion sickness medicine if you're prone to it. The ticket plus cable car isn't cheap, but the upside is the lack of crowds; you won't run into many people all day, making it perfect for those who want some peace and quiet. 🍜 The local bacon stir-fried with bamboo shoots is worth a try—salty, fragrant, and goes great with rice. 05 Qiqihar | Heilongjiang Go to Qiqihar in August for one reason: to see the red-crowned cranes. The Zhalong Ecotourism Zone has fixed release times every day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Don't arrive right at the last minute; go half an hour early to grab a shady spot. The moment they are released, dozens of red-crowned cranes take off from the grass; the sound of their wings flapping is more stunning than any explanation. After seeing the cranes, don't rush off; you can take a slow walk along the wetland boardwalk in the scenic area. The breeze carries the scent of water plants, and it's not hot. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to get there by taxi from the city, or you can take the bus, but it runs infrequently, so don't leave it too late for the return trip. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the city for BBQ. Qiqihar BBQ really lives up to its reputation; you can eat until you're stuffed for 50–60 CNY per person. 06 Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia Tourist Area in August is cooler than the areas around Guiyang and much less crowded. The boardwalk at Foguangyan follows the red rock walls, and the Danxia landform stands out sharply against the green vegetation. At noon, the sun shines on the rock face, making it glow bright red. The Shizhangdong Waterfall has a lot of mist; walking close to it feels like being in a light rain, so wearing quick-dry clothing is more convenient than using an umbrella. ⚠️ The distances between scenic spots are long, so renting a car is most convenient. If you aren't driving, chartering a car is expensive, so carpooling is recommended. Tickets are sold separately by scenic spot; just pick two key ones, no need to try to see them all. 🍜 The fish from the Chishui River is worth trying; the small roadside restaurants are just as good as the big ones—just ask for the price before ordering. 07 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Xinjiang is beautiful everywhere in August, but this part of Changji is a hidden gem that isn't as crowded. The wheat fields in Jiangbulake are golden, and the waves of wheat roll over the undulating hills—it looks great without any filters. Wucaiwan is best viewed in the evening; the Yadan landform is dyed ochre and gold by the sunset, and the light changes much faster than during the day. Tianshan Tianchi is famous and crowded, but if you stay in a yurt in the scenic area, you can wake up at 6:00 AM the next day to see the reflection on the lake and have the whole Tianchi to yourself. ⚠️ The distances between attractions in Xinjiang are long, so plan for at most two spots a day—don't pack your itinerary too full. 🚄 It only takes half an hour to get from Urumqi to Changji by high-speed train, and accommodation is half the price of Urumqi. 08 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is an underrated secret spot in Guangxi; visiting in August is perfect for avoiding the crowds in Guilin. The water at Jiudun Tianchuang is incredibly clear—a transparent blue-green from above. Not many people swim there, so if you're brave, you can try snorkeling. The Donglan landscape is a classic karst peak forest with rivers. Take a bamboo raft for a slow drift; both banks are lined with rice paddies and bamboo forests, and the whole journey is so quiet you can only hear the water. Xiangbei Fairyland and Sanli Yangdu are close to each other and can be visited in one day. ⚠️ Both are best visited in the morning; the light is too harsh in the afternoon, which makes photos prone to overexposure. 🍜 The local rice noodles are a completely different style from Guilin's, with plenty of pickled bamboo shoots; you can get full for 5 CNY a bowl. For accommodation, choose a chain hotel in the county town; it's clean and convenient for just over 100 CNY. Travel off the beaten path in August—only places with fewer people can truly be called affordable. Which of these 8 places do you want to visit first? Let's chat in the comments.

01 Hechi | Guangxi When bringing kids to Hechi, head straight to Jiudun Tianchuang for your first stop. The water is incredibly clear; riding a glass boat feels like floating in mid-air, and kids can see the water plants swaying as they lean over the edge. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM when the water is calm for the best reflections. In the afternoon, head to Donglan Landscape; the trail loop takes about 2 hours. It's shady and cool, with pavilions along the way to rest, so even a 5-year-old can finish the walk. Xiangbei Shangri-La is better for the evening—it's breezy by the rice paddies with few mosquitoes. There's a farmhouse restaurant in the village that serves freshly prepared free-range chicken; you can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't take the bamboo rafts at Sanli Yangdu at noon—it's scorching. The light is softer after 4:30 PM, and a 40-minute drift is just right. 02 Zhuhai | Guangdong Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is the main event, but don't rush to the Whale Shark Pavilion as soon as the park opens. Ride the Glacier Roller Coaster first while the lines are short, then head to the indoor pavilions to escape the heat after 11:00 AM when the tour groups arrive. 🍜 Park restaurants are expensive and mediocre, so I recommend bringing your own bread and milk and using the money you save to eat at Wanzai Seafood Street in the evening. Save Lovers' Road for the evening; rent a tandem bike and ride from Haitian Station to Xianglu Bay. It's a 4-kilometer ride with a cool sea breeze, and you can see the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge light up at sunset. ⚠️ Lovers' Road gets very congested on weekend evenings. If you have kids, it's better to take Bus Route 9, which goes directly to the Seaside Swimming Pool—the beach is right there when you get off. 03 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Xizhou Ancient Town is best visited in the morning. The rice paddies are just starting to sprout, and the wind makes them roll like green waves. The "posu baba" (flaky pastry) at the corner building is freshly baked—get one sweet and one savory, and you'll be full for 6 yuan. The sun is harsh at noon, so hide in the Reflection Park at the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple; it's shady with stone paths, and kids can feed the koi. In the afternoon, rent an e-bike along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor. The stretch from Caicun Pier to Longkan Pier is uncrowded and flat, with reed marshes and wild ducks along the way, so you won't have to fight for photo spots. I suggest skipping Nanzhao Folklore Island; the ferry ticket is expensive, there's no shade on the island, and you'll want to leave after half an hour in the scorching sun. ⚠️ The UV rays in Dali are stronger than you'd think. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours—don't be lazy. 04 Huangshan | Anhui Don't visit both Hongcun and Xidi; just pick one. I choose Hongcun. The Painting Bridge by Nanhu Lake is a classic photo spot, but you need to arrive before 7:00 AM to get a shot of the water without people. The Old Time Cafe by Moon Pond has a second-floor terrace; order a plum juice and sit for the afternoon watching art students sketch—the kids won't be bored either. Chengkan Ancient Village has fewer tourists and is less commercialized. In the alleys, there are grandmas selling dried vegetable pancakes for 3 yuan each—freshly griddled, crispy, and fragrant. ⚠️ The joint ticket for the Ancient Huizhou Culture Tourism Zone is valid for 2 days, but you can only enter each attraction once. Don't be greedy and try to visit 3 in one day; the kids won't be able to walk, and the adults will be exhausted. It's windy on Mount Huangshan; if you have kids, don't climb to the summit. Just take the cable car to Yungu Temple to see the pine trees and come back down—that's enough. 05 Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia Tourism Area is the only spot this time that requires hiking, but don't be intimidated. The boardwalk at Foguangyan is well-paved—you can even push a stroller halfway. The Danxia red is like fire, and the waterfall crashes down from the mountainside, spraying mist on your face. It feels 5–6 degrees cooler than in the city. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 2:00 PM when it's less crowded; the sunlight hits the rock walls at an angle, making the colors most saturated. ⚠️ Don't buy the disposable raincoats sold at the entrance; the quality is poor and they tear after a few steps. Just bring a thin windbreaker yourself. If you're with elderly people or children, just do the Foguangyan section and skip the Five-Pillar Peak to save 2 hours of walking. 06 Jining | Shandong You must hire a guide for the Three Confucius Sites in Qufu; don't just wander around on your own. Every tablet in the Confucius Temple has a story. Hiring a guide costs 80 yuan, and the kids will be fascinated—it's better than reading a book. You can climb the rockery in the Confucius Mansion's back garden, but watch out for moss underfoot—it's slippery. Weishan Lake is better in the afternoon; take a boat ride through the reed marshes when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. The boatman will pick lotus seed pods for the kids to play with. 🍜 The "all-fish feast" at the lakeside farmhouse offers 3 ways to eat one fish: braised fish head, steamed fish body, and fish ball soup. It costs about 50 yuan per person and is incredibly delicious. ⚠️ The Three Confucius Sites are closed on Monday mornings, so don't show up then; they don't open until 1:30 PM. 07 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan The sightseeing buses in Jiuzhaigou go straight from the entrance to the Primeval Forest, so you can explore from top to bottom and avoid the crowds. The boardwalk at Long Lake is flat, and a 5-year-old can walk it on their own. The lake is as blue as a gemstone, and when the sun shines down, you can see the sunken wood at the bottom. Have a boxed lunch at the Nuorilang Restaurant at noon; it's 30 yuan per serving, and while the taste is just okay, it's better than going hungry. Shuangqiao Valley in Mount Siguniang is better for families; it's all sightseeing buses—get off at the stop, play for 20 minutes, and get back on. It's easy on the legs. ⚠️ Huanglong is at a high altitude, so if you have kids, know your limits. Take the cable car up and walk down. If the child complains of a headache, turn back immediately—don't push it. There's a big temperature difference between morning and evening, so be sure to bring a thin down jacket. 08 Jiuquan | Gansu You need to book tickets for the Mogao Caves on the official website a month in advance; they are impossible to get during peak season. Don't skip the 2 films at the Digital Center; the dome theater shows details of the murals more clearly than you can see in person. Follow the guide for the actual caves; the Class A ticket lets you see 8 caves, and the kids will be amazed by the colors of the Flying Apsaras murals. Go to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake in the afternoon. ⚠️ Definitely don't go at noon—the sand will burn your feet. Enter after 5:30 PM; a 40-minute camel ride will get you there just in time for sunset. There are free water refill stations by Crescent Lake, so you don't need to carry too much water. 🚄 There is a special bus line from the city to the Mogao Caves Digital Center for 5 yuan; a taxi costs 60, so don't get ripped off. Late June to mid-August is the most comfortable time to visit these places, and being uncrowded is a common advantage. If I had to pick the top 3 most worth visiting, my top choices for a family trip would be Hechi and Jiuzhaigou—they're cool, have beautiful water, and aren't tiring. If your child likes history, don't miss Qufu. Tell me in the comments which one you're most excited about?

Where to go for a summer trip with kids? These 8️⃣ places are quiet and scenic 01 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is really cool in summer, and not crowded. It’s comfortable to bring kids here. This time I visited Donglan mountain waters and Jiudun skylight, which are close enough to do in one day. ⏰ Arrive at Jiudun skylight before 8 AM. The water surface is so calm you can see the stones below. Kids love splashing around. Remember to bring non-slip sandals. Leave by noon when the sun is strong, head back to town for rice noodles, and take a nap. In the afternoon, go to Xiangbei paradise. The stroller-friendly trail takes about 40 minutes with plenty of shade. Sanli Yangdu is better for older kids who can ride bamboo rafts to see the mountain views on both sides. Babies won’t like the life jackets. ⚠️ There’s no shade near the skylight, so bring sunscreen and hats. Don’t expect to buy them on site. Stay in the town center for easy meals and evening riverside walks. The cool breeze feels better than air conditioning. 02 Shaoxing | Zhejiang I came to Shaoxing mainly for Lu Xun’s hometown and Shen Garden. Honestly, summer with kids here requires some mental prep. Shen Garden has many trees and is about 2 degrees cooler, but Lu Xun’s street is crowded and slow with strollers. Here’s my suggestion: ⏰ Enter Shen Garden right at opening to avoid crowds. There are many koi in the pond, and kids can feed them for half an hour. Then go straight to Lanting, which is open with grass for kids to run around. The small water channel at Qu Shui Liu Shang is a favorite for kids. Have lunch in the city, then head to Anchang ancient town after 3 PM. 🍜 The cream buns in the ancient town are a hit with kids. Buy one to share, don’t get too many—they’re rich. ⚠️ Take the Wupeng boat in Anchang only halfway; the full ride is too sunny and kids won’t last. If your child is very young, skip Lanting and explore Anchang slowly for a more relaxed trip. 03 Lu’an | Anhui Lu’an is an off-the-beaten-path choice but great for summer with kids. Tiantangzhai is the highlight. The mountain is several degrees cooler than the city. Most trails have shade. Baby carriers or strollers work for the first half. I recommend only the main route to the waterfall and then turn back. Don’t push for the summit; kids and adults will get tired. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 9 AM, reach the waterfall before 11 AM. The mist is so cool you’ll want a jacket. Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant at the base. The local chicken soup is kid-friendly. In the afternoon, visit Wanfo Lake and take a boat tour. It’s windy, so bring a light jacket. ⚠️ On weekends, expect lines at the entrance after 10 AM. Try to arrive early. Stay at a guesthouse near the park entrance. Don’t stay in town—it wastes an hour each way. 04 Wuzhong | Ningxia Wuzhong might not be a common pick for kids, but the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon is perfect for summer. The trails are well maintained and stroller-friendly. It’s windy and much cooler than outside. Come in the morning when the sun is mild. Take a boat to see the cliffs on both sides of the Yellow River. Kids are curious about the big yellow rocks and will ask why they’re yellow. After the boat, walk the boardwalk to see the dam. ⚠️ Keep kids away from the railing; strong wind can blow off hats. Have lamb offal soup in town for lunch. If kids don’t like it, order hand-pulled lamb with rice. Rest at the hotel in the afternoon if it’s too hot. Take an evening walk by the river at sunset for great photos. Best for elementary school kids; younger ones might just focus on playing with stones. 05 Luoyang | Henan Luoyang is hot in summer, but I still recommend it if you avoid midday. Visit Longmen Grottoes early. ⏰ It opens at 7:30 AM. Start with the Vairocana Buddha, whose face looks soft in the morning light. Kids might not understand the grottoes but enjoy climbing the many steps. ⚠️ Hold their hands; some areas have no railings. Leave by noon when it gets hot. In the afternoon, go to Wangcheng Park with shade and a zoo where kids can play all afternoon. Tickets are cheap. Skip Guanlin unless your family loves the Three Kingdoms; kids might find it boring. Laojun Mountain and Jiguan Cave deserve a full day. The cave is cool year-round, like air conditioning in summer, which kids find fascinating. If short on time, skip Laojun Mountain and combine Jiguan Cave with Longmen Grottoes in one day. 06 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian’s summer spots don’t need to be picky. As long as it’s by the sea, kids are happy. Jinshitan is worth a full day. The beach is clean with gentle waves, perfect for kids to dig endlessly. ⏰ Arrive by 9 AM, claim a shady spot, play until noon, then have seafood nearby. Continue in the afternoon. Laohutan Ocean Park is good but crowded and hard with strollers. Focus on the polar and coral pavilions; skip the rest. Tangli Lake Park was a pleasant surprise—quiet with many lakeside benches. It’s perfect for an afternoon rest with kids watching water birds while you check your phone. ⚠️ Visit Xinghai Square in the evening. It’s too sunny during the day with no shade. After 6 PM, it’s windy, so bring a jacket for kids. Stay near Xinghai Square for convenience but avoid seaside guesthouses—they’re damp and the bedding feels sticky. 07 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu This route suits kids at least 5 or 6 years old. Younger ones may struggle with altitude sickness. Zhagana looks like a painting. In the morning, clouds wrap the mountains. Kids run around the village watching cows and sheep, very excited. But ⚠️ weather changes after 2 PM with sudden rain, so finish morning activities and rest in the afternoon. Langmusi is quiet; kids might not be interested. The small river outside the temple is good for throwing stones and playing for an hour. At Yeliguan tourist area, I recommend the canyon trail. It’s flat with many trees, perfect for a slow walk. Just admire Gahai Lake from afar; it’s windy and can give kids headaches. ⚠️ If driving, avoid night driving. Mountain roads are winding and dangerous in the dark. Stay in guesthouses in Zhagana village. The conditions are basic but the views are worth it. 08 Pingxiang | Jiangxi I hesitated to include Wugong Mountain because hiking is challenging for kids. But if your child loves jumping and running, it’s a paradise. Take the first-level cable car to skip the hardest part, then walk the meadow trail. The path is good and the views are wide open. Kids will feel like they’re walking in the clouds. ⏰ Arrive at the summit after 3 PM when the light is soft and perfect for photos. It’s not sunny. The wind is strong, so bring a light down jacket. It might sound extreme, but the temperature drops quickly after sunset. Stay overnight in a tent on the summit. Kids will be so excited they won’t want to sleep, but ⚠️ tents have almost no soundproofing. You can hear snoring next door, so bring earplugs. Watch the sunrise the next day and head down. Don’t linger; crowds form and cable car lines can reach an hour. Pingxiang city is cheap for food and lodging. Try fried rice noodles and lotus blood duck. Kids can just eat the noodles; ask for less spice.

