Pingli travel guide and discussion

Want to chill out during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? These 8 places are uncrowded and stress-free. 01 Yichun | Heilongjiang The Korean pines in the Tangwanghe Forest Park are still green, while the white birches have started turning yellow. The whole forest rustles when the wind blows. ⏰ Enter the scenic area before 9:00 AM. The light shines diagonally through the tree trunks, making it easy to take photos. After 3:00 PM, the backlight makes photos taken directly with a phone prone to blurriness. 📍 From downtown Yichun, head toward Tangwanghe. The drive takes about 2 hours; renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended. Public transport is infrequent, so don't cut it too close. ⚠️ The trails in the Stone Forest area are slippery, especially after rain. Wear non-slip shoes; don't try to tackle this in white sneakers. The temperature difference between day and night in the forest area is significant, so a light down jacket paired with short sleeves is the most practical combination. Book your accommodation in advance for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, as there are limited options in Tangwanghe Town. 02 Zhaoqing | Guangdong Star Lake is most comfortable this season. It is not stuffy or too sunny, and there is a breeze on the lake. Cycling around the lake takes about 2 hours. 📍 Rent a bicycle at Seven Star Crags Archway Square; both single and tandem bikes are available. Deposits and prices are subject to on-site postings. 🍜 Head from the North Gate toward Wenming Road to try local Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and bamboo pole noodles. Don't buy them at the entrance to the scenic area, as they are expensive and average. ⏰ The lake's reflection is best between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM. If you want to photograph the "Sleeping Buddha Holding the Pill" phenomenon, be sure to time it with the sunset around the Autumn Equinox. ⚠️ The Star Lake night tour operates depending on the weather and is suspended if it is too windy. Ask the staff when you arrive; don't buy tickets in advance and end up waiting. This is suitable for seniors, as the route is mostly flat, and there are chairs to sit on if you get tired. It is also family-friendly, but keep children away from the water's edge. 03 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain and Lao'le Mountain have different vibes. Chaya Mountain features strange rock formations, while Lao'le Mountain is perfect for relaxing. 📍 Enter Chaya Mountain from the South Gate and follow the direction of Mila Mountain, where the unique rocks are concentrated. Exit from the North Gate to avoid backtracking. ⏰ Hike Chaya Mountain in the morning and head to Lao'le Mountain in the afternoon. It gets breezy on Lao'le Mountain around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, and it is worth sitting at the top for a while to enjoy the cool air. ⚠️ Some sections of the Chaya Mountain trail have steep steps, so be cautious if you have bad knees. During holidays, the cable car queue can take over 40 minutes. 🍜 Eating Hu-la soup with pan-fried buns in downtown Zhumadian is much more cost-effective than eating inside the scenic area. Dining options in the scenic area are limited, so it is safer to bring your own food. There are night light shows at Chaya Mountain during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but I don't recommend them. Your legs will already be sore from hiking during the day, and walking around at night will just wear you out. 04 Honghe | Yunnan The Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces and Jianshui Ancient Town offer different experiences—one is about nature, the other about culture. You need to wait for the right light for the terraces, and you need to take your time walking through the ancient town. ⏰ The best time for the terraces is from half an hour before sunrise to one hour after. The Duoyishu Viewing Platform is crowded, while the Bada area is relatively quiet. 📍 Enter Jianshui Ancient Town from Chaoyang Tower and walk along Lin'an Road to the Zhu Family Garden. Stalls start opening around the West Gate Tofu Workshop after 3:00 PM. ⚠️ The viewing platforms for the terraces are far apart, and it is difficult to get around without a car. I recommend hiring a driver or carpooling; agree on the price and route the night before. 🍜 Jianshui grilled tofu is sold by the piece, and you can grill it yourself while sitting at the stall. Caoya rice noodles are a local specialty, and a bowl in the morning is very satisfying. The terraces start being filled with water during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, creating a mirror effect. However, the mountain roads are winding, so take motion sickness medication in advance if needed. 05 Handan | Hebei Guangfu Ancient Town and Wahuang Palace are both worth visiting, even though one is on the water and the other is halfway up a mountain. 📍 Enter Guangfu Ancient Town from the East Gate to walk the city wall, which takes about 40 minutes for a full loop. Afterward, walk along the moat, where the reed marshes are in bloom this season. ⏰ Visit Wahuang Palace in the morning to avoid the heat while hiking. Tour groups congregate around noon, so go early or late if you want peace and quiet. ⚠️ The hanging architecture of Wahuang Palace is great for photos, but the stairs are narrow. There are crowd control measures during holidays, and you may have to wait up to 30 minutes to go upstairs. 🍜 Try the crispy fish and braised pork knuckle in Guangfu Ancient Town, but look for small shops in the alleys. Prices on the main street are double, and the taste is just average. This is suitable for parents, as Guangfu Ancient Town has many flat roads, and Wahuang Palace has a cable car to save energy. There are performances in the ancient town during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day; check the schedule at the entrance. 06 Huzhou | Zhejiang If you want to chill out during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, come to Nanxun Ancient Town. It is quieter than Wuzhen and more relaxed than Zhouzhuang. 📍 Enter from the South Gate and walk north along Baijianlou. This section has fewer tourists, and you can see residents washing vegetables by the river, which is full of local life. ⏰ The ancient town does not charge admission before 7:00 AM or after 8:00 PM. These are the most comfortable times for a stroll, and the light is soft. 🍜 Double-topping noodles are a specialty of Nanxun, with a piece of crispy pork and a piece of fried fish. Both Zhuangyuan Restaurant and Wufu Restaurant are good; just see which one doesn't have a line. ⚠️ Soundproofing in the guesthouses in the ancient town is generally average, and rooms near the river can be damp. Ask if the room has been recently renovated before booking. There are water wedding performances during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but it gets very crowded. It is better to find a teahouse, order a cup of smoked bean tea, and just relax for the afternoon. 07 Shangrao | Jiangxi Don't try to visit Sanqing Mountain, Wuyuan Jiangwan, Guifeng, and Huangling all in one day. Pick two and take your time. 📍 Take the Jinsha Cableway up Sanqing Mountain and walk the Nanqingyuan Loop, which takes about 4 hours. The "Giant Python Emerging from the Mountain" and "Oriental Goddess" are on this route. ⏰ The "Shaiqiu" (autumn harvest drying) in Huangling starts in late September and is at its peak in mid-to-late October. Arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid the peak cable car queues. ⚠️ The attractions in Wuyuan are far apart, and hiring a car for the day costs about 400 to 600. Don't trust people soliciting business on the side of the road; use a legitimate platform. 🍜 Steamed rice cake and thick tofu soup are local specialties. The farmhouses at the entrance to the Jiangwan scenic area are overpriced; walk a bit further into the village for better value. Guifeng is suitable for those with good stamina, as the full hike takes about 5 hours. If you are with seniors, choose the Sanqing Mountain cable car and boardwalk route, which is much easier. 08 Shangluo | Shaanxi The route through Shangluo, including Jinsi Canyon, Tianshu Canyon, Mancuanguan Ancient Town, and Baita Temple, is best suited for a road trip. Public transport is a hassle and is not recommended. 📍 Enter Jinsi Canyon from Ludu Gate and follow the valley to exit at Liyuan Gate. The whole trip takes about 4 hours, and there is water along the way, so it stays cool. ⏰ Visit Tianshu Canyon in the afternoon when the sunlight hits the rock walls, making the textures clear. It is backlit in the morning, so you won't see much. ⚠️ Mancuanguan Ancient Town is still under renovation, and some areas are closed. Check the latest announcements before you go so you don't have a wasted trip. 🍜 Eating cold skin noodles and ciba in downtown Shangluo is half the price of eating inside the scenic area. Bring a walnut bun as a snack to keep you full on the road. Baita Temple is a great place to stay quietly, as there are few tourists. If you want to completely chill out during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, just find a guesthouse in the mountains of Shangluo and stay for two nights without going anywhere. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Yichun and Shangluo. They are uncrowded, the scenery is authentic, and you won't have to fight for a photo spot. Just pick one and go.

The biggest fears when traveling with kids are too many stairs, confusing transfers, and having to carry them every few steps. I've selected these places where you can mostly get around with a stroller, making it easier on adults while still giving kids plenty to see. 01 Taizhou | Zhejiang For Tiantai Mountain, I recommend taking the scenic transport directly to the area near Huading Lecture Temple, then walking down slowly. ⏰ Before 9:00 AM, the fog hasn't cleared, and the tree shadows and stone steps look very clean in photos. You can push a stroller to the platform in front of the temple, but don't force it on the dirt paths further down. Taizhou Prefecture City Cultural Tourism Zone is best visited in the evening. 📍 Enter Ziyang Street from Xingshan Gate; it's flat all the way, making it smooth for strollers. 🍜 Buy seaweed cakes fresh out of the oven; they get tough when cold. ⚠️ It gets crowded on weekend nights, and strollers can easily get stuck at shop entrances. The Nantian Cable Car at Shenxianju is stroller-friendly, but the boardwalk at the summit has stairs. If you have young children, just take the cable car up and down; don't attempt the full hike. Elementary school kids can do the Beihai Cable Car loop—it's a shorter route with great scenery. 02 Aba | Sichuan You can bring a stroller into Jiuzhaigou, but only on the main boardwalks. ⏰ Enter the valley at 7:30 AM, take the sightseeing bus to Long Lake first, then explore your way down. 📍 The section from Wuhua Lake to Pearl Shoal is flat and stroller-friendly. ⚠️ There are many stairs toward the Primeval Forest; skip this if you have kids. For Siguniang Mountain, choose Shuangqiao Valley. It's all sightseeing buses and flat boardwalks, so no stress with a stroller. 🍜 There's Tibetan-style hot pot at the valley entrance, and kids can eat the mild, non-spicy broth. It's great for elementary school kids to see the snow-capped mountains, though toddlers might just find it cold. Huanglong is at a high altitude. You can take a cable car up, but I advise against bringing a stroller to the Five-Color Pond area. If you're with seniors or children, just walk to Zhengyan Pond and turn back. ⚠️ Don't fall for the "since we're already here" mentality; altitude sickness is no joke. 03 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia At Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area, you can take a stroller to the Grand Canyon viewing platform. 📍 Enter from the Xuejiawan side; the road conditions are better than the other side. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the bend in the Yellow River, making for great photos straight from your phone. Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Zone is suitable for young children. The grass is flat, strollers work well, and kids can run around. 🍜 The milk tea in the scenic area is on the salty side; buy a small bowl to try first. ⚠️ Horse riding is charged by the circle; ask for clarification before getting on. Laoniuwan is better for elementary school kids, as you can talk about geography while looking at the canyon landscape. For middle and high schoolers, you can add a hike along the Yellow River, but don't go too far—it's windy. 04 Zhenjiang | Jiangsu On the Jinshan, Jiaoshan, and Beigushan route, you can take a stroller to parts of Jinshan and Beigushan. 📍 Enter Jinshan Temple from the main gate; the stairs are concentrated at the Pagoda Courtyard, so park your stroller below. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the light by the river is soft, which is perfect for photographing the pavilions at Beigushan. You need to take a ferry to Jiaoshan, and there are people to help with the stroller when boarding and disembarking. 🍜 For Zhenjiang pot cover noodles, look for old shops on the street; don't eat at the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ The joint ticket for the three mountains is calculated by the day; don't try to rush through them all in one day, or you'll burn out with the kids. Jurong Maoshan is suitable for older children. You can take a stroller up to the area near the Top Palace, but there are many stairs near the Laozi statue. Elementary school kids might not have the patience for Taoist culture, but middle and high schoolers might find it interesting. 05 Enshi | Hubei At Shennong Stream Rafting Cultural Tourism Zone, you can take a stroller onto the boat. 📍 Depart from Badong Pier and enjoy the canyon views from the boat the whole way. ⏰ The 10:00 AM departure has the best light. It's not tiring for young children to sit on the boat, but don't choose the rafting section. I advise splitting your visit to Enshi Grand Canyon into two days. On the first day, walk the Yunlong Fissure; the boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly. On the second day, go to Qixingzhai, where there are so many stairs you'll question your life choices. ⚠️ If you have a stroller, don't take it to Qixingzhai; leave it at the bottom. You can visit Enshi Tusi City and Enshi Qingjiang on the same day. You can explore Tusi City with a stroller, and take a boat on the Qingjiang River to see Butterfly Cliff. 🍜 Hezha and cured meat are local specialties, but kids might not be used to them, so pack some snacks. Elementary school kids are suited for the Qingjiang boat ride, while middle and high schoolers can handle hiking the Grand Canyon. 06 Changzhi | Shanxi At Baquan Gorge in the Taihang Grand Canyon, Huguan, you can take a stroller on the boat and cable car. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, take the boat first, then transfer to the cable car; the route is smooth. ⏰ Arrive when it opens at 8:30 AM and finish the core section before noon. The Taihang Grand Canyon is huge; just choose Baquan Gorge when traveling with kids. ⚠️ Hongdou Gorge has many stairs; don't take a stroller there. Elementary school kids enjoy the boat and cable car, but young children might get restless on the boat. 🍜 There is millet rice and Codonopsis-stewed chicken at the scenic area entrance; the flavor is mild, which kids can handle. It's best to visit in spring or autumn; it's too sunny in summer and cold in winter. 07 Nanchang | Jiangxi You can bring a stroller into the Tengwang Pavilion Tourist Area, and there is an elevator in the main pavilion. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, see the main pavilion first, then walk along the Gan River to the North Gate. ⏰ Visit the pavilion after 5:00 PM to see the sunset glow and the river; it's better than during the day. Elementary school kids may not have a concept of the "Tengwang Pavilion Preface," but they will be interested in climbing high to see the river. Young children can just run around on the riverfront path, which is smooth for strollers. ⚠️ The free admission event for reciting the preface has long lines; don't bother with it when traveling with kids. 🍜 The clay pot soup and mixed noodles at the nearby Shengjin Pagoda Food Street are non-spicy and kid-friendly. For middle and high schoolers, you can add a visit to the Jiangxi Provincial Museum, but note that it is closed on Mondays. 08 Shangluo | Shaanxi You can take a stroller through the first half of Jinsixia. 📍 Enter from Ludumen Gate; the boardwalk along the stream is flat. ⏰ Go after the rain when the water levels are high and the waterfalls look great. ⚠️ There are many stairs in the second half; turn back with the stroller. Elementary school kids like playing in the water, but watch out for slippery surfaces with young children. Tianshuxia is suitable for older children, and you can take a stroller to the canyon entrance. Manchuanguan Ancient Town has many flat roads, so it's fine to explore the old streets with a stroller. 🍜 Try the "fairy" jelly and bacon-fried rice noodles in the ancient town. Baita Temple has many stairs; just take a look from the bottom if you have a stroller. Shangluo is generally best in spring and autumn; it's cool in the canyons in summer, but some sections freeze in winter. Middle and high schoolers can hike the full Jinsixia route, while young children should stick to the ancient town and Tianshuxia. Only when you find places where strollers can get through can you really say "let's go" when traveling with kids. Taizhou and Zhenjiang are the least tiring, while Enshi and Changzhi are great if you pick and choose. Which ones have you taken your kids to? Let's chat in the comments.

Don't want to squeeze onto a high-speed train this weekend? Here are 8 road trip routes that are uncrowded, beautiful, and budget-friendly. 1️⃣ Mianyang | Sichuan It's 2.5 hours from Chengdu, all highway, and easy for a weekend round trip. The Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is the highlight; the new and old county ruins are adjacent. It’s a sobering experience, but worth it. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and find parking easily. 📍 The row of watchtowers on Banaqia Commercial Street is the best photo spot—don't just drive around the new town and leave. 🍜 Have a bowl of buckwheat noodles and some bacon at the entrance to the Qiang City; it’ll cost about CNY 50 for two. ⚠️ Don't talk or laugh loudly in the old county ruins; this place isn't for "checking in." It's suitable for seniors to walk slowly, as there aren't many stairs. Bring your own water to save money, as bottled water starts at CNY 5 in the scenic area. 2️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Just over an hour south of Xi'an, there's a cool route hidden in the Qinling Mountains. Jinsixia is the main attraction, but honestly: it's packed on summer weekends. For peace and quiet, try Tianshuxia instead—the canyon is narrower, the water is cooler, and it takes about 2 hours to walk. ⏰ Enter the canyon at 8 AM and leave by 11 AM to dodge the tour buses. 📍 Manchuanguan Ancient Town is on the Shaanxi-Hubei border; the bluestone street is short, takes half an hour to explore, and you can grab some "fairy jelly" (shenxian liangfen) along the way. Don't go out of your way for Baita Temple; just take a look if you pass by. ⚠️ The line for the Jinsixia cable car can make you question your life choices—if you have the stamina, take the boardwalk. There's a big temperature difference in the mountains, so bring a light jacket. 3️⃣ Xiangyang | Hubei Many people go for Gu Longzhong, but there's more to Xiangyang than just that one courtyard. Gu Longzhong itself isn't huge—2 hours is enough—but the atmosphere and the sense of history are the real draw. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 3 PM; the light hits at an angle, making the bamboo forest look great in photos. 📍 Don't rush onto the highway after leaving Longzhong; detour to the ancient city wall for a bowl of beef noodles. 🍜 Xiangyang beef noodles are served with red chili oil and yellow wine—a set costs CNY 15, and they're best for breakfast. ⚠️ Don't rent the audio guide at the entrance to Gu Longzhong; you can find all the information online. If you have kids, half a day at Gu Longzhong is enough; spend the afternoon flying kites by the Han River. If driving, park at the North Gate; it's closer to the entrance. 4️⃣ Daxing'anling | Heilongjiang This route is for serious road trippers; you can't do it in a weekend. The Arctic Village Tourist Area is in Mohe, and it takes a full day to drive there from Harbin—plan for 4–5 days. ⏰ June and September are the most comfortable times—one is before the polar day, the other is when the autumn colors start. 📍 Send a postcard from the northernmost post office in Arctic Village for the full experience. The forest road through Daxing'anling is lined with birch trees; pull over anywhere for a screensaver-worthy view. ⚠️ Cell signal in the forest area is spotty, so download offline maps in advance. This is great for couples or groups; solo travelers should be cautious, as there are few supply stops on the road. Fill up your tank, stock up on food, and don't count on finding convenience stores along the way. 5️⃣ Tangshan | Hebei Two hours from Beijing, you can combine the Eastern Qing Tombs and Nanhu/Kailuan into one day. Don't try to see too many tombs; pick the Yuling and Cixi mausoleums—the underground palaces and stone carvings are the highlights. ⏰ Hit the Eastern Qing Tombs in the morning, return to the city at noon, and save the afternoon for Nanhu. 📍 Nanhu Park is huge, so rent a tandem bike, or you'll walk until your legs give out. 🍜 Buy Tangshan Qizi biscuits and Geza boxes from an old shop on the street—a big bag costs CNY 10. ⚠️ The tombs are far apart, so driving is the most convenient way to get around; don't plan on walking. If you're with seniors or kids, Nanhu is more relaxing than the Eastern Qing Tombs, and you can lounge on the lakeside lawn all afternoon. Buy tickets online in advance to save time queuing on-site. 6️⃣ Jinzhong | Shanxi If you have to choose between the Qiao Family Compound and the Wang Family Compound, I'd pick Wang. Qiao is famous but crowded; Wang is on a grander scale, with brick and wood carvings that will make you stop in your tracks. ⏰ Get to either compound when they open at 8 AM; after 10 AM, tour buses start pouring in. 📍 Mianshan in Jiexiu is on the way, but hiking it is tiring, so know your limits. Save Pingyao Ancient City for the evening—it only comes alive when the lights turn on. 🍜 Eat wantuo and kaolaolao in the small alleys of the ancient city; the food on the main street is expensive and mediocre. ⚠️ Don't drive into Pingyao; park in the lot outside the city, as you'll have to walk everywhere inside. It's perfect for a slow-paced trip—2 days and 1 night is just right. 7️⃣ Shigatse | Tibet The route to the Mount Everest Base Camp isn't cheap, but the freedom of driving yourself is worth every penny. Driving from Lhasa to Shigatse, you'll have the Yarlung Tsangpo River for company the whole way. ⏰ April to May and September to October are the most reliable times; the rainy season brings thick clouds, making it unlikely you'll see the peak. 📍 Tashilhunpo Monastery is in the city—half a day is enough to explore it, and you should visit the debate courtyard in the afternoon. You need a border permit to go to Everest; get it in advance from your home region or in Lhasa. ⚠️ Don't push through altitude sickness; stay a night in Shigatse to acclimate before heading higher. Make sure your car is in good condition, as washboard roads can damage the suspension. This is for experienced high-altitude drivers; be very cautious if traveling with seniors or children. 8️⃣ Jilin Songhua Lake and Rime Island—one is for summer, one for winter, don't mix them up. In summer, you can take a boat on Songhua Lake, eat fish, and camp by the lake for a comfortable night. ⏰ Rime Island is only worth it from December to February; get to the riverbank by 6:30 AM, as the rime falls off once the sun comes out. 📍 The photo spots near Zengtong Village are quieter than those in Hantun. 🍜 For jianfen and sauerkraut pork in Jilin city, find a small restaurant in a residential area—you can eat your fill for CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ Seeing the rime depends on luck, so don't expect a 100% guarantee; stay an extra night to improve your odds. The road around the lake has many curves, so drive slowly. It's great for families, but remember to switch to winter tires in the winter. Of these 8 routes, Mianyang and Shangluo are best for a spontaneous trip, while Jilin and Shigatse require saving up your vacation days. Which direction are you thinking of heading lately?

