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

Visiting Beijing for the first time, you probably want to see it all: the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the famous hutongs, try authentic Peking duck, and squeeze in a dozen other spots. And that makes total sense. But there's another way to experience the city: you don't have to skip the main attractions, just tweak your route around them. 📸 The Tourist: walks straight down the central axis of the Forbidden City and tries to check off as many halls as possible. 🏠 The Local Vibe: takes it slow, wanders into the side courtyards to check out the architectural details, and then heads over to Jingshan Park for a bird's-eye view of the palace complex. 🧱 The Tourist: heads straight to the most famous section of the Great Wall, Badaling. 🏠 The Alternative: Mutianyu. It's also a popular, fully restored section, but folks often pick it for the stunning mountain scenery and a nice, long hike along the wall. 🏮 The Tourist: hits up Nanluoguxiang and considers it the ultimate spot to experience the hutongs. 🏠 The Local Vibe: uses the busy street just as a starting point and ventures further off the beaten path. Try this combo: Baochao Hutong → Gulou → Drum Tower → Shichahai The further you get from the main tourist drag, the more interesting the walk itself becomes. 🦆 The Tourist: books a table at the most hyped Peking duck restaurant. 🏠 The Local Vibe: doesn't sweat the big-name spots. When in Beijing, you've got to dive into everyday street food: zhajiangmian 炸酱面, jiaozi 饺子, jianbing 煎饼. 🌳 The Tourist: tries to figure out what other attraction to cram into their morning. 🏠 The Local: hits up a park. Take Ritan Park 日坛公园, for example. The real draw here isn't the architecture, but the city itself: you'll catch people doing tai chi, going for a stroll, chatting, or just chilling in the shade of the trees. 🌊 The Tourist: spends the evening rushing to collect more sights. 🏠 The Local: picks a neighborhood and kicks back there for a few hours. For that old-school Beijing charm, Shichahai 什刹海 is a perfect fit: lakes, bridges, hutongs, and glowing evening lanterns. For the modern city vibe — Liangma River 亮马河 with its waterfront promenades, illuminated bridges, and skyscrapers reflecting in the water. 🚕 The Tourist: hops from one saved map pin to another in a taxi. 🏠 The Local Vibe: takes the subway between districts and explores on foot once there. And honestly, the walking part here is key. Beijing is massive, but its coolest little gems are usually hidden right between those dots on your map. 💡 What's the difference? It's not that the tourist traps are bad. In Beijing, it would be weird to intentionally avoid the Forbidden City or the Great Wall just because they're popular. The difference is rather in the mindset. The Tourist asks: "What else can I manage to see?" The Local asks: "Where should I hang out tonight?" That's why, for your first trip, I highly recommend mixing both approaches: go see the grand imperial Beijing that draws millions of visitors, but then block out a few hours with absolutely zero itinerary. Pick one neighborhood. And just follow your nose to wherever looks interesting. 📌 Save this before your trip to Beijing: sometimes, all it takes is turning down one side hutong for the city to look completely different.

Want to escape Beijing this weekend? This short trip to a mountain and water paradise is a must! 🌿 📍 Yesanpo Bailixia is truly a summer retreat tailor-made for the working crowd! Just a 2-hour drive from Beijing, super convenient for a spontaneous trip~ 🚶‍♀️ A perfect 3-hour closed loop trail with no backtracking! Deep canyons, streams and waterfalls, surrounded by greenery—it's a natural oxygen bar for sure! Take a deep breath and feel the abundant negative ions~ ✨ Highlights along the way: · Strange peaks and unique rocks everywhere 🗿 · Crystal-clear turquoise pools 💦 · Majestic waterfalls and flowing springs 🌊 · Ancient towering trees providing full shade 🌲 📸 Photo tips: 1. Wear light-colored clothes for better shots 2. Shooting backlit photos near the waterfall creates a great atmosphere 3. The canyon corners are most beautiful when sunlight streams in ⚠️ Tips: · Choose a sunny weekend for safety · Remember to bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen · Wearing non-slip sports shoes is very important Make this your first short trip of the summer! Fewer people, beautiful scenery, every shot looks like a masterpiece 📷

Beijing's top weekend spring hiking spot, head straight to Bai Li Gorge in Yesanpo✔️ A geological wonder surrounded by sheer cliffs, only 1.5 hours away by car🚗 Perfect for families, couples, and friends alike~ Every snap is a no-edit masterpiece~📷 📝Route: Enter through Haitangyu and exit via Shixuan Gorge, a 3-hour easy hike along the plank road with no backtracking. Remember to book your park entry in advance~‼️ 🌿Breathtaking canyon scenery Tiger Mouth cliff towering overhead, streams flowing through the valley, creating a cinematic atmosphere🎬 The narrowest part of the One-Line Sky is just wide enough for one person; look up to see a strip of sky, deep and awe-inspiring! The Sky Ladder plank road climbs vertically, offering a panoramic view of the essence of the Taihang Mountains at the summit~ Tuan Niu Lake waterfall cascades down, surrounded by spring mist, cool and photogenic! 🎮Fully immersive interactive gameplay unlocking NPC hidden quests along the way✅ Encounter ancient-style NPCs who provide clues for challenges, making the canyon adventure anything but boring💕 Complete checkpoints and challenges to redeem surprise gifts on-site🎁 Enjoy the scenery while playing, fun for both adults and kids, fully immersing yourself in the canyon’s charm. The spring hiking vibe is off the charts~💯

I thought Disneyland was dreamy enough until I discovered Yinhu Water Park in Laishui! During the day, it’s a scenic lake surrounded by mountains, and at night, it turns into a spectacular fireworks show 🎆 📍Yinhu Water Park Address: Within Yesanpo Scenic Area, Gougezhuang Village, Laishui County, Baoding City Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM During the day, Yinhu is as beautiful as a sapphire, with crystal-clear water embraced by surrounding mountains. I recommend renting a small boat to drift slowly on the lake and enjoy the gentle breeze~ The real highlight starts after sunset! The water fireworks show begins promptly at 8 PM and is an absolute must-see. Standing by the lake watching the fireworks reflected on the water instantly makes you understand the romance of "the moon in the water is the moon in the sky" ✨ Little Tips: 1. Snacks inside the park are not very cost-effective, so it’s better to bring your own 2. There are more fireworks shows on weekends, so if you want to see them, go on Friday or Saturday 3. The temperature difference between morning and evening is big, so remember to bring a jacket 4. Find a good angle to capture amazing reflection photos! If you visit Laishui, make sure to include this place in your itinerary. It’s definitely worth the ticket price! Less crowded than Disneyland, with a better experience, you can fully enjoy the gifts of nature~

Discovered a breathtaking campsite in Hebei!!! The atmosphere is absolutely perfect💯 Tents nestled deep in the forest Surrounded by nature 360 degrees🌳 Dusk light and shadows are incredibly dreamy✨ Every snap feels like a masterpiece📸 Campsite features: ✅ Wild luxury tents built entirely of solid wood ✅ Fully equipped with professional camping gear ✅ Exclusive secret forest space ✅ Gorgeous sunset photo spots Suitable for: Romantic dates for couples💑 Photo parties with besties👯♀️ Parent-child nature education👨👩👦 BBQ gatherings with friends🍖 Practical information: 📍 Location: Yesanpo Scenic Area, Laishui County, Baoding City, Hebei Province ⏰ Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM 🎫 Average cost: 200-400 RMB per person Tips: 1. For the best dusk views, arrive after 4 PM 2. Remember to bring mosquito repellent spray! 3. You can bring your own ingredients for BBQ~

The Ultimate Yishui Lake Travel Guide Yishui Lake, located in Yi County, Baoding City, Hebei Province, is a picturesque tourist destination. With its harmonious blend of mountains and water, the scenic area is often referred to as the "Little Guilin of the North." Here's a comprehensive travel guide to Yishui Lake: 1. Basic Information · Location: Yi County, Baoding City, Hebei Province · Best season: April to October · Opening hours: 8:00-18:00 · Ticket price: ¥80/person (includes boat ticket) 2. Transportation · Self-drive: From Beijing, take Jinggang'ao Expressway to Baoding North Exit, then transfer to Rongwu Expressway to Yi County Exit (about 2 hours) · Public transport: Take a bus from Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station to Yi County, then transfer to local buses or taxis 3. Must-visit Attractions · Main Scenic Area: Boat tours to enjoy lake and mountain views · Laozi Peak: Panoramic views of the lake · Wellness Island: Experience health culture · Water Park: Perfect summer retreat · Film & TV Base: Shooting location for many productions 4. Unique Experiences · Boat sightseeing: "Boating through picturesque scenery" · Fishing: Abundant fish resources · Water sports: Speedboats, jet skis, etc. · Farmhouse experience: Taste local lake delicacies 5. Food Recommendations · Yishui Lake Fish Banquet: Whole fish feast, fish head with pancakes · Countryside dishes: Free-range eggs, wild vegetables · Local snacks: Yi County baked cakes, donkey meat burgers 6. Accommodation Suggestions · Lakeside hotels: Stunning views · Farm stays: Rural living experience · Camping sites: Close to nature 7. Precautions · Sun protection in summer, warmth in winter · Wear life jackets during boat rides · Protect the environment (no littering) · Follow park regulations 8. Nearby Attractions · Western Qing Tombs: UNESCO World Heritage Site · Langya Mountain: Red tourism site · Yesanpo: National Geopark 9. Itinerary Suggestions · Day trip: Morning lake tour, afternoon hiking · 2-day trip: Day 1 lake, Day 2 nearby attractions · In-depth tour: 3-5 days for full cultural experience 10. Practical Tips · Bring snacks as park food is pricey · Avoid holidays for fewer crowds · Check weather forecast beforehand · Bring camera for beautiful moments Yishui Lake offers unique charms in every season: spring blossoms, summer retreat, autumn foliage, and winter snowscapes. May this guide help you plan a perfect Yishui Lake getaway.

Hey there! 😘 Today, I'm sharing 9 treasure towns that you can reach from Beijing in about 1 hour by high-speed rail. 👏 These places are seriously underrated, with fun, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. 🌼 Save this guide now! 💕 · -- ### **1. Tianjin – A Romantic Blend of Chinese and Western Styles** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Five Avenues**: An international architecture museum. Cycle through European-style buildings and take retro-style photos anywhere. · **Tianjin Eye**: Ride the Ferris wheel at dusk for a panoramic view of the Hai River and the city's nightscape. · **Ancient Culture Street**: Listen to cross-talk, eat Erduoyan Fried Cake, and experience the lively atmosphere of "Jinmen Hometown." · *Tips**: · Must-try breakfast: Jianbing Guozi (recommended from street vendors in old neighborhoods). For lunch, try "Eight Treasures Tofu." In the evening, enjoy a drink in the Italian Style Town. · Subway + shared bikes are the most convenient way to get around, as the attractions are concentrated. · -- ### **2. Baoding – The Cultural Center of Zhili** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Baiyang Lake** (Xiongan New Area): In summer, take a wooden boat to admire the lotus flowers and enjoy salted duck eggs and a full fish banquet. · **Zhili Governor's Office**: The site of the Qing Dynasty "Provincial Government," where you can learn about Northern official culture. · **Yesanpo** (near Baoding): Rafting, canyon hiking – a summer resort for Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. · *Tips**: · It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Baoding city to Baiyang Lake. It's recommended to stay in a B&B in the lake area to experience the life of a fisherman. · -- ### **3. Langfang – A Pearl on the Beijing-Tianjin Corridor** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **The First City Under Heaven**: A resort area modeled after the Ming and Qing Dynasty Beijing City. Wear Hanfu for photos and watch the light show. · **Wen'an Luneng Ecological Park**: Wetland hot springs and a parent-child farm, perfect for weekend relaxation. · *Tips**: · It's a 1-hour drive from Beijing and Tianjin. It's recommended to combine a hot spring visit with a day trip to the First City. · -- ### **4. Tangshan – A Collision of Industry and the Sea** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Nanhu Park**: An ecological lake transformed from an industrial wasteland, with beautiful night views. · **Kailuan National Mine Park**: Go down the mine to experience the history of the "Coal Capital." · **Yuetuo Island**: A Dutch-style island with a summer beach music festival. · *Tips**: · Tangshan Banquet (Food Museum) is a must-visit. Qizi Shaobing and Gezha Hezi are local specialties. · -- ### **5. Cangzhou – The Home of Martial Arts and Acrobatics** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Wuqiao Acrobatics World**: Watch thrilling acrobatics performances and experience "Jianghu Culture." · **Cangzhou Iron Lion** (Zhenhai Hou): A thousand-year-old cultural relic and a landmark of Cangzhou. · *Tips**: · Pair it with Donkey Burger (recommended "Gaomana"). Cangzhou Hot Pot Chicken is also worth a try. · -- ### **6. Chengde – A Royal Summer Resort** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Mountain Resort**: China's largest royal garden. A must-visit is the "Rainy Tower" in the lake area. · **Outer Eight Temples**: A temple complex combining Han and Tibetan styles. The Little Potala Palace (Putuo Zongcheng Temple) is the most photogenic. · **Bashang Grassland** (Mulan Paddock): Horseback riding and photography in the fall, with stunning starry skies. · *Tips**: · There is a big temperature difference between day and night in Chengde. Bring a jacket even in summer. Recommended: "Lao San Yang Soup" with sesame cake. · -- ### **7. Zhangjiakou – Winter Olympics and Grassland Scenery** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Chongli Ski Resort** (Genting/Wanlong): Skiing in winter, mountain biking in summer. · **Grassland Sky Road**: Drive along "China's Route 66," accompanied by windmills, terraced fields, and wildflowers. · **Dajingmen**: One of the four major passes of the Great Wall. Hike to experience the history of the borderlands. · *Tips**: · The Grassland Sky Road is most beautiful from June to August. Be prepared with sunscreen. Zhangjiakou Naked Oat Noodles are a local staple. · -- ### **8. Qinhuangdao – Where the Mountains, Sea, and Great Wall Meet** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Shanhaiguan** (Laolongtou): Where the Great Wall enters the sea. Climb the tower to see the Bohai Sea. · **Aranya**: The Lonely Library + Seaside Auditorium, a mecca for literary and artistic youths. · **Pigeon Nest Park**: The best place to watch the sunrise in Beidaihe. The autumn bird migration is spectacular. · *Tips**: · Aranya requires reservations or staying at a hotel within the park. Recommended seafood: "Steamed Seafood Buffet." · -- ### **9. Zhuozhou – The Starting Point of the Three Kingdoms Culture** · *Must-See Attractions**: · **Sanyi Palace**: The site where Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei swore brotherhood in the Peach Garden, perfect for Three Kingdoms fans. · **Zhuozhou Film and Television City**: Take photos in ancient costumes and maybe run into a film crew. · *Tips**: · It's a 1-hour trip from Beijing. You can combine it with a day trip to Baoding attractions. · -- Take this guide with you and unlock diverse ways to play in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region! 🌟

Hot summer is here 🔥 Want to go out but don't know where⁉️ ✔️Be sure to save this detailed travel guide - 1⃣️Miyun Qinglianggu Highlights: A perfect summer escape near Beijing, less crowded with beautiful scenery, featuring a 400m-long Great Wall section built with pure crystal bricks❗️ 🧩Team activities: Zip line, cable car🚡, mountain water rafting, magic carpet ride, glass walkway🫧 2⃣️Huairou Yanqi Lake Highlights: Visit the popular wooden walkway, check out the panoramic views of Yanqi Lake, enjoy sunset cycling with fun games, and release happy dopamine❗️ 🧩Team activities: Kayaking🚣, white water rafting, bonfire party, fun sports meet, frisbee carnival 3⃣️Laishui Yesanpo Highlights: A natural oxygen bar, escape from the hustle and bustle to get closer to nature 🧩Team activities: Mountain coaster, rafting, Baxian Cave sightseeing, exciting water fights 4⃣️Yanqing Yudushi Mountain Highlights: Studio Ghibli-style alpine meadows, forest stream tracking with ice-cold camping, cool and refreshing with full of energy❗️ 🧩Team activities: Waist drum rugby🏈, energetic frisbee🥏, archery tag🏹 5⃣️Miyun Gubei Water Town Highlights: Ancient costume cosplay, real NPC interaction, real-scene running, "Running Man" style immersive treasure hunt 🧩Team activities: Ancient town treasure hunt, interactive scenarios, Hanfu experience, team building sports meet

01 Yichang | Hubei The Three Gorges of the Yangtze River are famous, but the most comfortable way to experience them in August and September is by boat, enjoying the river breeze. The early morning boat departs from the Three Gorges Tourist Center, taking about 4 hours. The mountains on both banks are lush green, and as the boat passes through Xiling Gorge, the wind rushes in from the river, making it cooler than an air-conditioned room. 📍It's recommended to choose a boat around 9:00 AM. The sunlight hits the mountain walls at an angle, so you don't need filters for photos. The Three Gorges Family Scenic Area is by the river, but it has many mountain paths and stairs. If you're with seniors or children, you might want to skip it and save your energy for Qingjiang Gallery. The water in Qingjiang Gallery is blue-green. Take a cruise deeper into the area. Wuluozhongli Mountain, where the boat stops midway, is climbable. From the summit, the river looks like a silk ribbon, and the wind is so strong it can blow your hat off. You must visit the Three Gorges Waterfall in the afternoon. The waterfall has a large drop, and as you get closer, the mist will drench you. Wear quick-drying clothes or bring a light raincoat. ⚠️The boardwalk in front of the waterfall occasionally closes during flood season. Check the scenic area's announcements before you go. 02 Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan's summer is one of the few cool places in the Northwest; you'll need a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. The Xumishan Grottoes are the core attraction, but don't just look at the grottoes. The ancient Silk Road path at the foot of the mountain is perfect for photos, with its yellow loess landscape against a blue sky, giving every shot a blockbuster Western movie feel. ⏰The grotto area is less crowded after 4:00 PM, and the sunlight shines into the caves at an angle, allowing you to see the details of the Buddha statues' drapery. There's an electric shuttle from the scenic area's main gate to the core area. Those with good mobility can walk up; it's only about 20 minutes, and you'll see scattered Tang Dynasty pagodas along the way. ⚠️Guyuan has a high altitude, and the UV rays on sunny days are incredibly strong. Hats and sunglasses are essential. For dining, any lamb restaurant in the city center is better and less than half the price of those in the scenic area. 🚄It's about a 1.5-hour high-speed train ride from Yinchuan. A day trip might be a bit rushed, so staying overnight is recommended. 03 Ankang | Shaanxi Ankang is a cool city in the Qinba Mountains, with average summer temperatures 5–6 degrees lower than Xi'an. The water of Qiancheng River is a highlight, with layers of small waterfalls cascading down the mountain. The water is so clear you can see the riverbed stones. 📍Walk up from the scenic area entrance for about 40 minutes, and you'll find a shallow beach where you can take off your shoes and wade in. The water is bone-chillingly cold; your feet will turn red after 5 minutes. Fengyan Ancient Terraces are better for an overnight stay. After 6:00 PM, the rice paddies in the terraces start to turn yellow, and the sunset casts clear outlines on the ridges. In the misty mornings, the entire terraced field looks like it's bathed in milk. There are several guesthouses in the village. The breakfast of pickled vegetable noodles with farm eggs is simple but delicious. ⚠️There's no direct bus from Ankang city to Fengyan Terraces. Driving is the most convenient option, taking about 1.5 hours on mountain roads. Take motion sickness medicine in advance; there are many curves. 04 Sanming | Fujian Sanming's summer isn't cool, but the water activities at Dajin Lake can offset the high temperatures. Take a cruise through the Danxia landforms; the mountains are reddish, and the lake surface is rippled by the wind. The boat cabin is actually cooler than the shore. 📍Ganlu Temple is nestled in a cliff crevice, about a 10-minute walk after disembarking. Its wooden structure is built suspended in the rock, making you marvel at the ancients' daring every time you see it. Taining Ancient City is quieter than expected. Take a stroll around Shangshu Di in the evening; the bluestone paths, heated by the day's sun, radiate warmth from below, but there's a refreshing breeze through the alleys. 🍜The warm mushroom buns at the entrance of the ancient city are worth buying. The skin is green, and the filling contains dried bamboo shoots and minced meat; one is enough to fill you up. ⚠️Dajin Lake cruises have fixed schedules: one at 10:00 AM and one at 2:00 PM. If you miss one, you'll have to wait 2 hours, so arrive at the pier early. The guesthouses in the ancient city are generally basic. If you want a more comfortable stay, return to Sanming city. 05 Tongren | Guizhou Mount Fanjing is a true summer escape champion in August and September, with mountain temperatures consistently around 20°C. ⚠️However, you need to secure tickets. Red Cloud Golden Summit has daily visitor limits, so book at least 3 days in advance via the official mini-program; tickets are rarely available on-site. For climbing, the west route is recommended. Enter from Huguo Temple, taking the cable car and then walking. The entire journey takes about 3 hours. While the east route is faster, the stairs are steep, and those with less stamina might want to give up midway. The section climbing to Old Golden Summit has many iron chains, with cliffs below. Those with a fear of heights should avoid looking down. Seeing the sea of clouds at the summit depends on luck; the probability is highest after rain clears. Zhaisha Dong Village at the foot of the mountain is worth a visit. There are performances in the square in front of the drum tower in the evening; tickets are 20 yuan, good for some entertainment. 🍜You must try the sour soup fish. The broth is spicy and appetizing, and the fish meat is so tender it falls apart with a gentle touch of chopsticks. 06 Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain is a summer backyard for outdoor enthusiasts, with incredibly green meadows and the Milky Way visible to the naked eye at night. 🚄A taxi from Pingxiang North Station to the scenic area's main gate takes about 40 minutes, costing around 30 yuan per person for a shared ride. The cable car has two sections: the first to Zhong'an, the second to Golden Summit. For those with average stamina, it's recommended to take both sections; otherwise, climbing the stairs will take at least 2 hours, and your legs will be sore the next day. During peak season, tent campsites at Golden Summit need to be booked in advance. A standard double tent costs over 100 yuan per night, but the sound insulation is almost non-existent; you'll clearly hear snoring from next door. ⚠️The temperature difference on the mountain is significant. Wear a T-shirt during the day, but a fleece jacket is essential at night. If you want to watch the sunrise, you'll need to get out of your tent by 5:30 AM. The observation deck on the east side of Golden Summit offers the best view, so claim your spot early. When descending, avoid the unofficial route via Diaomazhuang; it's muddy after rain, with a very high chance of slipping. 07 Xinzhou | Shanxi Xinzhou's most valuable asset in August is its coolness. Mount Wutai has an average temperature of less than 20°C, requiring blankets at night. Taihuai Town is the core area, but the temple complex is crowded. It's better to go directly to Dailuo Peak. Take the cable car up for a panoramic view of Taihuai Town, with red walls and gray tiles hidden among green trees, and the air filled with the scent of incense. Yanmen Pass is about a 2-hour drive from Xinzhou city. The scenic area isn't large, but standing on the pass tower, with mountains pressing in on both sides, you can feel the imposing atmosphere of "one man guarding the pass." ⏰Fewer tourists after 4:00 PM, and the light before closing is best for photos, casting long shadows of the city walls. Laoniuwan is in Piankuan County, where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall, offering stunning sunsets. However, transportation is truly a hassle; don't go without a car. A round-trip chartered car takes a full day. 🍜In Xinzhou city, Dingxiang steamed meat with Youmian Kaolaolao is a hearty meal for about 30 yuan per person. 08 Baoding | Hebei Baoding is a summer retreat for those around Beijing and Tianjin. Baishi Mountain has an average summer temperature of 21°C, with boardwalks built along cliffs and a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds. ⏰The fewest visitors are before 8:00 AM. You won't have to queue for the glass skywalk, and with the mountain breeze, you'll have to brave it even if your legs feel weak. Bailixia in Yesanpo is suitable for water activities. The canyon is shady, with streams accompanying you throughout. 📍When you reach the "Yixiantian" (A Line of Sky) section, the rock walls on both sides almost meet, and cool air rises from below, making it more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. However, prices in the scenic area are high; a bottle of water costs 10 yuan, so bring enough of your own. Qingxi Mausoleums are more suitable for history enthusiasts. The architectural complex is well-preserved, and there are far fewer tourists than at Qingdong Mausoleums, allowing you to quietly appreciate the details. ⚠️The mausoleums are far apart, so driving is most convenient. The electric shuttle at the entrance costs 30 yuan per person and follows a fixed route. If you want to explore freely, it's better to drive. The lotus flowers are in full bloom at Anxin Baiyangdian in summer. Take a boat into the reed marshes, and the wind carries the scent of water plants, but sun protection is essential; the UV reflection from the water is twice as strong as on land.

