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

Everyone says that travel cools down once the summer holidays are over, but some people flock to popular cities in July and August. Tickets are twice as expensive, hotels are overflowing, and taking pictures is all in the back of their heads. I don't believe in evil, so I choose to go out and walk around from the end of August to September. There are fewer people, it's cool, and my wallet can still take a breather. These 8 places, which I have fielded, compared prices, personally tried the route, to tell the truth, when you need to save, when you need to spend. 01 Xiangyang | Hubei ⏰ Enter Gurung Chung at 7am, the ticket office has just opened, tourists have not yet arrived. The fog in the mountains has not dissipated, the stone road is wet, and the bamboos in front of Sangu Hall are rustled by the wind. Walking at this time is worthy of the word "quiet". By the time the tour arrives after nine o'clock, you've already taken all the empty views of the Grass Pavilion. Tickets are not cheap to buy on-site, but booking a day in advance on the official platform can save you $20. ⚠️ Don't believe the "take you to walk the path free ticket" at the door to solicit customers, the detour to the back hill is all wild slopes, a fall is not worth it. After walking out of Gurung Chung, don't take a taxi in such a hurry. Bus No. 512 goes directly to the city. It's a two-dollar chicken. It saves you money on a bowl of beef noodles than an online ride-hailing bus. 🍜 At noon, turn into Tanxi Road, casually find a noodle stall opened downstairs from residents, Xiangyang beef noodles standard with yellow wine and garlic cloves. The spicy oil is thick, the alkaline noodles are bouncy enough, and I sweat on my forehead after a bowl. In the afternoon, I went to North Street for a walk. There is an old man setting up a stall at the foot of the city wall selling golden cakes. A pack of chicken for five dollars will fall off after a bite. It is much more practical than the thirty-dollar souvenirs in the scenic spot. 02 Stationed Horse Store | Henan The mountain is related to "Journey to the West", but don't expect to see any special effects scenes. A mountain is a mountain, with strange stones, many holes and dense trees. Enter from the south gate at 8am, walk the Westward Journey Cultural Trail, detour to Lake Biwa and then to the top of the mountain. The whole journey is three hours, perfect for people with moderate physical strength. ⚠️ The cable car at the north gate is not good. The queue is forty minutes, and it's only twenty minutes less to go up. It's not worth it. Old Leshan is more windy and more primitive. The trail from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain is well built, but there are few resupply points. I have to carry two bottles of water on my own. The wind at the summit is strong enough to blow away your hat. Remember to bring a thin jacket when you go in September. In the afternoon, I went down the mountain and went to the village under the mountain. I ordered a pot of ground pot chicken and sticky cakes for dipping in soup in the farmhouse. It only cost $60 for two people. 🚄 Take a taxi from Zhuma Tien West Station to Mount Yuen for about 40 dollars, it's more cost-effective to share the ride. Don't walk all two mountains in one day, your feet will be useless. I held on hard that year, and the next day my calf hurt so much that I couldn’t go downstairs, and my schedule after that was all a mess. 03 Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture |Xinjiang The blue of Lake Sailimu is the kind of blue that you would be shocked to see in photos a hundred times and see with your own eyes. ⏰ After 5pm the light shines slantingly on the water, the color of the lake changes from gem blue to dark green, and swans swim slowly on the shore. Don’t flock to the east coast as soon as you walk in. Open towards the south coast with half less people and twice as many photo spots. The Grand Canyon of Anjihai is just around the corner on the way to Lake Sailimu. There are no guardrails at the edge of the canyon, ⚠️ Don’t lean too close to the side for photos, the soil is loose, stepping on the air is not a joke. The drone is shocking to fly, but the wind is strong and the crash rate is high, so do what you can. The mountains and rivers of Hot Springs County are harvested by accident. Forty minutes out of Sailimu Lake, there is a wild hot spring in the valley, locals call it "hot water ditch", the water is so hot that your feet can't put it down, soak for a while and relax your whole body. Accommodation Choose a B&B in Hot Springs County Town for two hundred dollars a night, half cheaper than inside the scenic spot. 🍜 For dinner, eat Kazakh naren, with noodles spread on the bottom, horse meat covered on top, and poured with a spoonful of hot soup. It warms people's hearts in cold weather. 04 Wu Zhong | Ningxia The Bronze Canyon Yellow River Grand Canyon, whose name sounds tough, is actually very comfortable to walk on. Enter the scenic spot at nine in the morning, first take a boat to cross the river, from the water to see the rock walls on both banks, ocher red, earth yellow stacked together, as if cut by a knife. The 108 towers are on the hillside on the other side of the river. Looking up from below, the towers are so layered that it is impossible to count how many there are. ⏰ After seeing the tower before noon, the light was too hard in the afternoon, all the photos were dead white. Dining inside the scenic area is expensive. A bowl of noodles costs thirty dollars, and the taste is about that. Bring your own dry food, come out to town to eat hand-grabbed lamb, Wu Zhong's beach lamb is not greasy, dipped in vinegar and garlic to eat, fragrant to lick your fingers. 🚄 Yinchuan to Wuzhong high-speed rail half an hour, out of the station take a taxi to the scenic spot about twenty kilometers. Don't pack a group for a day trip. The schedule is so rushed that it's like a war. It's more comfortable to walk around on your own. 05 Qingdao | Shandong Mount Yi and Guanqiao are separated by a distance of the entire city. Don't think about walking them all in one day. Choose the Yangkou Line from Mount Yi, enter the mountain at 7am, climb Mi Tien Cave, cross Shouzi Peak, and reach the top of the mountain to see the sea and sky. ⚠️ Tai clear line afternoon backlight, portrait face all black, do not waste time. Don't go to the canyon in the morning. Tour groups flock to it. The bridge is so crowded that it looks like a subway during the morning rush hour. ⏰ Go after 5:30 pm, the sunset dyes Huilan Pavilion golden, seagulls fly around, locals walking time, but the most comfortable. The stall selling grilled squid in Qiaotou sells chicken for 10 dollars, which is bigger than the 15-dollar ones in the scenic spot. Go to the Olympic Sailing Center at night with the lights on and the sea breeze for a lap along the Lover’s Dam. The sailboat is parked in the harbor, the mast is swaying back and forth, and the light show at May Fourth Square in the distance starts at eight o'clock. 🍜 After watching, go to Minjiang Road to eat wild wontons, the soup is fresh and big filling, with a grilled meat, 20 dollars per person to eat full. 06 Ankang | Shaanxi The Thousand Layers River is deep in the Qinling Mountains, and the water is that emerald green, so clear that you can see the rocks at the bottom of the river. Went in late August, the water was cool but not piercing, except for the shoes stepped in, the soles of the feet were pebbled and itchy and cool. A two-hour walk along the riverwalk, waterfalls, deep pools, and shallows rotate, changing the view with each turn. The ancient terraces of Fengyan are not on the list of scenic spots, but they are my favorite place in Ankang. ⏰ In early September, the rice began to turn yellow, the terraces were laid from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain. In the evening, the sunlight outlined the ridge of the fields, and the smoke rose from the mud roof of the mountainside. There is no admission fee, no fence, even if you stand on the field ridge and watch, no one will rush you. 📍 Driving over an hour and a half from Ankang city, the mountain road has many bends, good medicine for motion sickness. Accommodation Choose a farmhouse in the terraces, eighty dollars a night, wake up in the morning by birds, push the window to see the misty terraces. ⚠️ Don't rush the night road. There are no street lights on the mountain, and there are many curves. Locals don't dare to drive fast. 07 Guest | Guangxi The name of Lotus Hill in Jinxiu sounds old-fashioned, but the scenery is not old-fashioned. Danxia landform, the mountains are cracked like lotus petals, the canyon hangs halfway up the mountain, the abyss beneath the feet, the feet are weak to walk. ⏰ Arrive before 9am, the clouds have not dispersed, the top of the mountain emerges from the sea of ​​clouds, like an ink painting. Tickets are not cheap, but including a round-trip sightseeing car, it's still acceptable. ⚠️ Few supply points on the mountain, bring enough water and dry food, cup noodles ten dollars a bucket of chicken, you like to buy or not. After going down the mountain, go to Jinxiu County Town. The Yao ethnic style street is very lively at night. Oil tea is a must-drink. The ginger flavor hits the nose, and the bitterness is fragrant. After two sips, the body warms up. 🚄 Liuzhou by bus over two hours, the guest city over is not far. Don't sign up for a day tour. The schedule is too rushed. Lotus Hill is worth walking slowly for three hours. 🍜The fried asparagus with dried pork belly in the county town is savory and served with rice, with a bowl of oil tea, and you can eat it for 30 dollars per person. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Everyone says Harbin is worth visiting in winter, but I think September is its hidden version. Ice and Snow World winter tickets are more than 300 dollars. Although you can't see ice sculptures in September, the wetland park outside the park is open for free. ⚠️ Don't be obsessed with seeing the ice, there is no ice in September, watching is another kind of Harbin. Volga Manor Go in the summer, green trees cover Russian-style wooden houses, and the Ash River runs through the manor, as if walking into some European town. Tickets include a cruise, take a round trip, the wind blows from the river, very cool. The exterior of Hagia Sophia is enough to take pictures, no need to buy a ticket to enter, there is not much space inside, the lighting is dim, not as beautiful as the outside. 🍜 Autumn Forest Company buys red sausage and big bar, the kind that locals queue up. Eat the red sausage while it's hot. The garlic is mixed with the meat, and the juice bursts out when you take a bite. Walking on Central Avenue at night, the bread stone under your feet is ground to shine, Madier ice cream five-dollar chicken a piece, rich milk flavor, while walking while eating, a cool breeze, that kind of comfort is really unbeatable. These 8 places, I had only one criterion when I chose: late August to September, not many people, not bad views, money makes it worth it. Do you have any plans to go out lately? Where do you most want to go? Let’s talk in the comments section and maybe we can still hit our heads on the road. Everyone says that travel cools down once the summer holidays are over, but some people flock to popular cities in July and August. Tickets are twice as expensive, hotels are overflowing, and taking pictures is all in the back of their heads. I don't believe in evil, so I choose to go out and walk around from the end of August to September. There are fewer people, it's cool, and my wallet can still take a breather. These 8 places, which I have fielded, compared prices, personally tried the route, to tell the truth, when you need to save, when you need to spend. 01 Xiangyang | Hubei ⏰ Enter Gurung Chung at 7am, the ticket office has just opened, tourists have not yet arrived. The fog in the mountains has not dissipated, the stone road is wet, and the bamboos in front of Sangu Hall are rustled by the wind. Walking at this time is worthy of the word "quiet". By the time the tour arrives after nine o'clock, you've already taken all the empty views of the Grass Pavilion. Tickets are not cheap to buy on-site, but booking a day in advance on the official platform can save you $20. ⚠️ Don't believe the "take you to walk the path free ticket" at the door to solicit customers, the detour to the back hill is all wild slopes, a fall is not worth it. After walking out of Gurung Chung, don't take a taxi in such a hurry. Bus No. 512 goes directly to the city. It's a two-dollar chicken. It saves you money on a bowl of beef noodles than an online ride-hailing bus. 🍜 At noon, turn into Tanxi Road, casually find a noodle stall opened downstairs from residents, Xiangyang beef noodles standard with yellow wine and garlic cloves. The spicy oil is thick, the alkaline noodles are bouncy enough, and I sweat on my forehead after a bowl. In the afternoon, I went to North Street for a walk. There is an old man setting up a stall at the foot of the city wall selling golden cakes. A pack of chicken for five dollars will fall off after a bite. It is much more practical than the thirty-dollar souvenirs in the scenic spot. 02 Stationed Horse Store | Henan The mountain is related to "Journey to the West", but don't expect to see any special effects scenes. A mountain is a mountain, with strange stones, many holes and dense trees. Enter from the south gate at 8am, walk the Westward Journey Cultural Trail, detour to Lake Biwa and then to the top of the mountain. The whole journey is three hours, perfect for people with moderate physical strength. ⚠️ The cable car at the north gate is not good. The queue is forty minutes, and it's only twenty minutes less to go up. It's not worth it. Old Leshan is more windy and more primitive. The trail from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain is well built, but there are few resupply points. I have to carry two bottles of water on my own. The wind at the summit is strong enough to blow away your hat. Remember to bring a thin jacket when you go in September. In the afternoon, I went down the mountain and went to the village under the mountain. I ordered a pot of ground pot chicken and sticky cakes for dipping in soup in the farmhouse. It only cost $60 for two people. 🚄 Take a taxi from Zhuma Tien West Station to Mount Yuen for about 40 dollars, it's more cost-effective to share the ride. Don't walk all two mountains in one day, your feet will be useless. I held on hard that year, and the next day my calf hurt so much that I couldn’t go downstairs, and my schedule after that was all a mess. 03 Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture |Xinjiang The blue of Lake Sailimu is the kind of blue that you would be shocked to see in photos a hundred times and see with your own eyes. ⏰ After 5pm the light shines slantingly on the water, the color of the lake changes from gem blue to dark green, and swans swim slowly on the shore. Don’t flock to the east coast as soon as you walk in. Open towards the south coast with half less people and twice as many photo spots. The Grand Canyon of Anjihai is just around the corner on the way to Lake Sailimu. There are no guardrails at the edge of the canyon, ⚠️ Don’t lean too close to the side for photos, the soil is loose, stepping on the air is not a joke. The drone is shocking to fly, but the wind is strong and the crash rate is high, so do what you can. The mountains and rivers of Hot Springs County are harvested by accident. Forty minutes out of Sailimu Lake, there is a wild hot spring in the valley, locals call it "hot water ditch", the water is so hot that your feet can't put it down, soak for a while and relax your whole body. Accommodation Choose a B&B in Hot Springs County Town for two hundred dollars a night, half cheaper than inside the scenic spot. 🍜 For dinner, eat Kazakh naren, with noodles spread on the bottom, horse meat covered on top, and poured with a spoonful of hot soup. It warms people's hearts in cold weather. 04 Wu Zhong | Ningxia The Bronze Canyon Yellow River Grand Canyon, whose name sounds tough, is actually very comfortable to walk on. Enter the scenic spot at nine in the morning, first take a boat to cross the river, from the water to see the rock walls on both banks, ocher red, earth yellow stacked together, as if cut by a knife. The 108 towers are on the hillside on the other side of the river. Looking up from below, the towers are so layered that it is impossible to count how many there are. ⏰ After seeing the tower before noon, the light was too hard in the afternoon, all the photos were dead white. Dining inside the scenic area is expensive. A bowl of noodles costs thirty dollars, and the taste is about that. Bring your own dry food, come out to town to eat hand-grabbed lamb, Wu Zhong's beach lamb is not greasy, dipped in vinegar and garlic to eat, fragrant to lick your fingers. 🚄 Yinchuan to Wuzhong high-speed rail half an hour, out of the station take a taxi to the scenic spot about twenty kilometers. Don't pack a group for a day trip. The schedule is so rushed that it's like a war. It's more comfortable to walk around on your own. 05 Qingdao | Shandong Mount Yi and Guanqiao are separated by a distance of the entire city. Don't think about walking them all in one day. Choose the Yangkou Line from Mount Yi, enter the mountain at 7am, climb Mi Tien Cave, cross Shouzi Peak, and reach the top of the mountain to see the sea and sky. ⚠️ Tai clear line afternoon backlight, portrait face all black, do not waste time. Don't go to the canyon in the morning. Tour groups flock to it. The bridge is so crowded that it looks like a subway during the morning rush hour. ⏰ Go after 5:30 pm, the sunset dyes Huilan Pavilion golden, seagulls fly around, locals walking time, but the most comfortable. The stall selling grilled squid in Qiaotou sells chicken for 10 dollars, which is bigger than the 15-dollar ones in the scenic spot. Go to the Olympic Sailing Center at night with the lights on and the sea breeze for a lap along the Lover’s Dam. The sailboat is parked in the harbor, the mast is swaying back and forth, and the light show at May Fourth Square in the distance starts at eight o'clock. 🍜 After watching, go to Minjiang Road to eat wild wontons, the soup is fresh and big filling, with a grilled meat, 20 dollars per person to eat full. 06 Ankang | Shaanxi The Thousand Layers River is deep in the Qinling Mountains, and the water is that emerald green, so clear that you can see the rocks at the bottom of the river. Went in late August, the water was cool but not piercing, except for the shoes stepped in, the soles of the feet were pebbled and itchy and cool. A two-hour walk along the riverwalk, waterfalls, deep pools, and shallows rotate, changing the view with each turn. The ancient terraces of Fengyan are not on the list of scenic spots, but they are my favorite place in Ankang. ⏰ In early September, the rice began to turn yellow, the terraces were laid from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain. In the evening, the sunlight outlined the ridge of the fields, and the smoke rose from the mud roof of the mountainside. There is no admission fee, no fence, even if you stand on the field ridge and watch, no one will rush you. 📍 Driving over an hour and a half from Ankang city, the mountain road has many bends, good medicine for motion sickness. Accommodation Choose a farmhouse in the terraces, eighty dollars a night, wake up in the morning by birds, push the window to see the misty terraces. ⚠️ Don't rush the night road. There are no street lights on the mountain, and there are many curves. Locals don't dare to drive fast. 07 Guest | Guangxi The name of Lotus Hill in Jinxiu sounds old-fashioned, but the scenery is not old-fashioned. Danxia landform, the mountains are cracked like lotus petals, the canyon hangs halfway up the mountain, the abyss beneath the feet, the feet are weak to walk. ⏰ Arrive before 9am, the clouds have not dispersed, the top of the mountain emerges from the sea of ​​clouds, like an ink painting. Tickets are not cheap, but including a round-trip sightseeing car, it's still acceptable. ⚠️ Few supply points on the mountain, bring enough water and dry food, cup noodles ten dollars a bucket of chicken, you like to buy or not. After going down the mountain, go to Jinxiu County Town. The Yao ethnic style street is very lively at night. Oil tea is a must-drink. The ginger flavor hits the nose, and the bitterness is fragrant. After two sips, the body warms up. 🚄 Liuzhou by bus over two hours, the guest city over is not far. Don't sign up for a day tour. The schedule is too rushed. Lotus Hill is worth walking slowly for three hours. 🍜The fried asparagus with dried pork belly in the county town is savory and served with rice, with a bowl of oil tea, and you can eat it for 30 dollars per person. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Everyone says Harbin is worth visiting in winter, but I think September is its hidden version. Ice and Snow World winter tickets are more than 300 dollars. Although you can't see ice sculptures in September, the wetland park outside the park is open for free. ⚠️ Don't be obsessed with seeing the ice, there is no ice in September, watching is another kind of Harbin. Volga Manor Go in the summer, green trees cover Russian-style wooden houses, and the Ash River runs through the manor, as if walking into some European town. Tickets include a cruise, take a round trip, the wind blows from the river, very cool. The exterior of Hagia Sophia is enough to take pictures, no need to buy a ticket to enter, there is not much space inside, the lighting is dim, not as beautiful as the outside. 🍜 Autumn Forest Company buys red sausage and big bar, the kind that locals queue up. Eat the red sausage while it's hot. The garlic is mixed with the meat, and the juice bursts out when you take a bite. Walking on Central Avenue at night, the bread stone under your feet is ground to shine, Madier ice cream five-dollar chicken a piece, rich milk flavor, while walking while eating, a cool breeze, that kind of comfort is really unbeatable. These 8 places, I had only one criterion when I chose: late August to September, not many people, not bad views, money makes it worth it. Do you have any plans to go out lately? Where do you most want to go? Let’s talk in the comments section and maybe we can still hit our heads on the road.

Beiquan Temple, Queshan | A Guide to the Millennium-Old Temple with Sui Ginkgo, Tang Cypress, and Yan Lugong's Legacy Beiquan Temple is located between Leshan and Xiushan, northwest of Queshan County. It is a key cultural relic protection unit in Henan Province, first built in the second year of Wuping (Northern Qi Dynasty), over 1,400 years ago. The ancient temple nestles against the mountains and embraces the springs, surrounded by Leopard Creek. Its core features include the Sui Dynasty ginkgo trees, Tang Dynasty cypress trees, the millennium-old spring pools, and the Yan Lugong Shrine. It is a rare mountain temple in the Central Plains, offering a serene Zen atmosphere, religious culture, a history of loyalty, and ancient tree wonders. It is perfect for historical exploration, quiet relaxation, and cultural study. Core highlights The Bagua Pool and Jiuqu Pool are the temple's iconic water features. The spring water flows year-round, warm in winter and cool in summer, creating the ancient scene of "springs gushing golden lotuses, dark water floating flowers." The water is clear, overflowing into the Jiuqu Pool and winding around the halls with a gentle murmuring sound. The ancient springs and architecture complement each other, creating a simple and tranquil atmosphere. The Sui Dynasty ginkgo trees are 4 millennium-old trees in the temple, over 1,400 years old. The largest has a trunk circumference of 7.15 meters. Despite being struck by lightning and having a hollow trunk that can seat 4 people at a table, it remains lush and vibrant. In late autumn, the trees turn golden, covering the ground in leaves—the temple's most beautiful season. The trees are adorned with red prayer ribbons, making them highly photogenic. The Tang Dynasty cypress trees are 2 vigorous ancient trees, said to date back to the Tang Dynasty. Their branches are twisted and knotted, standing tall and green despite the passage of time. They flank the courtyard and are precious living artifacts of the temple. The Yan Lugong Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Yan Zhenqing, the great Tang Dynasty calligrapher and loyal official. Legend says he was imprisoned here and died a martyr, leaving behind a timeless historical story. The shrine is simple and solemn, displaying historical materials. It is a unique carrier of the temple's loyalty culture, rich in humanistic significance. The Main Hall and the surrounding complex are the main buildings along the temple's central axis. The halls are simple and elegant, with red walls hidden under the shade of ancient trees, and a long-standing tradition of incense. The side halls and rooms are neatly arranged. The overall site is not overly commercialized, preserving the original quiet atmosphere of the ancient temple. The ancient stone tablets include remnants of Northern Qi steles, the Ming Dynasty "Beiquan Yongyu" stele, and Qing Dynasty renovation steles. The weathered inscriptions record the rise and fall of the temple over the millennium, perfect for history enthusiasts to study. The temple is surrounded by a state-owned forest farm with dense trees and fresh air. Stepping into the area isolates you from the outside noise, offering a sense of seclusion. The Beiquan Ancient Temple Fair is held on the second day of the second lunar month, featuring a strong folk atmosphere and attracting locals for sightseeing and worship. Admission and ticket information The scenic area is free to enter, with no general admission ticket required. Opening hours: 08:00–17:30, last entry at 17:00. Incense and prayer items are optional; there is no forced consumption. Detailed transportation guide Public transport: Take a bus from Zhumadian to Queshan County, then take a taxi to Beiquan Temple. There is no direct bus. Driving: Navigate to "Beiquan Temple, Queshan." It is about a 30-minute drive from Zhumadian city center and 7.5 km northwest of Queshan County. There is a simple parking lot at the temple entrance. Travel tips Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are best. Visit in late autumn (October–November) to see the golden ginkgo leaves. Avoid the midday heat. Recommended route: Mountain Gate > Bagua Pool & Jiuqu Pool > Sui Dynasty Ginkgo Trees > Tang Cypress > Main Hall > Yan Lugong Shrine > Ancient Stone Tablets. This route is smooth and avoids backtracking. Duration: 1.5–2 hours for a relaxed pace. Etiquette: The temple is a religious site; please remain quiet and do not make noise. Do not use flash photography for the Buddha statues inside the halls. Dress: Dress modestly and appropriately to respect religious customs. Crowds: The ginkgo season in late autumn is busy; visit off-peak for a better experience. Safety: The surrounding forest is lush; please be mindful of fire safety. Open flames are prohibited. Nearby attractions Beiquan Temple is adjacent to the Old Leshan Scenic Area. You can plan a one-day cultural and landscape loop in Queshan. Visit Beiquan Temple in the morning to explore history and springs, and head to Old Leshan in the afternoon for hiking and forest scenery. If you have more time, you can also visit Boshan Lake Scenic Area for a one-stop tour of ancient temples, mountains, forests, and lake views.