The two things I fear most when driving around the National Day holiday are getting stuck on the highway staring at taillights, and staring at the backs of people's heads at tourist spots. I've selected these 8 places because they're either on the way, affordable, or simply won't have crowds fighting you for space. I've roughly estimated fuel costs based on 8 liters per 100 kilometers. You can adjust based on your own vehicle. 1️⃣ Jiuquan | Gansu To be clear, downtown Jiuquan is just a transit point. The real destination is the Dunhuang area—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Moon Spring, Mogao Grottoes, Yadan, and Yumenguan are all on one route. ⏰ Don't go to Mingsha Mountain at noon; the sand is scorching. Enter after 5:00 PM, climb to the ridge for the sunset, and it won't get fully dark until after 9:00 PM. Camel rides have long lines; if you're fit, climbing yourself is more fun. Mogao Grottoes must be booked in advance. In peak season, regular tickets cover 8 caves, while emergency tickets only cover 4. ⚠️ If you can't get a ticket, don't buy from scalpers; go to Yulin Grottoes instead—it's less crowded and the murals are exquisite. Yadan and Yumenguan are best visited on the same day; it's a two-hour drive one way from downtown Dunhuang. It's windy, so bring a jacket. Yumenguan is just an earthen mound with historical significance but average photo ops; if you want to save on admission, you can just take a photo at the entrance and leave. 🍜 Back in the city, try the donkey meat noodles—the old Zhangji shop has chewy noodles. Stay at a homestay near Mingsha Mountain to see the stars at night. 2️⃣ Songyuan | Jilin Chagan Lake is the main attraction, and Jinchan Island is in the middle of the lake—take a boat to get there. There's no winter fishing in September–October, but the lake is quiet, the reeds have turned yellow, and the wind makes it feel like the ocean. 📍 Walk 200 meters north from the Chagan Lake pier to find a wild beach; there's no admission fee, and you can park your car right next to it. Bring a folding chair and sit for the afternoon—it's more comfortable than crowding the observation deck. The temple on Jinchan Island is worth a look, but food on the island is expensive—a bowl of fish soup costs CNY 60–70. I suggest going back to the city to eat; stewed bighead carp with vermicelli is the real deal. 🚄 It's about a one-hour drive from Songyuan Station to Chagan Lake, and the roads are good. It's suitable for seniors and children, with no climbing required. ⚠️ It's windy by the lake, so you'll need a windbreaker by September. 3️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsixia is one of the few canyon routes in the Qinling Mountains, with boardwalks the whole way—it takes three hours to walk. The water is clear, the rocks are green, and it's not crowded in September. ⏰ Enter the gorge at 8:00 AM when the light filters through the canyon gaps—it's the best time for photos. In the afternoon, the backlight makes it hard to get good shots with a phone. Tianshuxia is wilder and better for hiking enthusiasts. Manchuanguan Ancient Town has preserved Ming and Qing dynasty streets with bluestone roads; it's not overly commercialized and is great for wandering. Baitasi is in downtown Shangluo; the pagoda forest is quiet and free to enter. 🍜 In the city, try the Shangzhou stew with guokui—you can eat your fill for CNY 30 per person. ⚠️ The steps in Jinsixia are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. If you have children, don't walk the whole way; take the cable car to save energy. It's a two-hour drive from Xi'an, and round-trip fuel costs are under CNY 200. 4️⃣ Taiyuan | Shanxi Visit Tianlong Mountain for the grottoes, specifically where the Buddha heads were returned. The mountain road is winding, so be careful when passing other cars. The view from the top is great, overlooking Jinyang Lake. Jinci Museum is the highlight, featuring Song dynasty architecture—the Nanlao Spring, the maid statues, and the Zhou cypress are the three wonders you must see. ⏰ Go in the morning when it's less crowded and the light is better. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so don't waste a trip. Go to Jinyang Lake Park in the evening to ride bikes by the lake—it's breezy. 🍜 In the evening, head back to the city for tounao and shaomai. The old shop Qingheyuan only serves it in the morning, so don't oversleep. Taiyuan is a good transit point for a Shanxi road trip—stay a night, have two meals, and fill up your gas tank before leaving. Parking in the city is expensive, so look for a hotel with parking. 5️⃣ Lhasa | Tibet Namtso, Potala Palace, and Jokhang Temple are the classic trio. September–October is the best season in Lhasa—the rainy season is over, and the sky is impossibly blue. Potala Palace tickets must be booked in advance; they cost CNY 200 in peak season and CNY 100 in the off-season. ⚠️ You can't take photos inside the palace, and take the stairs slowly—altitude sickness is no joke. There are many people prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple; please be respectful and don't shove cameras in their faces. ⏰ Go to Barkhor Street in the evening for the kora—follow the flow of people, the light is warm. Driving to Namtso takes four hours one way, and at an altitude of 4,700 meters, a round trip in one day is exhausting. I recommend staying in Damxung for a night and heading to the lake early the next morning. 📍 Watch the sunrise at Zhaxi Peninsula—it's cold, so bring a down jacket. 🍜 Back in Lhasa, drink sweet tea at the Guangming Gangqiong teahouse—it's CNY 1 a cup, and you can sit all afternoon without anyone rushing you. This is for people with high-altitude experience; if it's your first time in Tibet, don't drive too aggressively. 6️⃣ Xuancheng | Anhui Chaji Ancient Village is quieter than Hongcun and cheaper, with many art students sketching. With its blue bricks and black tiles, and a stream running through the village, it looks like a painting in the morning mist. Jixi Longchuan is where the Hu clan settled; the ancestral hall is grand and the wood carvings are intricate. ⏰ After 4:00 PM, the light hits the white walls at an angle, making for great photos. 📍 Find a guesthouse by the water in Chaji Village to stay the night and listen to the water. 🍜 Eat Jixi taguo and braised pork with bamboo shoots—it costs about CNY 50 per person at a farmhouse restaurant. 🚄 Rent a car at Xuancheng Station; it's a one-hour drive between the two spots. It's great for couples and photographers, with a slow pace. ⚠️ The stone roads in the ancient village are tough on suitcases, so a backpack is better. 7️⃣ Ganzhou | Jiangxi Shicheng is a hub for Hakka walled houses. The lotus flowers are gone by September/October, but the walled houses themselves are worth seeing. Admission isn't expensive, and there are few tourists. Sanbaishan is the source of the Dongjiang River, with high forest coverage—great for hiking and getting fresh air. ⏰ Go in the morning and come down before noon, as it gets foggy in the afternoon. 📍 In Shicheng County, eat Hakka stuffed tofu and lei cha at a street-side shop. 🚄 It's about a two-hour drive from Ganzhou Station to Shicheng; road conditions are average, so an SUV is more stable. It's a good combination for those who like culture and nature, and it's suitable for parents, as the intensity isn't high. ⚠️ People live in the walled houses, so don't be loud, and ask before taking photos. 8️⃣ Zhengzhou | Henan Don't just treat Zhengzhou as a high-speed rail transit point. Qinweishuicheng is a newly built water street; it looks good when the lights come on at night, but it's quite commercial, so an hour is enough. Songshan Shaolin Temple is famous, but even more crowded. ⚠️ Don't buy incense at the entrance—it's expensive. Time your visit for the martial arts performance; there's one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Xiliu Lake Park is where locals go for a stroll—it's free, and the ginkgo trees turn yellow in autumn. The museum is the highlight, with the Jiahu bone flute and the Lotus Crane Square Pot. ⚠️ It's closed on Mondays, so book in advance. 🍜 In the evening, have Heji braised noodles or Fangzhongshan spicy soup—it'll make you sweat. Park your car at the hotel; the city subway is convenient, so don't drive into Erqi Square. Of these 8 places, the ones I most want to visit again are Shangluo and Xuancheng—they're less crowded, cost less, and the scenery is great. Pick one, fill up your tank, and go.

Don't push it when traveling with your parents; these 8 places are easy on the legs. 1️⃣ Kunming | Yunnan Bringing older family members to Kunming, the biggest fear is packing the itinerary too tight. My suggestion is to visit Daguan Park in the morning, enter from the East Gate, and walk slowly along the lake. There are many benches, so you can sit down whenever you get tired. 📍 The lotus pond in front of Daguan Pavilion is perfect in summer; there's plenty for seniors to photograph. In the afternoon, go to Dianchi Lake for a breeze. No need to go around the whole lake; just choose the Haigeng Dam section. ⏰ The light is soft after 5:30 PM. Seagull season is in winter; don't wear shoes that are too slippery. Choose either Dongchuan Red Land or the Expo Garden. The Red Land is far with many winding mountain roads; if your parents get carsick, don't push it. The Expo Garden has flat paths, suitable for those with limited mobility. ⚠️ It's windy at the Red Land observation deck, so bring a jacket. Admission tickets and opening hours are subject to official daily announcements. 2️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan You can visit Yaoshan and the Spring Temple Buddha in one day, but don't try to do it all. Go to the Spring Temple Buddha in the morning; although there are many steps, there are shuttle carts available. It's worth spending a little money to save energy for seniors with limited mobility. Have a bowl of Jiaxian Heluo noodles outside the scenic area at noon. 🍜 The noodles are chewy and the broth isn't spicy, which seniors usually enjoy. Go up Yaoshan in the afternoon; taking the cable car both ways is the most stable option. ⏰ It gets foggy in the mountains after 3:00 PM, which affects the view, so try to go early. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are high, so bring your own warm water and snacks. The mountain paths and steps are slippery; don't go after rain. This is suitable for seniors with moderate stamina who can walk on gentle slopes; it will be difficult for those relying solely on wheelchairs. 3️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi I recommend splitting this Shangluo route into two days. Jinsixia is the highlight; it's cool in the canyon, like natural air conditioning in the summer. 📍 Enter from the North Gate and walk along the boardwalk to Suolong Waterfall. It takes about 3 hours round trip; you can turn back if you get tired. Tianshuxia is less crowded and the rock textures are interesting, but the steps are quite steep. ⚠️ If your parents have bad knees, skip this; don't force the climb just for a photo op. Mancuanguan Ancient Town is best visited in the evening. The bluestone paths are flat. 🍜 You can try the Jiangshui Yuyu and "Eight Great Dishes" in town. Baita Temple is on the way and worth a quick look; half an hour is enough. 🚄 High-speed rail from Xi'an is convenient, but driving is more flexible. Suitable for seniors who like slow-paced sightseeing and don't like climbing mountains. 4️⃣ Dalian | Liaoning Dalian's seaside is very senior-friendly. The roads in the Golden Pebble Beach National Tourist Resort are wide, and the coastal boardwalk is even wheelchair-accessible. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and strong winds. You need to time your visit for shows at Laohutan Ocean Park. ⚠️ The venues are far apart, so don't force yourself to see everything with a full ticket; just pick two pavilions. Go to Xinghai Square in the evening; it's huge, so rent a small cart to push your parents around. Tanglihu Park is where locals go for a stroll; it's quiet and has few tourists. 🍜 Find a small seafood restaurant nearby and order steamed dishes; avoid anything too oily. 🚄 A combination of subway and taxi is the most worry-free. Suitable for seniors who want to avoid the sun and enjoy a slow walk in the sea breeze. 5️⃣ Zhuzhou | Hunan Yandi Mausoleum is a great place to take seniors for a walk. The entire park's central axis is straight, the steps are gentle, and there are many ancient trees on both sides, so it's not too sunny even in summer. ⏰ It's less crowded in the morning, and the walk through the sacrificial square is solemn and quiet. 📍 Enter from the Que Gate and walk all the way to the Mausoleum Hall; it takes about an hour and a half at a slow pace. ⚠️ Vendors selling incense and candles in the park will try to strike up a conversation; just be polite, you don't need to feel pressured to buy anything. 🚄 It takes about an hour to drive from downtown Zhuzhou; driving or chartering a car is recommended, as public transport is a hassle. Suitable for seniors who are interested in culture and can walk reasonably well. Those coming purely for the scenery might find it monotonous. 6️⃣ Linfen | Shanxi Many seniors get teary-eyed when they visit the Hongtong Dahuaishu Ancestor Worship Park. The park is flat and shuttle carts are convenient. 📍 The Root Carving Gate and the Ancestor Worship Hall are the highlights; two hours is enough to see them at a leisurely pace. The Yellow River Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area is most spectacular during the high-water season. ⏰ The water flow is good in spring and autumn, and also strong after summer rainstorms. ⚠️ There is a lot of mist near the observation deck and the ground is slippery, so hold onto your parents. It's windy, so hats can easily blow away. Yunqiu Mountain is best for the second day; the ancient villages and ice caves are the highlights. There is a large temperature difference inside and outside the ice cave, so have your parents put on an extra layer before entering. 🍜 The Xiangning Heluo noodles at the foot of the mountain are worth a try. The attractions on this route are scattered, so driving is the most convenient. Suitable for seniors who are in good health and can handle long car rides. 7️⃣ Wanning | Hainan When bringing seniors to Wanning, don't rush between attractions; just hang out by the sea. The sand at Shimei Bay is fine and the slope is gentle, perfect for wading in the waves. ⏰ It's most comfortable from 7:00 AM–9:00 AM when the sun isn't too harsh. Riyue Bay is a surfing spot with lots of young people; seniors can just watch the fun. 📍 There are benches under the coconut trees by the sea; sitting and enjoying the breeze is better than going into the water. ⚠️ The UV rays in Hainan are strong, so bring sun hats and long sleeves. Avoid being out in the sun between 11:00 AM–3:00 PM. 🍜 Find a local restaurant to eat Hou'an rice noodles; the broth is clear and not greasy. 🚄 Take the high-speed rail from Haikou or Sanya to Wanning Station, then take a taxi to the bay area. Suitable for seniors who want to escape the cold in winter and enjoy a quiet seaside. 8️⃣ Wuzhong | Ningxia The Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon Scenic Area is a unique stop on this trip. The Yellow River makes a big turn here; you can take a boat to see the cliffs on both sides, so seniors can enjoy the scenery without walking. ⏰ The light is good in the morning, making for clear photos. 📍 You can visit the Dayu Cultural Park and the 108 Pagodas on the way. The pagodas are on the mountain with many steps, so proceed according to your ability. ⚠️ Ningxia is very dusty; if you come in spring, bring masks and glasses. There are few dining options in the scenic area, so bring your own food and water. 🍜 Go back to downtown Wuzhong for a bowl of hand-grabbed lamb and lamb offal soup; it's hot and seniors love it. 🚄 It's about an hour's drive from Yinchuan. Suitable for seniors who like the scenery of the Northwest and can handle the dry climate. When traveling with parents, the pace is more important than the destination. Among these 8 places, Kunming and Dalian are the easiest on the legs, and Wanning is the most relaxing. Where do you plan to take them first? Let's chat in the comments.

