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

You must visit Laojun Mountain at least once to see the celestial palaces from fantasy dramas brought to life. While other famous mountains offer vast landscapes, Laojun Mountain hides a celestial realm on earth. At the 2,000-meter peak of the Funiu Mountains, gilded Taoist temples hang over cliffs. Clouds roll over the peaks, morning bells chime with the mountain breeze—half Taoist serenity, half romantic sea of clouds, healing all worldly restlessness. Legend has it that Laozi retired here to practice alchemy, and a thousand years of Taoist charm are embedded in every brick and tile. No need to travel far to find a fairyland; come to Laojun Mountain in Luanchuan to walk above the clouds and keep a poetic appointment with traditional Chinese style. 🪨 Ten-mile gallery | A landscape scroll carved over billions of years The first surprise of the ascent is the Ten-mile gallery hidden among the cliffs. The suspended wooden boardwalk winds along the granite peaks, with strange rocks in various shapes, naturally forming wonders like "Laozi meditating" and "Immortal watching the sea." Every step offers a new view. On sunny days, the green peaks are sharp, like a spread-out landscape painting; after rain, clouds and mist weave through the stone forest, creating a hazy, ink-wash atmosphere. The trail is gentle, so no strenuous climbing is needed. Stroll slowly among the peaks, with the mountain breeze carrying the scent of grass and trees—every snapshot is a blockbuster without filters. 🏯 Golden summit Taoist temples | A celestial palace above the clouds on the cliff The core photo spot that's all over the internet: at an altitude of 2,217 meters on a sheer cliff, five gilded temples stand scattered, with red walls and golden tiles, flying eaves and upturned corners, suspended in the air as if floating among the sea of clouds. Golden sunrise moment In the early morning, climb to the Mazongling viewing platform to wait for the sunrise to break through the clouds. Golden light covers the golden temples, and the sea of clouds surges like waves. The entire immortal mountain is wrapped in soft light—at this moment, you understand what a "breathtaking feast" truly means. The Liangbao Terrace offers an unobstructed view, making it the perfect spot to photograph the sunrise and the sea of clouds. Legendary blue hour night view At 6:30 PM, the Golden summit lights up on time. Warm yellow lights spill over the gilded roofs, and twilight mist wraps around the pavilions, as if you've stumbled into a fantasy world. Wearing Hanfu or new Chinese-style outfits here makes for an incredibly atmospheric photo. The copper bells on the eaves chime gently with the wind, and the incense from the temple curls up—a perfect collision of Taoist charm and tenderness. ☁️ Niche and fun ways to unlock a different Laojun Mountain 1. Cloud glass viewing platform A 300-meter suspended transparent platform. With the deep valley beneath your feet and clouds flowing by, it feels like walking on clouds. Thrilling and photogenic, free to visit with no extra cost. 2. Nantianmen sky ladder silhouette Long stone steps leading straight to the clouds. Shooting silhouettes against the light creates a great sense of depth—the pinnacle of traditional Chinese aesthetics. 3. Meditative prayer in the mountains The Laojun Temple has a serene atmosphere. You can write a prayer plaque. Pro tip: Prayer plaques at the foot of the mountain are more cost-effective; prices at the summit are doubled, so don't get ripped off. 4. Seasonal romance Escape the heat in spring and summer, as temperatures in the mountains are 8–10°C lower. In autumn, red leaves cover the mountains, setting off the golden summit. In winter, rime and snow cover the gold, making it the pinnacle of snow scenery in Central China. There is different scenery all year round. 📝 Blogger's tested tips to avoid pitfalls ▫️ Transportation/cable car: The first cable car is a must. Hiking up takes four hours with no scenery along the way. If you have average stamina, I recommend taking both cable cars to save energy for photographing the Golden summit and the sea of clouds. ▫️ Temperature warning: The summit is over 10 degrees cooler than the foot of the mountain. Even in midsummer, bring a windbreaker. If climbing at night, prepare warm clothing. Non-slip sneakers are a must, as the boardwalks are damp and slippery. ▫️ Best time to visit: There is a 90% chance of seeing a sea of clouds after rain. Weekdays are less crowded, so you won't have to queue for photo spots. The cable car stops going up at 3:30 PM, so don't arrive too late. ▫️ Outfit suggestions: Off-white, light apricot, pure white dresses, and Hanfu suit the "immortal mountain" vibe. Pair with a red scarf for a pop of color, creating a strong contrast with the golden summit and red walls. ▫️ Supplies: No need to carry a lot of snacks up the mountain. Prices on the mountain are reasonable. Just bring chocolate and a thermos to replenish your energy. People travel to thousands of mountains and seas, but only Laojun Mountain carries its own "immortal" aura. Walk through the ten-mile stone forest, ascend to the golden palace in the clouds, watch the sea of clouds surge, and wait for the sunset lights to turn on. The wind carries a thousand years of Taoist charm, and before your eyes lies a celestial palace. All your worries will be gently blown away by the mountain clouds.

8 cities where traveling with kids is effortless, tried and tested for peace of mind 01 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang When bringing kids to Mudanjiang, head straight to Jingpo Lake. The lakeside boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly, so no climbing or rushing. Start the morning at Diaoshuilou Waterfall to watch the water plunge from the cliff. Kids are usually mesmerized by the mist and roar, often refusing to leave for 10 minutes. ⚠️ The waterfall area is windy, so bring a light jacket instead of just a short-sleeved shirt. For lunch, pick a farmhouse restaurant by the lake with heated kang tables and order the Jingpo Lake crucian carp stewed with tofu. The fish is tender and the soup is savory; kids can eat 2 bowls mixed with rice. 🍜 Remember to ask the owner to debone the fish before serving. In the afternoon, take a boat tour around the lake. The trip takes about 40 minutes, and kids can feed the water birds on the deck while adults take photos. If you still have energy on the way back, take a walk in Jiangbin Park along the Mudanjiang River. The riverside path is shaded and cool in the evening, perfect for a leisurely stroll. 02 Nanyang | Henan For this stop in Nanyang, I recommend staying in Xixia County rather than inside the scenic area for better value and less hassle. The next morning, drive to Laojieling. There is a cable car at the foot of the mountain, so you don't have to hike with kids. ⚠️ The cable car queue can be at least 30 minutes during peak season, so it is best to arrive at the entrance before 8:00 AM. The view from the top is expansive, and kids can see the layers of the Funiu Mountains. It is windy but pleasantly sunny, so remember to wear a hat. On the way down, stop by the Dinosaur Relics Park, which boys will absolutely love. The skeleton models are huge, and there is a simulated excavation sand pit in the exhibition hall where kids can squat and play for 40 minutes while adults enjoy a cup of tea in the rest area. 🍜 The freshly squeezed Xixia kiwi juice sold at the park entrance is great—tart, sweet, and refreshing. In the evening, head back to the county for a bowl of Fangcheng braised noodles. The noodles are chewy and the broth is rich; kids can finish a big bowl after a hungry day. 03 Xuzhou | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake is the base for traveling with kids in Xuzhou. The lakeside path is wide enough for 3 strollers to walk side by side. Start from the south shore in the morning and visit the Xiao Nanhu Scenic Area first. Kids can play in the sand and water on the artificial beach, so remember to bring an extra set of clothes. For lunch, eat at the "Lake Fresh Restaurant" on the east shore and order the pot chicken; dipping the flatbread into the sauce is a kid favorite. In the afternoon, rent a 4-person pedal bike and ride around the lake island. It takes about 40 minutes, with the kids sitting in front to enjoy the view while the adults do the pedaling. ⚠️ It is very crowded on weekend afternoons and there is a queue for bike rentals, so I recommend arriving before 2:00 PM. In the evening, go to Pengzu Garden on the north shore. There is a small zoo inside, and kids will love feeding the alpacas so much they won't want to leave. 🍜 After leaving the park, buy 2 skewers of Xuzhou grilled gluten at the entrance—spicy for yourself and non-spicy for the kids—for a perfect finish. 04 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Phoenix Ancient Town is best visited in the evening, as the strong daytime sun can make kids irritable. Enter the ancient town after 5:00 PM when the lights have just come on and the breeze by the Tuojiang River is cool. Although the stone paths are uneven, kids can walk them on their own if you go slowly. Enter from the North Gate Tower and walk downstream along the Tuojiang River. Kids will want to jump when passing the jumping rocks, so just hold their hands. 📍 When you reach the area near Wanming Tower, there is an open space where you can sit and watch the night view without having to squeeze into the crowds at Hongqiao Bridge. The next morning, if the kids still have energy, go to see the Aizhai Bridge. The path under the bridge is not steep, and you can see the full view of the canyon. ⚠️ Dehang Canyon is more suitable for older children as there are many steps, so don't push it if they are under 5. In the Shibadong area, it is mainly about seeing the Miao village architecture, which kids usually find less interesting, though they might be curious to try the sour and spicy rice tofu sold on the roadside. 🍜 In the evening, return to the ancient town and find a noodle shop by the river. Order a bowl of beef noodles; the broth is fragrant, and kids can eat half a bowl. 05 Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Hoh Xil sounds remote, but it is actually less tiring to visit with kids because the whole trip is by car and there is no need to walk. Start from Yushu city, charter a 4WD, and drive along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway toward Budongquan. You can see Tibetan antelopes and wild donkeys on the way, and kids can watch them from the car window for a long time. ⚠️ In high-altitude areas, if the child shows signs of drowsiness or vomiting, descend immediately and do not push through. The visitor center at Sanjiangyuan National Park has science exhibits where kids can learn about the sources of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers, which is much more vivid than a textbook. For lunch, have a bowl of yak beef noodles in Qumalai County; the noodles are thick but the meat is fragrant and easy for kids to chew. 🍜 In the afternoon, return to Yushu and take a tour of Jiegu Temple. The temple is quiet, kids can watch the prayer wheels, and adults can soak up the plateau sunshine. Remember, accommodation along this route is basic, so bring sleeping bags and common medicines, and do not drive at night. 06 Lhasa | Tibet When bringing kids to Lhasa, don't rush to the Potala Palace for the first 2 days; adapt to the altitude first. The first stop is Jokhang Temple Square. Kids will be attracted by the people prostrating, so just accompany them quietly and don't over-explain. ⚠️ The square is less crowded and the light is softer before 10:00 AM, making it perfect for photos. You must go into a sweet tea house on Barkhor Street, order a pot of sweet tea and Tibetan noodles; kids can drink 2 cups of sweet tea, which is even more fragrant than milk tea. Go to the Potala Palace the next day, but only visit the White Palace section, as the Red Palace has many steps and kids get tired easily. ⏰ There are fewer people in the palace after 2:00 PM, and it is easier to book. After coming down from the back mountain, go to Zongjiao Lukang Park for boating. The lake is small, and kids will be very happy riding in the small boats. 🍜 Have a Tibetan hot pot for dinner; the yak beef slices are great for shabu-shabu, and kids usually accept it well. Do not take kids to Namtso; the altitude is too high and the journey is bumpy, which even adults struggle with. 07 Baoting County | Hainan Baoting is cooler than Sanya, so if you bring kids to Sanya, you might as well save 2 days for Baoting. In the Li and Miao cultural area of Binglanggu, kids can watch brocade weaving and bamboo pole dancing, which is very interactive. ⚠️ There is a song and dance performance at 10:00 AM, so don't miss it; kids will be attracted by the sound of the bamboo poles. There is plenty of shade in the scenic area, but there are also many mosquitoes, so remember to spray mosquito repellent. Yanoda Rainforest is better for the afternoon. Take the "treading waterfalls" route; kids can wear sandals to step in the water, but adults should hold their hands. 📍 In the rest pavilion deep in the rainforest, there are fresh coconuts and jackfruit for sale, and kids can drink coconut water to replenish their energy. 🍜 In the evening, return to Baoting county and eat a bowl of Lingshui sour noodles; it is sweet and sour, which is very appetizing for kids. The entire route for the day is flat or has gentle slopes, so it is easy to manage with a stroller or on foot without getting tired. 08 Fuzhou | Jiangxi What surprised me most about Dajue Mountain is that the facilities for kids are better than I imagined. There is a free stroller storage area at the entrance of the scenic area, and then you can take a sightseeing car directly to the cable car station, so you don't have to climb at all. After taking the cable car up the mountain, walk along the glass skywalk first; kids will be both scared and excited, so adults should remember to hold them steady. ⚠️ Parents with a fear of heights should not force it; you can take the wooden boardwalk instead and still see the mountain scenery. Eat lunch at the only restaurant on the mountain and order a Zixi bread chicken; the chicken is wrapped in a bread shell, and kids will have a lot of fun tearing it apart to eat. 🍜 After going down the mountain, go to the Dajue Mountain Rafting Visitor Center. If the child is over 1.2 meters tall, you can try family rafting; the current is gentle and not scary. In the evening, go to Wenchangli Old Street in Fuzhou city. The bluestone road is wide, kids can run around, and you can buy a bag of lotus root starch candy from a street vendor to eat while walking. ⏰ The lights on the old street turn on at 6:30 PM, which is just the right time to finish and go back to the hotel to rest. Traveling with kids depends on how you plan it, not the destination. For these 8 cities, I have personally tested them, and as long as you slow down the pace, schedule naps, and don't rush at night, the kids will be happy and the adults won't be exhausted. Do you have any other stress-free cities to recommend? Let's chat in the comments. travel vacation retreat trip rail

No joke! Nanyang is totally worth it! You can't imagine the joy of a 3-day trip for ¥2,592 per person✨ Guide below👇 🏛️Day 1: Wuhou Shrine → Medical Saint Shrine → City Center First stop in the morning is Wuhou Shrine, Nanyang's most famous landmark! A must-visit landmark in Nanyang! You haven't really been here if you don't go🔥 It's recommended to go in the morning for the best light✨ Then walk to the Medical Saint Shrine. It's super photogenic here! It's recommended to wear light-colored clothes👗 For lunch, have Nanyang braised noodles in the city center. They are so delicious you'll lick the plate😋 In the afternoon, explore the Nanyang Prefecture Office old town area🏘️ Stone roads, colorful houses, and ancient churches—you can get great photos at every corner📸 In the evening, watch the sunset at Neixiang County Office. Seeing Neixiang County Office with my own eyes for the first time was 100 times more stunning than in photos! For dinner, I recommend Fangcheng braised noodles! A divine shop that only locals know about💯 ⛪Day 2: Xixia Dinosaur Park → Laojie Ridge → Food Street In the morning, go to Xixia Dinosaur Park. If the entrance is hard to find, just ask a passerby; Nanyang people are super enthusiastic! It's recommended to hire a local guide or rent an audio guide🗣️ For lunch, have Xinye flat noodles at the food street. It's heavenly after you eat it🤤 Absolutely amazing! In the afternoon, climb Laojie Ridge to overlook the panoramic view of Nanyang. Although there are many steps, the moment you reach the top, it's all worth it🌇 In the evening, take a walk near Danjiangkou. The atmosphere at night is completely different from the day! The neon lights look amazing when they light up✨ Finish perfectly with a local Bowang Guokui🍹 🗿Day 3: Baotianman → Farewell On the last day, go take a look at Baotianman. It's very crowded on weekends/peak seasons, so try to avoid peak hours⏰ Have your last meal of Zhenping roast chicken in the most popular trendy food area, and pack some Tanghe pork knuckle as a souvenir🎁 Summary: The 3-day Nanyang trip cost about ¥2,592 per person (excluding flights and accommodation). I walked 210,000 steps, ate at 21 restaurants, and took 21 photos📸 If I had to describe Nanyang in one word, it would be "ancient"! Take this guide and set off~ Remember to come back and tell me how you felt💕

Fuliang County Government Office is located in Jiucheng Village, Fuliang Town, Fuliang County, Jingdezhen City, Jiangxi Province. It is the only county-level government office from the feudal era in Jiangnan that has been completely preserved, and is hailed as the "Number One Government Office in Jiangnan" and "China's Number One County Government Office." It is not only a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level, but also a National 4A-level Tourist Attraction. · Unique rank: In ancient times, county magistrates were generally ranked 7th grade. However, because Fuliang produced porcelain and tea and provided significant tax revenue, it was considered a superior county, and its magistrate held the 5th rank, higher than the typical 7th-rank official. · High architectural standards: Due to its higher rank, the architectural standards of the government office were correspondingly higher. It is grand in scale, and the current layout dates back to the reconstruction during the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty, covering an area of about 95 mu. · Unique historical status: It is one of the only 4 ancient county government offices remaining in the country, and it is the best-preserved 5th-rank county-level government office, holding immense historical research value. There are 3 county government offices in the country with a high rank of 5th grade: · Fuliang Ancient County Government Office: Jingdezhen, Jiangxi. Due to the abundant tea tax in the Tang Dynasty and the continuation of porcelain tax in the Qing Dynasty, the county magistrate held the 5th rank. · Yexian County Government Office: Pingdingshan, Henan. It is the only existing Ming Dynasty 5th-rank county government office in the country. Because Yexian was a large county during the Ming Dynasty, the magistrate's rank was higher. · Neixiang County Government Office: Nanyang, Henan. First built in the 8th year of the Dade reign of the Yuan Dynasty (1304), it underwent repairs and expansions through the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. It gradually evolved into a massive and magnificent complex of government buildings. Experts hail it as a unique historical specimen in China, and it is known by the saying, "The Forbidden City in the north, the County Government Office in the south," with the reputation that "the dragon's head is in Beijing, and the dragon's tail is in Neixiang." 5th-rank county government offices were usually equipped with a supervisory body.

Clickbait! Giving up is impossible. But Luoyang really exceeded expectations. 3 days for 600 per person, covering the grottoes, the ancient city, and the mountain night views. I'm still scrolling through my photos a week after getting back. Longmen Grottoes—Rush in as soon as it opens at 8 AM. The Lushena Buddha stands there; looking up from the bottom, the entire cliff face is carved with Buddha statues. The West Hill Grottoes are the highlight. After seeing Xiangshan Temple and the Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling villa on the East Hill, cross the bridge and look back at the opposite cliff—it's packed with niches. Admission is 90; allow at least 3 hours. White Horse Temple—The first ancient temple in China, admission 35. Stroll through Qiyun Pagoda, Di Renjie's tomb, and the international Buddhist temple area. Arrive before 10 AM to avoid tour groups; the red walls and ancient trees are less crowded than at Longmen. Thai, Indian, and Burmese-style temples are concentrated here, making it feel like you've traveled abroad. Luoyang Museum—Free, but book in advance via their WeChat official account. The treasure hall on the second floor houses the museum's prized exhibits, like the Cao Wei white jade cup and the Tang tri-color glazed pottery horse. Allow at least 2 hours; the density of the collection is surprisingly high. Luoyi Ancient City—A hub for Hanfu photography; enter after 4 PM. Yingtianmen Gate, Mingtang and Tiantang, and Jiuzhou Pool are all connected. Admission ranges from 60–120. Walk from Xiguan to Nanguan on the Lijing Gate old street, where both sides of the stone-paved road are lined with traditional water banquet restaurants. The moment the lights turn on at Tiantang and Mingtang in the evening, Luoyang transforms into the "Divine Capital." Standing in Yingtianmen Square to photograph the reflections is incredible. Laojun Mountain—Located in Luanchuan, Song County. A shared ride from the city center costs about 80 one way. Admission + two cable car rides is 220; you must take the second cable car to save 3 hours of hiking. At the Golden Summit temple complex on the mountain top, get there before sunset to see the sea of clouds rolling and the entire Funiu Mountain range spread out beneath your feet. 3-day itinerary👇 Day 1: Longmen Grottoes (morning) → Luoyang Museum (afternoon) → Lijing Gate old street for food → Yingtianmen night view for reflections Day 2: White Horse Temple (8 AM) → Luoyi Ancient City for Hanfu photos → Mingtang and Tiantang → Jiuzhou Pool night tour Day 3: Laojun Mountain day trip (depart at 7:30 AM, return in the evening) → Xiaojie Tianfu/Xigong Xiaojie for late-night snacks What to eat Nanguan small bowl of beef soup with a crispy sesame flatbread, filling for 10. Xiaojie Tianfu dan dan noodles and boiled beef tripe are about 20 per person. The "bu fan tang" (soup that doesn't need to be stirred) from the water banquet is sour, spicy, and appetizing. Peony silver thread pastries and flower cakes make great souvenirs. Zhenbutong Water Banquet is expensive, but as a time-honored brand, the portions are generous. A few tips⚠️ A taxi from Luoyang Longmen High-speed Railway Station to the old town is about 30; you can also take Metro Line 2. There is a huge temperature difference on Laojun Mountain, so pack a light jacket. Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple are open as usual on Mondays; the museum is closed on Mondays. The Yingtianmen light show schedule changes with the season, so ask your hotel front desk before you head out. The ancient capital of 13 dynasties is no exaggeration. The Buddha statues carved into the cliff at Longmen Grottoes and walking through Luoyi Ancient City in Hanfu feel even more authentic than what a Luoyang shovel could dig up. 600 per person for 3 days—totally worth it😭

Back from Laojun Mountain in September, and the aftereffects are huge! Just dodged the July–August crowds and heat, and rushed in during the crisp September weather 🍂 Daytime average temp is around 20–22°C, even a bit chilly with the mountain breeze, and the golden summit lighting up at dusk is breathtaking ✨ Summer vacation crowds have retreated, students are back in school, finally no more squeezing through crowds! Spent 1,000+ per person over 3 days, and added 500+ photos to my phone 📱 This guide, brought back from the front lines, is a must-save! 🌤️ What September is really like September is widely considered one of the best times to visit. Daytime is around 22°C, crisp and dry. But the summit is 10°C+ cooler than the base, with huge day-night temperature differences, so keep a windbreaker in your bag. Mornings after rain are prime time for sea-of-clouds, phone storage warning ⚠️ ✨ Must-visit highlights Golden Summit Taoist Temple Complex: The soul of Laojun Mountain! Five gilded halls stand in the clouds. At dusk, around 6:30 PM (adjusted slightly with the sunset), the glazed golden summit lights up layer by layer, a real-life "Palace in the Clouds." Yuhuang Peak and Liangbao Terrace are the best spots to photograph the "City in the Sky." Ten-Mile Gallery: A suspended plank road along the mountain ridge connects stunning peaks. Every step is a new view, like unfolding a landscape scroll. After rain, the sea of clouds surges up from the valley. The entire route is mostly flat and very easy. Mazong Ridge: The main peak at 2,217m, the best spot for panoramic views of the Golden Summit. You can capture both the Golden Summit and the Funiu Mountain range. An excellent spot for sunrise. Zhuimeng Valley: A quiet valley with babbling brooks and ancient trees. Stroll along the gentle wooden plank road, step in the water to cool off, and let the forest refresh your lungs. Zhaigou Scenic Area (recommended for a 3-day deep dive): A hidden gem overlooked by most tourists, featuring bamboo forests, streams, shallow pools, and waterfalls. The entire route has gentle, shaded paths and is quiet and uncrowded. Laozi Culture Park: Pay respects to the world's tallest 59m bronze statue of Laozi. 🗺️ 3-day 2-night relaxed itinerary (personally tested, no rushing) Laojun Mountain tickets are valid for 48 hours and include the main scenic area + Zhuimeng Valley + Zhaigou. · Day 1 (Culture & Valley Line): Arrive in Luanchuan → Check in to a homestay at the base in Qiliping/county town (great value!) → Afternoon walk by the stream in Zhuimeng Valley (2–3 hours) → Evening tofu feast in Luanchuan town · Day 2 (Peaks & Golden Summit Line): Early entry! First cable car (must-do!) → Zhongtian Gate → Second cable car (direct to Ten-Mile Gallery) → Ten-Mile Gallery suspended plank road (1.5 hours) → Mazong Ridge for panoramic views → Golden Summit Taoist Temple Complex → Evening around 6:30 PM for the lighting ceremony → Cable car down, stay at the base · Day 3 (Hidden Gem Finale): Morning Zhaigou Scenic Area (quiet and peaceful) → Afternoon buy local mushrooms, wild vegetables, and other specialties in Luanchuan town → Return trip 🍖 Food you'll want to pack to go (40–60 yuan per person) Plenty of food in the town at the base; don't eat main meals on the mountain, as they are expensive and have fewer options. Luanchuan Tofu: Tender tofu made with spring water, served stewed with garlic chili sauce or pan-fried. Cornmeal Stewed Chicken: A great recovery meal after hiking. Acorn Jelly: 10–15 yuan/bowl, refreshing and light. Wild Vegetable Platter: Freshly picked Mulan buds, wild chives, and wild locust flowers. Luanchuan Eight Bowls: Farmhouse-style dishes, try them all at once. Beef Soup + Oil Spiral Bun: A local breakfast staple. 💰 Budget reference (excluding major transportation) · Budget version: 800–1,000 yuan/person (homestay at the base + snacks + two cable cars) · Comfort version: 1,200–1,600 yuan/person (hotel in town + main meals + chartered car) · Fixed costs: Entrance ticket 90 yuan online (100 on-site); First cable car round trip 130 yuan (must-do! Don't walk the 4–5 hour mountain road with no views); Second cable car round trip 80 yuan (optional, hike 1.5 hours to save 80 yuan if fit); Scenic shuttle bus round trip 40 yuan · Students/teachers half price 50 yuan; Seniors 60+ / children under 1.4m free · Accommodation: Base/Qiliping/Luanchuan town 80–260 yuan/night; Summit beds 80–100 yuan/night (basic conditions). Book summit stays 3 days in advance 👕 Essential clothing Huge temperature difference in September, windbreaker/light down jacket is a must! Night hikers were freezing and borrowing incense to stay warm. Layering: short sleeves + sun protection shirt during the day, thick jacket in the evening. Sun protection: High altitude, strong UV, sunscreen + hat + sunglasses are essential. Shoes: Only wear non-slip sneakers, lots of stairs. Misc: Raincoat (mountain weather changes), power bank (can't stop taking photos), small amount of cash (unstable signal on the mountain). ⚠️ Crucial tips to avoid traps · Cable car up stops at 3:30 PM! If you arrive in the afternoon, you can't go up. Last cable car down is 7:30 PM · Must take the first cable car! Hiking 4–5 hours is all mountain road with no scenery · Buy tickets online in advance (10 yuan cheaper) and scan ID to enter · Come on weekdays! No cable car lines, homestays 30% cheaper than weekends · Don't trust roadside sales: Temples have free incense; high-priced incense/fortune telling are all traps · Buy hiking sticks at the base; prices double on the mountain · Don't take the buses soliciting passengers at the train station; they wait until full, not on schedule · Don't stay on the mountain; cold, expensive, poor conditions. Just take the cable car down after the lighting ceremony Biggest takeaway after 3 days: Laojun Mountain doesn't need filters. It's a fairy-tale Taoist holy mountain deep in the Funiu Mountains, with seas of clouds, golden summits, the Ten-Mile Gallery, and an evening lighting moment that makes any wait worth it ✨ Coming back from this trip, I have a place in my heart I want to return to again and again 🌌

