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

Sayram Lake is where the sky meets the earth in the most breathtaking shade of blue. Surrounded by the majestic Tianshan Mountains, this alpine lake shimmers like a sapphire, with crystal-clear waters reflecting snow-capped peaks, rolling grasslands, and drifting clouds. No matter the season, Sayram Lake never looks the same. Spring brings wildflowers, summer paints the meadows emerald green, autumn wraps the mountains in golden hues, and winter transforms the lake into a serene frozen wonderland. 📍 Location: Sayram Lake, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 🇨🇳 💙 Highlight: Xinjiang's largest and most beautiful alpine lake ✨ Feature: Sapphire-blue waters, snow mountains, grasslands, wildflowers, and spectacular scenic drives 🍃 Atmosphere: Peaceful, majestic, and wonderfully untouched 📸 Best for: Landscape photography, road trips, camping, cycling, and sunrise or sunset views 💡 Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to drive around the lake—every bend reveals a completely different perspective of this breathtaking natural wonder. ✨ Signature feeling: At Sayram Lake, every shade of blue tells a different story, making it one of Xinjiang's most unforgettable landscapes. 💎🏔️💙

Tucked away among the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang, Sayram Lake is often described as "The Last Tear of the Atlantic." Reaching it means crossing mountains and winding roads, but every kilometre is rewarded the moment its brilliant sapphire waters come into view. In summer, the lake reveals its most captivating beauty. The crystal-clear water glows beneath endless blue skies, while emerald grasslands, colourful wildflowers, and distant snow-capped peaks frame one of China's most spectacular alpine landscapes. Gentle breezes ripple across the shoreline, grazing horses and sheep roam freely, and the peaceful silence makes it easy to forget the outside world. No photograph can truly capture the magic of Sayram Lake. Its waters are bluer than imagined, its scenery grander than expected, and its tranquillity leaves a lasting impression long after the journey ends. 📍 Location: Sayram Lake, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 🇨🇳 💙 Highlight: Xinjiang's largest alpine lake, famous for its dazzling blue waters and breathtaking mountain scenery ✨ Feature: Crystal-clear lake, Tianshan Mountains, wildflower meadows, alpine grasslands, scenic lakeside highway, and unforgettable sunsets 🍃 Atmosphere: Peaceful, majestic, and refreshingly serene 📸 Best for: Landscape photography, self-drive adventures, camping, and summer escapes 💡 Travel Tip: Visit between June and August for blooming wildflowers and pleasant weather, and take time to drive the scenic road around the lake for ever-changing panoramic views. ✨ Signature feeling: Crossing mountains to reach Sayram Lake is more than a journey—it's an encounter with one of Xinjiang's most extraordinary natural wonders, where endless blue skies meet sapphire waters in perfect harmony. 💙🏔️✨

Known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic," Sayram Lake is one of Xinjiang's most breathtaking natural wonders. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands, its crystal-clear waters change shades of blue with the light, creating scenery that feels almost unreal. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore while cool mountain breezes sweep across the open landscape. Whether driving the scenic loop, stopping at quiet viewpoints, or simply watching the reflections dance on the water, every moment at Sayram Lake is filled with peace and freedom. 📍 Location: Sayram Lake, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 🇨🇳 💙 Highlight: A spectacular alpine lake famed for its crystal-clear blue waters ✨ Feature: Turquoise lake, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, wildflowers, scenic drives, and breathtaking panoramic views 🍃 Atmosphere: Refreshing, peaceful, and endlessly picturesque 📸 Best for: Landscape photography, road trips, camping, and nature lovers 💡 Travel Tip: Drive the full lakeside route and stop at different viewpoints—the changing light reveals a different shade of blue throughout the day. ✨ Signature feeling: At Sayram Lake, endless blue waters meet open skies and mountain peaks, creating a place where every glance feels like a postcard come to life. 💙🏔️✨

Some places are so beautiful that words simply fall short. Sayram Lake is one of them. Known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic," its crystal-clear waters shimmer in breathtaking shades of sapphire and turquoise beneath endless blue skies. Snow-capped mountains, wildflower meadows, and open grasslands surround the lake, creating a landscape so pure that every glance feels calming. Whether you're watching the sunlight dance across the water or standing quietly by the shore, Sayram Lake has a way of slowing your heartbeat and clearing your mind. 📍 Location: Sayram Lake, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 💙 Highlight: Xinjiang's breathtaking alpine lake with unbelievably blue waters ✨ Feature: Sapphire lake, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, wildflowers, and panoramic scenic drives 🍃 Atmosphere: Peaceful, healing, and endlessly beautiful 📸 Best for: Landscape photography, road trips, nature lovers, and quiet moments of reflection 💡 Travel Tip: Visit on a sunny day when the lake reveals its most brilliant shades of blue. ✨ Signature feeling: Standing beside the endless blue water, where the only thing deeper than the lake is the sense of peace it brings. Some blues are colours. The blue of Sayram Lake is a feeling. 💙🏔️✨

At Sayram Lake, the sky feels closer, the water seems bluer, and time naturally slows down. The lake changes with every hour of the day—from soft morning light to dazzling midday blues and glowing golden sunsets. Snow-capped mountains stand quietly in the distance, while gentle waves ripple across the crystal-clear water, creating a view that's both grand and calming. Whether you're driving around the lake, stopping for photos, or simply sitting by the shore listening to the wind, Sayram Lake has a way of making you forget everything else. 📍 Location: Sayram Lake, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 💙 Highlight: One of Xinjiang's most breathtaking alpine lakes, famous for its ever-changing shades of blue 🏔️ Feature: Crystal-clear waters, snow-capped mountains, lakeside grasslands, scenic drives, and unforgettable sunsets 🍃 Atmosphere: Peaceful, refreshing, and endlessly beautiful 📸 Best for: Road trips, photography, camping, and quiet moments in nature ✨ Signature feeling: Watching the lake blend seamlessly into the sky, where every shade of blue feels more beautiful than the last. Some places are meant to be seen. Sayram Lake is meant to be felt. 💙🌊✨

Framed by snow-capped mountains, Sayram Lake is often called the "last tear of the Atlantic." In summer, the lake shimmers in brilliant shades of sapphire, so clear and pure that the sky seems to melt into the water. Gentle grasslands stretch to the shoreline, wildflowers bloom beneath endless blue skies, and distant peaks are perfectly reflected on the mirror-like surface. Standing by the lake, the only sounds are the breeze and the rippling water, making it a place where time seems to slow and every breath feels lighter. Whether you're driving the scenic lakeside road, watching the sunrise over the mountains, or simply sitting quietly by the shore, Sayram Lake is a destination that soothes both the eyes and the soul. 📍 Location: Sayram Lake, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 🏔️ Highlight: Xinjiang's largest alpine lake, famed for its crystal-clear blue waters 🌿 Feature: Snow-capped mountains, turquoise lake, alpine grasslands, wildflowers, scenic ring road, and breathtaking reflections 🍃 Atmosphere: Pure, peaceful, and awe-inspiring 📸 Best for: Landscape photography, road trips, camping, and summer escapes ✨ Signature feeling: Standing by a lake so blue and serene that it feels like the sky has quietly settled upon the earth. At Sayram Lake, nature paints blue in its most perfect shade. 💙🏔️✨

1️⃣ Pingxiang | Jiangxi Wugong Mountain isn't a gentle hill; it's the kind that will make your legs turn to jelly. 🚄 Get off at Pingxiang North Station, and it's about a 40-minute taxi ride to the foot of the mountain. Don't trust the "fast track" touts on the side of the road; just use the main entrance. The cable car has 2 sections. You must take the first one; for the second, it depends on your stamina. I suggest taking it up and walking down, otherwise, you won't be able to walk down stairs the next day. The mountain top meadows are greenest from June to September. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light hits at an angle, making the entire ridge look like it's covered in gold dust—no filters needed for photos. Renting a tent costs about CNY 120; remember to pick a spot far from the restrooms, or the smell will teach you a lesson at midnight. ⚠️ It gets ridiculously windy at the top at night. A thin jacket won't cut it; bring a fleece—don't ask me how I know. Don't take the "Diaomazhuang" wild trail on the way down. It looks close, but it actually adds 2 hours. If your knees aren't great, just go back the way you came. 2️⃣ Longyan | Fujian Longyan is an underrated place; both the Tulou and the ancient city are worth a special trip. 📍 Yongding Tulou King scenic area, admission CNY 90. Don't rush to take photos when you get in. Follow a guide for 10 minutes to hear the background, then look at those rammed-earth walls—you'll feel the money was well spent. People still live in the Tulou, with laundry hanging on the 2nd and 3rd floors; it's full of life. Don't snap photos directly at people's windows; be polite. Changting Ancient City is free and best visited at dusk. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, the lights come on, and the stone road on Dian-tou Street shines. The lantern cakes sold on the side of the road are CNY 5 each—crispy and fragrant right out of the fryer. Guanzhishan is in Liancheng, a bit far from the city center, but the water route at Shimen Lake is perfect for bringing elderly people and children. The boat ticket is included in the admission, so no extra charge. ⚠️ The "free guides" in the Tulou scenic area will take you to shopping spots; just politely decline. You can explore on your own without any issues. 3️⃣ Hechi | Guangxi Hechi's landscape rivals Guilin's, but with half the crowds and much friendlier prices. The Donglan landscape is typical karst terrain, with water as green as jade. ⏰ Before 9 AM, there's no wind on the water, so the reflection is perfect; after 10 AM, it gets blurry. Jiudun Sky Window is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. If you don't dive, just watch from the shore—the water is so clear you can count the stones at the bottom. But don't go in; the water temperature is in the low teens year-round, and cramps are no joke. You need to take a bamboo raft into Xiangbei Fairyland; the boat ticket is CNY 60 for about an hour round trip. You'll pass through several karst caves along the way, so remember to bring a thin jacket—it's cool inside. Sanli Yangdu is better for cycling. Rent an e-bike and cruise slowly along the riverbank. There's roasted corn sold on the side of the road for CNY 5 an ear—it's very sweet. ⚠️ The attractions in Hechi are far apart; plan for at most 2 a day, or you'll spend the whole time on the road. 4️⃣ Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan isn't a "take a look and leave" kind of attraction; it's worth spending a whole day to slowly explore. The Pass City admission is CNY 110, which includes the Hanging Wall Great Wall and the First Pier. The 3 spots are quite far apart, so I suggest doing the Pass City first, then the Hanging Wall, and finally the First Pier—it's on the way and saves backtracking. ⏰ It's best to visit the Pass City in the morning when the light shines from the east, making the "First Greatest Pass under Heaven" plaque on the tower clearly visible. In the afternoon, it's backlit, and everything looks dark. Climbing the Hanging Wall is more tiring than you'd think; the steps are high and steep. If your knees aren't great, just look from below; don't force it. The First Pier is actually just a dirt platform, but standing there looking at the Taolai River Canyon, the sense of desolation can't be captured in photos. 🍜 "Masongji Beef Noodles" in the city is worth a special trip. A bowl of noodles with extra meat and an egg is just over CNY 20, and the broth is so fresh you'll drink it all. ⚠️ Some people at the Pass City gate sell "night tour tickets"—don't buy them. You can't see anything inside at night. 5️⃣ Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin in winter is cold, but it's worth it. Admission to the Ice and Snow World is CNY 330. ⏰ Entering at 3:30 PM is best; it's not dark yet, so you can explore the ice sculptures first. Once the lights come on at 5 PM, the whole park looks like it has a new face—you get to see both the pure look of the day and the splendor of the night. It's really cold inside; stick a warm patch on your phone, or it will shut down after a few photos. Volga Manor is in the suburbs, about a CNY 50 taxi ride away. It mimics Russian-style architecture and looks great after snow, but it's boring in the summer—just bare. You don't need to buy a ticket to enter St. Sophia Cathedral; just take photos in the square outside. ⚠️ Those people in mascot costumes in the square who ask to take photos with you will charge you after—anywhere from CNY 20 to CNY 50. If you don't want to pay, just wave your hand in advance. 🍜 The Madieer popsicle on Central Street is CNY 5 each. It's creamy and rich. Eating a popsicle at minus 20 degrees is the ultimate experience, but don't overdo it, or your stomach won't handle it. 6️⃣ Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan isn't just about the Huangshan Scenic Area; the surrounding ancient villages are the real treasure. Just pick one between Xidi and Hongcun. I chose Hongcun because the morning at Nanhu Lake is just too beautiful. ⏰ Get to Nanhu Bridge at 6:30 AM. The water is as flat as a mirror, with the white walls and black tiles reflected in it—that view alone is worth the ticket price. Admission is CNY 104, valid for 3 days. If you stay at a homestay inside, you can ask the owner to take you in to save on the ticket, but homestay prices are generally expensive—around CNY 300 in the off-season, and double that in peak season. Chengkan Ancient Village is quieter than Hongcun, with an admission of CNY 107. It's much less crowded and perfect if you like to stroll slowly. 📍 That thousand-year-old osmanthus tree at the village entrance smells intoxicating in the autumn, but it's just a big tree in the summer. ⚠️ Don't go into those "free tea tasting" shops in the ancient villages; it's just a sales pitch. If you're shy, just don't go in. For the Huangshan Scenic Area itself, I suggest taking the cable car up and down. The steps on the hiking trail down will make you question your life choices. 7️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is the kind of place that makes the flight worth it just for one look. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Urumqi to Bole, then charter a car. It's about a 2-hour trip one way. Admission is CNY 70. If you drive yourself, the loop around the lake is about 90 km, which takes a whole day with stops. ⏰ Around 5 or 6 PM, the lake turns an unreal shade of blue, like paint was poured into it. People will think you Photoshopped it. Anjihai Grand Canyon is in the Kuitun direction, a bit far from Sayram Lake, but it's worth the detour. Standing on the edge of the canyon looking down, the shock is indescribable in words. ⚠️ Never climb over the railing for a photo; there's a 100-meter-deep cliff right below. The hot springs in Wenquan County are real hot springs, and your skin feels smooth after soaking, but the facilities are average, so don't have high expectations. 🍜 The lamb skewers in Bole city are CNY 3 each. They're a mix of fat and lean, grilled until sizzling, and paired with a bottle of Wusu beer—perfect. 8️⃣ Benxi | Liaoning Autumn in Benxi is like "the whole city covered in golden armor," but it's also cool in the summer. Benxi Water Cave is the longest underground river in Asia. Admission is CNY 110. You take a boat in for about 40 minutes. It's a constant 12 degrees in the cave, so you need to wear a jacket in the summer, or you'll be shivering. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid waiting in line; after 10 AM, tour groups arrive, and you could wait for an hour. Huanren Wunv Mountain is near the county town. The mountain isn't high, but there are many steps. You can see the panoramic view of Huanlong Lake from the top, and the water is as green as jade. Guanmen Mountain National Forest Park is the place to see red leaves. 🍜 From late September to mid-October every year, the mountains are covered in red leaves, but it's crowded, so I suggest going on a weekday. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus in the Guanmen Mountain scenic area is CNY 10 one way. Don't save this money; it takes over an hour to walk up, and there's no scenery along the way. The Xiaoshi lamb soup in downtown Benxi is worth a try—CNY 20 a bowl, with rich broth and tender meat, paired with a sesame flatbread—so comforting. Of the 8 places, I most recommend Sayram Lake and Hongcun—one is the ceiling of natural scenery, the other is the top-tier of cultural charm. For the rest, it depends on your preferences. If you like hiking, go to Wugong Mountain; if you like history, go to Jiayuguan. Let's chat in the comments—how many have you been to? Or if you have any hidden gems, feel free to share them.

01 Yuxi | Yunnan I booked our stay right by Fuxian Lake when bringing my parents to Yuxi. No need to rush in the morning; just open the window to see the morning mist over the lake. ⏰ Rent an e-bike before 9 AM for a slow ride along the lake. The breeze is cool, the road is flat, and it's perfectly manageable for seniors. For lunch, find a fish restaurant near the entrance of Luchong Scenic Area. Try the copper pot fish with potato rice—it's about CNY 50 per person, and the soup is incredibly flavorful. In the afternoon, skip climbing Bijiashan; the steps are too steep and will tire your parents out. Instead, head to the Time Boardwalk on the west bank. The wooden path is flat, and you can sit on stone benches by the lake when you get tired. Before heading back to the city in the evening, stop by Guanglong Town to buy a bag of Chengjiang lotus root starch as a souvenir. ⚠️ East Lake Road gets congested on Sundays, so try to avoid returning after 4 PM. 02 Bortala | Xinjiang This place is perfect for families with average stamina who still want to see grand scenery. Sayram Lake is the highlight. 🚄 Charter a car from downtown Bole for about an hour and have the driver drop you off at the South Gate—it's less crowded and offers expansive views. The road around the lake is flat, so there's no need for hiking; you can just stop the car and take photos wherever you like. ⏰ The light is best after 2 PM, and the lake is such a stunning blue that your parents will surely want to take dozens of photos. Don't bother going down to the bottom of the Anjihai Grand Canyon; the view from the observation deck is impressive enough. It's windy, so remember to bring hats for your parents. Wenquan County is a better place to stay overnight; soak in the hot springs before you leave to feel refreshed. ⚠️ Food inside the scenic area is expensive and mediocre, so I recommend buying naan and deli food in downtown Bole in the morning to bring with you. 03 Jiangmen | Guangdong The Kaiping Diaolou is the kind of attraction where you don't need to climb mountains or walk extensively, making it perfect for parents. You only need to choose between Zili Village and Liyuan; I chose Zili Village because the watchtowers are denser and surrounded by rice paddies, making every photo look great. ⏰ After 5:30 PM, most tourists have left, and the sunset light on the gray walls is incredibly soft. The electric cart inside the scenic area costs CNY 20; don't try to save this money, as the road is rocky and hard for seniors to walk on. 🍜 After leaving, have a bowl of eel rice in Chikan Ancient Town. It's cooked to perfection with distinct grains of rice—my dad even asked for seconds. ⚠️ Liyuan is closed on Mondays, so don't plan your trip for that day. 04 Nanning | Guangxi Nanning's pace is naturally suited for slow travel. Don't enter Qingxiushan from the main gate; use the north gate instead. It's less crowded, and you can take an electric cart directly to Guanyin Temple, followed by a downhill walk that saves energy. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM when the air is filled with the scent of eucalyptus and birds are singing; your parents will be in a great mood. For lunch, head down the mountain to a Laoyou rice noodle shop on Zhongshan Road. A bowl of pork offal Laoyou rice noodles with a fried egg costs CNY 13 and is tangy and appetizing. Fubo Temple is in Hengxian and takes half a day to visit; if your parents have mobility issues, you can skip it—you won't be missing out. 🚄 You can take Metro Line 3 directly to Qingxiushan Station, where a shuttle bus to the scenic area is waiting right at the exit for a seamless connection. ⚠️ The sun is strong in the afternoon, so remember to bring an umbrella for your parents. 05 Shangluo | Shaanxi The scenery in Shangluo rivals that of Jiangnan, but the roads are flatter. For Jinsixia, just walking the main section is enough. Enter from the Liyuan gate and walk down along the canyon boardwalk; it's a gentle slope the whole way with no climbing, and you can finish in two hours. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the light slants into the bottom of the valley, making the water look emerald green—no filters needed for photos. Tianshuxia is a bit more niche; the boardwalk is built along the stream and is well-shaded, making it perfect for a summer walk without getting sunburned. Manchuanguan Ancient Town is free and a great place to rest at noon; have a bowl of handmade noodles and spend some time watching the old opera stage. Don't make a special trip to Baita Temple; it's small, so only visit if you happen to pass by. ⚠️ There's a large temperature difference in the mountains, so bring an extra light jacket for your parents. 06 Lanzhou | Gansu Lanzhou is a worry-free choice for traveling with parents because the whole city is centered around one river. Enter Baita Mountain Park from the main gate and take the cable car directly to the top for CNY 20 per person, then walk down slowly along the Yellow River—no need to climb any stairs. ⏰ Go up the tower after 4 PM to see both the daytime view and the sunset over the Yellow River. You must visit the Provincial Museum; it's free, but you need to book a day in advance via their official WeChat account. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 🍜 After the museum, walk ten minutes to the time-honored Mogouyan Beef Noodle restaurant. Order the "erxi" (medium-thick noodles) with extra meat and an egg for just over CNY 20; the broth is so rich it sticks to your lips. In the evening, enjoy the breeze and the night view at Zhongshan Bridge; if your parents get tired, just sit on a bench by the river—no need to rush. 07 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island is best planned as a two-day trip; don't try to do it in one day, as it's too rushed. 🚄 Take a bus from Putian Station to Wenjia Pier, which takes about an hour, followed by a 20-minute ferry ride to the island. Once on the island, rent an e-bike for CNY 100 a day so you can stop whenever you like. The Mazu Ancestral Temple has quite a few stairs, but there are platforms at every section where you can rest, so your parents will have no problem walking and stopping as they go. ⏰ In the evening, head to Ewei Shenshi Park. The sea breeze is strong, and the sunset turns the reefs into gold—a scene I'll remember for a long time. 🍜 Just find any restaurant on the island to have seaweed rice and seafood lo mein; it's about CNY 40 per person and incredibly fresh. ⚠️ The ferry queue is long on weekends, so try to go on weekdays. 08 Jingmen | Hubei The Xianling Mausoleum is an underrated gem—it's uncrowded, quiet, and the paths are flat. It takes less than an hour to walk around the entire park. The stone paths are wide and well-shaded. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light shines through the sacred way, casting long shadows that make for great photos. You don't need to hire a guide; just scan the code at the entrance to listen to the audio guide for CNY 10—it's quite detailed. 🍜 After leaving, find a restaurant by Mochou Lake to eat Panlongcai. This is a local Jingmen dish with soft, savory meat that even my dad, who has trouble chewing, could eat. ⚠️ There are no restaurants inside the park, so prepare water and small snacks before entering.

Guys, you won't believe this! I found a hidden gem of a hotel at the edge of the grasslands in Bole, Xinjiang, and it was absolutely stunning! This isn't just some "photo op spot," it's like living in a road trip movie! 🚗💨 ✨Took four days off in mid-August to map out the perfect travel loop: Day 1️⃣ Guaishiyu Day 2️⃣ Xiaershili Day 3️⃣ Sayram Lake Day 4️⃣ Bole City Came back feeling like my whole self had been reformatted by nature! 🌍 🚗Transportation: Fly to Urumqi → 4-hour high-speed train to Bole (definitely don't drive the 524 km, you'll be exhausted!). Recommend an SUV for car rentals; it's a must for the gravel roads later on. ⛰️Day 1: Guaishiyu 📍38 km northeast of downtown Bole ⏰9:00 AM–8:00 PM 💰Admission: ¥48 (half price for students) ⚠️Note: 👉Go in after 3:00 PM! The side lighting is perfect for photos 📸 👉Hiking shoes are a must; don't wear flip-flops. The granite here has been wind-eroded for hundreds of millions of years; every shot looks like a sci-fi blockbuster! Red rocks + green moss, a total visual feast 🌈 🌱Day 2: Xiaershili 📍Towards the border (remember to get a border pass) June–August is the peak season! The alpine meadows are glowing green 💚🌿 👉Please choose an SUV for driving; the mountain roads are tough. 👉Must return before dark. Sat on the grassy slope for an hour, cleared my mind completely—it was truly healing, I could cry 😭 🌊Day 3: Sayram Lake 📍1-hour drive from Bole 💰¥145/person (valid for 24 hours) ⏰Recommend entering with the first wave at 7:40 AM. The 90 km loop around the lake is a must-drive in your lifetime! 🚙 Every turn reveals a different shade of blue 💙 Exit through the South Gate to catch the sunset at Guozigou Bridge—breathtakingly beautiful 🌅 🏨Dreamy hotel: Lake-view room on the east side of Sayram Lake! Open the window and get hit by the blue! Moonlight + starlight spilling into the room 🌙 At night, there's only the sound of the wind—who else gets how healing this is! 📍Day 4: Bole City Don't miss the Bortala River Riverside Park 🏞️ A place where locals hang out, with that unique, laid-back vibe of a border city~ ⚠️Pro tips: 1️⃣Large temperature difference in Bole; short sleeves during the day + windbreaker at night. 2️⃣Download offline maps in advance; signal is weak 📶 3️⃣Book Sayram Lake self-driving tickets in advance during peak season. These four days, from strange rocks to border meadows to alpine lakes, were definitely a highlight of my life ✨ Bole is truly worth a dedicated trip!

