Gushi travel guide and discussion

Gushi County, Henan, China (Xinyang Prefecture) I stayed here for a good 6 months of my life back in 2016😎 Getting There - A good 4-6 hours from Shanghai hy train Attractions - Street foods that oh so yum! Quiet Temples! Hotels - A few better ones in the heart of the county Food & Restaurants - Everywhere, you can spot a lot of good resto’s and shops for a quick or relaxing time to eat Shopping - Like restaurants, it’s in every corner in the heart of the county #lookingback #rememberwhereypustarted #appreciatewhereyouarenow #wanderingsoul #2016adventure

Must-read Xinyang guide! This hidden gem of a city is so much fun! 👉 Recommended attractions: 1⃣ Nanwan Lake: The lake is vast, surrounded by green mountains, and features a wetland park and a peacock garden. You can rent a boat to tour the lake or take a speedboat for some thrilling surfing! 2⃣ Jigong Mountain: With a forest coverage rate of up to 93%, it's known as a "summer retreat" and is cool and pleasant in the summer. It has attractions like Tianzhu Peak, Baoxiao Peak, and waterfalls, making it well worth a visit! 3⃣ Xijiuhua Mountain: Known as the "Bamboo Sea of the Central Plains," it's filled with dense bamboo forests and fresh air. It also offers exciting activities like canyon rafting and a glass skywalk, perfect for adventure lovers! 🍜 Recommended food: 1⃣ Xinyang cuisine: Based on Henan cuisine and combined with local ingredients and flavors, Xinyang cuisine has a unique taste. I recommend trying Xinyang xiaolongbao, grilled fish, and stewed chicken—you must give them a try! 2⃣ Oil tea: Xinyang's oil tea is very famous and is a popular breakfast snack. Made with tea oil, tea leaves, peanuts, sesame, and more, it has a rich, delicious flavor! 🏨 Recommended accommodation: 1⃣ Jigong Mountain Resort: This is one of the most famous resorts in Xinyang, with a beautiful environment and complete facilities. It features villas, gardens, a swimming pool, and more, making it perfect for family trips! 2⃣ Nanwan Lake Resort: Located near Nanwan Lake, the environment is quiet and beautiful. There are lake-view rooms and lake-view villas available, which are very comfortable! 3⃣ Xijiuhua Mountain Hotel: Located within the Xijiuhua Mountain scenic area, the environment is tranquil. There are guest rooms and villas available, making it very convenient!

🧾 First, the bottom line | Xinyang in September is truly underrated 🍂 In September, daytime temperatures in Xinyang are around 29°C, dropping to about 20°C at night🌡️. It's cooler on the mountains; the summit of Jigong Mountain is actually 7–10°C cooler than the city center❄️. This weather is a total gift! To be honest, though, it rains occasionally in Xinyang in September🌧️, and if you don't bring an umbrella, you'll really struggle. My 3-day, 2-night trip cost about 800–1,300 yuan per person (including round-trip high-speed rail). Students can save even more💰. These prices are a breath of fresh air among tourist cities. 🏨 Accommodation tips (no-fail recommendations)🛏️ Take my advice and choose the Shihe District first! It's close to the city center with plenty of restaurants and supermarkets, and it's convenient for getting to Nanwan Lake and Jigong Mountain🚗. I stayed at a budget homestay near the train station/Dongfanghong Avenue, and the value for money was incredible👌. For those with a bigger budget, I strongly advise against staying in the city center! Go straight for the homestays around Nanwan Lake for lake views right outside your window and a great atmosphere🌊; or try a homestay on the summit of Jigong Mountain (280–550 yuan/night) to wake up early the next day and watch the sunrise over the sea of clouds—it's breathtaking🌅. I booked in advance on Trip.com and saved quite a bit compared to paying on-site. ⚠️ A hard-learned lesson: Never trust the unlicensed drivers at the entrance who claim they can get you "up the mountain for 10 yuan without a ticket." My friend fell for it last time and ended up having a miserable experience—don't be that naive! Buying tickets through official channels on Trip.com is the safest bet. 💰 Popular price guide | Spend your money wisely Jigong Mountain admission is 59.9 yuan, plus 99.9 yuan for the round-trip sightseeing bus (you must buy this! Walking up the 9km mountain road is a terrible idea)🚌. Nanwan Lake admission + boat ticket is 95 yuan🚤. Haotang Village and Wenxin Tea Village are free🆓, and Boulden Forest Park is also very affordable🌲. Food is dirt cheap💸: Hot dry noodles are 5–8 yuan a bowl🍜, Luoshan pork intestine soup is 15 yuan a bowl (perfect with rice), Gushi goose meat is 30–45 yuan per person for a filling meal🦢, and night market barbecue is about 50 yuan per person for a feast🍢. Stone jelly is 5 yuan a bowl—a refreshing treat with mint juice and lemon🥤. I had a meal of skewers and Gushi goose at the Xiaonanmen Night Market, and it cost less than 100 yuan for two people. I was devastated when I got back to Shanghai—the price difference makes me want to move here immediately😭. 🚶‍♀️ My lazy itinerary (no rushing)🌿 Day 1 | Slow stroll in the city + local vibes Arrive at Xinyang East Station by high-speed rail in the morning, take a taxi straight to Shihe District to drop off luggage🧳. First, head to the Penjing Garden breakfast street for a bowl of spicy hot dry noodles with tofu skin—breakfast for 5–8 yuan😋. In the afternoon, visit Shihe Park and the Xinyang Museum, then take a walk along the Shihe River promenade in the evening. At night, hit the Xiaonanmen Night Market for Yangji Pork Intestine Soup, Daishi Barbecue, and stone jelly—the top choice for locals for late-night snacks✨. Day 2 | A breath of fresh air on Jigong Mountain Wake up early and take a 1-hour taxi to the Jigong Mountain Visitor Center🚙. Honestly, I don't recommend hiking up; taking the 40-yuan sightseeing bus straight to the summit is the smart choice. Explore the International Villa Cluster, Yilu, and the Soong Mei-ling Ballroom, then climb Baoxiaofeng Peak to see the scenery of both Henan and Hubei provinces⛰️. The streams and waterfalls in Changsheng Valley are super healing💧, but the steps are steep, so if you have bad knees, I suggest taking the shuttle bus instead. Return to the city for the night; it's not tiring at all. Day 3 | Relaxing at Nanwan Lake + Haotang Village In the morning, take a boat tour on Nanwan Lake🚤, visit Tea Island to experience tea picking, and feed migratory birds on Bird Island🐦. For lunch, have Nanwan fish head soup at a lakeside farmhouse—milky white, fresh, and sweet, 68 yuan for a pot that serves 3–4 people🐟. In the afternoon, head to Haotang Village to see the southern Henan-style houses surrounded by streams and trees, and enjoy free sightseeing and farmhouse food🏡. Head back in the evening, feeling completely relaxed. 💡 A few tips that saved me from a breakdown: Don't recommend going up to Baoxiaofeng Peak on Jigong Mountain after 4:00 PM; it gets dark and the roads are dangerous⚠️. Prices at the mobile stalls at the entrance are doubled, so prioritize established restaurants for meals🚫. There's a big temperature difference between day and night on the mountain, so bring a light jacket or you'll suffer🧥. The UV rays are still strong in September, so don't skimp on sunscreen🌞. Xinyang is truly an underrated city. It's half misty Jiangnan rain, half northern mountain wilderness, with low prices, fewer crowds, and a slow pace🍃. If you're tired of overcrowded tourist traps, come to Xinyang in September to relax for a few days; your soul will be cleansed by the breeze from the tea mountains🌬️. I booked my homestay and tickets in advance on Trip.com, so I just swiped my ID card to enter—it was incredibly smooth✈️. Xinyang is worth setting aside a week in September for.

I came all excited and almost ran into a bunch of pitfalls💣 If you're planning to come, copy this honest firsthand guide! 🎫|Admission pitfalls ✅The attraction is free to visit. Bring your ID to register for entry ❌Don't trust roadside guides who falsely claim there's an admission fee There is no official paid guide service. Don't pay for unofficial guides Informational signs are posted inside. You can read them on your own 🚗|Transportation pitfalls⚠️ It's in Chenji Town, far from Gushi county seat Public transportation runs infrequently. Waiting for a ride can take a long time ▫️Driving is preferred. Free parking is available ▫️If you take a taxi here, be sure to arrange your return ride in advance Ride-hailing is hard to get in town, so you might get stuck there! 📸|Photo tips ▪️Flash photography is prohibited inside the main hall. Do not touch the ancient steles or wood carvings ▪️The courtyard has dense greenery and lots of mosquitoes. Be sure to bring insect repellent ▪️There are no shops or restaurants on site. Bring water and snacks ✨|Highlights The thousand-year-old shrine is full of ancient charm and a pilgrimage site for Chen clan members from home and abroad🌿 Don't miss the stele gallery and the main worship hall to experience the clan's ancestral culture Overall visit time: 1–1.5 hours The venue is solemn. Please remain quiet and respect shrine etiquette Has anyone visited the Chen family general shrine?🙋 What other pitfalls did you run into? Share them in the comments!

The summer heat in Zhengzhou can be stifling, and popular tourist spots are always packed. I’ve handpicked 4 quiet, uncrowded small cities reachable within 1.5 hours by high-speed rail. Taking the kids for a slow, leisurely trip without having to rush was such a great experience 😌 Handan 1h 22 mins direct by high-speed rail ✨Trip highlights Guangfu Ancient City retains its original old-town charm. The city walls are filled with locals cooling off, without the noisy crowds of influencers or vendors. Kids can squat by the moat to watch grandpas fishing or run freely on the bluestone paths. The caves at Xiangtangshan Grottoes are cool and refreshing. It's so uncrowded that you can get close enough to see the details of the statues. Telling the kids stories about the Northern Dynasties while looking at the real artifacts is much easier to understand than a picture book. Congtai Park is a true local backyard; there are yellow duck pedal boats on the lake, and the tree-lined paths provide dense shade, so you won't get sunburned even after walking all afternoon. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Depart from Zhengzhou, have lunch upon arrival, visit Congtai Park in the afternoon, and watch the light show at Longhu Lake in the evening. Day 2: Spend the whole day at Guangfu Ancient City, walk the city walls, see Hongji Bridge, and explore the wetlands outside the city to see the reeds in the evening. Day 3: Visit Xiangtangshan Grottoes in the morning and take the high-speed rail back in the afternoon. 🍜Food recommendations Braised pork knuckle in a baked bun is savory and filling, the hand-pulled noodles are chewy and smooth, Wu'an ramen is fresh and flavorful, and the roadside iced almond tea is refreshing and cooling. ⚠️Travel tips You don't need to buy sightseeing tickets for Guangfu Ancient City; it's better to stroll around slowly. The caves are 7–8 degrees cooler than outside, so remember to bring a light cardigan for the kids. Jincheng 1h 10 mins direct by high-speed rail ✨Trip highlights Huangcheng Xiangfu is a well-preserved complex of Qing Dynasty official residences. There are folk welcoming performances in the morning that will keep the kids mesmerized. The city wall paths are flat and stroller-friendly. Wangmangling has an average temperature of only 22°C during the hottest days of summer, with pine forests covering the mountains. The paths are well-maintained, and if you're lucky, you might see a sea of clouds. You can take a shuttle bus to see the cliff-hanging road without having to walk. Diji Castle is a Ming Dynasty fortress hidden in a village, with walls built entirely from iron-smelting crucibles. It's so niche that there are almost no tourists, and kids can run around freely touching the old walls. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Depart from Zhengzhou, have the local "Ten Bowls" meal for lunch, visit Diji Castle in the afternoon, and stay at a homestay near the castle. Day 2: Spend the whole day at Huangcheng Xiangfu and stay for the evening performance. Day 3: Visit the core scenic area of Wangmangling in the morning and return in the afternoon. 🍲Food recommendations The stir-fried pork is tender and goes well with rice, the stir-fried jelly noodles are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, Jincheng braised green onions are tender and fragrant, and the coarse grain noodles have a rich, savory broth. ⚠️Travel tips There is a large temperature difference between day and night on the mountain, so bring a long-sleeved jacket even in the hottest summer days. The ground inside the castle is uneven, so be sure to wear non-slip sneakers. Heze 1h 18 mins direct by high-speed rail ✨Trip highlights Water Margin Hero City has many open-air folk performances, with acrobatics and storytelling taking turns. Kids can squat by the stage for half an hour watching them. The Song Dynasty-style streets are quiet and uncrowded, making for great photos. The surface of Fulong Lake is so wide it seems endless, with soft lawns and shallow beaches all along the lake. Bring a picnic mat and you can sit there all afternoon. Take a boat ride to explore the center of the lake. Caozhou Ancient City is beautifully lit at night. There are no noisy influencer shops, just local trinkets, and it's very comfortable to catch the evening breeze along the moat. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Depart from Zhengzhou, have lamb soup for lunch to warm up, visit Caozhou Ancient City in the afternoon, and wait for the lights to come on in the evening. Day 2: Spend the whole day at Fulong Lake, ride family bikes, take a boat ride, and have a picnic on the lawn when tired. Day 3: Visit Water Margin Hero City to watch performances in the morning and return in the afternoon. 🥣Food recommendations Shanxian lamb soup is milky white and has no gamey taste, so even kids can drink it. The "zhuangmo" is crispy and filled with meat, and the caramel sesame flatbread is sweet and chewy. ⚠️Travel tips There is little shade along Fulong Lake, so make sure to apply enough sunscreen. The performances at Hero City have fixed schedules, so just take a photo of the program list when you enter to plan your time. Xinyang 1h 28 mins direct by high-speed rail ✨Trip highlights Jigong Mountain is covered with century-old villas, and the shade of the plane trees covers the entire mountain road. The mountain breeze carries the scent of grass and trees. The road is full of locals coming to escape the heat, so there's no feeling of stuffiness at all. The water in Nanwan Lake is crystal blue, and the islands scattered on the lake look like emeralds. Take a boat to Bird Island to feed deer and monkeys, visit Tea Island to see tea picking and processing, and play in the water at the shallows. The West City Wetland Park hides a large lotus pond. When the lotuses bloom in summer, the road is filled with their fragrance. The wooden boardwalks are flat and stroller-friendly, and there are almost no tourists. 🗓️Itinerary Day 1: Depart from Zhengzhou, have Nanwan fish for lunch, visit Shihe Park in the afternoon, and go to the Xiguan district for snacks in the evening. Day 2: Spend the whole day at Nanwan Lake, visit Bird Island and Tea Island one by one, and return to the city in the evening. Day 3: Hike up Jigong Mountain to see the old villas in the morning and return in the afternoon. 🍱Food recommendations The Nanwan fish soup is incredibly fresh and delicious, Gushi goose meat is slightly spicy and flavorful, Xinyang hot dry noodles have a rich sesame sauce, and chestnut porridge is sweet, soft, and perfect for kids. ⚠️Travel tips The boat schedule for Nanwan Lake is fixed, so try to catch an early boat to the islands. You can take a sightseeing bus to the top of Jigong Mountain and then walk down to save a lot of energy. Traveling with kids doesn't have to mean joining the crowds at popular tourist spots. These small cities have a slow pace and low prices. You can wake up, head out, and just wander wherever you like. It's much more comfortable than rushing from place to place 😌