In August, poor travel goes in the opposite direction, these 8️⃣ places have less people, beautiful scenery and cheaper 01 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Hunan ⏰ At 7 am, Phoenix Ancient City is not awake. There is a thin mist floating on the Yujiang River. There are only a few locals washing vegetables by the rock jumping. The ancient city at this point is the way it is, without being forced into the crowd to see other people’s rear pillows. I suggest you stay directly outside the ancient city, the inns around Hongqiao East Road are half cheaper than Linjiang rooms, and it takes five minutes to walk there. Visit Shen Congwen's former residence and Dongmen City Tower during the day. Tickets are more than 100 dollars, and student ID cards are half price. At noon, we had a bowl of beef noodle soup at the "Old House Noodle House" under the Hongqiao Bridge. It cost only 10 dollars. The soup was so thick that you could hang a soup. In the afternoon, take a bus to Dehang Grand Canyon, 📍 There is a direct shuttle bus from Phoenix Bus Station, the fare is about twenty dollars. After a two-hour walk around the canyon, you can try the door-stop wine of Miaozhai. Don't be greedy for a glass. The aftertaste is not small. ⚠️ Remember the last bus back to the city is at 5:30. If you miss it, you can only take a taxi. It's expensive. Eighteen Holes is next to Ai Chau, and can be arranged on the same day. The observation deck of Aizhai Bridge is great to see the sea of ​​clouds, but you must go in the morning. In the afternoon, once the sun shines and the fog disperses, the view is compromised. Walking down this road, the average per person is 300 dollars, you can play for two days. 02 Baoji | Shaanxi Baoji is a place that is completely overshadowed by Xi'an, but because of this, prices are still stuck at five years ago. 🚄High-speed rail to Baoji South Station, take a taxi to the city for ten dollars out, live near the second road, 150 dollars can live in a good chain. Mount Taibai must be arranged on the first day of the trip because you need to save enough energy. Tickets plus view delivery are $150, cableway is not included. I suggest you sit on the ropeway and walk down so your knees don’t hurt as much and you can see a few more sights. 🏔️ The water of Da Ye Hai is so blue that it is unreal, but the altitude is 3500, don't run or jump, walk slowly. Famen Temple and Guanshan Grassland are in the opposite direction, and they have to be separated for two days. The Namaste stupa at Famen Temple is shocking, but ⚠️ The things in the underground palace are mostly replicas, the real ones are in the museum, don't go wrong. Guanshan Grassland is suitable for self-driving, the mountain road has many twists and turns, novices should be careful. If you don't want to drive, there is a tourist bus at Baoji Bus Station, which takes two hours one way. The name Cold Mountain Wind sounds cold, but it’s actually a great place to watch the stars on a summer night. An hour’s drive in the city, no light pollution, the Milky Way visible to the naked eye. Bring a mat and mosquito repellent water, lie on the grass and watch the stars, this trip to Shaanxi is complete. 03 River Pond | Guangxi Hechi is the hidden menu of Guangxi, the karst landscape is not inferior to Guilin, but the consumption is only one-third of Guilin. I went this time, five days and four nights, food, accommodation and walking added up to less than 800. Jiuton Skylight must go in the morning, 📍 Navigate to Chengjiang Town, five minutes walk. The water was as calm as a mirror before 10 a.m., and the clear world could be seen thirty meters underwater. You can swim here, bring a swimsuit, the water is cool to the core. I didn’t know how to swim, so I soaked my feet on the shore and it was comfortable enough. Xiangbei Paradise is the same as its name. You have to take a boat to enter. The ferry ticket plus 50 tickets. Inside is an isolated village where old people weave and children catch fish, time is slow here. 🍜The mugwort dumplings sold by the grandmother at the entrance of the village, two dollars each, hot and soft, more real than any scenic snack. Donglan Shanshui and Sanxingyang Ferry can be connected by water. Renting a bamboo raft, you can float for two hours for $100. The banks are lined with green hills, with egrets flying over from time to time. ⚠️ Remember to wear sunscreen clothes, the water is reflective, the sun is sharper than the land. 04 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang is a treasure city delayed by seafood. People came to eat oysters, so I went straight to Lake Light Rock. This is the largest Lake Maer in China. The water is crystal clear and the lake does not fall leaves all year round. It is amazing. Tickets are fifty, and after entering you can rent an electric car around the lake for thirty dollars an hour. I recommend walking, four kilometers around the lake trail, stopping for two hours while walking, the smell of negative ions in the air. ⏰ The light is best after 6pm, the lake is like emerald, no filter for photography. ⚠️ The only thing that is wrong in Huguang Rock is the restaurants in the scenic area, which are expensive and disgusting. For a while, I took a taxi to Chikan Old Street for 10 dollars. The seafood noodles there are 15 dollars a bowl. There are enough ingredients to be used as a main meal. 05 Alxa | Inner Mongolia Alxa in August is dripping with sun and shivering cold at night. But it is this extreme that makes the starry sky and desert here extra worth seeing. Tickets plus an off-road vehicle in the Badain Jaran Desert cost 400 dollars in peak season, but ⚠️ you can bargain when you enter after 4pm, the sunset in the desert hinterland is worth spending these tens of dollars more. Off-road driving in the sand is exciting, but people with motion sickness take motion sickness medicine half an hour early, don't ask me how I know. The Hu Yanglin tourist area is not in the best season now, but instead it is quiet. Tickets are half cheaper, and you get to see Hu Yang at his truest—half living green, half withered ash, more storytelling than the golden yellow of autumn. 📍 The roasted whole lamb at the entrance of the scenic spot is good, but you have to book in advance, and you have to wait for three hours for fresh roasting. Accommodation is recommended to stay in a yurt in the scenic area, two hundred dollars a night, at night you can see the galaxy. Remember to bring a down, August desert night, only eleven or twelve degrees, freezing cold. 06 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Many people would laugh if Shijiazhuang is a tourist city. But Zhaozhou Bridge is worth a special trip, it is a living fossil of ancient bridges, much more shocking than the photos in textbooks. Tickets forty, explainer rent a ten dollars, otherwise you just watch the lively. ⚠️ There are many "wild guides" outside the Zhaozhou Bridge Scenic Area. Don't worry, the guides in the scenic area are free. After seeing the bridge, go to the "Zhaozhou Donkey Meat Fire Roast" at the end of the bridge. It costs 12 dollars a piece. The crust is crispy and the donkey meat is fragrant but not woody. I packed two more after eating. West Berkshire is an hour and a half drive from the city, navigate directly to the parking lot. Free to visit, but ⚠️ Be sure to book in advance in the official applet, the queue will be lined up to doubt your life. The architecture here is well preserved, and you can feel the simplicity of that era when you walk around. 🚄 The last bus back to the city is at 5pm, don't overdo it. 07 Longyan | Fujian Longyan is the base camp of the Hakka people. There are many earth buildings, ancient cities, and Danxia landforms, but there are ten times fewer tourists than Xiamen. Yongding earth building complex tickets 90, it is recommended to hire a guide, 100 dollars, not what you see is just "a bunch of round houses". ⏰ The best time to shoot the earth building is at 5:30 in the evening, the setting sun illuminates the earth wall into gold, tourists are basically gone. Staying at a homestay in a earth building for a night, $150, woken up in the morning by the chirping of chickens, pushing open the window is the smoke, this experience is worth the price of admission. The ancient city of Changting is free and much quieter than Phoenix. The 40-minute walk around the ancient city wall is particularly flavorful after the lights are lit at night. 🍜The dustpan on the street costs three dollars a portion, drizzled with onion oil, I can eat three portions in a row. The Shimen Lake cruise at Guanzhishan is worth a sixty-five dollars. The boat weaves through the cracks of the Danxia landscape, with a line of sky above and emerald green water below. 08 Chicken West | Heilongjiang Jixi is located on the Sino-Russian border, an hour and a half drive from Mudanjiang Airport, and air tickets are always cheap. Xingkai Lake in August is neither hot nor cold. The water is so clear that you can see the sand underneath. ⚠️ The most pitfall of Xingkai Lake is the restaurant at the entrance of the scenic spot. A fish costs you two hundred dollars. Walking 500 meters in, the barbecued fish from a roadside stall is only 30 dollars, and it tastes even better. The World War II End Memorial Park in Tiger Head Town is free, but closes at 4pm, ⏰ before 2pm is the best. Camping is available on the sandy beach by the lake for fifty dollars a night to rent a tent. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves at night and being woken up by the sunrise in the morning is an experience that costs five hundred dollars in Sanya. 🚄 On the way back, you can go to Chicken West City to eat a bowl of cold noodles, ten dollars, sweet and sour, with pot meat, this trip is complete. These eight places, one by one, I found out on the map. They are not perfect, but they are real, cheap, and few people. Instead of watching the crowds at popular attractions, head out in August and spend the least amount of money to see the most authentic scenery. What obscure place have you been to recently? Let’s talk in the comments section, I’m leaving next month. In August, poor travel goes in the opposite direction, these 8️⃣ places have less people, beautiful scenery and cheaper 01 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Hunan ⏰ At 7 am, Phoenix Ancient City is not awake. There is a thin mist floating on the Yujiang River. There are only a few locals washing vegetables by the rock jumping. The ancient city at this point is the way it is, without being forced into the crowd to see other people’s rear pillows. I suggest you stay directly outside the ancient city, the inns around Hongqiao East Road are half cheaper than Linjiang rooms, and it takes five minutes to walk there. Visit Shen Congwen's former residence and Dongmen City Tower during the day. Tickets are more than 100 dollars, and student ID cards are half price. At noon, we had a bowl of beef noodle soup at the "Old House Noodle House" under the Hongqiao Bridge. It cost only 10 dollars. The soup was so thick that you could hang a soup. In the afternoon, take a bus to Dehang Grand Canyon, 📍 There is a direct shuttle bus from Phoenix Bus Station, the fare is about twenty dollars. After a two-hour walk around the canyon, you can try the door-stop wine of Miaozhai. Don't be greedy for a glass. The aftertaste is not small. ⚠️ Remember the last bus back to the city is at 5:30. If you miss it, you can only take a taxi. It's expensive. Eighteen Holes is next to Ai Chau, and can be arranged on the same day. The observation deck of Aizhai Bridge is great to see the sea of ​​clouds, but you must go in the morning. In the afternoon, once the sun shines and the fog disperses, the view is compromised. Walking down this road, the average per person is 300 dollars, you can play for two days. 02 Baoji | Shaanxi Baoji is a place that is completely overshadowed by Xi'an, but because of this, prices are still stuck at five years ago. 🚄High-speed rail to Baoji South Station, take a taxi to the city for ten dollars out, live near the second road, 150 dollars can live in a good chain. Mount Taibai must be arranged on the first day of the trip because you need to save enough energy. Tickets plus view delivery are $150, cableway is not included. I suggest you sit on the ropeway and walk down so your knees don’t hurt as much and you can see a few more sights. 🏔️ The water of Da Ye Hai is so blue that it is unreal, but the altitude is 3500, don't run or jump, walk slowly. Famen Temple and Guanshan Grassland are in the opposite direction, and they have to be separated for two days. The Namaste stupa at Famen Temple is shocking, but ⚠️ The things in the underground palace are mostly replicas, the real ones are in the museum, don't go wrong. Guanshan Grassland is suitable for self-driving, the mountain road has many twists and turns, novices should be careful. If you don't want to drive, there is a tourist bus at Baoji Bus Station, which takes two hours one way. The name Cold Mountain Wind sounds cold, but it’s actually a great place to watch the stars on a summer night. An hour’s drive in the city, no light pollution, the Milky Way visible to the naked eye. Bring a mat and mosquito repellent water, lie on the grass and watch the stars, this trip to Shaanxi is complete. 03 River Pond | Guangxi Hechi is the hidden menu of Guangxi, the karst landscape is not inferior to Guilin, but the consumption is only one-third of Guilin. I went this time, five days and four nights, food, accommodation and walking added up to less than 800. Jiuton Skylight must go in the morning, 📍 Navigate to Chengjiang Town, five minutes walk. The water was as calm as a mirror before 10 a.m., and the clear world could be seen thirty meters underwater. You can swim here, bring a swimsuit, the water is cool to the core. I didn’t know how to swim, so I soaked my feet on the shore and it was comfortable enough. Xiangbei Paradise is the same as its name. You have to take a boat to enter. The ferry ticket plus 50 tickets. Inside is an isolated village where old people weave and children catch fish, time is slow here. 🍜The mugwort dumplings sold by the grandmother at the entrance of the village, two dollars each, hot and soft, more real than any scenic snack. Donglan Shanshui and Sanxingyang Ferry can be connected by water. Renting a bamboo raft, you can float for two hours for $100. The banks are lined with green hills, with egrets flying over from time to time. ⚠️ Remember to wear sunscreen clothes, the water is reflective, the sun is sharper than the land. 04 Zhanjiang | Guangdong Zhanjiang is a treasure city delayed by seafood. People came to eat oysters, so I went straight to Lake Light Rock. This is the largest Lake Maer in China. The water is crystal clear and the lake does not fall leaves all year round. It is amazing. Tickets are fifty, and after entering you can rent an electric car around the lake for thirty dollars an hour. I recommend walking, four kilometers around the lake trail, stopping for two hours while walking, the smell of negative ions in the air. ⏰ The light is best after 6pm, the lake is like emerald, no filter for photography. ⚠️ The only thing that is wrong in Huguang Rock is the restaurants in the scenic area, which are expensive and disgusting. For a while, I took a taxi to Chikan Old Street for 10 dollars. The seafood noodles there are 15 dollars a bowl. There are enough ingredients to be used as a main meal. 05 Alxa | Inner Mongolia Alxa in August is dripping with sun and shivering cold at night. But it is this extreme that makes the starry sky and desert here extra worth seeing. Tickets plus an off-road vehicle in the Badain Jaran Desert cost 400 dollars in peak season, but ⚠️ you can bargain when you enter after 4pm, the sunset in the desert hinterland is worth spending these tens of dollars more. Off-road driving in the sand is exciting, but people with motion sickness take motion sickness medicine half an hour early, don't ask me how I know. The Hu Yanglin tourist area is not in the best season now, but instead it is quiet. Tickets are half cheaper, and you get to see Hu Yang at his truest—half living green, half withered ash, more storytelling than the golden yellow of autumn. 📍 The roasted whole lamb at the entrance of the scenic spot is good, but you have to book in advance, and you have to wait for three hours for fresh roasting. Accommodation is recommended to stay in a yurt in the scenic area, two hundred dollars a night, at night you can see the galaxy. Remember to bring a down, August desert night, only eleven or twelve degrees, freezing cold. 06 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Many people will laugh when they say that Shijiazhuang is a tourist city. But Zhaozhou Bridge is worth a special trip, it is a living fossil of ancient bridges, much more shocking than the photos in textbooks. Tickets forty, explainer rent a ten dollars, otherwise you just watch the lively. ⚠️ There are many "wild guides" outside the Zhaozhou Bridge Scenic Area. Don't worry, the guides in the scenic area are free. After seeing the bridge, go to the "Zhaozhou Donkey Meat Fire Roast" at the end of the bridge. It costs 12 dollars a piece. The crust is crispy and the donkey meat is fragrant but not woody. I packed two more after eating. West Berkshire is an hour and a half drive from the city, navigate directly to the parking lot. Free to visit, but ⚠️ Be sure to book in advance in the official applet, the queue will be lined up to doubt your life. The architecture here is well preserved, and you can feel the simplicity of that era when you walk around. 🚄 The last bus back to the city is at 5pm, don't overdo it. 07 Longyan | Fujian Longyan is the base camp of the Hakka people. There are many earth buildings, ancient cities, and Danxia landforms, but there are ten times fewer tourists than Xiamen. Yongding earth building complex tickets 90, it is recommended to hire a guide, 100 dollars, not what you see is just "a bunch of round houses". ⏰ The best time to shoot the earth building is at 5:30 in the evening, the setting sun illuminates the earth wall into gold, tourists are basically gone. Staying at a homestay in a earth building for a night, $150, woken up in the morning by the chirping of chickens, pushing open the window is the smoke, this experience is worth the price of admission. The ancient city of Changting is free and much quieter than Phoenix. The 40-minute walk around the ancient city wall is particularly flavorful after the lights are lit at night. 🍜The dustpan on the street costs three dollars a portion, drizzled with onion oil, I can eat three portions in a row. The Shimen Lake cruise at Guanzhishan is worth a sixty-five dollars. The boat weaves through the cracks of the Danxia landscape, with a line of sky above and emerald green water below. 08 Chicken West | Heilongjiang Jixi is located on the Sino-Russian border, an hour and a half drive from Mudanjiang Airport, and air tickets are always cheap. Xingkai Lake in August is neither hot nor cold. The water is so clear that you can see the sand underneath. ⚠️ The most pitfall of Xingkai Lake is the restaurant at the entrance of the scenic spot. A fish costs you two hundred dollars. Walking 500 meters in, the barbecued fish from a roadside stall is only 30 dollars, and it tastes even better. The World War II End Memorial Park in Tiger Head Town is free, but closes at 4pm, ⏰ before 2pm is the best. Camping is available on the sandy beach by the lake for fifty dollars a night to rent a tent. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves at night and being woken up by the sunrise in the morning is an experience that costs five hundred dollars in Sanya. 🚄 On the way back, you can go to Chicken West City to eat a bowl of cold noodles, ten dollars, sweet and sour, with pot meat, this trip is complete. These eight places, one by one, I found out on the map. They are not perfect, but they are real, cheap, and few people. Instead of watching the crowds at popular attractions, head out in August and spend the least amount of money to see the most authentic scenery. What obscure place have you been to recently? Let’s talk in the comments section, I’m leaving next month.

