Queshan travel guide and discussion

Where to take the kids for Mid-Autumn and National Day? 8️⃣ lesser-known cities to broaden their horizons 01 Yulin | Shaanxi When taking kids to see Danxia landforms, most people think of Zhangye first. I suggest you take a detour to Yulin instead. The red sandstone of Wave Valley is most vibrant before 10:00 AM, and ⏰ in the afternoon, the backlight makes it look gray. 📍 The boardwalks in Longzhou Town, Jingbian, are divided into east and west routes. Take the west route with kids; it's a gentler slope and takes about 40 mins to complete. The Yellow River side in Jia County is best visited in the evening. The water is muddy yellow, and kids will ask why it's different from their textbooks. It's the perfect time to explain soil erosion on the Loess Plateau—more effective than hearing it ten times in a classroom. Hongshixia is north of Yulin city. The canyon isn't long, but it's packed with stone carvings. ⚠️ The steps are slippery; don't let go of children under 5. 🚄 A taxi from the city center costs around CNY 20. Stay near Yulin Old Street; have a bowl of lamb offal soup in the evening—let the kids drink the soup while you eat the meat. 02 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," and the rocks are unique. Don't just take the cable car up; 📍 enter from the South Gate and take the Mila Mountain loop. It takes 2.5 hours, and you can crawl through rock crevices along the way. Kids can't resist this kind of "cave exploring." It's 3–4 degrees cooler on Laole Mountain than in the city, making September the perfect time to visit. ⏰ Head up after 4:00 PM for cooler temperatures and to catch the sunset. There's a grassy slope at the summit where kids can run around. Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. Try the spicy soup and pan-fried buns on Wenming Avenue in Zhumadian city—two bowls of soup and four buns cost less than CNY 20. ⚠️ Don't buy the "wild kiwifruit" inside the scenic area; most are brought in from elsewhere. Suitable for children over 4 who can walk on their own. 03 Honghe | Yunnan Yuanyang Rice Terraces start being flooded in September, and the mirror effect begins to appear. ⏰ Arrive at Duoyishu at 6:30 AM to wait for the sunrise. If the kids can't wake up, go to Bada in the evening instead—the light is just as good, and there are fewer people. Jianshui Ancient Town is perfect for a leisurely stroll. 📍 The steam pot chicken at Lin'an Hotel has a clear, rich broth that kids will love—they can drink two bowls. Take the meter-gauge train in the ancient town; it's a 40-minute ride to Shuanglong Bridge. Kids are more excited about the train than the ancient architecture. ⚠️ The viewing platforms for the terraces are far apart, so driving yourself is most convenient. The mountain roads are winding; give motion-sick kids medicine in advance. Stay in Xinjie Town; don't stay in the homestays within the terraces—it's pitch black at night, which is a hassle with kids. Suitable for families with children over 5 who can handle long car rides. 04 Xianning | Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield sounds intense, but it's actually a large park. Focus on Fengchu Nunnery and Baifeng Terrace; they have great stories, and kids love hearing about Zhuge Liang borrowing the east wind. ⏰ Go in the morning; 3 hours is enough to explore. 📍 Walk 1 km to the right of the scenic area exit to find a Heshengqiao chicken soup restaurant. The free-range chicken is stewed until tender, and kids can eat a whole bowl with rice. ⚠️ Avoid weekends; there are many study tour groups, and it's noisy. Weekdays in September are less crowded, making the experience much better. 🚄 It's a 40-minute taxi ride from Xianning North Station. Suitable for elementary school students who have some concept of the Three Kingdoms stories; younger kids will find it boring. 05 Chengdu | Sichuan Here's my ranking of places around Chengdu to broaden kids' horizons. For fireflies at Tiantai Mountain, ⏰ they're still around in September, but fewer than in July. 📍 Near the stream by Xiaojiawan, they are most active 1 hour after dark. ⚠️ Don't use flashlights, don't catch them—just watch. For Mount Qingcheng/Dujiangyan, just visiting the Dujiangyan scenic area is enough with kids. Explain the Yuzui, Feishayan, and Baopingkou points, and kids will have a concept of "water conservancy projects." If you can't climb Mount Qingcheng, take the cable car. Anren Ancient Town has trams and a complex of mansions; kids can ride the tram 3 times. For the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, ⏰ arrive at 7:30 AM to watch the pandas eat breakfast; they sleep after 10:00 AM. 🍜 There's a dandan noodle shop at the entrance; it's mildly spicy and kid-friendly. Stay in Dujiangyan city and enjoy the breeze at Nanqiao Bridge in the evening—it's less hassle. 06 Jinhua | Zhejiang At Hengdian World Studios, take the kids to the Qin King Palace and the Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival. ⏰ Watch a show at the Qin King Palace in the morning, and rent Hanfu for photos at the Riverside Scene in the afternoon. Kids are curious about "filming"; 📍 Guangzhou Street and Hong Kong Street have street performances with lots of interaction. The Shuanglong Scenic Area features caves and streams; it's cool in summer and comfortable in September. ⚠️ There are many steps inside the cave; don't bring a stroller. 🍜 In Jinhua city, try the bone marrow soup—let the kids gnaw on the bones while you drink the soup. 🚄 Hengdian doesn't have a high-speed railway station; the nearest is Yiwu Station, a 40-minute taxi ride away. Suitable for children interested in acting and costumes, preferably over 6. Don't rush to 2 scenic spots in 1 day; it's tiring for both you and the kids. 07 Chizhou | Anhui For Mount Jiuhua, don't plan on climbing Tiantai with kids. 📍 Just walk around Jiuhua Street, visit Huacheng Temple and the Hall of the Flesh Body Bodhisattva, and listen to the stories. ⏰ There are fewer cars going up the mountain before 7:00 AM, so no traffic jams. There's a cable car at Baisui Palace; kids enjoy the mountain views from the cable car more than walking. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are high; bring your own water and snacks. 🍜 The vegetarian noodles on Jiuhua Street are CNY 10 a bowl; if the kids don't like them, eat after going down the mountain. It's cool on the mountain in the morning and evening in September, so bring a light jacket. Suitable for families who don't mind temples and hiking. If the kids are active and might get bored, go to Pingtian Lake in Chizhou city instead for a relaxing bike ride around the lake. 08 Haidong | Qinghai At the Huzhu Tu Nationality Hometown Park, watch the "Lunziqiu" (swing) performance with the kids; they can even go up for a few turns. 📍 The Tu ethnic costume experience in the park costs CNY 30 per set and is great for photos. Youning Temple is east of Huzhu county town; it's quiet. Spin the prayer wheels with the kids and explain the basics of Tibetan Buddhism. ⚠️ Don't take photos or speak loudly inside the halls. ⏰ Qinghai starts getting cold in September, with temperatures below 10°C in the morning and evening; bring down jackets. 🚄 It's a 1-hour drive from Xining to Huzhu. For food, I recommend the braised meat noodles in Huzhu county town, which are kid-friendly. Suitable for children who have already adapted to high altitudes; be cautious about taking very young children. This route is much less crowded than Qinghai Lake during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays. None of these 8 places are crowded "internet-famous" spots. Yulin and Chizhou are the most worry-free; Honghe and Haidong are the most photogenic. When traveling with kids, travel less and sit down for a bowl of noodles more—it's more important than checking off a list. Which one have you been to? Let me know in the comments.

Don't want crowds for National Day? These 5 small cities are perfect for a slow-paced trip 01 Wuhu | Anhui If you're looking for a place that isn't crowded but still fun for National Day, Wuhu is a great choice. The Fantawild Tourist Area is the main attraction, but don't be naive and go during the first 2 days of the holiday—the lines will make you question your life choices. ⏰ We recommend going after Oct 3. Enter the park before 9:00 AM, head straight for "Fly Over the Limit" and "Magic Castle," then take your time with other attractions in the afternoon. 📍 Fantawild has 2 parks: Happy World and Dream Kingdom. If you're bringing kids, go straight to Dream Kingdom for gentler rides and more shows. For young people looking for thrills, go to Happy World—the Fire Meteor roller coaster is worth riding twice. 🍜 Food in the park is expensive and mediocre, so we recommend bringing your own bread and water. After leaving, take a taxi to Phoenix Food Street. The shrimp roe noodles and soup dumplings are local staples that people grow up eating; you can get stuffed for about CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Fantawild has fireworks during the National Day night sessions, but getting a taxi when leaving is extremely difficult. Book a car in advance or take a shuttle bus to the city center and transfer from there. For accommodation, choose the Jinghu District; it's convenient for both Fantawild and the city center. 02 Xiangxi | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town is great for a slow stroll, but the area around the Tuojiang River gets quite crowded during National Day. ⏰ Head out before 7:00 AM. The stone-paved streets are almost empty, and the mist clinging to the river makes for great photos without having to fight for a spot. 📍 Walk from the North Gate Pier along the Tuojiang River to the Jumping Stones, then turn into East Gate Main Street. The whole way is lined with old houses and silver jewelry shops. Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai Bridge can be done on the same day. Looking at the canyon from under the Aizhai Bridge, the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. The Liusha Waterfall in Dehang has just the right amount of water in autumn—not too fierce, but elegant. Shibadong Village is best for a self-driving trip, but the mountain roads are winding, so beginners should be careful. 🍜 Blood duck and sour soup fish are everywhere in Fenghuang, but don't eat at the restaurants in the first row along the river—they are expensive and the taste is mediocre. Walk 2 streets past Hongqiao Bridge to find restaurants where locals eat for about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ The ancient town doesn't charge an entrance fee, but buy tickets for smaller attractions as needed; don't get fooled by touts. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the surprise of this trip. During National Day, the leaves on the mountain start to change color, mixing red, yellow, and green, which looks better than just plain green. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM. It takes about 2 hours to walk from the South Gate to the summit. The path isn't too steep, so even seniors can walk it slowly. 📍 Flying Stone and A Thread of Sky are classic photo spots, but A Thread of Sky is narrow, so friends on the larger side might need to turn sideways to pass through. Laole Mountain is best visited in the afternoon. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket. There is a field of pink muhly grass at the foot of the mountain; it's perfectly pink in October. There are many people taking photos, but the area is large, so it doesn't feel crowded. 🍜 In Zhumadian city, try the Hu-la soup and braised noodles. We recommend the old shops near Wenming Avenue, which open as early as 6:00 AM. ⚠️ Buy tickets for Chaya Mountain online in advance, as there are few ticket windows on-site. If you are driving, the parking lot is a bit far from the mountain gate, so allow extra time for walking. 04 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient Town is quieter than Lijiang and more authentic than Fenghuang. It's not exactly an "off-the-beaten-path" destination for National Day, but it's not so crowded that you can't move. ⏰ Head up to Zhongtian Tower after 5:00 PM to watch the sunset turn the blue-tiled roofs golden—it looks 10 times better than during the day. 📍 Enter from Zhuangyuan Archway, walk along Wumiao Street to Zhangfei Temple, then turn toward the Jialing River. The whole way is lined with vinegar workshops and beef shops. Baoning Vinegar is a local specialty; you can smell the sourness on the street. 🍜 Buy vacuum-packed Zhangfei Beef as a souvenir, but don't buy it on the main street of the scenic area—it's much cheaper if you walk into the small alleys. For breakfast, try the beef noodles. They are heavy on chili oil, so let them know in advance if you can't handle the spice. ⚠️ There are many inns in the ancient town, but those facing the river have bar noise at night, so choose an inner street if you're afraid of noise. Prices double during National Day, so book 2 weeks in advance. It's suitable for bringing parents along—the pace is slow and there's less walking. 05 Jiujiang | Jiangxi Lushan Scenic Area gets quite crowded during National Day, but it's still more relaxed than Huangshan. ⏰ Take the sightseeing bus up the mountain at 6:00 AM to avoid the tour groups. 📍 Visit Huajing and Ruqin Lake first, then walk through Jinxiu Valley to the Immortal's Cave. This section is flat and suitable for seniors. Sandiequan has many stairs, so we don't recommend it if you aren't physically fit. Lushan West Sea is a different scene, with vast waters and scattered islands. A boat tour of the lake takes about 2 hours. Boat frequency is increased during National Day, so you won't have to wait too long. 🍜 Stone chicken and stone fish are local dishes on the mountain, but they aren't cheap, starting at CNY 80 per person. We recommend bringing your own dry food and heading down to Jiujiang city for radish cakes and steamed rice cakes. ⚠️ Lushan entrance tickets and sightseeing bus tickets are sold separately. Accommodation on the mountain is tight during National Day, so either book in advance or stay at the foot of the mountain. There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a jacket for the mountain in October. 06 Lhasa | Tibet Lhasa has plenty of sunshine during the day and is cool at night during National Day. Tickets for the Potala Palace must be reserved in advance. There are fewer tickets released during National Day, so if you can't get one, don't force it—the Yaowang Mountain Viewing Platform is just as good for panoramic shots. ⏰ Visit Jokhang Temple after 3:00 PM. There are many pilgrims, but the light is soft and the golden roof looks beautiful. Check the weather before going to Namtso Lake during National Day, as snow can close the roads. If you go, leave Lhasa at 6:00 AM. It's a 4-hour drive one way, and the altitude is high, so don't jump around. 📍 Tashi Peninsula is the main viewing spot. It's windy by the lake, so dress warmly. 🍜 In Lhasa city, try Tibetan noodles and sweet tea. Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House is popular with locals and costs CNY 1 per cup. ⚠️ Don't shower or drink alcohol when you first arrive in Lhasa; take a day to acclimate. Photography is not allowed inside the Potala Palace, and there is a fee to store bags. 07 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Jingpo Lake is at its most beautiful in autumn during National Day, with the colorful mountains reflected on the lake, which looks better than in summer. ⏰ Take a boat tour of the lake in the morning, go to Diaoshuilou Waterfall at noon, and in the afternoon, the light hits the waterfall at an angle, creating rainbows in the mist. 📍 There is a boardwalk below the waterfall viewing platform where you can experience the mist up close, but the steps are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. In Mudanjiang city, you can visit Riverside Park and have Korean-style BBQ and cold noodles for dinner. 🍜 We recommend the small shops in the Korean ethnic enclave. Dog meat soup and rice cakes are specialties, but the dog meat is a matter of personal preference. ⚠️ Accommodation at Jingpo Lake is expensive during National Day, so we recommend staying in Mudanjiang city and driving there in the morning, which takes about 1.5 hours. 08 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge can be combined into a 1-day trip. ⏰ Go to Xibaipo in the morning. The exhibition area is free but requires a reservation. Spots are limited during National Day, so book 3 days in advance. 📍 A tour of the exhibition hall and the old residences takes about 2 hours, which is suitable for seniors. In the afternoon, drive to Zhaozhou Bridge, which takes about 1.5 hours. Zhaozhou Bridge itself isn't large and can be seen in 30 minutes. However, the Xiao River under the bridge and the surrounding parks are great for walking. The leaves turn yellow in autumn, making for great photos. 🍜 In Shijiazhuang city, try the Ganglu baked flatbread and donkey meat burger. We recommend the time-honored brands, which cost about CNY 20 per person. ⚠️ Parking at Xibaipo is limited, so go early during National Day. Zhaozhou Bridge tickets aren't expensive, but there are no facilities nearby, so bring your own water. This route is best for self-driving; public transport is a hassle. These 5 small cities won't leave you exhausted after a National Day trip, and they won't break the bank either. Which one do you want to visit the most? Or if you have your own hidden gems, share them in the comments.

Planning a trip for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day but worried about breaking the bank? I've done the research and picked 8 great budget-friendly destinations. No sugarcoating—I'll tell you straight what's worth it and what's a trap. 01 Lijiang | Yunnan First, the conclusion: Lijiang Old Town doesn't charge an admission ticket, but don't think you can get everything for free. ⏰ The old town is most like itself before 7:00 AM, with wet stone roads and shops still asleep. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and follow the water so you won't get lost. Take photos around the big waterwheel and leave quickly, as it's boring once it gets crowded. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the big expense, as the entrance fee plus the cable car isn't cheap. ⚠️ My advice: If you aren't going to take a photo at the 4680m monument, you can totally view the reflection of the snow mountain from Black Dragon Pool Park. The water is calmest before 10:00 AM on sunny days. The Mufu Palace admission ticket is around CNY 40. Go inside if you like architecture and Naxi history, but just look from the entrance if you only want photos. 🚄 A taxi from Lijiang Station to the old town is about CNY 30. Staying in Shuhe is quieter than Dayan, and you can get a hostel bed for CNY 50 in the off-season. Prices double during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so booking in advance is the only truth. 02 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain was the surprise of this trip. The rocks are strange and it's fun to climb, but don't wear flat shoes. ⏰ The light hits at an angle after 3:00 PM, creating shadows in the rock crevices, which is 10 times better for photos than at noon. 📍 Enter from the South Gate and take the Milashan route, as 3 hours is enough for the whole thing. The Laoleshan area is suitable for hanging out slowly for half a day. It's windy at the top, so bring a jacket. 🍜 Sesame leaf noodles at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are CNY 10 a bowl, more substantial than inside the scenic area. ⚠️ The cable car queue is crazy on holidays. If you have the stamina, just walk up—it only takes 40 minutes. 🚄 There are direct buses from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain, but they are infrequent. If there are many people, carpooling is more cost-effective, around CNY 20 per person. Stay in the Yicheng District downtown; budget hotels are under CNY 100. 03 Jingmen | Hubei Regarding the Xianling Mausoleum culture, I have to say something fair: people who like Ming history and ancient architecture will be glued to the spot, while those just checking in might think it's just a big pile of dirt. ⏰ Go in as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM before the tour groups arrive. The stone statues on both sides of the spirit way are quiet—that feeling can't be bought with money. 📍 It's on the way if you come from Mochou Village, and you can combine both spots in one day. Mochou Village doesn't charge an admission ticket, and the food is cheaper than at the entrance of Xianling Mausoleum. ⚠️ There's no shade inside Xianling Mausoleum, and the summer sun hurts your scalp, so September is just right. 🚄 A taxi from Jingmen Station to Xianling Mausoleum is about CNY 40. There are buses, but the wait is long. Stay near Zhongtian Street, eat a bowl of Aizi pie with rice tea in the evening, and you can keep daily expenses under CNY 150. It's suitable for bringing elderly people, as the road is flat and not tiring to walk. 04 Lhasa | Tibet First, about altitude sickness: don't push yourself. ⏰ Lie down when you arrive on the first day. Don't wash your hair or jump around. You need to book the Potala Palace admission ticket in advance; it sells out fast in peak season. 📍 The Yaowangshan viewing platform is for panoramic shots of the Potala Palace. Get there before 8:00 AM to grab a spot, or it'll be full of heads later. A round trip to Namtso in one day is very rushed; I suggest staying one night. ⚠️ Accommodation conditions by the lake are average, so bring a sleeping bag liner. Sunbathing at the entrance of Jokhang Temple is free. Watching people kowtow back and forth is more moving than entering the hall. 🍜 Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House has sweet tea for CNY 0.8 a cup; you can sit all afternoon and no one will rush you. 🚄 Lhasa buses are CNY 1, and taxis start at CNY 10. Stay in a hostel near Barkhor Street for about CNY 60 a bed. Train tickets are tight during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but the ticket price itself won't rise, so just grab them early. 05 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Star Lake is my personal favorite. ⏰ Go in after 5:30 PM. The light around Seven Star Crags is incredibly soft, and it's free for locals to take a walk. 📍 Enter from Paifang Square and rent a bike to ride around the lake; CNY 20 is enough for the whole afternoon. ⚠️ Don't eat in the scenic area; it's expensive and tastes bad. Walk out of the archway towards Wenming Road; Zongzi are CNY 5 each, enough for a meal. 🍜 Go a bit further to the foot of the Song Dynasty City Wall. The rice noodle roll shops are open until the early morning, CNY 6 a serving. 🚄 A taxi from Zhaoqing Station to Star Lake is CNY 15. Stay in Duanzhou District; you can get a clean place for just over CNY 100. It's still hot in Guangdong in September and October, so bring an umbrella and don't skimp on sunscreen. Suitable for those on a tight budget who want to see mountains and water; Star Lake is enough for two days. 06 Hanzhong | Shaanxi The Shimen Plank Road is more tiring than you'd think. ⏰ Go in the morning, as the light is blocked by the mountains in the afternoon. 📍 Enter from Baogukou. The plank road is built along the cliff with water underneath. If you're afraid of heights, hold onto the railing. ⚠️ Don't believe the people soliciting customers at the entrance about "skipping the line"—there's no line at all. The Ancient Hantai is free and closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Go to the Han River in the evening; locals are fishing and walking their dogs, and it's full of life. 🍜 Hot rice noodles with vegetable tofu, CNY 8 a set; I ate it for three days straight and didn't get tired of it. 🚄 You can take a bus from Hanzhong Station to Ancient Hantai, and there's a special tourist line to Shimen Plank Road. Stay near the Central Square; budget hotels are CNY 80–90. Hanzhong isn't crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so it's great value and suitable for those who don't want to see crowds. 07 Tai'an | Shandong About climbing Mount Tai at night, I have to pour some cold water: it's not for everyone. ⏰ Start from Hongmen at 10:00 PM and arrive at Nantianmen around 4:00 AM to wait for the sunrise. ⚠️ Don't rent a military coat at the foot of the mountain; it's heavy as hell. It's not too late to rent one at Nantianmen. If you have average stamina, take a bus from Tianwaicun to Zhongtianmen and then climb to save half the effort. 📍 The steps at Shibapan are steep; hold onto the iron chains and don't look back. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to the Old County Office to eat San soup with fried dough sticks; CNY 10 to get full. 🚄 A taxi from Tai'an Station to Hongmen is CNY 20. Staying near the train station is cheaper than at the foot of the mountain, and it's convenient to store luggage. The temperature at the top of the mountain is near 0°C at night in September and October, so a down jacket is a must. Ticket and cable car prices are subject to the official daily announcement. 08 Wuhu | Anhui Fantawild Tourist Area is suitable for those with kids and those looking for thrills. ⏰ Rush to the popular attractions as soon as the park opens. The queues double in the afternoon. 📍 Start from the right side of the main gate and play counter-clockwise to avoid unnecessary walking. ⚠️ Don't buy the raincoats inside; the quality is poor, so bring your own. 🍜 After leaving the park, go to Phoenix Food Street. Shrimp roe noodles are CNY 15, much better than the CNY 40 set meal inside the park. Stay in Jinghu District; budget hotels are around CNY 100, and a taxi to Fantawild is CNY 20. There are fireworks at the Fantawild night session during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but it's also really crowded. If you have children, keep an eye on their wristbands and don't just focus on taking photos. If your budget is tight, just play for one day and go to Binjiang Park the next day to enjoy the breeze for free; the river view is no worse than Fantawild.

Stop fighting highway traffic on weekends. These 8 niche cities are the real hidden gems for a road trip. 01 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Zone is the one stop I wanted to keep to myself. Park your car at Wenjia Pier and take the ferry to the island; the salty sea breeze hits you right in the face. ⏰ It's most comfortable to arrive after 4:30 PM. The tour groups have left, and you can sit on the steps in front of the Mazu statue and just zone out. There are electric carts on the island, but I don't recommend taking them the whole way. It's about a 20-minute walk from the pier to the Ancestral Temple complex, and the stone paths along the way are lined with stalls selling hongtuan and Mazu cakes. 🍜 Eat the hongtuan while it's hot. They get hard as rocks when they cool down—don't ask me how I know. If you want to stay on the island, book a homestay in the Gangli Village area—the kind where you can see the ocean when you open the window. ⚠️ The ferry lines on holidays can make you question your life choices, so try to get to the pier before 7:00 AM. It's great for bringing older relatives; the pace is slow, and there isn't too much walking. 02 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient City and Wahuang Palace—one is in the water, the other is on a mountain—are perfectly fine to visit on the same day. I recommend entering Guangfu Ancient City before 8:00 AM. The mist over the moat hasn't cleared yet, and the reflection of the city walls looks like an ink wash painting. 📍 The crispy fish stall outside the South Gate only sells until 10:00 AM. If you go late, there's only soup left. Wahuang Palace is in She County, an hour and a half drive from Guangfu. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits the Wahuang Pavilion, and you can really see the details of those suspended wooden structures. It's about a 40-minute climb up the stairs; if your knees aren't great, just take the cable car. Don't push yourself. ⚠️ Those "free tours" in Guangfu Ancient City will eventually lead you into souvenir shops. It's more relaxing to explore on your own. It's perfect for people who like ancient architecture and a slow pace. Two spots in one day is just right—no rushing. 03 Zhangye | Gansu I split the four spots—Colorful Danxia, Giant Buddha Temple, Liqian Ancient City, and Mati Temple—over two days. You must go to Danxia in the afternoon. ⏰ Enter the scenic area two hours before sunset; that's when the colors at Viewing Platform No. 4 really ignite. ⚠️ Don't go at noon. The harsh white light makes all your photos look gray. The Giant Buddha Temple is in the city center; a half-hour visit in the morning is enough. Liqian Ancient City is a bit far, but that Gobi Desert highway is amazing to drive on. 📍 Any spot you pull over to take photos looks like a scene from a road movie. The grottoes at Mati Temple require climbing some plank roads, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 The cuoyu noodles and beef rice at Ganzhou Market in the city are cheap and filling. This is suitable for experienced drivers; the road conditions are good, but the distances are long, so don't pack your itinerary too full. 04 Zhongwei | Ningxia Gaomiao Temple and Shapotou—one is in the city, the other is on the edge of the desert—the contrast is incredible. Gaomiao Temple was a place I unexpectedly loved. ⏰ Go in right when it opens at 9:00 AM. The underground palace part is cool and dark; you won't want to leave in the summer. 📍 The haozi noodles on the street in front of the temple are what the locals eat while squatting. Go to Shapotou in the afternoon. The spot to get the Yellow River and the desert in the same frame is above the sand-sliding area. ⚠️ Camel riding and sand sliding in the scenic area have long lines. If you want to save time, buy a package ticket and head straight to the Yellow River area. If you have kids, the sheepskin rafts are more worth it than the camels. Go back to the city in the evening for stir-fried latiao noodles. The chili in Zhongwei is fragrant but not harsh. It's great for families, but the desert UV rays are intense, so don't skimp on sunscreen. 05 Anqing | Anhui The wind on Mount Tianzhu was the most unexpected highlight of this trip. It's an hour and a half drive from downtown Anqing. ⏰ I recommend getting to the cable car entrance before 7:30 AM, or you'll be standing in line until your legs go numb. Once you're up the mountain, take the Mystery Valley route; crawling through the rock crevices is much more interesting than just walking up stairs. 📍 The Liandan Lake halfway up the mountain looks like a piece of jade when it's foggy in the morning. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes in an instant. Raincoats are more useful than umbrellas, and the wind at the summit is strong enough to blow an umbrella inside out. The cable car stops at 4:30 PM, so don't lose track of time. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to the city for braised pork with sweet potato starch balls—the people in Anqing really know how to make this. It's suitable for people with decent stamina; the whole route takes five or six hours. For seniors, I recommend taking the cable car both ways. 06 Meizhou | Guangdong Yannanfei Tea Garden is perfect for a weekend where you don't want to climb mountains and just want to wander around the tea fields. ⏰ Enter the park at 8:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared from the tea fields yet, and the tea pickers are already bent over on the slopes. 📍 You can pick and stir-fry tea yourself over at the Tea Culture Pavilion; it's perfect for kids to experience. 🍜 I didn't have high expectations for the tea-infused chicken and Hakka lei cha in the park, but I ended up eating two bowls of rice. ⚠️ There are a lot of bugs in the tea fields, so long pants and mosquito repellent are must-haves. Don't wear short skirts. Drive to Qiaoxi Ancient Village in the afternoon. The old walled houses are hidden in the mountain valley, and there are very few tourists. It's suitable for bringing parents or for couples; the pace is slow, and you don't have to fight for photo spots. 07 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain are not far from each other, but their styles are completely different. The rocks at Chaya Mountain have strange shapes. ⏰ Go in the morning when the sunlight hits them at an angle; that's when the rock crevices have depth. 📍 The Black Wind Cave in the scenic area is really hard for bigger people to squeeze through, so don't push it. Go to Laole Mountain in the afternoon; the sunset at the summit is more expansive than at Chaya Mountain. ⚠️ The cable cars on both mountains stop at 5:00 PM, so time it right. There aren't many places to buy water on the mountain, so carry enough yourself. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to the city for hot and sour soup. They use a lot of pepper in Zhumadian, and you'll be sweating after drinking it. It's suitable for people who like strange rock formations and hiking. Wear shoes with good grip. 08 Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower, Dongting Lake, and Junshan Island can be strung together into one route. You can do it in a day, but it will be tiring. Get to Yueyang Tower ⏰ before 8:00 AM. The promotion where you get free admission for reciting "Yueyang Tower Record" is still running, and the lines aren't long. 📍 Looking out from the window on the third floor, the boats on Dongting Lake move like tiny dots. Take a boat to Junshan Island and take your time strolling through the spotted bamboo and tea gardens on the island. ⚠️ Ferry schedules are reduced during the dry season, so check the daily schedule before you head out. 🍜 For the "huitou" fish by Dongting Lake, look for small restaurants in residential areas. The ones at the entrance of the scenic area are expensive and mediocre. It's suitable for bringing seniors; the whole route is mostly flat. If you want a more relaxed trip, cut out Junshan Island. Yueyang Tower plus a walk by the lake is just right. Of these eight places, the ones I most want to visit again are Zhangye and Zhongwei. One for the colors, the other for the desolation. How about you? Which direction are you planning to drive this weekend?