A 4-day Xinyang itinerary 📝 👇 🏔️ Must-visit attractions | 4 is enough Jigong Mountain ⛰️: One of China's 4 major summer resorts. The mountain is dotted with an international architectural complex; old villas like Yilu and the Soong Mei-ling Ballroom are perfect for photos. Hike up Baoxia Peak in the early morning to see the sea of clouds. It's 6–8°C cooler than the city center in summer. The essence is hiking Baoxia Peak + the international architectural complex. Nanwan Lake 🌊: Known as the "Jiangnan of the North, the North of Jiangnan." It covers 80 sq km of water with 61 islands scattered across the lake. Take a boat to Tea Island to pick tea and taste Maojian, or visit Bird Island to see egrets. Boating on the lake and island hopping to watch birds is the classic way to play. Haotang Village 🏡: A cluster of southern Henan dwellings surrounded by streams and green trees. White walls and black tiles paired with lotus ponds—it's comfortable for cycling or strolling, and it's free. Wenxin Tea Village/Bolder Forest Park 🍃: Wenxin Tea Village has free admission. With 10,000 mu of tea gardens + tea-picking experiences, it's an important tea tourism landmark in Xinyang; Bolder Forest Park has a 44 yuan admission fee, featuring a boardwalk through the bald cypress forest + the source of the Huai River. It's Xinyang's natural oxygen bar. 💰 Budget travel | Done for 500 per person · Jigong Mountain admission: 59.9 yuan; Nanwan Lake admission + boat ticket: 70 yuan (student/teacher tickets are the same price); Bolder Forest Park: 44 yuan; Haotang Village and Wenxin Tea Village are free. · There are tourist shuttle lines from the city center to Nanwan Lake/Jigong Mountain, about 10 yuan one way; shared e-bikes in the old town are 3 yuan/ride. · For accommodation, choose a tea mountain homestay or a city hotel; a standard room is about 150 yuan. · A 2-day, 1-night trip can be done for 500 yuan per person. Students can just focus their budget on Jigong Mountain + Nanwan Lake. 💡 Spring (around Qingming Festival) is the best time to visit Xinyang to catch the tea picking at Wenxin Tea Village and the egrets gathering at Nanwan Lake's Bird Island. 🥘 Food recommendations | Xinyang cuisine is truly underrated Xinyang is the only local cuisine in Henan that blends northern and southern flavors, known as the "Hometown of Chinese Stewed Dishes" 🍲 · Nanwan Fish Head Soup: Stewed wild big fish, the soup is as thick as milk—a must-order. · Braised Meat in Pot (Menguan Rou): Salty, fresh, and slightly spicy; a representative Xinyang dish. · Gushi Goose: Red, shiny, and oily; the salty and spicy sauce is perfect with rice. · Luoshan Intestine Soup: The intestines are tender and odorless, served with local herbs to cut the grease. · Breakfast Trio: Xinyang hot dry noodles (red oil version, richer sesame flavor than Wuhan's) + egg pancake (originated here) + beef ball spicy soup. · Snacks to finish: Stone jelly, Maojian milk tea, spoon buns, and tofu skin rolls with fried dough sticks. · Where to go for night markets: Xiaonanmen Night Market, Shihe Fireworks (from Maojian Bridge to Xiguan Bridge), and Xinshenhe Night Market. Get grilled fish + stone jelly + egg pancake all in one go. ✨ My honest thoughts Wandering through the international architectural complex on Jigong Mountain, I really felt like I was in a "Twilight Forest." Taking a boat to Tea Island on Nanwan Lake, holding a cup of pre-Qingming Maojian tea while looking at the islands on the lake—that sense of relaxation is Xinyang's unique "gentle river breeze + northern boldness." Cycling by the lotus ponds in Haotang Village and the tea-picking experience at Wenxin Tea Village don't cost much, but they are the most touching memories of Xinyang 🌿 📌 Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to visit. Summer is also great for escaping the heat on Jigong Mountain, while winter is a bit quiet. Overall, prices are low, and most attractions are free or cost just a few dozen yuan. You can have a great time even with a monthly salary of 3,000.

Don't yell at me yet! Hear me out🙏 Xinyang is truly beautiful, with mountains, clear waters, and the scent of tea filling the city. But I went at the end of September and was almost taught a lesson that made me want to rebook my flight home right then and there. Slippery roads in the rain, muggy and humid, crowded, bad homestay experiences... If you must go at this time, please read this survival guide, which I earned with 3 blisters on my feet! 🏠 Where to stay without getting burned (hard-learned lessons) Definitely don't stay in those "Instagrammable" homestays in the mountains that look beautiful but lack air conditioning! Xinyang is still stiflingly hot in September, and you won't be able to sleep at night without AC. Your best bet is the downtown Shihe District or Yangshan New District, where you can stay comfortably for 200–400 yuan. If you want to visit Jigong Mountain or Nanwan Lake, just do a day trip. Don't stay inside the scenic areas; it's expensive and damp, and the quilts can be wrung out with water. 🍜 What to eat so your trip isn't wasted (food is the only cure) Xinyang cuisine is amazing! You must try Gushi goose chunks. The goose meat is tender, the broth is spicy, and dipping the guokui flatbread into the soup is heavenly. Nanwan fish head is a signature dish. Find a reliable farmhouse restaurant, and the fish head stewed with tofu is incredibly fresh. Xinyang hot dry noodles are different from Wuhan's. The sesame paste is richer and thicker, and you must add tofu skin and bean sprouts. Luoshan pork intestine soup is a godsend for lovers of strong flavors. The intestines are cleaned well and stewed until tender. Chestnut braised chicken is great in September when chestnuts are in season—sweet, soft, and flavorful. For the night market, head straight to Xiaonanmen for a full range of barbecue and snacks, full of local vibes. 🗺️ Three-day itinerary (backup plan for rainy days) Day 1: Downtown basics 🏙️ After arriving, stay in Shihe District. In the afternoon, visit the Xinyang Museum (a great place to avoid the rain, and the Chu state chime bells and bronzeware are worth seeing) → In the evening, take a walk along the river in Shihe Park → At night, feast at the Xiaonanmen night market to recharge. Day 2: Nanwan Lake + Tea Mountain 🌊 In the morning, go to Nanwan Lake (buy a boat ticket to the island. Don't go to Monkey Island, as it's full of monkeys that steal things! Bird Island is fine to just look at) → In the afternoon, visit Hejiazhai Tea Garden (the birthplace of Maojian tea, where the tea trees covering the mountains look great in photos) → In the evening, return to the city for a bowl of stone jelly to cool off. Day 3: Jigong Mountain (go with the flow) ⛰️ Check the weather early in the morning. If it's sunny, head to Jigong Mountain (Baoxia Peak is a must, but hiking is tiring, so definitely take the cable car). If it's raining, change plans and visit Haojiachong Village to explore the ancient village, as the old houses of southern Henan in the rain and mist have their own charm. 📸 Photo spots (but please, no rain) · Hejiazhai Tea Garden: Tea trees covering the mountains + distant peaks. Wear a light-colored dress and stand on the ridge for a fresh, airy look. · Nanwan Lake Dam: The lake is vast, and it's perfect for silhouettes when the light is soft in the evening. · Jigong Mountain Baoxia Peak: You can see a sea of clouds if the weather is good, but the odds are like winning the lottery. · Shihe River night view: City lights reflecting on the water; it looks great in casual snapshots while walking. · Shuixianqiao Village: Southern Henan dwellings + small bridges and flowing water; it has a misty, Jiangnan-style atmosphere on rainy days. ⚠️ A guide to avoiding pitfalls (summary of reasons to reconsider) 1. September is muggy, and October is rainy! The "autumn tiger" heat can leave you feeling sticky, and October is prone to continuous rain, making mountain roads slippery and ruining the experience. 2. Definitely don't go to Nanwan Lake's Monkey Island! The monkeys steal bags and glasses. Don't take kids there; if they get scared and cry, no one will help. 3. Jigong Mountain tickets are expensive, and there are traffic jams! The road up the mountain on weekends will make you question your life choices, and the cable car queue is at least 2 hours long. 4. Be careful with tea-picking experiences; many are just for show, and they only push hard for you to buy tea. If you're shy, don't go. 5. The actual homestays are often very different from the photos online. They are damp and moldy in the mountains, so be sure to check the latest negative reviews. 6. Don't trust people soliciting diners on the side of the road. They might point to a live fish, but serve a dead one. Go to established restaurants with clearly marked prices. 7. There are so many mosquitoes and bugs in the mountains it's unbelievable. Bring mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream; I was bitten so much I couldn't sleep all night. 8. Transportation is inconvenient. Bus schedules are sparse, and taxis often refuse rides or overcharge. If you can drive, don't rely on public transport. I've been to Xinyang twice, once in the spring and once in September. It was so beautiful in the spring I could cry, and I wanted to cry while running away in September. I sincerely recommend rescheduling for April or May, when the mountains are full of fresh green Maojian tea, the temperature is just right, and there are more sunny days. If you must go in September–October, prepare yourself mentally, bring all your gear, lower your expectations, and focus on eating. At least Xinyang cuisine can comfort your wounded heart 🥹

After retirement, there's no need to compete on step counts or rush for the last train. Just hop off the high-speed train, grab a taxi, and you're at the old streets or the riverside. These 5 cities perfectly capture that slow-paced autumn vibe 🍂🚄 Xingyang 📍Must-visit: Gubaidu: Walk along the Yellow River levee for a bit. When the reeds turn yellow and the water looks gray, just sit on a bench and enjoy the breeze without it stinging your face 🌾🌊 | Huancuiyu: Only walk the first section of stone steps and the old temple courtyard. The autumn leaves filter light onto the brick walls, and it's peaceful enough without climbing the whole valley 🏯 | Honggou Ruins: Stand by the viewing platform for a while. The old trenches, ancient jujube trees, and distant fields each have their own charm—much more relaxing than reading history books 🪨 🍜What to eat: Peel a couple of Xingyang Heyin pomegranates and eat them slowly; the seeds are soft and not sour. For Huimian at the old street, just order the clear broth wide noodles with a few slices of lamb; the oil is skimmed off lightly, and it's not too heavy. Order a small portion of Mianzi fried until the edges are slightly crispy, with just a touch of garlic sauce. Finish with half a persimmon cake and hot tea; the sweetness is very restrained 🥣🍂 Xinyang 📍Must-visit: Jigongshan: Just walk the gentle slope of the old street from Yilu to the Soong Mei-ling Villa. The international-style buildings are faded, and sycamore leaves cover the ground—it's a nostalgic scene even without taking the cable car 🏛️🍁 | Nanwan Lake: Take a boat ride for half a lap and get off near the pier. Viewing the tea islands and bird islands from a distance is more comfortable than squeezing onto the shore 🌊 | Haotang Village: Don't rush to join the sketching groups. Wander through the alleys to see old houses, withered lotus stems, and drying corn. The locals sit on their doorsteps, ignoring the cameras 🏡 🍜What to eat: Only order a small pot of Gushi goose; the broth is clear and not gamey, and the meat falls off the bone. It's perfect with half a piece of Guokui flatbread. Xinyang hot dry noodles are a bit moister than the Wuhan version and don't choke you. The braised meat with dried vegetables is cooked just right and not greasy. Brew a small cup of new Maojian tea and sip it slowly with a piece of sponge cake while enjoying the autumn light 🍵🥢 Yichang 📍Must-visit: Binjiang Park: Take a slow walk along the river levee to Zhenjiang Pavilion. The autumn sun hits the distant Gezhouba Dam line, and sitting on a bench is easier on the legs than going up to the viewing platform 🌊🍂 | Sanyou Cave: Don't explore the whole cave. Just look at the green cliffs where the Xialao Creek narrows from the outer corridor; the breeze coming through the gorge is just right 🏞️ | Chexi: Only walk the first half of the Tujia old village. Waterwheels, old mills, and yellow leaves falling on blue tiles—it's best without the crowded performance areas 🪵 | Mobishan: Only go up to the middle platform. The 10 minutes when the Yangtze River bends and the city lights just turn on are worth more than climbing to the top 🌆 🍜What to eat: Radish dumplings are deep-fried on the spot at the street corner; the skin is thin and not greasy, and the shredded radish has a hint of pepper that warms the throat. A small bowl of Liangxia (cold shrimp jelly) without too much sugar, with just a few drops of osmanthus honey, is perfect. The pan-fried potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside; sprinkle some chili powder on them—it's not too spicy. A small portion of fat fish tofu soup is served; it's creamy and not greasy, and the meat is tender and boneless. This bowl is the most comforting thing after a walk in the river breeze 🐟🍶 Xianyang 📍Must-visit: Xianyang Lake: Stroll along the west bank near the water for half a lap. Autumn willows hang down, the stone bridge is short, and sitting on a bench watching the gray light on the Wei River is more comfortable than squeezing into Unity Square 🌊 | Qingwei Tower: Go in the morning. The three colors of the old brick terrace, eaves, and distant plains are just right and not overwhelming; you don't need to climb to the top to feel the ancient vibe 🏯 | Hanyangling: Only walk the outer wall and the ginkgo path. The yellow leaves falling on the burial mounds in October are much quieter than the big crowds at the Terracotta Warriors 🍂🪶 | Old Street: Just wander through half the alley. The scent of noodles, vinegar, and old door paint mixed together—the slow pace of local elders sunning themselves is more worth watching than any information board 🏮 🍜What to eat: Only order a small portion of Huitong noodles, dry-mixed with a little bit of braised meat sauce; it's not greasy or clumpy, and the alkaline flavor is still there. A small piece of Xianyang amber candy with hot tea is enough. Only tear off half a Puji chicken; the skin isn't hard, the meat isn't dry, and dipping the bread in the broth is just right. For Biangbiang noodles, get a small bowl of the narrow version; the chili is fragrant without overpowering the noodles, and a side of pickled vegetables is perfect 🍜🥢 Mianyang 📍Must-visit: Yuewang Tower: Stand by the Fu River for a while. In the evening, when the city lights just turn on and the river reflects orange and gray, it's enough to feel the old Tang Dynasty vibe without climbing the whole tower 🌆 | Qiqushan Temple: Only walk half of the ancient cypress path. The Han and Tang cypresses break the light into pieces, and the smell of incense ash isn't choking or crowded 🌲🏯 | Fule Mountain: Walk along the gentle slope for half a lap. Maple leaves, ginkgo trees, and old pavilions each have their own corner; sitting on a bench is more comfortable than rushing to the stele forest 🍁 | Yaowang Valley: Don't chase the flower season; just walk the first section of stone steps in the forest. The autumn colors leaking onto the rock walls are more worth seeing than any photo op 🪨 🍜What to eat: Only order a small bowl of red broth or clear broth fine rice noodles; the beef oil is light, and the noodles aren't clumpy. A bowl in the morning is the best way to experience the local morning vibe 🍜. The Zitong pastry is fresh out of the oven, not hard or soggy—just break off half and eat it. Only order a small plate of Lengzhanzhan (dipping snacks); the dipping sauce is savory and doesn't coat your mouth. A small portion of braised chicken is served, not greasy, and it's perfect with half a bowl of rice. Finish with a cup of Ophiopogon drink or a piece of walnut pastry; the sweetness is light and doesn't stick in your throat 🥮🍵 Didn't rush through a big list, didn't visit crowded hotspots. This retirement trip was just about finding places where you don't have to struggle at the station exit, can sit down by old walls and riverbanks, and enjoy a small, warm bowl of food. No one complained about sore legs on the way back 🌬️🛤️