You have to visit Xinjiang at least once. Feel the wind across the hills of Nalati, and see Sayram Lake, blue as a gemstone dropped on the earth. Snow-capped mountains stand silent in the distance, green grass covers the rolling valleys, cattle and sheep roam leisurely, and time seems to slow down here. Walk into the deep spruce forests, where sunlight filters gently through the leaves. Step across the babbling mountain streams, build a small Mani stone pile, and entrust your worries to the vast landscape. Escape the city hustle, and immerse yourself in the endless grasslands. Open your arms to embrace the wilderness, and you'll truly understand that freedom is the shape of the wind. The mountains and rivers are vast, the world is worth exploring, and this trip is worth the journey. 📍Detailed attraction address & ticket guide 🌿 [Nalati Grassland] Address: Nalati Town, Xinyuan County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Ticket: Adult CNY 95 Valid for both Valley Grassland and Aerial Grassland Scenic area shuttle bus: CNY 40 💙 [Sayram Lake] Address: Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Ticket + shuttle bus: CNY 145 The entire route around the lake is scenic 🌲 [Qiongkushitai] Address: Kaladala Town, Tekes County, Ili Ticket: Free to enter the village. Self-driving vehicles must be reserved in advance via "You Xinjiang Yima You"; for the rear mountain viewing platform, the round-trip shuttle bus is CNY 40.

Folks! This Ili–Bortala 2-day itinerary is amazing! You can visit the Nalati Valley grasslands and the wonders of Sayram Lake, travel in a small group of 6 with a 5–9-seat vehicle, and an experienced driver handles pickup and drop-off, making it worry-free and comfortable! . This awesome guide is waiting for you, scroll down to view ↓ . Must-visit attractions: 🐎 Nalati scenic area: Must try Gongnaisi River rafting🌊! The natural river formed by Tianshan snowmelt winds through grasslands and forests, so you can splash in the cool water and soak up the scenery on both banks. The Duku Highway is open in its peak season from Jun–Sep, so remember to check water levels and weather in advance to plan your timing! 💙 Sayram Lake: who doesn't love a highland lake that glows blue! The surrounding grasslands burst with wildflowers, and you might even spot a giant mechanical horse🐎. The scenery is stunning year‑round. Be sure to wear sunscreen, and driving around the lake is super enjoyable! . Top tips for your trip: 1. In August, mornings and evenings in Ili and Bortala are cool, bring a light jacket, and use plenty of sunscreen at midday☀️ 2. Compare local specialties at several vendors, don't buy on impulse, and choose reputable stalls🛒 3. Sayram Lake and Guozigou Bridge are both great photo spots, remember to scout your angles in advance📸 4. There are lots of mosquitoes and insects on the grasslands, bring insect repellent so bugs don't ruin your mood🦟 . Click the card below to unlock exclusive travel items~

Save money on summer outings with kids — these 8️⃣ places are less crowded and beautiful 1️⃣ Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake is the kind that makes you stare for five minutes and forget to take photos. In August the lakeside temperature is just over 20°C, so a light jacket is perfect for kids. Drive the ring road around the lake, stop whenever you want to toss stones or chase waterbirds — much more comfortable than tourist buses. The light around 5–6 PM is best, and the lake looks like it's dusted with silver. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit overwhelming for kids, so hold little hands tight near cliffs and enjoy the full view from a distance. Wenquan County's hot springs are great at dusk — a wild hot spring with gentle water temperature where kids can play until dark. Stay in Wenquan County for affordable, clean lodging; for dinner try a Kazakh restaurant — a big plate of mutton with milk tea is filling and costs about CNY 50 per person. Warning: don’t buy skewers at the Sayram Lake entrance — they're pricey and just okay. Wait until you get back to Wenquan County to eat. 2️⃣ Xiamen | Fujian Don't bring a stroller to Gulangyu — it's all slopes and steps that will make you regret it. Buy ferry tickets one day in advance via the public account; round trip is CNY 35, and the 8 AM ferry is the least crowded. On the island, don't head straight to Sunlight Rock — turn onto Bishan Road first, where fewer people and red walls are framed by cascading bougainvillea. The railway culture park is a trail converted from old tracks, shaded by trees and free; kids can walk along the sleepers like a balance beam. Nanputuo Temple doesn't require a reservation; light an incense stick inside, and the vegetarian pastries are worth buying — the green bean paste ones are CNY 15 per box. The rainforest area in the botanical garden has a mist spray that opens at 10 AM, and kids feel like they've stepped into a fairyland. Warning: avoid the seafood stalls on Gulangyu — one plate of stir-fried clams might cost CNY 88. Go back to the city’s No. 8 market for fresher and cheaper seafood. 3️⃣ Jiaozuo | Henan Walking the entire Red Stone Gorge at Yuntai Mountain takes about 2 hours; the plank path is narrow, and when it's busy you basically inch along. With kids, enter the park at 7:30 AM — it's cooler and less crowded, and you can see mist rising from the valley floor. Take the cable car up to Zhuyu Peak for CNY 120 round trip; it's windy at the top, so bring an extra windbreaker for the kids. Qingtian River is better in the afternoon — take a boat into the gorge, where the water is green like jelly and the cliffs block the sun, making the boat cabin pleasantly cool. Shennong Mountain is more tiring and has lots of monkeys, so avoid carrying plastic bags — they will try to snatch them. For lodging, choose a service area by the road near the park entrance; it's close and the evening brings a whole street of restaurants. Local tip: Lao Ding stewed noodles in Jiaozuo city is CNY 18 a bowl with generous mutton — kids can eat two bowls. 4️⃣ Lingshui County | Hainan The water around Fenjiezhou Island is much cleaner than Sanya's; the boat trip takes 15 minutes, so take seasickness medicine in advance. The island has a marine theater with dolphin shows three times a day that mesmerize kids. For diving, skip deep dives for kids aged 5–6 — sign them up for snorkeling with one-on-one instructor guidance so they can see clownfish. The monkeys on Nanwan Monkey Island are truly wild, so make sure bag zippers are closed — I once saw a monkey unzip a tourist's bag and steal sunscreen. Go to Monkey Island after 3 PM when the sun is less harsh and the monkeys are well fed and less likely to snatch food. Lingshui county night market is a must — oysters are CNY 10 for 4, grilled until sizzling. Stay near Qingshui Bay in a guesthouse for just over CNY 200 a night, with a balcony facing the sea so you can hear the waves in the morning. 5️⃣ Shizuishan | Ningxia What makes Shahu (Sand Lake) magical is the half-desert, half-lake landscape — you won't find another like it in the country. Take a boat through the reed beds; the breeze brings moisture, and you can see egrets skim the water. Kids go wild on the sand slopes — rent a sandboard for CNY 20 with unlimited time; the rush down from the top makes adults want to try it too. Warning: the desert surface can reach 40°C at noon; walking barefoot even one step will burn. Be sure to wear shoes or rent foot covers. The park opens at 8 AM, so get in early and play until noon to avoid the hottest hours. The scallion buns sold at the park entrance are worth trying — CNY 3 each and delicious. Stay in Shizuishan city — a 20-minute taxi ride from the park; budget hotels are a bit over CNY 100 a night, about half the price of on-site lodging. There is a direct shuttle bus from Yinchuan train station; travel time is 2 hours. 6️⃣ Shaoyang | Hunan Langshan is the kind of place you'll regret climbing but want to go back to the next day. The plank path at Bajiaozhai is built along the cliff and makes your legs go weak when you look down, but kids get excited and count the steps as they go. Tianyi Lane narrows to just 0.5 m at its tightest point — bigger adults have to turn sideways, while kids squeeze through happily. Climb in the morning or at dusk; at noon the sun beats down and the rocks are scorching. Langshan's specialty is navel oranges — though it's not harvest season in August, farm stays often have last year's stock and will juice them for kids, offering a sweet-tart refreshment. Stay in a guesthouse in Langshan town for CNY 60 a night with breakfast included; the owner will draw you a hand-drawn map and point out the less crowded routes. At the foot of the mountain, a place called "Lao Yang farmhouse" makes authentic blood duck for CNY 38 a plate, mildly spicy — kids can eat half a plate with rice. 7️⃣ Huanggang | Hubei Luotian's Tiantangzhai is the same mountain as the one in Anhui, but the Hubei side sees about half the visitors. Take the cable car up for CNY 60 one way; your legs will still feel wobbly coming down. The glass walkway at the summit is free, but it sways in the wind — parents with a fear of heights should skip it and let kids try it on their own. Guifeng Mountain in Macheng is famous for azaleas in spring, but visiting in August has its own charm — lush green slopes and mist rolling up from the valleys like a Chinese ink painting. There's an azalea expo garden at the base with a CNY 30 ticket that cultivates hundreds of varieties; off-season visits let kids see seedlings and learn to identify species. Warning: there are no proper restaurants on the mountain, only instant noodles and grilled sausages, so bring bread and ham sausages for a practical meal. Stay in Luotian county for cheap rooms and a 40-minute drive to the park. For dinner try a hot pot stew — a big pot of meat and vegetables for CNY 80. Tip: search navigation for "Tiantangzhai scenic area east gate" — entering from there means fewer people. 8️⃣ Dandong | Liaoning Phoenix Mountain is the steepest of these 8 spots. The Laoniubei section runs almost along the cliff face, so for kids under 10 it's best to take the cable car to mid-mountain and enjoy the view from there. Be sure to visit the Yalu River Broken Bridge at dusk — the sunset turns the river golden and you can even make out the silhouettes of North Korean buildings across the water. Bridge admission is CNY 30; the walk takes about 20 minutes, and kids will keep asking, "Why aren't there tall buildings over there?" — think ahead about how you'll answer. Take a bamboo raft along the Kuandian river mouth; the water is shallow and calm, suitable for all ages, and the boatman will sing local folk tunes. Stay one night in Lvjiang Village — summer riverside tent camps are CNY 80 per spot, and waking at 5 AM to see the river mist is like stepping into a fairyland. In Dandong city, on Gaoli Street there's a Zhang's cold noodles shop — CNY 15 a bowl with a sweet-and-sour taste that pairs perfectly with crispy sweet-and-sour pork. Warning: souvenir shops near the Broken Bridge sell North Korean items at three times the supermarket price — don't be impulsive. Of the eight places, I’m most reluctant to leave the morning mist in Lvjiang Village and the dusk at Sayram Lake. Which one have you taken your kids to? Or do you have other low-cost spots to share for family outings? Drop them in the comments.

There are places where the landscape feels almost too vast for a photograph. Sayram Lake is one of them. Known as the “last tear of the Atlantic”, this extraordinary alpine lake lies high in the mountains of Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Deep blue water stretches beneath snow-capped peaks, while grasslands and wildflowers soften the shoreline. 🏔️🌿 On a clear day, the colours seem almost unreal—the blue of the lake merging with the sky, mountains rising quietly in the distance, and clouds drifting across the immense horizon. This is a place to slow down. Drive along the lakeshore, stop whenever the scenery opens up, and let the changing light create a different landscape every few minutes. 🌤️ 📍 How to Get There 🚗 From Bole: Bole is the nearest major city. From Bole, drive west toward Sayram Lake; the journey takes roughly 1–1.5 hours, depending on your starting point and road conditions. 🚗 From Yining: Sayram Lake is about 2–3 hours by road from Yining. Renting a car, hiring a private driver or joining a tour is convenient for exploring the scenic area. 🎟️ Once inside the scenic area, follow the lakeside sightseeing route and designated stops. Having your own transport gives you much more freedom to stop for photography. 📸 Photography Tips · Shoot early or late: Sunrise and sunset create softer light and richer colours on the lake. · Use reflections: Calm water can produce beautiful mirror-like reflections of the mountains. · Include foregrounds: Wildflowers, grasslands or shoreline rocks add depth to wide compositions. · Try panoramic compositions: The enormous sky and mountain horizon are part of Sayram Lake's appeal. · Use a telephoto lens: Compress distant snow peaks against the blue lake for a more dramatic image. · Watch the clouds: Fast-changing mountain weather can transform the scene from bright and clear to moody and cinematic within minutes. ☁️ 📍 Sayram Lake Scenic Area, Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China Some landscapes impress you. Sayram Lake makes you feel small—and somehow completely free. 💙🏔️

Bortala · Sayram Lake Sayram Lake | The last tear of the Atlantic, truly worth it 🖼️ Sayram Lake panoramic view Swan Lake shore Sunset overlook Lakeside road Morning mist sunrise Lakeside flower sea 📝 3. Main content 🌊 First encounter with Sayram Lake Driving for over an hour from Bole City, crossing the last hillside, Sayram Lake suddenly appeared before my eyes without warning. The blue is layered—near the shore it's a clear Tiffany blue, moving toward the center it turns into a deep sapphire blue, and further out it merges with the sky, making it impossible to tell where the water ends and the sky begins. The snow-capped mountains in the distance still wear white caps, the meadows by the lake are bright green, and when the wind blows, the wildflowers sway, leaving me completely stunned. No wonder it's called "the last tear of the Atlantic"; the warm, moist air currents can't cross the Tianshan Mountains here, leaving their last bit of tenderness in Bortala. 📍 5 must-visit photo spots 1. Kele Yongzhu – My favorite place in the whole Sayram Lake. Spring water bubbles up from underground, so clear you can see the stones at the bottom. Swans float on the water, not afraid of people at all. Best to come in the morning; the light is soft, the lake is calm, and every shot is wallpaper-worthy. 2. Dianjiangtai – The best spot to overlook the entire lake from a height. It's a bit breathless to climb up, but standing at the top and seeing the entire sapphire-like lake surface spread out beneath your feet, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it's worth it. Even more beautiful at sunset when the lake is dyed gold. 3. Moon Bay – A magical spot for sunrise. In the early morning, there's a thin mist on the lake, and the water surface reflects the snow-capped mountains and the sky like a mirror. The tranquility will make you forget to breathe. 4. Internet-famous S-curve – The most photogenic section of the lakeside road. The road curves into a beautiful S-shape along the lake shore, with the blue lake on one side and green grassy slopes on the other, and snow-capped mountains in the distance. You must stop and take pictures when driving by. 5. West Sea Grassland – A must-visit in summer. The grassland by the lake is covered with yellow and purple wildflowers, stretching all the way to the water's edge, with snow-capped mountains in the background. It looks great from any angle. 🎫 Practical guide Tickets: Peak season (April 16–October 15) single ticket is 70 yuan/person, 24-hour self-drive package is 145 yuan/person, 48-hour self-drive package is 190 yuan/person. Off-season ticket is half price at 35 yuan. It is recommended to buy the 48-hour package so you can take your time and enter/exit repeatedly to watch the sunrise and sunset. Transportation: Self-driving is recommended. The lake loop is 92 km, and every attraction has a parking lot. It's about 1.5 hours from Bole City and about 2 hours from Yining. If you don't have a car, you can take the scenic area shuttle bus for 75 yuan/person. Clothing: It's windy by the lake with a large temperature difference, so bring a jacket even in summer. White, beige, or red dresses are the most photogenic. Remember to bring a windbreaker. Accommodation: There are RV camps and yurts in the scenic area. If you want to photograph the starry sky and sunrise, you can stay for one night. If you have a limited budget, stay in Bole City for more choices and lower prices. 💡 A few honest tips 1. Must come early! Fewer people and better light in the morning; tour groups arrive after 9 or 10 AM. 2. It is recommended to go clockwise around the lake, entering from the East Gate and exiting from the South Gate, following the viewing platforms along the lake. 3. The UV rays by the lake are extremely strong. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. 4. Don't rush. Sayram Lake is not a "check-in" style attraction. Sitting by the lake, zoning out, and listening to the sound of the water is the right way to experience it. 5. June–August is the most beautiful season with all the wildflowers in bloom; September–October is the golden autumn when the meadows turn yellow and there are fewer people; winter has blue ice, which is another kind of breathtaking experience. Sayram Lake | The last tear of the Atlantic, truly worth it 😭 Driving for over an hour from Bole, crossing the last hillside, Sayram Lake suddenly appeared before my eyes without warning. The blue is layered—near the shore it's a clear Tiffany blue, moving toward the center it turns into a deep sapphire blue, and further out it merges with the sky, making it impossible to tell where the water ends and the sky begins. The snow-capped mountains in the distance still wear white caps, the meadows by the lake are bright green, and when the wind blows, the wildflowers sway, leaving me completely stunned. No wonder it's called "the last tear of the Atlantic"; the warm, moist air currents can't cross the Tianshan Mountains here, leaving their last bit of tenderness in Bortala. 📍 5 must-visit photo spots 1. Kele Yongzhu – My favorite place in the whole Sayram Lake. Spring water bubbles up from underground, so clear you can see the stones at the bottom. Swans float on the water, not afraid of people at all. Best to come in the morning; the light is soft, the lake is calm, and every shot is wallpaper-worthy. 2. Dianjiangtai – The best spot to overlook the entire lake from a height. It's a bit breathless to climb up, but standing at the top and seeing the entire sapphire-like lake surface spread out beneath your feet, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it's worth it. Even more beautiful at sunset when the lake is dyed gold. 3. Moon Bay – A magical spot for sunrise. In the early morning, there's a thin mist on the lake, and the water surface reflects the snow-capped mountains and the sky like a mirror. The tranquility will make you forget to breathe. 4. Internet-famous S-curve – The most photogenic section of the lakeside road. The road curves into a beautiful S-shape along the lake shore, with the blue lake on one side and green grassy slopes on the other, and snow-capped mountains in the distance. You must stop and take pictures when driving by. 5. West Sea Grassland – A must-visit in summer. The grassland by the lake is covered with yellow and purple wildflowers, stretching all the way to the water's edge, with snow-capped mountains in the background. It looks great from any angle. 🎫 Practical guide Tickets: Peak season single ticket is 70 yuan/person, 24-hour self-drive package is 145 yuan, 48-hour package is 190 yuan. Off-season ticket is half price at 35 yuan. It is recommended to buy the 48-hour package so you can take your time and enter/exit repeatedly to watch the sunrise and sunset. Transportation: Self-driving is recommended. The lake loop is 92 km, and every attraction has a parking lot. It's about 1.5 hours from Bole and about 2 hours from Yining. If you don't have a car, you can take the scenic area shuttle bus for 75 yuan/person. Clothing: It's windy by the lake with a large temperature difference, so bring a jacket even in summer. White, beige, or red dresses are the most photogenic. Remember to bring a windbreaker. Accommodation: There are RV camps and yurts in the scenic area. If you want to photograph the starry sky and sunrise, you can stay for one night. If you have a limited budget, stay in Bole City for more choices and lower prices. 💡 A few honest tips 1. Must come early! Fewer people and better light in the morning; tour groups arrive after 9 or 10 AM. 2. It is recommended to go clockwise around the lake, entering from the East Gate and exiting from the South Gate, following the viewing platforms along the lake. 3. The UV rays by the lake are extremely strong. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. 4. Don't rush. Sayram Lake is not a "check-in" style attraction. Sitting by the lake, zoning out, and listening to the sound of the water is the right way to experience it. 5. June–August is the most beautiful season with all the wildflowers in bloom; September–October is the golden autumn when the meadows turn yellow and there are fewer people; winter has blue ice, which is another kind of breathtaking experience. 1. Sayram Lake | The last tear of the Atlantic, truly worth it 2. Only after going to Sayram Lake do you know what an unforgettable view is 3. Sayram Lake, Xinjiang: The ultimate guide | Tickets, photo spots, and outfits all covered 4. The blue of Sayram Lake is something a camera can't capture 5. A day healed by Sayram Lake, recommended to save 6. 92 km around Sayram Lake, every step is like wallpaper 7. Sayram Lake in June, flowers blooming into a sea 8. Watching the sunrise at Sayram Lake, I'd call it worth it for this life 9. Xinjiang travel | Sayram Lake pit-avoidance guide, don't waste your trip 10. Stay one night at Sayram Lake, you'll have both the starry sky and the sunrise

