Dehong travel guide and discussion

When I visited Mangshi in Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, I went to Funny Factory, a trendy spot that's currently the talk of the town among locals and tourists alike! This is a nightlife and cultural hub created by renovating an old factory site, and it's bustling with young people day and night. The grounds are filled with exciting touches that make walking around a thrilling experience, and I felt it's an absolute must-see on any nighttime sightseeing route in Mangshi. Sophisticated store exteriors and retro & pop streetscapes Stepping inside, you're greeted by a stylish space that blends industrial ruggedness with modern pop art. Each store's exterior is unique, with neon signs, colorful wall art, and retro graffiti everywhere. Open-air cafes, stylish bars, and restaurants serving local food line the streets, making every corner picturesque. You won't get bored just strolling around. The largest in Yunnan Province! The Impressive "7-Eleven" What I was particularly looking forward to on this visit was the "largest 7-Eleven in Yunnan Province" located within the area. Indeed, it was a remarkably large store that stood out even within the complex. Not only was the exterior impressive, but I was also amazed by the sheer variety of products inside. It goes beyond the typical convenience store, offering not only standard convenience store items but also local specialties, limited-edition souvenirs, freshly prepared takeout food, and even a bakery section. The store is designed with eat-in spaces and photo opportunities in mind, making it a special place to enjoy not just as a place to shop, but as a "tourist attraction" in itself. A Treasure Trove of Photogenic Signs and Photo Spots The entire district is designed with social media appeal in mind, and what was particularly impressive were the diverse and highly designed "photogenic signs." Signs combining designs that evoke the exotic atmosphere of the Thai people with modern neon lights, and signs with humorous messages that make you want to take pictures, are scattered throughout the area. At night, the neon lights illuminate the area, transforming it into a magical and energetic space completely different from the daytime. It's filled with photogenic spots that will have you taking pictures non-stop. While Mangshi is known for its traditional temples and Southeast Asian-style streets, "Xin Wan Chang" offers a different, modern, and creative side to Mangshi. It's best to visit in the evening or at night after enjoying temple visits and local cuisine during the day. Enjoy delicious drinks, graffiti, and shopping while taking plenty of Instagrammable photos during the neon-lit hours. This is a must-see spot that I confidently recommend to everyone visiting Mangshi! #XinWanChang #FunnyFactory #funnyfactory #mangshi #YunnanBusTrip #MangshiTravel #yunnantravel

If you’re craving tropical vibes, exotic architecture, and slow laid-back travel without flying overseas, Mangshi in western Yunnan is the perfect underrated destination. This charming border town blends Burmese, Thai, and local Dai ethnic culture, offering a strong Southeast Asian atmosphere right inside China. My recent two-day stay here was incredibly refreshing, full of stunning sights, affordable gourmet food, and relaxing moments I never expected. What surprised me most about Mangshi is how photogenic every corner is. Lush palm-lined streets, elegant tropical foliage, and towering south-Buddhist pagodas make casual city walks feel like wandering in a foreign resort. My itinerary focused on the town’s most iconic landmarks. I visited the famous Menghuan Golden and Silver Pagodas. The gleaming golden pagoda shines brilliantly under daylight and overlooks the entire city, while the silver pagoda delivers dreamy milky-white scenery perfect for sunset photography. Renting a traditional Dai ethnic dress near the scenic area made my photos even more immersive and vibrant. Apart from grand landmarks, I loved the subtle cultural hidden gems. The unique Tree-Wrapped Pagoda became my favorite spot. Seeing an ancient pagoda naturally embraced and protected by century-old banyan tree roots felt incredibly magical and spiritually peaceful. Strolling along Puti Street, I enjoyed quiet tropical shadows and clean street views that felt calm and far away from crowded tourist chaos. Food is undoubtedly Mangshi’s biggest highlight. I indulged in authentic Dai and Jingpo flavors, including fragrant pineapple rice, spicy lemongrass grilled fish, refreshing local cold noodles, and traditional hand-grabbed rice. The best part? Local street food and restaurant prices are incredibly budget-friendly, letting you taste diverse border flavors without overspending. I also collected super practical travel tips for visitors. Mangshi is small and extremely easy to explore. Renting an electric scooter is the best way to travel freely between spots. Visit the golden pagoda in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds, and save the silver pagoda for sunset for the most stunning night illumination. The weather stays warm year-round, so lightweight clothing and sun protection are essential. Unlike the overcrowded popularity of Dali and Lijiang, Mangshi retains genuine border town leisure and exotic charm. It is less commercialized, more relaxing, and perfect for slow travelers. Let’s discuss! Would you visit Mangshi mainly for its stunning pagoda scenery and exotic vibes, or purely for its famous affordable ethnic border food? Do you prefer fast-paced scenic sightseeing or slow scooter city wandering? #travelersvoice #chinatravelcircle

If you're visiting Mangshi in the Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, the "Tree-Wrapped Pagoda" is an absolute must-see landmark. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s an incredibly accessible tourist spot, but the sheer impact of seeing it in person far exceeded my expectations. Just as the name suggests, the Tree-Wrapped Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa completely engulfed by a colossal banyan (bodhi) tree. It’s said that over 200 years ago, a banyan seed fell into a crevice of this traditional Dai pagoda. Over the centuries, its roots spread and eventually grew to swallow the entire structure. Rather than being man-made, it holds the striking presence of a masterpiece crafted by nature over countless years. First, I recommend stepping back a bit to capture a panoramic shot. Set against a backdrop of blue skies and surrounding greenery, the sweeping view of this massive tree embracing the pagoda offers an incredible sense of scale—it looks just like a painting. What makes this spot even more fascinating is that it looks completely different from every direction (north, south, east, and west). Take a walk all the way around it! From one angle, it appears to be nothing more than a giant tree, completely obscuring the structure. Yet from another, the elegant white silhouette and golden embellishments of the pagoda peek through the gaps. With every shift in perspective, you’ll discover something new, making it impossible to stop snapping photos. What struck me the most was the close-up view of the pagoda being consumed by the tree. When you look closely, you can clearly see the thick banyan roots wrapping around the pagoda's surface and ornate details like a living creature, gripping it with incredible force. Watching the soft yet resilient life force of a plant slowly erode a solid stone structure over time evoked a bizarre, mystical, and slightly overwhelming sensation. [Sightseeing Tips & Advice] · Estimated Time: 30 to 45 minutes (plenty of time to relax and take photos) · Best Time to Visit: During the bright daylight hours, you can beautifully capture the contrast between the lush greenery and the pagoda. From evening into the night, the site is often illuminated, offering a magical vibe that feels completely different from the daytime. I highly recommend this spot not only to photography enthusiasts but also to anyone fascinated by history, unique architecture, and natural phenomena! If you ever find yourself in Mangshi, definitely make sure to drop by. Tourism Travel Highlights

In this nameless place, we can finally shed all our masks and return to our truest selves. Recharging in a place like this is the deepest, most affectionate embrace you can give your soul. We no longer have to fake being strong or pretend to be happy; we simply need to face our emotions with honesty. When tears fall and smiles bloom, you will feel a profound sense of relief—that is your heart healing. Your perspective broadens because you witness the brilliance of humanity, and your inner gloom fades away because you let go of your lingering obsessions. This appreciation is a tribute to living authentically. It reminds us that imperfection is just a normal part of life, and embracing who we really are is the ultimate act of courage. Travel is an intimate conversation with the soul; it tunes us into our inner voice and clarifies our path forward. When we return to our everyday lives carrying this newfound awareness, we can hold onto a sense of peace amidst the noise and stay grounded in the chaos. This is the most beautiful and moving purpose of travel: allowing our souls to become whole and enriched along the journey, and letting our lives shine their absolute brightest in pure authenticity.

During my visit to Mangshi in the Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province, I stumbled upon an incredibly charming and fantastic modern tea stand (cafe) called "1'CHANCE". For those who love immersing themselves in local cultures and flavors while traveling, as well as those who enjoy cafe hopping and trying innovative drinks, I wholeheartedly recommend this spot. Stepping inside, I was welcomed by a spacious, open area that beautifully highlights the natural warmth of wood. With its high ceilings, wooden beams, and natural-textured decor, the cafe exudes a calming atmosphere that perfectly soothes the weariness of travel. You can feel the exceptional attention to detail in the spatial design, making every corner incredibly photogenic. It’s the ideal spot to relax alone with a book or coffee, or to chat with friends and loved ones. Looking at the menu, it wasn't just typical teas and coffees; it featured a wide array of unique drinks crafted from local specialties and traditional culture unique to this region (Dehong Prefecture). What caught my eye the most was their original drink series featuring the traditional "Sour Tea (Suancha)" of the local ethnic minority, the "De'ang people," which is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage! De'ang Sour Tea is a very rare traditional tea made by packing tea leaves into bamboo tubes, burying them underground, and fermenting them slowly. It is characterized by a refreshing sourness and deep flavor derived from unique amino acids and lactic acid. At 1'CHANCE, through joint development with the Tea College of Yunnan Agricultural University, they have brilliantly elevated this traditional sour tea into a modern, stylish, and easy-to-drink fruit tea. The menu reflects a deep respect for traditional culture combined with an innovative approach, which heightened my expectations even before ordering. The first drink I ordered was the sour tea-based "CHIQIE LU" (Tamarillo Dew). The moment it was brought to the table, I couldn't help but gasp at its stunning visual. A stylish, rounded glass was filled with a vibrant orange beverage, charmingly garnished with a skewered slice of tamarillo (tree tomato) resting on top. It also came with a dedicated explanation card detailing their commitment to the ingredients. · Ingredients: De'ang Sour Tea, Mangshi's specialty "Tamarillo (Tree Tomato)", local "Passion Fruit", and Yunnan's specialty "Small Yellow Ginger" · Taste and Impressions: With one sip, the bright sweet-sourness of the passion fruit and the unique fruity flavor of the tamarillo instantly filled my mouth! Added to this is the clean, fermentation-derived tartness and umami of the De'ang Sour Tea base, creating a rich yet incredibly refreshing aftertaste. Furthermore, the spicy kick of the small yellow ginger acts as a secret ingredient that tightens the overall flavor profile. The bottom of the glass is filled with crunchy passion fruit seeds, providing an excellent textural contrast. It was a fruity, profound, and truly one-of-a-kind exquisite drink you can't find anywhere else! For my second drink, I tried one with the adorable name "SUAN NUONUO" (Sour and Sticky). This was served in a cool, stylish highball-style glass, featuring crystal-clear, beautifully amber tea with fresh green lime slices floating inside. This, too, was accompanied by a carefully illustrated card. · Ingredients: De'ang Sour Tea, fresh lime, and local botanicals (green lemon, fragrant sticky green tea, etc.) · Taste and Impressions: The roasted aroma of the tea base and the crisp tartness of the freshly squeezed lime are a match made in heaven! True to its name "SUAN NUONUO," the balance of sweetness and sourness is perfectly calculated, offering an exhilarating sensation that makes you want to gulp it down. It was the perfect drink for Mangshi's warm climate, a superbly refreshing cup to cool down a body heated from walking around. "1'CHANCE" in Mangshi goes far beyond being just a cafe serving delicious tea. I felt it is the "ultimate cultural hub where you can experience the traditional tea culture preserved by Yunnan's ethnic minorities with a modern twist." · Elevating the traditional "De'ang Sour Tea" into exquisite fruit teas that anyone can easily enjoy · Lavishly using fresh local fruits and spices · Featuring refined, stylish interior design and photogenic visuals · Friendly staff and an incredibly comfortable atmosphere For those planning to visit Mangshi, or anyone interested in Yunnan's cafe culture and ethnic gourmet food, I can confidently recommend it as a must-visit destination. Be sure to experience the profound depth of World Intangible Cultural Heritage and the moving encounter with modern fruit tea at "1'CHANCE"!

If you are looking for a different kind of summer trip, Mangshi in western Yunnan is a hidden gem worth discovering. Far away from the crowded tourist spots, this small border city offers a unique mix of Dai culture, tropical landscapes, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere. Walking through Mangshi, you can feel the Southeast Asian influence everywhere: golden pagodas, colorful markets, fresh tropical fruits, and local dishes full of flavor. The warm sunshine, green surroundings, and slower rhythm of life make it a perfect place to escape the busy city. What I enjoyed most was the combination of culture and nature. From exploring the beautiful Menghuan Grand Golden Pagoda to tasting local specialties and enjoying the evening breeze, every moment felt special. For travelers from Chengdu or other big cities, Mangshi is a refreshing summer destination that feels like a little tropical paradise in Yunnan.

Located on the China-Myanmar border, Ruili in Yunnan's Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture is a city full of exotic charm. Without a doubt, the absolute highlight of this trip was my stay at the Ruili Pogang Hot Spring Hotel! When traveling, your choice of accommodation can make or break your trip. This hotel exceeded my expectations on every level—from its location and room comfort to its facilities, service, and views. It truly deserves its flawless, top-tier reviews. I want to share a detailed report of this incredible hotel experience, which I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting Ruili! Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the hotel’s modern and sophisticated exterior (see exterior photo). Standing out elegantly against the tranquil cityscape, the building exudes a commanding presence and an overwhelming sense of safety that you can spot from afar. The design of the entrance and exterior perfectly blends modern luxury with a breezy, tropical vibe, instantly amping up that "a fantastic stay is about to begin!" excitement. It’s equally impressive at night when beautifully illuminated, offering a luxurious ambiance completely different from its daytime look. Getting there by taxi and managing luggage was an absolute breeze. ■ Immensely Spacious and Spotless! The Supreme Comfort of Room 613 For this trip, I stayed in Room 613. The moment I opened the door, I literally gasped, "Wow!" The space was just that stunning. First and foremost, the level of cleanliness was next-level. From every corner of the floor to the furniture surfaces and the bed linens, everything was polished to perfection. This immaculate, dust-free environment deserves the highest praise. The interior design features calming, natural tones—modern yet incredibly inviting. It gave off a comforting vibe that instantly soothed my travel-weary body. The bed was an absolute dream! With a mattress that hit the perfect balance of firmness, fluffy duvets, and heavenly pillows, I drifted into a deep sleep the second I lay down. The room is thoughtfully laid out with a roomy sofa, a desk, and plenty of storage. Even with my suitcase fully open, the open-concept layout never felt cramped. The lighting design was spot on, too. The ambient lighting created a super relaxed and cozy atmosphere. There were plenty of conveniently placed outlets, and the fast Wi-Fi made charging my devices and organizing photos totally stress-free. Now, for what every traveler cares about—the bathroom. The shower room in 613 was nothing short of perfection! The hygiene here is flawless—not a single water stain or speck of mold to be found; everything was gleaming. The water pressure was fantastic, and the temperature adjusted instantly, allowing me to wash off the fatigue of my long journey with a hot, powerful shower. Every detail, from the showerhead design to the excellent drainage, was carefully thought out to ensure a frictionless experience. The provided amenities were top-notch, featuring elegant scents and premium textures. I also loved the generous supply of plush, high-quality towels. Even in my room's shower, I could enjoy the luxurious bathing experience you'd expect from a hot spring hotel. I literally felt the travel exhaustion melt away. But the absolute crowning glory of staying in Room 613 is the breathtaking view from the window! The large windows flood the room with brilliant natural light. Looking out, you get a sweeping view of Ruili’s charming, atmospheric streets stretching towards the expansive sky. Waking up, opening the curtains, and being greeted by such a refreshing scene was the perfect way to kick off my day. In the evening, the sky puts on a magical show of sunset hues, and by nightfall, you can soak in the gorgeous city lights sparkling below. It allowed me to quietly appreciate the changing moods and unique vibe of Ruili right from the comfort of my room. Sitting on the window-side sofa, sipping a good cup of tea, and just zoning out while taking in the view was pure, unadulterated bliss. Beyond the outstanding hardware, I was deeply moved by the warm and genuine hospitality of the staff. Check-in and check-out were seamless. The staff were always smiling and eager to help, and their thoughtful service completely bridged any language barriers, which truly warmed my heart. It’s incredibly rare to find a hotel anywhere that offers such premium rooms, impeccable cleanliness, stunning views, and top-tier service at such an affordable and reasonable price. This is undeniably a god-tier hotel with unbeatable value for money and 1000% satisfaction! The Ruili Pogang Hot Spring Hotel infinitely magnified the charm of this wonderful city. My stay in Room 613 has become an unforgettable memory. For anyone planning a vacation or business trip to Ruili—especially if you want a guaranteed perfect hotel experience—I cannot recommend this place highly enough! I will absolutely be staying here again on my next trip to Ruili! Thank you so much for the ultimate stay!

