Yanling travel guide and discussion

Stepping into the depths of the valley where the Beaded Curtain Waterfall resides, I felt as if I had traveled through time, entering the thousand-year-old legend of the Beaded Curtain Waterfall. It is said that this waterfall has been a fairyland in the writings of literati and poets since ancient times, with its history tracing back to ancient eras when it was renowned for its beauty as the 'Water Curtain Cave.' The waterfall cascades down like a beaded curtain, not only a masterpiece of nature but also a bearer of countless historical and cultural accumulations. Walking on the bluestone path, I slowly approached the waterfall. The water droplets gently brushed my cheeks, bringing a touch of coolness, as if whispering tales of past glories. Beneath the waterfall, the rocks, sculpted by time, take on various shapes, each one a silent witness to the vicissitudes of the Beaded Curtain Waterfall. Standing before this tapestry woven by history and nature, I couldn't help but feel a surge of emotions. The Beaded Curtain Waterfall is not only a gift from nature but also a historical treasure, allowing one to appreciate the scenery while also feeling the profound cultural heritage. This journey has brought me not only visual shock but also spiritual touch and cleansing.

On workdays, we are so focused on chasing targets and driving projects that we get used to the constant sprint. In this race, we often overlook the teammates beside us—those who show understanding, fill the gaps, and share the weight of every challenge. We forget to be thankful for the rare bond of working side-by-side. For this team-building retreat, we visited Yangqi Ancient Village. Nestled in the Xiangdong mountain range, this Hakka rural village offered us a chance to settle our minds and cherish the warmth of our partnership. Rising in the Ming Dynasty at the northern foot of the Luoxiao Mountains, the village features Hakka dwellings scattered across terraced fields. With its preserved study halls, stone paths, and mountain bridges, it is a place where the traditions of Hunan and Jiangxi merge. The layered fields, towering camphor trees, and winding streams create a serene escape from the commercial hustle. We strolled through ancient alleys and mountain trails, admiring the architecture while sharing stories of our team's growth. We spoke honestly about the times we supported each other through crises and the daily acts of kindness that keep us going, expressing sincere gratitude for every bit of support. Capturing moments in photos and discussing our future, we left behind titles and stress, focusing only on our genuine friendship. The tranquility of the village cleared our minds, reminding us that success is never a solo feat—it’s the result of collective effort and mutual support. There are no solo expeditions in the professional world. A group of people on a single path—only by walking together can we go far. Moving forward, we will remain grateful and steadfast, working as one to reach our ultimate goals.

The biggest fears when traveling with kids during the National Day holiday are crowds and tired children. I've selected these destinations because they either have plenty of space for kids to run around or offer a relaxed pace that won't wear you out. I'll list them in order; choose based on your child's age. 01 Yangjiang | Guangdong The Maritime Silk Road Tourism Zone at Dajiao Bay on Hailing Island has flat beaches and gentle waves. Young children can play in the sand and water all morning without needing to be held. ⏰ Arrive before 8:30 AM. During the National Day holiday, lines start forming at the entrance after 10:00 AM. Enter through the east gate with your kids to avoid half the crowd; it's also easier for strollers. 📍 For the seafood stalls on Renmin Road in Zhapo Town, pick the one with the most local license plates parked outside. 🍜 Order the boiled shrimp and oyster omelet. Skip the set menus; ordering à la carte is a better value. ⚠️ Don't book water activities from random solicitors on the beach; go to the official ticket booth. Ask if speedboat prices are per person; children under 1.2 meters usually get half-price tickets. Choose accommodation in the first row by the sea in Zhapo Town so you can take a stroller for evening walks on the beach, allowing adults to relax after the kids are asleep. For elementary schoolers, try beachcombing; there are small crabs in the rocky areas at low tide. Overall, this is suitable for ages 3–10. If they are very young, be diligent about sun protection. 02 Chizhou | Anhui The name "Mount Jiuhua" might sound intimidating, but there's an easy route for families at the foot and mid-level of the mountain. Don't push to reach the summit; children won't have the stamina. Elementary schoolers are far more interested in squirrels and streams than temple architecture and stone steps. I recommend taking the shuttle bus to the mid-mountain area, walking a gentle trail, and then heading back. 🍜 The vegetarian noodles and braised pork with dried bamboo shoots on Kecun Old Street at the foot of the mountain are worth trying and kid-friendly. ⏰ Head up the mountain before 9:00 AM; visibility drops in the afternoon when the clouds and mist roll in. ⚠️ Temperatures on the mountain are 5–6 degrees lower than at the base, so bring a light jacket even during the National Day holiday. The steps can be slippery, so don't let children wear sandals. For seniors with bad knees, taking the cable car both ways is easier. Stay near the visitor center at the foot of Mount Jiuhua so you don't have to rush the next day. This destination is suitable for children over 5 who can walk for half an hour; it's not very stroller-friendly. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan Yandi Mausoleum is about cultural heritage and is best for upper elementary and middle school students. Younger children might find it boring, but the park is spacious enough for them to run around. ⏰ The morning light is good, making for clean photos of the ancient architecture. 📍 Walk along the central axis from Wumen Gate to the Mausoleum Hall to see ancient trees and stone tablets without having to backtrack. 🍜 Try the braised chicken and mugwort cakes at the farmhouses outside the scenic area for authentic local flavors. Don't buy snacks inside the park; they are expensive and have limited options. ⚠️ Keep quiet inside the Mausoleum Hall and don't let children run around. There is little shade in the park, and the sun can still be harsh during the National Day holiday, so bring plenty of hats and water. If your child isn't interested in history, focus on the lawns and streams on the outskirts; it's still worth it as a park visit. Stay in downtown Zhuzhou; it's about a one-hour drive, making a day trip feasible. 04 Garzê | Sichuan I'll break down the Garzê route because the attractions are spread out; don't try to do too much with kids. Xinduqiao is great for an overnight stay to see the autumn scenery, Mugecuo for hot springs, and just pick either Daocheng Yading or Hailuogou. Daocheng Yading is at a high altitude, so it's not recommended for young children or seniors. Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park has a relatively friendlier altitude, and the forests and hot springs are more suitable for families. ⏰ The poplar forests in Xinduqiao start turning yellow in mid-October; it's still a bit early during the National Day holiday, so the colors will be more greenish. 📍 You can soak your feet in the medicinal hot springs at Mugecuo, so kids can play in the water without getting cold. ⚠️ Altitude sickness is no joke; don't go to high altitudes if your child has a cold. Keep oxygen canisters and glucose in the car; don't wait until you feel unwell to look for them. For accommodation in Xinduqiao, choose a homestay with a courtyard so you can watch the stars at night—the kids will be too excited to sleep. This is suitable for children over 6 who are generally in good health; don't plan more than three hours of driving per day. 05 Jingmen | Hubei The Xianling Mausoleum area is a World Heritage site with an impressive Sacred Way and stone statues. Children will ask what the stone animals are, which is a great opportunity to teach them as you walk. ⏰ The light is angled after 4:00 PM, making it the best time for photos on the Sacred Way without being in the sun. 📍 Enter from Mochou Village, explore the old village, and then walk the Sacred Way; there are snacks along the way. 🍜 Rice tea and Panlong vegetable in Mochou Village are local specialties that kids usually like. Don't buy from the first shop at the entrance; prices are more reasonable further in. ⚠️ The entire Sacred Way is paved with stone slabs, which can be bumpy for strollers with small wheels. You can't walk on the lawns in the mausoleum area, so set the rules with your kids beforehand. This route is suitable for elementary schoolers and up; the full walk takes about two hours. Stay in downtown Zhongxiang, and you can visit Huangxian Cave the next day. It's fine for seniors to take it slow, and there are electric carts available. 06 Ningde | Fujian In Ningde, I'll focus on Taimu Mountain and Baishuiyang; save the Xiapu mudflats for older children. The shallow water plaza at Baishuiyang might be cold during the National Day holiday, but kids still enjoy splashing around. ⏰ The water temperature at Baishuiyang is relatively warmer before 10:00 AM; it's easy to catch a cold when the mountain breeze picks up in the afternoon. 📍 The route from Yingxiantai to Jiuli Lake in Taimu Mountain has many strange rock formations, which kids will find adventurous. Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu are great for sunrise, but it requires an early start, so skip it for young children. Middle and high schoolers can bring a camera and spend half a day photographing the light and shadows on the mudflats. 🍜 Fuding meat slices and betel nut taro are must-eats; the small street-side shops are authentic. ⚠️ The mudflats are deep; don't let children go down alone. It's safer to go with a local guide. Stay in Taimu Mountain Town, which is convenient for both attractions. This route is suitable for ages 5 and up; remember to bring a change of clothes and non-slip shoes for Baishuiyang. 07 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Wuzhen and Xitang are crowded during the National Day holiday, but there are ways to travel with kids. Wuzhen Xizha is well-managed and stroller-friendly. Xitang's bar street is noisy at night, so I recommend staying in the North Gate area of Xitang with kids. ⏰ Enter Xitang before 7:00 AM when it's almost empty; it's comfortable for taking photos and walking the kids. 📍 The dye house and post office in Wuzhen Xizha offer hands-on experiences for kids. 🍜 Wuzhen's scholar lamb noodles and Dingsheng cake, and Xitang's Aunt Guan's stinky tofu are all easy to find along the way. Don't buy souvenirs on the main scenic street; they are half the price in supermarkets outside the scenic area. ⚠️ Xizha tickets are valid for the day; you'll need to buy a new one if you leave and re-enter. Don't buy combo tickets with kids; you won't finish them, and it's a waste. Stay at a homestay inside Wuzhen Xizha; it's expensive but worry-free, and you don't have to rush for transport to see the night view. For Xitang, choose an inn in the North Gate area for quiet. Suitable for ages 3 and up; strollers are basically barrier-free in Wuzhen. 08 Jiujiang | Jiangxi For Mount Lushan and Lushan West Sea, I recommend West Sea for families during the National Day holiday. Guling Town on Mount Lushan is cool, but the attractions are scattered and require many transfers, which can easily annoy children. The lake and island route at Lushan West Sea is comfortable by boat, and kids love it. ⏰ Take a boat tour of the lake in the morning and play in the water near Jinkou Pier in the afternoon; the pace is just right. 📍 The section around Ruqin Lake and Flower Path on Mount Lushan is flat and suitable for strollers; Hanpokou has many steps, so assess your ability when traveling with kids. 🍜 Try the Lushan stone frog and braised pork with bamboo shoots in Guling Town just for a taste. ⚠️ Accommodation on Mount Lushan is tight during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. Prices on the mountain are high, so stock up on water and snacks at the supermarket at the foot of the mountain. Staying in Guling Town is convenient for sunrise, but if the kids can't get up, stay at the foot of the mountain. West Sea is suitable for all ages, while Lushan is better for children over 6 who can walk. Of these six places, prioritize Yangjiang and Jiaxing for young children; they are worry-free. For older children, Garzê and Ningde offer more depth. Which one are you planning to visit? Let me know in the comments.

OMG!! This hidden gem in Hunan is such a treasure🤩 Shennong Valley National Forest Park is truly breathtaking! Save this comprehensive guide now👇 🎫 [Ticket information] 📍Address: Shennong Valley Village, Shidu Town, Yanling County, Zhuzhou City 🕗Opening hours: Open year-round 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM) Recommended duration: 3–4 hours The park requires a combination of walking and scenic shuttle buses 🌿 [Must-visit attractions] ⭐️ Red Ribbon Wishing Tree A popular social media spot in the park!🔥 The big tree is covered in red wishing ribbons that sway in the wind The mountain breeze combined with the ribbons creates such a great vibe✨ Perfect for photos, 100% photogenic📸 Make a wish under the tree, it might just come true~ ⭐️ Stunning waterfall clusters Clear mountain springs flow gently💦 Waterfalls cascade down, and the mist is super refreshing! Sunlight through the mist can even create rainbows🌈 Remember to wear non-slip shoes! The moss is a bit slippery~ It feels even more ethereal on rainy days☁️ ⭐️ Valley trail Stroll along the mountain paths The air is super fresh, and everything is lush green🌿 Even on rainy days, it has a unique charm Surrounded by mist, it feels like a fairyland✨ The feeling of taking deep breaths of fresh air is so healing! 🍜 [Local food recommendations] 🔥Must-try local dishes: Farmhouse bacon ✔️ Bamboo rice ✔️ Wild mountain vegetables ✔️ And the super fresh wild mushroom hot pot🍄 All highly recommended by locals! After a tiring day, a farmhouse meal is pure happiness🥰 🏞️ [Nearby attractions] If you have extra time, you can also visit: ✅ Yandi Mausoleum (a must for history buffs) ✅ Taoyuan Cave (mysterious cave exploration) ✅ Nearby tea plantations (enjoy tea and scenery at the same time) 💡 [Travel tips] 1️⃣ Wear comfortable sneakers, as the mountain paths are a bit steep 2️⃣ Remember to bring a light jacket, as there is a large temperature difference in the mountains 3️⃣ Bring mosquito repellent, as there are many bugs in summer 4️⃣ Be careful on slippery roads when it rains, and stay safe 5️⃣ It is recommended to go in the morning when it is less crowded and the lighting is better 🎀 After your visit, don't forget to make a wish under the wishing tree before you leave~ This place is so healing! I'll definitely come back! Remember to bring a good mood and go with your friends!🦆

Want to avoid the crowds during Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? These 8️⃣ well-reviewed small cities are safe bets! 01 Hanzhong | Shaanxi When traveling northwest during Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, Hanzhong is an easily overlooked stop. Take the high-speed train to Hanzhong Station, and a taxi to the Ancient Hantai is only about ten minutes – just the starting fare. ⏰ Visit the Ancient Hantai in the morning. It's free, but closed on Mondays, so don't miss it. The old osmanthus tree on the platform is in full bloom in September, filling the entire courtyard with a sweet fragrance when the wind blows. You can take a very clean profile photo from the Wangjiang Tower. In the afternoon, head to the Shimen Plank Road. Ticket prices fluctuate slightly during peak season; check the official announcement for the day. The plank road hugs the mountainside, with the Bao River winding beneath your feet. The entire walk takes about two hours. Wear non-slip shoes; even elderly people can turn back halfway through and still enjoy the view. 📍 Return to the city center in the evening. The riverside road along the Han River is perfect for a stroll. The river breeze is cooler than during the day, and locals stroll around more often than tourists. For food, find a bowl of hot noodles with vegetables and tofu; don't eat at the scenic area entrance, venture into the alleys of Dongda Street. 02 Suzhou|Jiangsu Suzhou's beauty is the kind you can experience without rushing. But if you come during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, you need to choose your time carefully. ⏰ For the Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden, enter as soon as they open at 7:30 am. After 8:30 am, tour groups flood in, turning even the best window views into photo opportunities. Visit Tiger Hill and Hanshan Temple on the same day; a taxi ride costs around 20 yuan, much less hassle than squeezing onto a bus. Don't wait specifically for the bell at Hanshan Temple; the quiet path behind the temple is more appealing. The ginkgo leaves haven't turned yellow yet in autumn, but the light is soft. 📍 Don't just walk along the main street of Pingjiang Road; turn into Niujia Lane and Daru Lane, where the waterways truly reveal their beauty. Take a ride on a hand-rowed boat, choosing the last one in the evening; the moment the lights come on is worth the price. ⚠️ I don't recommend the popular Suzhou-style restaurants on Guanqian Street; the lines are long and the food is geared towards tourists. If you want to eat squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, look for home-style restaurants in the old Xincun area; you can save half the price per person. 03 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng sounds far away, but with the high-speed rail now open, it's only a little over two hours from Beijing. My first stop after landing is the Hashatu Stone Forest. ⏰ It's best to enter the stone forest after 3 PM when the oblique sunlight shines on the granite, revealing all the textures. In the morning, the backlighting will result in grayish photos, which are a disaster. It's windy in the scenic area, and the temperature difference between September and October can reach 15 degrees Celsius; a light down jacket is essential. The main loop takes about three hours; the path is a combination of wooden boardwalks and gravel, so wear hard-soled shoes, and knee braces if you have knee problems. 📍 If driving, it takes about two hours from Chifeng city. You can refuel at a gas station in Jingpeng Town along the way. Don't drive at night on the return trip; there are no streetlights on the grasslands, and cattle and sheep occasionally graze on the roads. 🍜 Find a local restaurant in the city and have a bowl of mutton offal soup – the most comforting breakfast option. Don't believe the roadside signs advertising "whole roasted lamb on the grasslands"; they only serve it to large groups, and it's expensive and too much for two people. 04 Zhuzhou | Hunan Many people use Zhuzhou as a high-speed rail transit station, but setting aside half a day for it is definitely worthwhile. The Yandi Mausoleum is located in Yanling County, more than two hours' drive from Zhuzhou city center; driving or carpooling is recommended. ⏰ Arrive in the morning, first visit the sacrificial area before climbing the mountain. The ancient cypress grove in front of the mausoleum is the most beautiful part in autumn; the leaves change color in mid-to-late October, creating a layered effect of red and green, more impressive than in spring. 📍 The stele corridor behind the Shennong Hall is less crowded, perfect for a leisurely visit. The entire scenic area has many steps; if you're with elderly people, take the gentle slope along the central axis and avoid shortcuts. ⚠️ Stalls selling incense and candles on the mountain will approach you; ignore them, sincerity doesn't matter how much you buy. Food options within the scenic area are limited, so bring your own water and snacks. On the way back, if you still have energy, take a stroll along the Xiangjiang River scenic area in the city in the evening. Locals are dancing in the squares, creating a lively atmosphere. 🍜 Slurp up a bowl of Zhuzhou rice noodles, choose the stir-fried pork with chili for the best flavor. 05 Anshun|Guizhou Anshun is the kind of place that "you'll understand why it has zero negative reviews once you've been there." Huangguoshu Waterfall and Longgong Cave can be visited in one day, but you need to manage your time well. ⏰ Enter Huangguoshu before 8 am, start with the waterfall. You'll get wet in the Water Curtain Cave; raincoats are sold in the scenic area, but they're thin, so bring your own lightweight one. After 9 am, tour groups arrive, and there's a queue for photos at the viewing platform. In the afternoon, go to Longgong Cave, take a boat into the cave, and the stalactites look like another world under the lights. The cave maintains a constant temperature, 30 degrees Celsius outside and 18 degrees Celsius inside; bring a jacket. 📍 There is a shuttle bus between the two scenic areas, but the service is infrequent; driving is more flexible. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Guiyang North to Anshun West (about half an hour), then take a taxi to the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't actually buy the "Miao silver" sold at the entrance of the scenic area; just look. If you want to eat sour fish soup, go back to Anshun city and find an old-fashioned shop; it's more authentic than those near the scenic area. 06 Guyuan|Ningxia Guyuan is located in southern Ningxia, and many people don't know about it, but the Xumishan Grottoes are worth a special trip. It's about an hour's drive from Guyuan city; hiring a car is recommended. ⏰ In the morning, the sunlight comes from the east, illuminating the grotto statues and revealing the details clearly. In the afternoon, the lighting is backlit; you can see them, but taking photos is difficult. The grottoes are carved into red sandstone and are quite large, dating from the Northern Wei to the Tang Dynasty. The seated Buddha in Cave 51 is enormous; standing beneath it and looking up, one is naturally struck by its imposing presence. 📍 The steps in the scenic area are steep; wear non-slip shoes. If you're afraid of heights, use the lower walkway. September and October in Ningxia have large temperature differences; it's sunny at midday but cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring a jacket. 🍜 Back in the city, have a bowl of mutton noodles with minced meat sauce, paired with hand-pulled mutton. The mutton in Guyuan isn't gamey; locals appreciate this. ⚠️ Flash photography is prohibited inside the grottoes to protect the statues; please do not take photos without permission. 07 Jinan|Shandong Autumn in Jinan is when the springs are at their best. If you come during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, don't just focus on Baotu Spring. ⏰ The First Spring Under Heaven Scenic Area opens at 7:00 AM. See the three streams of Baotu Spring first, while there are fewer people, then walk along the moat to Black Tiger Spring. The entire route is lined with springs; locals carrying buckets to fetch water are more interesting than the attractions themselves. Visit Thousand Buddha Mountain in the afternoon; the climb takes about 40 minutes, and the summit offers panoramic views of Jinan. At the end of September, the persimmons on the mountain turn red, hanging unpicked, making for beautiful photos. 📍 A taxi from Baotu Spring to Thousand Buddha Mountain costs around 15 yuan; buses also go there, but the route is circuitous. 🚄 Both Jinan Railway Station and Jinan West Railway Station have subway access; staying near Quancheng Square is the most convenient. ⚠️ The snacks on Furong Street are largely the same; I don't recommend making a special trip there. If you want to eat braised pork belly, look for an old shop in a residential area; rice with soup is the proper way to enjoy it. 08 Linzhi | Tibet Linzhi is placed last because it deserves ample time. Go during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, just in time for the end of the rainy season and the beginning of autumn colors. ⏰ Visit Basongcuo Lake in the early morning; when there's no wind, the lake is like a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains perfectly. After 10 am, when the wind picks up, the reflection becomes shattered. The Yunnan-Tibet Highway route from Bomi offers stunning views of the colorful forests that begin changing color from mid-October—a week earlier for some, a week later for others. Timing is crucial. Seeing Namcha Barwa in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is largely a matter of luck. ⏰ Sunset offers a higher chance of seeing the clouds, but don't wait indefinitely. Let the clouds come and go; keep a calm mindset. 📍 The distances from Nyingchi city to various attractions are long; hiring a car or sharing a ride is recommended. Driving yourself requires caution due to the winding mountain roads. ⚠️ The altitude is around 3,000 meters. Avoid showering and running on the first day; allow your body time to acclimatize. 🍜 Stone pot chicken is a local specialty, stewed in a stone pot in Medog, resulting in a rich broth. It's not cheap, but sharing a pot among a group is more economical. If traveling with elderly people or children, plan your itinerary carefully and don't rush. None of these eight places are enhanced by filters. Choose two or three and explore them at your own pace; it's better than rushing to ten. Which one would you most like to visit? Let's discuss in the comments. Want to avoid the crowds during Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? These 8️⃣ well-reviewed small cities are safe bets! 01 Hanzhong | Shaanxi When traveling northwest during Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, Hanzhong is an easily overlooked stop. Take the high-speed train to Hanzhong Station, and a taxi to the Ancient Hantai is only about ten minutes – just the starting fare. ⏰ Visit the Ancient Hantai in the morning. It's free, but closed on Mondays, so don't miss it. The old osmanthus tree on the platform is in full bloom in September, filling the entire courtyard with a sweet fragrance when the wind blows. You can take a very clean profile photo from the Wangjiang Tower. In the afternoon, head to the Shimen Plank Road. Ticket prices fluctuate slightly during peak season; check the official announcement for the day. The plank road hugs the mountainside, with the Bao River winding beneath your feet. The entire walk takes about two hours. Wear non-slip shoes; even elderly people can turn back halfway through and still enjoy the view. 📍 Return to the city center in the evening. The riverside road along the Han River is perfect for a stroll. The river breeze is cooler than during the day, and locals stroll around more often than tourists. For food, find a bowl of hot noodles with vegetables and tofu; don't eat at the scenic area entrance, venture into the alleys of Dongda Street. 02 Suzhou|Jiangsu Suzhou's beauty is the kind you can experience without rushing. But if you come during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, you need to choose your time carefully. ⏰ For the Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden, enter as soon as they open at 7:30 am. After 8:30 am, tour groups flood in, turning even the best window views into photo opportunities. Visit Tiger Hill and Hanshan Temple on the same day; a taxi ride costs around 20 yuan, much less hassle than squeezing onto a bus. Don't wait specifically for the bell at Hanshan Temple; the quiet path behind the temple is more appealing. The ginkgo leaves haven't turned yellow yet in autumn, but the light is soft. 📍 Don't just walk along the main street of Pingjiang Road; turn into Niujia Lane and Daru Lane, where the waterways truly reveal their beauty. Take a ride on a hand-rowed boat, choosing the last one in the evening; the moment the lights come on is worth the price. ⚠️ I don't recommend the popular Suzhou-style restaurants on Guanqian Street; the lines are long and the food is geared towards tourists. If you want to eat squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, look for home-style restaurants in the old Xincun area; you can save half the price per person. 03 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng sounds far away, but with the high-speed rail now open, it's only a little over two hours from Beijing. My first stop after landing is the Hashatu Stone Forest. ⏰ It's best to enter the stone forest after 3 PM when the oblique sunlight shines on the granite, revealing all the textures. In the morning, the backlighting will result in grayish photos, which are a disaster. It's windy in the scenic area, and the temperature difference between September and October can reach 15 degrees Celsius; a light down jacket is essential. The main loop takes about three hours; the path is a combination of wooden boardwalks and gravel, so wear hard-soled shoes, and knee braces if you have knee problems. 📍 If driving, it takes about two hours from Chifeng city. You can refuel at a gas station in Jingpeng Town along the way. Don't drive at night on the return trip; there are no streetlights on the grasslands, and cattle and sheep occasionally graze on the roads. 🍜 Find a local restaurant in the city and have a bowl of mutton offal soup – the most comforting breakfast option. Don't believe the roadside signs advertising "whole roasted lamb on the grasslands"; they only serve it to large groups, and it's expensive and too much for two people. 04 Zhuzhou | Hunan Many people use Zhuzhou as a high-speed rail transit station, but setting aside half a day for it is definitely worthwhile. The Yandi Mausoleum is located in Yanling County, more than two hours' drive from Zhuzhou city center; driving or carpooling is recommended. ⏰ Arrive in the morning, first visit the sacrificial area before climbing the mountain. The ancient cypress grove in front of the mausoleum is the most beautiful part in autumn; the leaves change color in mid-to-late October, creating a layered effect of red and green, more impressive than in spring. 📍 The stele corridor behind the Shennong Hall is less crowded, perfect for a leisurely visit. The entire scenic area has many steps; if you're with elderly people, take the gentle slope along the central axis and avoid shortcuts. ⚠️ Stalls selling incense and candles on the mountain will approach you; ignore them, sincerity doesn't matter how much you buy. Food options within the scenic area are limited, so bring your own water and snacks. On the way back, if you still have energy, take a stroll along the Xiangjiang River scenic area in the city in the evening. Locals are dancing in the squares, creating a lively atmosphere. 🍜 Slurp up a bowl of Zhuzhou rice noodles, choose the stir-fried pork with chili for the best flavor. 05 Anshun|Guizhou Anshun is the kind of place that "you'll understand why it has zero negative reviews once you've been there." Huangguoshu Waterfall and Longgong Cave can be visited in one day, but you need to manage your time well. ⏰ Enter Huangguoshu before 8 am, start with the waterfall. You'll get wet in the Water Curtain Cave; raincoats are sold in the scenic area, but they're thin, so bring your own lightweight one. After 9 am, tour groups arrive, and there's a queue for photos at the viewing platform. In the afternoon, go to Longgong Cave, take a boat into the cave, and the stalactites look like another world under the lights. The cave maintains a constant temperature, 30 degrees Celsius outside and 18 degrees Celsius inside; bring a jacket. 📍 There is a shuttle bus between the two scenic areas, but the service is infrequent; driving is more flexible. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Guiyang North to Anshun West (about half an hour), then take a taxi to the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't actually buy the "Miao silver" sold at the entrance of the scenic area; just look. If you want to eat sour fish soup, go back to Anshun city and find an old-fashioned shop; it's more authentic than those near the scenic area. 06 Guyuan|Ningxia Guyuan is located in southern Ningxia, and many people don't know about it, but the Xumishan Grottoes are worth a special trip. It's about an hour's drive from Guyuan city; hiring a car is recommended. ⏰ In the morning, the sunlight comes from the east, illuminating the grotto statues and revealing the details clearly. In the afternoon, the lighting is backlit; you can see them, but taking photos is difficult. The grottoes are carved into red sandstone and are quite large, dating from the Northern Wei to the Tang Dynasty. The seated Buddha in Cave 51 is enormous; standing beneath it and looking up, one is naturally struck by its imposing presence. 📍 The steps in the scenic area are steep; wear non-slip shoes. If you're afraid of heights, use the lower walkway. September and October in Ningxia have large temperature differences; it's sunny at midday but cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring a jacket. 🍜 Back in the city, have a bowl of mutton noodles with minced meat sauce, paired with hand-pulled mutton. The mutton in Guyuan isn't gamey; locals appreciate this. ⚠️ Flash photography is prohibited inside the grottoes to protect the statues; please do not take photos without permission. 07 Jinan|Shandong Autumn in Jinan is when the springs are at their best. If you come during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, don't just focus on Baotu Spring. ⏰ The First Spring Under Heaven Scenic Area opens at 7:00 AM. See the three streams of Baotu Spring first, while there are fewer people, then walk along the moat to Black Tiger Spring. The entire route is lined with springs; locals carrying buckets to fetch water are more interesting than the attractions themselves. Visit Thousand Buddha Mountain in the afternoon; the climb takes about 40 minutes, and the summit offers panoramic views of Jinan. At the end of September, the persimmons on the mountain turn red, hanging unpicked, making for beautiful photos. 📍 A taxi from Baotu Spring to Thousand Buddha Mountain costs around 15 yuan; buses also go there, but the route is circuitous. 🚄 Both Jinan Railway Station and Jinan West Railway Station have subway access; staying near Quancheng Square is the most convenient. ⚠️ The snacks on Furong Street are largely the same; I don't recommend making a special trip there. If you want to eat braised pork belly, look for an old shop in a residential area; rice with soup is the proper way to enjoy it. 08 Linzhi | Tibet Linzhi is placed last because it deserves ample time. Go during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, just in time for the end of the rainy season and the beginning of autumn colors. ⏰ Visit Basongcuo Lake in the early morning; when there's no wind, the lake is like a mirror, reflecting the snow-capped mountains perfectly. After 10 am, when the wind picks up, the reflection becomes shattered. The Yunnan-Tibet Highway route from Bomi offers stunning views of the colorful forests that begin changing color from mid-October—a week earlier for some, a week later for others. Timing is crucial. Seeing Namcha Barwa in the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is largely a matter of luck. ⏰ Sunset offers a higher chance of seeing the clouds, but don't wait indefinitely. Let the clouds come and go; keep a calm mindset. 📍 The distances from Nyingchi city to various attractions are long; hiring a car or sharing a ride is recommended. Driving yourself requires caution due to the winding mountain roads. ⚠️ The altitude is around 3,000 meters. Avoid showering and running on the first day; allow your body time to acclimatize. 🍜 Stone pot chicken is a local specialty, stewed in a stone pot in Medog, resulting in a rich broth. It's not cheap, but sharing a pot among a group is more economical. If traveling with elderly people or children, plan your itinerary carefully and don't rush. None of these eight places are enhanced by filters. Choose two or three and explore them at your own pace; it's better than rushing to ten. Which one would you most like to visit? Let's discuss in the comments.