Zero Negative Reviews: You'll Only Understand After Visiting 01 Zhongwei | Ningxia The most amazing thing about Zhongwei is that it blends the Yellow River and the desert together. During the day, head to Shapotou. Don't rush to buy a combo ticket; buy a single ticket first and take the shuttle bus to the Yellow River area. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and get photos of the desert and Yellow River together without any random passersby. Sandboarding requires queuing, but it's worth the wait. The slope looks intimidating, but the speed is controllable, and even children can enjoy it. ⚠️ Don't buy shoe covers at the entrance; they're only 5 yuan to rent inside, but 30 yuan at the entrance. In the afternoon, visit Gaomiao Baoan Temple, a place easily overlooked. It's hidden in the city center, a 20-minute taxi ride from Shapotou. The temple isn't large, but the buildings are densely packed, with exquisite brick and wood carvings, possessing an old-world charm. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the entire old city of Zhongwei; in the evening light, the glazed tiles on the roof shimmer with gold. 🍜 Just a short walk away is Gulou Lane, a popular late-night snack spot for locals. A bowl of mutton offal soup with a baked flatbread will fill you up for around 30 yuan. Don't worry too much about accommodation. Chain hotels in the city center are around 100 yuan a night; cleanliness is key. For a more interesting stay, consider the Desert Star Hotel, but prices start at 2000 yuan during peak season, so value depends on your budget. Zhongwei is best enjoyed at a slower pace; two days and one night is perfect, don't overdo it. 02 Bortala | Xinjiang You might not recognize the name Bortala, but you've definitely heard of Sayram Lake. This lake has a breathtaking blue that leaves you speechless at first glance—not a filtered blue, but a cool blue reflected from the sunlight and snow-capped mountains. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 pm, making the lake surface look like shattered silver. Backlit portraits are absolutely stunning. The lakeside road is over 70 kilometers long; don't try to drive the whole thing. Just choose the section from the South Gate to Dianjiangtai; it will take about three hours with stops along the way. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sayram Lake, a three-hour drive, but worth the trip. The canyon is a fissure in the earth, with reddish-brown rock layers that look as if they've been sculpted by a knife. Standing on the edge and looking down, the wind is so strong it can blow your hat off. ⚠️ There are no guardrails, so hold children's hands tightly. There's no entrance fee, and navigation will take you there, but the road conditions are average; sedans can drive slowly. Wenquan County is a pleasant surprise. After leaving Sayram Lake, turn in and find a local hot spring to soak in. The water is incredibly smooth, leaving your skin glowing. 🍜 Any Kazakh restaurant in the county town has delicious Naren (a type of hot spring), with hand-shredded horse meat and wide noodles, sprinkled with onions—it's so fresh it'll make your eyebrows fall off! Bortala is best visited by car; a three-day, two-night trip is recommended. Don't rush; dedicate time to the lakes and canyons. 03 Alashan | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests of Alashan are only beautiful for twenty days a year. Visit in mid-to-late October when the leaves are a vibrant, translucent yellow, and sunlight filters through the treetops, making the entire forest glow. The Ejina Populus euphratica Forest Scenic Area has a high entrance fee, but it's worth it. The area from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge is the highlight; don't linger too long at the entrance. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely down, casting long shadows. With fewer people, every photo is a masterpiece. The Badain Jaran Desert offers a different kind of breathtaking experience. The dunes here are ridiculously high, like solidified golden waves. Off-road dune bashing is a must-do activity. If the driver is skilled, the feeling of weightlessness during the plunge is intense—you'll scream and then laugh. ⚠️ If you get motion sickness, take medication beforehand; don't push yourself. Spending the night in the desert and seeing the Milky Way is incredibly clear, almost unreal, but be prepared for basic accommodations. The Alashan Desert is very seasonal. The Populus euphratica forest is only open for about twenty days, while the desert can be visited year-round, but summers are too hot. 🍜 Local lamb skewers and camel milk cakes are worth trying. The lamb skewers are only two yuan each, with a perfect balance of lean and fatty meat, sizzling and dripping with oil from the charcoal grill. This place is suitable for photography enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet spot to relax, but transportation is inconvenient; it's best to hire a car or drive yourself. 04 Xuzhou|Jiangsu What surprised me most about Xuzhou was Yunlong Lake. It rivals West Lake, but is much less crowded. The lakeside path is well-maintained, perfect for renting a shared bike and riding slowly. ⏰ From 5:30 to 7:00 PM, the sunset paints the lake surface orange-pink, with distant mountain shadows overlapping high-rise buildings, creating a magical interplay of old and new. There's a beach on the east shore of the lake where children play in the sand and adults can lie down, enjoying the breeze and feeling completely relaxed. Yunlong Lake is free to enter, which is incredibly generous. But don't just walk around the lake; a few hundred meters south is the Han Dynasty Stone Relief Museum, which is free and has a collection that surpasses many paid museums. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, don't make a wasted trip. After viewing the portrait stones, you'll find Pengzu Garden nearby; take a stroll along the way, the cherry blossoms there are in full bloom in spring. 🍜 Xuzhou cuisine leans towards strong flavors; the stewed chicken in a clay pot is a signature dish, with flatbread dipped in the broth—it's so fragrant you'll lick your fingers. Barbecue is also famous; lamb skewers with flatbread, rolled up and bitten into, burst with oily aroma. A taxi from the city center to Yunlong Lake costs ten yuan. For accommodation, choose Kaiyuan Mingdu by the lake; it's expensive but worth it, with a lake view right outside your curtains in the morning. Xuzhou is perfect for a short weekend trip, two days and one night, relaxing and not tiring. 05 Yulin|Guangxi Yulin is an underrated city. Darongshan National Forest Park is a great place to escape the summer heat; its high altitude makes it seven or eight degrees cooler than the city in summer. Driving up the mountain, you'll be surrounded by eucalyptus trees and bamboo forests, the air humid and fragrant with the scent of grass and trees. ⏰ Arrive before nine in the morning; the clouds haven't yet dissipated, and the mountaintop is like a fairyland. There's a hiking trail in the park, a two-hour round trip, with a gentle slope, suitable for both the elderly and children. Yuntian Cultural City is a magical place, a massively constructed group of antique-style buildings, almost excessively opulent. Those who like it find it breathtaking, while others find it tacky. However, the entrance fee isn't cheap, so think carefully before you go. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside; phones and cameras must be put away. If you're not into these kinds of artificial landscapes, you can skip it and use the saved time to visit Wanhua Tower. Wanhua Tower is an old landmark of Yulin. The reconstruction has diminished some of its historical feel, but the arcade streets below still retain their old-world charm. 🍜 The local specialty, Niuba Fen (beef jerky), is sold at street stalls. Niuba is sweet beef jerky served with smooth rice noodles; a bowl costs eight yuan and is quite satisfying. Yulin is best explored at a leisurely pace; two days are enough. Don't overschedule; leave some time to wander the streets. 06 Zaozhuang | Shandong The ancient city of Taierzhuang in Zaozhuang is a completely different world during the day and at night. Strolling through the ancient town during the day, with its cobblestone streets, canal flowing through it, and shops adorned with red lanterns, you'll feel like you're in a Jiangnan water town. But don't rush off; wait until dark, and when the lights come on, the whole town seems to light up. ⏰ After 7 PM is the best time to visit. Rowboats glide along the canals, boatwomen humming tunes, and the lights on both banks are reflected in the water—it's almost unreal. The ancient town entrance fee is over 100 yuan, including a performance, but the quality is mediocre, so don't have high expectations. ⚠️ Restaurants inside are overpriced and the food is average; it's recommended to eat outside the ancient town. 🍜 A ten-minute walk from the east gate, there's a local restaurant that makes authentic spicy chicken. Zaozhuang's spicy chicken is dry-fried, resulting in crispy, fragrant chicken and crunchy chilies—perfect with a beer. It's worth staying overnight in the ancient town. Guesthouses range from 200 to 500 yuan; choose one by the river for a stunning night view. During the day, you can rent Hanfu (traditional Han clothing) for photoshoots; 50 yuan per set, including makeup and styling, with a high success rate for photos. Zaozhuang has convenient transportation; a taxi from the high-speed rail station to the ancient city takes half an hour, making it suitable for a two-day, one-night weekend trip. 07 Wanning | Hainan Wanning is more suitable for young people than Sanya. The sea at Shimei Bay is a clear blue-green, with soft, fine sand that feels like walking on flour. ⏰ Arrive before 8 am; the entire bay is almost deserted, with only the sound of waves and seabirds. There's a bookstore on the shore facing the sea; you can sit and sit for an afternoon with a coffee. Whether you read or not is irrelevant; just listening to the waves is therapeutic enough. Riyue Bay is a paradise for surfing enthusiasts. The waves here are bigger than at Shimei Bay, suitable for those with experience. Beginners can also sign up for a trial lesson for around 200 yuan for two hours. The instructor will help you push the board, and the sense of accomplishment when you stand up is unparalleled. ⚠️ Make sure to apply enough sunscreen; the UV rays at the beach are very strong, and sunburn is no joke. After surfing, there's a small bar on the shore; coconut jelly and grilled corn are the standard fare. Prices in Wanning are half that of Sanya, but the experience is just as good. 🍜 The Nanyang-style restaurants in Xinglong Town are worth a visit; the curry fish balls and "leaky milk" (a type of steamed bun) are authentic, and you can eat your fill for around 50 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Shimei Bay; it's around 200 yuan a night, with sea views from the window. Wanning is perfect for three to four days—surfing, enjoying the sea, and eating Nanyang cuisine—the pace is so slow you won't want to leave. 08 Sanming | Fujian Dajin Lake in Sanming is the kind of lake you need to see from a boat to truly appreciate it. The lake water is emerald green, and the banks are lined with Danxia landforms; the red rock walls are carved into various shapes by the water, like a giant landscape painting. There are two boat routes; choose the shorter one—two hours—to see all the highlights. ⏰ The boat departs at 2 PM; the light is perfect, and the textures on the rock walls are so clear they look like sculptures. Taining Ancient City is located right next to Dajin Lake, perfect for exploring the lake before heading into the city. The ancient city isn't large, but it's well-preserved, with its Ming Dynasty architectural complex arranged in a charming, staggered pattern. The Shangshu Mansion is the heart of the city; the entrance fee is 20 yuan, and the exquisite wood carvings inside are worth taking your time to appreciate. ⚠️ Guides in the ancient city will try to sell you local specialties; don't buy them, as they're twice as expensive as outside. 🍜 In the evening, enjoy a bowl of Lei Cha (擂茶) at the entrance of the ancient city. It's a local specialty—tea leaves, sesame seeds, and peanuts are ground together and then steeped in hot water; it's fragrant, rich, and refreshing. Sanming is ideal for a two-day, one-night trip. Spend the first day exploring the lake and the second day visiting the ancient city. Choose a guesthouse in Taining Ancient City; it's around 100 yuan a night, and you can hear the chirping of insects at night—it's incredibly quiet. This is perfect for those looking to escape the city; the scenery is beautiful, the pace of life is slow, and the air is so fresh you'll want to take it all with you. A city with zero negative reviews—you'll understand once you've been there. 01 Zhongwei | Ningxia The most amazing thing about Zhongwei is that it blends the Yellow River and the desert together. First, head to Shapotou. Don't rush to buy a combo ticket; buy a single ticket to enter and take the shuttle bus to the Yellow River area. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and get a clear shot of the desert and Yellow River together without any random passersby. Sandboarding requires queuing, but it's worth the wait. The slope looks intimidating, but the speed is controllable, and even children can enjoy it. ⚠️ Don't buy shoe covers at the entrance; they're only 5 yuan to rent inside, but 30 yuan at the entrance. In the afternoon, visit Gaomiao Baoan Temple, a place easily overlooked. It's hidden in the city center, a 20-minute taxi ride from Shapotou. The temple isn't large, but the buildings are densely packed, with exquisite brick and wood carvings, possessing an antique charm. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the entire old city of Zhongwei; in the evening light, the glazed tiles on the roof shimmer with gold. 🍜 Just a short walk away is Gulou Lane, a local favorite for late-night snacks. A bowl of lamb offal soup with a baked flatbread will fill you up for 30 yuan. Don't worry too much about accommodation. Chain hotels in the city center are around 100 RMB per night; cleanliness is key. For a more interesting stay, consider the Desert Star Hotel, but prices start at 2000 RMB during peak season, so value depends on your individual preferences. Zhongwei is best enjoyed at a slower pace; two days and one night is perfect, don't overdo it. 02 Bortala | Xinjiang You might not recognize the name Bortala, but you've definitely heard of Sayram Lake. This lake has a breathtaking blue that leaves you speechless at first glance—not a filtered one, but a cool blue reflected from the sunlight and snow-capped mountains. ⏰ The light is softest after 4 PM, making the lake surface look like shattered silver; backlit portraits are absolutely stunning. The ring road around the lake is over 70 kilometers long; don't try to drive the whole way. Just choose the section from the South Gate to Dianjiangtai, which will take about three hours with stops along the way. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sayram Lake, requiring over three hours by car, but it's worth the trip. The canyon is a fissure in the earth, its reddish-brown rock layers looking as if sculpted by a knife. Standing on the edge and looking down, the wind is so strong it can blow your hat off. ⚠️ There are no guardrails, so be sure to hold your child's hand tightly. There's no entrance fee, and navigation will take you there, but the road conditions are average; sedans should be able to drive slowly. Wenquan County is a pleasant surprise. After leaving Sayram Lake, turn in and find a local hot spring to soak in. The water is incredibly smooth, leaving your skin glowing. 🍜 Any Kazakh restaurant in the county town has delicious Naren (a type of hot spring dish). Hand-shredded horse meat with wide noodles, sprinkled with onions, is incredibly flavorful. Bortala is best visited by car; a three-day, two-night trip is recommended. Don't rush; dedicate your time to the lakes and canyons. 03 Alashan | Inner Mongolia The poplar forests of Alashan are only beautiful for twenty days a year. Go in mid-to-late October, when the leaves are a vibrant yellow, and sunlight filters through the treetops, making the entire forest glow. The Ejina Populus euphratica Forest Tourist Area has a high entrance fee, but it's worth it. The area from the Second Bridge to the Fourth Bridge is the highlight; don't linger too long at the entrance. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely down, casting long shadows. There are fewer people, and every photo you take will be a masterpiece. The Badain Jaran Desert offers a different kind of breathtaking experience. The dunes here are ridiculously high, like frozen golden waves. Off-road dune bashing is a must-do activity. If the driver is skilled, the feeling of weightlessness during the plunge is intense—you'll scream and then burst into laughter. ⚠️ If you get motion sickness, take medication beforehand; don't push yourself. Spending the night in the desert and seeing the Milky Way is incredibly clear, but be prepared for basic accommodations. The Alashan Desert is very seasonal. The Populus euphratica Forest is only open for about twenty days, while the desert can be visited year-round, but summers are too hot. 🍜 Local lamb skewers and camel milk cakes are worth trying. The lamb skewers are only two yuan each, with a perfect balance of lean and fatty meat, sizzling and dripping with oil from the charcoal grill. This place is suitable for photography enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet spot to relax, but transportation is inconvenient; it's best to hire a car or drive yourself. 04 Xuzhou|Jiangsu What surprised me most about Xuzhou was Yunlong Lake. It rivals West Lake, but is much less crowded. The lakeside path is well-maintained, perfect for renting a shared bike and riding slowly. ⏰ From 5:30 to 7:00 PM, the sunset paints the lake surface orange-pink, with distant mountain shadows overlapping high-rise buildings, creating a magical interplay of old and new. There's a beach on the east shore of the lake where children play in the sand and adults can lie down, enjoying the breeze and feeling completely relaxed. Yunlong Lake is free to enter, which is incredibly generous. But don't just walk around the lake; a few hundred meters south is the Han Dynasty Stone Relief Museum, which is free and has a collection that surpasses many paid museums. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, don't make a wasted trip. After viewing the portrait stones, you'll find Pengzu Garden nearby; take a stroll along the way, the cherry blossoms there are in full bloom in spring. 🍜 Xuzhou cuisine leans towards strong flavors; the stewed chicken in a clay pot is a signature dish, with flatbread dipped in the broth—it's so fragrant you'll lick your fingers. Barbecue is also famous; lamb skewers with flatbread, rolled up and bitten into, burst with oily aroma. A taxi from the city center to Yunlong Lake costs ten yuan. For accommodation, choose Kaiyuan Mingdu by the lake; it's expensive but worth it, with a lake view right outside your curtains in the morning. Xuzhou is perfect for a short weekend trip, two days and one night, relaxing and not tiring. 05 Yulin|Guangxi Yulin is an underrated city. Darongshan National Forest Park is a great place to escape the summer heat; its high altitude makes it seven or eight degrees cooler than the city in summer. Driving up the mountain, you'll be surrounded by eucalyptus trees and bamboo forests, the air humid and fragrant with the scent of grass and trees. ⏰ Arrive before nine in the morning; the clouds haven't yet dissipated, and the mountaintop is like a fairyland. There's a hiking trail in the park, a two-hour round trip, with a gentle slope, suitable for both the elderly and children. Yuntian Cultural City is a magical place, a massively constructed group of antique-style buildings, almost excessively opulent. Those who like it find it breathtaking, while others find it tacky. However, the entrance fee isn't cheap, so think carefully before you go. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside; phones and cameras must be put away. If you're not into these kinds of artificial landscapes, you can skip it and use the saved time to visit Wanhua Tower. Wanhua Tower is an old landmark of Yulin. The reconstruction has diminished some of its historical feel, but the arcade streets below still retain their old-world charm. 🍜 The local specialty, Niuba Fen (beef jerky), is sold at street stalls. Niuba is sweet beef jerky served with smooth rice noodles; a bowl costs eight yuan and is quite satisfying. Yulin is best explored at a leisurely pace; two days are enough. Don't overschedule; leave some time to wander the streets. 06 Zaozhuang | Shandong The ancient city of Taierzhuang in Zaozhuang is a completely different world during the day and at night. Strolling through the ancient town during the day, with its cobblestone streets, canal flowing through it, and shops adorned with red lanterns, you'll feel like you're in a Jiangnan water town. But don't rush off; wait until dark, and when the lights come on, the whole town seems to light up. ⏰ After 7 PM is the best time to visit. Rowboats glide along the canals, boatwomen humming tunes, and the lights on both banks are reflected in the water—it's almost unreal. The ancient town entrance fee is over 100 yuan, including a performance, but the quality is mediocre, so don't have high expectations. ⚠️ Restaurants inside are overpriced and the food is average; it's recommended to eat outside the ancient town. 🍜 A ten-minute walk from the east gate, there's a local restaurant that makes authentic spicy chicken. Zaozhuang's spicy chicken is dry-fried, resulting in crispy, fragrant chicken and crunchy chilies—perfect with a beer. It's worth staying overnight in the ancient town. Guesthouses range from 200 to 500 yuan; choose one by the river for a stunning night view. During the day, you can rent Hanfu (traditional Han clothing) for photoshoots; 50 yuan per set, including makeup and styling, with a high success rate for photos. Zaozhuang has convenient transportation; a taxi from the high-speed rail station to the ancient city takes half an hour, making it suitable for a two-day, one-night weekend trip. 07 Wanning | Hainan Wanning is more suitable for young people than Sanya. The sea at Shimei Bay is a clear blue-green, with soft, fine sand that feels like walking on flour. ⏰ Arrive before 8 am; the entire bay is almost deserted, with only the sound of waves and seabirds. There's a bookstore on the shore facing the sea; you can sit and sit for an afternoon with a coffee. Whether you read or not is irrelevant; just listening to the waves is therapeutic enough. Riyue Bay is a paradise for surfing enthusiasts. The waves here are bigger than at Shimei Bay, suitable for those with experience. Beginners can also sign up for a trial lesson for around 200 yuan for two hours. The instructor will help you push the board, and the sense of accomplishment when you stand up is unparalleled. ⚠️ Make sure to apply enough sunscreen; the UV rays at the beach are very strong, and sunburn is no joke. After surfing, there's a small bar on the shore; coconut jelly and grilled corn are the standard fare. Prices in Wanning are half that of Sanya, but the experience is just as good. 🍜 The Nanyang-style restaurants in Xinglong Town are worth a visit; the curry fish balls and "leaky milk" (a type of steamed bun) are authentic, and you can eat your fill for around 50 yuan per person. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Shimei Bay; it's around 200 yuan a night, with sea views from the window. Wanning is perfect for three to four days—surfing, enjoying the sea, and eating Nanyang cuisine—the pace is so slow you won't want to leave. 08 Sanming | Fujian Dajin Lake in Sanming is the kind of lake you need to see from a boat to truly appreciate it. The lake water is emerald green, and the banks are lined with Danxia landforms; the red rock walls are carved into various shapes by the water, like a giant landscape painting. There are two boat routes; choose the shorter one—two hours—to see all the highlights. ⏰ The boat departs at 2 PM; the light is perfect, and the textures on the rock walls are so clear they look like sculptures. Taining Ancient City is located right next to Dajin Lake, perfect for exploring the lake before heading into the city. The ancient city isn't large, but it's remarkably well-preserved, with its Ming Dynasty architectural complex arranged in a charming, staggered pattern. The Shangshu Mansion is the heart of the city; the entrance fee is 20 yuan, and the exquisite wood carvings inside are well worth a leisurely visit. ⚠️ Guides inside the ancient city will try to sell you local specialties; don't buy them, as they're twice as expensive as outside. 🍜 In the evening, enjoy a bowl of Lei Cha (擂茶) at the entrance of the ancient city. It's a local specialty—tea leaves, sesame seeds, and peanuts ground together and then steeped in hot water—fragrant, rich, and refreshing. Sanming is ideal for a two-day, one-night trip. Spend the first day exploring the lake and the second day visiting the ancient city. For accommodation, choose a guesthouse in Taining Ancient City; it's around 100 yuan per night, and the tranquility at night, complete with the sounds of insects, is truly unbelievable. This is perfect for those seeking an escape from the city—beautiful mountains and clear waters, a slow pace of life, and air so fresh you'll want to take it all with you.

1️⃣ Huizhou | Guangdong For the first stop with kids, I chose Huizhou. It's accessible by high-speed rail, and it's just a 30-minute taxi ride from the station to the edge of West Lake. 📍 Huizhou West Lake has free admission. Walking slowly along the Su Causeway is easy with a stroller. There's plenty of shade, the light is perfect after 3:00 PM, and the breeze from the lake is very cooling. 🍜 For lunch, find a rice noodle roll shop by the lake. They're made to order, and the kids can take a nap in the shop afterward. The next morning, head to Mount Luofu. Don't try to hike the whole way; take the cable car to the halfway point, then walk a short distance to Chongxu Ancient Temple. Kids can see the springs and feed the fish. The whole trip takes about 2 hours. ⚠️ Traffic at Xunliao Bay is heavy on weekend afternoons, so I recommend staying overnight and heading to the beach in the evening. The sand is fine, and you can find small crabs after the tide goes out. Overall, costs in Huizhou are low; family rooms are around CNY 200+ per night, offering great value. 2️⃣ Ma'anshan | Anhui Ma'anshan is one of those easily overlooked cities that is actually very stress-free for traveling with kids. 🚄 It's a 15-minute taxi ride from the high-speed rail station to the Caishiji Scenic Area. There are shared strollers at the entrance to free up your hands. 📍 The joint ticket for the Yangtze River Caishiji Cultural and Ecological Tourism Zone includes a ferry. Take the boat to Cuiluo Mountain first, then walk along the boardwalk to Sanyuan Cave. The river breeze is strong, so it's not stuffy even in summer. ⚠️ Taibai Pavilion is closed on Mondays, so don't plan your visit for that day. For lunch, have a bowl of river fish noodles at "Caishi First Pavilion" outside the scenic area. The broth is fresh, the noodles are soft, and kids can finish a whole bowl. In the afternoon, walk along the riverside promenade and watch the cargo ships go by; kids can stare at them for ages. The total walking distance is short, making it suitable for a leisurely pace with seniors and children. Half a day is enough, leaving time to head back to the city for a nap. 3️⃣ Jingmen | Hubei Taking kids to the Ming Xianling Mausoleum in Jingmen is like a vivid history lesson. 📍 Ming Xianling is a World Heritage site, but it's not crowded. The stone paths are smooth, making it perfectly stroller-friendly. ⏰ I recommend arriving before 9:00 AM. The light hits the red walls at an angle, which looks great for photos and isn't too sunny. 🎫 Book tickets in advance via the official account and enter by scanning your ID card to skip the lines. ⚠️ There are almost no restaurants in the park, so be sure to bring your own water and snacks. There's only a small shop at the exit. It takes about 1.5 hours to walk the Sacred Way. If the kids get tired, lay out a mat on the outer lawn to rest. Accommodation in downtown Jingmen is cheap; you can stay in a nice chain hotel for CNY 180. For dinner, head to Zhongtian Street for guokui and rice tea; kids will love these local snacks. 4️⃣ Nantong | Jiangsu Traveling with kids in Nantong is all about taking it "slow." You can easily spend a whole day around the Hao River. 📍 Board the boat at Huanxi Cultural Square for a 40-minute cruise. You'll see green trees and old buildings along the banks. Kids will sit still and can listen to the commentary about Zhang Jian's story. After getting off, walk along the Hao River promenade toward the City God Temple. This section is densely shaded and perfect for an afternoon stroll. 🍜 For lunch, have crab roe buns near the Bell Tower. The skin is thin and the juice is plentiful, so remind kids to be careful not to burn their mouths. ⚠️ The last boat is at 5:00 PM, so don't cut it too close; it's safer to buy tickets half an hour in advance. If the kids still have energy, take a tour of the Nantong Museum. It's free and has a small zoo where they can see peacocks and sika deer—kids will basically be glued to the spot. The overall pace in Nantong is slow, making it a great stopover for family trips. 5️⃣ Xing'an League | Inner Mongolia Arxan National Forest Park in Xing'an League is a hidden gem for escaping the summer heat with kids. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail to Ulanhot and then charter a car. The drive takes 3 hours, and the prairie scenery along the way is a sight in itself. 📍 You must visit the Tuofengling Heavenly Lake in the park. The wooden boardwalk has a gentle incline, and a 5-year-old can walk it on their own. ⏰ Arrive at Azalea Lake around 5:00 PM. The lake reflects the sunset, but the mosquitoes also start their shift, so remember to use insect repellent. ⚠️ There are few accommodation options in the scenic area, so I recommend staying at a homestay in Tianchi Town. Book in advance, and you can see the starry sky at night. 🍜 The stewed lamb at "Laoma Restaurant" in town is tender, and kids can eat two bowls with rice. Summer daytime temperatures are just over 20°C, so wear a fleece jacket at night. Don't let the kids get too cold. 6️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang Bortala is a hidden gem in Xinjiang. Taking kids to Sayram Lake makes even the longest high-speed train ride worth it. 📍 There are shuttle buses on the road around Sayram Lake. You can hop on and off as you please, so you don't have to drive yourself—it's stress-free. ⏰ Arrive at the South Gate before 10:00 AM. The lake surface is as calm as a mirror, and swans wait by the shore for food. Kids can feed them breadcrumbs. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so bring a windbreaker even in summer; don't underestimate the wind. The terrain of Anjihai Grand Canyon is stunning, but there are no railings on the cliff edge. Hold your kids' hands tightly and don't get too close when taking photos. The mountains and waters of Wenquan County are perfect for the afternoon; soak your feet and rest, and kids can play in the shallow water. Xinjiang portions are large; one plate of big plate chicken is enough for a family of three, so don't over-order. 7️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan Taking kids to the Yandi Mausoleum in Zhuzhou is a quiet journey of tracing one's roots. 📍 The Yandi Mausoleum scenic area has excellent greenery, towering ancient cypress trees, and gentle paths, making it stroller-friendly. ⏰ I recommend arriving in the morning. First, see the sculptures in the sacrificial square, then enter the Shennong Hall. It's cool inside, perfect for hiding from the sun at noon. 🍜 Outside the scenic area, there are stalls selling mugwort rice cakes. They're pan-fried on the spot, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside—kids will love them. ⚠️ The scenic area is large, but the electric carts only go to the main hall. You'll need to walk to the Imperial Stele Garden and the Sacred Fire Platform behind it, so pace yourself if you have small children. In the afternoon, head back to the city and go to the lakeside in Shennong Park to feed the fish; kids can play there for half an hour without wanting to leave. Zhuzhou cuisine tends to be spicy, so remember to order "no spice" or "mild" when dining with kids; the owners will understand. 8️⃣ Changzhi | Shanxi The Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon in Changzhi is great for seeing mountains and water with kids, and it doesn't require too much physical stamina. 📍 Baquan Gorge Scenic Area has boat rides and cable cars, offering a mix of water, land, and air travel. Kids will be excited the whole time and won't complain about being tired. ⏰ In the morning, take a boat into the gorge. The water is emerald green, and the cliffs on both sides provide shade, making it feel cool. After getting off the boat, walk along the boardwalk to the cable car station to go up the mountain. The view from the Yuhuang Pavilion at the top is expansive. ⚠️ Tour groups start to arrive after 2:00 PM, so I recommend going in reverse: take the cable car first and then the boat for a better, less crowded experience. 🍜 There are shops selling Huguan lamb soup at the entrance of the scenic area; eat it with flatbread for a warm and filling meal. Accommodation in Changzhi is cheap; a clean and spacious standard room costs CNY 150, perfect for a good rest after a day of playing. When bringing kids here, remember to wear non-slip shoes; some sections in the gorge are damp, and the stone slabs can be slippery.