There is a place in Yunnan that is quieter than Dali, more niche than Xishuangbanna, and more low-key than Ruili. It’s called Mangshi, known as "Menghuan" in the Dai language. Many people traveling in Yunnan pass through here for a transfer or take a few hours by bus from Dali for a short stop, but very few come specifically for it. I was the same, passing by many times without paying much attention, until one time I stayed for three days and discovered how much this place is worth lingering in. Mangshi, Yunnan Mangshi is the capital of Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture. The Dai people make up more than half of the population, making it one of the places in Yunnan with the richest Dai culture. The city is small, with main attractions concentrated within the city and surrounding areas that can be visited within a day or two. The Silver Pagoda, Golden Pagoda, Dai Ancient Town, and hot springs are what most people know about Mangshi. But what truly makes Mangshi unique are the things not written in travel guides. Let’s start with the Silver Pagoda and the Golden and Silver Pagodas. The Menghuan Silver Pagoda is located halfway up Leiya Mountain in the east of the city. Its milky white tower rises in layers along the mountain slope, with the spire piercing the clear sky. There is a long staircase from the foot of the mountain to the pagoda, lined with various succulents and tropical plants on both sides. The walk itself is a kind of ritual. The best time to visit is at sunset, when golden light shines on the pagoda, with the nearby pagoda forest and distant fields all in view, and the skyline dyed golden-red. If you’re lucky to catch the evening glow, the whole sky turns pink and purple, making the Silver Pagoda look like a fairy-tale building against such a backdrop. The Golden Pagoda is in the west of the city and is a Tibetan Buddhist stupa, completely different in style from the Silver Pagoda. The Golden Pagoda is a solid pagoda complex, with bell-shaped pagodas surrounding the main tower, giving it a more imposing presence. Inside, thousands of butter lamps burn year-round, casting a dim yellow light. The unique Tibetan sandalwood incense fills the air, creating a solemn yet warm atmosphere. More locals come here to worship, and there are relatively fewer tourists, so it doesn’t feel commercialized. The Dai Ancient Town is near Houjiang Pedestrian Street. It’s not a tourist-built ancient town but a street where locals really live. The arcade buildings have shops selling daily necessities and local snacks. If you come before 8 a.m., you can see locals carrying baskets on their backs buying groceries, creating a lively scene. There is a water-splashing baba shop that has been open for thirty years in the ancient town. The Dai rice cake is steamed wrapped in banana leaves, sweet but not greasy. You can buy some to take on the road. There are also several Dai barbecue shops on the street, grilling pork belly, pig skin, and sticky rice, paired with Mangshi’s unique sour tea—a flavor you won’t find elsewhere. A few practical tips: ⏰ Best time: October to April is the dry season with more sunny days, great for photos, and fewer tourists. June to September is the rainy season, but the plants are greenest and waterfalls have the most water, offering a unique charm—just bring rain gear. 🚗 Transportation: Mangshi has an airport (Dehong Mangshi Airport), about an hour’s flight from Kunming. You can also take a bus from Dali, which takes about five to six hours. There are taxis and Didi rides in the city, making it convenient to get around with cheap starting fares. Renting an electric scooter is also easy; the city is small, and you can cover the main attractions by bike. 💰 Tickets: The Silver Pagoda ticket is 30 yuan, the Golden Pagoda ticket is 40 yuan, and a combined ticket for both is 60 yuan. Locals say you can find someone to take you in cheaper, though this hasn’t been verified—feel free to try if interested. The ancient town is free, and the Dai living areas are completely free. 🍜 Food recommendations: When in Mangshi, you must try these—water-splashing baba, sour tea, sapie rice noodles, and bamboo tube rice. Water-splashing baba can be bought at the old shop in the Dai Ancient Town; sour tea can be experienced by picking tea leaves on the tea mountains; sapie rice noodles are everywhere, with "Dream Dai Family" near the ancient town highly recommended; bamboo tube rice is available at many barbecue stalls. 📸 Photo tips: The best light at the Silver Pagoda is two hours before sunset. It’s recommended to wear light-colored clothes, with white or beige being the best. The Golden Pagoda’s interior lighting is dim yellow; when photographing, avoid capturing monks inside to respect local beliefs. For the ancient town, it’s best to go before 9 a.m. for good light and fewer people. 🛁 Hot spring experience: Near Mangshi is Peacock Mountain Hot Spring, with suitable water temperature and clear water. It’s a popular spot for locals to soak. No ticket is required, but you need to bring your own swimsuit. After soaking, you can also hike a mountain to burn some calories. If you want to deeply experience Dai culture, visit the surrounding villages. Many Dai villages are about half an hour’s drive from the city, with every household planting flowers, and the scent of Michelia and jasmine filling the air. You can find a farmhouse to enjoy a Dai lunch, using banana leaves as bowls, eating sticky rice with your hands, and having grilled fish and pork belly paired with sour tea—this is the most authentic Dai lifestyle. Mangshi is not a city that will be hyped as an internet sensation. It is quiet, niche, and unpretentious. But precisely because of this, it preserves the most complete Dai culture, the most authentic Dai cuisine, and the slowest pace of life. If you come to Yunnan, don’t just visit Dali and Lijiang—spend a few days in Mangshi, and you will discover a different Yunnan.

Although June to August is hot, it’s the most vibrant time for grasslands, snowy mountains, and coastlines. Budget travel focuses on transportation and accommodation. These 4 cities offer affordable prices and seasonal scenery, making them ideal for young travelers. Here are representatives from the north, south, west, and east: --- 1. Inner Mongolia · Hulunbuir (Hailar) — the grassland crown June to August is the most beautiful time for the grasslands. No paid scenic spots are needed here; the views are all along the road. · Budget: 150–200 CNY per day (excluding major transportation) · Transportation: Flying to Hailar is expensive. Fly to Harbin and transfer to a train (hard sleeper about 200 CNY, overnight trip). · Activities: Car rental or carpooling is common (about 500 CNY/day per car, split among 4 people). Free options: take bus line 2 to the last stop, then walk up West Hill to overlook the city; rent an electric bike to ride toward Ewenki Banner, with cows, sheep, and windmills along the way. · Accommodation: guesthouses and hostels (50–80 CNY per night). · Must-try: Nuomintala milk tea (pot tea, about 30 CNY per person), Tieshan cold drinks (fresh milk ice cream 5 CNY). 2. Yunnan · Mangshi — Southeast Asia alternative Comparable to Xishuangbanna but cheaper and less commercialized. · Budget: 150 CNY per day · Transportation: Fly to Kunming and transfer to a long-distance bus (about 8 hours, ticket under 200 CNY); or fly directly to Dehong Mangshi Airport, where discounted tickets are often available if booked early. · Activities: Shared electric scooters cover the whole city! Ride to the Great Golden Pagoda and Silver Pagoda (free to take photos outside); Shubaota is in the parking lot, free to visit; visit the Dai ancient town in the afternoon (free to explore and snack). · Accommodation: hotels near Tuanjie Street (60–90 CNY per night). · Must-try: Lanlu breakfast (rice noodles 10 CNY), Ganying pickled chicken feet (2.5 CNY each), Menghuan old milk tea (Puluda 10 CNY). 3. Gansu · Zhangye — color and snow mountains coexist Average summer temperature is 25°C, dry and comfortable. Besides the colorful Danxia landform, most of the city is almost free to visit. · Budget: 180 CNY per day · Transportation: high-speed train direct (about 2.5 hours from Lanzhou). · Activities: Giant Buddha Temple (must-visit, 40 CNY ticket); enter the colorful Danxia after 6 PM (93 CNY ticket, worth it for sunset). Free hidden spots: outskirts of Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon (tell the taxi to go to the “One Line Sky” entrance, no ticket needed to see the canyon edge); wetland park (free, beautiful reed marshes). · Accommodation: hostel near Giant Buddha Temple (40–60 CNY per night). · Must-try: Ganzhou market (hand-pulled fish noodles 12 CNY, fried firecrackers 15 CNY), apricot peel drink (3 CNY to cool down). 4. Shandong · Weihai — northern coast with the best value Fewer people than Qingdao, cleaner than Yantai, with a free and stunning coastal road. · Budget: 200 CNY per day (summer accommodation prices rise, book early) · Transportation: high-speed train direct. Rent electric scooters in the city (about 30–40 CNY per day), ten times cheaper than taxis. · Activities: cycle along the coastal road (Half Moon Bay → Cat Head Mountain → International Seaside Bathing Beach, all free); Naxianghai (take suburban bus from downtown to see the windmill sea); Torch 8th Street (go at 6 AM to avoid crowds for photos). · Accommodation: guesthouses near Hanlefong or Shandong University (100–150 CNY per night in summer). · Must-try: Emperor Palace market (buy seafood and have it cooked at nearby shops, about 50 CNY per person for a full meal); Korean food (Zhenliwei, pork spine hot pot about 40 CNY per person). · -- 3 general money-saving tips (very important) · Tickets: bring your student ID; many attractions check tickets only, not dates, if entering within 1 hour before closing (can save next-day ticket). · Water: bring your own cup; libraries and museums have free water dispensers to save daily water costs. · Transportation: prioritize night trains to save one night’s accommodation. · -- Final reminder: For travel from June to August, book train tickets and your first night’s accommodation at least 15 days in advance, or your money-saving plan may fall apart. These four cities have very different styles. Do you prefer to see grassland horses, exotic cultures, vast deserts, or the blue sea? Tell me your choice, and I’ll plan a simple 4-day, 3-night itinerary for that city with must-avoid pitfalls. 😊

After seeing the crowded crowds in Dali and Lijiang, try turning your attention to Mangshi, a small border city in western Yunnan. The strong Southeast Asian vibe hits you right away, with the golden and silver pagodas facing each other from afar and tropical greenery lining the streets. Authentic Dai snacks are everywhere, prices are affordable, and the pace of life is slow and relaxed. No long-distance travel is needed, so you can easily enjoy eating, shopping, and taking photos freely✨ Here’s a complete 3-day, 2-night travel guide. Save it now to plan your trip! 🚗 Transportation guide 📍 Mangshi, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province ▪️ Major transport Flight: Mangshi Airport offers direct flights to Kunming, Chongqing, and Chengdu. The airport is 5 km from downtown, about a 20-minute taxi ride. Transfer options: Mangshi has no high-speed rail station. Take the high-speed train to Baoshan Station, then a 1.5-hour bus ride to Mangshi. You can also take a direct bus from Kunming. ▪️ Getting around the city Shared electric scooters are the top choice! About 30 yuan per day, perfect for weaving through streets and alleys, stopping anytime for photos, maximizing your experience. Short taxi rides are cost-effective, mostly under 10 yuan within the city. For suburban attractions, consider carpooling or private car hire. 🏨 Recommended accommodation areas ✅ Menghuan street downtown | top choice Hotels and guesthouses range from 120–280 yuan. The area is packed with food shops and close to the golden and silver pagodas, making dining and travel very convenient. First-time visitors to Mangshi should prioritize this area. ✅ Dai ancient town area Dai-style courtyard guesthouses cost 180–350 yuan. The architecture has a strong atmosphere, the night views are beautiful, and it’s ideal for photo lovers and those who prefer quiet. Downside: You’ll need taxis to get to and from downtown, and it’s less convenient for trying various snacks. ❌ Not recommended: staying near the airport due to limited facilities and inconvenient daily travel. 💰 Budget for 3 days and 2 nights per person (excluding major transport) 800–1,200 yuan per person, a hidden gem with affordable prices in Yunnan 🏨 Accommodation: 350–700 yuan. Sharing a room with a friend is more cost-effective 🍲 Food: 350 yuan. A wide variety of snacks and meals for easy food freedom 🎫 Tickets: It’s recommended to buy a combined ticket for the golden and silver pagodas. Shubao Pagoda and Dai ancient town are free to enter 🛵 Local transport: 150–260 yuan 🍜 Must-try foods in Mangshi Try to find old local favorites for authentic flavors ▪️ Sapie | Mangshi’s signature dish. Beginners should try lemon sapie, which is pleasantly sour and spicy and easier to enjoy ▪️ Dai hand-grabbed rice | Served on banana leaves with plenty of side dishes, a must-order for group meals ▪️ Guoshou rice noodles | A unique Achang ethnic flavor, a must-experience in Mangshi ▪️ Pounded chicken feet and pounded papaya | Sour and spicy appetizers, perfect for snacking while strolling ▪️ Paoluda | A popular dessert with coconut milk and crispy bread, sweet but not greasy ▪️ Burmese fried sticky rice cake and lemongrass barbecue | Night market specialties full of local flavor Food hubs: Xinwanchang night market, Dai ancient town night market, Best Food Plaza ✨ Must-visit key attractions 🏯 Menghuan golden pagoda Mangshi’s landmark, an Asian hollow Buddhist pagoda. The gilded tower shines brilliantly at sunset. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Mangshi basin. It’s best to visit before dusk to watch the sunset. Remove your shoes before entering, dress appropriately, and respect temple etiquette. 🤍 Menghuan silver pagoda A pure white pagoda with a simple, elegant design. The park features a sky mirror photo spot. The blue hour at dusk and the night view are perfect for photos. It’s close to the golden pagoda, so you can visit both in one day. 🌳 Shubao pagoda A free, lesser-known spot where a century-old tree tightly wraps around the ancient pagoda, creating a unique natural scene. A great stop if you’re passing by. 🌿 Mengbana Xi rare garden A tropical garden full of lush greenery. Peacocks are kept here and are released at scheduled times. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk and fresh air. 🏮 Dai ancient town A free, open-air area with Dai and Thai-style architecture. Great for photos during the day and lively night markets in the evening, offering a one-stop spot for sightseeing and dining. 📅 Relaxed 3-day, 2-night itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Mangshi and check in downtown → Watch sunset at the golden pagoda → Take night photos at the silver pagoda → Explore and eat at Dai ancient town night market Day 2: Visit Shubao pagoda → Stroll through Mengbana Xi rare garden → Try various Dai snacks downtown Day 3: Leisurely browse local markets for souvenirs → Return trip 📌 Travel tips 1. Mangshi has a subtropical climate with strong UV rays. Sunscreen, sun hats, and mosquito repellent are essential 2. When visiting pagodas and temples, dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, stay quiet, and respect local beliefs and customs 3. The best photo times are at dusk to avoid harsh midday light. The golden pagoda is ideal for sunset shots, the silver pagoda for night photos 4. Follow traffic rules when riding electric scooters. Watch for vehicles when stopping roadside for photos and stay safe 5. Sudden rain showers are common in the rainy season. Carry an umbrella for sun and rain 6. Ask about prices before buying tropical fruits to avoid disputes 💛 Travel musings Tired of commercialized ancient towns? Come to Mangshi for a slow, relaxing time🌴 Ride a small electric scooter along Palm Avenue, where the sunset bathes the golden pagoda in soft light and the silver pagoda lights up as night falls. You can find sour, spicy, and fresh Dai flavors everywhere, without crowds or rushing. Exotic scenery, abundant food, and low prices all come together in this small city in western Yunnan, making it worth a special trip!

Mangshi's hidden gem | Exploring the abandoned airplane in the mountains | Atmospheric ruins in western Yunnan Tired of the usual tourist spots in Mangshi? Hidden in the forest of Huixian Village lies an abandoned airplane, a treasure trove for photography and niche adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by misty mountains all day, the old aircraft exudes a retro, suspenseful movie vibe. Here's a detailed self-driving guide to help you reach this spot effortlessly without getting lost. Detailed self-driving directions (step-by-step guide): Set your navigation destination to: Huixian Village, Mangshi. Drive into the village's main road and locate the Jiao Jiao Grocery Store. Turn right next to the store and drive onto the mountain road. Continue driving steadily for about 10 minutes, slow down, and have your co-driver keep an eye on the right side of the road for signs. You’ll spot an old, faded signboard indicating Guanyin Temple and the former airplane restaurant. The text is faint and easy to miss, so pay close attention. After spotting the signboard, turn right onto the rural mountain path. Drive straight until you reach the entrance of Guanyin Temple, where you can park your vehicle nearby. In front of the temple, there’s a lotus viewing platform. Walk down the stone steps, and you’ll arrive at the abandoned airplane. Tips along the way: Guanyin Temple is free to enter for prayers, and incense and fire starters are available for use. If you can’t find the route, ask the villagers for directions to Guanyin Temple; all locals are familiar with it. Exploring the hidden gem: This spot is an undeveloped, niche destination in the wild, with few visitors on regular days. Dense vegetation surrounds the valley, and the misty mountains of western Yunnan add to the atmosphere. The airplane’s body is covered in rust from years of weathering, with graffiti marks on its exterior, creating a strong sense of wilderness and ruin. Walking along the forest trails, every step feels like a scene from a story. Casual snapshots can resemble stills from a suspenseful movie—unique and photogenic. 📸 Professional photography tips: Best weather for visiting: Overcast or foggy days offer the best ambiance, with misty forests complementing the rusty airplane for a desolate and cool aesthetic. Color grading suggestions: Use cool-toned filters, lower the brightness, and enhance the desolate and tranquil visual effect. Outfit recommendations: Opt for dark, durable casual wear that matches the ruinous setting. ⚠️ Essential travel precautions: The stone steps downhill and mountain paths are overgrown with weeds and slippery. Wear anti-slip hiking shoes and walk carefully to avoid falls. The forest is teeming with mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent. The paths are littered with stones and branches, so long-sleeved clothing can prevent scratches and scrapes. There are no cleaning facilities at the site. Practice leave-no-trace travel by taking your trash with you and protecting the natural environment. Visit during daylight hours; avoid going in the evening or at night as the mountain paths can be unsafe for returning. Mangshi · Dehong

