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

In July in Shanxi, it’s over 30°C outside. But the moment I entered the Ningwu Perennial Ice Cave, I regretted not bringing a down jacket. Cold wind gushes out from deep inside the cave entrance, like someone opening the door to an ice cellar right in front of you. Walking down the steps, the temperature drops steadily—from the entrance to the bottom, the difference exceeds 20 degrees Celsius. Some fellow tourists wrapped themselves tightly in jackets, while others rented cotton-padded coats directly at the scenic spot. The Perennial Ice Cave was formed over 3 million years ago. Inside, ice stalagmites, ice pillars, and ice waterfalls glow with a blue-green light under the illumination, crystal clear and translucent. The guide said this ice cave is the largest in China and the rarest large ice cave discovered outside the permafrost layer worldwide. It remains frozen all year round—summer outside, deep winter inside. Xinzhou boasts two major summer resorts: Luyashan and Wutai Mountain. Luyashan is known as the “Green Lung of North China,” with an average summer temperature not exceeding 20°C. Attractions like Malun Grassland, Lover’s Valley, and the source of the Fen River each have their unique charm. Wutai Mountain has long been praised as the “Cool Mountain,” with summer temperatures averaging between 18 and 20°C. Luyashan Scenic Area offers multiple hiking routes. Malun Grassland sits at an altitude of 2,700 meters, with green meadows stretching to the horizon, dotted with cattle and sheep. Lover’s Valley is flanked by dense primeval forests, with streams flowing at the valley bottom; a hike takes two to three hours. On June 26 this year, the “2026 Xinzhou Ancient City Summer EDM Party” kicked off at the North City Gate Tower Square. The Xinzhou Ancient City “Summer Life Festival” also launched simultaneously, featuring multiple themed EDM parties and sports events from June to August. 🚄 How to get there? Take the high-speed train to Xinzhou West Station or Taiyuan Station and transfer. Luyashan Scenic Area is about a 2-hour drive from Xinzhou city center; car rental or self-driving is recommended. 🎫 Ticket Information Tickets for the Perennial Ice Cave are subject to on-site announcements. Luyashan Scenic Area combo tickets include the ice cave, Malun Grassland, Lover’s Valley, and other attractions. Please refer to the latest official announcements. 🗺️ 3-day 2-night Xinzhou summer escape itinerary Day 1: Perennial Ice Cave + Luyashan. Arrive in Ningwu in the morning and head straight to the Perennial Ice Cave (bring a thick jacket or rent a cotton-padded coat). In the afternoon, visit Luyashan and hike Malun Grassland or Lover’s Valley. Overnight in Ningwu or Xinzhou. Day 2: Wutai Mountain. Visit Wutai Mountain in the morning (the Taihuai Town area is cool and pleasant, ideal for relaxation, health, and summer retreat), explore temples, and enjoy the cool mountain breeze. Overnight at Wutai Mountain. Day 3: Xinzhou Ancient City + return. Explore Xinzhou Ancient City in the morning and experience the “Summer Life Festival” activities. Return in the afternoon. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations Hotels in Xinzhou city center range from 200-400 RMB/night; homestays in Taihuai Town, Wutai Mountain, range from 300-500 RMB/night. Book early for the July peak season. 📸 Photo Spots Close-ups of ice stalagmites and pillars inside the Perennial Ice Cave, glowing crystal clear under blue-green lights; alpine meadows of Malun Grassland with cattle and sheep framed by distant mountains; streams and primeval forests in Lover’s Valley; night scenes of the EDM party at the North City Gate Tower in Xinzhou Ancient City. 💡 A few reminders The temperature inside the Perennial Ice Cave is extremely low; be sure to bring a thick jacket or rent a cotton-padded coat at the scenic spot. Luyashan’s summer average temperature does not exceed 20°C, but it’s cooler in the mornings and evenings. Wutai Mountain’s summer average temperature is 18 to 20°C; Taihuai Town is cool and pleasant. From June to August, the Xinzhou Ancient City Summer Life Festival features multiple EDM parties in rotation. The photos in the article are for artistic reference only; actual scenery may vary.

Just got back from Xinzhou, Shanxi, and I can't wait to recommend this hidden summer getaway to everyone! The average summer temperature here is only 18°C, with alpine meadows comparable to Xinjiang, and an ancient city praised by CCTV. The best part is—most of the beautiful spots are accessible by car, no hiking needed, making it super family-friendly for those with kids and elderly! 🌟 Why Xinzhou? · Super convenient transportation: Within 3 hours driving from Taiyuan and Shijiazhuang, 3.5 hours by high-speed train from Beijing, 4 hours from Xi’an. Perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip. · Cool and pleasant: Average summer temperature between 18-25°C, a natural air-conditioned room. · Diverse scenery: Spend one day exploring a thousand-year-old ancient city, another day galloping across alpine meadows, full of immersive experiences. · Easy and relaxing: You can drive right up to the main attractions, requiring very little physical effort. 📅 3 Days 2 Nights Lazy Itinerary (copy directly) Day 1: Immerse in the Thousand-Year-Old Ancient City, Watch the Intangible Cultural Heritage Iron Flower Performance · Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Xinzhou Ancient City. This ancient city has a long history, a complete layout, and just the right level of commercialization with a strong local vibe. Start wandering right after check-in. · Must-experience: ◦ Food tour: The ancient city offers a dazzling array of snacks like Wantuo, Kansandao, Buckwheat Noodles… affordable and reliable. ◦ Climb high: Visit Xiurong Academy, the highest point in the ancient city. Climb to the teahouse at the top to overlook the entire city’s blue-gray rooftops—a perfect photo spot. ◦ Photo ops: The red background wall and decorations near the North City Gate with “Xinzhou” are popular check-in spots. · Evening: Be sure to watch the intangible cultural heritage iron flower show (check performance times in advance). At night, molten iron splashes like stars in the sky—spectacular and romantic. After the show, find a hot spring guesthouse to soak away your fatigue. · Accommodation recommendation: Stay at “Futian Huayu” or similar guesthouses inside the ancient city, many with private courtyards and hot spring pools, centrally located with a great experience. Day 2: Gallop through “Little Xinjiang of Shanxi,” Encounter 40,000 Acres of Meadows · All day: Head to Heyeping Alpine Meadow. This is the highlight of the trip! · Transportation: It’s recommended to rent a car from the ancient city (about 200 RMB/day) for maximum freedom. Private car hire about 300 RMB/day. · Route tips: 1. Outbound: Take the Cangyu Expressway for a quick arrival. 2. The essence is on the return: Be sure to take the Xinwu Line (Wuba Line) county road back! The scenery is stunning, known as the “Shanxi Duku Highway.” We stopped more than ten times for photos along the way, passing forests, meadows, windmills, cattle, and sheep, as if traveling through Xinjiang or Western Sichuan. · Activities: You can drive directly onto the meadow at over 2700 meters altitude. Covering more than 40,000 acres, wildflowers bloom in summer and clouds hang low. No hiking needed, just step out and enjoy the scenery. Perfect for picnics, photos, or daydreaming. · Timing: Depart at 8 AM, return to the ancient city by 7 PM, plenty of time. Day 3: Leisurely Ancient City Time, Pleasant Return · Morning: Sleep in naturally, then before 10 AM when there are fewer tourists, stroll through the quiet early morning ancient city. Shops just opening, streets peaceful, soft light for photos, perfect for retaking some check-in spots (like Xiurong Academy stairs, North Gate bowknot). · Noon: Have an authentic Xinzhou lunch, then happily take the high-speed train or drive back. 💡 Super Practical Tips (Essential for a worry-free trip) 1. Transportation: Prioritize high-speed train to “Xinzhou West Station,” very close to the ancient city. For city touring, walking inside the ancient city is enough; for Heyeping, strongly recommend renting a car, SUV preferred. 2. Accommodation: For character, stay in guesthouses inside the ancient city; for standardized service, hotels around the ancient city are good. Book early in peak season. 3. Food: Feel free to try the ancient city snacks. For meals, try local specialties like “Xinzhou Guoyourou,” “Dingxiang Steamed Meat,” and lamb offal soup. 4. Gear: Even in summer, Heyeping is high altitude, so bring a windbreaker or light down jacket. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are must-haves. Wear comfortable walking shoes. ⚠️ Pitfall Guide (From personal experience) 1. Weather changes: Heyeping weather is variable; check the forecast before departure. If rainy or foggy, the mountain can be very cold and the experience diminished. 2. Route choice: When going to Heyeping, be sure to return via the “Xinwu Line,” the highlight of the trip. Don’t return the same way on the expressway. Set waypoints on your navigation. 3. Spending tips: Prices in the ancient city are transparent, but bargain appropriately when buying crafts. Watch out for private “viewing platforms” charging fees on the drive. 4. Safe driving: The Xinwu Line has many curves; although the scenery is beautiful, drive carefully and do not stop on curves for photos. Xinzhou is like a low-key treasure, with deep historical roots and stunning natural scenery. The key is fewer crowds, cool weather, and easy travel, especially suitable for families with elders and kids. This summer, if you want a different kind of summer retreat, come check it out here.