01 Chuzhou City | Anhui Langya Mountain sounds cool just by name. In August, the temperature inside the mountain feels 5 to 6 degrees lower than the city. The forest is full of shade, and every few steps there’s a breeze. Enter from the north gate at 7 AM when it’s less crowded and the birds are singing. The mountain path isn’t steep, and the stone slabs are easy to walk on, so it’s suitable for elders and kids. When you reach Zuiweng Pavilion, don’t rush to take photos. Sit in the pavilion for 10 minutes first and listen to the wind rustling through the bamboo forest. 🍜 After coming down from Nantianmen, there’s a shop selling Chuzhou chrysanthemum tea at the entrance. It’s 5 yuan a cup, thirst-quenching and cooling. ⚠️ After 11 AM, tour groups arrive and the whole path gets crowded. Try to go early. The full route takes about 3 hours. Afterward, head to the city for a bowl of kidney flower noodles, a local staple. 02 Baoting County | Hainan Between Binglang Valley and Yanoda, pick one per day—don’t be greedy. Binglang Valley focuses on culture, with Li ethnic boat-shaped houses, brocade weaving, and tattooed grandmas, perfect for those interested in folk customs. Yanoda is pure rainforest, with boardwalks weaving through the canopy, streams to dip your feet in, and cool air rising from below. ⏰ Enter Yanoda after 2 PM when sunlight filters through the trees and hits the mist, like walking into a waterfall cave. ⚠️ Don’t trust the “free photos” in the park; you have to pay for the pictures. 📍 The bamboo rice at the Binglang Valley entrance is good, 15 yuan per serving. Glutinous rice wrapped with minced meat and a hint of char. Both parks are in Baoting, about a 30-minute taxi ride apart. It’s best to stay near Yanoda, where you can soak in hot springs at night. 03 Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Yuanyang rice terraces and Jianshui ancient town offer nature and culture, perfect for a two-day combo. In August, the terraces are lush green. The mirror effect from flooded fields has passed, but the rolling green waves have their own charm. Watch the sunrise at Duoyishu and the sunset at Bada—don’t mix them up. ⚠️ Don’t buy “wild mushrooms” from roadside vendors in the terraces; most are cultivated. Jianshui ancient town is more relaxed. Visit Zhu Family Garden in the morning, then try grilled tofu at the stall under Chaoyang Tower in the afternoon. It’s 5 yuan a plate, best eaten with dipping sauce until full. 🚄 The bus from Jianshui to Yuanyang takes about 3 hours on winding mountain roads. Bring motion sickness medicine. Both places are best explored at a leisurely pace, not rushed. 04 Jixi City | Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake and Hutou Fortress are doable in one day but tight. It’s better to stay overnight in Hulin Town. Xingkai Lake looks like a sea, stretching beyond sight. In August, the water is warm enough to wade in. The sand is fine and soft, barefoot-friendly, and the lake breeze is strong, so bring a light jacket. In the afternoon, visit Hutou, a historically significant area perfect for quiet reflection. ⚠️ Hutou closes at 4:30 PM. You must arrive before 3 PM. 🍜 Don’t miss the whitefish soup by Xingkai Lake. The fish is so tender chopsticks can’t hold it, and the broth is incredibly fresh. 📍 There’s a barbecue spot in Hutou Town where grilled cold noodles with beer are the perfect way to enjoy a northeast summer night. The roads are good all the way, so driving yourself is most comfortable. 05 Beihai City | Guangxi Weizhou Island and Beihai city center are best split with two nights on the island and one day back in the city. Buy ferry tickets 3 days in advance. The regular cabin costs 150 yuan, and the island entrance ticket is 98 yuan. Renting an electric scooter on the island is most convenient, 40 yuan a day. Ride along the coastal road with the wind in your ears. It’s sunny but worth it. ⚠️ Avoid the island’s sightseeing buses—they’re slow, expensive, and have fixed routes that don’t stop well for photos. Crocodile Mountain volcanic crater is worth climbing. The boardwalk runs along the coast, and waves can splash your face. In the afternoon, go to Dishui Danping to watch the sunset. The dripping rocks look like a curtain of beads. Back in Beihai city, ⏰ head to Qiaogang Style Street at 8 PM. The dessert shops are packed. A bowl of Qingbuliang costs 5 yuan and is loaded with ingredients. 🦪 Grilled oysters are 10 yuan for 4, with a strong garlic flavor. You can easily eat 8 in one sitting. 06 Baoding City | Hebei This combo suits those who love history and nature. Spend one day at Qingxi Mausoleum and Yesanpo, one day at Baishi Mountain, and half a day at Baiyangdian. Qingxi Mausoleum is quiet with pine and cypress shade. Emperors Yongzheng and Guangxu are buried here. The architecture is more serene than the Forbidden City. Yesanpo’s Bailixia has a stream flowing through the canyon. The full walk takes 4 hours. There’s a cable car at the end if you don’t want to hike. ⚠️ There are no supply points in Bailixia. Bring your own water and snacks. Baishi Mountain has a glass walkway with a sheer drop below. It’s nerve-wracking but visually stunning. Baiyangdian’s lotus flowers are in full bloom in August. Take a rowboat through the reeds, and the boatman will sing folk tunes. 🍜 In Baoding city, try donkey meat sandwiches. Avoid big restaurants; the authentic ones are old roadside shops with freshly baked, crispy buns. 07 Quanzhou City | Fujian Qingyuan Mountain, Chongwu Ancient Town, and Kaiyuan Temple fit nicely into a day and a half. Climb Qingyuan Mountain in the morning. Laojun Rock is at the foot. After visiting, head straight to the summit. There’s a teahouse halfway up where you can brew a pot of Tieguanyin and enjoy panoramic views of Quanzhou. In the afternoon, visit Kaiyuan Temple. The east and west towers are Quanzhou landmarks. The red brick ancient buildings paired with the tall towers look great in photos. Chongwu Ancient Town is by the sea, with stone walls and a beach just outside. Visit in the evening in August when the sea breeze is just right. 📍 Don’t miss the Huian women’s costume exhibition hall under the ancient city wall. 🍜 Near Guandi Temple, try the vermicelli soup with vinegar meat and marinated egg, soaked with fried dough sticks. It’s the soul of Quanzhou breakfast. ⚠️ Quanzhou is hot and humid in summer. The sun is strongest from 2 to 4 PM. Plan indoor activities or a rest during this time. 08 Pingliang City | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is perfect for cooling off in August. The mountain is high and densely forested. The highest peak, Xiangshan, is 2,123 meters above sea level, about 7 to 8 degrees cooler than the city. Take the cable car up in the morning and walk down for the easiest route. The plank road from Zhongtai to Dongtai runs along a cliff with a deep valley below. It’s thrilling but the guardrails are sturdy and safe. 📍 The imperial city complex is worth a close look. Taoism and Buddhism coexist on this mountain, which is quite unique. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light slants and the mountain contours become distinct, perfect for silhouette photos. ⚠️ Don’t take the Chaotianmen route down. The steps are steep and slippery. Avoid it if you have knee problems. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there’s a lamb stew with bread. The broth is rich and the meat tender. Tear the bread into pieces and soak it in the soup. It warms you up completely. The whole trip takes about 4 hours. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals.

01 Liuzhou | Guangxi When bringing kids to Liuzhou, don't just focus on luosifen. The water bus along the Liujiang River costs CNY 2 per ride. Kids will be more excited peering out the window at the river views than at any amusement park. Go to Jinshajiao Beach at 5:30 PM. The river water will be warm from the sun, perfect for wading. The riverside park's paths are flat and smooth for strollers. When you get tired, lay out a mat under the shade and eat some fruit. In the evening, visit Yaobu Ancient Town. When the lights come on, it looks like a cartoon scene. But don't eat there; prices are touristy. Local eateries two streets in are more authentic and better value. Chengyang Eight Villages is better for an overnight stay. The wooden guesthouses aren't very soundproof, but open the window and you'll see terraced fields and wind-and-rain bridges. In the early morning, mist hugs the mountainside, and kids will spend half the day chasing chickens and ducks in the village. You can take kids to experience the "Hundred Family Banquet" in the village. Glutinous rice and sour fish are laid out on long tables. It's truly lively, but spicy. Remember to bring some yogurt for the kids beforehand to help with the spice. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Liuzhou city. The mountain roads are winding, so don't forget motion sickness medicine. 02 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is one of those places where it's "10 degrees cooler on the mountain," perfect for August and September. We recommend taking the scenic bus to the summit, then walking down the trails. This saves energy and keeps the kids happy. You'll need to wake up early to see the sunrise from Baoxiaofeng Peak, but if the kids can't get up, watch the sea of clouds at dusk instead. The light is soft, the wind is cool, and you won't need filters for photos. The mountain's international architectural complex features old villas one after another. You can play "spot the difference" with your kids and see which balcony looks most like something from a fairy tale. ⚠️ Dining options on the mountain are limited. We suggest bringing your own bread and fruit, or having a bowl of handmade noodles at a farmhouse restaurant halfway up. After descending, make a detour to Nanwan Lake Pier. Fish head soup is a specialty, and kids can eat a big bowl of rice soaked in the soup. 📍 Jigong Mountain scenic area admission and bus tickets are sold separately. During peak season, expect to queue for at least 30 minutes, so try to arrive before 8 AM. 03 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Star Lake is truly perfect for spending a whole day with kids. Enter from Paifang Park in the morning and walk along the greenway by the lake. The trees provide dense shade, so strollers stay completely out of the sun. The Seven Star Crags reflect in the water like a painting, but there's no need to buy a boat ticket; you can see it all by walking along the lakeside embankment. Have lunch at a private kitchen restaurant in Yanqian Village. Choose a window seat, and the lake breeze will flow through. Kids might even fall asleep at the table while eating. In the afternoon, rent a pedal boat and drift on the lake for an hour. Kids can feed the fish, and adults can relax. ⏰ After 6 PM, the outer perimeter of the Seven Star Crags scenic area opens for free. This is the most comfortable time for a stroll, and the lighting is best. 🚄 It's only a 1-hour high-speed train ride from Guangzhou South Station, making it a perfect spontaneous weekend trip with kids. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. 04 Xinzhou | Shanxi Yanmen Pass is famous, but if you're bringing kids, we suggest only walking the core section. Take the electric shuttle from the scenic area entrance to Yanta Pagoda, then walk along the city wall for about an hour. It's very windy, so remember to bring a light jacket for your child. On the ancient road below the pass, you can see ancient wheel ruts. Kids might ask, "Were these old car wheels?" and it's quite satisfying to answer. Laoniuwan is more relaxed. You can see the confluence of the Yellow River and the Great Wall from the observation deck. We recommend staying overnight in a cave dwelling guesthouse. You can see the Yellow River from the courtyard, and in the morning, you'll be woken by chickens, making the kids excitedly run around the yard. However, temperatures drop quickly at night, so bring thick pajamas. We don't recommend taking very young children to Mount Wutai. There are many steps and high altitudes, so they'll ask to be carried after a few steps, exhausting the adults. If you must go, only visit the core temples in Taihuai Town and don't climb Dailuoding Peak. 05 Baoding | Hebei Baishi Mountain was the most pleasant surprise among these places. The cable car goes directly to the summit, then you walk along the suspended walkway. The path is flat, and strollers can be used, but some sections have many steps, so a baby carrier is recommended. The air on the mountain is cool. If you go in mid-to-late August, you'll need a light down jacket in the mornings and evenings. Kids love the glass skywalk the most. They'll lie on the transparent glass looking at the valley below, laughing while adults next to them feel weak in the knees. Yesanpo is better for water activities. The rafting on the Juma River has gentle currents. Kids sit in the middle, adults paddle, and it's not tiring at all. In the afternoon, go to Bailixia Grand Canyon. The stream flows along the canyon, and kids can spend an entire afternoon wading and playing with rocks. We don't recommend making a special trip to Qingxiling Mausoleums or Anxin Baiyangdian Lake with kids. Kids won't understand the former, and the latter is swarming with mosquitoes in summer. ⏰ We recommend visiting Baishi Mountain in the morning. The mountain tends to get foggy in the afternoon, obscuring the views. 06 Wanning | Hainan Don't crowd the beaches in Sanya. Riyue Bay in Wanning is the right way to enjoy the sea with kids. The waves here are bigger than in Sanya, but the beach slope is gentle. Kids will laugh non-stop as waves wash over their bottoms in the shallow water. Shimei Bay is quieter. There's a green forest by the sea where you can lay out a mat for a picnic in the shade, which is much cooler than a beach umbrella. 🏠 For accommodation, we recommend apartment-style hotels on Shenzhou Peninsula. They have kitchens and refrigerators, so you can boil eggs and make porridge for the kids in the morning, which is better than eating seafood every day. In the evening, go to Xinglong Town for Southeast Asian flavors. Kids will love the curry fish balls and Indonesian fried rice, and you can eat your fill for about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ Don't sign up for surfing lessons at just any shop in Riyue Bay. Find a reputable club with certified instructors. 🚄 It's a 1-hour high-speed train ride from Haikou to Wanning. From the station, it's a 30-minute taxi ride to the beach. 07 Baoji | Shaanxi Taibai Mountain is a serious summer escape. It's over 30 degrees Celsius at the foot of the mountain and around 10 degrees Celsius at the top. But with kids, don't aim for the summit. Take the cable car to Tianyuan Difang, and seeing the alpine meadows and sea of clouds is enough. Kids are especially interested in the altitude markers. Taking a photo in front of the "3511 meters" sign will give them bragging rights to their classmates for a month. The weather on the mountain changes quickly, so a raincoat and fleece jacket must be packed. Kids might not fully understand the Buddhist cultural scenic area of Famen Temple, but the glittering artifacts in the underground palace will still impress them. Guanshan Grassland is better for running around. For horseback riding, choose a reputable stable. The horse handler will let the child sit in front and take a leisurely 20-minute ride. ⚠️ The accommodation in yurts on the grassland is generally basic. We recommend staying in Baoji city. 🍜 Baoji's ganmianpi (cold noodles) and saozimian (minced meat noodles) are not spicy for kids and are very fragrant. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Visiting Harbin in August is all about escaping the heat. On Central Street, everyone has a Ma Die Er ice cream bar, and kids will get it all over their chins. In the square of Saint Sophia Cathedral, there are more pigeons than people. Buy CNY 2 worth of corn kernels, and kids can squat and feed them for a long time. By the river near the Flood Control Memorial Tower, the evening breeze is chilly, almost too cold for short sleeves. Volga Manor is better for an overnight stay. The Russian-style architecture looks like a fairy tale castle, and kids will think they've stepped into a cartoon. The manor has a small train and boat tours that go around the Ashi River, saving your legs. Harbin Ice and Snow World is closed in summer, so don't go there. However, you can see ice sculptures at the Ice and Snow Art Gallery. It's minus 10 degrees Celsius inside, so rent a cotton coat for your child before entering, and plan to leave after about 30 minutes. ⚠️ Northeastern dishes are large portions. Order one less dish than the number of people, or you'll definitely have leftovers. Of these eight places, I most recommend Liuzhou and Wanning. One is by the water, the other by the sea. Kids have a blast, and adults don't get tired. Which one have you visited with your kids? Share in the comments.

Who says you have to travel far to cool off? Just 1.5 hours from Baoding, you can breathe easy in the valleys of Yesanpo 🌿 While it’s over 30 degrees and stuffy outside, Bailixia stays around 17–18 degrees. A breeze dries your sweat instantly, like stepping into a natural air-conditioned room ❄️ I just took my kid and mom there last week. We skipped the tourist traps and overpriced spots, figured out the most comfortable way to enjoy it, and I’m here to share it with you. How to get there hassle-free Driving is best: From Baoding, take the Jingkun Expressway to Zhangzhuo Expressway, exit at Yesanpo/Bailixia, about 1.5 hours. If you want to relax on the weekend without driving, take the green train 6437 from Beijing West to Bailixia station (hard seat costs just a few yuan). There are also direct expressways from Shijiazhuang and Tianjin. From the station, a taxi to the park costs 20–30 yuan. ⚠️ Don’t trust roadside guides offering “parking for 10 yuan.” They usually take you far away and charge high fees. Parking inside the park is reliable and costs 10–20 yuan per day. Where to stay without risk Top picks are Bailixia commercial street or Gougezhuang farmhouse inns, within walking distance to the park entrance. Book 2 days in advance for weekends. Farmhouse inns cost 100–180 yuan per night, clean with air conditioning and private bathrooms. For photo ops, stay at the colorful art town guesthouses (200–400 yuan). The lighting is great at night but watch out for overpriced rates. We stayed at Lao Yang’s farmhouse inn. The owner’s wife makes fresh flatbreads on site. My mom said they taste better than city steamed buns. How to explore in 2 days, 1 night (relaxed version) Day 1 afternoon: Drop off your bags, enter Bailixia after 3 PM. Enter via Haitangyu → Yixiantian → Laohukou → Huishou Guanyin → exit at Shixuanxia. The whole route takes 3.5–4 hours. Take the 25 yuan round-trip electric cart (saves 2 km of sun exposure). Skip the cable car and walk for better views. Look up at the blue sky through the canyon cracks. My mom kept saying, “This place is fit for immortals” 😂 Day 1 evening: Wade in the Juma River, then eat grilled rainbow trout (fresh catch, about 60–80 yuan each), fried Sichuan pepper sprouts, and mountain mushroom stewed chicken at the colorful town. Expect to spend 50–70 yuan per person and get full. Avoid the touristy restaurants at the park entrance. Walk into Gougezhuang for clearly priced meals. Day 2 morning: Choose one — take elders and kids to Yugutong Cave (65 yuan ticket, 14°C inside, wear a light jacket, 1.5 hours, easy walk) or for younger travelers, hike to Baicaoban (60 yuan, 1,983 m elevation with meadow and sea of clouds, requires a half-day climb). Day 2 afternoon: Go rafting at Qingquanshan or Liujihe (80–150 yuan). Bring a waterproof phone pouch and a change of clothes. Getting soaked is part of the experience 🌊 After rafting, shower and change, then head back around 4 PM to arrive home in Baoding before dinner. Small but important tips Wear non-slip sports shoes or water shoes. White sneakers turn muddy in the canyon. Flip-flops will wash away during rafting. Bring a light jacket (big temperature difference in canyon and cave). Use mosquito repellent like perfume. Sunscreen hat and power bank are must-haves. Bring student ID or ID for ages 60–69 for half-price tickets at Bailixia, Yugutong, and Baicaoban. Kids under 1.2 m and seniors 70+ get free admission. Buy tickets online one day in advance for 10–20 yuan cheaper than at the gate. Buy combo tickets (Bailixia + Yugutong for 135 yuan) as needed, don’t hoard. Don’t buy bundled rafting tickets with “elevator + glass walkway + swing.” Buy rafting alone for the cleanest experience. Negotiate prices before horseback riding or ATV rides. A few honest thoughts I used to think Yesanpo was just an old scenic spot near Baoding. After visiting, I realized the light through Yixiantian, the cool water sounds in Yugutong Cave, and kids splashing in the Juma River at dusk are more healing than any trendy check-in spot. For us regular travelers, it’s about spending little, avoiding hassle, and getting a good night’s sleep. Don’t just crash on the couch scrolling your phone this weekend. Pack a small bag and leave early tomorrow morning — there’s still time ✨ Are you planning to take kids to splash around or stroll Bailixia slowly with your parents? Tell me your group size and departure city in the comments. I’ll help you trim the itinerary so your holiday doesn’t feel like a rush 👇

1️⃣ Jiangmen | Guangdong Kaiping Diaolou is not a single building, but a cluster of architectural complexes scattered among rice paddies and villages. Driving is the most convenient way to get there. Navigate directly to "Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone," park your car in the Liyuan parking lot, and then walk into Zili Village. 📍 Zili Village is the essence of the Diaolou. You can go upstairs in Mingshi Tower. The wooden stairs creak, and from the top floor, you can take in the entire Diaolou cluster and green fields. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the village after 3:00 PM, when the light hits the Diaolou walls at an angle, which is much more beautiful than at noon. There are small stalls in the village selling Aizi, 5 yuan each, warm and sticky. ⚠️ Some indoor exhibition halls are closed on Mondays. Don't just go for the interior furnishings. If you're with seniors or children, 2 hours of casual sightseeing is enough; don't force a full day's itinerary. 2️⃣ Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Qilian Mountain is not a single mountain, but a continuous barrier stretching across the land. ⏰ Come in mid-July, when the grasslands have just turned green, the rapeseed flowers haven't faded, and the snowline of Ami Dongsuo glitters dazzlingly in the sun. 📍 From Qilian County, head towards Heihe Grand Canyon. You'll pass a winding mountain road with sharp turns and steep slopes. Novice drivers should not attempt it; a chartered driver is more reliable. There's a simple viewing platform at the entrance of Heihe Grand Canyon. No ticket is required, but it's extremely windy, so a fleece jacket and hat are essential. Lenglong Ridge is better viewed from a distance; there's no need for a special hike. A photo of the snow-capped mountains and barley fields from the roadside is worth it. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke. At altitudes above 3,000 meters, don't run or jump, and prepare oral glucose solution. 3️⃣ Shannan | Tibet The beauty of Yamdrok Lake is the kind that makes you suddenly silent in the car. 📍 Starting from Lhasa, after crossing the Gambala Pass, Yamdrok Lake unexpectedly unfolds beneath your feet. The color of the lake water changes with the cloud shadows, tending to be blue in the morning and green in the afternoon, with no fixed filter. ⏰ It's recommended to depart before 8:00 AM to avoid the large tour groups. The lakeside is quiet enough to hear the waves lapping the shore. Most people only stop at the viewing platform, but if you walk east around the lake, there's a dirt road that leads down to the water's edge, where there are fewer people and it's suitable for contemplation. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so sunglasses and sunscreen are indispensable. Don't wear light-colored sneakers; the muddy lakeside will leave footprints. The ticket is CNY 60, but some photo spots don't actually require a ticket. Ask clearly when parking along the way. 4️⃣ Taizhou | Jiangsu The morning at Zhenhu Lake is a gift for early risers. 📍 Enter Zhengtong Ancient Town from the South Gate, walk along the flagstone path to the entrance of the Wetland Park, which takes about 20 minutes. ⏰ Arrive at the lakeside at 6:30 AM. The mist on the water hasn't dispersed yet, and the outlines of fishing boats look like ink paintings. Zhenhu's eight delicacies are the highlight. 🍜 Zhenhu hairy crabs are fattest in autumn, but even on regular days, a bowl of fish noodle soup with shrimp balls is fresh enough to make your eyebrows drop. You can take a sculling boat in the scenic area. The boatwoman will sing local folk songs. The whole trip takes about 40 minutes and is suitable for seniors. ⚠️ The most tourists are present between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, with ferry queues starting at 30 minutes. Either go early or enter the park after 4:00 PM. Tickets are about CNY 80; booking online in advance can save you 10 yuan. 5️⃣ Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan The road from Xinduqiao to Daocheng Yading is my No. 1 "must-drive in this lifetime." 📍 Xinduqiao itself is a photography spot. In autumn, when the poplars turn golden, any bend in the road makes for a great shot. Mugecuo is north of Kangding city, at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The lake surface is like a blue mirror. ⏰ Before 10:00 AM, there's no wind, and the reflections are clearest. Daocheng Yading is divided into long and short routes. The short route goes to Pearl Lake, a 3-hour round trip, suitable for those with limited time or average physical strength. The long route goes to Milk Lake, a round trip of at least 7 hours, at an altitude of 4,000 to 5,000 meters, which not everyone can handle. ⚠️ For Hailuogou, go early. The glacier is clearest in the morning. If it gets foggy in the afternoon, it's a wasted trip. Accommodation conditions in the scenic area are limited. Travel light; don't drag large suitcases. 6️⃣ Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Banna's botanical garden is the kind of place where you'll wonder if you've ever seen trees before after visiting. 📍 The Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden is divided into East and West districts. The West District is the premium route, where all the exotic flowers and plants are. The East District is more like a primeval forest; skip it if your physical strength is average. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM to avoid the midday sun. The Palm Garden and Banyan Garden each have their highlights. The Dai Ethnic Garden is better suited for the evening. 🍜 Hand-grabbed rice with roasted chicken is sour and spicy, appetizing. After eating, you can visit the night market. The Peacock Release in the Primeval Forest Park has several shows daily. ⚠️ The times are not fixed, so ask clearly upon entering; otherwise, you'll just see empty cages. Tickets plus the battery car are about CNY 100. Don't save on the battery car; walking will make you question your life choices. 7️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia is not a spontaneous attraction; it's a collective term for an entire group of Danxia landforms. 📍 The core scenic spots are Foguangyan and Shizhangdong Waterfall. Foguangyan is like a giant red cliff split open. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the rock face, making it glow red. Shizhangdong Waterfall has a significant drop, and the mist is pervasive, so a raincoat is essential; don't find it troublesome. 🍜 There's an old-fashioned Douhua Noodles restaurant in Chishui city. With chili paste dipping sauce, it's about 15 yuan per person, and you'll be stuffed. ⚠️ The scenic spots are far apart, making it difficult to get around without a car. Self-driving or chartering a car is recommended, as public transportation is largely unavailable. Tickets are about CNY 80. The waterfall scenic area and Foguangyan are sold separately, so don't buy the wrong one. 8️⃣ Baoding | Hebei Baoding is an underrated travel city. 📍 The Western Qing Tombs are in Yi County, where the mausoleums of emperors from Yongzheng to Guangxu are located. Tailing is the most magnificent, and the nanmu hall in Muling is worth a closer look, with exquisite wood carvings of dragons that are captivating. ⏰ The tomb area is less crowded in the morning, suitable for a quiet stroll. You can see the core area in 2 hours. Baishishan features cliffside walkways. The glass skywalk section will make those with acrophobia weak in the knees. ⚠️ The walkways are slippery in rain or snow, so don't force it. Yesanpo is more suitable for summer. The streams in Baili Gorge gurgle, and the temperature is 5 to 6 degrees lower than in the city, making it a natural air-conditioned room. The lotus season in Anxin Baiyangdian is July and August. 🍜 Stewed mixed fish with corn pancakes in the lake area is authentic, but boatmen often overcharge, so negotiate the price before getting on the boat. For donkey meat burgers in Baoding city, any old shop is better than those at the scenic area entrance.