Budget-friendly National Day trips without the traps, these 6 spots are uncrowded and save you money 01 Yanbian | Jilin If you're looking for a place with few people, beautiful scenery, and low costs for the National Day holiday, Yanbian is a great choice. Take a bus from Yanji West Station to Liuding Mountain; the trip takes about 40 mins. Book your attraction ticket in advance via the official channel to avoid queuing at the entrance. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM; the morning mist hasn't cleared yet, and there's almost no one competing for photo spots at the Golden Tripod Buddha. 🍜 After coming down the mountain, head back to the city center—don't eat at the entrance of the scenic area. On the street behind the Yanji Water Market, cold noodles and rice cakes are priced for locals; a bowl of cold noodles is about CNY 15. For accommodation, choose the area near Yanbian University; it's convenient for buses to all spots, and you can check out the viral wall at night. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus at Liuding Mountain costs extra. If you're not up for a lot of walking, I recommend buying a ticket, as it takes 40 mins to walk up. It's windy in the mountains in October, so bring a windbreaker; don't just wear a hoodie. 02 Changji | Xinjiang Don't try to visit Jiangbulake and Heavenly Lake on the same day; one is in the east and the other is in the south, so you'll just end up spending the whole day in a car. My advice is to split it into two days: leave a full day for Heavenly Lake, and half a day for Jiangbulake plus Wucaiwan for the sunset. 🚄 Depart from Urumqi. There are direct shuttle buses to Heavenly Lake next to the high-speed rail station. For Jiangbulake, I recommend carpooling, which costs a little over CNY 100 per person. ⏰ Catch the first shuttle bus to Heavenly Lake in the morning; once the tour groups arrive at noon, it'll be packed. The wheat fields in Jiangbulake turned yellow in September, and they look like waves when the wind blows—they look great in photos. Staying in Fukang city is half the price of staying at the entrance of Heavenly Lake, and dining is reasonably priced too. ⚠️ Don't drive to Wucaiwan yourself; the road conditions are average, and carpool drivers know the way. In October, the temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is huge, so a down jacket is not an exaggeration. 03 Changzhi | Shanxi In the Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon, Baquan Gorge is the highlight, but the attraction ticket and transportation aren't cheap. If you want to save money, walk the free trails on the outskirts of the canyon; the water is just as clear, and there are fewer people. ⏰ Enter Baquan Gorge after 3:00 PM; the light hitting the canyon is at its best, and the tour groups have already left. 📍 Take a bus from Changzhi city to Huguan, then transfer to the scenic area bus; the whole trip costs less than CNY 30. Stay in Huguan county; you can get a standard room for under CNY 100, which is more practical than a homestay in the scenic area. 🍜 The donkey meat pancakes at the small eateries in the county are filling for CNY 10. ⚠️ The cable car and cruise boat at Baquan Gorge are charged separately, so check before you buy your tickets. The water volume in October is lower than in summer, but the color is more transparent. If you're bringing elderly travelers, choose the sightseeing bus and flat paths; don't force them to climb. 04 Shangluo | Shaanxi Choose between Jinsixia and Tianshuxia; I prefer Jinsixia because the canyon is narrower and cooler. There are discounts on attraction tickets for the National Day holiday; check the official announcement on the day for details. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Xi'an to Shangluo, then transfer to a bus; it takes over an hour. 📍 Manchuanguan Ancient Town is worth a stop on the way; the bluestone street is free, and there's a morning market where walnuts and persimmon cakes are priced for locals. Baita Temple is best visited in the evening; the tower's shadow stretches long, making it perfect for silhouettes. Stay in Shangluo city; it's convenient for getting to all the counties. ⚠️ There's not much food sold inside Jinsixia, so bring your own water and dry food. The mountains are damp in October, so wear non-slip shoes. This route is suitable for people who like to walk and is not suitable for strollers. 05 Yancheng | Jiangsu Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve doesn't get too crowded during the National Day holiday, and the attraction ticket prices are friendly. 🚄 There's a direct tourist line from Yancheng Station, so you don't need to drive yourself. ⏰ It's best to go in the morning when the deer are active on the shoals; they hide far away in the afternoon. 📍 Walk 500 meters north of the Deer Watching Terrace, and you'll find a reed marsh that's so quiet you can only hear the wind. 🍜 Head back to the city for a bowl of Dongtai fish soup noodles for about CNY 20; it's very fresh. Stay near Yancheng Station; it's convenient for transferring to other places the next day. ⚠️ I recommend taking the sightseeing bus inside the park, as the walking area is too large. October is the rutting season for the deer, and the stags will call, so don't get too close. If you're bringing children, this is much more interesting than a zoo. 06 Chongzuo | Guangxi The Detian Transnational Waterfall still has plenty of water during the National Day holiday, but the attraction ticket plus bamboo raft isn't cheap. If you want to save money, watch from the outer viewing platform; it's just as spectacular. 📍 Cycling in Mingshi Rural Area is the most comfortable way to get around; renting a bike costs CNY 30 a day, and the rice fields start to turn yellow in early October. ⏰ Arrive at Detian before 8:00 AM to avoid the tour buses. 🚄 Take a high-speed train from Nanning to Chongzuo, then transfer to a bus; the whole trip takes about two hours. Staying at a homestay in Mingshi Rural Area is expensive, but staying in Chongzuo city is half the price. ⚠️ The bamboo raft will get you wet, so put your phone in a waterproof bag. It's still hot in Guangxi in October, so don't be lazy with sunscreen. This route is suitable for slow travel; if you're in a rush, a one-day round trip will be tiring. 07 Qingdao | Shandong Laoshan is crowded during the National Day holiday, but the wild trails are quiet. Take the subway to Puli Station, then transfer to a bus to enter the mountain; it's cheaper than taking a taxi. ⏰ Go to Zhanqiao after 4:00 PM; the seagulls haven't arrived yet, but the sunset hitting Huilan Pavilion is beautiful. 📍 The Olympic Sailing Center has lights at 7:00 PM, which you can see for free. 🍜 Seafood processing at Tuan Dao Market is half the price of the entrance to the scenic area. Stay in the old town of Shinan District; hostel beds are around CNY 60, and the sea is right outside your door. ⚠️ Laoshan attraction tickets are divided by route, so don't buy the wrong one. The seawater is cold in October, so forget about swimming, but you can walk on the beach. Qingdao is suitable for budget travel; with buses and walking, you won't spend much in a day. 08 Shenyang | Liaoning Shenyang is perfect for budget travel. The attraction ticket for Beiling Park is only a few yuan, and in the morning, it's full of locals out for a stroll. 🚄 Take Subway Line 2 directly there; walk a few steps after getting off, and you're at the main entrance. ⏰ Go to Beiling in the morning, the Expo Park in the afternoon, and return to the city in the evening. 📍 The Wugou Jingguang Relic Pagoda and the North Pagoda Falun Temple are right next to each other; neither requires an attraction ticket, and they are so quiet they don't feel like tourist spots. 🍜 Chicken rack and stretched noodles near Zhongjie are filling for CNY 15. Stay near Zhongjie or Shenyang Station; it's convenient to get anywhere. ⚠️ The Expo Park is huge, so rent a bicycle to save your legs. Shenyang cools down quickly in October, so you must bring a thick coat. These spots strung together make for a perfect two-day trip; you won't spend much money and you'll see everything. Don't try to do too much when you go out for the National Day holiday. Pick two or three places and take your time; it's more comfortable than rushing around. Which one do you want to go to the most? Let me know in the comments section.

Mapanshan Ecological Sightseeing Park | A hilltop leisure resort in Pingli, a one-stop getaway in the tea country Located in Chengguan Town, Pingli County, Ankang, Mapanshan Ecological Sightseeing Park is a national 3A-level tourist attraction just 3 kilometers from the Pingli county seat. Spanning over 4,500 acres of forest with high forest coverage, it integrates mountain sightseeing, ancient tea gardens, horseback riding, family-friendly recreation, educational field trips, and unique accommodations. Accessible by car all the way to the summit, it is an ideal destination for short getaways, family outings, and team-building events near Ankang. Basic Information Opening hours: Open all day; recreational activities 8:30 AM–5:30 PM Tickets: General admission is required. Package deals are available for activities such as horseback riding, archery, and the VR cinema. Seniors aged 65 and over and children under 1.2 meters are exempt from general admission. Students receive half-price admission with a valid ID. Recommended duration: Half a day to one day; overnight stays allow for experiencing the hilltop night view and sunrise. Highlights Yunfeng Observation Deck The highest point of the scenic area. From the summit, you can overlook the entire Pingli county seat and the Bahe River valley, with endless mountain ranges in view. It is easy to see the sea of clouds in the mountains early in the morning after rain, and the lighting at sunset is stunning, making it a perfect spot for panoramic photos. Centennial Ancient Tea Garden Over 400 acres of organic ancient tea gardens with tens of thousands of old tea trees scattered across the mountains, featuring trails that wind through the tea fields. Stroll among the tea rows, breathe in the tea fragrance, and experience tea picking and tasting to soak in the atmosphere of the selenium-rich tea country in southern Shaanxi. Horse Racing Track A signature experience in the park. This large, professional horse racing track allows you to experience mountain horseback riding and gallop through the wilderness, perfect for leisure and photo opportunities. Bermuda Naked-Eye VR Cinema An immersive naked-eye VR experience that requires no glasses. The visual effects are stunning and suitable for both adults and children. Xiaoyao Valley and Qianjige Educational Base Xiaoyao Valley offers the experience of cooking with firewood stoves. Qianjige serves as a venue for labor-based educational activities, including woodworking, planting, and other hands-on practices, suitable for family educational trips. Mongolian Camp A complex of unique yurt-style buildings for dining and gatherings. It features ethnic flair and can host bonfires at night, creating a great atmosphere for team-building dinners. Family Recreation Area Includes archery, sand treasure hunts, Angry Birds, a petting zoo, fun ball games, and other recreational activities, perfect for families with children to enjoy a rich experience. RV and Forest Cabin Campsite Unique hilltop accommodations. Forest cabins, RVs, and stargazing rooms are scattered throughout the forest. Far from urban light pollution at night, you can enjoy the starry mountain sky. Mountain Cycling Track A paved mountain track over 10 kilometers long, suitable for cycling. Ride through the forest and enjoy the fun of mountain sports. Recommended Itineraries One-Day Leisure Route Visitor Center > Yunfeng Observation Deck > Centennial Ancient Tea Garden Trail > Horse Racing Track > Bermuda VR Cinema > Family Recreation Area > Mongolian Camp > Xiaoyao Valley, then return. Two-Day Vacation Route Day 1: Arrive at the scenic area, visit the tea garden and observation deck, experience horseback riding and recreational activities, check into a cabin or RV campsite, and enjoy a bonfire in the evening. Day 2: Wake up early to watch the sunrise from the summit, explore the Xiaoyao Valley educational area, experience outdoor cooking, and return in the afternoon. Transportation By car: Navigate to "Mapanshan Ecological Sightseeing Park." It is a 5-minute drive from the Pingli West exit of the Ma'an Expressway. It takes about 1 hour to drive from downtown Ankang and 10 minutes from the Pingli county seat. You can drive to the summit, and there is a large parking lot. The mountain road is gentle and easy to drive. Public transportation: Take a taxi from Pingli county seat to the scenic area. Bus services are limited, so driving is recommended. Nearby attractions: Can be combined with Jiangjiaping Tea Garden for a one-day self-driving loop in Pingli. Travel Tips 1. The scenic area is at a high altitude with a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket even in summer. 2. You can drive directly to the summit, avoiding strenuous hiking, making it suitable for all ages. 3. Recreational activity packages can be purchased as needed; horseback riding, VR, and other activities are at your own expense. 4. It is windy at the summit, so take precautions against the wind when sightseeing and taking photos, and keep your belongings safe. 5. The scenic area has complete dining and accommodation facilities. You can taste Shaanxi farm-style dishes and roasted whole lamb, with most ingredients produced in the park. 6. There are many mosquitoes in the forest, so take precautions against sun and mosquitoes. 7. Please follow the scenic area's management regulations for camping and bonfire activities; private open fires are prohibited. 8. Do not pick tea leaves in the ancient tea garden at will; tea-picking experiences must be participated in according to the scenic area's regulations.

If you haven't decided where to go for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day and don't want to break the bank, I've dug up 8 places I've visited around September over the past two years for you to choose from. No hype, no bias—there are surprises and some downsides, so just pick based on what you like. 01 Yancheng | Jiangsu I only go to Yancheng for one place: Dafeng Milu Deer Park. Don't just think about taking the sightseeing bus for a quick look; the real fun is strolling slowly along the wooden boardwalk. The September breeze isn't harsh, and the deer herds soak in the ponds, occasionally flicking their tails to look at you. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the park before 9:00 AM when the animals are active and there are fewer people. Please check the official daily announcements for admission ticket prices and opening hours before you go. 📍 Driving to the visitor center is the easiest way, as public transport transfers can be a hassle. If you're bringing elderly family members or children, rent a park shuttle; don't try to walk the whole thing. ⚠️ Don't visit at noon under the sun; the deer will be hiding, and you'll only see grass. Dining options in the park are limited, so I recommend bringing your own water and snacks. 02 Zhangye | Gansu September is the perfect time to visit Zhangye. I recommend entering the Colorful Danxia Scenic Area after 4:00 PM when the light hits at an angle and the colors really pop; visiting at noon just results in photos of dull, dusty slopes. 📍 The Giant Buddha Temple is in the city center, the admission ticket isn't expensive, and the Western Xia Reclining Buddha is worth a 30-minute look. Mati Temple is a bit further away, featuring a mix of grottoes and grasslands, making it suitable for a half-day trip. To be honest, I'm not that interested in Liqian Ancient City. It feels a bit artificial, so if you're short on time, you can skip it and save your energy for Danxia and Mati Temple. 🚄 It's very convenient to take a taxi from Zhangye West Railway Station to the city center. For Danxia, I recommend chartering a car or carpooling, as shuttle bus schedules are limited. The temperature difference between day and night in September is large, so you'll need to add a jacket in the evening. 03 Xiangtan | Hunan I went to Xiangtan for the Shaoshan Tourist Area, but what really surprised me was the Caojia'ao Waterfall. It's not crowded, the water is rushing, and the water volume is decent in September. Standing below it, the cool air hits your face, which is very refreshing. The core area of Shaoshan is free, but some experience projects require extra payment, so weigh whether it's worth it yourself. I suggest going to Shaoshan in the morning and heading to Caojia'ao in the afternoon for a perfect pace. 🍜 Find a local shop at noon for a bowl of rice noodles; it'll fill you up for around CNY 10. Don't just walk into any shop at the entrance of the scenic area; prices are doubled and the taste is mediocre. ⏰ Caojia'ao is most impressive after the rain, but the road will be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. If you're bringing kids, don't let them run around, as the rocks by the water are hard to walk on. 04 Xilin Gol | Inner Mongolia September is the perfect time to visit Ulagai Grassland, just before the grass turns completely yellow. The sky is incredibly low, the clouds feel like they're pressing down on your head, and driving along the grassland highway, you're surrounded by windmills and herds of sheep. 📍 I recommend driving yourself; otherwise, the distances between attractions are enough to make you cry. Starting from Xilinhot, stopping at any random slope along the way is better than some of the paid viewing platforms. 🍜 You have to try the hand-grabbed mutton and milk tea, but don't eat in the core scenic area—it's expensive. Drive to the town and find a restaurant crowded with locals; the meat is fresh and the prices are reasonable. ⚠️ The grassland can get cold enough at night in September to make you question your life choices, so bring a windbreaker or a light down jacket. Signal can be spotty, so download offline maps in advance. 05 Panjin | Liaoning Red Beach Scenic Corridor is at its reddest in September. A sea of red stretches to the coast, paired with reed marshes—the visual impact is truly strong. But to be honest, the corridor is very long, and walking the whole thing will wear you out. 🚄 There is a tourist line from Panjin Station, or you can take a taxi. Take the sightseeing bus inside the scenic area; don't exhaust yourself just to save a few dozen CNY. ⏰ Go at 3:00 or 4:00 PM when the light is soft and the red is more saturated. Photos taken in the morning against the light will be dark and less effective. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea, so hold onto your hat and scarf. The landscape is different at low and high tide, so check the tide times before you go to avoid disappointment. 06 Huangshan | Anhui For the Southern Anhui ancient village route, I suggest choosing between Xidi and Hongcun unless you have plenty of time. Hongcun's water system is more photogenic, while Xidi is quieter and less commercial. Visiting both can lead to aesthetic fatigue. 📍 Chengkan Ancient Village is relatively niche; its Bagua layout is interesting to walk through, and it's less crowded, making it suitable for a leisurely stroll. The spots within the Ancient Huizhou Culture Tourist Area are scattered, so just pick the highlights. In September, Huangshan is cool in the morning and evening, but you'll sweat while climbing during the day, so wear layers that are easy to take off. Seeing the sea of clouds is a matter of luck, with higher chances after the rain. 🍜 Find a local, long-standing restaurant for stinky mandarin fish and hairy tofu; I don't recommend the ones right at the entrance of the scenic area, as they are overpriced. Staying in a homestay in the village has more character than staying in town, though soundproofing is generally average. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi On the Shangluo route, Jinsi Canyon is the star. It's cool in the canyon in September, the water is clear, and walking along the boardwalk while listening to the sound of the water is very stress-relieving. The whole trip takes most of the day, so wear comfortable shoes—don't wear new shoes that might give you blisters. 📍 Tianshu Canyon is even less crowded, and the rock textures really do look like open books, making it suitable for those who like peace and quiet. Take a quick stroll through Mancuanguan Ancient Town on the way and grab some local snacks, but don't set your expectations too high. I'll mention Baita Temple: it's not large, so it's fine if it's on your way, but it's not worth a special trip. Overall, prices in Shangluo are low, making it budget-friendly. 🚄 High-speed rail from Xi'an is convenient, but once you arrive, the attractions are scattered, so I recommend carpooling or driving yourself. ⚠️ Some sections in the canyon are slippery, so be especially careful of your footing after the rain. 08 Bortala | Xinjiang September is a great time to visit Sayram Lake; there are fewer people than in summer, and the lake water is unrealistically blue. Driving around the lake is the right way to do it—stop whenever you see a nice spot, don't rush. It's windy, so dress warmly. 📍 Anjihai Grand Canyon, with its red cliffs and river, is stunning for photos, but there are no railings on the edge, so stand back—don't risk your safety for a photo spot. The landscapes in Wenquan County are suitable for slowing down and soaking in a hot spring to relieve fatigue. Driving the whole route is the most enjoyable way, as public transport is quite difficult. ⏰ The light at Sayram Lake is best in the early morning and evening; the reflection on the lake is too strong at noon. The temperature difference between day and night in September can reach over 10 degrees, so a jacket is a must. Please check the official daily announcements for admission ticket and shuttle bus rules. You can pick two or three of these 8 places to visit in a row for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. Personally, I'd love to revisit Zhangye and Xilin Gol—one for the colors, one for the sky. Which one are you more excited about? Let me know in the comments.

Hidden in the valleys of the Daba Mountains, Taohuaxi is a 4A-rated scenic creek area. A stream runs through the entire valley, shaded by lush trees, with the sound of babbling water. In spring, peach blossoms cover the creek; in summer, it's cool for water play. Besides the pristine natural scenery, there are light adventure activities like a glass skywalk and a slide. The hiking is low-intensity, suitable for both adults and children. It's a hidden gem in southern Shaanxi for a relaxing family road trip and summer escape. 📍Address: Taohuaxi Scenic Area, Guangfo Town, Pingli County, Ankang City 🎫Ticket: Basic admission is ¥40; fun packages including the glass skywalk and slide are available, with discounted packages purchasable online ⏰Duration: 2–3 hours 🅿️Parking: A parking lot is available at the entrance, convenient for road trips 7 photo spots 1. Taohuaxi Valley Panorama: Surrounded by green mountains, with a stream winding through the valley 2. Taohuaxi Pool: A clear, emerald-green pool embraced by forests, a signature water feature 3. Creekside Boardwalk: A boardwalk hugging the stream, winding through lush trees 4. Guatian Waterfall: A waterfall cascading down the cliff, creating a refreshing mist 5. Sansheng Stone: A uniquely shaped giant rock by the creek, full of rustic charm 6. Glass Skywalk: A cliffside high-altitude walkway offering views over the entire valley and forest 7. Yaotai Observation Deck: A high vantage point for panoramic views of the rolling Qinba Mountains Route Arrive by car at the visitor center to validate your ticket and enter. Follow the creekside boardwalk deep into the valley. Visit spots like Taohuaxi Pool, Guatian Waterfall, and Sansheng Stone along the way. If you have energy, walk the glass skywalk for a bird's-eye view of the valley. To save effort on the way down, you can take the forest slide. The trail is mostly flat with minimal elevation gain, allowing for a relaxing pace while listening to the sound of the stream. Tips ✅ Spring (March–April) features blooming peach blossoms and petals floating on the water, creating the best atmosphere; summer is comfortable for escaping the heat and playing in the water ✅ The creekside trail can be slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes ✅ There are many insects in the forest, so bring mosquito repellent; the temperature in the mountains is lower, so bring a light jacket ✅ The glass skywalk and slide are optional activities; you can choose based on your preference, with no forced purchases ✅ You can combine this with Tianshuxia for a two-day Pingli road trip itinerary Engagement There are many creeks in southern Shaanxi. Do you prefer pure natural scenery or scenic areas with some fun activities? Comment prompt: A real-life Peach Blossom Wonderland in Pingli! The stream is babbling, the hiking is easy, and it offers both beautiful scenery and light entertainment—perfect for a weekend family road trip!

Tianshu Gorge is located deep in the Daba Mountains of Pingli County and is a national 4A-level scenic area. Billions of years of weathering have formed a unique stone forest. The gorge is crisscrossed by streams, with cascading waterfalls and emerald pools scattered throughout the forest, and ancient trees blocking the sky. Legend has it that the Eight Immortals once practiced Taoism here, giving the forest a mythical atmosphere. With high forest coverage, it is cool and refreshing in summer, uncrowded, and quiet, making it an unmissable pristine gorge hidden gem for road trips in southern Shaanxi. 📍Address: Tianshu Gorge Scenic Area, Baxian Town, Pingli County, Ankang City 🎫Ticket: Reference price for adults is ¥80; discounts available for online booking ⏰Duration: 2.5–3 hours 🅿️Parking: Parking lot available at the scenic area entrance; road-trip friendly 7 must-visit photo spots 1. Panoramic view of Tianshu Gorge: Surrounded by mountains with primeval forests spreading across the valley 2. Tianshu Stone Forest: Layered, giant slab-like rocks, the scenic area's iconic geological landscape 3. Multi-layered waterfall clusters: Streams cascading down the rocks with the sound of flowing water 4. Emerald alpine pools: Crystal-clear, emerald-hued water reflecting the surrounding forest 5. Waterside wooden boardwalk: The boardwalk winds through the dense forest along the stream for an immersive gorge experience 6. Primeval forest: Towering ancient trees covered in moss, creating a wild, natural atmosphere 7. Valley sunlight and streams: Sunlight filtering through the canopy onto the flowing stream Itinerary Drive to the visitor center to have your ticket checked and enter the park, then follow the gorge trail inward. View the Tianshu stone formations and cascading waterfalls in sequence, encounter multiple emerald pools along the way, and stroll along the waterside boardwalk through the primeval forest. It is a loop route with a few gentle steps, and the overall intensity is moderate. Listen to the sound of water and admire the unique rocks along the way, immersing yourself in the coolness deep within the Daba Mountains. Travel tips ✅ Visit after rain for abundant water flow and better waterfall views ✅ The gorge has dense shade, making it cool in summer and a great place to escape the heat ✅ The trail is near water and can be slippery; be sure to wear non-slip shoes ✅ Temperatures are lower in the mountains; bring a light jacket ✅ There are many mosquitoes; bring insect repellent ✅ Can be combined with Nuwa Mountain and Taohua Creek in Pingli for a road trip route Engagement There are many "Little Jiuzhaigous" in southern Shaanxi. Would you like to visit Tianshu Gorge for its combination of unique rocks, pools, and waterfalls? Comment prompt: A hidden, pristine gorge in Pingli! Unique rocks, emerald pools, cascading waterfalls, a forest oxygen bar, and a great place to escape the summer heat!