If you're tired of the crowds at famous temples in Shanxi, I highly recommend adding the Jingju Temple Grottoes (静居寺石窟) in Jingle County, Xinzhou City, to your itinerary. This hidden gem on a cliffside features exquisite Buddhist art from the Tang Dynasty that perfectly embodies its namesake serenity and solemnity. ✨ Highlights You Shouldn't Miss: · Tang Dynasty Aesthetics: Carved into a sandstone cliff, the Buddha statues here are remarkably unique. They feature the plump figures and compassionate facial expressions typical of authentic Tang Dynasty style. Even after a thousand years, the drapery details remain incredibly fluid. · Ancient Inscriptions: Right in front of the cave, there's a stone inscription carved directly into the cliff face. The intricate dragon and lotus motifs above the text are absolutely breathtaking—a true testament to the exceptional skill of ancient artisans. · Serene Atmosphere: Free from overwhelming commercialization, this spot offers a deeply exclusive experience. You can admire ancient art accompanied only by the whispering wind and stunning mountain views. 🚗 Travel Tips: 1. Getting There: The most convenient way is to rent a car or hire a taxi from downtown Xinzhou or Jingle County. The site is located about 10 km south of the county center. Just search for "静居寺" on Baidu Maps. 2. Preparation: The path leading to the grottoes is quite rugged and natural. Be sure to wear sneakers with good traction, as you'll be walking on uneven sandstone surfaces. 3. Photography Lighting: For the best photos, aim to visit between morning and noon. The sunlight directly illuminates the front of the caves, highlighting the intricate details of the carvings perfectly. 4. For History Buffs: Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens! The high ceilings and elevated inscriptions hold plenty of hidden historical secrets waiting to be discovered. Conclusion: If you're passionate about religious sites, art, or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations that are still largely unknown, this is an absolute must-visit in Xinzhou!

Who understands! This is a mountain even favored by immortals—the foremost of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, the Bodhisattva Manjushri’s sacred site, a World Cultural Heritage, and the Roof of North China. Once you arrive, your heart instantly calms down 🌿. Here, there’s more than incense and temples; five peaks embrace you, seas of clouds surge, sunrises are breathtaking, and every season is beautiful like a fairyland. You can sincerely pray for wisdom and peace, hike through alpine meadows and starry cloud seas, enjoy affordable prices, and experience simple folk customs. Whether you come alone for peace, as a couple to make wishes, or with family to pray, it’s perfect! 📍 Basic Information|Lazy travelers can just copy this · Location: Wutai Mountain Scenic Area, Wutai County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province · Tickets: Adults 135 RMB/person; free for children under 1.2 meters and seniors over 60; half price for students · Opening Hours: Open all day; temples 8:00 AM–5:30 PM · Best Time to Visit: · Spring (April–May): Rhododendrons bloom, fewer crowds, peaceful · Summer (June–August): Cool summer retreat, average 20°C · Autumn (September–October): Colorful forests cover the mountains, perfect for photos · Winter (November–March): Snow-covered mountains, full of Zen atmosphere · Suggested Duration: 2 days 1 night for in-depth exploration|1 day for highlights · Core Area: Taihuai Town (where most temples and accommodations are) 🚗 Transportation Guide|The Easiest Ways to Get There · High-speed Rail: Arrive at "Wutai Mountain Station" or "Xinzhou West Station," then transfer by bus or taxi directly to the scenic area · Train: From Wutai Mountain Station → shared shuttle to scenic area about 30 RMB · Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Wutai Mountain Visitor Center," then transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus to enter the mountain · Scenic Area Transport: Sightseeing bus 70 RMB/person, unlimited rides within 3 days, a must-buy! 🏯 Must-Visit Attractions|Don’t Miss a Single One 1. Wuye Temple (Wanfo Pavilion) Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The most popular and effective place for incense and wishes on Wutai Mountain! Perfect for praying for peace, wealth, and smoothness. The incense is abundant but orderly, with a very good atmosphere. ✅ Tip: Go early for fewer people and more tranquility. 2. Xiantong Temple Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The oldest and largest temple on Wutai Mountain, with the Bronze Hall, Wuliang Hall, and the Thousand-Bowl Manjushri Bronze Statue—all national treasures. Ancient and solemn, every step is Zen. 3. Tayuan Temple · Great White Pagoda Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The landmark building of Wutai Mountain! When you see the Great White Pagoda from afar, you know you’ve arrived at the holy place. Walk around the pagoda to pray for peace, smoothness, and wisdom growth. Great for photos. 4. Bodhisattva Peak Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leader of the Yellow Temples on Wutai Mountain, a royal temple with magnificent stairs, red walls, and golden tiles. Every snapshot looks like a masterpiece. From the top, you can overlook the entire Taihuai Town with an unbeatable view. 5. Shuxiang Temple Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Dedicated to Manjushri Bodhisattva, a must-visit for praying for studies, civil service exams, graduate exams, and wisdom! Many parents bring their children here to pray; the atmosphere is very peaceful. 6. Dailuo Peak Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The "Little Chaotai" holy site; climbing Dailuo Peak is like making a pilgrimage to Wutai. You can take a cable car, ride a horse, or climb 1,080 steps symbolizing letting go of 108 kinds of worries. The summit offers wide-open views with mountains all around. 7. Wutai Peak (Great Chaotai) Must-visit rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Watch the sunrise from the East Peak, the moon from the West Peak, mountain flowers from the South, snowstorms from the North, and clouds from the Central Peak. The Roof of North China is at Yedou Peak on the North Peak (3,061 meters elevation), with breathtaking scenery that leaves you speechless. 🍜 Wutai Mountain Must-Try Foods|No-Fail List 1. Vegetarian Noodles Simple vegetarian noodles near the temples, light and warming, leaving you feeling very comfortable. 2. Wutai Mountain Tofu / Tai Mushroom Stewed Tofu Mountain delicacies plus spring water tofu, incredibly fresh. 3. Youmian Kaolaolao A Shanxi specialty, dipped in soup, healthy and filling. 4. Tai Mushroom Sauce Delicious with rice or noodles, also a great souvenir to take home. 5. Millet Porridge + Steamed Bun / Flower Roll Simple and plain, but the most healing taste in the mountains. 🧭 Classic 2 Days 1 Night Itinerary (No detours, super easy) Day 1: Peaceful Prayer Route Visitor Center → Wuye Temple → Tayuan Temple (Great White Pagoda) → Xiantong Temple → Bodhisattva Peak → Stay in Taihuai Town Day 2: Climb for Wisdom Route Shuxiang Temple → Dailuo Peak (Little Chaotai) → Optional Great Chaotai → Return 💡 Super Practical Prayer + Pitfall Avoidance Tips 1. Dress: Loose and comfortable; avoid revealing, bright, or flashy clothes to respect temple rules. 2. Prayer Etiquette: · Do not step on the threshold when entering halls · Light three incense sticks; sincerity is key · Do not take photos of Buddha statues casually 3. Accommodation: Staying in Taihuai Town is most convenient, with options from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels; book in advance for peace of mind. 4. Temperature: It’s 5–8°C cooler on the mountain than at the base; bring a jacket even in summer, and keep warm in winter. 5. Shopping: Buy Tai mushroom sauce, millet, and Buddhist prayer beads as souvenirs; shop rationally and avoid impulse buying. ✨ Heartfelt Reflection The most moving thing about Wutai Mountain isn’t just the stunning scenery, but how stepping here instantly calms a restless heart. The wind blows the pagoda bells, incense curls up, the mountains are quiet, and suddenly you understand: Peace is a blessing, calmness is a blessing, health is a blessing. Visit Wutai Mountain once, seek wisdom, gain peace of mind, and it’s worth coming many times in a lifetime. 📢 Final Interaction With so many beautiful sights and places to pray on Wutai Mountain, Would you rather first make a wish at Wuye Temple or climb to the top for the panoramic view? Tell me in the comments, and next time I’ll customize a special route just for you.