Honestly, I'm tired of popular cities. It's either crowds or lines, and attraction tickets get more expensive every year. This time, I've dug up 8 places where you can truly slow down. Some of them even locals might not have fully explored. If you've been to more than 3, I salute you as a true traveler. 01 Zhuhai | Guangdong Don't just think of Chimelong when you hear Zhuhai. I suggest you save Chimelong for the last day of your trip and leave the first two days for the truly comfortable side of Zhuhai. In the morning, head to Lovers' Road, but don't just walk from one end to the other. 📍 Rent a shared bike starting from the Haitian Station section and ride along the coastline to the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue, which takes about 40 mins. This stretch has plenty of shade and just the right amount of sea breeze, saving you half the effort compared to walking the whole way. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM; the whole road is filled with locals out for their morning run, with almost no tourists. At noon, head over to Chaoyang Market; don't eat seafood at the entrance of tourist attractions. Pick your own on the first floor of the market, then find any shop on the second floor to have it cooked. The cooking fee is charged by weight. 🍜 I recommend buying flower crabs and mantis shrimp; they are very plump this season. For two people, the total cost for buying and cooking is just over CNY 200, half the price of a restaurant. 02 Xinyang | Henan I cast my vote for Xinyang as the most underrated city in Henan. It has a humid, small-town feel typical of the south, completely different from the Central Plains you might imagine. Jigong Mountain is the main event, but definitely don't go on a weekend. I arrived on a Wednesday morning, and there was almost no line for the cable car. ⏰ I suggest heading up the mountain before 9:00 AM while the clouds and mist haven't dispersed yet; the whole mountain looks like it's soaking in milk. It takes about 1.5 hours to climb to Baoxiao Peak. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket. Don't take the same route back down. 📍 Coming down from the south slope, you'll pass through a cedar forest where sunlight filters through at an angle, covering the ground in "broken gold." Almost no one takes this path, but the scenery is much better than the main road. You'll finish around 2:00 PM, just in time to find a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain for a meal. 🍜 You must order Xinyang stew, especially the Gushi goose chunks; the soup is incredibly savory. 03 Huangshi | Hubei Many people's impression of Huangshi is that it's a dusty mining and smelting city. I only realized my perspective was too narrow after I went there. The city hides an island called Chengyue Island, and the name alone is ethereal. 📍 It's right in the middle of Ci Lake. You have to take a boat from the Huxin Park pier; the round-trip ticket is CNY 20. There's almost no one on the island, just a few old willow trees and a wooden boardwalk around the island. ⏰ It's most comfortable to go to the island after 4:00 PM when the sun is lower and the lake surface is covered in "broken silver." It only takes 40 mins to walk around the island, but you'll want to sit down and zone out for a long time. I sat on a bench by the lake watching an elderly couple feed wild ducks for nearly an hour, and it didn't feel like a waste of time at all. This is the rhythm of Huangshi. In the evening, go to the old streets in Xialu District for dinner. 04 Dongying | Shandong Dongying is a surprising city. Even though it's by the sea, not many people come here to see it; everyone crowds into Qingdao and Yantai. That's fine, it leaves me alone to quietly watch the Yellow River flow into the sea. The Yellow River Delta Eco-Tourism Zone is the main event. ⚠️ Note: The scenic area is huge, so you must take the electric shuttle; don't think you can just walk. 🚄 It takes about 50 mins by taxi from the city center. I recommend chartering a car so it's easier to get a ride back. I chartered one for the whole day, and the driver waited for me outside the scenic area for a total of CNY 300. ⏰ You must arrive at the Yuanwang Tower around 3:00 PM. The light is best then, and you can see the clear dividing line where the Yellow River water meets the Bohai Sea water. One side is yellow and the other is blue, like nature is painting a picture. There's also a large wetland in the scenic area, filled with reeds that rustle when the wind blows, and you can see red-crowned cranes flying by. 05 Yushu | Qinghai I hesitated for a long time about whether to write about this place. I'm afraid that if I write about it, it won't be quiet anymore. Hoh Xil is not a tourist attraction; there are no tickets and no fences—it's true wilderness. 📍 Starting from Yushu city, drive along National Highway 215 towards Zhiduo, which is about a 2-hour drive. You'll see Tibetan antelopes grazing by the roadside, close enough to see the fuzz on their ears. ⚠️ I must remind you: the average altitude here is over 4,500 meters. Don't do strenuous exercise, don't take a shower, and spend the first night in Yushu acclimatizing. The first time I went, I was so excited that I ran a few steps on the grassland and ended up with a headache all night. The Sanjiangyuan National Park is even more incredible. This is the source of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers, and the water is that translucent blue-green color. 06 Linfen | Shanxi Linfen itself is very "Shanxi"—substantial, solid, and understated. But the things hidden in the surrounding areas are absolutely mind-blowing. The Yellow River Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area must be the first place you visit. ⚠️ But you must choose the right time. I suggest you stay in Linfen city the night before and set off early the next morning. 🚄 The drive is about 1.5 hours, so get there right when the scenic area opens at 8:00 AM. There are fewer people then, and you can stand in the position closest to the waterfall and feel the water mist on your face. 🍜 Don't rush off after seeing the waterfall. On the way back to Linfen, pass through Ji County and find a shop to eat a bowl of knife-cut noodles with Shanxi aged vinegar; it'll bring you back to life. Then in the afternoon, go to the Hongdong Dahuaishu Ancestor Root-Seeking Garden. You don't need a guide here; just walk around slowly on your own. You can dedicate the second day to Mount Yunqiu. 07 Ankang | Shaanxi Ankang in southern Shaanxi has a completely different face from northern Shaanxi. It's like the south of the Yangtze River, full of greenery, with water vapor in the air. Qianceng River is a summer retreat kept secret by the locals. 📍 It's in Langao County, about a 1-hour drive from the city center. The scenic area follows the river valley, with layers of cascading waterfalls stacked like a mille-feuille cake. The water is emerald green and crystal clear, and you can see small fish swimming by your feet. ⏰ It's best to go in the summer when the temperature is 5–6 degrees lower than in the city—a natural air-conditioned room. The Fengyan Ancient Terraced Fields are in Hanyin County, and spring and autumn are two different worlds. In spring, when the fields are flooded for rice planting, the entire terrace looks like broken mirrors spread across the hillside; in autumn, the rice turns yellow, creating layers of golden waves. I went in May, just in time for the rice planting season. Standing high up and looking down, with clouds and mist wrapping around the terraces, it was so beautiful I was speechless. 08 Beijing Don't yell at me yet. I know Beijing isn't an "off-the-beaten-path" destination, but do you really know how to enjoy the "four-piece set" of the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park? The right way to experience the Forbidden City is the afternoon session. ⏰ Avoid the morning crowds, enter the park after 12:00 PM, and head towards the Western Palaces. Tour groups are all crowded on the central axis, but you can enjoy the quiet of the Cining Palace Garden all to yourself. ⚠️ You must book tickets on the official mini-program 7 days in advance; there are absolutely no tickets available on the day during peak season. The Treasure Gallery and the Clock and Watch Gallery require separate tickets, but it's worth it—CNY 10 is a bargain. Don't enter the Summer Palace from the East Palace Gate. 📍 Enter from the North Palace Gate, climb up Longevity Hill first, and then explore downwards from the top. This way, you're walking downhill the whole time, which isn't tiring, and you can overlook the panoramic view of Kunming Lake. Temple of Heaven Park is the locals' favorite place for morning exercises. 🍜 After you're done, go to the Ciqikou Douzhi shop for a bowl of douzhi (fermented mung bean milk) with jiaoquan (fried dough rings).

01 Wanning | Hainan If you're visiting Hainan for National Day, skip the crowds in Sanya. Prices in Wanning are about half of Sanya's, but the ocean is just as stunning. 📍 Shimei Bay. Arrive before 9:00 AM, and the beach is so empty you can hear the waves breaking. Rent a scooter and ride slowly along the coastal road. The wind rushing past your ears is more healing than any tourist attraction. Riyue Bay is better in the afternoon. Surf shops are lined up one after another. Even if you don't surf, you can order an iced coconut and sit under a shed watching others fall into the sea. ⚠️ It's scorching from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Apply sunscreen generously, or your skin will definitely be red when you get back to the hotel at night. 🍜 For dinner, head to Xinglong Town for Nanyang flavors. The coffee chicken and curry crab are worth it. You can eat until you're stuffed for about CNY 70–80 per person. For accommodation, choose a homestay near Shimei Bay. It's cheaper than Riyue Bay and convenient for seeing the ocean. 02 Karamay | Xinjiang The name "Ghost City" sounds scary, but it's actually a wind-eroded Yardang landform. At sunset, it looks like a burning golden castle. 🎫 Tickets plus the shuttle bus cost about CNY 60+. The light is best after 6:00 PM when you enter the park; the shadows are long, so you don't need filters for photos. ⚠️ There's no shade inside the scenic area. Entering at noon is like being dry-roasted. A hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle are essential. The shuttle bus stops at 3 points. Don't spend too long at the first stop; the "Sphinx" at the third stop is the most photogenic. Get out before dark and head back to downtown Karamay for big plate chicken. That bite of wide noodles soaked in sauce makes the day's travel worth it. 🚄 It takes over 2 hours by high-speed train from Urumqi. A round trip in one day is a bit rushed, so I recommend staying overnight. 03 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi is a hidden gem in Guangxi. The landscapes of Donglan share the same origins as Guilin, but it's so empty it feels like you've booked the whole place. Jiudun Tianchuang (Sky Window) is a favorite for diving enthusiasts. The water is so blue it turns green, and you can see the texture of the stones underwater from the shore. It's okay if you can't swim; you can wade in the shallows nearby, which is perfect for parents with children. To get to Xiangbei Shangri-La, you have to walk along a ridge path with rice paddies and bamboo forests on both sides. In autumn, the rice ears turn yellow, and the wind makes a rustling sound. The bamboo raft rafting in Sanli Yangdu is relatively gentle, suitable for seniors who don't want strenuous exercise. ⚠️ Public transportation to these places isn't convenient, so self-driving is best. After navigating to the village, follow the small roads—don't doubt yourself if you think you're going the wrong way. 🍜 The snail rice noodles at the county night market are only CNY 6 a bowl. The sour bamboo shoots are flavorful and more authentic than chain stores. 04 Nanping | Fujian Wuyi Mountain is quite famous, but the National Day crowds are mainly concentrated at the Jiuqu Stream bamboo raft pier. You can avoid them by changing your approach. Enter the mountain from the South Gate before 7:00 AM and head straight to Tianyou Peak. Climb the 800+ steps in one go, and you'll see the sea of clouds surging beneath your feet—that moment makes the early start worth it. After descending, walk along the Yan Gu Hua Xiang trail. It's a 2-hour flat walk through tea fields, with the air filled with the roasted aroma of rock tea. ⚠️ Bamboo raft tickets are especially hard to get during National Day. If you don't want to wait in line, don't force it. Take the scenic bus to Yixiantian and Huxiaoyan; the experience is just as good. 🍜 For dinner, go to the old street in Sangu Resort. Smoked goose and Guangbing are local favorites, costing just over CNY 30 per person. 🏨 Staying in Sangu Resort is cheaper than inside the scenic area, and it's only a 10-minute taxi ride to the South Gate. 05 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is a famous summer resort. Visiting during National Day, you'll catch the first signs of autumn colors. It's not crowded, and the mountain roads are easy to walk. ⏰ I recommend arriving before 10:00 AM. First, take the scenic bus along the mountain road to the summit, then walk down from Baoxiao Peak. This saves energy and lets you see the full mountain view. Along the way, there are groups of old villas from the Republic of China era, with red walls and green tiles hidden in the woods—every shot looks like a movie scene. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so be sure to bring a light jacket. The temperature drops quickly around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. After descending, go to the town at the foot of the mountain to eat Xinyang stew. The Gushi goose pieces and Nanwan fish head are both fresh. A pot for two plus rice costs less than CNY 100. If you're bringing seniors or children, stick to the main roads and don't take wild trails. Hold on tight when the steps are slippery. 06 Tonghua | Jilin Tonghua is a quiet border town, and National Day is just right for the crisp autumn weather. The Goguryeo relics are a World Heritage site. The General's Tomb and the Stele of King Gwanggaeto are both near the city center. Tickets aren't expensive, and it's not crowded. Hire a guide for half an hour. It's more rewarding than wandering aimlessly, and that history is more exciting than any TV show. Although the rapeseed flower fields in Ji'an are in full bloom in spring, visiting during National Day lets you see golden rice paddies and distant mountains. The layering is beautiful, perfect for those who love photography. ⚠️ It's a 1-hour drive between Ji'an and the city center. The road conditions are good but there are many curves, so prepare medicine in advance if you get carsick. 🍜 In the evening, eat Korean-style hot pot in Ji'an. Beef, tofu, and vermicelli are stewed in one pot. It's piping hot, and you can eat until you're stuffed for CNY 40 per person. 07 Nyingchi | Tibet Nyingchi is the "Jiangnan" of the plateau. With low altitude and plenty of vegetation, it's less likely to cause altitude sickness during National Day. The primeval forests of Bomi are like something out of "The Wizard of Oz." Walk in early in the morning before the mist clears. Beneath your feet is soft moss, and all you hear are birds chirping and the wind. The water of Basum Lake changes color in different light, and it's bluest when the sun shines directly on it in the afternoon. This section of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway is well-maintained. If you're self-driving, the scenery is on the road. Parking at the mountain pass to photograph the snow-capped mountains is more stunning than any spot inside the scenic area. The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon ticket isn't cheap, but the viewing platform inside offers a view of Namcha Barwa Peak. If you're lucky, you can see the "golden mountain" at sunrise/sunset. ⚠️ The plateau weather is changeable. A raincoat and a thermos are essential, and bring cold medicine too. ⏰ Clouds easily form in the canyon after 2:00 PM. If you want to see the snow-capped mountains, go in the morning. 08 Mianyang | Sichuan The Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area isn't a traditional scenic spot. It's more like a living town, with Qiang watchtowers and stone houses built along the mountain. There aren't many tourists, and the locals live at a leisurely pace. In the morning, visit the Qiang Folk Museum to learn about Qiang embroidery and watchtower construction techniques. It's free, but it's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. In the afternoon, walk up the bluestone path. Halfway up the mountain, there's a tea shop run by a Qiang grandmother. A bowl of eagle tea costs CNY 5. You can sit in the courtyard watching the clouds and zone out for the whole afternoon. 🍜 After descending, go to town to eat Pianfen (sliced jelly noodles). It's sour and spicy, served with a side of corn dough. It costs CNY 20 per person. ⚠️ There are many steps in the scenic area, so wear sneakers. Don't wear high heels just for photos. 🚄 It takes about 1 hour by bus from Mianyang Station to Beichuan. Self-driving is more convenient. Of these eight places, I personally prefer Hechi and Nyingchi—one is full of local life, and the other has stunning scenery. When going out for National Day, instead of sweating in the crowds, why not pick a less popular spot and wander slowly for a few days? Which one are you planning to visit? Let's chat in the comments.