I took my wife to these 8️⃣ places, and she praised me for a whole year! 01 Huizhou | Guangdong When taking her to Huizhou, don't rush to the beach. In the morning, explore West Lake first, taking a boat from Gushan Wharf to Diancui Island. The lake breeze is much more refreshing than air conditioning. For lunch, find a small shop in Zhuwu Lane and eat at "Grandma's Picks"—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, 5 yuan a serving, all you can eat. In the afternoon, drive to Luofu Mountain, but don't climb the whole way. Take the cable car up to Eagle's Beak Rock and watch the clouds drift by. She takes photos while I carry the bag—a clear division of labor. In the evening, head to Xunliao Bay and stay near the Sea Park; the beach is right downstairs. ⚠️ Traffic can be congested after 5 pm on weekends, so I recommend arriving before 4 pm. In the evening, eat roasted chicken on the beach with ice-cold beer, enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. She suddenly says, "I'll come again next time," and I know the trip was worth it. 🚄 A taxi from Huizhou North Station to West Lake takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. 02 Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan is a place best explored at a leisurely pace, not rushed. Start your day with a visit to Mingcui Lake. Rent a small boat and paddle through the reeds. If the lotus flowers are in bloom, the entire lake is a pink and white spectacle. An hour of boating won't tire you out. For lunch, head back to the city center for hand-pulled lamb. "Lao Mao Hand-Pulled Lamb" on Huaiyuan Road in Xixia District costs around 80 RMB per person; the meat is so tender you don't even need dipping sauce. In the afternoon, visit the Helan Mountain Rock Paintings. The light is best an hour before sunset, making the sun god imagery on the rock walls exceptionally clear. The next morning should be dedicated to Shuidonggou. Don't just explore the surface areas; be sure to explore the hidden soldier caves—they're cool and mysterious, like stepping into a time-travel drama. ⚠️ The wind can be strong at the Western Xia Mausoleums in the afternoon, so remember to bring a hat tie. Choose accommodation near Beijing Middle Road in Jinfeng District; it's convenient for visiting any of the attractions. Her biggest surprise was actually the purple wildflowers at the foot of Helan Mountain, covering the entire mountainside—even more beautiful than the scenic area itself. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei is a place you can easily spend two days exploring. Arrive on the first afternoon and stay in Xianrendong Village; the lake is right outside your window. In the evening, rent an electric scooter to Qinglongshan Wharf to catch the last willow-leaf boat. The boatman rows slowly, water birds skim the surface, and she sits at the bow, dipping her feet in the water, laughing like a child. Get up at six the next morning to climb to the top of Qinglongshan Mountain to watch the sunrise. Don't bring too much; a bottle of water is enough. It's windy at the top, so remember to wear a jacket. At noon, return to the village for lotus fish—freshly caught and cooked, incredibly fresh! ⚠️ During the summer when the lotus flowers are in full bloom, there are many tourists. Buy boat tickets a day in advance on the official WeChat account; the queue on-site is at least an hour long. What she remembers most fondly is the pinkish-purple sunset over the lake at dusk—more real than any filter. 04 Guangyuan | Sichuan Places like Jianmenguan require a strategic approach when taking your wife. Those with good stamina should enter through the North Gate, take the cable car to the Fairy Corridor, and then walk along the Bird Path and Ape Path, clinging to the cliff face. Her palms were sweating, but her eyes were shining – the thrill was off the charts! Those with average stamina should enter directly from the South Gate, take the sightseeing bus to the gate tower, and enjoy the imposing "One Man Guards the Pass" viewpoint. Take photos and leave. Don't eat lunch at the scenic area entrance; drive to Jiange County and find a small, unassuming restaurant. A tofu feast costs about 50 yuan per person, featuring dishes like "Pregnant Tofu" and "Bengshan Tofu" – ten times better than what you get in the scenic area! In the afternoon, depending on time, if you have time, go to Liangshan Temple; otherwise, head down to Zhaohua Ancient City. The ancient city is free, and strolling along the cobblestone streets is more relaxing than rushing from one attraction to another. ⚠️ The Ape Path requires a separate ticket and may be closed in bad weather; check with the scenic area beforehand. Her most exciting moment was shouting like an ancient person in front of the gate tower, the echo making her laugh. 05 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is perfect for couples to relax and unwind. On the first day, stay in Huangyao Ancient Town, choosing a traditional guesthouse with a courtyard. Listening to the insects chirping in the courtyard at night is more enjoyable than staying outside. Get up at 7 am, before the tour groups arrive, and enjoy a bowl of fermented black bean noodles on the stone-paved street while the two of you are alone. Then go to Dailong Bridge to see the morning mist. For lunch, have stuffed pumpkin blossoms in the ancient town – steamed pumpkin blossoms filled with meat, sweet and refreshing. In the afternoon, drive to Gupo Mountain. Don't take the sightseeing bus; walk to the section leading to Xiangu Waterfall. The air is humid, and the negative ion concentration is intoxicating. In the evening, head to Dongtanling to see the sunset and sea of ​​clouds. It's windy at the summit, so bring an extra jacket. ⚠️ Some shops in the ancient town sell silver jewelry; the prices are inflated, so just look and don't buy anything. What touched her most was releasing river lanterns in the ancient town at night. As the lanterns drifted away along the Yaojiang River, she leaned on my shoulder and said, "This is such a beautiful life." 06 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is perfect for a short weekend trip, two days is just right. On the first day, go to Chaya Mountain. Don't enter from the main gate; enter from the south gate to avoid crowds. Walk the hiking trail all the way to Feilai Stone, then take the toboggan down – thrilling and less tiring! Have sesame leaf noodles with braised pig's trotters for lunch at the foot of the mountain; about 30 yuan per person is enough to fill you up. In the afternoon, go to Laole Mountain. Don't rush to climb; lie on the grass at the foot of the mountain for a while, and wait for the sun to cool down before heading up. The wind is strong at the top, offering a wide view of the entire Zhumadian plain. Stay overnight in Suiping County. The night market in the county town is lively; grilled gluten and stir-fried mung bean jelly are must-try dishes. ⚠️ The Chaya Mountain toboggan closes at 5:30 pm, so don't go right on time. Her favorite part was flying a kite on the grass; the wind was so strong that it flew without her having to run. She chased after the kite while I filmed it, laughing until my stomach hurt. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain, with its ethereal atmosphere, was a perfect place to soak up some of its spiritual energy. We entered the mountain at 8 am, took the cable car from the back to the central platform, and then climbed the Heavenly Ladder. The steps were a bit steep, but the ancient trees on both sides provided ample shade, making it easy to rest occasionally. At the Imperial City, we saw the Taoist architectural complex—red walls and gray tiles, the aroma of incense and pine wood mingling together. She suddenly quieted down, saying, "It's so peaceful here." We had a vegetarian lunch in the mountains: radish stew with vermicelli—cheap but refreshing. In the afternoon, we descended the front of the mountain, passing Chaotianmen and the Wenda Palace. The entire route was made of stone steps; if you have knee problems, I recommend taking the cable car back the same way. In the evening, we strolled around Kongtong Ancient Town—less crowded and perfect for a walk. ⚠️ There are no shops in the mountains, so bring your own water and snacks. Her biggest surprise was encountering a group of monkeys on the way down the mountain. They squatted by the roadside watching us eat apples. She threw one to a monkey, which caught it and bowed. She was delighted for a long time. 08 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Qinhuangdao is a safe bet for taking my wife in the summer. On the first day, we stayed in Liuzhuang, Beidaihe. It was a five-minute walk to the beach. We got up at 5 am to watch the sunrise—don't think it's too early; you'll understand what it means to be worth it afterward. At noon, we bought seafood at the Shitang Road Market and had it cooked at a nearby shop. Mantis shrimp and clams were must-buys; the cooking fee was 10 yuan per dish. In the afternoon, we went to Pigeon Nest Park, walking along the wooden boardwalk to watch the tides rise and fall. Then we went to Tiger Stone Beach to wade in the water. She wore a long dress and stood in the water as the waves crashed against her. I squatted down to take pictures of her; she chose one out of twenty. On the second day, we went to Shanhaiguan. First, we saw the "First Pass Under Heaven" gate tower, then walked along the ancient city wall to Jingbian Tower. At noon, we ate four steamed buns in the ancient city, costing 15 yuan per person—the filling was juicy. In the afternoon, we went to Laolongtou to see the Great Wall stretching into the sea. Standing on the stone city wall where the wall meets the sea, with the sea breeze blowing in our faces, she suddenly said, "Let's live by the sea when we're old." ⚠️ Beidaihe is extremely crowded during the summer holidays. Try to travel during the week and book hotels a week in advance; the price can be double. Her most unforgettable memory is drawing a heart on the beach and writing our names on it, only to have it slowly carried away by the rising tide. After taking her to these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: the meaning of travel isn't about how many attractions you visit, but about the scenery you saw together, the street food you ate at, and the little jokes you shared—all of which become reasons to reconcile during everyday arguments. Later, every time she flips through her photo album, she'll reminisce, "My legs went weak at Jianmen Pass that time," and then her eyes will crinkle with laughter. Where did you last travel together? Share in the comments. Take my wife to these 8️⃣ places, and she's praised me for a whole year! 01 Huizhou|Guangdong Take her to Huizhou, but don't rush straight to the beach. In the morning, we explored West Lake, taking a boat from Gushan Wharf to Diancui Island. The lake breeze was much more refreshing than the air conditioning. For lunch, we found a small shop in Zhuwu Lane and ate "Grandma's Picks"—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, 5 yuan a serving, all you can eat. In the afternoon, we drove to Luofu Mountain, not hiking the entire way, but taking the cable car up to Eagle's Beak Rock to watch the clouds drift below. She took photos while I carried the bag—a clear division of labor. In the evening, we arrived at Xunliao Bay and stayed near the Sea Park, with the beach right downstairs. ⚠️ Traffic can be congested after 5 pm on weekends, so it's recommended to arrive before 4 pm. In the evening, we ate roasted chicken on the beach with ice-cold beer, enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. She suddenly said, "I'll come again next time," and I knew the trip was worthwhile. 🚄 A taxi from Huizhou North Station to West Lake takes about 30 minutes and costs around 40 yuan. 02 Yinchuan|Ningxia Yinchuan is a place for leisurely exploration, not for rushing around. First, head to Mingcui Lake in the morning. Rent a small boat and paddle into the reed marshes. If the lotus flowers are in bloom, the entire lake is a pink and white expanse. A one-hour boat ride isn't tiring. For lunch, return to the city center for hand-pulled lamb. "Lao Mao Hand-Pulled Lamb" on Huaiyuan Road in Xixia District costs around 80 RMB per person; the meat is so tender you don't even need dipping sauce. In the afternoon, visit the Helan Mountain Rock Paintings. The light is best an hour before sunset, making the sun god patterns on the rock walls exceptionally clear in the slanting sunlight. The next morning is dedicated to Shuidonggou. Don't just explore the surface areas; be sure to explore the hidden soldier caves—they're cool and mysterious, like something out of a time-travel drama. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the Xixia Mausoleums in the afternoon; your hat can easily blow off, so remember to bring a drawstring. Choose accommodation near Beijing Middle Road in Jinfeng District; it's convenient for visiting any of the attractions. Her biggest surprise was actually the purple wildflowers at the foot of Helan Mountain, covering the entire mountainside—even more beautiful than the scenic area itself. 03 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei alone is enough to explore for two days. We arrived on the afternoon of the first day and stayed at Xianrendong Village, where the lake was right outside the window. In the evening, we rented an electric scooter to go to Qinglongshan Wharf to catch the last willow-leaf boat. The boatman rowed slowly, water birds flew close to the surface, and she sat at the bow, dipping her feet in the water, laughing like a child. The next morning, we got up at six and climbed to the top of Qinglongshan Mountain to watch the sunrise. Don't bring too much; a bottle of water is enough. It's windy at the top, so remember to wear a jacket. At noon, we went back to the village for lotus fish, freshly caught and cooked—it was incredibly fresh! ⚠️ During the summer when the lotus flowers are in full bloom, there are many tourists. Buy boat tickets a day in advance on the official WeChat account; the queue on-site is at least an hour long. What she remembers most fondly is the pinkish-purple sunset on the lake at dusk—more real than any filter. 04 Guangyuan|Sichuan Taking your wife to a place like Jianmenguan requires strategy. Those with good stamina should enter through the North Gate, take the cable car to the Fairy Corridor, and then walk along the Bird Path and Ape Path, clinging to the cliff face. Her palms were sweating, but her eyes were shining – the thrill was off the charts! Those with average stamina should enter directly from the South Gate, take the sightseeing bus to the gate tower, and enjoy the imposing "One Man Guards the Pass" viewpoint. Take photos and leave. Don't eat lunch at the scenic area entrance; drive to Jiange County and find a small, unassuming restaurant. A tofu feast costs about 50 yuan per person, featuring dishes like "Pregnant Tofu" and "Bengshan Tofu" – ten times better than what you get in the scenic area! In the afternoon, depending on time, if you have time, go to Liangshan Temple; otherwise, head down to Zhaohua Ancient City. The ancient city is free, and strolling along the cobblestone streets is more relaxing than rushing from one attraction to another. ⚠️ The Ape Path requires a separate ticket and may be closed in bad weather; check with the scenic area beforehand. Her most exciting moment was shouting like an ancient person in front of the gate tower, the echo making her laugh. 05 Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is perfect for couples to relax and unwind. On the first day, stay in Huangyao Ancient Town, choosing a traditional guesthouse with a courtyard. Listening to the insects chirping in the courtyard at night is more enjoyable than staying outside. Get up at 7 am, before the tour groups arrive, and enjoy a bowl of fermented black bean noodles on the stone-paved street while the two of you are alone. Then go to Dailong Bridge to see the morning mist. For lunch, have stuffed pumpkin blossoms in the ancient town – steamed pumpkin blossoms filled with meat, sweet and refreshing. In the afternoon, drive to Gupo Mountain. Don't take the sightseeing bus; walk to the section leading to Xiangu Waterfall. The air is humid, and the negative ion concentration is intoxicating. In the evening, head to Dongtanling to see the sunset and sea of ​​clouds. It's windy at the summit, so bring an extra jacket. ⚠️ Some shops in the ancient town sell silver jewelry; the prices are inflated, so just look and don't buy anything. What touched her most was releasing river lanterns in the ancient town at night. As the lanterns drifted away along the Yaojiang River, she leaned on my shoulder and said, "This is such a beautiful life." 06 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is perfect for a short weekend trip, two days is just right. On the first day, go to Chaya Mountain. Don't enter from the main gate; enter from the south gate to avoid crowds. Walk the hiking trail all the way to Feilai Stone, then take the toboggan down – thrilling and less tiring! Have sesame leaf noodles with braised pig's trotters for lunch at the foot of the mountain; about 30 yuan per person is enough to fill you up. In the afternoon, go to Laole Mountain. Don't rush to climb; lie on the grass at the foot of the mountain for a while, and wait for the sun to cool down before heading up. The wind is strong at the top, offering a wide view of the entire Zhumadian plain. Stay overnight in Suiping County. The night market in the county town is lively; grilled gluten and stir-fried mung bean jelly are must-try dishes. ⚠️ The Chaya Mountain toboggan closes at 5:30 pm, so don't go right on time. Her favorite part was flying a kite on the grass; the wind was so strong that it flew without her having to run. She chased after the kite while I filmed it, laughing until my stomach hurt. 07 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain, with its ethereal atmosphere, was a perfect place to soak up some of its spiritual energy. We entered the mountain at 8 am, took the cable car from the back to the central platform, and then climbed the Heavenly Ladder. The steps were a bit steep, but the ancient trees on both sides provided ample shade, making it easy to rest occasionally. At the Imperial City, we saw the Taoist architectural complex—red walls and gray tiles, the aroma of incense and pine wood mingling together. She suddenly quieted down, saying, "It's so peaceful here." We had a vegetarian lunch in the mountains: radish stew with vermicelli—cheap but refreshing. In the afternoon, we descended the front of the mountain, passing Chaotianmen and the Wenda Palace. The entire route was made of stone steps; if you have knee problems, I recommend taking the cable car back the same way. In the evening, we strolled around Kongtong Ancient Town—less crowded and perfect for a walk. ⚠️ There are no shops in the mountains, so bring your own water and snacks. Her biggest surprise was encountering a group of monkeys on the way down the mountain. They squatted by the roadside watching us eat apples. She threw one to a monkey, which caught it and bowed. She was delighted for a long time. 08 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Qinhuangdao is a safe bet for taking my wife in the summer. On the first day, we stayed in Liuzhuang, Beidaihe. It was a five-minute walk to the beach. We got up at 5 am to watch the sunrise—don't think it's too early; you'll understand what it means to be worth it afterward. At noon, we bought seafood at the Shitang Road Market and had it cooked at a nearby shop. Mantis shrimp and clams were must-buys; the cooking fee was 10 yuan per dish. In the afternoon, we went to Pigeon Nest Park, walking along the wooden boardwalk to watch the tides rise and fall. Then we went to Tiger Stone Beach to wade in the water. She wore a long dress and stood in the water as the waves crashed against her. I squatted down to take pictures of her; she chose one out of twenty. On the second day, we went to Shanhaiguan. First, we saw the "First Pass Under Heaven" gate tower, then walked along the ancient city wall to Jingbian Tower. At noon, we ate four steamed buns in the ancient city, costing 15 yuan per person—the filling was juicy. In the afternoon, we went to Laolongtou (Old Dragon Head) to see the Great Wall stretching into the sea. Standing on the stone city wall where the wall meets the sea, with the sea breeze blowing in our faces, she suddenly said, "Let's live by the sea when we're old." ⚠️ Beidaihe is extremely crowded during the summer holidays, so try to travel during the week. Book hotels a week in advance; the price can be double. Her most unforgettable memory is drawing a heart in the sand, writing our names on it, and watching the tide slowly carry it away. After taking her to these eight places, my biggest takeaway is: the meaning of travel isn't about how many tourist attractions you visit, but about the scenery you saw together, the street food you ate at, and the little jokes you shared—all of which become reasons to reconcile during everyday arguments. Later, every time she flips through her photo album, she reminisces, "My legs went weak at Jianmen Pass that time," and then smiles with her eyes crinkling. Where did you last travel together? Let's chat in the comments.

01 Baise | Guangxi Many people treat Baise as just a transit stop, which I think is a shame. You need to get to Haokun Lake before 9:00 AM, before the wind picks up and the reflection is as perfect as a mirror. You can walk the boardwalk along the lake in 2 hours—no need to take a boat, and you can spend the ticket money on a bowl of rolled rice noodles instead. Tongling Grand Canyon is better in the afternoon. Sunlight filters down from the top of the canyon, and the mist from the waterfall will dampen your hair, so remember to bring a light jacket. ⚠️ The steps at the bottom of the canyon are slippery, so wear regular sneakers—don't try it in flip-flops. Save Chengbi Lake for the evening. At sunset, the water turns golden orange, and locals spread out picnic mats on the lawn by the dam—you can join them. 🍜 Baise's suanye (pickled fruit) is worth a try. Mango dipped in chili powder—you'll frown at the first bite, but you won't be able to stop after the second. 02 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Don't rush to buy tickets for Fenghuang Ancient Town—walk along the Tuojiang River first. At 6:00 AM, fog rises over the river, and the stilted buildings look like they're floating on water; that's the "Border Town" Shen Congwen wrote about. When it gets crowded during the day, I suggest you hide in Dehang Grand Canyon, an hour's drive from the ancient town. The Liusha Waterfall in the canyon is 100 times quieter than the ancient town. ⏰ After 2:00 PM, the light hits the bottom of the canyon at an angle, so you don't need filters for photos. You can visit Shibadong and Aizhai in one trip. The glass skywalk at Aizhai Bridge is not for those afraid of heights—my legs went weak for 10 minutes standing on it. 🍜 For dinner, have the blood cake duck outside the ancient town. Don't order it at the viral shops by the river; head deep into the alleys, and the place where locals are queuing is the real deal. ⚠️ The bar street in the ancient town still plays heavy bass after 11:00 PM, so book an inn on the mountain side if you want a good night's sleep. 03 Ningde | Fujian The most surprising thing in Ningde for me was Taimu Mountain. The mountain isn't high, but the rocks are strange. The "Yixiantian" (a sliver of sky) is so narrow that you have to turn sideways to pass through—people who are a bit overweight will really get stuck, don't ask me how I know. Baishuiyang is better for summer; you can walk barefoot on the entire shallow rocky beach, and families with kids can spend the whole afternoon here. Yuanyang Creek is right next door, but it only has mandarin ducks in the autumn; it's just an ordinary creek in other seasons, so you can skip it if you're short on time. The Xiapu Beiqi mudflats are the main event. 📍 Navigate to Beiqi Village and climb up to the photography spot. ⏰ Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise; when the tide is halfway out, the mudflats reveal tiger-stripe patterns. That purple-red color is something no palette can mix. ⚠️ The mudflats are very slippery, so don't wear white shoes down there. 🍜 Have the fish ball soup with oyster omelet in Xiapu before heading to the next stop. 04 Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan isn't just about the Huangshan Scenic Area; Xidi and Hongcun are where I want you to slow down. Hongcun is most crowded in the afternoon, so I suggest you stay in Xidi. After 7:00 PM, the tour groups disperse, and there's nothing but the light of lanterns and the sound of flowing water on the stone paths—that's what an ancient village should be. Chengkan is a bit wilder than these two villages, known for the saying "Tour Chengkan, no obstacles in life." The alleys of this Bagua village are dizzying, so find a local grandma to guide you—10 yuan will get you half a day of village history. The essence of the Ancient Huizhou Culture Tourism Zone is Tunxi Old Street. 🍜 The hairy tofu must be pan-fried on the spot—crispy on the outside and molten on the inside, served with a side of chili sauce. ⚠️ You need to book tickets for the Huangshan Scenic Area one day in advance. In peak season, the cable car queue is at least 2 hours long, so if you're fit, climb from the front mountain; if your knees are bad, take the cable car from the back mountain directly. ⏰ Go in November; the autumn colors of Tachuan are right next to Hongcun, so see them on your way. 05 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is severely underrated. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," and the rocks look like they've been pinched into strange, bizarre shapes. ⏰ It's best to go the day after it rains; the mountain has been washed, and the textures are so clear you can see every fold. There are two hiking routes: the west route is steep but scenic, and the east route is flat and suitable for the elderly and children. I took the west route and it took 2 hours to reach the top—tiring, but worth it. Laoleshan is much more relaxed, more like a backyard for locals. There's a large grassland at the foot of the mountain, full of people flying kites in the spring. 🍜 Have a lunch of Queshan jelly at the foot of the mountain—it's sour and spicy, and with a sesame flatbread, 20 yuan will fill you up. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "wild honey" at the entrance of the scenic area; I bought it once, and when I got back and tasted it, it was just sugar water. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain, and carpooling is more cost-effective. 06 Zaozhuang | Shandong Taierzhuang Ancient Town is much better at night than during the day. ⏰ Enter after 5:00 PM; once the lights are on, the water alleys are full of red lantern reflections, like stepping into an old movie. The ancient town is just an ordinary imitation-ancient street during the day, but the night view is worth the ticket price. 🍜 In the evening, find a vegetable pancake stall in the alleys—a thin pancake stuffed with over 10 kinds of vegetables, freshly griddled. It crunches when you bite into it, and it's much more satisfying than that big restaurant lunch. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, walk along the main street to the Tianhou Temple, and then loop back to the canal through the small alleys—this loop route means you don't have to backtrack. ⚠️ If you want to take a sculling boat in the ancient town, take the evening one; it's best before it gets completely dark, as it's just lights after that. 🚄 It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Zaozhuang Station, and ride-hailing is cheaper than a taxi. The next morning, you can go to the Canal Wetland outside the city—it's uncrowded, and you can hear birds chirping in the reed marshes. 07 Chengde | Hebei The Summer Resort is really much bigger than the Forbidden City, so don't try to see it all in one day. My approach: Spend the morning in the palace area, seeing those Nanmu halls—1.5 hours is enough. In the afternoon, rent an electric cart to the lake area, focusing on Yanyu Tower and Jinshan. I advise you to skip the mountain area; it takes 4–5 hours to walk, and the scenery isn't as delicate as the gardens of Jiangnan. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants in the resort, so bring your own food and don't go hungry while exploring. The Jinshanling Great Wall has far fewer people than Badaling. ⏰ If you don't have to see the sunrise, arrive after 3:00 PM; the light turns the watchtowers golden, and the tourists are mostly gone. 🍜 Chengde local food tends to be salty; I recommend Lao San Lamb Soup—they are generous with the offal, and with a sesame flatbread, it warms you right up. 🚄 It only takes 1 hour by high-speed rail from Beijing Chaoyang Station to Chengde, so a weekend round trip is perfectly doable. 08 Longnan | Gansu Longnan is the south of Gansu, and Wenxian Tianchi is hidden in the mountains, with water as green as jade. ⏰ You must go in the morning; before the sun has fully risen, the water is ink-green, but by noon it turns bright green and loses that sense of mystery. The mountain roads are curvy, so drive slowly if you're self-driving, and take motion sickness pills if you get carsick. Guan'egou is like a mini version of Jiuzhaigou, but the tickets are much cheaper. It's a 3-hour walk to the waterfall at the very end, with small, blue lakes all along the way. 🍜 The walnut cakes and cured meat from Wenxian are worth buying—they're more practical than souvenirs from the scenic area. ⚠️ There are no railings by Tianchi, so if you bring children, be sure to hold their hands. 🚄 It takes another 2 hours by bus from Longnan Station to Wenxian, so if you're short on time, just go to Guan'egou, which is closer to the city. I've been to all 8 cities, and none of them disappointed me. If I had to choose 3 to visit again, I would choose Baise, Ningde, and Longnan, because they haven't been occupied by tour groups yet and still retain the local rhythm of life. Is there a city you've been to that you'd like to visit again? Let's chat in the comments section, and I'll check out the places you recommend next time.

Three years into motherhood, going out feels like going to war. Pack light, keep routes short, and know where the bathrooms are—scenery comes last. These 8 places I tested with my kids will have you carrying them less, yelling less, and taking more photos. I’ll keep it real the whole way—praise where it’s due and call out the flaws. 01 Songyuan | Jilin Chagan Lake is absurdly big—don’t try to see it all in a day. If you have young children, head straight to Jinchandao Island. The paths are flat and stroller-friendly, kids can feed fish and watch birds, and adults can sit and drink milk tea. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The light is soft, photos aren’t backlit, and the lake looks like it’s dusted with silver. Have lunch at one of the island’s fishermen’s family restaurants. Braised fish is the specialty, and kids can eat two bowls with rice. ⚠️ Don’t order too much—the portions are hefty. The three adults and one child in our group ordered three whole fish and were stuffed. In the afternoon, walk a short stretch of the lakeside boardwalk and leave; it’s windy, and kids can get chilled if exposed for long. If your child is elementary school age or older, visit the Chagan Lake fishing and hunting culture museum to see fish-skin paintings and winter fishing artifacts—it’s more interesting than just staring at the lake. Skip it for toddlers; they can’t resist running around and might knock into display cases. 02 Tongren | Guizhou Mount Fanjing is one of those spots adults want to visit but kids may not handle. Don’t overdo it with children—take the cable car up near the mushroom rock and only hike a short distance. ⏰ Take the first cable car at 7:30 AM when it’s less crowded and cool; after 10:00 AM the lines can make you question everything. The mountain steps can be slippery—use a carrier or hip seat for young children and don’t expect them to walk on their own. I watched a 4-year-old give up after half an hour and climb straight onto his dad’s shoulders; the dad looked pale. Older kids do much better; they’ll be full of questions about the red clouds and golden peaks of the sky city, asking things like "why are the rocks tilted?" Don’t rush off after descending—the base of the mountain has a stream where kids can take off their shoes and splash for half an hour while adults flop on the rocks to catch their breath. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants on the mountain—bring snacks and water. Don’t expect instant noodles; even hot water requires waiting in line. 03 Shenyang | Liaoning In Shenyang, the easiest day out with kids is a combo of Beiling Park and the Expo Garden—one day is just right. Beiling Park is cheap to enter and shaded with trees; rent a two-person bike and take your child for a lap around the lake—your child will be happy and you’ll save effort. ⏰ Enter after 3:00 PM when the sun is less harsh and you can catch the evening light. The Expo Garden is better for older kids—the area is large and full of flowers, but toddlers can’t cover the ground. Take the electric shuttle at the entrance; don’t skip it to save a few dozen yuan, or you’ll end up carrying a sleeping child for two kilometers under the blazing sun. There’s a children’s play area with a carousel and a mini train that will light up your kid’s eyes. You can glance at the Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and the Beita Falun Temple while you’re there—no need to make a special trip. Instead of taking kids to pray, take them to feed the pigeons. ⚠️ There are many steps around the pagodas; lifting a stroller up and down will exhaust you, so it’s fine to skip them. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chiya Mountain is one of those mountains that looks impossible but isn’t. With Journey to the West–themed rock formations, kids will be hunting for Sun Wukong’s staff and may walk faster than you. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM when it’s cool; leaving around 10:30 AM will help you avoid tour groups. Laoleshan is windier and the trails are steeper—better for elementary-age kids; toddlers are not recommended. There’s a grass-sledding attraction on the summit; kids won’t get enough after one go and will want to do it three times—20 yuan per run, remember to haggle. At the mountain base, farm restaurants serve dishes like free-range chicken stewed with mushrooms; kids can eat a full bowl when the rice soaks up the broth. ⚠️ Don’t buy water at the scenic area’s entrance—it’s twice as expensive. Bring two bottles yourself, or refill at a vending machine halfway up. 05 Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake is a magical place—take kids mainly to see the colorful lake and to float. Kids have zero resistance to the idea of pink water and will keep asking "why, why." Just look up the answer on Baidu ahead of time. ⏰ Arrive around 5:00 PM when the sun hits the water at an angle and the colors are most vivid, and it’s not too hot. Kids can go barefoot on the shore and step on salt crusts that feel like snow, giggling non-stop. Adults who want to try floating can go in, but saltwater irritates the eyes—don’t let children soak for too long. 📍 Visit the nearby Chishen Temple on the way—the steps are few and it’s toddler-friendly. Afterward, head to Nanfeng Square for a bowl of Yuncheng big plate chicken; the noodles are chewy, and kids will slurp up half a plate. 06 Sanya | Hainan When taking kids to Sanya, the key is one word: soak. Both Xiaodongtian and Tianya Haijiao are rock-and-sea spots—pick one. I recommend Xiaodongtian; it’s less crowded, the beach is cleaner, and kids can dig in the sand all morning. ⚠️ There is little shade in the scenic area—make sure your child wears a hat; the seaside UV is no joke. Wuzhizhou Island is better for older kids—you can take a glass-bottom boat to see coral or go snorkeling. Skip it with toddlers—the boat can be bumpy and seasickness leads to a meltdown that you’ll be scrambling to soothe. Yalong Bay is best for strolling with kids: gentle beaches and small waves. Go after 4:00 PM when the water temperature is just right—kids can splash while you relax on a lounger with a coconut. 🍜 For seafood in Sanya, skip the first market—it’s crowded and prices are inconsistent. Instead, go to the fishing village stalls near Yalong Bay where prices are clearly marked; kids can spend ages peeling salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp. 07 Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong old town is the least tiring ancient town I’ve visited with kids—mostly flat, no slopes! Strollers roll easily so you don’t have to carry them. The old town is small; a day of walking and eating is just right. ⏰ Enter the town at 8:00 AM when shops are just opening and it’s less crowded; kids can chase sun patches on the stone streets. 📍 Zhongtian Tower is the high point; the stairs are narrow but not tall, and kids can climb it themselves. From the top you can see the whole town’s black-tile roofs—one kid shouted "I see a bird’s nest," which was more fun than the sights. For lunch, try Zhang Fei beef noodles in the old town—the noodles have good chew and the beef comes in big slices; kids will end up with oily mouths. In the afternoon, take a boat on the Jialing River—30 minutes per trip—and kids will be thrilled. ⚠️ Some stalls in the old town sell silver jewelry—don’t buy it; the origin is unclear. Buy a sugar painting for your child instead—5 yuan, and they’ll be happy for hours. 08 Baise | Guangxi Haokun Lake in Baise is my secret favorite for walking with kids. The water is an unbelievable green, the lakeside path is gentle, and young children can walk some of it on their own before you carry them. ⏰ Go at dawn or dusk when the water fogs and it looks like a fairyland—kids will ask, "is this where immortals live?" Tongling Grand Canyon isn’t great for very young kids—many steps and slippery areas mean you have to watch them closely. Older children are fine; watching the waterfalls and caves, they’ll ask curious questions like "where does the water come from?" ⚠️ The canyon has lots of insects—long pants and long sleeves are a must; don’t wear sandals. Chengbi Lake is better suited for family camping—the lakeside lawn is large; lay a mat, let kids run, and adults can picnic. 🍜 In Baise city, rolled rice noodles are a must—kids can eat three rolls in one sitting; it’s cheap and filling.

Stay three days, these 8️⃣ cities make me want to quit my job 01 Quanzhou | Fujian At 5:30 AM, I stood under the east and west towers of Kaiyuan Temple as pigeons fluttered across the red walls. The stone path was damp with dew, and walking on it barefoot felt cool. The thousand-year-old banyan in the temple has branches that droop to the ground like a giant open umbrella. ⏰ Before 9:00 AM, visitors haven't arrived yet, and you can hear the rustle of monks sweeping leaves. Exit through the west gate and turn into an alley off West Street; at Pei Xiangkou the noodle porridge stall is already steaming. Order an extra serving of vinegar-marinated pork and a fried egg, and the owner will ladle you an extra spoonful of broth. In the afternoon, go to Qingyuan Mountain, but don't try to climb the whole trail. Ride to the Laojunyan stop; seeing the Song-dynasty stone statues is enough. ⚠️ The cliff inscriptions are spread out, so without a guide you're most likely only going to see the most conspicuous ones. Arrive at Chongwu Ancient City at dusk; the sea is just outside the city wall. At sunset, when the tide goes out, dark reefs are exposed and locals carry small buckets to gather seafood on the exposed reef. 🍜 Back in the city at night, the Sidan ginger mother duck still sizzles in the claypot; that smoky, caramelized bite makes the day's walk worth it. 02 Huangshan | Anhui If you only have one day, don't agonize over choosing between Hongcun and Xidi. I pick Xidi. Hongcun's water scenes are more photogenic, but Xidi's alleys are quieter. After 4:00 PM, tour groups leave, and you can walk alone on the bluestone streets and even hear the drip from the eaves. 📍 Next to Zhuimu Hall there's a narrow lane; walk through and you'll find a field of rapeseed. In spring it's a patchwork of yellow and green, like a spilled palette. Chengkan ancient village is more off the beaten path; the ticket isn't cheap, but the autumn drying scenes inside are truly beautiful. ⚠️ Remember, the "kan" in Chengkan means threshold — don't step on the thresholds when entering the village; locals are particular about this. A quick note about Huangshan Scenic Area: cable car lines start at 2 hours, so if you're not a hiking enthusiast, don't join the crowds in peak season. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area actually includes several villages, so if you're short on time, pick one or two to focus on. 🍜 The stinky tofu outside Hongcun is pan-fried to a golden brown; dipped in spicy sauce, it smells pungent but tastes delicious. 03 Jincheng | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu sounds like a scenic spot, but it's actually a complete castle-like compound. I spent a whole afternoon wandering around. The corridors along the walls connect the courtyards, and walking on them you can imagine how the Chen family lived. ⏰ After 3:00 PM there's a live-action performance that tells the story of Chen Tingjing. ⚠️ No need to take the shuttle at the attraction entrance; it's about a 10-minute walk in, and you'll likely wait longer in line than it takes to walk. The east section of the wall is best for panoramic views, and you can photograph layers of gray-tiled roofs. 🍜 Afterward, go into Yangcheng County for a bowl of mixed mutton offal soup with baked flatbread; the hot bowl warms you from the inside and takes away the evening chill in the mountains. If you're interested in Qing-dynasty official residences, this is more worth seeing than the Qiao Family Courtyard. Fewer people, larger scale, and the ticket is well worth it. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is an underrated place. A rocky mountain of oddly shaped granite boulders that looks like a set from Journey to the West. In fact, the 1986 TV adaptation was filmed here. ⏰ It's best to climb in the morning when it's cooler and the light is better. The stone steps aren't steep, but some sections are narrow, so go slowly if you're with older adults or children. The wind at the summit is strong and makes it hard to keep your eyes open, but the views are truly expansive. Laoleshan is right next door; I prefer its back-mountain trail. 📍 Enter through the South Mountain Gate and follow the stream; it's shady all the way. In summer the water is bone-chillingly cold—dip your feet in and you'll feel instantly awake. ⚠️ Cell signal is poor in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance. 🍜 The farmhouse chicken soup at the foot of the mountain is made from freshly slaughtered birds and stewed to a golden color; eaten with a pan-fried flatbread, it's so fragrant you'll be licking your lips. These two mountains are best visited together, one per day, which is just right. 05 Weihai | Shandong Weihai's sea is different from Qingdao's. Qingdao's sea is lively, Weihai's is calm. Chengshantou is at the eastern tip of the peninsula; waking at 4:30 AM to watch the sunrise is worth it. When the sun pops up from the horizon, the whole sea turns gold. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea, so bring a jacket even in summer. You need to take a boat to Liugong Island; the ride takes 20 minutes. The island has old buildings and museums, but what moved me most were the trees. Those centennial trees have robust trunks and branches; standing under them makes you quietly reflective. Huaxia City is a man-made attraction, but it's well executed. 📍 The live landscape performance inside is especially striking at night, when lights play across the cliffs like a moving painting. 🍜 Back in town, find a seafood restaurant near Weigao Square; mackerel dumplings and steamed egg with sea urchin are fresh flavors you won't find elsewhere. Weihai is best for leisurely wandering; three days is just right, one place per day, no rush. 06 Nyingchi | Tibet Before going to Nyingchi, decide whether you want to take the Yunnan–Tibet route. I did. From Deqin in Yunnan I headed west, crossing several snow mountain passes as the altitude rose and the scenery changed. By the time I reached Bomi, the altitude dropped, forests became dense, and the air was as humid as Jiangnan. The water of Basongcuo is an almost unreal turquoise-blue. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, when the sun slants across the lake, its color is deepest and photos look best. For the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, I recommend taking the park shuttle bus in. ⚠️ The hiking sections are dangerous, so don't go without a professional guide. At the viewpoint for Namcha Barwa, whether you can see the snow-capped peak is down to luck. I was lucky — I waited an hour and the clouds cleared. 🍜 You must try the stone-pot chicken in Nyingchi city. The pot is made of soapstone from Medog, the chicken is locally free-range, and the broth is so rich you'll be stunned. This place is not for rushing; it's for settling in, spacing out each day, and watching the clouds. 07 Guiyang | Guizhou Summer in Guiyang is relentless. Tianhetan is not far from the city; inside there are karst caves, waterfalls, and an underground river. ⏰ It's best to go in the morning; the caves are cool, but when it's crowded you may have to queue for the boat. ⚠️ The caves are dark and steps can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Qingyan Ancient Town is best at dusk. 📍 Enter through the north gate, walk down the main street to the end, then turn right into a lane where there's a rose candy shop making it fresh; it's sweet without being cloying. Gaopo Yunding Grassland is in Huaxi District at an elevation of more than 1,600 m. In summer the grassland is full of wildflowers and the wind can blow your hat away. 🍜 The beef rice noodles at the entrance of Huaxi Park are served with pickled noodles and zhe'ergen; one bowl wakes up your appetite with its sour and spicy flavor and makes you feel refreshed. Food in Guiyang is the soul of the city. Changwang noodles, siwawa, and luoguo — you can't finish them all in three days. I suggest you skip the internet-famous shops and head into old residential neighborhoods; any small local restaurant will not disappoint. 08 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Cilechuan grassland is the place sung about in the line "the sky vast, the plains boundless." But to be honest, the grassland today is not quite like the poem describes. ⏰ Go at dusk when the light is soft and the wind cools. The park has a boardwalk; a full loop takes about 40 minutes. The Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon is far from the city, a drive of over 2 hours. But it's worth it. Here the Yellow River makes a big bend between steep rock walls, the water a muddy yellow, creating a majestic scene. ⚠️ Road conditions are average; if you drive yourself, take it slow. You can also book a one-day tour for convenience. 🍜 Back in the city, be sure to have an authentic mutton hot pot. 📍 At the original Little Sheep on Xilin Gol South Road, the lamb is paper-thin and cooks in 10 seconds; dipped in sesame sauce, one bite fills your mouth with the aroma of the grassland. Hohhot isn't a city that dazzles you at first glance, but if you settle in you'll discover its charms. There is a large temperature difference between morning and night, so bring long sleeves even in summer. Of these eight cities, I felt most comfortable staying in Quanzhou and Guiyang. Quanzhou has a lively everyday atmosphere, Guiyang offers coolness and great food. Nyingchi is a different kind of experience, ideal for zoning out. Which city have you visited recently that made you want to stay? Tell me in the comments.