A natural herbal garden in the Funiu Mountains! A guide to the hidden gem of Yunlu Mountain in Neixiang for a cool summer getaway A national 4A-rated scenic area and an untouched secret in the heart of the Funiu Mountains, this destination boasts a forest coverage rate of 98% and is known as a "natural herbal garden." Legend has it that the Medicine King, Sun Simiao, spent 7 years here gathering herbs and practicing medicine. The culture of the Medicine King blends seamlessly with the canyon waterfalls. The Baota Waterfall is magnificent, and the area is filled with streams and pools. The boardwalks are gentle and easy to walk, and the area is quiet and uncrowded, making it perfect for escaping the summer heat, family water play, and wellness retreats. Basic information Location: Shimiao Village, Mashankou Town, Neixiang County, Nanyang Opening hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) Tickets: Adult tickets are 50–60 yuan; booking online is cheaper. Students and seniors aged 60–69 receive half-price entry with valid ID. Children under 1.4 meters, seniors aged 70 and over, active-duty military personnel, and people with disabilities receive free admission with valid ID. Additional costs: Round-trip sightseeing bus is 35 yuan. The glass bridge, Yunlu River Canyon rafting, and the giant salamander viewing base are optional paid activities. Recommended duration: 3–4 hours Key attractions Baota Waterfall The star attraction of the scenic area, this waterfall has a drop of 126 meters and is the premier waterfall group in the Funiu Mountains. Water rushes down from the cliffs, creating a mist that often forms rainbows on sunny days. The viewing platform offers a wide perspective, and standing nearby in midsummer provides a refreshing cool sensation. It is a must-visit photo spot. Medicine King Temple Built to commemorate the Medicine King, Sun Simiao, this temple features Tang Dynasty architectural style. The temple displays over 500 specimens of local Funiu Mountain medicinal herbs, offering a great look into the history of ancient herbal medicine and humanities. Yaohulu Pool and Heilong Pool A series of clear pools in the canyon. Yaohulu Pool is shaped like a medicinal gourd, with clear, emerald-green water. Heilong Pool is deep and tranquil, with trees on both banks blocking out the sun. The shallow areas are perfect for wading and playing, making it a great spot for family water activities in the summer. Wild Giant Salamander Viewing Base Get an up-close look at giant salamanders and learn about the survival habits of these rare amphibians. It is an educational and fun experience that children love. Thunder-Struck Rock A massive natural granite boulder with a unique shape and local folklore attached to it. It is a great spot to check out while hiking. Baota Academy Hidden among the mountains and forests, this quiet and secluded spot features ancient architecture set against the forest, making it a perfect place to rest. High-Altitude Glass Bridge Suspended above the canyon, this bridge offers a bird's-eye view of the entire valley and forest sea. It is thrilling and exciting—a great choice for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Yunlu River Canyon Rafting A summer-only activity. Raft through the mountains and canyons on a winding waterway. It is cool and stress-relieving, and only operates during the summer flood season. Recommended routes Easy family-friendly route Take the sightseeing bus from the visitor center directly to the Medicine King Temple → Visit and learn at the Medicine King Temple → Walk downhill to see the Yaowang Waterfall, Yaohulu Pool, and Heilong Pool → Visit the main Baota Waterfall viewing platform → Experience the glass bridge if desired, then take the sightseeing bus back to the exit. The route is mostly downhill with few steep climbs, suitable for all ages. Full-hike in-depth route Start at the Huixin Waterfall at the entrance, hike upstream along the canyon stream, and enjoy the series of pools and waterfalls along the way → Thunder-Struck Rock → Medicine King Temple → Baota Waterfall → Baota Academy, then return the same way. This route allows you to fully experience the primitive landscape of the canyon and is suitable for visitors with good stamina. Best time to visit May–October is the golden period for visiting. Summer brings abundant rain, making the waterfalls full and the valley temperature cool and comfortable. In April–May, the mountains are lush with new greenery and wildflowers. In September–November, the autumn scenery is rich with vibrant colors. It is best to visit after the rain for the best waterfall views. Try to enter the park in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds. Transportation Driving: Navigate to "Yunlu Mountain Scenic Area." Free parking is available. It is a 40-minute drive from Neixiang County and 1.5 hours from Nanyang city center. After your visit, you can combine this with a trip to Baotianman to plan a Neixiang mountain and water road trip. Public transport: Take a bus from Neixiang Bus Station to Mashankou Town, then take a taxi to the scenic area. Buses are infrequent, so driving is recommended. Travel tips 1. The mountain trails can be wet near the water, so be sure to wear non-slip sports shoes. You may want to bring water shoes for playing in the water. 2. There is a temperature difference between day and night in the mountains. Even in summer, bring a light jacket and mosquito repellent. 3. The sightseeing bus route is long; seniors and children are advised to purchase tickets to save energy. 4. Rafting is a summer-only activity; please confirm if it is open before you go. 5. Ticket gates close at 4:30 PM. Do not arrive right at the deadline; leave enough time for your visit and return trip. 6. When playing in the stream, keep a close eye on children, stay away from deep pools, stick to established trails, and do not enter undeveloped forest areas.

Visit Nanyang in August–September for cool mountain breezes and the early signs of autumn. Save these four treasure routes now! 🎒 ⛰️ Laojieling: A 21°C cloud wonderland The main peak of Funiu Mountain is a natural air conditioner! Stroll along the cloud walkway, stand on the watershed between the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, and witness the breathtaking sea of clouds ☁️. 🚗 Transport: About a 2-hour drive from Nanyang, or take the high-speed train to Nanyang East and transfer to a bus. 🗺️ Route: Cable car up ➡️ Watershed observation deck ➡️ Qijiaojian ➡️ Glass bridge ➡️ Hike down. 🍜 Food: After hiking down, head to Taiping Town for the local mountain pot chicken—the potatoes soaked in the broth are amazing 🤤. 💰 Budget: Admission + cable car approx. CNY 260, accommodation from CNY 150. 🦕 Xixia Dinosaur Relics Park: A cool Jurassic experience Home to a rare collection of dinosaur egg fossils! The main exhibition halls are all indoors with powerful air conditioning, making it a top choice for beating the heat with kids 👶. 🚗 Transport: About a 1.5-hour drive to Danshui Town, Xixia County. 🗺️ Route: Dinosaur egg site ➡️ Fossil museum ➡️ 4D cinema ➡️ Simulated dinosaur park. 🍜 Food: Try the local mountain vegetables and cold wild greens—refreshing and light 🥗. 💰 Budget: Admission approx. CNY 90. 🏯 Neixiang County Government Office: Breezy ancient architecture The most complete Ming and Qing dynasty county government office still in existence! The blue bricks and dark tiles naturally keep the place cool. Don't miss the immersive "Magistrate's Judgment" live performance 🎭. 🚗 Transport: About a 1-hour drive from Nanyang, or take a direct bus. 🗺️ Route: Main Hall ➡️ Second Hall ➡️ Third Hall ➡️ Tax Silver Treasury ➡️ Interrogation Room. 🍜 Food: Xinye Banmian! Handmade wide noodles with a secret savory sauce—spicy and satisfying 🍜. 💰 Budget: Admission approx. CNY 50. 🌊 Danjiang Grand View Garden: The source of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project The "Little Pacific" lives up to its name! Take a boat ride across the vast, clear waters and snap some great photos at the Chu-style pavilion 📸. 🚗 Transport: About a 2-hour drive to Xichuan County. 🗺️ Route: Chu-style Pavilion ➡️ Fan Li Pavilion ➡️ Guanyin Square ➡️ Boat tour of the Small Three Gorges. 🍜 Food: Danjiang culter! The wild fish soup is rich, creamy, and incredibly fresh 🐟. 💰 Budget: Admission + boat tour approx. CNY 130.

First time in Henan and don't want to waste your time waiting in lines or fighting crowds? I've used Zhengzhou as a base to select 4 niche spots that are uncrowded, scenic, and full of atmosphere. Experience the Taihang Mountains, ancient villages, lakes, and bamboo forests all in one trip. It's easy to cover in 2–3 days for maximum relaxation. ✨ ⛰️ Guoliang Village | A stone fairy tale on the Taihang cliffs Deep in Wanxianshan, Huixian, Xinxiang, the cliff-hanging road carved into the precipice is stunning. Old stone houses are stacked along the mountain, with thousand-foot canyons outside the window. Morning mist rising from the valley looks like a fairyland. No need to crowd at Laojun Mountain; here, morning light slants across the rock walls, and goats wander by in the afternoon. A solid "first impression of the mountains" for your first trip to Henan. 🏘️ Haishangqiao Village | A slow-paced Ming and Qing era vibe in a Gongyi mountain hollow An original ancient village just an hour's drive from Zhengzhou, with over 40 Ming and Qing courtyards sitting quietly. Bluestone paths, old wells, elm tree shadows, and half-closed wooden gates. No hawking shopkeepers, just the daily life of villagers drying grain and cooking. Stand deep in the alley in a plain dress, and it's like stumbling into a Central Plains version of "Meet Yourself." Perfect for spending half a day doing nothing but watching clouds drift over the eaves. 💧 Luhun Lake | The "Little Erhai" of the Central Plains at the foot of Funiu Mountain Near Songxian, Luoyang, thousands of acres of lake are embedded in green mountains. Cycling on the rainbow road around the lake is super comfortable. In the morning, when the mist hasn't cleared, it's like an ink wash painting. In the evening, the sunset gilds the lake, and fishing boats slowly ripple the water. Quieter than Longmen Grottoes, wilder than city parks. Bring some snacks and lie on the grassy slope by the lake for an afternoon. This is the most healing "slow-motion" moment for your first trip to Henan. 🎋 Chongdugou | A secret stream in the bamboo forests of Luanchuan A bamboo and stream valley in Luanchuan, Luoyang. Easier than Laojun Mountain, more natural than Millennium City Park. A pool every three steps, a waterfall every five. Bamboo so high it blocks the sky. Wading in water, listening to cicadas, smelling the earth—it's all here. Walk slowly along the wooden boardwalk, watch an old farmer lead a horse by, and let the mountain breeze blow away the summer heat. Even those who don't like hiking can have a great time here, and you don't even need filters for your photos. 📌 Short trip tips for your first time in Henan Starting from Zhengzhou is the most worry-free; high-speed rail/driving both work. The Taihang line + Ancient Village line + Lake line means no backtracking. Bring a light windbreaker for summer; it gets cool in Guoliang and Chongdugou when the mountain breeze blows morning and evening. UV rays + mountain wind are a combo; don't skimp on hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Light-colored long dresses look great in ancient villages and bamboo forests. No supplies on some sections of the Guoliang cliff road and Haishangqiao Village, so carry water and small snacks. Check opening statuses and direct shuttle buses on Trip.com in advance. Don't overschedule; leave half a day to just space out at Luhun Lake. The first side of Henan you see isn't necessarily the bells of Shaolin or the Buddha statues of the grottoes. Take a slow tour of these 4 places, and you'll understand what it means that "the Central Plains has not only history, but also mountains and waters."

Autumn for road trip lovers shouldn't be spent stuck in the city. From September to October, the breeze turns cool, leaves begin to change color, grasslands turn yellow, and salt lakes reflect an even clearer blue. I've carefully selected these 8 routes from the map—some are perfect for a quick weekend getaway, while others are worth taking a few days off to explore at a leisurely pace. No detours, no pitfalls, just follow the guide. 01 Qianxinan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Maling River Canyon is best visited in the morning. ⏰ Around 9:00 AM, the light hits the gorge at an angle, and the mist from the waterfalls creates tiny rainbows; this is most visible from the broken bridge section. The canyon trail is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and don't try to hike in flip-flops. In the afternoon, drive to Wanfenglin and navigate directly to the "Nahui Village" parking lot. 📍 Rent an electric scooter and ride along the field paths. The rice paddies are golden, and the white walls and gray tiles of the Buyei villages are nestled among the peaks—every shot looks like an oil painting. ⚠️ Don't buy the bundled "admission ticket + sightseeing bus" package at the entrance; walking on your own is freer. After 6:00 PM, the crowds disperse, and the viewing platform near General Peak is almost empty. When the wind blows, it's full of the scent of rice. 02 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia In Manzhouli, there's only one thing to do: see the Matryoshka dolls, but don't just stare at Matryoshka Square. In the early morning, go to the outskirts of the National Gate Scenic Area. The railway tracks on the China-Russia border stretch into the morning mist, and occasionally a freight train passes by slowly. That sense of emptiness is more moving than any popular photo spot. Matryoshka Square is best visited in the afternoon; ⏰ after 3:00 PM, the light becomes softer, and the red and gold of the painted giant dolls are no longer glaring. The giant doll in the square is actually a hotel; you can visit the lobby even if you aren't staying there—it's quite magical. ⚠️ Don't eat "Russian-style Western food" near the scenic area at night; it's expensive and lackluster. Take a taxi to Wudao Street in the city center, find any local shop, and order a serving of lamb shumai with brick tea. You can eat until you're full for about 50 per person. The light show on the pedestrian street at night is worth seeing, but remember to wear an extra jacket—it's windy. 03 Panjin | Liaoning Red Beach isn't available all year round; it belongs only to autumn. ⏰ From mid-to-late September to early October, the seepweed is at its reddest, like a dark red velvet carpet spread over the earth. The corridor is very long, so I recommend taking the sightseeing bus directly to the "Love Declaration Corridor" at the far end. It's less crowded there, and the Red Beach and reed marshes interweave, creating much better layers than at the entrance. 📍 There is a wooden boardwalk in the middle of the corridor that extends into the sea. At low tide, you can see small crabs scurrying across the mudflats—if you have kids, they can play here for half an hour. ⚠️ Be sure to check the tide table before you go. When the tide rises, the seawater covers the mudflats, and the red color is mostly submerged, making photos look dull. If you drive, park at the north gate of the scenic area. If you exit from the south gate, it takes a long time to get a taxi back to the city, so it's better to return the way you came to pick up your car. 04 Lishui | Zhejiang You must stay on the mountain for Yunhe Terraced Fields, otherwise you won't be able to get up. At 5:30 AM, the sunrise at Qixingdun Viewing Platform turns the flooded terraces into a mirror of shattered gold. After watching the sunrise, go back to your homestay to catch up on sleep, check out at noon, and then head down the mountain—no rush at all. In the afternoon, go to Jinyun Xiandu; the creek beach at Dinghu Peak is a natural picnic spot. 📍 Walk across the stone slab bridge at Zhutan Mountain, and you'll see the classic scene of an old farmer leading an ox on the opposite bank, but that's a paid performance. If you want to take a free photo, walk 100 meters upstream; there are real villagers herding ducks across the river, which is even more vivid. Qingtian Shimen Cave is a good place to stop by on the way. 🎫 The admission ticket includes the ferry. Not many people look closely at the cliff carvings on the other side of the Ou River, but the pool under the waterfall is clear and green. ⚠️ There are many stone steps throughout the area, so be cautious if you are pushing a stroller or traveling with elderly people who have limited mobility. 05 Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai The core of this route is "seeing three types of salt lakes at once." Qarhan Salt Lake is the most stunning; the green brine is boundless, and salt flowers form like coral along the shore. 📌 Navigate to "Qarhan Salt Lake Factory Area." Don't enter the main scenic area gate; find a local driver to take you along the side road, where you can see the wilder salt mining boat docks. Emerald Lake is best in the evening. ⏰ One hour before sunset, the blue and green layers of the lake water are most distinct. From a drone's perspective, it looks like an overturned palette, but don't be discouraged if you don't have a drone—standing on the shore and taking photos of the reflections is just as photogenic. Be cautious with Chaka Salt Lake. ⚠️ When the weather is bad, it's just an ordinary gray-white mudflat, so don't waste your time. Only on a windless and clear morning does the mirror effect live up to the name "Mirror of the Sky." If you are short on time, you can skip the Kunlun Mountains; the road conditions are average, and the scenery is completely different from the beauty of the salt lakes—it's a different kind of vastness. 06 Xuancheng | Anhui Zhaji Ancient Village is much quieter than Hongcun. At 6:00 AM, the only people on the stone paths are elderly folks carrying vegetable baskets. The stream flows in front of every house, and the sound of laundry beaters mixes with the chirping of birds. 📍 At the "Honglou Bridge" at the end, there is an old lady selling rice wine at the bridgehead. Her homemade osmanthus rice wine is 10 yuan a cup—sweet but not cloying. Jixi Longchuan is best visited in the afternoon. You can spend a long time looking at the details of the wood carvings in the Hu Family Ancestral Hall; the lotus flowers, lions, and cranes on the beams are all carved vividly. I suggest joining a guided tour, otherwise, you might just give it a cursory glance. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the tour groups leave. Standing under the corridor of the Water Street listening to the sound of the stream, the quietness of the ancient village truly returns. ⚠️ It takes about 40 minutes to drive between the two villages. The mountain road along the way has many curves, so beginners should drive slowly. By the way, the accommodation conditions in Zhaji are generally average. If you want a good night's sleep, it's better to stay in Jixi County, which is a half-hour drive away. 07 Nanyang | Henan Laojieling in Funiu Mountain, Xixia, is an underrated treasure for autumn colors. ⏰ After mid-October, the smoke trees and sweetgum trees change color with distinct layers. Take the cable car up the mountain, and you can see the sea of clouds rolling beneath your feet. The "Jijiaojian" peak is over 2,000 meters above sea level; it's windy, so bring a fleece jacket. The Dinosaur Relics Park is right at the foot of Laojieling, suitable for a half-day visit on the way. 🎫 The admission ticket is a bit expensive, but the dinosaur egg fossil corridor is truly stunning, with dense, circular fossils embedded in the rock layers—kids will be excited enough to scream. ⚠️ If you are driving, don't take the shortcut recommended by the navigation; take the G311 National Highway. The road surface is smooth and the scenery along the way is good. There are few dining options inside the scenic area, so bring your own food and water. After coming down the mountain, go to Xixia County to have lamb soup with guokui for a perfect ending. 08 Chenzhou | Hunan Gaoyiling Danxia must be visited early or late. ⏰ Enter the park after 5:00 PM; the setting sun makes the bare red ridges shine. Walking on the narrow ridge of the Dragon's Backbone with emerald green lake water on both sides, you won't even dare to breathe, but the scenery is worth the price of admission. The essence of Dongjiang Lake is in the early morning. Arrive at the No. 2 Bridge Fog Viewing Platform before 6:30 AM; the white mist on the river is like gauze, and the fisherman's net-casting performance starts on time. 📌 Don't crowd onto the main platform directly facing the net-casting spot. Walk 50 meters along the small path to the left; the angle is more from the side, allowing you to capture both the mist and the mountain shadows, making for a more sophisticated composition. Mangshan Five-Finger Peak is suitable for those with good stamina; the whole route has boardwalks and cable cars, which is knee-friendly. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain is changeable; it might be sunny at the foot of the mountain but raining at the top, so a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. Before returning to the city, you can go to Qifengdu Town to have a bowl of authentic fish noodles—it's spicy enough to make you tear up, but the umami flavor can stay in your mouth for a whole day.