January in Yunnan perfectly embodies the "four seasons in one mountain, different weather every ten miles" three-dimensional climate. You can enjoy 20°C warm sunshine in southern Yunnan, encounter romantic black-headed gulls in central Yunnan, and experience pristine snowy mountains in northwest Yunnan. This guide will help you plan a rich and colorful winter trip to Yunnan. 1. January Weather and Pre-Trip Preparation Climate Overview · Generally dry: January is the dry season with little rainfall and many sunny days, ideal for travel. · Significant temperature difference: The coldest month’s average temperature across the province ranges from 7°C to 11°C, but the day-night temperature difference is large, reaching 12-20°C. "Cold in the morning and evening, warm at noon" is the norm. · Three-dimensional climate: From south to north and from low to high altitude, the climate varies greatly. Prepare clothing according to your destination. Essential Luggage · Clothing: Use the "onion-style" layering method. Essential warm outerwear (down jacket or fleece), sweaters, and long pants. When the sun is strong at noon, long-sleeve T-shirts or thin shirts can be worn. If planning to visit snowy mountains, prepare thicker cold-proof gear. · Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats are essential due to strong highland UV rays. · Others: Moisturizing skincare products, lip balm (due to dry climate), and a thermos. 2. January Travel Themes and Recommended Destinations Yunnan’s January tourism resources can be summarized into four main themes, which you can choose and combine according to your preferences: 1. Escape the Cold for a Warm Winter · Tropical Style This theme highlights warm climate and tropical scenery, suitable for travelers who dislike the cold. · Xishuangbanna: Comfortable average winter temperature, the top choice for escaping the cold. Experience tropical rainforests (Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden, Wild Elephant Valley), Dai ethnic culture (Dai Water Splashing Festival at Dai Garden), and bustling night markets (Starlight Night Market). · Pu’er City: Mild climate with an average winter temperature above 13.7°C. Visit the World Cultural Heritage Jingmai Ancient Tea Forest to enjoy a peaceful winter surrounded by tea fragrance, or go to Sun River Forest Park for close encounters with wildlife. · Lincang City · Ximeng County: An emerging warm winter secret spot with an average January temperature of about 19.6°C and high forest coverage. Core experiences include the natural scenery of Mengsuo Longtan and the mysterious Wa ethnic culture (wood drum dance, hair-whipping dance). · Dehong Prefecture · Mangshi City: Known as the "City of Dawn" with an average temperature of about 20.2°C. Stroll the streets to enjoy strong Southeast Asian vibes and delicious food (such as beef rice noodles and peacock feast). 2. Sunny Spring City · People and Gulls Dancing Together This theme focuses on Kunming and its surroundings, featuring plateau lakes, flowers, and migratory birds. · Kunming: In winter, Kunming is the "City of Black-headed Gulls." The best spots to watch gulls are Haigeng Dam at Dianchi Lake and Cuihu Park. Meanwhile, plum blossoms at Heilongtan Park and winter cherry blossoms on Hongta West Road are in full bloom. · Yuxi · Fuxian Lake: China’s largest highland deep-water lake, with bright winter sunshine and a clear blue surface, perfect for driving or cycling around the lake to enjoy leisure time. 3. Snowy Mountain Secrets · Ice and Snow Fairy Tale This theme suits travelers seeking magnificent snowy landscapes and outdoor ice and snow experiences. · Lijiang · Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: January is the most stable season to view the snow-capped mountain glaciers, with abundant snow and spectacular scenery. · Diqing · Shangri-La: Pudacuo National Park and Meili Snow Mountain appear even more sacred and tranquil in winter. · Kunming · Jiaozi Snow Mountain: A snow mountain close to Kunming city, offering skiing, ice waterfall viewing, and other snow activities. 4. Diverse Cultures · Intangible Cultural Heritage and New Year Atmosphere Late January approaches the Spring Festival, offering rich ethnic minority festival activities. · Northwest Yunnan: In Diqing Shangri-La’s Dukezong Ancient Town, experience Tibetan culture. · Southeast Yunnan: The ancient town of Jianshui in Honghe has a strong New Year atmosphere and profound purple pottery culture. · Western Yunnan: The Nujiang Grand Canyon is warm and pleasant in winter (valley average temperature about 15.8°C). Drive along the "Beautiful Highway," visit the primitive villages of Bingzhongluo, and experience the Lisu ethnic culture. 3. Classic Itinerary Planning You can combine different themed destinations based on the length of your holiday: · Plan A: 5-6 Days Warm Winter Deep Tour (Xishuangbanna + Pu’er) · D1-D3 Xishuangbanna: Arrive in Jinghong, visit Manting Park, the Grand Buddha Temple, stroll the Starlight Night Market; go to Wild Elephant Valley or the Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden; experience the Dai Water Splashing Festival at Dai Garden. · D4-D5 Pu’er: Travel to Pu’er, visit Sun River Forest Park or Jingmai Ancient Tea Forest. · D6: Return trip. · Plan B: 6-7 Days Classic Mixed Tour (Kunming + Dali + Lijiang) · D1-D2 Kunming: Watch black-headed gulls, visit Cuihu Park or wetlands around Dianchi Lake, optionally visit Stone Forest or Fuxian Lake. · D3-D4 Dali: Cycle or drive around Erhai Lake, admire Cangshan snow scenery, enjoy the leisurely ancient town. · D5-D6 Lijiang: Visit Lijiang Ancient Town, climb Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. · D7: Return trip. · Plan C: 7-8 Days Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration (Kunming + Nujiang) · D1-D2 Kunming: City leisure and adjustment. · D3-D7 Nujiang: Fly to Baoshan or Liuku, start a self-drive tour of Nujiang Grand Canyon. Along the way, enjoy Denggeng Hot Springs, visit Laomudeng Village and Zhiziluo, and reach Bingzhongluo, where gods and humans coexist. · D8: Return trip. 4. Important Travel Tips 1. Transportation: Winter is Yunnan’s peak travel season. Book flights, train tickets, and hotels in popular cities in advance. For cross-region travel, prioritize flights; high-speed trains connect Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang; for Nujiang and Ximeng, renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended. 2. Tickets and Festivals: Book tickets for popular attractions like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain through official channels in advance. If traveling around the Spring Festival, check schedules for local "Intangible Cultural Heritage New Year" events. 3. Altitude Sickness Prevention: When visiting high-altitude areas like Lijiang and Shangri-La, move slowly, avoid strenuous exercise, keep warm, and prepare oxygen if necessary. 4. Respect Customs: Yunnan is a multi-ethnic province. When participating in village activities or entering temples, please respect local customs and religious beliefs.

⛰️ Departing from Mangshi, heading towards the Gaoligong Mountains in Tengchong. The mountain scenery outside the car window grows denser, with clouds and mist wrapping around the hillsides like wet brushstrokes in an ink wash painting. 🌳🌲🍃🍂 Followed the "Tengwanjia" guide into the primeval forest for a 3 km, one-way light hike. Ancient trees tower overhead, vines hang down, and the trees are draped in thick moss. Underfoot is a soft dirt path covered in fallen leaves, feeling like walking on a carpet. Sunlight filters through the branches, dappling the babbling stream. The mountain air is humid, and the trees spread out in layers, carrying the fresh scent of grass and earth. A deep breath makes you feel completely refreshed. 🚶 The guide interacted with us and cheered us on along the way, introducing the plants, fruits, mushrooms, and insects we passed. When we reached the big waterfall 🌊, we stopped to drink tea 🍵 and eat fruit 🍒. Sitting by the stream listening to the water 💦 and watching the Lisu girls in their red outfits sing and dance 💃, time seemed to slow down ⌛️. 🧺 The picnic in the wild was another surprise. The guide set up a simple table in the forest and served hot corn porridge, skewers, and various mountain fruits. Accompanied by the shadows of trees, the stream, and the folk songs played and sung by the guides, this late lunch was especially delicious. The 3 km mountain trail, with stops for tea and a picnic, actually took 4 hours. Not rushing, just feeling the forest—this is probably the hiking pace I like. ♨️ After coming down the mountain, I found a foot massage shop, soaked my feet in underground hot spring water, and got a massage for my legs after walking for hours—sore but comfortable. Checked into the hotel in the evening, and could see the outline of the distant mountains when opening the window. Walked a lot today, saw many trees, felt the plateau breeze, and soaked in hot spring water. Looking back, what I remember isn't the fatigue, but those four slow hours in the Gaoligong Mountains. 📝 Actual 6-day, 5-night Western Yunnan itinerary: D1 ✈️ Fly to Mangshi, Yunnan. Lunch at Xiaowacha Kitchen Restaurant, afternoon Burmese-style head spa, Manghuang Village. Dinner at Dazhai Kitchen, check in to Yaste International Hotel. D2 Yinjia Breakfast, Menghuan Grand Golden Pagoda/Silver Pagoda, lunch at Yinshangju in Manghuang Village, Tree-Hugging Pagoda, Dai Ancient Town, dinner featuring Dehong Peacock Feast. D3 Head to Tengchong, Gaoligong Mountains light hike + picnic, hot spring foot massage, Dadi Tea Sea (tea tasting, meditation, Horse Caravan Old School/Horse Caravan Feast, sunset, Wa ethnic dance bonfire party), check in to Holiday Inn Express Tengchong Hot Spring in the evening. D4 Jade City, Tengyao Feast lunch, Museum of the War of Resistance in Western Yunnan (Guoshang Cemetery), Volcano 🌋 Rehai Park (cupping therapy, hot spring foot bath), Rehai Big Boiling Pot 🍲 (surface 99.6, bottom 102), hot spring boiled eggs 🥚, hotel red wine dinner. D5 Heshun Ancient Town, Xidong Courtyard + lunch 🍱, stay at Lianghe Dianbanshan Hot Spring Hotel, buffet + hot spring soak ♨️. D6 Return to Mangshi in the morning, fruit market, fly back to Nanjing in the afternoon ✈️.

I've put together a relaxed 3-day, 2-night Kunming itinerary for you.✅ Focusing on free attractions, covering scenery, culture, and food, with no rushing or tourist traps—perfect for first-timers to the Spring City!🌿 📌 Pre-trip info · Best season: November to March (black-headed gull season); summer is also comfortable for escaping the heat and enjoying flowers. There's a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket + high-SPF sunscreen☀️ · Accommodation: Near Kunming Old Town/Nanping Street for convenient subway access, dining, and shopping · Money-saving tips: Cuihu Park, Haigeng Dam, and the Yunnan Provincial Museum are all free. You must book the museum in advance via their official WeChat account; it is closed on Mondays 🗓️ Day 1|Old Town culture route (free downtown attractions) ☀️ Morning: Cuihu Park (free) The green heart of Kunming. Full of lotus flowers in summer and black-headed gulls in winter🕊️ Great for strolling around the lake and taking photos. Next door is the Yunnan Military Academy (free, closed on Mondays), with its yellow walls and red tiles, perfect for photos📸 🍲 Lunch: Authentic Yunnan cuisine downtown Fuzhaolou Steam Pot Chicken (Railway Station Jinjiang Branch) | 1st Floor, Jinjiang Hotel, 98 Beijing Road, Taihe Subdistrict (near Kunming Railway Station, Huancheng South Road Station, Metro Line 2, and Joy City) Republic of China-era university theme. Their signature steam pot chicken and Yiliang roast duck are classic local dishes. Located right next to Kunming Old Town, it offers great atmosphere and taste! 🏮 Afternoon: Kunming Old Town + Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway (free) Bluestone streets, vintage residences, souvenir shops, and flower cakes🌹 In the evening, see the night view of the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway. The lighting creates a wonderful atmosphere, and every photo looks great! 🌙 Evening: Choose one of two options 1️⃣ For authentic Yunnan cuisine: Dianpuzi (Jinbi Branch). Flower and vegetable dishes, pine needle-roasted duck, and a historic house setting. Great value. 2️⃣ For Dai-style late-night snacks: Go to Nanqiang Street Night Market (inside Jinbi Park, Jinbi Road). Pounded chicken feet, grilled tofu, Paoluda... the sour and spicy flavors are addictive! 🗓️ Day 2|Dianchi Lake sunset route (natural scenery) 🌊 All-day main route: Dianchi Lake + Haigeng Dam (free) 📍 North side of the intersection of Guanjing Road and Hongta West Road, Xishan District, Kunming (about 50 meters northwest of the Hongta Group Sports Center) | Open all day, year-round Head to Haigeng Dam in the afternoon to face the "Sleeping Beauty" of the Western Hills🌅 Enjoy the breeze by the lake, feed the gulls (seasonal in winter/spring), and stroll along the lakeside path. At sunset, the lake is covered in golden light—it's breathtakingly beautiful on a sunny day and perfect for photos📸 🍽️ Dinner (best for sunset views) Yanyuxi Shanqu Yeji (Haiyan Village) | Direct views of Dianchi Lake, window seats are perfect for watching the sunset🌇 Specializes in Simao stir-fry and Dianchi fish. Great for photos and dining with friends/partners. Alternative: 1910 South Railway Station Restaurant (Park 1903 Branch) | Building 1, Kaiyuan Avenue, Dianchi Lake Garden, Dianchi Resort Vintage train theme. South Station steam pot chicken and pea starch noodles. Consistent taste, no tourist traps, and a very atmospheric setting🚂 🗓️ Day 3|History and culture route (Guandu area) 🏛️ Morning: Yunnan Provincial Museum (free, reservation required, closed on Mondays) Must-see national treasure: The Ox and Tiger Bronze Table (the museum's signature piece)🐂 Learn about Yunnan's thousand-year history from the Dian Kingdom to the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. The building's architecture is unique and photogenic. Allow 2.5–3 hours for a leisurely visit~ 🍚 Lunch: Guandu Ancient Town food Manjing Daiyuan Dehong Vegetable Restaurant (Guandu Ancient Town Branch) | Highly rated Dai cuisine. Hand-grabbed rice, lemongrass grilled fish, fried mushrooms. Generous portions, located right in the ancient town—eat right after exploring! 🏯 Afternoon: Guandu Ancient Town (free) A thousand-year-old ferry crossing with preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and the Vajra Pagoda. It's quiet and uncrowded, perfect for a slow stroll before heading home~ 🍜 Must-eat food list 1️⃣ Yunnan classics: Steam pot chicken, Yiliang roast duck, porcini mushroom rice, chicken silk cold rice noodles 2️⃣ Dai snacks: Hand-grabbed rice, lemongrass grilled fish, pounded chicken feet, Paoluda 3️⃣ Local street food: Fried potatoes, grilled tofu, flower cakes, bean curd rice noodles 💡 Tips to avoid tourist traps 1️⃣ Don't buy overpriced gull food at Haigeng Dam; bringing your own breadcrumbs is more cost-effective 2️⃣ You must book the museum in advance; there are no tickets available on-site during holidays! 3️⃣ Dounan Flower Market (Asia's largest flower market): Wholesale prices after 8 PM. You can get a huge bouquet of flowers for a few dozen yuan. You can fit this in on one of your nights💐 4️⃣ It's windy around Dianchi Lake, so bring a light jacket even in summer; UV rays are very strong, so sunscreen is a must☀️ ⏱️ Simplified 1-day short route (city center only) Cuihu Park → Yunnan Military Academy → Kunming Old Town → Haigeng Dam sunset🌅 Visit Dounan Flower Market in the evening~ Tell me: Number of days (1/2/3 days), who you're traveling with (partner/family/friends), and your budget, and I can compress the itinerary into a one-page version you can follow directly, plus recommend 2 more restaurants🥰

In Mangshi's autumn, the rice in the fields bows low, the papayas hang heavy by the roadside. · Early in the morning, someone sets up a bamboo basket at the village entrance to dry freshly picked purple rice. The wind drifts back and forth, carrying the scent of rice into the alleys. A girl in a tube skirt rides an e-bike through the street corner, her hem fluttering · ike a banana leaf caught in the breeze. At the Dai clothing shop, a skirt has just been ironed. The person who puts it on is in no rush to leave. Facing the direction of Leiyarang Mountain, with the Golden Pagoda in the frame and herself in the autumn breeze, one photo is enough. · In the room at Lanxi, the shadow of the pagoda wakes up inch by inch. In the morning, it falls upon the panoramic floor-to-ceiling window, so faint it seems to hesitate. By afternoon, it paces diagonally across the floor, stopping at the foot of the bed · ike someone weary from walking. At dusk, it shrinks into a thin layer by the soaking pool. As the water ripples, it scatters into a pool of gold. Sitting by the window, watching the pagoda's shadow move slowly as the sun slants west, a day is idled away just like this. · Mangshi's autumn is the scent of new rice in a bamboo basket, the soft rustle of a tube skirt brushing against the stone path, the pagoda's shadow traveling from the windowsill to the bedside, and a pool of warm water that lets fatigue slide off your shoulders, sinking inch by inch to the bottom of the pool. · This kind of autumn is meant to be savored slowly. While the wind is still warm, the pagoda is still bright, and your vacation isn't yet full, · eave your autumn to Mangshi. Leave it to the Golden Pagoda, leave it to the soaking pool, · eave it to a version of yourself that doesn't need to rush.