01 Hechi | Guangxi During summer vacation, we took the kids to Hechi, and our first stop was Donglan Mountain and Water Park. 📍At the First Bend of the Hongshui River viewing platform, standing on the glass walkway, the river looked like a green ribbon winding around the mountains. The kids would stare at the white waves left by the boats for ages. In the afternoon, we went to Jiudun Sky Window, where the water was so clear you could see the patterns on the rocks at the bottom. The kids put on life jackets and snorkeled, counting the small fish just by looking down. ⚠️Remember to bring your own waterproof phone case; the ones rented on the shore are expensive and not airtight. In the evening, we went to Xiangbei Paradise, taking a bamboo raft into the cave. The cave was so cool it felt like a natural air conditioner, and the stalactites shimmered under the lights. Sanliyangdu is perfect for the second morning; rent a tandem bicycle and ride along the river. Villagers sell freshly picked passion fruit by the roadside for five yuan a bag—sweet and sour, refreshing! 🍜For lunch, we had a bowl of freshly squeezed rice noodles at a small shop near the ferry crossing. The sour bamboo shoot flavor was strong; if the kids aren't into spicy food, they can order a non-spicy broth. The whole trip was stress-free; we slept in each day before setting off. 02 Ordos | Inner Mongolia The Xiangshawan and Genghis Khan Mausoleum tourist areas can be visited in one day, but don't get the order wrong. Go to Xiangshawan first in the morning. The sun hasn't baked the sand yet, so it's warm to the touch, not hot. Take the cable car into the desert, then slide down the sand dunes. The buzzing sound of the sand is so loud the kids were excited they went down three times! ⚠️The camel rides in the scenic area have long queues, at least an hour. It's better to save time for desert motorcycling. Leave the Genghis Khan Mausoleum tourist area before 3 pm. It's more like a museum on the grassland; the murals and yurt exhibits are explained in detail, allowing children to understand how nomadic people moved and fought. ⏰Around 5 PM, stand on a high point in the mausoleum area to watch the sunset over the grassland. The light bathes the entire meadow in gold; no filter is needed for photos. 🍜In the evening, return to the city for hand-pulled mutton, dipped in wild chive blossom sauce—tender and not gamey. Worried the kids might not like mutton, order a sweet yogurt pancake; it's filling. 03 Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces and Jianshui Ancient City—one for nature, the other for culture—perfectly separated. For the rice terraces, head to the Duoyishu viewing platform at 6:30 AM. At sunrise, the sea of ​​clouds washes over the valleys, making the terrace ridges look like they're edged in gold. The kids will ask, "Why are the fields all water?"—perfect for explaining how the Hani people transformed the hillsides into paddy fields. After watching the sunrise, return to the guesthouse for a nap. In the afternoon, head to the Bada Rice Terraces; fewer people, allowing for a walk along the ridges, with rice seedlings underfoot and layers of green overhead. ⚠️The roads are slippery during the rainy season, wear non-slip shoes, not sandals. Leave Jianshui Ancient City for the second day, starting your visit from Chaoyang Tower. The wooden carved doors and windows of the Zhu Family Garden are worth taking your time to admire; children can even count the bats and cranes on the window frames. 🍜For lunch, have steamed chicken in a clay pot at Lin'an Restaurant. The soup is so delicious you could drink three bowls! Served with grilled tofu and dipped in a dry sauce, it's spicy and satisfying. ⏰In the evening, go to Shuanglong Bridge to watch the sunset. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge reflected in the water is twice as beautiful as during the day. 04 Longnan | Gansu Summer in Longnan is one of the few humid areas in Gansu. Wenxian Tianchi Lake is hidden deep in the mountains, its water a beautiful blue-green, like a melted mint candy. A walk around the boardwalk takes about two hours; the slope is gentle, and children can walk on their own. 📍There's a crooked tree by the pond with roots extending into the water—it looks great for photos, but don't let children climb on it; the bark is slippery. In the afternoon, go to Guange Valley, which is more like a canyon gallery. Waterfalls cascade from the cracks in the rocks, and the mist feels cool on your face. ⚠️Signal is weak in the valley, so download an offline map beforehand. There are many forks in the road, but follow the signs to avoid getting lost. 🍜After leaving the valley, go to Dangchang County to eat potato dumplings (yangyu jiaotuan). A hot bowl, drizzled with chili oil; add a spoonful of vinegar if your child is afraid of the spiciness. ⏰It's recommended to enter the valley at 8 am when there are fewer people and the light is softer. Leaving at noon avoids the peak crowds. 05 Changzhou|Jiangsu Three places in Changzhou: Tianmu Lake, Chunqiu Yancheng, and Universal Dinosaur City. Choose two based on your child's interest. For those who love water, head to Tianmu Lake. Take a boat trip to Longxing Island, where there's a small zoo with peacocks and monkeys roaming freely—kids will spend ages watching them. In the afternoon, wade in the shallow water by the lake; the bottom is fine sand, so it's gentle on your feet. ⚠️Boat trips are frequent on weekends, but it gets crowded, so weekdays are recommended. For history buffs, visit Yancheng, an ancient site with three cities and three rivers. Take a ride on the mini-train; the guides are engaging, and kids will remember that "Yancheng dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period." 🍜There's a noodle shop near the scenic area entrance with incredibly thin noodles, like strands of hair, and a clear broth. Served with a crab roe soup dumpling, it's a delicious and satisfying meal for kids. For thrill-seekers, visit Universal Dinosaur City. The fossil skeletons in the China Dinosaur Museum are particularly impressive; kids will strain their necks looking up, but it's worth it. ⏰Don't miss the parade after 3 PM. 06 Shuozhou | Shanxi After Shuozhou, head straight to Shahu Pass. The name sounds fierce, but it's actually a great place to take kids. 📍Shahu Pass Ancient Fortress: The walls are made of rammed earth, rough to the touch, giving children a sense of the history of "Going West." Walking west along the ancient road, you'll see weeds and earthen slopes on both sides. It's windy, but the view is expansive, with distant remnants of the Great Wall. ⚠️There's no shade here. Arrive before 10 am in summer, otherwise it will be very hot. Bring plenty of water and a hat; there are no shops nearby. 🍜For lunch, head back to Shuozhou city and have a bowl of knife-cut noodles. The noodles are thick, topped with minced meat sauce—a big bowl that kids can easily slurp down. ⏰In the afternoon, visit Chongfu Temple, a Jin Dynasty wooden structure. The painted beams still retain their old colors. It's quiet and less crowded, perfect for leisurely exploration. 07 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Wa Huang Palace, one on a plain and the other in the mountains, are best visited over two days. Guangfu Ancient City is best visited in the evening. 📍Enter from the South Gate and walk around the city wall. The lotus flowers in the moat are in bloom, carrying a faint fragrance on the breeze. The alleys of the ancient city hide many old courtyards, the stone lions on the doorsteps polished smooth by countless touches. 🍜Evening in the city, enjoy crispy fish. The fish bones are stewed until tender, and children can even eat them, bones and all. Wa Huang Palace is in Shexian County. The mountain roads are winding, so it's recommended to go in the morning when there's less traffic. The most famous attraction in the scenic area is the Hanging Pavilion, built on a cliff. Children will ask, "How did the house get up there?" This is a good opportunity to explain how ancient craftsmen carved the stone and installed the beams. ⚠️The steps are steep; smaller children need to be carried, and older children should be held by the hand. ⏰After descending the mountain, have a bowl of "minjie noodles" at the foot of the mountain. Made with coarse grains, they're smooth and slippery, served with a sauce. 08 Xi'an|Shaanxi Xi'an was the grand finale of this trip. There were too many places to visit, so I'll just highlight the highlights. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Army Museum is a must-see, but don't rush to Pit 1 as soon as it opens—it's incredibly crowded. 📍Visit Pit 2 first; it's less crowded, allowing you to get close and see the details. Then return to Pit 1 for the panoramic view; the grandeur is immediately apparent. ⚠️Hire a guide at the entrance for around 100 yuan. They explain things more vividly than electronic guides, and children can understand that "the terracotta warriors were actually colored." In the afternoon, go to the Xi'an City Wall. Start from Yongning Gate, rent a tandem bicycle, and ride halfway around to Hanguang Gate—it takes exactly one hour. The shadows cast on the wall at sunset are incredibly long. The History Museum requires reservations three days in advance. It's free, but tickets are hard to get. If you can't get a reservation, go to the Xi'an Museum; it's less crowded, and you can still see Tang Dynasty artifacts. 🍜Go to Sajinqiao in the evening for a bowl of mutton soup with bread. The kids break the bread themselves, and the smaller pieces they break actually make it more flavorful when cooked. ⏰Don't go to the main Muslim Quarter; it's crowded and expensive. Instead, head to Dapiyuan; the roujiamo (meat sandwich) and sour plum drink are much more affordable. Of these eight places, Hechi and Longnan are perfect for kids who love playing in the water, Ordos and Shuozhou are ideal for those who appreciate vastness, and Xi'an and Changzhou are typical examples of "learning through play." Don't keep your kids cooped up in air-conditioned rooms this summer; pick a direction and go! Which places have you taken your kids to? Share your thoughts in the comments. 01 Hechi|Guangxi This summer, we took our kids to Hechi, and our first stop was Donglan Mountain and Water Park. 📍At the Hongshui River First Bend Viewing Platform, standing on the glass walkway, the river looks like a green ribbon winding around the mountains. The kids will stare at the white waves left by the boats for ages. In the afternoon, we went to Jiudun Tianchuang (九顿天窗). The water was so clear you could see the patterns on the rocks at the bottom. Kids could snorkel in life jackets and count the small fish just by looking down. ⚠️Remember to bring your own waterproof phone case; the ones rented on the shore are expensive and not airtight. In the evening, we turned to Xiangbei Shiwai Taoyuan (祥贝世外桃源), took a bamboo raft into the cave, and found it cool like a natural air conditioner. The stalactites shimmered under the lights. Sanliyangdu (三里洋渡) is best visited the next morning. Rent a tandem bicycle and ride along the river. Villagers sell freshly picked passion fruit for five yuan a bag—sweet, sour, and thirst-quenching. 🍜For lunch, we had a bowl of freshly squeezed rice noodles at a small shop near the ferry. The sour bamboo shoot flavor was strong; if the kids don't like spicy food, they can order a non-spicy broth. The whole trip was stress-free; we slept in each day before setting off. 02 Ordos|Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan (响沙湾) and Genghis Khan Mausoleum Scenic Area can be visited in one day, but don't get the order wrong. In the morning, we went to Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Dunes). The sun hadn't baked the sand yet, so it was warm to the touch, not hot. We took a cable car into the desert, and then went sandboarding down from a height. The buzzing sound of sand rubbing against each other filled our ears, and the kids were so excited they went down three times! ⚠️The camel rides at the scenic area have long queues, at least an hour, so it's better to save time for desert motorcycling. We left the Genghis Khan Mausoleum tourist area before 3 pm. It's more like a museum on the grassland, with detailed explanations of the murals and yurt exhibits, allowing children to understand how nomadic people moved and fought. ⏰Around 5 pm, we watched the sunset over the grassland from a high point in the mausoleum area. The light bathed the entire grassland in gold; no filters were needed for photos. 🍜In the evening, we went back to the city for hand-pulled mutton, dipped in wild leek flower sauce. The meat was tender and not gamey. Worried the kids wouldn't like mutton, we ordered a sweet yogurt pancake—it was filling. 03 Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan The Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces and Jianshui Ancient City offer contrasting experiences: one for nature, the other for culture, perfectly balanced. For the rice terraces, head to the Duoyishu viewing platform around 6:30 am. At sunrise, the sea of ​​clouds washes over the valleys, gilding the rice paddies. Children will ask, "Why are the fields all water?" This is a perfect opportunity to explain how the Hani people transformed hillsides into paddy fields. After watching the sunrise, return to the guesthouse for a nap. In the afternoon, visit the Bada Rice Terraces; it's less crowded, allowing for a walk along the paddy ridges, with rice seedlings beneath your feet and layers of green overhead. ⚠️ Be aware that the roads are slippery during the rainy season; wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. Visit Jianshui Ancient City on the second day, starting with Chaoyang Tower. The wooden carvings on the doors and windows of the Zhu Family Garden are worth taking your time to appreciate; children can even count the bats and cranes painted on the window frames. 🍜For lunch, we had steamed chicken in a clay pot at Lin'an Restaurant. The broth was so delicious I could drink three bowls! Paired with grilled tofu and dipped in a dry sauce, it was incredibly spicy and satisfying. ⏰In the evening, we went to Shuanglong Bridge to watch the sunset. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge reflected in the water was twice as beautiful as during the day. 04 Longnan|Gansu Summer in Longnan is one of the few humid places in Gansu. Wenxian Tianchi Lake is hidden deep in the mountains, its water a beautiful blue-green, like a melted mint candy. A walk along the boardwalk takes about two hours; the slope is gentle, and children can walk on their own. 📍There's a crooked tree by the lake with roots extending into the water—a great photo opportunity, but don't let children climb on it; the bark is slippery. In the afternoon, we went to Guangegou, which is more like a canyon gallery. Waterfalls cascade from the cracks in the rocks, and the mist feels cool on your face. ⚠️Signal is weak in the valley, so download an offline map beforehand. There are many forks in the road; follow the signs to avoid getting lost. 🍜After leaving the valley, head to Dangchang County for some potato dumplings (yangyu jiaotuan). A hot bowl, drizzled with chili oil; add a spoonful of vinegar if your child is sensitive to spice. ⏰It's recommended to enter the valley around 8 am when it's less crowded and the lighting is softer. Leaving around noon avoids the peak tourist season. 05 Changzhou|Jiangsu Three places in Changzhou: Tianmu Lake, Chunqiu Yancheng, and Universal Dinosaur City. Choose two based on your child's interest. For those who love water, go to Tianmu Lake. Take a boat to Longxing Island, where there's a small zoo with peacocks and monkeys roaming freely – your child will watch them for a long time. In the afternoon, wade in the shallow water by the lake; the bottom is fine sand, so it's gentle on your feet. ⚠️Boat trips are frequent on weekends but crowded, so weekdays are recommended. For history buffs, go to Chunqiu Yancheng, an ancient site of three cities and three rivers. Take a small train ride around it; the guides are engaging, and your child will remember that "Yancheng dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period." 🍜There's a noodle shop near the scenic area entrance with noodles as thin as hair, a clear broth, and a crab roe soup dumpling—the kids ate it with gusto! For thrill-seekers, head to the Global Dinosaur City. The fossil skeletons in the China Dinosaur Museum are particularly impressive; kids' necks will ache from looking up, but it's worth it. ⏰There's a parade after 3 PM, don't miss it. 06 Shuozhou|Shanxi In Shuozhou, head straight to Shahu Pass. The name sounds fierce, but it's actually perfect for a family outing. 📍Shahu Pass Ancient Fortress: The walls are made of rammed earth, rough to the touch, giving children a sense of the historical journey of "going west." Walking west along the ancient road, you'll see weeds and earthen slopes on both sides. It's windy, but the view is expansive, with distant remnants of the Great Wall visible. ⚠️There's no shade here. Arrive before 10 AM in summer, otherwise it'll be very hot. Bring plenty of water and a hat; there are no shops nearby. 🍜At noon, we went back to Shuozhou city for a bowl of knife-cut noodles. The noodles were thick and topped with minced meat sauce; the kids could slurp up a whole bowl. ⏰In the afternoon, we went to Chongfu Temple, a Jin Dynasty wooden structure. The painted beams still retain their old colors. It was quiet and less crowded, perfect for leisurely exploration. 07 Handan|Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Wa Huang Palace, one on a plain and the other in the mountains, are more comfortable to visit over two days. Guangfu Ancient City is best visited in the evening. 📍Enter from the South Gate and walk around the city wall. The lotus flowers in the moat are in bloom, carrying a faint fragrance on the breeze. The alleys of the ancient city hide many old courtyards, the stone lions on the doorsteps polished smooth by countless touches. 🍜In the evening, we ate crispy fish in the city. The fish bones were stewed until tender, and the kids ate them, bones and all. Wa Huang Palace is in Shexian County; the mountain roads are winding, so it's recommended to go in the morning when there's less traffic. The most famous attraction in the scenic area is the Hanging Pavilion, built on a cliff. Children will ask, "How did the house get up there?" This is a good opportunity to explain how ancient craftsmen carved the stone and installed the beams. ⚠️The steps are steep; smaller children need to be carried, and older children should be held by the hand. ⏰After descending the mountain, have a bowl of "minjie noodles" at the foot of the mountain. Made with coarse grains, they're slippery and served with a sauce. 08 Xi'an|Shaanxi Xi'an was the grand finale of this trip. There were too many sights to list, so I'll just highlight the highlights. The Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Army Museum is a must-see, but don't rush straight to Pit 1 as soon as it opens—it's incredibly crowded. 📍Visit Pit 2 first; it's less crowded, allowing you to get close to the details. Then return to Pit 1 for the panoramic view; the grandeur is immediately apparent. ⚠️Hire a guide at the entrance for around 100 yuan. They explain things more vividly than electronic guides, and children can understand that "the terracotta warriors were actually colored." In the afternoon, we went to the Xi'an City Wall. Starting from Yongning Gate, we rented a tandem bicycle and rode halfway around to Hanguang Gate, which took exactly one hour. The shadows cast on the wall at sunset were incredibly long. The History Museum requires reservations three days in advance; it's free but tickets are hard to get. If you can't get a reservation, go to the Xi'an Museum instead—less crowded, and you can still see Tang Dynasty artifacts. 🍜In the evening, we went to Sajinqiao and had a bowl of mutton soup with bread. The kids broke the bread themselves, and their broken pieces actually made it more flavorful. ⏰Avoid the main Muslim Quarter; it's crowded and expensive. Instead, head to Dapiyuan; the roujiamo (meat sandwich) and sour plum drink are much more affordable. Of these eight places, Hechi and Longnan are suitable for kids who love playing in the water, Ordos and Shuozhou are suitable for those who enjoy a sense of vastness, and Xi'an and Changzhou are typical examples of "learning through play." Don't keep your kids cooped up in air-conditioned rooms during summer vacation; pick a direction and go! Which of these places have you taken your kids to? Let's chat in the comments.