8 cities with zero negative reviews—visiting 3 makes the trip worth it 01 Chenzhou | Hunan At 6:00 AM, a layer of white mist still floats on Dongjiang Lake. When the fishing boats row by, the mist breaks into pieces. You don't need to buy tickets too early to see the morning mist; arriving at 7:30 AM is just right. Light leaks from the mountain ridge, and the water surface looks like it's coated with tin foil. Don't rush off after seeing the mist. Walk 200 meters north along the lakeside boardwalk to find a small shop that only makes fresh pork rice noodles. The broth is piping hot, the noodles are freshly cut, and the toppings are generous. One bowl will wake you right up. In the afternoon, go to Gaoyiling. Remember to enter through the North Gate; exiting through the South Gate requires a long detour on mountain roads. The spine of the Danxia landform is exposed, and the reddish-brown rocks look like they've been sliced by a knife. The trail winds along the ridge with emerald green water pools on both sides. ⚠️ Don't push yourself when the sun is strong. The light is softest after 4:00 PM, and the rock color changes from ochre to golden red—no filters needed for photos. For those with average stamina, the main loop takes about 2 hours. Wear non-slip shoes; one section of stairs is quite steep. Mangshan Five-Finger Peak is better for the second day. After taking the cable car up, the path is basically flat, making it stroller and wheelchair-friendly, and easy on the knees. The name "Five-Finger Peak" is descriptive; five stone pillars stand side by side, and when surrounded by clouds, it looks like fairyland. It's windy on the mountain, so bring a light jacket. 02 Xiangyang | Hubei Ancient Longzhong isn't the kind of attraction where you just "check in and leave"; it's more like an academy garden hidden in the mountains. Don't rush to take the sightseeing car when you enter. Walk through the stone archway and follow the bluestone path for 15 minutes. The bamboo forests on both sides are dense enough to block the entire summer sun. The old tree in front of Sangu Hall blooms with white flowers in spring and sheds leaves in autumn—it's worth seeing in all four seasons. 🍜 After exploring, the street at the entrance is full of shops selling Xiangyang beef noodles. Locals have a rule for eating noodles: order 2 liang, medium spice, and add a marinated egg. The broth has a strong beef tallow flavor, and the noodles are chewy—completely different from Wuhan hot dry noodles. In the afternoon, you can walk along the Xiangyang ancient city wall. It's not high, but you can see the Han River flowing beneath it, and you'll hear boat whistles in the evening. 🚄 A taxi from Xiangyang East Station to Ancient Longzhong takes about 30 minutes and costs a little over CNY 30. 03 Xuzhou | Jiangsu Yunlong Lake is much larger than I imagined; it takes 3 hours to walk around it. So don't be greedy—just choose a section to walk. Enter from the South Gate; the beach bath area is on your left, and the lakeside trail on the east bank is on your right. I recommend walking the east bank—there's more shade, and there are benches every so often where you can sit and zone out. There's a small island in the middle of the lake. In the evening, egrets fly back and land on the treetops, looking like a tree full of white flowers. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the lake surface is dyed orange-red by the sunset—this is the best time for photos. There's a "diguo" chicken restaurant nearby. The flatbreads stuck to the side of the pot are crispy, and they soften when soaked in the soup—both textures are delicious. ⚠️ Parking around Yunlong Lake is hard to find on holidays. It's faster to take the subway to Renmin Square Station and walk from there. 04 Jilin Songhua Lake and Rime Island are in different directions, so don't plan them for the same day. Songhua Lake is best in summer. The water is so clear you can see the stones at the bottom. Take a cruise to Wuhu Island—it's a 2-hour round trip. The ticket isn't cheap, but the breeze on the lake is truly comfortable, several degrees cooler than on the shore. There are stalls selling grilled fish by the lake. The fish are caught from the lake, killed and grilled on the spot, and sprinkled with cumin and chili powder—it's so fragrant you won't want to leave. Rime Island should be visited in winter, and you must go early. ⏰ You must get on the island by 6:00 AM, or the rime will melt. The temperature on the island is 5–6 degrees lower than in the city. A down jacket and heat packs are standard equipment. Stick a heat pack to your phone too, or it will freeze and shut down after a few photos. The rime hangs on the branches like a crystal shell. When the wind blows, it falls in shards of ice—the scene is much more stunning than in photos. ⚠️ Rime isn't there every day. Check the weather before you go. The probability is highest on mornings with temperatures below -15°C, high humidity, and no wind. 05 Dehong | Yunnan The Menghuan Golden Pagoda is on top of Leiyarang Mountain in the Mangshi urban area. You can see the golden top shining in the sun from far away. Up close, you can feel its grandeur. The pagoda body is covered in gold leaf, and wind chimes hang from the eaves, jingling non-stop in the breeze. You must take off your shoes to enter. There is a large Buddha statue inside. The light is dim, but the reflection of the gold leaf makes the whole space glow with warm gold. After coming down the mountain, don't rush off. The "Tree-Wrapped Pagoda" at the foot of the mountain is worth seeing. A large banyan tree wraps the entire brick pagoda in its embrace, with roots crawling down the pagoda body like a giant's palm. 🍜 Mangshi's snacks are another highlight. Paoluda, Sapie, and Guoshou rice noodles—any small shop you find won't be bad, and the prices are cheap. You can eat until you're full for about CNY 30 per person. Dehong's weather is hot, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a sun hat. 06 Nanyang | Henan Laojieling in Xixia Funiu Mountain—the name sounds obscure, but the scenery is definitely top-tier. Laojieling is the core area of Funiu Mountain. The mountains are majestic, and the forest coverage is extremely high. Entering in summer is like stepping into a natural air-conditioned room. Take the shuttle bus from the scenic area entrance to the foot of the mountain, then hike up. Along the way, you can see stretches of primeval forest. The tree trunks are covered in moss, and the air is full of the dampness of plants. ⏰ Autumn is the most stunning season at Laojieling. From mid-October–early November, the oak and maple trees on the mountain turn the whole mountain red and yellow. Looking down from the viewing platform, it's like a huge watercolor painting. If you are with elderly people or children, I recommend only walking the short loop near the cable car. The slope is gentle, and the scenery is good. There are few dining options in the scenic area, so it's safer to bring your own dry food and water. 07 Hengshui | Hebei What's most surprising about Hengshui Lake is its quietness. No bustling tour groups, no hawkers shouting. The road around the lake is smooth and clean, perfect for cycling or jogging. There are large reed marshes by the lake that rustle in the wind, like someone whispering. You can rent a small boat for CNY 20 and row deep into the reeds yourself. Water chestnuts and lotus leaves float on the water, and occasionally wild ducks dart out from the grass. ⚠️ The bird-watching season at Hengshui Lake is in winter, when flocks of migratory birds come to spend the winter, and the lake is a vast expanse of white. But summer has its own charm—lotus flowers bloom all over the lake, with pink and white buds peeking out from the lotus leaves. It's best to see them in the early morning when they have dew on them. 🍜 The iron pot stewed fish in the village by the lake is a must-try. The fish is caught fresh from the lake and stewed until tender. The corn cakes stuck to the side of the pot are dipped in the soup—simple but fragrant. 08 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain is most famous for its autumn red leaves, but I have to say, its summer is also worth a special trip. The temperature in the mountains is more than 10 degrees lower than outside. The stream water is ice-cold; if you step in, your toes will cramp. Walking along the trail, there are dense primeval forests on both sides, with tree trunks wrapped in a layer of green moss. Occasionally, squirrels jump between the branches overhead. ⏰ The best time to see red leaves is from late October–mid-November. At that time, the whole mountain is dyed red, yellow, and orange by maple, oak, and lacquer trees. It's especially dreamy when it's foggy, like walking into an oil painting. The scenic area is huge and can't be finished in one day. I recommend staying for one night. There are farmhouses at the foot of the mountain; the conditions are average but clean, and you can fall asleep to the sound of the stream at night. ⚠️ Some parts of the Guangwu Mountain trail are slippery, so non-slip shoes are a must, and a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. None of these eight cities are "hyped-up" internet-famous spots. They quietly stay in their respective provinces, waiting for those who truly want to visit. If you have already been to three, your travel taste is already better than most people's. For the rest, pick the nearest weekend and set off. Chat in the comments—which ones have you been to?

September and October are the most awkward months of the year: the summer vacation crowds have just dispersed, and the National Day rush hasn't arrived yet. Flights and hotels are more relaxed, and the weather isn't stuffy anymore. I've picked a few places where the autumn colors are just starting to show and the crowds haven't filled up yet. If you also hate crowds, keep reading. 01 Suqian | Jiangsu Visit Hongze Lake Wetland now; the reeds have just started to sprout, and the whole area rustles when the wind blows. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared yet, making the water look like it's covered in a veil—no filters needed for photos. 📍 Enter through the main gate. Take a boat for the water route first, then switch to an electric cart for the land route; it's a smooth path without backtracking. Boat and cart tickets are separate, so buying a combo ticket is easier. 🍜 Head toward the city after leaving the wetland. The small fish potstickers by Luoma Lake are worth trying—crispy edges, soft bottoms, and served with a bowl of mixed fish soup. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are still fierce in the wetland in September. Wear long sleeves and pants, and use repellent; don't try to be tough in shorts. Great for seniors, as the whole route uses boats and carts, so there's not much walking. In October, the reeds turn completely white and are more photogenic than in September, but it's windy, so hold onto your hat. 02 Dehong | Yunnan The Menghuan Golden Pagoda is on a small hill on the outskirts of Mangshi. ⏰ It's best to go after 6:00 PM. The sun slants down, making the pagoda shine gold, and you can also catch the sunset over the Mangshi basin. 📍 Locals come to spin the prayer wheels around the pagoda in the evening; just follow them. You must take off your shoes to enter the hall, and skirts must be below the knee. Free aprons are available at the entrance. 🍜 Head down the mountain to Mangshi Main Street to find sa pie. The bitter version is spicy and tangy, while the lemon version is refreshing. If it's your first time, I recommend the lemon version; not everyone can handle the bitterness of the bitter version. ⚠️ It's windy on the pagoda, and temperatures drop quickly in the evening, so bring a light jacket. In October, the rainy season in Dehong has just ended, and the air is clear—perfect for photos. A taxi from Mangshi Airport costs around 20 yuan; don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers on the side of the road. 03 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Wahuang Palace are in Yongnian and Shexian respectively. They are far apart, so don't try to do both in one day. ⏰ Go to Guangfu Ancient City in the morning. The city walls are intact, and there's a moat circling it; rent a bike and ride along the base of the wall. 📍 Enter through the South Gate, walk along the main street to the Former Residence of Wu Yuxiang, then turn toward Hongji Bridge. That bridge is similar to the Zhaozhou Bridge, but it's less crowded, so you can crouch down to look at the stone carvings. 🍜 Guangfu crispy fish and donkey meat sausage are local specialties; street stalls are more authentic than restaurants. ⚠️ Wahuang Palace is on a mountain with steep steps; if you have trouble walking, take the cable car. It's cool on the mountain in September, and the leaves start turning yellow in October. The hanging pavilions of Wahuang Palace are built against the cliff. It's scary to go up, but worth it. It's a 1.5-hour drive from Handan city center to Shexian, so I recommend setting aside half a day for it. 04 Nanyang | Henan Laojieling in Funiu Mountain, Xixia. It's cool enough on the mountain in September that you'll want a jacket. ⏰ Take the cable car up in the morning for a high chance of seeing a sea of clouds. The fog clears after 10:00 AM, revealing the layered mountain ridges. 📍 The Dinosaur Fossil Park is at the foot of the mountain. If you're bringing kids, see the dinosaur egg fossils first, then head up to Laojieling. Tickets for both are separate, but a combo ticket is cheaper. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes in an instant. A raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. 🍜 Eat qiangguo noodles in Xixia county town; a bowl will warm you right up. Kiwis are ripe in September; you can pick them in roadside orchards, and they're sweeter than the ones in supermarkets. Great for families; the dinosaur park plus hiking makes for a perfect day trip. In October, the red leaves start coloring from the top down, making it more vibrant than in September, but the cable car lines will be longer. 05 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayanbulak, Taklamakan, and Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest are far apart, so don't be greedy and try to cram them all into one trip. ⏰ For the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns in Bayanbulak, go in the evening to wait for the sunset. When the sun sets into the Kaidu River, you can count several suns. 📍 In Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest Park, the trees turn golden in October, with the peak being ⏰ mid-to-late October. If you go too early, the leaves are still green; if you go too late, the wind blows them all away. ⚠️ Fill up your gas tank before entering the desert highway; service areas are far apart. 🍜 Korla fragrant pears hit the market in September; roadside stalls are half the price of those in scenic areas. In Luntai County on the edge of the Taklamakan, the mixed noodles and barbecue will keep you full. Bayanbulak is at an altitude of 2,500 meters; it's cold in the morning and evening, so a down jacket is not an exaggeration. Driving from Korla along the southern section of the Duku Highway, the scenery is on the road, so don't just focus on getting to your destination. 06 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia In September, the grasslands start haymaking, and rolls of hay are scattered on the slopes, which has more character than when it's just green in the summer. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light is slanted, casting long shadows from the hay bales, making photos look like oil paintings. 📍 Depart from Hailar toward Ergun, pass by the Morigele River, and find a high spot to park and look at the winding river channel. ⚠️ Navigation signals on the grasslands are intermittent, so download offline maps in advance. 🍜 Have Russian-style bread and blueberry jam with milk tea for breakfast in Ergun. Eat shouba rou (hand-grabbed meat) in downtown Hailar; prices at the entrance of scenic spots are double. September is less crowded, and accommodation is half the price of July and August. In October, the grass turns yellow and it's windy, but the autumn colors are rich—perfect for those who aren't in a rush and want to drive slowly. 07 Huangshan | Anhui Xidi, Hongcun, Chengkan, plus the Huangshan Scenic Area—this area is enough for 3–4 days of travel. ⏰ Enter Hongcun before 7:00 AM; the Moon Pond is empty, and the reflections are clear. After 8:00 AM, tour groups arrive, and the bridge gets crowded. 📍 Take your time walking through the Hu Wenguang Memorial Archway and Jing'ai Hall in Xidi. Chengkan is quieter with a Bagua village layout; hiring a local auntie to explain things is better than wandering around blindly. ⚠️ Accommodation on Huangshan Mountain is expensive. To see the sunrise, either stay on the summit or hike up in the middle of the night—know your limits. 🍜 Stinky mandarin fish and hairy tofu—roadside restaurants in Hongcun are hit or miss, so choose one with lots of locals. In October, the autumn colors in Tachuan emerge, just a 10-minute drive from Hongcun. The Tangyue Memorial Archway Group and Bao's Garden in the Ancient Huizhou Culture Tourism Zone are less crowded and great for those who like old architecture. Buy tickets online in advance; queuing on-site wastes time. 08 Quzhou | Zhejiang Kaihua Root Palace Buddhist Cultural Tourism Zone and Jianglang Mountain/Nianbadu—one is in Kaihua, the other in Jiangshan; split them into two days. ⏰ The morning light is perfect for entering the halls at the Root Palace Buddhist Cultural Tourism Zone. The root-carved Buddha statues are stunning, so don't miss the 500 Arhats formation. 📍 For the Three-Piece Stone at Jianglang Mountain, the "Thread of Sky" section is steep, so wear non-slip shoes. ⏰ Go up the mountain in the afternoon; the sunset hits the stone walls, turning them red. ⚠️ Shops in Nianbadu Ancient Town close early in the evening, so explore during the day. 🍜 Kaihua river snails and clear-water fish; in Quzhou city, the "three heads and one palm" (rabbit head, duck head, fish head, duck web) are deliciously spicy. Jiangshan kiwis are ripe in September; buy them on the roadside. The Root Palace Buddhist Cultural Tourism Zone is best seen slowly; allow at least half a day. Stay one night in Nianbadu; the stone paths are empty in the early morning, which has more character than during the day. October weather at Jianglang Mountain is stable, perfect for hiking. Of these six places, the ones I most want to revisit are Hulunbuir and Bayanbulak. Autumn is short; if you miss it, you have to wait a year. Pick one that's close to you and go. Let me know in the comments which ones you've been to.

🏞️Nanyang 5-Day, 4-Night Slow Travel: An Encounter with Three Kingdoms Culture and Scenic Poetry Traveling to Nanyang is like opening a thick history book, with every page filled with stories. This is not only the place where Zhuge Liang once farmed and the hometown of Zhang Zhongjing, but it also boasts the magnificent Danjiangkou Reservoir and the beautiful Funiu Mountains. This 5-day, 4-night itinerary is designed for a relaxed pace—no rushing, no chasing trends—allowing you to slowly experience the cultural depth and natural beauty of this "Land of the Sleeping Dragon." Day 1: Seeking Antiquity at Wolonggang, Strolling Through the Prefecture Office Start your first day at the Wolonggang Wuhou Shrine (admission approx. US$7). This is a significant site commemorating Zhuge Liang. With its ancient cypress trees and solemn, tranquil atmosphere, walking on the bluestone paths makes you feel as if you can hear the sounds of zithers and horses from a thousand years ago. In the afternoon, head to the Nanyang Prefecture Office (admission approx. US$6). The Qing Dynasty government buildings here are grand in scale and rigorous in layout, offering a deep look into ancient administrative culture. In the evening, I recommend a walk at the Baihe Wetland Park (free admission). Walking along the riverbank as the sun sets with a gentle breeze on your face is a great way to relax. Don't forget to try Nanyang's spicy soup (hulatang) and mutton soup; a bowl of either will warm you right up. Day 2: Enlightenment at the Sage of Medicine Shrine, Admiring Flowers at the Rose Garden On the morning of the second day, visit the Sage of Medicine Shrine (admission approx. US$4). This is a memorial site for Zhang Zhongjing and a great place to learn about the profound depth of traditional Chinese medicine. In the afternoon, head to the Rose Garden (admission approx. US$8). During the blooming season, the garden is filled with roses competing in beauty and fragrance, making it an excellent spot for photos. As for food, Fangcheng braised noodles and Xinye flat noodles are not to be missed. With chewy noodles and rich, flavorful broth, they are staples on the tables of locals. Day 3: Exploring the Funiu Mountains, Watching Clouds at Laojieling Spend the third day touring the Funiu Mountains or the Laojieling Scenic Area (admission approx. US$8). This area is covered in primeval forests, with babbling brooks and waterfalls, and the spectacular sea of clouds is truly breathtaking. The weather in the mountains can be changeable, so remember to bring rain gear, a jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. For lunch, try the Xixia mountain delicacies and wild vegetables—natural, nutritious, and flavorful treats from deep in the mountains. Day 4: Danjiang Grand View Garden, Enjoying Water Activities On the fourth day, visit the Danjiang Grand View Garden in Xichuan (admission approx. US$11). Here, you can admire the magnificent scenery of the Danjiangkou Reservoir, take a boat tour to experience the vast, clear waters, and enjoy water activities like speedboats and cruise ships. Remember to use sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses. For food, I recommend the Danjiang fish feast and pan-fried buns. The fish is tender and prepared in various ways, while the pan-fried buns have a crispy exterior and a savory, juicy filling—a bite of pure happiness. Day 5: Visiting the Neixiang County Government Office, Ending with Tanghe Cold Noodles On the morning of the fifth day, visit the Neixiang County Government Office (admission approx. US$7). This is currently the best-preserved county-level government office from the feudal era in China, offering an in-depth look at ancient administrative culture. In the afternoon, pack your bags and head home. Before you leave, be sure to try Tanghe cold noodles and Tongbai bean curd knots. The cold noodles are crystal clear, smooth, and tangy, while the bean curd knots are chewy and rich in soy flavor—the authentic taste of Nanyang. This journey offers a blend of historical depth, natural gifts, and culinary satisfaction. Nanyang, a city that understands the Three Kingdoms, is a slow-paced journey worth savoring.

When visiting Henan in October for autumn foliage, don't just crowd into Shaolin Temple and Laojun Mountain 🍁. I just finished this route featuring "Taihang red leaves + Funiu colorful forests + Dabie Mountain autumn colors + Wangwu ginkgo." Four cities, four types of autumn, fewer crowds, and low costs—budget travelers, take note👇 🍁 Jiaozuo | The autumn at Yuntai Mountain is red 📍 Red Stone Gorge The signature spot of Yuntai Mountain. Red rocks of the Danxia landform paired with October red leaves, with clear water winding around the red cliffs. Walking on the cliffside plank road, you'll see smoke trees and maple leaves overhead 🌿. Enter the park before 7:30 AM; the light hits the red rocks at an angle, making the entire gorge look like it's on fire. 📍 Zhuyu Peak At an altitude of 1,308 meters, this is where Wang Wei wrote his famous poem about missing someone while planting dogwood. Reach the summit to overlook the sea of red leaves, with the sea of clouds, red leaves, and ancient temples all in one frame. The admission ticket is included in the scenic area transport pass (approx. CNY 180, valid for 2 days). 💡 Budget travel tips: Take the tourist bus from Jiaozuo city to the Shang'an service area for CNY 30–40. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Shang'an Village for CNY 100–150/night; the scenic area entrance is right downstairs. You can finish Red Stone Gorge and Zhuyu Peak in one day, and visit Qinglong Gorge the next day to catch what you missed. 🍜 Food guide: Wuzhi clay pot (the essence of Yellow River culture for thousands of years, slow-cooked until the soup is rich and meat is tender), Huaifu donkey meat (known as "dragon meat in the sky, donkey meat on earth"), and Wuzhi oil tea. At old clay pot restaurants near Jiaozuo Station, you can eat your fill for CNY 40–60 per person. · ----- 🏔️ Luoyang Songxian | A colorful forest secret in the depths of Funiu Mountain 📍 Baiyun Mountain Yuhuang Peak is 2,216 meters above sea level, the highest peak in the Central Plains. From late October to November, the mountain road passing through the ginkgo forest looks like a "golden tunnel." Overlooking the colorful forests wrapped in clouds from Yuhuang Peak is one of the most photogenic spots in the Funiu Mountain range. Admission is CNY 75 + scenic transport CNY 70. It is recommended to stay on the mountain to catch the sunrise the next day. 📍 Muzhaling Located just 23 kilometers from Baiyun Mountain, it has a forest coverage rate of 98.5% and is a filming location for the movie "Muzhaling." There are three main tour areas: Jiuzhuang Valley, the primeval forest, and Guanmao Peak. Focus on the primeval forest and Guanmao Peak; 3–4 hours is just right. October admission is about CNY 60, with far fewer people than Baiyun Mountain. 💡 Budget travel tips: Buses from Songxian county to the scenic areas are inconvenient. It is recommended to rent a car in Luoyang or take the direct bus from Luoyang Station to Baiyun Mountain for CNY 43. The drive between the two scenic areas is half an hour. It is recommended to plan for 2 days and 1 night, staying at a homestay in Checun Town for CNY 100–180 per room. 🍜 Food guide: Luoyang water banquet (a national intangible cultural heritage, with Peony Swallow Dish as the signature), beef soup with shredded pancakes (the morning energy boost for Luoyang locals), and the Luhun whole fish feast (if you happen to pass by Luhun Lake). Farmhouse meals in Checun Town cost about CNY 50 per person. · ----- 🌄 Xinyang Shangcheng | An autumn scroll at the northern foot of Dabie Mountain 📍 Jingangtai (Xihe) Ecotourism Area Known as the "first peak in southern Henan," the thousand-layer rock walls and natural stone sculptures look majestic in the autumn sun in October. Crossing the high-altitude glass bridge over the gorge to overlook the entire forest sea, the layered forests are dyed in colors, making every shot look like a blockbuster. Strolling along the wooden plank road in Xihe Garden, the lake reflects the autumn colors like a mirror, showing the gentlest side of Jingangtai. 📍 Huatuo Valley + Tea Valley Wander between Huatuo Valley and the secluded Tea Valley, the origin of Xinyang Maojian tea, where thousands of acres of tea gardens sway in the autumn breeze. In late autumn, visit red sites like the Red Army Cave, where the weight of history blends with the quiet beauty of nature. With very few tourists, this is the most "hidden" part of the entire route. 💡 Budget travel tips: Take the high-speed rail to Xinyang East Station, then transfer to a long-distance bus to Shangcheng County. Admission + scenic transport for Jingangtai is about CNY 137. There are farmhouses and homestays in the scenic area. A hanging pot meal + Xinyang fried rice tea are autumn staples. It is recommended to plan for 2 days and 1 night to slow down the pace. 🍜 Food guide: Shangcheng hanging pot (a must-order in mountain homestays, served steaming hot), Xinyang Maojian fried rice tea, Nanwan fish head stewed with tofu (creamy white rich soup with tender tofu), and water caltrop (the pearl in the water, sweet and refreshing with sprinkled osmanthus sugar). CNY 50–70 per person. · ----- 🍂 Jiyuan | The red and gold of Wangwu Mountain 📍 Wangwu Mountain Scenic Area The birthplace of the "Yu Gong Moves the Mountain" legend and a famous Taoist mountain. Late October to the end of the month is the best time to view red leaves. From October 24 to 31, the red leaf index reaches Level III, with a color change rate of 60%–95%, and the mountains are ablaze with red. The thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at the summit is a must-see. Admission + sightseeing bus is CNY 60–80. 📍 Yu Gong Moves the Mountain Statue + Yangtai Palace The Yu Gong Moves the Mountain statue is located within the Wangwu Mountain Scenic Area, where you can pay tribute to the Yu Gong spirit. Yangtai Palace was built in the Tang Dynasty and is a Taoist holy site. When the ginkgo leaves turn yellow in autumn, light and shadow pass through the ancient architecture, creating a full Zen atmosphere 🕯️. Both are in the Wangwu Mountain Scenic Area, so you can visit them together without rushing. 💡 Budget travel tips: There is a bus from Jiyuan city to Wangwu Mountain, costing over CNY 10 one way. It is recommended to stay at a homestay in Wangwu Town for CNY 100–150/night. Traveling after October 24 is the most cost-effective, as it coincides with the peak red leaf period. 🍜 Food guide: Egg pancake (millet and soybean paste fermented and baked with eggs, crispy outside and tender inside, portable), beef ball soup (a warming meat soup at the foot of Wangwu Mountain, with chewy meatballs and rich beef bone broth). Jiyuan night markets cost about CNY 30–50 per person. · ----- 💰 Total budget for the four-city budget trip (estimated per person) · Jiaozuo Yuntai Mountain: Admission + transport approx. CNY 180, accommodation CNY 100–150/night, daily meal cost CNY 50–70 · Luoyang Songxian: Baiyun Mountain + Muzhaling admission total approx. CNY 135, accommodation CNY 100–180/night, daily meal cost CNY 50–60 · Xinyang Shangcheng: Jingangtai admission + scenic transport approx. CNY 137, accommodation CNY 100–150/night, daily meal cost CNY 50–70 · Jiyuan Wangwu Mountain: Admission + sightseeing bus approx. CNY 60–80, accommodation CNY 100–150/night, daily meal cost CNY 40–60 ⚠️ Key time window: Mid-October to mid-November is the best window for autumn viewing in Henan, with Wangwu Mountain's red leaves at their peak from October 24 to 31. Traveling after the National Day holiday means hotel prices are 30%–50% cheaper than during the holiday, there are no queues at scenic spots, and the autumn colors are even richer. I spent 2–3 days slowly exploring each of the four cities: watching the Taihang red leaves in Jiaozuo, enjoying the Funiu colorful forests in Songxian, exploring the Dabie Mountain autumn colors in Shangcheng, and visiting the Wangwu ginkgo trees in Jiyuan. With four types of autumn colors and four different rhythms, the total cost is under CNY 2,000 (including major transportation), which is much better than squeezing into popular tourist spots ✨. The autumn in Henan is not that kind of ostentatious beauty; it is the accumulated splendor of layered forests dyed in colors, red leaves like fire, and golden ginkgo leaves 🍁. Avoiding the crowds and finding a slow-paced town to stay for two nights is what autumn should really be like.

If you prefer pristine, uncrowded, and beautiful hidden mountain gems that offer great value, Yaoshan in Pingdingshan is the place for you. If you prefer pristine, uncrowded, and beautiful hidden mountain gems that offer great value, Yaoshan in Pingdingshan is the place for you.