8 hidden gem destinations accessible by high-speed rail for families, uncrowded, beautiful, and relaxing 01 Haidong | Qinghai Take the high-speed train to Haidong Station, then take a taxi to Huzhu Tu Nationality Hometown Park, about a 30-minute ride. The park isn't huge, and it's stroller-friendly. There are Tu ethnic folk performances at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Kids will be wide-eyed watching the Panxiu embroidery and the "Lunziqiu" (swing) performance. There's a row of snack stalls in the park; 🍜 buy the liangpi (cold noodles) and "dog-pissing" pancakes (goujiaoniao bing) while they're hot, as they get hard when cold. In the afternoon, head to Youning Temple. The mountain path is gentle, taking about 40 minutes to walk slowly. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed in the main hall of the temple; just take the kids for a quick visit and then leave. Return to downtown Haidong in the evening and stay at a chain hotel near the high-speed rail station. There's a beef noodle shop downstairs. The streets aren't crowded after 8:00 PM, so don't wander too far. 📍 There are many night market stalls along Guyi Avenue in Ping'an District, but the hygiene is average, so it's best to skip them when traveling with kids. 02 Bortala | Xinjiang This stop is suitable for older children; younger ones might get fussy with all the driving. Sayram Lake is the highlight. 🚄 It takes about an hour to charter a car from Bole Station. It's windy by the lake, so bring a windbreaker even in summer. There are sightseeing buses on the loop road around the lake; enter from the South Gate and exit from the North Gate. Get off at stops to take photos. The gravel paths by the lake aren't stroller-friendly, so a baby carrier is recommended. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sayram Lake, about a two-hour drive. There are no railings at the edge of the canyon, so ⚠️ be sure to hold your child's hand tightly and don't take risks for photos. The waters of Wenquan County are great for the evening; the foot bath water temperature is just right, and kids can spend the whole afternoon playing with water guns. ⏰ Summer sunsets are near 10:00 PM, and the light at 9:30 PM is the most beautiful—no filters needed for portraits. Stay at a homestay in Wenquan County; the rooms have floor heating, so you won't worry about the temperature dropping at night. 03 Yulin | Guangxi Darongshan National Forest Park is a great place to escape the heat. Grab a map at the ticket office at the foot of the mountain and drive up to the top of Lianhua Mountain. At an altitude of over 1,000m, the temperature is 7–8 degrees lower than in the city. There are lawns and windmills on the mountain where kids can run around, but it's windy, so tie hats on tightly. Head down to the city for lunch. Yuntian Culture City looks impressive from the outside, but it's mostly folk exhibits inside, which kids might not find interesting. Just take a photo at the entrance; the admission ticket isn't cheap, so ⚠️ buying a ticket to go inside is not recommended. Wanhua Tower is in the old town of Yulin. The building isn't tall, but the surrounding alleys have old-style arcade buildings. Wander around and stop to eat a bowl of beef jerky noodles (niuba fen); 🍜 remember to ask the owner to halve the spice level. The light here is soft after 3:00 PM, perfect for street photography. Stay at a hotel near Yulin Station. Go to the night market in the evening for raw ingredient noodles (shengliao fen). There aren't many stalls with high chairs, so choose the ones with actual storefronts. 04 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Get off at Chifeng Station and take a taxi directly to the Hashhatu Stone Forest Tourist Area. It's a 1.5-hour drive, and the grassland scenery along the way is even more beautiful than the scenic area itself. The walking paths in the stone forest area are well-paved and stroller-friendly, but there are many stairs, so parents with average stamina should use a baby carrier. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM. It's less crowded, and the sunlight slanting across the stone pillars creates long shadows—kids will think they've arrived in the land of giants. There are no restaurants in the scenic area, so bring your own food and water. ⚠️ There are few trash cans, so please take your trash with you. Return to the city in the afternoon and take a stroll around the entrance of Hongshan Park. The park is free, but the amusement facilities inside are old, so playing there is not recommended. Stay near Chifeng Wanda in the evening for plenty of dining options. 🍜 Duijia (a local meat sandwich) is a local specialty, but the meat filling is a bit salty, so ordering shaomai for the kids is a better choice. 05 Ankang | Shaanxi From Ankang Station, take a bus or taxi to Qianceng River, a 30-minute drive. The water is shallow, so kids can splash around, but the stones are slippery, so wear non-slip sandals. The riverside path is shaded, and the light is best before 10:00 AM, making it great for photos without backlighting. Return to the city for lunch. 📍 The steamed noodles (zheng mianpi) on Gulou Street in Hanbin District are good; add chili to your taste, and let the kids have the original flavor. In the afternoon, head to the Fengyan Ancient Terraced Fields. The mountain road is very winding, so give kids who get carsick motion sickness medicine in advance. The terraced fields are flooded from late April to early May, creating the best mirror effect, but they also look beautiful with green rice waves in other seasons. ⚠️ There are no snack shops on the mountain, so bring enough water. Stay in downtown Ankang in the evening. There's a path along the river, perfect for a stroll after dinner—the breeze is cool. If your kids have average stamina, don't schedule Qianceng River and the terraced fields on the same day; it's easier to split them over two days. 06 Zhongwei | Ningxia Take the high-speed train to Zhongwei South Station, then take a taxi to Gaomiao Bao'an Temple, a 10-minute ride. The temple architecture is compact with steep stairs, so ⚠️ it's not suitable for strollers; it's recommended to carry small babies. The underground palace in the temple has 500 Arhat statues that kids will be curious about, but it's dark, so don't force timid kids to go down. Have a bowl of Haozi noodles at the temple entrance for lunch; 🍜 the noodles are thin and the soup is sour and appetizing. In the afternoon, head to Shapotou, the main highlight. Buy tickets for the Yellow River area and the desert area separately. If you're with kids, play in the desert area. Rent a sandboard, and kids can play for the whole afternoon. ⚠️ Sun protection is a must; the UV rays in the desert are no joke. ⏰ The light becomes softer after 5:30 PM, which is great for photos and less crowded. Stay at a homestay at the entrance of the Shapotou scenic area. You can see the stars at night, but it's windy and sandy, so keep the doors and windows closed tightly. 07 Qujing | Yunnan Take a taxi from Qujing Station to Luoping, a 1.5-hour drive. The road is beautiful enough during the rapeseed flower season (February to March). Watch the sunrise at the Jinji Peak Cluster observation deck. If the kids can't get up, the light at 10:00 AM is also great—the sea of flowers paired with the peaks makes for wallpaper-worthy photos on your phone. ⚠️ There are bees in the flower fields, so don't let kids wear bright yellow clothes. The Jiulong Waterfall Group is 40km from Luoping County. The waterfall group has 10 levels, and it takes two hours to walk the whole way. The boardwalk is gentle, suitable for both seniors and children. 🍜 The roasted potatoes sold at the entrance, dipped in chili powder, are delicious for adults, but don't give the spicy ones to kids. ⏰ During the rainy season (June to August), the waterfalls are powerful and impressive, but the boardwalks are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Stay in Luoping County; hotels are cheap, and there's a night market in the evening with many barbecue stalls. Choose fried rice and porridge for the kids. 08 Yichun | Jiangxi Mingyueshan Tourist Area is the only attraction at this stop, but it's enough for a full day. 🚄 Take a taxi from Yichun Station to the scenic area, a 30-minute ride. Take the cable car up the mountain first; it costs about CNY 80, and kids over 1.2m need a ticket. The Qingyun Plank Road at the top of the mountain is built along the cliff edge. The railings are high, so kids can walk on their own, but it's windy, so don't wear hats or scarves. There's a glass plank road in the middle; parents with a fear of heights can take the stone steps on the side. Have lunch at the restaurant on the mountain; the bamboo shoot stir-fry with pork and pumpkin soup are both good. It's 30% more expensive than at the foot of the mountain, but it's convenient. ⏰ Head down the mountain at 2:00 PM, walk the trail to see the waterfall group, or take the cable car down if you have average stamina. ⚠️ The weather in the mountains is changeable; raincoats are CNY 10 each at the entrance, so don't buy expensive ones. Stay in Wentang Town; foot baths are free. You can buy some selenium-rich salted preserved eggs and Zhafen (rice noodles) in town to take home. 🍜 Zhafen is great for breakfast, and kids can eat it too. Of these eight stops, I most recommend Haidong and Chifeng. They are so uncrowded that you can have the whole view to yourself. Kids can play freely, and parents won't get tired. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Let's chat in the comments.

You can have a great time on a budget. These 8 spots offer incredible value. 01 Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture | Sichuan Autumn hasn't arrived in Jiuzhaigou yet, but the water is incredibly blue by the end of August. The admission ticket isn't cheap, but you can just walk the Shuzheng Valley section. You won't miss any of the highlights, and you'll save a lot of energy. ⏰ Enter the valley at 8:00 AM when it's less crowded and the light is soft; the water looks like a mirror in photos. Mount Siguniang is better viewed from a distance. You don't need to enter the scenic area; you can see the four snow-capped peaks lined up from the Maobilang viewing platform for free. If you're worried about altitude sickness at Huanglong, just take the cable car up and walk down. Once you've seen the Five-Color Pond, head out—don't push yourself. Staying in Zhangzha Town is half the price of staying at the valley entrance, and the food is hearty. You can get stuffed on yak meat soup for about CNY 60 per person. 🚄 There are direct buses from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station. Buy your ticket a day in advance; don't wait until you get there. 02 Tianshui | Gansu The most worth-seeing parts of the Maijishan Grottoes are the large Buddha statues on the East Cliff. The boardwalk is narrow and windy, so if you're afraid of heights, you can just take the West Cliff loop instead. ⚠️ It's most crowded after 2:00 PM, so try to go early. The cliff carvings at Wushan Water Curtain Cave are more rugged than those at Maijishan; there are no railings, so you can see the details up close, and the admission ticket is cheaper. Fuxi Temple is in the city. After visiting, head to nearby Yusheng Lane for a bowl of Tianshui Guagua—it's sour and spicy, and CNY 5 will fill you up. Choose accommodation in Qinzhou District; it's a 10-min walk from Fuxi Temple, and you can take a walk along the Jiehe River in the evening. Maijishan and Wushan are not on the same route, so plan for two days to be more relaxed. Don't try to see it all in one day; you'll just exhaust yourself. 03 Hechi | Guangxi Xiangbei Shangri-La is a true "boat-in" village. You drift in slowly on a bamboo raft, with rice paddies and bamboo forests on both banks, the sound of the water drowning out any phone noise. There's no commercial activity in the village, so remember to bring your own water and snacks. Sanli Yangdu is best visited in the afternoon when the sunlight hits the water at an angle, making the reflections of the karst peaks look like a painting. You don't need to specifically look for scenic spots in Donglan; just drive along the Hongshui River, and any turn you stop at will be beautiful. Staying in Yizhou District is most convenient. At night, the night market has stir-fried snail rice noodles and grilled raw beef—you can eat until you're stuffed for about CNY 40 per person. Public transport is weak here, so I suggest carpooling with a few people; it'll only cost about CNY 100 a day when split. 04 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake is the kind that makes you speechless at first sight. Don't spend that CNY 70 on the scenic area shuttle. Rent a bicycle and ride a section around the lake instead. Stop whenever you want, and feel the wind on your face—it's much more real than the view from a car window. ⏰ The light is softest after 7:00 PM, and the lake turns deep blue with golden edges. Most people are leaving by this time, and the lake is quiet enough to hear the waves hitting the rocks. The scenery in Wenquan County is an unexpected surprise. There are wild hot springs right by the river where locals soak their feet—don't be shy, join them. Anjihai Grand Canyon is on the way to Bole. It's free. Standing on the edge of the cliff looking down, the colorful rock layers look like they've been sliced by a knife. Choose accommodation in downtown Bole; it's clean and cheap, with both Han and Halal food options. 05 Yingtan | Jiangxi For a one-day trip to Mount Longhu, focus on the bamboo rafting and the hanging coffin performance. The raft drifts on the Luxi River, with dark red Danxia landform mountains on both banks, and the water is clear enough to see the stones on the riverbed. The hanging coffin performance is held twice a day at fixed times. Ask about the times before you go so you don't miss it. ⚠️ When it's hot, there's no shade near the performance stage, so bring an umbrella. The admission ticket plus the bamboo raft package is a little over CNY 200, but you can just buy the general admission ticket to enter. You can see plenty of sights by walking the boardwalk—it saves money but is tough on the legs. Shangqing Ancient Town is free. Take a walk through the Tianshi Mansion inside, then come out and have a bowl of Shangqing tofu—it's so tender you can barely pick it up with chopsticks. There are direct buses from the high-speed railway station to the scenic area; don't take unlicensed taxis. 06 Xi'an | Shaanxi The Terracotta Warriors are expensive and far away, but since you're here, you still have to see them. ⚠️ Pit 1 is so crowded it's suffocating. Once you enter, head straight to the back of the pit; it's less crowded there, and you can clearly see the expressions on the faces of the terracotta warriors. The Qinling Zhongnan Mountains are the locals' backyard for escaping the heat. There's no admission fee to enter Fengyukou. Find a stream and sit down; the water is ice-cold, and putting your feet in will wake you right up. Remember to book the History Museum a week in advance. It's free but in high demand. If you miss out, you'll have to pay scalpers—don't do that. The Xi'an City Wall is most comfortable after 5:00 PM. Rent a bicycle and ride half a lap; the sunset stretches the shadows long. Choose accommodation along the subway line near the Bell Tower; don't stay at the entrance of the scenic area—it's expensive and noisy. 07 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Huaguoshan wouldn't be interesting without the monkeys. There are indeed wild monkeys near the Water Curtain Cave, but don't feed them—they won't hesitate to snatch your bag. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 7:00 AM. It takes about two hours to climb to Yunu Peak. You can see the sea from the top, and if the weather is good, you can see Tianheng Island. Liandao is best visited in the afternoon. The beach at Sumawan is cleaner than Dashawan and less crowded. ⚠️ Mineral water is sold at double the price inside the scenic area, so buy it at a supermarket before entering. Don't eat seafood at the entrance of the scenic area; take the bus back to the city. The food stalls in Xugou are fresh and cheap, and the clams and swimming crabs are the signature dishes. Lianyungang East Station is closer to Liandao; if you arrive by high-speed rail, don't be silly and take the train to Lianyungang Station and then transfer. 08 Xinzhou | Shanxi It's windy at Yanmenguan, so autumn is the best time to go. It's already starting to get chilly by the end of August, so bring a jacket. The section of the Great Wall at the pass isn't tiring to climb; it takes half an hour to reach the top. Standing on the beacon tower looking down, with the two mountains flanking the valley, it's truly perilous. Laoniuwan is where the Yellow River and the Great Wall meet. It's free. It takes an hour to drive there from Pianguan County. The road conditions are average, but it's worth it when you arrive. If you only go to Taihuai Town in Mount Wutai, you don't need to buy an entrance ticket to the mountain; the temple complex in the town is enough to explore for a day. Choose accommodation in Taihuai Town. Get up at 6:00 AM to watch the monks' morning prayers; that kind of quiet can't be found in the city. If you're driving, it takes an hour to get from Xinzhou to Yanmenguan via the expressway, and the toll isn't expensive. Of these 8 places, my personal favorites are Tianshui and Laoniuwan. One is underrated, and the other hasn't been overdeveloped yet. Which one have you been to recently? Let's chat in the comments section; maybe I'll write about it in my next guide.

01 Jilin In August, Songhua Lake is wrapped in cool mist, with temperatures 7–8 degrees lower than the city center. Arrive at the pier before 9:00 AM and rent a speedboat to Wuhu Island. The lake breeze is so cool you might regret wearing short sleeves. Don't rush off after getting off the boat. Find a lakeside farmhouse restaurant, order a pot of braised bighead carp, and pair it with a bowl of corn porridge for a satisfying meal. Head to Rime Island in the afternoon. While it's a winter destination, the island is full of green reed marshes in summer, and it's quiet enough to hear the flapping of water birds. ⚠️ There are a lot of mosquitoes, so long pants and insect repellent are must-haves. Return to the city in the evening and stroll along Songjiang Middle Road. The river breeze is cool, and you can watch the sunset paint the river surface gold. 📍 For portraits, head to the river embankment outside the Catholic Church for a clean, photogenic background. 02 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang You must stay at Sayram Lake for at least 1 night; don't try to do it as a day trip. Enter the scenic area after 4:00 PM, when the harsh midday light turns into a soft golden glow, making the lake look unrealistically blue. The eastern section of the lakeside road is the least crowded. Find a grassy slope to sit on and listen to the waves hitting the shore. Stay in a yurt near the entrance at night. The starry sky is bright enough to see the Milky Way, but it gets cold at night, so bring a down jacket. Head to Anjihai Grand Canyon early the next morning. 📍 Navigate to the canyon viewing platform; don't follow unofficial trails, as the edges have loose soil. The canyon's layers are clearest at noon, with red, brown, gray, and white colors stacked together, looking like the earth has been sliced open. ⚠️ There is no shade here, so sunscreen and a hat are essential, and bring plenty of water. Stop by Wenquan County on the way to soak in a wild hot spring. The water temperature is just right, and it leaves your skin feeling smooth. 🍜 The lamb pilaf in the county town is generous with meat; pair it with yogurt to cut the richness. 03 Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain is a serious summer getaway, with temperatures in the mountains 10 degrees lower than in the city. Drive to the mountain gate and transfer to the scenic shuttle bus. The winding mountain road might make you dizzy, but it's worth it the moment you get off. 📍 First, visit Liangwang Cave. It's a constant 16 degrees inside, so you'll need a jacket as the cold air hits you. The stalactites in the cave are lit up in various colors. They aren't super refined, but they are charmingly primitive. Have lunch at the vegetarian canteen in the scenic area; the vegetable dishes are fresh and reasonably priced. In the afternoon, walk the Lingguanya Trail. It takes about 2 hours, is well-shaded by trees, and you can occasionally hear the wind rustling through the bamboo forest. ⚠️ The weather in the mountains is changeable, so a raincoat is more useful than an umbrella. In the evening, head to the Golden Summit of Daci'en Temple. It's a 20-minute climb up the stairs, but seeing the entire mountain range immersed in a sea of clouds is worth the price of admission. Remember to book your tickets in advance via the official WeChat account, as you'll have to queue if you buy them on-site. 04 Jiaozuo | Henan For Yuntai Mountain and Shennong Mountain, if you're short on time, just visit Yuntai Mountain; Shennong Mountain is better for hardcore hikers. For Yuntai Mountain, I recommend staying in the Anshang Service Area. It's a 5-minute walk from the scenic area entrance, has many guesthouses, and is convenient for dinner. Enter the scenic area at 7:00 AM the next day and head straight to Red Stone Gorge. At this time, the light hits at an angle, making the red rock walls look like they're on fire. The canyon boardwalk is narrow and gets crowded, so go early to avoid the crowds. In the afternoon, take the shuttle bus to Zhuyu Peak. The cable car ride is 10 minutes 1 way. It's windy at the summit, so hold onto your hat. ⚠️ If you're not very fit, don't climb the stairs; the round-trip cable car is the easiest option. Qingtian River is in another direction; if you're driving, you can stop by on the way. Take a boat tour through the canyon, where the water is emerald green and clear, flanked by steep limestone cliffs. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to the county town for a bowl of Wuzhi oil tea. It's savory, warming, and pairs perfectly with a roujiamo. 05 Yuxi | Yunnan Fuxian Lake is much quieter than Erhai Lake. The road around the lake is over 90 kilometers long; rent an e-bike and take your time. 📍 Start from Luchong Scenic Area and head west. The whole way is lined with white sandy beaches and water that's a deep, greenish blue. For lunch, have copper pot fish near Mingxing Fish Cave. The fish is tender, the soup is incredibly delicious, and don't forget to order a portion of potato rice. In the afternoon, head to Ailao Mountain. The mountain roads are winding, so drive carefully. The Shimenxia Trail in the mountains takes about 2 hours to walk. The stream water is ice-cold, the moss is bright green, and the air is so humid it feels like wearing a face mask. ⚠️ Buy water in town before entering, as prices double inside the scenic area. Return to Chengjiang County in the evening to watch the sunset by Fuxian Lake, where the afterglow dyes the water pink and purple. Choose a lakeside inn for accommodation; you'll have a lake view right outside your window and can fall asleep to the sound of the water at night. 06 Fuzhou | Fujian Sanfang Qixiang is too crowded during the day; it's best to visit after 5:00 PM. 📍 Enter from the Nanhou Street entrance and turn into Yijin Lane. The eaves of the old houses in the lane cast long shadows in the setting sun. By this time, the tour groups have mostly dispersed, leaving only a few pedestrians on the stone-paved road. The wooden structure of the Water Pavilion Stage looks even more exquisite in the twilight. Find a corner to sit in, and you can hear the wind passing through the courtyard. 🍜 There's a fish ball shop at the entrance of the lane. The fish balls are slightly smaller than a fist, filled with pork that bursts with juice when you bite into them. Pair them with a bowl of meat wonton soup. After exploring the lanes, walk to the banks of the Antai River. The riverside bars light up, but don't rush to sit down. Go to the nearby Daming Road Night Market for a late-night snack—try the laohua, oyster omelet, and lychee pork as you walk along. ⚠️ Some of the "celebrity former residences" in Sanfang Qixiang are fake attractions; don't pay to go inside, just take a look from the outside. 07 Tianjin The Italian Style Area is best visited in the evening. The outdoor seats at Marco Polo Square are full of people. Order a beer and admire the architecture; the Roman columns and red brick walls look great in the warm light. But don't eat here—it's expensive and the food is average, so just take photos and leave. The Five Great Avenues are better for daytime strolling. 📍 Start from Minyuan Square, rent a shared bike, and ride around Machang Road and Chongqing Road to see the unique Western-style houses. If you pass by Xiannong Courtyard, you can go in for a coffee. It's a cafe in an old building where the atmosphere is better than the coffee. If you have children, Fantawild Adventure can keep you busy for half a day. The roller coasters and 4D cinema have long lines, so I recommend buying a fast-pass ticket. 🍜 Go to Nanshi Food Street in the evening, but don't buy the pre-packaged fried dough twists; the ones fried on the spot are much crispier. ⚠️ Don't go to the Olympic Center Stadium when there are no games; it's just an empty venue and a waste of time. 08 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Riyue Mountain and Guide National Geopark can be done in 1 trip, but you'll need to drive. Start from Xining in the morning and head to Riyue Mountain first. It's at an altitude of 3,500 meters, so don't run or jump, or you'll get out of breath. The wind at the summit is strong enough to blow your hat off, but the view is expansive. Looking south, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Laji Mountains, and to the north, the oasis of the Huangshui River Valley. ⚠️ There's no altitude sickness here, but be sure to use plenty of sun protection, as the UV rays are intense. Drive to Guide National Geopark in the afternoon. The colors of the Danxia landforms are softer than those in Zhangye, and it's much less crowded. 📍 Walk the boardwalk to the viewing platform. The red, yellow, and white mountains undulate like waves, and the colors are most vibrant when the midday light is strongest. Don't rush off after you leave. The Yellow River water in Guide County is clear, completely different from the muddy water downstream. The Waterwheel Square by the river is a great place to rest. 🍜 On the way, stop in Garang Township for a bowl of yak meat noodles. The meat chunks are large, the broth is rich, and adding a braised egg makes it perfect. The heat at the end of August is still sticky. These 8 places are either at high altitude, have plenty of water, or are cool because they're in the north. For the most stress-free options, choose Fuxian Lake or Jilin, as they have convenient transportation. If you want a challenging road trip, choose Xinjiang or Qinghai, where the scenery is absolutely stunning. Do you have any secret summer getaways? Let's chat in the comments.