Some cities have so much to offer, yet they're always treated as mere layover stops. I've selected 8 places that are well worth the trip. Count how many you've been to. 1️⃣ Kunming | Yunnan Don't rush straight to Dali as soon as you land. Kunming is worth a 2-day stay. ⏰ Start your morning at Daguan Park, where locals go for their morning exercise; it's much quieter than the tourist areas. There's a grove of dawn redwoods outside the building that turns red in November—no need to fight for a photo spot. 📍 Visit Dianchi Haigeng Dam after 4:00 PM. It's windy, so bring a jacket. Black-headed gulls only arrive from November to March; if you go in summer, you'll only see water and wind, so manage your expectations. Dongchuan Red Land is a 3-hour drive from the city center. To get the best shots, you need to arrive at Luoxiagou before sunrise. The mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly if you're renting a car. ⚠️ Don't trust roadside touts claiming to take you to the "best photo spots"—the observation decks are actually free. Kunming World Horticultural Expo Garden is great for seniors and children. The park is large, so rent an electric cart to save your legs. Check official daily announcements for ticket prices and opening hours. 2️⃣ Zhanjiang | Guangdong Huguangyan was the most unexpected highlight of my trip. It's a volcanic crater lake, and the water is as calm as jade. The trail around the lake is about 7 km long—a leisurely 2-hour walk. ⏰ I recommend entering the park before 8:00 AM; it's cooler, less crowded, and there's often a light mist over the lake. It gets very sunny after noon. 📍 It's about a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown Zhanjiang. You can take a bus, but they are infrequent and hard to catch on the way back. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes by the lake, so wear long pants and bring repellent. There are few food options inside the scenic area, so I usually head back to the city for seafood congee after exploring. Great for families or for some solo downtime. Not suitable for those who like to rush through their itinerary. 3️⃣ Zibo | Shandong Many people only remember the barbecue. Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City is the truly underrated gem. 📍 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Zibo Station. There's no admission fee for the ancient city itself, but smaller attractions charge separately. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the bluestone paths and old shop signs look great in photos. It's less crowded in the morning, but the light is flat. 🍜 After exploring, look for Zhoucun sesame seed cakes on the street—freshly baked, thin, and crispy, available in sweet or savory. Don't buy them right at the main entrance; walk two alleys in and they're half the price. The ancient city is best explored at a slow pace. Ladies, swap your heels for flats; the stone paths are tough on your feet. 4️⃣ Tongren | Guizhou I highly recommend doing your research before visiting Fanjingshan. ⏰ You must arrive early during peak season. Get to the mountain gate before 7:00 AM, or you'll be waiting in line for the cable car for an eternity. The stairs at the Red Cloud Golden Summit are steep—if you're afraid of heights, think twice. 📍 It's about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Tongren to Fanjingshan. You can also take a high-speed train to Tongren Station and transfer to a bus. ⚠️ The weather at the summit changes in an instant; a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. Prices on the mountain are high, so bring your own water and snacks. If you're not very fit, take the cable car up and down—don't try to hike the whole way. If you want to hike, take the west route; it's less crowded and more rugged, but you need hiking experience. You must book tickets and cable car rides in advance; you likely won't get them on-site on the day of. 5️⃣ Laibin | Guangxi I visited the Panwangjie area of Dayao Mountain and Jinxiu Lotus Mountain in one trip. Panwangjie is all about the sea of clouds and primeval forests. ⏰ The morning after a rain is the best time to see the sea of clouds. Stay at a homestay at the foot of the mountain and set off at 5:30 AM. 📍 Jinxiu Lotus Mountain isn't far from Panwangjie, and you can combine them into a one-day trip. The granite peaks of Lotus Mountain are more tiring to climb than they look. ⚠️ Public transport between these two spots is limited, so renting a car is the most convenient option. If you get carsick, bring medication—there are many winding roads. Great for hiking enthusiasts. If you're traveling with seniors or children, stick to the Lotus Mountain cable car section and don't try to hike the whole thing. It's cool in the mountains in the morning and evening, so bring a light jacket even in summer. 6️⃣ Yushu | Qinghai Hoh Xil and Sanjiangyuan are the kind of places you'll remember for a lifetime. 📍 Depart from downtown Yushu and head toward the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. You can't just enter Hoh Xil; the core area is off-limits, so you can only view it from the road. ⏰ June to August is the best window—the grass is green and wildlife is active. The Tibetan antelope migration season is in July and August. ⚠️ The altitude is high, so avoid strenuous exercise. Get a good night's sleep beforehand, and use oxygen if you get a headache. If driving, check your vehicle condition; gas stations are far apart. Some areas of Sanjiangyuan National Park require reservations; check official daily announcements for rules. Don't wander into protected areas on your own. Suitable for those with high-altitude experience. If it's your first time at high altitude, spend 2 days acclimating in Xining first. 7️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan Many people don't know that the Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. 📍 It's about a 3-hour drive from downtown Zhuzhou. Driving is convenient; there are also tourist shuttle buses, but they are infrequent. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's less crowded and the mausoleum area is quiet. With towering ancient trees, a walk here will help you find peace of mind. ⚠️ Please remain quiet within the mausoleum area and avoid loud talking. There are few dining options nearby, so bring some snacks. Great for bringing seniors or for those who love history and culture. If you're just looking for thrill-seeking activities, you can skip this. It's cool in the mountains in summer, so it's a good stop if you're looking to escape the heat. 8️⃣ Taiyuan | Shanxi Don't just treat Taiyuan as a layover. Tianlong Mountain, Jinci Temple, and Jinyang Lake are enough to keep you busy for 2 days. 📍 Jinci Temple is southwest of the city, and Tianlong Mountain is further away; you can combine both into one day. Jinyang Lake Park is best visited in the evening. ⏰ Get to Jinci Temple right when it opens at 8:00 AM; the Song Dynasty colored sculptures in the Hall of the Holy Mother are worth a slow look. The light is better at the Tianlong Mountain Grottoes in the afternoon. ⚠️ The roads to Tianlong Mountain are winding, so drive carefully. Don't trust the touts offering guided tours around Jinci Temple; official guides are more reliable. 🍜 Head back to the city for a bowl of sliced noodles with oil-fried meat. There are plenty of options around Liuxiang. Jinyang Lake Park is free and a favorite spot for locals to take an evening stroll and watch the sunset. It's all about slowing down the pace. None of these 8 places rely on filters to look good. If you've been to more than 3, your travel taste is truly top-tier. Tell us in the comments how many you've visited.

Some places get popular for no clear reason, and some are quietly excellent. I screened these 8 one by one, and the negative review rate is absurdly low. This isn't the kind of beauty built from staged, filtered photos; it's the kind that makes you want to go back. 1️⃣ Gannan | Gansu The morning mist in Zhagana doesn't appear every day. ⏰ Arrive at the viewing platform before 6:30 AM; once the sun comes up the mist clears. I stayed in Dongwa Village—open the window and you're facing the stone city, saving about an hour of driving compared with staying in Diebu County. Langmu Temple is split between Sichuan and Gansu, 📍 and the red cliff on the Gansu side is more convenient for watching sunset. Don't wear shorts into the main hall; a lama at the entrance will remind you to change into long pants before entering. Gahai Lake has the most waterfowl in June and July—bring a telephoto lens. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, and a light down jacket works better than a shell. From Langmu Temple it's about a 40-minute shared ride; private drivers run the route year-round, so agree the price before you get in. Yeliguan is best saved for your return day; the plank paths in the canyon aren't tiring, so older adults can finish the walk. 🍜 Don't miss the fern-root pork at town restaurants—rich but not greasy. The area sits around 3,000 m in elevation; don't wash your hair the first night. 2️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County. 🚄 Take the bus from Zhuzhou West Station—about 2.5 hours—or drive for more flexibility. The mausoleum area isn't large, but ancient trees tower overhead, and walking around calms the mind. Arrive before 9:00 AM, when tour groups haven't swarmed in yet, so you can photograph the spirit way without people. The stone columns in the sacrificial plaza look better as silhouettes shot against backlight than with front light. ⚠️ Open flames are prohibited in the mausoleum; incense and candles may only be burned at designated spots. Don't believe touts at the entrance who say they'll take you a shortcut and waive the ticket—there is no shortcut. The ticket includes a guided explanation; tours form in groups of 10, so stay with the group and listen closely. 🍜 The farmhouse steamed fish head with chopped chili uses local peppers and is intensely spicy. If you can't handle heat, tell the kitchen ahead and they'll cut back. On the way back, stop by the Mi River for a walk; it's cool on summer evenings. 3️⃣ Jiaxing | Zhejiang Wuzhen or Xitang—which to choose? My answer: on your first visit pick Wuzhen West Scenic Area; if you want to see local life, choose Xitang. Wuzhen West is well managed, and the night lighting is a coordinated design like a set. Xitang's misty long corridor has more everyday life, 📍 and enter before 7:00 AM for free—locals buy vegetables and walk their dogs, that's the real Jiangnan. ⚠️ Afternoons on weekends are packed; you can barely move on the bridges. Staying inside the West Scenic Area is expensive but hassle-free; guesthouses outside are cheaper and only about a 10-minute walk away. 🍜 Wuzhen's soy-sauced duck leans sweet. At Xitang, Old Lady Guan's stinky tofu has crazy lines, but the place next door tastes about the same. Don't buy a combined ticket for both towns; choose one and explore it thoroughly rather than rushing between both. 4️⃣ Karamay | Xinjiang Urho World Devil City sounds scary, but it's really just a wind-eroded rock formation. ⏰ Enter after 7:00 PM; the low-angle light makes the rock walls look like glowing hot iron. 📍 The park's small train stops at four points; the second viewing platform is the most photogenic. ⚠️ Don't go at 2:00 PM—the ground can reach 50°C and shoe soles may soften. 🚄 It's about 100 km from Karamay city center; hire a car for a day trip. Bring plenty of water—bottled water in the park is CNY 8. Hold onto your hat in strong winds; I saw one fly into the heart of the yardang formations. 🍜 Back in town, try da pan ji (big plate chicken); portions are huge, so a small order for two is enough. Stay in Karamay district—hotels are new and more reasonably priced than those by the park entrance. 5️⃣ Yanbian | Jilin The Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area is in Dunhua. 🚄 It's about a 15-minute taxi ride from Dunhua high-speed rail station. The Golden Ding Buddha is impressive, but don't just keep looking up—there are many steps underfoot, so wear slip-resistant shoes. Morning light illuminates the Buddha; afternoons are backlit. Keep quiet in the Buddhist cultural area; don't make loud noise. ⚠️ The park's battery shuttle charges extra; it's only about a 20-minute walk, so you don't need to pay for it. 🍜 Dunhua's cold noodles are even more authentic than Yanji's—sweet and sour with good bite. Pair with a plate of guo bao rou (sweet-and-sour pork); two people will be full. If it's your first time in Yanbian, stop one day in Dunhua before heading to Yanji—it's on the way and less hassle. Stay near Dunhua train station for easy transfers. Come in autumn; Liuding Mountain is ablaze with color and looks ten times better than in summer. 6️⃣ Yulin | Shaanxi Wave Valley is in Jingbian, 📍 navigate to Longzhou Town—don't set your map to Wave Valley Scenic Area, that's the fenced-in spot developed later. This naturally formed red sandstone canyon looks like frozen ocean waves. Colors are most vivid after rain, though the paths can be slippery. On sunny days, light gains depth after 3:00 PM. ⚠️ Don't step on rock layers with cracks—they're brittle. If you bring a drone, be careful; strong winds can cause crashes. In Jia County you can see the Yellow River up on the hill where it bends. Red Stone Gorge is north of Yulin city; its cliff carvings are worth studying, but don't touch them—they're heavily weathered. 🚄 It's about 1.5 hours from Yulin city to Jingbian, and about 1 hour to Jia County. Self-driving is recommended—one day is enough to cover both. 🍜 Yulin's tofu feast is famous, but I find the street stalls' three-delicacy mix more satisfying. Stay near Yulin's old town for easy evening walks on the historic streets. 7️⃣ Zaozhuang | Shandong Tai'erzhuang Ancient City—I'll be frank: it's so-so by day, but the night scene is legendary. ⏰ Enter after 4:00 PM and stroll until about 8:00 PM; when the lights come on it's a whole different world. 📍 Enter through the east gate, follow the main street to Fuxing Square, then take a rowing boat for a loop. The boatwomen will sing local tunes, but don't expect too much—it's for the atmosphere. ⚠️ Holidays get very crowded; you can barely move on the bridges. Inns inside the ancient city are expensive; hotels a 10-minute walk outside cost about half. 🍜 Canal carp is the signature dish but it's bony—be cautious if you have kids. The vegetable pancake is a safe choice for all ages. Some inns inside the ancient city that include tickets can book them on your behalf cheaper than online by a few CNY. Check the official update for exact details on the day. 8️⃣ Xilingol | Inner Mongolia Wulagai Grassland, 📍 navigate to Bayin Hushuo Town and drive east from the town; the grassland opens up more and more. Late July–early August is when the grass is tallest and wildflowers are at their peak. 🚄 It's about a 3-hour drive from Xilinhot; hiring a car is recommended. There is no public transport on the grassland; self-driving can easily get you lost and signal is intermittent. ⚠️ Don't trust roadside horse touts—agree on the price before getting on and confirm whether it's a full loop or just a short run. Staying one night in a yurt is enough for the experience—bathing is inconvenient, so stay in town on the second night. 🍜 Eat hand-held boiled meat dipped in chive flower sauce—the original flavor is aromatic enough. The milk tea is salty at first sip and can be an acquired taste, but after a couple sips you'll be hooked. Temperatures vary widely between morning and night; a light down jacket is essential. None of these eight places got famous through marketing. How many have you been to? Drop a number in the comments and let's see who's the boldest.

Some places are a one-and-done, and some are worth returning to 5 times. The 8 places below are my own verdicts, funded by my own wallet and vacation days, so no favoritism here. 1️⃣ Xishuangbanna | Yunnan ⏰ November to April is the most comfortable time to visit. Hotel rates double during the Water Splashing Festival, so book a month in advance. 📍 The Starry Night Market in Gaozhuang Xishuang Scenic Area doesn't get lively until after 7 PM, so don't go in the afternoon to bake in the sun. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, is in the eastern suburbs. It's so huge that you'll need the electric shuttle, so plan for a full morning. The Dai Ethnic Park is best in the early evening for the peacock release and water-splashing show—kids will go wild. The rainforest trail at the Primitive Forest Park is slippery, so wear grippy shoes, not white sneakers. 🍜 For breakfast, grab some Dai-style rice noodles from a street stall. The pickled bamboo shoots are pungent but addictive. ⚠️ Don't touch the "Burmese jade" at the night market—just look and move on. 🚄 A taxi from Jinghong Airport to Gaozhuang costs about 30 yuan. The city center is small, so renting an e-bike is the most convenient way to get around. 2️⃣ Altay | Xinjiang Don't try to fit Kanas and Keketuohai into the same itinerary. The drive between them is too long, and cramming them together will just leave you too exhausted to enjoy the scenery. Kanas is at its golden autumn peak from late September to early October, when the lake is an unreal shade of blue. ⏰ Get to Guanyu Terrace before 7 AM for fewer crowds and better light. Catching the morning mist over Hemu Village is a matter of luck—you need to stay overnight for a chance. Keketuohai is better in summer; the Irtysh River canyon is cool, but the hiking trails aren't great for seniors due to the many steps. For the cultural side of the Altay grasslands, a bowl of milk tea at a herder's home is worth more than any show. The snowy scenery in northern Xinjiang doesn't arrive until after December, and the slopes at Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort suit intermediate skiers. ⚠️ Don't be overconfident driving yourself in winter—the roads are icy, and a hired driver is the safer bet. 3️⃣ Tianjin I've been 5 times for good reason—this city is perfect for a weekend getaway. Two days and one night is just right; don't overdo it. Rent a bike and take it slow through the Five Great Avenues Cultural Tourism Area; the area around Minyuan Square is the most photogenic. Go to the Italian Style Area in the evening—it looks 10 times better with the lights on than during the day. But restaurant prices there are inflated, so snap your photos and move on. 📍 For a real, no-frills meal, find the small eateries behind Nanshi Food Street instead of eating on the main strip. When there's a concert at the Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium, the surrounding traffic is a nightmare—check the schedule in advance. Fantawild Wonderland is great for kids, and going on a weekday cuts the wait times in half. 🍜 For jianbing guozi, find a stall at a residential community entrance. Add 2 eggs, skip the ham, and the locals will nod in approval. 🚄 Beijing South Station to Tianjin Station takes half an hour. Once you're out of the station, the subway is faster than a taxi. ⚠️ Most of the "local specialties" on Ancient Culture Street are mass-produced goods; just browse. 4️⃣ Ankang | Shaanxi Ankang is Shaanxi's hidden gem—fewer tourists, lower prices, and perfect for a low-key weekend. Fengyan Ancient Terraces are in Hanyin County. They're most spectacular in March when the rapeseed flowers bloom; any other season, they're just ordinary terraces, so don't expect too much. Qianceng River in Langao County is a great summer escape—the stream is ice-cold, so bring sandals if you want to wade in. ⏰ The terraces are best photographed in the morning when there's mist; after 10 AM, the light gets too harsh. 📍 At the night market along the Han River in Ankang city center, the grilled fish and steamed noodles are worth trying. 🚄 The high-speed rail from Xi'an to Ankang takes about 2 hours. After arriving, check the schedules for county buses in advance—they don't run frequently. ⚠️ Cell signal in the mountains is spotty, so download offline maps. 5️⃣ Leshan | Sichuan The Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei are two separate trips—don't try to do both in one day. Enter the Giant Buddha from the North Gate and queue for the Nine-Bend Plank Road down to the Buddha's feet. During peak season, expect a wait of 2 hours or more. ⏰ Be there when the gates open at 7:30 AM to cut your wait in half. If you'd rather avoid the crowds, take a cruise boat—you'll actually get a clearer view of the whole statue from afar. Set aside at least a full day for Mount Emei. Seeing the sea of clouds at the Golden Summit depends on the weather, so don't trust the "guaranteed great photos" hype. 🍜 At Zhanggongqiao Food Street in Leshan city, the braised beef and sweet-skin duck are must-haves. 📍 The Baoguo Temple area at the foot of Mount Emei has plenty of accommodation and is half the price of staying on the mountain. 🚄 The high-speed rail from Chengdu East to Leshan takes 1 hour, and buses from the station go directly to the scenic areas. ⚠️ The monkeys on the mountain will snatch your stuff—don't carry plastic bags in your hands. 6️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yandi in Zhuzhou is a stop many people overlook. It's a quiet place, ideal for a visit with elderly family members. The mausoleum is in Yanling County, about a 3-hour drive from downtown Zhuzhou. Plan for a full day; don't try to rush there and back in one day. ⏰ Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit—summer is too hot, and winter is cold in the mountains. The ancient tree groves within the mausoleum grounds are worth a slow stroll, and the sacrificial square is less crowded in the morning. 📍 Small restaurants in Yanling county town serve Hakka cuisine; the stuffed tofu and stir-fried dried pork with bamboo shoots hit the spot. 🚄 There are buses from Zhuzhou West Station to Yanling, but they're infrequent, so driving gives you more flexibility. ⚠️ Accommodation options nearby are limited—book ahead during peak season, don't wait until you arrive. 7️⃣ Wuhan | Hubei Wuhan is too big to see all at once. Pair the Yellow Crane Tower Park and East Lake on the same day, and save Songyang Temple and the Huangpi Mulan Cultural & Ecological Tourism Area for another day. Yellow Crane Tower Park: ⏰ Go in when it opens at 8 AM, climb the tower for views of the Yangtze River Bridge, and get out before the tour groups pile in after 10 AM. Cycling the East Lake Greenway is the best way to go—rent a bike at Liyuan Square and ride to Moshan in about an hour. 📍 There are plenty of cafés by East Lake, perfect for a rest stop. Songyang Temple is in Caidian—quiet, uncrowded, and great for just zoning out. The Huangpi Mulan Cultural & Ecological Tourism Area is vast. Do Mulan Prairie and Mulan Sky Lake as separate visits; don't buy a combo ticket and try to cram them in. 🍜 For breakfast, hot dry noodles with a side of egg rice wine. The places on Liangdao Street with long lines won't disappoint. 🚄 Don't mix up Wuhan Station, Hankou Station, and Wuchang Station—choose based on your destination. ⚠️ East Lake traffic is a nightmare on weekends; the subway plus a shared bike is faster. 8️⃣ Chengde | Hebei The Chengde Mountain Resort and its surrounding temples, plus Jinshanling Great Wall, fill 2 days perfectly. Enter the Mountain Resort through the Lizheng Gate. Explore the lake area first, then take the mountain shuttle for the hilly section—otherwise, you'll walk your legs off. ⏰ It opens at 7 AM, so be in the first wave to enjoy the cool air and sparse crowds. Of the surrounding temples, Puning Temple and Putuo Zongcheng Temple are the most worth seeing. Don't try to visit them all—just pick 2. Jinshanling Great Wall is in Luanping County and is far less crowded than Badaling. ⏰ The light is best after 4 PM, and the wall turns golden at sunset. ⚠️ The steps are steep—wear shoes with good traction, and seniors should know their limits. 🚄 The high-speed rail from Beijing to Chengde takes about 1 hour. To reach Jinshanling, you'll need to hire a car or drive from downtown Chengde. 🍜 In Chengde city, a breakfast of lamb soup and shaomai is a hearty way to start the day. Of these 8 places, I've been to Tianjin 5 times and would still go back. Altay and Chengde only reach their full glory in the right season. How many have you been to? Tell us in the comments which one you'd want to visit first.