September is absolutely the best month of the year for budget travel✨! The summer crowds have faded, hotel prices have plummeted, and the weather is cool without being scorching! We've curated 4 hidden, low-cost gems that are almost empty, covering landscapes, lakes, ancient villages, and mountains! No traps, no price gouging, just stunning scenery. Students and working professionals can have a blast for just a few hundred bucks! 🌊 Stop 1 | Yangjiang, Guangdong | A niche coastal fishing village in Guangdong 📍 Location: A hidden treasure in western Guangdong. September is the start of the fishing season, so seafood is super cheap and the water is crystal clear! 🚗 Transportation High-speed rail goes directly to Yangjiang Station, with city buses connecting to Hailing Island. If driving, highways lead straight there, and parking by the sea is plentiful, making travel stress-free. 💖 Travel experience The most underrated coastal town in Guangdong! September in Yangjiang is so gentle🌤️! Avoid the summer crowds; the sea breeze is refreshing, the temperature is perfect, and the beaches are clean and empty. Hailing Island's Shili Yintan (Ten-Mile Silver Beach) has an incredibly long coastline with clear water, white sand, and healing sunsets. Most importantly, the fishing season starts in September, so seafood prices drop significantly! Enjoy seafood freedom at affordable prices, choose from budget-friendly homestays, and enjoy a vacation without spending a fortune! 📅 2-day budget itinerary D1: Visit Shili Yintan on Hailing Island, walk along the beach, take photos, and chase the stunning sunset D2: Explore Zhapo Fishing Port to see boats returning to port, go beachcombing, and enjoy a budget-friendly seafood feast 😋 Must-try affordable food 🦞 Local seasonal seafood: Plump shrimp and crab at half the price 🍜 Hailing Island beef brisket noodles: Rich broth, a local secret 🥘 Pork intestine rolls: A signature Yangjiang snack, affordable and filling 🥥 Fresh coconut water: Sweet, refreshing, and super cheap 🏞️ Stop 2 | Yongzhou, Hunan | A niche mountain and water secret in southern Hunan 📍 Location: Southern Hunan, with serene landscapes and ancient villages everywhere. September autumn scenery is gentle and healing 🚗 Transportation High-speed rail goes directly to Yongzhou Station, with convenient city buses. If driving to Tongziao or Shanggantang Ancient Village, road conditions are excellent. 💖 Travel experience A true hidden paradise in Hunan🍂! No crowds like Zhangjiajie, no commercialization like Fenghuang! September is crisp and clear with incredibly blue skies, golden rice paddies in ancient villages, and beautiful mountains and rivers. Shanggantang Ancient Village is quiet and primitive, while Tongziao's autumn scenery is just beginning to show, surrounded by green mountains and babbling brooks. The cost of living is super low, and food and accommodation are very affordable, perfect for a slow-paced getaway to breathe in the fresh air and relax! 📅 2-day budget itinerary D1: Stroll through Shanggantang Ancient Village, visit the thousand-year-old stone bridge, and explore ancient alleys and rice paddies D2: Check out the autumn forests in Tongziao, go hiking, and enjoy the mountains and waters of southern Hunan 😋 Must-try affordable food 🍜 Yongzhou blood duck: Fragrant, spicy, and flavorful, a signature of southern Hunan 🥘 Dong'an chicken: Sour, spicy, and appetizing, an affordable hearty dish 🍲 Yongzhou rice noodles: Authentic Hunan flavor, filling for just a few dollars 🥬 Local wild vegetables: Fresh and refreshing 🌿 Stop 3 | Ningde, Fujian | A secret seaside pastoral paradise 📍 Location: Northeastern Fujian, where mountains meet the sea. Known as the "Little Kenting of Fujian," it has few people and stunning scenery in September 🚗 Transportation High-speed rail goes directly to Ningde Station, with direct buses from the city to various islands. If driving, the coastal highway is stunning and beginner-friendly. 💖 Travel experience Ningde in September is breathtakingly beautiful✨! The typhoon season is over, the sea is calm, and blue skies and clear waters are the norm! Yushan Island's grasslands and sea breezes are healing, and the shallow streams of Baishuiyang are cool, offering both mountain and sea landscapes in one trip. Very few tourists, completely original ecology, no tourist traps, and affordable food and accommodation make it the best niche coastal destination in Fujian for budget travel! 📅 2-day budget itinerary D1: Visit Baishuiyang Scenic Area, play in the water, and see the unique mountains and waters D2: Explore Yushan Island, see the alpine grasslands and sea lakes 😋 Must-try affordable food 🍥 Fuding meat slices: Chewy, sour, and spicy, the gold standard for street food 🦐 Ningde seafood porridge: Generous portions and sweet 🥘 Large yellow croaker rice: Fragrant and flavorful 🥤 Fuding plum juice: Refreshing and palate-cleansing 🍂 Stop 4 | Xinyang, Henan | The gold standard for autumn scenery in the northern Jiangnan style 📍 Location: The southernmost part of Henan, with a Jiangnan-style landscape. In September, the rice paddies are golden, and the atmosphere is perfect 🚗 Transportation High-speed rail goes directly to Xinyang East Station, with convenient city buses. If driving to Haotang Village or Jigong Mountain, the roads are smooth. 💖 Travel experience Who would have thought Henan had such a gentle Jiangnan-style town🍃! September in Xinyang is fully into autumn, with comfortable and cool temperatures, golden rice paddies, and lush green forests. Haotang Village is pastoral and healing, while Jigong Mountain is cool and secluded, full of poetic mountain and water scenery, completely overturning the impression of northern cities! The cost of living is extremely low, homestays are cheap, and dining is very cost-effective, making it a hidden treasure for budget travel in the north! 📅 2-day budget itinerary D1: Visit the pastoral Haotang Village, see the golden rice paddies and rural sunsets D2: Go for a light hike on Jigong Mountain, see the sea of clouds, forests, and autumn mountain scenery 😋 Must-try affordable food 🍜 Xinyang hot dry noodles: Rich sesame sauce, an affordable breakfast 🥘 Nanwan fish: Fresh, tender, and flavorful, a local signature 🍲 Gushi goose chunks: Spicy, flavorful, and generous portions 🥬 Dabie Mountain wild vegetables: Fresh and natural 💡 September budget travel tips✨ 1. The temperature difference between day and night in these four early autumn destinations is increasing🍂. It's comfortable during the day but cool in the morning and evening, so be sure to bring a light jacket! 2. These are all niche, original destinations with no tourist traps. For dining, stick to local old streets and long-standing shops! 3. Signal may be weak in some coastal and mountainous areas, so download offline maps before you go. 4. September is the off-season for travel! Hotels and attraction tickets are all discounted, offering the best value for money all year🔥 5. Autumn UV rays are still strong, so remember to use sunscreen and wear comfortable walking shoes. ✨ Heartfelt summary You really don't need to squeeze into popular spots or spend a lot of money to travel in September🥳! These 4 new hidden gems cover coastal fishing villages, southern Hunan landscapes, Fujian mountains and seas, and northern Jiangnan scenery! With few people, peaceful vibes, healing scenery, and super low costs, students and working professionals should definitely go for a short trip—every spot is totally worth it!

Finally found a worry-free and budget-friendly 6-day itinerary for Lu'an and Xinyang! No need to stress over routes or expenses—just follow this guide to hit all the highlights. Perfect for beginners, just copy and go~ · ------- Scroll down for more highlights and ways to play↓ · ------- 🗺️Route at a glance: Day 1–2: Longjin Xidi Immerse yourself in a stroll through Longjin Xidi and snap photos of the healing pastoral landscapes. Day 3: Root-Seeking Culture Museum – Miaogao Temple Explore the Root-Seeking Culture Museum to trace your roots, then climb to the top of Miaogao Temple for panoramic views of the mountains. Day 4: Xijiuhua Mountain Scenic Area – Zhongyuan Bamboo Village Enjoy the bamboo sea scenery at Xijiuhua Mountain and experience rural life in Zhongyuan Bamboo Village. Day 5: Xijiuhua Mountain Scenic Area – Liumeng Valley Stroll through Liumeng Valley and unlock the tranquil landscape paintings of Xijiuhua Mountain. Day 6: Longjin Xidi – Return trip One last visit to Longjin Xidi before packing up and heading home. · ------- Travel tips: 1. For local specialties like Lu'an Guapian tea and Xinyang Maojian tea, compare a few shops before buying🍵 2. The locals are very friendly, so feel free to ask for directions or help if you need it😊 3. It tends to be hot and rainy in both places in August, so remember to bring sunscreen and rain gear☀️🌂 4. For snacks around the scenic areas, try a small portion first before deciding if you want to buy more🥢 -------- ↓Tap the card below to book a reliable group tour for a worry-free and relaxing trip

Xiuyuan Movie Hotel features a boutique, minimalist style with a prime location, making it easy to get around, shop, and dine. The guest rooms are designed to be simple and clean, free from clutter, offering a spacious and comfortable environment with high-quality bedding, private bathrooms, and high-speed WiFi. The hotel provides free parking spaces, making it worry-free for those traveling by car. The front desk service is thoughtful and attentive, and the public areas are tidy and quiet. Whether you are on a short trip or a business stay, we offer a refreshing and comfortable accommodation experience. 1. Boutique minimalist guest rooms | Great location with on-site parking 2. Minimalist boutique accommodation, prime location, parking available 3. Urban minimalist boutique hotel, convenient for travel, free private parking

Treasure found in Haidian District, Beijing! Xinheyang Xinyang Local Cuisine Beijing’s first store, run by Xinyang local chefs, brings the flavor of Dabie Mountain directly to Beijing. The shop is very spacious and has many private booths, which are especially suitable for family gatherings, group building, and business banquets. There is also a kitchen with a bright stall, so you can see the whole process of cooking, so you can eat with confidence. Be sure to try the new cheese-laced wide noodles. Traditional broad noodles are paired with cheese. Gushi Drought Goose Chunks: Xinyang's signature, the goose meat is firm, the soup is fresh and spicy, the more you eat, the more fragrant Xinyang stewed canned meat: the old taste of slow-cooked clay pot, the pork belly is fat but not greasy, savory and mellow Small onion kang tofu is charred on the outside and tender on the inside, Xinyang ground kang dumplings are charred and crispy; Nanwan Lake big fish head is full of freshness; mustard stir-fried thousands of sheets are refreshing and refreshing, and a flavor of shabu-shabu beef belly is just right. If you come to Beijing and want to try niche local cuisine, this place is really worth checking in. It is recommended to make an appointment in advance.