01 Sanya | Hainan Come to Sanya in August–September, but don't fixate on Yalong Bay or Tianya Haijiao. I recommend staying directly in the Dadonghai area; you're right by the sea, and food and accommodation are half the price of Yalong Bay. 📍Walk 200 meters east from Dadonghai Square to find a local "dad tea" shop. Order a cup of partridge tea with a coconut pancake, and you can sit for the whole afternoon for 10 yuan. Go to Wuzhizhou Island in the morning and catch the first boat; it's less crowded, the water is clear, and visibility for diving is at its best. ⏰Be back at the pier before 3:00 PM and head to Daxiao Dongtian to watch the sunset. There are many reefs there, and the crashing waves look much better than on the beach. ⚠️You can skip Tianya Haijiao; the admission ticket isn't cheap, and you have to queue just to take a photo with two rocks. In the evening, head back to the Dadonghai Night Market, where you can eat your fill of seafood barbecue for 80 yuan per person. 🚄It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Sanya Station to the city center; don't take rides from the solicitors at the entrance. 02 Bortala | Xinjiang I've been to Sayram Lake twice—once on a sunny day and once on a cloudy day—and they are two completely different worlds. On sunny days, the lake water is an impossibly bright blue; on cloudy days, it looks like black jade. Both are worth seeing. 🚄Get off the high-speed train at Bole Station. It takes about 1 hour to charter a car to Sayram Lake, costing around 400 yuan round trip, which is very cost-effective when split among four people. 📍Enter through the East Gate and travel counter-clockwise around the lake; the area near Songshutou on the south bank is the least crowded. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sayram Lake, but it's worth the detour. Standing on the cliff edge looking down, it looks like the earth has cracked open. If you bring a drone, you can capture some sci-fi-style shots. ⏰The light is softest after 6:00 PM, when the canyon shadows lengthen and the layers really stand out. The water in the hot spring pools in Wenquan County is soft, leaving your skin smooth all night—perfect for winding down after a tiring day. ⚠️Dining inside the Sayram Lake scenic area is expensive, so bring your own bread and water, and wait until you get out to Wenquan County to eat banmian (mixed noodles). 03 Huanggang | Hubei Huanggang isn't too hot in August–September, but it's cool in the mountains in the morning and evening, so bring long sleeves. Take the cable car up Tiantangzhai in Luotian; it's windy on the glass skywalk, so if you're wearing a hat, remember to hold it tight. ⏰Arrive at the scenic area entrance before 9:00 AM to avoid tour groups, so no one will block your photos on the skywalk. 📍Don't rush off after coming down the mountain. There's a "hanging pot" restaurant in Tiantangzhai Town that serves cured meat stewed with dried bamboo shoots and scorched rice—it's 40 yuan per person and so delicious you'll lick the bowl clean. The azaleas on Guifeng Mountain in Macheng bloom in April; you won't see flowers in September, but the mountain itself is worth climbing. ⚠️When the Guifeng Mountain cableway is under maintenance, it only goes halfway up the mountain. Call the scenic area before you go to check, so you don't make a wasted trip. It's better suited for taking your parents, as the steps are gentle, there are plenty of rest stops, and it doesn't require much physical stamina. 04 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Along the Qilian Mountains, late August to mid-September is when the grass is at its lushest. The herders haven't moved down the mountain yet, and the grasslands are full of yaks and sheep. 🚄Take a high-speed train from Xining Station to Menyuan, then charter a car into Qilian County. Along the way, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Lenglongling Mountains. The Heihe Grand Canyon is right next to the county town; it's a half-hour hike to the valley floor, where you'll hear the roaring water and feel the cool air hitting your face. 📍In the Amidongsuo scenic area, watch the "golden mountain" at sunset. The color changes from golden yellow to pink in just over 10 minutes—don't miss it. ⚠️It gets windy on the plateau in the afternoon, so you must bring a fleece jacket. Don't shower at night, as it can easily trigger altitude sickness. Accommodation in Qilian County is basic but clean, with standard rooms costing a little over 200 yuan. This place is suitable for those who love hiking and photography. If you bring children, keep an eye on them at all times, as there are no railings along the river valley. 05 Chuzhou | Anhui Langya Mountain was an unexpected surprise. This is where Ouyang Xiu wrote "The Old Drunkard's Pavilion," and it's much more elegant than I expected. 🚄It's a 10-minute taxi ride from Chuzhou Station to the North Gate of the scenic area. The admission ticket includes the Old Drunkard's Pavilion and Nantian Gate, and it takes most of the day to see everything. 📍After entering, follow the stream; if you hear the sound of water, you're on the right track. The Old Drunkard's Pavilion is hidden halfway up the mountain. At 9:00 AM, the light shines through the trees, making the pavilion look like it's plated in gold. ⏰The steps up to Nantian Gate are a bit steep, but once you're up there, you can see the entire city of Chuzhou. ⚠️Bottled water is expensive inside the scenic area, so bring two bottles with you. After coming down the mountain, go to Dongguan Street to eat lotus root starch dumplings and Langya pastries—both are local time-honored brands, sweet but not overly so. It's suitable for exploring alone or bringing elderly family members, as the pace isn't tiring. 06 Yulin | Guangxi Yulin isn't a tourist city, but that's exactly why it's fun. Darong Mountain National Forest Park is the locals' backyard for escaping the heat. It's at a high altitude, so you'll need a light jacket even in August. 📍At the lotus pond by the park entrance, the scent of lotus flowers is carried by the breeze after 4:00 PM; you can sit on a stone bench and zone out for an hour. The giant Buddha statue at the Yuntian Cultural City is a landmark, but I don't recommend buying a ticket to go inside—just take a photo from the outside. ⚠️Wanhua Tower is a newly built imitation ancient building; it looks okay when lit up at night, but it's not worth visiting during the day. The real essence of Yulin is the food: beef jerky rice noodles, stir-fried beef, and Fumian duck—you can eat your fill for 30 yuan per person. 🚄It's a 10-minute taxi ride from Yulin Station to the city center. Go to the Meilin Street Night Market in the evening for a lively, authentic atmosphere. It's perfect for foodies and those looking to avoid the crowds. 07 Jilin Jilin City in August–September is all about being refreshing. Take a boat tour on Songhua Lake; the water is cleaner than you'd imagine, the mountains on both sides are reflected in the water, and the breeze is very cool. ⏰Board the boat at 3:00 PM; you'll be in the middle of the lake just in time for sunset, with the light shimmering on the water like scattered gold. 📍The fish restaurants at the entrance of the Songhua Lake scenic area serve stewed bighead carp with corn pancakes for 60 yuan per person—the fish soup over rice is incredible. Rime Island is a winter attraction; in summer, it's just an ordinary island in the river, so there's no need to make a special trip. ⚠️If you're short on time, half a day at Songhua Lake is enough. Head back to the city in the evening for jianfen (pan-fried starch noodles) and chuan chuan xiang (skewers). It's great for bringing children; there are shallows by the lake where they can splash around, so remember to bring a pair of sandals. 08 Chengdu | Sichuan Chengdu is still hot in August–September, but it's much better than in July and August, and there are plenty of places to escape the heat. Tiantai Mountain is a local secret for summer getaways; there are waterfalls and streams in the mountains, and you'll want to take off your shoes and splash in the water every few steps. 📍At Zhengtiantai, halfway up the mountain, you can see fireflies at night. They're still around in early September—there aren't many, but they're magical. I recommend spending a full day on Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan: hike the mountain in the morning and see the irrigation project in the afternoon; the two are very close to each other. 🚄Take the intercity train from Xipu Station to Qingchengshan Station—it's a convenient 20-minute ride. Anren Ancient Town is perfect for a leisurely stroll; it has Republic of China-style streets where coffee shops and old teahouses coexist. When you're tired of walking, sit down and have a cup of covered-bowl tea. ⚠️You must get to the Giant Panda Base early—rush in when it opens at 7:30 AM, otherwise the pandas will all be asleep after 9:00 AM, and the lines will be long. If you have children, prioritize the Panda Base; they'll find Anren Ancient Town boring. Go back to the city for hot pot in the evening; don't go to those "internet-famous" shops on Chunxi Road. Head into Yulin Road instead—the shops tucked under residential buildings are the authentic ones.

Take your partner to these 8️⃣ places, and she'll love you even more when you get back 01 Taizhou | Jiangsu Qinhu Wetland Park—I’d call it the safe bet for trips with your partner. Enter the park at 9 AM, and the air is full of fresh marsh scent. Take a wooden boat through the reeds; the boatwoman’s hum sounds a hundred times better than any navigation voice. 📍 Enter from the east gate of Qintong Ancient Town; it’s a 5-minute walk to the pier. Have fish balls and fried fish cakes in the ancient town at noon—the freshly fried fish balls are crispy outside and tender inside; my partner ate three in a row without stopping. ⚠️ Don’t buy vacuum-packed snacks at the scenic area entrance—the flavor is a big downgrade. In the afternoon, rent a tandem bike and circle the lake, about 2 hours. The breeze is gentle and there’s plenty of shade—perfect for strolling and taking photos. ⏰ After 3 PM the light is the softest; reflections on the water need no filter. If she prefers quiet, head to the north bank behind the wetland education center—few people, benches facing the lake, you could sit there all afternoon and not get bored. 02 Shijiazhuang | Hebei For Shijiazhuang, I’ve mapped out the route so you don’t waste time. Start the morning at Zhaozhou Bridge. 📍 At the east end of the bridge there’s an “Anji Bridge” stele—don’t just photograph the bridge body; the wheel rut marks on the deck are true relics. Tickets are cheap, but ⚠️ the site clears out at 5 PM, so don’t arrive too late. Have a beef-stuffed baked flatbread with a clay oven for lunch in the city—the crust flakes off crisply; pair it with a bowl of lamb offal soup, and two people will be full for about ¥30. In the afternoon go to Xibaipo—drive if you can. Park and then take the shuttle into the scenic area. ⚠️ Closed on Mondays, don’t go on a Monday. This place is for slow walking—old courtyards, worn tables and chairs, even the wall slogans feel historic. If she’s not into history, go to Baipo Lake on the back hill—the surface is calm and the pine scent carries on the breeze. Stay near Letai Center in the city at night; there’s a night market downstairs with skewers, donkey burger, and bannock noodle soup—pick whatever you like. 03 Hulunbuir | Inner Mongolia For Hulunbuir, don’t join a tour—charter a car, that’s the way to go. 📍 From Hailar head toward the Morigele River; endless grasslands line the route and drivers often stop for photos. ⏰ Leave at 6 AM while the morning mist still hangs over the grassland—herds of cattle and sheep will pass by the car, a sight that photos can’t capture. Have hand-held roasted meat at a herder’s home for lunch with leek flower sauce—the meat aroma hits you right between the eyes. If she can’t handle mutton, order a pot of milk tea and fried dough sticks—sweet and foolproof. In the afternoon go to the Erguna Riverbank—don’t rush; sit on the grassy slope and watch the clouds drift across the river. ⚠️ Mosquitoes are common on the grassland; wear long pants and sleeves even if it’s warm. Stay in a yurt at night—book one with a private bathroom in advance, or you’ll be flashlight-walking 50 meters to the toilet at midnight. The stars are incredibly bright; you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye—she’ll definitely scream with delight. 04 Yulin | Shaanxi Yulin here is all about the wild. In the morning go to Wave Valley. 📍 Navigate to Longzhou Town—the park is split into Zones 1, 2, and 3; if short on time do Zones 1 and 2. The red sandstone curls like waves; under noon sun the colors pop, but ⚠️ the boardwalk has no shade, so bring a hat and sunglasses. Have a bowl of mutton noodles in town for about ¥20—the portions are generous. In the afternoon visit Red Stone Gorge—the canyon isn’t long but the cliff carvings are dense, spanning Song to Qing dynasties. If she likes photos, frame shots near the pavilion on the east bank—the red rock, green water, and blue sky look amazing together. At dusk head to Jia County on the Yellow River. 📍 Xianglu Temple is a perfect vantage point; the river makes a big bend below and the sunset turns the water golden. ⚠️ It’s windy at the temple entrance—steady yourself before taking out your phone. Stay in Jia County at night—hotels are basic but cheap, around ¥100 a night. 05 Xiangtan | Hunan For Xiangtan, I recommend staying near Shaoshan Chong for an easy early start the next day. 📍 Choose a guesthouse within a 10-minute walk of the park’s south gate so you can beat the crowds. Morning: explore the Shaoshan tourist area—don’t just stick to the main road, turn down side paths to find lotus ponds and old houses; moss-covered steps make these spots much quieter than the main attractions. Have Mao-style braised pork outside the park at noon—rich but not greasy—paired with a bowl of chopped-pepper fish head that’s so spicy she’ll gasp and still reach for more. In the afternoon hike to Caojia’ao Waterfall—about 20 minutes on stone steps, so tell her to change out of heels if needed. The drop isn’t huge, but the spray cools you down like crazy in summer. ⚠️ Steps can be slippery after rain—hold her hand. At dusk return to the guesthouse—the owner often gives homemade cucumbers; crisp and sweet, perfect for cooling down after spicy food. 06 Bortala | Xinjiang For Sayram Lake, here’s the bottom line: stay inside the scenic area, not outside. 📍 Felt tent camps near the south gate put you steps from the lake; when morning mist rises it feels like a fairyland. ⏰ Sunrise is around 7 AM—don’t oversleep, watch the first light hit the snow-capped peaks as the lake shifts from gray-blue to deep blue; that change is worth sacrificing two hours of sleep. Drive around the lake during the day—the east and west shores offer totally different scenery. The east is open and great for road-shot photos; the west has forests and meadows, ideal for a picnic. ⚠️ Dining inside the park is expensive—bring snacks and water. In the afternoon visit Anjigai Grand Canyon, about a 2-hour drive from Sayram Lake; the canyon’s fault colors are striking, like the earth has split open. 📍 The viewing platform has no railings—don’t step backwards while shooting photos. At night head to Wenquan County for a wild hot spring soak—around a few dozen yuan per person; you’ll feel refreshed. If she’s tired, sleep in and leave when she’s ready. 07 Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Mudanjiang is perfect for a slow day together. In the morning go to Jingpo Lake. 📍 Enter from the north gate and visit Diaoshuilou Waterfall first—though the flow isn’t as strong as in the rainy season, there are two daily diving shows; don’t miss the 10 AM performance. Have cold-water fish and stewed tofu by the lake at noon—the broth is so fresh it’ll make you raise your eyebrows. In the afternoon take a boat tour—choose a traditional pleasure boat over a speedboat; the slow ride lets you take in the shore scenery, while a speedboat wraps up in 10 minutes and isn’t worth it. ⚠️ Boat tickets have different routes—half the route is usually enough, the second half repeats scenery. At dusk return to the city and walk along the Mudan River—the wide water reflects the sunset, and if she likes photos this time is super photogenic. For dinner try grilled cold noodles at the old-name stall on Dong Yitiao Road night market—add sausage and egg; the sweet-and-sour flavor is a hit. 08 Shangqiu | Henan Shangqiu is a mix of culture and relaxation. In the morning go to Mangdang Mountain. 📍 The Han Liang King’s tomb area is central—the underground palace is cool and quiet, and the cloud patterns carved on the stone walls are clear after 2,000 years. If she’s afraid of the dark, hold her hand—the dim lighting gives a mild sense of adventure. Have thin flatbread wrapped lamb at noon—wrap it with garlic paste; fragrant without strong gaminess. In the afternoon visit Chensheng Garden—few people, small but shaded by pine and cypress, ideal for a stroll. ⚠️ Many steps on the mountain—ask her to swap sandals for sneakers if needed. At dusk head back to the city and wander the old street near the south gate of the ancient city; the bluestone road is lined with old houses, and the little handicraft shops are quieter than bars. Eat barbecue under the ancient city wall at night—grilled gluten and lamb skewers are signature; with a local beer, two people spend under ¥100. If she likes history you can talk all day here; if she just wants to relax, the evening breeze and a skewer are plenty. Visit all eight places and you’ll notice she looks at you differently. It’s not that the scenery is magical—what matters is that you’re willing to spend time seeing the world with her. Tell me in the comments where you most want to take her