01 Nanyang | Henan Nanyang's comfort starts with a bowl of hulatang (spicy soup). At 7:00 AM, the street-side shops are already steaming. Pair it with a youmotou (fried dough), and you'll be wide awake after the first bite. 📍 I recommend taking the cable car at Laojieling in the morning; the mountain breeze hasn't heated up yet, and the visibility is clearest. From the summit, you can see the layers of the Funiu Mountains. That sense of openness is just as impressive as any famous mountain range. For lunch, have a plate of diguo chicken at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain; the portions are so generous that 2 people can't finish it. ⚠️ The Dinosaur Relics Park is great for kids, but the science museum clears out at 4:00 PM, so don't arrive right at closing time. Before heading back to the city in the afternoon, stop by the Baihe Wetland Park for a walk. It's where locals go to stroll, and with few tourists, it's incredibly relaxing. Nanyang isn't the kind of city that stuns you at first glance, but after staying for 2 days, you'll start to understand the grounded feeling of "living life." 02 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan's low profile is the kind that says, "I can't be bothered to promote myself, but you won't forget me once you've visited." In the morning, head to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs. Don't just take photos of the mounds; take a close look at the broken steles and Buddha heads in the museum. The silent weight of that history will follow you. Rush to the Zhenbeipu Western Film Studio by noon. Don't try to see everything; just walking through the Qing City and Ming City sections is enough—2 hours is perfect. Save the afternoon for the Helan Mountain Rock Art. When the sun slants west, the carvings on the rock face look most three-dimensional. Those sun gods and hunting scenes are still speaking to you across thousands of years. ⚠️ You need to follow a guide through the hidden military tunnels at Shuidonggou; it's easy to get lost on your own. 🍜 Go to the Huaiyuan Night Market in the evening. The la huhu (spicy hot pot) and grilled eggs are must-tries. The lively atmosphere of the street instantly washes away the desolation of the day. The temperature difference between day and night in Yinchuan is significant, so keep a light jacket with you. 03 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain isn't the kind of mountain you climb just to post on social media; it's the kind where you want to sit down and zone out after the climb. I recommend taking the cable car up the back mountain and walking down the front mountain; it's easier on your knees, and the scenery is different both ways. 📍 The scent of incense mixed with pine needles at Zhongtai is very distinctive. Don't rush off after reaching the summit. Sit on a stone bench by the cliff and watch the clouds surge up from the valley. That kind of quiet makes you forget to check your phone. There's a heluo noodle shop at the Guangcheng Post Station at the foot of the mountain. The broth is rich, the noodles are chewy, and having a bowl after the climb makes everything feel right. ⚠️ There are many pilgrims on weekends, and the cable car line can exceed 1 hour, so try to visit on a weekday. The pace of the entire city of Pingliang is very slow. It's perfect for spending 2 days on the mountain, walking slowly without rushing. 04 Bazhong | Sichuan The beauty of Guangwu Mountain requires timing. Late October to mid-November is its most impressive season. At that time, the red leaves all over the mountain don't look like a painting; they look like an overturned palette—chaotically red, yet leaving you speechless. 📍 The Black Bear Gully in the Daba Scenic Area has the most intense colors. Enter in the early morning before the mist clears; the light filtering through the treetops onto the fallen leaves feels like walking inside an oil painting. Have a bowl of hot and sour glass noodles at the entrance of the scenic area for lunch. The owner will ask if you want to add fish mint (zhe'ergen); I recommend trying it—it's a flavor unique to northern Sichuan. ⚠️ It's crowded on weekends during the red leaf season. Park your car at Parking Lot 3 and take the shuttle bus to avoid unnecessary trouble. If you only have half a day, head straight to Black Bear Gully and Xianglu Mountain; you can skip the other spots. Guangwu Mountain is the kind of place where "if you miss it, you have to wait another year." It's worth a special trip. 05 Yangjiang | Guangdong Hailing Island is the kind of island that isn't noisy, without streets full of "Instagrammable spot" signs. The waves at Dajiao Bay are cleaner than you'd imagine. Step on it barefoot, and the sand is as fine as flour. It's most comfortable to go into the water after 4:00 PM; the sun isn't harsh, and the water temperature is just right. 📍 Watching the sunset at Mawei Island is a local secret. After the tide goes out, you can walk deep into the tidal flats. The entire sea surface is dyed gold, and any photo you take with your phone looks like a movie screenshot. Go to Zhapo Town for seafood in the evening. Don't order lobster or crab; order the salt and pepper mantis shrimp and steamed mixed fish that locals often eat—they're cheap and fresh. ⚠️ There are many cars heading to the island on weekends, and traffic jams on the bridge entering the island are the norm. If you can come on a weekday, don't come on a weekend. For accommodation, choose a homestay near Dajiao Bay; the sea is right outside your door, so you don't have to fuss. 06 Nantong | Jiangsu The Hao River isn't a river that will stun you, but after walking a lap around it, you'll understand why the people of Nantong love it so much. The river isn't wide, and the trees on both banks filter the sunlight into fragments. Every few steps, there's a small bridge; under the bridge, people are fishing, and nearby are elderly people doing their morning exercises. The light is best after 5:00 PM. 📍 Walking from Huanxi Cultural Square to Beihao Bridge is the most comfortable part of the whole route. The river surface is paved with gold by the setting sun, and tour boats glide slowly past you. The night cruise is worth taking; the lights outline the old houses on both banks, adding a touch of gentleness compared to the daytime. ⚠️ The fried skewer stall by the Bell Tower has a long line, but the taste is truly good—it's worth waiting 20 minutes. Nantong is suitable for walking aimlessly by yourself; wherever the river winds, you follow. 07 Chengde | Hebei The Mountain Resort isn't something you "finish touring"; it's something you "walk into and then walk out of." Enter from Lizheng Gate and walk through the palace area first. Don't rush to take photos; listen carefully to the guide. Those plaques and couplets are full of stories. By the time you reach the lake area, it'll be noon. Find some shade near Wenjin Pavilion, sit down, eat a sesame seed cake you brought, and watch the reflections in the water—it's much more comfortable than waiting in line at a restaurant. In the afternoon, cross the mountain area. It takes 3 hours to walk the whole way. If you don't have the energy, take the mountain tour bus, get off at Er'madao, and take a look at the panoramic view of the Little Potala Palace—it's worth the ticket price. ⚠️ Prices inside the resort are on the high side, so prepare water and snacks in advance. The Jinshanling Great Wall is in Luanping, a bit far from the city center. If you're short on time, skip it. But if you love hiking wild sections of the Great Wall, the beauty of its ruins is much more moving than Badaling, and it's so uncrowded you can hear the wind passing through the battlements. 08 Qiannan | Guizhou The water of the Zhangjiang River in Libo is the kind of color that makes you wonder if it was adjusted with a filter. The blue-green of Wolongtan (Crouching Dragon Pool) is like a solid piece of jade. When the sun hits it, the water surface shimmers with fine light. I recommend entering from the West Gate, walking to Wolongtan first, then heading downhill all the way to Cuigu Waterfall, and finally to the Xiaoqikong Bridge. You won't have to backtrack, and it's easy on your knees. 📍 You must walk barefoot through the Water Forest section. The water is cool, the stones are worn smooth, and stepping on them feels like a foot massage. 🍜 There's a stall at the entrance of the scenic area selling freshly fried small potatoes sprinkled with chili powder; they smell so good you won't be able to walk away. ⚠️ During the rainy season, high water levels may cause some trails to close temporarily, so check the official announcements before you set off. Instead of visiting the ancient town, save your time for Daqikong. Take a boat inside; the mountains on both sides crowd in, the sound of the water is loud, and you have to shout to talk. That sense of oppression is actually exciting. Libo is perfect for a 3-day trip: 1 day for Xiaoqikong, 1 day for Daqikong, and the remaining day for lying on the balcony of your inn and zoning out.

I have run many places over the years, some cities want to leave as soon as I go, some cities leave and still want to return. The eight cities on this list truly deserve the words “zero negative reviews” in my mind. They don’t rely on celebrity filters, they rely on solid scenery, food and humanity. How many have you been to? I bet you’ve been to three at most. 01 River Source | Guangdong The wind of Wan Green Lake is really going to turn. Standing by the lake at 3pm, the wind blows from the surface with a mixed smell of grass and water that cools the heat more than any air conditioner. 📍 It is recommended to board the boat from Mirror Flower Marina Pier. The ticket includes round trip to Lake Center Island, the whole journey is about two hours. Don’t rush to take a picture, first sit aft and watch the water color change from light green to dark green to dark green, that gradient is a hundred times more natural than the filter. 🍜After getting off the boat, go straight to the "Wanlu Lake Fish House" on Datong Road in the city and order a pot of lake water cooked fish head. The soup is white like milk, and the freshness rushes directly to your brain. ⚠️ Remember, the fish house is closed from 2pm to 4pm. Don't go there at the end of the lunch market. ⏰ The best time is 6:30 in the morning, the lakeside canyon is almost empty, the morning fog has not dissipated, suitable for a person to get angry. If you are bringing the elderly and children, you can walk around the Lake Canyon. The whole journey is smooth and does not hurt your knees. 02 Nanyang | Henan Westfjord Funiu Mountain Laojie Ridge is the most underrated mountain I have ever seen. It was more like a quiet giant compared to the famous mountains crowded with people. 🚄 Nanyang East Station has a direct tourist line to the scenic spot, the drive is about two hours, the fare is 30 dollars, much more cost-effective than chartered car. Don’t take a crane for mountaineering, take a trail. Entering from the watershed entrance, all the way through the fir forest, underfoot were loose fallen leaves and the smell of resin all over the air. It took about two hours to climb to the main peak, and the wind at the top was strong enough to stagger, but the visibility was worth all the stamina. Turning into the Dinosaur Site Park on the way down the hill, the giant dinosaur skeleton model that children will scream when they see it, and adults will be stunned for a few seconds when they see it. ⚠️ The signal in the mountains is good and bad, download the offline map in advance. Also, the so-called "wild kiwi" sold at the foot of the mountain is actually collected from the orchard next door. Do not buy it as a specialty. 03 Guyuan | Ningxia The Sumishan Grottoes are the most unlikeable scenic spots I have ever seen. With no bustling visitor centers, no souvenir vendors, you’re like stumbling into a time-forgotten Buddhist country. 📍From Guyuan city drive over for about forty minutes, the road condition is good, but the last section of the mountain road has many bends, novice drivers drive more stable. The most shocking thing is the 20-meter-high Buddha in Cave 5. Standing at its feet and looking up, people will unconsciously settle down. ⚠️ The light in the cave is dim, mobile phone can not take pictures, bring a small flashlight or simply use your eyes to see, do not waste the shutter. ⏰ It is recommended to arrive before 10 am, the sun is shining slantingly into the cave, the light and shadow on the face of the Buddha statue is the best. At noon, I went to the nearby Sumishan Farmhouse. I had a bowl of raw boiled noodles with cold stir-fried spring onions. I could finish it for less than $20. I was comfortable eating. 04 Xi'an | Shaanxi The walls of Xi'an and the Terracotta Warriors and Horses are two completely different worlds, but they are worth spending half a day for each. For those who are going to Xi'an for the first time, I advise you to go up to the city wall in the morning, climb the city from Yongning Gate, rent a bicycle and ride around for about an hour and a half. The wind on the city wall blows people sober, and you understand what "Chang'an" is when you look at the checkerboard-like streets beneath your feet. In the afternoon, we went straight to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum of Qin Shihuang. ⚠️ Remember, do not look for a guide at the door, the official guide is at the entrance of Pit 2, 80 dollars an hour, talking professionally and vividly. The military formation at Pit 1 was indeed shocking, but what really gave me goosebumps was Pit 3, which was the army’s command headquarters, small but unspeakably solemn. 🍜 After seeing the terracotta warriors and horses, go back to the city and eat a bowl of Ma Hong stir-fried bubble dumplings at Sao Jinqiao. Break the dumplings yourself, the smaller the more flavorful. The history museums in Xi’an are also worth visiting, but reservations must be made three days in advance in the official small process, and don’t expect to get an appointment on site. 05 Shijiazhuang | Hebei The Zhaozhou Bridge in Shijiazhuang is even more legendary than what is written in the textbook. This 1400-year-old stone bridge has been polished to a mirror-smooth surface, and you can feel the thickness of history when you walk on it. 📍 The bridge is located on the edge of the county town of Zhao County, about an hour's drive from Shijiazhuang city, there is a direct bus, but the frequency is small, it is recommended to drive by yourself. The arch structure at the bottom of the bridge deserves a closer look. Each of those beautiful stone railings has a story. ⚠️ Don't buy "rubbings" at the entrance of the scenic spot. They are printed by machines. The real rubbings should be seen at the museum in Qiaotou. Xibaipo is a different story, that small village at the foot of Taihang Mountain, the smell of pines and cypresses in the air. ⏰ Recommended to go in the afternoon, few tourists, the sunset hits the loess wall, the light and shadow are extremely beautiful. Note that the instructor in the village is free, but you need to make a phone reservation a day in advance. 06 Jingmen | Hubei Obviously the mausoleum is the kind of monument where you go and wonder if you are in the wrong place. He was hidden in the pine forests of Jonghyang City, without the hustle and bustle of other imperial mausoleums, only the low whimpering sound of the wind blowing through the stone statues as they were alive. 🚄 Take a taxi from Jingmen Station for about fifty minutes, or take the shuttle bus in the direction of Zhongxiang, get off at the Xianling intersection, and walk for another ten minutes. The best thing is the Shinto, with the stone statues of unicorns, camels, and elephants on both sides, looming in the morning mist, more than any studio can produce videos. ⚠️ The lawns on both sides of the Shinto are not allowed to be stepped on. There are hidden CCTVs. They are fined $50 to start. 🍜 After strolling around Zhongxiang city, we went to Zhongxiang city to eat the dragon dish. This dish was named by Emperor Jiajing. It is steamed with fish meat and pork chopped into puree, sliced ​​​​and pan-fried. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. 📍 Recommend "old-fashioned Panlong Restaurant", forty per person, the portion is real. 07 Taizhou | Jiangsu The morning in Qinhu was woken up by the sound of the ship's wife. 📍 Take a taxi from Taizhou Railway Station to Qinhu Wetland Park, about forty minutes. After entering the park, we first take a rocking boat. The boat lady will sing a local tune. The sound of water and song mix together, and the whole person is relaxed. The waterfowl in the wetland are calmer than others. The egret stands by the reeds. You take three steps closer before it slowly flies away. ⏰ October is the best, the eight fresh dishes of Qinhu are made, especially the pot of fish cakes, so fresh that eyebrows fall out. 🍜 There is an old shop selling fish soup noodles inside the "Qinhu Food City" at the exit of the scenic spot. The soup is boiled to rich white, the noodles are smoky and tough. It costs fifteen dollars a bowl, which is stronger than many restaurants in the city. ⚠️ Some sections of the canyon in the wetland park are slippery, wear non-slip shoes, do not wear slippers. Those with small children can rent an electric car, but electric cars cannot enter the wetland core area and have to be walked. 08 Shigatse | Tibet Everest and Tashilhunpo, one in heaven and one on earth. Don’t rush to Mount Everest in a hurry, head to Tashilhunpo Monastery from the city of Shigatse. The temple is much quieter than the Potala Palace in Lhasa, the chanting of monks echoes through the alleys, and the white walls and red roofs are particularly glaring in the plateau sunlight. 📍 The turning path in the back mountain of the temple, the whole journey takes about an hour, can overlook the entire city of Shigatse, excellent view. ⏰ After 3 pm, the debate field in the temple started activities, the monks high-fived the question and answer, although I did not understand the content, but that serious strong very infectious. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the temple, especially inside the Buddhist temple. Don't be complacent. As for Everest, don’t expect a one-day round trip. The drive from Shigatse to the base camp is about six hours. It is recommended to stay at the Rongbuk Temple Guest House for one night, with a bed of about $150. Looking up at the stars at night with the galaxy cascading down like a waterfall, you feel at that moment that all the alpine reactions are worth it. 🍜The base camp's instant noodles cost fifteen dollars a bucket, hot water supply is plentiful, don't be too expensive, there is "Michelin" at an altitude of 5,000 meters. None of these eight cities became famous through marketing. Their good, hidden in the early morning breeze, in the evening light, in the steam of a bowl of hot soup. How many buildings have you been to? Which building surprised you the most? Let’s talk in the comments section, I’m waiting to see your answer. I have run many places over the years, some cities want to leave as soon as I go, some cities leave and still want to return. The eight cities on this list truly deserve the words “zero negative reviews” in my mind. They don’t rely on celebrity filters, they rely on solid scenery, food and humanity. How many have you been to? I bet you’ve been to three at most. 01 River Source | Guangdong The wind of Wan Green Lake is really going to turn. Standing by the lake at 3pm, the wind blows from the surface with a mixed smell of grass and water that cools the heat more than any air conditioner. 📍 It is recommended to board the boat from Mirror Flower Marina Pier. The ticket includes round trip to Lake Center Island, the whole journey is about two hours. Don’t rush to take a picture, first sit aft and watch the water color change from light green to dark green to dark green, that gradient is a hundred times more natural than the filter. 🍜After getting off the boat, go straight to the "Wanlu Lake Fish House" on Datong Road in the city and order a pot of lake water cooked fish head. The soup is white like milk, and the freshness rushes directly to your brain. ⚠️ Remember, the fish house is closed from 2pm to 4pm. Don't go there at the end of the lunch market. ⏰ The best time is 6:30 in the morning, the lakeside canyon is almost empty, the morning fog has not dissipated, suitable for a person to get angry. If you are bringing the elderly and children, you can walk around the Lake Canyon. The whole journey is smooth and does not hurt your knees. 02 Nanyang | Henan Westfjord Funiu Mountain Laojie Ridge is the most underrated mountain I have ever seen. It was more like a quiet giant compared to the famous mountains crowded with people. 🚄 Nanyang East Station has a direct tourist line to the scenic spot, the drive is about two hours, the fare is 30 dollars, much more cost-effective than chartered car. Don’t take a crane for mountaineering, take a trail. Entering from the watershed entrance, all the way through the fir forest, underfoot were loose fallen leaves and the smell of resin all over the air. It took about two hours to climb to the main peak, and the wind at the top was strong enough to stagger, but the visibility was worth all the stamina. Turning into the Dinosaur Site Park on the way down the hill, the giant dinosaur skeleton model that children will scream when they see it, and adults will be stunned for a few seconds when they see it. ⚠️ The signal in the mountains is good and bad, download the offline map in advance. Also, the so-called "wild kiwi" sold at the foot of the mountain is actually collected from the orchard next door. Do not buy it as a specialty. 03 Guyuan | Ningxia The Sumishan Grottoes are the most unlikeable scenic spots I have ever seen. With no bustling visitor centers, no souvenir vendors, you’re like stumbling into a time-forgotten Buddhist country. 📍From Guyuan city drive over for about forty minutes, the road condition is good, but the last section of the mountain road has many bends, novice drivers drive more stable. The most shocking thing is the 20-meter-high Buddha in Cave 5. Standing at its feet and looking up, people will unconsciously settle down. ⚠️ The light in the cave is dim, mobile phone can not take pictures, bring a small flashlight or simply use your eyes to see, do not waste the shutter. ⏰ It is recommended to arrive before 10 am, the sun is shining slantingly into the cave, the light and shadow on the face of the Buddha statue is the best. At noon, I went to the nearby Sumishan Farmhouse. I had a bowl of raw boiled noodles with cold stir-fried spring onions. I could finish it for less than $20. I was comfortable eating. 04 Xi'an | Shaanxi The walls of Xi'an and the Terracotta Warriors and Horses are two completely different worlds, but they are worth spending half a day for each. For those who are going to Xi'an for the first time, I advise you to go up to the city wall in the morning, climb the city from Yongning Gate, rent a bicycle and ride around for about an hour and a half. The wind on the city wall blows people sober, and you understand what "Chang'an" is when you look at the checkerboard-like streets beneath your feet. In the afternoon, we went straight to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum of Qin Shihuang. ⚠️ Remember, do not look for a guide at the door, the official guide is at the entrance of Pit 2, 80 dollars an hour, talking professionally and vividly. The military formation at Pit 1 was indeed shocking, but what really gave me goosebumps was Pit 3, which was the army’s command headquarters, small but unspeakably solemn. 🍜 After seeing the terracotta warriors and horses, go back to the city and eat a bowl of Ma Hong stir-fried bubble dumplings at Sao Jinqiao. Break the dumplings yourself, the smaller the more flavorful. The history museums in Xi’an are also worth visiting, but reservations must be made three days in advance in the official small process, and don’t expect to get an on-site appointment. 05 Shijiazhuang | Hebei The Zhaozhou Bridge in Shijiazhuang is even more legendary than what is written in the textbook. This 1400-year-old stone bridge has been polished to a mirror-smooth surface, and you can feel the thickness of history when you walk on it. 📍 The bridge is located on the edge of the county town of Zhao County, about an hour's drive from Shijiazhuang city, there is a direct bus, but the frequency is small, it is recommended to drive by yourself. The arch structure at the bottom of the bridge deserves a closer look. Each of those beautiful stone railings has a story. ⚠️ Don't buy "rubbings" at the entrance of the scenic spot. They are printed by machines. The real rubbings should be seen at the museum in Qiaotou. Xibaipo is a different story, that small village at the foot of Taihang Mountain, the smell of pines and cypresses in the air. ⏰ Recommended to go in the afternoon, few tourists, the sunset hits the loess wall, the light and shadow are extremely beautiful. Note that the instructor in the village is free, but you need to make a phone reservation a day in advance. 06 Jingmen | Hubei Obviously the mausoleum is the kind of monument where you go and wonder if you are in the wrong place. He was hidden in the pine forests of Jonghyang City, without the hustle and bustle of other imperial mausoleums, only the low whimpering sound of the wind blowing through the stone statues as they were alive. 🚄 Take a taxi from Jingmen Station for about fifty minutes, or take the shuttle bus in the direction of Zhongxiang, get off at the Xianling intersection, and walk for another ten minutes. The best thing is the Shinto, with the stone statues of unicorns, camels, and elephants on both sides, looming in the morning mist, more than any studio can produce videos. ⚠️ The lawns on both sides of the Shinto are not allowed to be stepped on. There are hidden CCTVs. They are fined $50 to start. 🍜 After strolling around Zhongxiang city, we went to Zhongxiang city to eat the dragon dish. This dish was named by Emperor Jiajing. It is steamed with fish meat and pork chopped into puree, sliced ​​​​and pan-fried. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. 📍 Recommend "old-fashioned Panlong Restaurant", forty per person, the portion is real. 07 Taizhou | Jiangsu The morning in Qinhu was woken up by the sound of the ship's wife. 📍 Take a taxi from Taizhou Railway Station to Qinhu Wetland Park, about forty minutes. After entering the park, we first take a rocking boat. The boat lady will sing a local tune. The sound of water and song mix together, and the whole person is relaxed. The waterfowl in the wetland are calmer than others. The egret stands by the reeds. You take three steps closer before it slowly flies away. ⏰ October is the best, the eight fresh dishes of Qinhu are made, especially the pot of fish cakes, so fresh that eyebrows fall out. 🍜 There is an old shop selling fish soup noodles inside the "Qinhu Food City" at the exit of the scenic spot. The soup is boiled to rich white, the noodles are smoky and tough. It costs fifteen dollars a bowl, which is stronger than many restaurants in the city. ⚠️ Some sections of the canyon in the wetland park are slippery, wear non-slip shoes, do not wear slippers. Those with small children can rent an electric car, but electric cars cannot enter the wetland core area and have to be walked. 08 Shigatse | Tibet Everest and Tashilhunpo, one in heaven and one on earth. Don’t rush to Mount Everest in a hurry, head to Tashilhunpo Monastery from the city of Shigatse. The temple is much quieter than the Potala Palace in Lhasa, the chanting of monks echoes through the alleys, and the white walls and red roofs are particularly glaring in the plateau sunlight. 📍 The turning path in the back mountain of the temple, the whole journey takes about an hour, can overlook the entire city of Shigatse, excellent view. ⏰ After 3 pm, the debate field in the temple started activities, the monks high-fived the question and answer, although I did not understand the content, but that serious strong very infectious. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the temple, especially inside the Buddhist temple. Don't be complacent. As for Everest, don’t expect a one-day round trip. The drive from Shigatse to the base camp is about six hours. It is recommended to stay at the Rongbuk Temple Guest House for one night, with a bed of about $150. Looking up at the stars at night, the galaxy cascading down like a waterfall, you feel at that moment that all the alpine reactions are worth it. 🍜The base camp's instant noodles cost fifteen dollars a bucket, hot water supply is plentiful, don't be too expensive, there is "Michelin" at an altitude of 5,000 meters. None of these eight cities became famous through marketing. Their good, hidden in the early morning breeze, in the evening light, in the steam of a bowl of hot soup. How many buildings have you been to? Which building surprised you the most? Let’s talk in the comments section, I’m waiting to see your answer.