Three-day stay: These 8️⃣ cities offer the most comfortable slow-paced lifestyle 1️⃣ Lijiang City | Yunnan Lijiang is not for rushing around, but for slowing down. Staying in a guesthouse on the outskirts of Shuhe Ancient Town is much quieter than Dayan Ancient Town. In the morning, you can hear birds chirping and the sound of flowing water when you open the window. On the first afternoon, go to Lijiang Ancient Town. Don't go to the main street; instead, go to the side alleys of Wuyi Street. There are fewer people there, and you might even see an old lady drying mushrooms at her doorstep. In the evening, climb up Wangu Tower on Lion Hill. ⏰ The light at 6:30 pm perfectly paints the entire rooftop a honey color. After taking photos, walk down the stone steps and find a small restaurant for a pork rib hot pot. It costs just over 50 yuan per person, and the broth gets more fragrant the longer it simmers. On the second morning, go to Black Dragon Pool Park. 📍 After entering the park, head straight to Deyue Tower. On a clear morning, you can see the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected on the water. Remember to arrive before 9 am, otherwise the water surface will be wrinkled. The Mu Palace is located within the ancient city. A one-hour visit is sufficient. Focus on the council hall and the garden in the back. Ignore the touts offering "cheap guided tours" at the entrance; exploring on your own is much more comfortable. If you still have energy, dedicate the third day to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. ⚠️ Tickets for the large cable car must be booked three days in advance through the official website; they are almost impossible to buy on-site. If you're worried about altitude sickness, bring an oxygen bottle. It costs 25 yuan at the supermarket at the foot of the mountain, but doubles on the mountain. 2️⃣ Dongying City | Shandong Dongying is the least touristy city I've ever seen. The entire city is so quiet, like it's on slow motion, perfect for a leisurely drive. Head straight to the Yellow River Estuary Ecological Tourism Area. Autumn's reeds are at their peak, with vast expanses of reeds swaying in the wind from late October to early November—far more beautiful than in spring. I recommend taking the electric cart within the scenic area. The one-way route takes you to the Yuanwang Tower, with several stops where you can get off and walk along the wooden boardwalk. ⚠️ Note the last bus time; it stops running at 4:30 PM. After seeing the Yellow River's estuary boundary with the sea, before heading back to the city, we stopped at Gudao Town for a bowl of fresh fish soup. The fish was freshly caught from the Yellow River, and the soup was as white as milk—perfect with cornbread. We stayed near Wanda Plaza in Dongcheng District. In the evening, we went out for barbecue; locals love "Xiaoyinlong"—grilled pork belly sprinkled with sesame salt, two yuan a skewer, paired with a bottle of Laoshan beer—so satisfying. The next morning, don't sleep in. Head to the morning market next to Victory Square. A bowl of tofu pudding with a braised egg costs five yuan. Afterward, take a taxi to the Yellow River Culture Museum—free, but closed on Mondays, so don't waste your time. 3️⃣ Baoding City | Hebei Province Baoding is an underrated weekend destination. It's only a forty-minute high-speed train ride from Beijing, allowing you to immediately slow down your pace. On the first day, head straight to the Western Qing Tombs. ⚠️ Do not buy a combined ticket; choosing the Yongzheng Emperor's Tai Mausoleum and Changxi Mausoleum is sufficient. Tai Mausoleum is the main mausoleum, and the stone statues along the spirit path are more complete than those in other mausoleums in Yi County. The Echo Wall at Changxi Mausoleum is less crowded; standing in the center, you can hear your own voice bouncing back from above. In the afternoon, drive to Baishi Mountain and stay in Laiyuan County at the foot of the mountain. The next morning, enter the mountain, take the cable car from the east gate, and then walk along the boardwalk. ⏰ Before 10 am, the fog hasn't completely dissipated, making the cliffside boardwalk seem to float in the clouds—it's incredibly photogenic. If your stamina is average, half the walk is enough. I advise you to be cautious about the glass walkway section; it's a thousand-meter abyss below, and those with a fear of heights will feel weak in the knees. The third day is reserved for Yesanpo. Bailixia is the highlight; take the Haitangyu route. The stream follows you all the way; it's refreshing to wade in the water in summer, but remember to wear non-slip shoes as there's a lot of moss. Baiyangdian is best saved for last. Take a boat ride through the reed marshes, listening to the boatman hum a tune. ⚠️ Negotiate the price before boarding; it's charged per boat, not per person. In peak season, it's around 150 yuan per hour, with extra charges for overtime. 4️⃣ Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Qinghai Haibei is perfect for escaping the crowds; you can hear your own breathing. Stay in a family-run guesthouse in Qilian County. At night, you can see the Milky Way overhead. It's really cold; even in August, you'll need a thick blanket. On your first day in the Qilian Mountains, avoid the fenced-off viewing platforms. Drive along the Erga Highway towards Yeniu Gou; the grassy slopes along the roadside are more beautiful than the scenic spots. Herds of yaks leisurely cross the road; you'll have to stop and wait for them. The Heihe Grand Canyon is southwest of the county seat. ⚠️ The gravel road is difficult to drive on; don't try to force your way through if your car has low ground clearance. Hikneel for two kilometers to reach the narrowest point of the canyon; the roar of the water is deafening. The next day, we went to Lenglongling and found a ranch called "Kayue." We rode horses into the mountains with the herders, a two-hour round trip. The horses were all docile; even those who couldn't ride could walk. They took us halfway up the mountain to see streams formed by glacial meltwater. The water was bone-chillingly cold, but its color was a transparent blue. Ami Dongsuo is east of the county town; it's best to go in the evening. ⏰ At sunset, the entire mountain is dyed golden red. At the foot of the mountain, there's a Tibetan teahouse where you can drink a bowl of butter tea and listen to the owner tell stories about circumambulating the mountain—more vivid than any travel guide. 5️⃣ Sanming City|Fujian Sanming is suitable for bringing parents. The pace is slow, prices are low, and the food is delicious. We stayed in a guesthouse in Taining Ancient Town; the door was paved with bluestone paths, and we were woken up by the aroma of soy milk and fried dough sticks in the morning. On the first morning, we explored Dajin Lake by boat. The only way to experience it was by boat. The 9:00 AM boat was the least crowded. The three-hour trip included stops at two islands. Ganlu Rock Temple was the highlight; the entire temple is nestled in a crevice in the rock face, supported by a single pillar. My legs went weak just looking at it, but the older folks found it fascinating. At noon, we returned to the old town for some tofu pudding. We went to "Old Li's Tofu Shop" near the east gate of the old town. It was savory tofu pudding with chili, only three yuan a bowl, and I had two! In the afternoon, we visited Shangshu Mansion, an old Ming Dynasty residence. The carved wooden gate is worth taking your time to appreciate. However, entry closes at 4:30 PM, so don't arrive right on time. The next morning, we climbed Mao'er Mountain. It's not high, only about forty minutes to the top, offering a panoramic view of the Danxia landforms on the lake. When the mist hadn't cleared, it looked like an ink painting. In the afternoon, we found a teahouse in the old town and spent the afternoon drinking rock tea and listening to the owner tell stories of Taining's top scholars. It was much more relaxing than rushing from one tourist attraction to another. 6️⃣ Yinchuan City | Ningxia Yinchuan's slow pace carries the vastness of Northwest China. The city isn't large; three days is just enough to explore the surrounding area. The first night, I stayed near the Drum Tower in the old town. In the evening, I walked to the night market near the South Gate Mosque. Roasted lamb trotters were only five yuan each, stewed until tender, and the chili oil was incredibly fragrant. The next morning, I went to the Helan Mountain Rock Paintings. ⚠️ After entering the scenic area, first take an electric cart to the foot of the mountain, then walk along the boardwalk. The Sun God Rock Paintings are at the very back, carved on a huge rock halfway up the mountain. The lines are clearest when the sunlight shines obliquely. ⏰ Going between 10 and 11 am is ideal. In the afternoon, I went to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs. Don't expect to see magnificent architecture; they are just rammed earth tower-shaped mausoleums. But the desolation is very real. Riding the sightseeing bus through the Gobi Desert, the wind and sand hitting my face, I finally understood what "ancient tombs are densely packed under the Helan Mountains" meant. The third day was dedicated to Shuidonggou, a place suitable for both families and hiking. The Ming Great Wall ruins and hidden soldier caves are connected; the caves are cool and shady, perfect for escaping the summer heat. After exiting the caves, you can take a camel cart back to the scenic area entrance for 20 yuan – a bumpy ride that will make you laugh. Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park is best visited in spring, but autumn is also nice. Boating in the reed marshes, listening to the water birds, and feeling like you have the place to yourself – it's so uncrowded! 7️⃣ Heihe City | Heilongjiang Heihe is the kind of border town you'll want to stay in for a couple more days. It's quiet, clean, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable. Wudalianchi is the highlight, about an hour's drive from the city center. I recommend staying at the sanatorium at the foot of Yaoquan Mountain; the conditions are basic, but the spring is right outside your door. On the first afternoon, I went to Beiyinquan (North Drinking Spring) and collected a cup of natural iron mineral water. ⚠️ The taste was like rusty nails; I took one sip and gave up, but the locals considered it a treasure, saying it's good for the stomach. Then we went to Longmen Stone Village, where dark brown volcanic lava piles up into a sea of ​​stones, crunching underfoot, and at sunset it felt like walking on the moon. The next morning, we climbed Laoheishan Mountain, the crater of Wudalianchi. The climb to the top took forty minutes, and from there you could see five complete barrier lakes strung together. Arrive before 9 am when the lakes are shrouded in mist – that's the best time to see them. In the afternoon, we went to Wenbo Lake. This spot is easily overlooked, but the water is emerald green with yellowish-green moss underneath, and the sunlight filtering through makes it look like jade. Back in Heihe city, we took an evening stroll in the riverside park, looking across the river at the Russian town on the other side, its lights twinkling like stars, a cool breeze perfect for daydreaming. 8️⃣ Xianning City|Hubei Xianning is cooler than Wuhan and quieter than Changsha, perfect for a weekend soak in hot springs and enjoy fish. We headed straight to the ancient battlefield of Chibi. ⚠️ To be honest, most of the current scenic spots are reconstructions; don't come expecting a historical site. Visiting it like a theme park might be more surprising. The main attractions are two: the two characters "赤壁" (Red Cliff) carved on the cliff edge, which are most clearly visible after 4 PM when the sunlight shines obliquely; and the square in front of the Zhou Yu statue, where you can stand and gaze at the Yangtze River, imagining the scene of the burning of the camps. Two hours are worth spending in the scenic area, with the remaining time for Lushu Lake. From the ancient battlefield, drive half an hour to Lushu Lake, take a speedboat to the island. The island in the middle of the lake has a bamboo forest; the wind rustles through it. Sitting on the stone benches and eating your packed lunch is ten times better than the boxed meals in the scenic area. In the evening, return to Xianning city and stay near the hot springs. Enjoy a soak in a real hot spring; the "碧桂园热" (Country Garden Hot Spring) on ​​Wenquan Road has good water quality. Soaking in the open-air pool with the stars overhead completely washes away the day's fatigue. The next day, visit Xingxing Bamboo Sea, a mountain covered in lush bamboo. Walk along the boardwalk for two hours; the air is so sweet you'll want to take it home. In spring, you can even dig for bamboo shoots, making it a great experience for families with children.

After retirement, the last thing you want is to rush your trips. The crowded attractions, long lines, and backs of heads you saw when you were younger are no longer necessary. Take your time walking and sightseeing. Spending your time on nature and nostalgia is what really matters. I’ve scouted these 8 places for you—no hurry, no stress—perfect for those over 60. 01 Baoding | Hebei Qingxi Tombs are much quieter than Qingdong Tombs. Emperor Yongzheng, Emperor Guangxu, and their consorts rest here. Pine and cypress trees shade the area, and stone statues stand silently in the morning mist. You don’t need to understand feng shui; just walking along the sacred path and hearing the wind through the ancient pines is worth the ticket. ⏰ Visit in the morning when the light hits at an angle, making the red walls and golden tiles look their best. In the afternoon, head to Baishi Mountain. Don’t try to hike the whole trail—take the cable car to Jiucaiyuan, then walk a short plank road. It’s cool in the mountains, so bring a light jacket. Stay overnight in Yeshanpo, where there’s a live performance at night, but it’s loud—guests with heart conditions should sit toward the back. Visit Anxin Baiyangdian in summer to boat through the reeds, see lotus flowers, and enjoy a full fish feast. ⚠️ Boat tours in the lake are either government-run or private. Make sure to buy tickets at official docks. 02 Xianning | Hubei Chibi ancient battlefield is one of those places you know is a reconstructed site but still want to see. After all, the word “Three Kingdoms” is etched in our generation’s memory. The highlights are the cliff carvings and the huge statue of Zhou Yu. Standing by the riverbank, you can see Wulin on the opposite shore. When the wind blows, it’s easy to imagine the fire attack that once took place. ⚠️ Beware of people in costume inside the park who ask to take photos with you. Don’t take photos without asking the price first—they’ll charge 80 to 100 yuan afterward. 🚄 There’s a tourist shuttle from downtown Xianning, but it runs infrequently. It’s better to hire a car for a half-day round trip. The driver can wait, which is more convenient. 03 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Putuo Mountain isn’t a place to just check off your list; it’s a place to stay and soak in. No motor vehicles are allowed on the island, so you get around on foot or by shuttle bus, which keeps it peaceful. Early in the morning, stand in front of the South Sea Guanyin statue. The sea breeze carries the salty air, calming your whole being. ⏰ The vegetarian lunch at Fayu Temple starts at 11 AM. Don’t be late or you’ll miss it. If you still have energy, take a boat to Gouqi Island or the Shengsi Archipelago, where the sea is bluer and fishing villages more authentic. But the islands are hilly, so seniors with knee issues should stay on Putuo Mountain—it’s enough. 🍜 At Shenjiamen night market, the swimming crab and hairtail fish are so fatty they drip oil. Always confirm the price before sitting down. 04 Yingtan | Jiangxi The Danxia landform at Longhu Mountain rivals Wuyi Mountain but has far fewer tourists. The best experience is a bamboo raft ride on the Luxi River. The cliffs on both sides look like they’ve been chopped by an axe, and the water is so clear you can see the stones on the riverbed. The boatman poles the raft slowly for an hour—you just sit back and enjoy the view. There are many Taoist temples in the mountains. The Tianshi Mansion is worth a visit. Ancient trees tower overhead, and the incense is more active than you’d expect. ⚠️ The hanging coffin show has two fixed daily performances. The afternoon show has the best lighting. Arrive early to get a good spot for photos. ⏰ Visit in spring or autumn. Summer is too hot, winter too cold. Tickets with bamboo raft included cost just over 200 yuan. Seniors get discounts. Don’t forget your ID. 05 Liuzhou | Guangxi Liuzhou is more than just snails rice noodles. The Liu River flows around the city, and the water is clean enough to swim in—a miracle for an industrial city. At night, stroll along the riverside path and watch the lights come on at the Confucian Temple and Panlong Mountain. The river breeze feels better than anything else. During the day, visit Chengyang Eight Villages, which show the true colors of Liuzhou. Wind and rain bridges, drum towers, and stilted houses. Dong elders sit under the corridors embroidering. If you talk to them, they’ll smile and offer you a bowl of oil tea. 🍜 The oil tea with sticky rice in the villages is savory and warming, much better than what chain stores in the city serve. ⏰ The villages are large. It’s best to hire a local guide to avoid getting lost. Half a day is just enough to visit three or four villages. 06 Guiyang | Guizhou Guiyang is an underrated city for retirement. It’s very cool in summer, and you’ll need a light blanket at night. Tianhetan is a typical karst landscape with water and dry caves connected. Take a boat into the caves to see stalactites. The lighting is just right—not scary. Qingyan Ancient Town is simpler than Lijiang. The stone-paved streets are polished by time. Braised pig’s feet are a must-try—tender and falling off the bone. Pair it with rose jelly to cut the richness. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is high altitude, perfect for evenings to watch sunsets and rolling clouds. ⚠️ The mountain road has 18 sharp turns. Seniors prone to motion sickness should take medicine in advance. Huaxi Park is in the city with cheap tickets. Locals play chess and sing opera there. Sitting and watching for a while gives you a glimpse of local life. 07 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City tourist area isn’t an easy place. It was rebuilt after the 2008 earthquake, preserving some ruins and adding a Qiang ethnic museum. Prepare yourself mentally. Seeing tilted buildings and broken walls can be upsetting. But I want to say that because people our age lived through that time, we should visit. See how people survived and rebuilt their lives. ⚠️ The park is large. Take the sightseeing bus and don’t try to save the 20 yuan. ⏰ Visit in the afternoon when the light is soft and there are fewer people. It’s easier to calm your mind. Afterward, eat old cured meat at the nearby Qiang village. The smoky flavor is strong and goes well with pickled vegetable soup—comforting. 08 Wuxi | Jiangsu Nianhuawan and Lingshan Grand Buddha in Wuxi are perfect for a slow two-day visit. Nianhuawan is Tang-style architecture. At night, the lights make it feel like you’ve traveled back to Chang’an, but it’s very crowded. ⚠️ Avoid weekends. Visit on a weekday evening for a much better experience. The Nine-Dragon Bathing show at Lingshan Grand Buddha is at 3 PM daily. The fountains and music are impressive, and seniors always applaud. Huishan Ancient Town is best in the morning. The ancestral halls are almost empty at dawn. Blue bricks, black tiles, and the subtle scent of osmanthus. 🍜 The old brand “Xin Wanxin” near the entrance serves silver thread noodles with a clear broth. The noodles are as fine as hair. For just over ten yuan, you get a comforting meal with toppings. 🚄 Wuxi’s metro reaches most attractions. Taxis are affordable. It’s a great last stop to wind down your trip. They say time after retirement is worthless, but I think it’s the most valuable. Because you finally don’t have to rush anywhere or prove anything. None of these 8 places require you to “challenge yourself.” They quietly wait for you to visit. Which city have you recently been to that made you feel “it’s good to slow down”? Share in the comments. I’ll note it down for my next trip.