01 Xinzhou | Shanxi In August, Xinzhou's mornings and evenings feel like they have natural air conditioning. While the daytime sun is strong, the shade instantly cools you down by about five degrees. For families with young children, I recommend staying in a guesthouse within the Wutai Mountain scenic area. In the mornings, you can open your window to see mist swirling around the pagoda peaks. Children don't need to rush; a bowl of millet porridge at a small shop in Taihuai Town is enough to spend the morning leisurely. Yanmen Pass is suitable for elementary school students and older. Don't be foolish enough to climb the entire length. Take the shuttle bus from the scenic area entrance to the gate tower, and walk a short section of the Great Wall with your children. Focus on the ancient road below the pass and the distant mountain ranges. Laoniu Bay is where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. The light is softest after 4 pm, and children will be excited about a boat trip. However, there are different boat options: large boats and speedboats. Choose the larger boat for younger children for safety. Wutai Mountain often experiences afternoon showers; raincoats are more useful than umbrellas. Temple steps are slippery, so parents carrying young children must walk slowly. 02 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake is the kind of blue that will make you ask about the filter settings when you post it on social media. But don't try to do too much with kids. A complete loop around the lake takes three hours, and younger children might get restless. Just choose the section from the South Gate to Dianjiangtai. Let your kids chase dandelions on the meadows while you sit by the lake watching the swans – that's enough. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a geological wonder with a strong visual impact, but ⚠️ there are no guardrails along the canyon edge, so you must hold your children tightly. It's more suitable for children older than elementary school. The scenery in Wenquan County is a pleasant surprise. The hot spring water was just the right temperature for a foot bath in the afternoon, and the kids didn't want to leave. The local farmhouses served hand-pulled rice with yogurt, and we ate until we were stuffed for about 40 yuan per person. ⏰ The UV radiation is intense throughout. We set off at 7 am, returned to the hotel for a nap at noon, and went out again at 6 pm – comfortable for both adults and children. 03 Shaoguan | Guangdong Danxia Mountain is the least tiring mountain I've ever seen—because you can completely avoid climbing. Take the cable car up Elder Peak with your kids, and you'll see Yangyuan Stone and the Elephant Emerging from the Mountain in less than 20 minutes on foot; even a stroller can manage. Arrive before 10 AM, before the fog dissipates, and the red rock walls look like they're immersed in ink painting. Your child will point at the mountain and shout, "That's an elephant's trunk!" After descending, take a bamboo raft on the Jinjiang River. The current is gentle, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are reflected in the water. The whole trip takes 40 minutes, perfect for a post-lunch digestive walk. ⚠️ At the scenic area entrance, some people will try to solicit business by saying they'll "take you to see undeveloped attractions." Don't believe them; these are all unpaved paths, sunny, and dangerous. 🍜 There's a restaurant called "Renhua Farmhouse Cuisine" at the foot of the mountain. Their stuffed tofu and mountain snails are good, but remember to ask the owner to put less chili. Young children should bring mosquito repellent; the mosquitoes in the forest are fierce. 04 Chengde | Hebei The Mountain Resort truly lives up to its name as a summer retreat. Even at 10 am in early August, a cool breeze still wafted through the park. Entering from Lizheng Gate with children, take the mountain shuttle bus to the highest point of the mountain area for a panoramic view of the entire palace and the distant Qingchui Peak. The expansive view helps children understand "how emperors chose their locations." The lake area is perfect for a leisurely stroll. From Yanyu Tower to Jinshan Pavilion, the path is shaded by trees, making it stroller-friendly. When tired, sit on the stone benches by the lake and feed the koi. Jinshanling Great Wall is steeper than Badaling, but less crowded, making it suitable for children in third grade and above. Start from Zhuanduokou, walk up two or three watchtowers, then turn back – don't try to go too far. ⚠️ Grilled sausages inside the scenic area cost 10 yuan each, but the taste is average. Bringing your own bread and fruit is more practical. In the evening, after leaving the scenic area, head to Erxianju Commercial Street for a bowl of buckwheat noodles – chewy and refreshing, even children can enjoy them. 05 Xuancheng | Anhui Zhaji Ancient Village is a typical southern Anhui village. The bluestone paths are polished smooth by time, and children especially love the wooden lion carvings on the gate tower. Just walk along the main street with your kids; from Honglou Bridge to Erjia Ancestral Hall, you can walk around in an hour without getting tired. The afternoon breeze is cool and pleasant. There's a canteen at a sketching base in the village open to the public; braised pork with dried bamboo shoots and rice costs 20 yuan and is all you can eat. Jixi Longchuan is more refined; the brick carvings in the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall are worth a closer look for children—the stories of ordinary people are much more vivid than textbooks. ⚠️ Both villages are located in the mountains, so there are many mosquitoes. Be sure to wear long pants and mosquito repellent patches. 🚄 It takes about an hour and a half to drive there from Xuancheng city. The mountain roads are winding, so children prone to motion sickness should not eat anything half an hour before getting in the car. These ancient villages are suitable for families with a slower pace; if you're looking for sightseeing, you'll be disappointed. 06 Haikou | Hainan Don't think Haikou is only about summer and scorching sun. In August, afternoon thunderstorms are a regular occurrence, leaving the air clear and perfect for going out. The Five Officials Temple is an oasis in the bustling city, with towering ancient trees, cool stone benches, and children can watch turtles sunbathing in the pond. A half-hour visit is perfectly timed. The Qilou Old Street is best visited in the evening; the sunset paints the Nanyang-style window frames a honey color. A bowl of Qingbuliang (a type of sweet soup) costs ten yuan on the roadside, with plenty of coconut milk base—kids will slurp it down. The Crater Park is my top recommendation—not many steps to climb, and the bottom of the crater acts like a natural air conditioner. Standing on the viewing platform, the wind howls, and kids will exclaim, "The Earth sneezed!" ⚠️ The "volcano eggs" sold at the park entrance are just ordinary boiled eggs; don't waste your money. Enter the park before 9 am for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. 07 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Summer in the Qilian Mountains is a mix of grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and rapeseed flowers, a visually stunning spectacle like a spilled palette. Don't chase after tourist attractions with children; drive along the highway from Ebao Town, stopping whenever you see a beautiful grassy slope and letting your kids run around – a more relaxed experience than paid tourist spots. The Heihe Grand Canyon is suitable for older children; you can hear the roar of the river while hiking, but ⚠️ the boardwalk is slippery, so don't push yourself after a light rain. At the Lenglongling pastures, you can experience milking yaks; the herders' children will teach your kids, so even if you don't speak the language, you can still play together. Ami Dongsuo is a sacred mountain; the prayer flags and mist in the morning are incredibly photogenic, but at an altitude of 3,500 meters, if younger children get tired, head back down immediately – don't push them. 🍜 The yak meat hot pot in Qilian County is delicious – tender meat and flavorful broth, around 50 yuan per person. A hot bowl of this on the plateau is incredibly comforting. 08 Yichang | Hubei Yichang's summers are sweltering, but the wind blowing through the Three Gorges instantly cools you down. For families with children, I only recommend taking a cruise through the Xiling Gorge. No climbing required, just standing on the deck watching the green mountains on both banks, and kids will be looking for the "monkey-like rocks." The Three Gorges Family Scenic Area is best visited in the afternoon; the performances and live-action stage will captivate children, but remember to only watch the first forty minutes, as the later parts are repetitive. The Three Gorges Waterfall is a must-see! Wearing raincoats and entering the waterfall's curtain cave, the cool air will make your kids scream and run back and forth three times – more exciting than any amusement park. The Qingjiang Gallery cruise has many departures; choose the 10 AM departure for fewer crowds and better scenery. The roasted potatoes sold on the boat are only five yuan a serving, a better deal than the stir-fries at the scenic area restaurants. ⚠️ All cruises check tickets 20 minutes in advance, so don't rush with children. In the evening, go to Yichang Wanda Plaza for dinner; there are many options, and after eating, take a walk along the river with a pleasant breeze. 01 Xinzhou | Shanxi In August, Xinzhou's mornings and evenings feel like they have natural air conditioning. While the daytime sun is strong, the shade instantly cools you down by about five degrees. For families with young children, I recommend staying in a guesthouse within the Wutai Mountain scenic area. In the mornings, you can open your window to see mist swirling around the pagoda peaks. Children don't need to rush; a bowl of millet porridge at a small shop in Taihuai Town is enough to spend the morning leisurely. Yanmen Pass is suitable for elementary school students and older. Don't be foolish enough to climb the entire length. Take the shuttle bus from the scenic area entrance to the gate tower, and walk a short section of the Great Wall with your children. Focus on the ancient road below the pass and the distant mountain ranges. Laoniu Bay is where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall. The light is softest after 4 pm, and children will be excited about a boat trip. However, there are different boat options: large boats and speedboats. Choose the larger boat for younger children for safety. Wutai Mountain often experiences afternoon showers; raincoats are more useful than umbrellas. Temple steps are slippery, so parents carrying young children must walk slowly. 02 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake is the kind of blue that will make you ask about the filter settings when you post it on social media. But don't try to do too much with kids. A complete loop around the lake takes three hours, and younger children might get restless. Just choose the section from the South Gate to Dianjiangtai. Let your kids chase dandelions on the meadows while you sit by the lake watching the swans – that's enough. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a geological wonder with a strong visual impact, but ⚠️ there are no guardrails along the canyon edge, so you must hold your children tightly. It's more suitable for children older than elementary school. The scenery in Wenquan County is a pleasant surprise. The hot spring water was just the right temperature for a foot bath in the afternoon, and the kids didn't want to leave. The local farmhouses served hand-pulled rice with yogurt, and we ate until we were stuffed for about 40 yuan per person. ⏰ The UV radiation is intense throughout. We set off at 7 am, returned to the hotel for a nap at noon, and went out again at 6 pm – comfortable for both adults and children. 03 Shaoguan | Guangdong Danxia Mountain is the least tiring mountain I've ever seen—because you can completely avoid climbing. Take the cable car up Elder Peak with your kids, and you'll see Yangyuan Stone and the Elephant Emerging from the Mountain in less than 20 minutes on foot; even a stroller can manage. Arrive before 10 AM, before the fog dissipates, and the red rock walls look like they're immersed in ink painting. Your child will point at the mountain and shout, "That's an elephant's trunk!" After descending, take a bamboo raft on the Jinjiang River. The current is gentle, and the Danxia landforms on both banks are reflected in the water. The whole trip takes 40 minutes, perfect for a post-lunch digestive walk. ⚠️ At the scenic area entrance, some people will try to solicit business by saying they'll "take you to see undeveloped attractions." Don't believe them; these are all unpaved paths, sunny, and dangerous. 🍜 There's a restaurant called "Renhua Farmhouse Cuisine" at the foot of the mountain. Their stuffed tofu and mountain snails are good, but remember to ask the owner to put less chili. Young children should bring mosquito repellent; the mosquitoes in the forest are fierce. 04 Chengde | Hebei The Mountain Resort truly lives up to its name as a summer retreat. Even at 10 am in early August, a cool breeze still wafted through the park. Entering from Lizheng Gate with children, take the mountain shuttle bus to the highest point of the mountain area for a panoramic view of the entire palace and the distant Qingchui Peak. The expansive view helps children understand "how emperors chose their locations." The lake area is perfect for a leisurely stroll. From Yanyu Tower to Jinshan Pavilion, the path is shaded by trees, making it stroller-friendly. When tired, sit on the stone benches by the lake and feed the koi. Jinshanling Great Wall is steeper than Badaling, but less crowded, making it suitable for children in third grade and above. Start from Zhuanduokou, walk up two or three watchtowers, then turn back – don't try to go too far. ⚠️ Grilled sausages inside the scenic area cost 10 yuan each, but the taste is average. Bringing your own bread and fruit is more practical. In the evening, after leaving the scenic area, head to Erxianju Commercial Street for a bowl of buckwheat noodles – chewy and refreshing, even children can enjoy them. 05 Xuancheng | Anhui Zhaji Ancient Village is a typical southern Anhui village. The bluestone paths are polished smooth by time, and children especially love the wooden lion carvings on the gate tower. Just walk along the main street with your kids; from Honglou Bridge to Erjia Ancestral Hall, you can walk around in an hour without getting tired. The afternoon breeze is cool and pleasant. There's a canteen at a sketching base in the village open to the public; braised pork with dried bamboo shoots and rice costs 20 yuan and is all you can eat. Jixi Longchuan is more refined; the brick carvings in the Hu Clan Ancestral Hall are worth a closer look for children—the stories of ordinary people are much more vivid than textbooks. ⚠️ Both villages are located in the mountains, so there are many mosquitoes. Be sure to wear long pants and mosquito repellent patches. 🚄 It takes about an hour and a half to drive there from Xuancheng city. The mountain roads are winding, so children prone to motion sickness should not eat anything half an hour before getting in the car. These ancient villages are suitable for families with a slower pace; if you're looking for sightseeing, you'll be disappointed. 06 Haikou | Hainan Don't think Haikou is only about summer and scorching sun. In August, afternoon thunderstorms are a regular occurrence, leaving the air clear and perfect for going out. The Five Officials Temple is an oasis in the bustling city, with towering ancient trees, cool stone benches, and children can watch turtles sunbathing in the pond. A half-hour visit is perfectly timed. The Qilou Old Street is best visited in the evening; the sunset paints the Nanyang-style window frames a honey color. A bowl of Qingbuliang (a type of sweet soup) costs ten yuan on the roadside, with plenty of coconut milk base—kids will slurp it down. The Crater Park is my top recommendation—not many steps to climb, and the bottom of the crater acts like a natural air conditioner. Standing on the viewing platform, the wind howls, and kids will exclaim, "The Earth sneezed!" ⚠️ The "volcano eggs" sold at the park entrance are just ordinary boiled eggs; don't waste your money. Enter the park before 9 am for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. 07 Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Summer in the Qilian Mountains is a mix of grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and rapeseed flowers, a visually stunning spectacle like a spilled palette. Don't chase after tourist attractions with children; drive along the highway from Ebao Town, stopping whenever you see a beautiful grassy slope and letting your kids run around – a more relaxed experience than paid tourist spots. The Heihe Grand Canyon is suitable for older children; you can hear the roar of the river while hiking, but ⚠️ the boardwalk is slippery, so don't push yourself after a light rain. At the Lenglongling pastures, you can experience milking yaks; the herders' children will teach your kids, so even if you don't speak the language, you can still play together. Ami Dongsuo is a sacred mountain; the prayer flags and mist in the morning are incredibly photogenic, but at an altitude of 3,500 meters, if younger children get tired, head back down immediately – don't push them. 🍜 The yak meat hot pot in Qilian County is delicious – tender meat and flavorful broth, around 50 yuan per person. A hot bowl of this on the plateau is incredibly comforting. 08 Yichang | Hubei Yichang's summers are sweltering, but the wind blowing through the Three Gorges instantly cools you down. For families with children, I only recommend taking a cruise through the Xiling Gorge. No climbing required, just standing on the deck watching the green mountains on both banks, and kids will be looking for the "monkey-like rocks." The Three Gorges Family Scenic Area is best visited in the afternoon; the performances and live-action stage will captivate children, but remember to only watch the first forty minutes, as the later parts are repetitive. The Three Gorges Waterfall is a must-see! Wearing raincoats and entering the waterfall's curtain cave, the cool air will make your kids scream and run back and forth three times – more exciting than any amusement park. The Qingjiang Gallery cruise has many departures; choose the 10 AM departure for fewer crowds and better scenery. The roasted potatoes sold on the boat are only five yuan a serving, a better deal than the stir-fries at the scenic area restaurants. ⚠️ All cruises check tickets 20 minutes in advance, so don't rush with children. In the evening, go to Yichang Wanda Plaza for dinner; there are many options, and after eating, take a walk along the river with a pleasant breeze.

Where to go to have fun in August during the summer? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and have beautiful views, directly accessible by high-speed rail 01 Shanghai Don't think of people from the Outer Banks when you hear Shanghai. The Magic City in August, I suggest you change the game. At 8am, head straight to Guangfulin Cultural Site. The underwater museum here is genuinely cool, the building half sunk in the water, the outside looks like a drifting roof, and the inside looks like you’ve drilled into a time tunnel. From the unearthed pottery fragments to the street scenes of old Shanghai, you can stay for two hours if you don't take a quick look at the flowers. ⏰ It is best to enter as soon as the door opens, after 10 o'clock the tour group more, the corridor to take pictures to queue up. At noon, I changed to Yuyuan Garden. I didn't ask you to force the Jiuqu Bridge, but drilled into the old city lane alley next to it. In the snack shops around Ningbo Road and Fuyou Road, fried rice and crab shell yellow are half cheaper than those in the scenic area. 📍 The old-fashioned restaurant at the corner of Fang Ping Middle Road, a dish of fried beef with a bowl of curry beef soup, 30 dollars to eat to your heart's content. Leave the afternoon to the Expo Park. Today’s Expo Park isn’t the one where there was a six-hour queue at the Expo, but the large lawn surrounding the Chinese Palace of Arts and the Mercedes-Benz Cultural Center is particularly suitable for lying flat. Finding a mat under a big tree and taking a nap with the river breeze is much more stress-relieving than talking on the phone in an air-conditioned room. After 5pm, the light is just right for a walk around Star Wish Park, just outside the Disney Resort. For free, you can see the castle spire and the lake reflecting the sunset, even more beautifully photographed than inside the grounds. ⚠️ Don't buy the "fast track" of yellow bulls at the door, they are all fake, grab the reservation card on the official App is reliable. 02 Chongzuo City|Gui Not many people know about this place, but those who have been there are basically "wow" and come back. Detian Transnational Waterfall is the main character, don’t hesitate to buy a ticket directly. The waterfall is half in China and half in Vietnam. It has so much water that you have to shout to talk. ⏰ It is recommended to arrive before 11 am, when the sun has not steamed through the water, the canyon under the waterfall is cool to walk down, and the water mist hits the face like a mask. ⚠️ You will get splashed with water when you take a bamboo raft. Remember to put your phone in a waterproof bag. In the afternoon, go to Mingshi Field, about 40 minutes drive from the waterfall. Here is the typical karst peak forest reflected in the paddy fields, cycling slowly along the country road, all sides of rice fields and phoenix bamboo. Meeting the countrymen who are rushing cattle, stopping to talk for a few words is more vivid than any attraction explanation. 🍜 Don't eat dinner at the entrance of the scenic spot, drive to Chongzuo city, find a local stall, order a sour congee sashimi and fake scallion buns, an average of fifty dollars to eat the wall. Even Nanning can't eat this taste. 03 Hengshui City|Hebei Don't think of middle school when you hear Hengshui. Hengshui Lake is the real treasure of August. The whole lake is ridiculously big, ten times bigger than West Lake. The most comfortable way to play is to rent a pedal boat and paddle deep into the reeds. Paddling to no one’s place, stopping the boat in the middle of the water, all around the sound of birds chirping and the wind blowing, the cell phone signal was weak, and it was just quiet. 📍 Lotus Garden fruit, August is the peak flowering period, pink and white bloom into a piece. ⚠️ Don't pick lotus leaves. If you are fined by the patrol boat, just take a picture. In the afternoon you can go to Plum Island on the east shore of the lake, which has a small bird watching tower, and climbing to the top can see flocks of bearded floating gulls, egrets preying on the water. Families with children can prepare a telescope where children can see more fascinated than playing with their phones. 🚄 Take a taxi from Hengshui North Station to Hengshui Lake Visitor Center, about fifteen minutes, within twenty dollars. You don't need to sign up for a day trip, it's not difficult at all to play on your own. 04 Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture |New Here I only say one thing: Sailimu Lake, not going in August is equivalent to spending this summer in vain. The lake is so blue that it looks like someone poured a pool of blue ink into the mountain nest. There are 90 or so kilometers of the road around the lake. Don't be greedy and finish them all. Just choose the section from South Gate to Dot Jang Tai. ⏰ The light is the gentlest after 7pm, the lake turns pink blue, the snow-capped mountain tips in the distance are still hanging white, and a shadow is wallpaper. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sailimu Lake, a two-hour drive, but worth it. Standing on the edge of the canyon and looking down, the red and yellow-gray rock formations look like layer cakes cut by a knife, and the wind is so strong that you have to stand on your side. ⚠️ There is no fence by the canyon, those with children must hold their hands tightly. The mountains and rivers of Hot Springs County were the final surprise of the itinerary. After climbing the canyon, blowing the lake breeze, the whole body muscles are stiff, soaked in the hot water of Hot Spring County, watching the sunset of the remaining Tianshan Mountains, the whole person instantly returned blood. 🍜The yogurt and toasted buns sold by local herders are much more authentic than the ones in the city. The toasted buns for five dollars are filled with lamb filling. 05 Songyuan City|Ji Chagan Lake in Matsuhara is famous for its winter fishing in winter, but in summer it is a summer resort for locals’ private possessions. When you come to Chagan Lake in August, you don’t need to wear a down jacket, just wear a thin jacket. The lake is as open as the sea, riding four-person bikes along the lake shoreline, the wind whistling in my ears, cool like the dog days of summer. Golden Toad Island is located on the south shore of Lake Chagan, and there is a small hillside that climbs up to overlook a maze of reeds over the entire lake. ⏰ After 4 pm on the island is best, the sun slanted through the reed spikes, a golden red, photography does not need a filter. 📍The island's fishermen's house can eat a whole fish feast, fat-headed fish stewed tofu, dry-fried lake shrimp, sauce stewed catfish, a table down to 60 per person. ⚠️ Before ordering the fish, ask whether it is by the strip or by the pound, do not wait for the checkout to be dumbfounded. 🚄 Take a taxi from Matsuhara Station to Chagan Lake Scenic Area for about 40 minutes, suitable for two days and one night on weekends. The first day was around the lake, the second day was at the island. The rhythm was just right, not rushed. 06 Pingxiang City | Guangdong Wugong Mountain, with its meadow green in August, is a rare alpine summer resort in the south. Don't think that you can finish climbing in one day. Two sections of ropeway plus hiking is the right answer. Take the first-class cableway to Zhongan, then take the Fuxing Valley Canyon to the second-class cableway entrance. This section of the road is shaded and cool. Out of the secondary ropeway, is the real Meadows area. The green mountains and plains are undulating like the waves when the wind blows. People stand on the ridge and feel that they can touch the clouds with their hands. ⏰ The sunset at the top of the mountain is the highlight, starting around 7pm, the whole skyline burns from gold to purple. Don’t rush down the mountain after watching the sunset, stay in a starry tent for one night, pull the curtains at two in the morning, the Milky Way is as clear as fake. ⚠️ It's only 10 degrees at night on the top of the mountain. Be sure to bring a fleece jacket. 🍜The fried noodles and lotus blood duck near the visitor center at the foot of the mountain are enough for 40 per person. Cup noodles in the mountains cost 15 dollars each. If you can carry it, you can pick it up yourself to save money. 07 Xinyang City | Yu Chicken Hill, a long-established summer resort, was a summer villa area for foreign missionaries during the Republic of China. The average temperature in August is seven or eight degrees lower than in the city. From the bottom of the mountain, take the scenic bus to Baojian Pass, then walk along the hiking trail. The mountains full of horsetail pine and oak trees cover the sky and the sun. The sunlight can only leak down from the gaps in the leaves. 📍 Baoxiao Peak is the highest point, standing on it can see the whole Xinyang Basin, the visibility is overwhelming. There are hundreds of old villas on the mountain, complex buildings of all countries, red-tiled stone walls, any one of which has a century-old history. ⚠️ Many villas are inaccessible to private residences, but the exterior is completely shocking to photograph. The building in Yi Yuen is the most majestic. The stone lion at the entrance is so polished that it shines. ⏰ It is most comfortable to go up the mountain before 8am, the fog in the mountain has not dissipated, like walking in an ink painting. There are more tourists after 10 o'clock, so you have to turn sideways and give way in narrow stone steps. 🚄 Take a taxi from Xinyang East Station to Jigong Mountain for about fifty minutes. It is recommended to stay a whole day. Stay on the mountain for one night. 08 Zhangzhou City | Min Zhangzhou is an underrated treasure, with clouds and water songs, earth buildings, volcanic islands, every one of them is fun. The name of Yunshuijing Ancient Town has its own poetic meaning. An ancient cobblestone road meanders along the stream, with a dozen hundred-year-old banyan trees on both sides, their crowns covering half of the sky, sitting on a stone bench under the trees, their feet stretched into the stream, the coolness rushing from the soles of their feet to the sky. 🍜 Hakka stuffed tofu and taro buns in the ancient town, 10 dollars a portion, hot and comfortable to eat. Nanjing Tulou is not far from Yunshuiyue, 20 minutes by car. Don't just go to the most famous "four dishes and one soup", there are too many people. Follow the local guide to the Shunyu Building next door, the square earthen building, which still houses a dozen families, the old lady drying the pickles in the yard, the cat napping on the threshold, full of fireworks. ⚠️ Go upstairs to take pictures generally have to pay five to ten dollars, first ask before going up. Binhai Volcano National Geopark is located in Zhangpu. It takes an hour and a half to drive there from Tulou. The columnar jointed basalt here, like sticks of black pencils standing by the sea, the waves crashing up and splashing a man’s height. ⏰ After low tide in the afternoon you can walk to the reef beach, you can see small crabs and sea snails, suitable for taking children to catch the sea. Finally, travel in August, don’t be greedy. Of these eight places, choosing two or three to play slowly is much more comfortable than rushing. Who would you like to visit most this summer? Let's chat in the comments section. Where to go to have fun in August during the summer? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and have beautiful views, directly accessible by high-speed rail 01 Shanghai Don't think of people from the Outer Banks when you hear Shanghai. The Magic City in August, I suggest you change the game. At 8am, head straight to Guangfulin Cultural Site. The underwater museum here is genuinely cool, the building half sunk in the water, the outside looks like a drifting roof, and the inside looks like you’ve drilled into a time tunnel. From the unearthed pottery fragments to the street scenes of old Shanghai, you can stay for two hours if you don't take a quick look at the flowers. ⏰ It is best to enter as soon as the door opens, after 10 o'clock the tour group more, the corridor to take pictures to queue up. At noon, I changed to Yuyuan Garden. I didn't ask you to force the Jiuqu Bridge, but drilled into the old city lane alley next to it. In the snack shops around Ningbo Road and Fuyou Road, fried rice and crab shell yellow are half cheaper than those in the scenic area. 📍 The old-fashioned restaurant at the corner of Fang Ping Middle Road, a dish of fried beef with a bowl of curry beef soup, 30 dollars to eat to your heart's content. Leave the afternoon to the Expo Park. Today’s Expo Park isn’t the one where there was a six-hour queue at the Expo, but the large lawn surrounding the Chinese Palace of Arts and the Mercedes-Benz Cultural Center is particularly suitable for lying flat. Finding a mat under a big tree and taking a nap with the river breeze is much more stress-relieving than talking on the phone in an air-conditioned room. After 5pm, the light is just right for a walk around Star Wish Park, just outside the Disney Resort. For free, you can see the castle spire and the lake reflecting the sunset, even more beautifully photographed than inside the grounds. ⚠️ Don't buy the "fast track" of yellow bulls at the door, they are all fake, grab the reservation card on the official App is reliable. 02 Chongzuo City|Gui Not many people know about this place, but those who have been there are basically "wow" and come back. Detian Transnational Waterfall is the main character, don’t hesitate to buy a ticket directly. The waterfall is half in China and half in Vietnam. It has so much water that you have to shout to talk. ⏰ It is recommended to arrive before 11 am, when the sun has not steamed through the water, the canyon under the waterfall is cool to walk down, and the water mist hits the face like a mask. ⚠️ You will get splashed with water when you take a bamboo raft. Remember to put your phone in a waterproof bag. In the afternoon, go to Mingshi Field, about 40 minutes drive from the waterfall. Here is the typical karst peak forest reflected in the paddy fields, cycling slowly along the country road, all sides of rice fields and phoenix bamboo. Meeting the countrymen who are rushing cattle, stopping to talk for a few words is more vivid than any attraction explanation. 🍜 Don't eat dinner at the entrance of the scenic spot, drive to Chongzuo city, find a local stall, order a sour congee sashimi and fake scallion buns, an average of fifty dollars to eat the wall. Even Nanning can't eat this taste. 03 Hengshui City|Hebei Don't think of middle school when you hear Hengshui. Hengshui Lake is the real treasure of August. The whole lake is ridiculously big, ten times bigger than West Lake. The most comfortable way to play is to rent a pedal boat and paddle deep into the reeds. Paddling to no one’s place, stopping the boat in the middle of the water, all around the sound of birds chirping and the wind blowing, the cell phone signal was weak, and it was just quiet. 📍 Lotus Garden fruit, August is the peak flowering period, pink and white bloom into a piece. ⚠️ Don't pick lotus leaves. If you are fined by the patrol boat, just take a picture. In the afternoon you can go to Plum Island on the east shore of the lake, which has a small bird watching tower, and climbing to the top can see flocks of bearded floating gulls, egrets preying on the water. Families with children can prepare a telescope where children can see more fascinated than playing with their phones. 🚄 Take a taxi from Hengshui North Station to Hengshui Lake Visitor Center, about fifteen minutes, within twenty dollars. You don't need to sign up for a day trip, it's not difficult at all to play on your own. 04 Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture |New Here I only say one thing: Sailimu Lake, not going in August is equivalent to spending this summer in vain. The lake is so blue that it looks like someone poured a pool of blue ink into the mountain nest. There are 90 or so kilometers of the road around the lake. Don't be greedy and finish them all. Just choose the section from South Gate to Dot Jang Tai. ⏰ The light is the gentlest after 7pm, the lake turns pink blue, the snow-capped mountain tips in the distance are still hanging white, and a shadow is wallpaper. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sailimu Lake, a two-hour drive, but worth it. Standing on the edge of the canyon and looking down, the red and yellow-gray rock formations look like layer cakes cut by a knife, and the wind is so strong that you have to stand on your side. ⚠️ There is no fence by the canyon, those with children must hold their hands tightly. The mountains and rivers of Hot Springs County were the final surprise of the itinerary. After climbing the canyon, blowing the lake breeze, the whole body muscles are stiff, soaked in the hot water of Hot Spring County, watching the sunset of the remaining Tianshan Mountains, the whole person instantly returned blood. 🍜The yogurt and toasted buns sold by local herders are much more authentic than the ones in the city. The toasted buns for five dollars are filled with lamb filling. 05 Songyuan City|Ji Chagan Lake in Matsuhara is famous for its winter fishing in winter, but in summer it is a summer resort for locals’ private possessions. When you come to Chagan Lake in August, you don’t need to wear a down jacket, just wear a thin jacket. The lake is as open as the sea, riding four-person bikes along the lake shoreline, the wind whistling in my ears, cool like the dog days of summer. Golden Toad Island is located on the south shore of Lake Chagan, and there is a small hillside that climbs up to overlook a maze of reeds over the entire lake. ⏰ After 4 pm on the island is best, the sun slanted through the reed spikes, a golden red, photography does not need a filter. 📍The island's fishermen's house can eat a whole fish feast, fat-headed fish stewed tofu, dry-fried lake shrimp, sauce stewed catfish, a table down to 60 per person. ⚠️ Before ordering the fish, ask whether it is by the strip or by the pound, do not wait for the checkout to be dumbfounded. 🚄 Take a taxi from Matsuhara Station to Chagan Lake Scenic Area for about 40 minutes, suitable for two days and one night on weekends. The first day was around the lake, the second day was at the island. The rhythm was just right, not rushed. 06 Pingxiang City | Guangdong Wugong Mountain, with its meadow green in August, is a rare alpine summer resort in the south. Don't think that you can finish climbing in one day. Two sections of ropeway plus hiking is the right answer. Take the first-class cableway to Zhongan, then take the Fuxing Valley Canyon to the second-class cableway entrance. This section of the road is shaded and cool. Out of the secondary ropeway, is the real Meadows area. The green mountains and plains are undulating like the waves when the wind blows. People stand on the ridge and feel that they can touch the clouds with their hands. ⏰ The sunset at the top of the mountain is the highlight, starting around 7pm, the whole skyline burns from gold to purple. Don’t rush down the mountain after watching the sunset, stay in a starry tent for one night, pull the curtains at two in the morning, the Milky Way is as clear as fake. ⚠️ It's only 10 degrees at night on the top of the mountain. Be sure to bring a fleece jacket. 🍜The fried noodles and lotus blood duck near the visitor center at the foot of the mountain are enough for 40 per person. Cup noodles in the mountains cost 15 dollars each. If you can carry it, you can pick it up yourself to save money. 07 Xinyang City | Yu Chicken Hill, a long-established summer resort, was a summer villa area for foreign missionaries during the Republic of China. The average temperature in August is seven or eight degrees lower than in the city. From the bottom of the mountain, take the scenic bus to Baojian Pass, then walk along the hiking trail. The mountains full of horsetail pine and oak trees cover the sky and the sun. The sunlight can only leak down from the gaps in the leaves. 📍 Baoxiao Peak is the highest point, standing on it can see the whole Xinyang Basin, the visibility is overwhelming. There are hundreds of old villas on the mountain, complex buildings of all countries, red-tiled stone walls, any one of which has a century-old history. ⚠️ Many villas are inaccessible to private residences, but the exterior is completely shocking to photograph. The building in Yi Yuen is the most majestic. The stone lion at the entrance is so polished that it shines. ⏰ It is most comfortable to go up the mountain before 8am, the fog in the mountain has not dissipated, like walking in an ink painting. There are more tourists after 10 o'clock, so you have to turn sideways and give way in narrow stone steps. 🚄 Take a taxi from Xinyang East Station to Jigong Mountain for about fifty minutes. It is recommended to stay a whole day. Stay on the mountain for one night. 08 Zhangzhou City | Min Zhangzhou is an underrated treasure, with clouds and water songs, earth buildings, volcanic islands, every one of them is fun. The name of Yunshuijing Ancient Town has its own poetic meaning. An ancient cobblestone road meanders along the stream, with a dozen hundred-year-old banyan trees on both sides, their crowns covering half of the sky, sitting on a stone bench under the trees, their feet stretched into the stream, the coolness rushing from the soles of their feet to the sky. 🍜 Hakka stuffed tofu and taro buns in the ancient town, 10 dollars a portion, hot and comfortable to eat. Nanjing Tulou is not far from Yunshuiyue, 20 minutes by car. Don't just go to the most famous "four dishes and one soup", there are too many people. Follow the local guide to the Shunyu Building next door, the square earthen building, which still houses a dozen families, the old lady drying the pickles in the yard, the cat napping on the threshold, full of fireworks. ⚠️ Go upstairs to take pictures generally have to pay five to ten dollars, first ask before going up. Binhai Volcano National Geopark is located in Zhangpu. It takes an hour and a half to drive there from Tulou. The columnar jointed basalt here, like sticks of black pencils standing by the sea, the waves crashing up and splashing a man’s height. ⏰ After low tide in the afternoon you can walk to the reef beach, you can see small crabs and sea snails, suitable for taking children to catch the sea. Last but not least, travel in August, don’t be greedy. Of these eight places, choosing two or three to play slowly is much more comfortable than rushing. Who would you most like to visit this summer? Let's chat in the comments section.