Where to go on a budget in September? These 8 places are uncrowded and cheap 01 Hefei | Anhui Visiting Sanhe Ancient Town in September is a bargain. The summer crowds have just eased, the weather isn't fully cool yet, and the bluestone streets aren't hot underfoot. ⏰ It's most comfortable to enter the town after 4 PM. The slanted light hits the horse‑head walls, and you won't have to fight for photo spots. 📍 Enter from the South Street entrance, walk along Ancient West Street to Yiren Lane, then head back to the banks of the Small South River. The whole route takes about 2 hours. 🍜 Rice dumplings and niupi candy are local classics, made fresh at street stalls. A portion costs CNY 5. Don't buy at the first stall at the entrance—walk about 50 meters in and the price drops. ⚠️ The ancient town itself has no main entrance fee, but a few small attractions inside charge separately, which you can skip. From Hefei city, it's just over 1 hour by bus, making it suitable for students and budget‑conscious travelers. 02 Haidong | Qinghai September at the Huzhu Tu homeland park is when Qinghai tourism is winding down. The peak season noise has faded, but the weather is still holding on. 📍 The homeland park is just outside Huzhu county; it's about a 1.5‑hour bus ride from Xining. Watch Tu embroidery and lunziqiu performances; a walk around the courtyards takes 2–3 hours. ⏰ Go to the homeland park in the morning, then swing by You Ning Temple in the afternoon. The temple sits in a mountain hollow, and it's so quiet you can hear the wind through the prayer flags. ⚠️ Some halls at You Ning Temple have irregular opening hours, so call ahead to avoid disappointment. September has big temperature swings between morning and night, so bring a jacket. This route suits people who like peace and quiet and don't enjoy crowds. 03 Leshan | Sichuan Leshan is perfect in September. The summer heat eases, and hiking won't leave you drenched in sweat. Mount Emei and the Leshan Giant Buddha are two separate itineraries. Don't try to do both in one day—you'll wear yourself out. ⏰ Aim to be at the Giant Buddha by 7:30 AM. Taking the boat for a full view is less effort than the cliff walkway, and it helps you avoid tour groups. 📍 On Mount Emei, take the shuttle from Baoguo Temple to Leidongping, then walk from Jieyin Hall up to the Golden Summit. Seeing a sea of clouds is a matter of luck. September marks the end of the rainy season, so your chances of catching a sunrise are better than in summer. 🍜 Back in town, don't miss the kicking beef and sweet‑skin duck at Zhanggongqiao food street. It's filling at about CNY 30–40 per person. ⚠️ Monkeys on the mountain will snatch plastic bags, so don't carry food in your hands. Elderly visitors should judge their ability before taking the cliff walkway to the Giant Buddha—the steps are steep and narrow. 04 Harbin | Heilongjiang September in Harbin is an underrated window before the ice and snow season. There's no snow yet, but hotels and flights are cheaper and the crowds are smaller. ⏰ Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral at dusk; pigeons circle the dome and the backlit silhouettes make great photos. 📍 Walk down Central Street to the riverfront, and sit for a while by the Flood Control Monument—the breeze is cool but not biting. Volga Manor is in the suburbs; September is perfect for autumn colors, with Russian wooden houses and yellow leaves offering more layers than in winter. Harbin Ice and Snow World is closed this season, so don't make the trip expecting ice sculptures. ⚠️ If you want to see ice and snow sculptures, September is not the time—you'll need to wait until year end. This line suits budget travelers who just want to city walk and eat Russian food. 🍜 Red sausage, kvass, and guo bao rou are best found in old Daowai neighborhood eateries, which are about half the price of tourist spots. 05 Guiyang | Guizhou Guiyang is pleasantly cool in September, so you can still catch the tail end of summer relief. 📍 Tianhetan tourist resort is close to the city, with caves and waterfalls that you can finish in half a day. Go to Qingyan Ancient Town in the afternoon for stone streets and braised pig trotters. Braised snacks are sold by weight—don't buy too much at once. Gaopo Yunding grassland is best at dusk; at sunset the windmills turn and the slopes turn golden. Huaxi Park is free and good for a morning stroll—locals outnumber tourists there. ⚠️ These spots are spread out, and transfers by bus take time and money, so carpooling can be more economical when in a group. Guiyang's metro coverage is limited; take a bus or taxi to Qingyan Ancient Town. This route suits people who want to escape the heat without spending a lot—overall prices are friendly. 06 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo sits deep in the Qinling mountains; going in September helps you avoid Xi'an's crowds. Jinsi Gorge is the main attraction, with cool streams in the canyon. Completing the full route takes about 4 hours. ⏰ Enter the valley in the morning for the best light and the clearest pools. Tianshu Gorge is wilder and suits hikers; the trail is rough, so wear non‑slip shoes. 📍 Manchuan'guan ancient town sits on the Shaanxi–Hubei border; old houses and guild halls are worth a wander, and it's not overly commercial. Baita Temple is quiet, with a pagoda forest hidden in the hills—almost nobody goes there. ⚠️ Distances between spots are large, so driving is most convenient and public transport is limited. September nights in the mountains are cool—bring long sleeves. This route suits self‑drivers and hiking enthusiasts; tickets and food and lodging are generally affordable and down‑to‑earth. 07 Changzhou | Jiangsu Visiting Changzhou in September gives you much better value than during summer. Tianmu Lake's water is still warm and there are fewer people. 📍 Tianmu Lake is best in the morning—take a boat tour and try the claypot fish head; half a day is enough. Spring and Autumn Yancheng tourism area showcases ruins and reconstructed streets—go in the afternoon for softer light, and it's not tiring with kids. Global Dinosaur Park is the family favorite; after school starts in September, lines are shorter and ride throughput is higher. ⚠️ Dinosaur Park tickets aren't cheap, so buying online in advance can save a bit. 🍜 Changzhou silver thread noodles and crab xiaolongbao are better value at old city shops than at the tourist areas. This line suits families with kids and short regional trips; travel connects well by high‑speed rail plus taxis. 08 Suizhou | Hubei Dahong Mountain in Suizhou is a hidden gem in September. Fewer people, friendly prices, and the mountain begins to show autumn colors. 📍 The Dahong Mountain scenic area is large; the main peak, Baozhu Peak, requires an early start to catch sunrise. ⏰ September mornings at the summit are cool—don't forget your jacket. The ancient ginkgo trees aren't fully yellow yet; wait until late October for peak color. ⚠️ Internal transport in the park relies on shuttle buses with infrequent service, so time your transfers carefully to avoid missing the last run. There are buses from Suizhou city to the scenic area, but driving is more flexible. This route suits people who want to hike but dislike crowds; 2 days and 1 night is just right. 🍜 Back in town, have a bowl of Suizhou guaizi rice—cheap and filling. Traveling in September is all about fewer crowds and lower prices. Pick one of these eight places and start with the one closest to you. Tell us in the comments which one you most want to visit, or share your secret budget spots for September.

3-Day Ankang Landscape & Hidden Gem Guide (Budget: ¥1,500) · Deep in the Qinling-Bashan Mountains · Lake Views & Cave Charms · Verified Itinerary for ¥870 per Person · ----- 📌 Key Takeaways ✅ Total budget: ¥870 (well below ¥1,500, with ¥630 remaining) ✅ Itinerary logic: City center—Shiquan—Langao—Return, connecting 6 major attractions in a "water—mountain—gorge—cave—town" loop for efficiency, no backtracking ✅ Ticket strategy: Full price in off-season + free admission policies; seniors/children/military personnel free, students half-price, total tickets only ¥285 ✅ Transportation core: Public bus + carpooling, city to Yinghu Lake bus ¥3, Shiquan area carpooling one-way ¥25–40, fully controllable ✅ Accommodation strategy: 2 nights in city + 1 night in Houliu, 2 nights in budget hotel ¥180, guesthouse ¥130, total accommodation ¥310 ✅ Dining highlights: Han River fish feast + southern Shaanxi snacks, average ¥90/day, fresh, budget-friendly, and authentic · ----- 📅 3-Day Itinerary Highlights Day 1 | Lake Views & City Hidden Gems Take the Ankang No. 30 bus (¥3) early in the morning directly to Yinghu Lake Scenic Area, purchase a combo ticket for ¥30 (includes boat), and cruise through the 77-square-kilometer artificial lake. Visit Yuxing Island and Guanping Island to see the Han River's blue waters reflecting the dam. Return to the city in the afternoon, walk to the Nangong Mountain bus stop, take a bus to Langao County (¥30), then transfer to the scenic area shuttle (¥40). Stay at a farmhouse at the foot of Nangong Mountain to watch the stars at night and greet the sea of clouds in the morning. Day 2 | Gorge Exploration & Cave Wonders Wake up early to climb Nangong Mountain and take the scenic south route: Volcanic Stone Forest → Glass Skywalk → Millennium True Body Hall → Golden Summit sea of clouds. The full route takes 4 hours, and the scenic shuttle is a must. Head down the mountain in the afternoon, carpool back to Ankang (¥40), and transfer to a bus to Shiquan (¥25). Head straight to Zhongba Grand Canyon, walk through the "One-Line Sky" along the boardwalk, listen to the babbling streams, and view the cascading waterfalls. In the evening, carpool to Houliu Water Town (¥20) and stay at a riverside guesthouse. Open the window to see the night view of the Han River and fall asleep to the sound of fishing songs. Day 3 | Heavenly Book Mystery & Return Take a morning stroll through Houliu Ancient Town to see the stone alleys, stilt houses, and Shiliantan for free. In the afternoon, carpool to Tianshu Gorge (¥30), hike through the gorge to see rock layers that look like "Heavenly Book" imprints, and explore this "Jiuzhaigou" of the Bashan Mountains. In the evening, carpool back to Ankang (¥40) and stop by Yanxiang Cave (ticket ¥80) on the way. Walk through the 500-million-year-old cave to see stalactites that look like dragons and waterfalls, with light and shadow creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Stay in Ankang and return the next day. · ----- 💰 Budget Details (Precise Control) [Table] Item | Cost | Notes Tickets | ¥285 | Yinghu combo ticket 30 + Nangong Mountain ticket 50 + shuttle 40 + Zhongba Grand Canyon 55 + Houliu Water Town 60 + Tianshu Gorge 80 + Yanxiang Cave 80 (no combo ticket) Transportation | ¥245 | City bus 3 + Ankang to Langao 30 + Langao to Nangong Mountain 40 + Langao to Ankang 40 + Ankang to Shiquan 25 + Shiquan to Zhongba 20 + Zhongba to Houliu 20 + Houliu to Tianshu Gorge 30 + Tianshu Gorge to Ankang 40 Accommodation | ¥310 | 2 nights in Ankang budget hotel 180 (Home Inn/Hanting) + 1 night in Houliu Water Town guesthouse 130 Dining | ¥240 | 3 days × ¥80, breakfast Guokui with salty noodle soup 15, lunch fish feast/potato shreds 35, dinner tofu feast/Jiaotuan 30, snacks 10/day Total | ¥870 | Excludes optional expenses like souvenirs, boat rides, escalators, etc. ✅ Remaining ¥630, can be used for: Nangong Mountain glass skywalk ¥5, Yanxiang Cave light show experience ¥30, Houliu Water Town Han River boat ride ¥50, Shiquan cured meat/selenium-rich tea souvenirs ¥200, emergency reserve ¥345 · ----- 🚗 Transportation Tips (Practical & Reliable) · Yinghu Lake: No. 30 bus goes directly there, 6:30 AM–6:30 PM, every 20 minutes. Taxis are not recommended (one-way ¥40) · Nangong Mountain: Take the "Ankang to Langao" bus from Ankang Bus Station, then transfer to the "Langao to Nangong Mountain" special line. There is no direct bus · Shiquan area: Zhongba, Houliu, Tianshu Gorge, and Yanxiang Cave are all on the "Zengzhong Road" loop. Carpooling is the only efficient way. You can contact drivers in advance at your guesthouse or the station · Tianshu Gorge to Yanxiang Cave: The two places are about 60km apart. There is no direct bus, so you must carpool. It is recommended to combine this with your return trip to Ankang, costing about ¥35 per person · Night travel: There are no night buses in Ankang in September. Be sure to book a car in advance. Didi's long-distance carpool feature is available · ----- 🍜 Dining Recommendations (Average ¥80/day) · Breakfast: Guokui with cured meat (¥10) + Salty noodle soup (¥12)—The soul of southern Shaanxi, with rich broth, chewy noodles, and a splash of spicy chili oil · Lunch: Han River fish feast (¥35) + Yangyu Chacha (potato shreds) (¥15)—Fresh fish and potato shreds with sour and spicy sauce, a filling, hearty meal · Dinner: Tofu feast (¥30) + Jiaotuan (¥10) + Tofu puffs (¥8)—Intangible cultural heritage, dense texture, gets more fragrant the more you chew · Snacks: Wantuo (¥5), pickled vegetable tofu soup (¥12), walnut cake (¥8)—Made fresh on the streets of Houliu Water Town, served hot and crispy 💡 Money-saving tip: Food inside scenic areas is overpriced. Bring your own dry food and bottled water. Restaurants in Houliu Water Town are 40% cheaper than those in the scenic area · ----- ⚠️ Key Reminders · Free admission policy: Seniors over 65, children under 1.3m, active military personnel, and disability card holders get free admission to Zhongba Grand Canyon, Nangong Mountain, and Yanxiang Cave · Tianshu Gorge: There are no shuttles in the scenic area. It is a full hike, so wear non-slip shoes. The stone steps are slippery after rain · Yanxiang Cave: The cave maintains a constant temperature of 16°C. Bring a light jacket. The light show starts at 7:00 PM every night, so it is recommended to visit during off-peak hours · Weather: September in Ankang has alternating sun and rain. Bring a folding umbrella and non-slip shoes. There is a large temperature difference in the mountains, so bring extra layers for morning and evening · Signal: There is no signal in some parts of Tianshu Gorge and Yanxiang Cave. Download offline maps (Gaode/Baidu) in advance · Cultural respect: Nangong Mountain is a Taoist holy site, and Yanxiang Cave is a geological heritage site. Do not touch stone carvings, stalactites, or Buddha statues · ----- 📸 Authentic Experience Anchors · Yinghu Lake: Cruising through the islands in the morning mist, the lake surface is like a mirror, reflecting the dam and distant mountains. It is the gentlest "artificial sea" in the Northwest · Nangong Mountain: When the sea of clouds surges, the Golden Summit floats like an isolated island in the vastness. The incense at the True Body Hall curls upward, as if you can hear the Taoist chants of a thousand years · Zhongba Grand Canyon: Every step reveals a waterfall or a rock formation. The gorge looks like it was carved by a knife, and the sound of water is the only background music · Tianshu Gorge: The rock layers are stacked like a heavenly book, and every texture is a silent poem of hundreds of millions of years of geology · Houliu Water Town: Under the night sky, the Han River is like silk, lanterns sway, and warm light shines through the windows of old houses. Time seems to stop here · Yanxiang Cave: Stalactites hang down like an inverted galaxy. Amidst the flowing light and shadow, it feels like walking into a mythological theater at the heart of the earth You are not just traveling; you are listening to the breathing of the Qinling-Bashan Mountains in the shimmering waves of the Han River, and touching the heartbeat of the Earth in the darkness of the cave.

Visit these 8 places for the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays: Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and money-saving. 01 Ganzi | Sichuan Autumn arrives early in Xinduqiao; the poplar forests start turning yellow in early October. ⏰ Arrive at the Ten-Mile Gallery before 7:00 AM. The morning mist hasn't cleared, and the light is as soft as a filter. The admission ticket and sightseeing bus for Daocheng Yading aren't cheap, but Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake are worth the trip. ⚠️ The altitude is high. Don't wash your hair or drink alcohol the day before, and buy oxygen tanks in town—they're cheaper than at the scenic area. Mugecuo is best saved for the end of your trip to soak in the hot springs and relieve fatigue. Visit the Hailuogou glacier and Red Stone Beach on separate days; don't try to cram them into one. 🚄 There are direct buses from Chengdu Xinnanmen Station, or you can drive via the Yakang Expressway for more flexibility. For accommodation, choose Kangding or Xinduqiao town, and book 2 weeks in advance for the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays. 02 Baoding | Hebei The pine forests at the Western Qing Tombs are more impressive than the palaces themselves. ⏰ After 3:00 PM, the tourists disperse, and the stone statues on the sacred path are especially quiet in the slanting light. For Baishishan, I recommend taking the East Gate cable car up and just walking the glass walkway section; your knees won't handle the full hike. Yesanpo is great for kids, and you can play by the Juma River. Don't follow the touts at the pier in Anxin Baiyangdian. 📍 Buy a through-ticket at the official ticket office and take a boat into the reed marshes; the water caltrops are just right around the Mid-Autumn Festival. 🍜 For donkey meat burgers in downtown Baoding, go to an established, time-honored shop—don't eat at the entrance to the scenic area. ⚠️ Food options on Baishishan are limited and expensive, so bring your own snacks. 03 Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula was the most unexpected surprise of this trip. The Danxia landforms paired with the Yellow River reservoir create colors so vivid they look unreal. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM to avoid backlighting and get the clearest shots of the red mountains in the Nanzonggou direction. It gets windy in the afternoon, so hold onto your hat. 📍 It's about a 2-hour drive from Xining via the Yatong Expressway and Likang Highway. The mountain roads are winding, so take motion sickness medication beforehand if needed. There are no decent restaurants in the scenic area, so bring plenty of water and naan. The temperature difference between day and night in Qinghai is significant during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays, so pack a thin down jacket. ⚠️ Some guardrails at the viewing platforms are low; do not climb over them to take photos. 04 Zibo | Shandong The Zhoucun Ancient Mall is better than I imagined. It's not one of those renovated, fake ancient towns; people still live in the alleys. ⏰ After 5:00 PM, the tour groups leave, the lanterns on the main street light up, and the sesame seed cake shops are still baking. 📍 Turn into Yinzishi Street to see several old dye shops and banks. 🍜 Buy the sesame seed cakes fresh from the oven—they're so thin they're translucent. Go to the city center for Boshan cuisine; don't miss the tofu box and stewed pot. ⚠️ The main street is crowded during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays, so head toward Sishi Street for a quieter experience. Park on the outskirts, as it's hard to find spots inside. 05 Qujing | Yunnan You have to wait until spring for the Luoping rapeseed flower fields, but the Jiulong Waterfall group is perfect for the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays. The water volume is high, and the 10-level waterfall is layered and cascading. ⏰ The morning light is best; enter from the West Gate and walk downwards to save energy. 📍 The third-level viewing platform offers the best panoramic shots, so don't crowd the first level. You can combine Duoyi River and Jiulong Waterfall into one day; chartering a car is more convenient than waiting for the bus. 🚄 There is a high-speed train from Kunming to Luoping that takes 1.5 hours. 🍜 The sour soup pork trotters and colorful flower rice in the county seat are worth trying. ⚠️ The rocks by the waterfall are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and avoid white ones. 06 Changsha | Hunan Tianxin Pavilion is great for a morning visit to see the skyline of old Changsha from the city wall. Enter Yuelu Mountain from the East Gate, though the autumn colors around Aiwan Pavilion won't be at their peak until November. You must book the Provincial Museum in advance, and it is closed on Mondays. ⚠️ Don't trust the "no-queue" tickets sold at the entrance. 📍 Huaminglou is in Ningxiang and is best visited by car; taking the bus takes too much time. 🍜 Go to community shops for rice noodles, not the pedestrian street. Eat the sugar oil baba while hot, as they get hard when cold. Changsha is crowded during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays, so choose accommodation along Metro Line 2 for convenient travel. 🚄 It takes 30 minutes to get to the city from the South High-Speed Railway Station. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi The canyon trail at Jinsixia is cool, and the water levels are decent around the Mid-Autumn Festival. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM to avoid the midday tour groups. Tianshuxia is wilder and better suited for those who enjoy hiking. Manchuanguan Ancient Town is small and can be explored in 30 minutes, but the Mule Gang Guild Hall on the old street is worth seeing. 📍 Baitasi is in Shangzhou city; just stop by if you're passing through, as it's not worth a special trip. 🍜 Have the Shangluo rolled noodles and walnut buns for breakfast. 🚄 The high-speed train from Xi'an to Shangluo takes 40 minutes, or you can drive via the Hushan Expressway. ⚠️ The cable car inside Jinsixia costs extra; if you have the energy, just walk the plank road. 08 Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia Tourist Area is cooler than the city, and the Shizhangdong Waterfall has plenty of water. ⏰ It's best to go after the rain, as the red rock walls look deeper in color when wet. 📍 The loop trail around Foguangyan takes about 2 hours; if you're with seniors, you can just walk the first half. Sidonggou is great for families as the road is flat. 🍜 Eat the bamboo shoots and cured meat in Chishui city, as there are few dining options in the scenic area. ⚠️ The sightseeing bus queues are long during the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays, so get into the valley early. 🚄 There are buses from Zunyi to Chishui, or you can drive via the Rongzun Expressway for a smoother trip. Stay in Chishui city, not at the entrance to the scenic area. Of these 8 places, Ganzi and Kanbula are the most physically demanding but the most rewarding. Baoding and Zibo are suitable for short trips. Pick one and set off for the Mid-Autumn and National Day holidays.