8 cities worth saving up for—visiting 3 is already a win 01 Lhasa | Tibet 📍 Potala Palace: We recommend booking a morning slot; the light hits from the east, making the white walls and red palace stand out most clearly. Don't rush up the stairs; walk slowly, and if you get out of breath, stop and watch the pilgrims. ⏰ Head to Jokhang Temple Square around 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM. The sun makes you feel lazy, and sitting in the corner watching people prostrate themselves creates a sense of peace that will stay with you. Namtso is a full-day round trip from the city. Hiring a car costs about 300 per person. The road conditions aren't bad, but the altitude is high, so have oxygen bottles ready. It's windy by the lake, so bring a hat with a chin strap. ⚠️ Don't ride horses for photos by the lake; it's easy to get into disputes if you can't agree on the price. Stay near Barkhor Street so you can join the flow of pilgrims when you go out at night. Order a pot of sweet tea at a teahouse and sit for the afternoon—it's affordable. Don't be greedy on your first visit; Lhasa is for taking it slow, not rushing. 02 Garzê | Sichuan Xinduqiao isn't a scenic spot; it's a road. In October, the poplar forests turn bright yellow—anywhere you pull over is photo-worthy. For Mugecuo, take the scenic bus to the top and walk down the boardwalk; the lake is an impossibly blue color. Daocheng Yading is a physical challenge. The long hiking trail takes 6–7 hours round trip. The horse-riding section is bumpy enough to make your backside ache, so walk if you can. ⚠️ Don't rush to Milk Lake after 2:00 PM; it's easy to miss the last bus on the way down. For Hailuogou glaciers, choose the morning; once the fog rolls in, everything turns white. Stay in Moxi Town, soak in a hot spring at night, and head into the valley the next day. 🚄 These spots are far apart, so driving yourself offers the most freedom. However, check road conditions before crossing mountains in winter, and don't force it on icy roads. 03 Pingliang | Gansu The most underrated part of Kongtong Mountain is its Taoist architectural complex. The temples embedded in the cliffs are more precarious than many popular famous mountains. On the section from the Middle Terrace up to the Heavenly Ladder, the stairs are so narrow you have to walk sideways—if you're afraid of heights, take a detour. ⏰ Arrive at the mountain gate before 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and hear the birds and the wind through the pine forest. The cable car only goes halfway; you'll have to walk the rest, so wearing non-slip shoes is more important than anything else. There's an old shop at the foot of the mountain that makes he-le noodles; they're buckwheat noodles with a rich broth, and a bowl costs less than 10. ⚠️ If someone at the scenic area entrance tries to get you into an unlicensed car claiming they can take you straight up the mountain, don't believe them. The official bus only costs a few yuan. 04 Yantai | Shandong Penglai Pavilion is famous, but don't just focus on the pavilion itself. Walk east along the coast; the boardwalk at Tianheng Mountain is the real highlight, with reefs under your feet, seagulls overhead, and cool sea spray. You need to take a boat to Changdao; the ticket is 45, and the sea breeze is strong enough to blow your hat off. Stay at a fisherfolk guesthouse on the island, which includes 3 meals. The seafood is caught that day, and the mackerel dumplings are so full they burst with juice when you take a bite. Go between September and October when the sea urchins are plump. Longkou Nanshan is great for taking elders; the paths are flat, the landscaping is nice, and the Great Buddha is spectacular. ⚠️ In the Penglai Pavilion scenic area, ignore anyone offering "free photos with a free keychain"—they'll just try to make you pay for big prints at the end. Just wave them off and keep walking. 05 Xilin Gol | Inner Mongolia Ulagai Grassland is that endless green. In June and July, the grass is at its deepest and can reach your knees. Driving on the grassland highway, you're surrounded by cattle and sheep, with herdsmen occasionally riding past—it's like a movie scene. Stay in a yurt for a night; the starry sky at night is breathtaking, and the Milky Way is clearly visible. But ⚠️ yurt soundproofing is basically non-existent; you'll hear your neighbor snoring clearly, so bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. You can ride horses during the day for 80 per lap; the herdsmen will lead you, so it's safe. 🍜 You must try the hand-grabbed mutton. Boiled in plain water and dipped in chive flower sauce, it has no gamey taste at all. 🚄 This place is best for a road trip; public transport is basically non-existent, so don't count on taxis. 06 Taizhou | Zhejiang Tiantai Mountain has an ethereal quality. The Shiliang Waterfall is hidden in the valley, with roaring water and mist hitting your face. Guoqing Temple has no admission fee, the Sui Dynasty pagoda has stood for a thousand years, and the monks in the temple grow their own vegetables. The dried tofu sold at the entrance is especially fragrant. The Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Zone is in Linhai. The ancient city wall is built along the ridge, and you can see the whole old city from the top. There's a shop on Ziyang Street that sells "egg white sheep tail"—it's deep-fried, crispy on the outside, and filled with sweet bean paste, sweet but not cloying. The boardwalk at Shenxianju is built on a cliff, and there's a section made of transparent glass with an abyss beneath your feet. If you're afraid of heights, walk along the edge and don't look down. ⏰ The light is best around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM when the mountains are bathed in gold—no filters needed for photos. Stay in the Linhai ancient city; go out at night for a bowl of mai xia (wheat shrimp noodles)—the broth is so fresh it'll make your eyebrows dance. 07 Nanyang | Henan Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling is a great place to escape the heat. It's 7–8 degrees cooler than the city in summer, and you'll still need a quilt to sleep at night. The Dinosaur Fossil Park is right next door, so you can visit both if you have kids—the dinosaur egg fossil cluster is truly stunning. ⏰ For the sea of clouds at Laojieling, get there early. Go up as soon as the cable car opens at 6:30 AM; the clouds rolling over the mountaintop make you feel like you're standing in the sky. Once the sun comes out and the fog clears, it's just ordinary. Stay a night at a farmhouse at the foot of the mountain; the owner grows their own vegetables, and the stewed chicken with mushrooms is so delicious you'll eat an extra 2 bowls of rice. ⚠️ Don't buy the "wild ganoderma" sold in the scenic area; it's almost all greenhouse-grown, and the price is marked up several times over. 08 Chuxiong | Yunnan Yuanmou Earth Forest is the kind of place that will make you stop in your tracks at first sight. The earth pillars stand like a forest, with colors transitioning from earthy yellow to dark red. At sunset, the whole forest looks like it's on fire. Wumao Earth Forest is more spectacular than Langbapu Earth Forest, but the road is harder to walk on. The sandy ground makes it easy to get your shoes stuck, so wear high-top shoes. ⏰ Go in after 4:00 PM; the light hits at an angle, making the textures look very three-dimensional. 2 hours is enough time for photos. The Yi Ancient Town is lively at night. The bonfire party is free; join the locals in the "left-foot dance"—it doesn't matter if you don't know how, just hold onto the clothes of the person in front of you. 🍜 Grilled milk fans and tuotuo meat are worth a try. The milk fans dipped in honey offer a unique mix of sweet and salty. Stay in the ancient town so you can fall asleep to the sound of Yi folk songs, then head to the Earth Forest early the next morning—it's on the way and saves the hassle. Every one of these 8 cities is worth a special trip. Lhasa and Garzê are perfect for when you've saved up enough vacation time to take it slow; Yantai and Taizhou are great for short weekend trips; and Xilin Gol and Chuxiong are best visited in the right season. How many have you been to? Let's chat in the comments—which one excites you the most?

With the summer heat fading, September in Henan offers pleasant temperatures averaging 20-27°C🌤️. Skip the summer crowds and enjoy crystal-clear landscapes and serene cultural sites, from the majestic Taihang gorges to the charm of ancient capitals. Here are 4 high-value destinations to visit in September, covering mountains, culture, gorges, and sacred peaks. Perfect for family trips, road trips, and photography. Your go-to guide for an early autumn trip to Central China📜 ⛰️Mount Laojun | A fairy-tale sea of clouds in the Funiu Mountains 📍Location: Luanchuan County, Luoyang City 💡Best time to visit: All of September; high chance of sea of clouds In September, Mount Laojun sheds the summer mugginess. The mountain forests are still lush, and clouds and mist often swirl through the peaks. The golden-roofed Taoist temples appear and disappear in the sea of clouds, creating a real-life fairy-tale scene. No need to wait for winter snow; clear early autumn days offer a better chance of catching a stunning sunrise and sea of clouds. ✅ Ten-Mile Painting Gallery: A continuous stretch of granite peaks, with cliff-hanging plank roads for a grand view of the rocks ✅ Golden Summit Taoist Temple Complex: Red walls and golden tiles, perfect for atmospheric photos during the blue hour ✅ Nantianmen (South Heaven Gate): Climb high for a panoramic view of the layered mountain ridges 📝Travel tips 1. The summit is 8–12°C cooler than the base, so be sure to bring a windbreaker 2. Go up early to avoid the midday sun; if you have limited stamina, take the cable car 3. Prices on the mountain are higher, so bring some water and snacks 🏞️Yuntai Mountain | A scroll of Danxia red cliffs and emerald waters in the Taihang Mountains 📍Location: Xiuwu County, Jiaozuo City 💡Best time: September has moderate water flow; early autumn colors begin to appear in late September A UNESCO Global Geopark and the essence of the southern Taihang Mountains. With less rain in September, the canyon streams are clear and bright, and the red Danxia cliffs contrast beautifully with the emerald pools. Fewer visitors mean less waiting in line. ✅ Red Stone Gorge: Red cliffs and jade-green lake water, Yuntai Mountain's signature spot, with the best light in the early morning ✅ Tanpu Gorge: Water at every step, with streams and waterfalls, a cool and pleasant walk along the plank roads ✅ Zhuyu Peak: Climb high for a panoramic view of the Taihang peaks and experience the autumn scenery of the ancient poems ✅ Zifang Lake: A wide and calm lake, ideal for a relaxing stroll and photos 📝Travel tips 1. The scenic area is vast, so the sightseeing bus ticket is a must to save energy 2. There are many walking sections, so wear comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes 3. The shore service area has many guesthouses, making it convenient for food and lodging, and it's close to the ticket gate 🏯Longmen Grottoes | A thousand-year-old stone epic by the Yi River 📍Location: Luolong District, Luoyang City 💡Best time: Comfortable day and night in September; the night tour is fantastic A World Cultural Heritage site and the soul of Luoyang, the capital of thirteen dynasties. In September, there's no scorching heat. The autumn breeze sweeps across the Yi River, and the banks are lush with greenery. The Vairocana Buddha stands quietly on the cliff, and the weight of history is palpable. ✅ West Hill Grottoes: The core highlight, featuring the Vairocana Buddha, a must-see ✅ East Hill Grottoes: The spot on the opposite bank for panoramic photos of the grottoes ✅ Xiangshan Temple: A peaceful ancient temple, climb high for a full view of the Yi River ✅ Night Tour of Longmen: As the lights come on in the evening, the niches glow, creating an atmosphere far more impressive than during the day 📝Travel tips 1. Rent an audio guide to understand the historical stories behind the carvings 2. Enter in the late afternoon to enjoy both the daytime scenery and the night lights, avoiding the midday sun 3. Night tours are popular on weekends, so book your ticket online in advance 🌄Taihang Grand Canyon | A magnificent gallery of the Taihang Mountains 📍Location: Linzhou City, Anyang City 💡Best time: Early autumn in September, with fresh mountain air, ideal for road trips Known as the "soul of the northern Taihang Mountains," the mountains are lush in September, and the canyon streams are babbling. Driving along the Taihang Sky Road, every step reveals a new view, with magnificent landscapes everywhere. ✅ Peach Blossom Valley: A stream runs through the entire valley, with connected pools and waterfalls, making for a relaxing and pleasant hike ✅ Wangxiang Rock: Cliff plank roads and steep peaks, a challenge for those seeking the rugged beauty of the mountains ✅ Taihang Sky Road: Overlook platforms unfold layer by layer, offering panoramic views of the rolling mountains, a prime spot for road trip photos 📝Travel tips 1. Very suitable for self-driving; the scenic spots are scattered, so plan a full day 2. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, so bring a light jacket and sunscreen 3. Some steps are steep, so the elderly and children should walk slowly and be careful ✨Summary for traveling to Henan in September In September, the summer heat fades in Central China, and the wind is clear and the sun is bright🌾 It offers both the majesty of great mountains and rivers and the depth of an ancient capital. Sacred mountain seas of clouds, Danxia canyons, and stone carving heritage sites – four kinds of scenery in one trip. Travel off-peak, enjoy fewer crowds and a better experience. It's the golden time to explore Henan❗️

September off-peak travel: these 8 places are beautiful and uncrowded. If you've been to 3, it's worth it. 01 Weifang, Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City isn't one of those newly renovated faux-antique streets. The stone paths are polished smooth, and the old shops on both sides sell freshly baked crispy cakes and hot tofu pudding. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the city at 7:00 AM, before the tourists flood in, when you can hear the shopkeepers starting their fires. 📍 The pan-fried bun shop by the old locust tree in the middle of Ouyuan Street serves juicy beef buns for CNY 2 each, which go perfectly with a bowl of millet porridge. ⚠️ Don't buy the fresh sliced spiced beef outside Fucai Gate. They don't tell you the price before weighing it, and the bill might shock you. The ancient city is free to enter, but the small gardens inside charge separate admission. I only bought a ticket for Ouyuan Garden for CNY 20; it took 20 minutes to walk through, but it was quiet and uncrowded. In the afternoon, head to Yunmen Mountain. It takes half an hour to reach the summit, where you can see the entire outline of the ancient city—much more interesting than squeezing through the streets. 02 Nanyang, Henan Xixia Laojieling and the Dinosaur Relics Park are not close to each other. Trying to do both in one day will wear you out, so I suggest choosing one. If you have kids, go to the Dinosaur Relics Park; the giant skeletons and realistic dinosaurs will keep them excited for half a day. ⏰ There's a guided tour at 10:00 AM, which is better than wandering around aimlessly. If you're just here for the scenery, head straight to Laojieling. After taking the cable car up, walk the loop trail; it takes two hours and offers views of the layered ridges of the Funiu Mountains. 📍 The stone tablet at the watershed is worth a photo—you can stand with one foot in the Yangtze River basin and the other in the Yellow River basin. It's quite a ceremonial experience. ⚠️ The kiosks on the mountain only accept cash, and the signal is poor, so remember to bring some small change. The ticket and cable car combo costs a little over CNY 200. Booking online in advance can save you a dozen yuan or so, but you need to book at least one hour before it becomes valid. 03 Alxa League, Inner Mongolia In September, the Populus euphratica forest hasn't turned fully yellow yet, but the number of tourists in Ejina has already dropped by more than half, which is actually my favorite time to visit. You must experience the off-road sand bashing in the Badain Jaran Desert. The drivers drift on the dunes, and the feeling of weightlessness is more intense than a roller coaster—if you get motion sickness, take medicine beforehand. 📍 Miaohaizi, located deep in the desert, features blue lake water against golden sand dunes. The colors are so clean they look fake. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called desert rose stones at the entrance; most are just dyed gypsum. Erdaoqiao and Sidaoqiao in the Populus euphratica forest scenic area are the most photogenic spots, but it takes most of the day to walk through the entire area. If you're not up for that much walking, just take the shuttle bus to Qidaoqiao and walk back. The golden season is from late September to early October. If you want to photograph the yellow leaves, wait another two weeks, but keep in mind that hotel prices will double then. Weigh your options. 04 Shigatse, Tibet Not everyone can handle the Everest Base Camp. At an altitude of 5,200 meters, I lay awake all night, but the starry sky was bright enough to see the core of the Milky Way. ⏰ You must arrive at Rongbuk Monastery before 4:00 PM. If you're late, the sightseeing buses stop running, and you'll have to stay at the foot of the mountain. 📍 Rongbuk Monastery is the highest monastery in the world. You can capture the silhouette of Mount Everest next to the prayer wheels—much better than the crowded background at the base camp monument. ⚠️ Oxygen tanks cost CNY 200 to rent at the foot of the mountain and CNY 600 to buy on the mountain, so prepare in advance. Tashilhunpo Monastery is in the city, where the altitude is much lower, making it a good place to acclimatize. The bronze Buddha in the Maitreya Chapel is 26 meters high—your neck will ache from looking up. There are fewer tourists on the prayer path after 5:00 PM. Follow the local Tibetans for a walk, and you can smell the scent of butter tea mixed with highland barley. 05 Foshan, Guangdong Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain—one is in the city, the other in the suburbs. I suggest visiting the garden in the morning and the mountain in the afternoon. Qinghui Garden is a masterpiece of Lingnan gardening, with rockeries, lotus ponds, and hollowed-out wooden windows—every detail is exquisite. ⏰ Get there right when it opens. It's less crowded before 9:00 AM, and you can hear the birds and the sound of flowing water. 📍 In the corridor next to the Chengyi Pavilion, light shines through the patterned windows onto the blue bricks, making for great photos with high contrast. Allow at least four hours for Xiqiao Mountain. Take the sightseeing bus to Baofeng Temple, then walk to the Nanhai Guanyin statue. There aren't many stairs, so it's accessible for seniors too. ⚠️ Don't trust the touts at the foot of the mountain who say they can take you through a shortcut to save on admission. Ticket checks are strict, and paying for a missed ticket is more expensive. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to Guanshan Market for a bowl of double-skin milk. It's made with Shunde buffalo milk, and the milk skin is thick enough to lift in one piece. 06 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu It's a three-hour drive between Zhagana and Langmusi, but the scenery along the way is worth taking your time. The morning in Zhagana is the most breathtaking; clouds and mist flow through the waist of the rocky mountains, and smoke rises from the wooden roofs of the Tibetan village—it's like living in a painting. 📍 The viewing platform in Yeri Village is the best spot for panoramic photos; don't crowd into the throngs at the entrance of Dari Village. Langmusi actually consists of two temples, one in Sichuan and one in Gansu, separated by the Bailong River. I recommend visiting the Sertri Monastery on the Gansu side. You can see the sky burial site from the hill behind it, but please don't take photos of it—respect local customs. ⚠️ You can add Yeliguan and Gahai Lake if they're on your route, but by September, the birds at Gahai Lake have already migrated south, leaving only the water and sky. If you're short on time, you can skip them. The altitude is 3,500 meters, so walk slowly and avoid running or jumping. 07 Xianning, Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield is more impressive than I imagined; it's not just a monument. 📍 The Chibi characters carved into the cliff are from the Tang Dynasty. Standing below them, you can feel the river breeze on your face. ⏰ Enter the park after 3:00 PM. The light hits the river at an angle, so you won't be shooting against the light, and most tour groups have left by then. There's a replica of Zhou Yu's command platform in the scenic area; it's a bit cheesy, but kids love it. ⚠️ Don't buy the prop weapons sold at the Three Kingdoms Specialty Store at the exit; they smell strongly of plastic and are overpriced. 🍜 The Chibi fish cake in the city is worth a try. The fish is mashed into a paste, steamed, and sliced—it's fresh, sweet, and bouncy. Pair it with a bowl of hot dry noodles for breakfast, and you can eat your fill for CNY 20. Admission to the ancient battlefield is CNY 80; booking online in advance saves you CNY 10, but you need to book two hours ahead. 08 Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai This stop is all about salt lakes, but don't be greedy—visit at most two in one day. Chaka Salt Lake is the most famous and the most crowded. ⚠️ If you want to photograph the mirror of the sky, you must arrive before 9:00 AM. After 10:00 AM, the lake surface gets churned up, and the reflection becomes blurry. Qarhan Salt Lake is near Golmud and is dozens of times larger than Chaka. With its green water and white salt flowers, there are so few tourists you could practically have the place to yourself. 📍 The Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge is a road paved entirely with salt. It makes a crunching sound under your tires as you drive over it—it's quite magical. Emerald Lake is in Dachaidan; its colors look like an overturned palette of blue and green, but it's windy, so tie your hat on tight. The Kunlun Mountain Pass is at an altitude of 4,700 meters, and it might snow in September, so buy oxygen tanks in Golmud before heading up. The lakes are far apart, so chartering a car costs about CNY 800 per day, but carpooling is more cost-effective. Traveling in September, the greatest luxury is the lack of crowds. No need to squeeze into crowds waiting for a photo op, no need to rush around listening to a tour guide's megaphone. The wind is cool, the sunlight is soft, and the road is yours. Of these eight places, I personally prefer Qingzhou and Zhagana—one is perfect for leisurely strolling and eating, the other for zoning out and relaxing. Where are you planning to go this September? Let's chat in the comments; maybe next time I'll write about the road you're traveling on.