Budget travelers, rejoice! These 8 places are less crowded, beautiful, and affordable in September–October 01 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia September in Manzhouli is already getting chilly, but the sun is still generous. I headed straight to Matryoshka Square on the first afternoon, not to take photos with the colorful dolls, but to wait for the light after 5:00 PM. The sunset hits the painted surfaces at an angle, bathing the whole square in a honey-colored glow, and it's quiet enough to have a whole row of benches to yourself. 🎫 Check attraction tickets online in advance; sometimes there are combo deals that are much cheaper than buying on-site. Stay near Wudao Street; it's close to Matryoshka Square and the National Gate, and you can grab some Russian-style barbecue on the way back to the hotel at night. ⚠️ Don't buy Matryoshka souvenirs at the entrance; the price can double. Pick them up at supermarkets in the city—same style, cheaper. On the second morning, check out Beihu Park. It's where locals hang out; the lake is quiet, the reflections are clear, and there's no admission fee. 02 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei September in Enshi is already getting cool in the canyons, making it the most comfortable time for hiking. I split my itinerary into two days: the first for Enshi Grand Canyon, the second for Tusi City and the Qingjiang River. Don't be greedy and try to walk the whole canyon; if you have average stamina, the Yunlong Ground Fissure plus the Qixingzhai essence section is enough. Walking the whole thing will wreck your legs for 3 days. 🚄 There are direct buses from the high-speed railway station to the scenic area. Don't trust the private cars soliciting passengers on the side of the road; they're twice as expensive and take longer routes. Go to Tusi City on the second morning; get there when it opens at 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and get a good look at the wood carvings and walls of the Jiujintang. Take a boat on the Qingjiang River in the afternoon. ⚠️ There are several tiers of boat tickets; just buy the standard one. Paying extra for the upper deck isn't necessary—you can go up there to catch the breeze once the boat starts moving anyway. 🍜 Grab a bowl of Enshi doupi (bean skin) near Tusi City for lunch, add some sour and spicy sauce—5 yuan is enough to fill you up, and it's more substantial than the boxed lunches in the scenic area. 03 Zhumadian | Henan I've always felt Zhumadian is an underrated transit stop, but Chaya Mountain is worth getting off the train for a night. The mountain colors in September start to layer, mixing green with yellow, and the light is soft—no filters needed for photos. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM and take the South Gate route first. The strange rocks and the Stone Monkey Courtyard are all on this section. There are many steps, but they aren't steep, so even older travelers can handle it if they take it slow. Have a farm-style meal at a small restaurant outside the scenic area for lunch—diguo chicken with flatbread costs around 30 yuan per person, much better than instant noodles on the mountain. Go to Laole Mountain in the afternoon. Don't drive up; park at the visitor center at the foot of the mountain and take the shuttle bus. It costs 10 yuan and saves you the trouble of finding a parking spot. ⚠️ It's windy on Laole Mountain and cools down quickly in the evening, so bring a light jacket. Don't just wear a short-sleeved shirt because it's hot at noon. If you're short on time, choose between Chaya Mountain and Laole Mountain; I'd pick Chaya Mountain for more to do. 04 Yuxi | Yunnan September in Yuxi still has the tail end of the rainy season, but the chance of sunny days at Fuxian Lake is already high. I stayed at a homestay in the Luchong Scenic Area; I could see the lake as soon as I opened the window. I got up at 6:30 AM to watch the sunrise, and a thin mist rose over the lake, looking like an ink wash painting. 🚄 Take the intercity train from Kunming South Station to Yuxi Station—it takes just over 30 mins—then it's a 40-minute taxi ride to the lake, which is easier than going directly from downtown Kunming. Cycling around the lake during the day is the most comfortable way to play. Renting a bike costs 30 yuan a day. Ride along the East Lake Road; there are few people and cars, so you can stop to splash in the water whenever you want. 🍜 Have copper pot fish by the lake for lunch; the fish is tender, the soup is fresh, and it's about 50 yuan per person. Remember to order the potato rice. Go to Ailao Mountain in the afternoon, but don't go too deep; just walk around the Shimen Gorge area at the foot of the mountain. The stream is clear and the moss is bright green. ⚠️ The Shimen Gorge boardwalk is slippery after rain. Wear non-slip shoes; don't try it in flip-flops. 05 Qingdao | Shandong September in Qingdao sees the sea breeze getting cooler, but the sun is just right, avoiding the crowds of July and August. I stayed at a hostel near Zhanqiao Pier. I went out at 6:00 AM when there were few people at the pier, and seagulls were circling overhead. I took photos and then went for breakfast. For Mount Lao, I recommend the Yangkou route; it's easier than the Jufeng route and offers sea and mountain views. Take the cable car up and walk down—you can finish in 2 hours. ⏰ Go to the Olympic Sailing Center after 3:00 PM when the light is softest; you can get very clean shots when the sailboats dock. ⚠️ Don't buy seafood at the entrance of the scenic area; it's expensive and not fresh. Go to the Yingkou Road Market to pick it out yourself, then find a nearby beer house to have it cooked for you. The processing fee is about 15 yuan per dish. 🍜 Find a small restaurant in the evening to drink some draft beer in a bag, paired with spicy stir-fried clams—this is the right way to experience Qingdao. 🚄 The city's subway and bus system are perfectly adequate; no need to take taxis. 06 Xuzhou | Jiangsu September in Xuzhou makes Yunlong Lake look better in the evening than during the day. I arrived at 4:00 PM and walked along East Lake Road. The willow trees were still green, and the breeze blowing from the water carried moisture. The view is most open near the Sugong Pagoda, where you can see the entire lake and the mountains in the distance. ⏰ After 6:00 PM, the lights around the lake turn on, and their reflections shatter in the water—this is the best time for photos. 🍜 Don't rush off after seeing the night view; go to Fuguo Street across from the lake for a bowl of braised pork (bazi rou). The meat is stewed until soft and tender, served with rice and green peppers. You can eat your fill for 20 yuan. ⚠️ Yunlong Lake doesn't require an admission ticket, but the boats and electric carts inside charge extra. If you want to save money, just walk; it takes about 2 hours to circle the lake, or you can walk halfway and turn back. 🚄 It takes about 20 minutes by taxi from Xuzhou East Station to the lake. There are also direct buses, but they stop running early in the evening, so don't stay out too late. 07 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu September in Gannan sees the grass starting to turn yellow, but it's exactly when the colors are richest—a mix of yellow and green, like an oil painting. My first stop was Zhagana. I stayed at a Tibetan homestay in Dongwa Village, where I could see the stone city and morning mist as soon as I opened the window. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, the mist rolls up from the foot of the mountain, and the sunlight pierces through the clouds to hit the village. At that moment, you'll feel the long journey was worth it. It's about a 3-hour drive between Labrang Monastery and Zhagana. The road conditions are okay, but there are many curves, so beginners shouldn't drive fast. 🍜 For Tibetan food in Labrang Monastery town, drink a pot of butter tea with tsampa; you can get a meal for 5 or 10 yuan. ⚠️ Gahai Lake is at an altitude of 3,500 meters. You'll get out of breath if you walk too fast, so take it slow and don't push yourself. Yeliguan is worth a stop if you're passing by for the forest and canyon scenery, but don't go out of your way for it. 🚄 The most convenient way to get around Gannan is by chartered car or self-driving. Carpooling costs about 300 yuan a day, which isn't expensive when split. 08 Jiangmen | Guangdong September in Jiangmen sees the heat starting to fade, and the Kaiping Diaolou (watchtowers) look best against the backdrop of yellow rice fields. I recommend entering Zili Village after 3:00 PM. The light hits from the side, creating a contrast between the gray walls of the watchtowers and the warm yellow of the rice fields—every shot is a postcard. 🎫 Booking tickets online in advance is cheaper than buying on-site. The combo ticket includes Zili Village, Li Garden, and Majianglong, which is just right for a one-day trip. ⚠️ Don't take a horse-drawn carriage at the entrance of the scenic area; it's expensive and the route is short. Walk between the villages yourself; you can finish one spot in half an hour. 🍜 Go back to the city in the evening and have a bowl of Taishan eel rice. The rice is distinct and the eel is fresh and tender—about 30 yuan per person. If you have extra time, you can stop by Chikan Ancient Town on the way. The arcade streets are very atmospheric, but some shops might still be closed in September, so don't get your hopes up too high. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Jiangmen Station to Kaiping; carpooling is more cost-effective. All 8 places are worth a trip in September and October—fewer crowds, cheaper tickets, and just the right scenery. If I had to pick the most worthwhile one, I'd choose Gannan; that sense of vastness can't be found anywhere else. Which one do you want to visit most? Let's chat in the comments; maybe I'll write about it next time.

The biggest fear when traveling with kids during the National Day holiday isn't the crowds, but the crowds making it not fun. I've picked 8️⃣ places that are off the beaten path but won't disappoint. They're perfect for exploring at a leisurely pace, letting your kids truly broaden their horizons instead of just counting heads. 1️⃣ Qiannan | Guizhou When bringing kids to Libo, don't rush to hit every spot. Stay at a homestay near the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area first, and enter the park early the next morning. ⏰ Arrive at Wolongtan before 8:00 AM. The water is calm with no wind, and the reflection looks like a mirror—kids will stare at it for ages. Walk down the boardwalk. You can wade in the water near Cuigu Waterfall. It's not deep, but the rocks are slippery, so ⚠️ make sure to wear non-slip sandals. Have lunch at a Buyi village outside the scenic area. Sour soup fish with sticky rice—kids can easily eat 2 bowls. In the afternoon, head to Daqikong. Take a bamboo raft to the Natural Bridge. The arch is so high it looks like a gateway to heaven; kids will keep looking up and asking, "How was it carved?" 📍 Remember: enter through the East Gate and exit through the West Gate. It's downhill the whole way, saving you half the effort with kids. 2️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is different from what you might imagine. It's not very high, but the rock formations are unique, looking like giant blocks of tofu stacked together. Don't walk the whole way with kids; take the cable car up. Looking down from the summit, you can see the stone monkeys and stone horses from the Journey to the West filming location. 📍 Enter through the North Gate and take the Taohua Cave route. There's plenty of shade, and cool breezes blow through the gaps in the rock walls—kids will feel like they're on an adventure. After coming down, head to Laole Mountain. The windmill corridor at the foot of the mountain is a kid favorite. They spin and make a clattering sound, and they look great in photos. ⚠️ It's windy at the top of Laole Mountain, and the temperature drops quickly after 4:00 PM, so remember to pack a light jacket. If the kids still have energy, watch the sunset from the lawn halfway up the mountain in the evening. The view is wide open, and you can see the entire plain. 3️⃣ Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi isn't a typical "lake." It's a barrier lake formed after a volcanic eruption, and the water is a shade of blue you wouldn't expect in the north. Take the kids up Laohei Mountain first. Hike along the edge of the crater. The ground is covered in black volcanic slag that crunches underfoot—it feels like walking on the moon. ⏰ Head down before noon and go to Wenbo to see the "Underwater Yellow Mountain." As the boat glides over the crystal-clear water, you can see layers of algae and volcanic rock colors spread out. In the afternoon, go to the cold mineral spring water station at the foot of Yaoquan Mountain. Let the kids taste that metallic, rusty flavor. They'll definitely frown, but it's a taste they won't find anywhere else. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night is significant here. Bring a fleece jacket for the National Day holiday; don't just wear a single layer. In the evening, you can visit the Volcano Museum. It has interactive screens that demonstrate the eruption process, which is much more interesting than just listening to a lecture. 4️⃣ Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Riyue Mountain sounds like a mountain, but it's more like a dividing line. To the east is an agricultural area, and to the west is a pastoral area. It's so windy up there it could blow your hat off. Don't rush when bringing kids. Tell them a story in front of the Princess Wencheng Entering Tibet Monument at the foot of the mountain before slowly heading up. 📍 Twenty kilometers south of Daotanghe Town is the Guide National Geopark. The Danxia landform colors there are softer than in Zhangye, with orange-red mixed with light yellow. ⚠️ The trails in the scenic area are long. Don't bring a stroller; there are many steps where you'll need to carry the kids. Think twice if you have very young children. ⏰ After 6:00 PM, the slanted light makes the mountains look like they've been lit up, glowing bright red. This is the most beautiful time. On the way back to Xining, you'll pass the Yellow River Qing Bridge. Seeing the clear water of the Yellow River, the kids will definitely shout, "Isn't the Yellow River supposed to be yellow?" 5️⃣ Shantou | Guangdong Nan'ao Island isn't big, but it's perfect for a 2-day trip with kids: 1 day for island sightseeing and ocean views, and 1 day for exploring fishing villages and hunting for snails. After crossing the Nan'ao Bridge from downtown Shantou to the island, 📍 stop at Houzhai Town first. Rent an electric scooter and ride along the coast. The wind rushes past your ears, and the kids will be laughing in the back seat. At noon, go to Yun'ao Fishing Port. Find a fishing boat that just docked to buy seafood, then take it to a nearby food stall to have it cooked. The cooking fee is just over 10 yuan per jin, half the price of downtown. ⚠️ Don't go swimming at Qing'ao Bay in the afternoon; the waves are big and strong, not suitable for kids. You can take the kids to the Tropic of Cancer Square to see the "Gate of Nature" and take some photos. In the evening, go to Qizaipeng to see the windmill array. The windmills are lined up along the mountain ridge, and their silhouettes against the sunset are stunning. 🍜 In the evening, have a bowl of oyster omelet in town, paired with a bowl of bitter melon soup. It helps adults cut the grease, and kids get to try something new. 6️⃣ Garzê | Sichuan Xinduqiao isn't a scenic area; it's just a stretch of road along the national highway, but autumn is its time to shine. When setting off from Kangding with kids, don't rush to sleep while crossing Zheduo Mountain. The sea of clouds rolling outside the window will have the kids pressed against the car window, shouting in excitement. 📍 Once you reach Xinduqiao, don't crowd into the viewing platforms. Drive toward Waze Township. The poplar trees along the road are golden, the stream is shallow and clear, and anywhere you stop looks beautiful. Mugecuo is better for the afternoon. Take the sightseeing bus to the top. The lake surface shimmers blue in the sunlight, and kids can squat by the shore throwing stones for half an hour. ⚠️ Daocheng Yading is at a high altitude, so be cautious when bringing children. If you do go, only take the short route from Chonggu Temple to Pearl Lake. It's a 2-hour round trip and not too tiring. Hailuogou Glacier is crowded during the National Day holiday. If you want to avoid the crowds, enter the valley at 7:00 AM, watch the sunrise on the golden mountain, and then slowly head down. It's cold here in the morning and evening but sunny during the day, so pack both sunscreen and a thick jacket. 7️⃣ Jiuquan | Gansu When taking kids to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, the highlight isn't climbing the mountain—it's riding camels. 📍 Enter through the middle gate of the scenic area and ride a camel around to the back of Crescent Lake. The camel bells jingle the whole way, and the kids will be excited all day. Don't rush off after getting off the camel. Take off your shoes and step on the sand. It's fine and soft, not prickly, and the kids will play until they don't want to leave. ⚠️ The sand is scorching hot at 2:00 or 3:00 PM, so don't walk barefoot. It's best to wait until 4:00 or 5:00 PM to climb the dunes and watch the sunset. You must book Mogao Caves in advance. Tickets are tight during the National Day holiday, and you basically can't buy them on-site. ✔️ Watching the 2 films at the Digital Center is enough for kids, then visit 2 or 3 caves. Don't overdo it, or the kids will lose focus. Yadan National Geopark is far, and the round trip is long. If you only have 1 day, skip it and visit the Yumenguan Pass ruins instead—seeing the real-life setting of the famous poem "The spring breeze never crosses the Yumenguan Pass" is more worthwhile. 8️⃣ Shanghai Don't assume Shanghai will be too crowded just because it's the National Day holiday. The Expo Park area is surprisingly empty. 📍 Under the "Sun Valley" of the Expo Axis, kids will look up at those funnel-shaped structures and chase shadows for ages. The China Art Museum is free. Take the kids to see the dynamic "Along the River During the Qingming Festival." The boats and camels on the Bian River are moving, which is much more intuitive than a textbook. In the afternoon, go to the Guangfulin Relics Park. The underwater museum looks like a giant roof floating on the lake, and kids will ask, "How is the house in the water?" ⚠️ Yu Garden is better for older kids. There are many rockeries and narrow paths, so little ones might easily bump into things. If you want to have a great time, Disney can be saved for the last day. But don't buy a half-day ticket; there won't be enough time to queue for rides. Stay 1 night and play for 2 days—the experience is completely different. Eight places—some with mountains, some with water, some with history. When traveling with kids, there's no need to rush or try to see it all. Pick 1, take it slow, and let the kids' eyes light up. When you're not stressed, that's the best National Day holiday.

When the September wind starts blowing, both your wallet and your toes get itchy. Avoid the crowds and peak-season markups; I picked these 8 spots off the map one by one: few people, great scenery, low cost. No fluff, straight to the essentials. 1️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian doesn’t have much presence in the budget-travel scene, and precisely because of that, prices feel like they’re stuck five years ago. Chaya Mountain was a filming location for Journey to the West. The rocks grow in bizarre shapes, like someone shattered the heavenly palace and scattered the pieces on the slope. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM. When the mist hasn’t lifted and the mountain is half hidden, you won’t need filters for photos. Tickets are about CNY 80, but if you take the west trail you can avoid most tour groups. Villagers at the foot sell wild honey, CNY 20 a small jar — unbearably sweet, don’t overdo it. Lao Leshan is windy; at dusk the summit offers a sea-of-clouds view. 📍 Enter through the south gate; it’s a two-hour hike to the top, and you can freely pick Chinese sour jujubes along the way. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain. Bring two bottles of water; water at the foot is CNY 3, at the summit it’s sold for CNY 10. Stay near the train station in town—chain hotels run a little over CNY 100, and the night market downstairs sells grilled gluten skewers for CNY 1.5 each, eat until you can’t stand. 2️⃣ Yangjiang | Guangdong Hailing Island is Guangdong locals’ backyard, but once September arrives, visitors leave faster than the tide. Daguan Bay Maritime Silk Road Scenic Area has tickets for just over CNY 50; the sand is as fine as flour and makes your feet giggle. ⚠️ Don’t buy swim rings at the scenic area entrance — rental is CNY 30 there; walk 200 meters inward and a shop rents one for CNY 15. ⏰ The water is nicest after 4 PM; the sun isn’t harsh and the sea is warmed by a day of sun. After swimming, don’t rush off — the sunset at Zha Po fishing port, with boats heading home and gulls chasing the wake, is worth the entire trip. Spend the evening at Yecheng old street; pig intestine rolls and mudworm porridge are local late-night eats, about CNY 30 per person to be stuffed. Book a homestay in Zha Po town — sea view rooms on nonweekend nights are CNY 150, and opening the window gives you salty sea breeze. The September fishing ban just ended, so seafood is absurdly cheap: blue crabs CNY 25 per jin, buy them and have a roadside stall cook them for a CNY 10 processing fee per dish. 3️⃣ Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei’s charm isn’t just the famous Shapotou, but the striking contrast of half desert and half oasis. Shapotou tickets plus shuttle are a bit under CNY 100, but if you only want to play in the sand, the free dunes behind Gaomiao Ba’an Temple are enough to roll around all afternoon. Gaomiao Ba’an Temple itself is worth a visit; the Arhat Hall holds 500 arhats with different expressions, and you can sit in a quiet corner and watch for half an hour. ⚠️ The desert is unbearable between 2 PM and 4 PM — the sand is scorching. ⏰ Enter the sand area around 6 PM; the light turns honey-colored and footprints glow gold. Sandboards rent for CNY 20 outside the scenic area; inside it’s CNY 50. Stay near Drum Tower in town in an economy hotel for about CNY 120 a night; downstairs is Xiangyang pedestrian street where a big plate of fried la tiaozi is CNY 10, and lamb skewers are CNY 3 each, well trimmed and free of strong odor. By September Zhongwei is already cool mornings and evenings — bring a thin jacket; short sleeves by day, a shell jacket at night, the temperature swing will make you question reality. 4️⃣ Yichun | Heilongjiang In September Yichun’s forests begin to change color — green, yellow, and red mixed together like someone spilled a paint palette. Tangwang River forest’s strange stones are the core attraction; tickets are in the CNY 70 range, but the stone forest inside is truly unique, granite eroded into countless shapes, some like turtles, some like mushrooms. ⏰ Enter before 10 AM. Thin mist in the woods and sunlight through the leaves create Tyndall effects; any casual shot becomes wallpaper material. There’s a 4 km wooden boardwalk in the scenic area; it takes about 2 hours to walk and you might see squirrels scurrying past with pine cones. ⚠️ Don’t wear sandals — some planks on the boardwalk are loose and gaps can catch your toes. September is pine-nut and blueberry season. 📍 The old lady at the park entrance sells blueberry jam for CNY 15 a jar — spread it on a steamed bun for a sweet-tart bite. Stay back in Yichun city at a family-run inn for CNY 80 a night; the breakfast shop downstairs serves coarse millet porridge with salted duck egg for just CNY 5. The forest air is intoxicatingly fresh, and at night you can see the Milky Way. 5️⃣ Linfen | Shanxi Linfen has so many cultural relics it numbs the senses. Hongtong Great Pagoda Tree Ancestral Park tells the Ming-era migration story; tickets are CNY 80. The big pagoda tree in the park is a replica — the original is long gone — but the densely hung ancestral plaques in the memorial hall still warm the heart. ⚠️ Even the cheapest incense in the park costs CNY 60; don’t buy it — sincerity matters more. Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River is the main event; in September the water flow is just right and the roar will make your ears buzz, with mist hitting your face like light rain. ⏰ Go around 10 AM; sunlight on the spray sometimes creates a rainbow, and if you’re lucky, a double rainbow. Tickets are about CNY 100, but the thrill of the Yellow River pounding below is worth it. Yunqiu Mountain is farther from town, but the ice cave wonder is amazing — it stays icy year-round, so you can wear short sleeves outside and feel like you’re wrapped in a coat inside. For lodging, stay near Pingyang Square in Yaodu District; hotels like Hanting and Home Inn are everywhere, around CNY 130. 🍜 Beef meatball noodle soup is Linfen’s soul — CNY 8 a bowl, spicy enough to bring tears yet you can’t stop eating. 6️⃣ Baoji | Shaanxi Baoji is a food city overshadowed by Xi’an, and September is a great time to escape the heat. Mount Taibai is the main peak of the Qinling range; in September you can be in short sleeves at the base and need a down jacket at the summit. Tickets plus shuttle are about CNY 150, but if you only go as far as Tianyuan Dili stop and skip the summit, it’s kinder to both your stamina and your wallet. ⏰ Take the first shuttle up at 7 AM to see the sea of clouds roll up toward you — it feels like walking on cotton. ⚠️ Mountain weather changes fast. Buy a rain poncho at the base for CNY 10; midway up they sell it for CNY 30. The Famen Temple Buddhist cultural area is a bit pricey, but the finger bone relic in the underground palace is unique in the world; believer or not, it’s worth a look. Guanshan grassland is a mini Alps — horseback riding is CNY 80 an hour, negotiable down to CNY 60, and the handlers will tell you fun stories about the grassland. 🍜 Baoji city is where the real food scene shines: Lingshi Family’s hand-rolled liangpi and Xifu pulled noodles will stuff you for about CNY 20 per person. Stay near Jing Er Road; economy hotels are about CNY 120, and the snack street downstairs grills oil cakes with chili at night so fragrant you’ll stomp your feet. 7️⃣ Lingshui | Hainan Lingshui is a cheaper alternative to Sanya, with water quality to match. Boundary Island (Fenjiezhou) tickets plus ferry are about CNY 130; the island isn’t big but the water is as clear as glass — you can see sand between your toes from the shore. ⏰ Take the first boat in the morning to beat the tour groups; the beach will be nearly empty and the coconut shadows sway as the breeze blows. There’s a lookout on the island you can climb in 15 minutes to overlook the bay, where the water shifts from light to deep blue like a mixed cocktail. ⚠️ Island prices are high. A bottle of water is CNY 8 — pack two in your backpack. The monkeys at Nanwan Monkey Island are wild and will snatch plastic bags; don’t rummage through bags in front of them. 📍 In the village outside the island, buy seafood at the market and have a nearby stall cook it — grouper is CNY 40–50 per jin, and the CNY 15 processing fee is half of what Sanya charges. Stay in Lingshui city or Xin Village; homestays are about CNY 150 a room, with a night market downstairs and qingbuliang dessert at CNY 8 a bowl, rich with coconut milk. September in Lingshui still feels like summer — short sleeves and flip-flops are fine, and high-SPF sunscreen is a must. 8️⃣ Baicheng | Jilin Baicheng is the least visited of these 8 spots — so little visited that many people in Jilin haven’t been. Daan Nenjiang Bay Scenic Area is free, and that alone makes it a winner. In September the Nen River recedes to reveal mudflats and reeds in mixed yellow and green, whispering in the wind. ⏰ Arrive around 4:30 PM; the sunset turns the river gold and egrets fly by — the scene is so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. The scenic area has a 5 km boardwalk along the river with pavilions to rest in when you get tired. ⚠️ There are no shops in the park; bring water and snacks. 📍 Ten minutes’ drive brings you to Daan city, where oldschool barbecue joints line the streets. Roast pigeon is a specialty at CNY 35 each — crispy skin, juicy meat. Stay in Baicheng city; hotels are CNY 70–80 a night and cleaner than expected. By September Baicheng is already cool — wear a long-sleeve jacket in the morning and evening, while midday under the sun is comfortable for hiking. When you travel in September, don’t spend your money chasing “internet-famous” spots. These 8 places are unpopular for a reason: because of that, what you see is the scenery itself, not somebody’s back. Pick one that moves you and go; come back and tell me which city surprised you most.

Stay for 3 days during the Mid-Autumn Festival, these 8 cities will make you not want to go home 01 Changchun, Jilin Autumn in Changchun is perfect for a slow stroll. Enter the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo at 9:00 AM. Don't rush through it; the wooden staircase and vintage chandeliers in the Jixi Building alone are worth an extra 10 minutes. When you come out at noon, there are stalls selling grilled cold noodles at the entrance. Adding an egg and sausage costs only CNY 8, which is much better value than those chain stores in the mall. In the afternoon, head to the Changchun World Sculpture Park. The park is big enough to walk for 2 hours, so remember to wear comfortable shoes. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light softens, and the reflections of the sculptures on the lake look especially beautiful. Jingyuetan is best visited on the second morning. Rent a bike and ride around the lake; the air is full of the scent of pine trees. ⚠️ Tickets for Changchun Movie Wonderland are not cheap. If you aren't obsessed with movie special effects, I suggest saving your time for Jingyuetan, which is more worthwhile. 02 Wanning, Hainan Wanning isn't the refined resort style of Sanya; it's wilder. The coastline of Shimei Bay is long with fine sand, and most importantly, there are few tourists. I arrived at 3:00 PM, found some shade to lie down in, and listening to the sound of the waves was healing enough. Riyue Bay has a different face, full of surfers. When the waves are big, you can't even stand steady. 🍜 A bowl of Qingbuliang (chilled herbal soup) from a roadside stall costs CNY 10, and the toppings are overflowing—it's 10 times better than what you get in hotels. For accommodation, I recommend choosing a homestay near Shimei Bay. You can see the sea as soon as you open the window, and you don't have to fight for a spot to watch the sunrise in the morning. ⚠️ It's windy at night in Riyue Bay, so bring a light jacket to avoid getting a headache from the wind. 03 Zhumadian, Henan What surprised me most about Zhumadian is Chaya Mountain. With its strange rocks, caves, and plank roads, you can see completely different mountain scenery after climbing for a while. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:00 AM. There are few people, the clouds and mist haven't dispersed yet, and the mountaintop looks like a fairyland. It's even windier at Laole Mountain, which is suitable for people who like hiking. It takes about 2 hours from the foot of the mountain to the top, and the road is full of wildflowers and pine cones. Come down the mountain at noon, and have a bowl of hot Hu-la soup with fried dough fritters in town. A hot bowl will bring you back to life. Don't overthink accommodation; chain hotels in the city are around CNY 150, which is clean and hygienic enough. ⚠️ The weather in the mountains is changeable, so carry a folding umbrella with you; it can rain at any moment. 04 Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Bingzhongluo is the kind of place that leaves you speechless at first sight. The Nujiang River surges in the canyon, fields are layered up to the mountainside, and the morning mist wraps the village in a semi-transparent veil. I stayed for 1 night, got up at 5:00 AM the next morning, and stood on the viewing platform to watch the mist disperse. At that moment, I felt the long journey was worth it. Nanji Luo is wilder, with high altitude and difficult roads, so I suggest finding a local guide to lead the way. 🍜 There are people in the village selling stone-baked cakes. They are freshly baked, dipped in a little honey, and are fragrant and chewy. ⚠️ The altitude here is close to 3,000 meters, so don't run or jump, as it's easy to get altitude sickness. Accommodation conditions are average, so don't expect any star-rated hotels; being able to take a shower is good enough. 05 Shanghai Shanghai is suitable for a 2-night stay. Spend 1 day on the Expo Park and Yu Garden, and 1 day on Disney. There are few people in the Expo Park now. After the renovation of the pavilions, it has become a great place for taking photos, with large lawns and glass curtain walls. You can take great pictures standing anywhere. You need to arrive at Yu Garden before 9:00 AM, otherwise it will be full of tour groups. The Nine-Turn Bridge and Huxinting Pavilion are just right for a leisurely 1-hour stroll. 📍 Coming out of Yu Garden, walk through the small street of the City God Temple. There is a shop selling crab roe soup dumplings for CNY 30 a basket. The soup is so fresh it will make your eyebrows fall off. Don't expect to finish playing in Disney in 1 day. Buy an early access pass in advance, rush to the TRON Lightcycle Power Run when you enter, and leave the rest to fate. ⚠️ The Guangfulin Relics Park is an underwater museum. It's crowded on weekends, so remember to book in advance via their official WeChat account. 06 Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Jingdezhen is the kind of place where you won't get bored even after staying for 3 days. Taoxichuan is best visited at night. It's a cultural and creative district renovated from old factory buildings. Once the lights are on, the red brick walls and ceramic artworks are all plated with warm colors. Go to the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum during the day to watch the masters throw pottery and paint blue and white porcelain. The whole process takes 30 minutes, and the focus of the craftsmen is more moving than any exhibition. 🍜 There is a cold noodle shop nearby. Add orange peel and chili oil. It costs CNY 5 a bowl. It's so spicy that tears stream down your face, but you still want to eat more. For accommodation, I suggest choosing the area around Taoxichuan. You can walk a few steps to the night market and find small cups for a few dozen yuan. ⚠️ It's crowded on weekends. Avoid the peak time from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and your experience will be twice as good. 07 Hinggan League, Inner Mongolia Arxan National Forest Park is the kind of place you'd be willing to wake up early for. Enter the scenic area at 5:30 AM. The morning mist hasn't dispersed yet, and the Heavenly Lake looks like a frozen mirror, reflecting the entire pine forest. Walking along the plank road, there are thick pine needles under your feet, which creak when you step on them. ⏰ At noon, the sunlight shines in, and the water surface turns deep blue, which is completely different from the morning. Stay in a homestay outside the scenic area. The owner is honest, and for dinner, they will stew a pot of mushroom soup for you, which is incredibly fresh. ⚠️ Buy the scenic area ticket and the shuttle bus ticket separately; don't miss either. Also, the temperature difference in the mountains is large, so bring a fleece jacket. 08 Dalian, Liaoning The sea in Dalian is completely different from that in the south; it's the kind of northern sea that is tough and carries a salty, fishy smell. The reefs in Golden Pebble Beach are polished round by the waves. After the tide recedes in the afternoon, you can pick up small crabs and beautiful shells. Laohutan Ocean Park is suitable for bringing children. There are 2 dolphin shows a day, so remember to reserve your seat in advance. Tangli Lake Park is not popular, but it is comfortable. Take a walk around the lake in the evening, with the wind blowing the willow trees, it's so quiet that you can hear your own heartbeat. Xinghai Square is lively at night, with light shows and fountains taking turns. If you live nearby, you can watch them as soon as you go downstairs. ⚠️ It's windy in Dalian. Your hair will fly around when taking photos by the sea, so wearing a hat is more worry-free. One last thing: Of these 8 places, I personally prefer Nujiang and Dalian the most—one is addictively wild, and the other is full of stories in the sea breeze. Where are you planning to go for the Mid-Autumn Festival? Let's chat in the comments section.