With fewer crowds and lower prices during the back-to-school season, I've picked 8 places that are perfect for visiting in September and October. They aren't crowded, expensive, or disappointing. Students can just follow this guide. 01 Wenshan | Yunnan Puzhehei is almost at the end of lotus season, but there are half as many people, and boat tickets aren't as hard to get as in peak season. 📍Arrive at Qinglongshan Pier before 8:00 AM; it's best when the lake is misty, and you don't have to fight for a photo spot. ⏰ Go to the lakeside near Xianrendong Village after 4:00 PM; the light slants down, and the water looks warm. Staying in the village is more convenient than in the county seat; standard rooms can be had for 70–80 in the off-season, and you're right by the water. ⚠️ Don't take those horse-drawn carriages at the entrance that claim to take you around the lake; they only go a short distance. Rent an electric scooter for 30 a day and stop whenever you want. Great for students and couples; 2 days and 1 night is enough. It's cool in the mornings and evenings in late September, so bring a light jacket. 02 Yichang | Hubei The right way to budget travel the Three Gorges line is by taking a regular passenger ship, not a luxury cruise. 🚄 Get off at Yichang East Station, take a bus to Maoping Port, and you can still see Xiling Gorge with a ticket costing just a few dozen. Attraction tickets for Three Gorges Tribe are a bit expensive, but student IDs can save you some money. I think Qingjiang Gallery is more worth it than Three Gorges Tribe; the water is green, and taking a boat in feels like entering a painting. Three Gorges Waterfall is best visited after rain; the water volume is high, but your shoes will get wet, so bring a spare pair. 🍜 Taozhu Road Night Market in the city center: cold shrimp noodles for 3, spicy noodles with chili oil for 6—you can eat until you're full for under 20. Stay near Yiling Square; it's convenient to take a bus to all the piers. ⚠️ Don't trust the "one-day tours" touted by people at the pier; buying your own ticket and boarding the boat is cheaper. Water levels are stable in September and October, it's not too cold or hot, and walking isn't a struggle. 03 Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City was an unexpected surprise. No admission fee, just wander around. 📍Walk into Ouyuan Street; it hides quite a few old residences and is quieter than the main street. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the lanterns light up, the stone roads reflect the light, and it looks ten times better than during the day. In the morning, you can go to Dongmen Street for a bowl of tofu pudding and a meat-filled baked bun; 5 solves it. ⚠️ Don't buy those "viral snacks" on the main street; they're expensive and average. Duck into the alleys; the Chaotian pot eaten by locals is the real deal. Stay in a homestay in the ancient city; it's just over 100 in the off-season, and you're right in the middle of the scenery. Suitable for wandering around alone or bringing parents; the roads are flat and not tiring. Coming in October is just right; it's not too sunny. 04 Yuncheng | Shanxi Yuncheng Salt Lake enters its color-changing period in September and October. Pink, green, yellow—it's like an overturned palette. 📍Navigate to the Salt Lake Viewing Platform; no ticket needed, you can see it from the roadside. ⏰ The light is best from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM; it's too reflective earlier, and the colors are too dark later. If you want to take photos of the reflection, find a shallow water area, stand far away, and don't step into the mud. ⚠️ Definitely don't go into the lake; the saline-alkali content irritates the skin, and some areas have soft mud, which is dangerous. There are black mud wellness projects nearby, but students can skip them and use the saved money to eat mutton soup. Stay in the city; you can reach the Salt Lake by bus. Yuncheng has a low cost of living; a bowl of mutton soup is 15, and they give you plenty of meat. Great for photography lovers; half a day is enough. 05 Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsixia is the coolest place on this trip. Walking in the canyon, your head is covered by trees; you'll still need to wear long sleeves in late September. 📍Enter from the North Gate; it's all downhill, saving effort, and suitable for bringing elderly people and children. Tianshuxia has even fewer people; the patterns on the stones look like characters, so you have to look closely. Manchuanguan Ancient Town is free, but it's heavily commercialized; walk around for half an hour and leave. Baita Temple is suitable for quiet people; sit in the pagoda forest for a while, and your heart will calm down. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Xi'an to Shangluo, then transfer to a shuttle bus to Jinsixia. Stay at a farmhouse at the entrance of the scenic area; it's a few dozen a night, including breakfast. ⚠️ The paths in the canyon are slippery; wear non-slip shoes. Don't go on weekends; it's less crowded on weekdays, and you don't have to wait to take photos. The red leaves start to change color in October, which is even better than in September. 06 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is in Luyuan Town; it's remote, but because it's remote, there are few people. 📍Take a bus from Zhuzhou city center; it takes over two hours. Student IDs get half-price tickets. ⏰ Morning is best; it's less crowded, and the scent of incense is faint. The ancient trees in front of the mausoleum are very thick; several people can't wrap their arms around them. Walking through the whole park takes two hours; it's not tiring. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "consecrated" items in the scenic area; they're expensive. If you want to bring back local specialties, buy Tangrenshen sausages when you get back to the city; they're cheap and authentic. Stay near Zhuzhou Railway Station; the shuttle bus to Yandi Mausoleum departs from there. Suitable for people interested in humanities; if you're just looking for fun, you might find it monotonous. The weather is just right in September and October; it's not stuffy. 07 Aksu | Xinjiang Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, with its reddish-brown mountains, feels like entering another planet when you walk in. 📍Charter a car from Kuqa County; it's about 50 per person, and carpooling is more cost-effective. ⏰ Go in the afternoon; the sunlight slants into the canyon, and the rock walls are golden red. It takes about two hours to walk to the end; it's windy inside, so bring a windbreaker. ⚠️ There's no signal in the canyon, so don't go too deep alone. Don't enter on rainy days; flash floods come quickly. Tickets aren't expensive, and student IDs have discounts; check the official announcement on the day. Stay in Kuqa; hostel beds are 40–50. 🍜 Kuqa big naan is 3 each, enough for two people. September and October are the most comfortable times in Xinjiang; the fruits haven't gone off the market yet. 08 Baise | Guangxi Haokun Lake was an unexpected delight on this trip. The water is dark green, surrounded by mountains; it's like a mini Guilin but with no people. 📍Take a bus from Baise city center to Lingyun, then take a taxi there. Tongling Grand Canyon waterfall has a large drop; the water volume is okay in September and October. You'll get wet when you walk to the bottom of the waterfall, so bring a raincoat. Chengbi Lake is suitable for the evening; walk along the lake and watch the locals fishing. 🚄 Get off at Baise Station; it's very convenient to take a bus to Chengbi Lake. Stay in the city center; standard rooms are under 100. 🍜 Rolled rice noodles are 5 a roll, sour snacks are 10 a portion—eat until you're satisfied. ⚠️ There are many steps in Tongling Grand Canyon; be careful if you have bad knees. There isn't much food around Haokun Lake, so bring some dry rations. Suitable for people who like quiet and nature. Of these 8 places, I recommend Wenshan and Shangluo the most; the scenery is good, there are few people, and it costs little. Where are you planning to go in September? Let's chat in the comments section.

Don't want the crowds for National Day? These 6 small towns are perfect for a 3-day slow stay 01 Ningbo | Zhejiang Start the morning at Tianyi Pavilion and Moon Lake. Tianyi Pavilion is the oldest private library still standing in Asia, and the garden is small but refined. After wandering the pavilion, stroll around Moon Lake — the shade is dense and the breeze off the water is very pleasant. Elders can sit by the lake while kids run on the lawn without getting tired. Visit Qiantong Ancient Town in the afternoon. It's about an hour's drive from the city and hasn't been heavily renovated — the stone streets, canals, and old houses are still in use. It looks best at dusk when the cooking smoke rises, and it's much less commercialized than those internet-famous towns. Xikou Tengtou Tourist Area is good for day three. Take the high-speed train from Ningbo station to Xikou station, then a taxi for about ten minutes. Tengtou is an ecological village; Xikou has mountains and water, suitable for both elders and kids. ⚠️ The sights are spread out, don't try to do them all in one day — pick two and take your time. For food, try Gangyagou's tangyuan and the old street's youzanzi for breakfast or afternoon tea. Stay near Moon Lake or the drum tower area so you have food options at night. 02 Zhongwei | Ningxia Zhongwei is half desert and half oasis — three days are just enough to experience both sides. Gaomiao Baoan Temple is in the city and worth visiting in the morning. It's built on a high terrace with dense brick carvings and wooden structures; from the top you can overlook the old town. ⏰ Go in the morning when the light comes in at an angle for non-reflective photos. Afterward, try a bowl of haozhi noodles nearby — locals have it for a late breakfast or early lunch. Shapotou is the main attraction. The Yellow River meets the desert here, and you can go sandboarding, take a goat-skin raft, or try the Yellow River zipline. ⚠️ Activities charge separately, so don't buy everything at once at the entrance — pick one or two you really want. The desert is warmest and the wind calmest at dusk, perfect for slow walks. 🚄 It's about a 30-minute taxi from Zhongwei station to Shapotou. For lodging, stay near the city drum tower for convenient late-night snacks, or stay near the scenic area to be closer to the desert. Temperatures swing at the desert during National Day, so bring a jacket. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou is often treated as a transfer stop, but it's worth staying for two nights. The pace is slow and prices are friendly — good for travelers who don't want to rush. The Yan Emperor Mausoleum is in Yanling County, more than a 2-hour drive from Zhuzhou city. ⏰ Leave early to arrive in the morning when it's quiet. The mausoleum is built into the mountains with many ancient trees, making for a peaceful walk suitable for elders. If visiting only the mausoleum feels thin, stop in Yanling county town for local dishes like sun-dried meat, cured meats, and mountain bamboo shoots — more authentic and better than the food inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Mountain areas get foggy in the afternoon, so don't leave too late on your return and watch the curves if you drive. Zhuzhou city itself is pleasant to explore at night. Walk along the Xiang River scenic belt or look for snacks around Zhongguling. Stay in Hexi or the city center for easy access to the train and bus stations. Don't fill all three days with plans — save half a day to do nothing and enjoy the city's slow vibe. 04 Linfen | Shanxi Linfen is one of those cities that surprises you — the historical density is high, and three days only scratch the surface. The Grand Locust Tree root-seeking and ancestor-worship park in Hongtong is best in the morning. The park is large with little shade, so go early to avoid the sun. Many people research family genealogy and migration records there, giving the place a special atmosphere. 📍 The easiest route is high-speed train from Linfen to Hongtong West station, then a taxi. Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River should take a full day. It's a long drive from Linfen, so consider a day tour or driving yourself. When the water flow is strong, you can hear the roar from far away and the spray hits your face. ⚠️ The riverbank is slippery; don't climb barriers for photos and wear non-slip shoes. Yunqiu Mountain is a good choice for day three. The mountain villages are well preserved and feature ice caves — bring a jacket even in summer. Stay in Linfen city, have a bowl of beef meatball noodles with a flatbread, and you'll have a complete day. 05 Chengdu | Sichuan Everyone knows Chengdu, but over National Day don't just stick to Kuanzhai Alley and Chunxi Road. Here's a slower three-day approach that goes out of town. 📍 Mount Tiantai in Qionglai is good for day one. The mountain isn't high, has plenty of water, and waterfalls and streams follow you along the way. ⏰ Go after rain for lush moss and a moist atmosphere. It's great for kids to play in the water, but ⚠️ the rocks are slippery — avoid flat cloth shoes. Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan make a perfect second day. See ancient waterworks at Dujiangyan and hike Mount Qingcheng for fresh air. The front mountain has many temples; the back mountain is wilder. 🚄 The intercity train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan is quick. Take the cable car on the front mountain if you want to save energy, or hike the back mountain for peace and quiet — but the back mountain trails are longer, so elders should be cautious. Anren Ancient Town and the panda base can be scheduled depending on your plan. Go to the panda base early — it opens at 7:30 AM, and pandas often go back to their dens later. Anren has old mansions and an old street with fewer crowds than the city. Stay near a subway line in the city center for easy transfers and to finish an evening with hotpot. 06 Wanning | Hainan If you want to escape the cold over National Day but avoid the crowds in Sanya, Wanning is the smarter choice. The sea is equally blue but much less crowded, and prices are gentler. 📍 Shimei Bay is ideal for day one. The sand is fine, the water is clear, and there's a green-skinned tree protection area nearby that feels like a green tunnel. ⏰ Go at dusk when the sun isn't harsh and the sea breeze is perfect. ⚠️ Don't swim when the surf is rough; check the flag colors before deciding. Riyue Bay is a surf Mecca. The waves are consistent and there are many surf shops where you can learn on the spot. If you don't surf, sitting on the shore watching others wipe out is oddly relaxing. 🍜 Try local specialties like Hou'an rice noodles and Hele crab — Hele crab is priced by the catty, so ask the price before ordering. 🚄 From Wanning station, taxis are needed to get to Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay; public transit is limited, so rent a car or hire a driver. Stay in a seaside guesthouse so you can wake up to the ocean. Prices rise during National Day, so book early. Three days don't require rushing attractions — sea time, noodles, and doing nothing are enough. 07 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu Zhenjiang lies between Nanjing and Yangzhou and is often skipped, but it's my pick for Jiangsu's most underrated slow city. Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigu Mountain sit along the Yangtze and can be done in one day. Jinshan Temple is lively, Jiaoshan requires a ferry to the island, and Beigu Mountain offers the widest river views. ⏰ Go to Jiaoshan in the morning for shorter ferry lines and a quieter island. ⚠️ Tickets for the three mountains are sold separately — don't buy duplicate combo tickets. Mount Maoshan in Jurong is good for day two. It's a famous Taoist mountain with easy trails and wide views at the top. 📍 It's about an hour's drive from Zhenjiang city; driving is most convenient. Elders can use the cable car to save energy. 🍜 You must try Zhenjiang pot-cover noodles, paired with a slice of cured pork and a dash of vinegar. Stay near Xijin Ferry; when the old street lights come on at night, a slow stroll is delightful. 🚄 It's about a ten-minute taxi from Zhenjiang station to Xijin Ferry. Three days here won't be tiring — your stomach and your eyes will be satisfied. 08 Tangshan | Hebei Tangshan isn't a traditional tourist city, but if you want fewer crowds, substance, and proximity to Beijing and Tianjin over National Day, it's a good fit. Qingdongling deserves a full day. It's in Zunhua, a long drive from Tangshan. The mausoleum complex is large, with stone animals, pailou arches, and underground palaces worth inspecting. ⏰ Arrive in the morning for better light and fewer people. ⚠️ The grounds are large — wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water. Nanhu and Kailuan should be on day two. Nanhu is a reclaimed park from coal subsidence with a large lake and greenways for biking. Kailuan National Mine Park lets you go down into a mine shaft for an experience kids will find novel. 📍 The two sites are close and can be visited together. 🍜 Tangshan maltose and chess-piece sesame buns make good souvenirs; the honey maltose is sweet and straightforward. Stay near Nanhu or the city center and take an evening walk around Phoenix Mountain. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi from Tangshan station to Nanhu. Three days of slow travel here are just enough to see another side of this industrial city. Among these 8 cities, if I had to pick three, I'd choose Ningbo, Linfen, and Wanning — one for culture, one for history, one for the sea. Which city are you planning to visit over National Day? Share in the comments and I can help plan your route.

Don't want to deal with crowds during National Day? These 8 hidden gem cities are amazing 01 Hechi | Guangxi If you're looking for a place with fewer people and beautiful scenery for National Day, Hechi is a must. Surrounded by karst peaks, every snapshot looks like a landscape painting. ⏰ Go to Donglan Landscape in the morning. Before the mist clears, the viewing platform at the first bend of the Hongshui River is basically empty. 📍 Navigate to "Donglan Pohao Lake." Walk along the boardwalk for 20 minutes to find the best photo spot. Jiudun Sky Window is best visited in the afternoon. Sunlight shines directly into the water, offering visibility of over 10 meters. ⚠️ Don't wear flip-flops; the rocks by the shore are slippery. I almost fell. Xiangbei Fairyland and Sanli Yangdu can be visited in one trip. Take a bamboo raft for a stretch; both banks are lined with bamboo forests and rice paddies. 🍜 After getting off the raft, find a roadside shop to eat a bowl of Du'an rice noodles. The pickled bamboo shoots have a strong, addictive flavor. 🚄 Get off at Hechi West Station. Renting a car is most convenient; you can't really rely on buses between attractions. 02 Datong | Shanxi Datong isn't exactly "hidden," but the Yungang Grottoes are definitely less crowded than the Forbidden City during National Day. The impact of the grottoes can't be captured in photos. Standing in front of the giant Buddha in Cave 20, you'll naturally fall silent. The Hanging Temple should be visited early. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid tour groups. ⚠️ There's a limit on visitors climbing the temple. If you're afraid of heights, just looking from below is enough. The stairs are so narrow that only one person can pass sideways. Mount Heng is best for afternoon hiking. Take the cable car up and walk for 40 minutes to the summit. 📍 The road from the Hengshan parking lot to the mountain gate is beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn yellow. 🍜 After descending, head back to the city for knife-cut noodles. Any of the old shops on Gulou East Street will do. Add a braised egg and dried tofu; it costs less than 20 per person. 🚄 It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Datong South Station to Yungang. Bus route 3 also goes there, but it's slow. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou is completely overshadowed by Changsha, but the Yandi Mausoleum is worth a special trip. There are so few tourists here that you can hear your own footsteps echoing in front of the hall. ⏰ I recommend arriving before 10:00 AM, as tour groups usually don't arrive until after 10:30 AM. 📍 The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County, a 2.5-hour drive from downtown Zhuzhou. The mountain roads are winding; if you get carsick, take medicine beforehand. The mausoleum area isn't large; a slow walk of 1.5 hours is enough. The ancient trees are towering, and when the osmanthus flowers bloom in autumn, the entire sacred path smells sweet. 🍜 Yanling yellow peaches are only available in July. For National Day, eat the local blood duck and cured meat. Small restaurants in the county are more authentic than those at the entrance to the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "consecrated" items in the scenic area—you know why. 04 Ningde | Fujian Ningde satisfies your craving for both sea and mountains at once. See the rocks at Taimu Mountain, the mudflats in Xiapu, and wade in the water at Baishuiyang. You won't run out of things to do for 3 days. I recommend hiking Taimu Mountain in the morning. You'll need to take off your backpack to squeeze through the "Yixiantian" (A Thread of Sky) passage. 📍 Couple Peak and Jiuli Lake are must-see spots, but don't believe the signs that say "reach the summit in 30 minutes"—it actually takes 2 hours. The sunset at Beiqi Mudflat in Xiapu is the main event. ⏰ Arrive by 4:30 PM to grab a spot, and check the tide table in advance. ⚠️ The mudflats look flat, but you can sink up to your calves if you step in the wrong place. Don't run around. Baishuiyang and Yuanyang Creek are great for kids. The water only reaches your ankles, making it perfect for summer. 🍜 Don't miss the Fuding meat slices and Xiapu oyster omelet. Street stalls are better than the restaurants. 🚄 You can stay in either Ningde or Xiapu. For the mudflats, I recommend staying in Xiapu County. 05 Chizhou | Anhui Chizhou relies on Mount Jiuhua, but Mount Jiuhua during National Day is much more relaxed than Mount Huangshan. It's the dojo of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva; it's popular with pilgrims, but not so crowded that you can't move. ⏰ Take the first cable car up at 6:30 AM to reach Tiantai Temple before the tour groups. 📍 The Roushen Baodian (Hall of the True Body) and Baisui Palace are the core spots, but the stone steps at Baisui Palace are steep. If your knees aren't great, take the cable car. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are doubled. Bottled water is CNY 10 each, so carry 2 bottles up yourself. You can try the vegetarian food; the vegetarian noodles at Zhiyuan Temple are CNY 15 a bowl and surprisingly good. 🍜 After descending, go to downtown Chizhou to eat stinky mandarin fish. The old shops on Qiupu Road make it authentic. 🚄 There are direct buses from Chizhou Station to the Mount Jiuhua Tourist Center, taking about 40 minutes. 06 Beijing Beijing is certainly not a "hidden gem," but for the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park, the crowds during National Day are mostly on the central axis. The slightly off-center spots are actually okay. You need to grab tickets for the Forbidden City. ⚠️ Tickets are released 7 days in advance; be ready at 8:00 PM. Once inside, don't follow the crowds along the central axis; explore the Six Western and Eastern Palaces first—it's half as crowded. Enter the Summer Palace from the North Palace Gate, cross Longevity Hill to Kunming Lake, and walk in reverse to avoid tour groups. 📍 The autumn colors on the West Causeway are perfect in October and much quieter than Suzhou Street. The Temple of Heaven opens at 6:00 AM. ⏰ That's when all the locals are out for their morning exercise, so you can take photos in front of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests easily. Go to Beihai Park in the evening; the White Dagoba reflecting in the sunset is beautiful. Rowing boats requires waiting in line, but it's worth it. 🍜 Just pick either Huguosi Snacks or Yaoji Chaogan; don't eat Zhajiangmian (fried sauce noodles) inside the scenic areas. 07 Songyuan | Jilin Songyuan is in western Jilin. Chagan Lake is famous for its winter fishing, but autumn is when it's truly amazing. Few people, fat fish, and golden reeds. Driving around Chagan Lake is the best. 📍 A loop from the South Lake to the North Lake takes about an hour, and you can stop to take photos whenever you want. Jinchan Island is best in the afternoon; you can camp on the island, and ⏰ at sunset, the lake surface turns orange-red. ⚠️ Don't buy "wild fish" by the lake; many are farmed. If you want to eat fish, go to the restaurants in Chagan Lake Town. A big pot of stewed bighead carp with vermicelli is enough for 3 people. 🍜 Autumn is the time for crab. Chagan Lake hairy crabs are half the price of Yangcheng Lake crabs, and they are full of roe and fat. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake. I recommend driving or chartering a car. 08 Gannan | Gansu Autumn in Gannan is legendary. The stone city of Zhagana is surrounded by golden hues, the morning mist hangs over the canyons of Labrang Monastery, and Gahai Lake is an unbelievable shade of blue. I recommend staying 1 night in Zhagana. ⏰ Arrive at Fairy Beach before 7:00 AM; the clouds and mist haven't cleared yet, and the village looks like it's floating in the air. ⚠️ Accommodation is tight during National Day, so book a month in advance. Labrang Monastery is divided into Sichuan and Gansu sides; the Saiqi Temple on the Gansu side offers better panoramic views. 📍 Don't miss the sunset at Red Rock Cliff; it's a 20-minute climb. Yeliguan and Gahai Lake are great for a road trip; the grasslands along the way are full of cattle and sheep. 🍜 You can try the Tibetan buns and butter tea in Xiahe County, but some people aren't used to the taste. 🚄 It takes about 4 hours to drive from Lanzhou to Gannan. Expressways are free during National Day, but there's a lot of traffic, so leave early. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to visit again are Gannan and Hechi. One is desolate and rugged, the other is gentle and moist. Just pick 1 and go—don't try to do too much.