Who understands the joy of a weekend without overtime, no need to take leave, and just leaving whenever you want! 🥳 This hardworking guide has carefully picked 5 hidden gems around Xinyang reachable by high-speed train or car within 1–3 hours. Few people, beautiful scenery, slow pace, all about “no rushing, no crowds, no stress” ✨ Save this now and go this weekend! 👇 1️⃣ Xinxian · Xinyang’s little Altay — 22℃ grassland starry sky 🌿 [Highlights] At 1,000 meters elevation, summer temperatures are 8–10℃ cooler than downtown. Features grasslands, streams, forests, and starry skies. Known as “Xinyang’s little Altay” by netizens. Guojiahe Wetland Park offers hundreds of acres of natural river valley grassland for free. Cows graze leisurely, egrets skim the water, kids splash barefoot catching small fish. [2-day 1-night itinerary] Day 1 morning depart Xinyang → Guojiahe Wetland Park (free, spread a picnic mat and relax all afternoon); Day 2 early rise to Huangmaojian for sunrise and sea of clouds (1,011 meters, second highest peak in Dabie Mountains), return in the afternoon. [Must-try food] Firewood glutinous rice cake (10 yuan/bowl), Xinxian cloud mist tea (richer and nuttier than Maojian), chestnut braised chicken (30–40 yuan per person). [Transportation] Carpool or charter from Xinyang East Station to Xinxian county seat about 1.5 hours (55 yuan per person); self-drive via Hushan Expressway → Daguang Expressway, total 170 km about 2 hours. [Suitable for] Families with kids, camping lovers, workers wanting to relax and zone out 2️⃣ Shangcheng County · a treasure town so clean it’s almost illegal 🌊 [Highlights] A town so clean it makes you want to scream! Nianyu Mountain Reservoir’s water is crystal clear, perfect for photos like at the seaside. Ping’an Yi · Doujie is the first folk culture pedestrian street in southern Henan, with antique buildings, opera houses, and tea houses. Few people, low prices, perfect for a weekend of doing nothing. [2-day 1-night itinerary] Day 1 depart Xinyang → Nianyu Mountain Reservoir (free viewing platform for photos) → stroll Doujie and try Shangcheng stewed dishes; Day 2 visit Huangbaishan National Forest Park (2 hours by car, a cool summer retreat), breathe fresh air, return in the afternoon. [Must-try food] Shangcheng stewed dishes (30–40 yuan per person), Dabie Mountain hanging pot, local pork braised small river fish (35 yuan per person). [Transportation] Self-drive via Hushan Expressway, about 2 hours; high-speed train from Wuhan/Zhengzhou direction, 2 hours direct. [Suitable for] Artistic youth who love clean and peaceful small towns, friends’ trips 3️⃣ Guangshan County · mountain and water secret at 32° north latitude 🏞️ [Highlights] Home to 5A-level mountain and water scenery plus a thousand-year-old town! Yinjiahe Scenic Area ticket 50 yuan, bamboo raft drifting available (80 yuan/raft). Lingshan Temple is the “top Zen forest in southern Henan,” with an exhilarating glass skywalk in the clouds. Few people, beautiful scenery, almost no tour groups. [2-day 1-night itinerary] Day 1 depart Xinyang → Yinjiahe rafting + hiking (about 3–4 hours) → stay in county town; Day 2 pray at Lingshan Temple + glass skywalk → Hejia Chong (free, starting point of the Red 25th Army’s Long March) → return. [Must-try food] Guangshan beef soup (5 yuan/bowl, locals say no vinegar!), Hejia Chong cold noodles (8 yuan), chestnut braised chicken (30 yuan per person). [Transportation] Self-drive via Hushan Expressway about 1.5 hours; high-speed train direct to Guangshan Station. [Suitable for] Travelers who enjoy mountain and water scenery plus culture, traveling with parents 4️⃣ Xixian · Xihe ancient village — 600 years of Ming and Qing living fossils 🏘️ [Highlights] Almost zero commercialization in this Ming and Qing dynasty village! 600-year-old houses, stone paths, ancient ancestral halls, carved gates, and blue brick horse-head walls all tell stories. No entrance fee, no shops, just elderly weaving bamboo baskets and kids chasing ducks. The village in morning mist looks like an ink painting, a true “corner forgotten by time.” [2-day 1-night itinerary] Day 1 depart Xinyang → Xihe ancient village (free) stroll and take photos → relax by the creek → stay at a guesthouse at the village entrance; Day 2 early rise to see the village in morning fog → hike the hill behind the village for panoramic views → return. [Must-try food] Firewood stove stewed Xixian slippery meat soup (find a farmhouse making it fresh, 20 yuan per person), farmhouse stir-fried cured meat with bamboo shoots (25 yuan), handmade glutinous rice cake (10 yuan). [Transportation] Self-drive, navigate to “Xixian Xihe ancient village,” about 1.5 hours from Xinyang city (last village road is narrow, drive carefully). [Suitable for] Ancient village lovers, photographers, introverts wanting a complete escape from noise 5️⃣ Gushi County · green fairyland deep in Dabie Mountains 🌲 [Highlights] Gushi County hides Wanxian Lake (free! Boat rentals for sightseeing), Qiyue Mountain’s little-known viewing platform offers 360° sea of clouds. Tea field roads perfect for photos in white dresses, so few people you can have the whole mountain to yourself. [2-day 1-night itinerary] Day 1 depart Xinyang → Wanxian Lake hiking + rent electric cart around the lake (30 yuan/hour) → stay in Gushi county town; Day 2 stroll Chen Linzi tea sea → eat freshly picked tea leaf scrambled eggs → return. [Must-try food] Duanji braised chicken (15 yuan each), Chen Linzi tea oil braised chicken (35 yuan per person), Gushi goose pieces (Xinyang specialty, 30 yuan per person). [Transportation] Self-drive via Hushan Expressway about 2 hours; high-speed train available to Gushi Station. [Suitable for] Couples or friends who like off-the-beaten-path drives, photo spots, and avoiding crowds 📝 Tips for departing Xinyang 1️⃣ Driving conditions: Highways to Xinxian, Shangcheng, and Guangshan are good, but the last stretch to Xihe ancient village is narrow, new drivers should go slow. Mountain roads have many curves, daytime departure recommended. 2️⃣ High-speed train tickets: From Xinyang East Station, carpool or charter recommended to Xinxian (no train station there); Guangshan has direct high-speed train; self-driving is more flexible for Shangcheng and Gushi. 3️⃣ Clothing advice: Big temperature difference in mountains morning and night. Huangmaojian in Xinxian is only in the teens at night, bring a light jacket. Xihe ancient village has many stone paths, wear comfortable flat shoes. 4️⃣ Ready to go reminder: These places have few people on weekends, no need to book accommodation too far in advance, spontaneous trips are fine! But for camping at Huangmaojian, booking ahead on weekends is best. --- Don’t just lie around this weekend, pack your bags and go! 🚗💨

Really, if you want to go out on the weekend without the crowds [cry] Departing from Zhengzhou, reach Yuzhou’s Jun porcelain, Gushi’s landscapes, Qixian’s Chaoge, and Qinyang’s thousand-year-old prefecture city within 2 hours by high-speed rail. Fewer people, beautiful scenery, low costs, two days and one night is just right. 🏺 Yuzhou | Jun porcelain capital, free to explore the ancient town High-speed rail Zhengzhou East → Yuzhou Station about 35–50 minutes, second-class seat about 50 yuan. Shenhou ancient town is free to enter. The seven-li-long street’s bluestone pavement shines underfoot. Walls made of Jun porcelain shards make great photo spots. The Jun official kiln site museum offers free admission to see thousand-year kiln art. For a few dozen yuan, you can try Jun porcelain wheel-throwing DIY. If lucky, you might catch a kiln opening ceremony. Eat Shundian mixed stew (spicy beef offal soup with flatbread), Shenhou roast chicken, and pan-fried buns, all for 20–30 yuan per person until full. Stay in a guesthouse inside the ancient city or a city hotel, about 80–150 yuan per person per night. 🏞️ Gushi | Central Plains water town, tea and bamboo landscape tour High-speed rail Zhengzhou East → Gushi Station about 1.5–2 hours. Xijiuhua Mountain has tens of thousands of acres of tea gardens rolling across the hills, with a peaceful bamboo sea. Walk along the Dream Valley stream and gorge. Take a boat on Huayang Lake to enjoy the lake and mountain views. Climb Anshan Forest Park for panoramic views, especially beautiful in autumn for photos. Eat Gushi goose pieces, Nanwan fish head soup, and stewed meat, about 30–40 yuan per person. Self-driving or local car hire is recommended, as attractions are spread out. 🏯 Qixian | Chaoge ancient city + Guiguzi military academy High-speed rail Zhengzhou East → Hebi East about 40–60 minutes, then a 20-minute taxi to the ancient city. Yunmeng Mountain is known as “China’s first ancient military academy,” said to be the retreat and teaching place of Guiguzi. Admission is about 60 yuan. Guling Mountain is the origin of the “Investiture of the Gods” story, admission about 40 yuan. Chaoge old street is lively at night with local snacks and live performances, free to explore. Eat Qixian silk-wrapped eggs, stone bread, and spicy soup, about 20–30 yuan per person. Stay in Qixian city for easy access to attractions. 🏛️ Qinyang | Thousand-year prefecture city, a museum to understand half of northern Henan’s history High-speed rail Zhengzhou East → Qinyang Station about 1.5 hours, or about 1.5 hours by car from Zhengzhou. Qinyang City Museum displays Jin Dynasty three saints pagoda and historical steles, free admission. The Zhu Zaiyu Memorial Hall explains the “music saint” and the twelve-tone equal temperament. Shennong Mountain is a 5A scenic area, the essence of the Taihang Mountains, admission about 65 yuan. Breakfast must-try is Ge’s Song donkey meatball soup, highly recommended by locals. Naotang donkey meat is a famous Chinese snack, especially delicious with baked flatbread as a sandwich. Travel tips: Yuzhou Shenhou ancient town and Jun porcelain museum are closed on Mondays, don’t go empty-handed. Gushi attractions are scattered, self-driving or carpooling is recommended. Ancient city streets have many stone pavements, wear comfortable flat shoes. The trip does not include major transportation costs. Budget about 300–600 yuan per person for two days. Pick one and go this weekend!

🌿Henan summer escape in Aug–Sep|4 cool hidden gems, mountaintop 22℃ + bamboo forest 21℃ + Red Stone Gorge mist + international villas, Funiu and Taihang double barrier❄️ Henan plains in Aug–Sep are truly hot! Head to Funiu Mountain, Taihang Mountain, or Yunan Jigong Mountain for instant cool mode—high mountain forests, thousand-meter bamboo seas, Danxia canyons, and century-old villas offer four ways to cool down. Lock it in👇 ⚠️ Frequent night rain in Aug–Sep. After rain, stone steps at Baiyun Mountain peak and Yuntai Mountain Zhuyu Peak can be slippery. Check the attraction’s daily opening and cable car status before departure. 💰Budget reference (per person) · Baiyun Mountain: about 600–800 CNY (ticket 75 + shuttle 70 + round-trip cable car to Jade Emperor Peak 100 + Luoyang self-drive/bus share 100 + mountaintop guesthouse 200–300/night ×1 + braised noodles + wild vegetables 120, 2 days 1 night) · Chongdugou: about 450–600 CNY (ticket 120 + Luoyang self-drive share 80 + Zhuxi guesthouse 150–250/night ×1 + Luanchuan tofu + farmhouse meal 100, 2 days 1 night) · Yuntai Mountain: about 550–700 CNY (ticket + shuttle 180 + Peak Forest Gorge 80 + riverside guesthouse 150–220/night ×1 + iron stick yam + braised noodles 120, 2 days 1 night) · Xinyang: about 450–600 CNY (Jigong Mountain 99.9 + Nanwan Lake 95 + Xinyang station guesthouse 120–180/night ×1 + Gushi goose pieces + stone cold noodles 100, 2 days 1 night) 📍Four areas · two core spots each 🏔️[Song County, Luoyang · Baiyun Mountain] · Jade Emperor Peak (Central Plains highest peak)|ticket 75 + shuttle 70, cable car one way 50 / round-trip 100 🌫️ Altitude 2216m, summer average 22℃, mountaintop 8–10℃ cooler than base, morning sea of clouds + sunrise. Take cable car up then hike 40 min to the peak. Bring a light jacket or thin down jacket. Opens 7:30, go early · Jiulong Waterfalls + forest oxygen bar|included in shuttle 💦 Canyon waterfall cluster + mountain forest trail rich in negative ions, 2-hour Jiulong Waterfalls loop, 1-hour gentle forest oxygen bar walk, full shade, no sun exposure 🎋[Luanchuan, Luoyang · Chongdugou] · Jinji River Scenic Area (Feihong Waterfall + Xiefen Cliff)|ticket 120 CNY (student 60) 🌊 Iconic waterfall cluster of Chongdugou, Feihong Waterfall mist hits your face + Xiefen Cliff cascades, summer average 21℃, bamboo forest shades the sun, shallow water area for wading, wear non-slip shoes · Dicui River Scenic Area (Water Curtain Fairy Palace + thousand-year Bodhi tree)|included in 120 ticket 🎋 Thousand-meter bamboo corridor + Water Curtain Fairy Palace cave waterfall + southern-style bamboo forest trail. Stop by farming village to see Haiming folk customs. Zhuxi guesthouse in the park offers bamboo views from the window. ⛰️[Jiaozuo · Yuntai Mountain + Peak Forest Gorge] · Red Stone Gorge + Xiaozhai Valley (Yuntai Mountain)|ticket + shuttle 180 CNY (3-day validity, children/seniors 60) 🌋 Open 7:00–17:30. Red Stone Gorge Danxia narrow sky + Xiaozhai Valley dense pools and waterfalls. Valley 5–8℃ cooler than city. Shuttle required; hiking all the way is tough. Go early at 7:30 to avoid crowds. · Peak Forest Gorge|ticket + shuttle + boat + glass corridor exclusive for Henan-Shanxi 80 CNY, open 7:00–17:00 🚤 Independent canyon scenic area, boat ride to see dam + lake bay + peak forest, mist + lake breeze cool down. Combine with Yuntai Mountain for a half-day trip. Regular tickets available at the window. 🏛️[Xinyang · Jigong Mountain + Nanwan Lake] · Jigong Mountain (international architecture + Changsheng Valley)|ticket 59.9 + round-trip bus 40 = 99.9 CNY, open 9:00–19:00 🏡 One of China’s four top summer resorts, summer average 23℃, includes Baoxiao Peak + 212 old villas (Meiling Ballroom / Yilu) + Changsheng Valley creek "little Jiuzhaigou." Bring a light jacket. · Nanwan Lake (Tea Island + Bird Island)|ticket + boat 95 CNY (discount 70), open 8:00–17:30 🚤 61 islands, southern Henan gem. Boat tour Tea Island (tea picking + century-old tea trees) + Bird Island (flocks of egrets). First boat before 8:00 is coolest. Lake breeze 3–5℃ cooler than city. 🚗 Routes (independent short trips) 🌿Baiyun Mountain 2 days 1 night: Day 1 Luoyang → Song County → Baiyun Mountain visitor center (shuttle up) → forest oxygen bar + Jiulong Waterfalls → stay mountaintop or descend; Day 2 Jade Emperor Peak cable car + sunrise sea of clouds → return 🌿Chongdugou 2 days 1 night: Day 1 Luoyang → Chongdugou → Jinji River (Feihong + Xiefen Cliff) → stay Zhuxi guesthouse; Day 2 Dicui River (Water Curtain Fairy Palace + Bodhi tree) + farming village → return 🌿Yuntai Mountain 2 days 1 night: Day 1 Zhengzhou / Jiaozuo → Red Stone Gorge + Xiaozhai Valley + Spring Waterfall Gorge → stay riverside; Day 2 Peak Forest Gorge (boat + glass corridor) → optional Zhuyu Peak → return 🌿Xinyang 2 days 1 night: Day 1 Xinyang East → Jigong Mountain (Baoxiao Peak + international villas + Changsheng Valley) → stay Xinyang city; Day 2 Nanwan Lake first boat (Tea Island + Bird Island) → return 🍜What to eat · Song County / Baiyun Mountain: Song County braised noodles (lamb broth) 🍜, wild vegetable scrambled eggs, Luanchuan tofu (same as Chongdugou), wood ear mushroom stewed chicken · Chongdugou: Luanchuan tofu (tender to the point of trembling) 🍲, bamboo forest chicken, mountain bamboo shoots fried with cured meat, Chongdugou handmade noodles · Yuntai Mountain / Jiaozuo: iron stick yam (steamed / stewed) 🥔, Jiaozuo braised noodles, Xiuwu big plate chicken, riverside town barbecue · Xinyang: Gushi goose pieces (mildly spicy) 🍗, Xinyang stewed dishes, Nanwan fish head soup, stone cold noodles + Maojian ice cream ⚠️Tips: Baiyun Mountain shuttle 70 CNY is a must; mountain road is long, daily limit 500 self-drive cars, book in advance. Jade Emperor Peak cable car round-trip 100 CNY saves effort for sunrise. Mountaintop night temperature 15℃, bring thin down jacket. Chongdugou 120 CNY ticket covers Jinji River + Dicui River, don’t buy separate zones by mistake. Yuntai Mountain 180 CNY includes 3-day shuttle; avoid peak times at Red Stone Gorge narrow section, go before 10:00. Peak Forest Gorge Henan-Shanxi exclusive 80 CNY with ID; regular visitors buy tickets at window on the day. Jigong Mountain bus 40 CNY is a must; don’t self-drive if inexperienced on mountain roads. Nanwan Lake last boat before 16:00; Bird Island has most egrets in spring and summer. Ticket prices subject to official daily rates🌧️