Slow pace | Low cost | Uncrowded and peaceful🌿) Stop 1: Boshan Lake Scenic Area | A hidden Central Plains Li River wonderland tucked away in lakeside meadows 🚗Transportation About 2 hours by car (Zhengzhou city center – Jinggang'ao Expressway – Boshan Lake Scenic Area). County buses go directly to the scenic area entrance, and the scenic area has a large parking lot with free parking🅿. ✅Why it's perfect for a Dragon Boat Festival getaway Deep in the mountains of Zhumadian, this is an unspoiled lakeside bay with green mountains, winding clear water, and vast wild meadows where herds of cattle and sheep roam. The lonely dawn redwoods and dense forests around the lake create an incredibly immersive atmosphere. Low commercialization and few tourists make it the perfect escape from the crowds at Songshan Mountain and Longmen Grottoes. It is ideal for lakeside picnics, leisurely walks, boat rides, and immersing yourself in the slow life by the mountains and lake. The lush greenery during the Dragon Boat Festival is incredibly healing. 📅3-day relaxed itinerary ‑Day 1: Arrive and check into a lakeside farmhouse homestay, visit the iconic lonely tree and lakeside meadows, and set up a canopy for a picnic on the lawn. Enjoy authentic southern Henan farmhouse dishes for dinner. ‑Day 2: Take a boat ride through the lake bays to enjoy the scenery of green mountains and water. Go for a light hike along the lakeside trail to get some fresh air, and quietly wait for the stunning sunset by the lake. ‑Day 3: Sleep in, explore nearby towns to buy local specialties, and head back at a leisurely pace. 💰Estimated costs Admission ticket CNY 40/person. Boat ride CNY 50/person. Camping gear rental CNY 110–260/set. Dining CNY 45–75/person. Lakeside homestay CNY 160–290/night. 🍜Must-try food Queshan braised dishes, Nanwan fish chunks, farmhouse free-range chicken, wild mountain vegetables, local coarse grain buns Stop 2: Luoshui Changgu | A Swiss fairytale wonderland in the green forests of Luoyang 🚗Transportation About 1.5 hours by car (Zhengzhou city center – Lianyungang-Horgos Expressway – Luoshui Changgu). You can take a connecting bus from Luoyang city, and parking is free at the park entrance. The road conditions are smooth and easy to drive on✅. ✅Why it's perfect for a Dragon Boat Festival getaway A European-style mountain town in the suburbs of Yiyang, featuring pointed-roof castles, vintage trains, and streamside lawns. Surrounded by greenery, the atmosphere is superb. Avoid the crowded crowds of Luoyang Old Town and Laojun Mountain; this place is quiet and uncrowded. It is perfect for strolling through the town, camping on the lawn, and taking photos, focusing on a relaxed vacation. The weather is cool during the Dragon Boat Festival, making it very healing. 📅3-day relaxed itinerary ‑Day 1: Arrive and check into a homestay near the scenic area, visit the European-style castle and vintage train tracks, stroll along the stream and lawn, and have authentic Luoyang home-style dishes for dinner. ‑Day 2: Take the vintage train around the park, relax and rest among the mountains and forests, hang out on the lawn, and wait for the orange mountain sunset. ‑Day 3: Sleep in, explore the small town of Yiyang to taste local snacks, and head back at a leisurely pace. 💰Estimated costs Admission ticket CNY 29.9/person. Train and sightseeing car fees are extra. Dining CNY 50–80/person. Suburban homestay CNY 170–310/night. 🍜Must-try food Luoyang water banquet, farmhouse steamed dishes, Luoning steamed meat, wild vegetable platter, cornmeal buns Stop 3: Shengwangping | A North China Altay meadow wonderland on the mountain ridge in the clouds 🚗Transportation About 2 hours by car (Zhengzhou city center – Hebao Expressway – Shengwangping Scenic Area). Public transport is inconvenient, so driving is recommended. Parking at the summit is free🆓. ✅Why it's perfect for a Dragon Boat Festival getaway Located at the high-altitude meadows on the Shanxi-Henan border, with thousands of acres of rolling green fields. With wooden boardwalks in the clouds, a "heavenly lake" at the summit, and free-roaming cattle and sheep, it feels like being in Northern Xinjiang. Unlike other popular grasslands in Henan, this place remains unspoiled, is not overdeveloped, and has very few tourists. You can hike to the summit, camp on the meadows, and wait for the sea of clouds. The meadows are lush and green during the Dragon Boat Festival, making it a natural 22°C summer retreat. 📅3-day relaxed itinerary ‑Day 1: Check into a homestay at the foot of the mountain, hike to the summit meadows to visit the popular boardwalk, relax in the breeze at the top, and have authentic farmhouse food for dinner. ‑Day 2: Wake up early to catch the morning sea of clouds, roam the alpine meadows, rest by the "heavenly lake," and wait for the sunset on the ridge. ‑Day 3: After sleeping in, explore the villages at the foot of the mountain to rest, and head back at a leisurely pace. 💰Estimated costs Admission ticket CNY 40/person. Sightseeing transport CNY 30 (optional). Dining CNY 40–70/person. Mountain farmhouse CNY 150–270/night. 🍜Must-try food Yangcheng meat pot, wild mountain vegetables, farmhouse stewed free-range chicken, oat noodles (kaolao), handmade coarse grain noodles Stop 4: Mazhuang Reservoir | A niche, healing lakeside wonderland at the foot of Songshan Mountain 🚗Transportation About 1.5 hours by car (Zhengzhou city center – Zhengshao Expressway – Mazhuang Reservoir). Take the high-speed train to Dengfeng South Station, then a 20-minute taxi ride. There are multiple free parking spots around the lake✅. ✅Why it's perfect for a Dragon Boat Festival getaway An unspoiled wild reservoir backed by the Songshan Mountains, with clear lake water reflecting the green mountains and large, flat lawns along the shore. The atmosphere rivals that of the seaside. Zero commercialization, free admission, and no crowds—perfect for avoiding the main Songshan scenic area. It is great for cycling around the lake, camping on the lawn, and wading in the shallows. A top choice for a laid-back vacation. Cool and comfortable during the Dragon Boat Festival. 📅3-day relaxed itinerary ‑Day 1: Arrive and set up camp on the lakeside lawn, take photos of the reflection of the mountains and lake, and enjoy the forest-like lawn. Have authentic local Dengfeng food for dinner. ‑Day 2: Stroll around the lake, hike in the forest to get some fresh air, sit quietly by the lake, and wait for the sunset glow. ‑Day 3: Sleep in, explore Dengfeng Old Town to eat local snacks, and head back at a leisurely pace. 💰Estimated costs Free admission, free parking. Dining CNY 35–65/person. Dengfeng homestay CNY 140–260/night. 🍜Must-try food Dengfeng scorched-crust sesame flatbread, Dengfeng braised noodles, "menzi" (starch jelly), farmhouse wild vegetables, firewood-stewed dishes 💡Tips for a Dragon Boat Festival getaway 1. Avoid peak times: Try to arrive at the scenic area before 9 AM to avoid the daytime crowds. The soft light on the meadows and lake bays is better for photos📸 2. Gear preparation: Wear non-slip sports shoes for mountain and lakeside areas. There are many mosquitoes in the grass, so bring mosquito repellent. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in high-altitude meadows, so bring a light jacket. Picnic mats and sunscreen are essential. 3. Itinerary connection: The 4 locations can be connected for a 3–4 day slow tour of western Henan. The driving conditions are smooth, so there is no need to rush—the focus is on relaxation. 4. Ecological protection: Please do not litter in meadow, lake, or mountain scenic areas. Practice "leave no trace" travel to protect the unspoiled scenery. 5. Accommodation reminder: Rooms are in high demand during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday. It is recommended to book homestays at least 1–2 weeks in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes or no availability.

01 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the kind of place where the more you walk, the more you feel it's worth the money. Entering the mountain in September, the shade is thick and the breeze is cool, so kids can jump along the way without complaining of fatigue. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid tour groups. Take a speedboat from Xihai Pier to the center of the lake, then switch to the walking trail to see the granite peaks. Seniors can just walk the section from Stone Monkey Courtyard to Tianmo Peak; it's flat and easy on the knees. Laoleshan is suitable for the afternoon. There's grass sliding and a petting zoo at the foot of the mountain, where kids can play for at least half an hour. ⚠️ Don't take the half-day tour electric carts soliciting passengers at the entrance. They claim to go around the mountain, but actually only go halfway up. It's better to hike the boardwalk yourself. There are few snack bars in the mountain, so bring your own water and wet wipes. After descending, go to Suiping County to eat a bowl of hot tofu pudding; it's a big bowl for CNY 5, and kids love it more than french fries. 02 Haikou | Hainan Haikou isn't the type of place where you just lie in the hotel like in Sanya; it's better for walking and eating with kids. In the morning, visit Wugong Temple first. The garden isn't big, 1 hour is enough. Focus on the Song Dynasty stone tablets and the reflections of the coconut groves. Kids won't fuss even if they aren't interested in ancient architecture, because there's an ice cream stand right at the exit. 📍 After leaving Wugong Temple, walk along Haifu Road for 10 minutes to Qilou Old Street. Don't rush to take photos; first, duck into the alleys of Bo'ai North Road to find spicy soup rice and fried shrimp cakes. Qilou Old Street is hottest in the afternoon, so ⚠️ I don't recommend spending a whole day there. If you have kids, it's best to schedule the Volcanic Crater Park for the evening. It's less sunny after 5:30 PM. Walking down to the crater floor along the boardwalk and climbing back up is like a small physical challenge. There are volcanic rock eggs for sale at the park entrance for CNY 5 each; kids will eat them first and ask questions later out of curiosity. 03 Jilin When visiting Jilin City in September, Songhua Lake is more suitable for families than Wusong Island. Wusong Island is only worth seeing in winter; if you go in autumn, the island in the middle of the lake is bare, and kids will find it boring, so I suggest skipping it. ⏰ Take a boat on Songhua Lake at 8:00 AM. The lake temperature is just right, and wearing a light jacket keeps you comfortable without being stuffy. Boat tickets are divided by route; with kids, choose the one to Jingui Island and back. One hour is enough. Don't rush to leave after getting off the boat. The grilled river fish at the entrance of the scenic area is cheap and fresh, CNY 10 per fish. Sprinkled with chili powder, kids will fight over it. ⚠️ Don't buy the all-fish feast package at the pier. The portions are huge and too salty; two adults and one child can't finish it, which is a waste of money. In the afternoon, you can go to the entrance of the Fengman Hydropower Museum to take pictures of the dam. Kids will ask you questions about how water turns into electricity until you run out of answers. 04 Chengde | Hebei The Chengde Mountain Resort is so famous that it's easy to take the wrong path. The right way to play with kids is: don't rush to the lake area as soon as you enter. First, take the mountain tour bus to the top to overlook the panoramic view of the Little Potala Palace, then go down the mountain to stroll by the lake. ⏰ This way, you see the big sights when you have the most energy in the morning, and stroll slowly through the plains in the afternoon. If the kids are tired, they can lie on the grass for a while; no one will bother you. Jinshanling Great Wall has fewer people than Badaling, and the steps are steeper. ⚠️ The autumn tiger is still around in September, so climbing the Great Wall in the afternoon can easily lead to heatstroke. It's recommended to set off early. The cable car only goes halfway up, so you must walk the last section of brick steps yourself. If the kids are too young (under 5 or 6), this section can be overwhelming, so you can turn back near the General Tower. After descending, go to Luanping County to eat a bowl of buckwheat noodles. It costs CNY 15 per person, which is more practical than the fast food in the scenic area. 05 Shenzhen | Guangdong The biggest pitfall for family trips in Shenzhen is trying to visit Dameisha, Window of the World, and OCT all in one day. My advice is: cut out OCT and keep Dameisha and Window of the World. The two things are different in nature and don't conflict. Dameisha is free but crowded. ⚠️ It's basically extremely crowded after 3:00 PM on weekends, so you have to go early if you want to play in the water. You must buy a night ticket for Window of the World; it's half the price. Entering in the evening is cooler, and kids will be mesmerized by the global stage performances. 📍 Exit H of the Window of the World subway station leads directly into the park. Don't trust the scalpers at the entrance selling fast track passes. Food in the park is expensive and tastes bad, so I suggest carrying a backpack with some bread and milk. Use the money you save to let your child pick a fridge magnet at the souvenir shop at the exit; it's better than a meal. 06 Chizhou | Anhui The most worthwhile part of Chizhou to take kids to is the ecological section at the foot of Mount Jiuhua; you don't necessarily have to climb to the top to burn incense. ⏰ In the morning, take the scenic bus to Ganlu Temple first, and walk slowly up along the stream. The stone path is surrounded by bamboo forests and moss, and kids can spend half an hour catching small fish by the stream. This section is densely shaded and not sunny at all in September. ⚠️ Don't be superstitious about blessing and consecration scams. Ignore anyone on the mountain path who tries to get you to buy incense candles. At noon, find a vegetarian restaurant on Jiuhua Street. It costs CNY 30 per person to eat your fill, and kids will eat the tofu skin rolls until their mouths are oily. If you still have energy in the afternoon, you can go to the Dayuan Cultural Park to see the 99m bronze statue. The square is open and suitable for kids to run around, but there is no shade, so it's recommended to leave when the sun is strong. 07 Changzhi | Shanxi Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon is the most tiring stop among these 8 cities, but it's also the place where kids can play the wildest. The water in Baquan Gorge is blue-green, like jelly, and kids will want to step into it as soon as they see it. ⏰ It is recommended to take the first sightseeing bus into the scenic area, take the aerial bus to the top of the mountain first, and then walk down along the cliff boardwalk. This way, it's all downhill, saving your knees. There is a water section in the canyon where you have to take a boat, which is the most exciting part for kids, but it's windy, so remember to bring a windbreaker. ⚠️ Don't order randomly from the mountain wild meals in the scenic area. A plate of stir-fried wild vegetables can cost CNY 58. It's most cost-effective to carry your own self-heating rice. After leaving the scenic area, go to Huguan County to eat a bowl of lamb soup noodles. It costs CNY 10, it's hot and substantial, and kids can sleep the whole way in the car after eating. 08 Yinchuan | Ningxia The attractions in Yinchuan are scattered, so don't be greedy with kids; choosing two is enough. I chose Helan Mountain Rock Art and Mingcui Lake Wetland. The rock art scenic area has a special children's audio guide, which is free to scan. Kids can get addicted to listening to the stories about the sheep and hunter pictures on the stones. ⏰ Go to the rock art in the morning; the light is best, the sun isn't scorching, and you can feed the rock sheep at the foot of the mountain after watching. ⚠️ I don't recommend going to Zhenbeipu Western Film Studio. It's crowded and sunny, and kids have no concept of film sets; it's pure suffering. In the afternoon, transfer to Mingcui Lake, rent a pedal boat and drift slowly. The lake breeze is cool, and you can see egrets in the reed marshes. ⏰ The light is best after 6:00 PM, so you don't need filters for photos. There is no direct bus from Yinchuan city to the scenic area. 🚄 Taking a taxi takes about 40 minutes and costs about CNY 50 one way, which is cheaper than chartering a car. After visiting these 8 cities, the most budget-friendly and stress-free ones are actually Haikou and Yinchuan, with low costs, a slow pace, and kids are less likely to fuss. Chengde and Changzhi are the most tiring, but the scenery is the most worthwhile. Which city have you taken your kids to that you think is underrated? Let's chat in the comments section; I'm gathering some inspiration for my next trip.

01 Zhumadian | Henan Admission to Chaya Mountain is 70 yuan. Laole Mountain is cheaper, but the scenery is just as good. September is the perfect time to visit; the temperature in the mountains is 5–6 degrees lower than in the city, making it comfortable for walking. I recommend climbing Chaya Mountain in the morning. The rocks are uniquely shaped, like walking into a natural stone forest, and even those with average fitness can reach the summit in 2 hours. For lunch, grab a bowl of hot dry noodles at the foot of the mountain for 8 yuan—it's filling. In the afternoon, head to Laole Mountain. It's less crowded, and the trails are well-paved, perfect for a leisurely stroll. ⚠️ Don't buy the "wild ganoderma" sold at the foot of the mountain; it's mostly fake. 🚄 A taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain takes about 40 minutes, or about 15 yuan per person if you share a ride. 02 Tianshui | Gansu Admission to the Maijishan Grottoes is 80 yuan, but it's worth every penny. Tianshui is colorful in September, and the trees around Maijishan start to turn yellow. Standing on the plank road and looking down, you'll see autumn colors everywhere. The Wushan Water Curtain Cave is far from the city and takes most of the day to visit. If you're short on time, skip it and spend your time at Fuxi Temple instead. Fuxi Temple is in the city and within walking distance. Admission is 20 yuan, and the ancient cypress trees inside create beautiful light and shadows on the ground. 🍜 For lunch, head to the alley next to Fuxi Temple for a bowl of Tianshui guagua—it's sour, spicy, and appetizing for 6 yuan. ⚠️ The Maijishan plank road is narrow and gets crowded during peak season, so try to get there for the first entry at 8:30 AM. 03 Lianyungang | Jiangsu You can visit Huaguoshan and Liandao in one day, but don't mix up the order. Go to Huaguoshan in the morning (admission 90 yuan) to climb the mountain and see the Water Curtain Cave. The monkeys there will snatch plastic bags, so make sure your backpack is zipped up. After coming down the mountain at noon, have a bowl of seafood noodles at the entrance of the scenic area for 25 yuan—they are generous with the shrimp and clams. In the afternoon, head straight to Liandao (admission 50 yuan). The beach is free to enter, and the water in September isn't too cold, making it perfect for wading. 🚄 Take the You 3 bus from the city to Liandao for 2 yuan. ⚠️ The cable car at the summit of Huaguoshan has long lines. If you're fit enough, hike up yourself to save time and 50 yuan. 04 Nanchang | Jiangxi Admission to the Tengwang Pavilion tourist area is 50 yuan, but don't just buy the ticket and leave it at that. Enter at 4:30 PM to explore the ancient buildings and gardens in the park first, then head up to the pavilion at 5:30 PM to catch the sunset over the Gan River. Standing on the top floor and looking at the Nanchang Star Ferris wheel on the opposite bank, with the river dyed gold by the sunset, you'll really feel that the 50 yuan was well spent. 🍜 After you're done, it's a 10-minute walk to the Wanshou Palace block for a bowl of Nanchang rice noodles and clay pot soup for about 15 yuan per person—it's fragrant and spicy. ⚠️ There's a night show at Tengwang Pavilion that costs extra, but I personally don't think it's necessary; the daytime visit is enough. 05 Yichang | Hubei The scenery in Yichang is breathtaking, and you can enjoy it even on a small budget. For the Yangtze Three Gorges, I recommend taking a boat (ticket 120 yuan). The trip takes about 4 hours, and the mountains on both sides unfold like an ink painting. You only need to choose one between the Three Gorges Tribe and the Three Gorges Waterfall. I chose the Three Gorges Tribe (admission 80 yuan), where the Tujia stilt houses and the stream complement each other, making for great photos. Admission to the Qingjiang Gallery is 100 yuan, but if you've already seen the other two, you can skip this one. 🍜 For lunch, grab an Yichang radish dumpling at the entrance of the scenic area for 5 yuan—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. ⚠️ You'll need a raincoat for the Three Gorges Waterfall. They sell them for 15 yuan at the entrance, but you can buy one at a convenience store in the city for just 3 yuan. 06 Jiangmen | Guangdong Admission to the Kaiping Diaolou Cultural Tourism Zone is 100 yuan, which includes the 3 main areas: Zili Village, Liyuan, and Majianglong. Jiangmen in September still has a touch of summer, and the rice fields are starting to turn yellow. The diaolou (watchtowers) standing in the middle of the fields look like they've grown out of the past. I recommend visiting Zili Village first, as it has the highest concentration of diaolou and can be seen in 30 minutes. Then, take the shuttle bus to Liyuan, where the gardens are exquisite and perfect for a leisurely walk. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Taishan eel rice in Tangkou Town for 25 yuan—the rice is perfectly cooked, and the crispy rice crust is especially fragrant. ⚠️ You can skip the Majianglong Diaolou cluster, as it's very similar to the first 2. Save the time to go back to the city for some sweet soup. 07 Yueyang | Hunan Admission to Yueyang Tower is 70 yuan, but the real value is the Dongting Lake next to it. Enter the scenic area at 8:00 AM when it's less crowded. Climb the tower to see the vast, misty lake, with Junshan Island in the distance looking like a green snail floating on the water. After visiting Yueyang Tower, don't rush off. Walk south along the lakeside path, which is lined with reeds and weeping willows—the September breeze is soft and cool. In the afternoon, take a boat for 40 yuan to Junshan Island, where you can see the Xiangfei Temple and the spotted bamboo. It takes about 2 hours to walk around. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the city for some Yueyang barbecue. The grilled fish and beef fat are the signature dishes, and you can eat your fill for about 40 yuan per person. ⚠️ Yueyang Tower stops admitting visitors at 5:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff time. 08 Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin isn't freezing in September, but the Ice and Snow World is already closed, so don't make a wasted trip. The highlights this season are the Volga Manor and St. Sophia Cathedral. Admission to Volga Manor is 100 yuan; the Russian-style architecture paired with the golden autumn leaves makes it feel like walking into an oil painting. St. Sophia Cathedral is in the city, and taking photos of the exterior is enough. Admission is 20 yuan, but it's small inside and can be seen in 10 minutes. 🍜 Grab a Madieer popsicle on Central Street for 5 yuan—it's creamy and perfect to eat while you stroll. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night in Harbin in September is significant, so bring a light jacket and don't just go out in short sleeves. After visiting these 8 cities, Yichang and Yueyang were the most worthwhile, offering both great scenery and culture. Zhumadian and Lianyungang are good if you're passing through, but no need to go out of your way. For trips between September–October, remember 1 principle: take the bus instead of a taxi, bring your own water instead of buying it at the scenic area, and book your tickets online a day in advance—you can usually save enough for a meal. Which city do you plan to visit first? Let me know in the comments.

Who says Zhumadian is just about post stations? This severely underrated small city in southern Henan has an average summer temperature of 25°C and is full of surprises! I stayed for 3 days and didn't have a single bad experience. Just follow this comprehensive guide👇 1️⃣ Chaya Mountain—The Bonsai of the Central Plains and the GOAT Zhumadian's top attraction, a national 5A-rated scenic area! With 140 million-year-old granite landscapes and rugged rock formations, it was also a core filming location for the CCTV sequel to "Journey to the West"! "Stone Monkey Watching the Sea" and "A Thread of Sky" make for great photos every time. Admission is 65 yuan, and it's a 1-hour trip from the city center. Easy route: Enter from the South Gate → take the magic carpet up → overlook from the summit → take the glass slide down. No backtracking! 2️⃣ Royal Post Station—The soul of night tours "A thousand-year-old post station, the charm of Zhumadian"! Winding bluestone roads and swaying lanterns line the ancient streets. Large-scale live-action performances like "Emperor Chenghua Returns to Zhumadian Post Station" and "Miss Yingtai" are stunning. The Hanfu experience is incredible, and every photo looks amazing! Come at night for the perfect vibe~ 3️⃣ Nanhai Zen Temple—The largest Buddhist temple in Asia Built during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty, the Mahavira Hall is larger than the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City! The 12 granite archways are solemn and magnificent. Admission is 40 yuan. Catch the afternoon chanting session; the echoing bell sounds are incredibly soothing. It's a 20-minute taxi ride from the city center! 4️⃣ Lao Le Mountain—A natural forest oxygen bar With 96% forest coverage, it's several degrees cooler than the city in summer! Climb high for fresh air and go hiking during the day, and watch the national intangible cultural heritage "Queshan Molten Iron Fireworks" fill the sky with sparks at night! It starts promptly at 7:20 PM every Saturday, and the vibe is on point~ 5️⃣ Jinding Mountain—A city backyard garden just 30 minutes from downtown The canyon rafting is 4 km long, with 9 rapids that will have you screaming with excitement! The 5D glass suspension bridge and forest slide are super fun, and the gentle mountain paths are perfect for family trips. 6️⃣ Suya Lake—The largest man-made plain reservoir in Asia The lake is vast, with ten thousand acres of reeds swaying in the wind! The sunset between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM is stunning, turning the entire lake orange-red. Go cycling around the lake or boating to enjoy the scenery, and don't miss the full fish feast—it's incredibly delicious~ 7️⃣ Boshan Lake—The Li River of the Central Plains lives up to its name Known as "all the beautiful waters of the world gathered in one lake"! Surrounded by mountains with beautiful lake scenery, taking a boat ride feels like stepping into a landscape painting. The freshly caught fish and shrimp at the lakeside farmhouse restaurants are incredibly delicious~ 8️⃣ Zhumadian Museum—A free cultural living room for the city The museum's treasure, the "Sword of King Fuchai of Wu" from the Spring and Autumn period, is stunning! With 2,000 artifacts in the collection, you can understand the city's millennium of history. It's free to enter—just bring your ID card~ · -- 🍜 You haven't really been here if you don't eat this Queshan starch jelly—the soul of Zhumadian's summer! Made from pea starch with garlic sauce + sesame oil + chili oil, it's smooth and chewy. Runan beef tripe hot pot—an old-fashioned copper pot with a peppery, numbing soup base; the tripe coated in sesame paste is soul-stirring. Runan peppery chicken—numbing but not spicy, with crispy skin and tender meat. Taqiao pig trotters—soft, falling off the bone, and fatty without being greasy. For breakfast, you must have Zhumadian Hulatang (spicy soup), slow-cooked with beef bones—spicy and rich! · -- 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who is this for? Perfect for couples on a date, family trips with kids, friends traveling together, or solo trips! Whether you're a nature lover, culture buff, foodie, or photo enthusiast, there's something here for you~ 💡 Helpful tips · Two-day, one-night essential itinerary: Day 1 Chaya Mountain → Royal Post Station night tour, Day 2 Nanhai Zen Temple → Lao Le Mountain · 1-hour high-speed train from Zhengzhou, making it easy to just pack up and go · Remember to wear sunscreen in summer, and bring a jacket as there's a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains Zhumadian is truly held back by its name! Spectacular natural scenery + ancient temples + lively post stations + authentic food—you can have a blast for over 200 yuan per person! Go now, don't wait until it gets popular and regret it🔥

Take your wife to these 8 places, and she'll love you even more when you return. 01 Tai'an | Shandong Taking her on a night hike up Mount Tai is the most direct way to test your relationship. Start from the Red Gate at 10:00 PM, flashlights lighting up the stone steps. Panting and encouraging each other along the way, sharing a cucumber at Zhongtianmen is more real than any sweet talk. ⏰ Arrive at Riguang Peak before 4:00 AM, find a sheltered rock, and wrap up in a rented military coat to wait for the sunrise. You'll remember the strength of her grip on your arm the moment the sea of clouds surges. Don't push yourself on the way down; take the cable car to Zhongtianmen and then transfer to a bus. Save your energy for a bowl of sa soup near Dai Temple in the evening. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so pack an extra light down jacket for her, and keep the receipt for the coat rental deposit. 02 Jiuquan | Gansu This route is for couples who don't mind a little hardship, but the scenery is absolutely worth it. Ride camels at Mingsha Mountain during the day and climb to the top of the dunes to see Crescent Lake. The light is best at sunset when the sand is dyed gold; 📸 she'll look great in any photo wearing a red dress. Save the next day for the Mogao Caves. ⚠️ You must book tickets on the official website two weeks in advance. Regular tickets cover eight caves, while emergency tickets only cover four and involve long lines, so don't be tempted by scalper tickets. Yadan National Geopark and Yumenguan are on the same route, so chartering a car for a one-day trip on the west line is perfect. The Gobi Desert is desolate and magnificent, and with some old songs playing in the car, you'll find yourselves talking about things you usually don't. 🚄 It's about an hour and a half from the city. Remember to pack enough water and snacks, as there are no restaurants between attractions. 03 Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan If you're looking for a place that hasn't been commercialized, this is it. The morning mist in Bingzhongluo is free. ⏰ Open your inn window at 7:00 AM, and you'll see the Nujiang First Bend hidden in the clouds; she'll be speechless at the quiet. Walk the Tea Horse Road section to Wuli Village; the path is narrow but flat. Hold her hand and walk slowly, with nothing but the sound of the river and birds in your ears. Nanjiluo is better for couples with good stamina—it's about a six-hour round-trip hike with one alpine lake after another, the water a shade of blue that doesn't seem real. ⚠️ Find a local guide before entering the mountains; don't wander off on your own. Accommodation in the village is basic, but sitting around the fire pit in the evening, drinking butter tea, and listening to the owner tell Lisu stories provides a sense of groundedness that a star-rated hotel can't give you. 04 Xianyang | Shaanxi Just a 30-minute high-speed train ride from Xi'an, yet you can escape the crowds here. Qianling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Emperor Gaozong of Tang and Wu Zetian. Stone lions and horses have stood on both sides of the spirit way for over a thousand years. Standing in front of the Unmarked Stele, she might ask you, "How should one really evaluate this woman?" It's okay if you don't have an answer; just holding hands and walking around quietly is nice enough. ⏰ Go in the afternoon around 3:00 or 4:00 PM when the light hits the stone carvings at an angle, making the contours look especially three-dimensional. Stay at the Yuanjia Village Guanzhong Impression Experience Area in the evening. 📍 On that main bluestone street, you can eat your way through oil-splashed noodles, Liquan scorched noodles, and tofu pudding; you can eat until you're full for about 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't buy handmade silver jewelry on the main street. Walk deeper into the alleys; the shops opened by locals are the real deal. 05 Zhumadian | Henan Don't underestimate this small city in southern Henan; Chaya Mountain can give you a great day. This is a filming location for "Journey to the West." With strange granite formations like the Stone Monkey Courtyard and the Flying Rock, she can guess what they look like as you walk, turning the trip into a fun treasure hunt. ⏰ Enter the mountain early in the morning when it's less crowded and cooler. It only takes two hours to climb to the top, so don't feel pressured to take the slide. Walk down slowly while holding hands, talking about the TV shows you watched growing up. The wind at Old Leshan is wilder, making it perfect for a couple who loves taking photos. The windmills on the alpine meadows spin endlessly, and the evening light is incredibly gentle. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so carry two bottles of water yourself; don't complain about the weight. 06 Foshan | Guangdong Taking her to Qinghui Garden is a great way to keep your eyes refreshed all day. The delicacy of Lingnan gardens is hidden in the small details: 📍 the century-old wisteria by the boat hall, the koi in the pond, and the bamboo shadows cast through the lattice windows. She can lean against the railing, and every photo you take will look like a postcard. The garden isn't large, so two hours is enough. Walk directly to Huagai Road Pedestrian Street afterward. 🍜 You must try the double-skin milk at Minxin Old Shop; it's richer and creamier when served warm. In the afternoon, head to Xiqiaoshan. Don't drive up; take the sightseeing bus to Baofeng Temple, then climb the stone steps to the top to see the Guanyin statue and overlook the chessboard pattern of the mulberry-dyed fish ponds. ⏰ Head down the mountain after 6:00 PM. There's a farm restaurant near the South Gate that makes sauna chicken; it's so fresh and sweet she'll want to add the owner on WeChat. 07 Xinzhou | Shanxi This route is for couples who love a sense of history. The walls of Yanmenguan are steeper than you'd imagine. The moment you climb the gate tower, the mountains on both sides look like they were carved by knives, and the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. She'll instinctively hide behind you, and you can take the opportunity to put your arm around her shoulder and say, "Don't be afraid." ⏰ It's less crowded in the morning, so you can get photos of the gate tower without strangers in them. In the afternoon, go to Old Niuwan, where the Yellow River makes an almost 90-degree turn. The sight of it shaking hands with the Great Wall has a desolate kind of romance, perfect for sitting side-by-side and just zoning out. Save a full day for Wutaishan. ⚠️ The cable car at Dailuoding has a wait time of at least an hour during peak season, so you're better off taking her up the 1,080 steps of "Dazhi Road." After working up a sweat, drinking a bowl of millet porridge at the summit will make her look at you differently. 08 Huzhou | Zhejiang The last stop is Nanxun Ancient Town, arranged to help you slow down your pace. Compared to Wuzhen and Zhouzhuang, it's quieter and more lived-in. At 6:00 AM at Baijianlou, you'll see women washing chamber pots by the river and smell the porridge cooking from the windows; she might remark, "So the people living here are really living their lives." Buy a joint ticket to enter Xiaolian Manor and Jiayetang Library to see the mansions of wealthy merchants from back in the day; the rockeries and ponds are meticulously maintained but not flashy. 🍜 For lunch, order a serving of Xun trotters and embroidery vegetables at a small restaurant along the river; the rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with the greens to cut the greasiness. ⏰ Take a three-yuan hand-rowed boat through the stone bridges in the evening. As the boatwoman hums a few lines of Wu dialect tunes and she leans on your shoulder saying, "I want to come back next time," you'll know this trip was worth it. Traveling with your wife doesn't have to be expensive; the key is to be thoughtful. Watching her turn around to grab your hand while hiking, or seeing her eyes light up over a snack on a strange street—those moments are more effective than any gift. Which two of these eight places would you most like to visit? Let's chat in the comments.