Worried about crowds when traveling with kids during the National Day holiday? These 8 places are less crowded and stress-free 01 Nanjing | Jiangsu When visiting Nanjing with kids during the National Day holiday, don't just crowd into the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. I recommend arriving at the Presidential Palace at 8:30 AM. ⏰ At that time, the tour groups haven't arrived yet, and the light and shadows of the plane trees in front of the Zichao Building will keep children quietly occupied for a long time. The exhibits inside are history-focused; children over 7 or 8 years old can understand them, but younger ones might get restless and want to leave. Save the Confucius Temple—Qinhuai Scenic Area for the evening. 📍 The section near Pingjiangfu Road is relatively less crowded, and taking a painted boat to see the lanterns is more comfortable than squeezing through the crowds on the bridges. 🍜 For duck blood vermicelli soup, choose a small local shop; don't eat in the core scenic area, as the price and taste aren't worth it. Choose either Niushoushan or Xuanwu Lake. If the kids have good stamina, go to Niushoushan to see the underground palace for a strong visual impact; if you want to save energy, rent a pedal boat at Xuanwu Lake—a loop around Huanzhou is just right. ⚠️ The Presidential Palace is closed on Mondays, so check the official announcement before you leave. 02 Lishui | Zhejiang Lishui is one of those places that "looks good in photos, but even better in person," but you need to plan your transportation in advance. I recommend staying one night at Yunhe Rice Terraces. ⏰ The mist rising from the valley floor at 5:30 AM will make the kids feel like they are in the clouds. September and October, when the rice is golden, are the most photogenic times of the year. Jinyun Xiandu is suitable for traveling with both the elderly and children. 📍 The stone path under Dinghu Peak is flat, so strollers can pass through. 🍜 Jinyun shaobing (baked flatbread) is best when freshly baked; the preserved vegetable filling paired with a bowl of wontons is something children will enjoy. Qingtian Shimen Cave is a bit off the beaten path. The waterfalls and cliff carvings are the highlights, but there are many steps, so ⚠️ it is not recommended to carry children under 3 years old up there. Lishui's attractions are scattered, so driving yourself is the most stress-free option. You can also take the high-speed train to Lishui Station and rent a car. 03 Datong | Shanxi Datong has fewer people than you might expect during the National Day holiday, especially if you avoid the entrance to the Yungang Grottoes at 10:00 AM. I usually ⏰ enter the grottoes after 2:00 PM, when the light hits the Buddha statues at an angle, which will make children quiet down as they look up. 📍 The open-air giant Buddha in Cave 20 is a must-photograph spot, but don't use a flash. Go to the Hanging Temple early; 🚄 it's about a 1.5-hour drive from the city center. Access to the temple is limited, so be prepared to wait in line with kids. ⚠️ Children with a fear of heights will be scared on the plank road, so you can view the full scene from below. Mount Heng (Northern Hengshan) and the Hanging Temple are on the same route; if your stamina is average, take the cable car. 🍜 Return to the city in the evening for knife-cut noodles. Ask for wide noodles and make sure the sauce isn't too salty. Choose accommodation near the ancient city wall so it's convenient for evening strolls and lantern viewing, and you can return to your room whenever the kids get tired. 04 Handan | Hebei This stop in Handan is all about "fewer people, more stories." I recommend visiting Guangfu Ancient City in the ⏰ morning. The city wall is intact, and you can walk around the moat; children can count the bridges. 📍 The former residence of Wu Yuxiang in the ancient city is worth entering. Children won't understand the theory of Tai Chi's birthplace, but they can touch the old locust tree in the courtyard. Wahuang Palace is in Shexian County, and the mountain road has many curves. 🚄 It takes about 1.5 hours to drive there. 📍 The hanging buildings of Wahuang Palace are built against the cliff, which is visually more stunning than in photos. ⚠️ The steps are steep, so parents carrying children should walk slowly and not rush. 🍜 In Handan city, drink doumo (bean paste soup) with fried dough sticks in the morning—that's the local way. If you have children with you, Guangfu Ancient City is more suitable for half a day, and leave at least 3 hours for Wahuang Palace; don't try to do too much. 05 Pingliang | Gansu Kongtong Mountain in Pingliang is a good choice for avoiding crowds during the National Day holiday, especially for families coming from the northwest. ⏰ I suggest arriving at the mountain gate at 7:30 AM and taking the scenic shuttle bus up to save yourself the most tiring part. 📍 Walking from Zhongtai to Xiangshan, you'll see ancient trees and Taoist temples along the way, so children won't find it monotonous. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes to take a taxi from Pingliang Station to Kongtong Mountain; carpooling is more cost-effective. ⚠️ Dining options on the mountain are few and expensive, so bring enough water and bread. It's cool on the mountain in September and October, so bring an extra jacket for the kids. 🍜 After descending the mountain, return to the city for mutton paomo (pita bread soaked in lamb soup). The soup in Pingliang is relatively clear, which children can handle. Choose accommodation in Kongtong District; it's also on the way if you go elsewhere the next day. 06 Shannan | Tibet If you take children to Yamdrok Lake, the prerequisite is that they have already adapted to the high altitude. ⏰ It is recommended to leave Lhasa at 7:00 AM to catch the bluest time of the lake when crossing the Gambala Pass. 📍 The viewing platform at the pass is crowded; there are quieter parking spots if you drive a bit further down. ⚠️ The altitude is nearly 5,000 meters. If the child shows signs of altitude sickness, descend immediately; don't push it. It's windy, so a hat and scarf are essential. 🚄 Hiring a car is the most reliable option; don't count on public transportation. 🍜 There are few places to eat on the road, so bring your own tsampa and hot water. This stop is not a typical family trip; it is suitable for older children in good health. I really don't recommend it for babies. 07 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is an underrated stop around Xi'an. I recommend visiting Jinsixia (Golden Silk Gorge) ⏰ after the rain; there is plenty of water vapor, and the plank road in the canyon is cool to walk on. 📍 The section from Bailong Gorge to Qinglong Gorge is the best part. Kids can splash in the water, but ⚠️ the stones are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Tianshu Gorge is quieter and suitable for families who don't want to deal with crowds. Save the ancient town of Mancuan Pass for the evening; 📍 the bluestone road in front of the Mule Gang Guild Hall looks great in photos. 🍜 In the ancient town, try the "fairy" jelly noodles and stir-fried rice noodles with bacon; order them if the kids can handle spicy food. Baita Temple is more about humanities; if the kids aren't interested, you can skip it. Driving is the most convenient way to get around Shangluo. It takes about 2 hours from Xi'an, and two days and one night is just right. 08 Wuhu | Anhui Wuhu Fantawild is the most "energy-draining" stop on this trip. It's crowded during the National Day holiday, but the lines are better than at Disney. ⏰ Rush to the popular attractions when the park opens, and stroll around slowly in the afternoon. 📍 The Fantawild tourist area has several phases; if you have children, prioritize the Fantasy Kingdom, as the rides are gentler. 🚄 It takes about 20 minutes by taxi from Wuhu Station. ⚠️ Food and drinks in the park are expensive; you can bring unopened snacks and water. Renting a stroller saves energy and can be a lifesaver when the kids can't walk anymore. 🍜 After leaving the park, go to the city for shrimp roe noodles and xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). The breakfast in Wuhu is much better than what's in the park. Stay near Fantawild so you don't have to rush the next day and can return after the kids have had a good sleep. Of these eight stops, Nanjing and Wuhu are the most stress-free, Lishui and Datong are the most photogenic, and Shannan is for older children. Which stop do you plan to take your kids to first?

Where to go for "reverse travel" during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? 8 off-the-beaten-path small towns with fewer crowds and lower costs 01 Yongzhou | Hunan Shangantang Ancient Village is one of the ancient villages I've visited in Hunan that feels the least like a "tourist attraction." There is no general admission fee to enter the village; only a few ancestral halls and old houses charge separate fees. The prices are reasonable and subject to on-site notices. ⏰ I recommend arriving after 4:00 PM, when the light hits the Xie-Mu River at an angle, making the stone paths and reflections shine. 📍 Buying Bridge is the most photogenic spot in the village. The bridge deck has been polished smooth by centuries of footsteps. Standing on it offers a perfect view of the horse-head walls on both banks. The elderly villagers sit at their doorways picking vegetables; they won't mind if you take photos, but don't shove the camera in their faces—put yourself in their shoes. 🚄 Taking a bus from Yongzhou Station to Jiangyong and then transferring is a hassle; driving is more convenient. The village has many stone paths, making it difficult to push a stroller, but it's fine for seniors if they walk slowly. ⚠️ There are few convenience stores in the village, so bring enough water. Don't count on being able to buy it as you go. 02 Lianyungang | Jiangsu Most people visit either Huaguoshan or Liandao and then leave. My advice is to visit both, but don't get the order wrong. Hike Huaguoshan in the morning; the steps near the Water Curtain Cave are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. ⏰ Enter the mountain before 7:30 AM to avoid the large tour groups. Visit Liandao in the afternoon. Dashawan Beach is crowded, so head toward Sumawan; the sand is finer and there are half as many people. 📍 The loop road around Liandao is perfect for a slow drive. Stop whenever you see an observation deck; the sea breeze is more comfortable than air conditioning. 🍜 Yanhe Lane in the city center is lively at night. The "xia popo" (shrimp dumplings) and cold jelly noodles are worth trying, but don't eat seafood at the entrance of tourist attractions—you know how the pricing goes. 🚄 A taxi from Lianyungang Station to Huaguoshan costs about CNY 30; Liandao is further away. You can take a bus, but it's slow. ⚠️ It's windy by the sea during the National Day holiday, so bring a light jacket. 03 Shangluo | Shaanxi This route in Shangluo is best for driving; public transportation will waste your time on the road. The canyon trail in Jinsixia is well-maintained and takes about 3 hours to walk the whole way, which is manageable for seniors and children. ⏰ It's best to go after the rain when the waterfalls are full, but the steps will be slippery, so hold on tight. Tianshuxia is more rugged; the stone textures look like they were carved with a knife, making for great photos. Mancuanguan Ancient Town is small and can be explored in half an hour. I actually spent more time at the shop selling fermented soybeans at the town entrance. 📍 Baita Temple is in the Shangzhou city area; just take a look if you're passing by, but don't make a special trip. 🍜 Eat ganmianpi (cold noodles) and ciba (sticky rice cakes) in Shangluo city; they are cheap and filling. ⚠️ The drive between Jinsixia and Tianshuxia is not short, so don't pack your day too full. Leave time for meals and rest. I recommend checking ticket information online in advance, subject to the official daily announcements. 04 Zunyi | Guizhou The Chishui Danxia Tourist Area is not just one spot but a large area; don't expect to finish it in one day. I chose two spots: Foguangyan and the Great Waterfall. The former features red rock walls against green trees, offering a strong visual impact. ⏰ Go to Foguangyan in the morning to avoid backlighting and get more accurate colors. The waterfall's water volume depends on the season. It's usually okay during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, but don't expect a "waterfall cascading down three thousand feet." Keep your expectations realistic, and you might be pleasantly surprised. 📍 Sightseeing buses inside the scenic area are a must; walking will make you question your life choices. 🍜 Eat tongtong bamboo shoots and cured meat in Chishui city; the riverside night market is also a good option. 🚄 There are buses from Zunyi to Chishui, but driving is more flexible. ⚠️ The weather in the mountains changes quickly. Raincoats are more practical than umbrellas, and don't push yourself if the steps are wet. 05 Lingshui | Hainan Fenjiezhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island offer very different experiences—one for the sea, one for monkeys. The water quality at Fenjiezhou Island is clear, and the snorkeling experience is better than on many popular islands. ⏰ Take the first boat of the morning to the island for fewer crowds and clearer water; tour groups flock there after noon. Take the cross-sea cable car to Nanwan Monkey Island. The monkeys aren't afraid of people. ⚠️ Don't carry plastic bags in your hands; they will really snatch them. 📍 The sea view from the Monkey Island cable car is worth the ticket price. If you're afraid of heights, just close your eyes and endure it for a few minutes. 🍜 Lingshui sour noodles are a local breakfast staple—sour, spicy, and appetizing. Pair it with a coconut. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Sanya or Haikou to Lingshui Station, then take a taxi to the scenic spots. It's suitable for families, but don't take very young children to Monkey Island; the monkeys are quick and can easily scare them. 06 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon and Chilechuan Grassland—one for water, one for grass. It's a bit rushed to do both in one day, so I suggest separating them. The Yellow River bend at Laoniuwan combined with the canyon is impressive. ⏰ It's best to go in the evening for the best light, but it's windy. Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area is more relaxing. The grass isn't very dense, but it's vast and open, making it suitable for walking with seniors and children. 📍 Before horseback riding on the grassland, ask about the price—is it per lap or per hour? Clarify before you get on. 🍜 In Hohhot city, shaomai (steamed dumplings) and lamb offal soup are standard breakfast fare. Don't eat at the scenic spots; it's better back in the city. 🚄 The drive from the city to Laoniuwan is not short; drive yourself or hire a car. ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant. Bring a thick jacket for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day; don't just wear short sleeves. 07 Jiayuguan | Gansu Jiayuguan Pass is the "toughest" attraction on this trip. The city walls and the Gobi Desert blend together; standing there, you can understand why the ancients chose this location. ⏰ Enter after 4:00 PM when the light is soft, and you can wait for the sunset. 📍 The Pass, the Overhanging Great Wall, and the First Pier of the Great Wall are covered by a joint ticket. Don't just visit the Pass and leave; the view from the top of the Overhanging Great Wall section is great. ⚠️ The Gobi Desert is windy and has strong sun exposure. A hat and water are essential; don't try to tough it out like I did. 🍜 Jiayuguan barbecue is famous. Any place near the Fuqiang Market in the city center is pretty good. 🚄 A taxi from Jiayuguan Station to the Pass costs around CNY 10–20. It's suitable for those who like history and photography; if you're just looking for leisure, you might find it boring. 08 Quanzhou | Fujian Quanzhou is best for a slow stroll. Don't cram Qingyuan Mountain, Kaiyuan Temple, and Chongwu Ancient Town into one day. Visit Kaiyuan Temple in the morning; the East and West Pagodas and the ancient banyan trees are quiet. ⏰ Enter before 8:00 AM and there will be almost no one there. 📍 The cliff carvings are on Qingyuan Mountain. You'll sweat climbing the mountain, so wear comfortable shoes. Visit Chongwu Ancient Town for the sea and stone carvings. It's windy by the sea, so ⚠️ don't wear a skirt; you'll regret it. 🍜 Quanzhou vermicelli soup, siphunculid worm jelly, and ginger duck—eat your way along West Street. But don't just focus on the trendy shops; the small stalls in the alleys are more reliable. 🚄 Public transport and taxis are convenient in Quanzhou city, and there are buses to Chongwu. West Street is crowded during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, so head out early if you want some peace and quiet. Of these eight small towns, I most recommend Yongzhou and Shangluo—they are less crowded and cost less. Which one do you plan to visit first?