✅ Pros 1. Diverse landscapes, including the top-tier 5A Chaya Mountain. It's a unique rocky mountain on the plains, a filming location for Journey to the West, with many caves and great hiking. There's also the grand Nanhai Zen Temple, the free ancient-style town Royal Post Station, and the vast Suya Lake. It covers mountains, water, ancient architecture, lakes, and culture—something for everyone. 2. Great value, with many free attractions. Royal Post Station and Suya Lake are free. Paid attraction tickets are affordable. Dining and accommodation in the city are inexpensive. Local snacks like spicy soup, braised noodles, and Queshan jelly are cheap and plentiful. Overall travel costs are low. 3. Convenient high-speed rail access. Zhumadian West Station has high-speed rail, making it quick to arrive from Zhengzhou or Wuhan. It's friendly for out-of-town visitors. Taxis in the city are cheap, making local travel easy. 4. Flexible activity levels. If you want exercise, hike Chaya Mountain or Laole Mountain. If you prefer to relax, stroll through the Royal Post Station or along Suya Lake in the evening. You can choose between active and laid-back options without needing to hike the whole time. ❌ Cons 1. Attractions are scattered across different counties, making cross-county public transport difficult. Chaya Mountain is in Suiping, Nanhai Zen Temple and Suya Lake are in Runan, and Laole Mountain is in Queshan. They are far apart. There are no direct tourist buses, and schedules are infrequent, requiring transfers to county buses, which is time-consuming. Without a car, you'll have to carpool or hire a car, increasing travel costs. 2. Many attractions are just average during the day. The Royal Post Station is quite ordinary during the day and only looks good at night. Suya Lake has few facilities and is just a raw, natural lake. Laole Mountain's scenery isn't as impressive as the mountains in western Henan. 3. Hot summers and sun exposure at Chaya Mountain. Summers on the plains are very hot. Chaya Mountain has many rocks and little shade, making hiking very sunny and buggy. It's better to visit in spring or autumn. 4. Some attractions have many extra costs. Slides, magic carpets, and sightseeing vehicles at Chaya Mountain are charged separately. If you don't buy them, hiking is very tiring, which can easily lead to extra expenses. 🚗 Transport & 🏨 Accommodation · Transport: High-speed rail to Zhumadian West Station is preferred. Self-driving is the best choice for cross-county travel. Carpooling to Chaya Mountain costs about CNY 30 per person round trip. · Accommodation: Stay in the Yicheng District downtown area first, where chain hotels cost CNY 120–260 and there are plenty of restaurants and supermarkets. If you want to take night photos, stay at a homestay in the Royal Post Station. Farmhouse inns at the foot of Chaya Mountain have basic conditions and are suitable for entering the scenic area early the next morning. 🍜 Food Spicy soup, Zhumadian braised noodles, Queshan jelly, Runan beef tripe hot pot, and sesame leaf bean noodles.

Worried about the stress of traveling with kids during the National Day holiday? These 6️⃣ places will keep your kids entertained! 01 Qujing | Yunnan If you're taking your kids to Qujing for National Day, I recommend starting with the Luoping rapeseed flower fields. ⏰ Don't sleep in! Arrive at Jinji Peak Forest before 8 am. The morning mist hasn't dissipated, and the fields are almost deserted, allowing your kids to run and play freely on the ridges. October isn't rapeseed flower season, but the karst peaks and rice paddies are still beautiful, and most importantly, it's not too sunny. Jiulong Waterfall Group is best visited in the afternoon. 📍 Enter from the west gate and walk down the steps. The sound of water is constant, and your kids will splash around non-stop. ⚠️ The steps are slippery, so don't let your kids wear Crocs; non-slip sneakers are the best choice. Eat and stay in Luoping County. 🍜 A bowl of steamed rice noodles with a braised egg is enough for your child to devour. Hotels in the county town didn't raise prices too much during the National Day holiday; a clean room can be had for around 200 yuan. Strollers are basically unnecessary; baby carriers are more practical. Slow down the pace of traveling with a child; one destination a day is enough. The drive from Luoping to Jiulong Waterfall takes forty minutes; let the child nap on the way so they'll be energetic in the afternoon. 02 Yueyang|Hunan Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake are next to each other, so there's no need to travel back and forth with a child. ⏰ Go to Yueyang Tower first in the morning. If the child can recite "The Yueyang Tower Inscription" for free admission, the money saved can be used to buy popsicles. The steps to the top are narrow, so hold their hand tightly. Go downstairs and walk directly along the shore of Dongting Lake. It's windy, so bring a light jacket for the child. 📍 Bianhe Street is right next door; have lunch there. 🍜 Shrimp cakes and steamed eggs with Dongting silver fish; the child ate quietly. Take a boat to Junshan Island; there are many monkeys on the island, ⚠️ don't carry plastic bags, the monkeys will snatch them. Priority for families with kids: Yueyang Tower is a must-see; Junshan Island depends on stamina. If the child is sleepy, they can take a nap on the boat while adults take turns exploring. Strollers can walk along the flat lakeside paths, but there are many steps leading to the island, so baby carriers are recommended. 03 Weihai | Shandong Weihai is a comfortable option for families with kids during the National Day holiday: flat roads, clean sea, and a slow pace. ⏰ Go to Chengshantou first in the morning. Get there early to see the sunrise; if the child can't get up, go in the afternoon—the sea breeze will still be enjoyable. 📍 The mini-train in the scenic area costs extra; let the child ride if they want, don't force them to walk, it saves energy. Huaxia City is best visited in the afternoon; there are many indoor performances that children can sit still for. ⚠️ Performance times are fixed; check the schedule before entering to avoid missing anything. Take a boat to Liugong Island; it can be windy on the deck, so make sure the child wears a hat. There are many museums on the island; choose one to visit, as the child will likely get restless if you visit them all. For food and accommodation, choose a city center sea-view room. 🍜 Order a small portion of mackerel dumplings; it's just the right amount for the kid to try. Strollers are generally easy to navigate in Weihai, and the seaside path is flat and suitable for strolling with children. Prices double during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 04 Quanzhou|Fujian For families with children in Quanzhou, I recommend visiting Qingyuan Mountain in the morning. ⏰ Start climbing at 7:30 am. There's almost no one at Lao Jun Rock, and kids can touch the inscriptions on the stones, which is more interesting than looking at pictures. The mountain isn't high; an hour is enough with plenty of walking and stopping. ⚠️ There are many steps down the mountain, so be prepared if you're carrying a child. Quanzhou's cliff carvings are scattered throughout the city; no need to specifically look for them, there are some in Kaiyuan Temple. 📍 Feed the pigeons at the East and West Pagodas of Kaiyuan Temple; kids can play for half an hour. Visit Chongwu Ancient City to see the sea; it's windy near the city walls, so bring an extra layer for the child. 🍜 We went back to West Street for lunch and had rice noodle soup with vinegar-braised pork, which the kid loved. When choosing between visiting with a child: Qingyuan Mountain and Kaiyuan Temple are must-sees; Chongwu Ancient Town is too far, so we skipped it due to time constraints. Strollers are difficult to navigate on West Street due to the crowds; a baby carrier is more flexible. 05 Dalian|Liaoning When traveling with a child in Dalian, choose either Jinshitan or Tiger Beach; visiting both will exhaust the child. ⏰ At Jinshitan, go beachcombing in the morning. Check the tide table beforehand; when the tide is low, the child will dig in the sand and refuse to leave. 📍 The Golden Beach coastline is gentle, suitable for strollers and toddlers. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is best visited in the afternoon. 🐬 Arrive 20 minutes early to secure a seat for the dolphin show; those in the front row will get splashed, but the child is actually happy. ⚠️ Food inside the park is expensive; bring your own bread and water. Go to Xinghai Square in the evening; rent a tandem bicycle, and the child will sit in front and laugh the whole way. Tangli Lake Park is less crowded, making it suitable for setting up a tent for a midday rest. 🍜 In the evening, we'll go back to the city for seafood stew; the kids will have the original flavor. Dalian's public transportation is convenient, and the subway goes directly to Tiger Beach, so there's no need to take a taxi. It's cool by the sea during the National Day holiday, so bring long-sleeved shirts. 06 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the top choice for families with children in Zhumadian. ⏰ We'll enter the mountain at 8 am, take the cable car up, and walk down; it's less tiring for kids and easier for adults. 📍 The rock at Shihouyuan looks like a monkey, and the kids didn't want to leave for a long time. ⚠️ The mountain path is narrow, and it gets crowded during the National Day holiday, so hold their hands tightly. We'll go to Laole Mountain in the afternoon; it's windy on the mountain, so bring a windproof jacket for the kids. The kids love the grass skiing and rafting in the scenic area, but ⚠️ rafting will get you wet, so bring a change of clothes. 🍜 Enjoy a hearty stewed chicken at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain; the kids love the cornbread. Priority for families with children: Chaya Mountain is a must-see; Laole Mountain depends on time. Strollers are basically useless at Chaya Mountain; carry or hold the child the whole time. Chaya Mountain is an hour's drive from Zhumadian city; driving is the most convenient. Book accommodation in advance for the National Day holiday, as there are fewer options in the county town. 07 Liuzhou|Guangxi Traveling with children in Liuzhou, Chengyang Eight Villages is on day one. ⏰ Depart from the city in the morning, arriving in two hours. Walk across the covered bridge; the kids will find the drum tower fascinating. 📍 There's a "Hundred Families Banquet" in the village; 🍜 the sour fish and sour meat might not be to the kids' liking, so order some oil tea instead. ⚠️ The village has many stone-paved roads; strollers will be bumpy, so a baby carrier is more stable. Longtan Park is best visited in the afternoon; it's easily accessible by taxi from the city center. Feeding the fish by the lake can keep kids entertained for a long time. The Liujiang River night cruise is best done in the evening; take a boat ride to see the fountains, and your child will be clapping excitedly. ⚠️ Buy night cruise tickets in advance, as there are long queues on-site. Suggested itinerary for children: Stay overnight in Chengyang Bazhai, then return to the city center the next day to visit Longtan. If your child can handle spicy food, let them try Liuzhou snail rice noodles; otherwise, order the original broth. Strollers are easy to walk in Longtan Park, but not in Chengyang. 08 Lhasa | Tibet When traveling to Lhasa with children, consider their age first. ⏰ Namtso Lake is at a high altitude; I don't recommend going if your child is under six years old. The bumpy road and altitude sickness will be uncomfortable for both adults and children. In the morning, take your child to feed the pigeons at Potala Palace Square; you don't need to go inside the palace, just walk around outside. 📍 Take photos of the Potala Palace from the Yaowang Mountain viewing platform; if your child can stand, take the photos, but don't force them to. Sunbathing at the entrance of Jokhang Temple, the child watched the people prostrating themselves, very quietly. 🍜 Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House, the child loved the sweet tea, and the Tibetan noodles were served in small bowls. ⚠️ Lhasa has a large temperature difference between day and night, dress the child in three layers, and remove one layer at midday. Priorities for traveling with a child: Potala Palace Square and Jokhang Temple are must-sees, Namtso Lake depends on the child's physical condition. Strollers are difficult to walk on Barkhor Street due to the crowds, so a baby carrier is recommended. Accommodation in Lhasa is scarce during the National Day holiday, so book a room with oxygen supply in advance; the child slept soundly. Traveling with a child during the National Day holiday is definitely tiring, but choosing the right place can save you a lot of breakdowns. Qujing and Weihai are best for young children, Quanzhou and Dalian offer great food, Liuzhou and Zhumadian offer good value for money, and Lhasa can be visited when the child is older. Which destination would you most like to take your child to? Afraid of being tired traveling with a child during the National Day holiday? These 6️⃣ Places Kids Won't Want to Leave 01 Qujing | Yunnan If you're taking your kids to Qujing for National Day, I recommend starting with the rapeseed flower fields of Luoping. ⏰ Don't sleep in! Arrive at Jinji Peak Forest before 8 AM. The morning mist hasn't dissipated, and the fields are almost deserted, allowing your kids to run and play freely on the ridges. October isn't rapeseed flower season, but the karst peaks and rice paddies are still beautiful, and most importantly, it's not sunny. Jiulong Waterfall Group is best visited in the afternoon. 📍 Enter from the west gate and walk down the steps. The sound of water is constant, and your kids will splash around non-stop. ⚠️ The steps are slippery, so don't let your kids wear Crocs; non-slip sneakers are the best choice. Eat and stay in Luoping County. 🍜 A bowl of steamed rice noodles with a braised egg is enough for your child to devour. Hotels in the county don't have drastic price increases during National Day; you can find clean rooms for around 200 RMB. Strollers are basically unnecessary; baby carriers are more practical. Slow down the pace of traveling with a child; one destination a day is enough. The drive from Luoping to Jiulong Waterfall takes forty minutes; let the child nap on the way so they'll be energetic in the afternoon. 02 Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake are next to each other, so there's no need to travel back and forth with a child. ⏰ Go to Yueyang Tower first in the morning. If the child can recite "The Yueyang Tower Inscription" for free admission, the money saved can be used to buy popsicles. The steps to the top are narrow, so hold their hand tightly. Go down and walk directly along the shore of Dongting Lake. It's windy, so bring a light jacket for the child. 📍 Bianhe Street is right next door; we ate lunch there. 🍜 Shrimp cakes and steamed eggs with Dongting silver fish—the child ate quietly. Take a boat to Junshan Island; there are many monkeys on the island, ⚠️ don't carry plastic bags, the monkeys will snatch them. For families with kids: Yueyang Tower is a must-see, Junshan Island depends on stamina. If the child is sleepy, they can take a nap on the boat while adults take turns exploring. Strollers can walk along the flat lakeside paths, but there are many steps leading to the island, so baby carriers are recommended. 03 Weihai | Shandong Weihai is a comfortable option for families with kids during the National Day holiday. The roads are flat, the sea is clean, and the pace is slow. ⏰ Go to Chengshantou first in the morning. You need to get there early to see the sunrise. If the child can't get up, go in the afternoon; the sea breeze will still be enjoyable. 📍 The mini-train in the scenic area costs extra. Let the child ride if they want; don't force them to walk, it saves energy. Huaxia City is best visited in the afternoon; there are many indoor performances that children can sit still for. ⚠️ Performance times are fixed; check the schedule before entering to avoid missing anything. Take a boat to Liugong Island; it can be windy on the deck, so make sure the child wears a hat. There are many museums on the island; choose one to visit, as the child will likely get restless if you visit them all. For food and accommodation, choose a city center sea-view room. 🍜 Order a small portion of mackerel dumplings; it's just the right amount for the kid to try. Strollers are generally easy to navigate in Weihai, and the seaside path is flat and suitable for strolling with children. Prices double during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. 04 Quanzhou|Fujian For families with children in Quanzhou, I recommend visiting Qingyuan Mountain in the morning. ⏰ Start climbing at 7:30 am. There's almost no one at Lao Jun Rock, and kids can touch the inscriptions on the stones, which is more interesting than looking at pictures. The mountain isn't high; an hour is enough with plenty of walking and stopping. ⚠️ There are many steps down the mountain, so be prepared if you're carrying a child. Quanzhou's cliff carvings are scattered throughout the city; no need to specifically look for them, there are some in Kaiyuan Temple. 📍 Feed the pigeons at the East and West Pagodas of Kaiyuan Temple; kids can play for half an hour. Visit Chongwu Ancient City to see the sea; it's windy near the city walls, so bring an extra layer for the child. 🍜 We went back to West Street for lunch and had rice noodle soup with vinegar-braised pork, which the kid loved. When choosing between visiting with a child: Qingyuan Mountain and Kaiyuan Temple are must-sees; Chongwu Ancient Town is too far, so we skipped it due to time constraints. Strollers are difficult to navigate on West Street due to the crowds; a baby carrier is more flexible. 05 Dalian|Liaoning When traveling with a child in Dalian, choose either Jinshitan or Tiger Beach; visiting both will exhaust the child. ⏰ At Jinshitan, go beachcombing in the morning. Check the tide table beforehand; when the tide is low, the child will dig in the sand and refuse to leave. 📍 The Golden Beach coastline is gentle, suitable for strollers and toddlers. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is best visited in the afternoon. 🐬 Arrive 20 minutes early to secure a seat for the dolphin show; those in the front row will get splashed, but the child is actually happy. ⚠️ Food inside the park is expensive; bring your own bread and water. Go to Xinghai Square in the evening; rent a tandem bicycle, and the child will sit in front and laugh the whole way. Tangli Lake Park is less crowded, making it suitable for setting up a tent for a midday rest. 🍜 In the evening, we'll go back to the city for seafood stew; the kids will have the original flavor. Dalian's public transportation is convenient, and the subway goes directly to Tiger Beach, so there's no need to take a taxi. It's cool by the sea during the National Day holiday, so bring long-sleeved shirts. 06 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the top choice for families with children in Zhumadian. ⏰ We'll enter the mountain at 8 am, take the cable car up, and walk down; it's less tiring for kids and easier for adults. 📍 The rock at Shihouyuan looks like a monkey, and the kids didn't want to leave for a long time. ⚠️ The mountain path is narrow, and it gets crowded during the National Day holiday, so hold their hands tightly. We'll go to Laole Mountain in the afternoon; it's windy on the mountain, so bring a windproof jacket for the kids. The kids love the grass skiing and rafting in the scenic area, but ⚠️ rafting will get you wet, so bring a change of clothes. 🍜 Enjoy a hearty stewed chicken at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain; the kids love the cornbread. Priority for families with children: Chaya Mountain is a must-see; Laole Mountain depends on time. Strollers are basically useless at Chaya Mountain; carry or hold the child the whole time. Chaya Mountain is an hour's drive from Zhumadian city; driving is the most convenient. Book accommodation in advance for the National Day holiday, as there are fewer options in the county town. 07 Liuzhou|Guangxi Traveling with children in Liuzhou, Chengyang Eight Villages is on day one. ⏰ Depart from the city in the morning, arriving in two hours. Walk across the covered bridge; the kids will find the drum tower fascinating. 📍 There's a "Hundred Families Banquet" in the village; 🍜 the sour fish and sour meat might not be to the kids' liking, so order some oil tea instead. ⚠️ The village has many stone-paved roads; strollers will be bumpy, so a baby carrier is more stable. Longtan Park is best visited in the afternoon; it's easily accessible by taxi from the city center. Feeding the fish by the lake can keep kids entertained for a long time. The Liujiang River night cruise is best done in the evening; take a boat ride to see the fountains, and your child will be clapping excitedly. ⚠️ Buy night cruise tickets in advance, as there are long queues on-site. Suggested itinerary for children: Stay overnight in Chengyang Bazhai, then return to the city center the next day to visit Longtan. If your child can handle spicy food, let them try Liuzhou snail rice noodles; otherwise, order the original broth. Strollers are easy to walk in Longtan Park, but not in Chengyang. 08 Lhasa | Tibet When traveling to Lhasa with children, consider their age first. ⏰ Namtso Lake is at a high altitude; I don't recommend going if your child is under six years old. The bumpy road and altitude sickness will be uncomfortable for both adults and children. In the morning, take your child to feed the pigeons at Potala Palace Square; you don't need to go inside the palace, just walk around outside. 📍 Take photos of the Potala Palace from the Yaowang Mountain viewing platform; if your child can stand, take the photos, but don't force them to. Sunbathing at the entrance of Jokhang Temple, the child watched the people prostrating themselves, very quietly. 🍜 Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House, the child loved the sweet tea, and the Tibetan noodles were served in small bowls. ⚠️ Lhasa has a large temperature difference between day and night, so dress the child in three layers, removing one layer at midday. Priorities for traveling with a child: Potala Palace Square and Jokhang Temple are must-sees; Namtso Lake depends on the child's physical condition. Strollers are difficult to walk on Barkhor Street due to the crowds, so a baby carrier is recommended. Accommodation in Lhasa is scarce during the National Day holiday, so book a room with oxygen supply in advance; the child slept soundly. Traveling with a child during the National Day holiday is definitely tiring, but choosing the right place can save you a lot of breakdowns. Qujing and Weihai are best for young children, Quanzhou and Dalian offer great food, Liuzhou and Zhumadian offer good value for money, and Lhasa can be visited when the child is older. Which destination would you most like to take your child to?

Want to take your parents out for the National Day holiday but worried about crowds, too much walking, or bad food? I've picked 8 places that share a few common traits: flat paths, a slow pace, and plenty of places to sit and rest. I'll go through them one by one, clearly outlining the pitfalls and highlights. 1️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan The rocks at Chaya Mountain look strange, but what parents really like is the flat path at the foot of the mountain. ⏰ Enter before 8:30 AM while the fog hasn't cleared yet; it's great for photos and not too sunny. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and take the wooden boardwalk around the mountain. There are almost no stairs, so you can even push a wheelchair for most of the way. Laole Mountain is better suited for the afternoon. Take the scenic shuttle bus up and then walk down slowly to reduce the pressure on your knees. ⚠️ There are few places to buy water on the mountain, so bring enough yourself. You can try the sesame leaf noodles at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain; they're CNY 10 a bowl. Don't order too much, as the portions are generous. If you're bringing your parents, these two spots are perfect for one day without rushing. Ticket and shuttle bus prices are subject to official daily announcements. For the National Day holiday, it's recommended to book online one day in advance. 2️⃣ Taizhou | Zhejiang For Tiantai Mountain, I recommend the Guoqing Temple area. ⏰ Get there right when it opens at 7:00 AM. It's less crowded, there's plenty of shade, and your parents can walk around without getting winded. You can sit by the stream in front of the temple for a long time without having to climb anything. The Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Area is perfect for the evening. 📍 Enter from Lan Sheng Gate. The slope of the city wall is gentle, so walk a bit and then come back down—don't force yourself to do the whole thing. 🍜 Eat the seaweed cakes on Ziyang Street while they're hot; they get hard when they cool down. I don't really recommend Shenxianju for seniors with limited mobility. The cable car lines are long, and while the boardwalks on the mountain are flat, it's very windy. ⚠️ If you must go, choose the South Gate cable car for both up and down, and don't take the Beihai route. Split these three spots over two days; don't cram them into one. 3️⃣ Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou is the most suitable transit stop for seniors on this list. ⏰ Go to the Provincial Museum in the morning. Book three days in advance, and remember it's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. There are plenty of places to sit inside, and two hours is just right for a leisurely visit. Go to Baita Mountain Park in the afternoon. 📍 Walk over from Zhongshan Bridge, take the cable car up the mountain, and then slowly walk down along the mountain road. The Yellow River is right at your feet, and your parents will love that view. 🍜 Have beef noodles after coming down the mountain. Choose a shop where locals are lining up; morning and noon are the safest bets. ⚠️ The temperature difference between morning and evening in Lanzhou is significant, so bring a light jacket even for the National Day holiday. The Zhengning Road Night Market is crowded, so don't squeeze in there with seniors. It's more comfortable to find a quiet restaurant nearby to eat hand-grabbed mutton. 4️⃣ Chengde | Hebei For the Chengde Mountain Resort and surrounding temples, the point isn't to finish everything, but to choose a section. ⏰ Enter from Lizheng Gate in the morning, take the mountain shuttle to Er'madao, and then slowly stroll through the lake area. The paths in the plains area are the flattest and suitable for parents. Save the Jinshanling Great Wall for the second day. ⚠️ Don't let seniors climb the whole thing. Take the cable car to the middle of the mountain and walk a short, gentle slope to see the view. The stairs between the watchtowers are high, so know your limits. 🍜 Have a bowl of buckwheat noodles in the city; they're soft and easy to digest. Choose accommodation near the resort so you don't have to rush in the morning. Ticket and cable car prices are subject to official daily announcements. It's crowded during the National Day holiday, so head out early. 5️⃣ Hanzhong | Shaanxi Shimen Plank Road is best visited in the morning. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The plank road is built flat along the mountain, so it's not strenuous to walk. 📍 The breeze by the Bao River is cool, and if your parents get tired, they can lean against the railing to rest. ⚠️ Some sections are narrow, so be mindful of others during the holiday. Visit Guhantai in the afternoon; the courtyard isn't large, but there are many trees, making it a good place to sit. The riverside of the Han River is most comfortable in the evening; the riverside walkway is flat and straight, so pushing a wheelchair is no problem. 🍜 Hot rice noodles with vegetable tofu is the most authentic breakfast; don't add too much spice. The pace in Hanzhong is slow, so it's suitable for a relaxed itinerary. Two spots a day are enough; spend the rest of the time sitting by the river. Ticket prices and opening hours are subject to official daily announcements. 6️⃣ Honghe | Yunnan Watching the sunrise at the Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces requires waking up early, but your parents might not be up for it. My suggestion is ⏰ to go to Duoyishu in the afternoon; the light is soft, it's less crowded, and the viewing platform is close to the parking area. ⚠️ The mountain roads have many curves, so hiring a car is safer than driving yourself. Jianshui Ancient Town is suitable for the second day. 📍 Walk slowly from Chaoyang Tower to Zhu Family Garden. The road is flat, there are many shops, and you can sit down for a drink at any time. 🍜 Grilled tofu and caoya rice noodles are both soft and suitable for seniors' teeth. There are many inns in the ancient town; choose one with an elevator. Prices will rise during the National Day holiday, so book early. Rice terrace and ancient town ticket prices are subject to official daily announcements; don't trust people soliciting business on the side of the road. 7️⃣ Heyuan | Guangdong The Wanlv Lake area is for parents to just zone out. ⏰ Take a boat tour of the lake in the morning. It's windy on the deck, so put a jacket on your parents. 📍 There is a lakeside walkway near the pier that is flat and gentle; a 30-minute walk is just right. 🍜 Eat river seafood by the lake; choose steamed dishes and don't order anything too heavy. ⚠️ Boat tickets are in high demand during the National Day holiday, so buy them one day in advance; don't wait around at the site. There are many mosquitoes in the lake area, so bring mosquito repellent. There aren't any must-visit spots here; it's just slow. It's suitable for seniors who don't want to rush and just want to sit and watch the water. Choose accommodation by the lake; in the morning, you can open the window to the mist. Ticket prices are subject to official daily announcements. 8️⃣ Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan is best visited in the morning. ⏰ Take the cable car into the desert; your parents don't need to climb the sand dunes, just look from the viewing platform. ⚠️ The sand reflects light strongly, so bring hats and sunglasses. Camel riding is bumpy, so seniors should be cautious. Go to the Genghis Khan Mausoleum Tourist Area in the afternoon; the paths are flat, and there are many indoor exhibits where you can sit and watch. 📍 The drive from the mausoleum area to the city is not short, so hiring a car is more worry-free. 🍜 Eat stewed lamb in the city; it's tender and easy to chew. It's cold in the morning and evening here during the National Day holiday, but sunny at noon, so dress in layers. Split these two spots over two days; don't rush. Ticket and shuttle bus prices are subject to official daily announcements; check them before you set off. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Lanzhou and Hanzhong for those taking their parents on a slow-paced trip for the first time. The transportation is smooth, the food is soft, and it's easy to walk around. Which one do you plan to visit first? Let me know in the comments, and I'll help you arrange the order.