1️⃣ Baoding|Hebei The Western Qing Tombs are perfect for a leisurely stroll with your parents; no need to rush. The entrance path to the Tai Mausoleum is flat, shaded by pine and cypress trees on both sides. Arriving around 8:30 am provides ideal lighting for photos without backlighting. ⚠️ The mausoleum area is vast, so don't expect to walk the entire way. The park's electric shuttle bus costs 20 yuan per person and takes you directly to the core courtyard, saving your energy for the Chong Mausoleum underground palace. The underground palace is cool; bring a light jacket in summer. I recommend only hiking halfway up Baishi Mountain. Take the cable car up to Jiucaiyuan, then walk a section along the 1600-meter-high suspended walkway before turning back. The entire hike takes about two hours, with a gentle slope that won't make elderly people breathless. The "God of Taihang" viewing platform on the mountain offers a wide view, but it's windy, so make sure your hat is on tight. The donkey meat sandwiches in Laiyuan County at the foot of the mountain are crispy and flavorful, one is enough to fill you up, perfect for a refreshment after descending the mountain. Bailixia Gorge in Yesanpo is better visited in summer. The path along the stream is gentle, and the cliffs on both sides provide shade. It's much cooler to enter the valley after 3 pm. If you don't want to walk far, take a bamboo raft on the Juma River. The current is slow, making it safe and preventing your shoes from getting wet. When taking a boat through the reeds of Baiyangdian, remember to go in the morning before the sun gets too strong. The boatmen will stop at the Lotus Grand View Garden, and the water can be windy, so bring extra windproof jackets for your parents. 2️⃣ Zaozhuang|Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient Town offers two different experiences during the day and at night. I recommend staying overnight to see both. During the day, visit the Military Commander's Office and the Tianhou Palace. The cobblestone paths are smooth, and wheelchairs can easily navigate. After 5 pm, as the sky gradually turns blue, the rowing boats start to light up. Tickets are 60 yuan per person, and the entire trip takes about 20 minutes. The boatwomen sing folk songs at a slow pace, which is comfortable for older people. The vegetable pancakes in the ancient city are a must-try. The thin pancakes filled with vegetables are pressed crispy on a griddle; take a bite while they're hot, and the aroma of the vegetables will burst forth. 📍 There's a small shop near Fuxing Square that gives generous portions; one serving is just right for two people. ⚠️ After 9 PM, the streetlights in some areas dim, so don't wander too far off the beaten path. The lanterns on the main street stay lit until 10:30 PM. The entrance fee to the ancient city is 160 yuan; half price for those over 60 with their ID card. Remember to bring your ID. 3️⃣ Quzhou|Zhejiang Kaihua Root Palace Buddhist Kingdom was a surprising attraction. It's not a traditional temple, but rather a place where giant tree roots are carved into five hundred Arhats. The venue smells strongly of wood. A complete walk takes about an hour and a half. The indoor temperature is constant, making it especially comfortable for parents in the summer. The entrance fee is 120 yuan. The park isn't large; you don't need to take the electric cart, just walk at your own pace. Jianglang Mountain is best viewed from a distance; climbing to the top is not recommended. The real treasure lies in the ancient town of Ershibadu at the foot of the mountain. The Fengxi River flows through the town, and the wood carvings on the lintels of the old houses along its banks are exquisitely detailed. The town's copper gong cake is made of glutinous rice; after being pan-fried, it's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a sweet flavor. A cup of local wild mountain tea is just the right amount to cut through the richness. ⏰ In the afternoon, there are fewer tourists, and the light and shadows falling on the old walls make for better photos than in the morning. 🚄 From Quzhou Station, take a rural bus to Ershibadu (about an hour and a half). A chartered car costs around 200 yuan. Chartering a car is recommended if you're traveling with elderly people to avoid the hassle of transfers. 4️⃣ Taiyuan|Shanxi The Jinci Museum is the place in Taiyuan most worth spending half a day on. The Fish Pond Flying Bridge in front of the Holy Mother Hall is an original Song Dynasty structure. The wooden structure has stood for a thousand years; standing beneath it and looking up, you can feel its solid weight. The ancient cypress trees in the park provide shade, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays; don't schedule your visit for Mondays. Tickets are 80 yuan, free for those over 60. Please bring your ID cards. Tianlongshan Grottoes are about a 40-minute drive from the city center. The mountain roads are winding, so parents prone to motion sickness should take some medication beforehand. The grotto statues are heavily weathered, but the reliefs in Cave 8 are still clear. If you're not physically fit, take the shuttle bus from the foot of the mountain to the halfway point, then walk a dozen or so steps to reach the main grotto; it's not too tiring. On the way down, visit Jinyang Lake Park. The lake is expansive, and the evening breeze is cool. Rent a tandem bicycle and ride around the lake; it's much easier than climbing. 🍜 For lunch, we had braised noodles near Jinci Temple. The noodles were chewy, and the broth contained tofu skin and wood ear mushrooms; a hot bowl was very comforting. 5️⃣ Kaifeng|Henan Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden is a vibrant scenic area. All the staff are dressed in ancient costumes, and street performances and Bao Gong's parade are staged in rotation, keeping my parents captivated. ⚠️ The park is large. Grab a performance schedule upon entry and choose only two shows to watch; don't try to see too many. The evening live-action performance "A Dream of Splendor in the Eastern Capital" is worth watching, but it lasts 70 minutes. Elderly people who might have trouble sitting can choose aisle seats for easy exit. The Iron Pagoda Park is less crowded and quieter. The brown glazed brick pagoda has stood for nearly a thousand years, and its body features cloud patterns and Buddha carvings upon close inspection. The park is free and suitable for an after-dinner stroll. The Xiangguo Temple is located in the city center and is very popular. The wooden Thousand-Hand Guanyin carving inside is from the Qing Dynasty and is intricately crafted; it's worth stopping to admire. Bao Gong Temple is small and can be explored in half an hour. There's a peanut cake stall at the entrance that makes and sells freshly made peanut cakes—they're incredibly crumbly; buy a box as a snack. 🚄 A taxi from Kaifeng North Station to Qingyuan Park costs about 25 yuan. Don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers at the entrance. 6️⃣ Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan Fortress is the kind of scenic spot that leaves you speechless when you stand before it. The earthen walls have stood on the Gobi Desert for centuries; the wind blows, and the iron eaves clang, creating a desolate atmosphere. It's best to take your parents through the inner city; the ramparts are gentler, allowing you to climb slowly and see the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains. ⚠️ The northwest sun is intense, so it's best to arrive before 10 am when the light is at an angle and there are fewer people. The entrance fee is 110 yuan, including the fortress and the Overhanging Great Wall, but the steps on the Overhanging Great Wall are steep, so it's not recommended for the elderly. After leaving the fortress, don't rush off. Visit the Great Wall Museum (free of charge), which features a miniature model of the entire Jiayuguan fortress, allowing you to see the real scenery. 🍜 The large bowl of pulled noodles in the city center is worth trying; the noodles are as wide as a belt, topped with chili oil, and incredibly fragrant. It was windy in the afternoon, so I made sure my parents wore windproof hats and sunglasses; the UV rays in the Gobi Desert are no joke. 7️⃣ Shanghai Yu Garden is the heart of old Shanghai, but it's crowded and the paths are narrow. I suggest entering as soon as it opens, before 9 am when the crowds have thinned out, and you can easily walk across the Nine-Turn Bridge. The Jade Exquisite Rockery in the garden is a Ming Dynasty relic; the Taihu stones are thin, translucent, and wrinkled, best viewed from the opposite side. Tickets are 40 yuan, half price for those 60 and above. Exiting the park, you'll find the City God Temple snack street. The queue for Nanxiang steamed buns is too long; instead, try the small shops in the alleyways nearby. They bake crab shell pastries and curry puffs fresh and sell them without queuing. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is underwater; only the roofs of the buildings float on the water, making it very photogenic. The park is large but flat; rent an electric cart to explore at a leisurely pace. The underwater museum tells the story of Shanghai's formation from the sea, with substantial content. ⏰ Arrive at 3 pm; you can watch the sunset over the water after you've finished exploring. The China Art Museum at the World Expo Park retains its red dougong (bracket set) design. The permanent exhibitions are free, and there are benches for resting. If you're taking your parents to the Disney Resort, don't focus on the rides; shopping and watching the parade are enough. ⚠️ Weekends are very crowded; entering after 10 am on weekdays is the most comfortable. The carousel in Fantasyland isn't thrilling, and the queues are short, making it a good option for taking your parents for a ride and rekindling their childlike wonder. 8️⃣ Fangchenggang|Guangxi Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is my personal favorite stop. The village is small, with mangroves forming a green wall along the coastline. At low tide, you can see small crabs burrowing in the mudflats. The old houses in the village are built with oyster shells, which shimmer with a pearly hue in the sunlight. 🦀 In the evening, join the fishermen to go clamming, rent a small rake to dig for clams, and you can collect half a bucketful in an hour. Take them back to your guesthouse and have the owner cook them into soup—it's incredibly delicious! Fangchenggang's coastal area boasts a long coastline, but avoid the crowded Dapingpo. Head west to Moon Bay, where the sand is soft, the slope gentle, and the water shallow and clear, perfect for seniors to wade in. ⏰ The best time to visit is at sunrise around 6:30 AM, when the sea is bathed in a golden-red glow. Before the tourists arrive, the entire beach is yours to enjoy. 🍜 The "Vietnamese Rice Noodle Roll" shop in the city center offers thin, translucent rice noodle sheets filled with minced meat and wood ear mushrooms, served with fish sauce—a refreshing and appetizing treat. ⚠️ Don't skimp on sunscreen. Even on a cloudy day at the beach, you can get sunburned. Make sure your parents apply SPF 50 before heading out. When traveling with parents, pace is more important than sightseeing. Limit yourself to a maximum of two places a day, allowing for a midday rest, and avoid evening activities. Of these eight places, the Qingxi Mausoleum in Baoding and the Twenty-Eight Temples in Quzhou are the most relaxing, while Jinci Temple in Taiyuan and Qingyuan Garden in Kaifeng are the most bustling. Which of these places have you taken your parents to? Share your experiences in the comments so I can help you avoid some disappointments. 1️⃣ Baoding|Hebei The Western Qing Tombs are perfect for a leisurely stroll with your parents; no need to rush. The entrance path to the Tai Mausoleum is flat, shaded by pine and cypress trees on both sides. Arriving around 8:30 am provides ideal lighting for photos without backlighting. ⚠️ The mausoleum area is vast, so don't expect to walk the entire way. The park's electric shuttle bus costs 20 yuan per person and takes you directly to the core courtyard, saving your energy for the Chong Mausoleum underground palace. The underground palace is cool; bring a light jacket in summer. I recommend only hiking halfway up Baishi Mountain. Take the cable car up to Jiucaiyuan, then walk a section along the 1600-meter-high suspended walkway before turning back. The entire hike takes about two hours, with a gentle slope that won't make elderly people breathless. The "God of Taihang" viewing platform on the mountain offers a wide view, but it's windy, so make sure your hat is on tight. The donkey meat sandwiches in Laiyuan County at the foot of the mountain are crispy and flavorful, one is enough to fill you up, perfect for a refreshment after descending the mountain. Bailixia Gorge in Yesanpo is better visited in summer. The path along the stream is gentle, and the cliffs on both sides provide shade. It's much cooler to enter the valley after 3 pm. If you don't want to walk far, take a bamboo raft on the Juma River. The current is slow, making it safe and preventing your shoes from getting wet. When taking a boat through the reeds of Baiyangdian, remember to go in the morning before the sun gets too strong. The boatmen will stop at the Lotus Grand View Garden, and the water can be windy, so bring extra windproof jackets for your parents. 2️⃣ Zaozhuang|Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient Town offers two different experiences during the day and at night. I recommend staying overnight to see both. During the day, visit the Military Commander's Office and the Tianhou Palace. The cobblestone paths are smooth, and wheelchairs can easily navigate. After 5 pm, as the sky gradually turns blue, the rowing boats start to light up. Tickets are 60 yuan per person, and the entire trip takes about 20 minutes. The boatwomen sing folk songs at a slow pace, which is comfortable for older people. The vegetable pancakes in the ancient city are a must-try. The thin pancakes filled with vegetables are pressed crispy on a griddle; take a bite while they're hot, and the aroma of the vegetables will burst forth. 📍 There's a small shop near Fuxing Square that gives generous portions; one serving is just right for two people. ⚠️ After 9 PM, the streetlights in some areas dim, so don't wander too far off the beaten path. The lanterns on the main street stay lit until 10:30 PM. The entrance fee to the ancient city is 160 yuan; half price for those over 60 with their ID card. Remember to bring your ID. 3️⃣ Quzhou|Zhejiang Kaihua Root Palace Buddhist Kingdom was a surprising attraction. It's not a traditional temple, but rather a place where giant tree roots are carved into five hundred Arhats. The venue smells strongly of wood. A complete walk takes about an hour and a half. The indoor temperature is constant, making it especially comfortable for parents in the summer. The entrance fee is 120 yuan. The park isn't large; you don't need to take the electric cart, just walk at your own pace. Jianglang Mountain is best viewed from a distance; climbing to the top is not recommended. The real treasure lies in the ancient town of Ershibadu at the foot of the mountain. The Fengxi River flows through the town, and the wood carvings on the lintels of the old houses along its banks are exquisitely detailed. The town's copper gong cake is made of glutinous rice; after being pan-fried, it's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a sweet flavor. A cup of local wild mountain tea is just the right amount to cut through the richness. ⏰ In the afternoon, there are fewer tourists, and the light and shadows falling on the old walls make for better photos than in the morning. 🚄 From Quzhou Station, take a rural bus to Ershibadu (about an hour and a half). A chartered car costs around 200 yuan. Chartering a car is recommended if you're traveling with elderly people to avoid the hassle of transfers. 4️⃣ Taiyuan|Shanxi The Jinci Museum is the place in Taiyuan most worth spending half a day on. The Fish Pond Flying Bridge in front of the Holy Mother Hall is an original Song Dynasty structure. The wooden structure has stood for a thousand years; standing beneath it and looking up, you can feel its solid weight. The ancient cypress trees in the park provide shade, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays; don't schedule your visit for Mondays. Tickets are 80 yuan, free for those over 60. Please bring your ID cards. Tianlongshan Grottoes are about a 40-minute drive from the city center. The mountain roads are winding, so parents prone to motion sickness should take some medication beforehand. The grotto statues are heavily weathered, but the reliefs in Cave 8 are still clear. If you're not physically fit, take the shuttle bus from the foot of the mountain to the halfway point, then walk a dozen or so steps to reach the main grotto; it's not too tiring. On the way down, visit Jinyang Lake Park. The lake is expansive, and the evening breeze is cool. Rent a tandem bicycle and ride around the lake; it's much easier than climbing. 🍜 For lunch, we had braised noodles near Jinci Temple. The noodles were chewy, and the broth contained tofu skin and wood ear mushrooms; a hot bowl was very comforting. 5️⃣ Kaifeng|Henan Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden is a vibrant scenic area. All the staff are dressed in ancient costumes, and street performances and Bao Gong's parade are staged in rotation, keeping my parents captivated. ⚠️ The park is large. Grab a performance schedule upon entry and choose only two shows to watch; don't try to see too many. The evening live-action performance "A Dream of Splendor in the Eastern Capital" is worth watching, but it lasts 70 minutes. Elderly people who might have trouble sitting can choose aisle seats for easy exit. The Iron Pagoda Park is less crowded and quieter. The brown glazed brick pagoda has stood for nearly a thousand years, and its body features cloud patterns and Buddha carvings upon close inspection. The park is free and suitable for an after-dinner stroll. The Xiangguo Temple is located in the city center and is very popular. The wooden Thousand-Hand Guanyin carving inside is from the Qing Dynasty and is intricately crafted; it's worth stopping to admire. Bao Gong Temple is small and can be explored in half an hour. There's a peanut cake stall at the entrance that makes and sells freshly made peanut cakes—they're incredibly crumbly; buy a box as a snack. 🚄 A taxi from Kaifeng North Station to Qingyuan Park costs about 25 yuan. Don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers at the entrance. 6️⃣ Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan Fortress is the kind of scenic spot that leaves you speechless when you stand before it. The earthen walls have stood on the Gobi Desert for centuries; the wind blows, and the iron eaves clang, creating a desolate atmosphere. It's best to take your parents through the inner city; the ramparts are gentler, allowing you to climb slowly and see the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains. ⚠️ The northwest sun is intense, so it's best to arrive before 10 am when the light is at an angle and there are fewer people. The entrance fee is 110 yuan, including the fortress and the Overhanging Great Wall, but the steps on the Overhanging Great Wall are steep, so it's not recommended for the elderly. After leaving the fortress, don't rush off. Visit the Great Wall Museum (free of charge), which features a miniature model of the entire Jiayuguan fortress, allowing you to see the real scenery. 🍜 The large bowl of pulled noodles in the city center is worth trying; the noodles are as wide as a belt, topped with chili oil, and incredibly fragrant. It was windy in the afternoon, so I made sure my parents wore windproof hats and sunglasses; the UV rays in the Gobi Desert are no joke. 7️⃣ Shanghai Yu Garden is the heart of old Shanghai, but it's crowded and the paths are narrow. I suggest entering as soon as it opens, before 9 am when the crowds have thinned out, and you can easily walk across the Nine-Turn Bridge. The Jade Exquisite Rockery in the garden is a Ming Dynasty relic; the Taihu stones are thin, translucent, and wrinkled, best viewed from the opposite side. Tickets are 40 yuan, half price for those 60 and above. Exiting the park, you'll find the City God Temple snack street. The queue for Nanxiang steamed buns is too long; instead, try the small shops in the alleyways nearby. They bake crab shell pastries and curry puffs fresh and sell them without queuing. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is underwater; only the roofs of the buildings float on the water, making it very photogenic. The park is large but flat; rent an electric cart to explore at a leisurely pace. The underwater museum tells the story of Shanghai's formation from the sea, with substantial content. ⏰ Arrive at 3 pm; you can watch the sunset over the water after you've finished exploring. The China Art Museum at the World Expo Park retains its red dougong (bracket set) design. The permanent exhibitions are free, and there are benches for resting. If you're taking your parents to the Disney Resort, don't focus on the rides; shopping and watching the parade are enough. ⚠️ Weekends are very crowded; entering after 10 am on weekdays is the most comfortable. The carousel in Fantasyland isn't thrilling, and the queues are short, making it a good option for taking your parents for a ride and rekindling their childlike wonder. 8️⃣ Fangchenggang|Guangxi Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is my personal favorite stop. The village is small, with mangroves forming a green wall along the coastline. At low tide, you can see small crabs burrowing in the mudflats. The old houses in the village are built with oyster shells, which shimmer with a pearly hue in the sunlight. 🦀 In the evening, join the fishermen to go clamming, rent a small rake to dig for clams, and you can collect half a bucketful in an hour. Take them back to your guesthouse and have the owner cook them into soup—it's incredibly delicious! Fangchenggang's coastal area boasts a long coastline, but avoid the crowded Dapingpo. Head west to Moon Bay, where the sand is soft, the slope gentle, and the water shallow and clear, perfect for seniors to wade in. ⏰ The best time to visit is at sunrise around 6:30 AM, when the sea is bathed in a golden-red glow. Before the tourists arrive, the entire beach is yours to enjoy. 🍜 The "Vietnamese Rice Noodle Roll" shop in the city center offers thin, translucent rice noodle sheets filled with minced meat and wood ear mushrooms, served with fish sauce—a refreshing and appetizing treat. ⚠️ Don't skimp on sunscreen. Even on a cloudy day at the beach, you can get sunburned. Make sure your parents apply SPF 50 before heading out. When traveling with parents, pace is more important than sightseeing. Limit yourself to a maximum of two places a day, allowing for a midday rest, and avoid evening activities. Of these eight places, the Qingxi Mausoleum in Baoding and the Twenty-Eight Temples in Quzhou are the most relaxing, while Jinci Temple in Taiyuan and Qingyuan Garden in Kaifeng are the most bustling. Which of these places have you taken your parents to? Share your experiences in the comments so I can help you avoid some disappointments.

Stay for three days, and these 8 cities will help you completely unwind 01 Huizhou | Guangdong Don’t rush to the beach when you arrive in Huizhou. Save your morning for West Lake. 📍 Enter from the east gate of Gushan, stroll slowly along Su Causeway. The lake breeze mixed with moisture feels much better than air conditioning. No admission fee here. Two hours of walking and stopping is just right. At noon, head to the old Hengli soup noodle shop in Qiaodong. A bowl of pig’s trotters noodles with a marinated egg costs just over 10 yuan. The broth is so fresh you’ll want to lick the bowl. In the afternoon, drive to Luofu Mountain. Don’t rush to hike the whole trail. Take the cable car halfway up, then walk the section to Chongxu Ancient Temple. It’s easier and offers great views. ⚠️ People at the foot of the mountain will try to sell you incense. Ignore them. Prices are better on the mountain. Arrive at Xunliao Bay by evening and stay at a seaside guesthouse with a balcony facing the sunset. Get up early the next day to explore the tide flats. After the tide recedes, the beach is full of tiny crabs underfoot. Remember to wear non-slip sandals. 🍜 Don’t eat seafood at the tourist area’s big food stalls at night. It’s expensive and average. Drive to the town market to pick your own seafood. Processing fees are about 30 yuan per table. It’s fresh and good value. 02 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Dali moves at a slow pace. No matter how rushed you are, just go with it. Start your morning at Xizhou Ancient Town. Don’t just look at the corner towers. Walk 200 meters inside to the Bai ethnic old houses by the fields. It’s much quieter there. 🍜 Eat the broken crisp baba while it’s hot. The savory ones are more fragrant than the sweet. At noon, return to the west shore of Erhai Lake and rent an electric bike to ride along the ecological corridor. The stretch from Caicun to Longkan is about 5 km, with few people and a gentle breeze. The water sparkles with light. It’s much more pleasant than the popular photo spots. In the afternoon, visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple. Don’t just take photos at the reflection pool. Walk around to the hillside behind the pagodas to see the whole Erhai Lake and the old town outline. That angle is the real treasure. ⚠️ No need to buy the electric shuttle in the scenic area. It’s a 20-minute walk to the main hall. The time waiting in line for the shuttle is enough to explore. Nanzhao Folk Island is best visited at dusk. Most tourists have left, the boardwalk is empty, and you can watch the sunset in the lake breeze. It’s the most relaxing moment of the day. 03 Songyuan | Jilin Songyuan isn’t a typical tourist city, but that’s why it feels so undisturbed and genuine. Chagan Lake is most famous in winter, but summer is when locals really enjoy it. 📍 Drive 40 minutes from downtown to the lake. Wild ducks gather in the reed beds along the shore, rustling in the wind. Take a speedboat around the lake for about half an hour. It costs 80 yuan per person and is more thrilling than expected. In the afternoon, visit Jinchan Island. The island is small and can be explored in half an hour on foot. The dense forest is perfect for laying down a mat and listening to birdsong. ⚠️ There are no convenience stores on the island, so bring water and snacks in advance. Return to the city in the evening and find a fish stew restaurant. Chagan Lake fathead fish stewed with vermicelli has tender meat. The soup is so good you can eat two extra bowls of rice. The pace here is incredibly slow, perfect if you want to do nothing and just zone out. 04 Baoting County | Hainan Baoting is separated from Sanya by a mountain but is several degrees cooler. It’s a summer retreat for locals. In the morning, visit Binglanggu. Don’t just watch the song and dance shows. Walk to the Li ethnic boat-shaped houses where elders weave Li brocade. You can sit nearby and watch their focused handwork, which is very soothing. 🍜 The coconut rice sold at the scenic entrance is baked with coconut meat and glutinous rice. It’s sweet, fragrant, and soft. At 10 yuan per serving, it’s better value than the restaurants inside. In the afternoon, head to Yanoda Rainforest. Don’t take the sightseeing bus right away. Walk a short section of the “Rainforest Valley” trail first. The sound of the stream, cicadas, and dappled sunlight will quickly set the mood. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes. The boardwalk is slippery, and sandals can easily slip. The park clears out by 5:30 PM, so try to enter before 3 PM to have enough time. Return to town at night for a bowl of Lingshui sour noodles. The sour and spicy flavor is appetizing and replenishes your energy after a full day. 05 Fuzhou | Fujian Fuzhou’s charm is hidden in its alleys. Don’t just walk the main street of Sanfang Qixiang, which is crowded like a market. Turn into the side alleys of Nanhou Street, like Yijinfang and Wenrufang, where the crowd thins by half. 📍 Enter from Langguan Alley. First visit the former residence of Yan Fu, then circle to Ermei Study. The old banyan tree in the courtyard shades the sky. You’ll want to sit a while and not move. 🍜 Tongli Rouyan is on Macau Road. They make and cook the meat dumplings fresh. The dumpling skin is chewy and paired with a bowl of Guobian porridge. This is an authentic breakfast solved in one go. ⚠️ The oil-paper umbrella shop on the main street is just for looking. It’s good for photos but don’t buy. Prices are twice as high as in the deeper alleys. In the afternoon, walk to Guanglu Lane and find a tea house to drink rock tea. The owner will chat about old Fuzhou while brewing, which is more vivid than any guidebook. At dusk, visit Shangxiahang. When the night lights come on, the river reflects the old arcade buildings. It’s much more atmospheric than during the day. 06 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Libo Zhangjiang’s beauty needs no filter but requires you to take the right route. Start your morning at the Xiaoqikong ancient bridge. The water is a transparent blue-green, like jade melted in water. Walk upstream along the trail. The Laya Waterfall has a large flow. When you get close, the mist hits your face. It’s incredibly refreshing in summer. ⚠️ The park opens at 8 AM. Try to be among the first visitors. After 10 AM, tour groups flood in, and the boardwalk gets crowded. The water forest section is the most fun. Walk barefoot in the shallow water. The stones are warm, the water cool. The sensation is wonderful. In the afternoon, visit Daqikong. There are fewer people. Take a bamboo raft into the canyon. Steep cliffs flank the clear water. It’s so quiet you only hear the paddle. The whole park takes half a day to explore. It’s best to stay in Libo County. At night, eat tofu pudding grilled fish. The fish is from Zhangjiang and so tender your chopsticks can barely hold it. 07 Baoding | Hebei Baoding isn’t a place you fall in love with at first sight, but after three days, you’ll appreciate its authenticity. Qingxi Mausoleum is far from the city, over an hour’s drive, but worth it. ⚠️ No need to buy a combined ticket. Just visit Yongzheng’s Tail Mausoleum. The other tombs have similar layouts and get boring after a while. The mausoleum area is full of pine and cypress trees. It’s quiet and perfect for a slow walk. On the second day, visit Baishi Mountain. Don’t enter from the east gate. Take the cable car from the west gate straight to the top, saving two hours of climbing. You can walk part of the glass plank road, but don’t stare at your feet the whole time. Look up to see the spectacular peak forest. In the afternoon, head down to Yeshanpo. Bailixia’s creek trail is the most comfortable. Cliffs line both sides, and the shade is dense. It’s a pleasant walk without sun exposure. Anxin Baiyangdian is best saved for the last day. Take a wooden boat through the reed beds. The boatwoman will sing local folk songs. The wind ripples the water, and you’ll feel completely relaxed. 🍜 In Baoding city, try donkey meat sandwiches with millet porridge. It’s cheap and filling. 08 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei Enshi’s mountains and waters are the kind that leave you speechless with amazement. Don’t try to see the entire Enshi Grand Canyon in one day. If you don’t have enough energy, choose either Yunlong Rift or Qixingzhai to focus on. 📍 The boardwalk in the rift clings to the cliff. Waterfalls pour from above, soaking you with mist. It’s cooler than air conditioning. ⚠️ After rain, the rift floods and closes. Check the weather a few days before your trip to avoid wasted travel. In the afternoon, visit Enshi Tusi City. No need for a guide. Take your time exploring. The wood carvings in the Nine-Entry Hall are detailed enough to spend an hour admiring. The next day, take a boat tour on the Qingjiang River. The Butterfly Cliff section is the most photogenic. The clear water winds around green mountains. The boat feels like it’s floating in a painting. The Shennong Stream boatmen culture area is more primitive. Take a small wooden boat into the canyon. Monkeys call from both sides. This wild charm can’t be found in the city. 🍜 In town, try Zhangguan Hezha. It’s priced per person. For a few dozen yuan, you’ll be stuffed. The cured meat and potato rice are delicious. days stroll retreat friendly rail the beaten path