Taking parents on a trip during the National Day holiday can easily turn into a forced march if you're not careful. These 5 destinations feature flat paths, steady scenery, and a slow pace—your parents will still have the energy to fight you for the bill after you're done. 01 Jingmen | Hubei The Ming Xianling Mausoleum area is the best place in Jingmen to explore slowly with your parents. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy the shade. The stone statues along the spirit way are lined up for your parents to admire at their own pace without rushing. 📍 There are electric carts from the visitor center to the main mausoleum area; those with limited mobility can ride directly to save energy for visiting Mochou Village on the way back. The village has flat stone paths, making it easy to push a wheelchair. 🍜 Find a small restaurant in Mochou Village for lunch and order a plate of Panlong vegetable with rice tea. The flavors are light and well-suited for older adults. ⚠️ There is little shade in the mausoleum area, so remember to bring umbrellas and water if visiting in summer. Don't push it. Suitable for parents over 60; a slow 2-hour walk is enough. Check official announcements for admission tickets and opening hours before you go. 02 Xining | Qinghai Ta'er Monastery and Dongguan Mosque are in different districts (Huangzhong and Chengdong), so don't try to cram them into 1 day. ⏰ Arrive at Ta'er Monastery right when it opens at 8:00 AM. You'll beat the tour groups and can view the butter sculpture hall in peace. 📍 There are many steps in the monastery; just take your parents through the main hall complex in the center and skip the side courtyards. Hire a guide, otherwise, your parents might just be looking at the scenery without understanding the context. Visit Dongguan Mosque in the evening. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, the light hits the courtyard at an angle, making the brick carvings look spectacular. ⚠️ You must take off your shoes to enter the hall, so bring a pair of thick socks for your parents as the floor is cold. 🚄 A taxi from Xining Station to Dongguan costs about CNY 15, and about CNY 60 to Ta'er Monastery. Stay in the Chengdong District for convenience to both. The altitude is 2,200 meters, so don't overschedule the first day; let your parents acclimate. 03 Tai'an | Shandong The key to climbing Mount Tai with parents is simple: don't overdo it. 📍 Take the scenic bus from Tianwai Village to Zhongtianmen, then switch to the cable car to Nantianmen. You'll barely have to climb any stairs, and your parents can still reach the Jade Emperor Peak. ⏰ Arrive at Tianwai Village before 7:00 AM to avoid long lines. The one-way cable car costs CNY 100—it's pricey, but it saves 3 hours of energy, which is worth it. Should you walk down the 18 Bends? ⚠️ Absolutely not. The steps are steep and narrow, which is hard on older knees. Taking the cable car and bus back the same way is the safest option. Leave the Hongmen hiking trail for the young people. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, go near the Old County Government Office for a bowl of Mount Tai tofu noodles—they're hot and soft. Stay near the train station and visit Dai Temple the next day; it's flat and relaxing. 04 Changzhou | Jiangsu Changzhou is the best stop on this trip for a "laid-back" vacation with your parents. Tianmu Lake, Spring and Autumn Yancheng, and Universal Dinosaur Town are in 3 different directions—don't be greedy, just pick 1 per day. 📍 Tianmu Lake is best for the morning; take a boat tour and have the casserole fish head on shore. ⚠️ Don't follow the touts at the entrance of the fish head restaurants; walk a bit further inside for honest prices. The Spring and Autumn Yancheng Tourist Area has flat roads and plenty of trees. ⏰ It's cooler to enter after 3:00 PM. Take your time wandering through the ruins; parents usually enjoy places with a bit of history. Dinosaur Town is more for families with kids, so you can skip it if your parents aren't interested. 🚄 It takes about 1 hour to drive from Changzhou Station to Tianmu Lake; self-driving or hiring a car is recommended. Stay in the city center and take a walk through Qingguo Lane in the evening; there's no admission fee, and the stone paths are flat. 05 Qiannan | Guizhou The water in Libo Zhangjiang is green and the paths are gentle, making it perfect for a summer getaway with your parents. 📍 Enter the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area through the East Gate and take the sightseeing bus to Wolongtan, then follow the current downstream. The route is mostly downhill with very few uphill sections. ⏰ Enter the valley at 8:00 AM before the mist clears for the best photos. ⚠️ The stones in the Water Forest section are slippery. Make sure your parents wear non-slip shoes, hold onto the railings, and don't go into the water. 🍜 After leaving the valley, have a bowl of sour soup fish outside the scenic area; ask for the mild version in advance. Stay in Libo County; it's half the price of staying inside the scenic area, and you can explore the ancient town in the evening. 🚄 It takes about 1 hour by high-speed rail from Guiyang to Libo. The water levels are high during the rainy season, and some trails may be temporarily closed, so check official notices before you leave. 06 Anshan | Liaoning Many people think you have to hike in Qianshan, but if you take the right route with your parents, it's not tiring at all. 📍 Take the electric cart from the main gate to Wuliangguan, then switch to the cable car to Wufoding. You'll see all the core scenery. ⏰ Go in the morning when the mountains are misty and look like an ink wash painting. ⚠️ Don't believe the claim that "it only takes 40 minutes to walk up"—that's 40 minutes for young people. 🍜 After coming down, go to the city to eat Nanguo pears and Niuzhuang meat pies; they're sweet, which older people love. Stay in the Tiedong District; it's about a half-hour taxi ride to Qianshan. The tickets plus the cable car aren't cheap, but you're saving your parents' knees. It's suitable for older adults who have limited mobility but still want to see the mountains. 07 Dehong | Yunnan The Menghuan Golden Pagoda in Mangshi is glittering, and your parents won't be able to resist taking photos when they stand beneath it. 📍 The pagoda is on top of Leiyarang Mountain, and you can take a taxi directly to the entrance without climbing. ⏰ Go after 5:00 PM when the sun isn't too harsh, and you can watch the sunset paint the pagoda orange. ⚠️ You must take off your shoes to enter the pagoda; if you're wearing shorts, remember to bring a scarf to wrap around yourself. 🍜 Go down to the streets of Mangshi to eat Sa Pie and Paoluda. The flavors are sour and spicy, so let your parents try a small bite first. Stay in downtown Mangshi; the pace is slow, making it perfect for a 2-day stay. 🚄 Mangshi has an airport, and it's a 1-hour flight from Kunming. It's most comfortable to visit in winter, with temperatures around 20 degrees, so your parents won't need to bundle up like dumplings. 08 Guyuan | Ningxia The Xumishan Grottoes are a hidden gem and truly worth visiting. 📍 The grottoes are carved into the cliff, and the boardwalks are well-maintained. Your parents can walk slowly and see the main caves in 1 hour. ⏰ The light hits the caves before 10:00 AM, making the outlines of the Buddha statues clear. ⚠️ Some caves require climbing narrow ladders; older adults should assess their own abilities, as just looking from below is impressive enough. 🍜 Go back to Guyuan city for a bowl of mutton sazi noodles with rich broth and soft noodles. Stay in the Yuanzhou District; it's about 1 hour's drive to Xumishan, so hiring a car is recommended. There are few tourists here, so you don't have to wait in line, making it suitable for older adults who dislike crowds. It's dry in the Northwest, so pack lip balm and water for your parents. These 8 places all share the same traits: flat roads, a slow pace, and no hassle. Pick 1 close to home, take your parents out this National Day, don't rush, and just take it slow. Which one have you been to? Let's chat in the comments.

The biggest mistake people make when traveling in October is flocking to big cities. Beijing, Chengdu, Xi'an, Changsha… even after National Day, these places are still crowded, hotels are expensive, and the experience suffers. People who know better go to small towns in October. Small towns have fewer people, lower prices, purer autumn colors, and each one has its own unique charm. Here are 5 underrated small towns to visit in October — go and you'll see why visiting so many big cities before was a waste. 🇰🇵 Dandong | One city, three experiences Dandong, a small border city in Liaoning, sits across the river from North Korea. This one city can give you three completely different experiences. Border viewing: The Yalu River Broken Bridge is Dandong's landmark. It was bombed by U.S. forces in 1950, and its ruins still stand in the river. Standing on the broken bridge and looking across the water, you see Sinuiju in North Korea. One side is bustling Dandong, the other is quiet North Korea — the feeling is uncanny. Autumn scenery: In October, both banks of the Yalu River are covered in golden and fiery red trees reflected in the green water. The section by Hushan Great Wall — Great Wall + autumn forest + border river — is a unique autumn scene in the country. [Tableware] Eat Korean-Chinese cuisine: Dandong's Korean-Chinese food is even cheaper than Yanji. Cold noodles, rice cakes, blood sausage, stir-fried pork belly with kimchi, warm noodles, seafood hotpot — any street restaurant is delicious. About CNY 30–40 per person to eat until full. 💰 Budget: 2 hours by high-speed rail from Shenyang, lodging CNY 100–200, 2 days and 1 night about CNY 400–600. [Scenic] Tachuan | fewer people than Hongcun, more beautiful autumn colors Tachuan in Anhui is just a 20-minute drive from Hongcun, but 99% of tourists only know Hongcun and miss Tachuan. Tachuan is one of China's four top autumn-viewing spots (alongside Jiuzhaigou, Kanas, and Xiangshan), and late October to early November is the best time. The whole village is surrounded by Chinese tallow trees whose leaves shift from green to yellow to red to purple in layered colors, earning it the name colorful village. The key thing is — fewer people. Hongcun can see tens of thousands of visitors a day during National Day, while Tachuan has only a few hundred. You can stroll through the village without crowds, tour guides, or loudspeakers — just farmers drying their harvests, curling smoke from kitchens, and autumn colors on the hills. The Hui-style old houses with white walls, black tiles, and horse-head gables against the red leaves make every photo postcard-perfect. 💰 Budget: High-speed rail to Huangshan then to Yixian, 20 minutes by car/taxi to Tachuan, ticket about CNY 40, lodging CNY 80–150 (stay in a village guesthouse), 1 day is enough. ☕ Mangshi | Southeast Asia is right next to Yunnan Mangshi, the capital of Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan, sits right next to Myanmar. Because Tengchong is so famous, Mangshi is often treated as a transfer stop, but Mangshi itself is worth a dedicated trip. Southeast Asian vibe: The Golden Pagoda and Silver Pagoda are Mangshi's landmarks — one gold, one silver, glittering in the sun. Walk the streets and you see Dai architecture, Myanmar-style temples, and tropical plants, and for a moment you might think you're in Southeast Asia. Coffee origin: Yunnan is China's largest coffee-producing region, and the Lujiangba area near Mangshi is a core production zone. October is coffee harvest season — visit estates to see picking and roasting, and drink a cup of freshly ground Yunnan coffee that tastes far better than Starbucks. [Cutlery] Food paradise: sa-pie, hand-pulled rice noodles, pholuda, pineapple rice, sour vegetables… Dai and Myanmar flavors blend for sour, spicy, and aromatic dishes that feel more authentic than Xishuangbanna, at about half the price of Kunming. [Purse] Budget: Fly to Mangshi Airport (few flights, can connect via Kunming), lodging CNY 100–200, 2 days and 1 night about CNY 500–800. 📸 Xiapu | October is the best month to shoot all year Xiapu in Fujian is China's ultimate tidal flat photography mecca. October is the best season — the receding tide leaves mudflats that turn gold and red at sunset, seaweed racks form geometric lines, and fishermen carrying shoulder poles walk across the flats; every frame looks like a movie still. Compared with Sanya, Xiapu has only about one-tenth the crowds of National Day and about half the accommodation prices. Four must-visit spots: · Beiqi tidal flats — best for sunrise, when the sun rises from the horizon and the flats turn golden · Xiaohao beach — best for sunset, when the light is softest · Dongbi village — panoramic fishing village views, most beautiful at sunset · Huazhu village — widest sea sunrise views Each spot has its own character. Stay at least two nights and shoot both morning and evening. You don't need professional skills — even phone photos look stunning. 💰 Budget: 1 hour by high-speed rail from Fuzhou to Xiapu, lodging CNY 150–300, 2 days and 1 night about CNY 400–700. 🏔️ Enshi | a canyon city overshadowed by Zhangjiajie Enshi in Hubei is less than 200 km in a straight line from Zhangjiajie, with similar scenery but only about one-tenth the visitors. Enshi Grand Canyon is the core attraction: cliffside walkways, sinkholes, and chasms like Yunlong Rift are as spectacular as Zhangjiajie. Enshi's canyons feel more primitive and less developed, and you often find yourself alone on the walkways. Pingshan Canyon is even more amazing — water so clear it looks like glass, boats floating like they're suspended in midair, earning it the nickname China's Semporna. October has stable water levels and the clearest water of the year, making it the best time to visit. Beyond the scenery, Enshi is a Tujia ethnic area with distinctive food like Tujia falling-bowl wine, hezha, baked potatoes, and cured meat. 💰 Budget: high-speed rail to Enshi station, lodging CNY 100–200, Enshi Grand Canyon + Pingshan Canyon 2 days about CNY 800–1,200 (including transport and tickets). Why should you go to a small town in October? · Fewer people: the National Day peak is over, so small towns feel almost private · Cheaper: lodging is at least half the price of big cities, and dining is cheaper too · Purer autumn colors: small towns' autumn hasn't been commercialized and feels more natural · Unique experiences: each small town has its own culture, food, and lifestyle that big cities can't offer Next time you travel in October, stop squeezing into big cities. Pick a small town, stay two nights, walk slowly, eat slowly, and watch slowly. This is what travel should be.