Just returned from Xinyang and put together an honest guide 🥳 Here you’ll find Jiangnan-style mountain villages, tranquil water forests, and vast lake views. The air is filled with tea fragrance, and the scenery is soothing. However, there are quite a few spending traps while traveling, so learning how to avoid them will help you enjoy your trip without wasting money 🌿. Xinyang boasts gentle mountains and waters in southern Henan, with original stone slab villages scattered in the hills. The old stone houses are rustic and full of local life. Quiet lakes are covered with water cypress trees, the water is clear and clean, and the large lakes are open and healing, along with tens of thousands of acres of tea plantations. No need to travel far south to Jiangnan—you can find fresh greenery right here in Henan, perfect for a weekend getaway to cool off and relax 💚. 🍃 Must-visit spots ✅ Original stone slab ancient village 🏡 The entire village is built with stone houses, preserving their original look. Small courtyards are full of flowers and plants, creating a strong rural atmosphere everywhere. The level of commercialization varies, so always ask about prices in advance. Choose homestays and local specialties wisely and avoid blindly following trends. Stroll leisurely through the ancient alleys and soak in the peaceful mountain village vibe. ✅ Secret water forest 🌲 Straight water cypress trees grow above the lake, reflecting green trees and clear water, creating an immersive atmosphere. The best time to visit is early morning when mist lingers, perfect for photos. Always ask about activity and boat prices in advance, compare options, and avoid last-minute price hikes. ✅ Vast freshwater lake area 🌊 The endless shimmering lake offers wide, healing views. Walk along the shore to enjoy the breeze and see blue skies and white clouds reflected in the water. Many farm-to-table restaurants line the lake; confirm dish prices before ordering to avoid inflated bills. ✅ Tea mountain viewing area 🍵 As the origin of Xinyang Maojian tea, the layered tea mountains are lush and green. You can enjoy the scenery for free from the outskirts. If you want to try tea picking or tasting, clarify the fees beforehand. 🍜 Local specialties 🥢 Xinyang cuisine is fresh and flavorful. Signature dishes include Nanwan fish, Gushi goose pieces, and braised cured meat pot. Try to eat at local favorite home-style restaurants and confirm prices before ordering. Farmhouse restaurants near scenic spots tend to overcharge. Avoid buying tea and local specialties at overpriced village entrance stalls; city shops offer better value. 🗓️ 3-day itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Xinyang, explore mountain villages, experience rural life, and taste local home cooking Day 2: Visit the water forest, walk by the lake, and enjoy lakeside scenery Day 3: Visit tea plantations, shop for affordable souvenirs, then head home 💡 Practical tips to avoid traps 🐾 🔹 Always ask for the total price in advance when dining, taking boats, or buying specialties near scenic spots. 🔹 Homestay prices in ancient villages vary greatly; compare and book online early during holidays. 🔹 There are many types of tea; if you’re unfamiliar, don’t pay high prices to avoid being scammed. 🔹 Mountain attractions are spread out; self-driving is more flexible and convenient. 🔹 Summer forests have many mosquitoes; bring insect repellent and sun protection. Xinyang’s natural beauty is truly worth the trip ✨ As long as you prepare to avoid traps and don’t overspend, you can fully immerse yourself in the green mountains and waters of southern Henan. If you’re planning a trip to Xinyang, be sure to save this practical guide!

Gushi County 3-Day 2-Night Travel Guide Budget Allocation The budget for this trip is 3500 yuan, roughly allocated as follows: · Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Nanning to Gushi, either by plane or train, estimated at around 1500 yuan (actual price depends on travel time and ticketing platform). Transportation within Gushi County, such as taxis and buses, estimated at 200 yuan. · Accommodation: Choosing a cost-effective hotel, estimated at 800 yuan for two nights. · Dining: Enjoying local specialties, estimated at 800 yuan for three days. · Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to various attractions and other expenses estimated at 200 yuan. Itinerary Day 1: A Journey of Nature and Culture · Morning: After arriving in Gushi, head to the Xijiuhua Mountain Scenic Area. Here you can enjoy the bamboo forest and vast tea plantations, and visit Miaogao Temple, experiencing the fusion of nature and culture. · Lunch: Enjoy local specialties near the scenic area, such as Gushi goose, chicken soup, and Jiangji radish stewed pork ribs. · Afternoon: Visit the Root-Seeking Culture Park and Chen Yuanguang Ancestral Hall to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of this "Hometown of Overseas Chinese in Central China." · Evening: Check into the hotel and rest. Day 2: History and Nature Exploration · Morning: Visit the Gushi Museum to learn about Gushi's history through its rich exhibits. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll in Xiushui Park. · Noon: Find a restaurant in the city center to sample other Gushi delicacies, such as shredded pork belly and braised pork in a pot. · Afternoon: Visit Anshan Forest Park to breathe fresh air and enjoy the natural scenery. · Evening: Return to the city center, explore the night market, and sample local snacks. Day 3: Free Time and Return Trip · Morning: You are free to visit any unseen attractions or explore the local market to buy souvenirs. · Noon: Enjoy lunch in the city center, then pack your luggage and prepare for your return trip. Accommodation Recommendations · Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel (Xinyang Gushi People's Government Square Branch): Rating 4.9, Excellent. Close to Xiushui Park and Genqin Culture Park, convenient dining options nearby, ample parking, and offers free parking, laundry room, gym, and smart room control. · Xijiuhuashan Scenic Area eLong Ruiyun Hotel (Xinyang Gushi Liaocheng Avenue Hengtai Pacific Shopping Center Branch): Rating 4.9, Excellent. Close to Gushi Genqin Culture Park and Gushi Chengguan Bus Station. Clean rooms with complete facilities, and friendly service. Food Recommendations · Gushi Goose Chunks: A traditional famous dish of Gushi, with tender meat and delicious flavor. · Jiangji Radish Stewed Ribs: Sweet radish, tender ribs, and rich broth. · Gushi Skin Noodles: Chewy texture and unique flavor. · Braised Pork Belly: Rich but not greasy, with an irresistible aroma. Hope this guide helps you have a pleasant holiday in Gushi! Gushi County 3-Day 2-Night Travel Guide Budget Allocation The budget for this trip is 3500 yuan, roughly allocated as follows: · Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Nanning to Gushi, either by plane or train, estimated at around 1500 yuan (actual price depends on travel time and ticketing platform). Transportation within Gushi County, such as taxis and buses, estimated at 200 yuan. · Accommodation: Choosing a cost-effective hotel, estimated at 800 yuan for two nights. · Dining: Enjoying local specialties, estimated at 800 yuan for three days. · Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to various attractions and other expenses estimated at 200 yuan. Itinerary Day 1: A Journey of Nature and Culture · Morning: After arriving in Gushi, head to the Xijiuhua Mountain Scenic Area. Here you can enjoy the bamboo forest and vast tea plantations, and visit Miaogao Temple, experiencing the fusion of nature and culture. · Lunch: Enjoy local specialties near the scenic area, such as Gushi goose, chicken soup, and Jiangji radish stewed pork ribs. · Afternoon: Visit the Root-Seeking Culture Park and Chen Yuanguang Ancestral Hall to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of this "Hometown of Overseas Chinese in Central China." · Evening: Check into the hotel and rest. Day 2: History and Nature Exploration · Morning: Visit the Gushi Museum to learn about Gushi's history through its rich exhibits. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll in Xiushui Park. · Noon: Find a restaurant in the city center to sample other Gushi delicacies, such as shredded pork belly and braised pork in a pot. · Afternoon: Visit Anshan Forest Park to breathe fresh air and enjoy the natural scenery. · Evening: Return to the city center, explore the night market, and sample local snacks. Day 3: Free Time and Return Trip · Morning: You are free to visit any unseen attractions or explore the local market to buy souvenirs. · Noon: Enjoy lunch in the city center, then pack your luggage and prepare for your return trip. Accommodation Recommendations · Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel (Xinyang Gushi People's Government Square Branch): Rating 4.9, Excellent. Close to Xiushui Park and Genqin Culture Park, convenient dining options nearby, ample parking, and offers free parking, laundry room, gym, and smart room control. · Xijiuhuashan Scenic Area eLong Ruiyun Hotel (Xinyang Gushi Liaocheng Avenue Hengtai Pacific Shopping Center Branch): Rating 4.9, Excellent. Close to Gushi Genqin Culture Park and Gushi Chengguan Bus Station. Clean rooms with complete facilities, and friendly service. Food Recommendations · Gushi Goose Chunks: A traditional famous dish of Gushi, with tender meat and delicious flavor. · Jiangji Radish Stewed Ribs: Sweet radish, tender ribs, and rich broth. · Gushi Skin Noodles: Chewy texture and unique flavor. · Braised Pork Belly: Rich but not greasy, with an irresistible aroma. Hope this guide helps you have a pleasant holiday in Gushi!