01 Xinyang | Henan At the end of August, Jigong Mountain is cool the moment you step off the bus. A gust of wind at Baoxiao Peak instantly wipes away any sweat; a light jacket over a short-sleeved shirt is essential. ⏰ The most comfortable time to climb the mountain is before 7 AM. The mist hasn't yet dissipated, and as you slowly walk along the Changsheng Valley trail, you can hear the dew pattering against the leaves. Jigong Mountain can be quite sunny at midday, but thankfully the forest provides ample shade, and there are stone benches to rest on every few steps. 🍜 The tofu feast in Wushengguan Village at the foot of the mountain is worth stopping for. The tofu pudding is savory, served with a side of wild mushroom sauce; I ate two bowls by myself. Remember to bring back a bottle of local honey; it's much more practical and appealing than the fancy packaging of the honey sold in tourist shops. ⚠️ Don't wait until after 3 PM to climb the mountain. The last sightseeing bus to Jigong Mountain departs at 5:30 PM; if you miss it, you'll have to climb a steep hill yourself and won't be able to get down before dark. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, I recommend just hiking the Baoxiaofeng + Zhongzheng Air Raid Shelter route. It takes about two hours to complete and isn't tiring. 02 Jinzhou | Liaoning Many people mispronounce the name Yiwulü Mountain, but that doesn't stop it from being my secret summer retreat in August. Starting from Beizhen Temple, the entire trail leads to Wanghai Temple. The path is paved with stone slabs, so it's not slippery and suitable for those who don't usually hike. Compared to Jigong Mountain, Yiwulü Mountain's advantage is "fewer people." On a weekday, you might only encounter three or five local elderly men taking a stroll along the entire trail. The temperature in the mountains is five or six degrees lower than in Jinzhou city. The wind blowing through the pine forest carries a scent of pine resin; taking a deep breath is truly refreshing. 🍜 Don't rush off the way down. The Goubangzi Smoked Chicken stall in Beizhen City only starts cooking at 4 PM. Tear off a chicken leg while it's still hot—the skin is brown, and the smoky aroma is very strong. Pair it with a bottle of locally produced chilled hawthorn juice for a perfect ending. ⚠️ Don't park at the main entrance of the scenic area. Drive about 200 meters north towards Beizhen Temple; there's a free parking area. There are few supply points on the mountain roads, so bring enough water—at least two bottles per person. 03 Baoding | Hebei I plan to discuss the four sites in Baoding separately, as they are not suitable for a one-day trip. Qingxi Mausoleum: I recommend setting aside a separate morning. The pine forest avenue at Tai Mausoleum is the best part of the entire area; the ancient pines, hundreds of years old, provide ample shade, and the temperature drops three degrees Celsius as you walk in. ⚠️ Tai Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, but the outer area remains open, so don't go there empty-handed. Baishi Mountain: Best visited on a sunny afternoon. The glass walkway can be a bit shaky when crowded; if you're afraid of heights, take the regular walkway for the same views. Crucially, after 4:30 PM, the sunlight is at an angle, making the mountain textures particularly three-dimensional—much better for photos than at midday. Yesanpo and Anxin Baiyangdian: Choose one. I took my elders to Baiyangdian Lake. We took a boat ride through the reed marshes; the wind was strong on the water, but the sun didn't shine on us, and the elderly were very happy. But to be honest, it felt a bit commercialized; the boatmen would try to sell local specialties, so those who are easily swayed should be careful. 🍜 In Baoding city, any old-fashioned donkey meat sandwich shop is better than the ones in tourist areas. Choose the "da huo shao" type; the crust is crispy and crumbly. Don't add too much braised meat; it's too salty. 04 Fuzhou|Fujian The correct way to experience Sanfang Qixiang (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys) isn't to squeeze in from the main entrance on South Street, but to first venture into the alleys of Yijin Lane. At 8:30 in the morning, the old houses in the lanes haven't opened yet, and only electric milk delivery vehicles pass by on the bluestone streets. At this time, the old banyan tree at the entrance of Lin Juemin's former residence provides a large patch of shade; sitting on the stone bench for ten minutes is more worthwhile than visiting ten creative shops. 🍜 Deep in the alley, Tongli Rouyan (meat swallow dumplings) is a must-try – eat them freshly cooked. The dumpling skin is made from pounded pork, so thin it's translucent, and incredibly chewy. The broth, infused with shrimp oil, is so flavorful you'll want to take some home. A bowl costs around ten yuan, excellent value. If you can't escape the afternoon crowds, head to Guanglu Lane. There are half the crowds there, and you can even see old Fuzhou residents sitting on their doorsteps, fanning themselves with palm-leaf fans. ⚠️ Many of the so-called "old Fuzhou specialties" shops in Sanfang Qixiang (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys) are just wholesale market goods; look but don't buy. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Fuzhou Railway Station, or a 5-minute walk from Exit B of Dongjiekou Station on Metro Line 1. 05 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is on the northeastern border. If you go at the end of August, you'll already need long sleeves in the mornings and evenings. Hutou Town and Xingkai Lake, one in the north and one in the south, can be visited in a day if the itinerary is followed smoothly. First, we went to Hulin (Tiger Head). The stone marker at the starting point of the Ussuri River looks unassuming, but standing on the riverbank, with the Russian mountains and forests opposite, and the wind blowing across the water carrying coolness and dampness, you get a feeling of "reaching the end of the border." The scenic area isn't large; you can see everything in an hour, no need to rush. In the afternoon, we headed straight to Lake Khanka. ⚠️ Don't just search for "Lake Khanka" on your navigation app; it will lead you to undeveloped, wild beaches. Search for "Newly Opened Stream Lake Khanka Scenic Area" to find the proper entrance and beach. The boundary between the lake and the sea is blurred here; it stretches as far as the eye can see. The water is clear, the sand is fine, and it's comfortable to walk on barefoot. ⏰ Swimming is most comfortable after 3 PM; the sun isn't so strong, and the water temperature is just right. 🍜 The large whitefish stew with tofu by the lake is a local specialty. The fish is as tender as tofu, the broth is rich and white, and paired with a bowl of Northeastern rice, you can eat your fill. At around 50-60 yuan per person, it's not expensive in the scenic area. 06 Lingshui | Hainan Lingshui is in Hainan, but the sea breeze in August is cooler than you might expect. Between Fenjiezhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island, I chose Fenjiezhou Island for a simple reason: clearer water and fewer people. Fenjiezhou Island requires a 15-minute boat ride. The island is less commercialized; you can spend an afternoon lying on the beach, listening to the waves crashing, and then return to the pier for seafood in the evening – a perfect pace. ⏰ Arrive on the island and catch the first boat around 9:30 am. The beach is empty then; find a hammock under a coconut tree and lie there until noon without wanting to get up. For snorkeling, the water is clearest in the morning, with visibility of seven or eight meters, and schools of small fish swirling around your feet. Nanwan Monkey Island is less recommended. The monkeys are free-roaming and certainly have a wild charm, but there are frequent incidents of them snatching food and grabbing your bags, so you need to keep a close eye on children the whole time. Also, the shuttle bus queue is long, starting at an hour during peak season, which diminishes the experience. 🍜 Don't have high expectations for the buffet on the island; it's recommended to bring your own snacks. After disembarking, walk towards the new village; the coconut milk chicken hot pot stalls along the roadside are popular with locals. The broth is made with coconut milk, and tender chicken pieces are cooked in it—sweet and not greasy. ⚠️ Ferry tickets and entrance tickets to Fenjiezhou Island should be booked online one day in advance, which is more than 20 yuan cheaper than on-site. During typhoon season, be sure to check the weather warning the day before your trip, as ferries may be suspended due to strong winds. 07 Jincheng|Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu (Imperial City Prime Minister's Residence): The biggest surprise of visiting in August was the lack of crowds. Perhaps because of its remote location, there weren't many tour groups, making the entire complex very pleasant to explore. Chen Tingjing's former residence is better preserved than I expected. The brick carvings, stone carvings, and wood carvings—every detail shows the meticulous craftsmanship of the artisans of that time. The view from the city wall is fantastic, overlooking the symmetrical layout of the entire complex—it's much more impressive than looking up from the courtyard. 🍜 The "Eight-Eight Banquet" at the scenic area entrance is a local specialty, but honestly, I recommend eating it in Jincheng city. A bowl of braised pork rice with a side of spicy and sour shredded white radish costs just over 20 yuan per person, much more affordable than at the scenic area. ⚠️ Huangcheng Xiangfu stops selling tickets at 4 PM, so don't go right on time. A complete visit takes at least three hours, so I suggest entering before 10 AM for better lighting and to avoid backlighting in photos. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Jincheng East Station; sharing a ride is even cheaper. If you have enough time, you can visit the nearby Guoyu Ancient City, where tickets are cheaper, there are fewer people, and the atmosphere of the ancient castle is more immersive. 08 Baise|Guangxi This section on Baise is specifically for those who like "off-the-beaten-path scenery." Haokun Lake, Chengbi Lake, and Xilin Mountain and Water each have their own character, but none are particularly popular. Haokun Lake, in my opinion, is "a mini-Guilin without the crowds." The lake is surrounded by karst peaks, its water a vibrant turquoise, reflecting the surrounding scenery like a mirror on sunny days. ⚠️ A boat tour is a must; hiking around the lake is too time-consuming and doesn't allow you to see the best sections. A boat ticket costs about 60 yuan and takes about an hour – well worth it. Chengbi Lake is close to Baise city and is best visited at dusk. ⏰ At 5:30 pm, the light on the lake creates a golden-red glow, perfect for photos. There's a cycling path along the lake; rent a bike and cycle halfway around – the wind rushing past your ears is so refreshing. Xilin Mountain and Water is more pristine, ideal for true hiking enthusiasts. The trails are challenging, requiring some walking, but the advantage is fewer people, giving you complete freedom to explore the valley. 🍜 The mango pickles in Baise city are the most appetizing I've had in Guangxi. Sliced ​​green mangoes are mixed with chili salt – a tangy, spicy, and crunchy treat, perfect with a bowl of Lao You Fen (a type of rice noodle soup). Overall, Baise is not expensive. For accommodation, choose a hotel in the city center; around 150 RMB will get you a clean chain hotel. A three-day, two-night trip will cost around 700-800 RMB per person, which is very cost-effective. 01 Xinyang | Henan At the end of August, Jigong Mountain is cool the moment you get off the bus. A gust of wind at Baoxiao Peak instantly dispels any sweat; you'll need a light jacket over your short sleeves for comfort. ⏰ The most comfortable time to climb the mountain is before 7 AM. The mist hasn't dissipated yet, and as you slowly walk along the Changsheng Valley trail, you can hear the dew dripping from the leaves. Jigong Mountain can be quite sunny at midday, but thankfully there's plenty of shade in the forest, and stone benches to rest on every few steps. 🍜 The tofu feast in Wushengguan Village at the foot of the mountain is worth stopping for. The tofu pudding is savory, served with a side of wild mushroom sauce; I ate two bowls by myself. Remember to bring back a bottle of local honey; it's much more practical than the pretty-packaged honey from the tourist shops. ⚠️ Don't wait until after 3 PM to climb the mountain. The last sightseeing bus to Jigong Mountain departs at 5:30 PM. If you miss it, you'll have to climb a steep slope yourself and won't be able to get down before dark. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, I recommend only the route from Baoxiao Peak to Zhongzheng Air Raid Shelter; it takes about two hours and isn't tiring. 02 Jinzhou | Liaoning Many people mispronounce the name Yiwulü Mountain, but that doesn't stop it from being my secret summer retreat in August. Starting from Beizhen Temple, the entire route leads to Wanghai Temple. The path is paved with stone slabs, so it's not slippery and suitable for those who don't usually hike. Compared to Jigong Mountain, Yiwulü Mountain's advantage is fewer people. On a weekday, you might only encounter three or five local elderly men taking a stroll along the entire mountain path. The temperature in the mountains is five or six degrees Celsius lower than in Jinzhou city. The wind blowing through the pine forest carries a scent of pine resin; taking a deep breath is truly refreshing. 🍜 Don't rush off the way down the mountain; the smoked chicken stall in Goubangzi, Beizhen City, doesn't start cooking until 4 PM. Tear off a chicken leg while it's still hot; the skin is brown and the smoky aroma is strong. Pair it with a bottle of locally produced chilled hawthorn juice for a perfect ending. ⚠️ Don't park at the main entrance of the scenic area. Drive about 200 meters north towards Beizhen Temple; there's a free parking area. There are few supply points along the mountain road, so make sure you bring enough water—at least two bottles per person. 03 Baoding | Hebei I plan to discuss the four locations in Baoding separately, as they're really not suitable to be covered in one day. Qingxi Mausoleum: I recommend setting aside a separate morning. The pine forest avenue at Tai Mausoleum is the best part of the entire trip; the ancient pines, hundreds of years old, provide ample shade, and the temperature drops three degrees Celsius as you walk in. ⚠️ Tai Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, but the outer area remains open, so don't go there empty-handed. Baishi Mountain: Best visited on a sunny afternoon. The glass walkway can be a bit shaky when crowded; if you're afraid of heights, take the regular walkway alongside for the same views. The key is that the sunlight is at a low angle after 4:30 PM, making the mountain textures particularly three-dimensional, resulting in much better photos than at noon. You only need to choose one of Yesanpo or Baiyangdian in Anxin. I took my elders to Baiyangdian. We took a boat through the reed marshes; the wind was strong on the water, and the sun didn't shine on us, so the elderly were very happy. But to be honest, it's a bit commercialized; the boatmen will try to sell you local specialties, so be careful if you're easily swayed. 🍜 In Baoding city, any old-fashioned donkey meat sandwich shop is better than the ones in tourist areas. Choose the "da huo shao" type; the crust is crispy and crumbly. Don't add too much braised meat; it's too salty. 04 Fuzhou|Fujian The correct way to experience Sanfang Qixiang (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys) isn't to squeeze in from the main entrance on South Street, but to first venture into the alleys of Yijin Lane. At 8:30 AM, the old houses in the lanes haven't opened yet; only electric milk delivery vehicles pass by on the bluestone streets. At this time of day, the old banyan tree at the entrance of Lin Juemin's former residence provides ample shade. Sitting on the stone bench for ten minutes and daydreaming is more worthwhile than visiting ten creative shops. 🍜 Deep in the alley, Tongli Rouyan (meat swallow dumplings) is a must-try – eat them freshly cooked. The dumpling skin is made from pounded pork, so thin it's translucent, and has a bouncy texture. The broth, infused with shrimp oil, is so flavorful you'll want to take some home. A bowl costs around ten yuan, excellent value. If you can't escape the afternoon crowds, head to Guanglu Lane. There are half the crowds there, and you can even see old Fuzhou residents sitting on their doorsteps, fanning themselves with palm-leaf fans. ⚠️ Many of the so-called "old Fuzhou specialties" shops in Sanfang Qixiang are just wholesale market goods; look but don't buy. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Fuzhou Railway Station, or a 5-minute walk from Exit B of Dongjiekou Station on Metro Line 1. 05 Jixi | Heilongjiang Jixi is located on the northeastern border. Visiting at the end of August, long sleeves were already necessary in the mornings and evenings. Hutou Town and Xingkai Lake, one in the north and one in the south, can be visited in a day if the route is followed smoothly. First, head to Hutou. The stone marker at the starting point of the Ussuri River looks unremarkable, but standing on the riverbank, with the Russian mountains across the way, and the wind blowing across the water carrying coolness and dampness, gives you a feeling of "reaching the end of the border." The scenic area isn't large; you can see everything in an hour, no need to rush. In the afternoon, head straight to Xingkai Lake. ⚠️ Don't just search for "Xingkai Lake" on your navigation app; it will lead you to undeveloped, wild beaches. Search for "Xingkai Lake New Opening Scenic Area" to find the proper entrance and beach. The boundary between the lake and the sea is blurred here; it stretches as far as the eye can see. The water is clear, the sand is fine, and it's comfortable to walk on barefoot. ⏰ Swimming is most comfortable after 3 PM; the sun isn't so strong, and the water temperature is just right. 🍜 Stewed whitefish with tofu by the lake is a local specialty. The fish is as tender as tofu, the broth is rich and white, and paired with a bowl of Northeastern rice, you'll be stuffed. It costs around 50-60 yuan per person, which isn't expensive for a tourist area. 06 Lingshui | Hainan Lingshui is in Hainan, but the sea breeze in August is cooler than you might expect. Between Fenjiezhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island, I chose Fenjiezhou Island for a simple reason: clearer water and fewer people. Fenjiezhou Island requires a 15-minute boat ride. The island is less commercialized; you can spend an afternoon lying on the beach, listening to the waves lapping the shore, and then return to the pier for seafood in the evening—a perfect pace. ⏰ Arrive on the island to catch the first boat, around 9:30 AM. The beach is empty then; find a hammock under a coconut tree and lie there until noon without wanting to get up. For snorkeling, the water is clearest in the morning, with visibility of seven or eight meters, and small fish swimming around your feet. Nanwan Monkey Island is not highly recommended. The monkeys are free-roaming and certainly have a wild charm, but they often snatch food and grab your hands, so keep a close eye on children the whole time. Also, the shuttle bus queues are long, starting at an hour during peak season, which diminishes the experience. 🍜 Don't expect too much from the island's buffet; it's advisable to bring your own snacks. After disembarking, walk towards Xincun; the coconut milk chicken hot pot stalls along the roadside are popular with locals. The broth is made with coconut milk, and tender chicken pieces are cooked in it—sweet and delicious without being greasy. ⚠️ Fenjiezhou Island ferry tickets and entrance tickets should be booked online one day in advance, which is more than 20 yuan cheaper than on-site. During typhoon season, be sure to check the weather warning the day before your trip, as ferries may be suspended due to strong winds. 07 Jincheng|Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu (Imperial City Prime Minister's Residence): The biggest surprise of visiting in August was the lack of crowds. Perhaps because of its remote location, there weren't many tour groups, making the entire complex very pleasant to explore. Chen Tingjing's former residence is better preserved than I expected. The brick carvings, stone carvings, and wood carvings—every detail shows the meticulous craftsmanship of the artisans of that time. The view from the city wall is fantastic, offering a panoramic view of the entire complex's symmetrical layout, much more impressive than looking up from the courtyard. 🍜 The "Eight-Eight Banquet" at the scenic area entrance is a local specialty, but honestly, I recommend eating it in Jincheng city. A bowl of braised pork rice with a side of spicy and sour radish costs just over 20 yuan per person, much more affordable than at the scenic area. ⚠️ Tickets for the Huangcheng Xiangfu stop selling at 4 PM, so don't arrive right on time. A complete visit takes at least three hours; I suggest entering before 10 AM for better lighting and to avoid backlighting in photos. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jincheng East Station; sharing a ride is even cheaper. If you have more time, you can also visit the nearby Guoyu Ancient City, where tickets are cheaper, there are fewer people, and the atmosphere of an ancient castle is much stronger. 08 Baise | Guangxi This section on Baise is specifically for those who appreciate "off-the-beaten-path scenery." Haokun Lake, Chengbi Lake, and Xilin Mountain and Water each have their own unique character, but none are particularly popular. Haokun Lake, in my opinion, is "a mini-Guilin without the crowds." Surrounded by karst peaks, the lake's water is a vibrant turquoise, and on sunny days, the reflections are so clear they resemble a mirror. ⚠️ A boat tour is a must; hiking around the lake is too time-consuming and doesn't allow you to see the most scenic sections. A boat ticket costs about 60 yuan, and the entire trip takes about an hour—worth it. Chengbi Lake is close to Baise city and is best visited at dusk. ⏰ At 5:30 pm, the light on the lake creates a golden-red glow, perfect for photos. There's a cycling path along the lake; rent a bike and cycle halfway around—the wind rushing past your ears is so refreshing. Xilin Mountain and Water is more pristine and suitable for true hiking enthusiasts. The roads are difficult to navigate, requiring you to use your hands and feet in some places, but the advantage is the lack of crowds, giving you the entire valley to yourself. 🍜 The pickled mangoes in Baise city are the most appetizing I've had in Guangxi. Green mango strips, mixed with chili salt, are sour, spicy, and crunchy—perfect with a bowl of Lao You rice noodles. Baise is generally affordable. For accommodation in the city center, you can find clean chain hotels for around 150 yuan. A three-day, two-night trip will cost around 700-800 yuan per person, offering excellent value.