Niche routes with few crowds and beautiful scenery for the National Day holiday, 6 hidden gems tested and confirmed to be uncrowded 1️⃣ Yanbian | Jilin The point of going to Yanbian for the National Day holiday is that it's uncrowded, cool, and the food is great. Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone is on Jinding Avenue. It costs about 20 yuan to take a taxi from Dunhua Station; don't take unlicensed cabs. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The morning mist hasn't cleared yet, and the light near the Jinding Grand Buddha is the softest, so you don't have to fight for a photo spot. This place is suitable for walking slowly with elderly family members; the steps aren't steep, and wheelchairs can be pushed to the entrance of Zhengjue Temple. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to downtown Dunhua for a bowl of cold noodles with pollack, which is half the price of what you'd pay in the scenic area. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus in the scenic area costs extra. If you have the energy, don't buy it; you can walk through the core area in 40 minutes. The temperature difference between morning and evening in October is large, so pack a light down jacket; a hoodie is just right for midday. For a comfortable stay, choose the area near Dunhua Railway Station, which is also convenient for catching a train to the Changbai Mountain direction the next day. 2️⃣ Wuxi | Jiangsu Nianhua Bay, Three Kingdoms and Water Margin City, Lingshan Grand Buddha, and Huishan Ancient Town—trying to cram them all into one day will exhaust you. I advise splitting them into two days. Lingshan Grand Buddha and Nianhua Bay are close to each other; staying in the Mashan area is the most convenient, and you can see the lights of Nianhua Bay at night. ⏰ Enter Lingshan Grand Buddha as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM. Watch the Nine Dragons Bathing the Buddha performance, then head up, and you'll avoid half the crowds. Three Kingdoms and Water Margin City is suitable for kids. There are live performances in the Water Margin City area, so check the schedule in advance. ⚠️ Don't eat main meals in the scenic area; they are expensive and mediocre. Drive 10 minutes to Xuelang Subdistrict to find a small local restaurant. Save Huishan Ancient Town for the afternoon of the second day. You can take Metro Line 4 directly from the city center. Buy Huishan tofu pudding and oil-crisp cakes along the way. After 5:00 PM, when the tour groups have left, the ancient town is most comfortable for drinking tea by the river. 3️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain and Old Leshan Mountain are emptier than you'd imagine during the National Day holiday. Chaya Mountain is in Suiping County, about an hour's drive from Zhumadian West Station. Self-driving is recommended, as transferring by bus is too much of a hassle. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM and go up through the South Gate. The section with the strange rock formations is the highlight, and you can reach the summit before noon. The mountain doesn't look high, but the steps are quite dense. If you have bad knees, bring a trekking pole. Old Leshan Mountain is suitable for the afternoon. Windmills and grassy slopes make for great photos. 📍 Search for "Old Leshan Scenic Area North Gate" in your navigation app. Parking is free. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so carry enough water yourself. For food, head back to downtown Zhumadian. The spicy soup and pan-fried buns on Wenming Avenue are the kind that locals line up for. The wind is strong in the mountains in October, so remember to bring a hat with a chin strap. 4️⃣ Sanya | Hainan Sanya is actually not as crowded as you'd imagine during the National Day holiday; it all depends on how you travel. For Daxiao Dongtian, Wuzhizhou Island, Tianya Haijiao, and Yalong Bay, I suggest staying in Yalong Bay. Go directly to the Wuzhizhou Island ferry terminal in the morning and take the first boat at 8:00 AM to get on the island when it's least crowded. ⏰ The queue for the return boat from Wuzhizhou Island after 3:00 PM is ridiculous, so leave early. Choose either Daxiao Dongtian or Tianya Haijiao. If you want to see reefs, go to Daxiao Dongtian; if you want to check in for photos, go to Tianya Haijiao. ⚠️ You have to queue to take photos with the two rocks at Tianya Haijiao, so don't get stuck there. Yalong Bay beach is free, and swimming in the evening is the most comfortable—better than the hotel pool. 🍜 When buying seafood at the First Market, find a processing shop and remember to ask about the processing fee first. Don't let touts take you somewhere. 5️⃣ Baise | Guangxi HaoKun Lake, Tongling Grand Canyon, and Chengbi Lake—this route is best for self-driving, as public transport will waste half your day. Haokun Lake is in Lingyun County. Driving around the lake takes about 2 hours. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the lake surface like a mirror. There are farmhouses by the lake; staying one night to see the morning mist is worth the price. Tongling Grand Canyon is in Jingxi, more than two hours from downtown Baise. The waterfall in the canyon still has enough water in October. It takes about 3 hours to walk to the end and back. ⚠️ The steps are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes; don't wear white sneakers. Chengbi Lake is close to the city center, suitable for a visit on the way back. A boat tour of the lake takes 40 minutes. Stay near Zhongshan 2nd Road in downtown Baise and eat rice rolls and sour snacks at night. 6️⃣ Jinhua | Zhejiang Hengdian World Studios and Shuanglong Scenic Area are in Dongyang and Wucheng District respectively, separated by over an hour's drive. For Hengdian, I suggest staying near Wansheng Street, where the night market is lively. Head to the Qin King Palace early the next morning; ⏰ arriving before 8:00 AM helps you avoid tour groups. ⚠️ Tickets for each scenic spot in Hengdian are sold separately. It's more cost-effective to buy a combo ticket online in advance; don't buy them one by one on-site. Shuanglong Scenic Area is north of downtown Jinhua, about a 20-minute taxi ride from Jinhua Station. You have to lie down in a boat to enter the Shuanglong Cave, which is a unique experience, but the queue is long. ⏰ It's best to go on a weekday morning. There is a large temperature difference inside and outside the cave in October, so bring a light jacket. 🍜 Back in the city, eat Jinhua ham stew and crispy cakes. There are many choices around Guzicheng. Stroll through the old street in the evening and grab dinner along the way. 7️⃣ Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi is perfect for catching the tail end of the autumn colors during the National Day holiday. It's about a 3-hour drive from downtown Heihe. I suggest joining a local one-day tour or self-driving. ⏰ In the morning, go to Laoheishan first to climb up and see the volcanic crater, which takes an hour and a half round trip. Then go to Wenbo, where the water is so clear you can see the bottom. ⚠️ The distances between scenic spots are far, and you basically can't get around without a car; don't believe that you can walk there. As for the mineral water foot soak project, it depends on personal preference; I think it's just okay. 🍜 Return to downtown Heihe for Russian-style Western food. Try the rye bread with red sausage; there are several old shops on Central Street. It's already quite cold in Heihe in October, so wear a down jacket; don't try to tough it out. 8️⃣ Alashan League | Inner Mongolia Populus euphratica forest and Badain Jaran Desert. The National Day holiday is when the Populus euphratica forest is at its yellowest, but it's also when it's most crowded. To avoid the crowds, ⏰ arrive at the Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area before 7:00 AM, enter from Erdaoqiao, and walk against the flow of people. ⚠️ Accommodation in Ejina triples during the National Day holiday, so book a month in advance or stay in a homestay and share a room. Enter the Badain Jaran Desert from Alashan Right Banner. The off-road vehicle sand-dashing project is worth experiencing, but those who get motion sickness should be careful. In October, the desert is 20 degrees during the day and near zero at night, so bring both a sleeping bag and a thick jacket. 📍 There is no signal in the desert, so stay close to the convoy and don't wander off. On the way back, have a meal of hand-grabbed mutton in Alashan Left Banner, paired with brick tea to cut the grease. Of these six places, Yanbian and Baise surprised me the most—they were so uncrowded that it didn't feel like the National Day holiday. If you only choose one, I'd bet on Baise; both the lake and the canyon are great. Tell me in the comments where you plan to go for the National Day holiday, and I'll help you see if it's crowded.

Traveling between September and October, flights and hotels start to be reasonable. I've picked 6 places where attraction tickets are cheap, transportation isn't expensive, and the autumn scenery is just right. I'll talk about them in the order I visited, so pick one and copy my itinerary. 01 Zhangjiajie | Hunan The bottom line: Zhangjiajie isn't "expensive," you just didn't pick the right entrance. The Wulingyuan Scenic Area ticket is valid for 4 days, which is plenty of time to explore. ⏰ Enter from the Flagpole Gate before 7:00 AM. The fog hasn't cleared yet, and the stone pillars of Yuanjiajie look like they're growing out of the clouds. 📍 The entire Golden Whip Stream walk takes about 2 hours. It's mostly flat, so it's fine for seniors and children. I recommend visiting Tianmen Mountain in the afternoon when the cable car lines are shorter. You need to buy shoe covers separately for the glass skywalk. If you're afraid of heights, don't force it; the mountain road next to it is just as photogenic. ⚠️ The summit is 5–6 degrees cooler than the base, so remember to pack a jacket if you go in late September. 🚄 A taxi from Zhangjiajie Station to Wulingyuan costs about CNY 80, but carpooling is more cost-effective. Stay in Wulingyuan town, where a standard room costs a little over CNY 100. 🍜 Have "Sanxiaguo" (three-pot dish) for dinner. A small portion is enough for two, so don't order too much. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Wulingyuan are actually the same place, so don't buy tickets twice. 02 Jiangmen | Guangdong The Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone is one of those places that "looks average in photos, but is amazing in person." Zili Village and Liyuan have separate tickets. If you're short on time, just go to Zili Village. The rice paddies paired with the watchtowers are perfectly golden in October. 📍 Rent a bicycle at the village entrance for CNY 20 to ride for the afternoon; it's easier than walking. ⚠️ The stairs inside the watchtowers are narrow, so it's awkward to climb them in a skirt. ⏰ The light is angled after 4:00 PM, making the wall textures clearest. 🚄 It takes about an hour by bus from Jiangmen Station to Kaiping. There aren't many departures, so check the return schedule first. 🍜 You can try the tofu cubes and claypot rice in Chikan Ancient Town, but it's expensive inside the scenic area. Walk 200 meters outside the town and the price drops. Overall, it's suitable for people who like old architecture and a slow pace. It's also family-friendly, just don't expect thrilling activities. 03 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Shicheng and Sanbai Mountain—one for autumn colors, one for water—are great to visit together without getting tired. Shicheng's Tongtianzhai Danxia landform has yellow grass and red rocks in October. ⏰ The morning light is perfect for photos without much effort. 📍 There are shuttle buses from the county seat to Tongtianzhai for just a few yuan. Sanbai Mountain focuses on forests and waterfalls. The negative oxygen ion levels are insanely high; walking a loop feels like a lung cleanse. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring enough water. It's suitable for hiking enthusiasts and those looking to escape the quiet. If you're bringing kids, Sanbai Mountain is a safer bet. 🍜 Stir-fried fish and rice noodles in downtown Ganzhou are the standard way to end the trip. You can get stuffed for CNY 30–40 per person. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Ganzhou Station to Shicheng, so I recommend setting aside a full day. Overall, the spending is low, making it the easiest on your wallet among these six. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is one of the filming locations for "Journey to the West." The rocks are strangely shaped and fun to climb. ⏰ Go in the morning in autumn to avoid the sun. 📍 Enter from the South Gate and follow the signs for the loop route; you can finish it in 3 hours. ⚠️ Some sections have steep steps, so wear non-slip shoes. Laole Mountain is better for relaxing. The mountain isn't high, it's windy, so bring a light jacket. It's suitable for short weekend trips and traveling with parents; the pace is slow. 🍜 For breakfast in downtown Zhumadian, get spicy soup (hulatang) with pan-fried buns for CNY 10. 🚄 A taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain takes about an hour; carpooling is cheaper. The ticket isn't expensive, and student IDs get a further discount. This place isn't famous, so it's less crowded and more comfortable. 05 Liuzhou | Guangxi Chengyang Eight Villages are well-preserved among the Dong ethnic villages, and the Wind and Rain Bridge was built without a single nail. ⏰ Go in the evening when the cooking smoke rises; that's when it's most atmospheric. 📍 Stay one night in the village. Homestays cost around CNY 100, which is better value than hotels in the scenic area. Longtan Park is free—it's where locals go for a stroll, with beautiful mountains and clear water, no pretension. I advise against buying expensive tickets for the Liuzhou night cruise; walking along the riverside path offers the same night view. ⚠️ The snail rice noodle shops with long lines aren't necessarily the best; the small shops in the alleys are more reliable. 🍜 Liuzhou snail rice noodles with duck feet—you can eat until you're full for CNY 20. Suitable for foodies who also want to see mountains and water. 🚄 Liuzhou Station has convenient transportation, and buses cover most areas. Overall, the cost of living is friendly—a paradise for budget travel. 06 Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou is an underrated autumn stopover. The Provincial Museum is free, but you must book in advance. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 📍 After seeing the "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow," turn right when you exit to reach the Yellow River. Climb Baita Mountain Park to see the Iron Bridge. ⏰ Go at dusk when the light dyes the Yellow River gold. Walking across the Zhongshan Bridge is free. 🍜 Eat beef noodles in the morning for CNY 8 a bowl (extra meat is extra). Locals only eat them in the morning. It's suitable for exploring alone or with elders. 🚄 Both Lanzhou Station and West Station have bus access. Staying near Xiguan is the most convenient. It's dry in autumn, so bring lip balm. 07 Kunming | Yunnan Kunming in autumn is unbelievably comfortable. Plan Daguan Park and Dianchi Lake together. ⏰ Go to Daguan Pavilion in the morning to see the long couplet, and head to the side of Dianchi Lake in the afternoon to feed the seagulls—though the red-billed gulls don't arrive in large numbers until November, so just enjoy the lake view in October. 📍 Walking a section of Haigeng Dam is enough. Dongchuan Red Land requires a separate day. ⏰ The colors are richest after the rain, making it perfect for photographers. The ticket for Kunming Expo Garden isn't expensive, and there are many plants, making it suitable for bringing kids. ⚠️ Transportation to Red Land is inconvenient, so I recommend carpooling or joining a one-day tour. 🍜 Don't miss Kunming's small-pot rice noodles and steam pot chicken; it's CNY 30–40 per person. Suitable for slow travel and escaping the cold, with temperatures around 20 degrees in October. 🚄 Kunming is a transportation hub, making it easy to go anywhere. 08 Baicheng | Jilin Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourism Zone is the most off-the-beaten-path on this list. Wetlands and reeds are golden in October. ⏰ Go in the afternoon when the light is soft. 📍 Walking the boardwalk takes about 2 hours. It's windy, so hold onto your hat. ⚠️ Public transportation here is weak, so it's best to drive yourself or charter a car. It's suitable for people who want to see autumn colors without the crowds. Great for photography and just zoning out. 🍜 Eat barbecue and stewed dishes in downtown Baicheng. The portions are large, so one order is enough for two people. 🚄 There are trains from Baicheng Station to Da'an, taking a few dozen minutes. The cost is impressively low—a true final stop for budget travel. Of these six, the ones I most want to return to are Liuzhou and Lanzhou—one takes care of my appetite, the other takes care of my soul. Which one are you planning to hit first? Let me know in the comments.

My mom is 63 this year and has bad knees. She's fine on flat ground, but needs a break after climbing more than 50 steps. My dad says he doesn't care, but he actually looks for a chair as soon as we arrive anywhere. After traveling with them for 3 years, I've summarized it in one sentence: don't overdo the attractions, keep slopes gentle, ensure restrooms are nearby, and make sure the food is soft. The following 8 places are ones I've screened, and they've given the nod of approval. 1️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan I didn't have high expectations for Chaya Mountain, but my parents walked steadier than I did. The mountain isn't too high, and the stone steps are wide. ⏰ Enter before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy the shade. The "Mila Mountain" viewing platform halfway up is a perfect spot to rest. 📍 Enter Chaya Mountain from the North Gate and exit from the South Gate; the whole route takes about 3 hours at a slow pace. My mom sat on stone benches twice and didn't complain of fatigue. There are few places to buy water on the mountain, so bring a thermos. Laole Mountain is better in the afternoon. It's windy and feels like natural air conditioning in summer, but ⚠️ the steps are steep. If seniors have bad knees, turn back at the mountain gate archway; don't push it. 🍜 After coming down, go to the city for "Zhumadian Hu-la Soup" (spicy soup), the mixed version, paired with pan-fried buns—my parents liked it. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain. I recommend chartering a car for the round trip; public transport is a hassle. 2️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou I was worried my parents wouldn't be able to walk much at Chishui Danxia Tourist Area. In reality, the boardwalk at Foguangyan is flat, and the red rock walls are most striking after the rain. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, so photos won't be backlit. 📍 You must take the sightseeing bus in the scenic area; don't save money on this. It's several kilometers from the main gate to the core viewing platform, so it's unrealistic for seniors to walk the whole way. ⚠️ Chishui is muggy in summer, so prepare Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid for your parents. Food inside the scenic area is expensive and mediocre; I recommend bringing your own bread and fruit, and having a proper meal after you leave. 🍜 Back in Zunyi city, have lamb rice noodles—the broth is rich and the noodles are soft. My dad ate them for 2 days in a row. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Zunyi Station to Chishui; I recommend staying overnight rather than doing a day trip. 3️⃣ Shiyan | Hubei I took my parents up Wudang Mountain by cable car. ⏰ Take the first cable car at 7:30 AM; it's less crowded, and the clouds and mist haven't dispersed yet, making the Golden Summit section feel like walking in a painting. However, ⚠️ the steps to the Golden Summit are narrow and steep. My mom waited below while I went up alone. 📍 The Zixiao Palace area has plenty of flat paths, perfect for seniors to stroll slowly. Red walls paired with ancient cypress trees make for a scenic spot wherever you stand. Don't rush to check off sights; sitting for a while is more worthwhile than walking through 3 halls. Accommodation on the mountain is expensive and damp; I recommend staying in Wudangshan Town at the foot of the mountain and going up the next day. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute drive from Shiyan Station to Wudang Mountain Scenic Area. 🍜 Eat Taoist vegetarian food in town; it's light and easy on seniors' stomachs. Don't buy those "consecrated" trinkets in the scenic area—you know what I mean. 4️⃣ Sanya | Hainan Between Daxiao Dongtian and Tianya Haijiao, I choose Daxiao Dongtian. It's less crowded, has more trees, and the seaside boardwalk is flat, so it's not tiring for my parents to walk. As for those two rocks at Tianya Haijiao, ⚠️ you have to queue for half an hour to take a photo, and my mom said, "Is that it?" Wuzhizhou Island is for young people; the boat ride is bumpy for seniors, and prices on the island are high, so I skipped it. The sand at Yalong Bay is fine. ⏰ Go after 5:00 PM to avoid the sun. My parents took off their shoes to splash in the water and were as happy as kids. 📍 Stay in Yalong Bay or Dadonghai; don't stay in Haitang Bay—it's too far and inconvenient for dining. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Sanya Station to Yalong Bay. 🍜 If you buy seafood at the First Market and find a place to cook it, remember to pick and weigh it yourself; don't let the driver take you. 5️⃣ Nanchong | Sichuan My parents spent 2 days in Langzhong Ancient City and didn't get bored. There's no general admission fee for the ancient city, so you can walk around freely. 📍 Enter from Zhuangyuanfang and stroll slowly along Wumiao Street. Both sides are lined with old courtyards; if you get tired, just find a teahouse and sit down. ⏰ The ancient city is most comfortable before 8:00 AM. Shops aren't open yet, and locals are buying groceries and eating noodles—it's full of local life. It's too sunny at noon, so go back to the inn for a nap before coming out again. 🍜 You have to try Zhangfei Beef Noodles, but don't eat on the main street; duck into the small alleys, and the price is half as much. You can bring a bottle of Baoning Vinegar home. ⚠️ Don't trust the "free guides" soliciting customers in the ancient city; they'll end up taking you to buy things. 🚄 It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from Langzhong Station to the ancient city. 6️⃣ Jincheng | Shanxi I was originally afraid my parents would find Huangcheng Xiangfu boring. It turned out my dad spent half an hour looking at the "Kangxi Dictionary" exhibit. ⏰ There's an opening ceremony at 10:00 AM. My parents enjoyed it, but it's crowded, so just stand further back to watch. 📍 There are many steps in the Xiangfu; seniors can just walk the main axis and skip the small courtyards on either side. I recommend hiring a guide, otherwise, you're just looking at houses. ⚠️ The commercial street outside the scenic area has expensive and unappetizing food; I recommend going back to Jincheng city to eat. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jincheng East Station to Huangcheng Xiangfu. 🍜 People in Jincheng love noodles; Heluo noodles and knife-cut noodles are soft, and my parents found them easy to eat. 7️⃣ Ningde | Fujian I spent 2 days visiting Taimu Mountain and Baishuiyang. On the "Yixiantian" (A Thread of Sky) section of Taimu Mountain, ⚠️ my mom got stuck in the middle, unable to move forward or backward, and a young man behind her had to give her a push. When taking seniors, don't go through Yixiantian; just take the sea-view boardwalk—it's flat and offers ocean views. Baishuiyang is suitable for summer; the water only reaches the ankles. My parents walked back and forth in the water, and it was cool. ⏰ Go after 4:00 PM to avoid the sun. For the Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu, ⏰ you need to arrive before sunrise, but my parents couldn't get up that early, so we switched to watching the sunset. The light and shadows on the mudflats are indeed beautiful. 📍 You can take photos from the viewing platform at the entrance of Beiqi Village without going down to the mudflats. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute high-speed train ride from Ningde Station to Xiapu. 🍜 Eat small seafood in Xiapu; order steamed dishes, not spicy stir-fries. 8️⃣ Zhuhai | Guangdong At Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort, I took my parents to see the Whale Shark Aquarium. My mom stood in front of that huge glass for 20 minutes without saying a word. ⏰ Enter before 10:00 AM to see the whale sharks first while it's less crowded. ⚠️ The park is large; rent a wheelchair to push your parents around. Don't feel embarrassed; it really saves energy. Just pick one performance to watch; watching too many is tiring. Lovers' Road is suitable for the evening. 📍 Walk from the Seaside Swimming Pool to the Zhuhai Fisher Girl; it's a flat road the whole way, and the sea breeze is comfortable. When my parents got tired, they sat on a bench and watched the sea. 🍜 For dim sum in Zhuhai, find an old, established restaurant; shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and chicken feet are things my parents are used to eating. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Zhuhai Station to Chimelong. None of these 8 places are "check-in" style destinations. When traveling with parents, slow is fast. If you also have experience traveling with seniors, let's chat in the comments section. Next time, I want to take them to the seaside for a month.

Chaya Mountain: A Real-Life "Flower and Fruit Mountain" As Zhumadian's only national 5A scenic area, Chaya Mountain is known as the "Central Plains Bonsai." What makes it truly special is the legend that Wu Cheng'en was inspired by its unique rock formations when writing Journey to the West, and the CCTV version of the Journey to the West sequel was also filmed here. The mountain is dotted with lifelike pictographic rocks such as the "Stone Monkey" and the "Sleeping Tang Monk," making it feel like stepping into a natural mythological paradise. You can challenge the "One Line Sky" or take the high-altitude magic carpet to overlook the layered peaks and marvel at nature's extraordinary craftsmanship. Laole Mountain: A Famous Taoist Mountain and Forest Oxygen Bar If you enjoy hiking and tranquil surroundings, Laole Mountain is a great choice. It is the birthplace of the Double Ninth Festival culture, with historical relics like the "Eight Palaces, Two Temples, and One Worship Platform" scattered across the mountain. With a 96% forest coverage rate, the entire mountain acts like a massive natural air conditioner, staying considerably cooler than the city in summer. During the day, you can stroll through the woods and breathe in the fresh air, and at night, you might catch a stunning intangible cultural heritage performance of molten iron fireworks, watching sparks fill the sky for an incredibly atmospheric experience. Jinding Mountain: A Natural Playground for Family Water Fun Jinding Mountain is also a national 4A scenic area with a forest coverage rate of over 95%, living up to its name as a "natural oxygen bar." Its biggest advantage is its proximity to the city center—only about 20 kilometers away—making it a weekend getaway for local families. The canyon rafting in the scenic area is cool and thrilling, and there's also a 5D glass bridge and forest slide, perfect for families looking to enjoy water-based fun together. Royal Post Station: An Ancient-Style Town That Comes Alive at Night Royal Post Station is a 4A scenic area themed around "post station culture," featuring Ming and Qing dynasty architectural styles with blue stone roads and ancient street lanterns, making it an ideal spot for wearing hanfu and taking photos. But its true essence shines at night. As dusk falls, lights flicker on one by one, folk performances take the stage in succession, and the aroma of street food wafts through the air. The blend of ancient and modern vibes will let you experience Zhumadian's most tender summer night romance. Suya Lake: A Romantic Haven for Migratory Birds and Sunsets Suya Lake is the largest man-made reservoir on the plains of Asia, with vast waters that boast the grandeur of a "man-made Dongting Lake." It remains largely undeveloped commercially, preserving its pristine wetland scenery. From November to March each year, hundreds of thousands of migratory birds winter here, creating a spectacular sight. Even outside bird-watching season, watching the sunset by the lake in the evening, as the afterglow paints the entire water surface in shades of orange, is an incredibly beautiful experience. More Options: If you're interested in history and culture, the Zhumadian City Museum (free admission) is a great place to quickly learn about the region's cultural heritage, with its crown jewel being the "Sword of King Fuchai of Wu" from the Spring and Autumn period. Additionally, Nanhai Zen Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Asia, boasts magnificent architecture and offers a moment of tranquility. 🍜 A Taste of Zhumadian: Unmissable Local Flavors Zhumadian's cuisine mirrors the city's character—simple, honest, but full of flavor. The Soul of Breakfast: Spicy & Hot Soup Zhumadian's spicy & hot soup is renowned for being "aromatic, spicy, and rich." The broth is simmered with beef bones and infused with pepper, chili, wood ear mushrooms, and gluten, delivering a spicy and appetizing kick. Locals love pairing it with freshly pan-fried buns or fried dough sticks—one sip of soup, one bite of bread, and you're instantly energized for the day. For an authentic taste, look for time-honored establishments like Ma's Spicy & Hot Soup or Cao Yunhong Spicy & Hot Soup. The Ultimate Summer Rescuer: Queshan Bean Jelly This is the quintessential summer snack etched into every Zhumadian local's memory. Authentic Queshan bean jelly is typically made from local pea or mung bean starch, resulting in a crystal-clear appearance with a smooth, springy, and chewy texture. With its tangy, spicy, and savory flavor, one bowl is all it takes to banish the summer heat. Lao Zhang Bean Jelly Shop on Caishi Street in Queshan County is a century-old, household-name establishment that's well worth a special visit. A Century-Old Classic: Runan Chicken Meatballs This snack has a history of over a hundred years, and its preparation technique has been listed as a municipal-level intangible cultural heritage. Made from hand-pounded free-range chicken breast, the meatballs are springy and smooth, served in a light and savory broth, often accompanied by vermicelli or greens. It's a heartwarming dish suitable for all ages. Tender and Fall-Off-The-Bone Satisfaction: Shangcai Taqiao Pig Trotters Taqiao pig trotters are the signature dish of Shangcai County. Made from premium front pig trotters and braised in a seasoned broth with various Chinese herbs, they are so tender they fall off the bone, rich in collagen yet not greasy, with a savory aroma and a subtle hint of sweetness. They also go by the auspicious nickname "fortune pig trotters"—taking a bite satisfies your cravings while bringing good luck. Irresistibly Addictive Wok Flavor: Runan Beef Tripe Hot Pot This is a municipal-level intangible cultural heritage food in Zhumadian, with a style that sits between hot pot and malatang. Cleaned beef tripe is skewered on bamboo sticks, quickly swished in a broth simmered with Chinese herbs, then coated in sesame paste and chili oil. The tripe is crispy, the broth is flavorful, and the numbing spiciness keeps you coming back for more. Cui Ji Beef Tripe Hot Pot is a well-known local chain, so you can try it with confidence. Other Local Flavors If you still have room, Xincai Dungang Fried Dough Sticks (crispy outside, soft inside, pure carb happiness), Xiping Savory Tofu Pudding (a unique take topped with chicken broth sauce), and Pingyu Sesame Crisp Pancakes (a crunchy and delicious traditional snack) are all flavors locals have grown up with. 💡 Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather. Summer is ideal for escaping the heat at Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain, while winter is perfect for bird-watching at Suya Lake. Transportation: Zhumadian's attractions are scattered, with Chaya Mountain about 40 kilometers from the city center, so self-driving or hiring a car is the most convenient and flexible option. Suggested Itineraries: 2-Day Highlights Tour: Day 1 – Visit Chaya Mountain in the morning, then Royal Post Station in the afternoon with a night tour; Day 2 – Visit Laole Mountain in the morning, then head to Queshan County for an authentic bowl of bean jelly before heading back. 3-Day In-Depth Tour: Building on the 2-day itinerary, add water fun at Jinding Mountain, or catch the sunset at Suya Lake and explore the museum for historical insights. Zhumadian may not be the kind of city that stuns you at first glance, but its landscapes and cuisine carry a genuine warmth. I hope this guide helps you discover its charm. Have a wonderful trip!