One room, one private hot spring! The perfect spot for couples! I discovered an amazing place for couples to date! This hotel truly offers one room with one private hot spring, maxing out the romance factor 💯 🌿 The hotel is built on a hillside, surrounded by lush trees, with incredibly fresh air. It was drizzling when we arrived, and looking out at the misty rainy scenery while soaking in the hot spring pool completely relaxed me. ♨️ The private hot spring rooms are stunning! Each room has its own independent hot spring pool, available 24/7. We soaked in the rose pool, which was warm and fragrant. Watching the steam rise and listening to the rain was incredibly romantic~ Plus, the water quality is excellent, leaving your skin silky smooth after soaking. Private hot spring rooms are in high demand, so it’s recommended to book at least two weeks in advance. Bring a beautiful swimsuit for great photo ops. Prepare some snacks because you might get hungry after soaking. If you come in winter, remember to bring a jacket due to the big temperature difference. This stay exceeded all my expectations. Living in a natural oxygen bar, soaking in a private hot spring, and enjoying delicious food—whether for a couple’s date or a girls’ gathering, it’s perfect! I’ll definitely come back to check in next time I visit Xinzhou~

🌿Secret paradise revealed! Yunmu Hot Spring Resort Vlog|A private hot spring in every room, I was unexpectedly healed like a lightning strike!✨ Friends! I’ve struck gold this time‼️ Hidden among the mountain mists, Hot Spring Hotel is by far the most “lightning-strike stunning” resort I’ve stayed at this year! ⚡️Natural hot springs + private courtyards + all-in-one recreation — just these three reasons made me want to stay three days straight! 🌄【A hidden gem, living inside a landscape painting】 The moment the car drove onto the winding mountain road, I knew I was in the right place! Mist wrapped around the green peaks, and the hotel looked like white jade nestled in bamboo groves. Every breath was filled with the fresh scent of pine needles and spring water! The best part — every room has its own private hot spring courtyard. Open the door and see the mountains; soak in the hot spring accompanied only by birdsong, truly “cut off from the world”! 🏮【Tang Dynasty style elegance, detail lovers rejoice】 The architecture features gray tiles and wooden structures, with paper lanterns hanging along the long corridors. When lit at night, it feels like stepping back into the glorious Tang Dynasty🌙. But! Modern amenities are not compromised: floor heating, smart toilets, panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows… My favorite is the restaurant’s “Mountain Wild Feast,” with ingredients all locally foraged. The bamboo fungus and native chicken hot spring pot is so fresh it makes your tongue tremble! 🍲 💥【Lightning-strike experience — a private hot spring in every room】 Here comes the highlight! What does “lightning-strike effect” mean? It’s the moment I stepped into the courtyard hot spring — my whole body tingled like it was electrified! 🌊The spring water comes straight from an underground natural source, the temperature just right with a jade-green hue. The instant I soaked in, my shoulders and neck felt gently cradled by warm hands, and the soreness from days of overtime work vanished instantly! Soaking under the stars at night with the sound of flowing water — that moment really moved me to tears😭 (The next day my skin was as smooth as polished silk!) 🛎️【Service comparable to five-star customization】 The butler quietly replenished rose petals and aromatherapy as we left; the recreation center even offers intangible cultural heritage herbal steam baths; the osmanthus dumpling soup sent before bed warmed me right to the stomach… every detail seemed to say, “Please relax completely.” 📢【A genuine shout: Everyone come here!】 If you also— · Want to escape the city but fear the hassle · Crave privacy without disturbance · Need a full body and soul “restart” Yunmu might just be your perfect vacation spot!✨ 💬Interaction time: Who do you most want to bring here? Or… have you ever had a “lightning-strike healing” experience? Let’s gather fellow fans in the comments!👇 🎬Next episode preview: Hidden hotel activities — morning Tai Chi + late-night stargazing platform!

This hotel is truly a paradise for those who love to relax, with private hot springs + infinity pool + stunning mountain views. Once you arrive, you really won’t want to leave 😭 Each room has its own private hot spring pool! Open the floor-to-ceiling window and step into your private hot spring. Soaking while stargazing at night is absolutely amazing~ The water temperature is always maintained around 40°C, leaving your skin silky smooth after soaking. The biggest surprise is that bath salts and aromatherapy are prepared right next to the pool, a delight for detail lovers. 🌿 The hotel is built in the Yunzhong River Scenic Area, surrounded by pine forests and mountains. The infinity pool faces the mountain view directly. There is a thoughtful warm water rest area where you can lie down and enjoy health tea after soaking. This hotel, which has taken the hot spring resort experience to the highest level, is definitely worth multiple visits.

When it's cold, all you want is to soak in a private hot spring! Discovered this magical hot spring hotel in Xinzhou♨️ One room, one hot spring pool—ideal for couples' dates💑 This Yunmu Hot Spring Resort Hotel is tucked inside the Yunzhong River Scenic Area, just 100 meters east of Muma Bridge, super easy to find~ The best part is every room has a private hot spring pool. Soaking in the pool at night while stargazing✨ is incredibly romantic! 🏨 Hotel Highlights: · The rooms are huge and super comfortable! The room we stayed in had floor-to-ceiling windows and a private hot spring pool, so you can soak while enjoying the night view🌌 · The hot spring area offers many pools to choose from. We tried them all—the rose pool, the herbal pool, and my favorite was the outdoor infinity pool. Soaking there in the morning with mist swirling around felt like being in a fairyland☁️

Making iron flowers is an ancient Chinese folk art and has now been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. I seem to have seen it in the TV series Story of Yanxi Palace. As the name suggests, it is to knock the hot molten iron into the air, creating an effect like fireworks 🎆❤️ We were very lucky on this trip. The iron flower show, which was often suspended due to weather conditions, was still performed as usual. The last three performers who made iron flowers with bare arms were very impressive. After watching these performances, I really feel that many ancient skills really need to be protected and preserved by the country, otherwise it would be a pity❤️ The whole performance is only 30 minutes, but I still highly recommend everyone to watch it, it's great👍 🎯Tang-style Jin-style iron flower South Third Lane, Guangming Street, Xinzhou Ancient City The show starts at 20:00. It may not be performed every day depending on the weather. The limited time special price is 39.9 yuan #Where to go on May Day #Where to go on May Day #Shanxi Tourism #Xinzhou #Ancient City Wall #Ancient City Tour #Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection #Intangible Cultural Heritage Iron Flower #Intangible Cultural Heritage Activities

Yunmu Hot Spring Resort Vlog🌿✨ 👋 Hi, everyone! Today, I'm going to take you on a virtual tour of a super relaxing hidden gem hotel - Yunmu Hot Spring Resort! 🏨💦 📍 First, let's talk about its location! This hotel is hidden in picturesque nature, and its specific location is that vacation destination everyone loves! 🏞️ Although I may not remember the exact address (haha, just kidding), it's really not far from the city, but you can enjoy the tranquility away from the hustle and bustle! 🚗💨 🛣️ The route to get there is also very smooth! Whether you're driving or taking public transportation, you can easily find it. If you're driving, just follow the navigation, and the scenery along the way is beautiful too! 🚗🌈 If you're taking public transportation, it's super convenient to walk a short distance after getting off the station! 🚌🚶‍♀️ 🛁 Let me tell you about my experience! As soon as I entered the hotel, I was attracted by the warm and comfortable environment. The room is spacious and bright, with all the facilities you need, especially the big bed, which makes you not want to get up! 😴 What touched me the most was the hot spring area, where you can choose from pools of various temperatures, and soaking in the hot spring makes all your fatigue disappear! 🧖‍♀️💖 🏞️ As for the surroundings, it's really surrounded by natural beauty! You can walk, cycle, and enjoy the gifts of nature. I also discovered a little secret - there's a small path on the back mountain of the hotel, and when you walk down it, there's a super beautiful sea of flowers! 🌸🌺 💡 Here are some tips! Remember to bring your swimsuit, because the hot spring is an experience you can't miss! 👙 Also, the restaurant in the hotel is very good, you can try the local specialties! 🍴😋 However, it may be a bit cold at night, so remember to bring a jacket! 🧥 Okay, that's it for today's Vlog! Yunmu Hot Spring Resort is really a hidden gem that makes you not want to leave once you come! 💖 If you also want to find some peace and relaxation, why not come here and try it! 🌿🌟

stay There is a row of beautiful waitresses standing in the hotel lobby. They have a very good service attitude and will take you to the elevator. The room is decorated in Japanese style, clean and tidy, with large glass windows and a private bath, perfect for a vacation. · The room is equipped with a capsule coffee machine, I love it. · Free fruits and dried fruits are provided upon check-in, and the drinks in the refrigerator are also free. Meals The main meal in the set meal can be dinner or lunch, and there are two sets of meals: Western and Chinese. The Chinese meal I chose was a hotpot set for three people. The portion was huge. There were three adults and one child, and we couldn't finish it. There was a lot left over. I think it was just right for four adults. The breakfast buffet is very rich and is very considerate and ends at 10 am. spa The hot spring is operated independently and you can soak in it without staying overnight. The first floor is the hot spring and bathing area, and the second floor is the leisure area. · The hot spring pools are divided into indoor and outdoor. There are more than a dozen different types of pools in the indoor hot springs, as well as swimming pools. Only four outdoor hot spring pools are open. The hot spring pools are divided into functional hot springs and ordinary hot springs. There are temperature marks on the side of each pool. There is also a 35℃ shallow ocean ball hot spring pool for children to play in the water. · The bathroom is well equipped. The shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel are all very easy to use. The skin care products are all big brands, including DHC cleansing oil. Estee Lauder facial cleanser, Lancome powder water, Cosme Decorte moisturizing lotion Decorte sunscreen, bathing is not included in the ticket price, 88 yuan per person Whether you are taking a bath or soaking in the hot spring, you can drink free Baishuishan tea when you are thirsty, unlimited. · The leisure area on the second floor has a theater where you can lie down and watch movies, a tea room, a book room, a steam room, and a free bar. There are noodles, glutinous rice balls, wontons, dumplings, tea eggs, self-service drinks, self-service fruits, and self-service small cakes. The drinks are not from unknown brands. If coconut water, Li Dashi soy milk, BONBON juice, and the fruits are updated quickly, including strawberries, mangosteens, cantaloupes, peaches, etc.