Must-read before your National Day trip: 8 autumn hidden gems with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery 01 Enshi | Hubei Heading to Enshi for the National Day holiday is all about the cool, quiet mountain air. I recommend taking a boat into the Shennong Stream Tracker Culture Area. The wooden boat skims the water, and you can reach out and touch the mist on the rock walls on both sides. ⏰ Board before 8:00 AM when it's less crowded and the mist hasn't cleared yet; it feels like drifting through a painting. Don't push yourself to do the whole Enshi Grand Canyon. Taking the cable car up and walking the cliffside plank road is enough. Once you've snapped a photo of Yizhu Xiang, head back. ⚠️ It gets foggy after 3:00 PM, and you won't be able to see anything, so don't risk it. Qingjiang Gallery is perfect for a relaxed trip. Take a boat to see Butterfly Cliff; it's a two-hour round trip, and it's easy for seniors and children. Plan your visit to Tusi City for the evening. 📍 The light hits the square in front of Jiujin Hall at an angle after 5:00 PM, so you won't need filters for your photos. The stall in town selling Baiyang dried tofu is CNY 5 a bag—perfect for snacking on the go. 🚄 A taxi from Enshi Station to Tusi City costs about CNY 20; don't trust the private drivers soliciting passengers at the entrance. 02 Zhuzhou | Hunan To be honest, many people pass through Zhuzhou without stopping at the Yandi Mausoleum. But if you want to avoid the National Day crowds, it's actually a great choice. The mausoleum area is filled with ancient trees, and the temperature drops as soon as you walk in. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM before the public memorial square gets packed with tour groups. The highlights aren't in the main hall, but in the stele corridor and the small hill behind the Shennong Main Hall. A slow 40-minute walk lets you see the steles from various dynasties. 🍜 Don't buy the expensive Yanling yellow peach dried fruit at the exit; the loose, weighed version is the best value. ⚠️ There's no shade in the mausoleum area, so bring your own hat and sunglasses. If you're bringing seniors, the steps here are gentle, and wheelchairs can reach the main hall. If young people find it boring, just adjust your expectations to "a walk in the park." The admission ticket isn't expensive, but the sightseeing shuttle costs extra—if you're fit, you can skip it. 03 Xianyang | Shaanxi I recommend setting aside a whole morning for Qianling Mausoleum. The Sima Road below the main peak of Liangshan has had stone figures and horses standing for over a thousand years, and during the National Day holiday, the persimmons on both sides are just turning red. ⏰ Get there right when it opens at 8:30 AM; after 10:00 AM, tour buses arrive one after another. 📍 Walk 50 meters west of the Unmarked Stele for a great angle to photograph the Twin Breasts Peaks—it's much better than the crowded front view. Yuanjia Village is best for the afternoon. Don't crowd the main street; head into the back alleys. 🍜 The freshly cooked sour soup noodles at the handmade noodle shop cost CNY 12 a bowl—cheaper than the main street and no waiting in line. ⚠️ The popular fried dough twists on the main street have long lines, but the taste is just average and not worth it. The choice in Xianyang is simple: Qianling for history, Yuanjia Village for food. The two places aren't far apart—a 40-minute taxi ride. If you can only choose one, I'd pick Qianling; you can visit Yuanjia Village on any weekend. 04 Manzhouli | Inner Mongolia The Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area in Manzhouli is perfect for the National Day holiday. It's hot in summer and cold in winter, but late September to early October is just right. 📍 The colorful houses outside the Matryoshka Hotel have the softest light at 4:00 PM, making them look like a fairy tale in photos. ⏰ The lights come on after 6:00 PM, offering a different vibe. The scenic area isn't actually that big; you can finish it in two hours. ⚠️ The Russian song and dance performance at the Matryoshka Square costs extra; ask about the price in advance if you want to see it. 🍜 The Russian borscht and rye bread on Zhongsu Street outside the scenic area are more authentic than what's inside. Kids will love it here—there are many doll shapes and bright colors. Couples should come at dusk; once the lights turn on, the atmosphere is perfect. 🚄 A taxi from Manzhouli Station to the Matryoshka Scenic Area costs about CNY 15; don't take unlicensed taxis. 05 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas and Koktokay are perfect for the tail end of autumn during the National Day holiday. For the morning mist at Fairy Bay in Kanas, ⏰ arrive at the viewing platform before 7:30 AM; if you're late, the mist will clear and it will be crowded. 📍 The plank road from Moon Bay to Wolong Bay takes 40 minutes to walk and is more worthwhile than taking the shuttle bus. Koktokay has a different vibe. The birch forests along the Irtysh River have turned completely yellow, and the leaves fall into the water when the wind blows. ⚠️ Food in the scenic area is expensive and not very good, so bring your own snacks. Regarding the cultural aspect of the Altay grasslands, you might happen to see herdsmen migrating—watch from a distance and don't chase them. It's too early for snow in Northern Xinjiang during the National Day holiday; it usually doesn't appear until mid-to-late October. Don't be fooled by photos online. 🚄 Chartering a car after landing at Altay Airport is the most convenient option; public transport is too slow. This is suitable for photography enthusiasts and early risers; lazy travelers should be cautious. 06 Haikou | Hainan Haikou is hot during the National Day holiday, but it's bearable. I recommend visiting the Five Officials Temple in the morning; ⏰ get there when it opens at 8:00 AM and sit under the ancient trees—it's more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 📍 Locals say the water from the Fusu Spring well inside the temple is sweet—believe it or not. Save the Qilou Old Street for the evening. With its Nanyang-style buildings and mottled walls, walking in feels like stepping back in time. 🍜 The spicy soup rice at the shop in Shuixiangkou costs a little over CNY 10; the pepper flavor is intense, and you'll break a sweat after eating it. ⚠️ Don't buy coconut jelly on the old street if it costs more than CNY 15; walk a few steps further and you'll find it cheaper. The Volcano Park is best after 4:00 PM. It's not tiring to climb; you can reach the top in half an hour and overlook the entire city of Haikou. If you're bringing seniors, the Qilou Old Street and Five Officials Temple are the easiest; assess your ability before attempting the volcano. 07 Zaozhuang | Shandong Visit Taierzhuang Ancient Town during the National Day holiday in the evening. There are many tour groups during the day, but at night, when the lights come on and the sculling boats glide slowly through the water alleys, it's a completely different experience. 📍 The alley east of Fuxing Square has fewer people and dense lights, so you won't have to fight for photo spots. ⏰ Enter the town after 7:00 PM, stay at a local guesthouse, and explore it again the next morning when it's empty. When eating in the ancient town, avoid the main street. 🍜 Turn into Yuehe Street; the vegetable pancakes and yellow flower beef noodles are authentic. ⚠️ If the line for the sculling boat is over 40 minutes, skip it; walking through the alleys is more atmospheric. Kids will love the lanterns and boats here. Couples should choose a rainy day—the bluestone slabs reflect the light, and the whole town looks like it's immersed in water. 🚄 A taxi from Zaozhuang Station to the ancient town costs about CNY 50; carpooling can cut that in half. 08 Shangrao | Jiangxi You need to distinguish between Sanqingshan and Wuyuan when visiting during the National Day holiday. Sanqingshan is for viewing rocks; ⏰ take the cable car at 6:30 AM, or you'll be waiting in line for at least two hours. 📍 You can see the Python Emerging from the Mountain and the Oriental Goddess by walking the Nanqingyuan loop. ⚠️ The weather on the mountain changes quickly, and a raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. Choose either Jiangwan or Huangling in Wuyuan. The "Shaiqiu" (sun-drying of crops) in Huangling is perfect during the National Day holiday, with chili peppers and corn covering the bamboo baskets, the colors as rich as an oil painting. Jiangwan is more cultural with many old houses; take your time walking through. Guifeng is suitable for those with good stamina; it's a three-hour hike, but the scenery is worth the price of admission. 🍜 The steamed cake shop in Wuyuan county town, the one where locals line up, will fill you up for CNY 5. This is suitable for self-driving; public transport transfers are too much of a hassle. Accommodation is tight during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. Of these eight places, the ones I think are most worth visiting during the National Day holiday are Enshi and Taierzhuang. One lets you hide in the mountains, the other lets you soak in the nightlife. Which one would you choose?

Heading out for Mid-Autumn and National Day, airfares and hotels triple in price, people are packed everywhere, and you can't even get a clean shot for a photo. I refuse to accept that, so in August I picked a few less-crowded, low-cost small towns to visit. My wallet didn't suffer, and my mood felt pretty full. Below are eight places I've scouted myself; I'll tell you the good and the bad. 01 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River stone forest looks at first like someone split it with a knife. Tickets plus the shuttle are just over CNY 100. I suggest arriving before 9 AM, when the light hits the stone pillars at an angle and you don't need any filters for photos. ⏰ After 2 PM the backlighting is harsh, so getting good shots is mostly luck. Don’t rush to accept offers from donkey carts or go-karts in the park. 📍 The most photogenic stretch is the walk from Longwan village mouth into the gorge. Save your transport money and buy a local bowl of sour-broth noodles for CNY 6 — the tartness is just right. 🚄 Take a coach from Lanzhou to Jingtai then change buses; the whole trip is under CNY 50. Best for solo travelers or couples with decent stamina who aren't in a hurry. ⚠️ In August the ground can be scorching in the afternoon. Bring plenty of water and avoid shoes with thin soles. 02 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor mausoleum is in Luyuan town. Peak-season tickets are about CNY 60, but enter after 4 PM in August and there are half as many people and a breeze coming through the trees. I'm not there to burn incense — I just think sitting under that thousand-year camphor tree and zoning out is worth it. 🍜 The small restaurants in town serve Youxian-style dried tofu and blood duck; about CNY 30 per person will leave you stuffed. Don't eat at the first place by the attraction entrance — walk 200 meters in and the owner lady will ladle you an extra scoop of soup. 🚄 There are direct buses from Zhuzhou West station to Yanling that take 2.5 hours. Good for visiting with parents and strolling slowly; there aren't many steps. ⚠️ The mausoleum stops admitting visitors at 5 PM. Don't arrive right at closing time — I nearly got turned away. 03 Handan | Hebei I recommend splitting Guangfu ancient city and Nuwa Palace into two days. You can climb the Guangfu city wall for free; rent a bike for CNY 20 and ride the loop. In the reed marshes, water birds flutter up everywhere. ⏰ After 5 PM the moat reflects beautifully; the wall reflections are amazing. Nuwa Palace is in She county; tickets are CNY 70 and the cable car costs extra. I chose to climb the steps — about 40 minutes of stairs, my legs trembled but it was worth it. 📍 The view from the top at Nainai Peak is much more expansive than from the cable car. 🍜 Outside Guangfu south gate the crispy fish and braised pork knuckle are sold by weight. Don't buy too much — half a jin is enough to sample. Best for people who like ancient architecture and hiking. ⚠️ The temple fair at Nuwa Palace gets packed during the lunar March festival; going in August is just the right quiet. 04 Yulin | Shaanxi Wave Valley and Red Stone Gorge are in different spots — one in Jingbian, the other north of the city — so don't try to do both in one day. Wave Valley is currently free, but when the boardwalk is under maintenance only parts are open, so check official notices before you go. ⏰ The red sandstone is most saturated after rain; I hit a light shower and felt lucky. On the Huanghe stretch in Jia county, drive along Huang Road and parking to view the river is free. 📍 Xianglu Temple hangs off the cliff, tiny and charming; you can see it in about 20 minutes. Red Stone Gorge is near Yulin city; tickets are CNY 30 and it's cooler in the evening. 🚄 From Yulin station a taxi to Red Stone Gorge is about CNY 15. For food, share the three-delicacy dish and the lamb offal stew — about CNY 25 per person. Best for self-driving or hiring a car; public transport is a bit of a hassle. ⚠️ Farmstay prices around Wave Valley vary a lot; ask the price first before sitting down. 05 Nanping | Fujian Wuyi Mountain scenic area is impossible to see in one day. I bought a 3-day pass for just over CNY 200 that includes the bamboo raft; it's cheaper than buying separate tickets. ⏰ The 7:30 AM raft is the most pleasant — the mist hasn't cleared and the Nine-Bend Creek looks like a painting. If you skip the raft, climbing Tianyou Peak takes about 40 minutes — sunny and sweaty but worth it. 📍 The Rock Bones and Flower Fragrance trail from Water Curtain Cave to Dahongpao is full of tea aroma; two hours walking doesn't feel tiring. 🍜 In the resort area, Lan Valley smoked goose and Zixi rice noodles are about CNY 40 per person. Don't eat inside the park — go out to Sangu Street for more choices and lower prices. Suitable for families or couples; elderly people can ride the raft. ⚠️ Afternoon thunderstorms in August can arrive suddenly; bring a lightweight rain jacket. 06 Altay | Xinjiang Kanas and Koktokay are at the tail end of the August high season; by September it's quieter. Kanas tickets plus shuttle are over CNY 200. I stayed in Jiadengyu, which is about half the price of staying inside the park. ⏰ Take the shuttle before 8 AM to avoid the big tour groups. Koktokay isn't a sea — it's a canyon and the Irtysh River. 📍 The hike by Shenzhong Mountain takes about 3 hours round trip, with the sound of water following you the whole way. On the Altay grassland, Kazakh herders' yurts offer a bowl of milk tea for CNY 5 — more genuine than any trendy café. 🚄 Fly from Urumqi to Altay; buy tickets in advance and you can keep it under CNY 400. North Xinjiang's snowy scenery comes after October — August is a great month to enjoy the green. Best for people with enough time who don't mind long travel. ⚠️ Temperature swings between morning and night are big; don't dismiss a lightweight down jacket. 07 Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula sounds foreign but it's actually near Tongren in Qinghai. Tickets plus the sightseeing bus are just over CNY 100. With Danxia landforms and the Yellow River reservoir, the colors are so rich they look like an oil painting. ⏰ After 3 PM the light warms up and the hills glow red. 📍 The Nanzong Valley trail leads to a nunnery; it's so quiet you only hear the wind. I went in August — the rapeseed flowers had just finished, but the grasslands were still green. 🍜 In Tongren town, Tibetan food like tsampa and yak yogurt is about CNY 20 per person. Best for people who like natural scenery and peace. ⚠️ Altitude is around 2,500 m, so don't run or jump; walk slowly. Public transport is infrequent, so carpooling is recommended. 08 Yancheng | Jiangsu Dafeng China milu reserve tickets are CNY 50, and the sightseeing bus costs extra. I chose to stroll the walking area slowly; the milu deer stand at the water's edge with grass hanging from their antlers like messy hats. ⏰ The herd is active before 10 AM and after 4 PM. 📍 Walk 500 meters north from the viewing platform to a shallow shoal where there are fewer people and more deer. Don't feed them outside food; the park sells special feed for CNY 5 a pack. 🍜 After leaving the park, go to Dafeng city for fish soup noodles and drunken mud snails; about CNY 30 per person. Suitable for kids — flat paths make strollers easy. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are abundant in August; long pants and insect repellent are essential. If you're coming for Mid-Autumn and National Day, buy tickets online one day in advance to save queue time. After visiting these eight places, the ones I'd most like to revisit are Yulin and Kanbula. One is rugged, the other intense. If you only have a 3-day holiday, pick a nearby spot and explore slowly — it's much nicer than rushing around. Tell me in the comments where you went in August to escape the crowds? National Day fun season counter‑tourism travel deals rail travel escape tips

Where to go for a Mid-Autumn and National Day road trip? 8️⃣ underrated small towns with fewer crowds and lower costs 01 Yulin | Guangxi Zhuzhou Mountain National Forest Park was the surprise of this trip. It's about a 1-hour drive from Yulin city, with many winding roads, so take motion sickness medicine if you get carsick. ⏰ Arrive at the summit before 10:00 AM, when the mist hasn't cleared yet; windmills turning in the fog feel like stepping into an old movie. I don't really recommend Yuntian Cultural City. Tickets aren't cheap, and it's mainly woodcarvings and jade exhibits. Unless you're really into that kind of collection, a photo at the entrance is enough. ⚠️ Entry stops at 5:00 PM, so don't time your visit poorly. Wanhua Tower is best at dusk. 📍 Turn onto Jiefang Road; when the old shophouses light up, there's a slight Nanyang vibe. 🍜 Try the local beef tendon rice noodles and beef brisket rice noodles. A bowl costs just over a CNY 100 in total for a clean place to stay in Yulin city. It's suitable for travelers with elders and kids, as there are no steep climbs. 02 Yantai | Shandong Don't try to visit Penglai Pavilion and Changdao in the same day. I made that mistake on my first trip and ended up rushing both. Trust me: go to Penglai Pavilion first on a sunny day — enter when it opens at 7:30 AM to avoid tour groups. The half hour after the sea fog lifts, with the pavilions against the sea, is worth the ticket. Changdao requires a ferry; cars can be transported on the boat. ⚠️ Services may be suspended in strong winds, so check ferry notices before you go. Stay on the South Island for easier food and lodging. 🍜 Try seaweed buns and saury dumplings — avoid the first restaurant at the pier. Nanshan in Longkou is a convenient driving detour. Parking is easy at the foot of the Nanshan Giant Buddha, the park is large, and it's best to take the electric tram. It's busy during Mid-Autumn and National Day; tickets and ferry fares follow the official daily announcements. Suitable for parents who can walk but don't want to overexert themselves. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County, more than a 3-hour drive from Zhuzhou city. Don't do it as a same-day round trip — it's too exhausting. Stay overnight in Yanling County and go early the next day. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid crowds. Ancient cypresses stand thick and tall, and it's quiet enough to hear birds sing. The mausoleum area is not large; a relaxed 2-hour walk is enough. 📍 Many people miss the stele corridor behind Shennong Hall, but it's worth a stop. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, try Yanling yellow peaches. There are late-season varieties in September–October that are really sweet. ⚠️ Mountain roads are often foggy and the weather can change in the afternoon, so bring a light jacket. This place suits people who want peace rather than lively entertainment. For families, telling kids about the origins of farming here is more rewarding than a quick tour. 04 Yangzhou | Jiangsu You can fit Slender West Lake, Ge Garden, and He Garden into one day, but don't overdo it. My order is: ⏰ Enter Slender West Lake at 7:00 AM and walk from the south gate to the north gate — about 2 hours. Leave at 10:00 AM and take a taxi to Ge Garden. Ge Garden's artificial rockworks are best in autumn. Visit He Garden in the afternoon. 📍 The photo spot on the second floor of the Fudao corridor gets beautiful slanting light in the afternoon; anyone who shoots there looks good. 🍜 For lunch, go to Guoqing Road for hot dry tofu threads and crab roe soup dumplings. Don't eat inside the scenic area — it's expensive and just average. Yangzhou is for slow wandering, not rushing. Night tours of Slender West Lake are open during Mid-Autumn and National Day, with lights and reflections on the bridges, but book tickets in advance. ⚠️ Ge Garden and He Garden have different closing times, so follow the official notices that day. It's elder-friendly, with flat paths and plenty of places to sit. 05 Bijie | Guizhou Zhijin Cave was the most stunning stop. The cave is constantly cool — outside it can be around 30°C, while inside it's only about 10–15°C. ⚠️ Bring a jacket and avoid sandals, as the ground is wet. ⏰ Be in the first group at 9:00 AM to avoid crowds. The lighting makes the cave look like an underground palace. The full route takes about 2 hours. The Baili Azalea area won't have flowers in September, so don't go expecting blooms. But the autumn mountain colors are great for a scenic drive. 📍 The Pudi Scenic Area stretch often offers a sea of clouds at dusk. 🍜 In Bijie city center, try laoguo and cold buckwheat jelly — expect to pay a few CNY per person. These two spots are far apart, so split them over two days. Stay one night in Zhijin County and visit the Hundred-Mile Azalea the next day. Road conditions are okay but very twisty. This route suits lovers of natural wonders; the cave has many stairs, so be cautious if elders have mobility issues. 06 Guyuan | Ningxia Xumishan Grottoes are so underrated it's almost a shame. It's about a 1-hour drive from Guyuan city center, and the roads are quiet. ⏰ The best light is after 3:00 PM — the grottoes face west and the niches glow warm. Tickets are inexpensive, and the guides are sincere. 📍 The more-than-20-meter seated Buddha in the Dafo tower makes people fall quiet when they look up from its base. ⚠️ Some cave areas may be under renovation, so access depends on the day. Don't expect everything to be open, but it's worth a visit. There aren't many places to eat nearby, so bring water. 🍜 Back in Guyuan city, try mutton saozi noodles — the broth is rich and the noodles have a good chew. This place suits those interested in grottoes and the Silk Road. It can work for families, but kids might find it dull. During Mid-Autumn and National Day, it's surprisingly uncrowded. 07 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Visit Taoxichuan Creative Park at night. ⏰ On Friday and Saturday there are markets, and most stall owners are young artisans. 📍 The old factory buildings converted into a district, with red brick and lighting, look great no matter where you walk. 🍜 Coffee and pastries in the park are a bit pricey; go to the new factory across the street for cold rice noodles, only a few CNY a bowl. Go to the Old Kiln Folk Art Museum during the day. Watching master craftsmen throw clay and paint porcelain is more interesting than shopping. ⚠️ Book hands-on classes in advance, as on-site queues fill up. Tickets follow official daily notices. Jingdezhen is best for a two-day visit. Day 1: Taoxichuan; day 2: Old Kiln, and in the afternoon check out a sculpture-porcelain factory for small finds. Parking is tight for drivers; stay near Taoxichuan and walk. It's ideal for couples and close friends. 08 Ili | Xinjiang The Ili River Valley starts changing color in September. Kalajun's grass turns yellow and gains more visual layers. ⏰ Enter the park in the morning and take a horseback ride for a while — afternoon light is too harsh. ⚠️ Temperatures vary greatly between day and night, so a down jacket isn't an exaggeration. Turgun Apricot Valley has no apricot blossoms in September, but the valley's autumn colors are peaceful. 📍 The Gongnaisi grassland section is most enjoyable by car, since you can stop anytime. 🍜 In Yining city, try hand-pulled pilaf and baked buns; there are many options near Six Star Street. This route suits travelers with time — leave at least 4 days. Accommodation fills up for Mid-Autumn and National Day, so book early. On long stretches, watch your fuel — gas stations can be far apart. It's fine for traveling with older adults and children, but don't rush; driving slowly is the right way to experience Ili. Of these eight places, I most want to return to Zhijin Cave and the Ili River Valley — one underground, one on the horizon. Pick one and set off during Mid-Autumn and National Day.

Don't want to deal with the National Day crowds? These 6 low-cost cities are fantastic. 01 Nujiang | Yunnan If you want to avoid the crowds during National Day, Nujiang is a "long trip but worth it" option. The morning mist in Bingzhongluo hangs halfway up the canyon. 📍 You can park at the Nujiang First Bend viewing platform and take photos without hiking. ⏰ The light is softest before 9:00 AM; it's backlit later. Nanjieluo is great for hikers; take a local van from the village committee to the mountain, then walk two hours to the lake. ⚠️ It rains a lot in October, and the mud roads are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes—don't try it in white sneakers. Budget-wise, small inns in Fugong and Gongshan are just over CNY 100 a night. 🍜 Lacquer oil chicken and hand-grabbed rice are CNY 30–40 per person, and you'll be stuffed. Suitable for those with flexible time who don't mind bumpy mountain roads. 02 Suzhou | Jiangsu Suzhou is famous, but there are low-budget ways to enjoy it during National Day. Tickets for the Tiger Hill scenic area are CNY 70 during peak season. ⚠️ Get there when it opens at 7:30 AM; tour groups swarm in after 10:00 AM, and you won't even be able to stand by the Sword Pool. Don't visit Hanshan Temple and the Humble Administrator's Garden on the same day; one is in the west and the other in the northeast, so traveling back and forth is tiring. 📍 You must book the Humble Administrator's Garden online 3 days in advance; there are basically no tickets on-site. To save money on gardens, Lingering Garden and Couple's Retreat Garden are quieter and have cheaper tickets. 🍜 Grab a bowl of braised pork noodles on Lindun Road for lunch for CNY 20. For the Jiangnan water town vibe, just walk along Pingjiang Road; no need to take a boat, as the riverside views are free. 03 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain is the only reason to visit Pingliang. 🚄 It takes about 2 hours by high-speed train from Xi'an to Pingliang, and a taxi from the station to the scenic area entrance is CNY 30–40. Tickets plus round-trip cable car are just over CNY 200; if you aren't very fit, buy the cable car ticket—don't force yourself to climb. ⏰ Go up the mountain in the afternoon to watch the sunset; walking from Zhongtai toward Xiangshan offers fewer crowds and a wider view. ⚠️ It's windy at the summit, so bring a light down jacket in October; don't try to tough it out in just a hoodie. There are many small eateries near the Guangcheng Hotel at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 Mutton paomo and ge-lao noodles are CNY 25 per person. Suitable for traveling with parents; there are many steps, but the cable car saves half the effort. 04 Nyingchi | Tibet National Day is the tail end of the off-season in Nyingchi, so airfare is much cheaper than in summer. The water in Basum Lake is an unreal blue. 📍 A walk around the boardwalk on the lake island takes 40 minutes. ⏰ It's calmest before 10:00 AM, making the reflections clearest. Bomi and the Yunnan-Tibet Highway are great for road trips; the snow-capped mountains and colorful forests along the way are at their most vibrant in October. ⚠️ Tickets for the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon plus the sightseeing bus cost over CNY 200, but you won't see anything if the weather is bad, so check the cloud cover before you leave. For accommodation, choose Bayi Town; a standard room is around CNY 150. 🍜 Stone pot chicken is CNY 60 per person, and one pot is perfect for two. Suitable for those who can handle the altitude and aren't in a rush. 05 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. 🚄 It takes about 1.5 hours by high-speed train from Changsha to Yanling, then a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. Tickets are CNY 60. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's quiet and uncrowded; walking under the shade of the ancient cypress trees will calm your mind. This isn't a "fun" attraction in the traditional sense; it's a place for a slow walk and to see the stone inscriptions. ⚠️ Don't expect a bustling commercial street nearby; have lunch in the county town. 🍜 Once the Yanling yellow peach season is over, try the bacon stir-fried with bamboo shoots for CNY 40 per person. Suitable for bringing elders; the steps are gentle and not tiring. Half a day is enough; you can explore the county town in the afternoon. 06 Sanming | Fujian Dajin Lake and Taining Ancient City can be combined into 1 day. ⏰ Take a boat tour of Dajin Lake in the morning; the Danxia landforms against the water are beautiful. 📍 Get off at the Ganlu Temple stop to take a look; the wooden structure embedded in the rock cave is quite stunning. Tickets plus the boat ride are around CNY 160. ⚠️ Boat schedules are fixed, so time it well to avoid missing the return trip. In the afternoon, return to Taining Ancient City; tickets for Shangshudi are CNY 30, and the old street is free to explore. 🍜 For dinner, try Taining warm mushroom buns and bean curd for CNY 30 per person. Suitable for families; the boat ride isn't tiring, and the ancient city streets are flat. Hotel prices will rise during National Day, so book in advance. 07 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Shicheng and Sanbai Mountain are in 2 different directions in Ganzhou, so don't try to cram them into 1 day. Shicheng's Tongtianzhai features Danxia landforms and lotus ponds. ⏰ The lotus leaves are withered in October, but the Danxia rock walls against the sunset make for great photos. 📍 Enter through the south gate and exit through the north gate to avoid backtracking. Sanbai Mountain is the source of the Dongjiang River; the forest trails are cool. ⚠️ The scenic area is large, so you must buy a sightseeing bus ticket, or you'll wear yourself out walking. Tickets plus the bus are around CNY 120. It's about a 2-hour drive from downtown Ganzhou to Shicheng and about 2.5 hours to Sanbai Mountain. 🍜 Gannan stir-fried fish and Hakka stuffed tofu are CNY 40 per person. Suitable for road trips; public transportation will be a hassle. 08 Dalian | Liaoning Dalian is a bit chilly by the sea during National Day, but there are fewer people than in summer. Visit the Golden Pebble Beach National Tourist Resort to see the reefs. ⏰ Go at low tide; 📍 you can only really see the shape of the "Dinosaur Exploring the Sea" rock when you get close. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea, so bring a jacket. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is great for kids; tickets are over CNY 200, but buy them online in advance to save CNY 20. Tangli Lake Park is free and is where locals go for a stroll; it's quiet. Go to Xinghai Square in the evening; 🚄 take Metro Line 1 directly there and rent a bike to ride around the square. 🍜 Go to Heishijiao in the evening for seafood; you can get full for CNY 80 per person. Suitable for those with a moderate budget who want to see the sea without getting in the water. Of these 8 places, Nujiang and Nyingchi require the most travel time, while Suzhou and Zhuzhou are the most hassle-free. Pick 1 close to you, and just make sure you don't get stuck in traffic on the highway during National Day.