Avoid the crowds this Mid-Autumn Festival! These 8 off-the-beaten-path spots are amazing! 01 Changchun City | Jilin Province 🚄 Take a taxi from Changchun Railway Station to the Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum (about 20 minutes). Tickets are 70 yuan. It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM for fewer people and better lighting. The architecture is a surreal mix of styles, with glazed tile roofs and concrete walls blending Chinese and Western elements. A visit takes about two hours. Don't just focus on taking photos; listen to the audio guides – it's much more interesting than a rushed tour. At noon, visit the Changchun World Sculpture Park. Tickets are 30 yuan. The park is huge; walking around will leave your legs exhausted. It's recommended to rent an electric cart or just follow the main axis, focusing on the original works in Rodin Square. After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely on the sculptures, making their outlines particularly three-dimensional; every photo taken with your phone will turn out beautifully. Changchun Film Studio Century City Tourist Area is more suitable for families with children. The ticket price is 240 yuan, including several main attractions. The special effects movies have long queues, so it's recommended to rush to the "Extreme Shuttle" ride first before trying other attractions, saving about half an hour. If you're traveling alone, I suggest skipping it and going directly to Jingyuetan. Jingyuetan's ticket price is 30 yuan. Security guards start clearing the area after 5:30 PM, but the hour before sunset is the most beautiful. Rent a bicycle and ride half a lap around the lake; the wind blows through the forest, carrying the scent of pine. ⚠️ Don't buy grilled sausages at the entrance of the scenic area; they're twice as expensive as in the city. 02 Yuncheng City | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake, to be honest, is most worth seeing for its sunrise and sunset. ⏰ At 6 AM, as the sun just rises, a layer of pinkish-purple floats on the lake surface, like it's been sprinkled with rouge—a color you absolutely won't see during the day. The ticket price is 60 yuan, including a sightseeing bus, but the bus only goes to the lakeside. To walk to the center of the lake, you have to walk along the boardwalk, which takes about 20 minutes. ⚠️ Avoid visiting at midday. The direct sunlight on the salt lake is blinding, resulting in overexposed photos. Re-enter the park after 4 PM when the light softens, the lake turns a mint green, and the salt crystals crunch underfoot. Bring flip-flops; soaking your feet in the salt water by the lake is very comfortable, but don't soak for too long, or your skin will wrinkle. 🍜 After watching the sunset, there's a restaurant called "Salt Lake Old Bowl" on the street near the entrance. A bowl of mutton stew costs 25 yuan, and the broth is incredibly rich. Tell the owner you want extra cilantro, and he won't hesitate. Locals eat it by breaking the bread into pieces the size of a fingernail, soaking it for three minutes, and then taking it out—the crispier it is, the more fragrant it is. 03 Hechi City | Guangxi Donglan Mountain and Water—the name sounds obscure, but it's actually a whole karst peak forest and the Hongshui River. It's free, purely wild scenery. Navigate to Pohao Lake in Donglan County, park at the village entrance, and walk along the field ridges for ten minutes to see the river bend. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 8 AM, when the morning mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the mountain shadows reflected on the water create a picturesque ink-wash painting effect. Jiudun Tianchuang is less well-known, located in Disu Town, Du'an County. It's a deep pool where an underground river emerges. The water is crystal clear, its color resembling diluted blue ink. In summer, the water is icy cold, perfect for diving and swimming. ⚠️ The water is over 30 meters deep. If you can't swim, don't try it. Life jackets are available for rent on the shore for 10 yuan each. Xiangbei Shiwai Taoyuan requires a bamboo raft ride, costing 50 yuan per person for a 20-minute journey. The banks are shaded by dense bamboo forests, and the boatman sings simple but beautiful folk songs. There's a small karst cave inside; a five-minute walk around it leads to a rice paddy. In autumn, the golden rice is particularly photogenic. Sanli Yangdu is another pier, across the river from Xiangbei. If time is limited, choose one; I chose Xiangbei because the bamboo raft experience was more immersive. 04 Mudanjiang City | Heilongjiang Jingpo Lake entrance fee is 80 yuan. The scenic area is ridiculously large; you can't see it all in one day. My itinerary was: In the morning, go to Diaoshuilou Waterfall to watch the diving performance. There are two shows daily, one at 10 am and one at 2 pm. The diver jumps off a 20-meter-high cliff; just watching it makes my legs weak. After watching, walk north along the lakeside boardwalk to the Maogong Mountain viewing platform. This path is gentle and suitable for families with elderly members. 🍜 For lunch, eat at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area entrance. I recommend the iron pot stewed bighead carp; it's 88 yuan a pot, enough to fill two people up. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, with firm flesh. Served with cornbread dipped in the soup, it's so delicious you won't want to leave. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Mudanjiang River in Mudanjiang city. The river flows through the city, and the embankment is well-maintained. ⏰ At dusk, the setting sun turns the river water golden, and the silhouette of the church spires on the opposite bank is particularly beautiful. ⚠️ Avoid walking on the river surface in winter. The ice may look thick, but it's not solid in some places. Safety first! 05 Meizhou City | Guangdong Yan Nanfei Tea Plantation: 80 RMB entrance fee, well worth it. The entire mountain is terraced tea gardens, with distinct layers of green. From the foot to the summit, the tea rows undulate like waves. It's recommended to take the electric cart up the mountain (included in the ticket) and then walk down. The descent is less strenuous and offers scenic views along the way. ⏰ Arrive around 10 AM for the best experience. At this time, tea pickers are working in the mountains, and you can witness the authentic hand-picking process. Chat with the tea lady; she'll teach you how to identify the bud and two leaves and even let you try picking a few leaves yourself – a unique experience! 🍜 There's a restaurant called Weilong Restaurant in the tea plantation. I recommend the Hakka stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken, around 50 RMB per person. After your meal, enjoy a cup of Dancong tea in the tea room. The tea leaves are freshly roasted, and the aroma is irresistible. ⚠️ There are wild bayberry trees on both sides of the downhill road. They look tempting, but don't pick them. They belong to the tea farmers. If you want to buy some, go to the stalls at the entrance of the tea fields; a basket costs 10 yuan. 06 Xining City | Qinghai The entrance fee to Ta'er Monastery is 80 yuan, but I think the architecture alone is worth it. The Buddha sculptures in the butter sculpture hall are made of butter and the colors are so vibrant they look fake, but they are all handmade. The monks redo them every winter. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the monastery. Don't take pictures without permission; the lamas will be very unhappy if they see you. ⏰ Enter at 8:00 AM when it opens, before the tour groups arrive. You can quietly watch the pigeons fly over the rooftops in front of the Golden Tile Hall. The prayer wheel corridor is very long. Walk around with the worshippers; your arms will be a little sore afterward, but your heart will be incredibly peaceful. The Dongguan Great Mosque is free to enter, but be aware of the opening hours. Visitors are not allowed to enter after 5:00 PM. The architectural style is a surprisingly harmonious blend of Arabic minarets and classical Chinese halls. Shoes must be removed and long pants worn before entering; women must wear headscarves. The street outside the mosque is a Hui Muslim community. I recommend trying the hand-pulled mutton, 50 yuan per jin (approximately 500 grams), dipped in salt and pepper—the meat is so tender it melts in your mouth. Afterwards, have a bowl of sweet fermented rice (5 yuan) to cleanse your palate. 07 Handan City | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City doesn't require an entrance fee, but climbing the city wall costs 20 yuan. This city is a rare water city in northern China, surrounded by a moat with lotus flowers; in summer, the whole city is filled with their fragrance. I suggest entering the city after 3 PM, first enjoying the panoramic view from the city wall, then strolling along South Street. On South Street is the former residence of Wu Yuxiang, a must-see for Tai Chi enthusiasts, as it's the birthplace of Yang-style Tai Chi. After exploring, try the crispy fish on the street for 15 yuan a serving; even the bones are crispy and can be chewed directly. 🍜 The braised pork knuckle next to it is also worth trying; the skin is as translucent as jelly, and it's absolutely delicious with garlic sauce and beer. The Wa Huang Palace is located in the mountains, about an hour's drive from the city center. The entrance fee is 70 yuan. ⚠️ The mountain road is steep, so drive carefully; novice drivers should avoid it. The core of the scenic area is the Wa Huang Pavilion, a wooden structure built on a cliff face, which looks like it's hanging on the rock wall. Entering requires climbing a very steep wooden ladder, so the elderly and children should be cautious. However, the scenery is truly spectacular; standing on the pavilion and looking down, you can see the entire valley. 08 Chenzhou City | Hunan Gaoyiling Danxia is free to enter, but now there are boardwalks and railings, making it much safer to walk on. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive at 6 am to climb to the top before sunrise. At this time, the red sandstone looks like it's on fire in the morning light, contrasting sharply with the emerald green lake water—the color contrast is so striking it seems unreal. The most famous attraction in the Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area is the misty Xiaodongjiang River. The entrance fee is 80 yuan, including a boat ticket. ⚠️ To see the mist, you must get up early. The fog is thickest between 6:30 and 8:00 AM. Fishermen casting their nets takes place every 20 minutes, and the No. 3 Bridge offers a classic photo spot. After watching the mist, take a boat to Doushuai Island. The island has a karst cave; a walk around takes about 40 minutes. It's cool inside, perfect for escaping the summer heat. Mangshan Wuzhifeng is suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The entrance fee plus cable car is 210 yuan, which is a bit pricey, but the scenery at the summit is worth it. After taking the cable car up, walk along the suspended walkway, which is flat and not tiring, suitable for ordinary tourists. ⏰ The probability of seeing a sea of ​​clouds is high in the afternoon, especially after rain. ⚠️ The temperature difference on the mountain is large; even in summer, bring a light jacket. Of these eight places, I prefer Yuncheng Salt Lake and the morning mist of Dongjiang River—one is tranquil, and the other is vibrant. Where did you go for Mid-Autumn Festival? Let's chat in the comments! Avoid the crowds this Mid-Autumn Festival! These 8 off-the-beaten-path spots are amazing! 01 Changchun City | Jilin Province 🚄 Take a taxi from Changchun Railway Station to the Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum (about 20 minutes). Tickets are 70 yuan. It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM for fewer people and better lighting. The architecture is a surreal mix of styles, with glazed tile roofs and concrete walls blending Chinese and Western elements. A visit takes about two hours. Don't just focus on taking photos; listen to the audio guides – it's much more interesting than a rushed tour. At noon, visit the Changchun World Sculpture Park. Tickets are 30 yuan. The park is huge; walking around will leave your legs exhausted. It's recommended to rent an electric cart or just follow the main axis, focusing on the original works in Rodin Square. After 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely on the sculptures, making their outlines particularly three-dimensional; every photo taken with your phone will turn out beautifully. Changchun Film Studio Century City Tourist Area is more suitable for families with children. The ticket price is 240 yuan, including several main attractions. The special effects movies have long queues, so it's recommended to rush to the "Extreme Shuttle" ride first before trying other attractions, saving about half an hour. If you're traveling alone, I suggest skipping it and going directly to Jingyuetan. Jingyuetan's ticket price is 30 yuan. Security guards start clearing the area after 5:30 PM, but the hour before sunset is the most beautiful. Rent a bicycle and ride half a lap around the lake; the wind blows through the forest, carrying the scent of pine. ⚠️ Don't buy grilled sausages at the entrance of the scenic area; they're twice as expensive as in the city. 02 Yuncheng City | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake, to be honest, is most worth seeing for its sunrise and sunset. ⏰ At 6 AM, as the sun just rises, a layer of pinkish-purple floats on the lake surface, like it's been sprinkled with rouge—a color you absolutely won't see during the day. The ticket price is 60 yuan, including a sightseeing bus, but the bus only goes to the lakeside. To walk to the center of the lake, you have to walk along the boardwalk, which takes about 20 minutes. ⚠️ Avoid visiting at midday. The direct sunlight on the salt lake is blinding, resulting in overexposed photos. Re-enter the park after 4 PM when the light softens, the lake turns a mint green, and the salt crystals crunch underfoot. Bring flip-flops; soaking your feet in the salt water by the lake is very comfortable, but don't soak for too long, or your skin will wrinkle. 🍜 After watching the sunset, there's a restaurant called "Salt Lake Old Bowl" on the street near the entrance. A bowl of mutton stew costs 25 yuan, and the broth is incredibly rich. Tell the owner you want extra cilantro, and he won't hesitate. Locals eat it by breaking the bread into pieces the size of a fingernail, soaking it for three minutes, and then taking it out—the crispier it is, the more fragrant it is. 03 Hechi City | Guangxi Donglan Mountain and Water—the name sounds obscure, but it's actually a whole karst peak forest and the Hongshui River. It's free, purely wild scenery. Navigate to Pohao Lake in Donglan County, park at the village entrance, and walk along the field ridges for ten minutes to see the river bend. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 8 AM, when the morning mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the mountain shadows reflected on the water create a picturesque ink-wash painting effect. Jiudun Tianchuang is less well-known, located in Disu Town, Du'an County. It's a deep pool where an underground river emerges. The water is crystal clear, its color resembling diluted blue ink. In summer, the water is icy cold, perfect for diving and swimming. ⚠️ The water is over 30 meters deep. If you can't swim, don't try it. Life jackets are available for rent on the shore for 10 yuan each. Xiangbei Shiwai Taoyuan requires a bamboo raft ride, costing 50 yuan per person for a 20-minute journey. The banks are shaded by dense bamboo forests, and the boatman sings simple but beautiful folk songs. There's a small karst cave inside; a five-minute walk around it leads to a rice paddy. In autumn, the golden rice is particularly photogenic. Sanli Yangdu is another pier, across the river from Xiangbei. If time is limited, choose one; I chose Xiangbei because the bamboo raft experience was more immersive. 04 Mudanjiang City | Heilongjiang Jingpo Lake entrance fee is 80 yuan. The scenic area is ridiculously large; you can't see it all in one day. My itinerary was: In the morning, go to Diaoshuilou Waterfall to watch the diving performance. There are two shows daily, one at 10 am and one at 2 pm. The diver jumps off a 20-meter-high cliff; just watching it makes my legs weak. After watching, walk north along the lakeside boardwalk to the Maogong Mountain viewing platform. This path is gentle and suitable for families with elderly members. 🍜 For lunch, eat at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area entrance. I recommend the iron pot stewed bighead carp; it's 88 yuan a pot, enough to fill two people up. The fish is freshly caught from the lake, with firm flesh. Served with cornbread dipped in the soup, it's so delicious you won't want to leave. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Mudanjiang River in Mudanjiang city. The river flows through the city, and the embankment is well-maintained. ⏰ At dusk, the setting sun turns the river water golden, and the silhouette of the church spires on the opposite bank is particularly beautiful. ⚠️ Avoid walking on the river surface in winter. The ice may look thick, but it's not solid in some places. Safety first! 05 Meizhou City | Guangdong Yan Nanfei Tea Plantation: 80 RMB entrance fee, well worth it. The entire mountain is terraced tea gardens, with distinct layers of green. From the foot to the summit, the tea rows undulate like waves. It's recommended to take the electric cart up the mountain (included in the ticket) and then walk down. The descent is less strenuous and offers scenic views along the way. ⏰ Arrive around 10 AM for the best experience. At this time, tea pickers are working in the mountains, and you can witness the authentic hand-picking process. Chat with the tea lady; she'll teach you how to identify the bud and two leaves and even let you try picking a few leaves yourself – a unique experience! 🍜 There's a restaurant called Weilong Restaurant in the tea plantation. I recommend the Hakka stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken, around 50 RMB per person. After your meal, enjoy a cup of Dancong tea in the tea room. The tea leaves are freshly roasted, and the aroma is irresistible. ⚠️ There are wild bayberry trees on both sides of the downhill road. They look tempting, but don't pick them. They belong to the tea farmers. If you want to buy some, go to the stalls at the entrance of the tea fields; a basket costs 10 yuan. 06 Xining City | Qinghai The entrance fee to Ta'er Monastery is 80 yuan, but I think the architecture alone is worth it. The Buddha sculptures in the butter sculpture hall are made of butter and the colors are so vibrant they look fake, but they are all handmade. The monks redo them every winter. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the monastery. Don't take pictures without permission; the lamas will be very unhappy if they see you. ⏰ Enter at 8:00 AM when it opens, before the tour groups arrive. You can quietly watch the pigeons fly over the rooftops in front of the Golden Tile Hall. The prayer wheel corridor is very long. Walk around with the worshippers; your arms will be a little sore afterward, but your heart will be incredibly peaceful. The Dongguan Great Mosque is free to enter, but be aware of the opening hours. Visitors are not allowed to enter after 5:00 PM. The architectural style is a surprisingly harmonious blend of Arabic minarets and classical Chinese halls. Shoes must be removed and long pants worn before entering; women must wear headscarves. The street outside the mosque is a Hui Muslim community. I recommend trying the hand-pulled mutton, 50 yuan per jin (approximately 500 grams), dipped in salt and pepper—the meat is so tender it melts in your mouth. Afterwards, have a bowl of sweet fermented rice (5 yuan) to cleanse your palate. 07 Handan City | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City doesn't require an entrance fee, but climbing the city wall costs 20 yuan. This city is a rare water city in northern China, surrounded by a moat with lotus flowers; in summer, the whole city is filled with their fragrance. I suggest entering the city after 3 PM, first enjoying the panoramic view from the city wall, then strolling along South Street. On South Street is the former residence of Wu Yuxiang, a must-see for Tai Chi enthusiasts, as it's the birthplace of Yang-style Tai Chi. After exploring, try the crispy fish on the street for 15 yuan a serving; even the bones are crispy and can be chewed directly. 🍜 The braised pork knuckle next to it is also worth trying; the skin is as translucent as jelly, and it's absolutely delicious with garlic sauce and beer. The Wa Huang Palace is located in the mountains, about an hour's drive from the city center. The entrance fee is 70 yuan. ⚠️ The mountain road is steep, so drive carefully; novice drivers should avoid it. The core of the scenic area is the Wa Huang Pavilion, a wooden structure built on a cliff face, which looks like it's hanging on the rock wall. Entering requires climbing a very steep wooden ladder, so the elderly and children should be cautious. However, the scenery is truly spectacular; standing on the pavilion and looking down, you can see the entire valley. 08 Chenzhou City | Hunan Gaoyiling Danxia is free to enter, but now there are boardwalks and railings, making it much safer to walk on. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive at 6 am to climb to the top before sunrise. At this time, the red sandstone looks like it's on fire in the morning light, contrasting sharply with the emerald green lake water—the color contrast is so striking it seems unreal. The most famous attraction in the Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area is the misty Xiaodongjiang River. The entrance fee is 80 yuan, including a boat ticket. ⚠️ To see the mist, you must get up early. The fog is thickest between 6:30 and 8:00 AM. Fishermen casting their nets takes place every 20 minutes, and the No. 3 Bridge offers a classic photo spot. After watching the mist, take a boat to Doushuai Island. The island has a karst cave; a walk around takes about 40 minutes. It's cool inside, perfect for escaping the summer heat. Mangshan Wuzhifeng is suitable for hiking enthusiasts. The entrance fee plus cable car is 210 yuan, which is a bit pricey, but the scenery at the summit is worth it. After taking the cable car up, walk along the suspended walkway, which is flat and not tiring, suitable for ordinary tourists. ⏰ The probability of seeing a sea of ​​clouds is high in the afternoon, especially after rain. ⚠️ The temperature difference on the mountain is large; even in summer, bring a light jacket. Of these eight places, I prefer Yuncheng Salt Lake and the morning mist of Dongjiang River—one is tranquil, and the other is vibrant. Where did you go for Mid-Autumn Festival? Let's chat in the comments!

Guangxi hides a super niche, heavenly spot! Avoid the crowds, take a boat into an underground river, pass through three skylights, and feast your eyes on healing blue-green lake water. It's like stepping into a real-life Avatar world! ✨ 🗺️ Simplified itinerary Take a daytime boat ride through the three skylights > Visit the secret karst cave stalactites > Hike the trail for a panoramic view > Capture reflections at niche lakeside photo spots. A relaxing half-day trip that is incredibly healing. ✨ Key highlights The three-skylight boat ride is the core experience! Use the first skylight for fresh portrait close-ups, turn on your flash at the second skylight to capture the stunning stalactite textures, and unlock full-body shots with panoramic vibes at the third. The hiking trail is 2 km long; reach the top for a view of the surrounding mountains and the emerald lake shrouded in mist. There are hidden lakeside spots for close-up shots of the clear water and reflections of the underwater stalagmites—perfect for great photos. 💡 Practical tips 1. Best time to visit: October–May for clear water. Sunny days at noon offer beautiful light and shadows. 2. Avoid the rainy season (June–August) and the 3 days following rain, as rising water levels and murky water may lead to park closures. 3. The cave floor is slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip sneakers. No wading is required. 4. The scenic area stops selling boat tickets at 5:00 PM. We recommend entering in the morning to avoid the crowds. 🚗 Transport | Food | Accommodation Transport: About a 4.5-hour drive from Nanning, or take a direct shuttle bus from Fengshan County. Travel is convenient. Food: Local Yao cuisine, Qingshui River fish, and wild vegetables. Authentic, eco-friendly flavors for about 50 RMB per person. Accommodation: Comfortable hotels in Fengshan County or local homestays around the scenic area, 100–200 RMB/night. 💰 Budget Tickets including the boat ride are about 98 RMB. A half-day trip costs around 150 RMB per person—a niche, high-value experience.

01 Songyuan | Jilin The summer at Chagan Lake is a completely different world from winter. Winter fishing is famous, but visiting with kids in August is truly comfortable. The lake is wide open, with a breeze coming off the water, making the temperature several degrees cooler than the city. Rent a four-person bike in the morning and ride along the lake. Kids can sit in front and rest by the reeds watching water birds when tired. At noon, order a pot of bighead carp stewed with tofu at a lakeside fisherman's house. The fish is tender, the broth fresh, and with flatbread, kids can eat two bowls of rice. In the afternoon, visit Jinchan Island. The island is small but has gentle boardwalks, so pushing a stroller is no problem. There’s plenty of shade, so lie in a hammock for half an hour, listen to cicadas and the lake waves, and adults can take a break too. ⚠️ Don’t skimp on sunscreen. UV rays by the lake are stronger than expected. Head back to Chagan Lake pier at dusk to watch the sunset turn the water orange. That moment makes the trip worth it. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Songyuan station to the scenic area. Staying at a guesthouse inside the Chagan Lake area is recommended so you can stargaze at night. 02 Linyi | Shandong The firefly water cave and underground grand canyon are lifesavers for traveling with kids in August. It’s 35 degrees outside, but the cave stays at 18 degrees year-round, so wear long sleeves inside. The water cave requires a boat ride, with fireflies overhead. The dark rock walls are dotted with lights, and kids will quietly exclaim it looks like the Milky Way. The grand canyon is even more exciting. Don’t miss the underground river rafting. The inflatable raft rushes through narrow canyons, splashing water everywhere, and kids won’t stop laughing. ⚠️ The cave is slippery. Put non-slip shoes on kids, not sandals. Yimeng Mountain suits older kids. Take the cable car up, walk part of the cliffside boardwalk with wide views of layered mountains. For younger kids, play by the shallow, clear creek at the mountain base, catching small fish and shrimp all afternoon. 🍜 After the scenic area, try Linyi fried chicken with pancakes. It’s spicy and flavorful. If kids can’t handle spice, order the non-spicy version. It’s best to visit the grand canyon in the morning and the firefly water cave in the afternoon when the light and temperature are just right. 03 Zhangjiajie | Hunan Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is busy in August but spacious enough to spread out. Families with elementary kids should take it easy and only hike Jinbian Stream in one day. The stream runs alongside the trail, shaded by trees. There are shallow spots where kids can take off their shoes and cool their feet. There are many monkeys, so ⚠️ hide snacks and plastic bags well. Don’t rummage through your bag in front of them—they will steal. The next day, visit the Wulingyuan core area. Take the Bailong elevator up. Yuanjiajie’s floating mountains are right below, and kids will shout “Avatar!” Tianmen Mountain suits families with good stamina. Don’t climb the 999 steps; take the escalator up and watch the mist flow out of Tianmen Cave like a giant air conditioner. 🍜 Sanxia Guo is a local specialty stew with cured meat, pork intestines, and potatoes. It’s mildly spicy, and kids can eat a lot with rice. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from Zhangjiajie West station to the forest park entrance. Avoid unlicensed taxis on the roadside. 04 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is an underrated summer getaway with few people, clear water, and low prices. Jiudun Tianchuang is the ultimate water playground. Water gushes from an underground river, crystal clear, with underwater plants swaying. Kids splash around with swim rings while adults relax in the shallow water, which is perfectly cool. ⚠️ There are no changing rooms here. Change into swimsuits at your guesthouse and wear a bathrobe to the site. Donglan’s karst peak forest reflects in the Red Water River. Drift slowly on a bamboo raft. The bamboo leaves rustle in the breeze. Xiangbei’s secluded paradise is great for elders and kids. The gentle rural trail features rice fields, waterwheels, and old oxen, like stepping into a school textbook illustration. The sunset at Sanli Yangdu is worth waiting for. The water turns golden, and egrets fly up from the reeds. 🍜 Don’t miss Hechi’s boiled rice noodles with sour bamboo shoots, fermented black beans, and pork slices. The broth is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows raise. Driving is recommended since attractions are far apart but roads are good, and the scenery is along the way. 05 Jiangmen | Guangdong Kaiping Diaolou is cool in August because every building stays cool inside. These old buildings blend Chinese and Western styles. Thick walls keep out the heat, and opening wooden windows lets the breeze flow through. Take kids to see Ming Shi Lou in Zili Village. The Roman columns and pavilions on the roof will make kids ask, “Why do old houses look like castles?” It’s a perfect chance to tell the story of overseas Chinese returning home to build these towers. The old furniture and photos inside feel like a living museum. ⚠️ The strongest light is from 2 to 4 PM. Visit the Diaolou in the morning and Liyuan Garden in the afternoon. The garden has many ponds and banyan trees. Sit in the shade and drink tea while kids feed the koi. 🍜 Kaiping claypot rice is a signature dish. The cured meat and rice are cooked in a claypot, creating a crispy crust that kids love to scrape off. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jiangmen station to Kaiping. Staying in Tangkou Town is recommended for proximity to the Diaolou cluster and the chance to visit the old market night scene. 06 Wuzhong | Ningxia Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon is at its fullest in August, with powerful water flow. From the viewing platform, you can feel the mist on your face. Take kids on a boat tour of the Yellow River. The rock walls on both sides are carved with layers like an open stone book. The 108 pagodas stand by the canyon, built on the hillside. Kids will try to count them and wonder how many there really are. Leaving some mystery is perfect for a return visit. ⚠️ It’s windy in the canyon. Bring a light jacket for kids to avoid chills. In the afternoon, visit Huanghetan. The open square is perfect for flying kites and letting kids run freely. 🍜 Don’t miss Wuzhong’s morning tea culture. A table full of eight-treasure tea, beef noodles, and lamb offal stew. Kids can drink the sweet eight-treasure tea with red dates, goji berries, and raisins. 🚄 It’s only a 20-minute high-speed train ride from Yinchuan to Wuzhong, ideal for a weekend trip. 07 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayingolin’s Bayinbuluke grassland is at its greenest in August. The winding sunset over the nine bends and eighteen turns is a photographer’s dream. But with kids, don’t wait too long for sunset. The evening wind is strong and kids can catch a chill. Ride horses on the grassland in the morning. Locals hold the reins while kids sit on the horse, nervous but excited. Wildflowers in yellow, purple, and white cover the grassland. Kids can pick a bunch and weave a flower crown. ⚠️ There’s no shade on the grassland. Sunscreen and hats are essential. In the afternoon, visit Swan Lake to watch swans glide on the water. Kids will quietly watch for a long time. The Taklamakan Desert is the opposite extreme. It’s too hot during the day in August, so don’t go deep into the desert. Walk around the edge in Populus euphratica forest park. The trees have unique shapes after living a thousand years of wind and sand. Kids will ask why the trees look like that. You can say the wind and sand shaped them. 🍜 Xinjiang’s lamb kebabs and baked buns are so tasty kids will have greasy fingers but love every bite. 08 Alxa | Inner Mongolia Alxa’s Populus euphratica forest is still green in August, but don’t be disappointed. Green poplars have their own beauty. In the forest tourism area, dappled shadows fall as sunlight filters through the leaves, covering the ground in golden fragments. Kids run around picking fallen leaves and ask why the leaf shapes differ. You can crouch down and show them how leaves change with tree age. The Badain Jaran Desert is a true adventure. Mornings and evenings are cool, but midday is hot, so start early. Enter the desert at 6 AM. The off-road vehicle surfs the sand dunes, and kids scream holding on tight, more thrilling than a roller coaster. There’s a lake called Badan Lake at the foot of the “desert Everest.” The blue water and golden dunes look unreal. ⚠️ There’s no signal in the desert. Download offline maps in advance and bring plenty of water and snacks. 🍜 Alxa’s camel meat pies are a specialty. The meat is fragrant without a strong smell. Kids bite in and juicy broth bursts out. If kids are small, spend more time in the poplar forest and save desert off-roading for when they’re older.