Heading out in September–October, what you fear most is crowds, high prices, and bad experiences. I filtered these 8 places one by one — autumn is perfect, fewer people, beautiful scenery, and less pressure on your wallet. 01 Shangluo | Shaanxi Jinsi Gorge's autumn arrives early; by late September you can already see the first signs of smokebush changing color in the canyon. ⏰ Enter the valley before 8 AM, when light slants down from the cliff top and the pools are a clear teal, ten times prettier than at noon. The full walk takes about 4 hours. The boardwalk is gentle, suitable for older adults and children. Tianshu Gorge is wilder, with rocks split as if cut by knives, ideal for hikers. ⚠️ Rocks are slippery after rain, so don't wear flat-soled shoes. Manchuanguan Ancient Town sits on the Shaanxi–Hubei border; the old street sells refreshing liangfen and corn wine worth a taste. 📌 Next to Yuanyang Theater there's an old teahouse where CNY 5 a bowl of tea lets you sit all afternoon. Few know Baita Temple; the pagoda forest tucked in a mountain hollow is so quiet you only hear the wind. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Xi'an to Shangluo in about 40 minutes, then transfer to a bus into the scenic area. For lodging choose Shangzhou city — a clean place can be found for just over CNY 100. In September–October chestnuts and walnuts are freshly down; vendors sell them by the jin (500 g) along the road, so cheap it's funny. 02 Gannan | Gansu Autumn in Zha'gana is golden. ⏰ In early October the barley on the racks is completely yellow, and morning mist clings to the midmountain like someone spilled a bowl of milk. Ticket and shuttle prices follow the official daily notices. It's best to stay in Dongwa Village — open the window and you see the stone city. Langmusi is worth spending an afternoon in. The Gansu temple and the Sichuan temple are separated by the Bailong River. 📌 Watch the sunset from the Gansu side on the north bank and the morning mist from the Sichuan side on the south bank — don't mix them up. ⚠️ Photography is prohibited at the sky burial platform; respect local customs. The Yeliguan tourist area is ablaze with autumn color; the Chibi Gorge and Yehai are conveniently on the same route. At Gahai Lake in October migratory birds head south — bring binoculars to spot black-necked cranes. 🚄 There are buses from Lanzhou to Hezuo taking about 4 hours. From Hezuo it's best to hire a car for the loop. Gannan has large temperature swings between morning and night; in September–October bring a light down jacket. 🍜 Tibetan buns and butter tea in Hezuo may take getting used to at first, but they really warm you up. 03 Chengdu | Sichuan Tiantai Mountain is in Qionglai. In September–October you can still see a few fireflies, but the main attractions are autumn color and waterfalls. ⏰ Enter the mountain after 3 PM; light through the dawn redwood forest makes portraits pop without filters. ⚠️ Mountain roads are winding, so drive slowly if you are self-driving. Qingcheng Mountain and Dujiangyan are best split into two days. The front mountain has many temples, while the back mountain is more for hiking — first-timers should pick the front mountain to save effort. For Dujiangyan, enter at opening time, 8 AM, when Yuzui and Feishayan are less crowded and easier to photograph. 🚄 Take Chengdu Metro Line 2 to Xipu, then change to the intercity train. Anren Ancient Town is good for half a day; the Jianchuan Museum cluster and the old mansions street are next to each other. 📌 In the ancient town try fatty intestine and blood stew and landlord-style ribs — the places locals queue at are the real deal. For the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, be sure to get there early — it opens at 7:30 AM, and after 10 AM the pandas are mostly back asleep. For Chengdu lodging, choose along Metro Line 2 for convenience. September–October is neither cold nor hot, the most comfortable time of year. 04 Beihai | Guangxi On Weizhou Island the typhoon season is basically over in September–October, and the sea is still warm. ⏰ Go to Dishui Danping at 5 PM to watch the sunset; the volcanic rock turns orange-red. ⚠️ Boat tickets and island admission follow the official daily notices; book ahead in peak season. Rent an electric scooter to circle the island — about CNY 60 a day. 📌 Buy seafood on Nanwan Street and have your guesthouse cook it; it's half the price of restaurants. Check the tide table for Five Color Beach sunrise — the sandbars only appear at low tide. Go to Beihai Silver Beach in the evening; the sand is as fine as flour. ⏰ After 6 PM the sun won't burn you, and locals come at this time. 🍜 At Qiaogang Cultural Street try the sweet soups and rolled rice noodles — CNY 10 fills you up. 🚄 A taxi from Beihai Station to Silver Beach is about CNY 20. In September–October the Gulf of Tonkin's fishing season has just started; seafood is plump and cheap. Stay near Silver Beach or Qiaogang — a sea-view room can be found for about CNY 200. If you have kids, Silver Beach has smaller waves and is safer than Weizhou Island. 05 Weifang | Shandong The Qingzhou ancient city tourist area is worth a full day. ⏰ In the morning visit Ouyuan and Fucaimen; the light on the bluestone slabs brings out the strongest old-town atmosphere. 📌 On Ouyuan Street try the pan-fried buns under the old locust tree — CNY 2 each and perfect with tofu pudding. At noon go to Zhaode Ancient Street, a Hui neighborhood. 🍜 Buy mi sandao from Longsheng Pastry — locals have eaten it since childhood. ⚠️ Some free guides in the old city will try to take you to shops; politely decline. In the afternoon climb Yunmen Mountain to see the giant 'shou' character carved on the cliff. ⏰ Descend at dusk, when the sunset lights up the ancient city wall. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Weifang Station to Qingzhou Station in about 20 minutes, then a 10-minute taxi to the ancient city. In September–October Qingzhou peaches and hawthorns are in season, and street stalls are cheap and sweet. Stay in a guesthouse inside the ancient city for just over CNY 100 — once the tourists leave it's very quiet at night. Good for taking parents on a relaxed visit without overexertion. 06 Aksu | Xinjiang The mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon is in Kuqa; September–October is the best season. ⏰ Enter the canyon at 10 AM; sunlight slants into the reddish-brown rock walls like walking into a flaming mountain. The full hike takes about 3 hours. ⚠️ There are no supply points inside the valley — bring enough water and nang (flatbread). 📌 At the canyon entrance the A'ai caves still have Tang-dynasty murals, worth looking at closely. 🚄 Take the train from Ürümqi to Kuqa in about 10 hours, or fly to Kuqa Airport. From Kuqa town hire a car to the canyon — about 1.5 hours. In September–October southern Xinjiang's melons and fruits are wrapping up. 🍜 Kuqa's large nang and baked baozi are cheaper than in Ürümqi. Stay near Kuqa's old town for a comfortable room for just over CNY 100. Good for self-driving and photography; older adults and children should gauge their limits, as walking on sand in the valley is tiring. 07 Yichang | Hubei For the Yangtze Three Gorges, water levels are moderate in September–October and cruise routes are stable. ⏰ Depart Yichang Port in the morning. When passing the Gezhouba ship lock, go up to the deck to watch the water level rise and fall — it's more impressive than you imagine. ⚠️ Cruise prices follow the official daily notices — don't trust street touts. The Three Gorges Folk Village scenic area is in Dengying Gorge. 📌 At Longjin Creek see Tujia stilted houses and the "weeping bride" performance — it's mainly for the spectacle. Visit the Three Gorges Waterfall in the afternoon when the light is best and you may see a rainbow. Save Qingjiang Gallery for day two; take a boat to see Reflection Gorge where the water is as green as jade. 🚄 Yichang East Station has buses directly to the scenic areas. Stay near Yiling Square for convenient dining. 🍜 Yichang's liangxia and radish dumplings are CNY 5 a serving — a local breakfast staple. September–October is neither hot nor cold, suitable for taking older adults on a boat cruise. If driving, watch the mountain curves; the Qingjiang Gallery section has many speed limits. 08 Longyan | Fujian Yongding tulou enjoy crisp autumn weather in September–October. ⏰ Go to Chengqi Lou at 8 AM before the tour groups arrive to quietly admire the concentric rammed-earth walls. 📌 Zhencheng Lou in the Hongkeng tulou cluster blends Chinese and Western styles with details worth a long look. ⚠️ Some owners charge extra to take photos upstairs — ask clearly before you go up. Changting Ancient Town is best at dusk. ⏰ When lanterns on Diantou Street light up, a stroll along the Ting River is very pleasant. 🍜 Don't miss Changting dried tofu and pickled pork kidney, local snacks. 🚄 There's a high-speed train from Longyan Station to Changting in about 40 minutes. Guanzhai Mountain is in Liancheng, where Danxia landforms meet Shimen Lake. ⏰ Take the boat into the mountain in the afternoon for the best light and shadows. Lodging in Longyan city is cheap and comfortable — just over CNY 100. In September–October Minxi pomelos ripen — three for CNY 10 at roadside stalls. The whole route is great for a self-drive — tulou → Changting → Guanzhai Mountain; three days is just right. Kids will be excited by the tulou, and older adults should take the cable car at Guanzhai Mountain. These 8 places are perfect in September–October. Shangluo and Gannan show autumn color earliest, Beihai and Weizhou Island are still swimmable, and Chengdu and Yichang are always safe bets. Pick one near you and go now while the crowds are thin.

Don't want to spend much this Mid-Autumn? 8 low-cost small cities tried and true 01 Tangshan | Hebei At the eastern Qing tombs, the underground palace of Qianlong Yuling — I recommend allowing at least 2 hours. The Buddha statues and sutra carvings on the stone door give you goosebumps up close. ⏰ After 3:00 PM most tour groups have left, and sunlight slants into the underground palace, so photos come out cleaner than in the morning. You can visit Nanhu and Kailuan in one day. The Kailuan National Mine Park's down‑shaft experience requires advance booking, and it's closed on Mondays, so don't make the trip in vain. ⚠️ The temperature underground is about 7–8 degrees lower than the surface, so bring a light jacket for Mid-Autumn. At Tangshan banquets, qizi shaobing and lecha boxes will fill you up for about CNY 10. 📍 From Nanhu Park east gate it's a 15‑minute shared bike ride. Suitable for taking parents; the roads are flat and not tiring. 02 Shigatse | Tibet At the Everest base camp tent lodges it drops below zero at night around Mid-Autumn, so bring your own sleeping bag. ⏰ The golden sunlight on the mountain appears about 20 minutes after sunrise, so don't oversleep. Tickets and mountain access fees are charged per vehicle, and carpooling saves about half compared with chartering a car. At Tashilhunpo Monastery's Jampa Buddha hall, after 4:00 PM locals spin prayer wheels and circumambulate more, with fewer tourists and the right atmosphere. No photography inside the hall; keep your phone put away. Don't tough out altitude sickness—Shigatse's urban area is already at 3,800m. ⚠️ Don't bathe on the first night you arrive. Suitable for fit solo travelers or couples; be cautious about bringing older people or children. 03 Mianyang | Sichuan The Beichuan Qiang City tourism area has the earthquake ruins next to the Qiang ethnic museum. The museum is free but closed on Mondays. There's a lot of walking in the ruins area, so wear soft‑soled shoes. 🍜 At Leigu Town try the Qiang cured‑meat noodles—CNY 15 a bowl—and the chili oil is so fragrant it stings the nose. 📍 From Mianyang train station take the shuttle bus to Beichuan's new county town, then taxi the rest of the way. Visiting during Mid-Autumn overlaps with the end of the Qiang lunar year, and sometimes there are bonfire nights. Good for taking kids; the museum has many interactive exhibits and you can quietly stay for about 2 hours. 04 Ningde | Fujian At Taimu Mountain's "one‑line sky" gap, people with a bigger build might not be able to pass. ⚠️ At the narrowest point turn sideways and suck in your stomach, and take off your backpack to carry it. Climb before the morning mist clears; the light filtering through the rock crevices looks like sliced beams. Baishuayang and Yuanyang Creek are best visited in the afternoon; in the shallow areas you can wade barefoot. ⏰ The water temperature isn't cold at Mid-Autumn, but the rocks are slippery—don't wear flip‑flops. To see the sunrise on Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu, you need to stake out a spot by 4:30 AM. 📍 Most homestay owners will drive a tricycle to the trailhead. Those rows of bamboo poles on the mudflats are best walked into at low tide for photos—they photograph better than from the viewing platform. 🍜 Xiapu county's seafood noodles cost just over CNY 20, with more toppings than noodles. Good for photographers and couples; family trips work too, but you have to get up early. 05 Shangluo | Shaanxi Walking the entire boardwalk at Jinsi Gorge takes about 4 hours. Water volume is lower than in summer, but the pools are clearer. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8:00 AM to reach Heilong Gorge by noon for a perfect rest break. Buy tickets online to save a few CNY; you don't have to exchange for a ticket—just scan the code. Tianshu Gorge has few people; the patterns on the rocks look as if someone carved them. Good for those who like peace and quiet—if you bring older people walk only half the route, there is a shuttle service. At Manchuanguan ancient town's Yuanyang opera theater, local elders play the erhu in the afternoon. 📍 Try the shenxian cold jelly on the town's main street—CNY 5 a bowl with a sour and spicy flavor. Visit Baita Temple while you're there; half an hour is enough. ⚠️ There are few shuttle buses between Shangluo attractions, so self‑driving is most convenient. It can rain in the mountains during Mid-Autumn, so a raincoat is more practical than an umbrella. 06 Huangshan | Anhui Between Xidi and Hongcun, I choose Xidi. Hongcun's Moon Pond is empty before 6:00 AM; after that it's full of art students and selfie sticks. Xidi's alleys feel wilder, and you could stare at the brick carvings on the lintels for hours. ⏰ A combined ticket for both villages is cheaper than buying separately, but visiting both in one day is too rushed. Chengkan ancient village is laid out according to the bagua; hire a local auntie to explain for CNY 30—better than wandering on your own. 🍜 At the village entrance an old man sells mao tofu for CNY 10 or CNY 6, pan‑fried crispy outside and soft inside. The Tangyue archway group in the Ancient Huizhou cultural tourism area looks best in the afternoon when light hits the arches. Huangshan scenic area is crowded at Mid-Autumn, with cable car lines at least 1 hour long. ⚠️ If you want to climb, catch the earliest departure. Good for slow‑strollers; wear comfortable shoes, the stone pavements will make your soles sore after a lot of walking. 07 Xiangyang | Hubei Gulongzhong, the site of the three visits to the thatched cottage. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM when tour groups haven't arrived and you can hear birdsong. Tickets are cheap, and student ID gets half price. 📍 From Xiangyang train station it's a 40‑minute bus ride; a taxi is about CNY 30. The straw cottage theater in the park has performances—the schedule is posted at the entrance, so take a photo. 🍜 Back in the city at noon, eat Xiangyang beef noodles—a large bowl is CNY 15, and yellow wine is free. ⚠️ Noodle shops generally close around 2:00 PM, don't go too late. Suitable for Three Kingdoms fans and families with kids; the hill isn't high and older people can manage the walk. On Mid-Autumn evening the old city walls are lit, so stop by the Han River to catch some breeze. 08 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Hasahatu stone formations, the rocks look like blocks stacked by someone. ⏰ After 4:00 PM the light warms and the textures of the stones show up. ⚠️ There is no shade in the park, so hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are all essential. It's about a 2‑hour drive from Chifeng city center; charter a car or drive yourself. 📍 You'll pass a sunflower field on the way; they are in full bloom during Mid-Autumn. 🍜 Back in the city try the duijia sandwich—CNY 5 each, flaky pastry with smoked meat. With a bowl of mixed mutton soup for CNY 20 you'll be full. Suitable for people who like a wild, open feel; family trips are OK, but don't let kids climb the rocks—the wind can make them unsteady. At these eight places, Mid-Autumn has fewer crowds than National Day, and costs are easier to keep low. Which one do you want to visit first? Let us know in the comments.

Can you have a great time on a tight budget in Sept–Oct? These 8️⃣ places are less crowded and easy on the wallet 01 Haikou | Hainan In September in Haikou, flights and hotels drop from the summer peaks. It’s still hot, but a sea breeze makes it bearable. ⏰ Go to Qilou Old Street at 7:00 AM, when shops are just opening. A traditional local tea shop is full of residents; a pot of tea and two buns cost under CNY 20. 📍 Wugongci is best visited after 4:00 PM, when the shade is thicker and you avoid the sunniest hours. Tickets are inexpensive, and students can save a bit more. Avoid visiting Volcano Crater Park at noon—rocks retain heat and walking around feels like teppanyaki. ⚠️ Wear non‑slip shoes. The volcanic rock paths are uneven; go slowly with elderly companions. 🍜 For dinner, go to the south gate night market near Hainan University. Qingbuliang is CNY 8 a bowl, Hainan noodles just over CNY 10—about half the price inside tourist areas. Stay at a hostel near Qilou for CNY 60–70 a night; there’s a bus stop right outside. 02 Shenzhen | Guangdong Sept–Oct in Shenzhen still feels like summer, but the seaside breeze becomes livable. Dameisha beach is free; arrive before 8:00 AM to find the sand empty and take photos without dodging people. Leave by noon and avoid staying in the direct sun. Window of the World and OCT are good for kids or couples. Buy tickets online in advance to save tens of CNY. If you can only pick one, go to OCT—it's bigger, greener, and less tiring to stroll. Guanlan Lake is for golf or hot springs lovers; skip it if your budget is tight. Staying along the Longhua metro line is more cost‑effective. 🚄 Metro line 8 goes directly to Dameisha—don’t take a taxi, roads can be bumper‑to‑bumper on holidays. ⚠️ Dameisha requires reservations in peak season; check official notices before you go to avoid being turned away. For food, Yantian seafood street is more reasonable than the attractions; CNY 60 per person fills you up. 03 Shijiazhuang | Hebei Shijiazhuang is the most underrated of the eight. Sept–Oct brings crisp autumn weather; Xibaipo and Zhaozhou Bridge can be done in one day, ideal for self‑drive or a day tour. Xibaipo is free but requires advance booking. ⏰ Visit in the morning for fewer people; rent an audio guide or it’s just looking at buildings. ⚠️ Some sites close on Mondays—check before you go. Zhaozhou Bridge tickets are about CNY 40. The bridge itself takes ten minutes to see, but the nearby museum deserves an extra half hour. 📍 It’s about an hour’s drive from Shijiazhuang city; buses are available but slower. 🍜 For lunch in Zhaoxian, try donkey meat huoshao at about CNY 10 each—cheaper than in the city. Stay near Shijiazhuang station; budget hotels are just over CNY 100, and it’s convenient for visiting Zhengding ancient town the next day. 04 Urumqi | Xinjiang In Sept–Oct in Urumqi, fruits are heading off the shelves and prices are lower than in summer. The International Grand Bazaar is best visited in the evening; after 6:00 PM the light is softer for photos and the night market starts. 📍 The bazaar pedestrian street is different from the main market—the pedestrian area is more for locals, where dried fruits, naan, and yogurt are sold by the kilo at lower prices than the main market. ⚠️ Don’t buy at the first stall at the entrance—walk three rows in before deciding. Hongguang Mountain is good in the morning; climb up for a free city panorama. Dabancheng is very windy—bring a jacket in September; it’s mainly for windmills and the salt lake, so it’s worth a stop but not a special trip by itself. 🚄 City taxi base fare is CNY 10, bus fare is CNY 1. Staying near the Grand Bazaar is most convenient. 🍜 For pilaf and roasted buns, go to Consulate Lane—about CNY 30 per person fills you up. 05 Zhengzhou | Henan Zhengzhou is a transport hub. Sept–Oct is mild, making it a good two‑day stopover. The museum is free but must be booked in advance. ⚠️ It’s closed on Mondays—if you can’t book, go to Xiliu Lake instead. Xiliu Lake Park is where locals stroll; reeds are pretty in autumn and there’s no admission fee. ⏰ Go after 4:00 PM for softer light; it’s great for letting kids run around. Songshan and Shaolin are worth a full day from Zhengzhou, about 1.5 hours away. Tickets aren’t cheap, but Shaolin Temple and the pagoda forest are worth seeing. 📍 Don’t eat at the attraction entrance—go into Dengfeng city for huimian noodles for about CNY 15 a bowl. Zhenwei Water City is newly opened; it looks nice when lit at night but is commercialized—an hour is enough. Stay near Erqi Square—hostels CNY 50, budget hotels CNY 120, everything is convenient from there. 06 Heihe | Heilongjiang Heihe gets cold by late September, but Wudalianchi’s autumn colors are prime and so empty you can enjoy whole stretches of volcanic rock to yourself. ⏰ Mid‑September to early October is the best window; later it may snow. The Wudalianchi scenic area is large—stay inside the park or in a nearby town, about CNY 100 a night. ⚠️ Attractions are far apart; without a car it’s inconvenient—self‑drive or hire a car. Expect around CNY 300 a day for a driver. Laoheshan and Huoshaoshan are the core—climb to see the craters, it’s windy so bring a windbreaker. Beiyinquan offers mineral water; locals bring buckets to fill. 🍜 Eat mineral water fish and tofu—about CNY 50 per person. Cold mineral baths depend on weather and usually close after October—call ahead. 🚄 There’s an overnight train from Harbin to Heihe—sleep one night on the train and save a night’s accommodation. 07 Shigatse | Tibet Sept–Oct is the most comfortable time of year in Shigatse—monsoon is over and Everest visibility is high. If your budget is tight, don’t plan for a private car; carpooling or small group tours are more realistic. Tashilhunpo Monastery tickets are inexpensive. ⏰ Visit in the morning and join the pilgrims walking a circuit—the atmosphere can be more moving than any guided tour. ⚠️ No photography inside halls, and remove your hat. Everest base camp no longer allows overnight stays; you can only go as far as Rongbuk Monastery. From Shigatse it’s a long drive; shared cars run about CNY 300 per person. Stay in a tent or a guesthouse. 📍 Bring enough cash—signal and ATMs are limited. Altitude sickness is the biggest risk—spend two days in Shigatse to acclimate, don’t rush up. 🍜 Tibetan noodles and sweet tea are cheap. A pot of sweet tea is CNY 5 and good for sitting and warming up. After October nights drop below freezing—bring a warm sleeping bag. 08 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is tucked into the Qinling mountains; Sept–Oct is its best time, with leaves starting to turn, cool clear air, few people, and low costs. Jinsixia is the signature spot—enter the mountain by 8:00 AM and expect about a 4‑hour walk. Tianshuxia is quieter than Jinsixia, good for those who don’t want to queue. ⚠️ Pick one of the two canyons—they’re similar, and visiting both can lead to fatigue. Manchuan Pass ancient town is free, with bluestone streets and guildhall architecture—two hours is enough. 📍 Town specialties include fermented fish soup and "immortal" cold jelly—about CNY 10 a bowl. Baita Temple is small and worth a quick stop—no need to go out of your way. 🚄 High‑speed rail from Xi’an to Shangluo takes 40 minutes. Stay in Shangzhou district—budget hotels around CNY 100. Hiring a car for the day to visit attractions costs a bit over CNY 200. For elderly travelers choose Jinsixia for gentler steps; hikers should choose Tianshuxia for a wilder feel. These 8 places are perfect for a Sept–Oct trip. If your budget is tight, pick Haikou and Shangluo first—one for the sea and one for the mountains; you’ll spend less and still have a full experience. Which one do you want to visit first?