Don’t tough it out with 30℃+ in Zhengzhou/Wuhan this June—air-conditioned rooms give you headaches. If you want a nearby “cool mountain + Thousand Island Lake + tea field dessert” triple combo small town to relax for 3 days, but find Huangshan and Lushan too crowded and expensive. Step back to southern Henan, and Xinyang is the reverse king of “Northern Jiangnan + one of China’s four top summer resorts + Maojian’s origin”: High-speed trains from Zhengzhou/Wuhan take 1–1.5 hours directly to Xinyang East Station. Jigong Mountain tickets are 60 yuan, tickets + round-trip sightseeing bus 100 yuan. Nanwan Lake tickets + boat ride 95 yuan (students/teachers 70 yuan). City chain hotels start at 100+/night, tea mountain homestays 200+/night. You can fully enjoy 3 days and 2 nights for about 800 yuan per person, half the cost of Huangshan, with only one-fifth the crowd. 💡 Honest tip: Jigong Mountain is known as one of China’s four top summer resorts, with an average summer temperature of about 23–25℃. But Xinyang city’s June temperature ranges from 22 to 30℃, so it still gets hot at noon. The right way to enjoy it is “climb Jigong Mountain early to cool off + hide in the tea mountains at noon + catch the breeze at Nanwan Lake in the evening.” This is how locals spend summer. 📍 Core itinerary (cool + tea fragrance dual theme) ⛰️ Jigong Mountain | one of China’s four top summer resorts · Why it’s cool: Known as one of China’s four top summer resorts, with an average summer temperature of about 23–25℃. The century-old international villas (Meiling Ballroom + Yilu + Baoxiao Peak) are nestled in green woods, full of vintage charm. · Tickets: Main gate ticket 59.9 yuan, ticket + round-trip sightseeing bus 99.9 yuan (sightseeing bus is a must-buy; private cars park at the foot and switch to shuttle; private cars are restricted on Baoxiao Peak road). · Activities: Climb Baoxiao Peak to feel the mountain breeze and see the sea of clouds + shoot vintage-style photos at the international villa cluster + dress up at Meiling Ballroom to experience Republic of China style + ride the Pinghan old train (40 yuan) through Borden Forest Park. · Avoid pitfalls: The mountaintop is 15℃+ with strong winds in the morning and evening. A light jacket and non-slip shoes are essential. Wearing short sleeves on Baoxiao Peak will make you shiver. 🌊 Nanwan Lake | southern Henan’s Thousand Island Lake · Why it’s cool: A vast 75 sq km lake with 61 islands scattered on the blue waves. Taking a boat ride and feeling the lake breeze makes it feel several degrees cooler than the city. · Tickets: Adult ticket + boat ride 95 yuan, student/teacher discount 70 yuan. The three-island tour (Tea Island + Bird Island + Monkey Island) takes about 3 hours. · Activities: Walk through the vast tea gardens on Tea Island + taste Maojian tea + watch tea picking and frying; admire egrets flying on Bird Island; play with macaques on Monkey Island. The last boat leaves around 4:30 PM. To enjoy the tour at a relaxed pace, board before 10–11 AM. · ⚠️ Important reminder: Nanwan Lake Scenic Area reopens on July 30. If you visit before the end of July, don’t come empty-handed—first explore Jigong Mountain + Wenxin Tea Village + Haotang Village. 🍵 Wenxin Tea Village | vast tea sea + Maojian dessert · Tickets: Free entry. Tea picking and frying experiences are charged separately. Sightseeing bus up the mountain starts at 30 yuan. · Activities: Layers of vast high mountain tea fields, wear tea clothes to pick tea and hand-fry your own Maojian. At the top, “Wen Xiaoxin” offers intangible cultural heritage Maojian fresh milk tea + Maojian ice cream. · Maojian dessert prices: Maojian ice cream 9–10 yuan per cone (Wen Xiaoxin 9 yuan, Shi Xiaoya 10 yuan). Maojian fresh milk tea sells over 3,000 cups daily. The tea fragrance is refreshing and not greasy, a perfect summer cooler. · Photo spots: terraced tea gardens + mountaintop viewing platform + tea frying workshop. Wearing light-colored clothes makes photos pop. 🏘️ Haotang Village | China’s most beautiful village · Tickets: Open all day for free. · Activities: Original southern Henan dwellings with white walls and gray tiles paired with lotus ponds, stone paths, and old locust trees. No commercial noise, just slow walks and daydreaming full of poetic charm. 🚄 How to get there + relaxed 3-day, 2-night itinerary · High-speed train: Xinyang East Station, 1–1.5 hours direct from Zhengzhou/Wuhan/Hefei and other nearby cities. From the station, take a taxi or L1 tourist bus to Jigong Mountain, or bus 2 to Nanwan Lake. · Day 1 Jigong Mountain cool off: climb Jigong Mountain early (ticket + sightseeing bus 100 yuan) → international villa cluster + Baoxiao Peak + Meiling Ballroom → eat Gushi goose pieces at the foot of the mountain → stay overnight in the city. · Day 2 Nanwan Lake + Wenxin Tea Village: morning boat tour of the three islands at Nanwan Lake (95 yuan) → afternoon Wenxin Tea Village vast tea gardens + Maojian ice cream (free entry) → evening Shihe Night Market for hot dry noodles + stone jelly. · Day 3 Haotang Village slow life: morning stroll by Haotang Village lotus pond (free) → lunch of stewed chicken with bamboo shoots + tea-flavored scrambled eggs → afternoon return trip. 💡 If you want to be lazier, just stay 1.5 days at Jigong Mountain (stay in a Republic of China villa hotel on the mountain 300–600/night, prices double in summer). Save Nanwan Lake + tea village for next time. Huangshan and Lushan are expensive and crowded in summer. Xinyang is the best “cool base in southern Henan.” 📸 Photo spots 1. Jigong Mountain Baoxiao Peak: sea of clouds + Henan-Hubei provincial boundary marker. The 100 yuan combo ticket is worth it. 2. Nanwan Lake Tea Island: vast tea gardens + blue island clusters, free Maojian tasting. 3. Wenxin Tea Village mountaintop viewing platform: vast tea sea + Maojian ice cream check-in, free entry. 4. Haotang Village lotus pond boardwalk: white walls and black tiles + connected lotus ponds, free. 🍜 What to eat (Xinyang “Henan rice-eating province” affordable) · Nanwan fish head soup: milky white and fresh, one fish three ways, 40–60 yuan per person · Gushi goose pieces: featured on CCTV, spicy and flavorful, the broth soaks rice for three bowls · Xinyang hot dry noodles: 3–5 yuan per bowl (Minquan Road/Shengli Road style, peanut sauce + bean sprouts + pickled mustard + coarse alkaline noodles, very different from Wuhan style) · Luoshan large intestine soup: rich but not greasy, spicy and appetizing, a night market must-eat · Braised pot meat: rich but not greasy, spicy and appetizing · Stone jelly: 5 yuan per bowl, mint flavor is a summer cooler · Maojian ice cream: 9–10 yuan per cone (Wenxin Tea Village “Wen Xiaoxin”) · Maojian fresh milk tea: 15–20 yuan per cup (over 3,000 cups sold daily) · Avoid pitfalls: specialty Maojian and lake fresh products at scenic area shops are 30–50% overpriced. Buy tea leaves at city supermarkets or Shihe Port standard supermarkets (150–800 yuan per jin in different grades). Xinyang hot dry noodles are best from 4–8 AM; after 9 AM, noodles get soft and sauce lightens. Expect 20–40 minute lines on Minquan Road. 💰 Rough budget estimate (3 days, 2 nights per person, departing Zhengzhou/Wuhan) · Transport: Zhengzhou/Wuhan ↔ Xinyang high-speed train about 150–200 + city bus/taxi about 60 ≈ 210–260 yuan · Accommodation: 2 nights ≈ 200–400 (100–200 per night per person, city chain 100+, tea mountain homestay 200+) · Food: 60–80 per day × 3 ≈ 180–240 (fish head + Gushi goose + hot dry noodles + Maojian ice cream) · Tickets: Jigong Mountain 100 + Nanwan Lake 70 (student discount) + Wenxin Tea Village sightseeing bus 30 ≈ 200 (adult full price about 225) 3 days and 2 nights local expenses ≈ 790–1100 per person (students about 760–1070). Huangshan at the same time (500+ accommodation + 150 food + 190 tickets) easily costs 840+ per day, crowded and uphill. Xinyang offers “mountain + lake + tea + ancient village” for less, fewer people, and 25℃. 📌 Pitfalls to avoid (Xinyang June exclusive) 1. Adjust temperature expectations: Jigong Mountain summer average 23–25℃, but Xinyang city in June is 22–30℃, still hot at noon. Follow the “early climb Jigong Mountain + noon tea mountain + evening Nanwan Lake” rhythm. 2. ⚠️ Nanwan Lake reopens July 30: don’t come empty before the end of July. First visit Jigong Mountain + Wenxin Tea Village + Haotang Village. Nanwan Lake opens normally from August. 3. Jigong Mountain sightseeing bus is a must-buy: private cars park at the foot and switch to shuttle; private cars are restricted on Baoxiao Peak road. The mountaintop is 15℃+ with strong winds in the morning and evening. Light jacket + non-slip shoes are essential. 4. Nanwan Lake last boat around 4:30 PM: to tour the three islands comfortably, board before 10–11 AM. Boarding after 1 PM means rushing to catch the last boat. 5. Maojian purchase pitfalls: scenic area “Maojian experience hall” is 30–50% overpriced. Buy Maojian tea at Shihe Port standard supermarkets (150–800 yuan per jin in different grades). 6. Xinyang hot dry noodles in June ≠ Wuhan style: Minquan Road/Shengli Road > near train station > Wuhan branch. The first batch of noodles from 4–8 AM is the best. 7. Xinyang is a “rice-eating province” in Henan: don’t order “huimian” or “hula soup” just because you’re in Xinyang (they exist but aren’t authentic). Hot dry noodles + Nanwan fish + Gushi goose + Luoshan large intestine are the soul of Xinyang. Rice is the staple base, not noodles. One last note: Huangshan sells “IP + cable car tax + crowds + uphill,” while Xinyang sells “Jigong Mountain 60 + Nanwan Lake 95 + Wenxin Tea Village free + Maojian ice cream 9 yuan + 100 yuan city hotel + 1.5-hour high-speed train from Zhengzhou”—for summer cooling in southern Henan, skip the crowds at Huangshan and Lushan and choose Xinyang instead. 🍵⛰️

Traveling with kids and looking for an underrated gem? Here’s why Gushi should be next on your list—and why Sapporo is still a must-visit if you’re exploring Japan with the little ones! 🌏✨ Why Sapporo is a Must with Kids: I always recommend Sapporo for family travelers—Shiroi Koibito Park has factory tours and chocolate-making workshops, while Odori Park gives you space to relax and play. If you can pair these destinations, the kids will love the contrast between city buzz and slower-paced countryside vibes. Family Food Finds: In Sapporo, the ramen alleys are a winner for slurpy, quick meals the whole crew will love. Bring snacks and drinks for picky eaters on travel days. Travel Tip: Pack wet wipes and a refillable water bottle—they’ll save your vacation more times than you’d think! #SapporoWithKids #TripPlanning

It’s really too hot in the city during summer! We wanted to find a cool and quiet mountain spot to escape with the kids, so we chose a short trip to Jinzhai in the Dabie Mountains. The temperature is much lower than in the city. The streams are cool, the forests are lush, and the pace is slow and relaxing—perfect for a family getaway 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦   ✨ Easy family itinerary|No rush, very comfortable   Day 1 Drive in + relax and play in the homestay pool 💦   We drove from Hefei, which wasn’t far, so the kids didn’t get tired in the car. After settling into the homestay, we let the kids play in the pool for a while. The mountain breeze is very pleasant, and the water feels especially refreshing. The quiet evening was very soothing.   Day 2 Explore nearby mountain streams and hike 🌿   On the second day, we took a walk in the nearby mountains. There are many small streams along the way with clean and safe shallow spots. The kids could splash in the water, watch little fish, and play with stones, getting close to nature. The mountain trails aren’t steep, so the whole hike was easy and not tiring—great for kids.   Day 3 Visit off-the-beaten-path mountain spots → leisurely return ⛰️   On the last day, no need to get up early to rush. We took our time visiting nearby attractions. After enjoying the mountain scenery, we rested a bit before heading home. The whole trip was relaxing and comfortable.   📝 Family travel tips   1. Jinzhai’s attractions are spread out, so driving is the most convenient way to get around 2. There are mosquitoes and strong UV rays in the mountains, so remember to bring sunscreen and insect repellent 3. It’s cooler in the mountains in the mornings and evenings, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket   🏡 Our hidden gem accommodation|Jinzhai Dongxiao Xunxi Li resort homestay   We truly think this homestay is perfect for a family vacation! The location is excellent ✅ It’s right in Tiechong Township, Jinzhai, close to Dujuanling, Wangchungu, and West Jiuhua Mountain. All are on the way, so no detours or hassle.   What we love most is how the scenery changes with the seasons 🌼 In spring, there are vast fields of azaleas covering the hills like a sea of flowers; In summer, the shade is dense and the streams are cool, making it a natural summer retreat; In autumn, the forest layers are rich with beautiful fall colors; In winter, you can sit by the fire and quietly watch the snow on the mountains, creating a cozy atmosphere.   The must-try summer mountain infinity pool is incredibly comfortable 💙 Built among the forest, the water is clean and clear, backed by green mountains and trees. On sunny days, the light and shadows are gentle—great for adults to take photos and for kids to enjoy playing in the water.   A big plus: the homestay includes the former headquarters site of the Red 28th Army 📜 While vacationing with the kids, you can also take a simple look at this piece of red history, giving the children a relaxed educational experience that’s both fun and informative.   The overall environment is quiet and peaceful, making the stay very comfortable. For families looking for a short summer escape in the Dabie Mountains to relax and enjoy time with their kids, we highly recommend this place!

When the city is shrouded in 40℃ heat, do you want to find a place to cool off? Deep in the Dabie Mountains of Xinyang, Henan, lies Xihe ancient village, with a history of over 800 years. There’s no over-commercialized noise here, only the gentle stream flowing through the village, ancient trees that shade the sky, and natural coolness 4–5℃ lower than the city. Best of all, this village, known as the “Jiangnan water town of Henan,” has free admission! This detailed guide will help you easily explore this “emerald wonderland.” 📍 Destination info · Location: Xihe village, Zhouhe township, Xinxian county, Xinyang city, Henan province · Admission: free and open all day · Best season: summer for cooling off, autumn for scenery (September–October is peak fall color) 🚗 Getting there · Driving (recommended): Navigate to “Xihe ancient village” or “Xihe ancient village scenic area.” About 3.5–4.5 hours from Zhengzhou, 2–2.5 hours from Wuhan, and 1.5 hours from Xinyang city center. Official parking is available at the village entrance. Parking fee is about 10–20 yuan per day. · Public transport: Take high-speed rail to “Xinyang East Station” or train to “Xinxian Station,” then transfer to Xinxian bus route 1091 direct to the village, or take a taxi/rideshare (taxi from Xinxian Station costs about 40–60 yuan). 💰 Budget reference (about 200–400 yuan per person per day) · Food: The village’s farmhouses offer great value, with meals costing 30–60 yuan per person for a good meal. · Activities: Walking around the village is free; bamboo raft or hand-pulled boat rides cost about 10–20 yuan per person; intangible cultural heritage workshops (like tea oil soap or bamboo weaving) cost about 20 yuan per session. · Accommodation: Basic farmhouse stays cost 50–80 yuan per person per day (including meals and lodging); boutique guesthouses range from 120–300 yuan per night. 🗺️ Easy walking route The village paths are mostly flat stone slabs, perfect for seniors and children: 1. Village exploration: Enter from the village entrance, stroll along the stone paths, and admire southern Henan residences from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Key spots include the Zhang family ancestral hall (an 18th-century building with exquisite brick and wood carvings) and the 800-year-old maple and poplar tree at the entrance (its canopy is perfect for shade). 2. Stream play: The Xihe stream runs through the village with clear water only ankle-deep. Bring water shoes and a fishing net to catch fish and shrimp in the shallow water, or enjoy a bamboo raft ride to experience the charm of “bridges, flowing water, and riverside homes.” 3. Cultural heritage experience: At the village’s “Xihe workshop” or tea oil museum, try traditional oil pressing, make tea oil soap, practice movable type printing, or natural dyeing to create a unique souvenir. 4. Optional hike and blessing: If you have the energy, visit the ancient temple of the Great Sage Equal to Heaven on the back mountain, where you can also see the ruins of the ancient Chu Great Wall. 🍲 Must-try foods · Xinyang stew dishes: Recommended are Gushi braised native chicken and clear stew with Nanwan fish head, featuring fresh ingredients and rich broth. · Local snacks: Xihe tofu, Guanyin tofu, handmade glutinous rice cakes, wild kudzu root starch, and farmhouse firewood rice with crispy rice crust, full of authentic local flavor. 💡 Practical tips to avoid trouble 1. Clothing advice: The village’s stone paths have wide gaps, so avoid high heels. Wear comfortable sneakers or non-slip water shoes. 2. Mosquito and sun protection: The village is densely vegetated with many mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent; remember sun protection in summer. 3. Safety tips: Be careful when playing in the water and watch children closely; don’t trust people at the village entrance offering tours to “undeveloped wild spots” to avoid danger. Xihe ancient village isn’t a place to rush through but a spot to “waste” time daydreaming, listening to the stream, and feeling the breeze. This summer, bring your family and friends to this 21℃ thousand-year-old village to find long-lost peace and coolness.

With the summer heat persisting, take your kids to find a cool hidden spot. We finally chose Dongxiao · Xunxili homestay in Jinzhai, entrusting our family vacation to the green hills and streams of Dabie Mountains🌿 The homestay is tucked away in a Jinzhai valley, offering unique scenery in every season. In spring, thousands of azaleas bloom wildly across the hills; in summer, the flowing streams provide a natural spot for creek trekking and cooling off; autumn paints the forests golden; and in winter, you can sit by the fire and quietly watch the snow fall. No matter the season, you’ll encounter a different mountain charm. 💧Infinity pool with mountain water, the top choice for summer family fun The infinity pool in the wilderness is like a sapphire set among the mountains, filled with fresh spring water, cool and refreshing. On sunny days, the pool reflects the distant mountains and clouds, creating clean and soothing photos. Kids can safely splash and play while adults relax and enjoy the view, easily capturing atmospheric shots. 🇨🇳Learn through fun by visiting red historical sites It’s rare to find a homestay with a built-in red historical site. The courtyard preserves the former command post of the 28th Red Army. Strolling through the old blue-brick buildings, you can talk with your kids about the revolutionary history of Dabie Mountains, stepping beyond textbooks to experience the profound red heritage up close. This trip combines leisure and educational exploration, making the journey more meaningful. 🌊Creek trekking fun right at your doorstep The homestay is next to a stream. In summer, bring a small net and walk along the creek with your kids to find little fish and shrimp, fully immersing yourselves in the wild mountain nature. Escape the city’s air-conditioned rooms, get close to nature, and enjoy the unique coolness of the forest. 🚗Convenient travel with easy access to nearby attractions The location is very convenient for self-driving. Dujuanling, Wangchungu, and West Jiuhua Mountain are all nearby. With a well-planned itinerary, you can visit multiple natural spots in one trip without backtracking, making the family travel pace relaxed and comfortable. Spend the day playing in the water and trekking the creek, then sit quietly in the courtyard at dusk listening to the stream and the wind. The city’s stress slowly fades away. No need to rush crowded attractions. At Xunxili, you can slowly experience the unique tranquility and gentleness of Dabie Mountains—a perfectly balanced summer family getaway.