Want to save money during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? 8 low-cost cities I've personally tested that won't disappoint 01 Hengyang | Hunan If you want to avoid the crowds during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day without emptying your wallet, Hengyang is the first place I'd recommend. The Mount Heng Scenic Area is famous, but accommodation at the foot of the mountain is much cheaper than on the mountain. Staying in Nanyue Town is perfect for an early morning hike. ⏰ Start from Nanyue Grand Temple at 6:30 AM. It's less crowded and the fog hasn't lifted yet, so you won't have to fight for a photo spot. The temple itself is very popular, and 40 minutes is enough to walk around. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain rise with the altitude. Bottled water can cost three times as much at the summit, so carry two bottles up yourself. The vegetarian food at Banshanting is actually not expensive; a bowl of noodles costs around CNY 10–20, which is more reasonable than you'd think. 🚄 There are direct shuttle buses from Hengyang East Station to Nanyue, costing just over CNY 20. It's suitable for traveling with seniors at a leisurely pace, and also great for students on a budget—you can get by on CNY 200 for a two-day, one-night trip. 02 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian is often seen as an expensive city, but if you avoid the peak season seafood feasts, you can still have a great time on a budget. You can take Light Rail Line 3 directly to the Golden Pebble Beach National Tourist Resort for just a few yuan. Tickets for Laohutan Ocean Park aren't cheap. My advice is to just look at the sea from the entrance; if you really want to go inside, pick a weekday. Go to Xinghai Square in the evening. You don't need to buy feed to feed the seagulls; breadcrumbs will attract a whole flock. Tanglihu Park is where locals go for a stroll. There are hardly any tourists, and it's quiet enough to hear the wind. 🍜 For cheap seafood, go to the Heishijiao morning market. Pick your own and have a nearby small restaurant cook it for you; it's half the price of a restaurant in the scenic area. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea, so remember to bring a jacket if you go in October. It's perfect for couples taking a walk or for someone just wanting to zone out alone. 03 Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula was the most surprising place on this trip. The Danxia landforms paired with the Yellow River water are so colorful they'll leave you stunned. Carpooling from Xining is the most cost-effective option, costing around CNY 100 per person, which is much cheaper than chartering a car. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the mountains look their reddest. Don't skip the boat tour on the Yellow River; seeing the Danxia landforms from the water is a whole different perspective. 📍 There are a few Tibetan restaurants in Kanbula Town where you can get a filling meal of butter tea and tsampa for CNY 20. Choose accommodation in Jianzha County; it's cheaper and has better conditions than staying right outside the scenic area. ⚠️ The altitude is over 2,000 meters, so don't run around as soon as you get off the car—take it slow. It's great for road trips and photography enthusiasts. In October, the grass turns yellow, making it perfect for photos. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is famous for being a filming location for "Journey to the West," but there aren't as many tourists as you'd think, making it perfect for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. Buying tickets online in advance can save you over CNY 10, and the lines on-site move quickly too. The mountain isn't very high; you can finish climbing it in two or three hours. The rock formations are unique, and kids will love them. The Laole Mountain area is better for a slow stroll; it has dense forests, making it great for escaping the summer heat or seeing rime ice in winter. 🍜 In downtown Zhumadian, you can get a breakfast of spicy soup and pan-fried buns for CNY 5. Staying at a chain hotel in the city costs just over CNY 100 a night, which is more practical than staying near the scenic area. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Zhumadian West Station, and it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to Chaya Mountain. It's suitable for families with children and for lazy travelers who don't want to hike too hard. 05 Zhanjiang | Guangdong The first time I went to Huguangyan, this volcanic lake, I was stunned. The water is so clear you can see the bottom, and it takes over two hours to walk around the lake. Student tickets are half price, so remember to bring your ID. Maar Lake is rare in China. The air around the lake is high in negative oxygen ions, so walking around it feels like a lung cleanse. ⏰ Enter the park before 7:00 AM when it's least crowded; there are more local seniors exercising than tourists. 📍 There's a bus at the entrance of Huguangyan that goes directly to the city center for CNY 2. 🍜 Don't eat Zhanjiang oysters in the scenic area. Go back to the night markets in the city; you can get several for CNY 10. ⚠️ Zhanjiang is still hot in October, so don't be lazy with sunscreen. It's suitable for people who like a slow pace and for taking a walk with parents. 06 Weinan | Shaanxi I don't need to say much about Mount Hua's fame, but there are tricks to visiting on a budget. Night climbing is a classic way to save money on both the ticket and accommodation. Start from Yuquan Temple at 10:00 PM, and you'll arrive at the East Peak just in time for sunrise. ⚠️ The night climb is steep, so gloves and a headlamp are essential—buy them at the foot of the mountain, as they're cheaper than on the mountain. The cable car down is more cost-effective than going up. Hike up and take the cable car down to save your legs. 📍 There's a free bus from Huashan North Station to the tourist center; don't get taken by unlicensed taxis. 🍜 The Tongguan roujiamo (meat burger) at the foot of the mountain is better than instant noodles on the mountain, and one for CNY 10 will keep you full. 🚄 It takes half an hour from Xi'an North Station to Huashan North, and the ticket costs over CNY 50. It's suitable for young people with good stamina; for seniors, I recommend taking the cable car both ways. 07 Baoding | Hebei Baoding has the densest concentration of attractions on this trip. You can pick any two from the Western Qing Tombs, Baishi Mountain, Yesanpo, and Anxin Baiyangdian to fill three days. The pine forest path at the Western Qing Tombs is quiet, and in autumn, it's covered in fallen leaves that crunch when you walk. The glass skywalk at Baishi Mountain requires an extra fee. If you're afraid of heights, don't force yourself; the mountain scenery itself is worth seeing. Yesanpo is great for rafting, but the water is cold in October, so hiking is more comfortable. Take a boat into the reed marshes at Anxin Baiyangdian. ⏰ Go in the evening to see the sunset, and the boatman might tell you some old stories about the lake. ⚠️ Ask about prices in the lake area in advance; don't wait until you're on the boat to negotiate. 🚄 Baoding East Station has convenient high-speed rail access, and you can transfer to buses to get to various attractions. It's suitable for families and for those who want to visit multiple places at once. 08 Honghe | Yunnan The Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces and Jianshui Ancient Town—one is for viewing the sky, the other for experiencing the people—go perfectly together. The terraces start getting flooded in October, and the mirror effect slowly begins to appear. To watch the sunrise at Duoyishu, you need to get up early and grab a spot by 5:30 AM. Jianshui Ancient Town is quieter than Lijiang. The Zhu Family Garden and the Confucian Temple are worth entering, and the tickets aren't expensive. 🍜 Jianshui grilled tofu is sold by the piece for a few cents each; you can grill and eat it around the stove. 📍 Take the small train from Jianshui Lin'an Station to Tuanshan for a slow, one-hour ride. ⚠️ The distances between the terrace viewing platforms are long, so chartering or carpooling is more realistic than walking. 🚄 It's a two-hour bullet train ride from Kunming to Jianshui, then transfer to Yuanyang. It's suitable for photography enthusiasts and those who enjoy a slow life. It's not too crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. I chose these eight places with an off-season mindset. If you follow this guide during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, your wallet will feel much lighter. Which one do you want to visit first? Let's chat in the comments.

For National Day budget travel, don't just look at popular spots. These 8 places are less crowded and cost less 01 Shijiazhuang | Hebei If you're looking for a place with fewer crowds and lower costs for National Day, Shijiazhuang is a good choice. Xibaipo has free admission, but you must book in advance via their official WeChat account. ⏰ We recommend arriving before 8:00 AM for ample parking; if you arrive late, you'll have to park on the side of the road. Admission to Zhaozhou Bridge is CNY 40, with half-price for students. The bridge itself isn't large and can be walked in 30 mins, but it's worth it for its 1,400-year history. 🍜 For lunch, go to Zhao County to eat donkey meat burgers for CNY 8 each, paired with a bowl of millet porridge. You can eat well for CNY 15 per person. ⚠️ Xibaipo is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Two days and one night is enough. Take the high-speed train to Shijiazhuang Station, then it's about an hour by taxi to Xibaipo, or CNY 30 per person for a ride-share. Suitable for those traveling with parents or budget-conscious students. The pace is slow and not tiring. 02 Haibei | Qinghai It's already cool in Haibei by late September, so a windbreaker is a must. You don't need to enter the Qilian Mountain scenic area; just stop anywhere along the road for great views. ⏰ The light is softest after 4:00 PM, perfect for photos without filters. The Heihe Grand Canyon and Lenglongling are suitable for self-driving, but road conditions are average, so don't force it if your car has low ground clearance. Admission to Amidongsuo is CNY 60, with the cable car extra. I recommend walking up, which takes 40 mins; the money you save is enough for a meal of lamb in a heated pot. 📍 The time-honored restaurant on Renmin Road in Qilian County costs CNY 50 per person and serves generous portions of meat. ⚠️ The altitude is over 3,000m, so don't shower or drink alcohol on the first day. Accommodation during National Day is 30% more expensive than usual; booking in advance can save you CNY 100–200. Suitable for those who want to avoid crowds and can handle large temperature differences between day and night. Three days and two nights is just right. 03 Taizhou | Zhejiang Taizhou is underrated. Guoqing Temple at Tiantai Mountain has free admission. ⏰ It opens at 6:30 AM; if you go too late, the tour groups will arrive. The Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Area is the Linhai Ancient City. The seaweed cakes on Ziyang Street are CNY 2 each—eat them while they're hot. Admission to Shenxianju is CNY 110, with an extra charge for the Nantian-ding glass platform; if you're afraid of heights, don't go up and suffer. 🍜 Linhai Mai-xia is CNY 15 a bowl, which is more authentic than the viral shops. 🚄 Get off at Taizhou West Station, then it's CNY 20 by taxi to Linhai Ancient City. Two days and one night. First day for the ancient city. Second day for Shenxianju. Don't try to do too much. ⚠️ Shenxianju limits visitors during National Day, so buy tickets online one day in advance. You can do this trip for CNY 300 per person. For accommodation, choose a homestay in the ancient city for CNY 150 per night. 04 Yueyang | Hunan Admission to Yueyang Tower is CNY 70, but you can get in for free if you can recite "Yueyang Lou Ji" (Memorandum on Yueyang Tower)—might as well take advantage of that. ⏰ Climb the tower at 5:00 PM; the sunset over Dongting Lake is 10 times more beautiful than during the day. Take a boat to Junshan Island; the boat ticket plus admission is CNY 80. Don't buy the Yinzhen tea on the island in the scenic area; it's twice as expensive. 📍 The shrimp cakes on Bianhe Street are CNY 5 each—eat them on the go. ⚠️ During National Day, the line for Yueyang Tower can be 40 mins long, so buy tickets online to use the express lane. Two days and one night. First day for the tower and lake. Second day for Junshan Island. 🚄 It's CNY 15 by taxi from Yueyang East Station to the scenic area. Suitable for traveling with elderly people as the roads are flat and easy to walk. Costs just over CNY 400 per person. 05 Nanning | Guangxi Nanning is still hot during National Day, so short sleeves are fine. Admission to Qingxiu Mountain is CNY 20, with an extra charge for the sightseeing bus. I recommend walking up; the bougainvillea along the way is in full bloom. Fubo Temple is by the Yongjiang River and is free. ⏰ Go in the evening; the river breeze is more comfortable than air conditioning. 🍜 Laoyou rice noodles at the Zhongshan Road Night Market are CNY 8 a bowl. The sour bamboo shoots have a strong flavor; if you're not used to it, switch to fresh-pressed rice noodles. 📍 The rolled rice noodles on Jianzheng Road are CNY 3 per roll, and locals line up for them. ⚠️ Qingxiu Mountain stops admitting visitors after 5:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff. Two days and one night. CNY 250 per person. For accommodation, choose somewhere near Chaoyang Square for CNY 120 per night. Suitable for those with a low budget who still want to eat well. 06 Yichang | Hubei Yichang offers the best value for money on this trip. You don't need to take a cruise ship for the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River; you can see them just as well on a regular ferry. The boat ticket is CNY 20. ⏰ The 10:00 AM trip has the best light. Admission to Three Gorges Tribe is CNY 150, which is a bit pricey, but the stilt houses and scenes of laundry by the creek are worth the price of admission. Admission to the Three Gorges Waterfall is CNY 100, and a raincoat is CNY 5—don't skimp on it, or you'll get soaked and uncomfortable. The boat trip on the Qingjiang Gallery takes 4 hours and costs CNY 120; bring some snacks on board. 🍜 Yichang's "cold shrimp" is CNY 3 a cup and is refreshing. 🚄 Take a bus from Yichang East Station directly to the Three Gorges Tourist Center. Three days and two nights. CNY 500 per person. ⚠️ Ferry schedules are limited, so check the return time in advance. 07 Zhumadian | Henan Admission to Chaya Mountain is CNY 65. It's a rocky mountain and fun to climb. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7:00 AM when it's cool and less crowded. Laoleshan Scenic Area is free and suitable for an afternoon visit. It's windy at the summit, so bring a jacket. 🍜 The Hu-la soup in downtown Zhumadian is CNY 5 a bowl; pair it with pan-fried buns, and you can be full for CNY 10. 📍 Enter Chaya Mountain from the South Gate and exit from the East Gate; it's on the way and you won't have to backtrack. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is CNY 5 a bottle, so bring enough yourself. Two days and one night. CNY 200 per person. For accommodation, choose the city center for CNY 80 per night. Suitable for students and those who want to hike without spending too much money. It's really not crowded here during National Day. 08 Fuzhou | Fujian Three Lanes and Seven Alleys is free, but don't just walk the main street. Duck into Langguan Lane or Ta Lane, where there are half as many people. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM. The shops won't be open, but the alleys are quiet and great for photos. 🍜 Tongli Meat Wontons are CNY 15 a bowl, and Yonghe Fish Balls are CNY 10. The two shops are next to each other, so try both. 📍 You can look at the oil-paper umbrella shops on Nanhou Street, but don't buy—they're expensive. ⚠️ During National Day, the main street is packed, and it's basically impossible to walk after 3:00 PM. Fuzhou for two days and one night. CNY 300 per person. For accommodation, choose Dongjiekou for CNY 130 per night. Suitable for those who like old architecture and a slow pace; it's not awkward to explore alone. Traveling during National Day depends on how you plan it. I can't pick a single favorite among these eight places, but Yichang and Taizhou are ones I would visit again. Where are you planning to go? Let me know in the comments.

Mid-Autumn Budget Travel 🌕 8 Low-Cost Destinations 01 Tianjin For Mid-Autumn in Tianjin, don't just focus on the Porcelain House. It's crowded and tickets aren't cheap. Save your budget for the Italian Style District instead—it's free, and you can get a taste of European streets. ⏰ Go after 5:00 PM when the light is soft and photos don't need editing. Wudadao is great for a slow ride on a shared bike. Skip the horse-drawn carriages that charge dozens of yuan. 📍 Start from Minyuan Square and ride along Chongqing Road, passing by Western-style villas. When you're tired, duck into Xiannong Courtyard for coffee—around CNY 20 per person for an afternoon sitting. The Olympic Center Stadium has a night market with reasonably priced grilled skewers and cooked pear cake. Fantawild Adventure is good for families, but queues are long during Mid-Autumn, so head straight for the popular rides when it opens. ⚠️ Buy Fantawild tickets online a day in advance; they're dozens of yuan more expensive at the gate. Stay near Yingkou Road Metro Station—youth hostel beds run CNY 60–70, and budget hotels are just over CNY 200. For two days and one night, around CNY 300 per person covers it. 02 Yangjiang | Guangdong Dajiao Bay on Hailing Island is Yangjiang's best value. Mid-Autumn isn't quite the tail end of peak season, so accommodation is half the price of summer. 🚄 Get off at Yangjiang Station, then take a bus or share a ride to the island for about CNY 20 per person. Tickets for the Maritime Silk Road Tourist Area at Dajiao Bay are affordable, and the beach is clean—great for seniors and kids. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM for fewer crowds and cool sand. After the afternoon low tide, you can collect seashells—kids can play for hours. For seafood, skip the first restaurant at the scenic area entrance. Head into Zhapo Market, pick your own seafood, and have a shop cook it. 🍜 Mantis shrimp and flower crabs are at their fattest during Mid-Autumn. Cooking fee is CNY 15–20 per plate. ⚠️ Watch the bag during weighing—don't let the vendor include the water. Electric scooter rental on the island is CNY 50 per day, cheaper than taxis. Head to Mawei Island at dusk for a free sunset view that beats the paid observation decks. Two days and one night, just over CNY 400 per person. 03 Chengdu | Sichuan To save money in Chengdu for Mid-Autumn, skip the crowded Kuanzhai Alley downtown. Head to the outskirts—Mount Tiantai and Mount Qingcheng–Dujiangyan are both low-cost options. 🚄 Take the intercity train from Xipu Station to Mount Qingcheng—CNY 10, 30 minutes. Mount Qingcheng–Dujiangyan deserves a full day. Hike the front mountain of Qingcheng in the morning (CNY 80 admission, half price for students). Visit the Fish Mouth weir at Dujiangyan in the afternoon, then enjoy the breeze on Nanqiao Bridge at dusk. ⚠️ Don't take unlicensed cabs at the scenic area entrance; the dedicated bus line is CNY 2 and goes direct. Anren Ancient Town is quieter than Luodai, and the old mansion streets are free to explore. 🍜 Braised pork with blood curd and landlord-style ribs are local favorites—CNY 40 per person and you'll be stuffed. The Jianchuan Museum Cluster costs CNY 60; it's optional depending on your interest—no loss if you skip it. Get to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding early. ⏰ Go in when it opens at 7:30 AM—the cubs in the Moon Nursery are most active. After noon, pandas are mostly asleep, so you'll just see furry lumps. Metro Line 3 plus a bus will get you there; don't take a taxi—traffic is bad. Stay in Xipu or downtown Dujiangyan—youth hostels around CNY 50, guesthouses around CNY 150. Three days and two nights, around CNY 600 per person. 04 Dali | Yunnan Xizhou Ancient Town in Dali is more comfortable than Dali Old Town during Mid-Autumn. The rice fields start turning yellow in September, rippling like waves in the wind. 📍 The crispy flatbread stall at the entrance of Xizhou Market—try both sweet and savory, CNY 5 each. The Three Pagodas Cultural Tourist Area costs CNY 75. Personally, I think taking a reflection photo at the entrance is enough. Unless you're set on the pagodas, you can save the money. ⚠️ The electric shuttle is an extra charge—don't get talked into it. Don't bike the entire Erhai Lake loop—it'll wear you out. Rent an electric scooter for the Caicun to Xizhou stretch—CNY 40, with the densest scenery. ⏰ Set off at 4:00 PM and ride to Haise Park just in time for sunset. Nanzhao Customs Island is across from Shuanglang; take a boat over. The island is small—an hour to explore. 🍜 Sour and spicy fish and rushan (milk fan) along Shuanglang Street, around CNY 50 per person. Stay in Caicun or Longkan Pier—sea-view rooms go for about CNY 200 during Mid-Autumn. Three days and two nights, around CNY 700 per person. 05 Tianshui | Gansu Tianshui is an underrated Mid-Autumn stop. Maijishan Grottoes cost CNY 80, with special caves priced separately. ⚠️ The plank roads are narrow—those afraid of heights should think twice. ⏰ Go in the morning when the light hits the Buddha statues on the west cliff best. Wushan Water Curtain Cave is far from the city—best for self-driving or ride-sharing. The cave itself is small, but the cliff reliefs at Lashao Temple are worth seeing. Without a car, I'd suggest skipping it—too much hassle with transfers. Fuxi Temple is downtown—CNY 20 admission, 30 minutes to tour. 📍 Turn right out of the temple and you're at Tianshui Ancient City, which has a night market. 🍜 Guagua and ranran are local breakfast staples—noodles with chili oil, CNY 5 a bowl. Apricot tea with lard-layer bun, sweet and savory. Stay in the Qinzhou District—budget hotels around CNY 120. 🚄 Taxi from Tianshui South Station to Fuxi Temple is about CNY 25. Two days and one night, around CNY 350 per person. Great for those interested in grottoes and ancient architecture. 06 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is Zhumadian's standout attraction. Admission is CNY 70, and crowds are manageable during Mid-Autumn. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM via the south gate route—Stone Monkey Courtyard and Mila Mountain are lined with oddly shaped rocks. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes—the mountain trails are dusty. Laoleshan Wind Farm is best in the afternoon; it's windy at the top, so bring a jacket. 📍 It's a 40-minute drive from Chaya Mountain; without a car, take a taxi—about CNY 100 round trip. There's a glass slide on the mountain for CNY 30—kids love it, adults find it so-so. Eat and stay in Suiping County. 🍜 Canned dumplings and sesame leaf noodles are local specialties—around CNY 25 per person. Stay at a county budget hotel, just over CNY 100. Two days and one night, around CNY 300 per person. Perfect for those who want to hike without spending big. 07 Zhongwei | Ningxia Shapotou in Zhongwei during Mid-Autumn is where desert meets the Yellow River. Admission is CNY 80, with activities priced separately. ⚠️ Don't buy the combo ticket blindly—pick either camel riding or sand sliding; you won't have time for more. Gaomiao Bao'an Temple is downtown with free admission. Climb up for views of Zhongwei's old town. 📍 The temple is compact—30 minutes to tour. ⏰ Go at dusk and check out the Gulou Night Market on the way. Enter Shapotou after 3:00 PM to avoid tour groups. 🚄 Taxi from Zhongwei Station to Shapotou is about CNY 40. Choose between the Yellow River zipline and the sheepskin raft—the zipline is thrilling, the raft is leisurely. 🍜 At the night market, artemisia noodles and stir-fried laghman—around CNY 30 per person. Stay in downtown Zhongwei—budget hotels around CNY 150. Desert camps are pricey and unnecessary for Mid-Autumn. Two days and one night, around CNY 500 per person. Ideal for those wanting desert photos without the Wudalianchi crowds. 08 Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi is Heihe's underrated Mid-Autumn gem. Volcanic landscapes plus mineral springs—uncrowded and wild. 🚄 Transfer from Heihe Station to a bus to the scenic area—about 2 hours. ⚠️ The sites are spread out; without a car, consider a day tour, or you'll be exhausted. Laoshan and Huoshaoshan are the core sites—admission plus shuttle around CNY 100. ⏰ Climb Laoshan in the morning—it's windy at the crater, so bring a hat. In the afternoon, head to Beiyin Spring to collect mineral water—locals bring buckets. 🍜 Mineral spring tofu and cold-water fish are local specialties—around CNY 50 per person. Stay at a sanatorium within the scenic area—about CNY 180 per night during Mid-Autumn, more convenient than downtown. Two days and one night, around CNY 600 per person. Great for geology lovers and those seeking quiet. For a low-budget Mid-Autumn, choosing the right place matters more than saving money. Tianjin and Chengdu are great for first-timers; Zhongwei and Wudalianchi are for those wanting something different. Where are you headed? Share in the comments.

Don't get stuck in the crowds this Mid-Autumn Festival. These 8 spots are quiet and stress-free for family travel. 1️⃣ Qiqihar | Heilongjiang When it comes to crane-watching with kids, I advise against going too early. ⏰ Enter Zhalong Nature Reserve after 3:00 PM. There are two crane release shows, the light is soft, and the wind is calm—your kids will be able to follow the wings with their eyes. 📍 Zhalong is about 26 km southeast of the city center. It takes about 40 minutes by taxi, but driving yourself is more reliable. Admission tickets and sightseeing bus tickets are sold separately; check official announcements for the latest details. Don't wear white shoes. The boardwalks by the reed marshes are muddy, and you'll understand why once your kid steps in it. Bring mosquito repellent; the mosquitoes are still active in September. 🍜 Head back to the Longsha District in the city for barbecue. Qiqihar's mixed meat is a specialty; kids can eat it plain, and adults can add dipping sauces. A 2-day, 1-night trip is just right and won't be tiring. 2️⃣ Huizhou | Guangdong Between Huizhou West Lake and Mount Luofu, you can only pick one for a family trip. My verdict: go to West Lake if your child is under 5, and Mount Luofu if they are over 5. West Lake has no admission fee. 📍 Enter from Pinghu Gate and take a slow walk along the Su Causeway; you can circle half the lake in an hour. It's stroller-friendly, and seniors can keep up too. ⚠️ It gets crowded after 10:00 AM during the Mid-Autumn holiday, so I recommend arriving before 8:00 AM. Mount Luofu requires hiking, but the cable car saves half the effort. ⏰ Go up the mountain in the morning and finish the day with a hot spring soak in the afternoon to let the kids burn off all their energy. Xunliao Bay is a good addition for an extra day. The beach is free, but parking and freshwater showers cost money. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "seaside foraging tools" on the roadside; they are poor quality and overpriced. 🍜 For seafood in Huidong, go to Gangkou Town and ask for the price before weighing. Plan for a 3-day, 2-night trip overall, and don't overpack your schedule. 3️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," which will get the kids excited. 📍 Enter from the South Gate, take the sightseeing bus to the foot of the mountain, and then hike the Stone Monkey Courtyard section. The rock formations look like animals, so you can guess what they are as you walk. ⏰ Enter the mountain before 9:00 AM and head down before noon. ⚠️ There are many stairs, so strollers are basically useless; a baby carrier is more practical. The Laoleshan area is better for the afternoon. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket for the kids. There's a chrysanthemum exhibition in the autumn; check the annual announcement for specific blooming dates. 🍜 In Zhumadian city, have Hu-la soup with pan-fried buns for breakfast on your way. A 2-day, 1-night trip is enough; don't try to do too much. 4️⃣ Tonghua | Jilin Ji'an is a place many people don't know about, but it's worth a trip with kids. The Goguryeo cultural relics are best seen in the morning. 📍 The Gwanggaeto Stele and the General's Tomb are close to each other; telling stories is more effective than reciting dates. ⚠️ There is little shade in the historic area, so bring plenty of hats and water. If the kids aren't interested in the stones and want to leave after half an hour, don't force them to stay. The rapeseed flower fields in Ji'an are a June attraction; by the Mid-Autumn Festival, there's only farmland left. ⏰ Take a walk along the Yalu River in the evening; the breeze is cool and the view is expansive—more rewarding than the flower fields. 🍜 For food in Ji'an, try the "fire basin" (huopen) and open-flame barbecue; the whole street by the river is full of them. It's a 2-day, 1-night trip, and the drive from Tonghua takes about 2 hours. 5️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. It's remote, but peaceful. 📍 It's about a 20-minute walk from the visitor center to the mausoleum hall. There are many ancient trees along the way where kids can collect leaves. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's less crowded and the incense smoke isn't overwhelming. ⚠️ Don't let the kids run around inside the hall; there are many steps and thresholds. This isn't a place for pure entertainment, but it's great for telling stories along the way. If the kids ask "Who is Emperor Yan?", just say he's the one who tasted the hundred herbs—it's more vivid than reciting a textbook. 🍜 In Yanling, try the yellow peaches and cured meat. It's the tail end of the yellow peach season during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so buy some if you can catch it. Driving is recommended, as public transport transfers are a hassle. A day trip is enough, but staying overnight is more relaxed. 6️⃣ Anshan | Liaoning For a family trip to Qianshan, my advice is to take the cable car up and walk down. 📍 The section from Wuliang Temple to Tianshangtian involves crawling through rock crevices, which kids will treat like an adventure. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7:30 AM and reach Wufoding before noon. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference on the mountain during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so a short-sleeved shirt with a jacket is the safest combination. Don't buy the "prayer ribbons" at the foot of the mountain; they sell 5-yuan items for 20. ⚠️ If someone tries to pull you in for fortune-telling at the temple entrance, just walk away. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to the Tiedong District for Niuzhuang meat pies. They have thin crusts and lots of filling; kids can eat two. It's a day trip, and the high-speed train from Shenyang takes half an hour. 7️⃣ Suqian | Jiangsu Hongze Lake Wetland is perfect for a slow stroll. 📍 Take a boat from the main entrance into the reed maze. The boat ride lasts 40 minutes, and you'll see water birds flying right beside you. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light is at an angle, which makes the reeds look great in photos and isn't too sunny. ⚠️ Boat schedules are limited, so ask about the last departure time when you enter. Kids will love the specimens and interactive screens in the Wetland Museum, so don't skip it. ⚠️ The museum is closed on Mondays, so check before you head out. 🍜 In Suqian, try the Luoma Lake icefish and wheel cakes; they are concentrated around Xingfu Road in the city center. A 2-day, 1-night trip is a great stopover between Nanjing and Xuzhou. 8️⃣ Baoting | Hainan For Binglanggu and Yanoda, just pick one for your family trip. My verdict: go to Binglanggu if you want to save energy, and Yanoda if you want to have a blast. Binglanggu is for Li and Miao culture. 📍 The Intangible Cultural Heritage Village has weaving and bamboo pole dancing that kids can try themselves. ⏰ Go in the morning when there are more performance times. Yanoda is for rainforest hiking. The steps are slippery, so ⚠️ wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. Kids will get wet during water activities, so bring a change of clothes. 🍜 In Baoting, try the "five-footed pig" and coconut rice. It's expensive inside the scenic area, so look for farmhouses outside. It's still hot in Hainan during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so ⏰ avoid the midday sun and go out in the morning or evening. Of these eight places, I most recommend Qiqihar and Baoting—one for watching cranes and the other for exploring the rainforest—which the kids will remember. Where are you planning to take your kids? Let's chat in the comments.