Spontaneous Trip! These 8️⃣ Cities Hide the Most Unexpected Scenery 01 Aksu Prefecture|Xinjiang The Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, its name itself carries the word "mysterious," and only by stepping inside will you truly understand the wonders of nature. 🚄 It takes about an hour to drive there from Kuqa city. The road conditions are good, but the last section is a gravel road, which can easily scratch cars with low chassis. It's recommended to hire a local driver directly; the round trip will cost around 200 yuan. Shoe covers are available for rent at the canyon entrance for 10 yuan a pair. Don't hesitate; the red sandstone inside is eroded by the wind, making it more challenging to walk on than you might expect. ⏰ The best time to enter the canyon is around 10 am. The sunlight shines obliquely into the canyon, giving the rock walls a golden-red hue. Photos will be stunning even without filters. Reaching the narrowest section, the "One Line Sky," the stone walls on both sides are almost overhead, and the wind seeps in through the gaps, creating a cool, refreshing atmosphere. In summer, it feels like entering a natural air-conditioned room. ⚠️ After 2 PM, the light is too harsh, there are few shadows, and the rock face appears whitish, resulting in poor photo quality. The entire hike takes about two hours. Don't wear flip-flops, and don't bring too much water; there are resupply points at the exit. 02 Taiyuan City | Shanxi Taiyuan is perfect for leisurely exploration. A day is just enough to connect Tianlong Mountain, Jinci Temple, and Jinyang Lake. 📍 First, head to the Jinci Museum. The entrance fee is 80 yuan. The Fish Pond Flying Bridge in front of the Holy Mother Hall is an original Song Dynasty structure. Its wooden frame has supported the structure for nearly a thousand years. Standing beneath it and looking up, the sense of grandeur is something photos can't capture. ⏰ It's best to enter Jinci Temple as soon as it opens at 9 AM, when it's less crowded and you can hear the rustling of the wind through the ancient cypress trees. For lunch, have a bowl of braised noodles opposite the "Jinci Hotel" near the entrance of Jinci Temple. It's 15 yuan and all you can eat; the braised tofu skin and wood ear mushrooms in the broth are generously provided. In the afternoon, we went to Tianlong Mountain. The grotto statues were severely weathered, but the open-air Buddha in Cave 9 still held its own. The steps leading up were quite steep, so elderly people with knee problems should be cautious. In the evening, we went to Jinyang Lake Park. The lakeside trail is about five kilometers long, or you can rent a shared bike and ride half the loop. The lake is wide open, and there are many water birds at sunset. ⚠️ Tianlong Mountain Scenic Area closes admission at 4:30 PM, so don't arrive right on time. 03 Linyi City | Shandong These two places in Linyi, one underground and one on a mountain, have completely different styles. The Firefly Water Cave & Underground Grand Canyon Tourist Area features karst caves and fireflies. The temperature inside the cave is 18 degrees Celsius year-round, so you'll need a light jacket in summer. 🛶 The underground river rafting is a highlight. The rubber rafts glide along the waterway, with stalactites right overhead, making the dodging and crouching incredibly thrilling. A rafting ticket costs 40 yuan separately, but you can save 10 yuan if you buy it together with your entrance ticket. ⏰ The firefly viewing area only shows its full effect after dark, so it's recommended to enter after 2 PM to catch it after exploring the caves. I preferred Yimeng Mountain. While not particularly high in altitude, the mountain is imposing, and the trail from the foot to the summit is well-maintained with rest stops along the way. 🍜 At the summit, there are vendors selling scallion pancakes for 8 yuan a set. Rolling up a freshly made pancake with a bowl of millet porridge instantly replenishes the energy you expended climbing. ⚠️ The two scenic areas are an hour's drive apart, so don't schedule them on the same day unless you want to experience a special forces-style rush. 04 Weinan City | Shaanxi Mount Hua, you'll only truly understand its reputation as "the most precipitous mountain under heaven" after climbing it yourself. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Huashan North Station (28 minutes). There's a free bus right outside the station that goes directly to the visitor center. Don't take unlicensed taxis; they'll charge you 20 yuan for the starting fare. Tickets are 160 yuan, the West Peak cable car is 140 yuan one way, and the North Peak cable car is 80 yuan one way. To save energy, hike up from the west and down from the north; it's mostly downhill, putting less strain on your knees. ⏰ For sunrise viewing, start your night climb from Yuquan Temple at 10 PM. Reach the East Peak viewing platform just in time for the sunrise at 5:30 AM. Headlamps and gloves are essential, as some sections require holding onto chains. ⚠️ The Plank Road in the Sky and the Hawk's Turn are separate attractions, each costing 30 yuan. Queues often exceed an hour; those with a fear of heights should avoid them. If you just want to experience the ritual of climbing Mount Hua, hiking from the North Peak to the Central Peak during the day is enough. The scenery is just as good as the West Peak, but half the crowd. 05 Yichun City | Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest and Strange Rocks are the kind of place you'll remember after just one look. 📍 The core of the scenic area is the "One Line Sky" and "Stone Forest" areas. The granite has been weathered over millions of years into various shapes, some resembling turtles, others mushrooms. Children will especially enjoy guessing the shapes. 🛤️ The entire boardwalk is about five kilometers long, with a gentle slope, suitable for both the elderly and children. There are rest pavilions along the way. In summer, the forest is particularly cool, feeling five or six degrees Celsius lower than in the city. ⏰ From mid-September to early October, the mountains are ablaze with color. Red pines, birches, and maples blend together, their colors layered upon each other, creating a scene more vibrant than a painting. 🚄 A round trip by chartered car from Yichun city costs about 300 yuan. There is no direct public transportation; sharing a ride is more cost-effective. ⚠️ Signal is poor inside the scenic area, and navigation is unreliable; it's recommended to download offline maps beforehand. After you finish exploring, there are stalls selling dried blueberries and pine nuts at the entrance, half the price of those inside the scenic area, so you can pick some up. 06 Huangshan City | Anhui In the Huangshan area, Xidi and Hongcun, the Ancient Huizhou Cultural Area, and Chengkan Ancient Village are like different variations on the same theme, but with completely different flavors. For Xidi and Hongcun, I highly recommend Hongcun. The painted bridge by South Lake is a classic photo spot. Go at 6:30 am; the lake is shrouded in mist, and the reflections are so clear they're like a mirror. There are fewer people taking photos then, so you can take great shots anywhere. The entrance fee is 104 yuan, and you can enter and exit repeatedly within three days. If you stay in a guesthouse in the village, you don't need to buy a ticket again. Chengkan Ancient Village is less famous, but the saying "Visiting Chengkan ensures a smooth life" attracts many couples. Yongxing Lake at the village entrance, with its white walls and black tiles, is quieter than Hongcun. 🍜 The village's fermented tofu is freshly pan-fried, 5 yuan a serving. The outer skin is crispy, the inside tender and smooth, and it's especially appetizing with chili sauce. ⚠️ The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is very large, including Tangmo, Tangyue Archway Group, and Qiankou Folk Houses. Don't expect to see it all in one day; just pick two highlights. As for Huangshan Scenic Area itself, if you only have one day, take the cable car up and down the main route from the front to the back mountain. You can see the Welcoming Pine and Bright Summit, but you won't have enough time for the West Sea Grand Canyon; that place needs at least half a day. 07 Shiyan City | Hubei Wudang Mountain, a famous Taoist mountain, truly has a unique aura. 🚄 Take bus 202 from Shiyan East Station directly to the mountain gate. The journey takes one hour and costs 4 yuan. A taxi would cost over 80 yuan, so taking the bus is more cost-effective if you have enough time. The entrance fee is 140 yuan, and the sightseeing bus ticket is 100 yuan—a must-buy, as there are still over ten kilometers of mountain road from the mountain gate to Nanyan Palace. 📍 The most worthwhile climb is the Golden Summit. It takes about two hours to walk from Nanyan Palace, and the steps are very steep, but the Zixiao Palace and Taizipo along the way are worth stopping to see. ⏰ If you want to see the sea of ​​clouds, stay near Taihe Palace on the mountain. Get up at 5:30 am the next morning and arrive at the Golden Summit before 6:00 am. At that time, the clouds and mist are still swirling among the peaks, and they dissipate as soon as the sun comes out. ⚠️ Food on the mountain is relatively expensive; a bowl of vegetarian noodles costs 25 yuan. It is recommended to bring your own snacks. If you have knee problems, don't force yourself to climb the Golden Summit. Take the cable car up for 90 yuan one way; it's less strenuous but lacks the ritual of climbing. 08 Hechi City|Guangxi Hechi is an underrated place with beautiful water and mountains, and not many people. Donglan Mountain and Water is a typical karst peak cluster, with the Hongshui River flowing through the valley. A boat tour is the most comfortable option; tickets cost 60 yuan, and the journey takes about two hours. The mountains on both banks seem to grow out of the water, their reflections so clear you can distinguish every tree. Jiudun Skylight is a hidden gem for diving enthusiasts; the water is crystal clear, a vibrant blue-green, and you can see the underwater rocks and fish from the shore – worth the ticket price even without diving. Xiangbei Paradise is more like a quiet village, with rice paddies, bamboo forests, and old houses, perfect for spending an afternoon doing absolutely nothing. There's a stall at the village entrance selling oil tea for 5 yuan a bowl; it has a strong ginger flavor and warms you up. Sanliyang Ferry is ideal for bamboo rafting; the current is gentle, and the bamboo groves on both banks droop low to the surface. The raft operators sing folk songs; even if you can't understand the lyrics, the melodies are beautiful. ⚠️ These places are quite spread out, so it's recommended to drive yourself or hire a car for about 400 yuan a day. Public transportation is inconvenient. Conclusion None of these eight cities are must-visit tourist hotspots, but each holds unexpected moments. The canyons of Aksu, the forests of Yichun, and the waters of Hechi are all landscapes you won't believe until you visit. Which one would you like to visit first? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some pitfalls. Let's go! These 8️⃣ cities hide the most unexpected scenery 01 Aksu Region | Xinjiang The Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, its name itself carries the word "mysterious." Only by stepping inside will you truly understand the wonders of nature. 🚄 It takes about an hour to drive there from Kuqa city. The road conditions are good, but the last section is a gravel road, which can easily scratch cars with low ground clearance. It's recommended to hire a local driver directly; the round trip will cost around 200 yuan. There are shoe covers for rent at the canyon entrance for 10 yuan a pair. Don't be lazy; the red sandstone inside is eroded by the wind, making it more uncomfortable to walk on than you might expect. ⏰ The best time to enter the valley is around 10 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely into the canyon, giving the rock walls a golden-red hue; photos will be stunning even without filters. Reaching the narrowest section, "A Line of Sky," the rock walls on both sides are almost overhead, and the wind seeps in through the gaps, creating a cool, refreshing atmosphere—it feels like a natural air-conditioned room in summer. ⚠️ After 2 PM, the light is too harsh, there are fewer shadows, and the rock walls appear whitish, resulting in less photogenic images. The entire hike takes about two hours. Don't wear flip-flops, and don't bring too much water; there are supply points at the exit. 02 Taiyuan City | Shanxi Taiyuan is perfect for leisurely exploration. A day is just right to connect Tianlong Mountain, Jinci Temple, and Jinyang Lake. 📍 First, head to the Jinci Museum. The entrance fee is 80 yuan. The Fish Pond Flying Bridge in front of the Holy Mother Hall is an original Song Dynasty structure. Its wooden frame has supported the structure for nearly a thousand years. Standing beneath it and looking up, the sense of grandeur is something that photos can't capture. ⏰ It's best to enter Jinci Temple as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and hear the rustling of the wind through the ancient cypress trees. For lunch, have a bowl of braised noodles opposite the "Jinci Hotel" near the entrance; it's 15 yuan and all you can eat, with generous portions of tofu skin and wood ear mushrooms in the broth. In the afternoon, head to Tianlong Mountain. The grotto statues are heavily weathered, but the open-air Buddha in Cave 9 is still impressive. The steps to the top are a bit steep, so elderly people with knee problems should be cautious. In the evening, go to Jinyang Lake Park. The lakeside trail is about 5 kilometers, or you can rent a shared bike and ride half the loop. The lake is wide, and there are many water birds at sunset. ⚠️ Tianlong Mountain Scenic Area closes for entry at 4:30 PM, so don't arrive right on time. 03 Linyi City | Shandong These two places in Linyi, one underground and one on a mountain, have completely different styles. The Firefly Water Cave & Underground Grand Canyon Tourist Area features karst caves and fireflies. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, so a light jacket is recommended even in summer. 🛶 The underground river rafting is a highlight; the rubber rafts glide along the waterway, with stalactites very close overhead, creating a thrilling moment of ducking for cover. Rafting tickets cost 40 yuan separately, but you can save 10 yuan if you buy them together with your entrance ticket. ⏰ The firefly viewing area is best viewed after complete darkness, so it's recommended to enter after 2 PM to catch them after exploring the caves. I preferred Yimeng Mountain. While not particularly high in altitude, the mountain is imposing. The trail from the foot to the summit is well-maintained, with rest stops along the way. 🍜 At the summit, there are vendors selling scallion pancakes for 8 yuan a set. Rolling up a freshly made pancake with a bowl of millet porridge instantly replenishes the energy expended during the climb. ⚠️ The two scenic areas are an hour's drive apart, so don't schedule them on the same day unless you want to experience a special forces-style rush. 04 Weinan City | Shaanxi Mount Hua, you'll only truly understand its reputation as "the most precipitous mountain under heaven" once you've climbed it yourself. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Huashan North Station (28 minutes). There's a free bus right outside the station that goes directly to the visitor center. Don't take unlicensed taxis; they'll charge you 20 yuan for the starting fare. Tickets are 160 yuan, the West Peak cable car is 140 yuan one way, and the North Peak cable car is 80 yuan one way. To save energy, hike up from the west and down from the north; it's mostly downhill, putting less strain on your knees. ⏰ If you want to see the sunrise, start your night climb from Yuquan Temple at 10 PM. Reach the East Peak viewing platform just in time for the sunrise at 5:30 AM. Headlamps and gloves are essential; some sections require holding onto chains. ⚠️ The Plank Road in the Sky and the Hawk's Turn are separate attractions, each costing 30 yuan. Queues often exceed one hour, so those with a fear of heights should avoid them. If you only want the ritual of "climbing Mount Hua," hiking from the North Peak to the Central Peak during the day is sufficient; the scenery is comparable to the West Peak, but half the number of people. 05 Yichun City | Heilongjiang Tangwanghe Forest and Strange Rocks are the kind of place you'll remember after just one look. 📍 The core of the scenic area is the "One Line Sky" and "Stone Forest" areas. The granite has been weathered over millions of years into various shapes, some resembling turtles, others mushrooms—children will especially enjoy guessing the shapes. 🛤️ The entire plank road is about five kilometers long, with a gentle slope, suitable for both the elderly and children. There are rest pavilions along the way, and the forest is particularly cool in summer, feeling five or six degrees lower than in the city. ⏰ From mid-September to early October, the mountains are ablaze with vibrant colors. Red pines, birches, and maples blend together, their colors layered upon each other, creating a scene more intense than any painting. 🚄 A round-trip chartered car from Yichun city costs about 300 yuan. There are no direct buses, so sharing a ride is more economical. ⚠️ Signal strength is poor within the scenic area, and navigation is unreliable. It's recommended to download offline maps beforehand. After your visit, there are stalls selling dried blueberries and pine nuts at the entrance, half the price of those inside the scenic area – a good place to buy some. 06 Huangshan City | Anhui In the Huangshan area, Xidi and Hongcun, the Ancient Huizhou Cultural Area, and Chengkan Ancient Village are like different variations on the same theme, each with a completely different feel. For Xidi and Hongcun, I highly recommend Hongcun. The painted bridge by South Lake is a classic photo spot. Go at 6:30 am; the lake is shrouded in mist, and the reflections are so clear they're like a mirror. At that time, there are fewer people taking photos, so you can take stunning shots from anywhere. Tickets cost 104 yuan and can be entered and exited repeatedly within three days. Staying in a guesthouse in the village eliminates the need for repeated purchases. Chengkan Ancient Village is less well-known, but the saying "Visiting Chengkan ensures a smooth life" attracts many couples. Yongxing Lake at the village entrance, paired with white walls and black tiles, is quieter than Hongcun. 🍜 The village's fermented tofu is freshly pan-fried, 5 yuan a serving. The outer skin is crispy, the inside tender, and it's especially appetizing with chili sauce. ⚠️ The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area is vast, encompassing Tangmo, Tangyue Archway Group, and Qiankou Folk Houses. Don't expect to see it all in one day; pick two highlights. As for Huangshan Scenic Area itself, if you only have one day, take the cable car up and down the main route from the front to the back mountain. You'll see the Welcoming Pine and Bright Summit, but there won't be enough time for the West Sea Grand Canyon; that place requires at least half a day. 07 Shiyan City | Hubei Wudang Mountain, a famous Taoist mountain, truly has a unique aura. 🚄 Take bus 202 from Shiyan East Station directly to the mountain gate. The journey takes one hour and costs 4 yuan. A taxi would cost over 80 yuan, so taking the bus is more cost-effective if you have enough time. The entrance fee is 140 yuan, and the sightseeing bus (100 yuan) is a must-buy, as there's a 10+ kilometer mountain path from the mountain gate to Nanyan Palace. 📍 The most worthwhile climb is the Golden Summit. It takes about two hours to walk from Nanyan Palace, and the steps are very steep, but the Zixiao Palace and Taizipo along the way are worth stopping to see. ⏰ If you want to see the sea of ​​clouds, stay near Taihe Palace on the mountain. Get up at 5:30 am the next morning and arrive at the Golden Summit before 6:00 am. At that time, the clouds are still swirling among the peaks, and they dissipate as soon as the sun comes out. ⚠️ Food on the mountain is relatively expensive; a bowl of vegetarian noodles costs 25 yuan. It's recommended to bring your own snacks. If you have knee problems, don't force yourself to climb the Golden Summit. Take the cable car up for 90 yuan one way; it's less strenuous but lacks the ritual of climbing. 08 Hechi City | Guangxi Hechi is an underrated place, with beautiful water and mountains, and relatively uncrowded. Donglan Mountain and Water is a typical karst peak cluster, with the Hongshui River flowing through the valleys. A boat tour is the most comfortable option; tickets are 60 yuan, and the entire trip takes about two hours. The mountains on both banks seem to grow out of the water, their reflections so clear you can distinguish every tree. Jiudun Skylight is a hidden gem for diving enthusiasts; the water is crystal clear, a vibrant blue-green, and you can see the underwater rocks and fish from the shore – worth the ticket price even without going in. Xiangbei Paradise is more like a quiet village, with rice paddies, bamboo forests, and old houses, perfect for spending an afternoon doing absolutely nothing. There's a stall at the village entrance selling oil tea for 5 yuan a bowl; it has a strong ginger flavor and warms you up completely. Sanliyang Ferry is ideal for bamboo rafting; the current is gentle, and the bamboo groves on both banks droop low to the surface. The raft operators sing folk songs; although you can't understand the lyrics, the melodies are beautiful. ⚠️ These places are quite spread out, so I recommend driving yourself or hiring a car for around 400 yuan a day. Public transportation is inconvenient. In conclusion, none of these eight cities are "must-see" tourist hotspots, but each one holds unexpected moments. The canyons of Aksu, the forests of Yichun, and the waters of Hechi are all the kind of scenery where you "only realize how different it can be" after you've been there. Which one would you like to visit first? Let's discuss in the comments, and I'll help you avoid some disappointments.