🌿4 lesser-known towns within a 2-hour high-speed rail circle in Henan, featuring natural scenery and affordable prices. No need to wake up early or rush around. Perfect for locals in Henan to escape for a quiet, relaxing weekend. 🏮① Hebi · Jun County|A living Ming and Qing dynasty original ancient town 🚄 High-speed rail time: Zhengzhou East → Hebi East about 40–60 minutes. Transfer to a bus at the station to reach the ancient town Town highlights One of the few thousand-year-old ancient towns in Henan still inhabited by locals! Very low commercialization, no repetitive trendy shops. The old streets paved with bluestone crisscross, lanterns light up one after another at dusk, creating a lively atmosphere. No need to rush; stroll leisurely through the alleys. Climb Dapi Mountain to visit the Northern Wei giant stone Buddha, surrounded by ancient trees and tranquility. Fuchiu Mountain is quiet and less crowded, ideal for walking and relaxing. You can also try the intangible cultural heritage handmade clay toys, full of childlike fun. 🍜 Must-try foods: Jun County steamed bun, elm bark noodles, fried snacks, Jun County eight-dish feast 💡 Travel tips The ancient town is open all day for free! It’s best to arrive in the afternoon, explore the historic sites during the day, and enjoy the ancient town’s atmosphere at night. There are many stone-paved roads, so wear comfortable flat shoes. For accommodation, choose affordable guesthouses inside the ancient town, around 80–120 yuan per person. 🌳② Jiyuan|An original ecological summer retreat town at the foot of the Taihang Mountains 🚄 High-speed rail time: Zhengzhou East → Jiyuan South Station about 70 minutes Town highlights A natural oxygen bar at the foot of the Taihang Mountains, with summer temperatures several degrees cooler than the plains, promoting a slow mountain lifestyle. Avoid the crowded popular Taihang spots and enjoy small streams and shallow waters for light hiking and cooling off. The thousand-year-old Jidu Temple is hidden deep in dense forest, with towering ancient cypresses, peaceful and quiet, with almost no tourists. The Yellow River Wetland Park is perfect for watching the sunset, offering wide views and a soothing breeze. 🍜 Must-try foods: egg pancake, Jiyuan native steamed bun, Taihang farmhouse stew, meat sandwich 💡 Travel tips You can rent electric scooters in the city for flexible travel. The mountain forest has large temperature differences between day and night, so bring a light jacket. Be careful of slippery spots when playing in the streams and avoid traveling at noon during high heat. 💧③ Xinyang · Xinxian|A southern Henan ink-wash Jiangnan secret 🚄 High-speed rail time: Zhengzhou East → Xinxian Station about 1 hour 50 minutes Town highlights Break the northern plain stereotype! A small town in the heart of the Dabie Mountains, with rolling green hills and winding streams. White walls and black tiles of ancient villages are everywhere, like stepping into a Jiangnan painting. Dingliwan ancient village is built by the water, with an amazing misty atmosphere in the early morning. Xihe ancient fortress is simple and quiet. Jinlan Mountain Forest Park has dense vegetation, perfect for short hikes to refresh your lungs and mind. The whole area moves at a relaxed pace, with clean and tidy streets. 🍜 Must-try foods: Gushi goose pieces, chestnut stewed native chicken, stone jelly, braised meat pot 💡 Travel tips The ancient villages are spread out, so take taxis or carpool between them. It rains often in spring and summer, so always carry an umbrella. Photography lovers should visit the villages early in the morning when there are fewer tourists and the light is soft. 🏺④ Yuzhou|A low-key millennium town of Jun porcelain 🚄 High-speed rail time: Zhengzhou East → Yuzhou Station about 35–50 minutes Town highlights A seriously underrated “Jun porcelain capital,” ideal for travelers who enjoy quiet cultural trips. The long street in Shenhui Ancient Town is paved with broken porcelain pieces, full of ancient charm, and the town is free to enter! Porcelain shops line the street, and you can try Jun porcelain wheel-throwing DIY for just a few dozen yuan. If you’re lucky, you might catch a kiln opening ceremony. The Jun official kiln site museum is free to visit, offering a close look at thousand-year-old kiln art. The town’s pace is slow, perfect for wandering old streets and finding snacks. 🍜 Must-try foods: Shundian mixed stew, Yuzhou pan-fried buns, Huashi mutton soup 💡 Travel tips Shenhui Ancient Town is a drive from the city center, so allow at least half a day to explore. Porcelain is fragile, so pack souvenirs carefully. The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your trip accordingly. 📝 Weekend travel summary suggestions ✅ Recommended [2 days 1 night relaxed itinerary] Option 1 (cultural route): Jun County → Yuzhou|Ancient town charm + Jun porcelain culture Option 2 (mountain and water route): Jiyuan → Xinxian|Taihang mountain forest + southern Henan landscape ✅ General tips to avoid pitfalls 1. Attractions in small towns are scattered. Check bus and taxi prices in advance, as some counties don’t have ride-hailing services 2. Focus on slow travel! Don’t overfill your schedule; leave plenty of time for walking and relaxing 3. Overall costs are much lower than popular tourist cities. You can cover two days and one night for 300–600 yuan per person 4. Try to take high-speed rail trips on weekday evenings or Saturday mornings to avoid peak travel times

This Orange Hotel in Gushi County made me say, "The environment here is amazing!" After staying in so many hotels, this is the first time I’ve seen one built right inside a park. 📍Location: What’s it like to stay inside a park? The hotel is about 150 meters west of Spring Phase II by Xinhe Lake on Xinhe Avenue. Honestly, it’s not in the absolute center of the county, but being located inside a park means the environment is top-notch. Open the curtains and you see green lawns and rippling lake water, giving off a vibe like a royal hotel next to London’s Hyde Park. Taking a morning stroll in the park and breathing in fresh air is more refreshing than an iced Americano. 🏨First impression: simple and stylish, beyond budget expectations Opened in 2024 with 67 rooms, everything feels brand new. The design combines natural wood tones with warm colors, simple yet tasteful. At just over 300 yuan, the quality of the decor and service really matches the price. 🛏️Room: smart controls + great sleep, attention to detail 👍I stayed in a lake view king room with a King Koil mattress and zero-pressure memory pillow. The support was just right, and I slept soundly through the night. The whole room is smart-controlled, so you can manage everything with a voice command. The bathroom has a dry-wet separation and a smart toilet. Hot water is available 24/7 with stable pressure, making showers super comfortable. The full-length mirror is perfect for women. Suites even have panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. 👍The biggest surprise—when I ordered takeout, a robot delivered it! No need to go downstairs, full tech vibes. 🍜Breakfast: a mix of Chinese and Western, with local specialties Buffet breakfast is 48 yuan per person, featuring Chinese congee, noodles, local hot dry noodles, Western pastries, and coffee. The dining area is elegant, and the staff are warm and attentive. The only downside—the coffee is instant, so coffee lovers might be a bit disappointed. 💁Service: warm and thoughtful Check-in and check-out at the front desk are efficient and quick. The front desk calls ahead to confirm special requests, offers a warm orange on arrival, and patiently introduces nearby food and attractions. They even gave a small gift at check-out. Room service is quick too—extra blankets or chargers arrive promptly. 💰Price: over 300 yuan for a light luxury feel Newly opened in 2024, the price is just over 300 yuan. It includes free parking with charging stations, free laundry, and robot service. With this setup and price, the value is really high. 📝Summary: a hidden gem in the park, book without hesitation but bring earplugs If you value the environment, like quiet, and want to relax in a park, this hotel is a no-brainer. If you’re a light sleeper, be sure to ask the front desk in advance for a room away from the lawn and bring earplugs. Overall, this is the top hotel environment in Gushi. No more words—I’m going for another stroll in the park. Take my recommendation as you wish!

I initially thought that in a small county like Gushi, accommodation would just be something to "get a place to sleep," but then I stumbled upon the Moshang Qingju Hotel (Xinyang Gushi Branch) and decided to check it out on a whim. Wow, this isn't just a hotel; it's like Song Dynasty aesthetics have been brought to life! The experience was absolutely amazing, and I have to tell you all about it! 📌Location: No. 66, West Section of Fenghuang Avenue, Gushi (opposite the Taiwanese Industrial Park). The location is easy to find, and there's free parking with charging stations in front—a dream come true for drivers, no need to worry about parking or running out of battery. 🖼Upon entering: This atmosphere...did I travel back in time? The moment I pushed open the door, my CPU almost overheated. It's not that ostentatious, gaudy style, but rather a "light Chinese style + Song Dynasty minimalism" Jiangnan aesthetic. ✅ Natural Wood Tones + Sloping Roof Design: The room is filled with gentle, natural wood tones, paired with sloping roof elements reminiscent of the Jiangnan region. The public areas also feature greenery and a private tea room, making it feel like stepping into a courtyard from a traditional Chinese drama – incredibly elegant. Photos don't need filters; every shot is a high-fashion masterpiece. ✅ No Cheap Smell: The new facility is top-notch, with a subtle, pleasant fragrance in the air, not the pungent smell of new renovations. This is perfect for kids with sensitive noses. 🛌 Room Experience: It has everything young people want – smart technology and comfort. I stayed in the Songyu Educational & Fun Family Twin Room, and the details truly cater to children: 👍 Smart Home Control System: Simply say "Xiaodu" upon entering to control the lights, curtains, and TV – a lazy person's dream! You can control everything from bed. It really nails the high-tech feel. 👍 High Ceiling + Tea Table: The room doesn't feel cramped. There's a tea table by the window, perfect for waking up in the morning to brew a cup of tea and watch the slow pace of life outside. This sense of relaxation is rare in big cities. The bedding is zero-pressure, skin-friendly, and the blanket is incredibly soft; even I, someone who's sensitive to different beds, fell asleep instantly. 👍Bathroom Details: Smart toilet, separate wet and dry areas, super-fast hot water, and the toiletries smell wonderful, not that cheap artificial fragrance. 🚿Amenities: This isn't just a hotel, it's a vacation! Honestly, its amenities are more complete than my rented apartment, completely shattering my preconceived notions about hotels in small towns: 👏A Feast for Foodies: Over 50 kinds of buffet breakfast options, including freshly cooked wontons and local snacks, starting at 7 am, perfect for those rushing to work early; 👏Free afternoon tea, and late-night snacks with handmade wontons – such thoughtful touches! 👏Essential for Working Professionals: 24-hour laundry room with dryer, 24-hour gym. 👏Social Entertainment: The common areas feature a tea room, home theater, and card room. SPACE Bar is a 10-minute walk away, making it perfect for families with parents, children, or friends. 💝Service and Value: Feeling Respected The receptionists were friendly and helpful, check-in was quick, and they even offered welcome fruit. I heard some guests received free room upgrades. Prices fluctuate around 160-180 RMB per night. Considering the location, facilities, and design, the value is unbeatable; there's absolutely no feeling of being ripped off. 🤔If you're looking for a clean, stylish, and well-serviced place to relax in Gushi, Moshang Qingju is definitely a no-brainer. Its trendy Chinese aesthetic is truly top-tier in the county.

Dear family members, if you want to find a decent place to gather and not be deceived in Gu Shi, you really can't avoid the restaurant! The name is changed to be particularly friendly, like going to a neighbor's house for dinner as relaxed and comfortable, but the products are quite "standard"! 🥩 Number one recommendation: fragrant grilled lamb chop As soon as it was served, it was immediately crowned a god! The browned butter is shiny, sizzling with oil, and the aroma of charcoal fire reaches the nose. The crust is toasted until slightly crispy, and there is a "click" when you bite it, but the meat inside is tender and bursting with juice. There’s not a hint of lamb, just grease and spice bursting in your mouth with satisfaction. No exaggeration, I nibbled three in a row, directly with my hands - what else is important about eating lamb steak? 🍖Second recommendation: local pork grilled ribs As soon as this dish was served, the place was silent for 3 seconds – the sauce was shiny, and the thick sauce hung on each piece of ribs. The use of free-range native pigs, the meat is firm and bouncy, not the loose mouthfeel of that kind of feed pigs. With a light flick of the chopsticks, the meat is directly off the bone, and the sauce is rich in flavor with a sweet aftertaste. Here's the point - sauce mixed with rice, I can eat all three bowls! Carb lovers rush straight ahead and don’t hesitate. 🐟Third recommendation: Steamed herring The first two plates are "macho hard dishes", this one is a gentle knife. The body of the fish is beautifully modified, covered with shredded onion and ginger, a splash of hot oil, the fragrance of "sizzling" goes directly to the sky. Chopsticks pick up a piece, the fish is snow-white and tender, the garlic cloves are equally distinct, and the fresh and sweet flavor is completely locked inside. Not fishy or woody, light but not bland - a bite after the big fish and meat, the whole person was healed. 🥜 Hidden surprise: carrots and peanuts The most inconspicuous but addictive dish in the audience! Chop the carrots, kill the moisture with salt, mix with fried to crispy peanuts, add a little garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, fresh and crisp + crispy oil, double taste in the mouth fight. In Gushi, carrots are a specialty of the "tender green" class, and peanuts mixed with carrots are standard in local restaurants. After the big fish and meat, come a chopstick, the artifact to relieve thirst, no one! The most important thing is still cheaper, how he will not lose. 💡 In short, fragrant grilled lamb steak charred juice, soil pork grilled ribs sauce rich off the bone, steamed herring tender original taste, carrots and peanuts fresh and refreshing - four dishes of four dimensions, directly arrange the taste buds clearly. The per capita is around 55, which is ridiculously high value for money. It's an old-fashioned restaurant where Gushi locals gather to eat. There's nothing wrong with eating with the locals! The weekend kills straight through - it's an hour or so from Xinyang, for this bite, worth it! 🚗💨