What's the worst thing about driving during the National Day holiday? Getting stuck in traffic on the highway watching taillights, and then seeing the backs of other drivers at the scenic spots. I flipped through a map and picked six lesser-known but surprisingly charming small towns. Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, lower costs, and most importantly, smooth routes. 01 Dehong | Yunnan Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda | Yunnan, Dehong ⏰ Arrive at the Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda before 8 am. The sunlight will be at an angle on the spire, so you won't have to fight for a good spot to take photos. After 10 am, tour groups will arrive, and the steps will be packed with people. 📍 Don't miss the mountain trail at the foot of the pagoda. A 40-minute walk around the area offers panoramic views of the Mangshi Basin. It's perfect for taking elderly people for a leisurely stroll, as the slope isn't steep. 🍜 On the way down the mountain, head to Kuoshi Road to find "Sa Pie" (a type of Sichuan snack). The bitter Sa Pie is slightly bitter with a sweet aftertaste, while the lemon Sa Pie is refreshing. You can eat your fill for around 30 yuan per person, which is much more affordable than the shops near the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ You need to take off your shoes before entering the pagoda. Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove shoes. Before renting out Dai costumes for photos at the entrance, ask about the price first to avoid being overcharged. It's a 20-minute drive from Mangshi Airport. Dehong isn't a popular destination during the National Day holiday; you can find decent hotels for around 200 yuan. 02 Hefei | Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town | Anhui, Hefei The waterways of Sanhe Ancient Town are more interesting to explore than I expected. Enter from South Street, walk along the Xiaonan River to Wangyue Pavilion; the stone-paved streets and horse-head walls retain the Hui-style architecture. 📌 The main activity is taking a traditional awning boat ride. 📍 The boat dock is at Xiaonanmen; it takes 15 minutes one way to the other side. The views from the boat are more interesting than from the shore, especially at dusk when the lights come on. 🍜 Try Sanhe rice dumplings and crispy duck. The rice dumplings have a crispy outer skin and are filled with tofu and dried shrimp. Freshly fried on the street are much better than packaged ones. ⚠️ The ancient town itself is free, but several smaller attractions inside require separate admission fees. You can skip places like Yang Zhenning's former residence if you're not a fan. Parking is limited during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to park outside and walk in. It's about an hour's drive from Hefei city center. A half-day trip is recommended; arrive in the afternoon and leave in the evening. Families with children can visit the wetland park along the way. 03 Taizhou|Jiangsu Zhenhu Lake|Jiangsu·Taizhou To truly appreciate the beauty of Zhenhu Lake's reed marshes, you need to take a boat. 📍 After buying your ticket at the scenic area gate, head straight to the pier. Don't spend too much time at the wetland science museum near the entrance. ⏰ Between 9:00 and 11:00 AM, the waterbirds are most active. The boatman will point out egrets and wild ducks. Bringing binoculars will double the experience. 🍜 After leaving the scenic area, head to Zhentong Ancient Town for fish cakes and shrimp balls. The ancient town has no entrance fee and is half the price of dining inside Zhenhu Lake. The fish cake soup is delicious, and the shrimp balls are springy and chewy. ⚠️ The Zhenhu Lake entrance fee includes a boat ticket, but boats operate on a fixed schedule. If you miss a boat, you'll have to wait half an hour. Take a picture of the timetable upon entering. It's recommended to buy tickets online in advance during the National Day holiday. It's a 40-minute drive from Taizhou city. Suitable for families with parents; the pace is slow and there's little walking. In early October, the reeds are just sprouting, a beautiful green tinged with yellow. 04 Liuzhou|Guangxi Chengyang Eight Villages|Guangxi·Liuzhou Chengyang Eight Villages is located north of Liuzhou, a two-hour drive. 📍 The Wind and Rain Bridge is a landmark, but don't just photograph the bridge. Walk further in; the stilted houses and rice paddies are the main attractions. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light warms up, making it the best time to photograph the Chengyang Yongji Bridge. Many students sketch on the bridge, so be prepared to wait for a good spot. 🍜 Enjoy Dong-style oil tea and sour fish in the village. The first sip of oil tea is bitter, the second is fragrant. The pickled fish is marinated and served with glutinous rice. Longtan Park | Liuzhou, Guangxi Back in Liuzhou city, Longtan Park is free. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and walk around the large Longtan (Dragon Pool). Karst hills are reflected in the water; locals stroll here. Liujiang River | Liuzhou, Guangxi ⏰ Go to the Liujiang River to watch the fountain at 7:30 pm. 📍 The section of the river from Wenchang Bridge to Yaobu ​​Ancient Town has the best view. The river breeze carries away the smell of snail rice noodles. ⚠️ The mountain roads in Chengyang Bazhai are winding; novice drivers should drive slowly. During the National Day holiday, accommodation in the villages needs to be booked in advance; last-minute bookings are likely to be unavailable. 05 Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake | Bortala, Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake cannot be captured even a tenth in a photo. 📍 Enter from the east gate and circle the lake counter-clockwise. The south bank is less crowded, while the north bank has more viewing platforms. ⏰ From 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the lake is calm, and the reflections are clearest. After 10:00 AM, the wind picks up, and the lake turns a deep blue, offering a different kind of beauty. Anjihai Grand Canyon | Bortala, Xinjiang Anjihai Grand Canyon is a self-explanatory scenic spot and does not charge an entrance fee. 📍 Navigate to the Anjihai Grand Canyon viewing platform; you can drive to the edge. Looking down, your legs will tremble. ⚠️ There are no guardrails along the canyon edge, so be sure to hold children's hands tightly. It's windy, so don't wear a loose hat. Wenquan County Scenery | Bortala, Xinjiang Wenquan County is a good place to stay overnight. 📍 The river valley near the county town is often foggy in the morning. Soak in a hot spring to relax. 🍜 Enjoy mutton soup and milk tea. The mutton in Wenquan County has no gamey smell; it's fragrant even when boiled in plain water. During the National Day holiday, Bortala is less crowded than Yili. It's a five-hour drive from Urumqi; a rest stop in Jinghe is recommended. 06 Benxi | Liaoning Benxi Water Cave | Liaoning, Benxi You need to take a boat to enter Benxi Water Cave. 📍 There's a queue at the cave entrance, so go early to avoid waiting. The temperature inside the cave is a constant 12 degrees Celsius, so bring a jacket. ⏰ Enter the cave before 10 AM; the light shining in from the entrance creates a layered effect on the water. Later, it relies entirely on artificial lighting, which isn't as impressive. Huanren Wunü Mountain | Liaoning, Benxi Wunü Mountain is in Huanren, a two-hour drive from Benxi city. 📍 The mountain isn't high, but the steps are steep. The highlight is the ruins of a mountain city from the Goguryeo period; the stone walls are still there. Guanmenshan National Forest Park | Benxi, Liaoning The maple leaves at Guanmenshan start to turn red in early October. 📍 Enter from the main gate and take the Fengwangou route. During the National Day holiday, the leaves are just beginning to change color, with more green than red; the best time to visit is mid-to-late October. ⚠️ Don't combine all three attractions on the same day; it'll be too rushed. Half a day for Shuidong, half a day for Wunüshan, and a separate day for Guanmenshan. The highway from Benxi to Huanren is toll-free during the National Day holiday, but service areas are scarce, so fill up your tank beforehand. 🍜 Enjoy Xiaoshi mutton soup with steamed buns. The soup is white and the meat is tender; it'll warm you up completely. Don't just focus on Dalian and Shenyang for your National Day road trip. This route in Benxi is half the crowd, and the scenery is just as beautiful. 07 Putian | Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area | Putian, Fujian Meizhou Island requires a ferry. 📍 Buy your ferry ticket at Wenjia Wharf; it takes half an hour to reach the island. Ferry services are increased during the National Day holiday, but queues are still long, so arrive early rather than late. ⏰ After arriving on the island, visit the Mazu Ancestral Temple first; it's less crowded in the morning. The temple is built on a hillside, and the path leads uphill with sea views. 🍜 Eat Mazu noodles and oyster omelets on the island. The oyster omelets use local small oysters and are very fresh. They're a little more expensive than in Putian city, but still acceptable. ⚠️ Buy ferry tickets and island tickets separately. Don't believe the touts at the pier offering "skip-the-line" tickets; just buy them at the official window. There are buses on the island, but renting an electric scooter is more convenient and costs around 50 yuan per day. Driving from Putian city to Wenjia Pier takes about 40 minutes. It's suitable for bringing elderly people, as Mazu culture holds significant meaning for Fujianese people. Accommodation prices on the island increase significantly during the National Day holiday; it's recommended to stay in Putian city for a day trip. 08 Jining | Shandong Qufu Ming Dynasty City (Three Confucian Sites) Tourist Area | Jining, Shandong Hiring a guide is essential for visiting the Three Confucian Sites in Qufu; otherwise, it's just about looking at the buildings. 📍 Enter the Confucius Temple from the South Gate and walk along the central axis to the Dacheng Hall. The Confucius Mansion is behind it, and the Confucius Cemetery is outside the city walls. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM, before the tour groups arrive. After 10:00 AM, the area in front of the Wanren Palace Wall is full of people taking photos. Weishan Lake Tourist Area | Jining, Shandong Weishan Lake is a 1.5-hour drive from Qufu. 📍 Take a ferry to Weishan Island. The Railway Guerrilla Memorial Park on the island is worth visiting, but the main attraction is the lake. ⏰ Take a boat to the Lotus Pond in the evening. In early October, not many lotus flowers remain, but the lotus pods are still there. The boatman will pick some for you to taste; the tender lotus pods are sweet. 🍜 Eat Weishan Lake carp and salted duck eggs. The carp with four holes is different from others. The salted duck egg yolk is oily and goes well with porridge. ⚠️ Buying a combined ticket for the three Confucius Temples (Confucius Temple, Confucius Cemetery, and Confucius Cemetery) is more cost-effective, but the Confucius Temple is far away, so you can skip it if you're short on time. The last ferry on Weishan Lake departs at 6 PM, don't miss it. Accommodation in Qufu is expensive during the National Day holiday; staying in Jining city center is only a 40-minute drive away. Of these 6 places, I most want to revisit Sayram Lake and Benxi. One is unbelievably blue, and the other is just the right amount of red. Which direction are you planning to drive in during the National Day holiday? What's the worst thing about driving during the National Day holiday? Getting stuck in traffic on the highway watching taillights, and then seeing the backs of other drivers at the scenic spots. I looked through a map and picked 6 less-visited but high-quality small towns. Fewer people, beautiful scenery, lower costs, and most importantly, smooth routes. 01 Dehong | Yunnan Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda | Dehong, Yunnan ⏰ Arrive at the Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda before 8 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely on the spire, making it easier to take photos without having to fight for a good spot. After 10 AM, tour groups arrive, and the steps are packed with people. 📍 Don't miss the mountain trail at the foot of the pagoda. A 40-minute walk around offers panoramic views of the Mangshi Basin. It's suitable for taking elderly people on a leisurely stroll, as the slope is not steep. 🍜 On the way down the mountain, head to Kuoshi Road to find "Sa Pie" (a type of local snack). The bitter Sa Pie is slightly bitter with a sweet aftertaste, while the lemon Sa Pie is refreshing. A meal costs around 30 RMB per person and is quite filling, much better value than the shops near the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ Remove your shoes before entering the pagoda. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to remove. When renting Dai costumes for photos at the entrance, ask about the price before changing to avoid being overcharged. It's a 20-minute drive from Mangshi Airport. Dehong isn't a popular destination during the National Day holiday, and you can find decent hotels for around 200 RMB. 02 Hefei | Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town | Anhui, Hefei The waterways of Sanhe Ancient Town are more interesting to explore than I expected. Enter from South Street, walk along the Xiaonan River to Wangyue Pavilion, the stone-paved streets and horse-head walls along the way still retain the Hui-style architecture. 📌 The core activity is taking a ride on a traditional awning boat. 📍 The boat dock is at Xiaonanmen, a 15-minute one-way trip to the other side. The views from the boat are more interesting than from the shore, especially at dusk when the lights come on. 🍜 Try Sanhe rice dumplings and crispy duck. The rice dumplings have a crispy outer skin and a filling of tofu and dried shrimp. Freshly fried on the street are much better than packaged ones. ⚠️ The ancient town itself is free, but several smaller attractions inside charge separately. You can skip places like Yang Zhenning's former residence if you're not a fan. Parking is limited during the National Day holiday, so it's recommended to park on the outskirts and walk in. It's about an hour's drive from Hefei city center. A half-day trip is recommended, arrive in the afternoon and leave in the evening. Families with children can conveniently visit the wetland park along the way. 03 Taizhou|Jiangsu Zhenhu Lake|Jiangsu·Taizhou To truly appreciate the beauty of Zhenhu Lake's reed marshes, you need to take a boat. 📍 After purchasing tickets at the park entrance, head straight to the pier. Don't linger too long at the wetland science museum near the entrance. ⏰ Between 9:00 and 11:00 AM, the waterbirds are most active. The boatman will point out egrets and wild ducks. Bringing binoculars will enhance the experience. 🍜 After leaving the park, head to Zhentong Ancient Town for fish cakes and shrimp balls. The ancient town has no entrance fee and is half the price of dining inside Zhenhu Lake. The fish cake soup is delicious, and the shrimp balls are springy. ⚠️ Zhenhu Lake's entrance fee includes a boat ticket, but boat schedules are fixed. If you miss a boat, you'll have to wait half an hour. Take a picture of the timetable upon entering. During the National Day holiday, it's recommended to buy tickets online in advance. It's a 40-minute drive from downtown Taizhou. Suitable for families with parents, slow pace, minimal walking. Early October is the perfect time to visit, as the reeds are just sprouting, a beautiful green tinged with yellow. 04 Liuzhou | Guangxi Chengyang Eight Villages | Guangxi, Liuzhou Chengyang Eight Villages is located north of Liuzhou, a two-hour drive away. 📍 The Wind and Rain Bridge is a landmark, but don't just photograph the bridge itself. Walk further in; the stilted houses and rice paddies are the main attractions. ⏰ After 4 PM, the light warms up, making it the best time to photograph the Yongji Bridge in Chengyang. Many students are sketching on the bridge, so be prepared to wait for a good spot. 🍜 Try Dong-style oil tea and sour fish in the village. The oil tea is bitter at first, but fragrant afterward. The sour fish is pickled and served with sticky rice. Longtan Park | Guangxi, Liuzhou Back in Liuzhou city, Longtan Park is free. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and walk around the large Longtan (Dragon Pool). Karst hills are reflected in the water, and locals stroll along the banks. Liujiang River | Liuzhou, Guangxi ⏰ Go to the Liujiang River to watch the fountain at 7:30 pm. 📍 The section of the river from Wenchang Bridge to Yaobu ​​Ancient Town has the best view. The river breeze carries away the smell of snail rice noodles. ⚠️ The mountain roads in Chengyang Bazhai are winding; novice drivers should drive slowly. During the National Day holiday, accommodation in the villages needs to be booked in advance; last-minute bookings are likely to be unavailable. 05 Bortala | Xinjiang Sayram Lake | Bortala, Xinjiang The blue of Sayram Lake cannot be captured even a fraction of its beauty in a photo. 📍 Enter from the east gate and circle the lake counter-clockwise. The south bank is less crowded, while the north bank has more viewing platforms. ⏰ From 7 am to 9 am, the lake is calm, and the reflections are clearest. After 10 am, the wind picks up, and the lake turns a deep blue, offering a different kind of beauty. Anjihai Grand Canyon | Bortala, Xinjiang Anjihai Grand Canyon is an unofficial scenic spot, with no entrance fee. 📍 Navigate to the Anjihai Grand Canyon viewing platform; you can drive to the edge. Looking down, your legs will tremble. ⚠️ There are no guardrails along the canyon edge, so keep children on their hands. It's windy, so don't wear a loose hat. Wenquan County Scenery | Bortala, Xinjiang Wenquan County is a good place to stay overnight. 📍 The river valley near the county town is often foggy in the morning. Soak in a hot spring to relax. 🍜 Eat mutton soup and milk tea. The mutton in Wenquan County isn't gamey; it's fragrant even when boiled in plain water. Bortala is less crowded than Yili during the National Day holiday. It's a five-hour drive from Urumqi; a rest stop in Jinghe is recommended. 06 Benxi | Liaoning Benxi Water Cave | Liaoning, Benxi Benxi Water Cave requires a boat ride to enter. 📍 There's a queue at the cave entrance, so arrive early to avoid long waits. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 12 degrees Celsius, so bring a jacket. ⏰ Enter the cave before 10 AM when the light shines in from the entrance, creating a layered effect on the water. Later in the day, the lighting is less impressive. Huanren Wunü Mountain | Liaoning, Benxi Wunü Mountain is located in Huanren, a two-hour drive from Benxi city. 📍 The mountain isn't high, but the steps are steep. The highlight is the ruins of a Goguryeo-era mountain fortress; the stone walls are still standing. Guanmenshan National Forest Park | Liaoning, Benxi The maple leaves at Guanmenshan start to turn red in early October. 📍 Enter from the main gate and follow the route through Fengwangou. During the National Day holiday, the leaves are just beginning to change color, with more green than red; the best time to visit is mid-to-late October. ⚠️ Don't combine all three destinations on the same day; it'll be too rushed. Half a day for the Water Cave, half a day for Wunü Mountain, and a separate day for Guanmen Mountain. The highway from Benxi to Huanren is toll-free during the National Day holiday, but service areas are scarce, so fill up your tank beforehand. 🍜 Enjoy Xiaoshi mutton soup with steamed buns. The soup is white and the meat is tender; it'll warm you up completely. Don't just focus on Dalian and Shenyang for your National Day road trip. The Benxi route is much less crowded, but the scenery is just as beautiful. 07 Putian|Fujian Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourism Area|Fujian·Putian Meizhou Island requires a ferry. 📍 Buy your ferry ticket at Wenjia Wharf; it takes half an hour to reach the island. Ferry services are more frequent during the National Day holiday, but queues can still be long, so go early rather than late. ⏰ After arriving on the island, visit the Mazu Ancestral Temple first; it's less crowded in the morning. The temple is built against the mountain; the path leads uphill, offering views of the sea. 🍜 Eat Mazu noodles and oyster omelets on the island. The oyster omelets use local small oysters, very fresh. A little more expensive than in Putian city, but acceptable. ⚠️ Buy ferry tickets and island tickets separately. Don't believe the touts at the pier offering "skip-the-line" tickets; just buy them at the official window. There are buses on the island, but renting an electric scooter is more convenient, around 50 yuan per day. Driving from Putian city to Wenjia pier takes 40 minutes. Suitable for bringing elders, as Mazu culture holds great significance for Fujian people. Accommodation prices on the island increase significantly during the National Day holiday; it's recommended to stay in Putian city for a day trip. 08 Jining|Shandong Qufu Ming Dynasty City (Three Confucius Sites) Tourist Area|Shandong·Jining Hiring a guide is recommended for the Qufu Three Confucius Sites; otherwise, it's just like looking at houses. 📍 Enter the Confucius Temple from the South Gate and walk along the central axis to the Dacheng Hall. The Confucius Mansion is behind, and the Confucius Cemetery is outside the city. ⏰ Enter as soon as it opens at 8 am, before the tour groups arrive. After 10 PM, the area in front of the Wanren Palace Wall was packed with people taking photos. Weishan Lake Tourist Area | Jining, Shandong Weishan Lake is a 1.5-hour drive from Qufu. 📍 Take a ferry to Weishan Island. The Railway Guerrilla Memorial Park on the island is worth visiting, but the main attraction is the lake. ⏰ In the evening, take a boat to the Lotus Pond. In early October, not many lotus flowers remain, but the lotus pods are still there. The boatman will pick some for you to taste; the tender lotus pods are sweet and delicious. 🍜 Eat Weishan Lake carp and salted duck eggs. The carp has four holes, unlike those elsewhere. The salted duck eggs have runny yolks and are perfect with porridge. ⚠️ Buying a combined ticket for the three Confucius Sites (Confucius Temple, Confucius Cemetery, and Confucius Cemetery) is more cost-effective, but the Confucius Cemetery is far away, so you can skip it if you're short on time. The last ferry to Weishan Lake departs at 6 PM, so don't miss it. Accommodation in Qufu is expensive during the National Day holiday; it's only a 40-minute drive from Jining city center. Of these six places, I most want to revisit Sayram Lake and Benxi. One is unbelievably blue, and the other is just the right amount of red. Which direction are you planning to drive in for the National Day holiday?