Budget travelers unite! These 8 places in August and September have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and low prices 01 Zhengzhou | Henan Zhengzhou gets really hot in summer, but after late August, the mornings and evenings cool down. Don’t dive into the crowded Erqi Square. I recommend heading straight to Qinwei Water City. 📍 Go after 5:30 PM. The breeze over the water brings cool air. Walking around the city wall is much more comfortable than air conditioning in a mall. Tickets are cheap. There are a few stalls selling freshly baked gebo bread filled with wild basil and egg. Five yuan fills you up. ⚠️ Don’t go during the day. There’s no shade and the sun is brutal—you’ll regret it. Get up early the next day to visit Songshan Shaolin. Arrive before 9 AM to avoid the crowds and quietly enjoy the pagoda forest. Martial arts shows have fixed times, so check the schedule in advance to avoid missing them. Xiliu Lake is best in the afternoon. It’s a local spot for strolling, free to enter. Walking around the lake takes about an hour. Rest on the lakeside lawn if you get tired. Remember to book the museum in advance. It’s closed on Mondays. 🚄 The Zhengzhou subway is very convenient. No need for taxis—the money saved can buy you a bowl of huimian noodles. 02 Meizhou | Guangdong Meizhou is one of those places you visit and wonder why you didn’t come sooner. Yannanfei Tea Plantation is covered in green tea fields, and the air smells like fresh tea leaves. 🎫 Tickets plus shuttle cost just over 100 yuan. It’s not cheap, but the low crowds make the whole valley feel like it’s yours. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain is a Hakka restaurant. Salt-baked chicken and stuffed tofu are the specialties. Two people ordering three dishes costs about 50 yuan each, and you’ll eat comfortably. ⚠️ Don’t buy tea inside the scenic area. Prices are inflated. Buy in town for half the price with the same quality. The old street in Meizhou’s old town is worth visiting. Under the arcade are many snack shops selling xianrenban, pickled noodles, and sanjidi soup—all around 10 yuan. You’ll leave with a full belly. 🚄 There’s a bus from the high-speed rail station to downtown. Avoid unlicensed taxis; the bus only takes a few extra minutes. 03 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia In August, the grass in Hulunbuir starts turning yellow, but this mix of yellow and green is the most beautiful time. There are far fewer people than in July. 🚗 Renting a car with a driver costs about 500–600 yuan per day. It’s best to split the cost with four people. Avoid group tours on big buses—they just rush through without real experience. 📍 At the Morigele River viewing platform, go at 6 AM. The sunrise light hits the river bend, and the golden grass tips covered in dew look better than any filter. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are fierce on the grasslands. Long pants and insect repellent are essential. Don’t wear shorts deep in the grass or you’ll come back with a row of bites. 🍜 In Erguna city, there’s a “Mongolian Bun King” shop. The lamb and wild onion buns burst with juice. Three cost 10 yuan, much better than the expensive, cold ones in the scenic area. You can stay overnight in a Mongolian yurt, but avoid the “luxury yurts” with private bathrooms—they’re expensive and not authentic. Find a traditional yurt at a herder’s home. The conditions are rougher, but you can sit around the fire and listen to stories—that’s the real grassland experience. 04 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is overshadowed by Guilin’s fame, but its scenery is just as stunning and costs half as much. Donglan’s karst peaks and clear water are a perfect combo. 🗓️ The light is softest around 3–4 PM, and the water reflects like scattered silver. Jiudun Tianchuang is a diver’s paradise. The water is so clear you can see the stone patterns below. If you don’t dive, just soak your feet on the shore. The water is cool and refreshing, perfect for summer. Xiangbei’s secluded paradise requires a bamboo raft ride. 🎫 Tickets plus boat cost about 80 yuan. Bamboo groves and rice fields line the banks, and the only sound is birdsong. The sunset at Sanliyangdu is spectacular. 🌅 Around 6:30 PM, the sky shifts from orange-red to pink-purple, and the river’s reflection looks like a painting. ⚠️ Hechi’s attractions are spread out. Self-driving or renting a car is recommended. Public transport wastes a lot of time. Stay in chain hotels in the county seat. You can get a good room for under 150 yuan. Don’t trust “homestays” near scenic spots—they’re usually overpriced and low quality. 05 Shizuishan | Ningxia You may not have heard of Shizuishan, but you’ve probably seen photos of Shahu Lake. August and September are when the reeds are at their fullest. 🛶 Take a boat through the reeds. When the wind blows, the rustling sounds like ocean waves. 🎫 Tickets plus boat cost about 120 yuan. Not cheap, but worth it. ⚠️ Camel rides and sand sliding cost extra. Buy combo tickets online in advance for a better price than buying on-site. 🗓️ Arrive before 9 AM. Start with desert activities before the sun gets too strong. Have lunch at the scenic area restaurant. It costs about 30 yuan per person. The food is average but filling. Spend the afternoon birdwatching in the wetlands. The light is good for photos. 🚄 There’s a tourist bus from Yinchuan city center that takes one hour. Don’t hire a private car—it’s expensive. Don’t buy the grilled lamb chops at Shahu’s entrance. They’re dry and overpriced. Eat back in the city for half the price and better flavor. 06 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is a low-key city but has plenty of good food and fun spots. Shicheng is a county north of Ganzhou. 🗓️ Visit in August or September when the osmanthus flowers bloom, filling the whole county with sweetness. Tongtianzai’s Danxia landform is impressive. The hike takes about two hours. It’s windy at the top, so bring a light jacket. Sanbai Mountain is the source of the Dongjiang River. The water is so clear it looks blue. 🎫 Tickets plus cable car cost about 150 yuan. Hikers can skip the cable car for better views on foot. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain. Bring enough water. Bottled water costs 10 yuan, which is a bit pricey. 🍜 In Ganzhou city, near the Jianchunmen old city wall, there are many old shops selling hot skin noodles, amyguo, and Ningdu meatballs. Each bowl costs 5–6 yuan. You can eat from one end of the street to the other for less than 50 yuan. 🚄 A taxi from Ganzhou West Station to downtown costs about 20 yuan. Avoid unlicensed drivers. Use the meter. 07 Ningbo | Zhejiang Ningbo is quieter than Hangzhou but has better food and is cheaper. Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake are next to each other. 🗓️ Arrive at 8 AM when they open. It’s uncrowded. Stroll slowly through the gardens and admire the wood carvings and blue bricks in the old libraries. It feels like stepping back in time. 🎫 Tianyi Pavilion tickets cost 30 yuan. Moon Lake is free. Visiting both takes a morning. In the afternoon, go to Xikou Tengtou, near the Jiang family residence. The old street has a Republic of China-era vibe. Walk and stop as you please. 🍜 There’s a thousand-layer pancake shop at the street corner. Freshly baked, with sweet and savory options. Ten yuan a bag, ten times better than supermarket versions. Qiantong Ancient Town is much quieter than Wuzhen or Xitang. 🎫 Tickets cost 40 yuan. Locals still live there. At dusk, smoke curls up, and elders sit outside fanning themselves. This is what an ancient town should feel like. ⚠️ Don’t eat inside the ancient town. It’s expensive and average. Exit the town and turn right. Any small restaurant on that street is good. You can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. 🚄 There’s a bus line from Ningbo city to Xikou for 2 yuan. Avoid taxis to save money and enjoy the scenery along the way. 08 Ningde | Fujian Ningde has both mountains and sea, but the most famous spot is Xiapu. Taimu Mountain has granite landforms with strange peaks and rocks. 🗓️ Enter at 6:30 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared. It looks like a fairyland. 🎫 Tickets cost 120 yuan and include a sightseeing bus. If you’re not very fit, take the bus because the mountain road is long. Baishuiyang is a shallow water plaza where you can walk barefoot. The water barely covers your ankles and is ice-cold. August and September are perfect for visiting. ⚠️ Remember to bring non-slip water shoes. The riverbed stones are slippery. Yuanyang Creek is next to Baishuiyang. In autumn, you can see mandarin ducks, but in summer, it’s just water. You can buy a combined ticket for both spots. Xiapu Beiqi mudflats are a photographer’s paradise. 🌅 At sunrise, the lines and light on the mudflats change quickly. Arrive half an hour early to secure your spot. ⚠️ The mudflats are all silt. Don’t wear white shoes or they’ll be ruined after one step. 🍜 In Xiapu county, there’s a “Sansha Snacks” shop. Fish ball soup and Minnan porridge are the specialties. It costs about 20 yuan per person. Eat and wipe your mouth, then leave fully satisfied. These 8 places in August and September are either at the end of peak season or the start of the off-season. The crowds are small and prices haven’t risen yet. Which one do you want to visit most? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you avoid pitfalls.

Went on a spontaneous road trip last week with some friends from the north! Starting from Nanning, we spent 2 days exploring Baise and Hechi~ As someone who can't swim, I had a blast this time!🎉 · 📍Day 1: Dawangling Forest Rafting in Baise Thrill level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ It was absolutely amazing for my friends from the north! Cruising through the primeval forest The endless sharp turns were so exhilarating💨 📍Day 2: Paddleboarding on the Hongshui River Thrill level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I never thought I'd be brave enough to try this, especially since I can't swim! Standing on the paddleboard was both exciting and nerve-wracking But the scenery was absolutely stunning🏞️ · Some personal tips👇 1️⃣ Recommend leaving in the morning to avoid the hottest part of the day 2️⃣ Make sure to bring a waterproof phone case for rafting! 3️⃣ The scenery at Hongshui River is truly postcard-perfect ·

Summer getaway list for August to October, these 8 places have few people and beautiful scenery 1️⃣ Anshun | Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall is well known, but don’t worry about the crowds. Arrive right when the park opens at 7:30 AM to get in early. The mist hits your face, and the roar of the waterfall makes your scalp tingle. After walking through Water Curtain Cave, your clothes will be half wet, but a 10-minute sun break will dry them. ⏰ After 2 PM, the crowd doubles and the boardwalk gets crowded. Try to finish your visit in the morning. Longgong is a half-hour drive from Huangguoshu, famous for its underground rivers and caves. Take a boat inside where the stalactites hang so low you have to duck. The water is dark green, and cool air rises from your feet. Don’t buy the disposable raincoat sold at the entrance for 5 yuan—it’s unnecessary on the boat. Stay in downtown Anshun for easy access to both attractions and enjoy a bowl of duoduo noodles on Gufu Street at night. The noodles are sour and spicy, made from rice slurry, soaking up the broth better than popular shops. ⚠️ The steps inside Longgong are slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. 2️⃣ Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Yuanyang Hani terraces start turning yellow at the end of August and are golden by mid-September. Watch the sunrise from Duoyishu viewing platform, arriving by 5:30 AM to secure a tripod spot. Mist rolls up from the valley, and the terraces look like shattered mirrors covering the hillside. When the sun rises, the crowd falls silent. Jianshui Ancient Town is much quieter than Dali. Tickets to Zhu Family Garden cost just over 30 yuan, and an hour is enough to explore. The wood-carved doors and windows are worth a close look. Grilled tofu stalls are everywhere in the old town, one yuan each, dipped in dry chili powder, crispy outside and tender inside. 📍 Try the tofu at Ban Jing Tofu Shop near the west gate, freshly made and grilled with a strong bean aroma. Stay at Lin’an Inn inside the old town, with windows opening to blue-tiled roofs. 🚄 There’s no direct bus from Yuanyang to Jianshui. Take a shuttle to Gejiu first, then transfer. The whole trip takes over 4 hours, so don’t overbook. ⚠️ Don’t walk on the ridges inside the terraces. They look dry but are muddy underneath. 3️⃣ Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City tourist area is not well known but perfect for early autumn. Entry to the ancient city is free. Inside, the Ouyuan Garden and Li Qingzhao Memorial Hall charge a small fee. The stone-paved streets are polished smooth and click underfoot. You can climb the Fucai Gate tower for a view of gray-tiled roofs. At dusk, the light on the city walls is soft and warm. Longsheng Pastry Shop inside the city is worth visiting. Their honey cake and peach crisp are great souvenirs. ⚠️ Shops close around 5 or 6 PM, so buy early. ⏰ Qingzhou Museum is closed on Mondays. Don’t go if it’s Monday. The highlight is the Ming Dynasty Zhao Bingzhong top scholar scroll. Stay at a guesthouse outside the south gate of the ancient city, a 5-minute walk inside. It’s quiet at night. If traveling with elderly or children, avoid hiking. The ancient city is mostly flat and wheelchair friendly. 4️⃣ Ma’anshan | Anhui Yangtze River Caishiji Cultural Ecological Tourist Area centers on Caishiji, a place Li Bai visited many times. The park runs along the river, with strong river breezes making August and September cool. Taibai Tower has three floors displaying Li Bai’s life. From the top, watch the Yangtze flow east, with boats leaving white trails on the water. Sanyuan Cave is a natural stone cave with a narrow entrance that opens into a spacious interior where the sound of river waves echoes. ⚠️ The cave stairs are steep. Avoid if you have knee problems. ⏰ The park stops admitting visitors at 4:30 PM. Allow two hours to explore at a relaxed pace. Stay near Yushan Lake for evening walks by the water. It’s livelier than staying near the park. 🍜 Try Dangtu braised pork noodles in Ma’anshan. The noodles are chewy, topped with red-braised pork belly that’s rich but not greasy. A taxi from downtown to the park costs about 20 yuan. No need to hire a private car. 5️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Donglan’s karst peaks are typical, with emerald green water so quiet you only hear birds. The climb to the top takes 40 minutes on stone steps. From the summit, the mountains look like steamed buns stacked by the rice fields. ⏰ Early morning fog is the most beautiful. At noon, the sun’s glare on the water is harsh. Jiudun Tiankuang is a deep pool formed where an underground river surfaces. The water is so blue it seems unreal. Locals swim and dive here, with simple changing rooms on the shore. ⚠️ The water is dozens of meters deep. Don’t swim if you can’t. Watch others jump from the shore. Xiangbei’s Peach Blossom Land requires a bamboo raft ride through a cave, opening suddenly to a flat area like a cut-open field. Sanli Yangdu is best at sunset when the river glows gold and cattle return home by the shore. Stay in Hechi city for convenience. 🚄 Attractions are spread out. Renting a car is easiest. Public transport barely reaches these spots. 6️⃣ Taizhou | Jiangsu Qinhu National Wetland Park still has lotus flowers at the end of August, and the reeds are dark green. Ride a punt through the waterways while the boatwoman sings local tunes. The oars create ripples on the water. In the milu deer park, you can see free-range deer with water plants hanging from their antlers, lazily lying in the mud. Qintong Ancient Town is next to Qinhu, with tickets included in a combo pass. The town has a main street paved with bluestone, lined with old houses and shops. 🍜 Qinhu’s eight fresh delicacies include crab, softshell turtle, and silverfish. Autumn is the best time for fat crabs. ⚠️ Don’t trust scalpers at the park entrance. Buying the combo ticket from the official WeChat account is cheaper. Stay near Taizhou Old Street, where a night market offers authentic snacks like dried tofu and fish soup noodles for late-night meals, better than hotel restaurants. ⏰ Visit Qinhu in the morning and the ancient town in the afternoon for good light and fewer people. 7️⃣ Chengdu | Sichuan Tiantai Mountain is two hours from Chengdu, famous for fireflies. The viewing season is late August to early September. After 8 PM, it’s fully dark, and fireflies twinkle along the mountain path and in the grass. ⚠️ Don’t use flashlights or spray insect repellent when watching fireflies, as it disturbs them. Qingcheng Mountain and Dujiangyan are too much for one day. Split into two days. Qingcheng’s front mountain has many Taoist temples, while the back mountain is wilder. If you’re fit, choose the back mountain. Visit Dujiangyan in the afternoon to see the fish mouth water diversion and then cross the Anlan Suspension Bridge, which sways a lot. If you’re afraid of heights, hold on tight. Anren Ancient Town preserves Republic of China–era architecture, with a tram clanging through the old streets. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding opens at 7:30 AM. Arrive early to see pandas eating; after 9 AM, they usually nap. 🍜 After the panda visit, head to Jianshe Alley for snacks like sugar-coated fried dough balls, egg cakes, and spicy chicken skewers. Stay near Chunxi Road for convenient subway access, though prices are high in peak season. To save money, stay in Xipu, with direct subway line 1 to downtown. ⏰ The panda base is crowded on weekends. Visit on a weekday if possible. 8️⃣ Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Jiangbulake is a high mountain wheat field on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains. The wheat turns golden at the end of August, and the wind makes it look like rolling waves. Snow-capped mountains in the distance create a strong color contrast. Drive into the park along the winding mountain road to the top, stopping anytime to take photos. ⚠️ The mountain road has many curves. Take motion sickness medicine in advance. Wucai Bay features yardang landforms with hills in red, yellow, green, and purple. ⏰ The best light is an hour before sunset when the hills look like they’re on fire. It’s windy, so bring a windbreaker. Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains is the most famous but also the most crowded. If short on time, choose either Jiangbulake or Wucai Bay. I recommend Jiangbulake. Stay in Fukang city at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains for easy access to Tianchi. 🍜 Changji’s meatball soup with fried bread is fresh and bouncy, filling you up for just 10 yuan. 🚄 The attractions are far apart. Renting a car or hiring a driver is the only option. Don’t rely on public transport. ⚠️ Sunset is late in Xinjiang. It’s still bright at 9 PM. Don’t plan your itinerary by mainland biological clocks.