Budget of 1,000 yuan to explore 8 cities, September is the perfect time for off-peak travel 1️⃣ Xianyang | Shaanxi Qianling Mausoleum and Yuanjia Village: one for history, one for Guanzhong food. Head to Qianling in the morning, tickets are around 100 yuan. Don't rush to take the shuttle bus; walking up the spirit way is the real experience. The stone lions and statues on both sides look particularly imposing in the morning light. Head straight to Yuanjia Village at noon. 📍 The oil-splashed chili noodles at the end of the Muslim Quarter are a must—thick, belt-like noodles mixed with fragrant, spicy chili oil. A bowl for 12 yuan will leave you stuffed. Spend the afternoon wandering the village; the scent of handmade noodles and vinegar from the old workshops fills the alleys. ⚠️ The underground palace at Qianling is not open, so don't be fooled by touts offering to take you to "see the underground palace." Stay at an express hotel in downtown Xianyang for the night, which you can get for 150 yuan. It's a 20-minute taxi ride from the high-speed railway station. 2️⃣ Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is a place perfect for a slow-paced 2-day, 1-night trip. Arrive at Yunhe Rice Terraces in the morning of the first day. The rice in September is starting to turn yellow, and the terraced fields look like layers of scattered gold. 🎫 Tickets are 80 yuan. It's recommended to enter from the Jiuqu Yunhuan entrance and walk along the boardwalk to see the panoramic view. If you have the energy, you can hike down to Baiyin Valley, accompanied by the sound of the stream the whole way. In the afternoon, head to Jinyun Xiandu. The old tree under Dinghu Peak is perfect for photos, and the light is soft after 5:00 PM with fewer crowds. On the second day, go to Qingtian Shimen Cave. This place is off the beaten path, but the waterfalls and stone arch caves are very photogenic. 🚄 It only takes 20 minutes to get from Lishui Station to Qingtian by high-speed train. ⚠️ The steps at Shimen Cave are slippery, so don't wear flip-flops on rainy days. For accommodation, choose downtown Lishui for two nights; guesthouses are just over 200 yuan. Eat Jinyun baked buns with porridge; 150 yuan per person per day is plenty. 3️⃣ Guangzhou | Guangdong Guangzhou is the liveliest of these 8 cities, but you can still keep your budget under control. Spend the morning at the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall; tickets are 10 yuan. The brick carvings and gray sculptures are so detailed you won't be able to take it all in. ⏰ It's less crowded before 10:00 AM, making it perfect for taking your time. For lunch, head to Xiguan for a bowl of wonton noodles. 📍 The time-honored shop on Baohua Road serves springy bamboo-pressed noodles for 15 yuan a bowl. In the afternoon, head up the Canton Tower. Don't buy the top-floor Ferris wheel ticket—it's too expensive. The 428-meter Cloud Observation Hall is enough to overlook the Pearl River and the city skyline. In the evening, go to Baiyun Mountain. Enter from the South Gate and walk to Mingzhu Pavilion to watch the sunset. The moment the city lights turn on makes it worth the price of admission. ⚠️ Chimelong tickets are expensive; if you're on a tight budget, skip it and save 400 yuan, which is enough for three days of food. For accommodation, choose a hostel in Yuexiu District; beds are 80 yuan a night, and it's convenient to get anywhere by subway. 4️⃣ Haibei | Qinghai This stop is the most breathtaking of the entire trip, and also the coldest. By September, the Qilian Mountains are already showing signs of early winter. The temperature difference between day and night is large, so you must bring a thick jacket. Drive or charter a car along G227 to the Heihe Grand Canyon. The river water is melted glacier water, a blue that feels unreal. It's windy in the canyon, and ⏰ the light is best after 3:00 PM when it hits at an angle, highlighting the layers of the rock walls. Continue to Lenglongling; there are almost no tourists here. Yaks and Tibetan sheep roam the grasslands, and the air smells like a mix of grass and yak dung—hard to describe, but very "Qinghai." Amidongsuo is right by the road. A Tibetan elder will tell you this is the "God of All Mountains." Don't rush off; sit on the grassy slope and watch the cloud shadows sweep across the mountain ridges. That kind of peace is priceless. ⚠️ The altitude is 3,500+ meters, so don't run or jump vigorously, and keep some glucose handy. For accommodation, choose Qilian County; inns are 150 yuan a night, but rooms are tight in September, so book in advance. 5️⃣ Leshan | Sichuan Leshan is all about two things: seeing the Buddha and going to Emei. In the morning, head to the Leshan Giant Buddha; tickets are 80 yuan. ⚠️ The line for the Jiuqu Plank Road starts at an hour long. If you're with elderly people or children, just look at the full view from above; don't force it. For lunch, eat Qiaojiao Beef. 📍 The old shop at Zhanggong Bridge has a broth so fresh it'll blow your mind; it costs about 40 yuan per person to eat until you're stuffed. In the afternoon, drive to the foot of Mount Emei and stay at an inn near Baoguo Temple for 100 yuan a night. The next morning, take the sightseeing bus to Leidongping, then hike a bit to Jieyin Hall to take the cable car. The Ten-Direction Pusa statue at the Golden Summit appearing in the sea of clouds is a sight worth waking up early for. ⏰ It's often foggy on the mountain in September; the chance of seeing the sea of clouds is highest before 10:00 AM. 🍜 Have a bowl of Emei tofu pudding at the foot of the mountain, paired with steamed dumplings; breakfast is covered for 8 yuan. 6️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan This stop has only one goal: Yaoshan Mountain and the Spring Temple Buddha. This is a good place to visit if you're passing through, but it's not worth a dedicated trip. Tickets including the shuttle bus are just over 100 yuan. The Buddha is 208 meters tall, and you feel tiny standing at its feet. ⏰ It's recommended to visit the Buddha in the morning when the light is right and you aren't shooting against the sun. In the afternoon, hike Yaoshan Mountain; the cable car is an extra 60 yuan. If you have the energy, take the trail; the mountain ridge offers a wide view of the rolling Funiu Mountains. ⚠️ Food in the scenic area is expensive and mediocre, so bring your own snacks and water. The money you save is enough to buy souvenirs. For accommodation, choose Lushan County; hotels are 120 yuan including breakfast, which makes it convenient to head back the next morning. If you aren't very interested in Buddhist culture, you can cut this stop and save the budget for Changchun later. 7️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan There isn't much to do in downtown Zhuzhou, but the Yandi Mausoleum is worth a special trip. Take a bus from the city to Yanling County; the trip takes two hours, and tickets are 60 yuan. The mausoleum area is huge with towering ancient cypresses. The Shennong Hall and Shennong Garden are built with solemnity. ⏰ There is a sacrificial performance at 2:00 PM; once the drums and music start, the atmosphere is incredible. 📍 There is a "Shennong Well" behind the hall with very clear water. Locals say it's holy water, so you can wash your hands to get some good luck. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the mausoleum area, so long pants and mosquito repellent are a must. Return to downtown Zhuzhou in the evening and have a bowl of Youxian rice noodles at the Zhongguling Night Market. It's only satisfying if you're sweating from the spice; it costs about 20 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose near the train station; express hotels are 130 yuan, making it convenient to catch your train the next day. 8️⃣ Changchun | Jilin The last stop, slow down the pace. In the morning, go to the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo; tickets are 70 yuan. ⚠️ You need at least three hours to explore it; the exhibits and architecture are worth a close look, so don't rush. Have a meal of Northeast Chinese cuisine nearby for lunch—guobaorou (sweet and sour pork) and di san xian (stir-fried potato, eggplant, and pepper). It costs about 50 yuan per person to eat until you can't move. In the afternoon, go to the Changchun World Sculpture Park; tickets are 30 yuan. The park is large, and it takes two hours to walk around. Sculptures from various countries are scattered on the lawns and by the lake. 📍 The "Friendship Ring" set by the lake is perfect for silhouettes. In the evening, go to Jingyuetan; tickets are 30 yuan. Don't rent a bike; just walk along the lake for a while. The birch forests in September are a mix of yellow and green, with fallen leaves floating on the water, quiet as another world. ⚠️ Changying Century City is more of an amusement park, with expensive tickets and long lines, so skip it if you're on a tight budget. After visiting these eight cities, the cheapest were Xianyang and Zhuzhou, and the most worthwhile were Haibei and Leshan. September has fewer people and lower prices; off-peak travel is truly great. Which stop do you plan to start from? Let's chat in the comments.

01 Anshun | Guizhou There's no need to say much about Huangguoshu Waterfall, but I have one piece of advice: don't just focus on the main waterfall. Arrive at the scenic area before 8:00 AM when it's less crowded and the mist hasn't been dispersed by the sun. Standing on the viewing platform, you can hear the muffled roar of the water crashing into Rhino Pool. After seeing the main waterfall, don't rush off. Take a detour to Doupotang, where the water is calmer and the view is wide—perfect for a leisurely stroll. In the afternoon, head to Dragon Palace. The boat ride through the underground river in the cave lasts 20 minutes and is nice and cool, but remember to wear non-slip shoes as the steps inside are wet. 🍜 For lunch, just find any restaurant in Huangguoshu Town and order a serving of jianfen. It's sour and spicy, and much better value than the CNY 30 boxed lunch inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't trust the touts at the entrance of Dragon Palace who claim they can "take you on a shortcut." The official boat route is the only way to go. 02 Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan You only need to visit either Yuanmou Earth Forest or Wumao Earth Forest; I chose Wumao. With earth forests, lighting is everything. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the sun hits at an angle, making the textures of the earth pillars look like they were carved with a knife—perfect for photos that look like movie sets. The morning light is too flat, making the earth forest look gray and wasting your trip. The Yi Ancient Town is more atmospheric at night than during the day. When the lanterns light up, the scent of grilled milk fans fills the stone streets. They cost CNY 3 a slice; add some rose jam for a sweet, not-too-greasy treat. ⚠️ The "handmade silver" shops in the ancient town are overpriced, so just look and don't make any impulsive purchases. 🚄 A chartered car from Chuxiong city to Wumao Earth Forest costs about CNY 300 round trip. Carpooling is cheaper, but be sure to agree on a return time in advance, as it's hard to hail a taxi there. 03 Altay Prefecture | Xinjiang I don't need to brag about the beauty of Kanas, but I must remind you to go in late September. The birch forests turn yellow and the lake water is an unreal shade of blue—that's when it's at its best. In summer, it's too crowded to move on the boardwalks. Keketuohai, on the other hand, is perfect for finding peace. The stones in the river valley have been smoothed by the water and crunch underfoot—a great place to zone out alone. ⏰ When it comes to Altay grassland culture, don't go to the commercialized Nalati. Find a local herdsman's yurt, sit down for a bowl of milk tea, and listen to them talk about transhumance; it's worth more than any performance. The snow scenery in Northern Xinjiang is a winter affair. It's -20°C and your eyelashes will frost over, but the pink glow on the snowfields at sunrise makes the cold worth it. ⚠️ Accommodation inside the Kanas scenic area is expensive and basic. I recommend staying in Jiadengyu; it's half the price and the conditions are better. 04 Tonghua | Jilin The Goguryeo ruins might sound like an obscure destination, but they are truly worth a detour. You can explore Wandu Mountain City and the General's Tomb in two or three hours. Wild grass grows in the cracks of the stone city walls, and when the wind blows, there's an indescribable sense of desolation. The rapeseed flower fields in Ji'an are in full bloom from ⏰ late June to early July. The yellow fields stretch to the foot of the mountains, and against the backdrop of the distant blue-gray mountain ridges, it looks like an oil painting. 🍜 After seeing the flowers, head to downtown Ji'an for a meal of Gaoli Huopen (Korean hot pot). It's a stew of beef, tofu, and vermicelli, and the portion is shockingly large—one serving is enough for two people. ⚠️ You need to book a guide for the Goguryeo ruins in advance, otherwise you'll just be glancing at stones and missing half the experience. 05 Nanyang | Henan The Xixia Funiushan Laojieling Dinosaur Site Park has a long name, but the content is solid. The mountain paths at Laojieling are paved and flat with few stairs, making it suitable for older relatives who might not be as nimble as young people. When you climb to the viewing platform halfway up, the view suddenly opens up. The mountains are layered in varying shades of green, and the breeze coming up from the valley is cool and refreshing. The Dinosaur Site Park is on the other side, with a large fossil exhibition hall that kids love and adults won't find boring. ⚠️ The two spots are far apart, so don't try to visit both in one day. Pick one as your priority and save the other for next time. 🚄 There are direct buses from Nanyang East Station to Xixia, with a travel time of about two hours. Don't take those illegal taxis soliciting passengers on the side of the road; they are expensive and unreliable. 06 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia I would call the Hashhatu Stone Forest an "underrated northern secret." The stone formations are scattered across the grassland like building blocks left behind by ancient giants. When you get close, you'll notice the texture of each stone and the gullies eroded by the wind; they feel rough and warm to the touch. ⏰ Around 6:00 PM, when the sun is low, the shadows of the stone formations stretch out long, and the light passing through the gaps in the stones allows for some very clean photos. There aren't many commercial facilities here, so bring your own water and dry food. When you're tired of walking, sit on a stone to rest and listen to the wind. ⚠️ The sun is strong on the grassland, so sunscreen and a hat are essential. Don't underestimate the northern UV rays. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Chifeng city. The road conditions are good, but there is a dirt road leading to the entrance of the scenic area, so drive carefully. 07 Longyan | Fujian I recommend staying one night at the Yongding Tulou. At night, after the tourists have left, the lanterns in the tulou light up, and you can see grandmas fanning themselves in the courtyards. If you sit on the stone steps, you can hear Hakka folk songs drifting from the neighboring buildings—that is the true breath of the tulou. Changting Ancient Town is much quieter than Fenghuang. Walking along Diantou Street, the bluestone pavement has been polished until it shines, flanked by old wooden houses. The small shops selling dried tofu and ginger candy have been there for decades. As for Guanzhai Mountain, I prefer its Shimen Lake. Taking a boat through the Danxia peaks and forests, the water is emerald green, and the reflection of the mountains makes it look like a painting. 🍜 Don't miss the snacks in downtown Longyan. The taro dumplings and beef balls are much more authentic than the "specialty" food inside the scenic areas. ⚠️ There are people in the tulou scenic area who will try to get you to "go upstairs to take photos" for a fee of CNY 10 or CNY 20. In fact, you can walk around the public areas inside the buildings freely, so don't waste your money. 08 Shenyang | Liaoning Beiling Park is best visited in the evening. ⏰ After 4:30 PM, the sunlight slants through the pine forest and spreads across the tomb path of Huang Taiji, casting long shadows. The tickets are cheap, and there are many locals taking a stroll, so it doesn't have that "tourist attraction" feel—it's more like a huge city park. To be honest, the Shenyang Expo Park is best visited in the spring when the tulips bloom into a colorful carpet; it's at its best in May, but in summer, it's just hot. The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda is hidden in a residential area. The pagoda body is mottled, but that simple, ancient charm is very moving. There's a small courtyard next to it where you can hear birds chirping. The Beita Falun Temple is even quieter. It's a Tibetan Buddhist temple where the prayer wheels shine with a copper glow in the sunlight. Bring some small change when you go to add to the incense money—you don't have to pray for anything, just for peace of mind. ⚠️ The "tour guides" in Beiling Park will actively approach you to talk about history and then ask for money. You can just explore on your own; a quick Baidu search will give you more complete information than they can. 🍜 After visiting Beiling, go to the nearby Laobian Dumpling Restaurant and order a serving of bianxian dumplings. The skins are thin, the fillings are generous, and a bowl of hot and sour soup is the perfect way to finish the meal.