Spontaneous Trip! These 8️⃣ Cities Hold the Most Unexpected Surprises 01 Shangluo|Shaanxi 📍 The canyon boardwalk at Jinshixia Gorge was the easiest section of the Qinling Mountains I ever walked. It runs right next to the stream, with complete shade from the trees overhead; even in the summer midday sun, you won't get sunburned. The main route takes about two and a half hours, and you can finish just in time for the farmhouses near the scenic area entrance to open for lunch. 🍜 The "Manchuan Eight Delicacies" of Manchuan Ancient Town are worth a special trip. The town isn't big; it takes less than twenty minutes to walk from East Street to West Street, but every restaurant has a large pot set up outside. I had a bowl of local sweet potato noodles stir-fried with cured pork. The noodles were chewy, the cured pork had a smoky flavor, and the corn porridge was just right to cut the saltiness. ⚠️ Baita Temple closes at 4 PM; don't arrive at 3:30 PM. The ancient ginkgo tree in the temple, over a thousand years old, turns a vibrant yellow in autumn, carpeting the entire courtyard like a golden carpet. However, it's also incredibly crowded. For a quieter experience, be among the first to enter when it opens at 8 AM. Tianshu Gorge is located on the border of Shangluo and Ankang. Driving there involves a winding mountain road with many bends, but the road conditions are good. Those prone to motion sickness should bring medication beforehand. The scenery along the way is well worth the price. 02 Guyuan | Ningxia Xumishan Grottoes are the most underrated grotto complex I've seen this year. Unlike Yungang and Longmen Grottoes, which are incredibly crowded, here you can stand quietly beneath the Buddha statues for a long time. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely into the grottoes, making the facial features of the Buddha statues particularly three-dimensional. Afternoon light, on the other hand, becomes too pale, blurring the details. I recommend buying the electric sightseeing bus; it's a two-kilometer walk from the entrance to the core grotto area, and walking is too strenuous. ⚠️ The grotto walkways have many narrow steps, so be prepared if you're bringing children or elderly people. The large Buddha statue at the top of the mountain requires climbing a rather steep set of stone steps. Those with knee problems can simply enjoy the panoramic view from below; there's no need to force yourself to climb. After descending the mountain, stop by the Guyuan Museum. It's free, but closed on Mondays. The gilded bronze ox inside is the museum's prized possession; its exquisite craftsmanship belies its over 1000-year history. 03 Zhuhai | Guangdong Chimelong and Lovers' Road are two completely opposite sides of Zhuhai. Ocean Kingdom is best visited early in the morning. Remember to arrive 20 minutes early to secure seats at the Beluga Whale Theater and Whale Shark Aquarium, as they get incredibly crowded on holidays. For families with children, head straight to the penguin exhibit; the air conditioning is excellent, and the penguins swim right in front of the glass – you could easily watch for half an hour without moving. 🍜 In the afternoon, after leaving Chimelong, drive forty minutes to Lovers' Road. You don't need to explore the entire road; just focus on the highlights. I walked from the Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue to the City Balcony, a total of two kilometers. The sea breeze completely dispelled the morning's heat from the park. 🚄 A taxi from Zhuhai Railway Station to Chimelong takes about 40 minutes, while a ride-hailing service costs around 60 yuan. Zhuhai Airport is even closer, only 20 minutes away; if you have frequent flights, flying directly there is even more convenient. ⚠️ Lovers' Road is most crowded in the evening, and shared bikes are almost impossible to find. If you want to cycle along the beach, arrive before 7 am when the roads are less crowded and cooler. 04 Dalian|Liaoning I recommend choosing between Jinshitan and Tiger Beach. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is like a large amusement park with many shows, suitable for spending a whole day with children. However, the ticket price is not cheap, and there are many separately charged attractions; ask before entering which are included in the ticket price. Jinshitan, on the other hand, offers purely natural scenery. The geological park features sea-eroded landforms where the rocks have been carved into various strange shapes by the sea; at low tide, you can walk among the reefs. The adjacent Binhai National Geological Park has a wooden boardwalk; walking the entire length takes two hours, but each section offers a different view. Tangli Lake Park is a popular strolling spot for locals, with few tourists. The lake is tranquil, and in autumn, the leaves along the shore create layers of red, yellow, and green, making it much more beautiful than the parks in the city. It's free, and the light around 4 PM is perfect for taking photos. 📍 Watch the light show at Xinghai Square in the evening; it starts at 7:30 PM in summer. The square is huge, so it's recommended to sit on the steps on the seaside side for the best view. 05 Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan Mountain and the Central Plains Buddha are connected; buying a combined ticket is more cost-effective. The Central Plains Buddha stands amidst the mountains. Walking from the entrance to its base involves climbing hundreds of steps. For those with average stamina, taking the electric sightseeing bus halfway up the mountain saves half the effort. Looking up at the Buddha from its base, the sense of awe can only be truly felt in person. ⏰ Yaoshan Mountain is better visited in autumn. In late October, the mountains are ablaze with red leaves, and the mountain mists can dissipate quickly; with luck, you might even see a sea of ​​clouds. Taking the cable car is recommended; it takes about 20 minutes one way. Hiking up the mountain takes at least three hours, and the latter half of the climb involves steep steps, so those with knee problems shouldn't push themselves. ⚠️ There are many unlicensed guides soliciting customers outside the scenic area, claiming to take you on shortcuts, but these just lead to the back of the mountain, where the path is difficult and you'll waste money. Follow the official route directly; buy your tickets and cable car tickets at the visitor center. Ignore those approaching you on the roadside. 06 Turpan | Xinjiang The Flaming Mountains and the Kumtag Desert gave me a new understanding of "heat." The Flaming Mountains scenic area isn't actually very large; the core is the thermometer and a stretch of reddish-brown mountains. ⏰ Arriving before 9 am, the temperature is still pleasant, and there's no competition for photo spots. At midday, the surface temperature can reach 70 degrees Celsius; your shoes will feel soft, so don't try to tough it out. 🍜 After leaving the Flaming Mountains, having a bowl of yellow noodles with roasted meat in Turpan city, followed by a bottle of ice-cold kvass, is what truly revived me. There's a drive from the city to the desert; a round trip by car costs around 200-300 yuan. The driver will wait for you to finish exploring before taking you back to your hotel. The sunset in the Kumtag Desert is the highlight. Enter the scenic area at 6 PM, first riding camels to the top of a sand dune to wait for the sun to set. The sand, baked all day, is still warm to the touch, making it especially comfortable to walk on barefoot. After dark, the lighting in the scenic area is very dim, so be sure to bring a phone flashlight. ⚠️ It's windy in the desert, so sunglasses and a mask are essential, otherwise you'll get a mouthful of sand as soon as you open your mouth. If you have a camera, put a sand cover on the lens, otherwise the shutter will jam. 07 Yueyang|Hunan Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake are just average individually, but together they're absolutely stunning. 📍 Enter from the east gate of Yueyang Tower, first explore the stele gallery downstairs, then climb the tower. The view of Dongting Lake from the third floor is the most breathtaking. On a clear day, the lake is a vast expanse of white, stretching as far as the eye can see—that's when you truly understand the meaning of "embracing distant mountains and swallowing the Yangtze River." The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, when the setting sun paints the lake golden, and cargo ships with their long tails glide by, creating a scene like a moving painting. To reach Junshan Island, you need to take a boat; the boat ticket is included in the scenic area entrance fee. The island isn't large; a complete circuit takes about an hour and a half. The most worthwhile sight is the bamboo grove next to the Xiangfei Temple; the rustling sound in the wind is perfect for quiet contemplation. There aren't many food options on the island, so bring your own snacks and water. 🍜 After disembarking, return to the city and find a "Dongting Fish Restaurant" in an alley. Order a pot of braised yellow-braised fish; the fish is so tender you can barely hold it with chopsticks. It costs around 70-80 yuan per person, much more affordable than the restaurants near the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ Yueyang Tower scenic area closes for entry at 5:30 PM, so don't arrive right on time. On holidays, there are long queues to climb the tower; allow for 40 minutes for waiting. 08 Xianning|Hubei The ancient battlefield of Chibi is the kind of place where "you'll regret not visiting, but you won't regret coming." The entire scenic area is built along the Yangtze River, with the "Red Cliff" inscription on the riverside stone wall. The characters are red, standing out vividly against the gray-brown rock face. Standing on the cliff edge watching the river flow by, the image of the burning of the enemy camps automatically comes to mind. There's an antique-style "Zhou Yu's Command Platform" in the scenic area, next to which is a row of bronze statues telling stories from the Three Kingdoms period, suitable for taking children on a historical tour. The entire walk takes about two hours; the path is gentle, and even the elderly can walk it. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Xianning North Station. The subway and buses don't go directly there; driving or taking a taxi is the most convenient. If you have enough time, you can combine it with a day trip to Lushu Lake, visiting the ancient battlefield in the morning and taking a boat tour on the lake in the afternoon. ⚠️ There aren't many decent restaurants in the scenic area. There are a few stalls selling Red Cliff fish cakes near the entrance; you can try them, but don't buy too many, as they easily fall apart when reheated. None of these eight cities are on a typical tourist list. But it's precisely this "unexpected" departure that's most likely to lead to pleasant surprises. Where did you go on your last spontaneous trip? Share in the comments! Spontaneous Trip! These 8️⃣ Cities Hold the Most Unexpected Surprises 01 Shangluo|Shaanxi 📍 The canyon boardwalk at Jinshixia Gorge was the easiest section of the Qinling Mountains I've ever walked. The entire route hugs the stream, with ample shade from the trees overhead; even in the summer midday sun, you won't get sunburned. The main route takes about two and a half hours, and you emerge just in time for the local farmhouses near the scenic area to open for lunch. 🍜 The "Manchuan Eight Delicacies" of Manchuan Ancient Town are worth a special trip. The town isn't large; it takes less than twenty minutes to walk from East Street to West Street, but every restaurant has a large pot set up outside. I had a bowl of local sweet potato noodles stir-fried with cured pork. The noodles were chewy, the cured pork had a smoky flavor, and the corn porridge was a perfect way to cut the saltiness. ⚠️ Baita Temple closes at 4 PM, so don't arrive at 3:30 PM. The ancient ginkgo tree inside, over a thousand years old, turns a vibrant yellow in autumn, making the entire courtyard look like a golden carpet, but it's also incredibly crowded. For a quieter experience, arrive early, around 8 AM when it opens and you're among the first to enter. Tianshu Gorge is located on the border of Shangluo and Ankang. Driving there involves a winding mountain road, but the road conditions are good. Those prone to motion sickness should bring medication beforehand. The scenery along the way is worth the price of admission. 02 Guyuan|Ningxia Xumishan Grottoes are the most underrated grotto complex I've seen this year. Unlike Yungang and Longmen Grottoes, which are crowded, you can stand quietly beneath the Buddha statues for a long time. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. The sunlight shines obliquely into the grottoes, making the facial features of the Buddha statues particularly three-dimensional. Afternoon light tends to be too pale, blurring the details. I recommend buying a ticket for the scenic area's electric sightseeing bus; it's about two kilometers from the entrance to the core grotto area, and walking is too strenuous. ⚠️ The steps on the grotto's walkway are numerous and narrow, so be prepared if you're bringing children or elderly people. The large Buddha statue at the summit requires climbing a rather steep section of stone steps; those with knee problems can simply enjoy the panoramic view from below and don't need to force themselves to climb. After descending the mountain, stop by the Guyuan Museum. It's free, but closed on Mondays. The gilded bronze ox inside is the museum's prized possession; its exquisite craftsmanship doesn't seem like it's from over a thousand years ago. 03 Zhuhai | Guangdong Chimelong and Lovers' Road are two completely opposite sides of Zhuhai. Ocean Kingdom is best visited early in the morning. Remember to arrive 20 minutes early to secure seats at the Beluga Whale Theater and Whale Shark Aquarium, as it gets very crowded on holidays. For children, head straight to the penguin exhibit; the air conditioning is excellent, and the penguins swim right in front of the glass – you could easily watch for half an hour without moving. 🍜 In the afternoon, after leaving Chimelong, drive forty minutes to Lovers' Road. You don't need to explore the entire road; just focus on the highlights. I walked from the Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue to the City Balcony, a distance of two kilometers. The sea breeze instantly dispelled the morning heat from the amusement park. 🚄 A taxi from Zhuhai Railway Station to Chimelong takes about 40 minutes, while a ride-hailing service costs around 60 yuan. Zhuhai Airport is even closer, only 20 minutes away; if you have frequent flights, flying directly there is even more convenient. ⚠️ Lovers' Road is most crowded in the evening, and shared bikes are almost impossible to find. If you want to cycle along the beach, arrive before 7 am when the roads are empty and cool. 04 Dalian|Liaoning I recommend choosing between Jinshitan and Tiger Beach. Tiger Beach Ocean Park is like a large, comprehensive amusement park with many shows, suitable for spending a whole day with children. However, the ticket price is not cheap, and there are many separately charged attractions inside. Ask before entering which attractions are included in the ticket price. Jinshitan, on the other hand, is purely natural scenery. The geological park features sea-eroded landforms where the rocks have been carved with various strange shapes by the seawater. At low tide, you can walk among the reefs. The wooden boardwalk in the nearby Binhai National Geopark takes two hours to walk the entire length, but each section offers a different view. Tangli Lake Park is a popular strolling spot for locals, with few tourists. The lake is tranquil, and in autumn, the leaves along the shore create layers of red, yellow, and green, making it much more beautiful than the parks in the city. It's free, and the light around 4 PM is perfect for taking photos. 📍 Watch the light show at Xinghai Square in the evening; it starts at 7:30 PM in summer. The square is huge, so it's recommended to sit on the steps on the seaside side for the best view. 05 Pingdingshan|Henan Yaoshan and the Central Plains Buddha are connected; buying a combined ticket is more cost-effective. The Central Plains Buddha stands amidst the mountains. Walking from the entrance to the foot of the Buddha involves climbing hundreds of steps. For those with average stamina, taking the electric sightseeing bus halfway up the mountain saves half the effort. Looking up at the Buddha from its base, the sense of awe can only be truly felt in person. ⏰ Yaoshan is better visited in autumn. In late October, the mountains are ablaze with red leaves, and the mountain mists can dissipate quickly, offering a chance to see a sea of ​​clouds if you're lucky. Taking the cable car is recommended; it takes about 20 minutes one way, while hiking up takes at least three hours, and the latter half of the climb involves steep steps, so those with knee problems shouldn't push themselves. ⚠️ There are many unlicensed guides soliciting customers outside the scenic area, claiming to offer shortcuts, but these often lead to the back of the mountain, where the path is difficult and you'll waste money. Stick to the official route; buy your tickets and cable car tickets at the visitor center, and ignore those approaching you on the roadside. 06 Turpan | Xinjiang The Flaming Mountains and the Kumtag Desert gave me a new understanding of "heat." The Flaming Mountains scenic area isn't actually very large; the core is the thermometer and a stretch of reddish-brown mountains. ⏰ Arriving before 9 am, the temperature is pleasant, and there's no competition for photo spots. At midday, the surface temperature can reach 70 degrees Celsius; your shoes will feel soft, so don't try to tough it out. 🍜 After leaving the Flaming Mountains, a bowl of yellow noodles with roasted meat in Turpan city, followed by a bottle of ice-cold kvass, is the perfect way to revitalize yourself. It's a drive from the city to the desert; a round trip by chartered car costs around 200-300 yuan. The driver will wait for you until you're done and then take you back to your hotel. The sunset in the Kumtag Desert is the highlight. Enter the scenic area at 6 PM, first riding camels to the top of a dune to wait for the sun to set. The sand, baked all day, is still warm to the touch, making it incredibly comfortable to walk on barefoot. After dark, the lighting in the scenic area is very dim, so be sure to bring a phone flashlight. ⚠️ It's windy in the desert, so sunglasses and a mask are essential, otherwise you'll get a mouthful of sand every time you open your mouth. If you have a camera, put a sand cover on the lens, otherwise the shutter will jam. 07 Yueyang|Hunan Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake are just average individually, but together they're absolutely stunning. 📍 Enter from the east gate of Yueyang Tower. First, stroll through the stele gallery downstairs, then climb the tower. The view of Dongting Lake from the third floor is the most breathtaking. On a clear day, the lake is a vast expanse of white, stretching as far as the eye can see, truly embodying the phrase "embracing distant mountains and swallowing the Yangtze River." It's best to come in the evening; the setting sun paints the lake golden, and cargo ships dragging their long tails across the water create a scene like a moving painting. Junshan Island requires a boat ride, which is included in the scenic area entrance fee. The island isn't large; a complete circuit takes about an hour and a half. The most worthwhile sight is the bamboo grove next to the Xiangfei Temple; the rustling sound in the wind is perfect for quiet contemplation. There aren't many food options on the island, so bring your own snacks and water. 🍜 After leaving the island, return to the city and find a "Dongting Fish Restaurant" tucked away in an alley. Order a pot of braised yellow-braised fish; the fish is so tender you can barely hold it with chopsticks. It costs around 70-80 yuan per person, much more affordable than the restaurants near the scenic area entrance. ⚠️ Yueyang Tower Scenic Area closes for entry at 5:30 PM, so don't arrive right on time. Queues to climb the tower are long during holidays, so allow for 40 minutes for queuing. 08 Xianning|Hubei The ancient battlefield of Chibi is the kind of place you'll regret not visiting, and definitely worth it. The entire scenic area is built along the Yangtze River, with the core being the stone wall facing the river inscribed with the characters "Chibi." The characters are red, making them particularly striking against the gray-brown rock face. Standing on the cliff edge watching the river flow by, the image of the burning of the enemy camps automatically comes to mind. There's an antique-style "Zhou Yu's Command Platform" in the scenic area, next to which is a row of bronze statues telling stories from the Three Kingdoms period, perfect for taking children on a historical tour. The entire walk takes about two hours; the path is gentle, and even the elderly can walk it. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by taxi from Xianning North Station. There are no direct subway or bus routes; driving or taking a taxi is the most convenient. If you have enough time, you can combine a day trip with Lushu Lake, spending the morning at the ancient battlefield and the afternoon taking a boat tour on the lake. ⚠️ There aren't many decent restaurants inside the scenic area. There are a few stalls selling Chibi fish cakes near the entrance; you can try them, but don't buy too many, as they easily fall apart when reheated. None of these eight cities are on a typical travel itinerary. But it's precisely this "unexpected" departure that's most likely to lead to pleasant surprises. Where did you recently go on a spontaneous trip? Share your thoughts in the comments.