Enjoy a relaxing National Day holiday with your kids! These 8️⃣ less crowded and fun places are perfect for a fun-filled trip. 1️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi When visiting Hechi with your child, don't rush through the tourist attractions. Just choose one or two places to relax at your own pace. Start in the morning at Donglan Mountain Water Park. The Hongshui River flows through the mountains, its water so clear you can see the stones. Kids can wade in the shallows while adults enjoy the breeze on the bank. A morning will easily pass by. Remember to bring river wading shoes; the stones are slippery, and flip-flops won't cut it. At noon, head to Jiudun Tianchuang, a great place for older children who can swim. The water is a vibrant blue-green, like a large piece of jade nestled in the mountains. Younger children who can't swim should just watch from the shore. In the afternoon, stop by Xiangbei Shiwai Taoyuan (Xiangbei Paradise). Take a bamboo raft into the village; the banks are lined with bamboo forests and rice paddies, so quiet you can only hear the oars paddling. Sanli Yangdu is best visited in the evening when the sun is setting, creating the softest light and perfect for photos that won't need editing. 🍜 Lunch was at a local farmhouse restaurant in the village, featuring free-range chicken and freshly picked vegetables – much better than the fast food at tourist attractions. ⚠️ There are no changing rooms at Jiudun Skylight, so remember to change into your swimsuit at your guesthouse before going. 🚄 A taxi ride from Hechi West Station to Donglan Mountain and Water takes about an hour, and a chartered car costs around 300 yuan a day – don't skimp on this if you're traveling with kids. 2️⃣ Jining|Shandong Jining is a place with a rich cultural atmosphere, but that doesn't mean kids will be bored. It's recommended to visit the Qufu Minggucheng (Three Confucius Sites) tourist area in the morning, as the Confucius Temple and Confucius Mansion are connected and there's plenty of shade. Not interested in the stone tablets and ancient trees? Buy a small booklet of the Analects beforehand and find the sentences as you walk around, like a treasure hunt. In the afternoon, head to Weishan Lake tourist area – this is where the kids will be! Take a boat trip on the lake; egrets hide in the reeds, and occasionally you can see wild ducks swimming by with their ducklings. It's windy on the lake, so bring a light jacket for your child. After disembarking, you can visit a local fisherman's restaurant for freshly caught lake fish soup—it's incredibly delicious! ⚠️ The Three Confucius Sites are less crowded on Mondays, but some exhibition halls are closed, so don't make a wasted trip. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Qufu East Station to Minggucheng. For Weishan Lake, driving is recommended; public transportation is too much of a hassle. 3️⃣ Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai The scenery in Haixi is truly wild, but be aware of altitude sickness if you have children. The Kunlun Mountain Pass is at a high altitude, so younger children shouldn't go up; just enjoy the view from afar in Golmud city. The real highlight is the Qarhan Salt Lake, which is vast and the salt crystals are as white as snow. Children can collect salt blocks on the shore, but keep an eye on them and don't let them go too far out, as the brine lies beneath the salt crust. Emerald Lake is much less crowded than Chaka Salt Lake. The water is a gradient of green, like a spilled palette. It's recommended to arrive after 4 PM when the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, resulting in the most vibrant colors. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend taking young children to Chaka Salt Lake; it's windy, the water is cold, and it's crowded. The wait for the mini-train can be up to an hour. If you must go, choose the morning train as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds. ⚠️ Haixi is at a high altitude, so bring oxygen cylinders and glucose. If your child feels unwell, descend immediately. 🍜 Hand-pulled mutton with brick tea in Golmud city will replenish your energy. 4️⃣ Xianyang|Shaanxi Xianyang is close to Xi'an, but much quieter. Qianling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Empress Wu Zetian and Emperor Gaozong of Tang. The stone lions and horses along the spirit path are especially popular with children. Touching the cool stone carvings and listening to the stories is much more engaging than textbooks. Hiring a guide is highly recommended; otherwise, you'll just be looking at a bunch of stones, making the trip a waste. In the afternoon, we went to Yuanjia Village, a Guanzhong Impression Experience Area, which is truly the kids' domain. The entire village is a living folk museum; the oil press grinds sesame oil, the cloth weaves cloth, and the vinegar workshop smells of vinegar – the kids were mesmerized. The food selection was dazzling: biangbiang noodles, guokui (a type of flatbread), tofu pudding – we ate our way through the village. ⚠️ Qianling Mausoleum has many steps, making it inconvenient to push a stroller; a baby carrier is recommended. 🚄 It takes about 20 minutes by high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Xianyang. Qianling is far from the city center; a taxi ride costs around 100 yuan one way, so hiring a car for the day is recommended. 5️⃣ Zhumadian|Henan Zhumadian is my secret gem for taking kids – less crowded, beautiful scenery, and affordable. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," with strangely shaped rocks resembling monkeys and Tang Sanzang (the monk in Journey to the West) – kids can even make up their own stories. The mountain isn't high, and the trails are gently paved; children over five can climb it independently. It's windy at the summit, remember to bring a hat. Laole Mountain is less popular, mostly visited by locals on weekends. There's a large grassy area at the foot of the mountain where you can spread out picnic mats for your kids to run around. There's a viewing platform on the mountain with panoramic views of Zhumadian city. After descending the mountain in the afternoon, you can go to the city center for spicy soup with fried dough sticks (it's very spicy), but for the kids, just get some non-spicy tofu pudding. ⚠️ Chaya Mountain is most crowded at noon on holidays, so it's recommended to enter as early as 8 am when it opens. 🍜 The sesame leaf noodles sold at the scenic area entrance are good, five yuan a bowl, and a child can easily eat two bowls. 6️⃣ Yichun|Heilongjiang Autumn in Yichun is golden, and the main attraction for families with children is the forest. Tangwanghe Forest and Strange Rocks is the core scenic area; the rocks are strangely shaped, some like mushrooms, some like turtles, and kids can name them as they climb. The forest trails are wooden boardwalks, easy to walk on and not slippery, even for strollers. The most delightful surprise was the air; every breath smelled of pine trees. There's a mini-train in the scenic area, and the kids didn't want to get off, riding it three times. I recommend having lunch at the forest restaurant inside the scenic area; the freshly picked mushrooms stewed with chicken were so delicious, even the broth was good for mixing with rice. ⚠️ Autumn in Yichun has a large temperature difference; you'll need a light down jacket in the mornings and evenings, but it gets hot again at midday when the sun comes out. 🍜 The sweet and sour pork in the city is authentic, a sweet and sour flavor that kids love. 🚄 It takes about an hour to get to the scenic area from Yichun Lindu Airport; renting a car is recommended, as public buses are infrequent. 7️⃣ Ordos|Inner Mongolia Ordos is the ultimate destination for families with children, with both sand and grassland. Xiangshawan is a desert scenic area, but the facilities are very well-developed, with cable cars and a desert mini-train, so you don't have to walk. The kids' favorite activity is sandboarding; sitting on a board and sliding down the dunes, their screams can be heard far and wide. ⚠️ The desert is windy and the sand is fine, so be sure to make sure your children wear goggles and masks, otherwise they'll get a mouthful of sand. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum Scenic Area, which is more like a large museum where children can learn about Mongolian history and culture. There's a group of yurts in the scenic area where you can go inside to experience drinking milk tea and watching a morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) performance. We'll stay overnight in Ordos city; the hotel is nice and reasonably priced. 🍜 The hand-pulled mutton with yogurt in the city was delicious, and the kids ate it until their mouths were shiny with oil. 🚄 The drive from Xiangshawan to the Genghis Khan Mausoleum takes about two hours, with a rest stop at a service area along the way. 8️⃣ Tianshui|Gansu Tianshui is a hidden gem in Gansu. Bringing kids here is mainly for seeing the grottoes and eating. Maijishan Grottoes is one of the four major grottoes in China. The walkways are built on cliffs, looking intimidating but actually very stable. Not interested in the Buddha statues? Then count the steps on the walkway or try to find which Buddha statue is smiling. ⚠️ The steps at Maijishan are slippery in the rain, so it's best to avoid going up if you have kids. The botanical garden at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit. In the afternoon, go to Wushan Water Curtain Cave. The cliff carvings here are more rugged than those at Maijishan, but there are far fewer people. Water seeps out of the cave, dripping and pattering, which the kids think is like a water curtain cave, and they get incredibly excited. Fuxi Temple is suitable for children interested in mythology. There's a thousand-year-old tree in the temple that kids can hug. 🍜 Tianshui's most famous food is Guagua and Ranran, both made with buckwheat. They're sour and spicy, and kids might not like them, but they're worth a try. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Tianshui South Station to Maijishan. Hiring a car is recommended for more freedom. Each of the eight cities has its own charm. If I had to choose my top three: Hechi is the wildest for water activities, Ordos is the most exciting for sand play, and Yichun is the most tranquil for forest exploration. Which one does your child prefer? Let's chat in the comments! Enjoy a relaxing National Day holiday with your kids! These 8️⃣ less crowded and fun places are perfect for a fun-filled trip. 1️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi When visiting Hechi with your child, don't rush through the tourist attractions. Just choose one or two places to relax at your own pace. Start in the morning at Donglan Mountain Water Park. The Hongshui River flows through the mountains, its water so clear you can see the stones. Kids can wade in the shallows while adults enjoy the breeze on the bank. A morning will easily pass by. Remember to bring river wading shoes; the stones are slippery, and flip-flops won't cut it. At noon, head to Jiudun Tianchuang, a great place for older children who can swim. The water is a vibrant blue-green, like a large piece of jade nestled in the mountains. Younger children who can't swim should just watch from the shore. In the afternoon, stop by Xiangbei Shiwai Taoyuan (Xiangbei Paradise). Take a bamboo raft into the village; the banks are lined with bamboo forests and rice paddies, so quiet you can only hear the oars paddling. Sanli Yangdu is best visited in the evening when the sun is setting, creating the softest light and perfect for photos that won't need editing. 🍜 Lunch was at a local farmhouse restaurant in the village, featuring free-range chicken and freshly picked vegetables – much better than the fast food at tourist attractions. ⚠️ There are no changing rooms at Jiudun Skylight, so remember to change into your swimsuit at your guesthouse before going. 🚄 A taxi ride from Hechi West Station to Donglan Mountain and Water takes about an hour, and a chartered car costs around 300 yuan a day – don't skimp on this if you're traveling with kids. 2️⃣ Jining|Shandong Jining is a place with a rich cultural atmosphere, but that doesn't mean kids will be bored. It's recommended to visit the Qufu Minggucheng (Three Confucius Sites) tourist area in the morning, as the Confucius Temple and Confucius Mansion are connected and there's plenty of shade. Not interested in the stone tablets and ancient trees? Buy a small booklet of the Analects beforehand and find the sentences as you walk around, like a treasure hunt. In the afternoon, head to Weishan Lake tourist area – this is where the kids will be! Take a boat trip on the lake; egrets hide in the reeds, and occasionally you can see wild ducks swimming by with their ducklings. It's windy on the lake, so bring a light jacket for your child. After disembarking, you can visit a local fisherman's restaurant for freshly caught lake fish soup—it's incredibly delicious! ⚠️ The Three Confucius Sites are less crowded on Mondays, but some exhibition halls are closed, so don't make a wasted trip. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Qufu East Station to Minggucheng. For Weishan Lake, driving is recommended; public transportation is too much of a hassle. 3️⃣ Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai The scenery in Haixi is truly wild, but be aware of altitude sickness if you have children. The Kunlun Mountain Pass is at a high altitude, so younger children shouldn't go up; just enjoy the view from afar in Golmud city. The real highlight is the Qarhan Salt Lake, which is vast and the salt crystals are as white as snow. Children can collect salt blocks on the shore, but keep an eye on them and don't let them go too far out, as the brine lies beneath the salt crust. Emerald Lake is much less crowded than Chaka Salt Lake. The water is a gradient of green, like a spilled palette. It's recommended to arrive after 4 PM when the sunlight shines obliquely on the water, resulting in the most vibrant colors. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend taking young children to Chaka Salt Lake; it's windy, the water is cold, and it's crowded. The wait for the mini-train can be up to an hour. If you must go, choose the morning train as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds. ⚠️ Haixi is at a high altitude, so bring oxygen cylinders and glucose. If your child feels unwell, descend immediately. 🍜 Hand-pulled mutton with brick tea in Golmud city will replenish your energy. 4️⃣ Xianyang|Shaanxi Xianyang is close to Xi'an, but much quieter. Qianling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Empress Wu Zetian and Emperor Gaozong of Tang. The stone lions and horses along the spirit path are especially popular with children. Touching the cool stone carvings and listening to the stories is much more engaging than textbooks. Hiring a guide is highly recommended; otherwise, you'll just be looking at a bunch of stones, making the trip a waste. In the afternoon, we went to Yuanjia Village, a Guanzhong Impression Experience Area, which is truly the kids' domain. The entire village is a living folk museum; the oil press grinds sesame oil, the cloth weaves cloth, and the vinegar workshop smells of vinegar – the kids were mesmerized. The food selection was dazzling: biangbiang noodles, guokui (a type of flatbread), tofu pudding – we ate our way through the village. ⚠️ Qianling Mausoleum has many steps, making it inconvenient to push a stroller; a baby carrier is recommended. 🚄 It takes about 20 minutes by high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Xianyang. Qianling is far from the city center; a taxi ride costs around 100 yuan one way, so hiring a car for the day is recommended. 5️⃣ Zhumadian|Henan Zhumadian is my secret gem for taking kids – less crowded, beautiful scenery, and affordable. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," with strangely shaped rocks resembling monkeys and Tang Sanzang (the monk in Journey to the West) – kids can even make up their own stories. The mountain isn't high, and the trails are gently paved; children over five can climb it independently. It's windy at the summit, remember to bring a hat. Laole Mountain is less popular, mostly visited by locals on weekends. There's a large grassy area at the foot of the mountain where you can spread out picnic mats for your kids to run around. There's a viewing platform on the mountain with panoramic views of Zhumadian city. After descending the mountain in the afternoon, you can go to the city center for spicy soup with fried dough sticks (it's very spicy), but for the kids, just get some non-spicy tofu pudding. ⚠️ Chaya Mountain is most crowded at noon on holidays, so it's recommended to enter as early as 8 am when it opens. 🍜 The sesame leaf noodles sold at the scenic area entrance are good, five yuan a bowl, and a child can easily eat two bowls. 6️⃣ Yichun|Heilongjiang Autumn in Yichun is golden, and the main attraction for families with children is the forest. Tangwanghe Forest and Strange Rocks is the core scenic area; the rocks are strangely shaped, some like mushrooms, some like turtles, and kids can name them as they climb. The forest trails are wooden boardwalks, easy to walk on and not slippery, even for strollers. The most delightful surprise was the air; every breath smelled of pine trees. There's a mini-train in the scenic area, and the kids didn't want to get off, riding it three times. I recommend having lunch at the forest restaurant inside the scenic area; the freshly picked mushrooms stewed with chicken were so delicious, even the broth was good for mixing with rice. ⚠️ Autumn in Yichun has a large temperature difference; you'll need a light down jacket in the mornings and evenings, but it gets hot again at midday when the sun comes out. 🍜 The sweet and sour pork in the city is authentic, a sweet and sour flavor that kids love. 🚄 It takes about an hour to get to the scenic area from Yichun Lindu Airport; renting a car is recommended, as public buses are infrequent. 7️⃣ Ordos|Inner Mongolia Ordos is the ultimate destination for families with children, with both sand and grassland. Xiangshawan is a desert scenic area, but the facilities are very well-developed, with cable cars and a desert mini-train, so you don't have to walk. The kids' favorite activity is sandboarding; sitting on a board and sliding down the dunes, their screams can be heard far and wide. ⚠️ The desert is windy and the sand is fine, so be sure to make sure your children wear goggles and masks, otherwise they'll get a mouthful of sand. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum Scenic Area, which is more like a large museum where children can learn about Mongolian history and culture. There's a group of yurts in the scenic area where you can go inside to experience drinking milk tea and watching a morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) performance. We'll stay overnight in Ordos city; the hotel is nice and reasonably priced. 🍜 The hand-pulled mutton with yogurt in the city was delicious, and the kids ate it until their mouths were shiny with oil. 🚄 The drive from Xiangshawan to the Genghis Khan Mausoleum takes about two hours, with a rest stop at a service area along the way. 8️⃣ Tianshui|Gansu Tianshui is a hidden gem in Gansu. Bringing kids here is mainly for seeing the grottoes and eating. Maijishan Grottoes is one of the four major grottoes in China. The walkways are built on cliffs, looking intimidating but actually very stable. Not interested in the Buddha statues? Then count the steps on the walkway or try to find which Buddha statue is smiling. ⚠️ The steps at Maijishan are slippery in the rain, so it's best to avoid going up if you have kids. The botanical garden at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit. In the afternoon, go to Wushan Water Curtain Cave. The cliff carvings here are more rugged than those at Maijishan, but there are far fewer people. Water seeps out of the cave, dripping and pattering, which the kids think is like a water curtain cave, and they get incredibly excited. Fuxi Temple is suitable for children interested in mythology. There's a thousand-year-old tree in the temple that kids can hug. 🍜 Tianshui's most famous food is Guagua and Ranran, both made with buckwheat. They're sour and spicy, and kids might not like them, but they're worth a try. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Tianshui South Station to Maijishan. Hiring a car is recommended for more freedom. Each of the eight cities has its own charm. If I had to choose my top three: Hechi is the wildest for water activities, Ordos is the most exciting for sand play, and Yichun is the most tranquil for forest exploration. Which one does your child prefer? Let's chat in the comments!

Where to go for a cool and budget-friendly summer trip with kids? These 6️⃣ spots are cool and affordable 01 Ankang City | Shaanxi Ankang’s summer feels like the cool mountain breeze from the Qinling Mountains mixed with moisture. When bringing kids here, don’t rush to see all the sights. Start the morning at Qiancheng River. The water cascades in layers like natural steps, perfect for kids to splash and play with stones for hours. Remember to wear non-slip sandals because the riverbed is covered with algae and bare feet can slip easily. When the sun gets strong at noon, head back to town for lunch. Find a small local restaurant and order sauerkraut stir-fried konjac, which is appetizing but not spicy, so kids can eat it too. In the afternoon, visit Fengyan ancient terraced fields. Don’t walk the entire trail, just the section from the viewing platform to the field ridges. The path is flat and stroller-friendly. Around 5 PM, the lighting is best. The terraces filled with water look like shattered mirrors spread across the hillside. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the terraced fields, so spray insect repellent before going down. Stay overnight in town; a hotel for just over 100 yuan is quite clean. The whole day, kids won’t get tired and you won’t have to raise your voice. 02 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Gannan’s coolness means you’ll need a jacket in the morning and evening. When traveling with kids, I recommend staying right in Zhagana Village, where you can open the window to see rocky mountains and mist. Don’t sleep in; get up at 7 AM to watch the morning fog lift. Kids will point at the mountain tops and say “the clouds are moving.” During the day, visit Langmu Temple. No need to climb high, just walk near the source of the Bailong River. The water is ice-cold, and kids can spend an hour scooping stones by the shore. In the afternoon, drive to Gahai Lake. The scenery on the way is even better than the destination. It’s windy by the lake, so bring an extra windbreaker for the kids. Yeliguan Tourist Area suits families with good stamina. The hiking trails are long, so just do the highlights, which take about an hour and a half round trip. ⚠️ Gannan is nearly 3,000 meters above sea level. If kids complain of headaches, descend immediately to lower altitude. Don’t tough it out. Food and lodging are cheap. Tibetan steamed buns and yak yogurt are generally loved by kids. 03 Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Garze is the ultimate summer cool spot, but don’t try to do too much with kids. Pick two places and that’s enough. I recommend Xinduqiao plus Mugecuo. Xinduqiao itself is free to enter. Just wander around town, with grasslands, streams, and herds of cattle. Kids can run around all afternoon. Have yak meat hot pot for lunch in town. The meat is tender and the broth flavorful; kids will drink two bowls. In the afternoon, go to Mugecuo. Take the sightseeing bus to the top. The lake is so blue it doesn’t look real. Kids only need to walk a short distance along the lakeside boardwalk. Don’t force them to climb to the medicinal hot springs; that part is steep and kids get cranky. Skip Daocheng Yading and Hailuogou this time. The altitude is high and the walks are long. Taking kids there is just torture for both. ⚠️ The UV rays in Garze are strong, even on cloudy days. Make sure kids wear bucket hats that cover the back of their necks. Choose accommodations with floor heating because temperatures drop quickly at night. Don’t skimp on this. 04 Hechi City | Guangxi Hechi’s summer is perfect for water play. Take kids straight to Jiudun Skylight. The water is so clear you can see the stones at the bottom. Kids can wear swim rings and splash around. There are rental stalls on the shore for swim gear, 30 yuan per set. Don’t carry your own. When hungry at noon, go to a nearby farmhouse restaurant. White-cut chicken with river fish soup is light and not greasy. In the afternoon, head to Xiangbei Secluded Paradise. Take a bamboo raft into the village, surrounded by bamboo forests and rice fields. The breeze carries the scent of grass. Kids tend to get sleepy on the raft, so it’s a good chance for a nap. Donglan’s mountain waters suit older kids better because of the hiking and climbing. Not recommended for little ones. The boat ride at Sanliyangdu is optional. The scenery overlaps with Xiangbei, so skip it if short on time. ⚠️ There are strong currents in the deep parts of the skylight area. Don’t let kids out of sight for more than 10 seconds. Stay in Yizhou District for lodging. You can visit the night market at night. Luosifen and grilled pig’s feet are favorites of dads. 05 Tangshan City | Hebei Don’t assume Tangshan is hot. The Nanhu and Kailuan area is cool enough in the evening to wear long sleeves. Bring kids to the park after 4 PM. Start at Kailuan National Mining Park to see the old mining area’s renovated exhibition halls. There’s a simulated underground tunnel that kids find adventurous but is very safe. Then walk along Nanhu Lake. The lake breeze comes in waves and feels better than air conditioning. There’s a large lawn by the lake where you can spread a picnic blanket and let kids run while you scroll on your phone. The next morning, visit Qingdongling. Get there early; it opens at 8:30 AM. The park is large, but don’t try to see it all. Just visit Emperor Qianlong’s Yuling and Empress Dowager Cixi’s Dingdongling. There’s a shuttle cart between the two to save your legs. ⚠️ Souvenirs inside Qingdongling are twice as expensive as outside. Don’t buy them there. For lunch, return to the city and try gezaqian, a Tangshan specialty that’s crispy and not greasy. Kids can eat it as a snack. 06 Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture | Jilin Yanbian’s summer is a cool 20+ degrees. Take kids straight to Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area. Take the shuttle bus up the mountain. Don’t skip this; walking up takes 40 minutes and kids will be carried halfway. The giant golden Buddha on the mountain is impressive. Kids will look up and ask “why is it so big?” Just answer casually; they don’t really care. The highlight is the Qingzu Ancestral Hall. There’s a big locust tree in the courtyard that provides great shade. Kids can jump on the steps while you rest. At noon, go down to Dunhua city for cold noodles. Buckwheat noodles in icy broth—kids slurp faster than you. Order guobaorou (sweet and sour pork) too. It’s a kid favorite. ⚠️ Don’t buy the rice cakes sold in the scenic area; they’re expensive and hard. Better to buy freshly made ones in town. If you have energy in the afternoon, visit the wetland park next to Liuding Mountain. The boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly. This day’s steps are under 8,000. Kids won’t fuss and you won’t be exhausted. 07 Xiangtan City | Hunan Xiangtan’s summer is really hot, but Caojia’ao Waterfall can save you. Just search “Caojia’ao Waterfall” on your map. You can drive to within 200 meters of the waterfall and then walk a short dirt path. The mist from the waterfall cools the air even 10 meters away. Dress kids in quick-dry clothes and let them splash in the shallow water. Don’t let them go into deep water. ⚠️ The rocks near the waterfall are slippery. Have kids wear water shoes, not sandals. For lunch, return to the city and find a local hole-in-the-wall restaurant to order chopped chili fish head. Ask to reduce the spice by half. Kids can mix the sauce with rice and eat a bowl. In the afternoon, visit Shaoshan Tourist Area. Don’t rush to see all the sights. Just walk around the former residence. There’s shade by the lotus pond and the breeze is pleasant. Take the sightseeing bus wherever it goes inside the park. Don’t save the 20 yuan fare. After 6 PM, there are fewer tourists and the light is soft, perfect for a quick souvenir photo. Stay overnight in the city and end the day with a bowl of rice noodles. That’s a simple Xiangtan night. 08 Anshun City | Guizhou Anshun is a top choice for summer trips with kids because of the famous Huangguoshu Waterfall, which alone is worth the ticket. But listen to me: don’t enter through the main gate. Use the Duopodang entrance. It’s half as crowded and the path is gentler, so kids can walk on their own. When you see the waterfall, the mist hits your face and kids will scream “it’s raining!” but it’s just the spray. ⚠️ Buy raincoats in advance. The park sells disposable ones for 20 yuan, but outside they’re 5 yuan. In the afternoon, visit the Dragon Palace. Take a boat into the cave, which stays at 18 degrees year-round. Bring a jacket. Kids usually lose interest in caves after 20 minutes, so don’t buy full tickets. Just take the boat for a short scenic ride and get off. Afterward, buy fried potatoes and grilled tofu at the park entrance for 5 yuan a serving. Kids will love the taste. Stay overnight in Anshun city. Stroll the Gufu Street night market where silk rolls and iced drinks are cheap. This day is cool, affordable, kids are happy, and you don’t have to carry them around.