01 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi If you bring your parents to Jingdezhen, don't head straight for Ci Palace or Yaoli — they’re far and the roads are bumpy. I recommend staying near People’s Square in Zhushan District; it's convenient for getting around. Start the morning at Taoxichuan creative park, a renovated old porcelain factory with flat paths, plenty of trees, and benches close together so you can sit down after a short walk. There are several art museums and studios where you can leisurely watch ceramics go from clay to finished pieces. For lunch, find a kiln-worker–style restaurant in the park — about CNY 40–50 per person, generous portions, and the parents will find it tasty. In the afternoon, go to the Jingdezhen ancient kiln folk expo. The highlight is the living kilns, with masters throwing pots and painting blue-and-white porcelain on site. ⏰ There are performances after 2 PM, so just arrive on time — no need to line up early. The park is compact; you can see it in about 2 hours, and the route is shaded, so it’s not sunny. ⚠️ Remember, don’t rush to buy ceramics from the shops on the street outside the exit — prices are inflated. The same bowl can be bought for half the price elsewhere. If you want small souvenirs, go to the Guomao ceramics market, about CNY 10 by taxi from the expo area, and remember to bargain. 02 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang is the best Jiangsu city I’ve seen for slow sightseeing with elderly parents — hands down. Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigushan line up, but don’t try to do them all in one day; you’ll be tired. Split them into two days: Jinshan in the morning and Beigushan in the afternoon on day 1, and only Jiaoshan on day 2. Jinshan Temple has a moderate number of steps but a slightly steep slope; hold the rail and take it slow and you can reach the top in about 30 minutes. From the top you get an expansive view of the Yangtze and strong winds, so bring a light jacket for your parents. For lunch, head down to Xijindu old street and try guogai noodles with braised meat — just over CNY 20 per person, hot and filling. Beigushan is easier to walk, almost flat; a relaxed 40-minute stroll with stops is enough, and the view of the river from Duojing Tower is even better than Jinshan. To reach Jiaoshan, take the ferry — about a 5-minute ride, and the river breeze is refreshing. The island has many shady trees, Dinghui Temple, and a stele forest, with a slow, relaxed pace. 🏝️ Two hours is enough, so it’s ideal for an afternoon visit when it’s quiet. Maoshan in Jurong is far from the city center; if your parents have mobility issues, skip it — you don’t have to check off every spot. 03 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia When taking your parents to Hohhot, don’t focus only on the grasslands — there are easy options near the city. Laoniuwan Yellow River Canyon is about a 2-hour drive from the city; the roads are good but I recommend hiring a car, round trip is about CNY 400 for the day. The canyon viewing platforms are well built and level, so you don't have to climb; standing there watching the Yellow River make a sharp turn is something photos can’t capture. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM for slanted light, nice reflections on the water, and fewer people. Cilechuan grassland cultural tourism area is better for the afternoon, only a half-hour taxi ride from the city. The grassland was restored, but it’s flat and easy to walk, and there are electric carts you can take so you won’t have to walk too long. Around 5 PM, the sunset turns the grass golden and the air smells of grass — any photo of your parents will look great. 🍜 Back in the city at night, be sure to have a lamb hot pot — the Erden traditional style uses tender lamb and a light broth so elders won’t get tired of it. ⚠️ Note that it can be windy on the grassland, so bring a windbreaker even in summer. 04 Anqing | Anhui Anqing is best known for Tianzhushan, but honestly — if you bring your parents, don’t hike the whole route. The main peak area has many steps and some nearly vertical sections that leave even young people breathless. I recommend walking only the Liandan Lake section, which is gentle and scenic, with the lake like a piece of jade set in the mountains. The cable car is about CNY 80 one way and saves you the most strenuous parts. Downhill, Sanzu Temple is worth a stop. It’s not crowded with worshippers, but the ancient trees make it serene. Your parents can sit in the temple and listen to wind through the bamboo — far more relaxing than rushing through sights. I suggest staying in Qianshan city — about a 30-minute drive from the park — so you can visit the Anhui riverfront night market in the evening and try local dishes like mountain tapioca balls with braised pork, around CNY 30 per person; even locals eat this. ⚠️ Tianzhushan tickets and cable car are separate and lines are long in peak season, so try to arrive before 8 AM. 05 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian may not sound glamorous, but Chiya Mountain is truly suitable for walking with parents. It was a filming location for Journey to the West; the granite terrain has many strange rocks, but the trails are wide and gentle in slope, not as intimidating as Mount Tai or Hua Shan. The whole loop takes 2–3 hours with plenty of pavilions to rest in, so the elders won’t find it strenuous. Laoleshan is less crowded and I actually prefer it. The mountain is low, with electric carts to mid-mountain and the remaining path a wooden boardwalk shaded by trees — very cool in summer. At the top is an old Jun temple; it’s quiet rather than popular. 🍜 After descending, have a bowl of hot dry noodles in Queshan county with a side of braised beef — ten times better than the food inside the park. ⚠️ Chiya Mountain gets very crowded on holidays; go on a weekday or you might wait an hour just to enter. 06 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihangshan Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the kind of place that's "worth the effort," but when traveling with parents you need to pick and choose. Baquan Gorge is the core area: take a boat first through the canyon floor where sheer cliffs rise like they were cut with knives and the water is emerald. A breeze fills the canyon and it's surprisingly cool. After disembarking, walk a short boardwalk and then take the cable car to the top so you avoid too many steps. Another part of the Taihangshan Grand Canyon (Hongdou Gorge) is gentler and better for an afternoon visit. The canyon is full of water sounds, the stone paths are moist but not slippery, and you can sit down and dip your feet in the stream when tired. ⏰ After 5 PM the light softens and you may see crepuscular rays in the canyon — perfect for photos. ⚠️ Temperatures vary in the mountains, so bring a long-sleeve even in July or August. I suggest staying at a farmhouse near the park entrance for about CNY 100+ a night; dinner is a big stew with handmade buns — filling and affordable. 07 Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is an underrated retirement-friendly city — three days here with your parents can be pleasantly varied. On day 1, go to Shimen plank road, part of the ancient Shu road system. It’s built on a cliff but modern walkways have railings and are wide enough for two people side by side, so you can walk without anxiety. Below is the Bao River with clear, green water; standing on the midsection of the walkway and looking back, you get the whole canyon in view. Guhan Terrace is downtown and within walking distance; it’s where Liu Bang once camped. It’s small but the gardens are exquisite — rockeries, ponds, and ancient trees — you can see it in half an hour without tiredness. Nearby Hanzhong Museum is worth a visit, free of charge, and houses the Stone Gate thirteen pieces — inscriptions carved into cliff faces centuries ago, with authentic rubbings preserved. In the evening, walk along the Han River embankment; the breeze off the water is very pleasant. 🍜 For dinner try Hanzhong hot noodles with vegetable tofu — about CNY 10 per person, sour and spicy, and your parents will love it. ⚠️ Shimen plank road stops admitting visitors at 4:30 PM, so don’t arrive too late. 08 Huangshi | Hubei Huangshi isn’t a major tourist hub in Hubei, but precisely because of that it’s perfect for quiet trips with parents. Chengyue Island is a small island on Ci Lake connected by a bridge, full of greenery and pavilions with level paths that are wheelchair-friendly. Go at 8 AM and the lake may be misty, with pavilions appearing like an ink painting. The island is small; two laps take about an hour. If you tire, sit on a lakeside bench, watch the local men fishing, and see waterbirds skim the surface. The walking paths around Ci Lake are well made and without steep slopes. 🍜 For lunch try the city’s old-brand Huangshigang flat cakes with a bowl of thick rice noodle soup — a local childhood favorite. ⚠️ Chengyue Island is free but the lights go off after 9 PM, so don’t stay too late. If time allows, you can visit Yangxin Xiandaohu by boat, but if your parents get seasick, stay longer at Ci Lake. There’s nothing you must see here, and that very lack of pressure is what makes a trip with your parents most precious. Traveling with parents isn’t about how many places you visit, but whether you keep a slow enough pace together. These eight cities are ideal for walking slowly, seeing slowly, and eating slowly. Which one have you taken your parents to? Share in the comments and I’ll plan an itinerary next time.

01 Zhumadian, Henan Chaya Mountain is the kind of attraction where the more you walk, the more you feel it's worth the ticket price. Don't be fooled by the plain entrance. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM, before the tour groups flood in. Walk the west line's Stone Forest trail first; you can see the best rock formations in 2 hours. There are many forks in the mountain, so follow the "Tianmo Lake" signs to avoid missing the core scenic spots. The Laoleshan Wind Farm is on the west side of Chaya Mountain, about a 20-minute drive away. It's windy at the top, and after 6:00 PM, the slanted light makes for great windmill silhouette photos. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so bring 2 bottles of water yourself. You can buy them at the bottom, but they're about 1 yuan more expensive. 🚄 A taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain costs about 50 yuan; ride-sharing is more cost-effective. 02 Yuncheng, Shanxi The best time to see Yuncheng Salt Lake is in the evening, not at noon. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4:30 PM. As the sun shines from a low angle in the west, the lake surface changes from light green to pinkish-orange. You can only see that color change during this time. 📍 Stand on the second floor of the viewing platform and look south; the salt piles and lake water interweave like a palette. There's a saltwater floating activity in the scenic area. If you want to try it, remember to bring your own swimsuit; the ones for rent on-site are old and expensive. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Salt Lake specialty" loose salt at the entrance; the price is 3 times that of the supermarket. 🚄 A taxi from Yuncheng North Station to the Salt Lake takes about 15 mins. You can also take bus 109, but you'll have to walk a bit after getting off. 03 Anshan, Liaoning Qianshan is a place for people with nimble legs, not for dragging family along for a tough climb. I took the route entering through North Gully and exiting through Middle Gully, which took 4 hours in total, with a rest at Longquan Temple in the middle. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:00 AM. It's less crowded for the first 2 hours, and you can hear the birds and the wind. 📍 The steps at Wufoding are steep, but the view from the top is worth it; you can see the entire outline of Anshan city. Don't take the cable car down; the queue is at least 1 hour, and walking down only takes 20 mins more. ⚠️ The walking sticks sold at the foot of the mountain cost 10 yuan each, but you can actually just pick up a branch by the roadside. 🍜 Turn right after exiting the scenic area gate; there's a place selling tofu pudding. It's savory, served with fried dough cakes, and costs 8 yuan to fill you up. 04 Haidong, Qinghai Huzhu Tu Autonomous County Hometown Park is more like a living village, not the kind of scenic area that's fenced off just for you to walk around. ⏰ Arrive around 10:00 AM to catch the Tu ethnic women doing Panxiu embroidery in the courtyard. You can sit nearby and watch; they'll chat with you and won't pressure you to buy anything. 📍 The old houses in the park retain the unique flat-roofed style of the Tu people, with roofs covered in red willow branches and mud, unlike anywhere else in Qinghai. Youning Temple is north of the Hometown Park, a 20-minute drive away. The temple is so quiet it doesn't feel like a tourist attraction. The old monks by the prayer wheels won't initiate conversation, but they are very patient if you ask for directions. ⚠️ You cannot take photos in the main hall of the temple. There are signs at the entrance, so don't pretend you didn't see them. 🚄 A taxi from Haidong city center costs about 30 yuan. It's hard to get a taxi for the return trip, so keep a driver's phone number. 05 Hanzhong, Shaanxi Shimen Plank Road is the kind of place you'll regret not visiting, but also regret visiting (once you're there), but I suggest you come. The plank road hangs on the cliff of Shimen Reservoir. Walking on it, you can clearly see the emerald green river water beneath your feet; people with a fear of heights will get weak knees. ⏰ The light is best after 3:00 PM. The sun hits the cliff from the west, casting a warm glow on the wood grain and iron chains of the plank road. Guhantai is in the city center and is free. There's a small museum inside that you can finish in half an hour. After you're done, walk along the Han River. Around 6:30 PM, the river surface is dyed orange-red by the sunset, and locals are all walking on the trail. 🍜 There's a "Han River Fish Restaurant" by the river. The pickled fish is sold by weight. For two people, a 3-jin fish plus two vegetable dishes costs a little over 40 yuan per person. 06 Hengyang, Hunan Mount Heng and the Nanyue Grand Temple are two completely different experiences; don't combine them into one day. The Grand Temple is in the town center and is very popular for incense offerings, with more locals than tourists. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 6:30 AM to catch the morning bell and the first wave of pilgrims; the atmosphere is completely different from the daytime. For Mount Heng itself, I suggest taking the eco-bus up to Nantian Gate, then hiking to the summit of Zhurong Peak, which takes about 2 hours in total. 📍 Near Banshan Pavilion, there is a "Mojingtai" (Mirror Polishing Terrace) stone tablet. Legend has it that this is where Huairang polished bricks. Few people know about it, so you don't have to queue for photos. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain is changeable; it might be sunny at the bottom but raining at the top. Bringing a thin windbreaker is more practical than an umbrella. 🍜 "Zhurong Local Restaurant" at the foot of the mountain serves Hengshan cured meat stir-fried with dried green beans. It's salty, fragrant, and goes well with rice, costing about 30 yuan per person. 07 Huzhou, Zhejiang Nanxun Ancient Town is the least commercialized Jiangnan ancient town I've ever visited. The long corridor along the river at Baijianlou is almost empty at 7:00 AM, with only local elderly people lighting stoves by the river. The coal smoke mixed with water vapor feels like returning to the 1980s. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the tour groups have left, the red lanterns light up, and the reflections on the river are twice as beautiful as during the day. 📍 The Western-style building in the former residence of Zhang Shiming is worth a close look. French floor tiles mixed with Jiangnan wood carvings create a wonderful harmony. ⚠️ The vacuum-packed "Xun Trotters" sold in the scenic area are more expensive than the freshly braised ones and taste much worse. If you want to eat them, have them freshly sliced in the shop. 🚄 Take bus 101 from Huzhou Station directly to Nanxun. The ride takes about 1 hour. A taxi costs over 100 yuan, which isn't worth it. 08 Qujing, Yunnan Luoping's rapeseed flower fields are the signature of spring, but if you go in September or October, the Jiulong Waterfall Group is the star. The waterfall group is divided into 10 levels. Walking from upstream to downstream, the first level, "Shenlong Waterfall," is the most spectacular. The water mist hits your face, and you can get your hair wet just by standing on the viewing platform for 5 minutes. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM. The sun shines into the canyon from the east, and you can see rainbows in the waterfall mist. 📍 When you walk to the third level, "Shilong Manyou Waterfall," there is a small path leading to a rice field. In late September, the rice is golden, and it frames perfectly with the waterfall, creating rich color layers. ⚠️ There's no need to take the sightseeing bus at the scenic area exit. It only takes 15 mins to walk to the main gate, saving you 20 yuan. 🍜 Steamed Ersi (rice noodles) in Luoping county town, served with a bowl of sour soup, costs 8 yuan and is 10 times better than the one at the scenic area entrance. A small budget doesn't mean settling; it just means spending every penny on things that are truly worth it. Of these 8 places, my personal favorites are Nanxun and Yuncheng Salt Lake—one is so quiet you can hear your own footsteps, and the other is unrealistically beautiful at dusk. Are there any places you've been wanting to go to recently? Let's chat in the comments, and I'll help you figure out how to save money.

People often ask me where to go for a two-day weekend. I always say, don't just stick to the popular lists. Some cities have names that sound unfamiliar, but the scenery is wilder than you'd imagine. These eight cities are my recent hidden finds, and each one is worth a spontaneous trip. 1. Tai'an | Shandong When climbing Mount Tai, don't just think about climbing at night to see the sunrise; there are surprises during the day too. I recommend taking a bus from Tianwai Village to Zhongtian Gate, then hiking to Nantian Gate. This section has the most concentrated scenery and is manageable. ⏰ Head up after 3:00 PM. The light hits the ridges at an angle, making the stone textures look incredibly three-dimensional, and there are far fewer people than in the early morning. Don't rush down once you reach the summit; find a corner near Zhanlu Terrace to wait for the sunset. When the sea of clouds surges, the whole mountain becomes quiet. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so remember to bring a light jacket, even in summer. If your legs feel weak on the way down, don't push it. Take the cable car to Zhongtian Gate and then switch to a bus. Save your energy for a bowl of Mount Tai tofu feast at the Old County Office in the evening. 2. Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is nestled between the Qinling Mountains and Bashan Mountains, with a climate as mild as the Jiangnan region. When I first went, I headed straight for the Shimen Plank Road, 🚄 which is about a 40-minute taxi ride from the city center. The plank road hangs on the cliffs of the Bao River. Walking along it, you can hear the roaring river, and with the ancient chisel marks under your feet, you might feel like you've traveled back to the Three Kingdoms period. In the afternoon, head to Guhan Terrace. It's not big, but the view from Wangjiang Pavilion is excellent, overlooking the entire Han River Plain. 🍜 Don't look for big restaurants at night. Go to the entrance of Yinmachi Alley and grab a bowl of hot rice noodles with vegetable tofu at any shop. It's sour, spicy, fresh, and fragrant, and you'll be satisfied for just 3 yuan. ⚠️ Guhan Terrace is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 3. Chuzhou | Anhui The best time for Langya Mountain is early morning. I entered the mountain from the Zuiweng Pavilion entrance at 6:30 AM. It was so quiet I could hear the birds chirping and my shoes crunching on the fallen leaves. Walking up along the stream, the air smelled of damp grass and trees; it felt more like a stroll than a hike. It takes about an hour and a half to reach Nantian Gate. From the summit, you can see the entire city of Chuzhou, and with the mist still lingering, the houses look like they're floating in the clouds. ⏰ If you only want to see the main Zuiweng Pavilion and Tongle Garden, half a day is enough; you don't need to buy a full-access ticket. ⚠️ Bottled water is expensive in the scenic area, so just bring a bottle yourself. After coming down the mountain, head to Zunyang Street and find a shop selling Langya pastries. The freshly baked ones have a sesame aroma—eating them while walking is incredibly pleasant. 4. Chuxiong | Yunnan The earth forests in Chuxiong are the kind of sight that leaves you speechless. Yuanmou Earth Forest and Wumao Earth Forest are not far apart, but I recommend the latter; the colors are more intense, like a group of scorched red clay sculptures. 📍 Enter the scenic area after 4:30 PM. The sunset dyes the earth pillars golden red, casting long shadows. Just standing on the boardwalk and taking a photo will result in a stunning shot. ⚠️ There is almost no shade inside, so going at noon will leave you feeling scorched. The next day, you can go to the Yi Ancient Town. It's livelier at night than during the day, and the crowds dancing around torches in the square will laughingly pull you in to join the circle. 🍜 The grilled milk fans and tuotuo meat in the town are worth a try. Pair them with a glass of tamarind juice to cut the grease and whet your appetite. 5. Zhumadian | Henan When mentioning Zhumadian, many people just treat it as a transit stop, but Chaya Mountain is actually worth a special trip. This is a filming location for "Journey to the West," and the rocks have strange shapes, as if someone just molded them by hand. ⏰ I recommend going in the morning. Enter through the South Mountain Gate, loop around to Tianmo Lake, and then exit. The whole route takes three to four hours, it's not tiring, and you can see the reflection of the stone forest in the water. Laole Mountain has a different vibe; there's a large lawn at the foot of the mountain, perfect for bringing a picnic mat and lying down for the afternoon. ⚠️ The signal in the mountains isn't great, so download offline maps in advance. 🍜 After coming down, head to the city center and have a bowl of chicken meatball soup with freshly fried oil bread. The soup is fresh and rich, and you'll understand what a low-key foodie city is all about. 6. Xianning | Hubei The Chibi Ancient Battlefield has more of a "jianghu" (martial arts world) vibe than I imagined. Standing on the riverside boardwalk, the wind is strong enough to blow your hair into a mess. Looking at Wulin on the opposite bank, my mind is filled with scenes from "Romance of the Three Kingdoms." 📍 The "Chibi" cliff carvings in the scenic area are worth a close look. The mottled characters have a sense of vicissitudes that span a thousand years. ⏰ The river surface is most beautiful at dusk, when the sunset glows red across half the sky, perfect for photos. ⚠️ The "Zhou Yu cakes" sold in the scenic area taste average; it's better to buy a bag of local green brick tea after you leave. If you have enough time, you can go to the nearby Yangloudong Ancient Town. The stone paths and old tea houses are well-preserved, and with few tourists, it's very comfortable to walk around. 7. Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan is an important town on the eastern section of the Silk Road, but the Xumishan Grottoes are so low-key it's heartbreaking. There are no crowds like at the Mogao Caves here, but the Buddha statues are just as stunning. Walking up the mountain road, the Great Buddha statue in the fifth cave is over 20 meters high. Standing at its feet and looking up, you'll involuntarily hold your breath. ⏰ Go at 9:00 or 10:00 AM. The light hits the Buddha's face just right, making the expression look exceptionally kind. ⚠️ The grottoes are scattered across different hills, so wear comfortable shoes and don't wear flip-flops. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from Guyuan city center, and carpooling is the most cost-effective option. After seeing the grottoes, you'll pass by a Danxia landform on the way back to the city. The reddish-brown mountains look beautiful under the blue sky, and drivers are usually willing to stop so you can take a few photos. 8. Zhangzhou | Fujian What surprised me most about Zhangzhou is that it has everything: tulou (earthen buildings), ancient towns, and a coastline. Yunshuiyao Ancient Town is more commercialized than I imagined, but if you go in before 7:00 AM, the big banyan trees and pebble paths by the stream still have their original charm. Walking along the stream, you can see the waterwheel from the movie "The Knot," creaking as it turns, making time seem to slow down. For Nanjing Tulou, you must choose the "four dishes and one soup" in Tianluokeng to see. Looking down from the viewing platform, four round buildings surround one square building, arranged in a staggered and orderly way. 🍜 At noon, have a bowl of bamboo shoot meat in Taxia Village. It's a farmhouse-style dish, so fragrant you'll want to eat two extra bowls of rice. In the afternoon, head to the Coastal Volcanic National Geopark. The black columnar jointed stones standing in the azure seawater look like an alien landscape. ⚠️ The volcanic crater can only be seen during low tide, so check the daily tide table before you set off to avoid a wasted trip. None of these eight cities are top-tier internet-famous spots, but each one hides an impulse that makes you want to set off immediately. Which city has unexpectedly struck a chord with you recently? Let's chat in the comments section; maybe that's your next destination.

Avoid the National Day crowds with these 8 hidden gems for a premium travel experience. 01 Zhumadian, Henan Chaya Mountain is more fun than you'd imagine, with strange rock formations that feel like walking through a natural maze. ⏰ Arrive at the West Gate before 8:00 AM for fewer crowds and softer light—perfect for photos without people in the background. Laole Mountain is windier, with expansive views from the summit, making it great for a leisurely afternoon hike to watch the sunset. The two mountains offer different vibes: Chaya Mountain is for rock exploration, while Laole Mountain is for relaxing in the meadows. If you're short on time, choose the former; if traveling with seniors or children, choose the latter. ⚠️ There are few supply stations on the mountain, so bring your own water and snacks. You can buy them at the base, but they'll be pricier. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain; ride-sharing is more cost-effective. 02 Shenzhen, Guangdong Dameisha Seaside Park is best visited in the evening. After 5:00 PM, the sun isn't as harsh, making it perfect for wading. The sand is fine, but it gets crowded; head further east if you want some peace and quiet. For Window of the World, I suggest not trying to see everything—just pick a few areas. You might get tired of seeing replicas, but the evening light show is worth staying for. OCT Resort is better for a slow stroll; the creative park is tucked away with plenty of cafes and small shops where you can rest when you're tired. Mission Hills Resort is more focused on golf and hotel vacations, so it's not really worth the trip unless you're staying there. ⚠️ You need to book Dameisha in advance during peak season via their official WeChat account, or you'll have made the trip for nothing. 03 Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Kanbula is the kind of place that makes you feel calm the moment you see it. The red of the Danxia landforms against the green of the Yellow River creates colors so vivid they don't look real. ⏰ The best time to visit is between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when the sunlight hits the mountains at an angle, making them glow red. The scenic area has both water and land routes. I recommend entering by land and exiting by water—see the mountains first, then the water, for a perfect pace. It gets windy on the boat, so remember to bring a jacket; don't underestimate the temperature on the lake. ⚠️ If driving, don't navigate directly to the scenic area entrance. Go to the visitor center to exchange your ticket first, or you'll be stopped at the intersection and forced to take a long detour. Overall, it's great for nature lovers. It's accessible for seniors and children, but there are many stairs, so strollers aren't convenient. 04 Yinchuan, Ningxia Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park is best visited in the morning. Wandering through the reed marshes, you'll hear more birds than people. Renting a small boat to row yourself is more fun than taking the large tour boats. You need to get to the Helan Mountain Rock Art early; once the sun is high, the reflection on the rocks makes it hard to see the carvings. ⏰ Arriving before 9:00 AM is best. Don't rush off after seeing the rock art—the Gobi desert at the foot of the mountain is surprisingly photogenic. The Lingwu Shuidonggou Tourist Area is the most tiring part of the trip, but it's rich in content, ranging from prehistoric sites to the Ming Great Wall. Definitely take the shuttle bus; don't try to save that money. Save the Western Xia Imperial Tombs for last. In the evening, the earthen mounds look particularly desolate in the sunset, perfect for standing quietly and daydreaming. ⚠️ Sunsets are late in Yinchuan, so don't pack your itinerary too full—it's still bright at 8:00 PM. 05 Lhasa, Tibet You need to book the Potala Palace one day in advance. ⏰ The morning sessions are less crowded, and climbing the stairs is easier. Don't wear skirts or shorts; they check strictly at the entrance. The flow of pilgrims circumambulating Jokhang Temple Square is constant from morning to night. Follow them clockwise for a lap, and you'll feel that sense of peace without saying a word. Namtso is far from the city, taking 4–5 hours one way. I recommend setting aside a full day; don't try to rush back and forth in one day. 🍜 There's a sweet tea house near Barkhor Street where Tibetan noodles and sweet tea cost just over CNY 20. It's packed with locals and is much more authentic than the "internet-famous" shops. ⚠️ Don't shower or run around for the first 2 days in Lhasa; let your body adapt to the altitude, or you'll have a headache so bad you'll regret everything by the second day. If you have 3 days, put the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in the first 2 days and Namtso last—it's the right amount of physical exertion. 06 Taizhou, Jiangsu Qin Lake Wetland Park is huge. Take a boat as soon as you enter, or you'll wear yourself out walking. 🍜 There are many restaurants serving the "Eight Delicacies of Qin Lake" on the street at the entrance, but just look for the one where locals are queuing. The fish balls and Duan crabs are worth a try—the crabs are small but full of roe. ⏰ After 2:00 PM, the number of tourists drops by half, the lake becomes quiet, and you can hear the sound of water birds flapping their wings while walking on the wooden boardwalk. If you have children, rent an electric cart to go around the lake—it saves energy and lets you stop and look whenever you want. ⚠️ Queues for lunch during holidays are long. I recommend arriving at the restaurant before 11:00 AM to grab a seat, or just eat "off-peak" after 2:00 PM. The overall pace is slow, perfect for those who don't want to rush around. 07 Jixi, Heilongjiang Xingkai Lake is endless like the sea, with soft, fine sand. ⏰ The light after 6:00 PM is perfect for silhouettes, as the lake surface is dyed gold. Hutou Scenic Area is a place with deep historical significance; the fortress ruins and the museum are connected. You'll feel a bit somber after visiting, but it's worth it. 🍜 Any cold noodle shop in the city is decent. Jixi cold noodles are on the salty side and go perfectly with guobaorou. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by Xingkai Lake, so be sure to spray repellent in the evening; long pants are more practical than shorts. Hutou is far from the city, so driving is more convenient. If you don't have a car, chartering a car for half a day costs about CNY 300 round trip. This place isn't for those seeking a luxury vacation, but if you love open natural landscapes, you'll be very satisfied. 08 Datong, Shanxi You must hire a guide for the Yungang Grottoes, otherwise you'll just see a bunch of stone Buddha statues. Only after hearing the stories behind them will you understand why they are so breathtaking. I recommend visiting the Hanging Temple in the morning; the light hits the temple with distinct layers. There are many people queuing to get on the boardwalk. ⚠️ Those with a fear of heights should be careful—the stairs are narrow and steep, but the view overlooking the valley from the top is worth it. Mount Heng and the Hanging Temple are close to each other. If you have good stamina, you can finish both in one day, but if you're with seniors or children, I advise you to just choose the Hanging Temple and walk around the foot of the mountain. Climbing to the top of Mount Heng takes at least 3 hours round trip. 🍜 Eat a bowl of knife-cut noodles in downtown Datong before you leave. Noodle shops are everywhere; you can't go wrong with any busy one you walk into. ⏰ There are fewer people at the Hanging Temple after 3:00 PM, but the light isn't as good as in the morning—it's up to you to decide. Of these 8 places, go to Kanbula and Xingkai Lake if you want peace and quiet. Choose Datong and Taizhou if you want good food and fun. Head straight to Yungang and the Potala Palace if you want to see breathtaking cultural sites. When traveling during the National Day holiday, don't waste your time queuing. Pick the right place, and every day will be worth the price of admission. Where are you planning to go this year? Let's chat in the comments—maybe I can help you avoid some pitfalls.

Where should you go for a road trip? These 8 places have fewer crowds and beautiful scenery 01 Zhumadian | Henan What strikes me most about Zhumadian is the relaxed vibe where you can "park the car and dive straight into the mountains." Don't just climb Chaya Mountain; the trail at the west gate leads to a patch of exposed granite halfway up. The light at 3:00–4:00 PM makes the textures look like reliefs. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps; remember to bring a hiking pole if your knees aren't great. Laole Mountain is windier, with windmills spinning constantly and a view that reaches distant villages. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Zhumadian West Station. A taxi to Chaya Mountain takes about 40 mins and costs around CNY 60. ⏰ It is recommended to arrive at Chaya Mountain before 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups; the mountain trails are quiet, with only birds and wind. ⚠️ There are few supply points on the mountain, so prepare water and snacks in advance; don't count on buying them halfway up. 02 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Yangzhou isn't for rushing; it's for taking it slow. Slender West Lake opens at 6:30 AM. Walk the Long Causeway Spring Willow before the morning mist clears; the water is steamy, and there are half as many people. Geyuan and Heyuan are close but different—Geyuan relies on its four-season rockeries, while Heyuan has more delicate corridors and windows. If you have to choose one, I pick Heyuan; it's less crowded, and you don't have to wait for photo spots. 🍜 For lunch, head to the small alley at the end of Dongguan Street and find a shop that only serves dry mixed noodles and pork kidney soup; it's a solid meal for just over CNY 10. ⚠️ The queues for the Slender West Lake boat are very long after 4:00 PM, so go early if you want to ride. 📍 Turn right out of the north gate of Geyuan, and it's a 10-minute walk to Caiyi Street, which is quieter than Dongguan Street and has more local snacks. 03 Shangrao | Jiangxi The essence of Shangrao is in the mountains and the villages, but don't try to cram it all into two days. I recommend staying at the foot of Sanqing Mountain, taking the cable car up early the next morning, and walking the Nanqingyuan loop. The "Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain" and "Oriental Goddess" are both in this area. The trails are flat, making them accessible for seniors and children. Wuyuan's Jiangwan and Huangling have different vibes; Jiangwan is more primitive, and the brick carvings in the old houses are worth a close look. Huangling's "Shaiqiu" (sun-drying autumn crops) is a signature attraction, but it's also very commercial. If you want to take photos without crowds, get there before 8:00 AM. Guifeng is not far from Yiyang County; the Danxia landforms, caves, and trails are great for photos, but there are many steps, so don't push it if the road is slippery from rain. 🚄 There is a direct bus from Shangrao Station to Sanqing Mountain, taking about 1.5 hours. ⚠️ The cable car at Huangling has queues of at least an hour during peak season; book accommodation on the mountain if you can—the village is only its true self in the evening and early morning. 04 Haikou | Hainan Haikou isn't for "playing in the sea"; it's for "living life." The Nanyang style of Qilou Old Street is concentrated at the intersection of Deshengsha Road and Zhongshan Road. The afternoon sun slanting through the pillars is perfect for casual photos. The garden at Wugong Temple isn't large, but it has many ancient trees, making it suitable for a slow stroll with seniors; one hour is enough. The trails at the Volcano Park are well-built, and you can overlook Haikou city from the highest point. It's windy, so remember to bring a light jacket. 🍜 In the evening, go to the Haida South Gate Night Market for a bowl of Qingbuliang and some fried snacks; you can eat your fill for an average of CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ The shuttle bus at the Volcano Park stops running at 5:30 PM, so don't get stuck on the mountain. 📍 Near Qilou Old Street, Shuixiangkou hides a spicy rice soup that locals eat, which is more authentic than the internet-famous shops. 05 Xianning | Hubei Xianning's most notable attraction is the Red Cliffs Ancient Battlefield, but to be honest, this place is better suited for history buffs and families with children. There are many rebuilt buildings in the scenic area, but the real atmosphere comes from the cliff carvings by the river. Standing there looking at the Yangtze River, you can imagine the water battles of the past. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light becomes softer and the river glitters, which is better for photos than in the morning. 🚄 A taxi from Xianning North Station to the Red Cliffs Ancient Battlefield takes about 50 minutes and costs around CNY 100; carpooling is cost-effective if you are in a group. ⚠️ Food in the scenic area is expensive and average, so it is recommended to bring your own snacks, or drive 10 minutes to Chibi Town to eat fish stew. If you are not interested in the Three Kingdoms period, there isn't much to see in downtown Xianning, and a one-day round trip is enough. 06 Fuzhou | Fujian In Fuzhou's Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, don't just walk the main street; it's for tourists and is crowded and noisy. The truly interesting parts are the side alleys—Wenrufang, Guanglufang, and Yijinfang. If you turn into them, the lintels and stone carvings of the old houses are worth stopping for. The former residence of Lin Juemin and Bing Xin is in Yangqiao Lane; it's free, but closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 🍜 You can try the meat swallows and fish balls in the alleys, but don't buy them on the main street. Head toward the residential area near Nanhou Street, where the taro paste and peanut soup in the small shops are more authentic. ⏰ Arrive at the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys before 8:00 AM, before the stone roads are warmed up by the crowds, and you can take photos of the clean streetscape. 📍 After you finish exploring, walk 10 minutes from the south gate to the Wushan Historical Scenic Area; it's less crowded and offers an overlook of old Fuzhou. 07 Shaoxing | Zhejiang Shaoxing is suitable for literary youth and parents who want to give their children a bit of a scholarly atmosphere. Lu Xun's Hometown and Shen Garden have a joint ticket, but it's best to visit them separately—Shen Garden is quieter than Lu Xun's Hometown, especially during night tours, when the lights shine on the rockeries and pavilions, giving it more character than in the daytime. Lanting is far from the city center, but it's worth the trip; seeing the Goose Pond and the scenes of the "winding stream banquet" from textbooks in person is still moving. Anchang Ancient Town is my top recommendation in Shaoxing. Go in the 12th lunar month, when cured duck and sausages hang under the eaves, full of local life. 🚄 A taxi from Shaoxing North Station to the city center takes about 25 minutes; Anchang Ancient Town is in the direction of Keqiao, about 20 km from the city center. ⚠️ Lanting stops admitting visitors at 4:00 PM, so don't get stuck at the entrance. 🍜 You can have a meal of Shiye wontons and preserved vegetable cakes in Anchang Ancient Town for under CNY 10. 08 Longnan | Gansu Longnan is the "south" of Gansu—full of green, and neither dry nor humid. Wenxian Tianchi is hidden deep in the mountains, with layered blue and green water; you have to drive along a winding mountain road to get there, but the moment you see the lake surface, it's worth the price of admission. Guan'egou is wilder; the waterfalls and forest trails take three to four hours to walk, making it suitable for those who love hiking. If your stamina is average, just walk the first section and turn back at Luren Village. 🚄 There are buses from Longnan Station to Wenxian, but they are infrequent, so self-driving is recommended. The mountain roads have many curves, so beginners should drive slowly. ⏰ Enter Guan'egou before 8:00 AM; the light slants into the canyon and the mist rises, making it look very ethereal. ⚠️ There is a large temperature difference in the mountains, so bring a windbreaker even in summer. 📍 You can buy a walnut cake sold at the entrance; it's hot and perfect for satisfying hunger on the mountain. Of these 8 places, I personally recommend Shaoxing and Shangrao; one has cultural depth, and the other has the spirit of mountains and water. If you are driving, the road conditions in Longnan and Shangrao are more of a test of driving skills, so beginners shouldn't push it; Yangzhou and Haikou are suitable for the leisurely, where a two- or three-hour drive can change your rhythm. Let's chat in the comments: where did you go on your last road trip? Did you hit a snag or find a hidden gem?