Don't want to spend a fortune during National Day? These 6️⃣ budget-friendly cities are a great option! 01 Beijing Don't be intimidated by the "capital's prices" when visiting Beijing for National Day. Tickets to the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park will cost less than 150 yuan combined. Staying in a chain hotel outside the Third Ring Road will cost just over 200 yuan per night. ⏰ Tickets for the Forbidden City must be booked seven days in advance, and tickets are released at 8 PM. If you don't get tickets, go to Beihai Park instead. Tickets are only 5 yuan, and a 40-minute boat ride under the White Pagoda costs only 60 yuan. 📍 After exiting Beihai Park from the North Gate, turn into the alley next to Prince Gong's Mansion. There's an old shop selling noodles with soybean paste for 18 yuan a bowl, much more affordable than the 35 yuan in the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't enter the Summer Palace from the East Gate; tour groups will be crammed in there. Enter from the North Gate, climb Longevity Hill first, then take a boat down Suzhou Street—it saves energy and avoids the crowds. The Temple of Heaven opens at 6:30 AM, and local grandpas are playing shuttlecock in the long corridor. Sneaking in to listen to the pigeons whistling is more interesting than seeing the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. During the National Day holiday, the Beijing subway will increase its frequency, but Qianmen Station will be closed, so remember to take an alternate route. 02 Anyang | Henan Anyang is the kind of place that's "rustic in its sounds and fragrant in its atmosphere." The Yin Ruins entrance fee is 70 yuan, and you can see genuine oracle bone inscriptions. The Taihang Grand Canyon is ablaze with red and yellow in autumn, perfect for National Day. 🚄 Get off at Anyang East Station and take the tourist bus directly to the Yin Ruins for 5 yuan. Don't take a taxi; drivers often take longer routes. 🍜 In the morning, go to the old town for some flat rice noodles and vegetables (6 yuan a bowl, with a 2 yuan fried dough stick). Arrive at the Yin Ruins before 10 am to catch a guided tour; otherwise, you'll only see dirt pits. In the afternoon, go to the Taihang Grand Canyon; the Peach Blossom Valley hike takes about three hours. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes; there are many muddy paths along the streams. Water is expensive in the canyon, so bring two bottles. Near Yinxu, there's a restaurant called "Lao Anyang Huimian" (Old Anyang Stewed Noodles), a small bowl costs 12 yuan, and they give a generous amount of mutton. During the National Day holiday, Yinxu has a night session; the lights shining on the oracle bone pits are even more stunning than during the day. Stay near the train station; budget hotels are around 120 yuan. 03 Dehong | Yunnan Dehong is a "price haven" in Yunnan. The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda in Mangshi is free to enter, only costing 3 yuan for shoe covers. Flights to Mangshi during the National Day holiday are half the price of flights to Dali. ⏰ Go to the Grand Golden Pagoda at 6 pm; the setting sun shines on the spire, making the whole pagoda look like it's plated in gold. After taking photos, head down the mountain; there's a Dai-style barbecue place at the foot of the mountain, grilled pork belly costs 33 yuan a serving, enough for two people. 📍 The "Tree-Wrapped Pagoda" on Tuanjie Street in Mangshi can't be found on navigation apps; ask locals "which tree wraps around the pagoda," and they'll smile and point you in the right direction. Free to see, and you can finish in ten minutes. ⚠️ Don't buy "Burmese jade" at the scenic area entrance; nine out of ten are fake. If you want to buy jadeite, go to Huafeng Market, but you need to know what you're doing. Dehong is suitable for a slow-paced stay. Rent an electric scooter for 30 yuan a day, ride to Zhefang to eat tribute rice, and there are Dai-style restaurants near the rice paddies for 40 yuan per person. The Ruili border crossing is crowded during the National Day holiday, so bring your ID card. Stay near Mangshi Square; you can find very good guesthouses for 150 yuan. 04 Jiuquan | Gansu Jiuquan is a "low-cost entry point" to Dunhuang. The entrance fee to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake is 110 yuan, but one ticket is valid for three days. An emergency ticket to Mogao Grottoes is 100 yuan, allowing you to see four grottoes, half the price of a regular ticket. 🚄 A taxi from Dunhuang Station to Mingsha Mountain costs 10 yuan. ⏰ Enter at 7 am; a camel ride costs 100 yuan, and you'll have one less hour of waiting time than at noon. Bring a bottle of water; you'll be out of breath climbing the sand dunes. 📍 At the Mogao Grottoes Digital Center, watch two movies first, then take a bus to the grottoes. Emergency tickets only allow you to see the Nine-Story Pagoda and the Reclining Buddha, but the guides provide detailed explanations. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes; please do not use your phone. The Yadan National Geological Park and Yumenguan Pass are on the same route. A chartered car costs 400 yuan per day, or 100 yuan per person for a shared ride. The sunset at Yadan is more beautiful than the sunrise, but the return trip is late, so bring a thick coat. Accommodation prices in Dunhuang are skyrocketing during the National Day holiday; staying in Jiuquan city (one hour by train) is much cheaper, by two-thirds. 05 Handan|Hebei Handan is known as the "Capital of Idioms," but the cost of living is surprisingly low, like a county town. Guangfu Ancient City is free to enter, but climbing the city wall costs 20 yuan. The entrance fee to the Wa Huang Palace is 70 yuan, and the cable car is extra. 🍜 In the morning, have "doumo" (a type of porridge) in Handan city (3 yuan a bowl, with a 5 yuan egg bag). After eating, take bus 605 to Guangfu (7 yuan fare). Rent bicycles in Guangfu Ancient City for 10 yuan an hour to ride to the reed marshes to see water birds. ⚠️ Don't buy "Guangfu Crispy Fish" inside the city gate; it's 25 yuan for a small bag. Turn right after exiting and go to the market for 15 yuan. Nuwa Palace is in Shexian County, a two-hour bus ride from Handan. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light shining on Nuwa Pavilion makes it look like a hanging temple. There are folk performances during the National Day holiday, but it's crowded, so it's recommended to arrive before 8 AM. Accommodation in Handan is cheap; chain hotels are just over 100 yuan. Take a walk in Congtai Park in the evening; it's free. Locals sing Henan opera; you can sit on the steps and listen for a while—better than scrolling on your phone. 06 Shenyang|Liaoning Shenyang is the king of low-cost living in Northeast China. Beiling Park entrance fee is 6 yuan, World Expo Park is 50 yuan, and Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and Beita Falun Temple are free. 📍 Beiling Park opens at 6 AM. Local elderly men practice Tai Chi by the lake. It costs 6 yuan to enter and you can spend about three hours there. ⚠️ Don't enter from the main gate; enter from the east gate, where there are fewer people and more trees. The World Expo Park has a chrysanthemum exhibition during the National Day holiday. Tickets are 50 yuan, but half price applies after 4 PM. Bring some bread; food inside the park is expensive. The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda is located on Tawan Street. It's an ancient Liao Dynasty pagoda and is free. The nearby Beita Falun Temple is also free; you can see it in ten minutes. 🍜 For lunch, go to Lao Siji pulled noodles. A bowl costs 8 yuan and comes with 5 pieces of chicken frame—a standard meal for Shenyang locals. Shenyang has a well-developed subway system. Take Line 2 to Beiling Park and Line 1 to the World Expo Park, then transfer to a bus. Stay near Zhongjie; a budget hotel costs 150 yuan. Zhongjie is crowded during the National Day holiday, but food is inexpensive; large fruits are 5 yuan each. 07 Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan is a typical example of "expensive entrance fees, cheap surrounding areas." The Huangshan Scenic Area entrance fee is 190 yuan, but individual tickets for Xidi, Hongcun, Chengkan, and the Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area are between 50 and 100 yuan; a combined ticket is more cost-effective. 🚄 Get off at Huangshan North Station and take the tourist bus to Hongcun (30 yuan). ⏰ Arrive in Hongcun before 7 am; the morning mist over Nanhu Lake hasn't dissipated, and there's no rush to get on the painted bridge. After 8 am, tour groups flood in, and you'll only see heads. Xidi is quieter than Hongcun. The entrance fee is 104 yuan, but entry is free after 5 pm. ⚠️ Don't trust villagers who claim they can help you skip the ticket; if caught, you'll have to pay the full price and be fined. Chengkan Ancient Village entrance fee is 107 yuan, but during the National Day holiday, there's an autumn harvest festival with chili peppers and corn drying in the fields—a great photo opportunity. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area includes the Ancient City of Huizhou and the Tangyue Memorial Archway Complex. A combined ticket costs 220 yuan and is valid for two days. Stay in a guesthouse outside Hongcun for 180 yuan per night, half the price of staying inside the village. 🍜 Eat hairy tofu and stinky mandarin fish; street stalls cost around 50 yuan per person. Huangshan is windy, so bring a windproof jacket. 08 Xiangxi | Hunan Xiangxi is Hunan's "hidden gem." Fenghuang Ancient City is free to enter; Dehang Grand Canyon costs 80 yuan; a combined ticket for Shibadong and Aizhai Bridge costs 120 yuan. 📍 Fenghuang Ancient City is deserted before 7 am; only Miao grandmothers washing clothes are seen along the Tuojiang River. ⏰ Go to the Jumping Rocks at 6 pm; the light shining on the stilted houses is more beautiful than the night view. Dehang Grand Canyon is in Jishou, a 1.5-hour bus ride from Fenghuang. The flowing sand waterfall in the canyon has a large volume of water; a complete loop takes two hours. ⚠️ Don't wear flip-flops, the cobblestone streets are slippery. The Aizhai Bridge viewing platform ticket is 120 RMB, including the glass walkway. If you're afraid of heights, don't go up; the view from below is still spectacular. Shibadong Village is free, but transportation is inconvenient, so hiring a car is recommended (300 RMB per day). 🍜 In Fenghuang Ancient Town, try the blood duck soup (small portion is 40 RMB). Stay at a guesthouse along the Tuojiang River; a river-view room costs 150 RMB. Fenghuang is crowded during the National Day holiday, but if you venture deeper into the alleys, you can still find rice noodles for 10 RMB a bowl. If you don't want to spend a lot of money during the National Day holiday, head to these smaller towns. Visit the imperial gardens in Beijing, study oracle bone inscriptions in Anyang, bask in the sun in Dehong, see the desert in Jiuquan, learn idioms in Handan, eat chicken frames in Shenyang, explore ancient villages in Huangshan, and listen to Miao songs in Xiangxi. Pick one and go! Don't want to spend a lot of money during the National Day holiday? These 6️⃣ affordable small cities are a real bargain! 01 Beijing Don't be scared off by the "capital's prices" when visiting Beijing during the National Day holiday. Tickets to the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Beihai Park total less than 150 yuan. Staying in a chain hotel outside the Third Ring Road will cost just over 200 yuan per night. ⏰ Tickets for the Forbidden City must be booked seven days in advance, and tickets are released at 8 PM. If you don't get tickets, go to Beihai Park instead. Tickets are only 5 yuan, and a 40-minute boat ride under the White Pagoda costs only 60 yuan. 📍 After exiting Beihai Park from the North Gate, turn into the alley next to Prince Gong's Mansion. There's an old shop selling noodles with soybean paste for 18 yuan a bowl, much more affordable than the 35 yuan in the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't enter the Summer Palace from the East Gate; tour groups will be crammed in there. Enter from the North Gate, climb Longevity Hill first, then take a boat down Suzhou Street—it saves energy and avoids the crowds. The Temple of Heaven opens at 6:30 AM, and local grandpas are playing shuttlecock in the long corridor. Sneaking in to listen to the pigeons whistling is more interesting than seeing the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. During the National Day holiday, the Beijing subway will increase its frequency, but Qianmen Station will be closed, so remember to take an alternate route. 02 Anyang | Henan Anyang is the kind of place that's "rustic in its sounds and fragrant in its atmosphere." The Yin Ruins entrance fee is 70 yuan, and you can see genuine oracle bone inscriptions. The Taihang Grand Canyon is ablaze with red and yellow in autumn, perfect for National Day. 🚄 Get off at Anyang East Station and take the tourist bus directly to the Yin Ruins for 5 yuan. Don't take a taxi; drivers often take longer routes. 🍜 In the morning, go to the old town for some flat rice noodles and vegetables (6 yuan a bowl, with a 2 yuan fried dough stick). Arrive at the Yin Ruins before 10 am to catch a guided tour; otherwise, you'll only see dirt pits. In the afternoon, go to the Taihang Grand Canyon; the Peach Blossom Valley hike takes about three hours. ⚠️ Don't wear white shoes; there are many muddy paths along the streams. Water is expensive in the canyon, so bring two bottles. Near Yinxu, there's a restaurant called "Lao Anyang Huimian" (Old Anyang Stewed Noodles), a small bowl costs 12 yuan, and they give a generous amount of mutton. During the National Day holiday, Yinxu has a night session; the lights shining on the oracle bone pits are even more stunning than during the day. Stay near the train station; budget hotels are around 120 yuan. 03 Dehong | Yunnan Dehong is a "price haven" in Yunnan. The Meng Huan Grand Golden Pagoda in Mangshi is free to enter, only costing 3 yuan for shoe covers. Flights to Mangshi during the National Day holiday are half the price of flights to Dali. ⏰ Go to the Grand Golden Pagoda at 6 pm; the setting sun shines on the spire, making the whole pagoda look like it's plated in gold. After taking photos, head down the mountain; there's a Dai-style barbecue place at the foot of the mountain, grilled pork belly costs 33 yuan a serving, enough for two people. 📍 The "Tree-Wrapped Pagoda" on Tuanjie Street in Mangshi can't be found on navigation apps; ask locals "which tree wraps around the pagoda," and they'll smile and point you in the right direction. Free to see, and you can finish in ten minutes. ⚠️ Don't buy "Burmese jade" at the scenic area entrance; nine out of ten are fake. If you want to buy jadeite, go to Huafeng Market, but you need to know what you're doing. Dehong is suitable for a slow-paced stay. Rent an electric scooter for 30 yuan a day, ride to Zhefang to eat tribute rice, and there are Dai-style restaurants near the rice paddies for 40 yuan per person. The Ruili border crossing is crowded during the National Day holiday, so bring your ID card. Stay near Mangshi Square; you can find very good guesthouses for 150 yuan. 04 Jiuquan | Gansu Jiuquan is a "low-cost entry point" to Dunhuang. The entrance fee to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake is 110 yuan, but one ticket is valid for three days. An emergency ticket to Mogao Grottoes is 100 yuan, allowing you to see four grottoes, half the price of a regular ticket. 🚄 A taxi from Dunhuang Station to Mingsha Mountain costs 10 yuan. ⏰ Enter at 7 am; a camel ride costs 100 yuan, and you'll have one less hour of waiting time than at noon. Bring a bottle of water; you'll be out of breath climbing the sand dunes. 📍 At the Mogao Grottoes Digital Center, watch two movies first, then take a bus to the grottoes. Emergency tickets only allow you to see the Nine-Story Pagoda and the Reclining Buddha, but the guides provide detailed explanations. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited inside the grottoes; please do not use your phone. The Yadan National Geological Park and Yumenguan Pass are on the same route. A chartered car costs 400 yuan per day, or 100 yuan per person for a shared ride. The sunset at Yadan is more beautiful than the sunrise, but the return trip is late, so bring a thick coat. Accommodation prices in Dunhuang are skyrocketing during the National Day holiday; staying in Jiuquan city (one hour by train) is much cheaper, by two-thirds. 05 Handan|Hebei Handan is known as the "Capital of Idioms," but the cost of living is surprisingly low, like a county town. Guangfu Ancient City is free to enter, but climbing the city wall costs 20 yuan. The entrance fee to the Wa Huang Palace is 70 yuan, and the cable car is extra. 🍜 In the morning, have "doumo" (a type of porridge) in Handan city (3 yuan a bowl, with a 5 yuan egg bag). After eating, take bus 605 to Guangfu (7 yuan fare). Rent bicycles in Guangfu Ancient City for 10 yuan an hour to ride to the reed marshes to see water birds. ⚠️ Don't buy "Guangfu Crispy Fish" inside the city gate; it's 25 yuan for a small bag. Turn right after exiting and go to the market for 15 yuan. Nuwa Palace is in Shexian County, a two-hour bus ride from Handan. ⏰ After 3 PM, the light shining on Nuwa Pavilion makes it look like a hanging temple. There are folk performances during the National Day holiday, but it's crowded, so it's recommended to arrive before 8 AM. Accommodation in Handan is cheap; chain hotels are just over 100 yuan. Take a walk in Congtai Park in the evening; it's free. Locals sing Henan opera; you can sit on the steps and listen for a while—better than scrolling on your phone. 06 Shenyang|Liaoning Shenyang is the king of low-cost living in Northeast China. Beiling Park entrance fee is 6 yuan, World Expo Park is 50 yuan, and Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and Beita Falun Temple are free. 📍 Beiling Park opens at 6 AM. Local elderly men practice Tai Chi by the lake. It costs 6 yuan to enter and you can spend about three hours there. ⚠️ Don't enter from the main gate; enter from the east gate, where there are fewer people and more trees. The World Expo Park has a chrysanthemum exhibition during the National Day holiday. Tickets are 50 yuan, but half price applies after 4 PM. Bring some bread; food inside the park is expensive. The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda is located on Tawan Street. It's an ancient Liao Dynasty pagoda and is free. The nearby Beita Falun Temple is also free; you can see it in ten minutes. 🍜 For lunch, go to Lao Siji pulled noodles. A bowl costs 8 yuan and comes with 5 pieces of chicken frame—a standard meal for Shenyang locals. Shenyang has a well-developed subway system. Take Line 2 to Beiling Park and Line 1 to the World Expo Park, then transfer to a bus. Stay near Zhongjie; a budget hotel costs 150 yuan. Zhongjie is crowded during the National Day holiday, but food is inexpensive; large fruits are 5 yuan each. 07 Huangshan | Anhui Huangshan is a typical example of "expensive entrance fees, cheap surrounding areas." The Huangshan Scenic Area entrance fee is 190 yuan, but individual tickets for Xidi, Hongcun, Chengkan, and the Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area are between 50 and 100 yuan; a combined ticket is more cost-effective. 🚄 Get off at Huangshan North Station and take the tourist bus to Hongcun (30 yuan). ⏰ Arrive in Hongcun before 7 am; the morning mist over Nanhu Lake hasn't dissipated, and there's no rush to get on the painted bridge. After 8 am, tour groups flood in, and you'll only see heads. Xidi is quieter than Hongcun. The entrance fee is 104 yuan, but entry is free after 5 pm. ⚠️ Don't trust villagers who claim they can help you skip the ticket; if caught, you'll have to pay the full price and be fined. Chengkan Ancient Village entrance fee is 107 yuan, but during the National Day holiday, there's an autumn harvest festival with chili peppers and corn drying in the fields—a great photo opportunity. The Ancient Huizhou Cultural Tourism Area includes the Ancient City of Huizhou and the Tangyue Memorial Archway Complex. A combined ticket costs 220 yuan and is valid for two days. Stay in a guesthouse outside Hongcun for 180 yuan per night, half the price of staying inside the village. 🍜 Eat hairy tofu and stinky mandarin fish; street stalls cost around 50 yuan per person. Huangshan is windy, so bring a windproof jacket. 08 Xiangxi | Hunan Xiangxi is Hunan's "hidden gem." Fenghuang Ancient City is free to enter; Dehang Grand Canyon costs 80 yuan; a combined ticket for Shibadong and Aizhai Bridge costs 120 yuan. 📍 Fenghuang Ancient City is deserted before 7 am; only Miao grandmothers washing clothes are seen along the Tuojiang River. ⏰ Go to the Jumping Rocks at 6 pm; the light shining on the stilted houses is more beautiful than the night view. Dehang Grand Canyon is in Jishou, a 1.5-hour bus ride from Fenghuang. The flowing sand waterfall in the canyon has a large volume of water; a complete loop takes two hours. ⚠️ Don't wear flip-flops, the cobblestone streets are slippery. The Aizhai Bridge viewing platform costs 120 yuan, including the glass walkway. If you're afraid of heights, don't go up; the views from below are spectacular. Shibadong Village is free, but transportation is inconvenient, so hiring a car is recommended (300 yuan per day). 🍜 In Fenghuang Ancient Town, try the blood duck soup (small portion, 40 yuan). Stay at a guesthouse along the Tuojiang River; a river-view room costs 150 yuan. Fenghuang is crowded during the National Day holiday, but if you venture deeper into the alleys, you can still find rice noodles for 10 yuan a bowl. If you don't want to spend a lot of money during the National Day holiday, try these smaller towns. Visit the imperial gardens in Beijing, study oracle bone inscriptions in Anyang, bask in the sun in Dehong, see the desert in Jiuquan, learn idioms in Handan, eat chicken frames in Shenyang, explore ancient villages in Huangshan, and listen to Miao songs in Xiangxi. Pick one and go!

When it comes to Dehong, many people rush to Mangshi first, then stop by Tengchong, but miss Ruili. However, Ruili in September is perfect for a slow-paced trip: it is the end of the rainy season, the greenery is at its peak, Dai-style fruits and coffee are readily available, and the border town has a vibrant, local atmosphere. You do not need to rush between attractions here; it is better to explore while eating. Check out the National Gate, One Village Two Countries, Border Trade Street, and Dai snacks. Slow down your pace, and you will find Ruili has more character than you imagined. ✅ Pre-trip preparation | How to prepare for Ruili in September · Weather: Ruili in September is about 23–31°C, humid and muggy with frequent showers. Be sure to carry an umbrella when going out. · Clothing: Breathable short sleeves, long pants, flip-flops/sandals, and sun-protective clothing. White, green, and yellow outfits are recommended for fresher-looking photos. · Essentials: Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, umbrella (for sun/rain), power bank, and a small amount of cash. · Documents: ID card is a must; some border areas may require inspection. · Transportation: It is recommended to fly in/out of Mangshi or Tengchong, then charter a car or drive to Ruili. The city center is small, but attractions are scattered, so driving is more convenient. · Accommodation: Staying in downtown Ruili or near Wanding is recommended for easier dining and travel. 🗓️ 3-day 2-night efficient itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Ruili | Border Trade Street + Dai-style night market Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Ruili Suggest dropping off luggage at the hotel first; no need to rush to attractions. The city center is small, perfect for easing into the vibe. Evening: Border Trade Street The street has a border town atmosphere with shops featuring South Asian and Southeast Asian styles, offering plenty of fruits, drinks, and Dai snacks. Great for street photography, buying fruit, and grabbing snacks. Night: Ruili Night Market You must arrange a Dai-style dinner: lemongrass grilled fish, pineapple rice, sa pie (bitter vegetable soup with meat), paoluda (coconut milk dessert), Burmese black tea, and pounded chicken feet. Don't just pick the most popular spot; local shops with crowds are usually better. Day 2: Classic Ruili route | One Village Two Countries + Mengmao Ancient City + Nongmo Lake Morning: One Village Two Countries A must-visit in Ruili; a village split between two countries, very photogenic. You can take photos of the "One Village Two Countries" well, swings, and border scenery. Going in the morning is recommended for fewer crowds and better light. Noon: Dai-style lunch Recommended: lemongrass grilled fish, sour bamboo shoot chicken, pineapple rice, pounded chicken feet, and paoluda. The flavors are sour, spicy, and refreshing, fitting the tropical city vibe. Afternoon: Mengmao Ancient City Better for a slow stroll, featuring Dai-style architecture, golden roofs, and street spaces—great for photos. Not a place to rush; find a coffee shop and sit down. Evening: Nongmo Lake Great for sunset. The lakeside has lush greenery, and the water reflections are beautiful. If the weather is good, you can capture the golden sky and city silhouette in the evening. Day 3: Wanding | National Gate + Bridge + Slow stroll in a border town Morning: Wanding Bridge / Wanding National Gate About 1 hour from downtown Ruili; Wanding has strong border memories. The bridge and National Gate area are good for cultural photos. It is recommended to hire a driver or local guide for explanations; do not take photos of sensitive areas at will. Noon: Wanding lunch Have a Dai-style meal or eat at a local restaurant in Wanding; it is quieter than areas around popular attractions. Afternoon: Return to Mangshi/Tengchong If you have time, you can stop by a Dai village, coffee estate, or tropical orchard on the way, but do not overpack your schedule. The right way to experience Ruili is not "special forces" style travel, but a slow stroll. 🍜 Ruili must-eat list 1. Lemongrass grilled fish: A representative Dai dish, crispy outside and tender inside, even better with dipping sauce 2. Pineapple rice: Sweet, sour, and sticky; a must-order staple 3. Paoluda: Coconut milk and bread dessert, very refreshing in summer 4. Pounded chicken feet: Sour and spicy, great for snacking while watching shows or with drinks 5. Burmese black tea: Sweet, perfect to drink while strolling 6. Sa pie / Dai-style cold rice noodles: Strong local flavors; try it if you are adventurous ⚠️ Tips for avoiding pitfalls 1. Do not take photos of the National Gate, border inspection points, or military facilities at will; confirm before shooting 2. Keep your ID card with you at all times in border areas 3. Ask for the unit price before buying fruit, especially at roadside stalls and near attractions 4. Negotiate the route and price for chartered cars in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes 5. September has many showers; do not skip the umbrella just because it is sunny 6. There are many mosquitoes and strong UV rays; be sure to use repellent and sun protection 7. When eating sa pie or other special Dai dishes, confirm if you can handle sour, spicy, and unique flavors 💡 Final thoughts Ruili isn't a "sightseeing-intensive" destination, but its most charming aspect is the relaxed vibe of a border town. It has Dai flavors, fruits, street scenes, sunsets, and a touch of "exotic" feel. Visiting Ruili in September avoids the summer peak, the greenery is lush, and the temperature isn't as intense as mid-summer, making it perfect for a slow trip in western Yunnan.