Tracing China's roots | Yan Emperor mausoleum 6-day, 5-night relaxed luxury trip | complete CNY 16,000 guide If you're tired of rushed, checklist-style travel, consider starting a quiet journey to trace your roots in Yanling. The country's first imperial mausoleum is tucked deep in the Luoxiao Mountains, where historic sites, primary forest, and Hakka village life all come together. Save this in-depth itinerary. 💰Budget note: CNY 16,000 (luxury trip for 2, including upscale homestays, private car service, specialty meals, attraction tickets, and experiences; does not include major transport to and from the destination) ✅Day 1 | Arrival in Yanling, first taste of small-town life Arrive in Yanling in the afternoon and check in to a boutique homestay in town to rest. Stroll the old street at dusk to soak up the slow rhythm of small-city life. ✨Food spots to try: Yanling stuffed tofu and mugwort rice cakes, with a soft mugwort wrapper filled with dried bamboo shoots and cured pork, a genuine Hakka flavor. For dinner, try a local rustic dish to get used to the mild spiciness of eastern Hunan. ✅Day 2 | Full-day visit to the Yan Emperor mausoleum Spend the whole day at the Yan Emperor mausoleum. Walk slowly along the sacrificial avenue and check out Huaxia Square, Shennong Hall, the imperial stele garden, and the sacred fire altar. Red walls and yellow tiles frame millennia-old cypresses, and the inscriptions record imperial sacrificial rites through the ages. Take time to visit the tomb and absorb the deep culture of Shennong rather than rushing through. Walk along the Mi River at sunset and watch the light spread over the water for a perfect atmosphere. 🍲Lunch recommendation: try the Yanling "first bowl," a layered dish of egg rolls, meatballs, and dried bamboo shoots that serves as the signature starter at a Hakka banquet and symbolizes steady advancement. ✅Day 3 | Hike and breathe in Shennong Valley National Forest Park Drive to Shennong Valley, whose 100,000 mu of primary forest make it a natural oxygen bar. Walk the forest boardwalks, admire the beaded curtain waterfalls, and listen to the stream. Avoid the midday sun and amble slowly through bamboo-grove gorges. Return to the homestay at dusk and relax with a cup of high-mountain tea. 🔥Dinner must-try: firewood-smoked cured pork stir-fried with mountain bamboo shoots, where pine-smoked cured meat pairs richly with fresh wild bamboo shoots. ✅Day 4 | Day trip to the Cloud Courtyard highland retreat Head to the Cloud Courtyard today. Wait for the highland sea of clouds at dawn, and enjoy tea terraces unfolding across the slopes with expansive views. Visit ancient mountain villages to learn about Hakka mountain living. In your free time, try picking tea and tasting local brews. Temperatures are cooler on the mountain, so bring a light jacket. 🥘Dinner suggestion: try Huangmen-style Lingxian white goose, tender and juicy, a Yanling signature dish. ✅Day 5 | Wander red historical villages, try heritage crafts Visit Yejia ancestral hall and Shuixi village to read the area's revolutionary history. In the afternoon, join a local hands-on session to learn how to make rice cakes. Wander through fields and capture healing pastoral scenes. In the evening, arrange a full Hakka ten-bowl meat banquet, with dishes like tuo tuo pork and braised Hakka specialties served in sequence for an immersive look at Hakka food rituals. ✅Day 6 | Leisurely town stroll and departure Get up early to visit the local farmers' market and pick up Yanling dried yellow peaches, dried bamboo shoots, and cured meats as souvenirs. Have a simple bowl of local rice noodles for lunch, pack up, and end the journey of tracing your roots. 💡Travel tips 1. Mountain areas have large temperature swings between morning and night, so wear comfortable, slip-resistant shoes for hiking. 2. Maintain solemnity during ancestral rites, and buy incense in town ahead of time if you plan to use it in the scenic area. 3. Mountain roads are winding, so reduce speed and drive cautiously if self-driving. 4. Hakka cuisine tends to be rich and oily; if you prefer lighter food, tell the restaurant in advance.

(Clickbait alert! ...Actually, it's a reverse recommendation!) Who still thinks of Zhuzhou as just a stopover on the way to Changsha?! This "city pulled by trains" is packed with Yandi culture, thousand-year-old ceramics, and authentic Hunan vibes. It offers incredible value for money and is perfect for a comfortable 2-day weekend trip. 📅 Best time to visit ✅ Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most comfortable, with pleasant temperatures that make outdoor sightseeing a breeze. You can head to Shennong Valley in the summer to escape the heat; winter is a bit colder, making it better for museum hopping and food tours. 📍 Must-visit attractions ▫️ Shennong City Yandi Culture Park (Free) The calling card of Zhuzhou! The giant Yandi statue is breathtaking. Take a stroll along Shennong Lake, wait for the sunset in the evening, and enjoy the incredible atmosphere when the lights come on at night. If you want a bird's-eye view of the city, you can pay to go up the Shennong Tower. ▫️ Zhuzhou Museum (Free ❗ Reservation required, closed on Mondays) A must-visit! You'll learn about Zhuzhou's industrial history and ceramic culture. The spiral staircase is perfect for photos. We recommend setting aside 2 hours for this—it's indoors, so you won't have to worry about the sun. ▫️ Liling Porcelain Valley Highly recognizable, uniquely shaped ceramic architecture! See the underglaze multicolored porcelain and try your hand at DIY pottery. It's a fantastic spot for artsy photos. The park is free, though some experience projects have a fee. ▫️ Zhongguling Night Market The ceiling of local vibes! Liling stir-fried rice noodles, fiery beef, and sugar-oil baba (glutinous rice cakes)—get them all. Wander deep into the alleys; the stalls crowded with locals are the tastiest. ▫️ Xiangjiang River Scenic Belt (Free) Come in the evening! Enjoy the river breeze and watch the sunset over the Xiangjiang River. It's very healing to walk along the riverbank. We don't recommend taking the tourist boats that solicit passengers on the side of the road. 🗺️ 2-day 1-night weekend itinerary (Lazy version) This itinerary connects the city's local vibes with either Liling Porcelain Valley or Fantawild Adventure. You can refer to this order: Day 1: City vibes Morning 👉 Zhuzhou Museum (remember to book in advance via their official WeChat account) Lunch 👉 Slurp a bowl of authentic stir-fried topping noodles in the city Afternoon 👉 Stroll through Shennong City to see the Yandi statue and Shennong Lake. If you have the energy, go up the Shennong Tower for the view Evening 👉 Wait for the stunning sunset at the Xiangjiang River Scenic Belt Night 👉 Go wild with snacks at Zhongguling Night Market. Stay in the city center for convenient travel Day 2: Choose one ✨ For the artsy crowd 👉 Liling Porcelain Valley: visit the Ceramic Museum, try pottery, and buy some small ceramic souvenirs before heading home. 🎢 For the thrill-seekers 👉 Zhuzhou Fantawild Adventure: enjoy roller coasters and indoor attractions for a full day. Great for friends or family trips. 💡 Small tips ▪️ Take the high-speed train to Zhuzhou West Station; a taxi to the city center costs about 30–40 yuan. Zhuzhou Station is closer to the city center. ▪️ Most city attractions are free; expenses are mainly for food and experience projects. ▪️ Must-try food: Liling stir-fried rice noodles, Youxian dried tofu, and Liling stir-fried pork—absolute rice-killers (they go perfectly with rice).

As a seasoned traveler who loves to explore, I have always felt that Zhuzhou is an underrated gem. It lacks the hustle and bustle of Zhangjiajie but hides the depth of Shennong Valley, the gentleness of the Xiang River, and the vibrant local life on every street. 4 days, 3 nights, CNY 3,000—follow my itinerary. Day 1: Arrival in Zhuzhou · Xiang River Night Views Arrive at Zhuzhou West Railway Station by high-speed train and check into a chain hotel near the Xiang River Scenic Belt (approx. CNY 180/night). Spend the afternoon strolling along the river, watching the Shennong Pagoda reflect in the water. For dinner, head to Zhongguling Night Market. Must-try: Granny's Stinky Tofu (crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, served with chopped chili sauce) and Tangyou Baba (glutinous rice cakes coated in syrup, sweet and chewy). Stay by the river and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. Day 2: Shennong City · Qiu Jin's Former Residence · 331 Factory Spend the morning exploring Shennong City, pay respects at the Shennong Statue, and climb the Shennong Pagoda for a panoramic view of the city (admission ticket approx. CNY 50). For lunch, enjoy authentic Liling stir-fried pork at Hejiatu—perfectly balanced fat and lean meat, spicy and satisfying. In the afternoon, visit the former residence of Qiu Jin (free admission). Amidst the blue bricks and black tiles, feel the heroic spirit of the heroine who famously said, "Though I cannot stand in the ranks of men, my heart is fiercer than any man's." In the evening, head to the old residential area of the 331 Factory for a bowl of Youxian rice noodles. The broth is fresh and spicy, and the noodles are smooth and chewy—a taste of home that Zhuzhou locals can't give up. Day 3: Shennong Valley · Taoyuan Cave Charter a car to Shennong Valley National Forest Park (round-trip fare approx. CNY 200, admission ticket approx. CNY 80). This is a true primeval secondary forest with incredibly high negative oxygen ion levels. Hike along the stream to see the cascading Zhulian Waterfall and the deep, mysterious Heilong Pool. For lunch, enjoy Yanling yellow peaches (seasonal) and Hakka stuffed tofu in the scenic area. Return to the city in the evening. For a late-night snack, I recommend Tianxin pig's trotters—the braised flavor goes deep into the bone. Pair it with an ice-cold beer for the ultimate experience. Day 4: Liling Porcelain Valley · Departure Spend the morning at Liling Porcelain Valley (admission ticket approx. CNY 60). The architecture, shaped like a giant bowl, is a work of art in itself. Try your hand at underglaze painting and take home a porcelain cup of your own. For lunch, have Liling stir-fried rice noodles—full of smoky flavor, with crunchy bean sprouts. In the afternoon, shop for Liling porcelain as souvenirs (budget CNY 100–200) before taking the high-speed train home. Zhuzhou is the first grain of rice sown by Shennong, the never-extinguished kiln fire by the Xiang River, and a lingering spicy fragrance on the tongue and in the heart of every traveler.

I just got back from Zhuzhou, and to be honest, this city hides quite a few hidden gems and offers great value for food. However, October–November is peak season for autumn travel. With tourists from surrounding cities coming to check it out, popular spots get crowded, and the temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant. If you don't plan your itinerary well, it's easy to end up exhausted. 📅 4-Day Classic Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Zhuzhou, check into your hotel in the city center, and stroll along the Xiangjiang River Scenic Belt in the evening to enjoy the river breeze and sunset. At night, head to Zhongguling Snack Street to try Liling stir-fried rice noodles and Youxian dried tofu, and soak up the local atmosphere. ✨ Day 2: Spend the whole day at the Yandi Mausoleum. The ancient halls are nestled among autumn trees, with red walls and yellow leaves complementing each other, rich in cultural heritage. In the afternoon, head to Shennong Valley, where the canyon streams murmur, the forests are slowly turning autumn colors, and the air is filled with negative oxygen ions—perfect for a relaxing hike. Day 3: Liling Ceramic Valley. The various ceramic buildings are very unique, and the huge porcelain sculptures are perfect for photos. You can even try your hand at making ceramics. On the way, visit the Liling Lujiang Ancient Bridge, where the old streets and alleys are full of nostalgic charm. Day 4: Choose between Zhuzhou Fantawild or the City Museum. If you like theme parks, go to Fantawild; if you prefer culture, visit the museum. Afterward, buy some local specialties, pack your bags, and get ready for your return trip. 🏡 Accommodation I recommend staying in downtown Zhuzhou. The Lushong and Tianyuan districts have a wide selection of hotels and homestays. They are close to commercial areas, making it convenient to find food and hail a ride, and transportation to various attractions is easy and affordable. If you want to deeply explore Shennong Valley and Yandi Mausoleum, you can stay in Yanling County. It's closer to the scenic spots, saving you from long commutes, though the amenities will be simpler. Since October–November is peak autumn travel season, rooms will be in high demand on weekends, so I recommend booking in advance. 💡 Travel Tips 1. Shennong Valley has many hiking trails, so be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip sports shoes. 👟 2. The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant. It's warm and comfortable during the day, but very chilly in the morning and evening, so bring a jacket. 3. Attractions in Zhuzhou are scattered, and the distances between districts and counties are long. Public transportation takes a long time, so driving yourself or carpooling will be much more convenient. 4. Local food tends to be spicy. If you can't handle spice, remember to tell the restaurant staff in advance. 5. The outdoor area of the Ceramic Valley is large, and the UV rays are still very strong on sunny days, so remember to use sun protection. 🌳 Attraction Highlights ✅ Shennong Valley: An original canyon forest with streams and waterfalls, where autumn colors are slowly appearing. Suitable for those who enjoy hiking and getting close to nature. ✅ Yandi Mausoleum: A memorial site for the ancestral figure of the Chinese nation, with solemn ancient architecture and a strong autumn atmosphere. ✅ Liling Ceramic Valley: A unique ceramic-themed park with novel architectural designs, making it a landmark photo spot in Zhuzhou. ✅ Lujiang Ancient Bridge: A century-old bridge paired with old streets, full of the slow-paced vibe of a small town in eastern Hunan. 📝 Summary Zhuzhou isn't as noisy or crowded as Changsha. It's a low-key, pleasant small city in eastern Hunan that offers both natural mountain scenery and ceramic culture, as well as authentic, affordable food. However, if you visit in October–November, you need to consider the crowds, temperature differences, and long commutes in advance. If your schedule is flexible, try to avoid traveling on weekends. If you are willing to deal with the travel time and want to quietly enjoy the autumn mountain scenery, experience ceramic culture, and taste affordable Hunan cuisine, Zhuzhou is worth a visit. Just make sure to plan ahead for peak season travel so your trip doesn't become a hassle.

Where to go for a budget trip during National Day? These 5️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive 01 Linyi | Shandong Looking for a less crowded, beautiful, and affordable place to visit during National Day? Linyi is a must-visit. Don't just think of pancakes when you think of Linyi; the Underground Grand Canyon and Firefly Water Cave hold surprises. ⏰ Enter the Underground Grand Canyon early in the morning to avoid queues. The temperature inside the cave is consistently around 18 degrees Celsius, so a light jacket is perfect. Rafting is an extra charge; to save money, you can just walk along the trails and still see all the sights. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and avoid wearing white shoes. The boat ride on the dark lake in the Firefly Water Cave is the highlight. The boatman pulls you along with ropes, and fireflies overhead look like stars. 📍 There's a stall at the exit selling freshly made pancakes for five yuan each, rolled with scallions and sauce—more substantial than restaurants in tourist areas. It's recommended to set aside half a day for Yimeng Mountain. The sunset view from Guimeng Peak is great, but don't descend too late. For those with mobility issues, take the cable car – it's less strenuous. During the National Day holiday, guesthouses at the foot of the mountain raise prices; booking in advance in the village can save you 30%. 02 Wenshan | Yunnan The name Puzhehei sounds refreshingly cool. Go in September or October; although most of the lotus flowers have faded, there are fewer people, and you won't have to rush for boats. ⏰ Arrive at the Qinglong Mountain viewing platform at 6:30 am. The morning mist floats on the water, perfect for photos without filters. After descending, have a bowl of rice noodles at Xianrendong Village for just over ten yuan. 🍜 The sour fish soup at local restaurants is half the price of those near the scenic area entrance; ask whether it's by weight or portion before ordering. Taking a boat tour on the lake is a must, but avoid large boats; smaller boats allow you to explore deeper into the lotus ponds. The boatman might recommend paying extra for a longer route, but the main lake area is already quite scenic. ⚠️ During peak season, there may be queues when buying boat tickets on-site; book through official channels one day in advance. For accommodation, choose Puzhehei Village, not hotels outside the scenic area gate. It's quiet at night and you can see the stars. Prices will double during the National Day holiday; booking in early September is the most cost-effective. Suitable for families with elderly people and children; the paths are flat and not tiring to walk on. 03 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Hashatu Stone Forest is an underrated place. In September, the grass starts to turn yellow, and the stones look like they're on fire under the setting sun. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 PM; the light shines obliquely on the stones, revealing all their textures. 📍 The row of stones at the third viewing platform resembles a city wall and is a great spot for photos. Don't just focus on one spot; walk further in, and there will be fewer people. The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is large; wear short sleeves during the day and a down jacket at night. ⚠️ There isn't much food inside the scenic area; bring your own snacks and water. To save money, stay in Chifeng city. It's an hour and a half drive there in the morning, much cheaper than staying in a yurt in the scenic area. Driving is the most convenient option, as public transportation is infrequent. During the National Day holiday, highways are toll-free, making the fuel cost more economical than hiring a car. Suitable for those who enjoy landscape photography and hiking; wear comfortable shoes and be careful walking through the rocky crevices. 04 Anqing | Anhui The wind at Tianzhu Mountain is perfect in September and October. It's neither too hot nor too cold, so you won't break a sweat while hiking. Enter from the South Gate and take the Mysterious Valley route. Wandering through the rocky crevices is more interesting than taking the cable car. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7 am and you can reach Tianchi Peak before noon. Bring enough water; bottled water costs 8 yuan on the mountain. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 5:30 pm, so don't rush down the mountain at that time. There's a place at the foot of the mountain selling braised pork with sweet potato starch dumplings, a local favorite. A serving costs around 30 yuan and is quite filling. 📍 Find accommodation in Qianshan city, not at the scenic area entrance. Book your accommodation in advance for National Day; it's half the price in Qianshan town compared to the mountain. Suitable for those with average stamina but who want to see the spectacular peaks. If you can't walk anymore, take the cable car; don't push yourself. There's a high chance of a sea of ​​clouds after rain, but the roads are slippery, so non-slip shoes are a must. 05 Hezhou|Guangxi Gupo Mountain, Huangyao Ancient Town, and Dongtanling – combining these three places on one trip is perfect for National Day. Go to Gupo Mountain in the morning; the waterfall has decent water flow, and the negative ion concentration is high, making for a refreshing walk. 🚄 A taxi from Hezhou Station costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is even cheaper. ⚠️ Monkeys on the mountain will snatch plastic bags, so don't carry food in your hands. Save Huangyao Ancient Town for the evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the tourists disperse, the stone paths quiet down, and lanterns light up. 📍 The fermented black bean rice noodle shop near Dailong Bridge is a local favorite, costing eight yuan a bowl. Staying in an old-style inn in the ancient town offers more character than hotels, and the prices are reasonable. Dongtanling is best visited early the next morning to watch the sunrise. The path is difficult, so wear non-slip shoes. There are discounts on tickets for the ancient town during the National Day holiday; please refer to the official announcement on the day for details. It's suitable for those who prefer a slower pace; don't rush, or you won't enjoy it as much. 06 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. It's in a remote area, but it's quieter during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Arrive before 9 am, before the tour groups arrive, allowing you to walk the sacred path peacefully. The architecture is in the Ming and Qing style, with red walls and ancient cypress trees, so you don't have to hide from the crowds when taking photos. 📍 The thousand-year-old tree in front of the mausoleum offers a tranquil setting for relaxation. It's a two-hour drive from Zhuzhou city center; driving is recommended. 🚄 You can take the train to Yanling Station and then transfer, but there are fewer trains. ⚠️ There aren't many dining options nearby, so bring your own snacks. To save money, a day trip is recommended; hotels in the county town cost around 100 RMB per night. Suitable for bringing elders; the steps are gentle, making walking less tiring. October in Hunan is still hot, so bring an umbrella for sun and rain protection. 07 Shanghai When visiting Shanghai during the National Day holiday, don't just focus on the Bund. Choose from the Expo Park, Yu Garden, Guangfulin, and Disneyland to save money. Yu Garden opens at 8:30 AM; visit the Nine-Turn Bridge before the tour groups arrive. 📍 If the queue at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop is too long, try the one next door; the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) taste about the same. ⚠️ The snacks around the City God Temple are expensive and generally mediocre; walk a couple of blocks into the alleys to find better options. Guangfulin Cultural Relics Site is best visited in the afternoon; the wall near the underwater museum is a good photo opportunity. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light is soft and there aren't many people. The World Expo Park has now been converted into a park, it's free, and a walk along the riverbank with a gentle breeze is nice. For Disneyland, if you want to save money, buy afternoon tickets; you can enter after 3 PM and use the single-person lane for popular rides. It's crowded during the National Day holiday, so consider buying an early bird pass depending on the situation. Stay along the subway line, don't stay in hotels within the park; the money you save can be enough for two good meals. 08 Xinzhou | Shanxi Yanmen Pass, Laoniu Bay, Wutai Mountain – this route through Xinzhou during the National Day holiday is less crowded than expected. Go to Yanmen Pass in the morning; it's windy on the city wall, so bring a windproof jacket. ⏰ Climb the gate tower to see the mountains; the autumn colors are layered. 📍 The border trade street below the pass sells vinegar and red dates, cheaper than in the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called antiques at the pass entrance; just look. Laoniu Bay is in Pianguan, where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. Arrive in the afternoon and wait for the sunset. ⏰ The sunset paints the river golden; worth lingering a bit longer. It's a long drive, so driving is the most convenient option; public transport is a hassle. Spend a whole day at Wutai Mountain, leisurely exploring the temple complex in Taihuai Town. Accommodation is tight during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. There are vegetarian restaurants in the mountains, all you can eat for around ten yuan. 🍜 Stewed mushrooms and tofu is a local specialty; find a small restaurant to try it. Suitable for those who appreciate ancient architecture and nature; the temperature difference is significant, so bring warm clothes. These eight places—choose two or three to visit during the National Day holiday; it won't cost too much and won't be crowded. Which one do you most want to go? Let's discuss in the comments. Where to go for a budget trip during the National Day holiday? These 5️⃣ places are less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive. 01 Linyi|Shandong If you're looking for a less crowded, beautiful, and inexpensive place during the National Day holiday, Linyi is a must-visit. Don't just think of pancakes when you think of Linyi; the underground Grand Canyon and the firefly water cave hold surprises. ⏰ Enter the underground canyon early in the morning to avoid crowds and queues. The temperature inside is consistently around 18 degrees Celsius; a light jacket is just right. Rafting is an extra charge; to save money, you can just walk along the trails and still see all the scenery. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery; wear non-slip shoes and avoid wearing white shoes. The boat ride on the dark lake in the Firefly Cave is a highlight. The boatman pulls you along with ropes, and fireflies overhead look like stars. 📍 There's a stall at the exit selling freshly made pancakes for five yuan each, rolled with scallions and sauce—more substantial than the restaurants in the scenic area. It's recommended to allow half a day for Yimeng Mountain. Guimeng Peak offers a great sunset view, but don't descend too late. If you have mobility issues, take the cable car—it's less strenuous. During the National Day holiday, guesthouses at the foot of the mountain increase prices; booking in advance in the village can save you 30%. 02 Wenshan|Yunnan The name Puzhehei sounds refreshingly cool. Visiting in September or October means fewer lotus flowers, less crowds, and no need to rush for boats. ⏰ Arrive at the Qinglong Mountain viewing platform at 6:30 AM. The morning mist floating on the water makes for perfect photos without filters. After descending the mountain, have a bowl of rice noodles at Xianrendong Village for just over ten yuan. 🍜 The sour fish soup at local restaurants is half the price of what you'd find near the scenic area entrance. Make sure to ask if it's priced by weight or by portion before ordering. Taking a boat tour on the lake is a must, but avoid the large boats; smaller boats allow you to explore deeper into the lotus ponds. Boatmen may try to take longer routes for an extra fee, but the main lake area is already quite scenic. ⚠️ During peak season, there may be queues for boat tickets on-site; book through official channels a day in advance. For accommodation, choose Puzhehei Village, not hotels outside the scenic area gate. It's quieter at night, and you can even see the stars. Prices double during the National Day holiday; early September is the most cost-effective time to book. Suitable for families with elderly members and children; the paths are flat and easy to walk. 03 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Hashatu Stone Forest is an underrated place. In September, the grass begins to turn yellow, and the stones look like they're on fire in the setting sun. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 PM; the light shines obliquely on the stones, revealing their textures. 📍 The row of stones at the third viewing platform resembles a city wall and is a great spot for photos. Don't just focus on one spot; walk further in, and you'll find fewer people. The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant. Wear short sleeves during the day, but bring a down jacket at night. ⚠️ There's not much food inside the scenic area; bring your own snacks and water. To save money, stay in Chifeng city; it's a 1.5-hour drive in the morning, much cheaper than staying in a yurt in the scenic area. Driving is the most convenient option; public transportation is infrequent. During the National Day holiday, highways are toll-free, making the fuel cost more economical than hiring a car. Suitable for those who enjoy landscape photography and hiking; wear comfortable shoes, and be careful walking among the stones. 04 Anqing | Anhui The wind at Tianzhu Mountain is perfect in September and October. It's neither too hot nor too cold, so you won't break a sweat while hiking. Enter from the South Gate and take the Mysterious Valley route. Wandering through the crevices of the rocks is more interesting than taking the cable car. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7 AM and you can reach Tianchi Peak before noon. Bring enough water; bottled water costs 8 yuan on the mountain. ⚠️ The cable car stops operating at 5:30 PM, so don't rush down at that time. There's a place at the foot of the mountain that sells mountain starch dumplings and braised pork; locals frequent it. A serving costs around 30 yuan and is quite filling. 📍 Find accommodation in Qianshan city, not at the scenic area entrance. Book your accommodation in advance for the National Day holiday; it's half the price in Qianshan town compared to the mountain. Suitable for those with average stamina but who want to see the spectacular peaks. If you can't walk anymore, take the cable car; don't push yourself. There's a high chance of a sea of ​​clouds after rain, but the paths are slippery, so non-slip shoes are a must. 05 Hezhou | Guangxi Gupo Mountain, Huangyao Ancient Town, and Dongtanling – these three places make a perfect trip during the National Day holiday. Go to Gupo Mountain in the morning; the waterfall has decent water flow, and the air is high in negative ions, leaving you feeling refreshed. 🚄 A taxi from Hezhou Station costs about 40 yuan; sharing a ride is even cheaper. ⚠️ Monkeys on the mountain will snatch plastic bags, so don't carry food in your hands. Save Huangyao Ancient Town until evening. ⏰ After 5 pm, the tourists disperse, the stone-paved streets quiet down, and lanterns light up. 📍 The fermented black bean noodles near Dailong Bridge are a local favorite, costing 8 yuan a bowl. Staying in an old-style guesthouse in the ancient town offers more character than hotels, and the prices are reasonable. Dongtanling is ideal for watching the sunrise early the next morning; the path is difficult, so wear non-slip shoes. There are discounts on tickets to the ancient town during the National Day holiday; please refer to the official announcement on the day for details. Suitable for those who prefer a slower pace; don't rush, or you'll miss out. 06 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor's Mausoleum is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. It's a remote location, but surprisingly quiet during the National Day holiday. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM, before the tour groups arrive, allowing for a peaceful walk along the sacred path. The architecture is in the Ming and Qing styles, with red walls and ancient cypress trees, so you don't have to hide from the crowds when taking photos. 📍 Stand in the shade of the thousand-year-old tree in front of the mausoleum for a while; it's a calming experience. It's a two-hour drive from downtown Zhuzhou, so driving is recommended. 🚄 You can also take the train to Yanling Station and transfer, but there are fewer trains. ⚠️ There aren't many dining options nearby, so bring your own snacks. For a budget-friendly option, a day trip is recommended; hotels in the county town cost around 100 RMB per night. Suitable for bringing elders; the steps are gentle, making it easy to walk and stop at your own pace. October in Hunan is still hot, so bring an umbrella for sun and rain protection. 07 Shanghai When visiting Shanghai during the National Day holiday, don't just focus on the Bund. Choose from the Expo Park, Yu Garden, Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park, and Disneyland to save money. Yu Garden opens at 8:30 AM; visit the Nine-Turn Bridge before the tour groups arrive. 📍 If the queue at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop is too long, try the one next door; the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) taste about the same. ⚠️ The snacks around the City God Temple are expensive and generally mediocre; walk a couple of blocks into the alleys to find better options. Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park is best visited in the afternoon; the underwater museum wall is a great photo opportunity. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light is softer and there are fewer people. The Expo Park has been converted into a park; it's free, and a walk along the river is pleasant. To save money at Disneyland, buy afternoon tickets; entry is after 3 PM, and popular rides use single-person access. It gets crowded during the National Day holiday; consider buying an early bird pass if needed. Stay near the subway line, not in the park itself; the money saved can be used for two good meals. 08 Xinzhou | Shanxi Yanmen Pass, Laoniu Bay, Wutai Mountain – this route through Xinzhou during the National Day holiday was less crowded than expected. Visit Yanmen Pass in the morning; the wind on the city wall is strong, so bring a windproof jacket. ⏰ Climb the gate tower to see the mountains, their autumn colors layered. 📍 The border trade street below the pass sells vinegar and red dates, cheaper than in the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called antiques at the pass entrance; just look. Laoniu Bay is in Pianguan, where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. Arrive in the afternoon to wait for the sunset. ⏰ The sunset paints the river golden; worth lingering a while. It's a long drive; driving is the most convenient option, public transport is troublesome. Spend a whole day at Wutai Mountain, leisurely exploring the temple complex in Taihuai Town. Accommodation is scarce during the National Day holiday, so book in advance. Vegetarian meals are available in the mountains for around ten yuan. 🍜 Braised tofu with Taiwanese mushrooms is a local specialty; try it at a small restaurant. Suitable for those who appreciate ancient architecture and nature; however, be aware of the large temperature difference, so bring warm clothing. These eight places are perfect for a National Day holiday trip—choose two or three, it won't cost too much, and they won't be crowded. Which one would you most like to visit? Let's discuss in the comments.