Broaden your kids' horizons this summer: 8 uncrowded, scenic, and educational destinations 1️⃣ Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Who says you have to crowd into Lhasa to see the plateau? I took my kid on this Diqing route for 5 days, and we barely had to wait in line the whole time. The calcified pools at Baishuitai look like layered terraces, with water that's milky white with a hint of blue. My child squatted by the boardwalk for half an hour, asking if it was where immortals washed their inkstones. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM when the light hits the water at an angle for the clearest colors. The boardwalk section at Shudu Lake in Pudacuo is flat and easy to walk; a 6-year-old can finish it on their own. The squirrels along the way aren't afraid of people; bring some sunflower seeds to attract them. Songzanlin Monastery has many steps, so don't try to push a stroller; a baby carrier is recommended. Don't take very young children to the bottom of Tiger Leaping Gorge; the boardwalk is narrow and slippery. Watching the Jinsha River roar from the viewing platform is enough. It's windy, so remember to put a windbreaker on your child. For accommodation, choose a homestay near Dukezong Ancient Town. You can visit Guishan Park in the evening; it has the world's largest prayer wheel. My child's eyes lit up when they looked up at it. 2️⃣ Hanzhong | Shaanxi Hanzhong is shielded by the Qinling Mountains, making it several degrees cooler in summer than the Guanzhong region. Shimen Plank Road is an ancient path built along the cliff. Walking on it, you can see the Baohe River below, which is so green it looks black. My child spent the whole time counting the holes chiseled into the rock wall, asking how the ancients inserted the wood. Ancient Hantai is now a museum. It's free, but closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. ⚠️ There's a Wangjiang Tower inside. Climbing it offers a bird's-eye view of the old city of Hanzhong, with endless blue-tiled roofs—much more interesting than walking on the ground. Go to the Han River in the evening. Locals walk along the embankment, and the river breeze blows away all the summer heat. If you're with kids, I recommend staying at a hotel by the Han River. You'll have a river view when you open the window at night. Take a walk along the river early the next morning to see the morning mist drifting over the water—a kind of tranquility you can't find in the city. 🍜 Any street-side mianpi shop is more authentic than the trendy ones. Hot mianpi with vegetable tofu is something kids can eat too. 3️⃣ Ningde | Fujian Ningde's coastline has an effortless beauty. The rocks at Taimu Mountain are strangely shaped, like a pile of giant abstract sculptures. My child had much more fun crawling through the caves than walking on flat ground, but it's dark inside, so remember to bring a headlamp or use your phone for light. Baishuiyang is a natural shallow water square. The water just covers your ankles, and the bottom is a single piece of smooth rock. Wear non-slip socks to get in. Kids can chase each other with water guns and play all afternoon without getting tired. ⚠️ The water gets cold after 2:00 PM, so go early. You need to catch the low tide to see the Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu. The mudflats are embedded with razor clams and fiddler crabs. My child dug with a small shovel until their hands were covered in mud, laughing so hard their eyes disappeared. ⏰ The photography spot is on the hillside. Arrive half an hour before sunset; the light dyes the mudflats gold, and the photos don't need any editing. Stay in Xiapu County; it's close to all the mudflat spots and has many seafood stalls where you can eat your fill for 70–80 yuan per person. 4️⃣ Jinzhou | Liaoning Jinzhou is a place many people pass through but don't stop at, which is a pity. Yiwulü Mountain was a royal sacrificial mountain during the Liao Dynasty. The stone steps are polished shiny, giving the climb a sense of history. The mountain isn't high, but the slopes are steep. Children over 6 can climb it themselves; the whole trip takes about 2 hours. It's windy at the summit, with views of the distant plains and villages. The view is so expansive it makes you want to shout. After descending, go to Beizhen Temple. Ancient pines and cypresses block out the sun. Sitting on a stone bench to rest, it's so cool it doesn't feel like summer. 🍜 You must try Jinzhou BBQ. Locals recommend "Laobaijia." Lamb skewers are 1.5 yuan each, full of charcoal flavor. If your child can't handle spicy food, order the original flavor. ⚠️ There aren't many supply points on the mountain, so prepare water and snacks in advance. Staying in downtown Jinzhou is fine; it's a 40-min taxi ride to Yiwulü Mountain, and a round trip in one day isn't rushed. 5️⃣ Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang The beauty of Sayram Lake is the kind that can make children quiet down. The lake water is unrealistically blue, like a huge gemstone embedded in the grassland. You can drive around the lake, but I recommend renting a bicycle for a stretch. The wind blows from the lake, carrying the scent of grass and water. ⏰ The light softens after 6:00 PM, and the lake color changes from blue to purple. That's the best time for photos. Anjihai Grand Canyon is nearby. There are no railings on the edge of the canyon, so be sure to hold your child's hand tightly. Standing on the edge and looking down, the reddish-brown rock layers look like the earth has been sliced open—a strong visual impact. The mountains and waters of Wenquan County are a pleasant surprise. The stream in the valley is ice-cold. My child played in the water and with stones, which could kill an entire afternoon. For accommodation, I recommend the RV campsite in the Sayram Lake scenic area. At night, you can look up and see a sky full of stars. When my child saw the Milky Way for the first time, they let out a "wow"—I still remember that sound. 6️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet Shigatse has a lower altitude than Lhasa, making it more suitable for helping children acclimatize to the plateau. Not everyone can go to the Everest Base Camp, but the Rongbuk Monastery viewing platform is accessible. Standing there and watching the peak of Everest emerge from the clouds, my child quieted down and stared at the mountain for a long time. ⚠️ Take altitude sickness seriously. Stay in downtown Shigatse for 2 nights in advance to acclimatize, have oxygen tanks ready, and avoid strenuous running or jumping. Tashilhunpo Monastery is the seat of the Panchen Lama. The temple is huge, and the prayer wheels on the kora path are one after another. My child followed the Tibetans around, asking many questions about faith. I couldn't answer some of them, but I felt such conversations were precious. ⏰ The temple stops admitting visitors at 4:00 PM, so go early. Choose accommodation in downtown Shigatse; hotels have oxygen supply equipment, so you can sleep soundly at night. 7️⃣ Changsha | Hunan Changsha's heat is humid, but the cultural density is high enough to make it worth bringing your kids. Yuelu Mountain is free. Enter from the South Gate and walk up the mountain road. The maple leaves at Aiwanting Pavilion aren't red yet, but the pavilion itself has an ancient charm. From the summit, you can overlook the Xiang River and Orange Island. My child pointed at the sandbar in the middle of the river and shouted, "Is that a big ship?" You need to book the Provincial Museum 3 days in advance. Lady Xin Zhui from the Mawangdui Han Tombs is the museum's treasure. My child was both scared and curious when looking at it, finally hiding behind me with just one eye peeking out. Tianxin Pavilion is in the city center. The ancient city walls and artillery batteries let children touch history, which is much more intuitive than the text in textbooks. 🍜 I won't say much about Changsha food, but don't wait in line for trendy shops when you're with kids. Huogongdian has a full range of snacks; kids can handle the sugar oil baba and stinky tofu. ⚠️ It's too hot during the day in summer. Visit indoor venues in the morning and go to Yuelu Mountain after 4:00 PM to avoid the scorching sun. 8️⃣ Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Yushu is the kind of place that can change a child's worldview. Hoh Xil is not a scenic spot but a nature reserve; you can't just enter it. But if you drive along National Highway 109 for a stretch, you can see Tibetan antelopes running in the distance. My child asked, "Where are they going?" At that moment, you'll feel that some questions are more meaningful than the answers. Sanjiangyuan National Park has open ecological experience zones that require advance booking. Follow a guide to see plateau wetlands, meadows, and flocks of migratory birds. ⏰ July and August are the most beautiful times here. The flowers on the grassland are in bloom, a sea of yellow and purple like a floral carpet. The altitude is high. If your child gets a headache, descend immediately; don't push it. Accommodation is in downtown Yushu, with better conditions than you'd imagine. We drank butter tea in a Tibetan teahouse. It was my child's first time, and their expression was complicated, but they asked for another cup the next day. The sky in Yushu is incredibly blue, and the clouds are so low. That sense of vastness is something the city can't provide. Of these 8 places, I personally prefer Ningde and Bortala—one for water, one for mountains. My child has been talking about them all summer vacation. Where have you taken your kids? Let's chat in the comments section and provide a reference for other parents.

01 Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan When bringing your parents to Shangri-La, don't rush straight to Pudacuo National Park. At an altitude of over 3,000 meters, it can easily cause breathing difficulties for the elderly. On the first day, stay in Dukezong Ancient Town and leisurely stroll to Guishan Park, turning the large prayer wheel three times to acclimatize. Go to bed early that night and avoid showering. On the second morning, go to Baishuitai. It's a two-hour drive, but the road is easy to walk, with cascading travertine terraces resembling terraced fields. ⚠️ The boardwalk is a bit slippery; hold onto the railings and don't let the elderly walk alone. In the afternoon, go to Songzanlin Monastery. There aren't many steps, but walk slowly uphill. Bring oxygen cylinders; they're sold at the entrance. At Pudacuo National Park, just walk the wooden boardwalk along the Shudu Lake section; it's flat throughout, and the scenery is breathtaking. Don't go to Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge; it's too steep for the elderly's legs. There's an elevator at Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge that goes directly to the viewing platform, saving energy. 🚄 Take a taxi from Shangri-La city center to the bus station, then take a bus to Pudacuo National Park. The one-way fare is about 30 yuan. 02 Xinzhou City | Shanxi Wutai Mountain is a safe choice for traveling with parents, but definitely avoid peak season. In summer, it's crowded and congested, and the elderly suffer from long queues. September or October is best, with fewer crowds and more comfortable weather. Yanmen Pass Scenic Area isn't large, but it has many steps. I suggest only walking halfway. Enter from the pass, see the Great Wall and the watchtowers, and then return the same way. Don't force yourself to walk the entire way. ⌚️ After 3 pm, the light is better, photos won't be backlit, and there are fewer people. Laoniu Bay is in Pianguan, far from Wutai Mountain, so don't schedule it on the same day. If you want to go, stay overnight; the view where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall is worth it, even for the elderly. 🍜 At the foot of Mount Wutai, in Taihuai Town, there are vegetarian restaurants. I recommend the "Luohan Cai" (a type of vegetarian dish), which is hot and light, suitable for the elderly. ⚠️ Reservations are required to enter Mount Wutai. Tickets and vehicle entry permits should be obtained online in advance, as queuing on-site can be frustrating. 03 Yancheng City | Jiangsu Province Bringing parents to Yancheng is all about one thing: seeing the Père David's deer. The Dafeng China Père David's Deer Park offers a convenient electric cart experience, eliminating the need for walking and making it very senior-friendly. 📍 Upon entering the park, take the cart to the wild area. The deer roam freely on the grass, and if you're lucky, you might see the king deer fighting. The cart driver will stop for you to take photos; don't get off immediately, wait until the cart has come to a complete stop. There's a fence around the drop-off area; stand back, and the deer will come over for food. Carrots are 10 yuan a bag, and the elderly enjoy feeding them. The park also has a king deer display area and a Père David's deer museum. The indoor facilities are air-conditioned, making it very comfortable in summer. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9 AM when the deer are at their most energetic; they'll be too still and lying down in the midday heat. Two hours is enough to see everything; you don't need a whole day. 🚄 A taxi from Yancheng Station to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. For families with elderly members, hiring a car for round-trip transportation is recommended for convenient rest stops. 04 Jingmen City | Hubei Xianming Mausoleum is a Ming Dynasty imperial tomb and a World Heritage Site, but it's relatively unknown and quiet. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll with parents. There's a path from the entrance to the core area; you can take an electric cart for 10 yuan per person, saving elderly members a long walk. Upon entering, first see the outer and inner Mingtang ponds; the reflections of the red walls in the water are beautiful for photos. Then walk along the Sacred Way, where the stone statues on both sides are sure to interest older visitors. ⌚️ After 4:30 PM, there are even fewer people, and the angled lighting makes the red walls particularly photogenic. ⚠️ Entry to the scenic area stops at 5:30 PM. Please be mindful of the time and don't arrive too late. 🍜 There are several farm-style restaurants near the scenic area entrance. I recommend "Zhongxiang Steamed Pork," which is incredibly tender and melts in your mouth, perfect for seniors with dental issues. After eating, head straight back; there's no need to linger in Jingmen city. This is the only attraction worth visiting. 05 Shenzhen | Guangdong When bringing your parents to Shenzhen, avoid Happy Valley and OCT East. They're crowded and the rides are too thrilling for seniors. I recommend a more relaxed route: "seeing the sea + enjoying the scenery." Go to Dameisha Beach Park in the morning. It's free, the beach is gentle, and the waves are small. ⚠️ Weekends are incredibly crowded; definitely go on a weekday. Rent a couple of deck chairs so the seniors can relax on the beach and enjoy the breeze, while the younger generation can wade in the water. There's no shade at Dameisha, so remember to bring an umbrella. In the afternoon, we went to Window of the World. Although the attractions are a bit old-fashioned, the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe are great for photos, and the older folks enjoy the "traveling the world" feeling. ⌚️ Entering the park in the afternoon allows you to stroll until evening, which is perfect for watching the light show, saving you the cost of an extra night's ticket. For the OCT (Overseas Chinese Town) Tourist Resort, choose either the Folk Culture Village or Splendid China; visiting both would be too tiring. I chose Splendid China because the miniature landscapes are concentrated, requiring less walking, and you can see most of China in an hour. Mission Hills doesn't need a special trip unless the older folks enjoy golfing. It's far from the city center, and the round trip isn't worth it. 🚄 Metro Line 2 goes directly to Dameisha, and Line 8 goes to Window of the World, making public transportation very convenient. 06 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town is a classic choice for traveling with parents, but it's crucial to choose the right place to stay. Avoid staying on the riverside bar street; it'll be too noisy to sleep at night. Choose a guesthouse on the outskirts of the ancient city; it's a five-minute walk into the city center, quiet and inexpensive. During the day, explore the ancient city, entering from the North Gate and walking along the Tuo River to see the stilted houses and stepping stones. ⚠️ The stepping stones are slippery; older people should avoid them. There's a stone slab bridge nearby; safety first. Have lunch near the Rainbow Bridge. 🍜 Blood Duck is a specialty; the duck blood and glutinous rice are soft and chewy, suitable for older people. In the afternoon, go to Aizhai to see the Aizhai Bridge. The bridge deck is over 300 meters above the ground. Older people might not dare to walk on the glass walkway, but the viewing platform at the bridgehead offers a panoramic view without even going up the bridge. Dehang Grand Canyon is nearby; it's recommended to only walk the entrance section, as there are many steps inside. Return after reaching the Miao village. Shibadong Village is now a tourist spot, but the mountain roads are winding; older people prone to motion sickness should be cautious. If you must go, bring motion sickness medication. 🚄 There's a shuttle bus from Fenghuang Ancient Town High-Speed ​​Railway Station to the scenic area, costing 7 yuan per person; a taxi costs about 25 yuan. 07 Fuyang City | Anhui Balihe Scenic Area isn't well-known to outsiders, but it's especially suitable for bringing parents. It's the largest wetland park in northern Anhui, with affordable tickets and a completely flat path, no climbing required. The scenic area is divided into two main sections: World Scenery and Splendid China. A complete tour takes about two hours. For seniors, I recommend only visiting the World Scenery section, as the miniature landscapes are concentrated, saving you from running around the entire park. ⏰ Arrive around 10 am for good lighting; the water glistens, and you won't need a filter for photos. Electric boats are available in the park for 30 yuan per person, circling the lake. Seniors can enjoy the scenery from the boat without getting tired. There's a small island in the middle of the lake, filled with lotus flowers; August is the perfect time to visit, when the lake is a sea of ​​pink and white. 🍜 At the entrance of the scenic area, there are vendors selling Fuyang's specialty "pillow-shaped steamed buns," which are longer than an arm. Cut them open, stuff them with vegetables, and they're incredibly filling, perfect for lunch. ⚠️ There's no shade in Balihe, so be sure to bring a hat in summer and plenty of water. The entire walk takes about two hours at a leisurely pace, and you can finish before 3 PM, just in time to return to the city for a rest. 08 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is the most relaxing stop in Xinjiang for a trip with your parents. The scenic area's ring road is well-maintained, allowing you to drive in and stop whenever you want without rushing. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and exit from the South Gate, circling the lake clockwise. The entire route is 90 kilometers long. If you drive slowly, starting at 10 AM, you can finish by 4 PM. The scenery is concentrated on the section from Songshutou on the south bank to Xihai Grassland. The lake water is an unrealistically blue; even a few glances from the car are worth the ticket price for the elderly. Anjihai Grand Canyon is some distance from Sayram Lake, so don't schedule it on the same day. This scenic spot is breathtaking from a drone's perspective; standing on the cliff edge overlooking the canyon can be terrifying for those with weak legs. ⚠️ There are no guardrails along the canyon edge, so elderly people must take two steps back. If your parents are afraid of heights, skip this area and go directly to the hot springs in Wenquan County. Wenquan County has natural hot spring sanatoriums; a one-hour soak will wash away all the fatigue of the past few days. ⏰ It's recommended to go in the evening when the water temperature is just right, there are fewer people, and you can get a good night's sleep after your soak. 🚄 There are direct trains from Urumqi to Bole. After arriving, rent a car and drive into the scenic area; the road conditions are excellent, and a sedan can handle it. 01 Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture|Yunnan When bringing your parents to Shangri-La, don't rush straight to Pudacuo National Park. At an altitude of over 3,000 meters, elderly people may experience shortness of breath. On the first day, stay in Dukezong Ancient Town, leisurely stroll to Guishan Park, and walk around the large prayer wheel three times to acclimatize. Go to bed early that night and don't shower. The next morning, we went to Baishuitai, a two-hour drive, but the road was easy to walk, with the travertine pools cascading like terraced fields. ⚠️ The boardwalk is a bit slippery, so hold onto the railings and don't let the elderly walk alone. In the afternoon, we went to Songzanlin Monastery. There aren't many steps, but walk slowly uphill. Bring oxygen cylinders; they're sold at the entrance. For Pudacuo National Park, just walk the wooden boardwalk along the Shudu Lake section; it's flat the whole way, and the scenery is all around you. Don't go to Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge; it's too steep, and the elderly might have trouble with their legs. There's an elevator at Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge that goes directly to the viewing platform, saving energy. 🚄 From Shangri-La city, take a taxi to the bus station and then a bus to Pudacuo National Park; it costs about 30 yuan one way. 02 Xinzhou City | Shanxi Wutai Mountain is a safe choice for traveling with parents, but definitely avoid peak season. In summer, it's crowded and congested, and the elderly will suffer from long queues. September or October is the best time to visit; fewer people and more comfortable weather. The Yanmen Pass scenic area isn't large, but it has many steps. I recommend only walking halfway. Enter from the pass, see the Great Wall and the watchtowers, and then return the same way. Don't force yourself to walk the entire way. ⌚️ After 3 PM, the light is better, photos won't be backlit, and there are fewer people. Laoniu Bay is in Pianguan, far from Wutai Mountain, so don't visit it on the same day. If you want to go, stay overnight; the view where the Yellow River meets the Great Wall is worth it, even for seniors. 🍜 At the foot of Wutai Mountain, in Taihuai Town, there are vegetarian restaurants. I recommend the "Luohan Cai" (a type of vegetarian dish), which is hot and light, suitable for seniors' tastes. ⚠️ Reservations are required to enter Wutai Mountain. Tickets and vehicle entry permits should be obtained online in advance; queuing on-site can be frustrating. 03 Yancheng City | Jiangsu Bringing parents to Yancheng is for one thing: seeing the Père David's deer. Dafeng China Milu Deer Park offers a convenient all-you-can-do experience with electric carts, eliminating the need for walking and making it very senior-friendly. 📍 Upon entering the park, the cart first takes you to the wild area, where the deer roam freely on the grass. If you're lucky, you might even witness the king deer fighting. The cart driver will stop for photos; don't get off immediately, wait until the cart has come to a complete stop. The drop-off area is fenced off; stand back, and the deer will approach for food. Carrots cost 10 yuan a bag, and seniors enjoy feeding them. The park also features a king deer exhibit and a Milu Deer Museum. The indoor area is air-conditioned, making it comfortable in summer. ⏰ It's recommended to arrive before 9:00 AM when the deer are at their most energetic. At midday, they tend to lie still due to the heat. Two hours is sufficient for the entire visit; a full day isn't necessary. 🚄 A taxi from Yancheng Station to the park takes about 40 minutes and costs around 60 yuan. For seniors, hiring a car for round-trip transportation is recommended for convenient rest stops. 04 Jingmen City | Hubei Province Xianming Mausoleum is a Ming Dynasty imperial tomb and a World Heritage Site, but it's relatively unknown and quiet, with few tourists. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll with parents. There's a path from the entrance to the core area; you can take an electric cart for 10 yuan per person, saving seniors a long walk. Upon entering, first see the outer and inner Mingtang ponds; the reflections of the red walls in the water are beautiful for photos. Then walk along the Sacred Way, where the stone statues on both sides are sure to interest seniors. ⌚️ After 4:30 PM, there are even fewer people, and the angled lighting makes the red walls particularly photogenic. ⚠️ Entry to the scenic area stops at 5:30 PM; please be mindful of the time and don't arrive too late. 🍜 There are several farmhouse restaurants near the entrance; I recommend "Zhongxiang Steamed Pork," which is incredibly tender and melts in your mouth, perfect for seniors with dental issues. After eating, head back directly; there's no need to linger in Jingmen city; this is the only truly worthwhile attraction. 05 Shenzhen | Guangdong When bringing your parents to Shenzhen, avoid Happy Valley and OCT East. They're crowded and the rides are too thrilling for seniors. I recommend a more relaxed "sea view + scenery" itinerary. In the morning, go to Dameisha Beach Park. It's free, the beach is gentle, and the waves are small. ⚠️ Weekends are incredibly crowded, so definitely go on a weekday. Rent a couple of deck chairs so the seniors can relax on the beach and enjoy the breeze, while the younger generation can wade in the water. There's no shade at Dameisha, so remember to bring an umbrella. In the afternoon, go to Window of the World. Although the rides are a bit old-fashioned, the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe offer great photo opportunities, and seniors will enjoy the "traveling the world" feeling. ⌚️ Enter the park in the afternoon and stroll until evening to catch the light show; no need to pay for an extra night's ticket. In the OCT Tourist Resort, choose either the Folk Culture Village or Splendid China; visiting both will be too tiring. I chose Splendid China. The miniature landscapes are concentrated, requiring less walking, and you can see most of China in an hour. Mission Hills isn't worth a special trip unless your elders enjoy golfing. It's far from the city center, and the round trip isn't worth it. 🚄 Metro Line 2 goes directly to Dameisha, and Line 8 goes to Window of the World, making public transportation very convenient. 06 Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Hunan Fenghuang Ancient Town is a classic choice for traveling with parents, but it's crucial to choose the right place. Avoid the riverside bar street; it'll be too noisy to sleep at night. Choose a guesthouse on the outskirts of the ancient town, a five-minute walk from the town center—quiet and inexpensive. During the day, explore the ancient town, entering from the North Gate Tower and walking along the Tuojiang River to see the stilted houses and stepping stones. ⚠️ The stepping stones are slippery; elders should avoid them. There are stone bridges nearby; safety first. Lunch was near the Rainbow Bridge. The local specialty was blood duck, with soft and chewy glutinous rice and duck blood – something older people could enjoy. In the afternoon, we went to Aizhai to see the Aizhai Bridge. The bridge deck is over 300 meters above the ground; older people might be hesitant to walk on the glass walkway, but the viewing platform at the bridgehead offers a panoramic view without even stepping onto the bridge. Dehang Grand Canyon is nearby; it's recommended to only walk the entrance section, as there are many steps inside, and turn back after reaching the Miao village. Shibadong Village is now a tourist spot, but the mountain roads are winding, so older people prone to motion sickness should be cautious. If you absolutely must go, bring motion sickness medication. 🚄 There's a shuttle bus from Fenghuang Ancient Town High-Speed ​​Railway Station to the scenic area for 7 yuan per person; a taxi costs about 25 yuan. 07 Fuyang City | Anhui Balihe Scenic Area isn't well-known to outsiders, but it's especially suitable for bringing parents. It's the largest wetland park in northern Anhui, with inexpensive tickets and a completely flat path – no climbing. The scenic area is divided into two main sections: World Scenery and Splendid China. A complete walk around takes about two hours. If you're bringing elderly people, I recommend focusing on the World Scenery section, as the miniature landscapes are concentrated there, saving you from running all over the park. ⏰ Arrive around 10 AM; the light is good, the water sparkles, and you won't need filters for photos. There are electric boats available for 30 yuan per person, circling the lake. Elderly people can enjoy the scenery from the boat without getting tired. There's a small island in the middle of the lake, filled with lotus flowers; August is the perfect time to visit, when the lake is a sea of ​​pink and white. 🍜 At the entrance, there are vendors selling Fuyang's specialty "pillow-shaped steamed buns," which are longer than your arm. Cut them open, add fillings, and they're very filling, perfect for lunch. ⚠️ There's no shade at Balihe; be sure to bring a hat in summer and bring plenty of water. A leisurely two-hour walk should finish before 3 PM, allowing you to return to the city to rest. 08 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Sayram Lake is the most relaxing stop in Xinjiang for a trip with your parents. The scenic area's ring road is well-maintained, allowing for easy driving and convenient stops. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and exit from the South Gate, circling the lake clockwise. The entire route is 90 kilometers; a leisurely drive, starting at 10 AM, can be completed by 4 PM. The scenery is concentrated on the section from Songshutou on the south bank to Xihai Grassland. The lake water is an unrealistically blue; even a few stops for the elderly are worth the price of admission. Anjihai Grand Canyon is some distance from Sayram Lake, so don't schedule it on the same day. It's a breathtaking sight only from a drone's perspective; standing on the edge of the cliff looking at the canyon might be frightening for those with weak legs. ⚠️ There are no guardrails along the canyon edge; the elderly must take two steps back. If your parents are afraid of heights, skip this and go directly to the scenic area of ​​Wenquan County. Wenquan County has natural hot spring sanatoriums; a one-hour soak will wash away all the fatigue of the past few days. ⏰ I recommend going in the evening when the water temperature is just right, it's less crowded, and you can go back to your hotel for a good night's sleep after your soak. 🚄 There are direct trains from Urumqi to Bole. After arriving at the station, you can rent a car and drive into the scenic area. The roads are in good condition, and a sedan is sufficient.