Where to go for a road trip in September–October? 8 routes with fewer crowds and autumn scenery, tried and tested to be traffic-free 01 Weifang | Shandong In October, Qingzhou Ancient City is basically empty before 8 AM. I entered from Fucai Gate; the stone paths were damp with dew, making the soles of my shoes a bit slippery. 📍 The old locust tree pan-fried bun shop in the middle of Ouyuan Street sells them for CNY 2 each, only until 10 AM. Pair it with a bowl of tofu pudding and sit on a small stool at the entrance—it is more authentic than those viral shops inside the scenic area. ⏰ I suggest going up to the city wall after 4 PM. The light hits the blue bricks at an angle, so you won't need filters for photos. For driving, park at the East Gate parking lot for CNY 10 per entry; don't park on the side of the road, as they ticket frequently. ⚠️ Those "free costume photo" stalls in the ancient city will charge you CNY 30 to print a photo at the end. If you want to take photos, bring your own clothes; any wall deep in the alleys is better than their sets. 02 Aba | Sichuan For Jiuzhaigou, enter in mid-to-late October and queue at the gate before 7 AM. ⏰ You need to see Mirror Lake before 8:30 AM; if you go later, the wind will break the reflection. Admission plus sightseeing bus is over CNY 200 during peak season; book on the official account in advance, as tickets are not sold on-site. Don't trust those on the side of the road offering to "take you on a shortcut to avoid tickets"—it is a total scam. Shuangqiao Valley in Siguniang Mountain is suitable for driving, and you can get on and off at any station in the valley. For the horse-riding section in Changping Valley, I suggest hiking instead; the horse path and the walking path are separate, and the scenery is quite different. Huanglong is at a high altitude, so bring a thin down jacket if you go in early October. ⚠️ Walk slowly on the boardwalk from the upper cable car station to the Five-Color Pond; do not run. Altitude sickness is the cure for those who talk tough. 03 Xinxiang | Henan In Baoquan Tourist Area, from late September to mid-October, the water is green and there are half as many people as in summer. 📍 Take the scenic transport from the tourist center to the lower cable car station, then walk up for 20 mins; the Jianlong Waterfall location is the best for photos. You only need to choose between Baligou and Baoquan. Take elderly people and children to Baoquan; the roads are flat and the scenic transport is convenient. If you want to hike, go to Baligou; it takes 4 hours round trip from the Heavenly Ladder to Red Stone River, so don't push yourself if you have bad knees. 🚄 It takes about 1.5 hours to drive there from Xinxiang East Station. The mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly if you are a beginner. Staying in Huixian city is half the price of staying at the entrance of the scenic area, and it is only a 20-min drive. 🍜 The lamb noodles in the old town of Huixian are great; a small bowl is enough, the soup is rich, and it costs CNY 15. 04 Dehong | Yunnan Menghuan Golden Pagoda is by the Peacock Lake on the edge of Mangshi; go after 5:30 PM. ⏰ The sunset hits the golden pagoda, making the whole tower look like it is burning; it is 10 times better than at noon. Admission is CNY 40, and renting a Dai-style skirt at the entrance is CNY 30 per set. ⚠️ You must take off your shoes to enter the pagoda; the ground is hot, so wear a pair of thick socks. 📍 Walk along the path under the pagoda toward the lake, where there is a row of stalls selling Paoluda and Sapei. Paoluda is CNY 10 a cup; be careful with Sapei if it is your first time, as not everyone can handle the bitterness. Mangshi is not big, and you can explore it all by shared e-bike. It is 10 mins from the Golden Pagoda to the Tree-Wrapped Pagoda, and another 5 mins to the Bodhi Temple. Dehong in October is not stuffy, and you don't need to turn on the AC when sleeping at night. 05 Qinhuangdao | Hebei Go to Beidaihe in late September; the seawater is cool but you can still wade in it. ⏰ Go to Pigeon Nest at 5 AM to watch the sunrise; admission is CNY 25, and there are far fewer people than in summer. Do Shanhaiguan and Laolongtou on the same day. 📍 It is a 15-min drive from the First Pass under Heaven to Laolongtou; the combo ticket is CNY 120. ⚠️ Do not go down to the reef at Laolongtou Chenghai Pavilion when the tide is rising; the waves come in too fast to run away. For driving, take Binhai Avenue; there is a sea view all the way from Beidaihe to Shanhaiguan. Don't take the highway, as you can't see the sea from there. Stay in a Liuzhuang homestay; the price drops to just over CNY 100 in September, and it is a 5-min walk to the beach. 🍜 In the Liuzhuang night market street, don't buy the grilled oysters that are CNY 10 for 3; they are not fresh. Walk further in and find the stalls with many locals. 06 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Go to Shicheng in early October; the maple leaves aren't fully red yet, but there are few people. 📍 The Danxia landform of Tongtianzhai paired with rice paddies starts turning yellow in mid-October; drive to the parking lot at the foot of the mountain and it is a 40-min climb. Sanbai Mountain is in Anyuan; it has high forest coverage and is not hot in October. 🚗 It is a 2.5-hour drive from Ganzhou city; there are many mountain roads, so fill up your gas tank before entering the mountains. ⚠️ There is no direct highway between Shicheng and Sanbai Mountain. The navigation will take you on county roads, which are winding and narrow, so you must get out before dark. 🍜 The stir-fried fish at that shop in Zao'er Lane in the old town of Ganzhou is CNY 40 per serving and is authentically spicy. Stay by the Zhang River and take a walk to see the floating bridge at night; it is free. 07 Urumqi | Xinjiang In Urumqi from late September to early October, it is 20°C during the day and 5°C at night. Bring a windbreaker; don't just bring short sleeves. 📍 The International Grand Bazaar opens at 10 AM; 2 hours is enough to look around. Buy dried fruit at Hongshan Market; it is 30% cheaper than at the Grand Bazaar. ⚠️ Just look at those "Hetian jade" stalls in the Grand Bazaar; don't buy. Hongguangshan has a chrysanthemum exhibition in October; admission is CNY 30. It is windy in Dabancheng; ⏰ go in the afternoon and park your car at the viewing platform to photograph the sunset at the wind power station. Buy two bags of Dabancheng soybeans for CNY 10 a bag; it is cheaper than in the city. There are free song and dance performances on the International Grand Bazaar walking street after 8 PM. 🍜 The baked buns at the shop in Lingguan Lane are CNY 3 each; the crust is crispy and the meat is plentiful. They come out of the oven at 3 PM. 08 Daxing'anling | Heilongjiang Arctic Village starts to freeze in late September; bring a down jacket if you go in early October. ⏰ Go out after 10 PM to see the stars; there are few streetlights in the village, so walk toward the river and the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. It is a 1.5-hour drive from Mohe to Arctic Village; 🚗 the white birch forests along the way are all yellow, so you can stop to take photos at any time. ⚠️ Some accommodations in the village are closed in October, so call ahead to confirm; don't get stuck when you arrive. The forest scenery of Daxing'anling is best on both sides of the Jiamo Highway. 📍 It is a 20-min climb to the Jiuqu Shibawan viewing platform to see the entire forest sea. In early October, the larch turns gold, and paired with the white of the birch, the color layers are thicker than an oil painting. Driving from Jiagedaqi to Mohe is 600 km, and only Tahe has gas stations in between. ⏰ Start early in the morning and arrive before dark; don't drive at night, as there are wild animals on the road. I have traveled these 8 routes, and the most reliable ones in October are Aba and Dehong—one for the water and one for the pagoda. You need to go early for Daxing'anling and Urumqi, as it gets cold after mid-October. Pick one and go quickly while there are fewer people after the National Day holiday.

Kunming locals recommend this super appetizing hole-in-the-wall restaurant.. You get it!! A local took me here, and it's incredibly appetizing. Turns out the best food is always hidden in these alleyway hole-in-the-wall spots. Almost everything is perfect with rice, it's super rice-consuming 🍚 🥵 ⭕ Advice from a local: If you don't know where to eat in Yunnan, just look for places where you order by picking the ingredients. Guaranteed fresh and delicious! There are so many ingredients in the display case that I can't even name; they must be unique to Yunnan! Passion fruit boiled fish 🐟, porcini mushroom rice 🍚, Dai-style stir-fried chicken 🐔 My personal "appetizing trio." There's also pickled vegetable mashed potatoes and stir-fried beef jerky with porcini mushrooms. You can order anything here without worrying—it's addictive. If you're traveling to Kunming and want authentic Dehong Dai flavor, head to Tixiang Dai. It's recommended by Kunming locals and guaranteed not to disappoint.

8 spontaneous, off-the-beaten-path small cities for National Day that aren't crowded 01 Dehong | Yunnan The Menghuan Golden Pagoda is in Mangshi. Take a taxi to the foot of the mountain, then climb over 200 steps. ⏰ Go after 4:30 PM. The light hits the pagoda at an angle, making it dazzlingly golden without being too harsh. 📍 Walk the loop around the pagoda for a bird's-eye view of the Mangshi basin. It's windy, so hold onto your hat. You need a sarong to enter the temple in shorts; they are available for free at the entrance, so don't worry about it. 🍜 Go down the mountain to Kuoshi Road for sa pie. The bitter version might make newcomers frown at the first bite. Pair it with a bowl of Paoluda to balance it out. ⚠️ Accommodation prices in Mangshi spike during National Day, so book in advance. Ruili and Wanding are close enough for day trips, so you don't need to move hotels. 02 Shigatse | Tibet Everest Base Camp and Tashilhunpo Monastery are in different locations, so don't try to do both in one day. Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in the morning. ⏰ Go before 9:00 AM, while the monks are still finishing their morning prayers. The scent of butter lamps mixed with the chanting is much better than the crowded tourist experience in the afternoon. Photography is not allowed inside the halls, so put your phone away. You need a full day for Everest, which is a 5–6 hour trip one way from downtown Shigatse. 🚄 There is no direct train, so you have to charter a car or join a small tour. The altitude is significant, so get a good night's sleep beforehand and don't push yourself. ⚠️ Everest attraction tickets and vehicle entry fees are not cheap, and the weather is unpredictable; it's common not to see the peak. Keep a relaxed mindset, as the Dingri wilderness along the way is worth the price of admission. Ticket prices and opening requirements are subject to official daily announcements. 03 Yili | Xinjiang Don't try to cram the Yili River Valley, Kalajun, Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley, and Gongnais Grassland into 2 days. It will be exhausting. Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley is only worth visiting for about 10 days in early April; it's just bare gullies during National Day, so skip it. Choose between Kalajun and Gongnais. Kalajun's 3D grassland is more photogenic, while the Gongnais forest area is quieter. 🚄 Flying into Yining and renting a car is the most convenient option. You can take the northern section of the Duku Highway into the grasslands. The Duku Highway might be closed due to snow during National Day, so check road conditions before you leave; if it's closed, detour toward Sayram Lake. 📍 For Kalajun, it's recommended to enter from the Bulake ticket station, take the shuttle bus to Falcon Terrace, and then hike a bit. Seniors and children should know their limits; the altitude is over 2,000 meters, so you'll get winded if you walk too fast. 04 Yangjiang | Guangdong Hailing Island Dajiao Bay is one of the few places in Guangdong where you can still swim during National Day. ⏰ Go to the beach at 7:00 AM. It's less crowded, the sand is still cool, and you won't have to wait for a clear shot to take photos. 📍 Walk to the right after entering the main gate of the Dajiao Bay Maritime Silk Road Tourist Area; it's less crowded than the left side. Freshwater showers cost extra, so ask about the price before entering the changing room. 🍜 Eat seafood at Zapo Fishing Port. Ask for the price before ordering and watch the weighing. Shrimp and crab are ridiculously expensive during National Day, so just order a couple of things to taste, don't go overboard. ⚠️ Accommodation on the island triples in price during National Day. You can also stay in downtown Yangjiang and drive to the island, which is a 40-minute drive. It's suitable for families with kids; the waves aren't big, and there are lifeguards. 05 Shenyang | Liaoning You can visit Beiling Park, Shenyang Expo Park, Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda, and North Pagoda Falun Temple in one day, but you need to get the order right. Go to Beiling Park first in the morning. ⏰ It opens at 6:30 AM, and local seniors are there walking and practicing tai chi. Walking under the pine trees is more comfortable than visiting tourist attractions. Zhaoling Tomb requires a separate ticket, depending on your interest. The Expo Park is in Hunnan, far from the city center, so go in the afternoon. The park is large, so rent a tandem bike to save your legs. 📍 Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and North Pagoda Falun Temple are both in the north of the city, close to each other, so go at dusk. The pagoda is a Liao dynasty relic, and the brick carvings are worth a close look. ⚠️ Some exhibition halls in the Expo Park will close for maintenance after National Day, so check the open areas for the day before you go. This is suitable for people who like a slow pace, not for those who want to rush through attractions. 06 Yinchuan | Ningxia Mingcui Lake, Helan Mountain Rock Art, Shuidonggou, and the Western Xia Imperial Tombs are in four different directions, so you'll need two days. The Western Xia Imperial Tombs and Helan Mountain Rock Art are on the same route west of the city, so do them on the same day. ⏰ Go to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs in the afternoon. The rammed-earth mausoleums look like pyramids in the backlight, which is ten times better than at noon. It's windy at the rock art site, so wear a jacket. Shuidonggou is east of the city and takes half a day on its own. It has hidden tunnels and canyons, and it takes 2–3 hours to walk the whole route, so wear comfortable shoes. Mingcui Lake is a wetland park, perfect for a stroll at dusk to watch birds. 🚄 Taxis from downtown Yinchuan to these spots aren't too far, but bus service is infrequent, so it's recommended to take a taxi or charter a car. ⚠️ The Western Xia Imperial Tombs Museum is closed on Mondays, except during National Day holidays, but that's also when it's most crowded. Ticket prices and opening requirements are subject to official daily announcements. 07 Nanping | Fujian Don't be too greedy when visiting the Wuyi Mountain Scenic Area during National Day. Choose either Tianyou Peak or Nine-Bend Stream Rafting first, and decide on the other based on your energy levels. ⏰ The first rafting trip of the morning on Nine-Bend Stream is the most worthwhile. The mist hasn't cleared yet, and the mountain reflections in the water look like an ink wash painting. You must book tickets in advance; there's basically no chance of getting them on-site. The climb up Tianyou Peak takes at least 40 minutes, and the stairs are steep, so skip it if you have bad knees. 📍 Enter from the Yunwo side; it's less crowded than the main entrance. 🍜 Go down the mountain to the resort area to eat Langu smoked goose and Zixi noodles. The smoked goose is a bit salty, so pair it with tea. Don't buy rock tea at the entrance of the scenic area; try it at a tea shop in the city before deciding. ⚠️ Rafting tickets and attraction tickets are calculated separately and require booking for specific time slots. Ticket prices and opening requirements are subject to official daily announcements. 08 Jinhua | Zhejiang Hengdian World Studios and the Shuanglong Scenic Area are in Dongyang and Wucheng respectively, separated by over an hour's drive. Don't try to rush back and forth in one day. It's recommended to set aside a full day for Hengdian. ⏰ The Qin King Palace and Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival are less crowded in the morning, while tour groups flock there in the afternoon. If you want to spot a film crew, hang around the Ming and Qing Palace Base, but don't get your hopes up too high. Shuanglong Cave is on the mountain. The boat ride into the cave is quite unique, but the lines are long. 📍 It's cooler outside the cave entrance than inside, making it more comfortable to visit in the summer. 🚄 You can reach Hengdian from both Jinhua Station and Yiwu Station. Yiwu Station is closer, about a 40-minute taxi ride. ⚠️ Tickets for each attraction in Hengdian are sold separately. Calculate whether a combo ticket is worth it based on how many spots you plan to visit. It's suitable for families with kids and TV drama fans; if you're just looking for scenery, Shuanglong Cave is a better fit. For these 8 places, head to Dehong, Yinchuan, or Nanping if you want peace and quiet during National Day. Hailing Island and Hengdian will be more crowded, but still more relaxed than popular cities. Pick one, book your tickets, and go.

Came to Mangshi and headed straight for this stone pot fish for my first meal 🐟 It really deserves the spot on the Dehong hot pot popularity list. Ordered a whole freshly killed river catfish; the meat was smooth and tender with very few small bones, making it super satisfying to eat. Paired with all kinds of fresh vegetables, the stone pot stew locks in the original flavors, and the soup base is fresh and fragrant. Eating the fish and then shabu-shabu with vegetables, a hot pot like this is so comforting. The restaurant is spacious with private rooms and free parking, making it perfect for gatherings with friends. The shop even has climate-controlled air conditioning! It's really super comfortable!!