When traveling with kids, the biggest fear isn't how much money you spend, but parents being exhausted to the point of questioning life, and kids crying endlessly. I've picked a few places where you can truly "stand and enjoy the scenery, sit and drink coffee, and let the kids play on their own," avoiding detours and ensuring a worry-free trip, personally tested. 1️⃣ Panjin | Liaoning When taking kids to see the Red Beach, don't rush into the depths of the scenic area right away. 📍 From the main entrance, first take the sightseeing bus to the "Love Coast" station. The wooden boardwalks there are flat with no steps, making it perfectly fine for strollers. Kids can chase small crabs in the tidal ditches, while you stand on the walkway enjoying the sea breeze with an open view, rarely needing to bend down to pick them up. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the scenic area after 3 PM. The light hits the Suaeda salsa at an angle, making the colors several times richer than at noon, so no filters are needed for photos. On the street outside the scenic area's exit, you can buy roasted sea duck eggs and cattail shoot dumplings anytime the kids are hungry, and they're 2 yuan cheaper than in the supermarket inside. ⚠️ A reminder: It's windy at the Red Beach, so bring an extra windbreaker for your child. Around 5 PM, when the sea breeze picks up, even adults will need to add a layer. 2️⃣ Baicheng | Jilin Nenjiang Bay is an underrated kid-friendly spot. The entire tourist area stretches along the riverbank, with wide, flat paths. Your child can ride a balance bike while you leisurely follow behind, without worrying about steps or gravel. 📍 About a 15-minute walk east from the visitor center, there's a shallow beach where the water only reaches your ankles. In summer, it's cool to walk barefoot, and kids can spend half an hour catching small fish there. Nearby, there are stalls selling roasted corn and boiled corn on the cob, 10 yuan each, warm and filling. 🚄 A taxi from Baicheng Station costs about 20 yuan, and drivers know the way. If the kids get tired, there are tandem bikes for rent at the scenic area entrance. Rent one to ride back to the main gate, saving your legs for the last stretch. 3️⃣ Alxa League | Inner Mongolia Many people worry about taking kids to the desert and Populus euphratica forests, but it's easy if you choose the right way to play. In the Populus euphratica Forest Tourist Area, the shuttle bus between Erdaoqiao and Sidaoqiao allows hop-on/hop-off. Don't try to see everything; just enjoy the Erdaoqiao and Sidaoqiao stops, which are enough for kids to have fun. 📍 The old Populus euphratica forest at Sidaoqiao has dense shade. Lay out a picnic mat under the trees at noon, and while the kids pick fallen leaves and build sandcastles, you can lie back and watch the tree shadows sway—it's incredibly relaxing. Don't take young children for dune bashing in Badain Jaran Desert; they might get dizzy. Just play sand sliding on the dunes at the edge of the scenic area. Rent a sandboard for 20 yuan, and kids can play all afternoon. ⚠️ When entering the desert, make sure your child wears long sleeves and pants. The sand reflects a lot of sunlight, so reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Stay at a local herdsman's home outside the scenic area at night. The conditions are simple but clean. The hand-grabbed lamb and stir-fried scallion eggs for dinner are more authentic than city restaurants. The next morning, you'll open the door to dunes, so you don't have to wake up too early to watch the sunrise. 4️⃣ Zibo | Shandong Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City is truly suitable for a leisurely stroll with kids. Don't enter through the main gate; it's too crowded. 📍 Enter from the North Gate, first explore Main Street, then turn into Yinzishi Street. This route is less crowded, with many shops, so kids will find something new every few steps and won't complain about being tired. There's a Shaobing Museum on the street. Freshly baked Zhoucun shaobing are 2 yuan a bag, so crispy they crumble. Kids can eat while watching the masters hand-make the cakes, their eyes wide with wonder. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The shops will just be opening, the light will be good, and you won't have passersby in your photos. ⚠️ The "Dyeing Workshop" historical site in the Ancient Commercial City is closed on Monday mornings, so don't make a wasted trip. For lunch, eat Boshan cuisine directly in the scenic area. Kids love tofu box and spring rolls, and you can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. There are no big slopes throughout, so strollers are no problem. 5️⃣ Qiqihar | Heilongjiang Zhalong Wetland for red-crowned cranes is a classic example of "kids excited, adults not tired." 📍 The scenic area's shuttle bus takes you directly to the release area observation deck, a walk of no more than 5 minutes, with no climbing involved. ⏰ Red-crowned crane releases happen twice a day, at 10 AM and 3 PM. Just arrive on time. The moment the cranes take flight, kids will gasp in awe; the spectacle is far more impressive than watching cartoons. After the release, take a walk along the boardwalk. The path is flat, and it's windy, making it especially cool in summer. 🍜 The roasted quail egg skewers (actually quail eggs) sold at the scenic area entrance are 10 yuan for three skewers, perfect for kids to snack on when hungry. A taxi from Qiqihar city center takes about 30 minutes, costing around 40 yuan. If your child is young, head back to the city for barbecue after the afternoon viewing; don't linger at the wetland until dark, as there are many mosquitoes. 6️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is a great place for families who love water activities, and you won't need to walk up any mountains. In the Donglan landscape area, 📍 the boardwalks along the Hongshui River are well-maintained. The water is so clear you can see the bottom. Kids can splash and play with pebbles, while you sit on the bank watching the mountain reflections; time flies by. Jiudun Tianchuang is for diving enthusiasts, so you don't need to join the crowd with kids. Just dip your feet in the shallow area nearby; the water is refreshingly cool, super comfortable in summer. ⚠️ The rocks near Tianchuang are slippery, so have your child wear non-slip sandals; don't walk barefoot. Take a bamboo raft into Xiangbei Utopia. The one-way trip is 20 minutes, and kids will sit on the raft watching the bamboo forests on both banks without fussing. Sanliyangdu is better to visit in the afternoon when the light is soft and the water's reflection isn't dazzling, making for beautiful photos. Taxis between these spots are inexpensive, 20 to 30 yuan, so you don't have to bother with transfers when traveling with kids. 7️⃣ Guangyuan | Sichuan Jianmen Pass sounds intimidating, but there's an easy route for families with kids. Don't take the Bird Path or Ape Path; those are for young adventurers. 📍 Take the cable car directly up the mountain to the summit platform for a panoramic view of the pass tower. Then, slowly walk down the gentle slope to the pass tower. The entire route is mostly downhill with few steps, so kids can skip and hop their way down. The open space in front of the pass tower is very spacious. Kids can run around while you sit on a stone bench and enjoy a tofu feast. Jianmen Pass tofu is a specialty. 📍 At "Jiang Wei Tofu Restaurant" near the scenic area entrance, the "Huaitai Tofu" is so good that one child can eat two servings, costing about 30 yuan per person. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM to avoid cable car queues. After 10 AM, it gets crowded with tour groups. ⚠️ Don't rush off after descending. The freshly baked walnut cakes sold on the street outside the scenic area's exit are 5 yuan each, half the price of those inside the scenic area. 8️⃣ Linxia | Gansu Liujiaxia and Bingling Temple offer "grand spectacles" for kids, but with minimal walking. 📍 At Liujiaxia Tourist Resort, drive directly to the reservoir dam observation deck. The Yellow River water is bluer than you'd expect in the north. Kids can lean on the railing to watch the boats, while you enjoy the breeze, feeling completely relaxed. Bingling Temple requires a boat trip, which takes 40 minutes. Kids will be excited on the boat, watching the Danxia landforms on both banks like a cartoon. After disembarking, you don't need to climb too high; just see the Great Buddha and a few main grottoes, which takes about half an hour, then take the boat back. 🍜 The hand-grabbed lamb in Linxia city is also suitable for kids; the meat is tender with no gamey smell. Paired with a bowl of Heyan Mianpian (noodles), both adults and children will be satisfied. ⚠️ The last boat to Bingling Temple departs at 4 PM, so it's best to arrive before noon, otherwise, you'll be left staring. When traveling with kids, slow is fast. Pick one or two places and stay for two nights; don't try to do too much. When you're well-rested and the kids have had fun, that's a worthwhile trip. Share in the comments: Which kid-friendly place have you visited that you found most worry-free?

Only 3 days off for the Mid-Autumn Festival and a budget stuck around 1,000 yuan? Don't panic. I've screened these 8 places for you—they're uncrowded, have stunning scenery, and won't break the bank. As always, I've broken down each destination into a ready-to-use itinerary. 1️⃣ Huzhou City | Zhejiang Don't enter Nanxun Ancient Town from the main gate; it's crowded and expensive. 📍 Enter via the East Street entrance and walk through the alleys where locals live. You'll see salted vegetables and dried fish hanging between white walls and black tiles—it's much more authentic than the commercial streets. ⏰ Visit the main scenic area after 4 PM. The tour groups will have left, and the light hits the eaves of the Baijianlou buildings at an angle, making the water look like crushed silver. This is the perfect time for a sculling boat ride; the boatwoman rows slowly, and the breeze is gentle. 🍜 Don't eat in the scenic area at night. Walk to the old noodle shop at the end of East Street. A bowl of noodles with 2 toppings costs less than 20 yuan, and the braised pork and fried fish are cooked to order. Walk back to your homestay along the river after eating. Admission and food for the day will cost just over 100 yuan. ⚠️ Homestay prices in Nanxun rise quickly on weekends; book a week in advance to save half the cost. 2️⃣ Hechi City | Guangxi The best way to experience Hechi is to immerse yourself in the landscape; I don't recommend rushing between attractions. 📍 The water at Jiudun Sky Window is incredibly clear. Go on a summer afternoon when the sun hits the bottom, and you can see schools of fish darting past your feet. Wild swimming is legal here. ⏰ Start your morning at Donglan Landscape. Before the morning mist clears, the karst peaks are reflected in the Hongshui River—no filters needed. Head back to the county seat at noon for a bowl of sliced rice noodles; 5 yuan will fill you up. In the afternoon, head to the Xiangbei Shangri-La. You need to take a bamboo raft to get there, with bamboo so dense it blocks the sky on both sides. After getting off the boat, you'll need to walk along a ridge path for 10 minutes to reach the village. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip shoes; the ridge paths are very slippery after rain. If you have extra time, the sunset at Sanli Yangdu is worth the wait; the light dyes the river surface the color of honey. Admission plus the bamboo raft costs around 50 yuan per person. Overall expenses in Hechi are very low; 1,000 yuan is enough for 3 days. 3️⃣ Haidong City | Qinghai Haidong is a transit hub for Qinghai, but it's worth spending a day here. 📍 Don't just visit the main exhibition hall at the Huzhu Tu Nationality Hometown. Wander into the village behind it, where Tu mothers make embroidery in their courtyards—if you ask a question, they'll chat with you for half an hour. ⏰ Start your morning at Youning Temple. This temple is tucked away and has very few tourists. Walk along the prayer path and you can hear the prayer flags rustling in the mountain wind. Looking down at the valley, the entire village is spread out like a chessboard beneath your feet. ⚠️ Youning Temple doesn't have a formal admission ticket, but it's customary to take off your shoes before entering the main hall, so wear shoes that are easy to slip off. In the afternoon, head back to Huzhu County and find a small restaurant to eat "dog-licking-urine" cake. The name is strange, but it's actually a sweet fried pancake that goes great with milk tea. 🚄 It only takes 30 minutes to get from Xining to Haidong by high-speed train, costing around 20 yuan. Choose a chain hotel in the county seat for about 150 yuan a night. A 1,000-yuan budget will go a long way here. 4️⃣ Yulin City | Shaanxi Yulin is great for those who love geological wonders, but definitely don't crowd into Wave Valley during holidays. 📍 After navigating to the Wave Valley scenic area, buy the deep tour ticket directly. Spending a few extra dozen yuan allows you to walk into areas without boardwalks, where the patterns in the red sandstone are wilder than in the main area. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM. The low-angle light sweeps across the rock walls, making the patterns look terrifyingly 3D, like waves. Leave at noon and head to Red Stone Gorge in the afternoon. The gorge isn't long, but the cliff carvings in the grottoes on both sides are worth a slow look. When it's uncrowded, you can hear your own footsteps. 🍜 In the evening, go to the Yellow River in Jiaxian and have a bowl of mutton noodles while overlooking the river. The noodles are hand-pulled, and the broth is rich. ⚠️ Accommodation in Jiaxian is average, so I recommend staying in Yulin city, which is a 1-hour drive away. Wave Valley admission plus the deep tour shuttle costs about 150 yuan per person. Including gas, food, and accommodation, 1,000 yuan can cover a 2-day, 1-night trip. 5️⃣ Changde City | Hunan The Peach Blossom Spring scenic area is bigger than you'd imagine; don't try to see it all in 1 day. 📍 When you enter, take the electric cart to Qin Valley first. That's the real Shangri-La—rice paddies, bamboo corridors, and adobe houses, like a place forgotten by time. ⏰ Hide in the forests of Taoyuan Mountain during the hottest part of the afternoon. The ancient trees block the sky, and the stream water is bone-chillingly cool. Come out in the evening and order a pot of stewed chicken with mushrooms at a farm restaurant near the entrance; the soup is incredibly flavorful. ⚠️ Prices in the scenic area are high, and bottled water is sold at double the price, so I recommend bringing your own food. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Changde Station to the scenic area. Admission plus the electric cart costs about 120 yuan per person. Choose a homestay outside the scenic area for about 180 yuan a night. If you only have a weekend, this pace is just right and not tiring. 6️⃣ Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu The highlights of Linxia are split in 2: 1 half is the Yellow River, and the other is the grottoes. 📍 The best thing to do in the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is to take a speedboat to the confluence of the Yellow River and the Tao River. Watching the 2 rivers—1 clear and 1 muddy—collide at your feet creates a boundary line that is 10 times more stunning than any photo. ⏰ In the afternoon, go to the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area. The grottoes are carved into the cliffs, and the Great Buddha faces the Yellow River directly. When the wind blows, it feels like the whole mountain is breathing. ⚠️ You have to take a boat to get to Bingling Temple. The boat ticket plus admission is about 150 yuan per person. Boat schedules are limited, so you must arrive at the pier by 3 PM at the latest. 🍜 In the evening, return to Linxia city to eat hand-grabbed mutton, which costs 60 to 80 yuan per jin, and pair it with Sanpaotai tea to cut the grease. Choose a hotel in the city for about 120 yuan a night. A 1,000-yuan budget will allow you to eat very well here. 7️⃣ Shantou City | Guangdong Nan'ao Island is the most "vacation-like" of these 8 places, but don't be fooled by the social media filters. 📍 After arriving on the island, rent an electric scooter for 60 yuan a day. Riding along the island road with the sea breeze in your face is much freer than driving. ⏰ Arrive at the Tropic of Cancer Square at 5:30 PM. The sunset falls right between the lighthouse and the windmill mountain—whoever takes the photo gets a great shot. 🍜 In the evening, go to Houzhai Town to find a food stall and order a pot of seafood porridge. It's piled high with crabs, shrimp, and clams, and costs about 40 yuan per person—you'll eat until you're stuffed. ⚠️ Hotel prices on Nan'ao Island are ridiculously high on weekends; avoid staying on Saturdays. You can get a sea-view room for under 200 yuan on weekdays. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Shantou Station to Laichang Ferry. Don't take unlicensed taxis after arriving on the island; electric scooters are the most cost-effective. A 2-day, 1-night trip including food, accommodation, and transport costs about 600 yuan per person. 8️⃣ Yichun City | Heilongjiang Yichun is the most off-the-beaten-path and stunning of these 8 places. 📍 The stone forest in the Tangwanghe Forest Stone Scenic Area features rocks in all sorts of strange shapes, as if someone just tossed them into the forest. In autumn, fallen leaves cover the boardwalk, crunching under your feet. ⏰ Enter the forest at noon. The light shines through the birch forest onto the moss, and visibility is extremely high. Climb to the observation deck at the top of the mountain for an endless view of the forest sea, with the scent of pine resin in the wind. ⚠️ There is no food in the scenic area, so bring your own food and water. There are small stalls selling grilled cold noodles at the entrance, but they close by 3 PM. 🚄 The drive from Yichun city to Tangwanghe takes about 2 hours. I recommend chartering a car, which costs about 100 yuan per person. Choose a homestay in Tangwanghe Town for 150 yuan a night, and you can see a sky full of stars at night. A 1,000-yuan budget is enough for 3 days in Yichun, offering great value. To be honest, of these 8 places, I personally prefer Hechi and Linxia—one is wild and free, the other is deep and profound. For your Mid-Autumn trip, don't waste time waiting in lines. Pick 1 close to you, buy a ticket, and go. Let's chat in the comments: which one have you been to?