8 Easy Places to Travel with Parents, Number 3 is Super Hassle-Free 01 Wuhan|Hubei When traveling with parents in Wuhan, East Lake is my top choice. It's spacious, the paths are flat, there's no need to climb hills, and renting a sightseeing bus to stroll along the lake is very pleasant with the breeze. 📍The East Lake Greenway entrance is near Liyuan Square, a 5-minute walk from Exit C of Liyuan Station on Metro Line 8. Even if parents walk slowly, there are benches along the way where they can rest. The Yellow Crane Tower is famous, but it has many stairs, and the elevator only goes up to the fifth floor. I don't recommend climbing for seniors with mobility issues. I recommend taking a photo in the park downstairs and then taking the sightseeing bus to East Lake; it's a less tiring day. 🍜 Lunch can be arranged near Hubu Alley, where you can find hot dry noodles, bean curd sheets, and rice noodle soup. However, the alley is crowded, so it's best to go before 11 am to avoid long queues. In the afternoon, we went to Songyang Temple. It was less crowded and quieter. The temple isn't large; you can see everything in half an hour, making it a good place to rest. ⚠️ Tickets for the Yellow Crane Tower must be booked in advance through the official WeChat account. Tickets are often sold out on-site. Don't believe the touts at the entrance offering "free tickets via back streets"—it's all a scam. 02 Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan When traveling with parents in Xishuangbanna, the pace must be slow. I skipped the city attractions and went straight to the Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The garden is large, but the sightseeing bus routes are well-established, allowing you to explore at your own pace without backtracking. 📍The Victoria amazonica pond at the western entrance is in its dry season from November to March. To see the Victoria amazonica, you must visit during the rainy season. The Dai Ethnic Culture Park is better visited in the afternoon. The architecture is unique, but it's heavily commercialized. I don't recommend buying anything from the silverware or tea shops inside; just look around. 🍜 In the evening, we went to Gaozhuang Xishuangjing for hand-grabbed rice. One serving was enough for three people. The roast chicken and lemongrass grilled fish were my parents' favorites. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in tropical areas, so remember to spray mosquito repellent after 5 pm. Also, the dried fruit sold in the scenic area is twice as expensive as in the market. If you want to eat dried fruit, go to Mange Market, where it's cheaper and fresher. Don't go out too late in the morning. The temperature is comfortable between 8 and 9 am. The midday sun is strong, so it's a good time to go back to the hotel for a nap. Go out again around 3 pm. 03 Nanyang|Henan I can confidently say that the Nanyang stop was the most hassle-free because the entire trip only involves one scenic spot: Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling Dinosaur Site Park. The Dinosaur Site Park and Funiu Mountain Laojieling are two separate areas, about 20 kilometers apart. It's unrealistic to visit them all in one day, so choose one for your parents. If you want to see dinosaurs, go to the site park. There are many exhibits, all indoors. It's not sunny in summer or cold in winter. Wheelchairs are also available, and there are rest areas for the elderly if they get tired. 📍The Dinosaur Egg Fossil Museum has detailed exhibits, and the guides speak slowly, making it easy for parents to understand. For mountain views, head to Lao Jie Ling. Take the cable car up and down; the mountain trails are gentle, so there are no steps to climb. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM to avoid long queues for the cable car and have lunch on your way down. 🍜 The local restaurants near the scenic area entrance serve standard dishes like braised chicken and wild mountain vegetables, costing around 50 RMB per person for a satisfying meal. ⚠️ Tickets for the two parks are not interchangeable, so don't buy the wrong ones. The official website and on-site prices are the same, but online booking saves queuing time. If you're traveling with parents, I suggest choosing only one park and spending a leisurely full day there, rather than trying to do too much. 04 Sanya|Hainan When traveling with my parents in Sanya, I booked a hotel in Yalong Bay and stayed for three days straight. Yalong Bay has a gentle slope, clear water, and small waves, perfect for seniors to wade in the water—better than Dadonghai or Sanya Bay. I recommend choosing between Tianya Haijiao (End of the Earth) and Xiaodongtian (Big and Small Caves). Tianya Haijiao is famous, but it's basically just two rocks, crowded and sunny. Xiaodongtian offers richer scenery, with mountains, sea, and coconut groves. The sightseeing bus route is also reasonable; take the bus from the entrance to Xiaoyue Bay, then walk back slowly – less physically demanding. I don't recommend taking my parents to Wuzhizhou Island. Getting there requires a boat, and rough seas can cause seasickness. The island's activities aren't suitable for the elderly. If you really want to go to an island, Fenjiezhou Island is a shorter boat ride and less crowded, making it more suitable. 🍜 For seafood processing at the First Market, I suggest going directly to Mei Jie Sichuan Cuisine. Prices are clearly marked. Remember not to let touts follow you; choose your seafood and find your own restaurant. ⚠️ Sanya's UV rays are strong. Don't let your parents stay outdoors between 2 PM and 4 PM. Bring sunscreen and sun hats. Book a hotel with breakfast included; rest at the hotel if it gets hot at noon and go out in the evening. 05 Ningbo | Zhejiang For a trip to Ningbo with parents, I recommend a cultural tour – it's not tiring and offers plenty of enjoyment. Tianyi Pavilion and Yuehu Lake are connected; spend the morning at Tianyi Pavilion and the afternoon relaxing by Yuehu Lake with tea. 📍The library at Tianyi Pavilion is dimly lit and has high steps, so please help elderly people and avoid having them look at their phones while walking. I suggest allocating a separate day for the Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area. The old streets around Chiang Kai-shek's former residence are mostly flat, perfect for leisurely strolls and plenty of street food. The layered pancakes are freshly baked; buy a bag while they're hot so your parents can enjoy them while strolling around. Qiantong Ancient Town is less crowded and less commercialized than Wuzhen and Xitang. The agar jelly is only five yuan a bowl – refreshing and inexpensive. 🍜 For dinner, find a Ningbo restaurant near the Old Bund. Try the red-roe pickled crab, seaweed-wrapped yellow croaker, and roasted vegetable rice cakes – the flavors are light and suitable for the elderly. ⚠️ Tianyi Pavilion closes for entry at 4 PM and is closed Monday mornings, so don't make a wasted trip. The teahouses by Moon Lake are crowded on weekends; for a quieter experience, go on a weekday. 06 Yingtan | Jiangxi Yingtan only has Longhu Mountain, but it's enough to spend two days there. For parents, I recommend taking a bamboo raft trip on the Luxi River. You can appreciate the Danxia landforms on both banks without even looking up, as your feet don't touch the ground. 📍The bamboo raft dock is near Zhengyi Temple. The entire trip takes about 40 minutes. The boatman will provide commentary; a 10-20 yuan tip will make him more enthusiastic. Tianshi Mansion and Shangqing Ancient Town can be visited on the same day, as they are adjacent and within walking distance. The Taoist temples in the ancient town don't burn expensive incense, and you don't need to be persuaded to buy any blessed items. ⏰ The hanging coffin performance at Longhu Mountain is held twice a day, at 2 PM and 4 PM. Check the times carefully; you don't need to arrive early to reserve seats, just find some shade to watch. 🍜 The braised chicken with chestnuts in Shangqing Ancient Town uses local small chestnuts, which are soft, sweet, and fragrant. Order some for your parents, and they'll praise you. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes on the mountain; long pants are more effective than mosquito repellent. The scenic area entrance ticket, sightseeing bus ticket, and bamboo raft ticket are a combined ticket; buying them separately is more expensive, so buying the combined ticket is more convenient. 07 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia When taking my parents to the grasslands, I always choose Ulagai. It's closer than Hulunbuir, the grasslands are spacious enough, and most importantly, there are fewer cars and people, so you can stop whenever you want. 📍Starting from Bayinhushuo Town, drive along Provincial Highway 101. After passing the Hesige Nuoer Wetland, the grass starts to turn green and denser. Late June to early August is the best season; the grass is yellow at other times, so don't waste your trip. There aren't many proper roads on the grasslands. Hiring a four-wheel drive off-road vehicle with a driver/guide costs around 800 yuan per day and covers three key viewpoints. Watch the sunset at Jiuqu Bay, observe waterbirds at Ulagai Lake, and take photos in the birch forest – the pace is up to you. 🍜 At the Mongolian restaurants in town, hand-pulled mutton and pot tea are standard fare, averaging around 60 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't order too much; Inner Mongolian dishes are large portions, and even four people can't finish three dishes and a soup. If you're taking your parents to stay in a yurt, I recommend a modern one with a private bathroom. The traditional type requires you to walk outside to use the toilet, and it gets cold at night, which older people might find unbearable. 08 Baoding | Hebei If you're taking your parents to Baoding, I recommend choosing either Yesanpo or Baishi Mountain. Don't try to do too much. Bailixia in Yesanpo has well-maintained trails, with streams flowing along the canyon. You can easily wade in the water and rest when you get tired. 📍The scenic area shuttle bus runs from the entrance to the canyon mouth, saving you two kilometers of walking. Baishi Mountain is primarily for mountain viewing. I don't recommend the glass walkway for older people, but the suspended walkway on the mountainside is very gentle, and when the clouds and mist rise, it feels like walking through a painting. ⏰ Baishi Mountain is best visited in the morning. Afternoon fog reduces visibility, making it impossible to see anything. The Western Qing Tombs are less crowded than the Eastern Qing Tombs, and the architecture is better preserved. The area is shaded by cypress trees, making it cool and comfortable in summer. Hiring a guide to listen attentively is much more interesting than a rushed tour. 🍜 The stewed fish at Baiyangdian in Anxin is cooked in an iron pot. Dipping cornbread in the fish soup is sure to be a hit with your parents. ⚠️ Make sure to take the boat tours at the official docks in Baiyangdian. Unlicensed boats often try to charge extra fees mid-trip. The Zhili Governor's Office in Baoding city is also worth a visit. Tickets are inexpensive, and the guided tours are detailed; you can see everything in about an hour and a half. After visiting these eight places, I realized that the most important thing when traveling with parents isn't how many places you visit, but rather enjoying each step at your own pace. Nanyang was the most hassle-free, Sanya was perfect for relaxing, and Xilin Gol was the most photogenic. Which of these places have you taken your parents to? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Can you have a high-end experience on a budget? These 8️⃣ places have stunning autumn colors 01 Ma'anshan|Anhui A small town on the banks of the Yangtze River, autumn is the perfect time to visit. The Caishiji Scenic Area entrance fee is inexpensive, and students get a half-price discount, bringing the average cost to less than 100 yuan per person. 📍 It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from the city center, and there are also direct buses. Don't be fooled by the private cars soliciting passengers at the entrance. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the park after 3 pm, when the light is softer, the river surface shimmers with gold, and the steps of Cuiluo Mountain are less sunny. Near Sanyuan Cave, the breeze blowing from the river is refreshing. ⚠️ There are quite a few steps going up and down the mountain in the scenic area. If you're with elderly people or children, don't try to climb them; taking a sightseeing bus is much easier. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go to Caishi Town for a bowl of Dangtu braised pork noodles. It's around 20 yuan, with thick meat and a rich broth—much better value than the fast food near the scenic area entrance. 02 Nanyang | Henan Laojieling in the Funiu Mountains is a textbook example of breathtaking autumn foliage. A combined ticket for entrance and shuttle bus costs around 100 RMB. The journey from the foot of the mountain to the summit is segmented, so you don't have to climb the entire way. 🚄 Take a bus from Nanyang Station to Xixia County, then transfer to a local minibus. The ride is bumpy, but the scenery is worth it. Bring medication if you get motion sickness, as the mountain roads are winding. ⏰ It's best to enter the mountains around 8 AM, before the fog clears. Standing at the watershed and seeing the different colors of the vegetation on both sides creates a unique and magical feeling of "one foot in the north and one foot in the south." If you're not in great shape, take the cable car to the summit and then walk down; it's less strenuous and allows you to see the autumn leaves to your heart's content. Dining options in the scenic area are limited, so bring your own food and water; it's cheaper than buying instant noodles on the mountain. 03 Weihai | Shandong Weihai in autumn is incredibly clean, with a cool but clear sea breeze. Explore Chengshantou and Huaxia City separately; don't cram them into one day, or you'll be exhausted. 📍 Chengshantou's entrance fee is a bit pricey, but the view of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea meeting at the "End of the World" is truly breathtaking. To save money, go early, before the tour groups, to avoid waiting for photo spots. Huaxia City is better explored in the afternoon; the ancient buildings have a special charm under the autumn sun. There's a live performance in the evening, but tickets are separate. If you're on a tight budget, you can skip it and just stroll around taking photos—it'll be worth it. Take a boat to Liugong Island; round-trip ferry tickets plus entrance fee are just over 100 yuan. The Sino-Japanese War Museum on the island is free and offers a wealth of historical information. ⏰ The last return ferry is around 5 PM, so don't lose track of time while exploring. For accommodation in Weihai city, choose the area near Hanlefang. You can find decent rooms for around 100 yuan per person. There's a street full of Korean restaurants downstairs, with reasonably priced seafood and barbecue. 04 Harbin | Heilongjiang Autumn is the perfect time to visit Harbin. While the Ice and Snow World is prohibitively expensive in winter, it's free to stroll around the perimeter during the autumn closure period, offering a unique experience of viewing the ice sculptures. Volga Manor is ablaze with golden hues in autumn; the ticket includes a visit to the Russian-style architecture, perfect for taking stunning photos. 📍 Taking a bus from the city center to Chenggaozi Town and then a taxi saves you tens of yuan compared to hiring a car directly. St. Sophia Cathedral is best visited in the evening; the sunset paints the brick walls honey-colored, and pigeons fly across the square, creating a truly atmospheric experience. The interior of the cathedral isn't expensive, but honestly, it's even more beautiful from the outside. Central Street in Harbin is much less crowded in autumn. The price of Madier ice cream remains the same; after enjoying it, take a walk along the Songhua River, where the breeze is just right. For accommodation, choose the area near Laodaowai; hostel beds are only a few dozen yuan, surrounded by old Baroque buildings. Wake up early to explore the morning market; tofu pudding and sesame cakes are only a few yuan. 05 Bijie | Guizhou In Bijie's autumn, Zhijin Cave is the star attraction. This karst cave maintains a constant temperature of around 16 degrees Celsius year-round, so you'll actually need a jacket when visiting in autumn. The entrance fee includes a boat ride; be sure to take a boat on the underground river section. The lights shining on the stalactites create an atmosphere like entering the Earth's core. While the Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is most popular in spring, autumn offers unexpected rewards—off-season tickets are half-price, and there are so few people you can practically have the entire mountainside to yourself. Although the flowers are gone, the layered mountain colors and mist are even more breathtaking. ⚠️ The attractions in Bijie are far apart, so don't rely on buses; carpooling or hiring a car is more reliable. Finding people to share a ride in the county town beforehand can save you a lot of money per person. For accommodation, choose Zhijin County town; the hotels, even those costing only a few dozen yuan, are surprisingly clean. In the evening, a street-side hot pot with sour soup rice will feed two people for only 50-60 yuan. 06 Baishan | Jilin The autumn of Changbai Mountain is the kind of golden hue you'll never forget after just one glance. The North Slope entrance fee plus the eco-friendly bus ticket costs just over 200 yuan, which is well worth the money. ⏰ Whether you can see Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) depends entirely on luck, but the chances are relatively higher in autumn. The first group to go up the mountain at 7:30 am has the best chance of seeing Tianchi when the wind is calm and the fog is light. 📍 Accommodation in Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain is cheap, around 70-80 yuan per person. You can't go wrong with any of the barbecue restaurants in town. ⚠️ The wind at the summit is incredibly strong. Renting a coat costs 50 yuan, but you can save this money if you bring your own windproof jacket. If you don't want to crowd the North Slope, the West Slope is less crowded and offers a wider view, but there are more steps, making it suitable for those with good stamina. After descending the mountain, soak in a hot spring for around 100 yuan per person – it will wash away all the fatigue of the day. 07 Nanping|Fujian The bamboo rafting on the Nine Bend Stream in Wuyishan in autumn is the soul of the entire trip. The bamboo raft ticket plus the scenic area entrance fee costs just over 200 yuan. Booking online in advance will save you queuing time. 📍 Choose the 2-3 PM bamboo raft trip. The sunlight slants into the valley, shimmering the water with golden light—much more comfortable than the midday sun. The boatman's guide costs 20 yuan per person; listening to their mountain legends is much more interesting than just sitting around. Tianyou Peak has over 800 steps; a 40-minute climb to the top offers a breathtaking view of the Nine-Bend Stream winding around the mountain—worth every drop of sweat. However, those with knee problems are advised to take a different route, opting for the gentler paths of Yixiantian and Huxiaoyan. For accommodation, choose the Sangu Resort Area. Hostel beds are 50-60 yuan, and double rooms in guesthouses are just over 100 yuan. There's a food street downstairs. Langu smoked goose and Guangbing (a type of flatbread) are cheap; 20 yuan per person will leave you stuffed. Ticket checks are strict in Wuyishan Scenic Area. Don't believe any online guides about sneaking in; if caught, the fine could be enough for three meals of smoked goose. 08 Tangshan | Hebei Autumn is the perfect time for cultural tourism in Tangshan, with the Qing Dongling Mausoleum being the absolute highlight. Tickets are a little over 100 yuan, but audio guides are only 20 yuan to rent. Wearing one and exploring on your own is much more comfortable than joining a tour with a guide. 📍 Yuling and Dingdongling are the most worthwhile to see in detail. The stone carvings in the underground palaces are extremely well-preserved. Comparing the mausoleums of Emperor Qianlong and Empress Dowager Cixi—one magnificent and the other exquisite—is very interesting. Nanhu·Kailuan Scenic Area is free to enter. It's a park transformed from an old industrial mining area. In autumn, the lake is calm, and the leaves on the trees along the paths are golden. It's a popular spot for locals to stroll, without any commercialization. ⚠️ Qingdongling is far from the city center, and taxis are expensive. It's recommended to take the scenic area shuttle bus, which runs daily and is hassle-free. 🍜 After visiting the mausoleums, return to the city and eat at Hongyan Restaurant, a long-established restaurant. The braised pork knuckle is tender and flavorful. For 50-60 yuan per person, you can order several dishes—the portions are incredibly generous. Accommodation in Tangshan is cheap. You can find clean double rooms in chain hotels in the city center for just over 100 yuan, which is much better value than staying near the scenic areas. These eight places are perfect for visiting in September and October. If you're on a tight budget, choose Bijie and Tangshan; for a visually stunning experience, head to Baishan and Wuyishan. Where are you planning to go this autumn? Share your thoughts in the comments, and you might even find a travel buddy! Can you have a luxurious trip on a small budget? These 8️⃣ places have breathtaking autumn colors! 01 Ma'anshan|Anhui A small city on the Yangtze River, perfect for autumn. The Caishiji Scenic Area has affordable tickets, and students get half price, making it less than 100 yuan per person. 📍 It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from the city center, and there are also direct buses. Don't be fooled by the private cars soliciting passengers at the entrance. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the park after 3 pm, when the light is softer, the river shimmers, and the steps of Cuiluo Mountain are less sunny. Near Sanyuan Cave, the breeze from the river is invigorating. ⚠️ There are many steps leading up and down the mountain in the scenic area. If you're with elderly people or children, don't try to climb them; taking a sightseeing bus is much easier. 🍜 After descending the mountain, head to Caishi Town for a bowl of Dangtu-style braised pork noodles. It's around 20 yuan, with thick meat and a rich broth—much better value than the fast food near the scenic area entrance. 02 Nanyang|Henan Laojieling in the Funiu Mountains is a textbook example of breathtaking autumn foliage. A combined ticket for the entrance fee and shuttle bus costs around 100 yuan. The journey from the foot of the mountain to the summit is segmented, so you don't have to climb the entire way. 🚄 Take a bus from Nanyang Station to Xixia County, then transfer to a local minibus. The ride is bumpy, but the scenery is worth it. If you get motion sickness, bring medication, as the mountain roads are winding. ⏰ It's best to enter the mountains around 8 am, before the fog completely dissipates. Standing at the watershed and seeing the different colors of the vegetation on both sides creates a unique and fascinating sense of "stepping between north and south." If your stamina is average, take the cable car to the summit and then walk down. This saves energy and allows you to see the autumn leaves to your heart's content. Dining options within the scenic area are limited, so bring your own food and water—it's more economical than buying instant noodles on the mountain. 03 Weihai | Shandong Weihai in autumn is unbelievably clean, with a cool but clear sea breeze. Visit Chengshantou and Huaxia City separately; don't cram them into one day, or you'll be exhausted. 📍 Chengshantou's entrance fee is a bit pricey, but standing at the "end of the world" overlooking the confluence of the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Sea offers a truly unique sense of vastness. To save money, go early, before the tour groups, to avoid waiting for photo spots. Huaxia City is better explored in the afternoon; the ancient buildings have a special charm under the autumn sun. There's a live performance in the evening, but tickets are separate. If you're on a tight budget, you can skip it and just stroll around taking photos—it's worth it. Take a boat to Liugong Island; round-trip ferry tickets plus entrance fee are just over 100 yuan. The Sino-Japanese War Museum on the island is free and offers a wealth of historical information. ⏰ The last return ferry is around 5 PM; don't lose track of time while exploring. For accommodation in Weihai city center, choose the area near Hanlefang. A decent place costs around 100 RMB per person, and there's a street full of Korean restaurants downstairs with reasonably priced seafood and barbecue. 04 Harbin | Heilongjiang Autumn is the best time to visit Harbin. While the Ice and Snow World is prohibitively expensive in winter, you can stroll around the outer perimeter for free during the autumn closing period and see the ice sculptures – a unique experience. Volga Manor is ablaze with golden hues in autumn. The ticket includes a visit to the Russian-style architecture complex, perfect for taking great photos. 📍 Taking a bus from the city center to Chenggaozi Town and then a taxi saves you tens of RMB compared to hiring a car directly. St. Sophia Cathedral is best visited in the evening. The sunset paints the brick walls honey-colored, and pigeons fly across the square, creating a wonderful atmosphere. The interior of the cathedral isn't expensive, but honestly, it's more beautiful from the outside. Central Street in Harbin is much less crowded in autumn. The Madier ice cream is still the same price. After eating, take a walk along the Songhua River – the breeze is just right. For accommodation, choose the area near Laodaowai. Hostel beds are only a few dozen yuan, surrounded by old Baroque buildings. Wake up early to explore the morning market; tofu pudding and sesame cakes are only a few yuan. 05 Bijie | Guizhou In Bijie's autumn, Zhijin Cave is the star attraction. This karst cave maintains a constant temperature of around 16 degrees Celsius year-round, so you'll need a jacket when visiting in autumn. The entrance fee includes a boat ride; be sure to take a boat on the underground river section. The lights shining on the stalactites make it feel like entering the Earth's core. Baili Rhododendron Scenic Area is most popular in spring, but autumn offers unexpected rewards—off-season tickets are half-price, and there are so few people you can practically have the whole mountainside to yourself. Although the flowers are gone, the layered mountain scenery and mist are even more breathtaking. ⚠️ The attractions in Bijie are far apart, so don't rely on buses. Sharing a ride or hiring a car is more reliable. Find people to share a ride with in the county town beforehand; the cost per person can save you a lot. For accommodation, choose Zhijin County town; the hotels, even those costing only a few dozen yuan, are surprisingly clean. In the evening, a street-side hot pot with sour soup rice will only cost 50-60 yuan for two people to eat their fill. 06 Baishan | Jilin Autumn in Changbai Mountain is the kind of golden color you'll never forget after just one look. The North Slope entrance fee plus the environmental protection bus is just over 200 yuan, well worth the money. ⏰ Whether you can see Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) depends entirely on luck, but the probability is relatively higher in autumn. Going up the mountain at 7:30 am is the best time, as there's less wind and fog, maximizing your chances of seeing Tianchi. 📍 Accommodation in Erdaobaihe Town at the foot of the mountain is cheap, around 70-80 yuan per person. You can't go wrong with any of the barbecue restaurants in town. ⚠️ The wind at the summit is incredibly strong. Renting a coat costs 50 yuan, but if you bring your own windproof jacket, you can save that money. If you don't want to squeeze onto the North Slope, the West Slope is less crowded and offers a wider view, but there are more steps, suitable for those with good stamina. After descending the mountain, soak in a hot spring for 100 yuan per person – it'll wash away all the day's fatigue. 07 Nanping | Fujian The bamboo rafting on the Nine Bend Stream in Wuyishan in autumn is the soul of the entire trip. A bamboo raft ticket plus the scenic area entrance fee is just over 200 yuan. Booking online in advance saves queuing time. 📍 Choose the 2-3 pm bamboo rafting trip. The sunlight shines obliquely into the valley, making the water shimmer with gold, much more comfortable than the midday sun. The boatman's explanation fee is 20 yuan per person; listening to their mountain legends is much more interesting than just sitting around. Tianyou Peak has over 800 steps, a 40-minute climb to the top. The view of the Nine Bend Stream winding around the mountain from the summit is worth all the sweat. However, those with knee problems are advised to take a different route; the First Line Sky and Tiger Roaring Rock are gentler. For accommodation, choose the Sangu Resort Area. Hostel beds are 50-60 yuan, and double rooms in guesthouses are just over 100 yuan. There's a food street downstairs. Langu smoked goose and Guangbing (a type of flatbread) are cheap; you can eat until you're stuffed for 20 yuan per person. Ticket checks are strict in Wuyishan Scenic Area. Don't believe the online guides about sneaking in; if you get caught, the fine could be enough for three meals of smoked goose. 08 Tangshan | Hebei Autumn is the perfect time for cultural tourism in Tangshan, with the Eastern Qing Tombs being the absolute highlight. Tickets are a little over 100 yuan, but audio guides are only 20 yuan to rent. Exploring on your own with an audio guide is much more comfortable than a guided tour. 📍 The Yuling and Dingdongling Tombs are worth a closer look. The stone carvings in the underground palaces are exceptionally well-preserved. Comparing the tombs of Emperor Qianlong and Empress Dowager Cixi—one magnificent, the other exquisite—is quite interesting. Nanhu·Kailuan Scenic Area is free to enter. A park transformed from an old industrial mining area, the lake is calm in autumn, and the leaves along the paths are golden. It's a popular spot for locals to stroll, without any commercialization. ⚠️ The Eastern Qing Tombs are far from the city center, and taxis are expensive. It's recommended to take the scenic area shuttle bus, which runs daily and is hassle-free. 🍜 After visiting the tombs, head back to the city for Hongyan Restaurant, a long-established restaurant. The braised pork knuckle is tender and flavorful. For 50-60 yuan per person, you can order several dishes—the portions are incredibly generous! Accommodation in Tangshan is cheap; you can find clean double rooms in chain hotels in the city center for just over 100 yuan, which is much better value than staying near tourist attractions. These eight places are perfect for visiting in September and October. If you're on a tight budget, choose Bijie and Tangshan; if you want a visually stunning experience, head to Baishan and Wuyishan. Where are you planning to go this autumn? Share your thoughts in the comments, and you might even find a travel buddy!

1️⃣ Zunyi City | Guizhou The name of Chishui Danxia Tourist Area sounds very official, but when you enter, you realize that it is a real landscape blockbuster. Entering the scenic spot at 8am, the fog has not dissipated, the red rock wall seems to have been washed by water, the sun shines, the color is so bright that it is not real. Tickets can be booked online one day in advance, about $20 cheaper than on-site, half price with your student ID, remember to bring. At lunch, I spent a bowl of mutton noodles at a stall in front of the scenic spot. It cost fifteen dollars. The soup was rich and smooth, and it was much better than the chain stores in the city. In the afternoon, I walked along the Fo Guang Rock Canyon. There are many steps but not too steep. Wear a pair of non-slip shoes. The rock surface will be slippery after the rain. ⏰ The light is best after 5pm, the rock wall is dyed golden red by the sunset, photography does not need a filter. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Chishui specialties" in the scenic area, the price is twice as expensive, the supermarket outside the town is half cheaper. Accommodation Living in the city of Chishui, the standard room of seventy or eighty dollars is clean enough, there is no need to live in the scenic area. 2️⃣ Xilin Guole League | Inner Mongolia In the Ulagai grassland, the grass is still green at the end of August, but it starts to turn yellow in early September. Each has its own beauty. I prefer to go in mid-September, less crowded, cool wind, golden grass, a kind of cinematic photography. The three or so hours drive from Shillinghot was in good condition, but there were few gas stations along the way, fill up the tank before departure. When riding a horse on the grassland, the herdsmen bid 50 to 80. You must first agree on the route and time. Don't negotiate before you get on the horse. 📍 There is a small hillside on the side of the wolf totem shooting site. Climbing up can overlook the entire river valley, which is much more shocking than seeing the grassland on the highway. ⚠️ The grassland day and night temperature difference is large, short sleeves during the day, must wear a velvet jacket at night, do not die. Accommodation choose a Mongolian package experience for one night is enough, about a hundred and five, the conditions are average but the starry sky is really absolute. Dinner is at the herdsmen's house with hand-made meat. It's 60-70 per person. The meat is fragrant and served with milk tea to relieve thirst. At the end of September, the grass turned yellow and the wind got stronger, but the setting sun dyed the whole prairie amber, which was worth the price of admission. 3️⃣ Nanyang City | Henan West Gorge Fu Niu Mountain Lao Jie Ridge Dinosaur Site Park Tourist Area, the name is long, the content is also complex, but worth playing separately. Old Territories Ridge is suitable for morning climbs, with the cableway up and down, and a wide view of the top of the mountain to see the layered ridgeline of Mount Funiu. The Dinosaur Site Park is more suitable for lunch. There are many indoor exhibition halls, so you can't sunbathe. Children will like those dinosaur models that can move. Ticket joint tickets are cheaper than single tickets, but if you are only interested in the mountains, buy Lao Territory tickets alone, don't waste money for joint tickets. ⏰ Lao Jie Ridge is less crowded in the morning, the clouds have not dispersed, the mountains are like ink paintings, after lunch tour groups come up, the canyon is crowded. 🍜 The stewed noodles in the town at the foot of the mountain cost eight dollars a bowl, with enough mutton slices, white soup, and chewy noodles, which are much better than the fast food in the scenic spot. ⚠️ Don't buy the "fossil souvenirs" at the entrance of the dinosaur park, they are basically resin imitations. 4️⃣ Liuzhou City | Guangxi Liuzhou doesn't only have snail noodles, but snail noodles are indeed worth a special trip. Chengyang Bazhai is located on the north edge of the county town, and public transportation is inconvenient. It is recommended to carpool or drive by car. Tickets are 80, and students are half price. The wind and rain bridge and drum tower in the village are well preserved. When you enter at 7 or 8 in the morning, the smoke from the cooking pots is much more flavorful than when tourists flock in at noon. Longtan Park is free, a place for locals to stroll, enter at 4pm and the light hits the lake through the trees, perfect for strolling and daze. ⚠️ There are some "mountain treasures" sold by vendors in the park. Don't buy them. The origin is unknown and the price is inflated. The Liujiang night cruise is not cheap. I recommend walking on the riverside trail for a while, blowing the river breeze and watching the lanterns on both sides, zero cost. 🍜Snail noodle soup is the old shop in the alley, seven or eight dollars a bowl, the ingredients are added yourself, pickled asparagus to choose fermented just right, too raw and choking, too ripe and bitter. 📍 There are many old-fashioned powder shops hidden in the alleys near Five Star Street. ⏰ Liuzhou autumn is still hot, evening out most comfortable, daytime sun poison, sunscreen do not skimp. 5️⃣ Hengshui City|Hebei Hengshui Lake, a hidden option for poor travel around Beijing and Tianjin. Tickets are not expensive, only a few tens of dollars, the boat ride is another matter. I also recommend renting a bicycle to ride along the lake. In autumn, the wind by the lake is cool and the reeds are golden, which is better than taking a boat to see the flowers. 📍 There is a bird watching platform on the east shore of the lake. Go at 6am and see a large number of migratory birds rising and falling, white herons, herons, and fortunately there are swans. ⚠️ Bring a telescope for bird watching. If you can't take pictures clearly with your mobile phone, don't waste your efforts. I ate fish at the farmhouse by the lake in the afternoon. It costs 40 per person. The fish is cut and stewed. It is so fresh. 🍜Hengshui city in the "sole of the child grilled cake" worth a special trip to chew one, five dollars, meat and egg, crispy skin, meat fragrance, with a bowl of tofu brain, breakfast eat very solid. ⏰ The lake is windy after mid-October, bring a windproof jacket, do not wear a thin sweatshirt dead top. 6️⃣ Changsha City | Hunan You sure have heard of Changsha, but I advise you not to just stare at a lamp and tea. In the old alley under the city wall of Tianxin Pavilion, at seven o'clock in the morning, the steamer of the noodle shop is steaming with white air. A bowl of shredded pork noodles costs six dollars. Yuelu Mountain is free, enter from the south gate, walk the path around the crowd, half an hour to Aiwan Pavilion, autumn maple leaves are red, even more beautiful than in the photos. Provincial Museum must be booked two days in advance, free but in demand, ⚠️ closed on Monday, do not go in vain. The exhibits from the Mawangdui Han Tomb inside are worth seeing. The actual coffin of Mrs. Xin Zhui is more impactful than the textbook. Huaming Building is far from the city, so you can not go there if you are short of time. The cost of a special trip is high. It is better to save your time for Yuelu Mountain and Tangerine Island. 🍜 Go to winter melon mountain at night, grilled sausage, stewed shrimp, basil peach ginger, 50 per person eat to hold the wall away. 📍The grilled sausage at the entrance of Yunan Street, three dollars a piece, crispy skin and tight meat, much better than the starchy sausage of chain stores. ⏰ Autumn is still hot in Changsha, wear short sleeves during the day, add a thin jacket at night. 7️⃣ Pingliang City | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is a famous Taoist mountain, but don't be intimidated by the words "famous mountain". Tickets are about 100, and students are half price. The mountain is not high, but it is steep and has many steps. It is recommended to take a section of the ropeway and climb again to save energy and time. There is a free ancient town of Kongtong at the foot of the mountain. You can stroll around or not. It's commercialized, so it's better to go directly into the mountain. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 8am, the fog has not dissipated, the red wall of the Taoist temple is looming in the fog, like a martial arts movie scene. Climbing to the middle platform, the view is wide and you can see the whole flat cool city. 📍 Tea stall next to the middle stage, three dollars a bowl of covered bowl of tea, sit for half an hour to rest, the mountain breeze blows, comfortable. ⚠️ Someone solicited customers at the foot of the mountain and said "take you to walk the path free of charge", do not believe, the path is dangerous, being caught and fined. In autumn, the mountains are cool in the morning and evening. Bring a jacket. The sun is hot and hot in the afternoon. It is most practical to wear convenient clothes. 🍜 After going down the mountain, eat a bowl of cheap lamb dumplings in the city, twenty dollars, meat and soup, even more real than Xi'an. 8️⃣ Sanya City | Hainan Is Sanya the ceiling for poor travelers? Don't smile in a hurry. As long as you know how to choose, Sanya can spend a small amount of money to play with great satisfaction. Tickets to the big and small caves are not expensive, the seaside reefs and lighthouses take pictures and videos, ⚠️ There is no need to sit in the battery car in the scenic area, the walk is twenty minutes. Centipede Island tickets plus boat tickets are a little expensive, but the water is really clear, snorkeling at a time to see the fish swarm around you. Locals really don't go to the ends of the earth, but tourists have come. You can go for a stroll. Don't have too high expectations. They are quite a stone by the sea. 📍Along Bay Beach is free, the sand is fine and white, the sun is not poisonous after 4pm, the water is just right, less people than Spit Island Island, and more economical. 🍜 Don't go to seafood stalls for dinner. Go to the local market to buy seafood and find small shops to process it. The average person is 70 or 80, which is half cheaper than inside the scenic spot. ⏰ The autumn sun in Sanya is still very strong, sunscreen SPF50 starting, hats and sunglasses do not skimp. Accommodation choose a youth hostel near Dadonghai, beds sixty or seventy, walk to the seaside for ten minutes, value for money. Each of these eight places has its own view in September and October. The student party on a tight budget, prioritizing Hengshui and Liuzhou, spent less and played practically. For those who want to take big pictures, the Ulagai Grassland and Kongtong Mountain will not disappoint you. Talk in the comments section, who do you admire the most? 1️⃣ Zunyi City | Guizhou The name of Chishui Danxia Tourist Area sounds very official, but when you enter, you realize that it is a real landscape blockbuster. Entering the scenic spot at 8am, the fog has not dissipated, the red rock wall seems to have been washed by water, the sun shines, the color is so bright that it is not real. Tickets can be booked online one day in advance, about $20 cheaper than on-site, half price with your student ID, remember to bring. At lunch, I spent a bowl of mutton noodles at a stall in front of the scenic spot. It cost fifteen dollars. The soup was rich and smooth, and it was much better than the chain stores in the city. In the afternoon, I walked along the Fo Guang Rock Canyon. There are many steps but not too steep. Wear a pair of non-slip shoes. The rock surface will be slippery after the rain. ⏰ The light is best after 5pm, the rock wall is dyed golden red by the sunset, photography does not need a filter. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Chishui specialties" in the scenic area, the price is twice as expensive, the supermarket outside the town is half cheaper. Accommodation Living in the city of Chishui, the standard room of seventy or eighty dollars is clean enough, there is no need to live in the scenic area. 2️⃣ Xilin Guole League | Inner Mongolia In the Ulagai grassland, the grass is still green at the end of August, but it starts to turn yellow in early September. Each has its own beauty. I prefer to go in mid-September, less crowded, cool wind, golden grass, a kind of cinematic photography. The three or so hours drive from Shillinghot was in good condition, but there were few gas stations along the way, fill up the tank before departure. When riding a horse on the grassland, the herdsmen bid 50 to 80. You must first agree on the route and time. Don't negotiate before you get on the horse. 📍 There is a small hillside on the side of the wolf totem shooting site. Climbing up can overlook the entire river valley, which is much more shocking than seeing the grassland on the highway. ⚠️ The grassland day and night temperature difference is large, short sleeves during the day, must wear a velvet jacket at night, do not die. Accommodation choose a Mongolian package experience for one night is enough, about a hundred and five, the conditions are average but the starry sky is really absolute. Dinner is at the herdsmen's house with hand-made meat. It's 60-70 per person. The meat is fragrant and served with milk tea to relieve thirst. At the end of September, the grass turned yellow and the wind got stronger, but the setting sun dyed the whole prairie amber, which was worth the price of admission. 3️⃣ Nanyang City | Henan West Gorge Fu Niu Mountain Lao Jie Ridge Dinosaur Site Park Tourist Area, the name is long, the content is also complex, but worth playing separately. Old Territories Ridge is suitable for morning climbs, with the cableway up and down, and a wide view of the top of the mountain to see the layered ridgeline of Mount Funiu. The Dinosaur Site Park is more suitable for lunch. There are many indoor exhibition halls, so you can't sunbathe. Children will like those dinosaur models that can move. Ticket joint tickets are cheaper than single tickets, but if you are only interested in the mountains, buy Lao Territory tickets alone, don't waste money for joint tickets. ⏰ Lao Jie Ridge is less crowded in the morning, the clouds have not dispersed, the mountains are like ink paintings, after lunch tour groups come up, the canyon is crowded. 🍜 The stewed noodles in the town at the foot of the mountain cost eight dollars a bowl, with enough mutton slices, white soup, and chewy noodles, which are much better than the fast food in the scenic spot. ⚠️ Don't buy the "fossil souvenirs" at the entrance of the dinosaur park, they are basically resin imitations. 4️⃣ Liuzhou City | Guangxi Liuzhou doesn't only have snail noodles, but snail noodles are indeed worth a special trip. Chengyang Bazhai is located on the north edge of the county town, and public transportation is inconvenient. It is recommended to carpool or drive by car. Tickets are 80, and students are half price. The wind and rain bridge and drum tower in the village are well preserved. When you enter at 7 or 8 in the morning, the smoke from the cooking pots is much more flavorful than when tourists flock in at noon. Longtan Park is free, a place for locals to stroll, enter at 4pm and the light hits the lake through the trees, perfect for strolling and daze. ⚠️ There are some "mountain treasures" sold by vendors in the park. Don't buy them. The origin is unknown and the price is inflated. The Liujiang night cruise is not cheap. I recommend walking on the riverside trail for a while, blowing the river breeze and watching the lanterns on both sides, zero cost. 🍜Snail noodle soup is the old shop in the alley, seven or eight dollars a bowl, the ingredients are added yourself, pickled asparagus to choose fermented just right, too raw and choking, too ripe and bitter. 📍 There are many old-fashioned powder shops hidden in the alleys near Five Star Street. ⏰ Liuzhou autumn is still hot, evening out most comfortable, daytime sun poison, sunscreen do not skimp. 5️⃣ Hengshui City|Hebei Hengshui Lake, a hidden option for poor travel around Beijing and Tianjin. Tickets are not expensive, only a few tens of dollars, the boat ride is another matter. I also recommend renting a bicycle to ride along the lake. In autumn, the wind by the lake is cool and the reeds are golden, which is better than taking a boat to see the flowers. 📍 There is a bird watching platform on the east shore of the lake. Go at 6am and see a large number of migratory birds rising and falling, white herons, herons, and fortunately there are swans. ⚠️ Bring a telescope for bird watching. If you can't take pictures clearly with your mobile phone, don't waste your efforts. I ate fish at the farmhouse by the lake in the afternoon. It costs 40 per person. The fish is cut and stewed. It is so fresh. 🍜Hengshui city in the "sole of the child grilled cake" worth a special trip to chew one, five dollars, meat and egg, crispy skin, meat fragrance, with a bowl of tofu brain, breakfast eat very solid. ⏰ The lake is windy after mid-October, bring a windproof jacket, do not wear a thin sweatshirt dead top. 6️⃣ Changsha City | Hunan You sure have heard of Changsha, but I advise you not to just stare at a lamp and tea. In the old alley under the city wall of Tianxin Pavilion, at seven o'clock in the morning, the steamer of the noodle shop is steaming with white air. A bowl of shredded pork noodles costs six dollars. Yuelu Mountain is free, enter from the south gate, walk the path around the crowd, half an hour to Aiwan Pavilion, autumn maple leaves are red, even more beautiful than in the photos. Provincial Museum must be booked two days in advance, free but popular, ⚠️ closed on Monday, do not go in vain. The exhibits from the Mawangdui Han Tomb inside are worth seeing. The actual coffin of Mrs. Xin Zhui is more impactful than the textbook. Huaming Building is far from the city, so you can not go there if you are short of time. The cost of a special trip is high. It is better to save your time for Yuelu Mountain and Tangerine Island. 🍜 Go to winter melon mountain at night, grilled sausage, stewed shrimp, scallion peach ginger, 50 per person eat to hold the wall away. 📍The grilled sausage at the entrance of Yunan Street, three dollars a piece, crispy skin and tight meat, much better than the starchy sausage of chain stores. ⏰ Autumn is still hot in Changsha, wear short sleeves during the day, add a thin jacket at night. 7️⃣ Pingliang City | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is a famous Taoist mountain, but don't be intimidated by the words "famous mountain". Tickets are about 100, and students are half price. The mountain is not high, but it is steep and has many steps. It is recommended to take a section of the ropeway and climb again to save energy and time. There is a free ancient town of Kongtong at the foot of the mountain. You can stroll around or not. It's commercialized, so it's better to go directly into the mountain. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 8am, the fog has not dissipated, the red wall of the Taoist temple is looming in the fog, like a martial arts movie scene. Climbing to the middle platform, the view is wide and you can see the whole flat cool city. 📍 Tea stall next to the middle stage, three dollars a bowl of covered bowl of tea, sit for half an hour to rest, the mountain breeze blows, comfortable. ⚠️ Someone solicited customers at the foot of the mountain and said "take you to walk the path free of charge", do not believe, the path is dangerous, being caught and fined. In autumn, the mountains are cool in the morning and evening. Bring a jacket. The sun is hot and hot in the afternoon. It is most practical to wear convenient clothes. 🍜 After going down the mountain, eat a bowl of cheap lamb dumplings in the city, twenty dollars, meat and soup, even more real than Xi'an. 8️⃣ Sanya City | Hainan Is Sanya the ceiling for poor travelers? Don't smile in a hurry. As long as you know how to choose, Sanya can spend a small amount of money to play with great satisfaction. Tickets to the big and small caves are not expensive, the seaside reefs and lighthouses take pictures and videos, ⚠️ There is no need to sit in the battery car in the scenic area, the walk is twenty minutes. Centipede Island tickets plus boat tickets are a little expensive, but the water is really clear, snorkeling at a time to see the fish swarm around you. Locals really don't go to the ends of the earth, but tourists have come. You can go for a stroll. Don't have too high expectations. They are quite a stone by the sea. 📍Along Bay Beach is free, the sand is fine and white, the sun is not poisonous after 4pm, the water is just right, less people than Spit Island Island, and more economical. 🍜 Don't go to seafood stalls for dinner. Go to the local market to buy seafood and find small shops to process it. The average person is 70 or 80, which is half cheaper than inside the scenic spot. ⏰ The autumn sun in Sanya is still very strong, sunscreen SPF50 starting, hats and sunglasses do not skimp. Accommodation choose a youth hostel near Dadonghai, beds sixty or seventy, walk to the seaside for ten minutes, value for money. Each of these eight places has its own view in September and October. The student party on a tight budget, prioritizing Hengshui and Liuzhou, spent less and played practically. For those who want to take big pictures, the Ulagai Grassland and Kongtong Mountain will not disappoint you. Talk in the comments section, who do you feel most excited about?