A 3-day Mid-Autumn Festival getaway: 8 cities you won't want to leave 01 Shantou | Guangdong Nan'ao Island isn't the type of place that stuns you at first glance, but it rewards closer inspection. 🚄 It takes about 30 mins by taxi from Shantou Station to Laichang Ferry Terminal. The bridge toll is 96 yuan. We recommend driving onto the island yourself; the island loop road is well-maintained. ⏰ It's most comfortable to arrive after 3:00 PM when the sun is lower, the sea breeze is cool, and the light on the island loop road is just right. There's a shallow beach near the Tropic of Cancer Square where you can find small crabs at low tide. Families with children can easily spend an hour here. 🍜 For late-night snacks on the island, look for "Aqiang Seafood Stall" in Houzhai Town. Their poached squid and seaweed fried rice are signature dishes. You can eat your fill for 70–80 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don't order lobster at the food stalls near Qing'ao Bay, as the price can be triple. For seafood, go to the shops in Houzhai Town where the locals eat. Stay at Qing'ao Bay to enjoy ocean views right from your window, so you won't have to rush if you want to wake up early for the sunrise. 02 Hechi | Guangxi Hechi's beauty is a bit wild and unconventional. The landscapes of Donglan are a mix of karst peaks and the Hongshui River. When the mist rises over the river in the early morning, it looks like a watercolor painting that's been splashed with water. Jiudun Sky Window is a hidden gem for diving enthusiasts; the water is so clear you can see the texture of the stones over 10 meters below. Even if you don't dive, just wading on the shore and taking photos is enough to get great shots. You need to take a bamboo raft to enter the Xiangbei Shangri-La. The boatman will sing folk songs, and the trip takes about 40 mins with dense bamboo forests shading the sky on both sides. Sanli Yangdu is better visited in the evening when the sunset dyes the water gold. Rent a bike to ride along the river, and the breeze will be filled with the scent of grass and trees. ⚠️ These spots are quite far apart, so we recommend hiring a car. Visiting two spots a day is enough; don't try to do too much. 🍜 You must try Hechi rice noodles. The broth is rich, and adding a side of crispy pork belly makes for a satisfying meal for just over 10 yuan. Stay in Jinchengjiang District, which is convenient for traveling in any direction. 03 Zhoushan | Zhejiang Zhoushan is perfect for those who don't want to think and just want to stare at the sea. Putuoshan is a must-visit, but avoid the morning rush. ⏰ Arrive on the island after 2:00 PM when there are half as many tourists, and the sea breeze at Fanyin Cave will wake you right up. The vegetarian food on the island is worth a try; the dining hall next to Puji Temple opens at 11:00 AM, and you can eat your fill for 10 yuan—the dishes are simple but delicious. Gouqi Island is wilder than the main Shengsi Island. The sand at Dawang Beach isn't particularly fine, but it's less crowded. Sitting on the rocks in the evening watching fishing boats return to port, the whole sea surface turns golden. Shengsi Islands are better for an overnight stay, and the sunset at Jihu Beach is the kind of beauty that can make you feel at peace. ⚠️ You must book ferry tickets 3 days in advance via the official WeChat account; buying them on-site during peak season is basically impossible. 🚄 Take the combined bus and ferry service from Shanghai Nanpu Bridge Passenger Transport Station, which takes about 4 hours. Transportation on the island relies on taxis. The starting fare isn't cheap, but the attractions are far apart, so it saves time. 04 Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is more interesting than I imagined. Chaya Mountain is a typical northern mountain with lots of rocks and few trees, but it's unique. It's not called a filming location for "Journey to the West" for nothing; the Flying Stone and the "Line of Sky" (Yixiantian) really have a magical feel. ⏰ We recommend entering the mountain at 8:00 AM when it's cool and less crowded. It takes about 2 hours to climb to the top, and you can see many cliff carvings along the way. Laole Mountain has a different vibe. The wind at the top is strong enough to blow you off balance, but the view is excellent, allowing you to see the outline of the entire Queshan County. 🍜 There's a "Laowang Lamb Soup" shop at the foot of the mountain. The soup is milky white, the meat is tender, and paired with a sesame flatbread, it's incredibly satisfying after a hike. ⚠️ There's no need to take the electric cart in the Chaya Mountain scenic area. The distance isn't long, and walking allows you to discover many photo spots. Stay in the city center, where you can find decent chain hotels for just over 100 yuan, making it convenient to visit both mountains. 05 Ma'anshan | Anhui The most worthwhile place to visit in Ma'anshan is Caishiji, and you must set aside at least half a day. This cultural and ecological tourism area by the Yangtze River isn't one of those artificial ancient towns; it's a place with real historical depth. Taibai Pavilion is the core. Climbing it to look out over the Yangtze River, you can understand why Li Bai wrote so many poems here. ⏰ Arrive at the riverside boardwalk around 5:00 PM. The sunset dyes the river water copper, and cargo ships slowly pass by—the scene is very peaceful. Sanyuan Cave is a natural stone cave that's cool inside; entering it in summer feels like turning on the air conditioning. 🍜 You can buy some "Caishiji Dried Tofu" at the entrance of the scenic area as a souvenir. It's 5 yuan a pack and has a rich bean flavor. ⚠️ The scenic area stops admitting visitors at 5:30 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff time. Leave at least 2 hours to stroll around slowly. 🚄 It takes about 20 mins by taxi from Ma'anshan East Station, costing just over 20 yuan. Stay in the city center; in the evening, you can take a walk in Yushan Lake Park, where many locals hang out. 06 Tianshui | Gansu Tianshui is an underrated treasure of a city. The Maijishan Grottoes go without saying, but ⚠️ you must arrive early. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups; otherwise, the walkways will be packed, and the experience will be greatly diminished. The clay sculptures in the grottoes are more delicate than those at Yungang or Longmen, especially the Buddha statue in Cave 44, whose smiling expression you could look at for a long time. Wushan Water Curtain Cave is far from the city center, but it's worth the trip. The murals and cliff statues inside are well-preserved, and the waterfall at the cave entrance is spectacular during the rainy season. Fuxi Temple is in the city center. After visiting, you can walk around the nearby "Tianshui Ancient City." When the lanterns light up in the evening, it feels a bit like traveling back in time. 🍜 You must try Tianshui's "guagua" and "ranran." They are made of buckwheat, have a sour and spicy flavor, and cost 5 yuan a bowl. The street stalls have the most authentic taste. Stay in Qinzhou District, where attractions are concentrated and you can walk to Fuxi Temple. 07 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is best explored on foot, not by rushing from place to place. Qingyuan Mountain is the backyard of the old Quanzhou locals. ⏰ Head up the mountain at 6:00 AM before the mist clears; the Laojun Rock at the top is especially quiet in the morning light. The mountain isn't high, but the cliff carvings along the way are worth a slow look, dating from the Song Dynasty to the Republic of China era. Chongwu Ancient City is by the sea. The combination of stone walls, blue sea, and sky has a raw, rugged beauty. The small alleys in the city hide many stone carving workshops where you can watch masters carving stone on the spot. Kaiyuan Temple is the heart of Quanzhou, and the East and West Pagodas are landmarks, but don't just photograph the pagodas; the ancient trees and stone pillars in the temple are also very charming. 🍜 You must eat "Hou Apo Meat Zongzi" on West Street. It's packed with ingredients, and the peanut sauce is the soul of the dish. ⚠️ Quanzhou's old town has many alleys, and navigation often fails. If you get lost, just ask the local grandmothers on the street; they are more reliable than maps. Stay near West Street, where you can step out into the lively atmosphere at night. 08 Tianjin Tianjin's relaxed vibe is in its bones. The Italian Style Area is great for an afternoon stroll. The pigeons in Marco Polo Square aren't afraid of people; you can buy a bag of corn kernels and feed them for half a day. But ⚠️ don't eat at the Western restaurants in the scenic area; they are expensive and mediocre. Walk a bit further to "Chengui Western Restaurant" for old-school Tianjin-style Western food; the pot-stewed beef is their signature dish. The Five Great Avenues are better explored by bicycle. The small Western-style houses on Munan Road and Changde Road each have their own stories. ⏰ The light is best in the evening, with the shadows of the plane trees hitting the red brick walls—everything you snap looks good. The Olympic Center Stadium is spectacular when lit up at night, but there's no need to make a special trip; just take a photo if you pass by. Fantawild Adventure is suitable for kids, but the queues are long on weekends, so we recommend going on a weekday. 🍜 Tianjin's breakfast is its soul. Try the "guoba cai" (crispy rice dish) and "jianbing guozi" (savory crepe) at "Zhengweizhai" in the Northwest Corner; you can eat your fill for 10 yuan. Stay in Heping District, which is convenient for getting anywhere, and you can go to the Haihe River to catch the breeze at night.

Avoid the crowds! These 8 niche cities hide breathtaking scenery 01 Zhumadian | Henan The most photogenic spot at Chaya Mountain isn't the main peak, but the section by Tianmo Lake. Arrive before 10:00 AM; there's no wind on the lake, and the reflection of the mountains is perfectly captured in the water. ⏰ Suggest entering the scenic area by 8:30 AM. Take the south gate up, loop around to Feilai Stone, then head down to the lake. The whole route takes about 3 hours, saving energy and avoiding tour groups. Laole Mountain is purely a local spot for hiking; the admission ticket is much cheaper, and you can see the entire Queshan County from the summit. Choose one mountain, don't try to do both. If you're with elderly people or children, choose Laole Mountain—the steps are gentle and there's plenty of shade. 🍜 After descending, head to Queshan County for a bowl of hot dry noodles with a marinated egg. It costs CNY 6 and is even more flavorful than the ones in Wuhan. ⚠️ The parking lot at the north gate of Chaya Mountain fills up easily after 2:00 PM. If you're driving, go early to secure a spot. 02 Baise | Guangxi I suggest visiting Haokun Lake and Tongling Grand Canyon on separate days—one day for water, one day for mountains—otherwise, your legs will protest. The best way to experience Haokun Lake is to rent a small boat to the center of the lake. Surrounded by karst peaks, the water is a stunning, vibrant green. 📍 It's about a 1-hour drive from downtown Baise. Navigate to the Haokun Lake Visitor Center; the boat ticket plus admission is just over CNY 100. Tongling Grand Canyon requires descending over 800 steps. The waterfall at the bottom of the canyon has a drop of over 100 meters, and the mist hitting your face is refreshing in the summer. ⚠️ The steps are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and avoid flip-flops. There's no need to make a special trip to Chengbi Lake; it's similar to Haokun Lake but with slightly lower water quality and fewer surrounding facilities. 🚄 There's no direct bus from Baise High-Speed Railway Station to Haokun Lake. A taxi costs about CNY 100; carpooling with 4 people is more cost-effective. 03 Dongguan | Guangdong Humen Bridge isn't really about seeing the bridge itself, but standing at the old Weiyuan Fort site beneath it and looking out at the sea. At 5:30 PM, the sunset dyes the bridge towers gold, and cargo ships slowly pass through the bridge arches—a scene more captivating than any city night view. 📍 Navigate to the Weiyuan Fort site. Admission is free, and it closes at 6:00 PM. ⚠️ There's no shade in the fort ruins area, so avoid going before 3:00 PM in the summer to escape the intense heat. After seeing the bridge, head straight to the Humen town area for seafood. At the row of food stalls at Xinwan Fishing Port, the blanched shrimp are so fresh you can even eat the shells. 🍜 I recommend ordering a plate of salt and pepper mantis shrimp. It's about CNY 40 per jin, half the price of Shenzhen. 04 Chuxiong | Yunnan Between Yuanmou Earth Forest and Wumao Earth Forest, I choose Wumao. Yuanmou is larger but more commercialized. Wumao is less crowded, and when you reach the end of the "Yixiantian" (A Thread of Sky) canyon, the moment sunlight streams through the gap, you'll feel like you're on the set of "Dune." 📷 The best time for photos is between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, when the oblique sunlight turns the earth forest a golden red and highlights all the textures. ⚠️ There are no trees or water inside the Earth Forest, so bring 2 bottles of water in the summer and apply sunscreen all the way to behind your ears. To be honest, Yi Ancient Town is just a newly built imitation ancient street, but there's a bonfire dance at 8:30 PM. Join the locals for a few turns—the atmosphere is more comfortable than the bar streets in Lijiang. 🚄 Charter a car from downtown Chuxiong to Wumao Earth Forest for about CNY 300 round trip; the driver can wait for 3 hours. 05 Yushu | Qinghai You can't just enter Hoh Xil whenever you want; the core area is off-limits. However, if you drive along the G109 National Highway, you'll often see Tibetan antelopes grazing in the meadows by the roadside. 📍 Depart from downtown Yushu and head towards Qumalai. The altitude gradually climbs to 4,500 meters, and the entire road is paved. ⏰ Late June to early July is the calving season for Tibetan antelopes, giving you the highest chance of seeing them. You can only tour the periphery of Sanjiangyuan National Park as well. The monument marking the source of the Yangtze River is near Zhiduo County. The wind there is strong enough to knock you over, but the sight of the snow-capped mountains stretching into the distance makes it worth it. ⚠️ The altitude is high along this route, so take Rhodiola rosea in advance and avoid strenuous running or jumping. 🍜 After returning to downtown Yushu, have a bowl of yak yogurt. It's sour enough to make you frown, so add 2 spoonfuls of white sugar to make it palatable. 06 Lingshui | Hainan Don't schedule Fenjiezhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island on the same day; the former requires at least half a day, and the latter only needs 2 hours. I don't recommend the diving activities at Fenjiezhou Island; it's crowded and the water is murky. It's better to take the sightseeing bus to Huanxi Hall at the top of the mountain and stand on the cliff edge to watch the waves hit the rocks. The blue is layered—mint green nearby, deep blue in the distance. ⏰ I suggest taking the first boat to the island in the morning; there are fewer people at the pier before 9:00 AM. For Nanwan Monkey Island, take the cable car in, crossing over a stretch of floating fishing rafts. Hundreds of macaques run wild on the island. ⚠️ Don't hold plastic bags in your hands; the monkeys will snatch them. 🍜 In Lingshui County, there's a place called "Authentic Lingshui Sour Rice Noodle King." The sour noodles with yellow lantern chili cost CNY 10 a bowl—it's sour, spicy, and appetizing, and cheaper and more authentic than the seafood in the scenic area. 07 Heihe | Heilongjiang The core of Wudalianchi isn't the lake, but the volcanic landscape. A walk around the Laoheishan crater takes 40 minutes. The ground is covered in black volcanic slag that crunches under your feet. Looking down from the edge, the massive funnel-shaped opening lets you imagine what the eruption looked like back then. ⏰ The best time is between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, when the morning light casts long shadows on the volcanic cones. With no tourists around yet, the entire scenic area is as quiet as another planet. You can drink the water directly from the Erlongyan Spring at the foot of Yaoquan Mountain. The cold mineral water has a hint of rust, and locals bring large buckets to fill up. ⚠️ The volcanic rock paths are hard on your feet, so wear thick-soled sneakers. 🍜 In the evening in downtown Heihe, go to the Russian Commodity Street and buy a Russian-style "dalieba" (large bread) with red sausage; it's a better deal than buying it in the scenic area. 08 Lhasa | Tibet Don't join a one-day tour group for Namtso; those itineraries involve leaving at 5:00 AM and returning at 10:00 PM, with the whole day spent rushing. Charter a car yourself and stay 1 night in Dangxiong County, then arrive at Tashi Peninsula the next morning to watch the sunrise. The lake is at an altitude of 4,700 meters, and the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. But the moment the sun rises and the snow-capped peaks of the Nyainqêntanglha Mountains are reflected in the dark blue lake water, you'll feel that the bumpy ride the day before was all worth it. ⚠️ Negotiate the price for horseback riding photos by the lake; CNY 50 per lap is the maximum, don't get ripped off. You must book the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple at least 1 day in advance. Climbing up to the Potala Palace is exhausting, so walk slowly and don't rush. 🍜 At the sweet tea house next to Jokhang Temple Square, a pot of sweet tea costs CNY 8. Pair it with Tibetan noodles and sit by the window watching the flow of pilgrims—it's more vivid than any travel guide.

8 Hidden Gems to Avoid Crowds: Enjoy a Relaxing National Day Holiday on a Budget 01 Hezhou City | Guangxi Gupo Mountain is the kind of place that becomes quiet the moment you enter. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM; the mountain mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the sound of the stream is louder than people. Follow the trail; there's no need to rush. You can reach Xiangu Waterfall in two hours, where the cool spray feels refreshing on your face. Villagers at the foot of the mountain sell freshly picked passion fruit—three for five yuan, a truly satisfying sweet and sour treat. Huangyao Ancient Town is much quieter than Lijiang. 📍 The stone slabs of Dailong Bridge are worn smooth by countless footsteps. After 5:30 PM, the tourists have dispersed, and the lanterns are just lit. Sit on the bridge and enjoy a bowl of fermented black bean noodles; the broth is savory and the noodles are hand-cut. Most of the guesthouses in the town are converted from old houses; a bed costs just over 100 yuan. The soundproofing is so-so, but the view of gray tiles and blue bricks through the window is worth it. Dongtanling is a great place to drive up to watch the sunset. ⚠️ The mountain road is narrow, so drive slowly when passing other vehicles, and don't rush down the mountain after dark. Standing on the viewing platform, you'll see karst peaks stretching to the horizon in layers; the wind is so strong it can flip your hat inside out. After seeing the view, head straight back to Huangyao for your stay—no hassle. 02 Shigatse City | Tibet Mount Everest isn't for "playing," it's for "seeing." ⏰ At 6:30 AM, at the entrance of Rongbuk Monastery, the entire mountain is bathed in a golden-red hue; at that moment, you won't even bother taking out your phone. ⚠️ The base camp is at an altitude of 5,200 meters; you'll be out of breath after just a few steps, so don't push yourself. Buy oxygen cylinders in Tingri County; they're half the price of those at the scenic area. Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is best visited in the afternoon; the sunlight makes the white walls dazzling. 📍 The Maitreya Buddha statue in the Jampa Buddha Hall is over 26 meters tall; looking up at it for three minutes will make your neck sore. Many locals were circumambulating the temples, and following them, you could smell the mingled aromas of yak butter and barley. 🚄 A taxi from Shigatse city to the temple costs less than 10 yuan, but it gets very crowded during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to arrive before 8:30 am. For accommodation, stay in Shigatse's old town. There are many Tibetan-style family-run guesthouses, with standard rooms with underfloor heating costing just over 200 yuan. In the evening, find a sweet teahouse; a pot of sweet tea costs 8 yuan, served with Tibetan noodles. Spending the evening there truly feels like being in Tibet. 03 Sanya City | Hainan Prices in Sanya typically rise during the National Day holiday, but smart people head west. The entrance fee to the Xiaodongtian Scenic Area is half the price of Wuzhizhou Island, and it's two-thirds less crowded. ⏰ Enter the park after 3 pm. The sunlight shines obliquely on the rocks, and the sound of the waves drowns out the park's announcements. 📍 Under the giant rock at Xiaodongtian, small crabs emerge at low tide, and children can chase and play with them all afternoon. Wuzhizhou Island is suitable for diving enthusiasts, but don't buy a package ticket. A single ticket for the boat and electric cart is enough. The underwater coral area has high visibility, and snorkeling costs just over 200 yuan per session. ⚠️ Food on the island is expensive and generally mediocre; bringing your own bread and fruit is more cost-effective. The Tianya Haijiao scenic area is criticized for its "two rocks," but actually, if you enter the scenic area after 6 pm, the sunset will turn the sea honey-colored, and there won't be many people near the "Tianya" rock, making for beautiful silhouette photos. The free beach at Yalong Bay is actually the most comfortable. 📍 The section near the Underwater World is less crowded; a deck chair costs 30 yuan and you can lie there until sunset. Staying near Dadonghai offers the best value; sea-view rooms are around 400 yuan, and there's a night market right outside, with shaved ice for 10 yuan a bowl. 04 Shaoguan City | Guangdong I'm only mentioning one attraction in Danxia Mountain because it's worth staying overnight. The Yangyuan Stone scenic area opens at 7 am; be among the first to climb up. The stone pillars emerging from the morning mist are ten times more stunning than the promotional photos. ⏰ If you're not in great shape, don't climb Elder Peak. The Xianglong Lake trail is much easier; the lake is a deep, almost blackish green, reflecting the reddish cliffs. It takes about two hours to complete without getting tired. ⚠️ Once inside the scenic area, don't trust locals offering "shortcuts." The official trails are clearly marked, and taking shortcuts will only lead you into undeveloped forests. Stay in Danxia Street near the scenic area entrance; there are many guesthouses, with standard rooms costing 150 yuan per night. For dinner, try local farm-style dishes; braised duck with dried bamboo shoots is a signature dish, 58 yuan a pot, enough for two people to eat their fill. During the National Day holiday, Danxia Mountain has visitor limits. 🎫 Remember to book tickets three days in advance through their official WeChat account; queuing on-site might be a wasted trip. 🚄 A taxi from Shaoguan Station takes about 40 minutes; a shared ride costs 30 yuan per person, more comfortable than the scenic area bus. 05 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia is an underrated place; the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is even more of a "treasure trove" than the Yellow River Stone Forest. ⏰ Arrive at the reservoir before 10 AM; the water is so still you can hear the wind churning it. Take a speedboat ride around the reservoir, watching the Yellow River change from murky to clear—about 40 minutes, 80 yuan per person. The most breathtaking part of the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area is the grottoes carved into the mountainside. 📍 The Buddha statues in Cave 169 are over 1600 years old. Standing beneath them and looking up, the sheer pressure is enough to silence even the most talkative person. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the grottoes; please keep your phone safe to avoid embarrassment from staff reminders. Stay in Linxia city; it's a 40-minute drive from the scenic area. In the evening, visit the Eight Squares and Thirteen Alleys (Bafang Shisanxiang). There's no entrance fee, and the alleys are full of Hui Muslim snacks. Hand-pulled mutton is 50 yuan per jin (500g), paired with Sanpaotai tea—perfect for cutting through the richness. 🚄 The high-speed train from Lanzhou to Linxia takes only one hour, much easier than driving. 06 Shangluo City | Shaanxi The most worthwhile section of Jinshixia Gorge is Bailongxia Gorge. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 am; the light in the gorge is perfect, the water is blue-green, and you can see the stones at the bottom. The entire hike takes three hours. There are boardwalks along the cliff face; those with a fear of heights might feel their legs go weak. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes. The stone steps are slippery after rain, so don't wear flip-flops. Tianshuxia Gorge is so quiet it feels like you have the place to yourself. 📍 The rock wall at the end of the gorge has crisscrossing patterns, which locals call "Heavenly Book." It's a great spot for photos, but cell phone signal is poor, so download an offline map beforehand. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town doesn't need a special trip; just glance at it if you're passing by. Baita Temple is worth a visit, though. The thousand-year-old ginkgo tree in the temple starts turning yellow around National Day, and the wind blows golden leaves all over the ground. 🍜 Have a bowl of Zhen'an cured pork noodles in Shangluo city for twelve yuan; the pork slices are generous. Staying in a budget hotel in the city center costs just over 100 yuan, half the price of the tourist area. 07 Xuancheng City | Anhui Zhaji Ancient Village is the place I'm most reluctant to write about. It lacks the fame of Hongcun, and therefore doesn't have the crowds of Hongcun. ⏰ At six in the morning, only villagers carrying water are seen on the stone-paved road. The stream flows past each house, and the sound of washing clothes drifts over the walls. Staying overnight in a guesthouse converted from an old house, with carved wooden windows leading to the horse-head walls, is worth 180 yuan a night. Jixi Longchuan is more refined. The wood carvings in the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall are worth half an hour to admire; every beam and pillar is carved with figures and stories. ⚠️ There are many stalls in the village offering "free tea," but they will try to sell you tea after you sit down. Those who are shy should be cautious. 🍜 Xuancheng's specialty is Jixi tarts. The ones with preserved mustard greens filling are the most fragrant. They cost three yuan each at roadside stalls, and the crust is crispy and the filling is piping hot when freshly made. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jingxian Station, then a taxi to Chaji takes about 40 minutes, or 30 yuan per person if shared. Should I stay in Chaji or Longchuan? I chose Chaji; it's so quiet at night you can hear the stream, while the bars in Longchuan are still bustling until midnight. 08 Zhumadian City | Henan Chaya Mountain is the kind of place where "you have no expectations before you come, but you'll be pleasantly surprised after you arrive." ⏰ Reach the summit before 9 am; the fog hasn't lifted yet, and the stone forest looks like it's growing out of the clouds. The entire hike takes three and a half hours; there are many steps, so those with knee problems should walk slowly. ⚠️ Bottled water costs 8 yuan on the mountain, and 2 yuan at the supermarket at the foot of the mountain. Bringing your own two bottles is more economical. The biggest attraction of Laole Mountain is the sea of ​​clouds at the summit, but it depends on luck. 📍 The best chance of seeing it is on a clear morning after rain. Standing on the viewing platform and looking down, the white clouds roll like waves, like looking out the window of an airplane. 🚄 A taxi ride from downtown Zhumadian takes about 40 minutes, or 20 yuan per person if shared. Stay near Zhumadian West Railway Station; there are many new hotels, around 150 yuan a night. In the evening, go to the old street in Yicheng District for a bowl of spicy soup with fried dough sticks—6 yuan is all you can eat. 🍜 Don't buy the cold noodles at the entrance of Chaya Mountain; they're too watered down and tasteless. Bring your own food instead. Want to avoid the crowds during the National Day holiday? These eight places are enough for you to choose from. If I had to pick the most worthwhile places, Hezhou and Chaji are my personal favorites—one is perfect for relaxing, and the other is great for walking. Share your recommendations in the comments! 8 Hidden Gems to Avoid the Crowds, Enjoy a Relaxing National Day Holiday on a Budget 01 Hezhou City | Guangxi Gupo Mountain is the kind of place that becomes quiet as soon as you enter. ⏰ Arrive before 9 am; the mountain mist hasn't dissipated yet, and the sound of the stream is louder than people. Follow the trail; no need to rush, you can reach Xiangu Waterfall in two hours. The cool spray on your face is refreshing. At the foot of the mountain, villagers sell freshly picked passion fruit—three for five yuan, a truly satisfying sweet and sour treat. Huangyao Ancient Town is much quieter than Lijiang. 📍 The stone slabs of Dailong Bridge are worn smooth by countless footsteps. After 5:30 pm, the tourists have dispersed, the lanterns are just lit, and you can sit at the bridgehead and enjoy a bowl of fermented black bean noodles. The broth is savory and fragrant, and the noodles are hand-cut. Most of the guesthouses in the town are converted from old houses. A bed costs just over 100 yuan; the soundproofing is so-so, but the view of gray tiles and blue bricks through the window is worth it. Dongtanling is a good place to drive up to watch the sunset. ⚠️ The mountain road is narrow, so drive slowly when passing other vehicles, and don't rush down the mountain after dark. Standing on the viewing platform, you can see karst peaks stretching to the horizon in layers; the wind is strong enough to blow your hat off. After seeing the sunset, head straight back to Huangyao for the night—no hassle. 02 Shigatse City | Tibet Mount Everest isn't for "playing," it's for "seeing." ⏰ At 6:30 AM, at the entrance of Rongbuk Monastery, the entire mountain is bathed in a golden-red hue; at that moment, you won't even bother taking out your phone. ⚠️ The base camp is at an altitude of 5,200 meters; you'll be out of breath after just a few steps, so don't push yourself. Oxygen cylinders can be bought in Tingri County, at half the price of those at the scenic area. Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is best visited in the afternoon; the sunlight makes the white walls dazzling. 📍 The Maitreya Buddha statue in the Jampa Buddha Hall is over 26 meters tall; looking up for three minutes will strain your neck. Many locals are circumambulating the monastery; following them, you can smell the mingled aromas of yak butter and barley. 🚄 A taxi from Shigatse city to the monastery costs less than ten yuan, but it gets very crowded during the National Day holiday; it's recommended to arrive before 8:30 AM. Stay in Shigatse's old town; there are many Tibetan-style family-run guesthouses, with standard rooms with underfloor heating costing just over 200 yuan. In the evening, find a sweet teahouse; a pot of sweet tea costs eight yuan, paired with Tibetan noodles. Spending the evening there truly feels like being in Tibet. 03 Sanya City | Hainan Prices in Sanya during the National Day holiday are common, but smart people head west. The entrance fee to the Xiaodongtian Scenic Area is half the price of Wuzhizhou Island, and it's two-thirds less crowded. ⏰ Enter the park after 3 PM. The sunlight shines obliquely on the rocks, and the sound of the waves drowns out the park's announcements. 📍 Under the giant rock at Xiaodongtian, small crabs emerge at low tide, and children can chase and play with them all afternoon. Wuzhizhou Island is suitable for diving enthusiasts, but don't buy a package ticket. A single ticket for the boat and electric cart is enough; the underwater coral area has high visibility, and snorkeling costs just over 200 yuan per session. ⚠️ Food on the island is expensive and generally mediocre; bringing your own bread and fruit is more cost-effective. The Tianya Haijiao scenic area is often criticized for its "two rocks," but if you enter after 6 PM, the sunset paints the sea honey-colored, and there aren't many people around the "Tianya" rock, making for great silhouette photos. The free beach at Yalong Bay is actually the most comfortable. 📍 The section near the Underwater World is less crowded; a deck chair costs 30 yuan to rent and you can relax until sunset. Staying near Dadonghai offers the best value; sea-view rooms are around 400 yuan, and there's a night market right outside where a bowl of shaved ice is 10 yuan. 04 Shaoguan City | Guangdong I'm only mentioning one attraction in Danxia Mountain because it's worth staying overnight. The Yangyuan Stone scenic area opens at 7 AM; be among the first to climb it. The stone pillars emerging from the morning mist are ten times more stunning than the promotional photos. ⏰ If you're not in great shape, don't climb Elder Peak; the Xianglong Lake trail is easier. The lake is a deep, almost blackish green, reflecting the red rock walls, and you can complete the hike in two hours without getting tired. ⚠️ Once inside the scenic area, don't trust locals who offer "shortcuts." The official trails are clearly marked; taking shortcuts will only lead you into undeveloped forests. Stay on Danxia Street near the scenic area entrance; there are many guesthouses, standard rooms are 150 yuan per night. For dinner, try local farm-style dishes; braised duck with dried bamboo shoots is a signature dish, 58 yuan a pot, enough for two people to eat their fill. During the National Day holiday, Danxia Mountain has visitor limits. 🎫 Remember to book tickets three days in advance through their official WeChat account; queuing on-site might be a wasted trip. 🚄 A taxi from Shaoguan Station takes about 40 minutes; a shared ride costs 30 yuan per person, more comfortable than the scenic area bus. 05 Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Gansu Linxia is an underrated place; the Liujiaxia Tourist Resort is even more of a "treasure trove" than the Yellow River Stone Forest. ⏰ Arrive at the reservoir before 10 am; the water is so still you can hear the wind pushing the water. Take a speedboat ride around the Yellow River, watching the water change from murky to clear; it takes about 40 minutes and costs 80 yuan per person. The most breathtaking part of the Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area is the grottoes carved into the mountainside. 📍 The Buddha statues in Cave 169 are over 1600 years old. Standing beneath them and looking up, the sheer pressure is enough to silence even the most talkative person. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the grottoes. Please keep your phone safe to avoid embarrassment if reminded by staff. Stay in Linxia city; it's a 40-minute drive from the scenic area. In the evening, visit the Eight Squares and Thirteen Alleys (Bafang Shisanxiang). There's no entrance fee, and the alleys are full of Hui Muslim snacks. Hand-pulled mutton is 50 yuan per jin (500g), paired with Sanpaotai tea—perfect for cutting through the richness. 🚄 The high-speed train from Lanzhou to Linxia takes only one hour, much more convenient than driving. 06 Shangluo City | Shaanxi The most worthwhile section of Jinshixia Gorge is Bailongxia Gorge. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 am; the light in the gorge is perfect, the water is blue-green, and you can see the stones at the bottom. The entire hike takes three hours. There are boardwalks along the cliff face; those with a fear of heights might feel their legs go weak. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes. The stone steps are slippery after rain, so don't wear flip-flops. Tianshuxia Gorge is so quiet it feels like you have the place to yourself. 📍 The rock wall at the end of the gorge has crisscrossing patterns, which locals call "Heavenly Book." It's a great spot for photos, but cell phone signal is poor, so download an offline map beforehand. Mancheng Pass Ancient Town doesn't need a special trip; just glance at it if you're passing by. Baita Temple is worth a visit, though. The thousand-year-old ginkgo tree in the temple starts turning yellow around National Day, and the wind blows golden leaves all over the ground. 🍜 Have a bowl of Zhen'an cured pork noodles in Shangluo city for twelve yuan; the pork slices are generous. Staying in a budget hotel in the city center costs just over 100 yuan, half the price of the tourist area. 07 Xuancheng City | Anhui Zhaji Ancient Village is the place I'm most reluctant to write about. It lacks the fame of Hongcun, and therefore doesn't have the crowds of Hongcun. ⏰ At six in the morning, only villagers carrying water are seen on the stone-paved road. The stream flows past each house, and the sound of washing clothes drifts over the walls. Staying overnight in a guesthouse converted from an old house, with carved wooden windows leading to the horse-head walls, is worth 180 yuan a night. Jixi Longchuan is more refined. The wood carvings in the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall are worth half an hour to admire; every beam and pillar is carved with figures and stories. ⚠️ There are many stalls in the village offering "free tea," but they will try to sell you tea after you sit down. Those who are shy should be cautious. 🍜 Xuancheng's specialty is Jixi tarts. The ones with preserved mustard greens filling are the most fragrant. They cost three yuan each at roadside stalls, and the crust is crispy and the filling is piping hot when freshly made. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Jingxian Station, then a taxi to Chaji takes about 40 minutes, or 30 yuan per person if shared. Should I stay in Chaji or Longchuan? I chose Chaji; it's so quiet at night you can hear the stream, while the bars in Longchuan are still bustling until midnight. 08 Zhumadian City | Henan Chaya Mountain is the kind of place where "you have no expectations before you come, but you'll be pleasantly surprised after you arrive." ⏰ Reach the summit before 9 am; the fog hasn't lifted yet, and the stone forest looks like it's growing out of the clouds. The entire hike takes three and a half hours; there are many steps, so those with knee problems should walk slowly. ⚠️ Bottled water costs 8 yuan on the mountain, and 2 yuan at the supermarket at the foot of the mountain. Bringing your own two bottles is more economical. The biggest attraction of Laole Mountain is the sea of ​​clouds at the summit, but it depends on luck. 📍 The best chance of seeing it is on a clear morning after rain. Standing on the viewing platform and looking down, the white clouds roll like waves, like looking out the window of an airplane. 🚄 A taxi ride from downtown Zhumadian takes about 40 minutes; a shared ride costs 20 yuan per person. Stay near Zhumadian West Railway Station; there are many new hotels, around 150 yuan a night. In the evening, go to the old street in Yicheng District for a bowl of spicy soup with fried dough sticks—6 yuan is all you can eat. 🍜 Don't buy the cold noodles at the entrance of Chaya Mountain; they're too watered down and tasteless. Bring your own food instead. Want to avoid the crowds during the National Day holiday? These eight places should give you plenty of options. If I had to pick the most worthwhile places, Hezhou and Chaji are my personal favorites—one is perfect for relaxing, and the other is great for walking. Share your recommendations in the comments! Which ones have you been to?