Broaden your kids' horizons this National Day—these 5 places are more vivid than textbooks 1️⃣ Shaoguan | Guangdong Taking kids out for National Day, the biggest fear is crowds and them remembering nothing. I walked this Shaoguan route, and Danxiashan is the kind of place that makes kids put down their phones. ⏰ Enter from the South Gate before 7:00 AM, the Changlao Peak boardwalk is basically empty. The red sandstone looks like fresh-baked bread crust in the morning light, rough and warm to the touch. Take the kids on the Yangyuanshi—Xianglong Lake route, about 3 hours total; kids over 6 can walk it themselves. 📍 Go to Yaotang Village outside the scenic area for farm-style food at noon. Recommend mountain snails and cold-water tripe; if the kids can't handle spicy, order steamed free-range chicken. ⚠️ Book Danxiashan attraction tickets on official channels in advance for holidays; queuing at the window on-site can take an hour. 🚄 Guangzhou South to Shaoguan Station is about 50 mins, then a 40-min taxi to Danxiashan. If only staying 1 day, suggest staying at the scenic area entrance and heading in early the next day. Don't trust the "shortcut to avoid tickets" touts on the road; they are all wild trails, dangerous with kids. 2️⃣ Ordos | Inner Mongolia Xiangshawan and the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan on the same day is a good pace. One for playing in the sand, one for listening to stories; kids won't feel bored. Xiangshawan is best after 3:00 PM, the sand isn't too hot. ⏰ Evening light on the dunes makes for movie-like photos. Rent a sandboard for CNY 30, kids will play until they refuse to leave. ⚠️ Camel rides in the scenic area have long lines; buy tickets as soon as you enter if you want to experience it. 🍜 Have a bowl of lamb offal soup with a "beizi" (baked flatbread) in the city at night. Hotels in Kangbashi New Area are cheaper than Dongsheng, and it's about 40 mins by taxi to both attractions. The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan is better in the morning, less crowded and quiet. Telling kids about grassland history is much more vivid than the dry dates in textbooks. The mausoleum area is huge; suggest taking the electric cart if bringing elderly family members. 🚄 Taxi from Ordos Station to Kangbashi is about CNY 20; buses are available but infrequent. 3️⃣ Tangshan | Hebei Eastern Qing Tombs and Nanhu·Kailuan—one is in Zunhua, one is in the city; don't schedule them for the same day, you'll be exhausted. The Yuling Underground Palace at the Eastern Qing Tombs is worth a close look; the stone Buddha statues and scriptures are densely carved. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM before the tour groups flood in. Hire a guide for CNY 150, otherwise kids will find it boring just looking at stones. ⚠️ It's chilly in the underground palace, bring a light jacket for the kids. Nanhu·Kailuan is in the city, perfect for the afternoon. You can go down into a simulated mine at the Kailuan National Mine Park; kids wearing hard hats walking through the tunnels is more impactful than watching a video. 📍 Nanhu Park has free admission; rent a family bike by the lake in the evening for CNY 40 an hour. 🍜 Tangshan Banquet has a concentration of snacks; try the Qizi sesame cakes and Gezha boxes. 🚄 High-speed train from Beijing to Tangshan is 1.5 hours, suitable for Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei families to add a day off to the weekend. 4️⃣ Suzhou | Jiangsu Suzhou gardens will definitely be crowded for National Day, but Tiger Hill and Hanshan Temple are slightly better. If you must go to the Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden, ⏰ catch the first wave of entry at 7:30 AM. The leaning pagoda at Tiger Hill was built over 400 years earlier than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Count the steps with the kids; it's exactly 1,000 steps from the mountain gate to the bottom of the pagoda. 📍 Take the road through Wanjing Villa on the way down; it's less crowded and has dense trees. Hanshan Temple is famous for that poem; kids have learned it in textbooks, but it's actually quiet on-site. Ringing the bell costs extra—CNY 5 for 3 rings—just for the experience. ⚠️ Don't buy incense at the small stalls at the temple entrance; you can get it for free inside. 🍜 Go to Shantang Street at noon for a bowl of Fengzhen meat noodles, or duck into Xinminqiao Market for authentic pan-fried buns and sweet porridge. The Jiangnan water town vibe is most complete around Pingjiang Road; take a hand-rowed boat in the evening, the boatwoman will sing folk songs. 🚄 Suzhou Station is not far from these spots; subway plus walking is most convenient. 5️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake and Anjihai Grand Canyon—one is impossibly blue, the other is truly red. For this route with kids, I suggest chartering a car; public transport is too much of a hassle. Sayram Lake ⏰ the light is softest after 4:00 PM, and the water turns from gray-blue to jewel blue. The loop road is over 70 km; pick the essence section on the south bank and stop 3 or 4 times. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake; you'll need a light down jacket for National Day. Admission plus the shuttle bus isn't cheap, but it's worth it. Anjihai Grand Canyon is near Dushanzi; the cliffs look like thousand-layer cake sliced by a knife. 📍 There are no railings at the viewing platform; you must hold the kids' hands tightly. The hot springs in Wenquan County are good for an overnight stay; there are many small hot spring pools, and your skin feels smooth after soaking. 🍜 Hand-pulled rice and baked buns in Bole city are half the price of those in the scenic area. 🚄 Fly to Yining or Bole, then charter a car for the loop; 3 days is just right. 6️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for *Journey to the West*; the rocks are strangely shaped, and kids will make up their own stories. Laoleshan is good for a slower second day. Suggest entering from the South Gate, take the Wax Mountain—Flying Stone route, 4 hours total. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM for plenty of parking. ⚠️ Few places sell water on the mountain, carry enough yourself. Squeezing through rock crevices can be tough for heavier adults. Laoleshan is a scenic area; it's windy and cool at the top. 📍 You can rest at the Bamboo Forest Zen Temple halfway up the mountain; vegetarian noodles are CNY 10 a bowl. If bringing elderly family members, you can take the cable car up and down to save their knees. 🍜 Have spicy soup and pan-fried buns for breakfast in Zhumadian city; it only cost CNY 15 for 2 people. 🚄 High-speed train to Zhumadian West Station, about an hour by taxi to Chaya Mountain. It's crowded during National Day, suggest staying in Suiping County the night before. 7️⃣ Diqing | Yunnan The Shangri-La route is high altitude; take it slow with kids. Baishuitai, Pudacuo, Songzanlin, Tiger Leaping Gorge—pick 2 or 3, don't be greedy. Baishuitai has calcified pools like terraced fields; ⏰ the water surface is calm and reflections are clear before 10:00 AM. 📍 About a 2-hour drive from Shangri-La city; road conditions are average, kids prone to motion sickness should take medicine beforehand. The boardwalk at Shudu Lake in Pudacuo is easy to walk; 4 km of flat road, no problem for elderly or kids. ⚠️ Altitude is 3,700 meters, don't let kids run or jump. Go to Songzanlin Monastery in the morning; sunlight hits the golden roof, and the monks' chanting is low and soft. Tiger Leaping Gorge is suitable for older kids; the boardwalk is steep, hold hands. 🍜 Yak hot pot and butter tea in Dukezong Ancient Town will warm you up. 🚄 Fly to Shangri-La or Lijiang, then charter a car; hotel prices double during National Day, book early. 8️⃣ Yichun | Jiangxi Mingyue Mountain is the finale of this trip; hot springs and hiking, you control the pace. ⏰ Take the cable car up the mountain in the morning; the Yungu Waterfall section takes about 2 hours to walk down. The Moon Lake boardwalk is flat, kids can walk it themselves. ⚠️ The temperature at the top is 7–8 degrees lower than at the bottom, bring a jacket. 📍 Go straight to Wentang Town after coming down the mountain; the foot-soaking pool by the ancient well is free. The hot water comes from 400 meters underground and is over 70 degrees; you need to mix in cold water before you can put your feet in. 🍜 The chrysanthemum heart stir-fried meat and hot spring tofu at the selenium-rich restaurants in town are worth eating. 🚄 About 30 mins by taxi from Yichun Station to Wentang Town. If only playing for 1 day, the cable car plus foot soaking is the least tiring. Hot spring hotels are expensive during National Day; you can stay in the city and take a taxi back and forth. After walking these places, what kids remember isn't the photos, but the temperature of the rocks at Danxiashan, the itch of sand getting into their shoes at Xiangshawan, and that unreal blue of Sayram Lake. Pick 2 or 3 to visit, don't rush.

Some cities are born to attract attention, while others, despite their inherent beauty, are always overlooked. Having visited these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: my wallet didn't get much thinner, but my eyes were certainly feasted. 01 Yuxi | Yunnan Let's start with Fuxian Lake. This lake has a key characteristic: its transparency reaches seven or eight meters. Standing on the shore, the underwater rocks look like they're being kept in a glass tank. ⏰ Arrive at Luchong Scenic Area before 10 AM, when the light shines obliquely into the water, revealing the most vibrant colors. In the afternoon, backlighting makes photos appear grayish. Eat copper pot fish by the lake, but avoid the shops right at the main entrance of the scenic area. 📍 Walk about 200 meters towards Guanglong Town; look for the local restaurants. The fish is freshly killed, and you mix your own dipping sauce. A meal costs around 60-70 yuan per person, while the same pot near the scenic area entrance can easily cost 150 yuan. The wind in Ailao Mountain is another story altogether. The mountain is often shrouded in fog. ⏰ It's most comfortable to visit after rain; the clouds seem to rise from beneath your feet, making you feel like you're walking on cotton. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so avoid driving at night, as visibility can drop to less than ten meters when fog is thick. For accommodation, stay in Chengjiang city center, a 20-minute drive from the lake. Prices are half that of lakeside guesthouses. It's suitable for families with elderly members and children; the lakeside boardwalk is gentle enough for strollers. 02 Zhenjiang|Jiangsu Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigushan are three mountains squeezed along the Yangtze River. You can visit them all in one day, but I don't recommend rushing. Jinshan is for temples, Jiaoshan for steles, and Beigushan for river views. If you really want to choose, ⏰ go to Beigushan in the evening; the sunset over the river is breathtaking, making the expansive view worth the price of admission. To get to Jiaoshan, you need to take a ferry across the river; the ferry ticket is included in the entrance fee. ⚠️ The Stele Forest behind Dinghui Temple starts clearing out around 4 PM, so you'll need to get there early to see the "Epitaph for the Buried Crane." Jurong Maoshan is located in a county below, about an hour's drive from the city center. There are many Taoist temples on the mountain, and the incense is plentiful, but it's also very commercialized. 🚄 A taxi from Zhenjiang Station to Jinshan costs about 20 yuan. You can also take a bus, but it's slow. For food, 📍 try the old-style pot-lid noodles on Daxi Road. The noodles are chewy, and the soy sauce broth is thick. The braised pork with ginger and a touch of vinegar is more satisfying than many fancy restaurants. Staying near Xijindu is convenient for strolling through the old street at night, but hotel prices tend to rise on weekends. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain looks different from other mountains. The stones are round and piled on top of each other, like someone magnified pebbles a thousand times and stacked them there. ⏰ Visit in spring (March/April). At the foot of the mountain, peach blossoms bloom in abundance, and the green shoots peeking through the cracks in the rocks create a clean, vibrant contrast against the greyish-white cliffs. Don't wear flat shoes for hiking. The stone paths are slippery, especially after rain. ⚠️ Be careful of the narrow "skyline" passages in the scenic area; larger individuals may need to squeeze through sideways. It's best to remove your backpack beforehand. The wind at Laole Mountain is stronger than at Chaya Mountain. ⏰ Autumn is the most comfortable time to visit, with the mountainsides ablaze with yellow and red smoke trees, and leaves brushing against your face in the wind. There are farmhouses at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 Order a pot of stewed chicken, dip cornbread in the broth, and enjoy the crispy crust at the bottom of the pot – it's the most delicious part. It costs around 40 RMB per person. 🚄 There are direct buses from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain, taking about an hour. Stay in the city center's Yicheng District; chain hotels are around 100 RMB each, offering good value. Suitable for those with average physical fitness. Both mountains have cable cars. 04 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain's fame doesn't quite match its beauty. ⏰ From mid-October to early November, the red leaves turn vibrant from the foot of the mountain to the summit, creating a richer tapestry of colors than many popular autumn foliage viewing spots. Crucially, it's not crowded, so you don't have to queue for photo spots. However, Guangwu Mountain has several scenic areas, so don't get confused. See the red leaves at Daba, the water at Shibayuetan, and the sunrise at Taoyuan. ⚠️ The scenic areas are far apart, making it inconvenient without a car. Driving is best, or you can hire a car locally for around 300-400 yuan per day. The mountain fog can appear and disappear unexpectedly. ⏰ Go to the Taoyuan viewing platform before 7 am for a better chance of seeing a sea of ​​clouds. Later in the day, the sun will clear the fog, leaving only a white expanse of sky. 🍜 For skewers in Bazhong city, head to the Caoba Street area; it's lively at night. You can eat your fill for around 30 yuan per person. Staying in Nanjiang County is convenient as it's close to the scenic areas, allowing for an extra half hour of sleep in the morning. Ideal for photographers and road trips, but not ideal for those relying solely on public transportation. 05 Haixi | Qinghai This area is vast; don't expect to see all the salt lakes in one day. Chaka Salt Lake is the wildest, with a salt crust as hard as concrete, allowing cars to drive right onto it. ⏰ At midday, when the sunlight is strongest, the salt lake appears almost luminous; wear sunglasses, or your eyes will be strained. Emerald Lake has the most photogenic color, a somewhat unrealistic green. ⚠️ Avoid areas that look like shallow water; some are actually water beneath a salt crust, and stepping in will ruin your shoes. Chaka Salt Lake is the most famous and crowded; to capture the "Mirror of the Sky" effect, venture deeper into the lake. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM for calmer water and clearer reflections. The Kunlun Mountains stretch across the horizon; the mountain passes are windy, ⏰ so bring a thick jacket even in summer. 🚄 Golmud is a transit point in this area. Accommodation is considered good for Qinghai; a clean standard room costs around 150 yuan. Don't try to tough it out on altitude sickness. ⚠️ Don't wash your hair on the first night. Walk slowly and avoid running or jumping. Self-driving or hiring a car is recommended; public transportation between these salt lakes is practically nonexistent. 06 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas and Keketuohai are in two different directions; don't try to see them both in one day. Kanas is for viewing the water. ⏰ From late September to early October, the birch forests turn a deep yellow, and the lake water is a dark blue—a color that cameras can't capture. Keketuohai is for viewing the rocks, the Ertis River Grand Canyon, where granite mountains are carved straight by the water. On the Altay grasslands, people migrate their livestock in the summer; cattle and sheep walk slower than cars. 🍜 Enjoy a bowl of freshly squeezed milk, topped with a layer of milk skin. It's warm and delicious, better than any milk tea. 📍 Burqin Riverbank Night Market: Grilled pike are sold by the piece; ask the price before ordering. Snow arrives early in Northern Xinjiang. ⏰ From November onwards, the wooden roofs of Hemu Village are covered with thick snow, and white smoke billows from the chimneys, creating a picturesque scene. ⚠️ Winter driving requires snow tires, as some roads are closed; check road conditions before setting off. 🚄 After landing at Altay Airport, hiring a car to enter the mountains is the easiest option. Stay in a cabin in Hemu or Kanas Village; book in advance during peak season, as prices often double. Suitable for those who can handle long drives; elderly people and children should consider this. 07 Songyuan|Jilin Chagan Lake is most famous in winter, but it's also worth visiting in summer. ⏰ In July, lotus flowers bloom on the lake, and water birds abound in the reed beds; taking a boat trip is refreshing. Jinchan Island is located in the middle of the lake. The island is densely wooded, and a leisurely stroll around takes about forty minutes. Winter fishing is the highlight. ⏰ From late December to mid-January, fishing nets are pulled out of the ice holes, and fish leap on the ice – a lively scene. ⚠️ To watch the winter fishing, wear your thickest gear; the wind on the ice is like knives, so be sure to stick on hand warmers. 🍜 Chagan Lake's bighead carp is famous, stewed in a large pot. The fish meat is so tender it falls apart with chopsticks. Restaurants by the lake sell the fish by weight; inspect the fish before cooking, don't let the kitchen pick it for you. It costs around 50-60 yuan per person. 🚄 There are tourist buses from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake, with more frequent departures in winter. Staying in Ningjiang District in the city offers better accommodations and more stable prices than staying by the lake. Suitable for northerners looking for something different in winter, and ideal for families with children seeking respite from the summer heat. 08 Anqing | Anhui The wind at Tianzhu Mountain smells of pine needles. ⏰ Spring and autumn are the best seasons to climb; summer is too sunny, and the steps are icy in winter. Enter from the South Gate, and ascend the stone steps. The section through the Mysterious Valley is particularly fun for children. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 5:30 PM, so don't rush down at that time. For those with average stamina, taking the cable car up and then hiking down is less strenuous and allows you to enjoy the scenery. The water at Liandan Lake is most beautiful in the early morning when there's fog, like a mirror placed on the mountaintop. 🍜 Eat Jiangmao dumplings in Anqing city; they have thin skins and delicate fillings, and a bowl costs just over ten yuan. 📍 Daobashi Street is brightly lit at night, with old buildings and small shops, making it a pleasant place to stroll. Stay in Yingjiang District; buses to Tianzhu Mountain depart from here. Suitable for a short weekend trip; two days and one night is just right. Ticket and cable car prices are subject to official announcements on the day. During peak season, buy tickets online in advance to avoid queuing. These 8 places don't rely on filters to survive. Pick a weekend, buy a ticket, and go! Which one do you most want to visit, or do you have other underrated small towns in mind? Tell me in the comments. Some cities are born to attract attention, while others, despite their inherent beauty, are often overlooked. Having visited these 8 places one by one, my biggest takeaway is: my wallet didn't get much thinner, but my eyes were certainly feasted. 01 Yuxi | Yunnan Let's start with Fuxian Lake. This lake has a key characteristic: its transparency reaches seven or eight meters. Standing on the shore, the underwater rocks look like they're being kept in a glass tank. ⏰ Arrive at Luchong Scenic Area before 10 AM, when the light shines obliquely into the water, revealing the most vibrant colors. Afternoon backlighting can make photos appear grayish. When eating copper pot fish by the lake, avoid sitting at the shops near the main entrance of the scenic area. 📍 Walk 200 meters towards Guanglong Town, and you'll find a few local restaurants where the fish is freshly killed and you can make your own dipping sauce. A meal costs around 60-70 RMB per person, while a similar meal at the scenic area entrance can cost 150 RMB. The wind in Ailao Mountain is a different story. The mountain is often foggy, ⏰ and it's most comfortable to go after a rain. The clouds seem to rise from your feet, making you feel like you're walking on cotton. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so avoid driving at night; visibility can drop to less than 10 meters when the fog is thick. For accommodation, stay in Chengjiang city, a 20-minute drive from the lake. Prices are half that of lakeside guesthouses. It's suitable for families with elderly members and children; the lakeside boardwalk is gentle enough for strollers. 02 Zhenjiang|Jiangsu Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigushan are three mountains squeezed along the Yangtze River. You can visit them all in one day, but I don't recommend rushing. Visit Jinshan for the temple, Jiaoshan for the inscriptions, and Beigushan for the river view. If you really want to choose, ⏰ go to Beigu Mountain in the evening. The sunset over the river is breathtaking, and the sense of vastness is well worth the ticket price. To get to Jiaoshan Mountain, you need to take a ferry across the river; the ferry ticket is included in the entrance fee. ⚠️ The Stele Forest behind Dinghui Temple starts clearing out around 4 PM, so if you want to see the "Epitaph for the Buried Crane," you need to get there early. Jurong Maoshan Mountain is located in a county below, about an hour's drive from the city center. There are many Taoist temples on the mountain, and the incense is very strong, but it also feels very commercialized. 🚄 A taxi from Zhenjiang Station to Jinshan costs about 20 yuan. You can also take a bus, but it's slow. For food, 📍 try the old-style pot-lid noodles on Daxi Road. The noodles are chewy, and the soy sauce broth is thick. The braised pork with ginger and a touch of vinegar is more satisfying than many fancy restaurants. Staying near Xijindu is convenient for strolling through the old streets at night, but hotel prices tend to rise on weekends. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain looks different from other mountains. The stones are round and piled on top of each other, like pebbles magnified a thousand times and stacked there. ⏰ Go in spring, March or April, and the peach blossoms at the foot of the mountain are in full bloom. The green shoots peeking out from the cracks in the rocks, against the gray-white rock walls, create a clean and refreshing scene. Don't wear flat shoes when climbing. The stone paths are slippery, especially after rain. ⚠️ In the scenic area, those narrow "skyline" paths require larger individuals to squeeze through sideways. It's best to take off your backpack beforehand. The wind at Laole Mountain is wilder than at Chaya Mountain. The wind is stronger at the summit. ⏰ Autumn is the most comfortable time to visit, when the smoke trees are turning from yellow to red, and the wind blows the leaves against your face. There are farmhouses at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 Order a pot of stewed chicken, with flatbread dipped in the soup. The crispy crust at the bottom of the pot is the most fragrant. It costs about 40 yuan per person. 🚄 There are direct buses from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain, taking about an hour. Staying in the city center's Yicheng District, chain hotels are around 100 RMB, offering good value. Suitable for those with average physical fitness, as both mountains have cable cars. 04 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain's fame doesn't match its beauty. ⏰ From mid-October to early November, the red leaves turn from the foot of the mountain to the summit, offering a richer variety of colors than many popular autumn foliage viewing spots. Crucially, it's not crowded, so you don't have to queue for photos. However, Guangwu Mountain has several scenic areas, so don't get confused. See the red leaves at the dam, the water at Shibayuetan, and the sunrise at Taoyuan. ⚠️ The scenic areas are far apart, making it inconvenient without a car. Driving is best, or you can hire a car locally for 300-400 RMB per day. The mountain fog can appear unexpectedly. ⏰ Go to the Taoyuan viewing platform before 7 AM for a higher chance of seeing a sea of ​​clouds. As evening fell and the sun shone, the fog dissipated completely, leaving only a vast expanse of white sky. 🍜 For skewers in Bazhong city, head to the Caoba Street area; it's lively at night. A meal for around 30 yuan per person is enough to fill you up. Stay in Nanjiang County; it's close to the scenic spots, allowing you to sleep in an extra half hour in the morning. Suitable for photographers and road trips, but not ideal for those relying solely on public transportation. 05 Haixi | Qinghai This area is vast; don't expect to see all the salt lakes in one day. Chaka Salt Lake is the wildest; the salt crust is as hard as concrete, and you can drive right onto it. ⏰ At midday, when the sunlight is strongest, the salt lake appears almost luminous; wear sunglasses, or your eyes will be strained. Emerald Lake has the most photogenic color, an almost unrealistic green. ⚠️ Avoid stepping on what looks like shallow water; some areas have water beneath the salt crust, and stepping in will ruin your shoes. Chaka Salt Lake is the most famous and crowded. To capture the "Mirror of the Sky" effect, you need to venture deeper into the lake. Arrive before 9 AM for calm waters and clear reflections. The Kunlun Mountains stretch across the horizon; the mountain passes are windy, so bring a thick jacket even in summer. Golmud is a transit point in this area. Accommodation is considered good for Qinghai; a clean standard room costs around 150 RMB. Don't try to tough it out on altitude sickness. ⚠️ Don't wash your hair the first night. Walk slowly and avoid running or jumping. Self-driving or hiring a car is recommended; public transportation between these salt lakes is practically nonexistent. 06 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas and Keketuhai are in two different directions; don't try to visit them all in one day. For Kanas, the best time to see the water is from late September to early October. The birch forests turn a deep yellow, and the lake water becomes a dark blue—a color that cameras can't capture. Keketuhai is famous for its rock formations, and the Ertis River Grand Canyon showcases granite mountains sculpted vertically by the water. On the Altay grasslands, people migrate their livestock in summer, with cattle and sheep moving slower than vehicles. 🍜 Enjoy a bowl of freshly squeezed milk, topped with a layer of milk skin; it's warm and delicious, better than any milk tea. 📍 At the Burqin Riverbank Night Market, grilled pike are sold by the piece; ask the price before ordering. Snow arrives early in Northern Xinjiang. ⏰ From November onwards, the wooden roofs of Hemu Village are covered in thick snow, with white smoke billowing from the chimneys—a scene straight out of a painting. ⚠️ In winter, you must switch to snow tires for self-driving trips. Some roads may be closed; check road conditions before you set off. 🚄 After landing at Altay Airport, hiring a car to drive into the mountains is the most convenient option. Stay in a log cabin in Hemu or Kanas villages; book in advance during peak season, as prices often double. Suitable for those who can tolerate long-distance travel; elderly people and children should consider this. 07 Songyuan|Jilin Chagan Lake is most famous in winter, but it's also worth visiting in summer. ⏰ In July, lotus flowers bloom on the lake, and water birds abound in the reed beds. Taking a boat trip is refreshing. Jinchan Island is in the middle of the lake, densely wooded; a walk around takes about 40 minutes, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Winter fishing is the highlight. ⏰ From late December to mid-January, fishing nets are pulled out of the ice holes, and fish leap on the ice—a lively scene. ⚠️ Wear your thickest gear to watch the winter fishing; the wind on the ice is like knives, so be sure to stick on hand warmers. 🍜 Chagan Lake's bighead carp is famous; stewed in a large pot, the fish meat is so tender it falls apart with chopsticks. Restaurants by the lake sell the fish by weight; check the fish before cooking, don't let the kitchen pick it out for you. Average price is 50-60 yuan per person. 🚄 There's a tourist bus from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake, with more frequent departures in winter. Staying in Ningjiang District of the city offers better accommodations than by the lake, and prices are more stable. Suitable for northerners looking for something different in winter, and a great option for families with children seeking respite from the summer heat. 08 Anqing|Anhui The wind at Tianzhu Mountain has a distinct pine needle scent. ⏰ Spring and autumn are the best seasons to climb; summer is too sunny, and the steps are icy in winter. Enter from the South Gate, ascending the stone steps, including the Mysterious Valley section, which children will enjoy. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 5:30 PM, so don't rush down at that time. For those with average stamina, taking the cable car up and then hiking down is less strenuous and allows for better scenery. The water at Liandan Lake is most beautiful in the early morning mist, ⏰ resembling a mirror placed on the mountaintop. 🍜 In Anqing city, try Jiangmao dumplings; they have thin wrappers and delicate fillings, and a bowl costs just over ten yuan. 📍 Daobashi Street is brightly lit at night, with old buildings and charming shops, making it a pleasant place to stroll. Staying in Yingjiang District makes it convenient to catch the bus to Tianzhu Mountain. Perfect for a short weekend trip, two days and one night is just right. Ticket and cable car prices are subject to official announcements on the day; during peak season, buy tickets online in advance to avoid queues. None of these 8 places rely on filters to stand out. Pick a weekend, buy a ticket, and go! Which one would you most like to visit, or do you have other underrated small towns in mind? Tell me in the comments!