8 must-see hidden gems in your lifetime — how many have you been to? 01 Hanzhong|Shaanxi What makes Hanzhong special is that the name Little Jiangnan really fits. I recommend making Shimen plank road your first stop. Don't try to do too much — this one spot can take about 2 hours. The boardwalk hangs on the cliff of the Bao River valley, with the green Bao River below and the ruins of the ancient Shimen tunnel above. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Hanzhong station. Admission is about CNY 80. Remember to wear non-slip shoes; the plank road is slippery after rain. In the afternoon, return to the city to visit Ancient Hantai. Admission is free, but the museum stops admitting visitors at 4:30 PM, so don't arrive right at closing. Ancient Hantai is small and can be seen in about 30 minutes. Be sure to see the Gunxue stone carving, said to be in Cao Cao's own hand. Don't rush off at dusk — stroll along the Han River promenade; the river breeze is much nicer than air conditioning. 🍜 In the evening, find a mianpi noodle shop near Yinmachixiang. Hanzhong hot mianpi with seasoned tofu costs about CNY 15 per person and will leave you full. ⚠️ Shimen plank road has long lines on holidays. Try to arrive before 8 AM. 02 Liuzhou|Guangxi Liuzhou is more than luosifen, but luosifen is worth a dedicated trip. My approach is: head straight to Chengyang Bazhai in the morning. It’s about a 2-hour drive from the city and admission is CNY 60. The villages are connected; the wind‑and‑rain bridges and drum towers are very photogenic, but you don't need to visit every village — Ma'an Village and Yanzhai are enough, the others are quite similar. At noon, have a bowl of oil tea in the village for CNY 5; it's savory and warming, and tastes more authentic than the chain shops outside the scenic area. In the afternoon, return to the city and stroll Longtan Park. It's free, and the karst hills with the lake feel like Guilin moved into the city. ⏰ The light is best after 5 PM. The Leilongtan section is the most beautiful. At night, run or walk along the Liu River; there is a music fountain at 8 PM and 9 PM. 🍜 For late-night food, go near Qingyun Market for stir-fried luosifen with duck-foot pot; two people can eat for under CNY 80. ⚠️ The mountain roads around Chengyang Bazhai are many and winding. If you drive yourself, don't go too fast. 03 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture|Xinjiang Changji's scenery varies wildly. I suggest splitting it into two days — don't try to cram it into one. Day 1: Jiangbulake, about a 1-hour drive from Qitai county, admission CNY 48. The highlight is wheat fields with snow-capped peaks in the same frame; in July–August, when the wheat is golden, any photo looks like wallpaper. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM — when the morning mist hasn't lifted, it feels magical. In the afternoon, go to Wucaiwan (Colorful Bay). Honestly, it's more impressive from a distance than up close; the yardang landforms turn orange-red at sunset, but it can be windy, so bring a jacket. On day 2, go to Tianchi (Heavenly Lake of the Tianshan). Admission plus shuttle is CNY 155 — don't skimp on that, walking up is exhausting. Take a boat on the lake for about CNY 100 per person to get a close view of Mount Bogda. 🍜 After descending, eat da pan ji (big plate chicken) in Fukang city — portions are so large three people usually can't finish. ⚠️ Tianchi sits at about 1,900 m elevation. If you are prone to altitude sickness, avoid strenuous activity. 04 Changde|Hunan The top attraction in Changde is the Taohuayuan (Peach Blossom Spring) scenic area. Don't be put off by the term scenic area — it's actually a large district centered on Qin Valley and Peach Blossom Mountain. I recommend buying the combo ticket (CNY 180); it's enough for a full day. In the morning, walk through Qin Valley following the route from the Peach Blossom Spring story. You pass through a narrow stone tunnel and then the sudden open view can really give you goosebumps. At noon, eat at a farmhouse in Qin Valley and be sure to order lei tea; with a table full of small dishes, expect about CNY 40 per person. In the afternoon, climb Peach Blossom Mountain at a relaxed pace — the mountain is not high, but vegetation is dense and it's not hot even in summer. ⏰ The best time is late March to early April when the peach blossoms bloom. Other times are still rewarding — the bamboo groves and streams are very soothing. ⚠️ The scenic area clears out at 5 PM. Don't plan a night visit. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Changde station. There are direct buses but they are slower. 05 Shangrao|Jiangxi Shangrao is a place where one city seems to hold half of Jiangxi's scenery. Mount Sanqing and Wuyuan are nearly a 2-hour drive apart — split them into separate days. Mount Sanqing admission plus cable car is CNY 245. Definitely take the cable car — hiking up takes at least 3 hours, so don't overestimate your stamina. On the mountain, do the Nanqingyuan loop, about 2 hours, to see the landmark formations "Giant Python Emerges" and "Eastern Goddess." ⏰ Go up before 8 AM for the highest chance of a sea of clouds. In Wuyuan, Jiangwan and Huangling can be done together, but don't try to see everything. Jiangwan is an ancient village with well-preserved Hui-style architecture and is great for culture lovers; admission is CNY 60. Huangling admission plus cable car is CNY 145 — focus on the sun-drying harvest displays. They happen year-round, but colors are richest in autumn. 🍜 At a farmhouse restaurant below Huangling, the braised tofu and steamed pork with rice flour are both good. Two people can eat their fill for about CNY 100. ⚠️ Weather on Mount Sanqing changes quickly. A raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. 06 Putian|Fujian Putian's Meizhou Island Mazu cultural area is a place to slow down. From Putian city to Wenjia Pier it's about a 50-minute taxi, then take the ferry; ferry plus admission is CNY 85. The island's core is the Mazu ancestral temple, which is an active place of worship. Nonbelievers can still visit — the architecture itself is exquisite. I suggest renting an electric scooter to circle the island; CNY 50 a day gives you much more freedom than the sightseeing bus. The coastline near Ewei Shenshi Park is especially clean and uncrowded — sitting on the rocks and listening to the waves is very relaxing. ⏰ Head to the golden sand beach after 4:30 PM; most tourists are gone and the sunset turns the sand golden — it's ten times better than daytime. 🍜 Try the seaweed dumplings and oyster omelet on the island. At hawker stalls expect about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ The last ferry leaves at 5:30 PM. If you want to stay on the island, book a guesthouse in advance — peak season fills up fast. 07 Pingdingshan|Henan Pingdingshan's signature attraction is Yao Mountain and the Central Plains Giant Buddha scenic area. Yao Mountain is part of the Funiu range and is heavily forested — a natural air‑conditioned spot in summer. Admission is CNY 80 and the round‑trip cable car is CNY 90. I suggest taking the cable car up and walking down — less tiring and still scenic. The summit Yuhuangding sits at 2,153 m elevation with expansive views and the chance to see a sea of clouds. At the foot is the Central Plains Giant Buddha, 208 m tall — looking up from its base is truly awe-inspiring. ⚠️ The Giant Buddha area and Yao Mountain have separate tickets; a combo ticket is CNY 180. If you only care about natural scenery, buy the Yao Mountain ticket alone. ⏰ Early November is prime for Yao Mountain's red‑leaf season, when the hills are covered in red and gold. 🍜 After descending, go to Lushan county to try lan guo stew. One big bowl is about CNY 15 and is piled high with meat and vegetables. 08 Guyuan|Ningxia Guyuan is a hidden gem many people miss, but the Xumi Mountain Grottoes are worth a special trip. It's about a 1-hour drive from Guyuan city and admission is CNY 60. Compared with Yungang or Longmen, there are far fewer visitors. The grottoes are spread across eight cliffs and can be explored at leisure. The most striking is Cave 5's great Buddha, 20.6 m tall — standing at the Buddha's feet and looking up, with the valley wind passing through, brings a calming stillness. ⏰ I recommend going in the afternoon; the slanted light on the statue's face makes its expression especially serene. ⚠️ There are many stair sections. If you have weak knees, bring a trekking pole. 🚄 From Yinchuan, take a high-speed train to Guyuan station, then taxi — about CNY 80. 🍜 In the city, try hand-pulled mutton with eight-treasure tea. It's about CNY 60 per person and worth staying for.

Stay for three days: these 8 cities will make you fall in love with travel all over again 01 Dongying | Shandong To see the yellow and blue waters where the Yellow River meets the sea, you have to gamble on the weather. 📍 Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve: the bird migration in spring and autumn is spectacular, and you might even spot swans in November. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8:00 AM and take the electric shuttle straight to the Yuanwang Tower; it's so windy you'll need to hold onto your hat. After seeing the river mouth, head back; the reed marshes on both sides of the wetland boardwalk are perfect for photos without crowds. 🍜 Don't rush off at noon. There are a few small restaurants near the entrance selling Yellow River Delta hairy crabs. Around October, they are full of roe and fat; they're a bit pricier than in the city, but they're fresh. ⚠️ It gets dusty and windy in the afternoon, so wear a mask and goggles. Don't try to fly a drone in the no-fly zone; security is strict. 02 Zhongwei | Ningxia Shapotou is a place you'll love and hate. You'll love the grandeur of the Yellow River bend, but hate the two-hour wait times during peak season. 📍 I recommend entering through the East Gate. Take a speedboat upstream first, then drift back on a sheepskin raft to get both perspectives. The whole trip takes about 1.5 hours. The Gaomiao Temple is in the city. ⚠️ There are fewer tourists after 4:00 PM, and the underground palace and the Hall of 500 Arhats are worth a close look. The temple and Shapotou are in different directions, so don't plan them for the same day. 🚄 A taxi from Zhongwei South Station to Shapotou costs about 25 yuan; drivers usually don't use the meter, so agree on the price beforehand. If you only have half a day, the Shapotou Yellow River area is enough. The lines for camel riding in the desert area are too long, and the experience is just okay. 03 Linfen | Shanxi Visit Hukou Waterfall in September or October after the flood season, when the water is roaring and you can hear the thunder from far away. 📍 The viewing platform on the Shanxi side is closer to the waterfall. The mist will hit your face, so don't worry about how you look in a raincoat—you must wear one. The Hongdong Dahuaishu Ancestor Memorial Garden is better for visiting with older relatives; the whole park is themed around "finding your roots." 🍜 Outside the scenic area, there are stalls selling local steamed rice—glutinous rice and red dates steamed until translucent—for 5 yuan a serving. Yunqiu Mountain is far from the city, so I suggest setting aside a full day for it. The dwellings in Talpo Ancient Village still retain their original appearance. ⏰ It looks best in the afternoon when the light slants into the courtyards. ⚠️ Hukou Waterfall and Yunqiu Mountain are in different directions. Trying to do both in one day will be rushed; it's more relaxed to split your three-day itinerary into two days. 04 Nanyang | Henan The Xixia Funiushan Laojieling and Dinosaur Relics Park scenic area has a long name and requires a long time to explore. 📍 The Dinosaur Relics Park is better in the morning; the indoor exhibition halls are cool, and children can touch models of dinosaur egg fossils. In the afternoon, head up to Laojieling. After taking the cable car to the top, you still need to walk along a wooden boardwalk. ⏰ You're most likely to see a sea of clouds when it clears up after rain. Don't be lazy; it's windy at the top, so bring a light jacket. ⚠️ The two parks are quite far apart, so driving yourself is most convenient. If you don't have a car, I suggest booking a local one-day group tour; a one-way taxi ride costs over 100 yuan. 🍜 The stewed chicken with monkey head mushrooms at the local farmhouses at the foot of the mountain is a specialty. The soup is savory and the meat is tender; one serving is enough for two people. 05 Zhuzhou | Hunan Yandi Mausoleum isn't the kind of exciting attraction, but it has a quiet sense of solemnity. 📍 People are always offering flowers in the square in front of the Meridian Gate. The scent of incense mixed with the smell of grass will calm your mind as you walk around. ⏰ I suggest arriving after 2:00 PM when the tour groups have left; you can hear your own footsteps in the main sacrificial hall. ⚠️ Incense in the scenic area isn't cheap; actually, the small shops outside the mountain gate sell it for 10 yuan a bundle, which is a better deal. 🚄 It takes over an hour to drive from Zhuzhou West Station; carpooling near the high-speed railway station costs about 50 yuan per person. If you're not particularly interested in history and culture, you can compress this into half a day. But if you want a place to walk slowly, those thousand-year-old cypress trees in front of the hall can keep you company for a long time. 06 Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan The beauty of Daocheng Yading is earned with physical effort. 📍 From Luorong Pasture to Milk Lake, it's at an altitude of 4,700 meters. The round-trip hike takes six hours; don't push yourself without hiking poles and oxygen bottles. Xinduqiao isn't a scenic spot; it's the scenery along the road. ⏰ In the golden autumn of October, the poplar trees along National Highway 318 turn completely yellow. Any place you stop your car is like a postcard. Mugecuo is gentler compared to Five-Color Lake. Take a boat to the beach on the other side of the lake to capture the reflection of the snow-capped mountains. ⚠️ The glaciers at Hailuogou have been significantly degraded in recent years due to climate change. Check the latest situation before you go, and don't get your hopes up too high. 🍜 There's a Tibetan restaurant in Daocheng County that sells butter tea with tsampa. You might not be used to it the first time, but it's really effective at warming you up. 🚄 These spots are scattered in different directions; three days is only enough to choose two routes. Trying to do too much will definitely tire you out—don't ask me how I know. 07 Ningbo | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake is the most comfortable walking route in Ningbo. 📍 Exit from the North Gate of Tianyi Pavilion and cross Changchun Road to reach Moon Lake. In the evening, there are elderly people singing Yue opera by the lake. Xikou Tengtou Scenic Area requires a separate day. ⚠️ There are fewer people at the Former Residence of Chiang Kai-shek after 3:00 PM, but Wenchang Pavilion clears out at 4:30 PM, so visit that first. Qiantong Ancient Town is much quieter than Wuzhen. ⏰ At 6:00 AM, the ancient town hasn't woken up yet; the cobblestone roads are damp, and the old street where Chen Yifei filmed "The Barber" is right here. 🍜 You should try the three ways of eating tofu in Qiantong, especially the fried dried tofu—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it's flavorful with just a dip of pepper salt. 🚄 There is a direct bus from Ningbo city to Xikou, which takes about an hour; you don't need to book a one-day tour in advance. 08 Longyan | Fujian Yongding Tulou is the kind of place where "no matter how many photos you've seen, you'll still be shocked when you're there." 📍 Chengqi Building is four stories high. Walking up the circles, the wooden stairs creak, like stepping on the bones of time. Changting Ancient Town isn't very commercialized. Dried tofu and pork kidney soup on Dientou Street are a standard breakfast for locals. 🍜 It's 5 yuan a bowl, and the broth has a strong peppery flavor. It takes two hours to climb Guanzhai Mountain. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups; the boat ride on Shimen Lake is more photogenic than the climb. ⚠️ The "free tour guides" in the Tulou Folk Culture Village will take you to drink tea and shop; just politely decline. 🚄 There is a tourist bus line from Longyan Station to Yongding Tulou, which takes about 1.5 hours one way; don't trust the illegal taxis soliciting passengers on the side of the road. None of these eight cities require you to rush around checking off attractions. Pick a weekend, book a ticket, stay for three days, and take it slow. Which small city have you visited recently that made you think, "I want to stay a few more days"? Let's chat in the comments.

No "special forces" style rushing here, just slow and leisurely comfort. This "Hometown of the Four Sages" is truly worth a visit for a few days of just chilling out. 📍Must-visit attractions Wolonggang Wuhou Shrine: The red walls and bamboo shadows are perfect for photos📸. There's a light show at night that will transport you back to the Three Kingdoms period. Medical Saint Cultural Park: Breathe in the faint scent of mugwort and experience traditional Chinese medicine wellness🌿. Nanyang Prefecture Office: Wear Hanfu and stroll through the old Ming and Qing dynasty streets for the perfect vibe. Laojie Ridge: A 22°C natural oxygen bar, an absolute must for escaping the heat and getting some fresh air⛰️. 🚗Transportation High-speed rail goes directly to Nanyang East Station, which is very close to the city center. The starting fare for taxis in the city is low, and riding shared e-scooters is super fun🛵. For trips to surrounding counties like Xixia and Neixiang, self-driving or carpooling is recommended. 🗺️Itinerary Day 1: Wolonggang Wuhou Shrine > Nanyang Prefecture Office > Prefecture Office Snack Street Day 2: Medical Saint Cultural Park > Cycling at Baihe Wetland Park to watch the sunset🌅 Day 3: Get some fresh air and clear your lungs at Laojie Ridge, or take the kids to Xixia Dinosaur Park🦕 🍜Food recommendations Fangcheng Huimian: The lamb bone broth is super fresh, and the wide noodles are chewy. Xinye Banmian: Hand-pulled dough, spicy but not harsh🌶️ Zhenping roast chicken: Smoked with fruit wood, the skin is crispy, the meat is tender, and even the bones are flavorful. Also, beef soup with sesame flatbread—one bite and you'll be in heaven