Everyone says to head north to escape the heat in August, but when I checked the high-speed rail map, I found the best spots are hidden in cities you’ve heard of but never really considered. Skip the crowded popular spots. These 8 places are cool, less crowded, and best of all, accessible by high-speed train. Spend two or three days there and you can escape the sauna-like heat. Don’t just focus on Moganshan and Beidaihe. Keep reading and you’ll know where to go. 1️⃣ Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Don’t dismiss Fenghuang Ancient Town just because you’ve heard it’s crowded. You just need to pick the right time. I took a taxi from Hongqiao at 4 PM and the tour groups were leaving. The banks of the Tuojiang River finally quieted down. At 7 PM, when the lights came on, the area near Tiaoyan was not crowded. The breeze from the river was cool and refreshing, much better than air conditioning. Early the next morning, I went to Dehang Grand Canyon. Remember to wear slip-resistant shoes because the boardwalk is damp, but the mist from the waterfall washes away all the heat. When it gets hot at noon, hide out in a Miao courtyard in Shibadong Village and order a pot of sour soup fish. The sour and spicy flavor is refreshing and beats an ice-cold soda for cooling down. ⚠️ The Aizhai Bridge viewing platform faces backlight around 3–4 PM, so faces appear dark in photos. For pictures, go in the morning. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Huaihua South Station. From there, carpool to Fenghuang for about 50 yuan per person. Avoid unlicensed taxis and use official platforms. 2️⃣ Jiujiang City | Jiangxi I really admire Lushan Mountain. It’s 38°C at the foot, but at the top in Guling Town, you still need a light blanket at night. ⏰ Go to Hanpokou at 6 AM to watch the sunrise. The sea of clouds rolls like waves. Afterward, head back to town for a bowl of radish pancakes with rice porridge—so comforting. Don’t rush to see all the sights during the day. Just sit by Ruqin Lake and let the lake breeze blow away the heat. In the afternoon, visit Sandie Spring. The stairs make your legs shake, but the splash of water on your face is worth it. If you’re with elderly or kids, skip Sandie Spring and go to Huajing and Xianren Cave instead. The paths are flat and shaded, so it’s easier to walk. The next day, head to Lushan West Sea. I rented a small boat and drifted on the emerald water. The breeze carried a salty-sweet scent. The whole afternoon just floated by. ⚠️ Hotels on the mountain have steep weekend price hikes. It’s best to stay in a guesthouse on the edge of Guling Town. Friday is the most cost-effective day to go. 3️⃣ Zhenjiang City | Jiangsu Zhenjiang is an underrated summer escape. It doesn’t have the crowds of Suzhou or Hangzhou but offers the charm of three mountains and one river crossing. I started the morning at Beigu Mountain. It takes just half an hour to reach the top. Standing at Ganlu Temple, you can look out over the Yangtze River. The river breeze is so strong it blew my hat off—very refreshing. When it gets hot at noon, head to Jinshan Temple. It’s shaded with many trees and long corridors, and you can enjoy the coolness mixed with the scent of incense. In the evening, visit Xijin Ferry. The stone pavement, warmed by the sun all day, has just the right residual heat. Find a street-side restaurant and order guogai noodles with braised pork. The noodles are chewy and the broth is flavorful, much better than chain restaurants in tourist areas. Maoshan in Jurong is better for self-driving. The mountain roads are winding but shaded. At the top, you can relax with tea in a Taoist temple. ⚠️ Food stalls at Xijin Ferry only start opening after 7 PM. Don’t go too early or you’ll find nothing. 4️⃣ Ankang City | Shaanxi Ankang is Shaanxi locals’ own backyard garden. Few tourists visit, and temperatures are several degrees lower than in Xi’an. Qiancheng River is aptly named. The water cascades layer by layer, forming natural swimming pools where local kids jump in and splash around. I took off my shoes and stepped into the water. It was so cold my toes tingled, but after 10 minutes, I didn’t want to get out. In the afternoon, I went to Fengyan Ancient Terraced Fields. The rice seedlings planted in June are green, and when the wind blows, the whole mountain looks like waves. ⚠️ There are no shade trees in the terraced fields. Sunscreen and hats are a must. I was lazy and didn’t apply sunscreen on my neck, and it got sunburned. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Xi’an North Station to Ankang, about 1 hour. From the station, take a taxi to the scenic area. Drivers know the way, so no need to book a private car in advance. 5️⃣ Jingzhou City | Hubei I walked all around the ancient city wall of Jingzhou. At 5 PM, the sunlight turns the bricks a warm orange, and the shadows stretch long. More elderly people practice Tai Chi under the wall than tourists. In the evening, stroll along the moat. The breeze from the water carries the fresh scent of lotus leaves, much more refreshing than air conditioning. The next day, visit the Jingzhou Lantern Folk Park. During the day, you can watch the handmade lantern-making process. The craftsmanship of the master building the frames is mesmerizing and more interesting than just taking photos. 🍜 After leaving the park, turn into the old street and find a small restaurant with a sign that says “Morning Noodles.” The broth is made from bones, the noodles are smooth and thin, and a side of pickled radish adds a sour crunch that cuts the richness. ⚠️ The ancient city wall is under maintenance on Monday mornings. Don’t make a wasted trip. 6️⃣ Xinzhou City | Shanxi Xinzhou is one of those places you visit and wonder why you didn’t come sooner. Wutai Mountain needs no introduction. Its high altitude keeps summer temperatures just above 20°C. You’ll need a jacket in the early morning and evening. I watched the sunrise at 5 AM on Dailuo Peak. It was so cold I was shivering, but the moment the sun appeared, it was worth it. Yanmen Pass is even more amazing. The wind rushes through the pass, flipping your clothes. Standing on the ancient road, you can imagine the clang of armor and horses, but now it’s just refreshingly cool. Laoniuwan is by the Yellow River. The light is best after 6 PM. The river bends through the canyon like a green silk ribbon. ⚠️ The temples on Wutai Mountain are far apart. Don’t walk between them. Take the shuttle bus in the scenic area for 20 yuan per trip to save energy. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Taiyuan to Xinzhou West Station, then transfer to a bus to Wutai Mountain. The whole trip takes about 3 hours. 7️⃣ Wanning City | Hainan People say Hainan is hot in summer, but Wanning’s summer has a sea breeze vibe. Shimei Bay is much quieter than Sanya. I went at 4 PM and there were only a few families on the beach. The water is crystal clear and cool to the touch. Riyue Bay is a surfer’s paradise. The waves are just right for beginners. I paid 200 yuan for a coach. After one lesson, I fell several times, but being in the water never felt hot. 🍜 At night, go to Xinglong Town for Southeast Asian flavors. Curry fish balls and qingbuliang (herbal jelly dessert) are a perfect match. The chilled coconut milk base cools you down instantly. ⚠️ The sun in Wanning is intense. Don’t go in the water before 2 PM. The UV rays can cause peeling. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Wanning Station. A taxi to Shimei Bay costs about 30 yuan. 8️⃣ Baoding City | Hebei Baoding is just a half-hour high-speed train ride from Beijing, but temperatures are much cooler than in the city. Baishi Mountain is the highlight. The boardwalk is built along the cliff edge, making for an exciting walk. The wind is strong enough to dry your sweat. I walked for three hours and barely broke a sweat. Yesanpo is great for water activities. The water in the Juma River is icy cold. Walking in barefoot feels like a hot-cold shock that’s better than eating ice cream. Qingxiling is surprisingly quiet. The ancient pine forest blocks the sun, making it feel like a natural air-conditioned room. It’s perfect for a slow stroll with elderly family members. Anxin Baiyangdian requires a boat ride through dense reeds. The sunlight reflecting off the water dazzles your eyes, but the breeze carries the fresh scent of lotus leaves. ⚠️ Boat tours in Baiyangdian stop running at 4:30 PM. Don’t cut it too close. Among these 8 places, my personal favorites are Xiangxi and Xinzhou—one humid, one dry—both uniquely cool in August. Which one caught your eye? Share in the comments, or if you have your own secret summer escape, share it too. I’ll check it out next time.

Suzhou Suzhou is located in the core area of the Yangtze River Delta. High-speed rail connects it conveniently to nearby cities. Classical gardens like the Humble Administrator’s Garden and ancient towns like Zhouzhuang are clustered together. In 2–3 days, you can explore cultural sites and local neighborhoods. The city has well-developed facilities and a wide variety of food options. You can set a relaxed or busy pace and enjoy the authentic charm of Jiangnan without long-distance travel. Whether traveling solo or with friends, it’s an ideal short-trip destination. Wuxi Wuxi boasts excellent lake views of Taihu Lake. Popular spots include the Lingshan Grand Buddha and Nianhuawan. The city’s efficient intercity commute makes it perfect for weekend trips. Attractions are concentrated, so you don’t have to rush. You can enjoy lakeside scenery, visit Tang-style towns, and taste local lake delicacies. The itinerary is relaxed and not tight, offering an outstanding short-trip experience for families and friends. Shaoxing Shaoxing’s metro connects with Hangzhou, making cross-city travel seamless. Water town streets like Cangqiao Straight Street retain their original charm. Local specialties like yellow wine and fennel beans are down-to-earth. Attractions are close together, so you can visit historic homes, ancient temples, and riverside old streets in two days. The city has a strong cultural atmosphere and affordable prices. You can enjoy a leisurely cultural short trip without complicated planning. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a slow pace. Zhenjiang Zhenjiang is adjacent to Nanjing and Yangzhou, making short trips between the three cities convenient. Riverside and mountain attractions like Jinshan and Beigu Mountain are distinctive. Local snacks derived from fragrant vinegar are delicious and affordable. Attractions are moderate in size and can be visited in one day. The itinerary is compact but not exhausting. Costs for food and lodging are low. You can enjoy river views from above and taste local flavors. It’s a great small city for light weekend trips and cross-city travel. Jiaxing Jiaxing is located between Shanghai and Hangzhou with a well-connected transport network. Famous ancient towns Wuzhen and Xitang are within its borders, making weekend round trips time- and effort-saving. The water town scenery is elegant, with diverse guesthouse and dining options. You can stroll through ancient alleys and enjoy relaxed night river tours. Besides the ancient towns, there are cultural spots in the city to explore. The flexible short-trip planning suits travelers who prefer leisurely ancient town vacations. Zhuhai Zhuhai is a popular coastal short-trip destination in the Pearl River Delta. The Lovers’ Road offers long coastal views, and islands like Wai Lingding provide rich island activities. Intercity travel is convenient. In two days, you can walk along the coast, enjoy the sea, visit islands for vacation, and check out theme parks. The city’s pace is relaxed, seafood prices are affordable, and it avoids the crowds of big cities. It offers a strong sense of coastal vacation relaxation, ideal for weekend escapes to unwind. Baoding Baoding is close to Beijing and Tianjin, with very short driving times for short trips. The city preserves many historical and cultural sites, and the nearby Yeshanpo area offers quiet and beautiful natural scenery. You can combine cultural sightseeing and nature outings in one trip. The surrounding roads are good, allowing flexible itinerary planning. You can explore ancient city ruins to feel the historical depth or go into the mountains for water play and cooling off. It’s a cost-effective choice for short trips around Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei that combine culture and nature. Changzhou Changzhou’s high-speed rail connects to many cities in the Yangtze River Delta. Its two flagship attractions, China Dinosaur Park and Tianmu Lake, cater to different groups. It meets the needs of family fun and scenic relaxation. The theme park is full of excitement, and the lake area is peaceful and comfortable. You can complete a combined amusement and leisure trip in two days on the weekend. With complete food and lodging options and diverse activities, it’s a popular city for family short trips and group vacations.

8 places to visit after 50, with fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and great value 01 Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City tourist area isn’t a bustling trendy spot. It’s a place where you can walk slowly and take in the views quietly. 📍 The Qiang watchtowers at the entrance are almost empty at 8 AM. The sunlight hits the stone walls at an angle, casting long shadows. ⏰ It’s best to visit the main area in the morning. The afternoon light is harsh and can cause overexposed photos. The paths are mostly flat, so seniors with knee issues won’t find it tiring. 🍜 Don’t settle for lunch inside the park. Drive 10 minutes to Yongchang town and find a small restaurant selling Qiang cured meat. The cured meat with potato slices costs about 30 per person and is very satisfying. ⚠️ Tour groups start arriving after 2 PM. If you want peace and quiet, leave before 1 PM. Remember to book tickets through the official account a day in advance. Lines at the entrance can be frustratingly long. 02 Bijie | Guizhou Zhijin Cave and Baili Azalea are one underground and one aboveground attraction. Don’t try to do both in one day. Split them into two days to avoid exhaustion. The highlight of Zhijin Cave is its vastness. The highest point inside is dozens of stories tall. Walking the full route takes about two hours. ⚠️ The cave is slippery year-round. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. Slipping inside is no joke. Baili Azalea is best visited in April when the hillsides are covered in blooming azaleas, like someone spilled a palette of colors. ⏰ Enter the park at 7 AM when the mist hasn’t lifted. The sea of flowers appears and disappears in the fog, much more pleasant than under the midday sun. Stay in Qianxi county, close to both attractions. You can visit the local night market in the evening. A bowl of sour soup fish with potato cakes costs about 50 per person and is very filling. 03 Huizhou | Guangdong Huizhou West Lake, Luofu Mountain, and Xunliao Bay each have their own vibe. Don’t try to do all three at once. West Lake is best in the evening. ⏰ After 5 PM, the heat fades. Walk slowly along Su Causeway and watch egrets skim the water. It’s much better than being out in the sun during the day. 📍 At the foot of Gushan is Zhunti Temple. There’s an old banyan tree at the entrance. Sit on the stone bench under the tree for a while. The breeze from the lake is very refreshing. Save Luofu Mountain for days when you have more energy. Take the cable car up and then hike a bit. The summit is often shrouded in clouds, but there are many steps. Seniors with knee issues should turn back at Chongxu Ancient Temple halfway up. As for Xunliao Bay, honestly, I don’t recommend making a special trip. The beach is average, and seafood prices are inflated. If you want seafood, go to Pinghai town’s dock. The fishermen’s fresh shrimp and crab are reasonably priced for processing. 04 Taiyuan | Shanxi Taiyuan suits those who love history and quiet. Tianlongshan Grottoes, Jinci Museum, and Jinyang Lake Park can be comfortably visited in one day. Jinci Museum is the highlight. ⏰ It opens at 9 AM. Arrive early to see the Dragon Pillars in the Holy Mother Hall clearly without crowds. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, so don’t go on that day. Tickets cost 80, half price for those over 60 with ID. Remember to bring your ID. Tianlongshan Grottoes are on a mountain with a winding road. If driving, navigate to “Tianlongshan Scenic Area Parking Lot” and take the shuttle bus up to save effort. The grottoes are weathered but have a charm that new replicas can’t match. Jinyang Lake Park is best in the evening. The lake is wide and windy. Locals often stroll by the water. 📍 At the park’s south gate is Jinyangli commercial street. There’s a knife-cut noodle shop with chewy noodles and generous toppings. A bowl costs 15, much better than the 30-yuan bowls inside the park. 05 Shaoyang | Hunan Langshan may be unfamiliar, but its scenery is impressive. The Danxia landform is rugged and wild, more untamed than Guilin. ⏰ The best time to visit is spring or autumn. Summer is too hot, winter too cold. The main area, Camel Peak and Chili Peak, takes about three hours to hike. There are many steps, but rest pavilions along the way make it manageable. 📍 Tianyi Alley is a must-see. It’s so narrow only one person can squeeze through sideways. A strip of sky is visible overhead. It’s cool inside, especially in summer. Stay in Xinning county, about a 10-minute drive from the park. Prices are half of what you’d pay inside. At night, visit the county night market for a bowl of Shaoyang rice noodles and some marinated tofu. About 20 per person is very filling. ⚠️ Snacks sold inside the park are expensive and not tasty. Bring water and snacks to save money for two bowls of noodles. 06 Ningbo | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake, Xikou Tengtou tourist area, and Qiantong ancient town—I’ve arranged the order for you. Visit Tianyi Pavilion in the morning. It’s China’s oldest private library. 📍 The garden is small but full of scenic spots with rockeries and corridors. ⏰ It opens at 9 AM. Arrive early to enjoy it without crowds. After 10 AM, tour groups arrive, and even taking photos requires waiting. At noon, find a noodle shop by Moon Lake. A bowl of yellow croaker noodles has a broth so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows drop. About 30 per person. After eating, stroll along the lake and sit under the willows for a while. Very relaxing. In the afternoon, visit Qiantong ancient town. Don’t compare it to Wuzhen or Xitang. It’s more original, with shiny bluestone streets and elderly locals sunbathing by old houses. 🍜 Try Qiantong’s three treasures—tofu, dried tofu, and hollow tofu. Ten yuan a serving, perfect for snacking while walking. Xikou Tengtou tourist area suits those interested in Republican-era history. But if you’re short on time, you can skip it. Qiantong’s lively atmosphere is more worth your time. 07 Xuzhou | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake is Xuzhou’s backyard garden and is free to enter, which beats most attractions. ⏰ Early morning at 6 AM is best. Mist rises over the lake. Some jog, some practice tai chi. The air smells of water plants. Walking the wooden boardwalk around the lake takes about an hour. It’s not tiring, and the scenery keeps changing. 📍 “Xuzhou Night” street on Hudong Road looks great when lit up at night, but dining prices are high. For authentic food, go to Hubushan old street. Try braised pork with rice. It’s fatty but not greasy. About 25 per person. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are common by Yunlong Lake in summer evenings. Bring insect repellent. It’s windy by the lake, so bring a light jacket. Temperatures drop noticeably after sunset. If you have energy left, visit the Han stone carving museum on the west shore. It’s free. The stone carvings are interesting and much better than looking at replica ancient buildings. 08 Baoding | Hebei Baoding’s attractions are spread out, so plan carefully. Qingxi Mausoleum, Baishi Mountain, Yesanpo, and Baiyangdian are in four different directions. Don’t try to do all in one day. Qingxi Mausoleum suits those interested in ancient architecture. ⚠️ The area is large. It’s best to take the electric cart. Walking is exhausting. ⏰ The light is best after 3 PM. The red walls and yellow tiles look especially photogenic in the sunset. Baishi Mountain is a geological wonder. The glass walkway hangs over a cliff, so those afraid of heights should be cautious. The white stone peaks are especially clear after rain, with clouds swirling like a fairyland. Yesanpo and Baiyangdian are better in summer. The former for water activities, the latter for lotus flowers. 📍 Baiyangdian’s lotus garden is perfect in July. Take a boat through the reeds. The breeze carries the scent of lotus. Stay in Baoding city. Hotels are cheap, and highways connect to all attractions. At night, try donkey meat sandwiches on West Street. The crust is crispy, the meat flavorful but not dry. Paired with millet porridge, about 20 per person is very filling. I suggest picking two of these four places to visit. Trying to do too much will wear you out. Leave some regrets for your next trip.

1️⃣ Baoding|Hebei 📍 Qingxi Mausoleum: Tickets are relatively expensive, but half price for students makes it acceptable. It's recommended to only visit Tai Mausoleum and Changxi Mausoleum; the other mausoleums are similar, saving time for the underground palace of Chong Mausoleum. The underground palace is cool; in summer, it's like having natural air conditioning, five or six degrees lower than outside. 🍜 Anxin Baiyangdian: Lotus flowers are still dying down at the end of August, and by early September, only lotus pods remain. Take a small wooden boat through the reeds; remember to bargain. A chartered boat costs 160 yuan, but you can negotiate down to half. Locals sell salted duck eggs that are oily and sandy, five yuan each, cheaper than the supermarkets in the scenic area. ⚠️ Yesanpo Bailixia: After 3 pm, the sunlight shines obliquely on the mountain walls, making for the best photos. But don't rush for the last electric shuttle bus; the queue can be incredibly long. To save money, walk the entire way; the trails in the canyon are well-maintained and suitable for the elderly and children. ⏰ Baishi Mountain is best visited in the morning when the fog clears early, increasing the chances of seeing the "Buddha's Light" before 10 AM. The glass walkway is an extra charge; if you're afraid of heights, don't waste your money—the regular walkway next to it offers the same view. 2️⃣ Tongren|Guizhou Fanjingshan Mountain limits daily visitors to 8,000. During peak season, tickets must be booked three days in advance via their official WeChat account; they're almost impossible to buy on-site. The nearly vertical iron chain staircase to Hongyun Golden Summit requires using both hands and feet; wear non-slip gloves—they're available for 5 yuan a pair from vendors at the foot of the mountain. If you only have one day, I recommend taking the cable car up from the East Gate and walking down. Take the cable car up to see Mushroom Rock, then climb Old Golden Summit, and finally circle around to Hongyun Golden Summit. Climbing both summits will likely damage your knees, so proceed with caution. Mountain weather is unpredictable; raincoats are more useful than umbrellas. They cost 10 yuan each at the foot of the mountain, but can sell for 30 yuan at the summit. When the fog rolls in and visibility drops to less than ten meters, don't panic. Just wait twenty minutes; the wind will clear it up. The sour fish soup in Zhaisha Dong Village at the foot of the mountain is quite good; you can eat your fill for about 50 yuan per person. Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area; it's expensive and perfunctory. Walk ten minutes into the village, and the taste is completely different. 3️⃣ Baoshan|Yunnan Heshun Ancient Town is much quieter than Lijiang. The entrance fee is 55 yuan, including the library and the winding pavilion, which is well worth the price. In the morning, sit on the second floor of the library and daydream for a while. The sunlight shines through the wooden window frames onto the pages of the books—a feeling that Lijiang can't provide. In September, the grass paddies at Beihai Wetland are lush and green, soft and springy underfoot like a trampoline. The scenic area entrance fee plus a boat ride combo is 130 yuan, but you only need to buy the entrance fee and walk around the boardwalk; that's enough to see the sights. The section where you can boat is too dense with water plants, making it difficult to see anything. At Tengchong Volcano Hot Spring, be sure to buy the hot spring eggs next to the giant boiling pot. They're freshly cooked with runny yolks, three for five yuan. Don't buy them at the entrance; those are pre-cooked and cooled. The Yunfeng Mountain cable car costs 90 yuan round trip. If you're fit, hike up; it takes two hours to reach the summit, with Taoist temples and incense burning constantly along the way. The view from the top of the mountain overlooks the entire Tengchong Basin, with clouds passing beneath your feet—more interesting than taking the cable car. 4️⃣ Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Qilian Mountains are already a bit chilly in September, with a large temperature difference between day and night—you can easily pass each other in a down jacket and short sleeves. Zhuoer Mountain entrance fee is 60 yuan. Go up around 4 pm for the best light; the snow-capped peak of Niuxin Mountain is bathed in golden light by the sunset—a scene that a phone camera can't capture even a fraction of. Heihe Grand Canyon has no entrance fee; the scenery is beautiful just driving along the road. ⚠️ Road conditions are average. Sedans can drive slowly, but don't try to drive through in the rain; mudslides are a serious concern. It's windy in the canyon, so make sure your hat is on tight. Ami Dongsuo Scenic Area, also known as Niuxin Mountain, is located near the county town. It's best to visit in the evening. The entrance fee is 45 yuan. It's about a half-hour walk from there to the viewing platform, where you can see the Danxia landforms across the valley bathed in red by the sunset. The autumn scenery of Lenglongling only starts turning yellow at the end of September. If you go in August, you'll see vast green grasslands against snow-capped mountains. You can have a bowl of yak meat noodles in Ebao Town for 15 yuan for a large bowl; the meat is plentiful, even more generous than in Xining city. 5️⃣ Guangzhou|Guangdong The student ticket for Guangzhou Tower is 75 yuan, which only goes up to the 107th floor, the Baiyun Observation Deck. The window seat at 428 meters is an extra charge and not worth it. Go up the tower at 6 pm to catch the lights illuminating both sides of the Pearl River, enjoying both the sunset and the night view – one ticket for two shows! The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall entrance fee is 10 yuan, half price for students. You can spend a whole day looking at the brick and wood carvings. Note that the park is open until 5:30 PM. Entering after 4 PM allows enough time to explore and fewer people. Audio guides are available for rent at the entrance (20 RMB deposit, 100 RMB deposit), and they provide detailed explanations. Baiyun Mountain is a popular spot for locals to exercise in the morning. Entering from the South Gate and walking along the winding mountain road to the summit plaza takes about an hour and a half and isn't tiring. Moxing Ridge costs an additional 5 RMB; if you're fit, go for it—the views are truly expansive. Chimelong Paradise tickets are expensive, but student tickets are 189 RMB on weekdays. ⚠️ During summer vacation, queues for rides can be over an hour long. Going on a weekday after school starts in September allows you to ride the vertical roller coaster three times in a row without waiting. Food inside the park is expensive and unappetizing; buying a sandwich at the subway station is the most practical option. 6️⃣ Jinhua|Zhejiang Hengdian World Studios is the only place I don't entirely recommend. Tickets are expensive and the attractions are scattered. If you only want to see the Ming and Qing Palaces and Guangzhou Street, buy individual attraction tickets, not a combined ticket. The combined ticket includes overlapping routes for Qin Palace and Qingming Riverside Scene, making it impossible to see everything in one day. Shuanglong Cave is a pleasant surprise. Tickets are 90 yuan, half price for students. To enter, you lie flat on a small boat and are pulled in, the stone walls brushing past your nose – a unique experience nationwide. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 17 degrees Celsius; long sleeves are necessary in summer. In Hengdian, I recommend staying at a guesthouse near Dream Valley. In the off-season, it's just over 100 yuan a night, a ten-minute walk from the scenic area. Avoid peak season; prices triple, and the streets are packed with tour groups, significantly diminishing the experience. The Ancient City in Jinhua city is worth a side trip; it's free. At night, when the lights come on, the shops on the old street sell freshly baked pastries for 1.5 yuan each, filled with preserved vegetables and meat – much better than those in the scenic area. 7️⃣ Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Tianshan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) ticket plus shuttle bus is 155 yuan, expensive, but unavoidable, as private cars are not allowed. I suggest arriving at 9 am to catch the first shuttle bus before the tour groups arrive; the lake is as calm as a sapphire. Jiangbulak is a hidden gem among locals. The entrance fee is 48 yuan, and you can drive in. The wheat fields have just been harvested in September, and the golden stubble against the snow-capped mountains creates a more layered effect than the green grasslands of summer. Kazakh yurts inside cost 200 yuan a night, and the Milky Way at night is so clear it looks unreal. Wucaiwan is located on the edge of the Junggar Basin, far from the county town; a round trip by car takes a full day. ⚠️ Navigation often malfunctions, so download offline maps before you go. There's no signal or supplies on the Gobi Desert, so bring twice the amount of water and food. After descending from Tianchi Lake in Tianshan, don't rush off. The boardwalk near the Xiwangmu Temple is less crowded and more scenic; tour groups don't go there. The steps are a bit steep, but the panoramic view of Tianchi Lake from the top is worth it. 8️⃣ Leshan | Sichuan To see the Leshan Giant Buddha, you must take a boat. The boat tour costs 70 yuan and takes about 20 minutes to circle the Buddha, allowing you to photograph the head and feet completely. If you insist on climbing down the plank road, be prepared to queue for two hours, especially during holidays. Emei Mountain entrance fee is 160 yuan, half price for students. The Golden Summit cable car is 65 yuan uphill and 55 yuan downhill. If you want to see the sunrise, stay at Leidongping; standard rooms are around 200 yuan. Get up at 4:30 am to take the cable car up. The sea of ​​clouds, sunrise, and the golden statue of Samantabhadra are breathtaking; you can't experience that from the foot of the mountain. The round-trip shuttle bus from Baoguo Temple at the foot of the mountain to Leidongping costs 90 yuan. This section has many curves, so take motion sickness medication beforehand. You can only drive up to the zero kilometer mark; after that, you must transfer to a park shuttle. The Qiaojiao Beef in Emeishan city is worth a special trip. The old shop in Suji Ancient Town serves tender, fresh beef and offal; you'll be stuffed for 40 yuan per person. Don't eat at the entrance to the scenic area; the portions are smaller and twice as expensive.