Main features: The hotel is mainly for hot spring therapy, including three sections: hot spring art hotel area, hot spring courtyard villa health area, and hot spring bathing culture area. Room facilities: The room is equipped with an imported cypress wood bath, and the courtyard villa area has 9 high-end villas, each of which is equipped with an indoor hot spring and a courtyard hot spring. Hot spring area: The hot spring bathing area has a total of 32 hot spring pools with different functions, providing indoor hot springs, outdoor hot spring pools, spa space, outdoor infinity pool, indoor swimming pool, etc. Other facilities: Equipped with leisure experience area, high-end buffet, etc., to meet the needs of travel, vacation, health care, parties, business negotiations, etc.

A high-quality spa hotel Super high appearance√Excellent location√One room, one private bath√Awesome experience√ If you pay more attention to the experience, like comfort and good looks, and have not decided where to go for this holiday, I suggest you come here and try one room and one private bath Suitable for babies who like private baths and couples on vacation! Very private! Good looking! The pool is big and new! After soaking, the skin feels smooth and tender, super comfortable!

A private hot spring in every room! This hotel is a hot spring paradise! A must-visit private hot spring hotel Opened in 2024, the environment is very good, comfortable and quiet, overall feeling is not bad I like the decoration style, every step is a view, and the photos are very good The room bed 🛏️ is very big, very comfortable to live in, and the private hot spring is also very comfortable The most important thing is not only good privacy, but also can achieve hot spring freedom, soak in the hot spring to not want to soak, haha 😂

A room, a courtyard, a private hot spring! Every moment here is exceptionally comfortable, with a beautiful view at every step, and every casual snapshot is a masterpiece. There are a plethora of room types to choose from, Each room comes with its own room, courtyard, and private hot spring. The overall privacy is also very good, here we can fully enjoy the tranquility of the moment! The room facilities are also particularly complete and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, this experience was really great, can't wait to come back next time~

Shanxi Xinzhou | Xinzhou Ancient City Pro-People Guide || Xinzhou Ancient City, also known as 'Xiurong City', was built in the 20th year of Jian'an in the Eastern Han Dynasty (215 AD), and has a history of more than 1800 years. 📍Address | Center of Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province 🚗Self-driving navigation to North Gate Square Parking Lot, West Gate Parking Lot, East Gate Parking Lot, South Gate Parking Lot - Free parking Personal recommendation—South Gate Parking Lot, plenty of parking spaces 🚄High-speed rail - Xinzhou West 🎫Free admission to the ancient city 🧱City wall (one each at the south and north gates, not connected) can rent parent-child bicycles to tour the city wall ❤️Must-visit attractions | Three major temples - God of Wealth Temple, Guandi Temple, Taishan Temple. | Xiurong Academy—The highest point of the ancient city, the best point to overlook the ancient city—'Meet Xiurong' live-action drama - charges apply ❤️Features | Mainly Shanxi cuisine (snacks are concentrated in the south alley, chain restaurants are in the north alley) Snacks are basically not going to step on thunder, affordable prices 👉🏻Recommended food👉🏻Stone cake - Shenchuan moon cake🥮-Ancient city yogurt - Old tofu - Tofu balls - Ancient city smoked chicken - Pig's trotters - Bowl holder - Steamed meat - River noodle - Red-faced fish (Because it is a local specialty food, there may be a possibility of not being used to it) 🏠Accommodation | There are many characteristic guest houses, need to book in advance 📷Photography | There are several Hanfu rental photography (sisters who need can go to understand, recently Jinshang young lady's clothing is more popular, need to book in advance) ⏰Play time | Half a day (recommended at night, beautiful night view)

Yan Xishan's former residence is one of the largest bureaucratic private residences in old China that is relatively well preserved. This group of modern buildings in Yan Xishan's former residence, which is magnificent and has a bizarre layout, is not only a precious object for studying the rise and fall of the Yan family, but also a historical relic of the ups and downs of Yan Xishan's political career. The first floor was built in 1914 and is one of the highest points in Yan's mansion. In 1934, Chiang Kai-shek and his wife Soong Mei-ling visited this floor. #See the Earth in an Instant #Green Travel #Overseas Travel

Qiankunwan Scenic Area is located in Yanchuan County. When the mother river Yellow River flows here, it makes a big "S"-shaped turn, forming a mysterious shape. It has been rated as one of the "50 Scenic Spots of the Yellow River in China". There are 990 bends in the Yellow River, and Qiankun Bend is the most unique one. It is a great angle to appreciate the Yellow River and is worth checking in. #See the Earth in an instant

🌟A must-visit landmark at Wutai Mountain for following the footsteps of great leaders🌟 Former residence of Chairman Mao on Wutai Mountain📍Abbot’s courtyard, Tayuan Temple, Taihuai Town, Wutai County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province 📍Covers an area of 750 square meters ⏳Built in 1969, renovated in 2005 🏆Currently a key cultural relic protection unit in Shanxi Province 👉🏻Sharing red memories: In the spring of 1948🌸 Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and other central leaders Led more than 3,000 people from the front committee office Left northern Shaanxi and crossed the Yellow River eastward Passing through Shanxi🚶 Arrived at Wutai Mountain on April 9 Stayed in this abbot’s courtyard at Tayuan Temple During the short stay✨ Chairman Mao not only admired the Qinghuang Temple ruins But also warmly visited people of all ethnic groups Encouraged farmers to develop production And protect the fruits of the revolution The next day, he set off on a new journey Heading to Xibaipo Where he commanded the famous "three major campaigns"💪 💡Visiting tips: 1️⃣The building retains its original structure 2️⃣The interior is restored to its original furnishings 3️⃣Wear comfortable shoes 4️⃣Sunny days are better for photos📸

🏯 The largest state-level Confucian temple in North China to check in at! Today, let's explore Daizhou Confucian Temple, the largest and best-preserved state-level Confucian temple in North China! The moment you enter, you’ll be deeply impressed by this magnificent traditional Chinese architecture~ 📸 Photo spots: · Archway: minimalist symmetry for instant ancient-style shots🏮 · Courtyard: different scenery in every season. I caught a sunny day and got super clear photos!☀️ · Dacheng Hall: detailed architecture with distinct layers, stunning from every angle✨ 📍Detailed guide: Address: Wenmiao Street, Shangguan Town, Daixian, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province (just navigate to "Daizhou Confucian Temple") 🎫 Tickets: · Solo visit 28 yuan (half price for students) · Recommended to buy the combined ticket with Bianjing Tower for 40 yuan, better value~ ⌚ Opening hours: Summer 8:30 AM–6:00 PM Winter 8:30 AM–5:30 PM ⏱️ Touring tips: 1. Allow 1–2 hours to take photos and enjoy the site at a relaxed pace 2. Best to come in the morning for soft light and fewer people 3. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the temple grounds are quite large 📣 Tip: The architectural details here retain their original style, making this one of the best examples for studying Ming and Qing dynasty architecture! Anyone wanting to capture ancient-style atmospheric photos must check in here~