Where to go for a summer escape in August? These 8 places are uncrowded, beautiful, and accessible by high-speed rail 01 Shannan | Tibet The blue of Yamdrok Lake is unforgettable. In August, the lakeside is cool, but the sun makes you feel lazy. 📍 Charter a car from Lhasa, about 2 hours to Gangbala Pass for the best view of Yamdrok Lake. ⏰ Start before 9 AM and arrive by noon for the best light and water colors. Don't rush to crowd the viewing platform; walk down to the lake, find a rock, and sit down. You can hear the waves hitting the shore—it's like the ocean, but quieter. ⚠️ The altitude is 4,400m, so avoid running or jumping. Bring a hat and sunglasses, and reapply sunscreen often. On the way back, stop at the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley viewing platform to see the river bend. It's windy, so stand steady. It's not an easy trip, but it's worth it. 02 Beihai | Guangxi Beihai in August is hot, but the sea breeze makes it feel just right. I recommend visiting Weizhou Island and Silver Beach separately. Silver Beach is best after 5 PM. The sand is fine and white, like flour. At sunset, the whole beach turns orange. Walk barefoot to wash away the day's heat. Weizhou Island requires a full day. 🚄 Take a ferry from Beihai International Passenger Port, about 1 hour. Book tickets in advance; they sell out quickly in peak season. Rent an e-scooter on the island. Ride along the coastal road to Crocodile Mountain to see the volcanic rock coast, then grab a bowl of Qingbuliang at the sugar water shop by the Catholic Church—it's 8 yuan and packed with ingredients. ⚠️ At seafood stalls on the island, ask about processing fees before they weigh your food to avoid surprises at checkout. Stay at a homestay near Dishuidanping. Open the window to the sea and fall asleep to the sound of waves. Wake up early for the sunrise—no need to crowd attractions, this sea is all yours. 03 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Sayram Lake in August is the kind of place that makes you never want to see another lake. The water is impossibly blue, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with wildflowers in the meadows and the scent of grass in the wind. 📍 Charter a car from Yining, about 2 hours. You'll need your ID for the ticket and shuttle bus. The loop road is about 90km; don't try to do it all, just pick the highlights. I suggest entering from the East Gate, taking the shuttle to Dianjiangtai, and hiking down. The closer you get to the water, the clearer it looks. Anjihai Grand Canyon is a bit far from Sayram Lake, but worth the detour if you have time. Looking down from the edge at the red rock layers, with the wind howling, will make your legs weak. ⚠️ There are no railings at the canyon, so don't stand too close—safety first. Spend your last day in Wenquan County soaking in an outdoor hot spring while looking at the distant snow-capped mountains. It washes away all the fatigue of August. This route is perfect for a road trip or just zoning out. 04 Chenzhou | Hunan What surprised me most about Chenzhou is how many different landscapes it packs into such a small area. The Danxia landform at Gaoyiling looks like the earth has been scorched, with layers of red rock. The light around 4–5 PM makes the colors most intense. 📍 Navigate to Gaoyiling Tourist Area, park at the bottom, and walk up for about 20 minutes. There are quite a few stairs, but it's fine to take it slow; there's shade along the way. The mist over Xiaodongjiang at Dongjiang Lake is a view you have to wake up early for. ⏰ From 6 AM to 8 AM, the fog on the river is thickest. As fishing boats glide through, it looks like a living ink painting. After seeing the mist, don't rush off. Grab a bowl of Qifengdu fish noodles at the entrance—spicy, slippery, and springy, it's 12 yuan and worth the early start. Visit Mangshan Five-Finger Peak the next day. Take the cable car to the top to see the sea of clouds without climbing. After the rain in August, the chances of seeing the cloud sea are highest. ⚠️ There's a big temperature difference on the mountain, so bring a light jacket—don't underestimate the mountain wind. Chenzhou is best enjoyed slowly; 2 days is just right. 05 Baiyin | Gansu The Yellow River Stone Forest is one of the most "unreal" attractions I've ever seen. The August sun hits the yellow stone forest, casting long shadows and making the whole canyon look like an abandoned ancient city. 📍 It's about a 1-hour drive from Baiyin city. The ticket includes a shuttle bus; once you're deep in the canyon, you switch to a donkey cart. The driver will tell you local stories—the accent is thick, but it's very sincere. The best photo spot is "Yixiantian" (A Line of Sky), where the stone walls almost meet. At noon, the light beams down onto the sand—every shot is a masterpiece. ⏰ I suggest entering the valley after 3 PM. The light is slanted, and the stone walls turn from golden to ochre—much better than at noon. ⚠️ Don't rush to buy the stone souvenirs sold inside the scenic area; the stalls outside the exit sell the same ones for half the price. Back in Baiyin city, have a bowl of beef noodles for 8 yuan—clear soup, fragrant meat, and a marinated egg to finish it off perfectly. This place is great for geology lovers and those who want unique photos, but not for those who hate the sun. 06 Datong | Shanxi Visit the Yungang Grottoes in the morning for fewer crowds and better light. 📍 It's about a 30-minute taxi ride from Datong city. Remember to book your tickets in advance on the official WeChat account. The Buddha statues look softer in the morning light. Standing in front of the open-air Buddha in Cave 20, you'll naturally quiet down. The Hanging Temple and Mt. Heng can be visited on the same day as they are close to each other. The Hanging Temple is on the cliffside. Walking on the wooden planks with the cliff below can be a bit shaky when it's windy, but it's stable. If you're afraid of heights, walk on the inside. For Mt. Heng, I suggest taking the cable car up and hiking down. It's not the highest of the Five Sacred Mountains, but the shade and mountain breeze in August make it a pleasant walk. 🍜 After coming down, grab a bowl of knife-cut noodles in Datong city. They're freshly cut, chewy, and served with meat sauce and pickled vegetables—less than 20 yuan and very warming. ⚠️ The queue for the Hanging Temple is long; in peak season, I suggest arriving before 8 AM, otherwise a 2-hour wait is normal. Autumn comes early in Datong, and August nights are already cool, so bring a long-sleeved shirt. 07 Dalian | Liaoning The sea breeze in Dalian is free air conditioning in August. Jinshitan National Tourist Resort is worth a full day. 📍 Take Metro Line 3 to Jinshitan Station. There's a tourist bus right outside. Visit the Geological Park to see the sea-eroded landforms, then walk along the coastal path to Golden Coast. The sand is fine, the water is clear, and you'll want to stay in the water all afternoon. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is great for kids, though I'm a bit conflicted about it. The ticket isn't cheap, but the Polar Museum is well done. The beluga whales and penguins are lively, and there are many show times—check the schedule in advance so you don't miss the last one. Tangli Lake Park is a local secret. It's uncrowded and the lake is calm. It's best in the evening—a 2-hour walk around the lake with the mist in the air is so relaxing you'll want to fall asleep. Go to Xinghai Square at night when the lights are on. With the sea breeze blowing, people are flying kites and singing. Sit on the steps when you're tired and watch the twinkling boat lights on the sea. 🍜 Don't miss the night markets in Dalian, like Jiaoda Night Market and Shandong Road Night Market. Oysters are 10 yuan for 3, grilled until sizzling, and paired with ice-cold beer—this is what summer should be. Dalian is best for slow travel; 3 days is just right. 08 Weinan | Shaanxi Mt. Hua in August is a mix of summer escape and challenge. ⏰ I suggest a night hike. Start from Yuquan Temple at 10 PM, follow the lights, and arrive at East Peak around 4 AM just in time for the sunrise. It's windy at the top, so rent a military coat for 20 yuan—it's worth it. 📍 After the sunrise, don't rush down. Check out the Plank Walk in the Sky. You don't have to walk it; just watching others inch along the cliff is exciting enough. If you don't want to hike at night, take the cable car up West Peak and down North Peak during the day. It saves your legs, but it's crowded with at least a 1-hour wait. ⚠️ Don't go out of your way to find the "Mt. Hua Sword" monument; you'll run into it on the way. There's a queue for photos, so it's better to just sit on a nearby rock and watch the mountain. After coming down, head back to Weinan city for a Tongguan Roujiamo. The bun is flaky and crispy, and the meat is a perfect mix of fat and lean—12 yuan each, paired with a bowl of duck slice soup to cut the grease. Mt. Hua in August is hot during the day but has cool mountain breezes. The night hike is actually more comfortable and suitable for those with good stamina. Bring enough water—it's 10 yuan a bottle on the mountain and 2 yuan below. Mt. Hua is worth visiting once, and once you've been, you'll remember it for a long time.

These 8 cities are must-visits in your lifetime 01 Xianning | Hubei When visiting Xianning, don't just focus on the hot springs. My first stop was the Chibi Ancient Battlefield. To be honest, the admission ticket isn't cheap, but standing by the river looking at the opposite bank, with the wind blowing, my mind was filled with images of the "Battle of Red Cliffs." ⏰ Enter the park after 4:00 PM. The light hits the cliffs at an angle, there are fewer people, and you won't have to wait for a photo spot. You can climb the "Zhou Yu Command Platform" inside the scenic area. It's not high, but it's windy, so hold onto your hat. ⚠️ Don't buy the so-called "Chibi specialty" stones at the entrance; they're basically mass-produced goods. After you're done, drive ten minutes to the town of Chibi and find any restaurant to eat fish cake; it's half the price of what you'd pay inside the scenic area. This place is perfect for Three Kingdoms fans. Those indifferent to history might find it boring, but you won't find that vast, windswept feeling by the river anywhere else. 02 Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Bortala is a place to clear your mind—one lake a day, just taking it slow. In the morning, head to Sayram Lake. The water is an unreal shade of blue. Drive along the lakeside road and stop wherever it looks beautiful; there's no need to stick to a specific viewing platform. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM when the lake is calm and the reflections are clearest; it gets crowded after 11:00 AM. In the afternoon, navigate to Anjihai Grand Canyon. The road conditions are average, so be careful if your car has low ground clearance. But standing on the edge of the canyon looking down, the sheer scale of the earth splitting open is something a phone camera can't capture even a tenth of. On the second day, go to Wenquan County. Don't just look at the hot springs; the landscape around the county is the real treasure. The stream water is bone-chillingly cold—in summer, if you put your hand in, it's cold enough to make you yelp. 🍜 In the evening, have a Mongolian-style meal of milk tea and hand-grabbed mutton in Wenquan County. It costs less than CNY 50 per person and will leave you full. Note that the attractions here are far apart, so plan for at most two a day, or you'll spend the whole time traveling. 03 Hinggan League | Inner Mongolia For Arxan National Forest Park, I recommend staying at a homestay inside the scenic area rather than in the city to save two hours of round-trip driving. ⏰ At 6:00 AM, the mist over Tuofengling Heavenly Lake hasn't cleared yet. You'll be the only one on the boardwalk, dew from the pine needles will soak your pant legs, and the air will be filled with the crisp scent of plants. In the morning, walk through Shitanglin, a volcanic lava landscape where small trees sprout from the cracks in the rocks—a stubborn kind of vitality. ⚠️ Food in the scenic area is expensive and mediocre. Bring your own snacks and water; the money you save is enough to buy two cups of coffee. In the afternoon, go to Santanxia. The boardwalk is well-built and easy for seniors and children to walk on, but the steps are slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes. This place is perfect for those who want to completely escape city noise. Go out at 9:00 PM to see the stars; the Milky Way is so clear you'll wonder if you're looking through a filter. 04 Huzhou | Zhejiang Nanxun Ancient Town is quieter than Wuzhen and Zhouzhuang, which is why I prefer it. 📍 Enter from the East Gate and walk along the Baijianlou buildings first. These old houses along the river, with their white walls and black tiles, allow you to hear the sound of the river lapping against the shore when it's quiet. 🍜 At noon, have a double-topping noodle dish at "Zhuangyuan Lou" near the Zhang Shiming Residence. It comes with crispy pork and fried fish. The broth is rich, the noodles are thin, and it's CNY 12 a bowl—a great deal. In the afternoon, go to Xiaolian Zhuang. If the lotus flowers are in bloom, you can sit in the pavilion by the water and zone out for half an hour. ⚠️ Don't buy "handmade" pastries on the main street of the ancient town; they're all mass-produced. If you want to eat them, buy them at the entrance of the wet market in the residential area. This place is suitable for people who enjoy a slow pace. You can finish exploring in a day. Stay in the ancient town at night and fall asleep to the sound of rowing oars—it's more effective than city white noise. 05 Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Puzhehei is what I'd call a "waterfront pastoral," but only if you pick the right season. ⏰ From late June to early August, the lotus flowers are in bloom. Rowing through the ten thousand acres of lotus ponds, the oars splash water, and the lotus leaves brush against your shoulders. Even if you get half-soaked, you'll be happy. In the morning, go to Qinglong Mountain. It's a 20-minute climb to the top, where you can overlook the entire Puzhehei, with the lakes and villages spread out like a chessboard. ⚠️ Remember to wear a raincoat when rowing; other boats will splash water at you. Don't think you can avoid it—it's the "rule." In the afternoon, go to Xianrendong Village. The Yi ethnic ladies in the village will invite you to drink the "blocking door" wine. Don't force yourself; just take a sip, otherwise, everything will look blurry for the rest of the trip. This place is great for people who love taking photos and playing in the water, but make sure to use sun protection. The high-altitude UV rays are no joke. 06 Guangyuan | Sichuan For Jianmen Pass, I admit I went for the "one man guards the pass, ten thousand cannot open it" reputation, but I ended up breaking into a cold sweat on the Bird Path. 📍 Enter from the South Gate of the scenic area, walk through Jinniu Gorge first, then go up to the pass tower, and finally challenge the Bird Path. The Bird Path is truly narrow, with a cliff on one side and iron chains on the other. If you're afraid of heights, I suggest taking the main road next to it; don't force yourself. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM. After 10:00 AM, tour groups arrive, and the boardwalks are so crowded you won't have space to stand for photos. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go to the "Tofu Feast" in the town of Jianmenguan. A whole table of dishes made entirely of tofu costs over CNY 100 and is enough for four people. The textures are incredibly varied and worth a try. This place is suitable for people with good stamina; the whole route takes three to four hours, so those with bad knees should be careful. ⚠️ The cable car queue is long. If you can walk, don't take it; the time you save is enough to see two more attractions. 07 Qianxinan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou For Maling River Canyon and Wanfenglin, I suggest splitting them into two days—don't be greedy. Dedicate the first day to Maling River. ⏰ It's best to go the day after rain; the waterfalls are at their fullest, and the canyon is filled with rising mist, like entering a natural air-conditioned room. The boardwalk is built along the cliff, with rushing river water below and hanging vines above. You'll be soaked by the end of the walk, but it's exhilarating. ⚠️ The boardwalk is slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and secure your phone with a lanyard—if it falls, it's gone. Dedicate the second day to Wanfenglin. 📍 Take the sightseeing bus along the road halfway up the mountain to overlook the Bagua Fields and the Buyei villages. The view is expansive, like looking at a 3D landscape painting. For a deeper experience, rent a bicycle in Nahui Village and ride along the field ridges, watching villagers transplant rice seedlings and smelling the fresh scent of the rice paddies. This place is perfect for those who love the outdoors and natural scenery. Come in summer to escape the heat, but you'll still need a jacket in the morning and evening. 08 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain. I originally went to escape the heat, but I ended up falling in love with the old villa complex on the mountain. 📍 Take the scenic area bus from the foot of the mountain to the halfway point, then walk up to "Baoxiao Peak." The altitude isn't very high, but the view is excellent, allowing you to see the fields and villages in the distance. ⏰ Reach the summit around 5:00 PM. The sunset dyes the clouds gold, and when the mountain breeze blows, you'll feel completely refreshed. There are many Western-style houses from the Republic of China era on the mountain; some have been converted into homestays, while others are empty. Walking along the paths feels like traveling back to the old days. 🍜 You must try the "hot dry noodles" and "stone jelly" in downtown Xinyang at the foot of the mountain. They cost CNY 5 a bowl. The taste is different from Wuhan's hot dry noodles—it's drier and more fragrant. This place is suitable for bringing your parents; it's cool in the mountains and the roads are easy to walk. However, accommodation on the mountain is expensive and hard to book during peak season, so I suggest booking a week in advance. ⚠️ Don't eat the so-called "Xinyang stew" on the mountain; the price is doubled and the taste is mediocre. Go down to the city to eat it for the authentic version. These eight cities each have their own personality—some rely on water, some on mountains, and some on an endless history. Which one do you want to visit first? Tell me in the comments section; maybe next time I'll scout it out for you.

🌅 Woke up at 5:00 AM just for this moment! Although I almost missed the sunset the day before due to a flight delay (so sad 😭), Sayram Lake this morning left me completely speechless! 🎨 It really looks like the gods spilled their palette! The lake surface in the early morning is as soft as silk, shimmering with silver light ✨ The blue sky and snow-capped mountains in the distance are reflected in the water Clouds are floating like cotton candy ☁️ The whole scene is as beautiful as a freehand Chinese landscape painting! 📍Address: Dalete Town, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang ⏰Opening hours: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM all year round 🎫Admission ticket: ¥129 (totally worth it!) 📸Photography tips: 1. Definitely wear light-colored clothes! They go perfectly with the blue lake water! 2. The light between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM is the softest, and there will be mist on the lake 3. Remember to bring a tripod! The time-lapse shots are stunning 💡A few tips: · There is a large temperature difference by the lake, so be sure to bring a thick jacket for the sunrise · You can stay in a yurt inside the scenic area; just open the window to see the beautiful scenery This is not Switzerland! It's not Canada! It's our beautiful Sayram Lake in Xinjiang! You must come and see it at least once in your life! 😍