Escape 40℃ Shandong with these lesser-known local gems, just 1 hour away by high-speed train—so refreshing! Just traveled north from Shandong and found four treasure towns in Hebei. Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and cooler weather. The high-speed train can get you there in as fast as 1 hour, perfect for a weekend round trip! Save this now and beat the crowds~ 🏃‍♀️ 📍Tangshan ▪️Highlights: Be sure to visit Nanhu Kailuan Tourist Area. The night view is stunning, with the island in the lake lit up like a spilled galaxy✨ Right next door is Tangshan Banquet, bringing old Tangshan indoors—shopping and dining here is a joy. Industrial fans can’t miss Kailuan National Mine Park, where you can explore a real mine shaft—super cool! ▪️Itinerary: Day 1 Nanhu Park boating and photos during the day → Tangshan Banquet for dinner → fountain light show at night; Day 2 Mine Park → grab a chess biscuit before heading back. ▪️Food: Freshly baked chess biscuits with juicy meat filling, plus crispy leavened flatbread boxes. ▪️Tips: Nanhu is large, so rent a small electric cart and wear comfortable shoes; it’s cool inside the mine, bring a light jacket. 📍Laishui ▪️Highlights: Yesanpo Bailixia is like a natural air conditioner, with flowing streams and lush greenery, cooling the temperature by 10℃🌿 In the afternoon, explore Yugu Cave with its bizarre stalagmites—so cool you’ll want long sleeves. For more adventure, try rafting on the Juma River, splashing water and screams guaranteed. ▪️Itinerary: Morning hike at Bailixia → afternoon choice of Yugu Cave or rafting → stay overnight at a farmhouse near the scenic area, stargazing and listening to insects. ▪️Food: Roast whole lamb, rainbow trout, and wild vegetable dumplings—delicious aroma. ▪️Tips: Big temperature difference in the mountains, bring sunscreen and a light jacket; bring an extra set of clothes for rafting—you’ll definitely get soaked. 📍Baoding ▪️Highlights: The Zhili Governor’s Office and Ancient Lotus Pond are side by side—one shows the majesty of Qing dynasty government offices, the other is perfect for lotus viewing and strolling, full of atmosphere. The biggest surprise is the Baoding Military Academy Memorial, a must-see for military fans. At night, stroll and eat on West Street, with its cobblestone roads and old shops full of local life. ▪️Itinerary: Governor’s Office → Lotus Pond → lunch with donkey meat sandwich → Military Academy Memorial in the afternoon → evening walk on West Street. ▪️Food: Don’t miss the donkey meat sandwich, round baked flatbread with stewed meat, paired with a bowl of tofu pudding—amazing. Also try beef-stuffed flatbread, rich meat flavor and broth. ▪️Tips: Taxis are convenient between attractions; West Street is livelier at night, so don’t go too early. 📍Shijiazhuang ▪️Highlights: Zhengding Ancient City is low-key but amazing! The inverted Guanyin statue at Longxing Temple is breathtaking, and the ancient city wall at night feels like stepping back in time. Visit the Hebei Museum during the day to see the Changxin Palace lantern and gold-thread jade burial suit, with strong air conditioning—a perfect escape from the sun. For something different, head to Huotou Pedestrian Street, full of industrial style and great photo ops. ▪️Itinerary: Morning at the museum → afternoon at Zhengding Ancient City, Longxing Temple, and city wall → evening at Huotou Pedestrian Street for food and shopping. ▪️Food: Try Zhengding’s Bengan (pork liver), hot meatballs, and jar-baked flatbread with meat—carb overload happiness. ▪️Tips: The museum is free but requires advance booking; taxi from Zhengding Ancient City to Shijiazhuang city center takes about 30 minutes and is very convenient. These places have few tourists and affordable prices. Just wandering around can uncover surprises. Beat the heat in August without the crowds of popular cities—Hebei is truly worth it!🚄

Where to escape the heat in August? These 8 cool hidden spots have few crowds and beautiful scenery 01 Shuozhou | Shanxi Shahukou sounds fierce, but it’s surprisingly cool in summer. I visited in late July. Standing under the city gate at noon, the wind blows through the mountain pass, carrying the scent of grass and earth, and the temperature feels around 25 degrees. 📍 The old stone path at the foot of the city gate is polished shiny by passing camel caravans. Walking on it, you can imagine how merchants rested here in the past. ⏰ It’s best to arrive before 10 AM. The slanting light hits the rammed earth walls, making the colors look their best. In the afternoon, when the sun shines directly, the walls reflect strongly, causing photos to overexpose easily. ⚠️ Don’t wear sandals. There are many loose stones at the base of the walls, making the climb slippery. The scenic area is small and can be toured in two hours. Afterward, you can enjoy a bowl of thick bean noodle soup with pickled vegetables in town, which warms you up. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by car from Shuozhou city center. A one-way trip costs around 60 yuan. The driver will wait for you and bring you back after your visit. 02 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Yangzhou is really hot in summer, but the shaded lakeside paths at Slender West Lake can save you. I entered the park at 7 AM. Walking along the lake, willows block the sun completely, and the lake breeze quickly dries your sweat. 📍 Enter from the south gate and first walk along Changdi Chunliu. This section is the coolest, with trees on both sides forming a canopy. Between Ge Garden and He Garden, I recommend Ge Garden. It has more rockeries and winding corridors. People hide in the shade watching bamboo shadows sway. It feels more breathable than He Garden. 🍜 After the visit, have a bowl of chilled lotus root starch balls on Dongguan Street. Sweet but not greasy, it’s much more refreshing than milk tea. ⚠️ Tickets for Slender West Lake must be booked a day in advance via the official account. Buying tickets on-site means waiting in the sun until you question your life choices. Don’t force yourself to tour during the hottest afternoon hours. Find a teahouse, sip some green tea, and listen to cicadas outside. That’s the right way to enjoy Yangzhou summer. 03 Heyuan | Guangdong Wanlv Lake is aptly named. The water is truly green, like a vast emerald. Taking a boat tour, the wind blows hard and the temperature is several degrees cooler than on shore. 📍 Take a boat from the scenic area dock to Shuiyue Bay. This section has the widest lake surface. The boat’s wake splashes water on your face, feeling like natural air conditioning. ⏰ It’s best to board after 3 PM. The sunlight slants on the water, creating sparkling waves that don’t need filters for photos. ⚠️ There are several boat routes. Don’t buy the most expensive full-lake tour. The Shuiyue Bay plus Longfeng Island route is enough. The extra cost isn’t worth it. There’s a waterside boardwalk where you can take off your shoes and step in. The water is cool but the stones are slippery, so stand firmly before walking. 🍜 Back in town, try Hakka stuffed tofu. The tofu is fragrant, the outside pan-fried golden, and it goes well with rice—you can eat two bowls. This spot is great for bringing parents. There’s little walking and mostly boat rides, so elders won’t get tired. 04 Tongren | Guizhou Mount Fanjing is a summer cooling gem. The summit stays around 10 degrees year-round, so bring a jacket. I started climbing at 8 AM. The steps were wet, and mist drifted through the forest like a natural humidifier. 📍 The Hongyun Golden Summit section is the steepest. You need to hold the chains to climb, but once on top, the wind is strong enough to clear your mind. The sea of clouds rolls beneath your feet. ⚠️ Tickets and cable car passes must be booked on the official website at least three days in advance. There are basically no tickets on the day during peak season, so don’t rely on luck. ⏰ It’s best to catch the first cable car up. After 10 AM, tour groups arrive and the plank road is crowded and hard to walk. On the way down, you’ll pass Mushroom Rock, the best spot to photograph the sea of clouds. Don’t rush. If your stamina is average, don’t force yourself to climb the Old Golden Summit. The Hongyun Golden Summit view is enough. Save energy to return to the hotel for a hot shower. At night, the Zhaisha Dong village at the foot of the mountain has bonfires where you can dance with strangers. It’s much more fun than staying in the hotel scrolling on your phone. 05 Yulin | Shaanxi Yulin is much cooler than Xi’an in summer, but the real escapes are Wave Valley and Red Stone Gorge. The Danxia landform in Wave Valley gets scorching at noon, but early morning and evening walks in the ravines are cool in the shade. 📍 From the scenic entrance, walk to One Line Sky. This narrowest part of the canyon has red rocks framing the sky. The wind blowing through feels cooler than an air-conditioned room. Red Stone Gorge is near Yulin city. A creek flows at the bottom, and elm trees shade the banks. Locals come here to cool off. 🍜 After touring, have a bowl of lamb noodles near Zhenbeitai. The broth is rich and the meat tender. You’ll sweat but the breeze cools you down. The Huanghe River section near Jia County is best visited at sunset in summer. The river breeze makes your eyes squint, and the sunset turns the water golden and peaceful. ⚠️ Don’t walk on the glass bridge in Wave Valley. It costs 100 yuan more but the view is no different from the regular boardwalk. It’s just a scam. Accommodation in the city is cheap. You can get a nice standard room for 150 yuan. Avoid staying near the scenic area; it’s expensive and the conditions are average. 06 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is a magical place. Surrounded by desert, it’s surprisingly cool inside. The wind constantly blows through the canyon, and the rocks block the sun, making it feel like a natural tunnel. 📍 Enter from the Yinma Valley entrance and take a donkey cart deep into the canyon. This section is the quietest, with only the sound of donkey hooves and wind. ⏰ Enter after 4 PM. The light slants through the stone peaks, creating layered shadows. Photos look cinematic. ⚠️ Don’t trust the “guides” at the entrance. They take you on a detour and charge 50 yuan. You can walk on your own without problems. 🍜 The stuffed rice noodles sold at the entrance are sour and spicy, served with garlic sauce. At 5 yuan a bowl, they’re much better than the boxed meals inside. This place is great for hikers. Wear sneakers because the canyon has many loose stones. Sandals will ruin your feet after half an hour. Stay overnight in Jingtai County. The cheap hotels are clean and tidy. You can have a bowl of beef noodles early the next morning before leaving. 07 Baoding | Hebei Baoding’s coolness in August hides in Yeshanpo and Baishi Mountain. The Bailixia Gorge in Yeshanpo is full of streams and waterfalls. Every step cools you down. 📍 From the gorge entrance to One Line Sky, the air is thick with moisture. It feels a hundred times better than an air-conditioned room. Baishi Mountain offers a different experience. The cliffside plank road is high and windy. You need long sleeves even in summer. ⏰ Climb to the summit before 10 AM for the best chance to see the sea of clouds. In the afternoon, the clouds disperse, leaving only bare rocks. The ancient pine forest in Qingxi Mausoleum is almost always shaded, perfect for those who like quiet. 🍜 After descending, have a bowl of oat noodles with lamb soup in Laiyuan County. The noodles are chewy and the soup hearty. Baiyangdian in Anxin is great for summer lotus viewing, but be sure to take official boats. The wild boats on the shore are expensive and unsafe. ⚠️ Yeshanpo is very crowded on weekends. It’s best to take a day off on Thursday for a much better experience. 08 Songyuan | Jilin Summer at Chagan Lake is a completely different world from winter fishing. The water is crystal clear blue, and the breeze by the lake makes you squint. The temperature is 2–3 degrees lower than Changchun. 📍 Enter from the south gate of Chagan Lake Scenic Area and walk along the lakeside boardwalk to Jinchandao Island. This stretch has many water birds, and wild ducks often flutter up from the reeds. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the sunset dyes the lake golden. This moment best captures the meaning of “vastness.” 🍜 The lakeside fish restaurant’s signature dish is bighead carp stewed with vermicelli. The fish is tender, and the vermicelli soaks up the broth. It costs about 50 yuan per person and is very filling. ⚠️ Don’t take the speedboats that circle the lake in 180 minutes. They’re not cost-effective. Walking along the lake is enough. This spot is great for families with kids. The beach is gentle and the water shallow, perfect for children to play in the sand and water all afternoon. 🚄 It takes only one hour by high-speed train from Changchun to Songyuan. A same-day round trip is possible but staying overnight is more relaxed. Lakeside guesthouses cost just over 200 yuan and are clean. In the August heatwave, these places each offer their own way to cool down. Some rely on water, some on mountains, some on altitude. There’s sure to be one that suits you. Which one excites you the most? Share in the comments—you might be heading there next weekend.

Everyone says taking kids out during summer vacation is a form of spiritual practice, but I think it's just a matter of choosing the wrong places. Popular tourist spots are packed with people, with two hours of queuing for three minutes of sightseeing, tiring both the kids and adults. I've personally checked out these eight places; some are so off-the-beaten-path that locals don't even see many people, while others are famous but the routes are so convenient you can push a stroller around. The main focus is on fun and not being tiring, so just follow these recommendations. 1️⃣ Zhoukou City|Henan Province Many people don't know that Zhoukou is home to the ancestral roots of Fuxi and Laozi. During summer vacation, it's so quiet you'll practically have the place to yourself. Start in the morning at the Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Area. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 am. First, visit the Tongtian Hall, then wander around to the Yarrow Garden, where the cypress trees provide ample shade for a tea party. Kids don't have the patience for history? There are stalls selling clay figurines at the entrance; five yuan for a small colored sculpture, enough to keep them entertained throughout the entire tour. ⚠️ No photos in the main hall; please follow the rules. For lunch, we went to Huaiyang city to eat Fangbudai roast chicken. The broth was flavorful, and the chicken skin was still steaming hot when torn open. In the afternoon, we visited Taiqing Palace, located east of Luyi County, about a half-hour drive away. The ancient cypress tree in front of the palace requires three people to encircle it, and the kids were excited for ages just touching it. The entire route is mostly flat, making it stroller-friendly and easy for the elderly. In the evening, we returned to Zhoukou city and went to the Guandi Temple pier to enjoy the river breeze. We could collect snails on the riverbank, and the kids could play until dark. 2️⃣ Datong City|Shanxi The cool climate is the biggest advantage here. In summer, you can use a light blanket at night, and you won't feel sunburnt during the day. Be sure to go to the Yungang Grottoes early. ⏰ As soon as they open at 8 am, head straight for the open-air Buddha in Cave 20. The sunlight shines perfectly on the Buddha's face, and the solemnity can quiet children for three seconds. After seeing the main cave, don't rush to leave; the smaller caves on the west side are less crowded, and the murals are still vibrant. In the afternoon, we went to the Hanging Temple. ⚠️ If you're afraid of heights, don't force yourself. The path to the temple is so narrow that only one person can pass at a time. Children over five can be led by the hand, but adults must hold onto the railings. Taking panoramic photos from below the mountain actually yields better results; the temple looks like it's glued to the cliff face against the blue sky—it looks beautiful from every angle. If you still have energy, climb Mount Heng (Northern Peak) early on the third day. Take the cable car up and walk for half an hour to reach the main peak. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket for your child. 🚄 A taxi from Datong city to the Hanging Temple costs about 120 yuan; sharing a ride is more economical. 3️⃣ Anshan City|Liaoning Qianshan is seriously underrated. During the summer holidays, it's so quiet you can hear the pines rustling. The scenic area is divided into North Valley and South Valley. Taking children through the North Valley is the easiest. Take an electric cart to the foot of the Five Buddha Peak, and then hike for another forty minutes to reach the stone Buddha at the summit. ⏰ Entering the mountains after 3 PM, the sunlight shines obliquely down, making the mountains look like they're plated with gold, and it's much cooler. You can rest at Longquan Temple halfway up the mountain. Fill a bottle with the spring water in front of the temple; it's icy cold and sweet, and the kids will want more after finishing it. ⚠️ Monkeys on the mountain will snatch plastic bags, so hide snacks in your bag and don't leave them out. After descending the mountain, go to the hot spring town for a soak (it costs a few dozen yuan per person). After soaking, have a bowl of beef hamburger; the skin is crispy and the meat is fragrant—the kids can easily eat two in one go. This route is just the right amount of exercise; children over six years old can walk it independently without being carried. 4️⃣ Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture|Guizhou Coming here in summer is for the coolness and the wildness. The Maling River Canyon is like a natural air-conditioned room; when walking on the boardwalk, the waterfall mist hits your face, making you need to put on a jacket. ⏰ The day after a rain is best; the waterfall has plenty of water, and the powerful roar of the waterfall will leave the kids mesmerized. The canyon trail takes two hours to complete. There are many steps, but all have handrails, so a four-year-old can easily climb it. In the afternoon, go to Wanfenglin. Don't take the sightseeing bus for a quick look; rent an electric scooter and explore the fields. The Bagua Field area is the most photogenic, with its dazzlingly green rice paddies. In the evening, find a Buyi ethnic minority family-run restaurant in Nahui Village. Enjoy sour fish soup with freshly picked mint leaves; the kids slurped up the soup while soaking their rice. ⚠️ Pack sunscreen and a raincoat in your bag. Rain in the mountains can be sudden, but it usually stops after half an hour. 5️⃣ Huizhou City|Guangdong During summer vacation, the beaches are packed, but Huizhou is one of them. The sand in Xunliao Bay is so fine it could be used as talcum powder. ⏰ Go swimming after 4:30 pm when the sun isn't so strong and the seawater is warm. Bring your kid a small bucket for beachcombing. At low tide, you can pry small crabs and sea snails from the crevices of the rocks – much more fun than digging in the sand. The next day, go to Huizhou West Lake. Don't join a tour group and enter through the main gate. 📍 Enter from Fengzhu Garden; there are fewer people and more trees. Walk along the lake to Sizhou Pagoda, where you'll be shaded the whole way. For lunch, eat at a time-honored restaurant by West Lake called "Ama Jiao." The shredded radish is fried to a golden brown; it's piping hot but incredibly delicious. If you still have energy, go to Luofu Mountain on the third day. Take the cable car up to the halfway point and then walk along the wooden boardwalk. Sit for a while under the century-old banyan tree at the entrance of Chongxu Ancient Temple; the mountain breeze will cool you off. ⚠️ The roads to Xunliao Bay are heavily congested on weekend afternoons. Either leave the island early or stay overnight. 6️⃣ Tai'an City | Shandong Mount Tai is famous, but if you choose the right route during the summer, it's not as tiring as you might think. Don't attempt the full hike from Hongmen; that route is for serious hikers. Take the Tianwaicun route with your kids. Take the scenic bus to Zhongtianmen, then transfer to the cable car directly to Nantianmen. This route involves minimal climbing. ⏰ Start at 6:30 AM, and by 8:00 AM you can be standing on Tianjie Street watching the sea of ​​clouds roll in – your kids will feel like they're on an airplane! It's windy at the summit, so bring a light windproof jacket for your kids. Don't rush down the mountain; there's a platform near Bixia Temple offering panoramic views of the rolling mountains – a breathtaking vista that could encompass the entire summer. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Tai'an Station, then a taxi to Tianwaicun costs about 20 yuan. ⚠️ During summer weekends, the cable car queues are long; try to go on weekdays. After descending, enjoy a Taishan tofu feast at the foot of the mountain. The tofu is used to create eighteen dishes, and your kids will try a few bites of each – more fun than hiking! 7️⃣ Baoding City | Hebei Province Baoding hides a bunch of cool and secluded spots in the summer. Baishi Mountain boasts a rare peak forest landscape in northern China. Visiting in the afternoon is ideal, as the light illuminates the white mountains like jade. The glass walkway, suspended on the cliff face, is perfect for adventurous children who can run along, while timid parents might find their legs trembling. The scenic trails are well-maintained, allowing even strollers to walk most of the way. The next day, head to Yesanpo. The streams in Bailixia are icy cold; children scream and jump out as they step in, then plunge back in, spending about half an hour playing. In the afternoon, visit the Western Qing Tombs. Note that entry closes at 4 PM, so arrive early. The area is filled with pine and cypress trees, like a natural oxygen bar. Children chase squirrels, while you sit on the stone steps enjoying the breeze and the quiet so peaceful you can hear cicadas chirping. If time permits, the lotus flowers at Baiyangdian in Anxin are in full bloom. Take a rowboat through the reed beds, pick a lotus leaf to use as a hat—a day of fun for the kids. This route is quite extensive, so driving is recommended, one stop per day for a perfect pace. 8️⃣ Wanning City | Hainan Wanning is cooler and cheaper than Sanya, making it a paradise for surfing beginners during the summer holidays. The waves at Riyue Bay are just the right size. 📍 Find a surf club and hire an instructor; a two-hour trial lesson costs around 300 yuan. Kids over six can ride the board, and you'll see the excitement of standing up for the first time – you'll want to shout along too! If you don't want to swim, head to Shimei Bay. Jiajing Island is nearby, and the sand is dazzlingly white. ⏰ After 5 pm, the light softens, casting long shadows from the coconut palms. Sit on the beach, eat an iced coconut, let the kids dig in the sand, and watch the sea – no one rushes anyone. ⚠️ Avoid the beach between 12 pm and 3 pm; the sun will be so strong you could fry an egg. Taking a nap in your guesthouse is the best option. In the evening, head to Xinglong Town for some Southeast Asian cuisine – curry fish balls and "leaky milk pudding" (a type of steamed bun) – the kids will fight over them! For a family trip, this itinerary is perfect for relaxing. There are no must-see attractions; every day is just the beach, pool, and night market – a relaxing experience for both adults and children. Taking your kids out during summer vacation doesn't have to be like being a special forces soldier. Stay in one place for two days, sleep in until you naturally wake up before heading out, and if it gets hot, go back to the hotel for a bath, then go out for a stroll in the evening. When you're relaxed, your kids will have a great time. I've personally tested these eight places with my kids. Which one do you think is the most appealing? Just leave a comment and I'll break it down for you in more detail. Everyone says that taking kids out during summer vacation is a form of spiritual practice, but I think it's about choosing the wrong places. Popular tourist spots are packed with people, you might queue for two hours to see only three minutes, tiring both the kids and the adults. I've personally explored these eight places. Some are so off-the-beaten-path that locals don't see many people, while others are famous but the routes are so convenient you can push a stroller. The main focus is on fun and not being tiring; just follow their lead. 1️⃣ Zhoukou City | Henan Province Many people don't know that Zhoukou is home to the ancestral roots of Fuxi and Laozi. During summer vacation, it's so quiet you could practically have the place to yourself. In the morning, we'll first visit the Taihao Fuxi Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Area. We'll enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 am, first exploring the Tongtian Hall, then circling around to the Yarrow Garden. The cypress trees there provide ample shade for a tea party. Kids lacking patience for history? There are stalls selling clay dog ​​figurines at the entrance; five yuan for a small, colorful sculpture, enough to keep them entertained throughout the entire tour. ⚠️ No photos in the main hall; please follow the rules. For lunch, we'll eat Fangbudai roast chicken in Huaiyang city. The broth is flavorful, and the chicken skin is still steaming hot when torn open. In the afternoon, we'll visit Taiqing Palace, located east of Luyi County, a half-hour drive away. The ancient cypress tree in front of the palace requires three people to encircle it; the kids are excited for ages just touching it. The entire area is mostly flat, stroller-friendly, and easy for the elderly. In the evening, we'll return to Zhoukou city and go to the Guandi Temple pier to enjoy the river breeze. We can collect snails on the riverbank, and the kids can play until dark. 2️⃣ Datong City | Shanxi Province The biggest advantage here is the cool weather. In summer, you can use a light blanket at night and won't get sunburned during the day. For the Yungang Grottoes, be sure to arrive early. ⏰ Head straight to the open-air Buddha in Cave 20 as soon as it opens at 8 am. The sunlight will shine perfectly on the Buddha's face, and the solemnity will keep children quiet for three seconds. After seeing the main cave, don't rush to leave. The smaller caves on the west side are less crowded, and the murals are still vibrant. In the afternoon, go to the Hanging Temple. ⚠️ If you're afraid of heights, don't force yourself. The walkway to the temple is so narrow that only one person can pass at a time. Children over five can be led by the hand, but adults must hold onto the railings. Taking panoramic photos from below the mountain actually yields better results; the temple looks like it's glued to the cliff face against the blue sky—it looks beautiful from every angle. If you still have energy, climb Mount Heng (Northern Peak) early on the third day. Take the cable car up and walk for half an hour to reach the main peak. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket for your children. 🚄 A taxi from Datong city to the Hanging Temple costs about 120 yuan; sharing a ride is more economical. 3️⃣ Anshan City | Liaoning Qianshan Mountain is severely underrated. During the summer holidays, it's so quiet you can hear the pines rustling in the wind. The scenic area is divided into North Valley and South Valley. Taking kids through the North Valley is the easiest; take an electric cart to the foot of Wufoding Peak, then hike for another forty minutes to reach the stone Buddha at the summit. ⏰ Enter the mountain after 3 PM. The sunlight shines down at an angle, making the mountains look like they're plated with gold, and it's much cooler. You can rest at Longquan Temple halfway up the mountain. Fill a bottle with the spring water in front of the temple—it's cool and sweet, and the kids will want more. ⚠️ Monkeys on the mountain will snatch plastic bags, so hide snacks in your bag. After descending the mountain, go to the hot spring town for a soak (it costs a few dozen yuan per person). After soaking, have a bowl of beef hamburger—crispy on the outside and fragrant on the inside; kids can easily eat two in one go. This route provides just the right amount of exercise; children over six can walk it independently without being carried. 4️⃣ Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou In summer, people come here for the coolness and wildness. The Maling River Canyon is like a natural air-conditioned room; the waterfall mist hitting your face while walking on the boardwalk will make you need a jacket. ⏰ The best time to visit is the day after a rain, when the waterfall has plenty of water and the powerful, rushing water will leave kids mesmerized. The canyon trail takes two hours to complete; there are many steps, but all have handrails, so even a four-year-old can climb it on their own. In the afternoon, go to Wanfenglin. Don't take the sightseeing bus for a quick look; rent an electric cart and explore the fields. 📍 The Bagua Field area is the most photogenic, with its dazzlingly green rice paddies. In the evening, find a Buyi family-run guesthouse in Nahui Village. Enjoy sour fish soup with freshly picked mint leaves; the kids will be slurping and scooping up soup to soak their rice. ⚠️ Pack sunscreen and a raincoat in your bag. Rain in the mountains can start suddenly, but it usually stops after about half an hour. 5️⃣ Huizhou City | Guangdong During summer vacation, the beaches are packed, and Huizhou is a prime example. The sand in Xunliao Bay is so fine it could be used as baby powder. ⏰ Go swimming after 4:30 PM; the sun isn't so strong, and the seawater is warm. Bring a small bucket for beachcombing; at low tide, you can pry small crabs and sea snails from the crevices of the rocks—much more fun than digging in the sand. The next day, go to Huizhou West Lake. Don't join a tour group and enter through the main gate. 📍 Enter from Fengzhu Garden; there are fewer people and more trees. Walk along the lake to Sizhou Pagoda, where you'll be shaded the whole way. For lunch, eat at a time-honored restaurant by West Lake called "Ama Jiao"—the shredded radish is fried to a golden brown, piping hot but incredibly delicious. If you still have energy, go to Luofu Mountain on the third day. Take the cable car up to the halfway point and walk along the wooden boardwalk. Sit for a while under the century-old banyan tree at the entrance of Chongxu Ancient Temple; the mountain breeze will cool you down completely. ⚠️ The roads into Xunliao Bay are heavily congested on weekend afternoons. Either leave the island early or stay overnight. 6️⃣ Tai'an City | Shandong Mount Tai is famous, but if you choose the right route during the summer, it's not as tiring. Don't climb the entire route from Hongmen; that's for hardcore hikers. Take the Tianwaicun route with your kids, take the scenic bus to Zhongtianmen, then transfer to the cable car directly to Nantianmen. There aren't many steps to climb along the way. ⏰ Start at 6:30 am, and by 8:00 am you can be standing on Tianjie watching the sea of ​​clouds roll in; your kids will think they're on an airplane. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light windproof jacket for your kids. Don't rush down the mountain; there's a platform near Bixia Temple with a panoramic view of the rolling mountains—a view so expansive it could encompass the entire summer. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Tai'an Station, then a taxi to Tianwaicun costs about 20 yuan. ⚠️ Cable car queues are long on summer weekends, so try to choose weekdays. After descending the mountain, enjoy a Taishan tofu feast at the foot of the mountain. The tofu is used to make eighteen dishes, and the kids tried a couple of bites of each – more fun than climbing! 7️⃣ Baoding City | Hebei Province Baoding hides a bunch of cool, secluded spots in summer. Baishi Mountain is a rare peak forest landform in northern China. ⏰ The best time to enter the mountain is in the afternoon, when the light makes the white mountains look like jade. The glass walkway is suspended on the cliff face; daring kids can run along it, while timid parents might feel their legs go weak. The scenic trails are well-maintained, and you can walk most of the way with a stroller. The next day, go to Yesanpo. The stream in Bailixia is icy cold; the kids scream and jump out as they step in, then stick their feet in again – they can play for half an hour. In the afternoon, go to the Western Qing Tombs. ⚠️ Entry stops at 4 PM, so remember to arrive early. The mausoleum area is covered with pine and cypress trees, like a natural oxygen bar. Children chase squirrels, while you sit on the stone steps enjoying the breeze; it's so quiet you can hear the cicadas chirping. If you have enough time, the lotus flowers in Baiyangdian, Anxin are in full bloom. Take a rowboat through the reed beds, pick a lotus leaf to use as a hat—the kids will have a blast all day. This route is quite extensive, so I recommend driving; one stop a day will give you a perfect pace. 8️⃣ Wanning City|Hainan Wanning is cooler and cheaper than Sanya, making it a paradise for surfing beginners during the summer holidays. The waves at Riyue Bay are just the right size. 📍 Find a surfing club and hire an instructor; a two-hour trial lesson costs around 300 yuan. Kids over six can ride the board, and you'll see the excitement of standing up for the first time—you'll want to shout along too! If you don't want to swim, head to Shimei Bay. Jiajing Island is right there, with dazzlingly white sand. ⏰ After 5 pm, the light softens, casting long shadows from the coconut palms. Sit on the beach, eat an iced coconut, let the kids dig in the sand, and watch the sea—no one rushes anyone. ⚠️ Avoid the beach between 12 PM and 3 PM; you'll get so sunburned you could fry an egg. Taking a nap in your guesthouse is the better option. In the evening, head to Xinglong Town for Southeast Asian cuisine—curry fish balls and "leaky milk pudding" (a type of steamed bun)—the kids will fight over them! For a family trip, this itinerary is perfect for a relaxed pace. There are no must-see attractions; each day is just the beach, pool, and night market, allowing both adults and children to unwind. Taking kids on summer vacation doesn't have to be like being a special forces soldier. Stay in one place for two days, sleep in until you naturally wake up, and if it gets too hot, go back to the hotel for a bath. Go out for a stroll in the evening. When you're relaxed, your kids will have a better time. I've personally tested these eight places with my kids. Which one do you think is most appealing? Let me know in the comments, and I'll break it down in more detail.