There are two things everyone fears when traveling during National Day: an empty wallet and getting stuck in traffic. I've picked 8 budget-friendly small cities where you can get by on CNY 300 per person for three days. The attractions are worth it, and the food is authentic. Let's be clear: budget travel doesn't mean suffering; it means spending your money wisely. 1️⃣ Huizhou | Guangdong I recommend arriving at Huizhou West Lake before 7:00 AM. ⏰ That's when the local seniors are doing tai chi by the lake. The Su Causeway is almost empty, so you won't have to dodge crowds in your photos. West Lake itself is free, and two hours is enough to walk around. Don't take those tourist boats; they cost CNY 60 per person and aren't worth it. Admission to Mount Luofu is about CNY 54, with the cable car extra. If you're not feeling up to the hike, just take the cable car up and walk down to save your knees. ⚠️ Bottled water on the mountain is CNY 8 per bottle, so bring your own. The tofu pudding at the foot of the mountain is CNY 5 a bowl; the ginger syrup flavor is authentic and worth a try. Xunliao Bay is best in the evening. 📷 After 5:30 PM, the light is soft, and the sand isn't too hot. For accommodation, don't insist on a sea-view room, as prices triple during National Day. I chose to stay in Huidong County, which is just over CNY 100 a night and a 20-minute taxi ride away. 🚄 The bus from Huizhou South Station to the city center is CNY 2, so save where you can. 2️⃣ Dehong | Yunnan I was surprised by how few people were in Dehong during National Day. Mangshi isn't big, and the Menghuan Golden Pagoda is the main attraction. ⏰ I recommend going at 6:00 PM when the pagoda lights up; it looks ten times better than during the day. Admission is about CNY 40, and student IDs get half off, so remember to bring yours. There's a snack street below the pagoda. 🍜 You must try the sa pie and pao lu da. Sa pie is quite bitter, so don't order a large portion the first time; a small one for CNY 15 is enough to get a taste. Pao lu da is CNY 8, with coconut milk and dried bread—it's satisfyingly sweet. Staying near Mangshi Square is most convenient, with standard rooms ranging from CNY 80 to CNY 120. ⚠️ Don't stay too far out, as it's hard to get a taxi at night. 🚄 Mangshi doesn't have a high-speed railway station. You can fly from Kunming or take a bus; if you book in advance, you can get flight tickets for under CNY 300. This is perfect for people who aren't in a rush and want a quiet two-day stay. 3️⃣ Wuzhong | Ningxia Wuzhong is an underrated small city in the Northwest. For the Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area, admission plus the boat ticket is about CNY 120. ⏰ Go in before 9:00 AM when the light hits the canyon walls, making the color layers stand out. The boat ride is the highlight, with the Yellow River churning right beside you. ⚠️ It's windy, so hold onto your hat—I saw a guy's hat fly into the river. Food inside the scenic area is expensive, so go to Qingtongxia Town to eat. 🍜 Hand-grabbed mutton is CNY 60 per jin, and half a jin is enough for two people. Pair it with eight-treasure tea to cut the grease. Stay in Wuzhong city center; chain hotels are around CNY 100. 🚄 It's a 20-minute high-speed train ride from Yinchuan, costing just over CNY 10. This is perfect for people who want to see magnificent scenery without spending a lot of money. There's a large temperature difference between day and night during National Day, so be sure to bring a jacket. 4️⃣ Putian | Fujian For the Meizhou Island Mazu Cultural Tourist Area, the boat ticket plus admission is about CNY 100. ⏰ I recommend taking the earliest boat to the island; arrive at the pier before 8:00 AM to avoid the crowds and heat. Renting an electric scooter on the island is CNY 50 a day, which saves a lot of energy compared to walking. The Mazu Ancestral Temple is at the top of the hill, a 20-minute climb. 📷 The platform in front of the temple has a great view of the sea, but don't go at noon—it's blindingly sunny. Seafood stalls on the island have fluctuating prices. ⚠️ Ask for the unit price before ordering; I once paid CNY 80 per jin for mantis shrimp, which hurt my wallet. Staying at a homestay on Meizhou Island is around CNY 150; the conditions are average, but the location is good. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by bus from Putian Station to Wenjia Pier, costing just a few CNY. This is suitable for bringing elderly family members, as the pace on the island is slow, and you can sit down and rest every few steps. 5️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi For Jinsi Canyon in Shangluo, admission is about CNY 100, with the cable car extra. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the canyon in the morning; it's cool inside, and the sound of water follows you the whole way. The full route takes about 4 hours, so wear non-slip shoes as the stone paths are wet. Tianshu Canyon has even fewer people, with admission at CNY 80. If you like peace and quiet, choose this place; the boardwalk hugs the cliff wall, with deep pools right below your feet. Mancuanguan Ancient Town is free. 🍜 The "fairy" jelly noodles in the ancient town are CNY 5 a bowl—sour, spicy, and appetizing. Baita Temple is in Shangluo city center; it's worth a 30-minute stop if you're passing by. Stay in Shangluo city center; budget hotels are CNY 120. ⚠️ Attractions in Shangluo are scattered, so driving yourself is most convenient; otherwise, waiting for shuttle buses is time-consuming. 🚄 It's a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Xi'an. This is suitable for people who like walking, seeing mountains and water, and don't mind a bit of travel hassle. 6️⃣ Garzê | Sichuan For the Garzê route, you need to be mentally prepared if you go during National Day. Xinduqiao is free. ⏰ The poplar forests turn yellow in mid-to-late October, so it's a bit early for National Day, but the light and shadows are already beautiful. Be careful when parking on the side of the road to take photos, and don't stand in the middle of the road. Admission plus the sightseeing bus for Mugecuo is about CNY 180. ⚠️ The altitude is 3,700 meters, so don't run or jump; walk slowly. Admission plus the sightseeing bus for Daocheng Yading is about CNY 270. If you're not physically fit, ride a horse—it's CNY 300 one way, expensive but saves your life. Admission for Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park is about CNY 90. Stay in Xinduqiao or Kangding; room rates double during National Day, so book in advance. 🍜 Yak meat hot pot is CNY 60 per person, which warms you up. 🚄 Take a bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Station to Kangding for just over CNY 100. This is suitable for people who are in good health, not in a rush, and can handle altitude sickness. 7️⃣ Shiyan | Hubei For Wudang Mountain in Shiyan, admission plus the sightseeing bus is about CNY 240. ⏰ If you want to save energy, take the cable car to the Golden Summit; the round-trip cable car is CNY 170. I chose to hike up—it took three hours, and my legs were shaking, but it was worth it. Seeing the sea of clouds at the Golden Summit is a matter of luck, with better chances in the morning. Instant noodles on the mountain are CNY 15 a cup, so ⚠️ bring your own snacks. Don't miss Zixiao Palace and Nanyan Palace; the Dragon Head Incense at Nanyan looks precarious. Stay in Wudangshan Town at the foot of the mountain; homestays are CNY 120, half the price of those on the mountain. 🍜 The "sanhe" soup in town is CNY 10 a bowl, with beef balls and sweet potato vermicelli—it gives you energy after you eat it. 🚄 It takes about an hour by bus from Shiyan Station to the entrance of Wudang Mountain. This is suitable for hiking enthusiasts; for the elderly, I recommend taking the cable car the whole way. 8️⃣ Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is the place I personally recommend the most. Admission to Yunhe Terraced Fields is about CNY 80. ⏰ Arrive at the Jiuqu Yunhuan viewing platform before sunrise; the mist rises from the bottom of the valley, and the terraced fields light up layer by layer. ⚠️ The mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly if you're driving yourself. Admission to Jinyun Xiandu is about CNY 100, with Dinghu Peak as the landmark. 📷 Take photos in the morning when there's mist; it looks like an ink wash painting. Admission to Qingtian Shimen Cave is CNY 60; it's quiet with few people, and it's cool under the waterfall. Stay in Lishui city center; hotels are around CNY 150. 🍜 Jinyun baked cakes are CNY 5 each, filled with preserved mustard greens—eat them while they're hot. 🚄 There are shuttle buses from Lishui Station to the various attractions, but they are infrequent, so carpooling is more flexible. This is suitable for people who want to take great photos without crowding into popular tourist spots. I've ranked these 8 places based on low cost and tranquility. If you only have three days, pick one and explore it thoroughly—it's better than rushing around. Tell me in the comments which one you want to go to most, and I'll help you calculate the route in detail.

Calling all friends planning a trip to Mangshi for the Mid-Autumn and National Day holiday! This small city, full of Southeast Asian charm, is perfect for a relaxing holiday getaway. For this holiday trip, I stayed at 👉 Dolanda LAB Hotel Mangshi Airport Branch. It's very close to the airport, so there's no need to rush for early or late flights. The convenience is top-notch, Ctrip. The rooms are fully smart, with voice-controlled lights and curtains, perfect for relaxing after a long day of fun. The hotel features a free parking lot and a self-service laundry room—all the essentials for a holiday trip are covered. Recommended holiday itinerary 📝 During the day, visit the Menghuan Golden Pagoda and Menghuan Silver Pagoda to watch the sunset and take atmospheric photos. In the evening, explore the night market, try sapei, paoluda, and Dai-style hand-grabbed rice to unlock authentic Dehong cuisine, Ctrip. The hotel is not far from major attractions, so you won't have to travel long distances back and forth during the holiday. For breakfast, you can enjoy local specialties like ersi rice noodles. Slurp a bowl after waking up to kickstart your holiday energy. Whether you're traveling with friends or family, this is a great accommodation choice for your National Day and Mid-Autumn trip to Mangshi. Dolanda LAB Hotel (Mangshi Airport Branch) to go for Mid-Autumn and National Day National Day trip accommodation recommendation LAB Mangshi Airport Branch travel guide Mangshi

Want to travel during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day but worried about breaking the bank? I looked through the train tickets and bills I've saved over the past two years and picked out 8 places where you can actually save money. No beating around the bush—here are the practical tips. 01 Lingshui | Hainan Fenjiezhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island aren't far apart, but don't try to do both in one day. The lines for water activities will leave you sunburnt. ⏰ Arrive at the Fenjiezhou Island ferry terminal before 8:30 AM. The first boat has the fewest crowds, and the water visibility is best. Buy your attraction ticket online in advance; it's much cheaper than at the gate. Check the official daily announcement for exact pricing. I recommend visiting Nanwan Monkey Island in the afternoon. Take the cross-sea cable car; the monkeys are smarter than the tourists. ⚠️ Don't carry plastic bags. The monkeys recognize them and won't hesitate to snatch them. Staying in Lingshui County is half the price of staying by the beach, and both attractions are within a 30-minute taxi ride. 🍜 For dinner, head back to the county for sour rice noodles for 10 yuan a bowl, plus some mango stir-fried ice. That keeps your daily food costs down. Great for families with kids, but strollers are hard to use on Monkey Island—a baby carrier is more practical. 02 Harbin | Heilongjiang Don't shake your head at the mention of ice and snow when visiting Harbin during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. There are no ice sculptures this season, but the cobblestones on Central Street won't freeze your feet, and the pigeons at Saint Sophia Cathedral are still flying. ⏰ Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral at 4:00 PM. The sunset hitting the red bricks looks ten times better than the gray winter sky. Volga Manor is in the suburbs and the attraction ticket isn't cheap; if you're on a tight budget, you can skip it and explore the city instead—it's more cost-effective. 🚄 After getting off at Harbin Station, it only costs 2 yuan to take the bus to Central Street. Stay in a homestay converted from an old house in Daoli District for around 100 yuan a night. 🍜 Buy Qiulin Lidasi red sausage; don't buy the loose ones at the entrance of tourist spots. ⚠️ The Ice and Snow World isn't open this season, so don't be misled by old guides. Perfect for couples taking a stroll or for solo travelers wandering around. The temperature difference between day and night in Harbin in October is large, so bring a thick jacket. 03 Foshan | Guangdong Qinghui Garden and Xiqiao Mountain—one is in the city and the other is in the suburbs. Trying to squeeze them into one day will be rushed. I suggest splitting them over two days or just picking one. Qinghui Garden opens at 8:30 AM. If you're in the first group, you can photograph the Manchurian windows without anyone else around. The attraction ticket is 15 yuan, with half-price for students. 📍 When you come out, turn onto Huagai Road. The double-skin milk at Minxin Old Shop is 3 yuan cheaper than inside the attraction. Xiqiao Mountain is best visited in the afternoon. Take the cable car up and walk down. ⏰ Get to the Guanyin statue around 5:00 PM. The lighting is just right, and you can watch the sunset. 🍜 Tofu pudding at the foot of the mountain is 5 yuan a bowl; don't buy it on the mountain—it's twice the price. Staying near Zumiao Temple is most convenient, with direct buses to both places. Great for seniors; Xiqiao Mountain has electric carts, so you don't have to hike the whole way. ⚠️ Qinghui Garden is closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. 04 Jiaxing | Zhejiang Choose either Wuzhen or Xitang. I choose Xitang because Wuzhen charges separately for the East and West Scenic Zones, and the total is enough for me to stay a night in Xitang. You don't need an attraction ticket to enter Xitang before 8:00 AM, but you can't enter the smaller attractions. ⏰ Sit by Yongning Bridge in the evening and watch the lanterns light up—it's better than during the day. 📍 At the end of the Misty Rain Corridor, there's a Guan Laotai Stinky Tofu shop; it's 5 yuan a serving. Wuzhen is great for night tours, and the lights in the West Scenic Zone are indeed beautiful, but accommodation is ridiculously expensive. If you're on a tight budget, stay in Jiaxing city center and take a 40-minute bus ride. 🚄 Get off at Jiaxing South Station. A taxi to Xitang is about 60 yuan; ride-sharing is cheaper. 🍜 Buy Wufangzhai zongzi; don't buy the vacuum-packed ones at the tourist spot—the taste is different. Great for photos with friends. Wear flat shoes; the stone paths are hard on your feet. 05 Dehong | Yunnan Menghuan Golden Pagoda is in Mangshi, a little over an hour from Ruili. ⏰ Go after 6:00 PM. The pagoda lights up and looks golden and stunning—more impressive than during the day. The attraction ticket isn't expensive, but pay attention to your attire; shorts and tank tops aren't allowed. ⚠️ The sarong rental shops at the entrance will overcharge you; walk a few steps further in for cheaper options. 🍜 Head down the mountain to the Mangshi Night Market. You must order sa pie and paoluda; you can eat your fill for 30 yuan per person. Stay near Mangshi Square, and you can walk to the night market. Perfect for those who want to escape the cold but don't want to deal with the crowds in Xishuangbanna. Dehong in October is neither cold nor hot; just bring a light jacket. 🚄 Mangshi has an airport, but it's not accessible by high-speed rail. Flying from Kunming saves more time. 06 Xinyang | Henan Jigong Mountain is the coolest place on this list. ⏰ Take the tourist shuttle from Xinyang Station at 7:00 AM; it takes one hour to reach the foot of the mountain. The International Architecture Complex on the mountain is worth exploring slowly, but don't take the sightseeing bus—walking the trails is more interesting. 📍 The road next to Yuehu Lake has yellow leaves in autumn; you don't need filters for photos. 🍜 Head back to the city for Xinyang stew—the Nanwan fish head stew with tofu. A small portion is enough for two people. Stay near Xinyang Station; chain hotels are just over 100 yuan. Great for traveling with parents; the mountain paths are gentle, and you can rest whenever you get tired. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are high, so bring enough water. It's quite crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but much better than places like Mount Huangshan. 07 Yulin | Shaanxi Wave Valley and Hongshixia—one is in Jingbian and the other is in the city, separated by a two-hour drive. I suggest going to Yulin city center first and visiting Wave Valley the next day. Hongshixia is just north of the city. ⏰ Go at 4:00 PM when the sunlight hits the cliffs—the red color is most vibrant. The attraction ticket is cheap, and an hour is enough to explore. You need to charter a car or drive yourself to Wave Valley. 📍 Navigate to Longzhou Town; don't accidentally navigate to another attraction with the same name. The Danxia landform leaves marks when stepped on. ⚠️ Don't climb over the fences; the fine is a small matter, but damaging the landform is a big deal. The Yellow River in Jia County is on the other side; if you're short on time, you can skip it. 🍜 Try Yulin Pin Sanxian and lamb noodles for 25 yuan per person. Stay in the city. Chartering a car to Wave Valley is about 300 yuan a day; ride-sharing is more cost-effective. Perfect for photography enthusiasts, but it's windy, so hold onto your hat. 08 Nanchang | Jiangxi Tengwang Pavilion is the most 'traditional' attraction on this trip, but the attraction ticket isn't expensive, and students get half-price. ⏰ Go up at 5:00 PM to see the sunset over the Gan River and the evening glow—it's worth the price of admission. 📍 From Tengwang Pavilion, it's a 10-minute walk to the Wanshou Palace Historical and Cultural Block. 🍜 Nanchang mixed rice noodles and clay pot soup are most authentic for breakfast; you can get them for 6 yuan. ⚠️ Tengwang Pavilion has an elevator, but the line is long—climbing the stairs is actually faster. There are night tour sessions during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day; check the official daily announcement for details. Stay near Bayi Square; there's a direct subway to Tengwang Pavilion. Great for solo travelers who like to walk a lot, and also for traveling with parents. 🚄 From Nanchang West Station, take Metro Line 2 and transfer to Line 1; it takes half an hour to get there. Of these 8 places, my personal favorites are Lingshui, Yulin, and Nanchang. One for the sea, one for the landforms, and one for the river. Pick one and head out for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. Let me know in the comments where else you want to go, and I'll help you calculate the budget.

Come to Mangshi, where there's no need to rush through your itinerary. Climb Leiyarang Mountain to see the dazzling gold of the Menghuan Golden Pagoda and the serene, pure white of the Menghuan Silver Pagoda. As the two pagodas stand facing each other, the sunset washes over them, offering a panoramic view of the entire town. Stroll through the Dai Ancient Town, where Dai culture flows through every street and alley. With palm-lined streets and tropical flowers blooming everywhere, every photo you take will have an exotic, cinematic feel. The local cuisine is the real surprise of this trip. A refreshing bite of lemon sapei (sour and spicy minced meat) hits your taste buds instantly, while a bowl of creamy paoluda (a dessert drink) offers the sweet combination of coconut milk and dried bread. As the night market comes alive, Dai-style barbecue, pounded chicken feet, and hand-grabbed rice noodles take center stage—every bite is a unique flavor of Dehong. Stay in this small town, slow down, and experience the "good life" of Mangshi. The breeze is gentle, the food is healing, and here lies the most touching romance in western Yunnan.