Traveling with kids during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, the biggest fear is crowds and not learning anything. I've selected these 8 small cities; the scenery is authentic, they're less crowded, easy to walk around, and kids can experience things outside of their textbooks. 01 Shiyan | Hubei Once the breeze hits you on Mount Wudang, you'll understand why the ancients chose this place for spiritual practice. Don't force the kids to hike to the Golden Summit. Take the scenic shuttle from the visitor center to Qiongtai, then switch to the cable car to save most of your energy. ⏰ Before 8:00 AM, the mist hasn't cleared, making it perfect for capturing silhouettes of the Golden Summit. 📍 The Nine-Turn Yellow River Wall at Prince Slope is great; kids won't get tired of running back and forth. The red walls and green tiles against the mountain backdrop make for great photos. ⚠️ There's a big temperature difference on the mountain. Even in September, pack a light jacket for the kids; it's windy at the summit. Eat Sanhe soup in the Wudangshan urban area at the foot of the mountain—sweet potato noodles with beef slices. Kids will slurp up a whole bowl. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Shiyan East Station to the mountain gate. Avoid unlicensed taxis and look for the official scenic shuttle. If traveling with seniors, take the cable car both ways to save their knees. 02 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Shicheng and Sanbai Mountain offer a perfect pace—one for village sightseeing, the other for water play. The ancient camphor tree groves in Shicheng block out the sun. The thousand-year-old "Camphor King" in Dashe Village is so big the kids won't be able to wrap their arms around it, and it's cool enough under the tree to take a nap. The Dongjiang Source Waterfall at Sanbai Mountain is thunderous; kids can stand on the viewing platform and watch it for ages. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light slants into the forest, perfect for capturing rainbows at the waterfall. ⚠️ There are lots of mosquitoes in the mountains. Wear long pants and use repellent; don't wear sandals when stepping on creek stones. It's about a two-hour drive from Ganzhou city to Shicheng via the expressway; driving yourself is recommended as public transport is infrequent. 🍜 For lunch in Shicheng, try a bowl of sweet potato starch dumplings—chewy and fragrant, easy for kids to eat. If you have a stroller, note that parts of the Sanbai Mountain boardwalk have stairs; a baby carrier is more convenient. 03 Qujing | Yunnan September isn't the season for the Luoping rapeseed flower fields, but the Jiulong Waterfall group has plenty of water, and it's quiet enough to hear the water hitting the rocks. 📍 At the first waterfall viewing platform, the mist will hit your face, and the kids will squeal with delight. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM; the backlight turns into front light, making photos bright and clear. Renting a car in Luoping county is most convenient; there are no buses between attractions. 🍜 Try the Fule crispy pork at a roadside eatery—freshly fried and eaten on the spot, kids can grab it as a snack. ⚠️ The stone slabs by the waterfall are slippery; hold the kids' hands tightly and don't let them step in the water. If the kids are young, just visit the Jiulong Waterfall—half a day is enough, then head back to the county seat for an afternoon nap. Come in spring for the flower fields; don't have the wrong expectations for the Mid-Autumn Festival/National Day, I want to be clear about that. 04 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Walk a section of the Shimen Plank Road, and the kids will understand that the idiom "building the plank road in the open while secretly crossing the Chencang" isn't just a story. The plank road hugs the Baohe River, with water beneath your feet and cliffs overhead. ⏰ It's cooler in the morning; the afternoon sun is harsh. The Guhantai is in the city center, free of charge, and the kids can stare at the Han well in the courtyard for ages. 📍 Go to the Han River in the evening; locals take their kids there to fly kites, and you can take a break too. 🍜 Hanzhong hot noodles with vegetable tofu are slightly spicy; order a separate bowl for the kids without spice. ⚠️ Parts of the Shimen Plank Road are narrow and not stroller-friendly; use a carrier or hold hands. 🚄 A taxi from Hanzhong Station to Guhantai is just the base fare, don't let them take you the long way. Stay in Hantai District when traveling with kids; dining and accommodation are concentrated, saving you hassle. 05 Tianshui | Gansu The boardwalks of the Maijishan Grottoes hang on the cliffside; kids will quiet down as they look up at the Buddha statues. ⏰ Enter at 8:30 AM to avoid tour groups. Special grottoes have extra fees; choose as needed. 📍 The giant Buddha at Lashao Temple in Wushan Water Curtain Cave is a cliff carving that's more impressive than photos. Fuxi Temple is in the city, with towering ancient cypresses; help the kids identify the Bagua platform. 🍜 Tianshui Guagua is made of buckwheat and topped with chili oil; kids might not be used to it, so pack some bread. ⚠️ The Maijishan boardwalk is one-way; don't force kids with a fear of heights to go up—the botanical garden at the foot of the mountain is also fun. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from Tianshui South Station to Maijishan; ride-sharing is less stressful than the bus. It's cool in the mornings and evenings in September, so bring a fleece for the kids. 06 Jining | Shandong For the "Three Confucius Sites" in the Ming Ancient City of Qufu, focus on the Dacheng Hall of the Confucius Temple and the "Greed" wall in the Confucius Mansion. 📍 Let the kids count the dragons on the pillars in front of the Kuiwen Pavilion at the Confucius Temple. ⏰ Enter the city before 9:00 AM before the tour groups flood in. Take a boat into the Lotus Garden in the Weishan Lake Tourist Area; September is the tail end of the lotus season, but the lotus seed pods are perfect. 🍜 You can eat crayfish and salted duck eggs from the lake right on the boat. ⚠️ Buy the joint ticket for the Three Confucius Sites online in advance; queuing on-site is a waste of time. There are intercity buses from Jining to Qufu, but getting off at Qufu East High-Speed Railway Station is closer. Don't overdo it with kids; do the Three Sites in the morning and Weishan Lake in the afternoon, with a nap in between. Seniors can just walk the central axis of the Confucius Temple; the side halls can be skipped. 07 Zhumadian | Henan The rocks at Chaya Mountain are strangely shaped; kids can crawl through holes and crevices, using them as a natural climbing frame. 📍 Adults who are a bit heavier will have to turn sideways at the "Thread of Sky" section, but kids will be agile. ⏰ Hike in the morning; it's hot in the afternoon. It takes about two hours from the mountain gate to the summit. Laole Mountain has many windmills and gentle grassy slopes, perfect for letting little ones run wild. 🍜 Hulatang soup with pan-fried buns in Zhumadian city makes for a filling breakfast. ⚠️ Some sections of Chaya Mountain are steep; for kids under five, it's recommended to take the slide down to save their knees. 🚄 It's about a 50-minute drive from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain; chartering a car is recommended as bus transfers take too long. If you come during the Mid-Autumn Festival/National Day, the mountains are 5–6 degrees cooler than the city; a sun-protection jacket is enough. 08 Wenzhou | Zhejiang The water at Dalongqiu in the Yandang Mountain Scenic Area is decent in September; ⏰ it's most spectacular after the rain. 📍 You need to hire a guide for the Lingfeng night view; otherwise, it's just looking at rocks. Kids only get excited when they hear the stories. Liu Bowen's hometown is in Wencheng; the old residence and academy are quiet. Take the kids for a walk and tell them stories about the Ming Dynasty. 🍜 Wenzhou lean meat balls and fish cakes—kids will pop them one after another. ⚠️ Yandang Mountain attractions are scattered; driving or chartering a car is better than waiting anxiously for buses. 🚄 There are direct shuttle buses from Wenzhou South Station to Yandang Mountain, taking about an hour. Stay in Xianglingtou Village when traveling with kids; it's convenient for food and lodging, and you can walk to Lingfeng. If you want to avoid crowds during the Mid-Autumn Festival/National Day, Yandang Mountain is more relaxed than you'd think, provided you don't rush into Dalongqiu at noon. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to take my kids to again are Hanzhong and Tianshui—one for history, one for the grottoes. Pick one that's close by; three days is just right.

Traveling with kids during the National Day holiday isn't about the crowds; it's about them getting tired and wanting to be carried, adults getting hungry with nowhere to eat, or kids getting sleepy in the afternoon with nowhere to nap. I've selected these 7 routes based on places where you can "take it slow with plenty of seating and no long lines for food." They are stroller-friendly, allow for afternoon naps, and help keep everyone from having a meltdown. 1️⃣ Lishui | Zhejiang Arrive at Yunhe Rice Terraces before 8:00 AM. The mist hasn't cleared, and kids will be energized by running around the observation deck. ⏰ After 9:00 AM, the light gets harsh. Photos aren't as good. It's better to head down to Kenggen Stone Village; the stone paths are flat, stroller-friendly, and there's a creek where kids can play for half an hour. In Jinyun Xiandu, focus on the stretch from Dinghu Peak to Zhutan Mountain. It's about 2 km long and mostly flat. 📍 The stone bridge photo spot at Zhutan Mountain is empty before 7:00 AM; if you go later, you'll be waiting in line. If you're with kids, skip the hiking and just throw stones by the creek—it's much easier. You need to take a boat to enter Qingtian Shimen Cave, which kids will enjoy. ⚠️ Buy boat tickets and admission tickets separately. Check official channels in advance, as there may be crowd control during holidays. The steps inside the cave are slippery; for children under 3, it's recommended to carry them. Stay and eat in Jinyun County; the freshly baked shaobing is half the price of what you'll find in the scenic area. Head back to the hotel by 2:00 PM for a nap, then take a walk on the Xiandu Greenway in the evening—no need to rush. 2️⃣ Shiyan | Hubei When visiting Wudang Mountain with kids, remember one thing: don't climb to the Golden Summit; just walk the section from Zixiao Palace to Nanyan. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to get from Shiyan Station to the mountain gate via the scenic area shuttle. If the line for the cable car is over an hour, skip it and head to Xiaoyao Valley instead. Xiaoyao Valley is the easiest part of the whole route. The boardwalk along the creek is flat, and kids can walk the whole way themselves. ⏰ It's cool in the valley before 10:00 AM, and after 3:00 PM, the light filters through the trees, which is perfect for taking photos of the kids. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are doubled, so bring your own bread and water. The stall selling grilled sausages in front of Zixiao Palace charges CNY 5 each—a good emergency snack if the kids are hungry, but don't count on it for a full meal. Stay in Wudangshan Town outside the mountain gate and enter the mountain the next day; no need to rush. 3️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for Journey to the West, and kids get excited when they see the rocks. Honestly, though, the whole climb isn't great for kids under 5. 📍 I recommend only walking the section from the South Gate to Mila Mountain. It's a 1.5-hour round trip with few stairs. Laole Mountain is better for kids; there are lawns and lakes at the foot of the mountain, and it's easy to push a stroller. ⏰ Head up the mountain after 5:00 PM—it's cooler and you can watch the sunset. As for the glass slide on the mountain, don't force it if your child is timid; it's hard to calm them down if they start crying. For food, try the hulatang (spicy soup) and pan-fried buns on Wenming Avenue in downtown Zhumadian. They open at 7:00 AM, and kids can easily finish half a bowl. ⚠️ Check the menu before sitting down at any farm-style restaurants where people are soliciting customers at the entrance, and clarify the prices. 4️⃣ Fangchenggang | Guangxi Leshan Ancient Fishing Village is great for taking kids to go "sea catching"; there are lots of little crabs on the beach at low tide. ⏰ Check the tide table before you go; you won't see anything at high tide. 📍 You can rent a small bucket and shovel for CNY 10 per set at the village entrance; don't buy new ones on the side of the road. For the coastal area of Fangchenggang, I recommend Bailangtan Beach on Jiangshan Peninsula. The sand is fine, the slope is gentle, and it's safe for kids to play in the water. ⚠️ The UV rays are strong at the beach, so go before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM, and head back to the hotel at noon for a nap. For seafood, go to the seafood market in the Port District. Pick your own and find a nearby restaurant to cook it for you—it's cheaper than restaurants in the scenic area. If you're with kids, order steamed dishes and porridge; don't make it too spicy. Stay in the Port District; it's close to both the market and the beach. 5️⃣ Xianyang | Shaanxi When visiting Qianling Mausoleum with kids, you're really there to see the Unmarked Stele and the stone statues; kids treat it like a zoo. 📍 Enter through the South Gate; there are fewer stairs, and you can reach the main mausoleum area with a stroller. ⏰ Get there right when it opens at 8:30 AM; it gets noisy once the tour groups arrive after 10:00 AM. Yuanjiacun Guanzhong Impression Experience Park is the perfect spot for a midday break. There are kang tea houses in the village where kids can lie down for a while. 🍜 I recommend the handmade noodles and yogurt; the noodles are CNY 10 a bowl, and kids can eat most of it. ⚠️ It's crowded on weekends, so try to eat before or after 12:00 PM. The drive between the two spots is about an hour, so a rental car is recommended. Head back to downtown Xianyang in the afternoon and finish the day with a boat ride at Weibin Park—it's not tiring. 6️⃣ Heyuan | Guangdong At Wanlv Lake, just take a boat with the kids; don't hike around the lake. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Heyuan Station to the pier. There are different boat routes; choose the shortest one—a 1.5-hour round trip is manageable for kids. ⏰ The 9:00 AM departure is the most comfortable; there's mist on the lake, and it's cool. It's windy on the boat, so bring a light jacket for the kids. 📍 You can get off at the Jinghuayuan island; it has a beach and shallow water area, suitable for kids over 3. ⚠️ Fish prices at lakeside restaurants fluctuate, so ask if it's priced by weight or by the fish before ordering. Back in the city, try the pork trotter noodles and radish cakes—kids usually like them. Stay at a homestay near Wanlv Lake for easy nap times. 7️⃣ Ganzhou | Jiangxi Shicheng is perfect for a National Day trip; the lotus flowers are gone, but the rice fields have turned golden. 📍 I recommend the area around Qinjiang Town; you can park anywhere, and kids can run along the ridges of the fields. ⏰ The light is best after 5:00 PM; it's too sunny during the day. Sanbai Mountain is great for escaping the heat; it's 5–6 degrees cooler than the city. Take the kids along the Jiuqu Creek section—it's flat with shallow water, so it's safe for playing. ⚠️ Signal is weak in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance. Stay and eat in downtown Ganzhou; kids will love the tangpi (steamed rice noodles) and aimiguo (mugwort rice cakes) on Zao'er Lane. Take a walk along the ancient city wall in the afternoon—it's easy on the legs. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Ganzhou Station to Shicheng; I recommend staying one night before heading back. 8️⃣ Daxing'anling | Heilongjiang It's already cold in the Arctic Village tourist area during the National Day holiday, so bring a down jacket for the kids. ⏰ Go to the Northernmost Post Office after 3:00 PM to send postcards; kids love getting stamps. 📍 Take a walk on the boardwalk by the river; the opposite bank is Russia, and kids will have plenty of questions. For the forest scenery in the Greater Khingan Mountains, I recommend taking the small train into the forest area—it's not tiring for kids. ⚠️ There's no signal in the forest, so don't let the kids wander off. Stay at a homestay inside the Arctic Village so you can watch the stars at night. For food, iron pot stew and blueberry jam with bread are kid-friendly. Prices go up during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. This trip is suitable for kids over 5; it's too much of a hassle for younger ones. Of these 7 routes, Lishui and Heyuan are the best choices for children under 3, as they are stroller-friendly. For those over 5, add Fangchenggang and the Arctic Village—they'll have a blast playing in the water or snow. Don't skip nap time when traveling during the National Day holiday; it saves everyone a lot of trouble.

When traveling with parents, the two biggest fears are too much walking and complicated transfers. I've selected 8 destinations where you can take transport instead of walking, and take it slow instead of rushing. Let's be clear: pace is more important than checking off sights, and your parents' happiness is more important than good photos. 01 Nanjing | Jiangsu When taking parents to Nanjing, I usually schedule the Presidential Palace for the morning. Get there right when it opens; it's less crowded, there's plenty of shade, and there are chairs everywhere if you get tired. ⏰ I recommend arriving at 8:30 AM. Leave by 10:30 AM to perfectly avoid the big tour groups. In the afternoon, head to the Confucius Temple—Qinhuai Scenic Area, but don't try to squeeze in through the main entrance. 📍 Take a leisurely stroll in from the Dongshuiguan Ruins Park side. The path along the river is gentle and wheelchair-accessible. 🍜 Grab a bowl of duck blood vermicelli soup, but don't buy it in the main tourist area; walk a couple of steps into Gutong Lane for normal prices. Save Niushou Mountain for the second day. There's an elevator to the underground palace, and you basically don't have to climb the section around the Usnisa Palace. ⚠️ The scenic area is large, so take the sightseeing shuttle if you need to. Don't save that 20 yuan; your parents' knees are more valuable than the money. Save Xuanwu Lake for the evening. Walking half the lake is enough; rent an electric boat for an hour, and with the breeze, my mom could fall asleep. 02 Pingliang | Gansu Many people are put off by Kongtong Mountain just because it's a "mountain." But I think it's actually suitable for parents. There's a cable car to go up, and the plank road after getting off is gentle. You can reach the main viewing platform in just over an hour with stops. ⏰ Take the first cable car at 7:30 AM; the clouds and mist haven't cleared yet, so you don't need filters for photos. 📍 There's a rest area near Zhongtai where you can get free hot water. Bringing a thermos for your parents is very practical. ⚠️ Don't believe the touts at the foot of the mountain who say it "only takes 40 minutes to walk up"—that's 40 minutes for young people. Buy admission and cable car tickets separately; check official announcements for current prices. There are vendors selling Jingchuan jar buns at the foot of the mountain; buy a couple to keep handy for snacks. 03 Xiangxi | Hunan I've taken my parents to Fenghuang Ancient Town twice, and my only advice is: stay in the lower reaches of the Tuojiang River. The bar street upstream is noisy until 11:00 PM, while the downstream area is quiet, and you can still see stilt houses when you open the window. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Fenghuang Ancient Town Station, then take a taxi for about 20 minutes to get into the ancient town—don't take unlicensed cabs. You can spend a day on Dehang Grand Canyon and Aizhai. Aizhai Bridge has a sightseeing passage with direct elevator access. You walk a short section of the glass plank road; my dad said he wasn't afraid, but he was gripping the railing for dear life. ⏰ Go to Aizhai after 4:00 PM; the light hitting the canyon walls makes the colors look best. Shibadong Village is great for a slow stroll; the stone paths are flat, and every household has peppers and corn drying at their door. 🍜 Have a meal of Miao-style sour fish soup in the village; it's mildly sour and easy for seniors to chew. ⚠️ The ladies in the ancient town braiding colorful hair will follow you for half a street. If you don't want it, just smile and wave them off—don't engage. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West." The rocks look strange, but the paths are well-maintained. Enter through the south gate with your parents and take the "magic carpet" (conveyor belt) up the mountain to skip the steepest stairs. 📍 It only takes about 10 minutes from the magic carpet exit to the Stone Monkey Courtyard, and the whole way is a gentle slope. ⏰ I recommend going in the morning; tour groups crowd the place in the afternoon, and the line for the magic carpet can be 40 minutes long. The Laoleshan area is better for the evening, but it's windy at the top, so bring a light jacket for your parents. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is 5 yuan a bottle; it's not embarrassing to carry two up yourself. Staying one night in Zhumadian city is enough; choose a hotel near the high-speed train station for easy transfers the next day. 🍜 For breakfast, have a bowl of hot and sour soup with pan-fried buns; it only costs about 10 yuan for two people. This place isn't flashy, but it's solid, and your parents' generation will like it. 05 Shangrao | Jiangxi I took my parents to Sanqing Mountain and Wuyuan over two days. For Sanqing Mountain, take the Jinsha cable car up and walk the Nanqingyuan loop. See the "Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain" and "Oriental Goddess" and then leave. The whole trip takes 2.5 hours—don't overdo it. ⏰ The cable car opens at 7:00 AM; catch the first wave up and get down before 10:00 AM to perfectly avoid the crowds. ⚠️ The steps on the mountain can be slippery; have your parents wear non-slip shoes, not new ones. Choose either Jiangwan or Huangling in Wuyuan. I took my parents to Huangling; the cable car goes directly to Tianjie (Sky Street). The peppers and chrysanthemums drying for autumn were displayed on the windowsills, and my mom took 80 photos. 📍 There's a shop at the end of Tianjie selling steamed rice cakes; they're freshly steamed, soft, and easy to chew. If you're short on time, skip Guifeng; the hiking intensity is higher than Sanqing Mountain, and seniors won't be able to handle it. 06 Sanya | Hainan Going to Sanya during the National Day holiday is hot, but parents love it. Daxiao Dongtian and Tianya Haijiao both have flat seaside plank roads. If you get tired, take the sightseeing shuttle; you don't have to climb a single step the whole way. ⏰ Go to Tianya Haijiao at 7:00 AM; it's not too hot, and the light is soft. 📍 You have to queue to take photos next to the "Nantian Yizhu" rock, but if you walk 50 meters to the left, the angle is the same and no one is fighting for it. Take a boat to Wuzhizhou Island; there's an electric shuttle loop on the island. Take your parents for a ride and get off at Guariyan (Sun-Watching Rock) to take a look. ⚠️ Prices on the island are high—a bowl of noodles is 40–50 yuan—so eat your fill at the pier before getting on the island. Yalong Bay is great for the evening; the sand is fine. My mom took off her shoes to splash in the water and was as happy as a child. 🚄 A taxi from Sanya Station to Yalong Bay is about 40 yuan; there are also direct buses, but they are slow. 07 Karamay | Xinjiang Urho Ghost City sounds scary, but it's actually perfect for parents. You ride a small train through the whole scenic area and get off at four viewing platforms to take photos. It's windy but the roads are flat, so it's not tiring at all. ⏰ Enter after 6:00 PM; the sun shines obliquely on the Yardang landforms, and the whole area of mounds is golden red. 📍 The second viewing platform has the best angle; don't spend too long at the first stop. ⚠️ It's windy in the Ghost City, so bring a hat with a strap. My mom's sun hat was blown away once, and she chased it for 200 meters. There's no shade in the scenic area, so apply sunscreen thickly. Stay one night in Karamay city, and go see Black Oil Mountain the next day. The pumpjack is right by the road; my dad stared at it for 10 minutes and said this thing is really interesting. 08 Ma'anshan | Anhui Caishiji on the Yangtze River is a place I personally really like. The plank road along the river is well-paved. It takes 40 minutes to stroll slowly from the main gate to Sanyuan Cave, and the river breeze keeps it from feeling stuffy. ⏰ Go at 4:00 PM; the sun isn't harsh, and cargo ships pass slowly on the river. 📍 You can sit and rest on the stone steps next to Taibai Pavilion and watch the river flow. My dad said it's better than watching TV at home. ⚠️ Don't engage with people selling calligraphy and paintings in the scenic area; just look and keep walking. Admission isn't expensive; check official announcements for current prices. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, find a shop selling Dangtu braised pork noodles; the noodles are chewy, and the meat is stewed until tender, so it's easy for parents to eat. Ma'anshan is close to Nanjing—a 10-minute high-speed train ride—so you can combine it into one trip with Nanjing without backtracking. Of these 8 places, I personally recommend Nanjing, Sanya, and Ma'anshan. One has convenient transport, one is flat the whole way, and one is quiet and affordable. When taking parents out during the National Day holiday, walking a little less and sitting a little more is better than anything else. Where are you planning to take them? Let's chat in the comments section.

Zhumadian in autumn is so comfortable you won't want to leave! The summer heat has faded, the forests are turning colorful, and the weather is crisp and pleasant with moderate temperature differences between day and night. On one side, you have the unique rock formations of Chaya Mountain and the forest wonderland of Laole Mountain; on the other, free ancient-style post stations and lakeside parks. It offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, with moderate crowds so you don't have to fight for space. Perfect for a short weekend getaway, a trip with friends, or a light family hike to visit 5 top-tier attractions. 🏨 [Accommodation recommendations | No need to switch hotels! The stress-free choice] 📍 Recommended area: Yicheng District (downtown, near Royal Post Station) ✅ Advantages: Centrally located, right next to Lianjiang Lake. It's convenient to drive or take a taxi to Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain. The surrounding area has plenty of restaurants and supermarkets, making it easy to stock up on supplies and grab a meal. ✅ Budget-friendly: Chain hotels in the city center are clean, offer free parking, and provide great value. ✅ Affordable luxury: Lakeside homestays where you can walk out in the evening and head straight to Lianjiang Lake to watch the sunset. ❌ Travel tip: Avoid staying in the deep mountains, as it will waste a lot of time traveling the next day. 🚗 [Overall transportation] Attractions are scattered, so driving is preferred. If using public transport, take a taxi directly. The attractions are far apart, and bus transfers take a long time, so taking the bus is not recommended. 📅 Day 1: Chaya Mountain > Laole Mountain ✅ [Itinerary for the day] Morning: Chaya Mountain Scenic Area, visit the filming location of "Journey to the West" and admire the unique rock formations Afternoon: Laole Mountain Scenic Area, enjoy the forest air, hike, and stroll through the woods 🍜 [Dining guide for the day] 🔸 Breakfast: Old shops in the city. We recommend Zhumadian hulatang (spicy soup) and pan-fried beef buns to warm your stomach before a day of hiking. 🔸 Lunch: Farmhouse restaurants at the foot of Chaya Mountain. Must-try dishes include wild mountain vegetables, stewed free-range chicken, and cornmeal pancakes for authentic mountain flavors. 🔸 Dinner: Return to the city to try local sesame leaf noodle soup and chicken meatballs, then head back to the hotel to rest. ✨ Highlights of the day Chaya Mountain, the filming location for the 1986 version of "Journey to the West," is filled with granite peaks and strange rocks. The Black Wind Cave, Flying Rock, and A Thread of Sky are all worth visiting. If you have limited energy, you can take the magic carpet up and the slide down. The autumn forest light and shadows are stunning, making every photo look like it has a filter. Laole Mountain, a fairy mountain in southern Henan, has a very high forest coverage rate. You can take a sightseeing bus to save energy. The mountain mist creates a great atmosphere, the autumn vegetation is colorful, and there are iron flower performances on holidays. 📅 Day 2: Lianjiang Lake Park > Royal Post Station | Departure ✅ [Itinerary for the day] Morning: Stroll around Lianjiang Lake Park, visit the popular bridge, and take photos by the lake Afternoon: Explore the ancient-style district of Royal Post Station, and wait until nightfall to see the lights and folk performances 🍜 [Dining guide for the day] 🔸 Breakfast: Local oil pancakes and vegetable boxes, light and tasty. 🔸 Lunch: Specialty snacks inside Royal Post Station. We recommend Yushan jelly noodles and grilled skewers; there is a wide variety of snacks. 🔸 Late-night snack: The food street at the post station is a one-stop shop for southern Henan specialty snacks. ✨ Highlights of the day Lianjiang Lake Park is free to enter. It features wooden boardwalks around the lake, a wide expanse of water, and autumn reeds swaying in the wind. It's perfect for a relaxing walk and taking photos of the sunset by the lake. Royal Post Station is free to enter. The ancient post station architecture is full of traditional charm, and the night lights are stunning. There are parades and intangible cultural heritage performances. The iron flower performances on holidays are spectacular, and it's a great place for photos in Hanfu. ⚠️ Autumn travel tips 1. The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is large. Remember to bring a light jacket when hiking, as it can be windy at the summit. 2. Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain require hiking, so be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip sneakers. 3. Drinking water in the mountain scenic areas is expensive, so you can bring your own mineral water in advance. 4. There are still many mosquitoes by the lake in autumn, so carry mosquito repellent with you. 5. Purchase attraction tickets online in advance to avoid queuing on-site, and confirm performance times before you go.