01 Bazhong | Sichuan Don’t just think of Guizhou when it comes to summer escapes. Bazhong, a small city in northeastern Sichuan, has average summer temperatures several degrees cooler than Chengdu. With direct high-speed rail access, it’s even more convenient. I especially recommend Guangwu Mountain. Don’t assume it’s only about autumn leaves; the summer’s primeval forest and streams are the real treasures. ⏰ Enter the mountain before 9 AM. The forest trails are fully shaded, making the temperature feel much cooler. The streams along the way are so clear you can see the patterns on the stones. Walking barefoot in the water is refreshing. Avoid climbing at noon because the sun heats the stone paths, turning the mountain into a steam room. 🍜 After descending, head to “Zhengzhi Baba Fish” in Nanjiang County. The fish is freshly caught and cooked on order. The sauerkraut soup base is appetizing and refreshing. You can eat your fill for about 40 to 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ Guangwu Mountain is large. Don’t expect to explore it in half a day. Set aside a full day, wear slip-resistant shoes, and be careful—boardwalks can be slippery after rain. 02 Jining | Shandong Jining is rich in culture and local life, making it a fun and cool summer destination. Qufu’s Ming ancient city needs no introduction. Visit the Confucius Temple, Mansion, and Cemetery together. The ancient trees tower overhead, making it much cooler than the city. ⏰ After 3 PM, there are fewer tourists. The sunlight filtering through the cypress trees creates perfect photo opportunities. Weishan Lake offers a different scene. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Qufu to Zaozhuang and transfer, or drive on the highway. Take a boat to the lake’s center where thousands of lotus flowers are in full bloom. The air is filled with the fresh scent of lotus leaves. The boatman will take you to a fishing village on an island where you can enjoy stewed mixed fish with pan-fried flatbread—so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows raise. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are fierce by the lake. Bring long pants and insect repellent. 03 Ma’anshan | Anhui Ma’anshan is an underrated riverside town. It’s quiet and peaceful, and the summer breeze off the river quickly cools the heat. Caishi Cliff is the highlight. Cuiluo Mountain isn’t tall and can be climbed in half an hour. From the top, you can see the Yangtze River bend with a wide view. I prefer the wooden boardwalk along the river. Take an evening stroll and watch the sunset turn the water golden while distant cargo ship horns sound—very soothing. 🍜 “Sankoutang Old Goose Soup” on Jiefang Road in the city is worth a special visit. The goose meat is tender, the broth rich, and it pairs perfectly with crispy rice. ⚠️ Caishi Cliff Scenic Area closes at 5:30 PM. Don’t arrive too late. 🚄 It’s only about 20 minutes by high-speed train from Nanjing South Station, perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip. 04 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei’s coolness is dry and refreshing, very different from the humid heat of the south. The sun is strong during the day, but any shade brings instant relief. Shapotou is a must-visit where the Yellow River meets the desert, creating a unique landscape. ⚠️ Avoid going to the desert at midday. The sand is scorching hot, and walking barefoot for even a few steps is unbearable. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 PM and stay until sunset. The soft light is great for photos. Gaomiao Bao’an Temple is in the old city. The temple buildings are compact and exquisite. The underground palace and Arhat Hall are worth seeing. Afterward, head to the nearby Drum Tower pedestrian street for a bowl of wormwood noodles—chewy and smooth. 📍 A taxi from the city to Shapotou takes about 20 minutes. Carpooling is more cost-effective. 05 Nanping | Fujian Wuyishan is a place that lets you truly slow down. Summer brings plenty of rain and mist swirling around the mountains. The water in the Nine-bend Creek is cool and clear. Bamboo raft drifting is the highlight. ⏰ Take the first raft in the morning when the mist hasn’t lifted yet. The peaks on both sides reflect in the water, like walking inside a painting. Remember to tip the boatman; he’ll share many mountain stories. 🍜 Don’t miss “Langu smoked goose” in the resort area. It’s smoky, crispy-skinned, tender, and mildly spicy—very appetizing. ⚠️ Tianyou Peak’s steps are steep. If you’re with elderly or children, it’s best to turn back halfway. The views are still great. 🚄 There’s a dedicated bus line from the high-speed rail station to the scenic area. A taxi costs about 20 yuan. 06 Baishan | Jilin Baishan in summer is the ultimate cool escape. Changbai Mountain’s main peak is snow-capped year-round, but the foothills are lush and green. I recommend the west slope over the north slope. It’s less crowded with wider views. After visiting Heaven Lake, you can go to the alpine flower garden where wildflowers bloom in July—purple, yellow, pink—and the breeze brings coolness. ⏰ Whether you see the whole lake depends on luck. The summit fog is common in the morning but clears more often after 10 AM. The “Old Pu Dog Meat Restaurant” in Erdaobaihe Town sounds intimidating but serves authentic cold noodles and spicy kimchi. ⚠️ It’s cold on the mountain. Bring a light down jacket or windbreaker. Renting coats at the base is expensive and dirty. 07 Baoding | Hebei Baoding’s summer cool comes from the Taihang Mountains and Baiyangdian Lake. Baishi Mountain features rare peak forest landforms in the north. The glass walkway hangs thousands of meters above the clouds, thrilling and cool. ⏰ Enter the mountain early when the fog hasn’t lifted for the most magical experience. It gets windy in the afternoon, making it feel colder. Bailixia in Yesanpo is more accessible, with streams alongside the trails. When tired, cool off by stepping in the water. Kids can play for hours. Qingxi Mausoleum is much quieter than Qingdong Mausoleum. Ancient pines fill the forest, and the temperature inside the mausoleum is several degrees cooler than outside. 🍜 After visiting Qingxi Mausoleum, stop by Yixian County for a bowl of donkey meat sandwich. The hot bread with cold donkey meat creates distinct layers of flavor. 🚄 It takes about 1.5 hours by taxi from Baoding East Station to Yesanpo. It’s best for self-driving or taking the direct shuttle bus. 08 Weinan | Shaanxi Mount Hua is a hardcore summer escape. Don’t be scared off by the “dangerous” reputation. As long as you avoid the plank walk and the “hawk flip,” ordinary visitors can hike the north and west peaks without issue. ⏰ Night climbing is highly recommended. Start from Yuquan Temple at 10 PM. The cool breeze and bright stars make for a special experience. Arrive at the east peak by dawn to watch the sunrise, then slowly descend, perfectly avoiding the daytime heat. After descending, don’t rush off. Go to Huayin city for a bowl of mashi noodles—dough pieces in lamb soup—warming and refreshing. ⚠️ Night climbing requires a headlamp and gloves. The chains and stone steps are cold. 🚄 It’s a 10-minute taxi ride from Huashan North Station to the visitor center, but the night climb entrance is at Yuquan Temple. Don’t go to the wrong place. Each of these eight places offers its own way to cool down. My favorites are Changbai Mountain and Guangwu Mountain—one purely cold, the other cool and moist. Have you made up your mind? Share in the comments or tell me your top summer escape. the heat trip travel the beaten path rail travel

1. Chengde Mountain Resort | 22℃ breezes through the royal garden As the Qing dynasty emperor’s summer retreat, the resort’s summer average temperature is 5℃ lower than the city. In August, lotus flowers bloom in the lake area, and the Nanmu Hall offers natural coolness. · Tickets and hours: Peak season 130 CNY/person (includes museum); peak season 7:30 AM–5:30 PM · Transportation: 1-hour high-speed train from Beijing to Chengde South Station · Highlights: Lizheng Gate → palace area (Danbo Jingcheng Hall) → must-ride mountain loop bus (60 CNY) for panoramic views → plain area → lake area (Yanyu Tower) → Rehe Spring · Tips: The park is huge, wear comfortable shoes; large temperature difference between morning and evening, bring a light jacket 2. Bashang Grassland | 18℃ starry sky and open wilderness Summer daytime average temperature is 20–28℃, dropping sharply to 10–15℃ at night. Mid-August shows slightly yellow grass but the best photo opportunities, with a dazzling starry sky visible to the naked eye. · Best time: late July to mid-August (wildflower bloom period) · Recommended activities: horseback riding at Fengning Bashang Grassland, visit Lightning Lake’s “sky mirror,” grassland bonfire party · Tips: Large day-night temperature difference, bring a thick windbreaker or light cotton jacket; book accommodations early during peak season 3. Qinhuangdao Beidaihe | 23.5℃ sea breeze and orange sea sunset August coastal average temperature is only 23.5℃, with cool sea breezes that are not stuffy. You can swim in the sea and catch the sunrise while foraging along the shore. · Tickets: Pigeon Nest Park 25 CNY; Tiger Stone Beach free · Transportation: 2-hour high-speed train from Beijing to Beidaihe Station · Highlights: free wading at Tiger Stone Beach; watch the “red sun bathing the sea” sunrise at Pigeon Nest Park; shell collecting at low tide · Tips: Odd-even license plate restrictions on summer weekends, check in advance if driving; best swimming time is 12 PM to 4 PM; buy seafood at Shitang Road Market for self-processing to save money 4. Baoding Yesanpo | 22℃ canyon rafting and 13℃ caves Summer average temperature is 22–23℃, 1.5-hour drive from Beijing. The canyon streams are cool, and the caves feel like an underground cold storage. · Core experiences: hiking and water play in Bailixia Canyon; Yugu Cave is 13℃ year-round, with a cool underground river boat ride; Juma River rafting (water temperature 20–22℃) · Tips: mountain roads are slippery after rain, avoid new shoes; large temperature difference between morning and evening, bring a jacket · -- 💡 General tips: Weather in Hebei’s mountains is changeable in August. Check weather forecasts and attraction opening status before traveling. UV rays are strongest from 11 AM to 4 PM, avoid prolonged outdoor sun exposure.

01 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Jingpo Lake has comfortable temperatures in summer. At noon in August, the shaded areas by the lake are about 24℃. A gentle breeze carries moisture and the scent of plants across the lake, making short sleeves feel slightly cool. From 6 AM to 8 AM, a thin mist covers the lake. The Diaoshuilou Waterfall has a strong flow, and standing at the viewing pavilion lets you enjoy the refreshing mist, making it a pleasant spot to cool off. It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Mudanjiang Station to the north gate of Jingpo Lake, costing around 60 yuan. Carpooling is more cost-effective for groups. After entering the park, you can take a sightseeing bus to the waterfall, then walk along the boardwalk to the dock for a one-hour boat ride. Along the way, you can see the lake’s central island and mountain scenery. The boat ticket costs 100 yuan. Tip: The grilled fish sold at the park entrance is not very cost-effective. On the way back, try the Korean restaurant Laosongling in the city for soybean paste soup and rice sausage, where a meal costs about 40 yuan per person. If traveling with elderly or children, just visit the waterfall and lakeside boardwalk. The steps at the ancient Yaoshi temple are steep and slippery, so climbing is not recommended. 02 Yulin | Shaanxi Yulin was one of my favorite destinations this summer. The outdoor areas have strong sunlight, but once inside the Red Stone Gorge, the temperature noticeably drops. The gorge is about 1 km long, with elm trees growing on both sides of the cliffs, a babbling stream, and cool stone paths. Avoid visiting Wave Valley at noon because the Danxia area has little shade and strong sun. It’s best to enter the park after 4:30 PM when the soft light highlights the red rock layers, perfect for photos. The ticket costs 100 yuan. Walking the entire boardwalk takes about 2 hours. Those with limited mobility should take their time. The Yellow River riverside in Jia County is great for evening visits. The Xianglu Temple offers wide views of the river bend, but the riverside wind is strong, so bring a light jacket. Food recommendation: Try the chopped buckwheat noodles with lamb offal soup at the ancient city’s lamb noodle shop. It costs 15 yuan per bowl and is warming and comforting. Tip: Do not climb over the boardwalk or step on the rocks, as violations will be penalized. Staff patrol the park regularly. 03 Shannan | Tibet Yamdrok Lake’s water is pure and clear. It’s a 3-hour one-way drive from Lhasa with smooth roads. The altitude rises from 3,600 meters to 4,400 meters. You can bring an oxygen bottle on the trip, which costs 30 yuan each. Arrive at Gangbala Pass before 11 AM when the lake is calm and reflections are clear. In the afternoon, clouds increase and affect the lake’s appearance. The lakeside wind is strong, and the temperature feels below 15℃, so bring a windbreaker. First, take photos from the mid-mountain viewing platform for a panoramic view, then drive to the lakeside village where you can take pictures with local yaks for 10 yuan per session. Tip: Photos with yaks and Tibetan mastiffs by the lake are paid services. Confirm prices before taking pictures. The high altitude may cause discomfort for young children, so plan your trip according to your health condition. 04 Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain has a comfortable mountain climate in summer. Above 1,600 meters, nighttime temperatures are low, so a light blanket is needed for sleeping. After sweating during hiking, the breeze feels dry and refreshing. There is a direct bus from Pingxiang North Station to the Wugong Mountain Visitor Center. The fare is 27 yuan and the trip takes 1 hour. It’s recommended to take the first-level cable car to Zhong’an, then hike 2 hours to the summit, totaling 3 hours and saving energy. After 3 PM, visit the summit meadow where the slanting sunlight covers the grass slope and mist lingers in the mountains, creating a healing view. Tents on the summit cost 100 yuan each. The provided sleeping bags tend to be damp, so bring your own liner. Food recommendation: After descending, try lotus blood duck near Runda International, paired with iced mung bean drink for a refreshing and spicy relief. Tip: Weekends are crowded on the mountain with limited lodging. Visiting on weekdays offers a better experience. 05 Tianshui | Gansu Maijishan Grottoes are cool and shaded, with air mixed with earth and forest scents. It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Tianshui South Station to Maijishan, costing 35 yuan. The park is densely wooded, and at noon in August, the temperature feels 5℃ cooler than downtown. The boardwalk area has strong sunlight, so it’s best to enter before 9 AM when the light is soft, making it easier to appreciate the grotto sculptures. The ticket costs 80 yuan. The boardwalk is one-way, so no need to backtrack. The Water Curtain Cave in Wushan is farther away, about 2 hours one way. It’s damp inside with constant dripping water, making it ideal for afternoon visits. Fuxi Temple is in the city. After visiting, head to Yusheng Alley for local snacks costing 5 yuan per bowl, with a sour and spicy flavor. Tip: The Maijishan boardwalk steps are narrow, so large backpacks are inconvenient. There is a 10 yuan storage fee at the park entrance. Light packing is recommended. 06 Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake has low temperatures, so bring a thick windbreaker before arrival. It’s a 1.5-hour private car ride from Bole Station to the lake area, costing 200 yuan per car. Splitting among four people is cost-effective. The lake is at 2,073 meters elevation. Cool winds from the snow-capped mountains make the temperature feel about 15℃. At 8 PM, the west road around the lake is ideal for watching the sunset. The lake’s layers of color are rich, but the lakeside wind is strong, so wear windproof clothing. The full lake loop is 70 km. Electric bike rental costs 200 yuan per hour. You can ride in sections to take photos without circling the entire lake. The Anjihai Grand Canyon is farther from the lake but worth a stop. The canyon edge is windy, so keep a safe distance from the cliff when taking photos. The hot spring valley in Wenquan County charges 30 yuan per person. After soaking, return to the city to rest. Tip: Barbecue prices in the park are high and average in taste. On the way back, try Tokkuzun fried meat noodles in Bole city for 25 yuan per serving, which is filling. 07 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian’s sea breeze helps ease the summer heat. Outdoor areas have strong sunlight in August. Xinghai Square by the sea has a refreshing breeze and feels cool. It takes about 1 hour by taxi from Dalian Station to Jinshitan. You can also take Metro Line 3 for 8 yuan. The route runs along the coast with beautiful views. Jinshitan Geological Park is best visited in the morning. At low tide, you can collect sea glass on the rocky beach. The cliffs glow red and gold in the sunlight. It’s best to arrive before 10 AM. Laohutan Ocean Park is family-friendly with a 220 yuan ticket. The performances are average. The free Tangli Lake Park is more recommended, with dense greenery along the lakeside trail, perfect for picnics and walks. Food recommendation: In the evening, try menzi on Tianjin Street. A small portion costs 5 yuan and is richly flavored with garlic and sesame sauce. Tip: The Jinshitan beach has many stones underwater. Wear water shoes and avoid walking barefoot. 08 Baoding | Hebei Baoding has many quality summer cooling spots nearby. Baishi Mountain is 2,096 meters high. After taking the cable car, walk the suspended boardwalk. The mountain wind is strong, and the temperature feels below 20℃. It takes about 1.5 hours by taxi from Baoding East Station to Baishi Mountain, costing 150 yuan. Carpooling is cheaper. In the afternoon, clouds often form in the mountains. The glass boardwalk area can be foggy, so those afraid of heights can take a detour. The Bailixia Gorge in Yesanpo has flowing streams and cool temperatures, great for family water play. It’s crowded on weekends, so weekdays are better. The Qingxi Forest Area has few visitors, with pleasant pine shadows. The light is soft around 5 PM, ideal for a slow stroll. Lotus flowers bloom in August at Baiyangdian. A boat ride through the reed marsh costs 30 yuan per person. The water surface is open, so bring sun protection. Food recommendation: Try the beef pancake with mung bean soup at Baiyunzhang in the city for 20 yuan. Tip: Boatmen at Baiyangdian often recommend specialty fish feasts, which are priced high. Choose according to your needs. cooling travel travel photography rail travel