🌾Grassland wilderness · Ulanqab Huitengxile grassland 30-word highlights: In August, fields of flowers and windmills stretch across the cool, comfortable landscape. In September, the grass turns golden, paired with volcanic terrain. Nighttime offers excellent views of the Milky Way Best time: Shoot sunsets from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Stargaze after dark Transportation: Take high-speed rail to Ulanqab station, then drive or carpool between the grassland and volcanic sites Must-do: Huitengxile grassland train ride, climb Wulan Hada volcano, camp on the grassland Photo tips: Use wide-angle shots for panoramic windmill grasslands, shoot volcanic rock formations from above, capture backlit sunset silhouettes Food: Hand-pulled lamb, milk skin, salty milk tea, grilled milk tofu Avoid pitfalls: Large temperature swings—bring a windproof jacket. Wear non-slip shoes for volcano climbing. Choose horse-riding packages wisely 🌾Grassland wilderness · Gannan Zhagana 30-word highlights: August brings green forests and morning mist. September features colorful forests framing Tibetan villages. Many pristine hiking trails with minimal commercialization Best time: Early morning 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM for soft sunrise light and mist Transportation: Bus from Lanzhou to Diebu County, then short private car ride into villages Must-do: Fairy Beach viewpoint, One Line Sky canyon hike, stroll through Dongwa Tibetan village Photo tips: Aerial shots of misty villages, wide-angle terraced fields and mountains, close-ups of Tibetan homes and culture Food: Yak meat buns, Tibetan noodles, highland barley porridge, yak yogurt Avoid pitfalls: Altitude is 3,000 m—move slowly to prevent altitude sickness. Drive carefully on mountain roads. Respect local customs 🌊Coastal island · Fujian Yushan Island 30-word highlights: Unique mountain, sea, and meadow scenery. Grasslands are lush in August. Visitor numbers drop sharply in September. Quiet, affordable hiking and camping Best time: Sunset views from the mountaintop, early morning mist in the mountains Transportation: High-speed rail to Xiapu station, ferry to the island, electric scooters for short trips on the island Must-do: Tianhu alpine meadow, Ambassador Bay beach for tide pooling, island hiking trails Photo tips: Wide horizontal shots combining sea and mountains, symmetrical lake reflections, atmospheric portraits on the grass Food: Fisherman’s seafood noodles, seaweed fried rice, steamed local seafood Avoid pitfalls: Ferry schedules affected by wind and waves—confirm in advance. Strong winds on mountaintop—dress accordingly. Stay warm when camping at night 🌊Coastal island · Guangxi Weizhou Island 30-word highlights: Unique volcanic reef landscape. Comfortable wading in August. September seafood is fresh and abundant. Relaxed island cycling Best time: Sunrise at Colorful Beach, sunset at Shiluokou Transportation: High-speed rail to Beihai station, ferry from passenger terminal, electric scooters for island travel Must-do: Crocodile Mountain volcanic park, Dripping Danping, Nanwan seafood market, beach water activities Photo tips: Close-ups of volcanic rock textures, backlit sunset portraits over the sea, documentary shots of fishing village streets Food: Steamed mantis shrimp, banana pork, seafood porridge, coconut jelly Avoid pitfalls: Allow flexible schedule for possible ferry cancellations. Confirm seafood prices before ordering. Watch for slippery rocks 🌲Mountain forest secret spot · Shanxi Luyashan 30-word highlights: Pristine forest sea with constant cool temperatures. Millennia-old ice cave with fire and ice wonders. Quiet hiking in August and September. Avoid crowds Best time: Ice cave open all day. Morning forest hikes with clear light Transportation: High-speed rail to Xinzhou station, private car or rental to Luyashan scenic area Must-do: Millennia-old ice cave, Malun grassland, cliff plank road, forest hiking Photo tips: Slow shutter for ice stalactites, wide-angle alpine meadow panoramas, deep perspective plank road shots Food: Shanxi oat noodles, stewed lamb, mushroom stew, yellow rice cake Avoid pitfalls: Ice cave is very cold—bring warm clothes. Narrow plank road—walk slowly. Use insect repellent in forest areas 🌲Mountain forest secret spot · Fujian Zhouning 30-word highlights: Average temperature 20℃ with frequent mist. Ten thousand acres of tea gardens and streams. Quiet ancient villages. Low-cost summer retreat and lung cleanse Best time: Morning 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM for tea garden sea of clouds. Afternoon by the stream for cooling and water play Transportation: High-speed rail to Ningde station, bus directly to Zhouning towns and villages Must-do: Liyu Creek ancient village, cloud tea gardens, Jiulongji waterfall, shallow stream beaches Photo tips: Deep composition of misty tea gardens, symmetrical reflections in streams, candid shots of ancient villages Food: Flat meat dumplings, loach rice noodles, homemade dried bamboo shoots, Guangbing flatbread Avoid pitfalls: Frequent rain—bring rain gear. Slippery tea garden paths—wear non-slip shoes. Do not pick tea leaves 🌤Lesser-known summer retreat · Hubei Lichuan Sumadang 30-word highlights: Summer average 22℃ surrounded by forest sea. Rich ancient town culture. Well-equipped for travelers. Comfortable for long-term summer stays Best time: Cool all day. Morning forest oxygen walks. Evening strolls in ancient town Transportation: High-speed rail to Lichuan station, urban-rural bus to Sumadang area Must-do: Qiyue Mountain grassland, Moudao ancient town, forest trails, creek water play Photo tips: Distant shots of grassland windmills, ancient town waterfront night scenes, forest portraiture Food: Lichuan water shield, cured pig’s trotters hot pot, Baiyang dried tofu, baked potatoes Avoid pitfalls: Large temperature difference between morning and night—bring a light jacket. Many mosquitoes in forest—bring repellent. Choose guesthouses carefully 🌤Lesser-known summer retreat · Guizhou Liupanshui Wumeng grassland 30-word highlights: Natural cool city at 19℃. August windmill grasslands are vast. September often has sea of clouds. Gentle and open terrain suitable for all ages Best time: Early morning for alpine sea of clouds. Evening sunsets covering the grasslands Transportation: High-speed rail to Liupanshui station. Carpooling to Wumeng grassland is more cost-effective Must-do: Grassland hiking, Changhai Lake, free camping areas, windmill viewing platforms Photo tips: Aerial shots of windmill grasslands, wide-angle lake reflections, layered sea of clouds Food: Shuicheng lamb noodles, baked pot, buckwheat jelly, lotus leaf sticky rice chicken Avoid pitfalls: Strong UV rays at high altitude—use sun protection. Stay on trails to protect grasslands. Large temperature swings—bring a light jacket

Friends! Here’s a worry-free 5-day Xinzhou tour guide! All-inclusive pricing means no need to plan—just follow along and enjoy. Even beginners can easily handle it! . More exciting content below. Scroll down to check it out~ . 🎒 Northern Shanxi and Central Shanxi ancient charm tour Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Taiyuan—Taiyuan ancient county town / Taiyuan Northern Qi mural museum—stay in Taiyuan city After arriving in Taiyuan, freely explore the ancient town or see the murals, easily fitting your own pace. Days 2–3: Yanmen Pass—Yingxian Wooden Pagoda—Yungang Grottoes—Hanging Temple—Wutai Mountain—Shuxiang Temple—Xinzhou ancient city Unlock a millennium of passes, architectural wonders, and Buddhist sacred sites over two days, immersing yourself in Shanxi’s rich history. Day 4: Jin Ci Museum—Qiao Family Courtyard Stroll through Jin Ci to admire ancient architecture and visit Qiao Family Courtyard to learn the legendary stories of Shanxi merchants. Day 5: Return home Pack up your mood and head home with a pocket full of Shanxi memories. . Must-see tips: 1️⃣ Don’t blindly stock up on local specialties—try before you buy for a safer choice🍬; 2️⃣ Take the dedicated shuttle bus from Wutai Mountain Airport to the city—convenient and cost-effective🚌; 3️⃣ Be sure to try Youmian Kaolaolao and knife-cut noodles, and avoid places with over-seasoned dishes😋; 4️⃣ Locals are very friendly—feel free to ask for directions or chat🙂. .

✨【Room highlights】 🛏 Luxury king room with a clean, open layout and minimalist, upscale design. The bedding is soft and skin-friendly for a very comfortable stay ♨ Private indoor hot spring pool with water changed after each guest. Clean and private, open 24 hours regardless of weather 🌿 Quiet and peaceful environment with excellent soundproofing, perfect for relaxation, recuperation, and romantic dates 📍 Prime location Located inside Xinzhou ancient city, within walking distance to historic streets and local snacks Peaceful yet lively—step outside to vibrant scenes, return to a tranquil room, fully immersing you in a vacation vibe Suitable for: couples traveling, solo relaxation, and light getaways with friends