8 hidden gems accessible by high-speed rail that don't require time off 01 Nanchang | Jiangxi Nanchang is more than just the Pavilion of Prince Teng, but the pavilion is definitely the most convenient first stop. 🚄 Take Metro Line 1 from Nanchang Station to Wanshou Palace Station, then walk for 10 minutes. It is recommended to visit the pavilion after 4:00 PM to avoid large tour groups. When the sunset dyes the Gan River a warm gold, the light in the top-floor corridor is perfect for photos. Before going up, detour to the antique street on the north side to have a bowl of crock soup with mixed noodles; you can get full for under ¥20. ⚠️ The pavilion is crowded during the day and the stairs are narrow. If you are traveling with seniors or children, it is recommended to take the elevator directly to the 6th floor and walk down from there. There is a light show by the river after 8:00 PM; you don't need a ticket, just watch it along the riverfront promenade. The souvenirs in the pavilion's gift shop are overpriced and not recommended. 02 Xianning | Hubei Don't get the wrong idea about the Ancient Battlefield of Chibi; it's not a collection of ruins, but a fully restored, antique-style attraction. ⏰ It is recommended to enter as soon as it opens in the morning. It takes about 3 hours to see everything. After the afternoon sun hits, the boardwalks and stone steps get hot. 📍 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Xianning North Station, costing around ¥60. The most worthwhile stops in the attraction are the cliff carvings and the riverside boardwalk. Standing there, you can imagine the scene of fire reflecting on the river back then. 🍜 "Zhou Yu Restaurant" near the entrance serves a fish offal hot pot with generous portions; one serving is enough for two people. ⚠️ The round-trip shuttle bus in the attraction costs ¥20, but it's actually only a 20-minute walk, so don't waste your money. It's suitable for those who are interested in the Three Kingdoms stories; if you are just looking for scenery, you might be slightly disappointed. 03 Kunming | Yunnan Kunming is worth a full weekend, but don't pack your itinerary too full. Daguan Park and Dianchi Lake are on the same route. It is recommended to visit Daguan Pavilion in the morning to see the 180-character long couplet, then walk along the lake to Dianchi Lake. 🚄 Take Metro Line 3 to Xishan Park Station, then ride a shared bike for 15 minutes to get there. Dongchuan Red Land is far from the city center, a 2.5-hour trip one way, so it's not suitable for a day trip. If you only have one day, skip it and save it for a dedicated trip next time. You can visit the Kunming World Horticultural Expo Garden in the afternoon; it's less crowded, the garden is large, and a leisurely two-hour walk is just right. ⚠️ It's windy by Dianchi Lake, and the temperature drops significantly after 4:00 PM, so remember to bring a light jacket. 🍜 There is a tofu pudding rice noodle shop at the entrance of Daguan Park that costs ¥8 a bowl and is much better than what's inside the attraction. 04 Guyuan | Ningxia Xumishan Grottoes is the kind of place where you'll be glad there are few people. 🚄 It takes 40 minutes by taxi from Guyuan Railway Station, costing around ¥50. It's hard to get a taxi for the return trip, so it's recommended to keep the driver's phone number in advance. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM when the light hits the faces of the Buddha statues just right. In the afternoon, the backlight is severe, and photos will just be silhouettes. The entire attraction involves a lot of climbing and steep steps, so those with bad knees should be cautious. 📍 The Great Buddha in Cave 5 is the main highlight. Standing at the feet of the Buddha and looking up, the sense of awe cannot be captured in photos. ⚠️ There are no proper restaurants in the attraction, only kiosks selling instant noodles and grilled sausages, so it's recommended to bring your own food and water. It takes about 2 hours to explore the entire grotto complex. It's not crowded, so it's suitable for a slow walk without rushing. 05 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is the one place among these eight that I most want to keep to myself. You must stay inside the Yunhe Terraces attraction; don't try to do a day trip. 🚄 Take a bus from Lishui Station to Yunhe County, then transfer to a minibus to enter the attraction. The whole trip takes about 2 hours. ⏰ The most beautiful time for the terraces is between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, when the sunrise turns the water surface into shimmering gold. After 7:00 AM, the light becomes flat. Jinyun Xiandu is better to visit in the afternoon; the Zhutanshan area is easy to walk around and suitable for seniors and children. Qingtian Shimen Cave can be visited on the second morning; it's a 1-hour taxi ride from downtown Lishui. It's cool inside the cave, making it very comfortable in the summer. ⚠️ The homestays in the terrace attraction vary in quality. Read the negative reviews before booking, and don't just look at the retouched photos. For food, the river fish hot pot in Yunhe County is half the price of what's in the attraction. 06 Zhumadian | Henan The biggest advantage of Zhumadian is that you can see mountains as soon as you exit the high-speed railway station, so there's no hassle. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West." The natural rock formations like the Stone Monkey and Stone Buddha are fun and suitable for children; kids will be looking for the "four main characters" along the way. ⏰ It takes about 4 hours to complete the whole route. It is recommended to enter the mountain early in the morning and have a bowl of cold noodles at the summit at noon to rest. Laole Mountain is north of Chaya Mountain, and the two mountains have completely different styles. Laole Mountain is wilder, the trails are average, and it's suitable for young people who like hiking. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain, costing around ¥70. ⚠️ The signal in the mountains is poor, so download offline maps in advance, otherwise it's easy to take a wrong turn at intersections. If you are short on time, just visiting Chaya Mountain is enough; visiting both mountains requires two days. 07 Nyingchi | Tibet Nyingchi is not suitable for a "check-in" style trip; it's better for slowing down and staying for two days. Bomi is the most easily overlooked stop in Nyingchi. It's a 3-hour drive from downtown Nyingchi, but the forests and snow-capped mountains along the way will make time fly. The color of the water in Basum Lake changes with the light—bluer in the morning and greener in the afternoon. Staying in a wooden cabin by the lake, you'll wake up to mist and lake water in the morning. The road conditions on this section of the Yunnan-Tibet Highway are good, but there are many curves, so those who get carsick should take medicine in advance. The ticket and sightseeing bus for the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon are not cheap. ⚠️ If you have a limited budget, just take a photo at the viewing platform at the entrance of the canyon; you don't need to complete the whole route. 🚄 There are high-speed trains from Nyingchi Station to Lhasa, but you can only charter a car to go to Bomi and Basum Lake. The daily cost is around ¥800; carpooling is more cost-effective. 08 Yichun | Heilongjiang Yichun is the "farthest" of these eight places, but taking a high-speed train to Harbin and then transferring actually only takes half a day. The core highlight of Tangwanghe Forest and Stone Scenic Area is the giant rocks eroded by the wind; some look like turtles, some like mushrooms. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the texture of the rocks look most three-dimensional. The trails in the entire attraction are well-maintained, mostly flat, and suitable for walking slowly with seniors. 📍 "Linhai Restaurant" at the entrance of the attraction serves Northeast Chinese cuisine. The sweet and sour pork (guobaorou) and stir-fried potato, green pepper, and eggplant (di san xian) are both good, and you can get full for ¥40 per person. ⚠️ The temperature difference in Yichun in summer is large; it's only in the teens in the morning and evening, so bringing a fleece jacket is not overkill. If you have enough time, stay an extra day to visit Wuying National Forest Park; the air in the Korean pine forest is truly sweet.

If you don't want to squeeze into popular tourist spots during the Mid-Autumn Festival and have a limited budget, these places are perfect for you. They are less crowded, beautiful, and affordable. I've mapped out the routes and tips to avoid pitfalls, so you can just follow my lead. 1️⃣ Huangshi | Hubei Huangshi isn't a traditional tourist city, which makes it a great place to find a hidden gem for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Head straight to Chengyue Island, located in the middle of Cihu Lake. You don't need a boat; there's a walking path that leads directly there. It's most pleasant to arrive around 5:00 PM when the sunset dyes the lake gold. You'll see mostly locals taking a stroll, with almost no tourists in sight. It's windy on the island, so bring a light jacket. Don't rush off after exploring; there's a row of small eateries by the lake. Order some Huangshi sesame cakes with a bowl of hutangfen (thick soup noodles) for a filling meal that costs just over CNY 10. 🚄 A taxi from Huangshi Station to Cihu Lake takes about 15 mins and costs just over CNY 20. ⚠️ There are no shops on the island, so bring your own water. 2️⃣ Chengde | Hebei The Chengde Mountain Resort is famous, but visiting during the Mid-Autumn Festival helps you avoid the summer crowds. The admission ticket is a bit pricey, so if you're on a tight budget, I recommend just visiting the surrounding temple complex. The exteriors of the Putuo Zongcheng Temple and the Xumi Fushou Temple are stunning, and the red walls against white platforms are great for photos. If you want to enter the resort, just buy the admission ticket and skip the electric cart; walking around the lake area takes about 2 hours. ⏰ Arrive at 8:00 AM when it opens and head straight to Yanyu Tower. It's less crowded then, and the lake is covered in a thin mist, so you won't have to wait to take photos. In the afternoon, head to the Jinshanling Great Wall. It's much wilder than Badaling and the steps are steep, but the scenery is worth the price of admission. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of buckwheat noodles (helo) in the city. The hot soup will give you the energy to climb the Great Wall. ⚠️ The Great Wall stops admitting visitors after 4:00 PM, so don't arrive right at the cutoff. 3️⃣ Taian | Shandong Mount Tai is a classic choice for Mid-Autumn moon viewing, but don't be foolish and try to hike the whole way at night. My strategy: Take the bus from Tianwaicun to Zhongtianmen at 3:00 PM, then hike from Zhongtianmen to Nantianmen, which takes about 2 hours—just in time for the sunset. It's windy at the summit, so rent a military-style overcoat for CNY 20. Don't worry about how it looks; it's a lifesaver. After watching the sunset, don't rush to head down. Accommodation at the summit is expensive and poor quality, so I recommend taking the cable car down after watching the moon and staying at the foot of the mountain. 📍 There's a san soup shop near Hongmen Road that's open in the early morning. A bowl of hot san soup with fried dough sticks costs CNY 10 and will keep you warm until dawn. ⚠️ The summit is crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the cable car queue can exceed 1 hour, so leave yourself plenty of time. Buy the admission ticket and bus fare separately; don't buy a combo ticket, as it's not cost-effective. 4️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian is easily overlooked, but Chaya Mountain is a true hidden gem. It's a filming location for "Journey to the West," and the rock formations are bizarre and fascinating—kids will love it. ⏰ In the morning, head to Chaya Mountain. Enter via the west line and exit via the east line; the whole route takes 3 hours without backtracking. There's a section called Yixiantian (a narrow pass) where you have to turn sideways to get through, which is quite fun. In the afternoon, head to Laoleshan. There are even fewer tourists here, and the summit has a field of windmills. In the evening, the light shines through the windmill blades, looking like a scene from a movie. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, you can buy Queshan jelly, which is sour and spicy, for CNY 5 a bowl. ⚠️ Chaya Mountain has many stairs, so seniors with bad knees should be careful. Both mountains are a bit far from the city, so I recommend chartering a car, which can be done for CNY 300 for a round trip. 5️⃣ Zhangzhou | Fujian This route in Zhangzhou is perfect for those who don't want to walk much and just want to zone out. Yunshuiyao Ancient Town and the Nanjing Tulou are right next to each other and can be visited on the same day. Yunshuiyao isn't overly commercialized; sitting under the big banyan tree by the stream for an afternoon, listening to the water and watching people go by, is very relaxing. You don't need to enter every Tulou; just pick one, like the "Four Dishes and a Soup" at Tianluokeng, to see—the internal structures are all similar. ⏰ The next day, visit the Coastal Volcanic National Geopark. It's less crowded here, and the black rocks against the blue water are very unique. You can even find black volcanic stones. 🍜 You must try the four-fruit soup in town; it's CNY 6 for a full bowl of toppings. ⚠️ The Volcanic Park is extremely windy, and hats can easily blow away, so bring a string to tie yours down. 🚄 There is a direct bus from Zhangzhou Station to Yunshuiyao, which takes 1 hour. 6️⃣ Hezhou | Guangxi Hezhou is the "backyard" of Guangdong, but few outsiders know about it. Huangyao Ancient Town is worth an overnight stay. After 9:00 PM, when the tourists disperse, the stone paths shine under the moonlight, looking 10 times better than during the day. Find an old house with a courtyard to stay in for a little over CNY 100 a night, and you can open your window to see tiled roofs. The next morning, head to Gupo Mountain. There are many waterfalls here, and the air is full of moisture—a walk here is like a spa for your lungs. ⏰ In the afternoon, head to Dongtanling for the sunset. The summit has a wide view, and you can see the entire Hezhou Basin. 🍜 Water chestnut powder and fermented bean curd pork ribs are local specialties, and you can eat your fill for CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Huangyao Ancient Town doesn't charge admission after 6:00 PM, which can save you a lot of money, but you should book your accommodation in advance. It's great for bringing seniors as the route is mostly flat and not tiring. 7️⃣ Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou is more than just the Yellow River and beef noodles. Baita Mountain Park is free, and climbing up offers a bird's-eye view of Zhongshan Bridge and the Yellow River. At sunset, the lights on the bridge turn on and the river glitters gold—it's much more worth it than paying for a cruise. The Provincial Museum is also free; remember to book in advance on their official WeChat account. The original "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" is here, and seeing it in person is 10 times more impressive than in photos. 🍜 After exploring, head to Dazhong Lane for a bowl of beef noodles. Remember to ask for "erxi" (medium-thick) noodles and add a portion of beef shank and a marinated egg; the whole set is less than CNY 20. ⏰ Eating noodles at noon is the most authentic experience, as that's when the broth from the first pot of the day is at its most fragrant. ⚠️ The Provincial Museum is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. There are many tea stalls by the Yellow River where a bowl of Sanpaotai tea costs CNY 15. Sitting there for an afternoon watching the sheepskin rafts float by is a very Lanzhou experience. 8️⃣ Benxi | Liaoning Autumn arrives early in Benxi, and the Mid-Autumn Festival is just in time for the first red maple leaves. Guanmenshan National Forest Park is the top choice; the maple leaves turn red from the bottom of the mountain up, and by the Mid-Autumn Festival, the mountainside is at its most beautiful. The admission ticket isn't cheap, but the boardwalks inside are well-maintained. It takes 3 hours to walk the whole route, with scenery at every step. The next day, visit the Benxi Water Cave, the world's longest underground river. Take a boat to see the stalactites; it's a constant 12 degrees inside, so you must wear a jacket. Huanren Wunv Mountain is far from the city, but the Goguryeo King City ruins are worth a look, and climbing to the summit offers a view of Huanlong Lake. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, have a bowl of sheep soup. The sheep soup with sesame cakes in Xiaoshi is warming and filling. ⚠️ The Water Cave and Guanmenshan are in different directions, so split them into two days. Accommodation is tight during the maple leaf season, so book a room a week in advance, or you'll have to stay in the city.

01 Nanjing|Jiangsu Nanjing is a place you can't visit in just one weekend. My first visit was a disaster due to a lack of planning. I rushed to the Presidential Palace at 9 am, waited in line for 40 minutes, and then found it packed with people, not understanding anything. Later, I learned my lesson and went in after 2:30 pm, when the crowds thinned out considerably, and the lighting under the eaves was perfect. After you're done, don't rush off. Walk 200 meters east along Changjiang Road from the exit; there's a small shop selling duck blood vermicelli soup. The broth is rich, and the vermicelli isn't mushy—much better than what you get at the entrance of the scenic area. Confucius Temple is most interesting at night; when the lanterns are lit, the Qinhuai River looks like it's filled with scattered gold. But ⚠️ don't buy snacks on the main street of Confucius Temple; they're expensive and mediocre. Turn towards Wuyi Lane; the shops deep inside that alley sell authentic sweet taro soup and salted duck. Niushou Mountain is best visited early. Take Metro Line S1 to Hohai University Station and then a taxi for around 20 yuan. On sunny days, the domed Buddhist temple at the mountaintop is bathed in warm sunlight filtering through the gaps. As for Xuanwu Lake, there's no need to make a special trip; a stroll along the lake in the evening is enough. A gentle breeze will soothe all your worries. ⚠️ The Presidential Palace is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 02 Lu'an | Anhui Lu'an is a place with many mountains and rivers, perfect for a weekend where you "don't want to think too much and just want to find a place to breathe." I highly recommend visiting Tiantangzhai, but don't go with a tour group. Drive to the scenic area entrance, buy a ticket, and take the shuttle bus up to the mountainside, then climb the boardwalk. ⏰ Enter the mountains at 8 am; the air is full of the moisture from the vegetation. When you reach the waterfall, the mist sprays onto your face—more comfortable than any air conditioning. At the mountaintop meadow, the clouds roll beneath your feet, and the entire western Anhui unfolds before your eyes. Don't bring too much; a bottle of water and a pack of biscuits are enough. There are vendors selling tea eggs at the top of the mountain for five yuan each—hot, savory, and delicious. Wanfo Lake has a different face; the water is wide and windy, perfect for a boat ride. 🍜 Along the lakeside, there's a row of farmhouses. Pick any one and try the fish head soup—the milky white broth is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! ⚠️ The boat tours on Wanfo Lake stop at 4 PM, so don't go right on time. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, take the cable car up and down Tiantangzhai; don't try to climb the whole way—your knees won't take it. 03 Jingdezhen|Jiangxi Jingdezhen isn't for "strolling," it's for "immersing yourself." You need to stay and explore at your own pace. Go to Taoxichuan at night; the old porcelain factory area, with its red brick chimneys still standing, has a romantic industrial-era feel when the lights are on. Inside the workshops, you can go in and watch the craftsmen throwing clay; the focused expressions of the artisans are more captivating than any exhibit. 🍜 There's a stall over there that makes cold rice noodles. The noodles are thick, mixed with orange peel and chili peppers—spicy and fragrant, one bowl and you're instantly awake. The Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area is better visited during the day. ⏰ At 10 AM, master craftsmen paint blue and white porcelain on-site, each stroke incredibly smooth. You can even try it yourself; throwing clay costs 50 yuan per session. It's okay if you mess up; the point is the fun of playing with clay. ⚠️ Don't buy porcelain in the scenic area; the prices are inflated. Go to the Saturday morning market at the Sculpture Porcelain Factory; you can find some nice little cups for a few dozen yuan. 🚄 It takes about 20 minutes by taxi from Jingdezhen North Station to the city center. Staying near Taoxichuan is the most convenient; you can stroll back after exploring in the evening. 04 Zhumadian|Henan Zhumadian sounds like a down-to-earth place, but the scenery is surprisingly ethereal. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for *Journey to the West*; the rocks are strangely shaped, as if sculpted by someone. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the mountain after 3 PM. The sunlight will be at an angle, highlighting the textures of the mountain walls, making photos without filters necessary. The mountain isn't high; you can reach the summit in two hours, but the path is narrow with many steps. ⚠️ Wear sneakers, not sandals, or your toes will suffer. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket. Laole Mountain is another place, less known, so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. There's an alpine meadow there, bursting with wildflowers in spring and a vast expanse of white reeds in autumn. 🚄 It's about 40 kilometers by taxi from Zhumadian city center; the road conditions are good. 🍜 There are vendors selling Queshan cold noodles at the foot of the mountain. They're sour and spicy, and eaten with hot tofu—unique but addictive. This place is perfect for a solo trip; sit on the meadow and daydream, thinking about anything or nothing at all. 05 Shanghai Shanghai has so many weekend destinations, but if you only have two days, I'll highlight some highlights for you. The Expo Park has been renovated quite well; the large chimney has been transformed into a viewing platform. ⏰ Go in the evening, and the sunset at the bend in the Huangpu River will turn the entire Pudong area golden. I wouldn't really recommend Yu Garden; it's incredibly crowded, like dumplings in a pot. But if it's your first time, you should still check it out. ⚠️ Don't buy a combined ticket for Yu Garden; just buy a ticket for the City God Temple. It's only ten yuan, and that's enough to experience the lively atmosphere of the old city. Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is an underrated place; the underwater museum is unique—the entire building is submerged, with only the roof visible, like a floating boat. 🚄 Take Metro Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then ride a shared bike for about fifteen minutes. As for Disneyland, let me tell you from my own painful experience: ⚠️ Don't buy a regular day pass; the queues will drive you crazy. Either buy an early bird pass or stay at a theme park hotel to enter an hour early, and then enjoy the Soarin' Over the Horizon ride before taking your time on the other attractions. 🍜 After Disneyland, don't eat dinner inside the park. Head to the area near Chuansha subway station; there are local Shanghainese restaurants there. Their braised pork is rich and flavorful, and you can eat your fill for around 70-80 yuan per person. 06 Nanping|Fujian Wuyishan is a place best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Don't expect to see all the attractions in one day; that's unrealistic. ⏰ The best option is to arrive on Saturday morning and start with a bamboo raft trip on the Nine Bend Stream. The 80-minute trip features crystal-clear water where you can see the pebbles at the bottom. The Jade Maiden Peak and the King Peak glide past you on both banks—it feels like traveling through a landscape painting. After disembarking, walk along Song Street; there are vendors selling Da Hong Pao tea eggs along the way. The tea aroma permeates the egg white, making it quite unique. On Sunday morning, climb Tianyou Peak. There are over 800 steps; your legs will be shaking halfway up, but the sea of ​​clouds at the summit is worth the effort. ⚠️ Tianyou Peak gets extremely crowded in the afternoon, so be sure to go early in the morning. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Wuyishan North Station, then take a taxi to the scenic area (about half an hour). For accommodation, choose the Sangu Resort Area; it's convenient for dining. 🍜 The smoked goose and dried bamboo shoots there are better in even the smallest shops than in large restaurants. If you're traveling with elderly people, a bamboo raft ride is a must. You don't need to climb Tianyou Peak; they can wait for you at the foot of the mountain while you drink tea. 07 Yinchuan|Ningxia A weekend in Yinchuan is another interpretation of "a lone plume of smoke rising straight from the desert." Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park is best visited in the morning. ⏰ At sunrise, the lake is shrouded in mist, and the calls of water birds from the reeds seem to come from another world. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes in the wetlands; wear long pants and bring mosquito repellent. The Helan Mountain rock paintings are the most breathtaking experience of the trip. Those sun gods and hunting scenes carved on the stones are still so clear after thousands of years. Standing at the foot of the mountain looking at those symbols, you'll suddenly feel very small. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from Yinchuan city center. Hiring a car is recommended to visit the rock paintings and the Western Xia Imperial Tombs in one day. The Western Xia Imperial Tombs are truly "mysterious"—rammed earth towers stand in the wilderness, the wind whipping up sand. Lingwu Shuidonggou is also worth a visit, with its Ming Great Wall, hidden military caves, and grand canyons; the diverse landscape is like a geology textbook. 🍜 In the evening, return to the city and head to Huaiyuan Night Market for spicy stew and lamb trotters. You'll eat until you're stuffed for about 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ Yinchuan has a large temperature difference between day and night; even in summer, bring a jacket. 08 Zhangjiajie|Hunan I advise you not to treat Zhangjiajie like a regular mountain climb. It's the kind of place where you'll involuntarily hold your breath. Wulingyuan is the core area, but don't try to see it all in one day; you'll be exhausted and question your existence. ⏰ My suggestion: Go into the mountains on the first afternoon and take the Bailong Elevator up. In that one minute, the stone pillars rise from the clouds, like the Hallelujah Mountains from Avatar right in your face. Then walk around Yuanjiajie; the evening light turns the rocks golden, ten times more beautiful than during the day. Stay overnight in a guesthouse on the mountain and watch the sunrise the next morning. When the sea of ​​clouds surges, you'll feel it's worth every penny. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "special offer tickets" on the mountain; they're all scams. 🚄 A taxi from Zhangjiajie West Station to Wulingyuan takes about 40 minutes. Tianmen Mountain is another option; the cable car is over 7,000 meters long, and riding it feels like flying. As for the glass walkway, those afraid of heights shouldn't go, but those who have said it's incredibly relaxing, leaving their legs feeling weak. 🍜 There's a restaurant in the city called Hu Shifu Sanxia Guo (Hu Shifu's Three-Pot Dish); the portions are generous, the spiciness is satisfying, and it costs about 60 yuan per person—the perfect ending to your mountain hike. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes when hiking in the rain; the slippery stone steps are no joke. No need to take time off this weekend, these eight places are enough to keep you entertained until the end of the year. Some are perfect for relaxing alone, some for a leisurely stroll with your parents, and some for a wild adventure with a few close friends. Which one do you most want to visit first? Let us know in the comments, and maybe I'll go with you! 01 Nanjing|Jiangsu Nanjing is a place you can't visit in one weekend. The first time I went, I learned my lesson the hard way. I rushed to the Presidential Palace at 9 am, waited in line for 40 minutes, and then it was packed with people, so I didn't understand anything. Later, I learned my lesson and went in after 2:30 pm. The crowds thinned out considerably, and the light and shadow under the eaves were just right. After you're done, don't rush off. Walk 200 meters east along Changjiang Road from the exit, and there's a small shop selling duck blood vermicelli. The broth is rich, and the vermicelli isn't mushy—much better than the ones at the entrance of the scenic area. Confucius Temple is most interesting at night; when the lanterns are lit, the surface of the Qinhuai River shimmers like scattered gold. But⚠️ don't buy snacks on the main street of Confucius Temple; they're expensive and mediocre. Turn towards Wuyi Lane; the authentic sweet taro and salted duck stalls are deeper in the alley. Niushou Mountain is best visited early in the morning. 🚄 Take Metro Line S1 to Hohai University Station and then a taxi; it'll cost around 20 yuan. The domed Buddhist hall at the top of the mountain is warm on sunny days when sunlight filters through the gaps. As for Xuanwu Lake, there's no need to make a special trip; just take a walk along the lake in the evening, and the breeze will make all your worries disappear. ⚠️ The Presidential Palace is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 02 Lu'an | Anhui Lu'an is a place with many mountains and rivers, perfect for a weekend where you "don't want to think too much and just want to find a place to breathe." I highly recommend visiting Tiantangzhai, but don't go with a tour group. Drive to the scenic area entrance, buy your ticket, and take the shuttle bus up to the mountainside. From there, climb the boardwalk. ⏰ Entering the mountain at 8 AM, the air is filled with the moisture of vegetation. Reaching the waterfall, the mist sprays onto your face—more refreshing than any air conditioning. At the summit meadow, clouds roll beneath your feet, and the entire western Anhui province unfolds before you. Don't bring too much; a bottle of water and a pack of biscuits are enough. There are vendors selling tea eggs at the summit for five yuan each—hot, savory, and delicious. Wanfo Lake offers a different experience: a wide expanse of water and strong winds, perfect for a boat ride. 🍜 Along the lakeside, choose any of the farmhouses and try their fish head soup. The milky white broth is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows fall off! ⚠️ Boat tours on Wanfo Lake stop at 4 PM, so don't arrive right then. If you're traveling with elderly people or children, take the cable car up and down Tiantangzhai; don't try to climb the entire way—your knees won't take it. 03 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Jingdezhen isn't just for "strolling," it's for "immersing" in. You need to stay and explore at your own pace. Visit Taoxichuan at night; the old porcelain factory's converted streets, with their red brick chimneys still standing, have a romantic industrial-era feel when illuminated. Inside the workshops, you can watch the craftsmen throwing clay; their focused expressions are more captivating than any exhibit. 🍜 There's a stall selling cold noodles; the noodles are coarse, mixed with orange peel and chili—spicy and fragrant, a bowl of which will wake you up completely. The Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Expo Area is better visited during the day. ⏰ At 10 am, master craftsmen paint blue and white porcelain on-site, their strokes incredibly smooth. You can even try it yourself; throwing clay costs 50 yuan per session, and it doesn't matter if you mess up—the point is the joy of playing with clay. ⚠️ Don't buy porcelain in the scenic area; the prices are inflated. Go to the Saturday morning market at the Sculpture Porcelain Factory; you can find some nice little cups for just a few dozen yuan. 🚄 A taxi ride from Jingdezhen North Station to the city center takes about 20 minutes. Staying near Taoxichuan is the most convenient; you can stroll back after exploring in the evening. 04 Zhumadian|Henan Zhumadian sounds like a down-to-earth place, but the scenery is surprisingly ethereal. Chaya Mountain is a filming location for "Journey to the West," with strangely shaped rocks that look like they were sculpted by someone. ⏰ It's recommended to enter the mountain after 3 PM. The light shines obliquely on the mountain walls, revealing all the textures, making photos without filters unnecessary. The mountain isn't high; you can reach the summit in two hours, but the path is narrow with many steps. ⚠️ Wear sneakers, not sandals, or your toes will suffer. It's windy at the summit, so bring a light jacket. Laole Mountain is another lesser-known spot, so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. There's an alpine meadow there, full of wildflowers in spring and a vast expanse of white reeds in autumn. 🚄 It's about 40 kilometers by taxi from Zhumadian city center; the road conditions are good. 🍜 There are vendors selling Queshan cold noodles at the foot of the mountain. They're sour and spicy, and eaten with hot tofu—it's unique but addictive. This place is perfect for a solo trip; you can sit on the meadow and daydream, thinking about anything or nothing at all. 05 Shanghai There are so many places to go in Shanghai on weekends, but if you only have two days, I'll highlight some highlights for you. The World Expo Park has been renovated nicely; the big chimney has been turned into a viewing platform. ⏰ Go in the evening; the sunset at the bend in the Huangpu River can turn the entire Pudong area golden. I don't really recommend Yu Garden; it's incredibly crowded, but if it's your first time, you should still check it out. ⚠️ Don't buy a combined ticket for Yu Garden; just buy a ticket for the City God Temple. It's only 10 yuan, enough to experience the lively atmosphere of the old city. Guangfulin Cultural Site is an underrated place. The underwater museum is unique; the entire building is submerged, with only the roof visible, resembling a floating boat. 🚄 Take Metro Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then a 15-minute bike ride with a shared bike. As for Disneyland, let me tell you from my own painful experience: ⚠️ Don't buy a regular day pass; the queues will drive you crazy. Either buy an early bird pass or stay at a park hotel to enter an hour early, finish Soaring Over the Horizon, and then enjoy the other attractions at your leisure. 🍜 After Disneyland, don't eat dinner inside the park. Go to the area near Chuansha Metro Station; there are local Shanghainese restaurants there. Their braised pork is rich and flavorful, and you can eat your fill for around 70-80 RMB per person. 06 Nanping|Fujian Wuyishan is a place best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Don't expect to see all the attractions in one day; that's unrealistic. ⏰ The best option is to arrive Saturday morning and start with a bamboo raft trip on the Nine Bend Stream. The 80-minute trip features crystal-clear water where you can see the pebbles at the bottom, and the Jade Maiden Peak and King Peak gliding past on both banks – it feels like traveling through a landscape painting. After disembarking, walk along Song Street; there are vendors selling Da Hong Pao tea eggs along the way, the tea aroma infused into the egg white, very unique. On Sunday morning, climb Tianyou Peak. There are over 800 steps; your legs will be shaking halfway up, but the sea of ​​clouds at the summit is worth the effort. ⚠️ Tianyou Peak gets extremely crowded in the afternoon, so be sure to go early in the morning. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Wuyishan North Station, then take a taxi to the scenic area (about half an hour). Choose accommodation in the Sangu Resort Area; it's convenient for dining. 🍜 The smoked goose and dried bamboo shoots there are better in even a small shop than in a large restaurant. If you're traveling with elderly people, the bamboo raft trip is a must. You can skip climbing Tianyou Peak and just have tea and wait for them at the foot of the mountain. 07 Yinchuan | Ningxia A weekend in Yinchuan offers a different interpretation of the phrase "a lone plume of smoke rising straight from the desert." Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park is best visited in the morning. ⏰ At sunrise, the lake is shrouded in mist, and the calls of waterbirds echo from the reeds, like sounds from another world. ⚠️ Be aware of mosquitoes in the wetlands; wear long pants and bring mosquito repellent. The Helan Mountain Rock Paintings were the most breathtaking experience of the trip. Those sun gods and hunting scenes carved into the stones remain so clear after thousands of years. Standing at the foot of the mountain looking at those symbols, you'll suddenly feel incredibly small. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from Yinchuan city. Hiring a car is recommended to visit the rock paintings and the Western Xia Imperial Tombs in one day. The Western Xia Imperial Tombs possess a true sense of "mystery"—rammed earth tombs stand in the wilderness, the wind whipping up sand. Lingwu Shuidonggou is also worth a visit, with its Ming Great Wall, hidden military caves, and grand canyons; the diverse landscape is like a geology textbook. 🍜 Back in the city at night, head to Huaiyuan Night Market for spicy stew and lamb trotters. A meal costing only 50 yuan per person is enough to make you feel completely stuffed. ⚠️ Yinchuan has a large temperature difference between day and night; even in summer, bring a jacket. 08 Zhangjiajie|Hunan I advise you not to treat Zhangjiajie like a regular mountain climb. It's the kind of place where you stand there and involuntarily hold your breath. Wulingyuan is the core area, but don't try to see it all in one day; you'll be exhausted and question your existence. ⏰ My suggestion is: Enter the mountain on the first afternoon, take the Bailong Elevator up, and in that one minute, the stone pillars rise from the clouds, like the Hallelujah Mountains from Avatar right in your face. Then walk around Yuanjiajie; the evening light turns the stones golden, ten times more beautiful than during the day. Stay overnight in a guesthouse on the mountain, and watch the sunrise the next morning. When the sea of ​​clouds surges, you'll feel that any price is worth it. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "special offer tickets" on the mountain; they're all scams. 🚄 A taxi from Zhangjiajie West Station to Wulingyuan takes about 40 minutes. Tianmen Mountain is another option; the cable car is over 7,000 meters long, making you feel like you're flying. As for the glass walkway, those afraid of heights should avoid it, but those who have said it's incredibly relaxing, leaving their legs feeling weak. 🍜 In the city, there's a restaurant called Hu Shifu Sanxia Guo (Hu Shifu's Three-Pot Dish). The portions are generous, the spiciness is satisfying, and it costs around 60 yuan per person—the perfect ending to a hike. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes when hiking in the rain; the slippery stone steps are no joke. No need to take time off work this weekend; these eight places are enough to keep you entertained until the end of the year. Some are perfect for relaxing alone, some for a leisurely stroll with parents, and some for a wild adventure with friends. Which one do you most want to visit first? Let us know in the comments; maybe I'll go with you!