Take your wife to these 8 places and she'll praise you the whole way 1️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Let's start with Chaya Mountain. The rocks are strange and the paths are winding, but your wife will love it. ⏰ Get up the mountain before 9:00 AM. It's less crowded, the fog hasn't lifted yet, and you won't have to fight for a photo spot. 📍 Enter through the South Gate. Take the Wulong Palace route, and you can reach the summit in 2 hours. ⚠️ Don't wear new shoes; the stone steps are tough on your feet. Laole Mountain is best in the afternoon. The wind blows down from the valley, making it feel like natural air conditioning in the summer. 🚄 It's a 40-minute taxi ride from Zhumadian West Station. Don't take the bus; it's a hassle. There's pea jelly sold at the foot of the mountain for CNY 5 a bowl. Your wife will smile after just a couple of bites. For accommodation, choose somewhere near Wenming Avenue in the city center. In the evening, take a stroll and have some hulatang (spicy soup) with pan-fried buns. It's perfect for a relaxed 2-day, 1-night weekend trip. 2️⃣ Chengde | Hebei You need to set aside a whole morning for the Chengde Mountain Resort. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:30 AM. Visit the lake area first, then head up to the plains area. 📍 Enter through Lizheng Gate. Don't go around via Dehui Gate, or you'll waste 20 minutes walking. It's ridiculously huge, so rent an electric cart; your wife won't scold you for spending the money. Just pick two of the surrounding temples. See the Great Buddha at Puning Temple and take photos of the Red Terrace at the top of Putuo Zongcheng Temple. ⚠️ The light hits at an angle after 4:00 PM, which is great for photos. Don't try to do too much, or your feet will be dead by the end. Save the Jinshanling Great Wall for the second day. 🚄 Take a shuttle bus from Chengde Station to Luanping, then take a taxi. It's wilder than Badaling and more stable than Jiankou. It's suitable for couples with good stamina; if you're bringing elderly family members, just take the cable car up and down. 3️⃣ Baoshan | Yunnan Yunfeng Mountain in Tengchong will make your legs shake on the climb, but your wife will remember it. ⏰ Leave at 8:00 AM. The fog wrapping around the trees makes it feel like walking through a fairyland. 📍 Buy tickets at the lower cable car station. Don't believe the "shortcuts" touted by touts at the foot of the mountain. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so bring a jacket. Save Heshun Ancient Town for the evening. The alleys are narrow, and when the lights come on, it looks like an old movie. 🍜 Have a bowl of Tengchong ersi (rice noodles) with toppings for a little over CNY 10. Stay in an old courtyard in the ancient town; it's so quiet at night that you can only hear the insects. Choose between Beihai Wetland and the Volcano Geothermal Park. If you're with your wife, go to the Geothermal Park to soak in the hot springs and relieve fatigue. The Volcano Park is for those who love to walk. ⏰ The Geothermal Park is less crowded in the morning; there are many tour groups in the afternoon. Baoshan is generally best from November to March. Don't come during the rainy season. 4️⃣ Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain, I'm only writing about this one place. ⏰ Head up the mountain at 2:00 PM. Take the first-level cable car to Zhong'an, then walk up the Hero's Slope. If your wife is wearing a skirt, advise her to change into pants; it's windy. 📍 Watch the sunset at the Golden Summit. Book a tent in advance; don't try to find one on the spot. ⚠️ Instant noodles at the summit are CNY 15 a cup. Carry two cups up yourself, and use the money you saved to buy her a hot milk tea. 🚄 There's a direct shuttle bus to the scenic area from Pingxiang North Station. Don't take a taxi; it's twice as expensive. After watching the sunrise on the second day, hike down via Diaomazhuang. The meadows are unbelievably green. June to September is the best time. It's suitable for couples who can walk; don't take wild trails if you have children with you. 5️⃣ Chenzhou | Hunan Go to Gaoyiling Danxia after 4:00 PM. ⏰ The sun shines at an angle, and with the red rocks and green water, your wife will ask you to take photos of her. 📍 Navigate to the Gaoyiling Village Committee and enter from there. ⚠️ Don't stand where there are no railings; it's windy. You need to get to Dongjiang Lake early. ⏰ Arrive at Bridge No. 2 by 6:30 AM to see the mist over Little Dongjiang. The fisherman casting the net is a performance, but it's beautiful. 🍜 After watching, have a bowl of Dongjiang fish noodles. It's fresh. Save Mangshan Five-Finger Peak for the second day. 🚄 It's a 2-hour trip from Chenzhou West Station, so I recommend staying overnight. The cable car and boardwalk make it easy. It's suitable for bringing parents along, and also for couples. April to October is the most comfortable time. 6️⃣ Qiandongnan | Guizhou Don't go to Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village during the day. ⏰ Arrive in the evening. The lights come on layer by layer, looking like the Milky Way has fallen into the mountains. 📍 The viewing platform is on the mountain. Take the sightseeing bus up and walk down. ⚠️ Don't eat sour soup fish on the main street; it's expensive and mediocre. Duck into the alleys and find a place where the locals are eating. Zhaoxing Dong Village is quieter than Xijiang. Sit under the Drum Tower and listen to the elders singing Dong Grand Songs. 🍜 Be mentally prepared if you eat niubie hot pot; if your wife won't touch it, switch to pickled fish. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is perfect for your last stop. The Wuyang River flows through the city; take a boat ride at night. Take a look at Xianghuoyan on the way; the water is clear. Southeast Guizhou is best from May to October. Bring an umbrella during the rainy season. 7️⃣ Shenzhen | Guangdong Dameisha is free, but you must make a reservation. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to claim a spot in the shade. 📍 Take Metro Line 8 to Yantian Road Station and transfer to a bus. ⚠️ It's packed like sardines on weekends; if you can take time off, come on a weekday. If your wife wants to go to Window of the World, just go. The tickets aren't cheap, so buy them online in advance. ⏰ Enter at 3:00 PM and watch the light show in the evening. Don't rent the electric carts inside; it's a rip-off. OCT is great for strolling. Have a coffee at the Creative Park and feed the pigeons at the Ecological Plaza. Soak in hot springs or play golf at Mission Hills, depending on your budget. Shenzhen is generally best from November to March; it's too sunny in the summer. 8️⃣ Xuancheng | Anhui In Chaji Ancient Village, there are more art students sketching than tourists. ⏰ Get up at 7:00 AM. The cooking smoke and morning mist look like an ink wash painting. 📍 Take the Xuxi route; don't just walk the main street. ⚠️ Tickets are CNY 10 cheaper if bought online; queuing on-site is annoying. In Jixi Longchuan, see the Hu Family Ancestral Hall. The wood carvings are intricate, and your wife will want to get a closer look. 🍜 Have a meal of Jixi taguo (flatbread); the dried bamboo shoot filling is delicious. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Xuancheng Station to Jixi North, then take a taxi. It's perfect for spring and autumn, and 2 days and 1 night is just right. Don't rush; take your time. Pick two of these eight places to take her to first. If you've been to any, tell us in the comments which one is the most worth it.

The summer crowds have just passed, and flight and hotel prices have taken a dive. September and October are the golden window for budget travelers. I've picked 8 places that aren't too crowded and won't hurt your wallet. Keep reading—there's bound to be one that fits your vacation. 1️⃣ Wenshan | Yunnan Visiting Puzhehei this season means the lotus flowers have faded, but the crowds have dispersed too. ⏰ Take a willow-leaf boat into the lake before 7:00 AM. The morning mist skimming the water is more than ten times quieter than in peak season. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Kunming South Station to Puzhehei Station (1.5 hours). Once you exit, the bus to the scenic area costs less than 10 yuan. Don't book the trendy inns by the lake; head into Xianrendong Village, where standard rooms are just over 100 yuan and you can even haggle. 🍜 For dinner, eat lotus fish in the village—you can eat your fill for 40 yuan per person. If you're not feeling energetic, don't force yourself to climb Qinglong Mountain; taking a boat to see the panoramic view is a better deal. ⚠️ The scenic area shuttle bus charges by section. Decide which spots you want to visit beforehand and don't just hop on any bus, or you'll end up paying more in bus fares than for your admission ticket by the end of the day. 2️⃣ Shennongjia | Hubei The Shennongjia Ecological Tourism Area is huge, so don't try to finish it in one day. I suggest picking Dajiuhu and Shennong Valley to explore at a leisurely pace, and see how you feel for the rest. ⏰ Enter Dajiuhu at 6:30 AM. The mist rising from the meadows makes every photo look like a painting. Return to town for lunch, then head to Shennong Valley in the afternoon to walk the boardwalks. 🚄 You can fly to Yichang and then take a bus to Muyu Town, which takes over 4 hours. Staying in Muyu Town is most convenient; standard rooms are around 150 yuan, and dining options are concentrated there. ⚠️ The temperature on the mountain is 7–8 degrees lower than at the base, so bring a thick jacket even if you go in September. Buy scenic area admission tickets and transfer tickets separately, and check the official daily announcements. 3️⃣ Chifeng | Inner Mongolia The Hashhatu Stone Forest Scenic Area is, frankly, just about looking at rocks. But the September grasslands paired with the stone forest, when the light hits it, really has something special. 📍 I recommend entering the scenic area after 3:00 PM. The slanted light brings out all the textures of the stones; going at noon just results in a bright, washed-out glare. 🚄 There are tourist shuttle buses from Chifeng Station, costing a few dozen yuan. If you want to save money, stay in the city; budget hotels are just over 100 yuan. Don't stay at the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ It's windy in the stone forest, so bring a hat and scarf. There isn't much food inside, so pack your own snacks and water—don't count on the scenic area restaurants. 4️⃣ Handan | Hebei You can combine Guangfu Ancient City and Wahuang Palace into one day, but don't get the order wrong. Go to Wahuang Palace in the morning to climb the stairs while it's cool. 📍 The hanging architecture of Wahuang Palace is built against the cliff. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:30 AM; it's less crowded and great for photos. Return to the city for lunch and have a bowl of "zhuai" noodles—10 yuan will fill you up. In the afternoon, go to Guangfu Ancient City. You can walk on the city walls for free, but taking a boat to tour the moat inside the city costs extra. 🚄 It takes about an hour by bus from Handan Station to Guangfu, or 50–60 yuan by taxi. ⚠️ There are many shops selling local specialties in the ancient city with inflated prices; if you want to buy some, go to a supermarket outside the city. Climbing Wahuang Palace can be tiring for seniors; they can take the cable car to save half the effort. 5️⃣ Foshan | Guangdong Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain—one cultural, one wild—fit perfectly into one day. ⏰ Enter Qinghui Garden as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM. The garden is small but exquisite, and you can finish touring it in an hour. 📍 Afterward, turn into Huagai Road and try the double-skin milk and Lun Jiao cake at every shop—20 yuan will cover it. In the afternoon, head to Xiqiao Mountain. 🚄 A taxi from Chancheng costs about 50 yuan; there are buses, but they are slow. The Guanyin statue and Tianhu Lake on the mountain are the highlights. If you're not feeling energetic, take the sightseeing bus. ⚠️ Xiqiao Mountain admission tickets and shuttle tickets are calculated separately. Don't buy the package ticket at the entrance; you might not end up using it. It's still hot in Guangdong in September, so bring enough water. 6️⃣ Aba | Sichuan Don't be greedy and try to cram Jiuzhaigou, Siguniang Mountain, and Huanglong into three days. I suggest doing Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong together as one route, and setting aside two days separately for Siguniang Mountain. ⏰ Enter Jiuzhaigou at 7:00 AM, take the sightseeing bus to Long Lake, and then work your way down—it saves energy and keeps the sun behind you. Go to Huanglong in the afternoon; the light on the Five-Color Pond is best then. Siguniang Mountain is great for hiking; take the bus in Shuangqiao Valley to see the snow-capped mountains, and spend half a day walking in Changping Valley. 🚄 Take a bus from Chengdu Chadianzi to Siguniang Mountain, which takes about 4 hours. ⚠️ The altitude is high, so don't run or jump, and take Rhodiola rosea in advance. Temperatures are near freezing in the mornings and evenings in September, so bring a down jacket. Ticket prices and reservations are subject to official daily announcements. 7️⃣ Xianyang | Shaanxi Qianling Mausoleum and Yuanjia Village—one for history, one for local food—make a great, non-repetitive combination. 📍 Go to Qianling Mausoleum in the morning to take your time looking at the Wordless Stele and the stone statues; ⏰ if you arrive before 9:00 AM, there's basically no one there. 🚄 A taxi from Xianyang Station costs about 40 yuan; there are buses, but they run infrequently. At noon, head over to the Yuanjia Village Guanzhong Impression Experience Area. 🍜 The whole street is full of food: biangbiang noodles, spicy soup with lamb blood, and oil-splashed noodles. You can eat your fill for 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ Yuanjia Village is crowded on weekends, so try to pick a weekday. Homestays in the village are expensive; staying back in Xianyang is half the price. There are many stairs at Qianling, so wear comfortable shoes. 8️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain—the names might sound obscure, but they are perfect for a September visit. 📍 The rock formations at Chaya Mountain are strange; it's one of the filming locations for "Journey to the West." ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM; the full hike takes about 3 hours. If you're not feeling energetic, just walk to the halfway point to look around; don't push yourself. In the afternoon, go to Laole Mountain; the windmills and grassy slopes are perfect for sitting and daydreaming. 🚄 A taxi from Zhumadian city to Chaya Mountain costs about 60 yuan. There's no direct transport between the two spots, so it's best to charter a car or drive yourself. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and food. Admission tickets aren't expensive, but the cable car costs extra—decide based on your energy levels. These 8 places are perfect for a September or October trip—fewer crowds and lower prices. I highly recommend Wenshan and Xianyang—one for the water, one for the noodles. Which one are you planning to pick? Let's chat in the comments.

Don't want the National Day crowds? These 6 spots are perfect for chilling 1️⃣ Longnan | Gansu If you want to avoid the National Day crowds, Longnan is a great off-the-beaten-path option. Wenxian Tianchi Lake is hidden in the mountains, and the water is so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM while the mist is still lingering; it looks like an ink wash painting. 📍 Walk 200 meters to the left of the Tianchi viewing platform to find an empty grassy slope where you can lay out a mat and relax all afternoon. Guan'egou is best visited after the rain when the waterfalls are full. The boardwalks can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Longnan Station to Guan'egou; ride-sharing is more convenient than the bus. Stay in Dangchang County so you don't have to rush in the morning. ⚠️ There are few supply points in the valley, so bring your own water and snacks. Perfect for those who want to see water without climbing mountains; seniors can handle the gentle slopes. 2️⃣ Changde | Hunan Taohuayuan Tourist Area isn't the type of place that "wows" you at first glance, but it's great for a slow stroll. ⏰ Enter the core scenic area after 3:00 PM when most tour groups have left; you'll only hear the wind by the Qinxi River. 🍜 You need to get up early for Changde rice noodles; the shops in the Laoximen area of the city center only sell them until 10:00 AM. Stay near Liuye Lake for evening walks along the water—it's much more comfortable than the crowded Hejie Street. ⚠️ The "Qinren Village" in Taohuayuan is quite commercialized. Bring your own water to save money, as bottled water inside costs double. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Changde Station to Taohuayuan. The bus requires 2 transfers, so if you're in a group, it's better to just take a taxi. Great for bringing parents; the paths are flat, and there are pavilions to sit in whenever you get tired. 3️⃣ Shangrao | Jiangxi Shangrao's attractions are spread out, so don't try to do too much if you want to relax during the National Day holiday. Choose between Sanqingshan and Guifeng—I'd pick Guifeng, as it's half as crowded. ⏰ Take the cable car at Sanqingshan before 7:00 AM, or you'll be waiting in line for at least an hour. 📍 Jiangwan in Wuyuan is best visited in the evening; the white walls and black tiles against the sunset are beautiful, and it's less crowded than Huangling. Huangling's "autumn harvest" display is definitely photogenic, but the cable car lines during the National Day holiday might make you want to turn back. ⚠️ Huangling tickets plus the cable car aren't cheap; buy them online a day in advance, as the on-site windows are slow. Stay in Wuyuan County for easy access to both Jiangwan and Huangling. 🍜 Shangrao stir-fried rice noodles and dengzhan guo taste better at small local eateries than inside the scenic areas. 🚄 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Shangrao Station to Sanqingshan, and a 30-minute high-speed train ride to Wuyuan. Great for photographers, but don't wear high heels—the stone paths are tough on your feet. 4️⃣ Jincheng | Shanxi The Huangcheng Xiangfu Ecological and Cultural Tourism Area has a long name, but it's not tiring to walk around. ⏰ After watching the opening ceremony at 9:00 AM, head straight to the inner city to avoid the crowds on the main street. 📍 Climb Heshan Tower for a panoramic view, but the stairs are steep, so seniors should be careful. 🍜 For Jincheng-style oily meat and helu noodles, farmhouses outside the scenic area are 30% cheaper than those inside. Stay in downtown Jincheng and go to Situ Town in the evening to watch the molten iron fireworks—it's livelier than staying in the scenic area. ⚠️ Buy the joint ticket for Huangcheng Xiangfu and Guoyu Ancient City only if you need it; if you just want to relax, just buy the ticket for Xiangfu. 🚄 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from Jincheng East Station. Perfect for those interested in ancient architecture; 2 hours is enough just for photos. 5️⃣ Heihe | Heilongjiang It's already cold at Wudalianchi during the National Day holiday, so bring a light down jacket. ⏰ Go to Laoheishan after 4:00 PM when the light hits the volcanic rocks at an angle, making the colors look their best. 📍 Get some water at Beiyinquan; locals say it's good for the stomach, but it tastes like soda water to me. 🍜 The mineral water fish and tofu at the scenic area entrance are expensive; walk 10 minutes toward town and they're half the price. Stay inside the scenic area so you can soak in the hot springs in the morning—it's easier than commuting from the city. ⚠️ Some sanatoriums close after the National Day holiday, so call to confirm before booking. 🚄 It's about a 3-hour drive from Heihe Station to Wudalianchi; self-driving or hiring a car is recommended. Great for those who want to soak in hot springs or walk the volcanic boardwalks; it's also family-friendly with gentle paths. 6️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain has strange rocks, and Laole Mountain is windy. ⏰ Enter Chaya Mountain at 8:00 AM and take the south route; the north route has more tour groups. 📍 You can still camp on the grassy slope at the Laole Mountain wind farm during the National Day holiday and watch the stars at night. 🍜 For Zhumadian-style spicy soup and chicken meatballs, the old shops on Wenming Road in the city center are reliable. Stay at a homestay at the foot of Chaya Mountain so you don't have to rush the next day. ⚠️ Some sections of Chaya Mountain are narrow, so don't bring a large backpack—you'll need to turn sideways to pass. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain. Great for kids to climb rocks, but don't bring a stroller—there are too many steps. 7️⃣ Changchun | Jilin You can relax right in downtown Changchun. ⏰ Go to the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo in the morning when it's less crowded; the audio guide is worth renting. 📍 Rent a bike at Jingyuetan in the afternoon and ride around the lake—it's less tiring than walking. Changchun World Sculpture Park is great in the evening with soft light and plenty of grass to sit on. Changchun Movie Wonderland has long lines during the National Day holiday, so only consider it if you have kids. 🍜 Guilin Road Snack Street has grilled cold noodles and chicken soup tofu skewers. Stay near People's Square; it's convenient to take the subway to Jingyuetan. ⚠️ The Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. Perfect for those who don't want to leave the city and just want to eat and explore; transportation is convenient. 8️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia Tourist Area is less crowded than you'd think during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Go to Foguangyan in the morning and Sidonggou in the afternoon; don't reverse the order, or the lighting won't be right. 📍 It takes about 2 hours to walk from the first to the fourth waterfall at Sidonggou; you'll get soaked if you stand under the waterfalls for a while. 🍜 Chishui tofu pudding and cured meat are better at the riverside eateries outside the scenic area than inside. Stay in downtown Chishui; it's within a 20-minute taxi ride to all the attractions. ⚠️ The Danxia rock surfaces are slippery after rain, so wear shoes with good grip. 🚄 It's about a 2-hour drive from Zunyi Station to Chishui; hiring a car is recommended. Perfect for those who want to see waterfalls without climbing big mountains; the pace is slow. For a relaxing National Day holiday, pick one place and stay for 2 nights—it's much more comfortable than rushing to 5 different spots. Which one do you want to visit most?

The biggest fear when traveling with parents isn't the cost—it's the fatigue. Stopping to rest every few steps, spending half the day in the car before even reaching the attraction—it's exhausting. I've selected these 8 places based on criteria like "easy on the legs, slow pace, and impressive scenery." Some even have wheelchair-accessible paths, while others let you enjoy the views right from a boat. You probably won't guess the last one. 01 Zhumadian | Henan Don't try to hike up Chaya Mountain from the main entrance; there's a gentle sloping trail on the west side that's much easier for seniors. The mountain is full of unique rocks and trees, and there are stone benches everywhere if you get tired—much friendlier than a standard hike. It gets windy on Laole Mountain, so remember to bring a light jacket for your parents. Seeing the sea of clouds at the summit is a matter of luck, but the reflections on the lake below are beautiful on sunny days even without filters. For lunch, grab a bowl of hand-pulled noodles at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain; the owner can tell you which rock looks like which character from Journey to the West. Go to the lakeside in the late afternoon when the light is slanted. With the breeze blowing and tree shadows swaying, you don't need to fight for a photo spot—anywhere you stand looks great. 02 Qiqihar | Heilongjiang Zhalong Wetland is the most "leg-friendly" stop on this trip. Take the electric cart to the crane viewing platform upon arrival, then take a slow 20-minute walk along the wooden boardwalk just in time for the flight performance. When the red-crowned cranes take off from the reed marshes, your parents will surely "wow" out loud, and it's easy to hold up your phone to record it. ⚠️ Performance times change with the season, so be sure to check the daily schedule before you go to avoid missing out. Don't rush off after seeing the cranes; it's windy in the reed marshes, so make sure your parents have their scarves wrapped tight. Head back to the city in the evening for barbecue. Qiqihar beef is marinated, and grilling it over charcoal fills the whole room with aroma. If your parents have trouble chewing, order the brisket—it's tender. 03 Shangluo | Shaanxi Choose either Jinsixia or Tianshuxia—don't try to do both. I took my parents to Jinsixia. There's a sightseeing bus that takes you to the core section, and then you can take a slow walk along the boardwalk by the stream. The sound of the water is soothing, the air is fresh and moist, and you'll want to stop and take a deep breath every few steps. Manchuanguan Ancient Town feels more like a "halftime break" for parents. The bluestone streets in the old town are flat, and you can sit in a teahouse for the afternoon, listening to the locals play chess—time seems to slow down here. Baita Temple is unassuming, but the ancient pine trees in the courtyard are worth looking up at for a few minutes. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Shangluo ciba (sticky rice cake) in town. It's soft and chewy without sticking to your teeth, making it more suitable for seniors than rice. 04 Heyuan | Guangdong Taking a boat on Wanlv Lake is the kindest decision you can make for your parents' knees. As the boat rocks on the lake and the breeze blows from the water, you're surrounded by water so green it looks blue. Your parents can stay in the cabin and enjoy the view the whole time without walking a single step. After getting off the boat, just wander around the pier area—don't climb those long stairs. ⚠️ The UV rays by the lake are stronger than you'd think, so apply sunscreen on your parents even on cloudy days. For lunch, order a pot of Heyuan rice noodles. The broth is fresh, the noodles are smooth, and seniors can easily eat 2 bowls. In the afternoon, go to a lakeside teahouse for Hakka lei cha (ground tea). The aroma of peanuts and sesame is something parents will talk about more than milk tea. 05 Kashgar | Xinjiang Don't rush through Kashgar Old City; staying there and exploring slowly is the right way to do it. Book a hotel on the west side of the Old City. You'll be right in the alleys where people are selling naan, forging iron, and drying apricots. Your parents will find everything fascinating. When you get tired, just walk into any teahouse and sit on the carpet to drink tea. A Uyghur uncle will hand you a piece of freshly baked, hot, fragrant naan. Renting a car for a day to visit the Pamir Plateau and Stone City is a good option, but while the roads are good, the altitude is high. ⚠️ If your parents have high blood pressure or heart conditions, don't force them to go; staying an extra day in Kashgar Old City is actually more comfortable. In the evening, go to Id Kah Square to watch the pigeons fly. The sunset dyes the earthen walls gold, and in that moment, you'll realize that "slow" is the only way to experience this place. 06 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Choose 2 out of the 3 mountains: Jinshan, Jiaoshan, or Beigu Mountain. I only took my parents to Jinshan and Beigu Mountain. There aren't many stairs at Jinshan Temple, and you can finish exploring in 40 minutes at a slow pace. The river breeze makes you feel relaxed. Beigu Mountain is smaller; you can reach the top in 30 minutes to watch the Yangtze River flow east. Your parents might even start reciting poetry about looking out over the land. You can dedicate a separate day to Maoshan in Jurong; take the scenic area bus to the summit so you don't have to climb. ⚠️ The vegetarian restaurant on the mountain closes at 2:00 PM, so go early if you want to eat there. You must try Zhenjiang guogai noodles (pot-lid noodles). The noodles are thin and soft, and the broth is rich—easy for seniors to chew. Remember to ask the shop to cook them a bit softer. 07 Anshan | Liaoning The most senior-friendly way to visit Qianshan: take the cable car directly to the mountainside upon entering, then walk along the gentle trail for a while to see the strangely shaped pine trees. Don't challenge yourself to reach the summit; even young people need to rest 3 times on those stairs. There's an electric cart back to the main gate at the bottom of the mountain—it costs 10 yuan, don't skip it. 🍜 The stewed pork with pickled cabbage and vermicelli at the farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain is tangy and appetizing; your parents will ask for a second bowl of rice. ⚠️ It's windy at Qianshan, so make sure your parents wear hats in the autumn, or they'll get a headache. After the hike, go for a hot spring soak in the evening. The water temperature at Tanggangzi is just right. You'll feel relaxed afterward, and you won't be afraid to keep exploring the next day. 08 Taizhou | Zhejiang I recommend Tiantai Mountain over Shenxianju for parents. Guoqing Temple has no admission fee, and the temple is filled with ancient trees, yellow walls, and blue tiles—it's very peaceful to walk around. Have a bowl of vegetarian noodles outside the temple for lunch; it's light and satisfying. The Ruyi Bridge at Shenxianju looks dangerous, but it's actually stable to walk on, and the railings are high, so parents will feel comfortable walking across. 🚄 There are shuttle buses and cable cars in the scenic area, so you don't have to climb any big hills. The Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Area is best visited in the evening. The lanterns on the city wall light up, the bluestone slabs underfoot are polished smooth, and the breeze blows from the Ling River. Walk a bit, then sit down and rest while watching the smoke rise from the kitchen chimneys in the city. ⚠️ Shenxianju gets crowded on holidays, so try to go on a weekday. If the cable car line is over an hour long, seniors will get restless. I won't end with empty phrases like "have a pleasant trip." When traveling with parents, remember one rule: fewer attractions, always stay close to restrooms, and never delay meal times. Of these 8 places, Zhenjiang was the biggest surprise, and Kashgar was the most unexpected—you'd never imagine how much your parents will smile like children while drinking milk tea in a teahouse far from home. Let's chat in the comments: what's the most stress-free place you've ever taken your parents?