Who says taking kids out during summer vacation burns money? You just haven’t found the right spot. A 2- to 4-hour high-speed train ride, a budget from 500 to 2,000 yuan. Some squeeze into Disney and get sunburned, while others escape to the grasslands to enjoy the cool breeze. These 8 places are all hidden gems that are fun and budget-friendly. Guess which one surprised me the most? 01 Shanghai Don’t just think of the crowds at Shanghai Disney. I arrived at the Expo Park at 3 PM that day, and it was so quiet I could hear the birds. 🚄 Exit the subway, walk straight through two intersections, and you’re there—free and peaceful. If you have kids, push the stroller out of Expo Park and turn into Yuyuan Garden. ⚠️ Avoid weekends. The light and shadows on the Nine-Bend Bridge after 4 PM are the best. Guangfulin Cultural Site deserves a separate visit; you could spend a whole day there. The Shanghai Museum has exhibits that can keep kids entertained for half a day. 02 Chongqing Chongqing is more than hotpot and the night view of Jiefangbei. ⏰ Arrive at Dazu Rock Carvings before 8 AM. The mountain breeze hasn’t warmed up yet, and there are fewer people. Kids can admire the carvings while you catch your breath. Back in the city at noon, skip the crowds at Hongya Cave. Find a small noodle shop in an alley near Jiefangbei. A bowl of pea and minced pork noodles costs only 8 yuan. 🍜 The aroma of the chili oil here can’t be found in hotpot restaurants. At 3 PM, the temperature on Jinyun Mountain is 5 degrees cooler than the city below. The mountain is full of wildflowers and prickly shrubs, and kids love running around. 03 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Chifeng’s summer is cooler than an air-conditioned room. 🌲 Hasahatu Stone Formation isn’t the kind of attraction that tires your legs. Take the park shuttle up, and kids can explore the stone piles on their own. ⚠️ Don’t push yourself under the blazing sun. Bring a jacket; the temperature difference between morning and night is big. Find a town at noon and enjoy a hand-held meat meal that’s incredibly flavorful. The grassland breeze is cool, the sky is blue, and the stars at night are astonishing. 04 Nanjing | Jiangsu In Nanjing’s summer, Confucius Temple is overrated; Xuanwu Lake is the real gem. 🍜 Go to Xuanwu Lake early, walk around the lake, and enjoy the cool breeze. When it gets hot at noon, take the subway to the Presidential Palace. It’s air-conditioned inside, and kids get absorbed in the history stories. After 5 PM, the Confucius Temple–Qinhuai River scenic area comes alive. Don’t line up at the bridge for snacks. Turn into the alleys and try the old brand “Jiang You Ji” potstickers with a bowl of duck blood vermicelli soup—that’s the real deal. ⚠️ Niushou Mountain underground palace closes at 4 PM. Check the time before you go. 05 Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Dali is the kind of place that makes you want to just lie down. ⏰ When traveling with kids, don’t plan to circle Erhai Lake. Visit Xizhou Ancient Town in the morning. The Bai architecture will leave you speechless. The Xizhou baba sold on the street costs 5 yuan each and is crispy and delicious. During the hottest part of the afternoon, find a café to relax. When the kids nap, you can catch your breath. At dusk, visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple. The sunset casts a golden glow on the towers. Nanzhao Folk Island is too commercialized; I don’t recommend going there. 06 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is one of those places you’ll never forget after visiting. ⏰ Enter the stone forest at 6 AM. The slanting light makes the entire canyon look gilded. Kids can play hide-and-seek in the caves while adults take photos. ⚠️ It’s windy inside, so bring a windbreaker. There’s no crowd here, and the air is dry and cool. Afterward, have a bowl of beef noodles in town for only 10 yuan. The broth is made from lamb bones and is so flavorful you’ll lick the bowl clean. 07 Xinzhou | Shanxi Mount Wutai is the real summer cooling spot. ⏰ Go to Pusa Peak at 6 AM. When the mountain mist clears, the temples are filled with silence. Kids can see squirrels here and get very excited. The city wall at Yanmen Pass still holds the warmth of the sun after a day of baking. Laoniuwan is quieter, with the Yellow River flowing at your feet like it’s on mute. ⚠️ Remember to bring a jacket for the mountain. The temperature difference is so big it’ll make you question reality. 08 Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Tianshan Tianchi is the kind of place where you don’t rush. 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Urumqi, then a taxi for an hour. ⏰ Arrive at Tianchi before 9 AM. The water is as blue as porcelain. Kids can collect stones and watch the snow-capped mountains’ reflection. The wheat fields in Jiangbulake are golden at the end of July, and the wind makes them wave like the ocean. ⚠️ The UV rays at Wucaiwan are strong. Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses. At night, find a small restaurant. The sizzling lamb skewers with naan bread are unbeatable. Half of summer vacation is left. Where do you most want to take your kids? Share in the comments.

Don’t squeeze into the busy beach destinations—summer with kids isn’t just about sand and pools. Xinzhou’s ancient pass, Turpan’s sand sea, Zhuhai’s theme parks—these lesser-known spots are kid-friendly and reachable within 2 to 8 hours by high-speed rail. You can easily switch between nature and culture. As a mom who’s been through it, I know how to help you and your kids catch a break. 01 Xinzhou | Shanxi ⏰ Arrive at Yanmen Pass before 8 AM. The parking lot still has shaded spots. After 9 AM, when tour buses arrive, finding parking means circling three times. Don’t climb the entire “impregnable gate” tower with kids—the steps are too narrow for strollers. 📍 I recommend the gentle dirt path from “Yanmen Pass Village” to “Dianjiang Platform.” In half an hour, you’ll see the full outline of the pass walls, and kids can run freely. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there’s a “Daizhou Yellow Wine Tavern” where you can warm a pot to go with oat noodles. Kids can just have rice soup. ⚠️ The Yellow River water at Laoniuwan looks muddy in summer, so don’t expect clear blue waves. But at sunset, when the cliffs glow warm orange, you’ll see the true loess-colored Yellow River. Don’t drive to Dailuo Peak at Wutai Mountain—the shuttle from the parking lot to the mountain gate has a 40-minute wait. With kids, enter through the back gate of Shuxiang Temple. The ancient pine forest there is less crowded and cooler. 02 Turpan | Xinjiang Don’t listen to warnings about the summer heat. The experience at Flaming Mountain is so intense that no one believes it’s not hot, but once you’re there, it’s actually manageable. 📍 Enter Flaming Mountain Scenic Area at 3 PM. The ground temperature hits 70°C. Kids will cry within five minutes of getting out of the car—don’t pick them up then. ⏰ After 6 PM, the whole mountain turns deep red, and a breeze brings coolness. Kids can splash in the creek at Tuyugou for half an hour. ⚠️ Renting shoe covers at Kumtag Desert is a trap—they fill with sand after a few steps. It’s better to put old socks on kids and toss them afterward. 🍜 In Turpan city, “Ailikemu” sells baked buns for 2 yuan each, filled with lamb and pickled vegetables. Eat them hot—the juices might splash on your clothes. Kids can have a bowl of yogurt to balance the richness. 🚄 It’s a one-hour train ride from Urumqi. Leaving at 4 PM helps avoid the peak heat. 03 Zhuhai | Guangdong At Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, enter and turn right to see the whale shark pavilion. The giant glass wall is the busiest spot. ☑️ But after 5 PM, crowds drop by half and the light softens. ⚠️ Don’t trust the “stay one night at Penguin Hotel and get tickets” gimmick. Noise from the hotel corridors can last until 10 PM, making it hard for kids to sleep. I stayed at Atour in Jida District. It’s a 20-minute taxi ride to Chimelong, and the fourth-floor rooms have good soundproofing. 🍜 Don’t drive along Lovers’ Road—walk the entire 4 km coastal path from Fisher Girl Statue to Sun and Moon Shell. Rent a bike after 3 PM. With the sea breeze, kids can nap in the back seat. 📍 The sand at Xianglu Bay is coarse and hot under bare feet. Have kids wear non-slip shoes. 04 Panjin | Liaoning Red Beach must be visited before October—the earlier, the greener. In summer, the salicornia isn’t fully red yet. Only a few patches near the shore show rusty red, and the crowds are just a tenth of autumn’s. ⏰ At 7:30 AM when the park opens, you can see red-crowned cranes lining up on the mudflats. Kids can quietly watch from about 100 meters away for 10 minutes. ⚠️ Don’t bring strollers on the boardwalk. The wooden planks have wide gaps, and wheels get stuck easily. 📍 Enter from “Yuyanmen” and walk 600 meters to the Red Beach birdwatching platform. Fiddler crabs hide in the greenery. Kids can squat and watch for half an hour without moving. 🍜 In the city, “Tianzhuang Taizhen” serves bamboo shoot dumplings and river crab tofu. A large plate costs less than 40 yuan. If kids dislike the fishy taste, let them eat rice mixed with fermented soybeans. 05 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Don’t stay in the stilted houses by the river in Fenghuang Ancient Town—bars and river lanterns keep you awake all night. I chose a homestay in “Nanhua Community,” a 5-minute walk from Tuojiang River, but it’s as quiet as another world. ⏰ Take a boat on Tuojiang River at 7:30 AM before tourists arrive. The boatman will tell you which parts are fake ancient sites rebuilt in 2005. ⚠️ Don’t just stand on the glass plank walkway at Zhaozhai Bridge. Walk 50 meters down to the “Dehang Miao Village” viewing platform. You’ll see a natural swimming pool formed by a bend in the creek. Many locals soak there on summer afternoons. 🍜 “Wanmu Zhai” serves blood duck that’s not spicy. Kids can gnaw on duck legs, and they can eat two bowls of rice mixed with pickled radish. 06 Yangzhou | Jiangsu Enter Slender West Lake from the south gate and exit the north gate for the classic “walk until your legs give out” route. 📍 I prefer entering from the west gate and walking along the shore to Five Pavilion Bridge and White Pagoda. The whole route is under 2 km. Kids can walk it themselves and still have energy left for candy. ⏰ The “autumn-winter rockery” at Ge Garden has a scary number of mosquitoes in summer. Dress kids in long pants and spray insect repellent. ⚠️ The best light at He Garden’s “Pianshi Mountain House” is from 4 to 5 PM. The reflections in the waterside pavilion look like an ink painting. 🍜 “Zhao’s layered rice balls” on Dongguan Street have thick skins and firm fillings—I don’t recommend them. Turn into nearby “Caiyi Street” and find “Chen’s lotus root starch balls.” The chilled ones taste three times better than the hot. 07 Sanming | Fujian You need a boat to see the “water Danxia” at Dajin Lake. Boat schedules follow the tides. ⏰ 10 AM is the highest water level, with perfectly symmetrical reflections. ⚠️ Don’t take kids to climb “Mao’er Mountain.” Over 1,000 steps with no shade—I turned back after just 100 steps. 📍 At Taining Ancient City, you can climb the back wall of “Shangshu Mansion.” Sitting on the wall, you can see the whole stretch of blue-gray eaves. Kids can point out which roofs have cacti growing on them. 🍜 At the ancient city entrance, “Old Landlord” serves warm mushroom buns wrapped in mugwort dough with bamboo shoot and meat filling. If kids find the vegetables bitter, break the bun open and let them eat just the dough. 08 Weinan | Shaanxi At Mount Hua, take the west peak cable car up and the north peak cable car down for the easiest “zen route” with kids. ⏰ Arrive at the visitor center at 7 AM. Only 20 people are in line for the west peak cable car. After 9 AM, it’s packed. 📍 At the west peak, don’t crowd around the “Chenxiang saves mother” rock for photos. Walk 50 meters forward to a small platform with Huashan pines. The light and shadows are beautiful and no one’s there. ⚠️ Never try the plank walk with kids—I saw a dad holding his 3-year-old with a safety lock on. The kid screamed the whole way, and the family was overwhelmed. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, “Wang’s stone bread” at Huashan Village costs 10 yuan a bag. Fresh from the oven, filled with pepper leaves, it’s not too salty but filling. These eight cities are all quite off the beaten path, perfect for avoiding crowds during summer vacation. Want your kids to experience culture or water fun? Tell me in the comments, and I’ll help you pick the best one.