Some places a man thinks are fine, but when his wife goes she wants to post nine updates to her social feed. Picking the right destination matters far more than being good at photos. I ranked the spots below by "will she be happy"—I won't sugarcoat it. 01 Meizhou | Guangdong Yannanfei tea terraces is a place I regretted not bringing my wife to on my first visit. The tea ridges roll like green waves and the air smells of roasted tea. 📍 Qiaoxi Ancient Charm is nearby, and the old walled houses make for photos that beat any filter. ⏰ Aim to arrive at the tea fields before 8:30 AM. The mist hasn’t burned off, the light is soft, and there are fewer people. Have salt‑baked chicken and braised pork with preserved mustard greens at the Weilong house restaurant at noon—🍜 the chicken skin is so crispy you can hear it. ⚠️ The tea‑field shuttle costs extra. If you’re fit, walking the boardwalk is more worthwhile. It’s also good for bringing parents—the slopes are gentle, and 1.5 hours is enough to walk the whole route. March is the busiest tea‑picking season; at other times, just go for the fresh air. 02 Taizhou | Zhejiang I was torn about Taizhou, then realized three spots can be linked into one route. Mount Tiantai is best in the morning; Shiliang waterfall sprays a lot of mist, ⚠️ so don’t wear white shoes because the steps can be slippery. Visit Shenxianju in the afternoon; if the cable car queue is longer than 40 minutes, take the South Gate trail instead. Save Taizhou Fu cultural tourism area for sunset. 📍 Walk Ziyang Street from end to end, and buy one seaweed pancake and one egg‑white lamb‑tail—🍜 don’t overdo it. Watching the sunset from the city wall is ten times better than during the day. If you bring your wife, pick Shenxianju plus the fu city—two days and one night is just right. Leave Mount Tiantai for another trip; hiking is exhausting, so don’t overpack your weekend. 03 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is my personal recommendation. ⏰ In July and August the summit is about 5–6°C cooler than the lowlands, so you can sleep with a light blanket at night. 📍 The old villas on South Street and North Street feel like a time warp when you walk in. Don’t expect them to be overly fancy—the charm is in the cool, quiet atmosphere. 🚄 It's about a 40‑minute taxi from Xinyang East Station to the mountain gate, so I suggest staying on the mountain. 🍜 After coming down, have a bowl of Xinyang hot dry noodles in town. The sesame paste is thinner than Wuhan’s and pairs well with the salted egg drink. ⚠️ Dining options on the mountain are limited, so bring snacks. It’s great for bringing older relatives to escape the heat; morning and evening walks are pleasant. October’s fall foliage is also nice, but there are more people than in summer. 04 Weifang | Shandong I didn’t expect much from Qingzhou ancient city, but I ended up spending most of the day there. 📍 Ouyuan Street and Beimenli Street are the most worth walking—brick carvings and wooden doors show real age. ⚠️ The main street is heavily commercialized; the small alleys are where it gets interesting. ⏰ After 4 PM the light slants into the alleys, and photos need almost no editing. 🍜 Try the laohuai tree pan‑fried buns with tofu pudding—locals treat it as breakfast, I treated it as afternoon tea. If you bring your wife, stay in a guesthouse inside the ancient city; once the crowds thin in the evening, a stroll is very pleasant. It's about a 20‑plus‑minute high‑speed train from Weifang city center, perfect for a weekend short trip. Not for people rushing to check off attractions—you need to wander slowly here. 05 Bijie | Guizhou I recommend visiting Zhijin Cave and Baili azalea separately. Zhijin Cave is open year‑round, ⏰ and the cave temperature is a steady teen degrees Celsius, so bring a light jacket in summer. 📍 Without the guide explaining, you won’t know the significance of spots like Bawang Kui and Yinyu Tree. Baili azalea blooms only from late March to mid‑April. ⚠️ The flowering window is just over two weeks—go too early and it’s all green slopes, go too late and there are only leaves left. 🍜 Buy Huangba from Qianxi and Zhijin buckwheat jelly noodles if you see them along the way. The drive between the two spots is about two hours, so pick one for a weekend. If you want to see flowers, come in March; caves can be visited anytime. The cave has many steps—be cautious if you have bad knees. 06 Dali | Yunnan I don’t recommend doing the ring‑Erhai check‑in routine. 📍 Xi‑zhou Ancient Town’s rice paddies and corner towers are best visited before 10 AM, ⏰ before tour groups arrive. The Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple are more impressive from a distance than up close, and admission is pricey. ⚠️ If you want to save money, take photos from outside. The best stretch of Erhai Lake is between Caicun and Longkan Pier. 🚄 Riding an e‑bike is more comfortable than driving—you can stop whenever you want. Nanzhao Folk Island is optional; the boat plus admission isn’t great value. If you bring your wife, stay in Xizhou or Caicun, not the old town. Getting up early to see the Erhai morning mist is worth more than any attraction. March to May is the most pleasant time; don’t come in the rainy season. 07 Longyan | Fujian I’ve done this route twice. For the earthen buildings (Yongding), I recommend hiring a guide—⚠️ on your own it’s just a ring of earthen walls. 📍 Zhencheng Lou and Chengqi Lou are the most worth going inside, and the light is best in the afternoon. Visit Changting ancient town at night—only when the streetfront lights come on does it feel alive. 🍜 Try the pork kidney stew and dried tofu; small local shops are more reliable than the trendy spots. Guanzhaishan is best climbed in the morning; the full route takes about three hours, and if you bring older people, choose the cable car. 🚄 Longyan Station is in the opposite direction from Yongding and Changting, so don’t try to do both on the same day. For a weekend, pick the earthen buildings plus Changting—two days is just right. Save Guanzhaishan for another trip; hiking costs your legs. 08 Zhuzhou | Hunan Emperor Yan’s mausoleum is a place many people pass by without visiting. 📍 The ancient tree in front of the tomb and the stele gallery calm you down after a walk. ⏰ Go in the morning for fewer people and just the right incense atmosphere. ⚠️ There are few dining options nearby, so bring dry food or return to town to eat. If you bring your wife, visit only if it’s on the way—don’t make it the sole purpose of the trip. 🚄 It's about an hour from Zhuzhou West Station; I suggest driving. 🍜 Back in town, have a bowl of Liling fried rice noodles—the wok heat is just right. If she likes quiet places with local character, this will score points. If she only wants photos, skip it. Around Qingming there are ritual activities—more people, but a different atmosphere. If I had to pick three of these, I’d choose Meizhou, Taizhou, and Dali. One for tea, one for hiking, one for the sea. Which one have you taken her to? Say it in the comments. travel travel pace town plantation friendly budget

Traveling in August is often a nightmare of crowds and high costs. I've picked 8 cool and affordable cities that are accessible by high-speed rail, have reasonably priced accommodation, and offer great food that won't hurt your wallet. Stop staring at the backs of people's heads at tourist traps—keep reading. 1️⃣ Xining | Qinghai Xining is the ultimate August summer retreat. Daytime temperatures are in the low 20s (°C), and you'll need a light jacket at night. 🚄 A taxi from the high-speed rail station to the city center costs about CNY 20. Stay in the Chengdong District or near Limeng Pedestrian Street. Hostel beds are CNY 40–50, and budget hotels are just over CNY 100. Ta'er Temple is in Huangzhong District. There's a dedicated bus line from the city center, taking about an hour. ⏰ Arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy softer lighting. The butter sculptures and pile embroidery are worth a slow look. Check official announcements for ticket and guide rules on the day of your visit; don't trust the "skip-the-line" touts at the entrance. Dongguan Grand Mosque is in the east of the city; go in the evening to catch the lively atmosphere around prayer time. 📍 The real highlight is Xiashanguan Street outside the temple gate. Try tianpeizi (sweet fermented grain), niangpi (cold noodles), and hand-grabbed mutton. You can eat until you're full for about CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Xining has large temperature differences between day and night, so bring long pants and a jacket even in August. Dining around Ta'er Temple is pricey; it's more cost-effective to eat back in the city. 2️⃣ Bijie | Guizhou Bijie is a hidden gem for "reverse travel" in August—less crowded than Guiyang and cheaper than Liupanshui. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Bijie Station. There are tourist shuttle buses to Zhijin Cave, or you can carpool for a few dozen yuan per person. Zhijin Cave is a giant among karst caves. You'll need a jacket inside as it's consistently around 10°C–20°C. ⏰ Go in the morning when the light streams in from the entrance, making the stalactites look their best. There are many stairs inside, so walk slowly if you're with elderly travelers. Baili Dujuan has no flowers in August, but it's cool and quiet, perfect for hiking and relaxing. 🍜 In the city, try laoguo (hot pot) and mutton rice noodles for about CNY 25 per person—half the price of what you'd pay outside the scenic area. ⚠️ The ticket plus sightseeing bus for Zhijin Cave is an expense, so check official channels in advance for any combo tickets. It's the rainy season in August, so bring an umbrella; dripping water inside the cave is normal. 3️⃣ Baicheng | Jilin Baicheng might sound obscure, but August is the most comfortable time at Nenjiang Bay. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Baicheng Station. There are shuttle buses to the Da'an Nenjiang Bay Tourist Area, and taxis are affordable. The wetlands and river views at Nenjiang Bay are brilliantly green in August, and the sunset turns the water orange in the evening. 📍 The boardwalk along the river is perfect for a slow stroll. If you're with kids, you can take a boat; check on-site for ticket prices. 🍜 Baicheng's food is hearty. Barbecue, stewed fish, and cold noodles will fill you up for about CNY 40 per person. Hotels in the city center are very clean and cost around CNY 100. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes in the wetlands, so bring repellent. It's windy by the river, so add a jacket in the evening. This place is perfect for those who want peace and quiet and don't want to wait in lines. 4️⃣ Qingdao | Shandong August is peak season in Qingdao, but there are ways to travel on a budget. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Qingdao Station. Stay in the old town or near Taidong; hostels cost CNY 60–70, saving you a lot compared to beachside hotels. Don't join a one-day tour group for Laoshan. Take the subway and transfer to a bus to Yangkou or Jufeng to explore on your own. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 7:00 AM to stay cool and avoid the crowds. Check official announcements for ticket and reservation rules on the day of your visit. Go to Zhanqiao in the evening to enjoy the sea breeze and sunset, but don't eat seafood nearby. 📍 For affordable food, buy seafood at Tuandao Farmers' Market and have it cooked; it's half the price of eating near Zhanqiao. The Olympic Sailing Center area has lights at night and is free to walk around. ⚠️ Hotel prices in Qingdao double in August, so book in advance or stay in Licun or Taidong, which are accessible by subway. The UV rays are strong by the sea, so don't skimp on sunscreen. 5️⃣ Qujing | Yunnan Qujing is an affordable alternative in Yunnan, quieter and cheaper than Dali or Lijiang. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Qujing North Station. There are shuttle buses to Luoping, taking over two hours. The rapeseed flower fields in Luoping are a spring attraction. In August, you'll see lush green fields and the Jiulong Waterfalls. ⏰ Visit the Jiulong Waterfall group after the rain; the water volume is high, and the mist makes it look like a fairyland. Tickets are reasonably priced, with sightseeing buses charged separately. 🍜 Qujing steamed rice noodles and Zhanyi spicy chicken are comfortable meals for about CNY 30 per person. Staying in the city center costs just over CNY 100, which is more cost-effective than staying near the scenic area. ⚠️ August is the rainy season. The waterfalls are spectacular but the paths are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Luoping is not in flower season in August, so don't be misled by old travel guides. 6️⃣ Guyuan | Ningxia Guyuan is in southern Ningxia and is surprisingly cool in August for the Northwest. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Guyuan Station. There's a tourist shuttle to the Xumishan Grottoes, or you can take a taxi. The Xumishan Grottoes are ancient treasures on the Silk Road. In August, the mountain breeze makes viewing the Great Buddha especially peaceful. ⏰ Go in the morning so the light hits the grottoes, making it easier to take photos without backlighting. Check official announcements for ticket and open grotto information on the day of your visit. 📍 The Guyuan Museum is also worth a visit on the way; it's free and provides background knowledge on the grottoes. 🍜 In the city, try mutton sazi noodles and hand-grabbed mutton for about CNY 35 per person. ⚠️ The grottoes are spread out and require a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. It's cool in the morning and evening in August, so bring a light jacket. This place has few tourists, making it easy to explore. 7️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou is a budget-friendly alternative to Changsha. Accommodation is half the price in August, and it's only a dozen minutes away by high-speed rail. 🚄 Get off at Zhuzhou Station or Zhuzhou West Station. There are shuttle buses to the Yandi Mausoleum, taking over an hour. The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County. It's cool in the mountains in August, with many ancient trees, making it comfortable to walk around without being exposed to the sun. ⏰ Arrive in the morning, take your time, and have farm-style food nearby for lunch. Check official announcements for ticket and ceremony arrangements on the day of your visit. 🍜 Back in the city, try Zhuzhou rice noodles and spicy crayfish for about CNY 40 per person—with shorter lines than in Changsha. Staying near the train station, you can find decent accommodation for CNY 100. ⚠️ The Yandi Mausoleum is far from the city, so don't rush a round trip in one day; you can stay in Yanling for a night. Hunan is hot in August, but it's better in the mountains; bring water. 8️⃣ Ningde | Fujian Ningde is a coastal treasure in Fujian, with fewer people than Xiamen in August and cheaper seafood. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Ningde Station. There are trains to Xiapu and shuttle buses to Taimu Mountain. See the strange rocks at Taimu Mountain and play in the water at Baishuiyang and Yuanyang Creek—it's the best way to cool off in August. ⏰ Go to Baishuiyang in the afternoon when the water temperature is just right. Remember to bring a change of clothes. Check official announcements for ticket and water activity rules on the day of your visit. The Beiqi mudflats and Xiapu mudflats are favorites for photographers, looking their best at sunrise and sunset. 📍 Wake up early to see the sunrise at Beiqi. The light and shadow on the mudflats change with the tides, so check the tide table before you go. 🍜 Seafood stalls in Xiapu cost about CNY 60 per person, which is more reasonable than in Xiamen. ⚠️ The mudflats are muddy, so don't wear white shoes. It's typhoon season in August, so check the weather before you leave. Ningde is best enjoyed at a slow pace, so don't rush. These 8 places aren't expensive to visit in August. Xining is cool, Ningde has the sea, and Bijie is great for avoiding crowds. Pick one, buy your ticket, and go—don't wait until prices rise and you regret it. Which one have you been to, or which one would you like me to detail further? Let's chat in the comments.

What’s the biggest fear when traveling in September and October? Crowds, doubled hotel prices, and photos filled with the backs of other people's heads. I’ve picked a few spots where the scenery is great, the crowds haven't arrived yet, and you should go sooner rather than later. 1️⃣ Jiujiang | Jiangxi Lushan is great this time of year; the fog is thinner than in summer, and the leaves are just starting to change color. ⏰ Head up the mountain before 7:00 AM for fewer crowds and clear fog—no need to dodge heads in your photos. 📍 The stretch from Huajing to Ruqin Lake is a 10-minute walk where you can see the lake's reflection; it’s much quieter than Hanpokou. Lushan West Sea is best in the afternoon. Take a boat to the island; the water is as flat as glass. It gets a bit chilly when the wind blows, so bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Lushan admission tickets and sightseeing bus tickets are sold separately—don't assume one ticket covers everything. Accommodation on the mountain is expensive and damp, so I recommend staying at the foot of the mountain and heading up the next day. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Jiujiang Station to the Lushan cable car; ride-sharing is more cost-effective. Great for a slow-paced trip with seniors or for some solo downtime. Lushan in September and October is neither too cold nor too hot—it’s just right. 2️⃣ Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi is great this season; the volcanic rocks are covered in moss, creating layers of color. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the rock textures stand out. 📍 The row of birch trees at the foot of Laoheishan Mountain is half-yellow. They rustle in the wind—standing there listening is quite stress-relieving. 🍜 Try the local mineral water tofu and cold-water fish. Just find any local farmhouse restaurant to cook them; it’s half the price of eating inside the scenic area. ⚠️ The scenic spots are far apart. If you don't have a car, you'll mostly rely on chartered cars. Agree on the price in advance; don't wait until you arrive. Perfect for those who love geological wonders or just want a few quiet days. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so bringing a light down jacket is worth it. 3️⃣ Xuzhou | Jiangsu I didn't have high expectations for Yunlong Lake, but I found it quite pleasant. ⏰ Get to the lakeside by 5:30 PM. When the sun sets behind the mountains, the water glimmers with gold—it looks better than during the day. 📍 Enter from the East Gate of Binhu Park and walk along the lake to Suti. The whole way is filled with locals taking a stroll; it doesn't feel touristy at all. 🍜 The braised pork (bazi rou) by the lake is fatty but not greasy—perfect with a bowl of rice. ⚠️ Yunlong Lake has no admission fee, but boating and sightseeing buses cost extra. Choose as needed and don't get talked into anything by the touts at the entrance. Great for families and short weekend trips. Xuzhou in September and October isn't stuffy; with the breeze by the lake, you can walk all afternoon without getting tired. 4️⃣ Chongqing I recommend splitting the Dazu Rock Carvings and Wulong Karst into two days; don't try to cram them into one. ⏰ Go to Dazu in the morning; the light hits the niches from the side, making the details of the Buddha statues clear. 📍 For the reclining Buddha at Baodingshan, stand further back to see the whole thing—it feels more impressive than taking close-up shots. Go to the Wulong Three Natural Bridges in the afternoon when there are fewer tourists. When you walk to the bottom and look up at the bridge arches, you can feel the cool air rising from the ground. Jinyun Mountain is best after the rain, when clouds pass through the mountainside like someone is brushing them. ⚠️ Don't buy Yangtze River Three Gorges cruise tickets last minute; booking in advance is much cheaper, and make sure to use official piers. 🍜 Have Chongqing noodles for breakfast—the red chili oil is fragrant but not harsh. Add a fried egg. Suitable for those with good stamina, and also great for couples to explore at a leisurely pace. Chongqing is still hot in September; it only really cools down in October. 5️⃣ Shennongjia | Hubei In the Shennongjia Ecotourism Area, the forests start turning yellow and red in September and October, offering more depth than in summer. ⏰ Head into Shennongding in the morning for a high chance of seeing the sea of clouds; they dissipate later in the day. 📍 The boardwalk at Banbiyan is an easy walk, with straight fir trees on both sides—no filters needed for photos. ⚠️ The scenic area is large, so driving yourself is most convenient. If you don't have a car, take the scenic shuttle bus, but check the schedule as they run infrequently. Signal is weak in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance. Great for those who love hiking and quiet; seniors can handle the boardwalks just fine. Stay in Muyu Town at night and have a cured meat hot pot—it's nice and warm. 6️⃣ Haixi | Qinghai Kunlun Mountain, Qarhan Salt Lake, Emerald Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake—this route is most comfortable in September and October. It's less crowded, and the sky is crystal blue. ⏰ Enter Chaka Salt Lake before 9:00 AM; there's no wind on the water, so the reflections are clearest. 📍 Walk deeper into Emerald Lake; it's less crowded and the water is greener—ten times better than the area near the entrance. The salt flowers at Qarhan Salt Lake crunch when you step on them, so don't wear nice shoes. ⚠️ The altitude is high, so don't run or jump—walk slowly. Apply sunscreen liberally; the wind is strong and the sun is intense. 🚄 I recommend chartering a car or driving yourself; public transport doesn't connect well. Suitable for those who can handle some hardship and want to see grand scenery. Bring enough water and dry food; there are few supply points along the way. 7️⃣ Southeast Guizhou | Guizhou Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, Zhaoxing Dong Village, Zhenyuan Ancient Town, and Xianghuoyan—I've traveled this route twice. ⏰ Go to the viewing platform in Xijiang at 6:00 PM; it looks better than during the day as the lights turn on one by one. 📍 Sit under the Drum Tower in Zhaoxing Dong Village and listen to the elders chat—it's more authentic than the performances. Walk along the Wuyang River in Zhenyuan Ancient Town; the lights reflecting in the water at night make for a leisurely experience. ⚠️ The Miao village is quite commercialized; walk a few alleys deeper to find some peace. There's a lot of water at Xianghuoyan in autumn, and the boardwalks are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. 🍜 For sour soup fish, look for restaurants crowded with locals; don't eat at the ones with touts at the door. Perfect for those who enjoy culture and a slow pace. Guizhou in September and October is neither too cold nor too hot—it's just right. 8️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County, Zhuzhou. Visiting in September and October, the mountain air is cool and refreshing. ⏰ Go in the morning; it's quiet and less crowded, and the ancient tree in front of the hall casts long shadows. 📍 Walk slowly up the steps in front of the mausoleum and look back at the valley for a wide view. 🍜 For local farmhouse food at the foot of the mountain, the stir-fried smoked bamboo shoots with cured meat is worth ordering—salty, fragrant, and goes great with rice. ⚠️ It's a remote location, so driving is most convenient; public transport requires several transfers. Great for bringing seniors for a walk, or for anyone looking for a quiet place to spend half a day. Hunan still has some lingering heat in September and October, but it's cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring a jacket. Of these destinations, I most recommend Haixi and Southeast Guizhou—the scenery is grand, and the crowds are small. Pick one and go before it gets too crowded.