Taking kids on high-speed trains: 8 cities for a stress-free and fun trip 1️⃣ Sanya | Hainan Sanya isn't just for winter. For summer vacation with kids, I suggest booking a hotel near Dadonghai; it's close to everything. In the morning, go to Yalong Bay. The sand is soft and fine, and the waves are gentle, so kids can dig in the sand all morning. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and a change of clothes. After playing on the beach, it's easiest to rinse off back at the hotel. Don't push it when the sun is strongest at noon; go back to the hotel for a nap. Head out after 4:00 PM to explore Tianya Haijiao. Taking a photo by the "Nantian Yizhu" rock will feel novel for the kids. ⏰ The last boat back from Wuzhizhou Island is around 5:30 PM. If you want to see the coral reefs and the "glass sea," I suggest getting to the island early—don't cut it close. ⚠️ There are many reefs at Daxiao Dongtian, so water shoes are more stable than sandals; kids won't trip as easily. 🍜 Have a bowl of Qingbuliang near the hotel in the evening. It has a rich coconut flavor that kids will love. 2️⃣ Jiuquan | Gansu When taking kids to Dunhuang, don't expect to see everything in one go—you'll be exhausted. I suggest splitting it over two days. Dedicate the first day to the Mogao Caves. Book tickets in advance on the official mini-program. If the kids are young, the animated film "Millennium Mogao" is easier for them to engage with than the actual caves. You can't take photos inside the caves, and don't let kids touch the murals. It's dark, so hold their hands. In the afternoon, go to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake. Riding camels is a favorite for kids, but the lines are long, so I suggest going after 4:00 PM to avoid the scorching sun. ⏰ For a panoramic view of Crescent Lake, climb to the top of the sand dune. The light is best half an hour before sunset. The next day, go to the Yadan National Geopark. It's a long drive and takes a full day. Yumen Pass is in the same direction, so stop by if it's on the way, but don't have high expectations—it's just an earthen city, and kids might find it boring. ⚠️ It's very windy and sandy in the desert, so have the kids wear windproof masks and remember to put a sand cover on your camera. 🚄 It takes about 15 minutes to take a taxi from Dunhuang Station to the city center. Don't take the unlicensed taxis soliciting passengers on the side of the road. 3️⃣ Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower is a must-visit, but I think the trail along Dongting Lake is more worth spending time on with kids. Go to Yueyang Tower in the morning. Climbing the tower to see the "mountains in the distance and the Yangtze River flowing by"—seeing the scenes from their textbooks come to life will make the kids go "wow." The stairs inside the tower are narrow, so hold the kids' hands when going up and down. For lunch, find a small shop on Bianhe Street to eat fish. Dongting Lake fish is fresh, but it has many bones, so be patient when picking them out for the kids. In the afternoon, take a boat to Junshan Island. The boat ride is short, and the island has good greenery, making it suitable for a leisurely walk. ⏰ The tea garden area on the island is the coolest. Even on a summer afternoon, there's a breeze, and kids can run on the grass. ⚠️ The last boat back is at 5:30 PM. Don't get too caught up in playing and miss it, or you'll have to stay on the island. 4️⃣ Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia The Matryoshka Scenic Area in Manzhouli is the most "fairytale-like" place I've ever seen, bar none. If you take a little girl, she'll take so many photos at the Matryoshka Square that she'll run out of storage. The Matryoshka Hotel in the scenic area is shaped like a giant nesting doll, which will make kids scream with excitement. However, the room rates are high. If you're on a budget, just stay in the city center; it's only a 10-minute taxi ride away. There's a playground in the scenic area with a carousel and bumper cars, suitable for younger kids. ⚠️ The Russian souvenir shops in the park have inflated prices. You can buy the same nesting dolls for half the price on Zhongsu Street in the city. 🍜 In the evening, go near Beihu Park for some Russian-style Western food. The borscht and rye bread will be a fresh experience for the kids. 🚄 Manzhouli Station is very close to the city center. It's just a base-fare taxi ride away, so don't let the soliciting drivers take you on a detour. 5️⃣ Shaoxing | Zhejiang Shaoxing is great for rainy days or the height of summer because there are covered corridors everywhere, so you won't get wet or sunburned. Lu Xun's Native Place is free. Walking with kids on the bluestone paths to see the Hundred Grass Garden and the Three Flavors Study brings the scenes from their books to life. I don't recommend taking very young kids to Shen Garden; it's about a love story that kids won't understand, and they'll get bored. Walking to the Orchid Pavilion is where kids can really let loose. There's a stream in the scenic area that mimics the ancient "winding stream wine cup" tradition, where kids can squat by the stream and play in the water. ⏰ The Orchid Pavilion is less crowded in the afternoon. Go in after 3:00 PM when the light filters through the bamboo forest, making it great for photos. Anchang Ancient Town is more lived-in than Keyan. Along the old street by the river, cured ducks and sausages hang from the eaves, which kids will curiously point at. ⚠️ Agree on the price before getting on the Wupeng boats in the ancient town, and clarify if it's one-way or round-trip. 6️⃣ Zhumadian | Henan Zhumadian isn't a traditional tourist city, but Chaya Mountain is really great for hiking with kids. The mountain isn't high, and the trails are well-maintained, so you can even push a stroller for the first half. The mountain is lush and shady, making it several degrees cooler than the city in summer. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM for fresh air. Walking to the "Stone Monkey Courtyard" section, kids will be attracted by the various strangely shaped rocks and can make up stories as they walk. For lunch, eat at a farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain. Order a bowl of free-range chicken soup; kids can eat two bowls of rice with it. If you still have energy in the afternoon, go to the Laoleshan Scenic Area. The windmill array at the top of the mountain is spectacular, but there are many stairs, so it's not suitable for carrying kids the whole way. ⚠️ It's windy at Laoleshan, so bring an extra light jacket for the kids; the temperature at the top is much lower than at the bottom. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Zhumadian West Station to Chaya Mountain. Hiring a car for the round trip is more stress-free, and you can agree on a return time with the driver. 7️⃣ Nantong | Jiangsu The most comfortable way to enjoy Nantong is to slowly wander along the Hao River. The Hao River is the old city river of Nantong, lined with plane trees, so it's not sunny when walking in the summer. You can take the kids on a cruise. There's a guide on the boat who tells the history of Nantong like a storyteller, and the kids will listen intently. After getting off the boat, walk along the river to the Clock Tower Square. There's a lawn there where kids can run around while you rest on a bench nearby. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Nantong jumping noodles nearby. The noodles are chewy and the broth is fresh; one bowl won't be enough for the kids. ⚠️ The last cruise is at 8:00 PM. If you want to see the night lights, I suggest boarding at 7:30 PM to catch the lights on both banks. 🚄 It takes about 20 minutes by taxi from Nantong Station to the Hao River Scenic Area, or you can take the You 1 bus directly. 8️⃣ Chengdu | Sichuan Chengdu is suitable for a slow-paced trip with kids. Don't try to do too much; one spot a day is enough. I highly recommend the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Get to the gate at 7:30 AM to line up and go in while the pandas are eating breakfast to see them hugging bamboo and munching away. ⏰ The pandas start sleeping after 10:00 AM, so you must arrive early. In the afternoon, go to Mount Qingcheng–Dujiangyan. I suggest choosing just one. If you have kids, Dujiangyan is less strenuous. Watching the Yuzui (Fish Mouth) water-dividing project will make kids curious about "how the water splits on its own." The next day, go to Anren Ancient Town. There's a Republic of China-style street and small museums, suitable for a leisurely stroll. If the kids like playing in the water, Tiantai Mountain is the top choice for summer. The mountain streams are shallow, and kids can wade in the water and catch small fish. ⚠️ The roads at Tiantai Mountain are slippery, so have the kids wear non-slip shoes—don't wear clogs. 🍜 In the evening, go back to the city center and find a local eatery to eat Bobo Chicken. Mildly spicy is fine; kids can eat a few skewers too. Traveling with kids, the biggest fear is rushing the itinerary. These eight cities are all accessible by high-speed train. Once you arrive, you can take your time exploring. The kids will have fun, and you'll be stress-free. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Have you run into any issues? Chat in the comments section to help other moms avoid them.

🍂 September and October are the best months for getting out and about – less crowded, cooler weather, and perfect colors. I've scouted these eight spots for you, picking out places with stunning scenery but not yet overcrowded with tourists. Just copy my recommendations! 01 Harbin City | Heilongjiang Province ⏰ From mid-September to early October, the Songhua River turns the city golden with the wind. Don't rush to the Ice and Snow World; that's for winter. Now, go feed the pigeons in front of St. Sophia Cathedral. The sunset paints the green roofs amber – more beautiful than any filter. Volga Manor is about a 40-minute drive from the city center. Its Russian-style old buildings are surrounded by birch forests, and autumn leaves carpet the stone paths. Every photo you take looks like an oil painting. I recommend going in the morning when the light shines through the trees at an angle. After 3 pm, the backlight can make your face look dark. Harbin Ice and Snow World is converted into an indoor ice and snow pavilion in the summer, with temperatures below freezing year-round. Down jackets are available for rent at the entrance. Those wanting to experience the ice slides can go inside for half an hour. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip shoes; the floor inside is really slippery. In the evening, go back to Central Street for Madier ice cream. The original flavor is 5 yuan a stick, and the milk flavor is so rich it's almost melting. Choose a guesthouse near Central Street; the night view is right downstairs, and everything is within walking distance. 02 Kunming City | Yunnan The wind at Dianchi Lake is gentler than expected. The seagulls haven't arrived yet at the end of September, but the water is dyed an orange-sour soda color by the sunset. The long couplet in Daguan Park, bathed in autumn light, is perfect for a leisurely two-hour stroll. Dongchuan Red Land is about a two-hour drive from the city center. The land, plowed in September, is a vibrant red, interwoven with golden wheat stubble to create a palette of colors. ⚠️ Be sure to arrive before 4 PM. The angled light brings out the three-dimensional effect of the colors. Don't go on a cloudy day; the grayness will be disappointing. The Kunming World Horticultural Exposition Garden is underrated. The chrysanthemum exhibition is in full swing, it's not crowded, and the garden is large. Rent a tandem bicycle and ride around; you can see miniature gardens from each province. For lunch, have a bowl of tofu rice noodles on Yuanxi Road. It's 6 yuan for a small bowl; you can add your own chili. After lunch, relax in a cafe by Cuihu Lake until the afternoon. This is the rhythm of Kunming. Stay near Nanping Street, and in the evening, stroll through the Nanqiang Street night market. Enjoy roasted milk fan with sour plum soup—so relaxing! 03 Haidong City | Qinghai The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Garden is most worth seeing at the end of September. After the barley harvest, golden stalks are drying in the courtyard. A Tu woman will pour you three cups of barley wine. Drink it before entering; don't refuse—it's a matter of courtesy. Youning Temple is nestled in a valley, so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. Prayer wheels are worn smooth, prayer flags flutter in the blue sky, and the autumn sun warms your back. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the temple. Respect the rules and just remember what you see. It's an hour's drive from Xining to Haidong. The road conditions are good, but the mountain road into Huzhu County is winding, so new drivers should drive carefully. For lunch, eat "ga mian pian" (a type of noodle dish) in the county town. It's handmade, with a delicious broth, and served with a side of pickled cabbage and vermicelli. It's a satisfying meal for about 20 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose near Ping'an Post Station. In the evening, you can stroll along the Hehuang Folk Street and try the freshly made yogurt—it's so sour you'll cringe but can't stop eating it. 04 Zhumadian City | Henan At the end of September, wild chrysanthemums bloom in the crevices of the rocks in Chaya Mountain. The mountain is made of granite, with strangely shaped formations resembling folds in the earth's surface. The large rocks at the filming location for Journey to the West are great for photos. ⏰ I recommend starting your hike around 8 AM to avoid crowds. The climb to the summit takes about two hours; after 10 AM, tour groups arrive and it gets noisy. Laole Mountain is a local favorite. You can drive up to the halfway point, and it's a 30-minute walk to the viewing platform. In late September, the smoke trees are ablaze with vibrant red—no filter needed! ⚠️ It's windy at the summit; a light jacket won't be enough, so bring a fleece. On the way down, stop in Queshan County for some spicy soup with fried dough sticks. The soup has generous chunks of mutton, and it's so spicy you'll be sweating! Choose accommodation near Zhumadian High-Speed ​​Railway Station for easy travel the next day. A taxi to Chaya Mountain takes about 40 minutes, or about 20 RMB per person if you share. 05 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei The chances of seeing a sea of ​​clouds at Enshi Grand Canyon are high in late September, but don't try to hike the entire route. If you're not in top physical condition, just hike the Yunlong Ground Fissure plus the "One Incense Stick's Worth of Essential Sections"—four hours is enough. ⏰ Go for it when it opens at 6:30 AM. There are fewer people and the fog hasn't dissipated yet. The boardwalk is suspended on the cliff, with a verdant valley below—more breathtaking than any VR experience. The boatmen culture of Shennong Stream is even more captivating in autumn. The water is crystal clear, and the boatmen's shouts echo three times around the mountainside. ⚠️ There's a "sedan chair" service in the scenic area, priced at 80 yuan. After getting in, there are various additional charges. If you don't want to ride, leave early and don't talk to them. The nine-story pavilion of Enshi Tusi City is built on a hillside. The wooden stairs are narrow, so be careful not to bump your head. After 4 PM, there are fewer people. Sit under the eaves and listen to the wind chimes; you can imagine what it was like for the Tusi to rule the area in the past. The boat trip on the Qingjiang River in Enshi is best done in the evening, when the setting sun turns the river surface bronze, and the reflections of the red leaves on both banks are fragmented. Stay near Daughter City, and have Zhangguan Heza for dinner—Tujia-style braised pork with potatoes, so delicious you'll want to lick the bowl clean. 06 Huangshan City | Anhui Autumn in Hongcun is like a masterpiece of ink painting. The autumn harvest displays by South Lake, with chili peppers and corn spread out on bamboo trays, the white walls and black tiles contrasted with red and yellow hues—a photographer's paradise! ⏰ At six in the morning, before the tour groups arrive, have a preserved vegetable pancake by Moon Pond, and gaze at the reflections for ten minutes—worth every penny. Xidi is quieter than Hongcun. The alleys are narrow, the bluestone slabs gleam from countless footsteps, and sunlight filters through the courtyards of the old houses, casting swirling dust motes in the beams of light. Choose one of the two villages; I choose Xidi. Hongcun feels too much like a photo studio backdrop. Chengkan Ancient Village is less crowded. The entrance fee includes a guided tour; only by following the guide can you understand the intricacies of the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) village layout, otherwise you'll just be wandering aimlessly. September is the most comfortable time to visit Huangshan. Tian Du Peak is in bloom, but it's cold at the summit; renting a coat costs 50 yuan. Stay in Tangkou Town, take the cable car up the mountain early the next morning to avoid the crowds, and descend before the afternoon fog rolls in. 07 Shangrao City | Jiangxi Autumn in Sanqingshan is a symphony of granite and sea of ​​clouds. The Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain appears and disappears in the morning mist. ⏰ It's recommended to walk only a short section of the West Coast Boardwalk; the scenery is the best and it's not tiring. Walking the whole way will leave your legs exhausted for three days. The autumn harvest in Jiangwan, Wuyuan, is more authentic than in Huangling. People are drying real food in their yards, not just props for photos. On the way to Jiangwan, you'll pass Moon Bay; bamboo rafts cost 20 yuan per person, and the water is so clear you can see the water plants swaying. If Huangling is too crowded, go directly to Guifeng. The Danxia landforms combined with autumn colors make the mountains resemble giant bonsai, and there are so few tourists you can practically have the whole mountain to yourself. The climb takes two hours; it's windy at the summit, so bring a jacket. Stay in Wuyuan County. In the evening, go to Zhu Zi Pedestrian Street for steamed rice cakes (汽糕). They're made from rice flour, topped with dried shrimp and bean sprouts, and drizzled with chili oil. They're soft, chewy, and three pieces for three yuan each. 08 Yinchuan City | Ningxia The Helan Mountain rock paintings look particularly desolate in autumn. The sun god patterns on the rocks seem to come alive in the setting sun. ⏰ Arrive at 3:30 PM. The light follows the rock face, making the patterns clear. Any later and the light won't reach them. The mounds of earth at the Western Xia Mausoleums have stood in the vast Gobi Desert for millennia. In autumn, the grass turns yellow, and the wind is strong. Standing before the mausoleums gives you a feeling that time has stood still. ⚠️ The last shuttle bus in the scenic area departs at 5:30 PM. Don't miss it while watching the sunset; it takes forty minutes to walk back to the entrance. In late September, migratory birds arrive at Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park, turning the reeds golden. A boat trip startles a flock of wild ducks, creating ripples on the water smoother than silk. The hidden tunnels and the Ming Great Wall at Lingwu Shuidonggou are connected. Walking the Great Wall trail in autumn offers expansive views, revealing distant mountains changing colors in layers. Stay in Yinchuan's old town, and in the evening, head to Huaiyuan Night Market. Spicy skewers are only 50 cents each, and a bowl of lamb offal soup is rich and flavorful—it'll warm you up completely. Of these eight places, choose the one closest to you first. Autumn colors wait for no one; if you hesitate, you'll have to wait until next year. Let's chat in the comments about who you'd most like to take on this trip! 🍂 September and October are the best months for travel—fewer crowds, cooler weather, and perfect colors. I've scouted these eight spots for you, specifically choosing places with stunning scenery but not yet overcrowded with tourists. Just copy my recommendations! 01 Harbin City | Heilongjiang Province ⏰ From mid-September to early October, the Songhua River turns the city golden with a gentle breeze. Don't rush to the Ice and Snow World; wait for winter. Now, go feed the pigeons in front of St. Sophia Cathedral. The sunset paints the green roofs amber—more beautiful than any filter. Volga Manor is about a 40-minute drive from the city center. Its Russian-style architecture paired with birch forests and autumn leaves carpeting the stone paths makes every photo look like an oil painting. It's recommended to go in the morning when the light filters through the trees; after 3 pm, the backlight can make your face look dark. Harbin Ice and Snow World is converted into an indoor ice and snow pavilion in the summer, with temperatures consistently below freezing. Down jackets are available for rent at the entrance. If you want to experience the ice slides early, you can go in for a half-hour trial. ⚠️ Remember to wear non-slip shoes; the floor inside is really slippery. In the evening, go back to Central Street and eat Madier ice cream. The original flavor is 5 yuan a stick—the milk flavor is so rich it's almost melting. Choose a guesthouse near Central Street; the night view is right downstairs, and everything is within walking distance. 02 Kunming City | Yunnan The wind at Dianchi Lake is gentler than expected. The seagulls haven't arrived yet at the end of September, but the water is dyed an orange-sour soda color by the sunset. The long couplet in Daguan Park, bathed in autumn sunlight, is perfect for a leisurely two-hour stroll. Dongchuan Red Land is about a two-hour drive from the city center. The land, plowed in September, is a vibrant red, interwoven with golden wheat stubble to create a palette of colors. ⚠️ Be sure to arrive before 4 PM. The angled light brings out the three-dimensionality of the colors. Don't go on a cloudy day; the grayness will be disappointing. Kunming World Horticultural Exposition Garden is underrated. The chrysanthemum exhibition is in full swing, and it's not crowded. The garden is large; rent a tandem bicycle and ride around, seeing miniature gardens from each province. At noon, I had a bowl of tofu rice noodles on Yuanxi Road. A small bowl cost 6 yuan, and you could add your own chili. Afterward, I relaxed in a cafe by Cuihu Lake until the afternoon – this is the rhythm of Kunming! I stayed near Nanping Street and strolled through the Nanqiang Street night market in the evening. Grilled milk fan with sour plum drink – so relaxing! 03 Haidong City | Qinghai The Huzhu Tu Ethnic Homeland Park is most worth seeing at the end of September. After the barley harvest, golden stalks are drying in the courtyard. A Tu woman will pour you three cups of barley wine; drink it before entering – don't refuse, it's a matter of courtesy. Youning Temple is hidden in a valley, so few tourists you can hear your own heartbeat. The prayer wheels are worn smooth, the prayer flags flutter under the blue sky, and the autumn sun warms your back. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the temple halls. Respect the rules, just remember what you see. It's only an hour's drive from Xining to Haidong. The road conditions are good, but the mountain road leading into Huzhu County is winding, so novice drivers should drive slowly. For lunch, eat "ga mian pian" (a type of noodle dish) in the county town. It's handmade, with a delicious broth, and comes with a side of pickled cabbage and vermicelli. It's a satisfying meal for about 20 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose a place near Ping'an Post Station. In the evening, you can stroll along the Hehuang Folk Street and try the freshly made yogurt—it's so sour you'll wince, but you can't stop eating it. 04 Zhumadian City | Henan At the end of September, wild chrysanthemums bloom in the crevices of the rocks in Chaya Mountain. The mountain is made of granite, with strangely shaped rocks resembling folds in the earth's surface. The large rocks near the filming locations for Journey to the West are great for photos. ⏰ I recommend starting your hike around 8 am when it's less crowded. The climb to the top only takes about two hours. After 10 am, tour groups arrive and it gets noisy. Lao Le Mountain is a local favorite. You can drive up to the halfway point, and it's a 30-minute walk to the viewing platform. At the end of September, the smoke trees are ablaze with vibrant red, a color so striking it needs no filter. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit; a light jacket won't be enough, so bring a fleece. On the way down, stop in Queshan County for some spicy soup with fried dough sticks. The soup is generously filled with chunks of mutton, and it's so spicy you'll be sweating – that's the real treat! Choose accommodation near Zhumadian High-Speed ​​Railway Station for easy travel the next day. A taxi to Chaya Mountain takes about 40 minutes, and a shared ride costs around 20 RMB per person. 05 Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hubei The chances of seeing a sea of ​​clouds at Enshi Grand Canyon are high at the end of September, but don't try to hike the entire route. If you're not in top physical condition, just hike the Yunlong Ground Fissure and the "One Incense Stick" section – four hours is enough. ⏰ Rush in at 6:30 AM when the park opens. Fewer people and before the mist clears, the boardwalk hangs precariously on the cliff face, overlooking a verdant valley – more breathtaking than any VR experience. The boatmen's culture along Shennong Stream is even more captivating in autumn. The water is crystal clear, and the boatmen's shouts echo three times around the mountainside. ⚠️ There's a "sedan chair" service in the scenic area, priced at 80 yuan. After getting in, various additional charges apply. If you don't want to ride, leave early and don't try to talk to them. The Enshi Tusi City, a nine-story pavilion built on a hillside, has narrow wooden stairs; be careful not to bump your head going up or down. After 4 PM, when it's less crowded, sit under the eaves and listen to the wind chimes, imagining what it was like when the Tusi (chieftain) ruled. A boat trip on the Qingjiang River in Enshi is best done in the evening. The sunset paints the river a bronze color, and the reflections of the red leaves on both banks create a shimmering effect. Stay near Daughter City and have Zhangguan Hezha for dinner – Tujia-style braised pork with potatoes, so delicious you'll want to lick the bowl clean. 06 Huangshan City | Anhui Autumn in Hongcun is like a masterpiece of ink painting. The drying of chili peppers and corn on bamboo trays by South Lake, with white walls and black tiles contrasted with red and yellow hues, is a photographer's dream. ⏰ At 6 AM, before the tour groups arrive, I ate a preserved vegetable pancake by Moon Pond, gazing at the reflection in the water for ten minutes – well worth the ticket price. Xidi is quieter than Hongcun. The alleys are narrow, the bluestone slabs gleam from countless footsteps, and sunlight filters through the courtyards of the old houses, casting swirling dust motes in the beams of light. Choose one of the two villages; I chose Xidi. Hongcun looks too much like a photo studio backdrop. Chengkan Ancient Village is even less crowded. The ticket includes a guided tour. Following the guide is essential to understanding the intricacies of the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) village layout; otherwise, you're just wandering aimlessly. September is the most comfortable time to visit Huangshan. Tian Du Peak is in bloom, but it's cold at the summit; renting a coat costs 50 yuan. I stayed in Tangkou Town, took the cable car up the mountain early the next morning to avoid the crowds, and descended before the afternoon fog rolled in. 07 Shangrao City | Jiangxi Province Autumn at Sanqingshan Mountain is a symphony of granite formations and a sea of ​​clouds. The "Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain" formation appears and disappears in the morning mist. ⏰ It's recommended to just walk a section of the West Coast Boardwalk; the scenery is best and it's not tiring. Walking the whole way will leave your legs exhausted for three days. The autumn harvest scenes in Jiangwan, Wuyuan, are more authentic than in Huangling. People are drying real food in their yards, not just for photo opportunities. On the way to Jiangwan, you'll pass Moon Bay. Bamboo rafts cost 20 yuan per person; the water is so clear you can see the water plants swaying. If Huangling is too crowded, go directly to Guifeng. The Danxia landform combined with the autumn colors makes the mountain look like a giant bonsai. There are so few tourists that you can practically have the whole mountain to yourself. The climb takes two hours; it's windy at the top, so bring a jacket. Stay in Wuyuan County. In the evening, go to Zhu Zi Pedestrian Street for steamed rice cakes. They're made from rice flour, topped with dried shrimp and bean sprouts, and drizzled with chili oil. They're soft, chewy, and three pieces cost only three yuan each. 08 Yinchuan City | Ningxia The Helan Mountain rock paintings look particularly desolate in autumn; the sun god patterns on the stones seem to come alive under the setting sun. ⏰ Arrive at 3:30 PM; the light follows the rock face, making the patterns clear. Any later and the light will be gone. The mounds of the Western Xia Mausoleums have stood in the vast Gobi Desert for millennia. In autumn, the grass turns yellow, the wind is strong, and standing before the mausoleums gives you the illusion that time has stood still. ⚠️ The last shuttle bus in the scenic area departs at 5:30 PM. Don't miss it while watching the sunset; it takes forty minutes to walk back to the entrance. At the end of September, migratory birds arrive at Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park, turning the reeds golden. Boating in startles a flock of wild ducks, and the ripples on the water are smoother than silk. The hidden soldier caves and the Ming Great Wall at Lingwu Shuidonggou are connected. Walking along the Great Wall trail in autumn offers expansive views, allowing you to see the distant mountains changing colors in layers. Staying in Yinchuan's old town, head to Huaiyuan Night Market in the evening. Spicy skewers are only 50 cents each, and a bowl of lamb offal soup—rich broth and plenty of ingredients—it warms you right up. Of these eight places, whichever is closest to you should go first. Autumn colors wait for no one; if you hesitate any longer, you'll have to wait until next year. Let's chat in the comments about who you'd most like to take on this trip!