Xinzhou–Datong old friends 4-day tour route is here! · ------------------- ✨Itinerary: This trip has a tight schedule, allowing you to see many highlights of northern Shanxi within a limited time~ DAY 1: Arrive in Taiyuan—24h airport/train station pickup Arrive in Taiyuan smoothly, arrange airport or train station pickup, and start your northern Shanxi journey. DAY 2: Yanmen Pass—Yungang Grottoes Check in at the thousand-year-old Yanmen Pass, then visit the Yungang Grottoes to experience the charm of Northern Wei cave art. DAY 3: Hanging Temple—Mount Wutai—Shuxiang Temple Climb the Hanging Temple to admire the architectural marvel, then head to Mount Wutai to visit ancient temples, and check in at Shuxiang Temple for blessings. DAY 4: Taiyuan—home sweet home Return with full travel memories and end a pleasant northern Shanxi trip. · ------------------- 🩳 July in Xinzhou and Datong is hot and rainy. Bring quick-dry clothes, lightweight sun-protective shirts, and several pairs of pure cotton shorts to change. 👟 Pack a pair of non-slip hiking shoes and a pair of sandals, suitable for exploring the ancient city and hiking. 🎒 Bring a sun hat, arm sleeves, and high-SPF sunscreen. Northern Shanxi has strong sunlight, so sun protection is essential. 🪪 Keep your ID card, student ID (for discounts), and health code screenshots ready for easy ticket checks. 💊 Bring Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid and stomach medicine. July weather is changeable, so prevent heatstroke and stomach issues. 📱 Bring a power bank and selfie stick. The ancient city and grottoes are great for photos, so keep your devices charged to capture memories. · ------------------- This Xinzhou–Datong group tour was super enjoyable! If you like it, save this and give me some love~❤

If you thought the only zero-complaint cities were Dali and Chengdu, it’s time to update your list. These 8 places offer the desolation of the Yellow River’s bend, the lively charm of southern small towns, and the hidden Danxia wonders tucked in the mountains. 🚄 Several are reachable by high-speed train within 2 hours. The seasonal window spans from late spring to early winter, with experiences ranging from bustling street food tours to wild hiking adventures—each place showing a completely different face. 1️⃣ Hohhot | Inner Mongolia ⏰ At 7 AM, the dew on the Chulu grassland hasn’t dried yet. Walking along the wooden boardwalk, grass blades poke through your sandals, tickling your feet. In the distance, horses graze quietly, occasionally flicking their tails. The grass here isn’t as tall as in Hulunbuir, but it’s enough to lie down and watch the clouds. 📸 Bring a picnic mat and you can stay all morning. 📍 After the grassland, drive 2 hours to Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon. At 3 PM, the canyon’s shadow covers half the river. The Yellow River here is deep green and moves so slowly it seems still. From the cliffside viewing platform, you can see the opposite Shanxi cliffs with a jade-green ribbon of water between. ⚠️ Don’t wear high heels. The boardwalk has gravel and is hard to walk on. 2️⃣ Xinzhou | Shanxi Yanmen Pass and Wutai Mountain have very different vibes. If you just want photos and check-ins, visit Yanmen Pass in the morning and Laoniuwan in the afternoon. 📍 The Yanmen Pass walls are quiet before 10 AM. The sunlight slants on the blue bricks, casting long shadows. Standing on the gate tower, imagine the ancient horses neighing in the wind—it’s quite breezy. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, there’s a restaurant serving Daizhou stewed fish. The fish is tender enough to eat bones and all. Wutai Mountain is a different story. ⏰ For a peaceful Buddhist visit, enter after 4 PM. Tourists start leaving Taihuai Town, and the temple incense calms down. ⚠️ Bring a jacket. It cools quickly in the mountains, even in June. 3️⃣ Shantou | Guangdong Nan’ao Island isn’t one of those “regret coming” trendy islands. 📌 Take a bus from downtown Shantou across the sea bridge, with the sea on both sides. Rent an electric scooter on the island and circle the roughly 70 km coastal road. Riding with stops takes about half a day. 📍 At the entrance to Huanghuashan Forest Park, a local runs a rice noodle roll stall with thin skin and generous filling. The sauce has a hint of peanut aroma. 🍜 Skip the popular seafood stalls and try the alleys in Houzhai Town. The oyster omelet is freshly made, crispy on the edges, and dipping it in fish sauce tastes better than sweet chili sauce. ⚠️ The sun is strongest from 2 PM to 4 PM. Avoid riding around the island during this time and cool off in your guesthouse. 4️⃣ Hefei | Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town is one of those places that surprises you when you don’t expect much. ⏰ After 5 PM, tour groups leave and the town truly comes alive. Lanterns light up, and their red reflections shimmer in the river. 📍 Squeeze into “One Person Alley,” so narrow only one can pass. Moss grows on the walls, and the air smells of old wood. 🍜 The town’s rice dumplings are golden and plump, filled with tofu and meat. They cost 1 yuan each and the owner sells only until dark. ⚠️ Don’t buy “Sanhe rice wine.” Many are blended. If you want a local specialty, get some pickled vegetables. Their sour long beans go perfectly with porridge. Stay at a guesthouse on South Street. Open the window to see small bridges and flowing water. At night, the only sound is crickets. 5️⃣ Jingdezhen | Jiangxi Taoxichuan looks ten times better at night than during the day. 📌 The old porcelain factory turned creative district lights up its chimneys and red brick buildings, reflecting in the pond. 📍 At “Yi Space,” you can find works by young artisans priced from tens to hundreds, cheaper than the market. I bought a handmade cup with walls so thin you can see your fingers through it when drinking. 🍜 Across the street, the cold noodles mixed with orange peel and pickles are refreshingly spicy. ⚠️ To see traditional porcelain making, arrive before 10 AM at the Ancient Kiln Folk Museum. Old artisans throw clay live. Afternoons get crowded and the experience isn’t as good. 🚄 A taxi from Jingdezhen North Station to downtown costs about 20 yuan. Avoid unlicensed taxis outside the station. 6️⃣ Chenzhou | Hunan Chenzhou was the biggest surprise this trip. The Danxia landform at Gaoyiling looks like red rocks and green water folded by a giant’s hand when viewed from the top. ⏰ Arrive at 7 AM before the fog lifts. The stones turn pink naturally—no filter needed. 📌 Don’t take the main gate road. Enter from the east gate of Gaoyiling Tourist Area and circle along the cliffside boardwalk. Fewer people and wilder scenery. Halfway up on a flat spot, there’s a vendor selling cold jelly noodles in iced brown sugar water—one sip refreshes you. ⚠️ The morning fog on Dongjiang Lake cures late risers. Arrive before 6:30 AM at Bridge No. 2. The river is a white mist, with fishermen’s silhouettes casting nets in the fog. By 8 AM, the fog halves and the water glows golden. 🍜 At the park entrance, try the pig-killing rice noodles. The rice noodles are tender, and the broth is as rich as milk. A bowl costs just over 10 yuan. You can take the cable car up Mangshan Wuzhifeng. There’s a glass walkway at the top—avoid if you’re afraid of heights. 7️⃣ Bijie | Guizhou Zhijin Cave is one of those places that makes you say “wow” when you enter. 📌 The cave stays around 16 degrees year-round, so bring a jacket in summer. Passing the “Preaching Hall,” stalactites look like monks meditating. Further in is the “Guanghan Palace,” a 200-meter-high dome with stone curtains hanging down, sparkling with tiny lights. The whole route is over 2 km and takes about 1.5 hours. ⚠️ Don’t push yourself if you’re not fit. The second half has many stairs. Elderly and children should be cautious. The best time for Baili Rhododendron is March to April. Other seasons have only scattered wildflowers. Instead of rushing for the bloom season, come to Bijie in autumn. Try the baked pot and potato chips, golden and crispy, dipped in chili powder and paired with sour soup—very comforting. 🍜 The “Caijia baked pot” in Bijie city is worth a special visit. 8️⃣ Haikou | Hainan Haikou isn’t a cheaper alternative to Sanya. It has its own character. 📍 At “Shuixiangkou” in Qilou Old Street, at 10 AM, seafood and dried goods shops just open. The air smells of salted fish and coconut. Turn into Xinhua Road and find an old spicy soup rice shop. The pepper flavor is strong and makes your back sweat with one bite. ⏰ Visit Volcano Crater Park at 4 PM. Climb to Haikou’s highest point to see the whole city and sea. 📌 Don’t buy volcanic rock souvenirs at the entrance—they’re expensive and common. They’re much cheaper near Qilou. ⚠️ Wugong Temple is small and can be toured in half an hour. The ticket is sold separately and not worth it. You can skip it if you buy the combined ticket. 🍜 For dinner, go to Banqiao Road seafood market. Pick your own shrimp, crab, and snails. The processing fee is 10 yuan per dish—fresh and cheap. Conclusion Among these 8 cities, Chenzhou and Shantou are the ones I want to visit again the most. One wild, one fresh. If you can only pick one, try Chenzhou. The fog on Dongjiang Lake and the Danxia at Gaoyiling will change your view of Hunan. Tell me in the comments which one fooled you the most. complaints recommendation the beaten path scenery