When traveling with parents, the biggest worries are overpacked itineraries, too much walking, and irregular meal times. I've selected these 8 places where the pace is manageable, the scenery is worthwhile, and restrooms and rest stops are easy to find. If you want to avoid the National Day crowds and burnout, choose based on this approach. 1️⃣ Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang The Diaoshuilou Waterfall at Jingpo Lake has the best lighting before 10:00 AM, making the water mist look bright. If your parents can't walk much, take the sightseeing car. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour taxi ride from Mudanjiang Station to Jingpo Lake; hiring a car for the round trip is more convenient. For lunch, have some lake fish in the lake area. Don't order too much—Northeast Chinese portions are large; two dishes are enough for three people. ⚠️ The water volume at Diaoshuilou Waterfall during National Day depends on the weather. Check official announcements before you leave so you don't make a wasted trip. In the afternoon, return to the city to stroll through Mudanjiang Binjiang Park. The paths are flat and there are plenty of chairs, making it suitable for seniors to walk at a leisurely pace. 📍 The section of Binjiang Park near the Eight Heroines Statue Square has locals square dancing in the evening—the atmosphere is lively but not noisy. Stay near the train station for an easier departure the next day. This destination is suitable for parents with limited mobility who still want to see water scenery, as you can control the pace yourself. 2️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yan Emperor Mausoleum is in Yanling County, about a 3-hour drive from downtown Zhuzhou. 🚄 It's recommended to stay in Yanling County the night before and enter the scenic area early the next morning to avoid National Day morning traffic. The steps in the mausoleum area aren't too steep, but walking the whole thing takes about 2 hours. ⏰ It opens at 8:30 AM—get there right when it opens to enjoy fewer crowds and cool shade, making it comfortable for parents. 📍 The flat path from the entrance to the sacrificial square is wheelchair-accessible. For lunch in the county, have a bowl of local rice noodles (outside of yellow peach season), 🍜 paired with stir-fried bacon and bamboo shoots—salty, savory, and great with rice. ⚠️ Yellow peaches are mostly out of season during National Day, so don't go expecting to pick them; you'll be disappointed. If you still have energy in the afternoon, head toward Shennong Valley to see the stream; if not, just go back to the hotel to rest. This is suitable for parents interested in culture who don't mind a bit of driving. 3️⃣ Shennongjia | Hubei Shennongjia Ecological Tourism Area is huge, so don't try to see it all in one day. I suggest picking just two spots: Dajiuhu and Shennongding. ⏰ Dajiuhu has mist in the early morning; arrive at the lake before 7:00 AM for a scene that looks like an ink wash painting. 🚄 Entering the mountains from Yichang or Shiyan, renting a car is the most flexible option. The mountain roads are winding, so have your parents take motion sickness medication beforehand. 📍 There's a small train inside the Dajiuhu scenic area, so seniors don't have to walk too much, which is very friendly. For lunch, eat in Pingqian Ancient Town. 🍜 Order some "lazy tofu" and a bacon hotpot—warm, soft, and tender, suitable for seniors with sensitive teeth. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference on the mountain; bring a light down jacket even during National Day—don't just wear a single layer. Shennongding is at a high altitude, so you'll get winded after a few steps; pace yourself. This is suitable for parents who want to see primeval forests and aren't chasing a high number of check-ins—slow is fast here. 4️⃣ Xiamen | Fujian Ferry tickets for the Gulangyu Scenic Area are in high demand during National Day, so ⚠️ book through official channels in advance; don't wait until you get to the pier. ⏰ Take the earliest ferry and get on the island before 8:00 AM to enjoy fewer crowds and quiet alleys. There are many slopes on the island; if your parents have bad knees, avoid the alleys outside of Longtou Road. 📍 Entering from Sanqiutian Pier and walking along Fujian Road to Shuzhuang Garden is relatively flat. 🍜 For lunch, have a bowl of Shacha noodles—the broth is rich but not spicy, which seniors can handle. In the afternoon, return to the main island and visit the Railway Culture Park. The abandoned tracks have been turned into a walking path with plenty of shade and chairs, perfect for post-meal digestion. You can choose between Nanputuo Temple and the Xiamen Botanical Garden; the rainforest area in the botanical garden is slippery, so ⚠️ wear non-slip shoes. Stay near Zhongshan Road for convenient dining and accommodation, and it's also a smooth trip to the airport. Xiamen is suitable for families taking their parents to see the sea for the first time without wanting to be too tired. 5️⃣ Longnan | Gansu Wenxian Tianchi is hidden in the mountains, and the lake water is a serene blue. ⏰ The lighting is best from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 🚄 The drive from downtown Longnan is not short, so I recommend hiring a car so you can stop whenever you want. Guan'egou is a separate trip; don't try to squeeze it into the same day as Tianchi. 📍 Once you enter Guan'egou, take the sightseeing car to the deep end first, then walk your way out to save energy. 🍜 There are farmhouses at the entrance of the valley; order some potato mash (yangyu jiaotuan) and bacon—it's filling. ⚠️ Longnan is cool in the mornings and evenings during National Day, and it's damp in the valley, so pack a windbreaker for your parents. This is suitable for parents who like landscapes and don't mind the drive; the scenery is primitive and less commercialized. Stay in Dangchang County for an easier trip into the valley the next day. Don't expect exquisite dining in the scenic area—just eat to get full and keep a relaxed mindset. 6️⃣ Tongren | Guizhou The Fanjingshan Tourism Area limits visitor numbers during National Day, so ⚠️ you must book tickets and the cable car in advance; there's basically no chance of getting them on-site. ⏰ Book the earliest time slot to enter the mountain; the cable car queue will be shorter, and there's a higher chance of seeing the sea of clouds at the summit. After the cable car ride, there are still steps to the Red Cloud Golden Summit. If your parents have average stamina, just stay on the platform and look around; don't force the climb. 📍 The path from the upper cable car station to Mushroom Stone is relatively easy to walk, and the scenery is good enough. 🍜 After descending the mountain, go back to downtown Tongren for some Guoba fen—it's sour, spicy, and appetizing. 🚄 It's about a 1-hour drive from Tongren Station to Fanjingshan; you can carpool or hire a car. The weather on the mountain changes in an instant, so ⚠️ a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella, and it's windy at the summit. This is suitable for parents who want to see unique mountains and are willing to wake up early to queue. The cable car solves most of the physical exertion issues, so it's not too grueling overall. 7️⃣ Yanbian | Jilin The Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area is in Dunhua. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM before the tour groups flood in. 📍 The area around the Jinding Buddha has an open view and is mostly flat ground, so it's not tiring for parents to walk. 🚄 It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Dunhua Station, which is very convenient. 🍜 For lunch, go back to the city for some Korean-style cold noodles and bibimbap—sour, sweet, and refreshing, which seniors also love. It's cool in the mornings and evenings in Yanbian during National Day, so ⚠️ bring a jacket. You can take the electric cart in the scenic area; don't save those few bucks—save your energy for sightseeing. Spend the afternoon strolling around downtown Dunhua; the pace is slow and the streets are clean. This is suitable for parents who are curious about ethnic minority customs and want a relaxing itinerary, with comfortable dining and accommodation. 8️⃣ Yili | Xinjiang National Day is just at the end of autumn in the Yili River Valley. ⏰ The morning light on the Kalajun Grassland is soft, but the grass has already turned yellow, so don't expect it to be lush and green. 📍 Choose either Kalajun or Gongnaisi Grassland; don't be greedy and try to do both. Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley is only worth it in the spring; if you go during National Day, only the branches will be left. ⚠️ If you're coming for the apricot blossoms, you'll be disappointed; it's more realistic to just enjoy the autumn scenery of the river valley. 🍜 In Yining city, have some pilaf and baked buns—the lamb is soft and tender, making it easy for parents to eat. 🚄 After arriving in Yining, hiring a car is the most worry-free way to travel. The distances between attractions are long, and self-driving is tiring. This is suitable for parents who have plenty of time and want to see vast landscapes, but the drives are long, so consider this if they have back issues. When taking parents out for National Day, the core advice is simple: change hotels less, climb fewer stairs, and don't delay meal times. Pick two or three of these 8 places to string together, and it will be much more comfortable than rushing around. Tell me in the comments what kind of fatigue your parents fear most, and I'll help you filter further.

When traveling with parents over 60, the biggest worries are two things: they can't walk far and they can't eat well. With the National Day crowds, let's avoid squeezing into popular spots. I've selected 6 places with a slow pace, easy walking paths, and plenty of spots to sit and rest. I personally tested these with my mom, and she didn't complain about being tired once. 1️⃣ Shenzhen | Guangdong Don't think Shenzhen is just skyscrapers. Take your parents to Dameisha Waterfront Park. Arrive before 8:30 AM for a gentle sea breeze and flat boardwalks—it's even wheelchair-accessible. 📍 Dameisha Yanmei Road, Yantian District. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop to the beach. I don't recommend Window of the World during the day; it's too sunny. ⏰ Enter after 5:00 PM to catch the light show and take a stroll. My parents weren't that interested in the miniature landscapes, but they enjoyed sitting and watching the performances. Remember to buy your attraction tickets online a day in advance; the on-site queues can be soul-crushing. Overseas Chinese Town (OCT) is great for a slow walk. Splendid China and the Folk Culture Village are right next to each other; just pick one, as walking through both will be too much for their legs. ⚠️ Bottled water is expensive in the park, so bring your own thermos; restaurants have free hot water. Mission Hills Resort is a pleasant surprise with large lawns and fresh air. Parents can sit, drink tea, and watch others play golf. 🚄 Take Metro Line 4 to Mission Hills Station, then take a taxi for the base fare. Avoid unlicensed taxis. 2️⃣ Shangrao | Jiangxi Sanqingshan is a challenge for seniors, but after taking the Jinsha Cableway up, the Nanqingyuan loop is relatively flat. ⏰ Take the cableway before 9:00 AM while the clouds and mist haven't cleared yet; you'll get a clear view of the Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain. ⚠️ The steps on the mountain can be slippery. Get your parents a hiking stick; they are sold at the foot of the mountain for CNY 10 each. Wuyuan Jiangwan is perfect for a slow stroll. You can look at the Hui-style old houses one by one, and there are places to sit inside the Xiaojiang Ancestral Hall. 📍 Yunwan Road, Jiangwan Town. There is a free tea station at the village entrance. 🍜 The braised tofu and steamed dishes are soft and tender, which suits seniors' tastes. I hesitated about including Guifeng, but the route to Nanyan Temple isn't actually tiring for seniors, and taking a boat to see the Danxia landforms is even easier. 🚄 Get off at Yiyang Station; there's a scenic shuttle bus every 15 minutes. Huangling's "Autumn Harvest" display is a National Day exclusive, but the cableway queue is long. ⚠️ I recommend going up the mountain after 2:00 PM to avoid tour groups. There are benches next to the viewing platform where parents can sit and wait while I take photos. 3️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning Many friends from the south haven't heard of Mount Yiwulü. Bringing parents here is all about the peace and quiet. 📍 Mount Yiwulü Scenic Area, Beizhen City. There's a shuttle bus from the mountain gate to the cable car station for CNY 10 per person—don't skip this. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM. The light filtering through the pine forest onto the stone path is beautiful; my mom said it felt like walking inside a painting. After taking the cable car up, the steps to Laozu Peak are steep. Seniors can just walk to the platform to look around; there's no need to climb to the summit. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go into Beizhen city to eat Goubangzi smoked chicken. The meat is so tender it falls off the bone, so even my dad, who has bad teeth, can chew it easily. ⚠️ It's windy on the mountain during the National Day holiday. Bring a light down jacket for your parents; it's 5–6 degrees cooler than at the foot of the mountain. 4️⃣ Chizhou | Anhui Mount Jiuhua is windy, but the Jiuhuajie area is flat and suitable for seniors. 🚄 Get off at Chizhou Station, take the bus directly to the Kecun Transfer Center, and then take the scenic bus up the mountain. You won't have to walk much at all. ⏰ Go to Huacheng Temple at 6:30 AM. It's less crowded, and the scent of incense mixed with the mountain mist creates an atmosphere my parents love. 📍 The time-honored vegetarian restaurants on Jiuhuajie serve soft bamboo shoot noodles and bok choy with mushroom noodles. ⚠️ Don't trust people on the roadside who say they can "take you through a shortcut to avoid the entrance fee"—they are just taking you the long way around. The cable car to Baisui Palace has long queues. If your parents are tired, just sit and rest at the entrance of Zhiyuan Temple and watch the koi in the release pond. 5️⃣ Handan | Guangdong Guangfu Ancient City is perfect for riding a tandem bike—parents sit in the back, and I pedal. 📍 Guangfu Town, Yongnian District. You can rent a bike at the base of the city wall for CNY 20 an hour. ⏰ Go up the city wall after 4:00 PM; the sunset hitting the moat is beautiful and not too sunny. Wahuang Palace is in She County, a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Handan. 🚄 If that's too far, take the tourist shuttle, but it runs infrequently, so I recommend chartering a car. ⚠️ There are many steps at Wahuang Palace. Seniors can just walk to Tingcan Palace and then turn back; the section above is too steep. 🍜 The crispy fish and braised pork knuckle in the ancient city are a bit salty, so ask the owner to use less salt. My mom, however, liked the bowl of "minjie" noodles, saying it tasted like her childhood. 6️⃣ Xianyang | Shaanxi The Spirit Way at Qianling Mausoleum is very long, but the slope is gentle, making it suitable for a slow walk. 📍 Qianling Scenic Area, Qian County. There is a shuttle bus from the parking lot to the entrance of the Spirit Way. ⏰ Go in the morning. The outline of the Unmarked Stele is clear in the morning light, and if your parents are interested in history, they can spend a long time looking at it. ⚠️ Don't touch the stone figures and horses on both sides of the Spirit Way; there is surveillance. The underground palace hasn't been excavated, so don't listen to unofficial guides making up stories. Yuanjiacun Guanzhong Impression Experience Park is better for eating. 🍜 Donkey hoof noodles, jiaotuan, and sheep blood soup—try them one by one. My dad loved the freshly ground tofu pudding; he said it was more tender than what you get in the city. 🚄 It's a 40-minute taxi ride from Xianyang Station. It's hard to get a taxi for the return trip, so book one in advance. 7️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is in Yanling County, which is over two hours away from downtown Zhuzhou. 🚄 I recommend taking the train to Yanling Station, then taking a 20-minute taxi ride. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM. It's less crowded, the ancient trees are towering, and the air smells like cypress. 📍 There aren't many steps in front of the Shennong Hall, so it's not strenuous for parents to walk. There's a small tea garden behind the mausoleum hall where you can sit and have a cup of Yanling black tea; rest up before continuing. ⚠️ There are few dining options nearby, so bring some bread and fruit. There are sacrificial performances during the National Day holiday that my parents were quite engrossed in, but don't stand too close as the gongs and drums are loud. 8️⃣ Xining | Qinghai Regardless of religion, the embroidery and butter sculptures at Ta'er Monastery are worth seeing alone. 📍 Lushar Town, Huangzhong District. It's a 40-minute bus ride from downtown Xining. ⏰ Enter at 8:00 AM before the tourists flood in; the sound of the prayer wheels is very soft. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the halls, so don't sneak photos. There are many steps, so have your parents walk slowly; there are benches everywhere. The Dongguan Grand Mosque is in the city center; go in the evening when the light is soft. 🚄 Take the bus to Dongguan Street Station; it's just a short walk away. The surrounding area is a Hui ethnic community. 🍜 The hand-grabbed mutton and sweet fermented oat porridge are worth trying, but don't eat at the shops with people soliciting customers at the door. Walk a couple of steps into the alley for honest prices. When taking parents out for the National Day holiday, the pace is more important than the attractions. Walking for a bit and then resting is better than rushing around. Of these 6 places, I most recommend Shangrao and Xianyang—one for the mountains and one for the noodles—my parents were satisfied with both. Where are you planning to take them?

8 low-budget cities for the Mid-Autumn Festival: fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and no tourist traps. 1️⃣ Xishuangbanna | Yunnan Fly to Xishuangbanna for the Mid-Autumn Festival; airfare is significantly cheaper than peak season. You can enjoy a 3-day trip for about CNY 1,500 per person. ⏰ Morning: First, visit the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (Chinese Academy of Sciences). The east area has rare plants, while the west area is better for photos. Don't skip the CNY 50 electric cart; the park is huge. 📍 Afternoon: Head to the Dai Minority Park. Renting a Dai outfit near the Water Splashing Square costs CNY 30, half the price of the Gaozhuang Night Market. ⚠️ Warning: Don't touch the "Burmese jade" at the night market; 9 out of 10 are glass. 🍜 Dinner: Go to the riverside night market for roasted luosuo and lemongrass grilled fish. You can eat your fill for about CNY 40 per person. The peacock release at the Wild Forest Park is most reliable at 5:00 PM; don't go too early or you'll just be waiting. Great for couples and parents. The rainy season just ended, so October weather is perfect. 2️⃣ Benxi | Liaoning Benxi Water Cave isn't crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Admission is CNY 110. Take a boat in the cave to see stalactites. ⏰ Get there for the first wave at 8:00 AM; if you're late, you'll wait at least an hour. The cave is a constant 12 degrees, so bring a jacket. Don't trust the coat rentals at the entrance; CNY 20 isn't worth it when you can just wear your own. 📍 Afternoon: Go to Guanmen Mountain. The maple leaves are just starting to turn red in early October, and it's less crowded than mid-November, so you won't have to fight for photo spots. Wunv Mountain in Huanren is great for hikers, but the steps are steep—seniors should be careful. 🍜 Xiaoshi Yizhuang's lamb soup is worth trying. CNY 25 a bowl, served with a flower roll. ⚠️ Warning: Don't buy the "package tickets" from touts at the cave entrance; buying individually is more flexible. You can do a 2-day trip for about CNY 600 per person. It's a 30-minute high-speed train ride from Shenyang. 3️⃣ Yili | Xinjiang The Yili River Valley is at the tail end of the off-season during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Airfare has dropped, but the grasslands are still there. ⏰ The light at Kalajun is softest after 4:00 PM. The curves of the grassland look like a painting. Shuttle bus plus admission is about CNY 150. 📍 There are no apricot blossoms at Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley during the Mid-Autumn Festival, but the autumn colors are a mix of yellow and green. It's so empty you could have the place to yourself—perfect for hikers. The Gongnaisi Grassland is free along the way; you can stop whenever you want if you're driving. 🍜 Eat handmade ice cream and baked buns on Liuxing Street in Yining for about CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Warning: Don't find a chartered car at the airport; booking in advance saves you CNY 200. Suitable for solo travelers or groups. If traveling with seniors, it's recommended to stick to the valley plains. 4️⃣ Jingmen | Hubei Jingmen is a very niche destination. Visit the Xianling Mausoleum during the Mid-Autumn Festival; admission is CNY 70. ⏰ The light hits at an angle after 3:00 PM, making the red walls look great without filters. For the history of the Xianling Mausoleum, I recommend hiring a guide for CNY 50; otherwise, you're just looking at a pile of rocks. 📍 A taxi from Zhongxiang city center costs about CNY 30; there are buses, but the wait is long. The nearby Mochou Village is free to explore and has lights at night. 🍜 Panlong vegetable is a local specialty; CNY 40 a serving. It's like meat cake. ⚠️ Warning: Don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area; walk into the village and it's half the price. A 1-day trip costs about CNY 400 per person. Great for families who want to avoid crowds. 5️⃣ Jingdezhen | Jiangxi In Jingdezhen during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Taoxichuan Creative District opens at 7:00 PM. ⏰ There are the most stalls on Friday and Saturday; there are half as many on other days. 📍 You can experience pottery throwing in Taoxichuan for CNY 50 an hour, which is cheaper than the Ancient Kiln. Admission to the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum is CNY 95. You can watch master craftsmen throw pottery and fire kilns. ⚠️ It closes at 5:00 PM, so don't drag it out until evening. 🍜 Cold noodles and fried dough sticks with glutinous rice cakes in Fuzhou Alley cost about CNY 15 per person. Staying at a hostel near Taoxichuan is CNY 80 a night, suitable for students. A 2-day trip costs about CNY 500 per person. Accessible by high-speed train. 6️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan The Yandi Mausoleum in Zhuzhou is quiet and uncrowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Admission is CNY 60. ⏰ Go in the morning, and you can still explore the city in the afternoon. 📍 The mausoleum area has ancient trees and takes about 2 hours to walk around. It's great for bringing elders to find some peace. 🍜 Hejiatu Night Market in downtown Zhuzhou has spicy crayfish and snails for about CNY 50 per person. ⚠️ Warning: The Yandi Mausoleum is in Yanling County, a 2-hour drive from the city center. Don't try to go back and forth in one day; it's too rushed. Staying overnight is better. About CNY 400 per person. It's a 20-minute high-speed train ride from Changsha. Suitable for family trips; seniors can handle the walking. 7️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Go to Shigatse for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Admission to Everest Base Camp plus the entry fee is about CNY 320. ⏰ Visibility is high in October, so there's a good chance of seeing the golden mountain at sunrise. 📍 The debate at Tashilhunpo Monastery after 3:00 PM is worth seeing. Admission is CNY 80. ⚠️ Warning: Tents at Everest cost CNY 110 a night. Conditions are basic, so bring a sleeping bag. Don't push yourself if you have altitude sickness; buy oxygen tanks in advance. 🍜 Tibetan noodles and sweet tea in downtown Shigatse cost about CNY 20 per person. Suitable for solo travelers or groups with good stamina. Not recommended for seniors or children. About CNY 2,000 per person including transportation. It's a 3-hour train ride from Lhasa. 8️⃣ Nanchong | Sichuan Langzhong Ancient City in Nanchong doesn't charge a general admission fee for the Mid-Autumn Festival. A pass for small attractions is CNY 110. ⏰ Climb the Huaguang Tower in the evening to see the Jialing River; the light is just right. 📍 The Zhang Fei Temple and the Examination Hall in the ancient city are worth entering; visit other small courtyards as you please. 🍜 Baoning vinegar and steamed buns with sugar cost about CNY 20 per person. ⚠️ Warning: Inns in the ancient city raise prices during the Mid-Autumn Festival; staying on the other side of the river is half the price. Suitable for couples and families. It's a 2-hour bullet train ride from Chengdu. About CNY 500 per person for a 2-day trip. Slow-paced and relaxing. Airfare and accommodation for these 8 places haven't peaked for the Mid-Autumn Festival yet. Pick one and don't hesitate; if you wait too long, the rooms will be gone. Which one have you been to? Let's chat in the comments.