Avoid the crowds during National Day? These 6️⃣ off-the-beaten-path cities are bursting with autumn colors 01 Shanghai During National Day, Shanghai's Bund and Nanjing Road are practically overflowing with people. To avoid the crowds, I recommend heading to Pudong and Songjiang. 📍The riverside section of the Expo Park has been renovated and is now very pleasant. Cycling or strolling along the riverside path offers unobstructed views of the opposite skyline. After 4 PM, the light softens, making it easier to take photos without having to fight for a good spot. ⏰ The best time to take photos here is in the evening, when the river breeze is refreshing and not too hot. Yu Garden is best visited before 8:30 AM, before the Nine-Turn Bridge is packed with tour groups. While you're there, grab a bowl of first-broth noodles at a nearby time-honored restaurant. ⚠️ The snacks in Yu Garden's shopping mall are relatively expensive. I suggest just browsing without buying anything. If you really want to eat, head towards Fangbang Middle Road. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is located in Songjiang. The underwater museum area boasts stunning autumn colors, is less crowded, and has convenient parking, making it ideal for leisurely strolls with elderly family members. Disney Resort tickets are expensive during the National Day holiday, and queues are long. If you must go during the holiday, it's recommended to buy an early bird pass for popular attractions; otherwise, you'll be exhausted after a day and won't have experienced many attractions. 🚄 The subway line 11 goes directly there. Don't drive; parking is difficult. 02 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Autumn arrives early in Manzhouli; the birch forests begin to turn yellow by the end of September. 📍 The Manzhouli Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area is the visual center of the city. The onion-domed buildings against the blue sky make every photo look like a postcard. ⏰ It's recommended to go before 10 am when the light is at an angle and there are fewer tourists. After noon, tour groups start arriving in droves. The Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area features a large circus and Russian-style performances. Families with children can enjoy one, but ⚠️ showtimes are limited, so check the official schedule beforehand to avoid arriving to find the show just ending. The city isn't large; you can explore the core area on foot. 🍜 For lunch, find a Russian restaurant. The borscht with rye bread is generous; one main course is enough for two people. In the evening, go to Beihu Park to watch the sunset. The lake reflects the Russian-style architecture; it's quite cool, so remember to bring a jacket. Suitable for: Those who enjoy exotic scenery and aren't focused on taking many photos. Book accommodations early during the National Day holiday. Matryoshka Doll-themed hotels are significantly overpriced; staying in a regular hotel in the city center offers better value. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian sounds unassuming, but the autumn scenery of Chaya Mountain is truly stunning. 📍Chaya Mountain is one of the filming locations for the classic TV series *Journey to the West*. Its unique rock formations and vibrant red leaves are at their peak color in early October. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 7:30 AM, the mist hadn't yet dissipated, and light shone through the cracks in the rocks, creating beautifully textured photos. The Laole Mountain area is best visited in the afternoon. The ridgeline offers expansive views, but be aware of the wind; don't wear a loose-fitting hat. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring your own water and snacks. Don't rely on the restaurants within the scenic area. Regarding transportation, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain. Sharing a ride or hiring a car is recommended, as public transportation is infrequent. 🍜 In the city, I recommend trying a bowl of spicy soup with pan-fried buns. The breakfast stalls open at 6:00 AM; the one with the long queues of locals is definitely the place to go. Suitable for: Short-distance travelers who enjoy hiking, seeing unique rock formations, and don't want to wait in long lines. Two days and one night is just right, one day for hiking and one day for exploring the city – a relaxed pace. 04 Changsha | Hunan Changsha is incredibly popular during the National Day holiday, but the most crowded areas are Wuyi Square and Wenheyou Shopping Mall. For a quieter getaway, head to Tianxin Pavilion and Yuelu Mountain. 📍Tianxin Pavilion Ancient City Wall: Almost deserted before 9 AM. Standing on the tower overlooking the old city, you'll see more locals doing their morning exercises than tourists. ⏰ Head to Yuelu Mountain after 4 PM. Enter from the East Gate, take the cable car up, and walk down just in time for the sunset at Aiwan Pavilion. The Hunan Provincial Museum requires advance booking. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays. Tickets sell out instantly during the National Day holiday, so set your alarms! Huaminglou is in Ningxiang, an hour's drive from the city center, ideal for those driving. Less crowded, with a peaceful autumn atmosphere, it's perfect for taking elders. 🍜 For food, don't just stick to trendy restaurants; the small eateries around the Nanmenkou Market are more reliable, offering rice noodles, sugar-coated fried dough sticks, and spicy crayfish at reasonable prices. 🚄 Metro Line 2 connects most attractions, faster than taking a taxi. Suitable for: Those who want to experience both the vibrancy of the city and the natural beauty of autumn. It's recommended to stay in Hexi, close to Yuelu Mountain and the Botanical Garden, avoiding the crowds in Hedong. 05 Xishuangbanna | Yunnan Xishuangbanna during the National Day holiday is still in the tail end of summer; it's hot during the day, but comfortable in the rainforest. 📍The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences is the highlight. The eastern area is a primeval rainforest, and the western area is a botanical garden. It's recommended to take the electric cart to the eastern area first, then slowly walk back to the western area. ⏰ Enter the park at 8 am when it opens, finish exploring the eastern area before noon, and rest in the shade of the botanical garden in the afternoon. The Dai Ethnic Cultural Park is best visited in the evening; the water-splashing performance and Dai bamboo houses are beautiful under the sunset. ⚠️ You'll get wet during the water-splashing activity, so remember to put your phone in a waterproof bag and avoid wearing white shoes. The Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park has peacock releases ⏰ at fixed times daily; arrive 20 minutes early to secure a good spot. 🍜 In the evening, head to the Starlight Night Market in Gaozhuang Xishuangjing for pounded chicken feet, Lao iced coffee, and grilled tilapia—eat as you stroll. Suitable for: Families, those who enjoy tropical plants and night markets. Airfares and accommodations are higher during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to book a month in advance. Be aware of mosquitoes in the rainforest, so carry mosquito repellent. 06 Linfen | Shanxi Autumn in Linfen is dry and pleasant, perfect for viewing the Yellow River and ancient trees. 📍The water volume at Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River is moderate in October. On sunny days, you can see rainbows spanning the falls. ⏰ The best light is between 10 AM and 2 PM. ⚠️ The viewing platform is often shrouded in mist; wipe your camera lens and wear non-slip shoes. Hongtong Dahuaishu Ancestral Temple is best visited in the morning when it's less crowded and has a quieter atmosphere. The ancient locust trees turn yellow in autumn, creating a sense of history for photos. Yunqiu Mountain is located in Xiangning. The ice caves are cold year-round; wear a down jacket. ⚠️ The scenic area offers rentals, but the number is limited; bringing your own thick coat is safer. 🍜 Eat beef ball noodles in Linfen city; they're really spicy, and paired with a bottle of local soda. 🚄 Get off at Linfen West Station. For Hukou Waterfall, it's recommended to book a day tour or hire a car, as public transportation is inconvenient. Suitable for: People who enjoy natural wonders and cultural exploration. Two days and one night is sufficient; one day for Hukou, one day for Hongtong and Yunqiu Mountain. 07 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is located south of the Qinling Mountains. October brings mild weather, and autumn colors arrive about two weeks earlier than in Guanzhong. 📍The Shimen Plank Road follows the Bao River. The plank road hangs on the cliff face, with the emerald green river flowing beneath your feet. ⏰ In the morning, the sunlight reflecting off the water creates a clear and bright effect for photos. ⚠️ Some sections of the plank road are narrow, and it's one-way only on holidays. Don't go against the flow. The Ancient Hantai is located in the city center and is free to enter. It's a good place to visit in the afternoon and learn about Hanzhong's history. The Han River is very pleasant in the evening; locals stroll and fish. You can find a teahouse by the river, sit for an hour, and watch the sunset paint the river orange. 🍜 Hanzhong hot noodles are a must-try. Served with tofu and peanut porridge, one set is enough for breakfast until noon. 🚄 Hanzhong Railway Station is close to the city center; a taxi ride to the Ancient Hantai is just the starting fare. Suitable for: Those who enjoy mountain trails, boardwalks, and a slow-paced town. During the National Day holiday, Hanzhong has fewer tourists, and accommodation prices are stable, making it suitable for spontaneous trips. 08 Tangshan | Hebei Tangshan isn't a traditional tourist city, but the autumn colors of the Qing Dongling Mausoleum are seriously underestimated. 📍The Sacred Way of the Qing Dongling Mausoleum is lined with evergreen pines and cypresses, interspersed with ginkgo and maple trees in October. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM, before the tour groups arrive, and the stone statues will appear particularly solemn in the morning light. ⚠️ The mausoleum area is large; it's recommended to take the scenic shuttle bus, as walking can be tiring. Nanhu-Kailuan area is located in the city center. Nanhu Park has beautiful reed beds in autumn, and Kailuan National Mining Park is suitable for families with children to learn about industrial history. 🍜 Tangshan's chess-piece sesame cakes and glutinous rice cakes are local specialties. Look for stalls near old residential areas; they taste better than those in the scenic areas. 🚄 The high-speed train from Beijing to Tangshan takes just over an hour, perfect for those who don't want to travel far during the National Day holiday. A two-day, one-night trip—one day at the Eastern Qing Tombs, and one day at Nanhu Lake plus the city center—is just the right pace. Suitable for: People on short trips around the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, and those interested in historical architecture and industrial heritage. Buy tickets for the Eastern Qing Tombs online in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket windows. These eight places are relatively less crowded and have beautiful autumn colors during the National Day holiday. I highly recommend Hanzhong, Linfen, and Tangshan—the pace is slower and the cost is lower. Which direction are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you plan your route. Don't want to be crammed in during the National Day holiday? These 6️⃣ lesser-known cities are in full autumn glory! 01 Shanghai During the National Day holiday in Shanghai, the Bund and Nanjing Road are basically packed with people. To avoid the crowds, I suggest you go to Pudong and Songjiang. 📍The riverside section of the World Horticultural Exposition Park has been renovated and is now very pleasant. You can cycle or stroll along the riverside path, enjoying unobstructed views of the opposite skyline. After 4 PM, the light softens, making it easier to take photos without having to fight for a good spot. ⏰ The best time to take photos here is in the evening, when the river breeze is refreshing and the sun isn't too strong. Yu Garden is best visited before 8:30 AM, before the Nine-Turn Bridge is packed with tour groups. You can also grab a bowl of first-broth noodles at a nearby traditional restaurant. ⚠️ The snacks in Yu Garden Bazaar are relatively expensive; it's recommended to just browse without buying anything. If you really want to eat, head towards Fangbang Middle Road. The Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is in Songjiang. The area around the Underwater Museum has beautiful autumn colors, is less crowded, and has convenient parking, making it suitable for families with elderly members to enjoy a leisurely stroll. Disney Resort tickets are expensive and queues are long during the National Day holiday. If you must go during the holiday, it's recommended to buy an early bird pass to enjoy the popular attractions; otherwise, you'll be exhausted after a day without experiencing many attractions. 🚄 Metro Line 11 goes directly there. Don't drive; parking is difficult. 02 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia Autumn arrives early in Manzhouli; the birch forests begin to turn yellow by the end of September. 📍The Manzhouli Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area is the visual center of the city. The onion-domed buildings against the blue sky make every photo look like a postcard. ⏰ It's recommended to go before 10 AM when the light is at an angle and there are fewer tourists. After noon, tour groups arrive in droves. The Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area features a large circus and a Russian-style performance. Families with children can enjoy one show, but⚠️ performances are limited. Check the schedule on official channels beforehand to avoid arriving just as the show ends. The city is small; you can explore the core area on foot. 🍜 For lunch, find a Russian restaurant. The borscht with rye bread is generous; one main course is enough for two people. In the evening, go to Beihu Park to watch the sunset. The lake reflects the Russian-style buildings; it's quite cool, so remember to bring a jacket. Suitable for: People who enjoy exotic scenery and aren't focused on taking many photos. Book your accommodation early during the National Day holiday. Matryoshka-themed hotels are significantly overpriced; staying in regular hotels in the city center offers better value. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian sounds unassuming, but the autumn scenery of Chaya Mountain is truly stunning. 📍Chaya Mountain is one of the filming locations for "Journey to the West." Its unique rock formations paired with red leaves create the best color variations, especially in early October. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 7:30 am, the mist hadn't yet dissipated, and light shone through the cracks in the rocks, resulting in very textured photos. The Laole Mountain area is best visited in the afternoon. The ridgeline offers expansive views, but it's windy, so don't wear a loose hat. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain; bring your own water and snacks. Don't rely on the restaurants in the scenic area. Regarding transportation, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain. Sharing a ride or hiring a car is recommended, as public transportation is infrequent. 🍜 In the city center, I recommend a bowl of spicy soup with pan-fried buns. The breakfast stalls open at 6 AM; the one with the long queues of locals is definitely the place to go. Suitable for: Short-distance travelers who enjoy hiking, seeing unique rock formations, and don't want to wait in long lines. Two days and one night is perfect, one day for hiking and one day for exploring the city – a relaxed pace. 04 Changsha|Hunan Changsha is really bustling during the National Day holiday, but the most popular spots are Wuyi Square and Wenheyou. For a quieter experience, head to Tianxin Pavilion and Yuelu Mountain. 📍Before 9 AM, the ancient city wall at Tianxin Pavilion is almost deserted. Standing on the tower overlooking the old city, you'll see more locals doing their morning exercises than tourists. ⏰ Head to Yuelu Mountain after 4 PM. Enter from the East Gate, take the cable car up, and you'll be there just in time for the sunset at Aiwan Pavilion when you walk down. The Hunan Provincial Museum requires advance booking. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays. Tickets sell out quickly during the National Day holiday, so set your alarms! Huaminglou is located in Ningxiang, an hour's drive from the city center, making it ideal for those driving. It's less crowded, offers a tranquil autumn landscape, and is perfect for taking elders. 🍜 For food, don't just stick to trendy restaurants; the small eateries around the Nanmenkou market offer reliable options, including rice noodles, sugar-coated fried dough sticks, and spicy crayfish at reasonable prices. 🚄 Metro Line 2 connects most attractions, faster than taking a taxi. Suitable for: Those who want to experience both the vibrancy of city life and the natural beauty of autumn. It's recommended to stay in Hexi, as it's close to Yuelu Mountain and the museum, avoiding the crowds in Hedong. 05 Xishuangbanna | Yunnan Xishuangbanna during the National Day holiday is still in the tail end of summer; it's hot during the day, but comfortable in the rainforest. 📍The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences is the highlight. The eastern area features a primeval rainforest, while the western area has a botanical garden. It's recommended to take the electric cart to the eastern area first, then slowly walk back to the western area. ⏰ Enter the park as soon as it opens at 8 AM, finish exploring the East Zone before noon, and rest under the shade of the trees in the Hundred Flowers Garden in the afternoon. The Dai Ethnic Cultural Park is best visited in the evening; the water splashing performance and Dai bamboo houses are beautiful at sunset. ⚠️ You'll get wet during the water splashing event, so remember to put your phone in a waterproof bag and avoid wearing white shoes. Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park has peacock releases; ⏰ there are fixed times every day, arrive 20 minutes early to secure a good spot. 🍜 In the evening, head to the Starlight Night Market in Gaozhuang Xishuangjing for pounded chicken feet, Lao iced coffee, and grilled tilapia—eat as you stroll. Suitable for: Families, those who enjoy tropical plants and night markets. Airfares and accommodations are higher during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to book a month in advance. Be aware of mosquitoes in the rainforest, so carry mosquito repellent. 06 Linfen|Shanxi Autumn in Linfen is dry and pleasant, perfect for viewing the Yellow River and ancient trees. 📍The water volume at Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area on the Yellow River is moderate in October. On sunny days, you can see rainbows spanning the falls. ⏰ The best light is between 10 AM and 2 PM. ⚠️ The viewing platform is often shrouded in mist; wipe your camera lens and wear non-slip shoes. Hongtong Dahuaishu Ancestral Temple is best visited in the morning when it's less crowded and has a quieter atmosphere. The ancient locust trees turn yellow in autumn, creating a sense of history for photos. Yunqiu Mountain is located in Xiangning. The ice caves are cold year-round; wear a down jacket. ⚠️ The scenic area offers rentals, but the number is limited; bringing your own thick coat is safer. 🍜 Eat beef ball noodles in Linfen city; they're really spicy, and paired with a bottle of local soda. 🚄 Get off at Linfen West Station. For Hukou Waterfall, it's recommended to book a day tour or hire a car, as public transportation is inconvenient. Suitable for: People who enjoy natural wonders and cultural exploration. Two days and one night is sufficient; one day for Hukou, one day for Hongtong and Yunqiu Mountain. 07 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is located south of the Qinling Mountains. October brings mild weather, and autumn colors arrive about two weeks earlier than in Guanzhong. 📍The Shimen Plank Road follows the Bao River. The plank road hangs on the cliff face, with the emerald green river flowing beneath your feet. ⏰ In the morning, the sunlight reflecting off the water creates a clear and bright effect for photos. ⚠️ Some sections of the plank road are narrow, and it's one-way only on holidays. Don't go against the flow. The Ancient Hantai is located in the city center and is free to enter. It's a good place to visit in the afternoon and learn about Hanzhong's history. The Han River is very pleasant in the evening; locals stroll and fish. You can find a teahouse by the river, sit for an hour, and watch the sunset paint the river orange. 🍜 Hanzhong hot noodles are a must-try. Served with tofu and peanut porridge, one set is enough for breakfast until noon. 🚄 Hanzhong Railway Station is close to the city center; a taxi ride to the Ancient Hantai is just the starting fare. Suitable for: Those who enjoy mountain trails, boardwalks, and a slow-paced town. During the National Day holiday, Hanzhong has fewer tourists, and accommodation prices are stable, making it suitable for spontaneous trips. 08 Tangshan | Hebei Tangshan isn't a traditional tourist city, but the autumn colors of the Qing Dongling Mausoleum are seriously underestimated. 📍The Sacred Way of the Qing Dongling Mausoleum is lined with evergreen pines and cypresses, interspersed with ginkgo and maple trees in October. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM, before the tour groups arrive, and the stone statues will appear particularly solemn in the morning light. ⚠️ The mausoleum area is large; it's recommended to take the scenic shuttle bus, as walking can be tiring. Nanhu-Kailuan area is located in the city center. Nanhu Park has beautiful reed beds in autumn, and Kailuan National Mining Park is suitable for families with children to learn about industrial history. 🍜 Tangshan's chess-piece sesame cakes and glutinous rice cakes are local specialties. Look for stalls near old residential areas; they taste better than those in the scenic areas. 🚄 The high-speed train from Beijing to Tangshan takes just over an hour, perfect for those who don't want to travel far during the National Day holiday. A two-day, one-night trip—one day at the Eastern Qing Tombs, and one day at Nanhu Lake plus the city center—is just the right pace. Suitable for: People on short trips around the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, and those interested in historical architecture and industrial heritage. Buy tickets for the Eastern Qing Tombs online in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket windows. These eight places are relatively less crowded during the National Day holiday and have beautiful autumn scenery. I highly recommend Hanzhong, Linfen, and Tangshan—the pace is slower and the cost is lower. Which direction are you planning to go? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you plan your itinerary.

Don't just stay home after retirement. These 8 places are perfect for a slow-paced trip. 1️⃣ Ya'an | Sichuan The Panda Base at Bifeng Gorge opens at 8:30 AM. I recommend getting there for the first entry. ⏰ At that time, the tour groups haven't arrived yet, and the pandas are busy munching on bamboo with a satisfying crunch. Tickets plus the sightseeing shuttle cost around 100 yuan; check the official daily announcement for exact pricing. The gorge is humid with thick moss. Don't rush while walking, and non-slip shoes are a must. ⚠️ The stone steps are very slippery after rain. For those over 60, it's best to take the sightseeing shuttle route. For accommodation, I choose homestays on the outskirts of Shangli Ancient Town, where you can find clean rooms for around 200 yuan. Listening to the river at night is much more interesting than staying in a city hotel. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Ya'an Station. 2️⃣ Xiangyang | Hubei I don't recommend taking the scenic area shuttle straight to the top of the mountain at Ancient Longzhong. 📍 Start walking from the stone archway. You'll pass Sangu Hall and Caolu Pavilion along the way—a two-hour leisurely stroll is just right. If seniors get tired, you can buy a ticket for the shuttle then; don't take the easy way out at the start. You have to eat Xiangyang beef noodles in the morning. 🍜 The old shops at the bridgehead charge 15 yuan a bowl. Pair it with rice wine and garlic—that's how the locals do it. It's just not the same if you go at noon. ⚠️ Buy tickets for Ancient Longzhong online a day in advance during peak season; queuing on-site will make you question your life choices. Stay by the river in Fancheng District; it's convenient for strolling along the ancient city wall at night. 3️⃣ Fangchenggang | Guangxi Lushan Ancient Fishing Village is best visited after 4:00 PM. ⏰ When the tide goes out, the mudflats are full of little crabs. If you bring your grandkids, they can play there all afternoon. Don't wear white shoes; the mud doesn't play by the rules. For the coastal section, I recommend Jiangshan Peninsula—it's less crowded than Bailangtan. 📍 The reef sunset at Guaishitan is incredibly photogenic, but the ground is slippery, so hold onto the railings. For seafood, go to the Gangkou District market to pick your own, and the processing shops nearby will charge 20–30 yuan for preparation. 🍜 Sipunculid worm porridge is worth a try, but skip it if you're sensitive to fishy flavors. Stay at a homestay near the fishing village to watch the locals catch seafood in the morning. 4️⃣ Baoji | Shaanxi I suggest splitting Taibai Mountain and Famen Temple into two days. For Taibai Mountain, take the cable car up to Tianyuan Difang. ⏰ Arrive at the mountain gate before 9:00 AM and make sure to head back down before 3:00 PM—the weather on the mountain changes faster than you can flip a page. Famen Temple's Heshi Stupa is impressive, but avoid going on the 1st and 15th of the lunar month—it's packed. ⚠️ The true relic in the underground palace is only exhibited on specific days, so check before you go. Guanshan Grassland is great in summer. Horse riding is 50 yuan a lap, and there's not much room for bargaining. The meadows near Dongshanyuan have the best light in the evening. Stay near Jing'er Road in downtown Baoji for easy access to hand-pulled noodles and sazi noodles. 5️⃣ Nanchang | Jiangxi I advise you to enter the Pavilion of Prince Teng after 5:30 PM. ⏰ Visiting during the day just means looking at crowds of people. At dusk, the Gan River is gilded with gold, and that's when you get the true "sunset glow" experience. 📍 The sixth floor of the main pavilion has the best view, but don't crowd into the center. Stand by the pillars on the sides to take photos without anyone blocking you. Tickets are 50 yuan, a few yuan cheaper if bought online. 🍜 When you come out, head toward Rongmen Road for crock soup and mixed rice noodles—you can get stuffed for 20 yuan. ⚠️ It's closed for maintenance on Monday mornings, so don't show up then. Stay in Honggutan to see the riverfront light show at night. 6️⃣ Chengde | Hebei Don't try to see all of the Mountain Resort. I usually just stick to the lake and plain areas. ⏰ Enter from Lizheng Gate at 7:00 AM while it's cool and less crowded. The shuttle ride through the mountain area is uncomfortable and the scenery is just average. Jinshanling Great Wall is much more comfortable than Badaling. 📍 From Zhuanduokou to the East Five-Eye Tower, three hours is enough. The steps are steep, so bring knee pads if your knees aren't great. For the surrounding temples, Puning Temple and Putuo Zongcheng Temple are enough; the others are much the same. ⚠️ Water sold inside the resort is twice as expensive, so bring enough yourself. Stay on the east side of the resort for easy morning walks. 7️⃣ Lhasa | Tibet Booking the Potala Palace is a tough battle. ⚠️ Grab tickets seven days in advance; they go fast. ⏰ The tour lasts one hour, so stay close to your guide and don't fall behind. There are many people prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple; just watch, don't shove a camera in their faces. 📍 Walk clockwise around Barkhor Street and sit in a sweet tea house—a pot of sweet tea is 5 yuan. I recommend staying one night at Namtso. It's high altitude, so ⏰ arrive in the afternoon to watch the sunset over the Nyainqêntanglha Mountains and see the stars right above your head at night. 🚄 It takes about four hours to charter a car from Lhasa; don't try to go there and back in one day, it's too rushed. Take altitude sickness medication in advance. 8️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain has strange rock formations and is a filming location for "Journey to the West." 📍 Enter from the South Gate; the route via Milashan is the least strenuous, taking about two and a half hours. ⏰ Come in April to see the tulips; there are flowers all over the mountain. Laoleshan is great in autumn, especially in October when the ginkgo leaves turn yellow. ⚠️ Signal is weak in the mountains, so travel with a companion and don't go off-trail solo. 🍜 In downtown Zhumadian, have hot and sour soup with pan-fried buns for a 10-yuan breakfast. Stay in Yicheng District for easy access to both mountains. Tickets are much cheaper in the off-season; check the official site for details. Don't rush through these eight places; pick two or three and take your time. Which one do you want to visit most? Let me know in the comments.

🌕 The 3-day Mid-Autumn Festival is just the right amount of time to settle into a comfortable city, skip the tourist traps, and just enjoy yourself. These 8 cities offer everything from riverside views and mountain retreats to historic sites and islands. Pick one that catches your eye and pack your bags. 1️⃣ Baicheng | Jilin 📍 Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area is Baicheng's most impressive autumn scene. In late September, the river breeze is cool, the wetland reeds start turning yellow, and the evening light slants across the water, making the entire bay look like it's coated in honey. ⏰ We recommend entering the scenic area after 3:00 PM. Take a walk along the boardwalk first, then find a flat grassy slope to sit and watch the sunset. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the city for some river fish stew. The broth is rich and flavorful, and it pairs perfectly with corn cakes. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference between day and night, so be sure to bring a light down jacket or windbreaker. This place isn't for those who want to rush; it's for those willing to spend half an hour just daydreaming by the river. 2️⃣ Yichang | Hubei Yichang's landscape sets its own pace, and you have to go with the flow. Dedicate the first day to the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Take a boat through Xiling Gorge, where the cliffs on both sides loom and recede, and the sound of the water is more hypnotic than any white noise. On the second day, visit the Three Gorges Tribe scenic area. The stilt houses built against the mountains and the scenes of laundry being washed by the stream will occasionally make you feel like time has slowed down. If you have the energy, add a trip to the Three Gorges Waterfall. Wear a raincoat and walk close to the base of the falls; the splash of mist will wake you up completely. ⏰ Qingjiang Gallery is best saved for the morning of the last day. The water is emerald green and mirror-like, with fewer people and slower boats, making it the most relaxing end to your trip. 🚄 Taxis from Yichang East Station to the various scenic spots are all within a 1-hour drive, but hiring a car is more convenient. ⚠️ There are many steps in the scenic areas. If you're pushing a stroller or traveling with elderly people who have limited mobility, ask in advance if there are detours for certain sections. 3️⃣ Xi'an | Shaanxi Xi'an during the Mid-Autumn Festival is still a bit hot during the day, but truly comfortable in the evening. If it's your first time, the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum is worth visiting, but don't expect to take photos without anyone else around—crowds are the norm. We recommend arriving with the first wave of visitors in the morning, seeing Pit 1 first, and then circling back to Pits 2 and 3 for the details. Don't rush to the next big spot in the afternoon. Head back into the city, rent a bike, and ride halfway along the Xi'an City Wall. The sunset dyes the battlements orange-red, which is more authentic than any travel guide cover. Remember to book tickets for the History Museum a few days in advance. It's free, but spots are limited. If you can't get a ticket, take a walk around the Small Wild Goose Pagoda; you can still catch the old scent of Chang'an there. The Qinling Zhongnan Mountains deserve a full day. If you want a relaxed trip, don't hike the whole way; take a shuttle bus for part of the journey and then walk the most scenic trails. 🍜 In the evening, just find a crowded paomo restaurant on Sajinqiao. Break the flatbread yourself—the smaller you break it, the more flavorful the broth will be. 4️⃣ Yingtan | Jiangxi Mount Longhu isn't the kind of mountain that stuns you at first glance; it's one you need to sit down and savor slowly. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Yingtan North Station, then it's a 40-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. Staying near the visitor center is most convenient. ⏰ In the morning, take a bamboo raft ride along the Luxi River. The water is calm, the Danxia landform mountains on both banks are reflected in the water, and the boatman occasionally hums a local tune. The whole pace is as slow as retirement life. In the afternoon, watch the hanging coffin performance. Seeing how the hanging coffins were placed is much more impressive in person than on video. The Tianshi Mansion is also worth a visit. Even if you don't burn incense, you can still walk around. The ancient trees tower overhead, and it's quiet enough to hear your own footsteps. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the mountains, so long pants and mosquito repellent are essential. Don't wear light-colored clothes that might attract them. Two days are enough for the whole trip. On the third day, you can easily spend half a day daydreaming in a riverside teahouse without anyone rushing you. 5️⃣ Nanping | Fujian The beauty of Mount Wuyi depends on the time of day. The Nine-Bend Stream is quietest in the early morning. Take a bamboo raft downstream before the mist clears, and the mountain peaks look like they're half-hidden, just waking up. ⏰ Be sure to book the earliest raft; the water light is softest, and you won't need filters for your photos. After getting off the raft, head straight to Tianyou Peak. The 800+ steps look intimidating, but if you take your time, you can reach the top in 40 minutes. The moment the view opens up, it's worth the price of admission. You can skip the Da Hong Pao scenic area; looking at a few old tea trees from behind a railing isn't very interesting. 🍜 Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area in the evening. Go to the Sangu Resort area and find a small shop run by locals; the smoked goose and bamboo shoot stew are both excellent. If you still have energy, go to the "Thread of Sky" (Yixiantian) on the second day. You have to turn sideways to pass through the narrowest part. Heavier friends should be careful—getting stuck would be awkward. 6️⃣ Lingshui | Hainan If you want to wear short sleeves for the Mid-Autumn Festival, head south. The sea in Lingshui is quieter than in Sanya, and the water quality at Fenjiezhou Island is as transparent as glass. 🚄 It only takes 20 minutes to get from Sanya Station to Lingshui by high-speed train. After getting off, take a taxi to the pier, and it's just a 10-minute boat ride to the island. It's best to stay one night on the island. In the evening, when the tourists have left, only the sound of the waves remains on the beach. With moonlight spreading across the sea, watching the moon rise from the horizon on Mid-Autumn night is much more ceremonial than watching it from a city balcony. The monkeys on Nanwan Monkey Island are used to tourists. Don't carry plastic bags in your hands—they really will snatch them. 🍜 Seafood on the island is a bit pricey, so we recommend having a meal of sour noodles with shrimp cakes in Lingshui County before heading to the island. ⚠️ Don't just apply sunscreen to your face; the back of your neck and the tops of your feet are the easiest places to get sunburned. 7️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is an underrated small city in the Central Plains. The connection between Chaya Mountain and "Journey to the West" gives this mountain a mythical feel. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM while the air is still cool with dew. Start with the Journey to the West Cultural Area; stone statues of the Monkey King and Tang Monk are scattered throughout the mountains, and children will be excited to run around. Chaya Mountain isn't very high, but there are many narrow and steep sections. Elderly people can manage if they walk slowly. There are even fewer people at the Laole Mountain scenic area. The grassland at the top of the mountain has a wide view, perfect for laying out a picnic mat and lying down for the afternoon. 🍜 The stir-fried free-range chicken and handmade braised noodles at the farmhouses at the foot of the mountain are hearty and come in large portions, so don't order too much. ⚠️ It's easy to get stuck in traffic when coming down the mountain during holidays, so try to leave before 12:00 PM. 8️⃣ Yangzhou | Jiangsu Autumn in Yangzhou begins with the scent of osmanthus. Take a walk by Slender West Lake, and the breeze is full of sweetness. Choosing between Ge Garden and He Garden is enough. I prefer He Garden; the winding corridors and the light and shadow falling on the blue brick floor through the flower windows are perfect for portraits. ⏰ The light at Slender West Lake is best after 5:00 PM. The Five-Pavilion Bridge and the White Pagoda are reflected in the water, there are few tourist boats, and the lake surface is as quiet as an old photograph. 🍜 You must have morning tea. The crab roe soup dumplings and dried tofu strips at Quyuan are reliable, but the lines are long—arriving before 7:00 AM can save you an hour. In the afternoon, just find a cafe on Pishi Street to sit in. The alleys of the old city have more character than the tourist attractions. If you're bringing elders, Yangzhou is almost perfect—the pace is slow, the roads are flat, and there are places to rest everywhere. At the end of the day, a 3-day Mid-Autumn Festival trip isn't about how many attractions you visit, but about changing your scenery to enjoy a good meal, take a walk, and daydream. Among these 8 cities, you can watch the moon by the river, smell the osmanthus in the mountains, or walk on the sand on an island. Pick one, book a comfortable place to stay, and let the rest take care of itself.