Everyone says traveling during summer break is like “paying to suffer” — popular attractions are packed, airfares double, and you wait two hours to take a five-minute photo. But some cities are underrated. Visiting in August means fewer people and cooler weather. Within a 2–4 hour high-speed train radius, you can explore everything from plateau holy lakes to underground rivers, from ancient architecture to rafting, with an unforgettable experience. The best part is no fighting for flights and feeling like you have the place all to yourself. 01 Shannan | Tibet ⏰ Depart from Zedang Town at 8:30 AM. It takes about an hour to reach Yamdrok Lake. Don’t rush to the usual viewing platform. Instead, head to the east shore near Rituo Monastery, where there are fewer cars and people, and the lake’s blue looks unreal. At 2 PM, the light is strongest, and the lake turns a milky green. After 5:30 PM, it shifts to deep blue, changing its filter every hour. ⚠️ At 4,441 meters elevation, avoid running or jumping. Bring a portable oxygen canister for safety. 🚄 The high-speed train from Lhasa to Shannan takes 1.5 hours. Renting a car after arrival is more cost-effective. 🍜 Back in town, be sure to try a bowl of Tibetan noodles with sweet tea. The noodles are made from barley and have a great chew. 02 Suizhou | Hubei How to choose between Dahong Mountain and Shennongjia? I pick Dahong Mountain. Shennongjia’s peak season accommodations are outrageously expensive, while Dahong Mountain still requires a jacket in the mornings and evenings in August. 📍 Drive to the mountain gate, take the shuttle bus to Lingguan Pass, then hike 30 minutes to the summit. The trail is lined with pine trees and moss, and the air is moist like a natural humidifier. ⏰ After 3 PM is the best time to climb. Sunlight filters through the trees without being harsh. At the top is a small reservoir called Bailong Pond, with crystal-clear water. Sitting by the pond listening to birdsong can fill an entire afternoon. ⚠️ Buy water at the foot of the mountain to bring up. A bottle of mineral water at the summit costs 8 yuan. 🍜 After descending, head to Suizhou city for Guazi rice. The pork trotters are stewed until the meat falls off the bone, paired with pickled vegetables to cut the richness. 03 Xinzhou | Shanxi First time in Xinzhou? Here are three questions to clear up. Q1: How to connect Yanmen Pass, Laoniuwan, and Wutai Mountain? It’s best to fly into Taiyuan, rent a car, and head north. Day 1: Go straight to Yanmen Pass to see the gate tower and Great Wall ruins. It takes 1.5 hours and isn’t tiring. Day 2: Drive 2 hours to Laoniuwan, where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. In the afternoon, take a speedboat tour through the canyon. Days 3 and 4: Reserve for Wutai Mountain. Stay in Taihuai Town, get up early to burn incense at Wuye Temple, then hike to Dailuo Peak. Q2: Is it cold at Wutai Mountain in August? Taihuai Town is 25°C during the day and drops to 12°C at night. Bring a windbreaker. ⚠️ Driving into the mountain requires advance booking via the official WeChat account. Weekend slots sell out in 30 seconds. Weekdays are first-come, first-served. Q3: Is it worth staying overnight at Laoniuwan? Yes. Stay in a cave guesthouse with no light pollution at night, and the stars fill the sky. 🍜 Farmhouse-style stewed Yellow River carp is freshly killed and cooked, so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows raise. 04 Qingyuan | Guangdong Step into the Lianzhou underground river. It’s 35°C outside and 18°C inside the cave — instant autumn. 📍 First, take a boat through the underground river. The narrowest parts only fit one boat, and the stalactites on both sides are lit up like a sci-fi movie set. After half an hour, get off and walk the plank path. The whole route takes about two hours. ⚠️ The cave floor is slippery. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid sandals. 🍜 After exiting, try Dongpo dumplings in Lianzhou city. They’re like dumplings but with a chewier skin, best dipped in chili sauce. ⏰ Arrive by 9 AM. Tour groups are still on the way, so you almost have the place to yourself. 🚄 There’s a direct tourist bus from Qingyuan high-speed train station to Lianzhou. The trip takes 1.5 hours. 05 Sanming | Fujian Centered around Taining ancient city, here’s what you can reach on foot: 📍 Turn right out of the Shangshudi ancient buildings and walk 200 meters to the old street of Taining ancient city. The cobblestone street is lined with shops selling lei cha tea and fermented tofu. From the south gate of the ancient city, take a 5-yuan bus for 15 minutes to the Dajin Lake scenic area. Two must-dos at Dajin Lake: take a boat to see the water Danxia landforms and climb Ganlu Temple. ⏰ Board the boat at 3 PM. The lake is warm from the sun, and the breeze carries a woody scent. Ganlu Temple is built inside a cave, supported by a single pillar. The climb makes your legs weak, but the view is stunning. ⚠️ Don’t buy slippers at the dock; they cost twice as much as outside. 🍜 Back in the ancient city at night, try Biyu rolls — thin pancakes filled with bamboo shoots and mushrooms, pan-fried until golden and crispy. 06 Haikou | Hainan If traveling with elders: visit Volcano Crater Park. The paths are flat, shaded, and you can see volcanic lava tunnels. ⚠️ The park closes entry at 5 PM. It’s too hot at noon, so arrive before 4 PM. If you prefer culture: walk from Deshengsha Road to Zhongshan Road in the arcade old street, full of Nanyang-style arcades. The carved windows on the second floor are still intact, perfect for photos. For history: the Xixin Pavilion and Su Gong Temple in the Five Officials Temple are worth seeing. Tickets cost 20 yuan, and one hour is enough. ⏰ Haikou has frequent afternoon thunderstorms in August. Bring an umbrella. The arcade old street feels especially fresh after rain. 🍜 For lunch, try spicy soup rice near Xitian Temple. The pork offal soup is seasoned with pepper and pickled vegetables, served with taro rice. Locals have enjoyed it for decades. 07 Hengyang | Hunan Nanyue Hengshan and Nanyue Grand Temple are best visited early. Start with the temple, which opens at 8 AM when it’s less crowded. The incense scent fills the wooden buildings, and sunlight on the red walls casts neat shadows. After touring the temple, hike Hengshan starting from Shengli Archway to Banshan Pavilion. It takes about 1.5 hours through bamboo forests and streams. ⏰ It’s cool below the mountain before 10 AM but gets hot and stuffy after 11 AM. ⚠️ Don’t buy the “one-click blessing” package at the foot of the mountain. Incense and candles inside the temple cost half as much. 🍜 After descending, go to Zhurong Road and find a local restaurant to try Hengyang marinated noodles. The noodles are hand-cut, mixed with pickled long beans and peanuts, and topped with a marinated egg. It’s filling for the whole afternoon. 🚄 A taxi from Hengyang East Station to Nanyue Scenic Area takes 40 minutes. Shared rides cost 30 yuan per person. 08 Xuzhou | Jiangsu ⏰ Visit Yunlong Lake at 5 PM. Enter from the east gate and walk along the lakeside. The sunset turns the water orange. At Sugong Island, you can see the TV tower reflected in the water. Many people squat there to shoot time-lapse videos. After 7 PM, the lights come on, and shadows move on the lakeside boardwalk. Locals come out for a stroll at a slow pace unlike a city. 📍 Next to Yunlong Lake is Yunlong Mountain. It takes only 20 minutes to climb, and the summit offers a panoramic view of the lake. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are common by the lake in August. Bring insect repellent. 🍜 After Yunlong Lake, go to Fuguo Street for barbecue. Xuzhou’s lamb skewers are grilled on iron skewers, sprinkled with cumin and chili, sizzling with oil. Pair with a local beer for a great time. These eight places are truly off the beaten path and hassle-free: Qingyuan is perfect for a weekend trip, Xinzhou suits self-driving travelers, and Xuzhou’s Yunlong Lake is free and comfortable for evening walks. For August travel, pick one that suits your taste and go. Fewer crowds, beautiful sights, no stress. Share in the comments where you want to go first, and I’ll help you avoid the pitfalls!