If you want to get out for the 3-day Mid-Autumn Festival but your wallet is feeling light, I've gone through my travel logs from the past few years and picked out 8 places where you can see a lot for a little. No sugarcoating here—I'll tell you the good and the bad. 01 Ganzi | Sichuan Don't be greedy with a 3-day trip to Ganzi. My advice is to pick just one route: Xinduqiao plus Mugecuo, or just Hailuogou. Daocheng Yading is too rushed for 3 days—you'd spend a day and a half just on the road. ⚠️ Don't try to force it. ⏰ The best time in Xinduqiao is from 4:00 PM to sunset, when the light hits the poplar trees at an angle. Around the Mid-Autumn Festival, the leaves are just starting to turn yellow. 📍 From the town toward Tagong, you can pull over anywhere for a photo op; no need to buy tickets for the viewing platforms. Mugecuo tickets plus the sightseeing bus aren't cheap. If you're on a tight budget, you can skip it and save the money for Hailuogou. You take a cable car to see the glacier in Hailuogou, but since there's a lot of cloud and fog during the Mid-Autumn Festival, whether you'll see it is up to luck. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Chengdu Xinnanmen to Kangding, then you transfer to get into the valley. Staying in the old town of Kangding is half the price of staying at the entrance to the scenic area, and you can stroll around the Liuliu City area at night for a bowl of yak soup. This is suitable for young people who can handle long bus rides and don't get motion sickness; be cautious if traveling with elderly people or children. 02 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is an underrated spot around Xi'an. Jinsixia is the main attraction, with boardwalks throughout the canyon. ⏰ Enter the valley in the morning when it's less crowded and cooler; it takes about 4 hours to walk through. ⚠️ The stones are slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes—don't wear white sneakers. Tianshuxia is a bit wilder with fewer tourists, perfect for those who want a quiet walk. Manchuanguan Ancient Town is free, featuring blue stone streets and Ming and Qing dynasty houses. 📍 The small stall at the town entrance selling "fairy" jelly is CNY 5 a bowl—sour, spicy, and refreshing. Baita Temple is in the Shangzhou city area; just take a look if you're passing by, but it's not worth a special trip. 🍜 For food in the city, try the Shangzhou braised dish; one serving is enough for two. 🚄 The high-speed train from Xi'an to Shangluo takes about 30 minutes and is cheap. Stay in the Shangzhou urban area and take a taxi or ride-share to the various attractions. Overall, this is suitable for students and weekend travelers with limited budgets who want to do some light hiking. 03 Lhasa | Tibet Going to Lhasa for the Mid-Autumn Festival means airfare will be your biggest expense, but costs are manageable once you land. You need to book the Potala Palace in advance. ⚠️ Tickets are tight during peak season, so don't wait until you arrive. ⏰ The square is less crowded before 9:00 AM, which is great for taking photos of reflections. You don't need a ticket for Barkhor Street around the Jokhang Temple. Just follow the pilgrims for a lap. 📍 At Guangming Gangqiong Sweet Tea House, tea is CNY 1 a cup, and you can sit all afternoon without anyone rushing you. A day trip to Namtso is too tiring; I recommend staying one night. The altitude is high, so ⚠️ don't run or jump around. Acclimate on your first day in Lhasa; don't rush straight to Namtso. 🍜 Tibetan noodles and sweet tea are the standard breakfast—cheap and filling. Stay at a hostel near Barkhor Street for a few dozen yuan a bed. This is suitable for people with good physical health who can handle altitude sickness. Since the Mid-Autumn holiday is short, don't pack your itinerary too full. 04 Zhuzhou | Hunan Zhuzhou is often treated as a transit stop, but the Yandi Mausoleum is worth a trip on its own. 📍 The mausoleum area is in Yanling County, over a 2-hour drive from downtown Zhuzhou. 🚄 I recommend driving or ride-sharing, as public transport transfers are a hassle. ⏰ Arrive in the morning, walk through the Shennong Hall first, then head toward the mausoleum. It takes 2 to 3 hours to stroll through at a leisurely pace. It's cool in the mountains around the Mid-Autumn Festival, so bring a light jacket. ⚠️ Keep quiet in the mausoleum area; don't talk loudly or take photos. 🍜 Yanling yellow peaches are basically out of season by the Mid-Autumn Festival, but you can still bring back local dried yellow peaches and chopped chili. Have a farm-style meal in the county town—bacon stir-fried with dried bamboo shoots is great with rice. Budget-wise, tickets and transportation can be done for under CNY 200 a day. Suitable for solo travelers or couples interested in culture who want to avoid the crowds. On the way back, you can stop in downtown Zhuzhou for a bowl of rice noodles to wrap up the trip. 05 Heihe | Heilongjiang Wudalianchi in Heihe is perfect for the Mid-Autumn Festival, just in time for the autumn colors. With its volcanic landscape and lakes, ⏰ the light is soft after 3:00 PM, making it the best time to photograph Laoheishan and Huoshaoshan. ⚠️ The scenic area is large and the attractions are scattered; you'll be at a disadvantage without a car. 📍 The lava platforms at Longmen Stone Village are worth walking; the ground is covered in black volcanic rock. You can try a bottle of cold mineral water at Beiyinquan—it tastes a bit metallic, so don't expect it to be sweet. 🍜 Eat the local mineral water fish and tofu; the cold-water fish meat is firm. Stay in Wudalianchi Town; a standard room is just over CNY 100. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Heihe city to the scenic area, but they are infrequent, so check the schedule in advance. It's already cool in Northeast China at night during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so bring a thick jacket. Suitable for road-trippers who like geological landscapes and don't mind the long distance. Three days is enough to play in the core area; don't try to see everything. 06 Aksu | Xinjiang The Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon features reddish-brown mountains sandwiching a narrow gap; walking inside feels like crawling into the belly of a stone. ⏰ Enter the valley before 10:00 AM so the light can reach the bottom; it gets dark in the valley after noon. ⚠️ You'll have to step in water in some parts of the valley, so wear shoes that can get wet. 📍 The canyon is north of Kuqa. It's not close from downtown Aksu, so 🚄 I recommend chartering a car or joining a local one-day tour; transferring buses yourself takes too much time. The ticket price is reasonable and offers good value. 🍜 Go back to the old town of Kuqa for baked buns and pot meat; it's half the price of what you'll find in the scenic area. The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang during the Mid-Autumn Festival is large—short sleeves during the day, a jacket at night. Suitable for people who like photography and can handle long car rides. The 3-day holiday is tight, so I suggest just playing in the canyon and the old town of Kuqa; don't spread yourself too thin by going further. 07 Shantou | Guangdong Go to Nan'ao Island for the Mid-Autumn Festival; there are fewer people than in the summer, and the seawater is still warm. 🚄 Take bus 161 from downtown Shantou to the island; the view out the window while crossing the Nan'ao Bridge is all ocean. ⚠️ The bridge gets congested on holidays, so leave early. ⏰ Arrive at Qing'ao Bay in the afternoon; the sunset faces the sea directly. 📍 The landmark tower at Tropic of Cancer Square is great for silhouettes. Rent an electric scooter on the island to ride around; it costs a few dozen yuan a day and is more flexible than taking a taxi. 🍜 Back in the city, have beef hot pot—Hehali or any old street shop will do—for about CNY 60–70 per person. Stay near Xiaogongyuan and stroll through the arcade streets at night. Suitable for couples and friends traveling together, with a budget controlled under CNY 500 per person. ⚠️ Accommodation on the island will increase during the Mid-Autumn Festival, so book in advance. Ask for the price before ordering at seafood stalls; don't be shy. 08 Suqian | Jiangsu At Hongze Lake Wetland, the reeds start to sprout during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Taking a boat through the waterways, the wind carries the scent of water plants. ⏰ The light is clear in the morning when taking a boat, and there are many birds. ⚠️ Mosquitoes and insects are fierce in the wetland, so wear long pants and bring mosquito repellent. 📍 The bird-watching platform and the reed maze in the scenic area are the highlights. Walk the boardwalks slowly; half a day is enough. Tickets plus boat fare are just over CNY 100; there are discounts for student IDs. 🍜 In downtown Suqian, eat the Huanggou pig head meat and wheel cakes near Xiangwang's Hometown; locals have been eating these since they were kids. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Suqian Station, then it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to the wetland. Suitable for families with elderly people and children; the roads are flat and not tiring. You can explore downtown Suqian along with the wetland over the 3-day Mid-Autumn Festival. The pace is slow and the cost is low. I was still thinking about that pig head meat on the way back. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Ganzi and Shantou—one for mountains, one for the sea—and both are budget-friendly. Where are you going for the Mid-Autumn Festival? Let me know in the comments.

As soon as school starts in September, airline tickets and hotels are quietly downgraded. October has not yet reached the crowded level of National Day, so this window period is really suitable for going out. I picked 8 places, with early autumn in the northeast and evening breeze in the northwest, with few people, good scenery, and friendly prices. Looking down, there is always one that can cram your vacation. 01 Baicheng|Jilin When visiting Baicheng for the first time, I suggest going straight to the Daanenjiangwan Tourist Area. ⏰ Heading to the scenic spot at 8 am, the fog has not dissipated, the river surface seems to be covered with a layer of tulle, more than ten times better than noon. 📍The wetland canyon in Nenjiang Bay is very flat, so there is no pressure to push a stroller or take the elderly away. The whole journey can be completed in more than two hours of slow strolling, so there is no need to rush. 🍜 After shopping, go out to find a river fish restaurant and order a pot of stewed river fish. The fish meat is firm and the soup is milky white. Fifty or sixty per person can eat very full. Don't eat at the first house at the entrance of the scenic spot. It's more practical to walk two streets inside. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the end of September, so you have to bring a thin down jacket or a rush jacket. In addition, some areas of Nenjiang Bay will have traffic restrictions in the autumn. Check the official announcement before departure. Don't find out that you can't enter until you get to the door. Suitable for people who want to avoid the crowds and just want to watch the water and watch birds in peace. 02 Baoding|Hebei Baoding I recommend self-driving, because Qingxiling, Baishishan, Yesanpo, Anxin Baiyangdian these four places are far away, public transportation transfer will consume most of your patience. ⏰ White Rock Mountain must catch the first wave up the mountain at 7:30 am, the probability of sea of ​​clouds is the highest. Late you can only see the head of people and the cable car queue. The glass canyon is charged separately. If you are afraid of heights, you can still see the good scenery by walking next to the ordinary trail. 🍜Yesanpo is suitable for a night, eat roasted whole lamb by the Juma River in the evening, with local stickers. The accommodation is in the area of ​​Gou Gezhuang, which is much cheaper than the entrance of the scenic spot. You can walk to the riverside. ⚠️ The boats in Baiyangdian are divided into large boats and small wooden boats, the price difference is quite large. If you want to watch the reeds in peace, choose a small wooden boat, but remember to negotiate the price and route first, don't get on the boat in confusion. The Western Mausoleum of the Qing Dynasty is suitable for those interested in ancient architecture. If you are purely looking at the scenery, you can skip it. The autumn leaves in Baishishan have just begun in October, with far fewer people than in Xiangshan. 03 Harbin | Heilongjiang I know you will be stunned when you see "Harbin Ice and Snow". There are no ice sculptures in Harbin from September to October, and the Ice and Snow World is not open either. But it is precisely because of this that flights are cheap, Central Avenue is not crowded, but comfortable. ⏰ Hagia Sophia Church has the softest light after 4pm, there are many pigeons in the square, there is no need to grab a seat for taking pictures. Go in and listen to a small concert. The tickets are not expensive and worth the price. 📍 Volga Manor is a bit far from the city, take a car over forty minutes or so. The birch forest turns yellow in autumn, with Russian architecture, an extra layer of warm tones than in winter. You can rent bicycles in the manor and ride slowly. 🍜 The Madier popsicles on Central Avenue are still the same price, so you can eat them while you go. If you want to eat a main meal, go to Lao Dao Wai. The rib buns with millet congee from Zhang Bao's shop are eaten by locals. ⚠️ This season, the temperature difference between morning and evening in Harbin can reach ten degrees. Wear a sweatshirt at noon and add a jacket at night. Don’t expect to see the ice sculptures, put your expectations on the architecture and autumn colors and you will have more fun. 04 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the most comfortable time of the year from September to October. It's too sunny in summer and too cold in winter. For these two months, the mountain breeze is cool and silky, and it's not dry even after a day. 📍 Baquan Gorge is the core, it is recommended to enter by boat, cableway out, save half the energy. The sound of the water in the canyon is so loud that I can only cry. ⏰ From 10 am to 2 pm, sunlight can shine into the bottom of the canyon, and the water is green. 🍜 There are few choices for eating in the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own dry food. After going down the mountain, we went to Huguan County Town to have a bowl of lamb soup with a siu biscuit. We ate 20 pieces and felt warm. ⚠️ The queue for cruise ships and cableways at Baquan Gorge will be long on weekends. If you can choose a working day, choose a working day. If you are taking the elderly, you basically don’t have to climb up and down the ropeway, but there are still some steps, so you can do it according to your ability. Those who like to hike can walk the whole trail, four hours or so, the scenery is definitely worth it. 05 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou, hidden in the mountains. There have not been many tourists. Go from September to October, the rice fields along the way are just golden, and the fragrance of rice is all the way out of the car window. 📍The building of Emperor Yan's Mausoleum follows the central axis all the way up, walk slowly for about an hour and a half. ⏰ The morning is the least crowded, the smell of incense mixed with the moisture in the mountains, very quiet. You can stop and look at the ancient tree in front of the temple. It is very old. 🍜 Yanling's yellow peach is still coming to an end at this time, buy directly when you encounter a seller on the road. The blood duck and stuffed tofu in the county town are local practices, rather spicy, can not eat spicy to say in advance. ⚠️ It takes more than two hours to drive from Zhuzhou city to Yandi Mausoleum. It is recommended to drive or take a bus to Yanling County and then transfer. Purely for seeing the mausoleum may feel monotonous, it is more appropriate to treat it as a walk between the mountains. Suitable for bringing elders, slow pace, steps are not steep. 06 Haidong | Qinghai Haidong is the east gate of Qinghai, and many people use it as a transit point to Xining. In fact, Mutual Aid Tu Homeland Garden and Youning Temple are worth staying alone for a day. 📍 Mutual Assistance Tu Homeland Garden You can watch the Tu Wheel Autumn Performance, and you can also turn twice yourself, more fun than imagined. ⏰ The afternoon performance is less crowded, no need to crowd. You can have a sip of the barley wine in the garden. Don't be greedy for a glass, it will be strong afterward. 🍜 Mutual help's eight-brow pork and steamed pot dumplings are a specialty. The dumplings are broken and dipped in boiled tea to eat, the more you chew, the more fragrant. Youning Temple is in the mountains, with fewer tourists. The old man who turns the prayers walks slowly, and you just follow. ⚠️ End of September Haidong morning and evening is very cool, thin cotton clothes belt on. Youning Temple is a religious place. Don't talk loudly when you enter. Check if there are any signs before taking pictures. Suitable for friends who want to experience different ethnic styles and do not want to be crowded. 07 Pingding Mountain | Henan I recommend the combination of Yaoshan-Central Great Buddha in two days. Climbing Mount Yao is physically demanding, but the Central Plains Buddha takes a flat road. After a hard day's work, you will be so tired that you are not in the mood to see the scenery. 📍Yao Shan From the cableway station to Yuhuang Peak, round trip about three hours. ⏰ The red leaves begin to change color in mid-October, earlier than Xiangshan, and much less people. If you don't want to climb, take the ropeway to the middle station. It's enough to walk around nearby. 🍜The pot dishes and wild vegetables at the farmhouse at the foot of the mountain are worth eating, the portions are large, two people order a dish and a soup is enough. Don't eat at the few restaurants at the entrance of the ropeway, walk a kilometer down, the price and taste are real. ⚠️ In the Central Plains Great Buddha Scenic Area from the main door to the Buddha front there is a short road, there is a ferry, it is recommended to sit, save the effort to climb the lotus seat. The weather in Yaoshan is changing faster. Raincoats are more effective than umbrellas. If you have children, the Yaoshan Cableway and the Central Plains Buddha are easy, but some sections of the Yaoshan Trail have steep steps, so it is good for children. 08 Southwest Guizhou | Guizhou Autumn comes late in southwest Guizhou, with less rain from September to October, and the Maling River Gorge and Wanfeng Forest are entering their most photogenic time. 📍The canyon of the Maling River Canyon is close to the cliff, the waterfall is at hand, the water mist is all over the face. ⏰ Go in the morning, the sun can shine into the canyon, the probability of rainbow appearance is high. Walk the whole process more than two hours, many steps, knees are not good cautious. 🍜 Lamb powder and brush heads in Xingyi city are standard for breakfast. A bowl of flour and a cage of brush heads can be eaten for 10 yuan. The fried rice with eggs at the foot of Wanfenglin is also famous, using local rice with rice. ⚠️ Wan Feng Forest is suitable for renting electric cars or bicycles to stroll slowly, Guan Feng Road is all the way, no need to deliberately find. Wear non-slip shoes in the canyon of the Maling River. Wear non-slip shoes. From September to October, the temperature in southwestern Guizhou is over 20 degrees during the day, so you need to wear a thin coat at night. Suitable for people who like natural scenery and don't mind walking. These 8 places are considered a good time to visit from September to October. If you only have two or three days, I will give priority to Baicheng, Changzhi or Haidong. If you have plenty of time, you can stay for a few more days in Baoding and Qianxinan. Where you plan to go, or have been, the comment section says. As soon as school starts in September, airline tickets and hotels are quietly downgraded. October has not yet reached the crowded level of National Day, so this window period is really suitable for going out. I picked 8 places, with early autumn in the northeast and evening breeze in the northwest, with few people, good scenery, and friendly prices. Looking down, there is always one that can cram your vacation. 01 Baicheng|Jilin When visiting Baicheng for the first time, I suggest going straight to the Daanenjiangwan Tourist Area. ⏰ Heading to the scenic spot at 8 am, the fog has not dissipated, the river surface seems to be covered with a layer of tulle, more than ten times better than noon. 📍The wetland canyon in Nenjiang Bay is very flat, so there is no pressure to push a stroller or take the elderly away. The whole journey can be completed in more than two hours of slow strolling, so there is no need to rush. 🍜 After shopping, go out to find a river fish restaurant and order a pot of stewed river fish. The fish meat is firm and the soup is milky white. Fifty or sixty per person can eat very full. Don't eat at the first house at the entrance of the scenic spot. It's more practical to walk two streets inside. ⚠️ The wind is strong at the end of September, so you have to bring a thin down jacket or a rush jacket. In addition, some areas of Nenjiang Bay will have traffic restrictions in the autumn. Check the official announcement before departure. Don't find out that you can't enter until you get to the door. Suitable for people who want to avoid the crowds and just want to watch the water and watch birds in peace. 02 Baoding|Hebei Baoding I recommend self-driving, because Qingxiling, Baishishan, Yesanpo, Anxin Baiyangdian these four places are far away, public transportation transfer will consume most of your patience. ⏰ White Rock Mountain must catch the first wave up the mountain at 7:30 am, the probability of sea of ​​clouds is the highest. Late you can only see the head of people and the cable car queue. The glass canyon is charged separately. If you are afraid of heights, you can still see the good scenery by walking next to the ordinary trail. 🍜Yesanpo is suitable for a night, eat roasted whole lamb by the Juma River in the evening, with local stickers. The accommodation is in the area of ​​Gou Gezhuang, which is much cheaper than the entrance of the scenic spot. You can walk to the riverside. ⚠️ The boats in Baiyangdian are divided into large boats and small wooden boats, the price difference is quite large. If you want to watch the reeds in peace, choose a small wooden boat, but remember to negotiate the price and route first, don't get on the boat in confusion. The Western Mausoleum of the Qing Dynasty is suitable for those interested in ancient architecture. If you are purely looking at the scenery, you can skip it. The autumn leaves in Baishishan have just begun in October, with far fewer people than in Xiangshan. 03 Harbin | Heilongjiang I know you will be stunned when you see "Harbin Ice and Snow". There are no ice sculptures in Harbin from September to October, and the Ice and Snow World is not open either. But it is precisely because of this that flights are cheap, Central Avenue is not crowded, but comfortable. ⏰ Hagia Sophia Church has the softest light after 4pm, there are many pigeons in the square, there is no need to grab a seat for taking pictures. Go in and listen to a small concert. The tickets are not expensive and worth the price. 📍 Volga Manor is a bit far from the city, take a car over forty minutes or so. The birch forest turns yellow in autumn, with Russian architecture, an extra layer of warm tones than in winter. You can rent bicycles in the manor and ride slowly. 🍜 The Madier popsicles on Central Avenue are still the same price, so you can eat them while you go. If you want to eat a main meal, go to Lao Dao Wai. The rib buns with millet congee from Zhang Bao's shop are eaten by locals. ⚠️ This season, the temperature difference between morning and evening in Harbin can reach ten degrees. Wear a sweatshirt at noon and add a jacket at night. Don’t expect to see the ice sculptures, put your expectations on the architecture and autumn colors and you will have more fun. 04 Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon in Changzhi is the most comfortable time of the year from September to October. It's too sunny in summer and too cold in winter. For these two months, the mountain breeze is cool and silky, and it's not dry even after a day. 📍 Baquan Gorge is the core, it is recommended to enter by boat, cableway out, save half the energy. The sound of the water in the canyon is so loud that I can only cry. ⏰ From 10 am to 2 pm, sunlight can shine into the bottom of the canyon, and the water is green. 🍜 There are few choices for eating in the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own dry food. After going down the mountain, we went to Huguan County Town to have a bowl of lamb soup with a siu biscuit. We ate 20 pieces and felt warm. ⚠️ The queue for cruise ships and cableways at Baquan Gorge will be long on weekends. If you can choose a working day, choose a working day. If you are taking the elderly, you basically don’t have to climb up and down the ropeway, but there are still some steps, so you can do it according to your ability. Those who like to hike can walk the whole trail, four hours or so, the scenery is definitely worth it. 05 Zhuzhou|Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is located in Yanling County, Zhuzhou, hidden in the mountains. There have not been many tourists. Go from September to October, the rice fields along the way are just golden, and the fragrance of rice is all the way out of the car window. 📍The building of Emperor Yan's Mausoleum follows the central axis all the way up, walk slowly for about an hour and a half. ⏰ The morning is the least crowded, the smell of incense mixed with the moisture in the mountains, very quiet. You can stop and look at the ancient tree in front of the temple. It is very old. 🍜 Yanling's yellow peach is still coming to an end at this time, buy directly when you encounter a seller on the road. The blood duck and stuffed tofu in the county town are local practices, rather spicy, can not eat spicy to say in advance. ⚠️ It takes more than two hours to drive from Zhuzhou city to Yandi Mausoleum. It is recommended to drive or take a bus to Yanling County and then transfer. Purely for seeing the mausoleum may feel monotonous, it is more appropriate to treat it as a walk between the mountains. Suitable for bringing elders, slow pace, steps are not steep. 06 Haidong | Qinghai Haidong is the east gate of Qinghai, and many people use it as a transit point to Xining. In fact, Mutual Aid Tu Homeland Garden and Youning Temple are worth staying alone for a day. 📍 Mutual Assistance Tu Homeland Garden You can watch the Tu Wheel Autumn Performance, and you can also turn twice yourself, more fun than imagined. ⏰ The afternoon performance is less crowded, no need to crowd. You can have a sip of the barley wine in the garden. Don't be greedy for a glass, it will be strong afterward. 🍜 Mutual help's eight-brow pork and steamed pot dumplings are a specialty. The dumplings are broken and dipped in boiled tea to eat, the more you chew, the more fragrant. Youning Temple is in the mountains, with fewer tourists. The old man who turns the prayers walks slowly, and you just follow. ⚠️ End of September Haidong morning and evening is very cool, thin cotton clothes belt on. Youning Temple is a religious place. Don't talk loudly when you enter. Check if there are any signs before taking pictures. Suitable for friends who want to experience different ethnic styles and do not want to be crowded. 07 Pingding Mountain | Henan I recommend the combination of Yaoshan-Central Great Buddha in two days. Climbing Mount Yao is physically demanding, but the Central Plains Buddha takes a flat road. After a hard day's work, you will be so tired that you are not in the mood to see the scenery. 📍Yao Shan From the cableway station to Yuhuang Peak, round trip about three hours. ⏰ The red leaves begin to change color in mid-October, earlier than Xiangshan, and much less people. If you don't want to climb, take the ropeway to the middle station. It's enough to walk around nearby. 🍜The pot dishes and wild vegetables at the farmhouse at the foot of the mountain are worth eating, the portions are large, two people order a dish and a soup is enough. Don't eat at the few restaurants at the entrance of the ropeway, walk a kilometer down, the price and taste are real. ⚠️ In the Central Plains Great Buddha Scenic Area from the main door to the Buddha front there is a short road, there is a ferry, it is recommended to sit, save the effort to climb the lotus seat. The weather in Yaoshan is changing faster. Raincoats are more effective than umbrellas. If you have children, the Yaoshan Cableway and the Central Plains Buddha are easy, but some sections of the Yaoshan Trail have steep steps, so it is good for children. 08 Southwest Guizhou | Guizhou Autumn comes late in southwest Guizhou, with less rain from September to October, and the Maling River Gorge and Wanfeng Forest are entering their most photogenic time. 📍The canyon of the Maling River Canyon is close to the cliff, the waterfall is at hand, the water mist is all over the face. ⏰ Go in the morning, the sun can shine into the canyon, the probability of rainbow appearance is high. Walk the whole process more than two hours, many steps, knees are not good cautious. 🍜 Lamb powder and brush heads in Xingyi city are standard for breakfast. A bowl of flour and a cage of brush heads can be eaten for 10 yuan. The fried rice with eggs at the foot of Wanfenglin is also famous, using local rice with rice. ⚠️ Wan Feng Forest is suitable for renting electric cars or bicycles to stroll slowly, Guan Feng Road is all the way, no need to deliberately find. Wear non-slip shoes in the canyon of the Maling River. Wear non-slip shoes. From September to October, the temperature in southwestern Guizhou is over 20 degrees during the day, so you need to wear a thin coat at night. Suitable for people who like natural scenery and don't mind walking. These 8 places are considered a good time to visit from September to October. If you only have two or three days, I will give priority to Baicheng, Changzhi or Haidong. If you have plenty of time, you can stay for a few more days in Baoding and Qianxinan. Where you plan to go, or have been, the comment section says.