I've ranked these 8 places based on "how happy she'll be." There are mountains, water, ancient towns, places for great photos, and places to just kick back. Pick one for the weekend and go—don't wait. 1️⃣ Nanyang | Henan A quick heads-up: Laojieling isn't for those who sleep in. It's nearly a 2-hour drive from downtown Nanyang with lots of winding roads. ⏰ I suggest hitting the highway before 7:00 AM and reaching the cable car station by 10:00 AM. It's less crowded and the fog hasn't lifted yet, so your photos will look like they have a built-in filter. The Dinosaur Fossil Park is the "wow" moment for her. 📍 Inside the Xixia Funiushan Laojieling Dinosaur Fossil Park, the dinosaur egg fossils are displayed in situ—they aren't models, they were actually dug up from this very ground. Grab a bowl of Qiangguo noodles at the entrance for lunch, but don't order too much; you'll need to walk the wooden boardwalk in the afternoon. ⚠️ The cable car stops running at 4:00 PM, so don't cut it too close. It's great for bringing your wife and kids; the mountain paths are smooth, and you can even push a stroller for part of the way. It's best for escaping the summer heat, as the summit is 7–8 degrees cooler than the city. 2️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is the kind of place "Xi'an locals keep to themselves." 🚄 It's a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Xi'an North to Shangluo West—faster than getting stuck on the ring road. I recommend setting aside a full day for Jinshixia. The canyon is humid, and ⏰ the sunlight only hits the narrow gaps after 10:00 AM, which is perfect for portraits. It takes about 4 hours to walk the loop; wear non-slip shoes, as the stone steps are often wet. Tianshuxia is wilder and less crowded, perfect for when you both want some quiet time to talk. Don't set your expectations too high for Manchuanguan Ancient Town; it's not overly commercialized, but there isn't much to see, so just grab lunch and head out. Baitasi is perfect for the evening. 📍 The tower's shadow falls on the hillside, and when the wind blows, she'll likely just stand there, mesmerized. ⚠️ The attractions in Shangluo are far apart, so renting a car is the most convenient option. If you don't have a car, hire a driver; public transport will drain your patience in half a day. 3️⃣ Linfen | Shanxi Many people think the Hongdong Big Locust Tree is "just a tree." But when you bring your wife, the point isn't the tree—it's the quiet sense of "where we all come from." ⏰ Go in the morning before the tour groups arrive. You have to pick the right season for the Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River. During the flood season, the water is massive and makes your feet tingle. The dry season is a bit underwhelming. 📍 The viewing platform on the Shanxi side is closer than the Shaanxi side, but it's windy, so bring her a jacket. You can stay overnight at Yunqiu Mountain. There are cave dwelling guesthouses in the mountains, and at night, it's so quiet you can only hear the insects. 🍜 Grab a bowl of beef meatball noodles at the foot of the mountain—the spice is real. ⚠️ The drive to Hukou is long, so don't plan it for the same day as Yunqiu Mountain. Two days and one night is just right; three days is even more relaxed. 4️⃣ Baoshan | Yunnan I suggest you stay in Tengchong for at least three days. Don't treat Heshun Ancient Town as a tourist spot—treat it as your home. 📍 Find an inn with a courtyard; waking up to birdsong is better than any alarm clock. At the Tengchong Volcano Geothermal Park, you can actually boil eggs in the "Big Rolling Pot." ⏰ Go in the afternoon, and after soaking in the hot springs, it'll be dark, so you can head back to the inn and crash. At Beihai Wetland, you have to row a grass boat. She stands in the front, you paddle from the back, and you'll be laughing the whole way as you wobble along. Yunfeng Mountain is for those who love to hike; there's a steep flight of stairs after the cable car, so ⚠️ don't push it if you're afraid of heights. 🍜 Have the Xidoufen (chickpea jelly) with fried dough sticks in Heshun for breakfast. Any small shop will have decent Ersi (rice noodles). This is for people who like a slow pace. It's not for the "five spots in one day" type of traveler. 5️⃣ Baoting | Hainan Just pick one between Binglanggu and Yanoda. My take: go to Binglanggu if you want to learn about Li and Miao culture, and go to Yanoda if you just want to play in the rainforest. At Binglanggu, you can watch Li brocade weaving—the grandmas' hands move so fast it'll make your head spin. 📍 The boat-shaped houses in the Intangible Cultural Heritage Village are great for photos. ⚠️ Don't engage with the people selling silver jewelry in the park; just smile and walk away. You'll get wet doing the water trekking at Yanoda, so bring her an extra set of clothes. ⏰ Enter the valley in the morning and leave before 3:00 PM to avoid the thunderstorms. 🍜 Eat the "five-toed pig" in Baoting county town—the skin is thick and the meat is fragrant. Don't eat in the park; it's expensive and mediocre. It's great for couples and also for bringing your parents. It's not sunny in the rainforest, and the walking isn't tiring. 6️⃣ Yancheng | Jiangsu The Dafeng Milu Deer Park sounds like a zoo, but it's actually a wetland. ⏰ Go in the early morning or evening when the deer are in groups in the shallow water; the light hits at an angle, and she can spend half an hour just taking photos with her phone. 📍 The Deer Viewing Platform is the closest spot, but don't shout, or the deer will run away. Take the electric cart into the core area; it's too far to walk, and it's hot in the summer. ⚠️ The park is huge, so bring your own water. There are very few places to buy things inside. This place is for people who love animals. It's not for those looking for thrill rides. Half a day is enough; you can still go to Tiaozini to see the sea in the afternoon. 7️⃣ Bortala | Xinjiang I don't need to overhype Sayram Lake. ⏰ From June to August, the wildflowers by the lake are in bloom. If she stands there in a white dress, every photo you take will be perfect. The Anjihai Grand Canyon is a different vibe. 📍 There are no railings on the edge of the canyon, and your legs will go weak if you stand too close. ⚠️ Don't crowd the edge for photos; it's windy. It's worth staying one night in Wenquan County. The small town is quiet, and you can see the stars at night. 🍜 Have a meal of hand-grabbed meat with a bowl of yogurt. 🚄 There's a train station in Bole, but it's still over an hour's drive from Bole to Sayram Lake. Renting a car is the most convenient way; otherwise, hire a driver. This is for people with plenty of time. Two days and one night is too rushed; three days is just right. 8️⃣ Suizhou | Hubei Dahongshan has a grand name, but it's actually a place that can really calm you down. 📍 The thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at Hongshan Zen Temple is covered in gold in the autumn, and when she steps on the leaves, she'll turn back and smile at you. ⏰ Hike in the morning and go to Bailongchi in the afternoon. The pool water is unbelievably green, and there's a boardwalk next to it—it takes 40 minutes to walk the loop. ⚠️ The temperature on the mountain is lower than in the city; bring a light jacket in the summer and something thicker in the autumn. 🚄 It's about an hour's taxi ride from Suizhou Station to the scenic area, so I recommend renting a car. 🍜 Try the "Guai-zi rice" in Suizhou for breakfast—it'll keep you full. The mushroom stewed chicken is also worth ordering. It's great for a short weekend trip. Two days and one night is not tiring, and you'll be back in time for dinner. None of these 8 places are "must-visits." But if you happen to want to take her out for a trip, pick one from the list and plan two days carefully—she'll likely remember it for a long time. Personally, I most recommend Baoshan and Bortala. One is gentle, the other is vast—they are just two different kinds of "worth it."

With the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays back-to-back, highways to popular cities are turning into parking lots, and hotel prices have tripled—if you can even find a room. I looked back through my road trip logs and picked out 8 underrated, niche cities. They’re less crowded, gas is cheaper, and the scenery is just hitting its peak in autumn. Pick one and head out, as it’s much more comfortable than waiting in line at a tourist trap. 1️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Drive two hours southeast from Xi'an, and you'll dive into the folds of the Qinling Mountains. Autumn arrives early in Jinsi Canyon. ⏰ By mid-to-late October, the sides of the canyon start turning yellow, the water remains clear, and there are far fewer people than during the summer break. 📍 For Jinsi Canyon, I recommend entering from the North Gate and walking along the canyon to the South Gate. It’s mostly downhill, so it’s manageable even if you have bad knees. If you want to save energy, take the scenic shuttle to the top and walk down from there. Tianshu Canyon is best visited on the morning of the second day. It’s so quiet you can hear your own footsteps on the fallen leaves. Save Mancuanguan Ancient Town for the evening, when the sunset warms the bluestone pavement, and be sure to eat the walnut buns on the old street while they’re hot. Baita Temple is worth a quick look if you’re passing by, but don’t go out of your way for it. ⚠️ There’s a big temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so bring a light down jacket by early October. Book your accommodation in downtown Shangluo or Zhashui County, as it’s half the price of staying near the scenic area entrance. 2️⃣ Yangjiang | Guangdong October in Guangdong finally stops feeling like a sauna. At the Hailing Island Dajiaowan Maritime Silk Road Tourist Area, ⏰ it’s most comfortable to go into the water after 4:00 PM—the sun isn't harsh, and the water is still warm. 📍 When you enter the main gate of Dajiaowan, head left; it’s less crowded than the right side, and the sand is finer. If you have children, keep a close eye on the waves; they aren't big here, but the current is strong when the tide goes out. 🚄 It’s about a three-hour drive from Guangzhou via the Shenhai Expressway, and one tank of gas is enough for the round trip. Accommodation on the island is divided into two areas: Zhapo Town is lively and convenient for dining, while the Poly area is quiet and better for traveling with seniors. 🍜 For dinner, go to the Zhapo Farmers' Market to pick out your own seafood, and the nearby processing shops will charge a fee by weight. Don't order at the food stalls near the scenic area entrance, as the prices can be double. ⚠️ October can still have the tail end of typhoon season, so check the three-day weather forecast before you leave. If it’s windy, don't go into the water. Of these 8 places, I most recommend Shangluo and Chenzhou, as they are at their best in autumn. Save Nujiang for those with a longer holiday—don't try to squeeze it into a weekend. Where are you planning to go? Let me know in the comments.

Want to travel in September and October but afraid of crowds? I've scouted this list for you. Eight places, not the tourist hotspots, not the assembly-line destinations, but with truly exceptional scenery and experiences. Don't thank me yet, after reading this you'll only want to ask for leave. 01 Nanyang | Henan While others are crowding into Shaolin Temple in Henan, I'm taking you straight to Nanyang. Xixia Funiu Mountain Laojieling is the kind of place where the drive into the mountains gets cooler and cooler as you go. ⏰ Enter the scenic area at 8 am, the fog hasn't lifted yet, the boardwalk seems to float on the clouds. The signal in the mountains is intermittent, perfect because no one's nagging you to reply to messages. 📍 Take the cable car down and follow the western route, two hours to reach the watershed, where you step across the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, the wind so strong it'll blow your hat away. Don't rush off on the way down, the Dinosaur Relics Park is right next door, giant skeletons stand in a glass enclosure, kids are screaming, and adults can't resist taking pictures. ⚠️ There are people selling "wild Ganoderma lucidum" at the scenic area entrance; just listen and don't buy it. Remember to book your tickets online a day in advance, as the queues on-site are long and the prices are higher. Driving is the most convenient option; navigate to the Lao Jie Ling Visitor Center, where there are plenty of parking spaces. 02 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a place that people from Xi'an visit secretly, not telling others. Jinshixia and Tianshuxia are two canyons not far apart, but with completely different styles. Jinshixia is all about water, with waterfalls cascading down, the mist hitting your face and making you shiver. Tianshuxia is about strange rocks; the rock walls resemble open pages of a book, requiring you to look up to see. My suggestion is: visit Jinshixia in the morning, Tianshuxia in the afternoon, and stay overnight in Mancheng Pass Ancient Town. 📍 The ancient town is small; you can walk through one street, but in the evening, the lanterns light up, and sitting on the stone steps by the river eating a bowl of fermented fish soup is so comfortable you won't want to move. The Hundred Pagodas Temple is worth a visit along the way; the ancient pagodas are scattered among the fields, and there aren't many tourists, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. ⚠️ There are many steps in the canyon, so elderly people with knee problems shouldn't try to walk the entire way; turn back halfway. Accommodation in the town is basic, so don't have high expectations; cleanliness is sufficient. 03 Qujing|Yunnan Yunnan isn't just about Dali and Lijiang. Luoping in Qujing is a true treasure in autumn. Think Luoping only has rapeseed flowers in spring? Wrong. In September, the rice turns golden, and the terraced fields stretch down to the foot of the mountains. The evening light is even gentler than in spring. 📍 The Jiulong Waterfall Group is an hour's drive from Luoping County. The ten waterfalls cascade down in succession; when the water volume is high, you have to shout to speak from the viewing platform. I preferred walking on the lower boardwalk, closer to the water, where I could feel the spray wetting my hair. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 PM; the tour groups have already left, and the light is just right. In Luoping County, you can find guesthouses ranging from tens to two hundred yuan. ⚠️ Don't buy the "bamboo rice" at the scenic area exit; the rice is hard and the filling is sparse, a waste of money. For a panoramic view of the rice paddies, navigate to Jinji Peak Cluster and climb to the viewing platform halfway up the mountain. 04 Guangzhou|Guangdong Don't just think of the Canton Tower and Chimelong being packed with people when you think of Guangzhou. This time, I'm talking about Guangzhou for those in the know. The Chen Clan Academy is a must-see; the gray-plastered rooftops, densely packed with figures, flowers, and birds, can be stared at for half an hour. 📍 Take Metro Line 1 to Chen Clan Academy Station, Exit D. It's right there, no detour. Baiyun Mountain is like a backyard for locals, while tourists only know to take the cable car. I recommend entering from the west gate and walking up the dirt road. It takes two hours to reach Moxing Ridge. The breeze after sweating profusely is ten times more refreshing than an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ Weekend mornings are crowded; for a quieter experience, go on a weekday morning. Canton Tower and Chimelong: If you absolutely must bring kids, go, but don't schedule them on the same day. Climb the Canton Tower in the evening for sunset, and dedicate a whole day to Chimelong—don't be greedy. Stay in the old town of Yuexiu District; it's convenient to take the subway to Chen Clan Academy and Baiyun Mountain, and there are rice noodle roll shops and dessert shops downstairs. 🍜 The boat congee at 7 AM is so generous with the ingredients you'd suspect the owner is losing money. 05 Linyi|Shandong Even Shandong locals underestimate Linyi. The Firefly Water Cave and the Underground Grand Canyon are connected and can be booked with one ticket. The Underground Grand Canyon takes over an hour to walk through, featuring underground rivers, karst caves, and stalactites. When you get tired, take a rafting trip; the rubber raft bounces around in the waterways, kids scream, adults laugh. The Firefly Water Cave is entered by boat; the boatman rows in the dark, with fireflies twinkling overhead. ⏰ The cave maintains a constant temperature year-round; bring a jacket in summer and autumn. 📍 Yimeng Mountain is an hour's drive away. The mountain isn't high, but the pine forests are dense. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and scatter everywhere in the wind. ⚠️ The ground in the canyon is slippery; wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. Those glowing balloons sold at the scenic area entrance deflate as soon as you leave the cave, so don't waste your money. Stay in Yishui County; hotels around 100 RMB are clean. For food, go to the night market; the stir-fried chicken and scallion pancakes are generous and satisfying. 06 Baoting County | Hainan Sanya is too crowded; I'll take you to Baoting. Binglang Valley and Yanoda are close to each other and can be visited in a day. Binglang Valley showcases Li and Miao culture; elderly people still live in the villages, weaving Li brocade and having tattooed faces—seeing it in person is much more vivid than in a museum. 📍 There are two live performances daily; check the schedule and don't miss the last one. Yanoda is a tropical rainforest. Upon entering, take an electric cart to the mountaintop, then walk downhill. Walk along the "Rainforest Boardwalk," where tree roots are overhead, streams flow past your feet, and the air is incredibly humid. Some people think it's similar to Sanya's Tropical Paradise, but it's less crowded, and you don't have to wait for photos. ⚠️ The silverware sold in Binglang Valley is just for show; don't buy anything. For the "Waterfall Trekking" activity at Yanoda, wear quick-drying clothing, as you'll get soaked; bring a change of clothes. Stay in Baoting County; both scenic spots are within a half-hour drive. 🍜 Jackfruit and roast suckling pig at the county's night market are half the price of those in the scenic areas. 07 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Libo Xiaoqikong has become famous, but many people don't know it's located in Qiannan Prefecture. I'm referring to the entire Zhangjiang Scenic Area in Libo, not just the Seven-Arch Bridge. The water is a deep, almost blue-green, like melted jade poured into the river. 📍 Enter from the East Gate, walk through Xiaoqikong first, then take a bus to Daqikong, exiting by water, avoiding backtracking. The Wolongtan Waterfall is semi-circular, with a curtain of water cascading down like a light veil. In the morning, when it's quiet, you'll only hear the sound of water and birdsong. ⏰ I recommend entering as soon as it opens at 8 AM. After 10 AM, tour groups flood in, and the bridge becomes crowded, requiring queues for photos. ⚠️ The roasted potatoes and fried small fish in the scenic area are expensive and mediocre; bring your own snacks. If you're going to play in the water, bring a pair of river tracing shoes, as the boardwalks are slippery, and sneakers can easily get wet. Stay in Libo County; there are buses to the scenic area, and taxis aren't expensive. Autumn is still the high-water season, so don't worry about it drying out. 08 Zhangye | Gansu I've seen countless photos of Zhangye's Rainbow Mountains, but seeing them in person is still breathtaking. The mountains look like someone spilled paint, with layers of red, yellow, orange, and green layered upon each other, changing color under the sunlight. 📍 Viewing Platform No. 4 is the best spot for panoramic photos; the afternoon light shines at an angle, making the colors most vibrant. The Giant Buddha Temple is located in the city. Inside, the reclining Buddha, made of wood and clay, is over 30 meters long. Lying in the main hall, people standing next to it look incredibly small. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the temple; please don't take out your phone. Mati Temple is at the foot of the Qilian Mountains, a grotto on a cliff. You have to climb a narrow ladder to get up; those with a fear of heights should be cautious. Liqian Ancient City is a man-made attraction; if you're short on time, you can skip it—it's not very worthwhile. ⏰ You must see the sunset at the Rainbow Mountains; don't go at midday, as the light is too harsh and the colors appear whitish. Staying in Zhangye city center, there are shuttle buses to Danxia, ​​and chartering a car offers more flexibility. 🍜 Enjoy delicious local specialties like "cuo yu zi" (a type of fried dough) and "chao pao" (another type of fried dough) at the city's night market – ten yuan is all you can eat. Want to travel in September and October but worried about crowds? I've scouted this list for you. Eight places, not the tourist hotspots, not the cookie-cutter destinations, but with truly impressive scenery and experiences. Don't thank me yet, after reading this you'll only want to ask for leave. 01 Nanyang | Henan While others are crowding into Shaolin Temple in Henan, I'm taking you straight to Nanyang. Xixia Funiu Mountain's Laojieling is the kind of place where driving into the mountains gets cooler and cooler as you go. ⏰ Entering the scenic area at 8 am, the fog hasn't lifted yet, and the boardwalk seems to float on the clouds. The signal in the mountains is intermittent, perfect because no one's nagging you to reply to messages. 📍 Take the cable car down and follow the western route; two hours will take you to the watershed, where you can straddle the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers – the wind is so strong it'll blow your hat away. Don't rush off the way down the mountain; the Dinosaur Relics Park is right next door. A giant skeleton stands inside a glass enclosure, drawing excited shouts from children and irresistible photos from adults. ⚠️ Be wary of people selling "wild Ganoderma lucidum" at the park entrance; just listen and don't buy it. Remember to book your tickets online a day in advance, as queues are long and prices are higher on-site. Driving is the most convenient option; navigate to the Lao Jie Ling Visitor Center, where parking is plentiful. 02 Shangluo | Shaanxi Shangluo is a place Xi'an locals visit secretly, not telling others. Jinshixia and Tianshuxia are close by, but completely different in style. Jinshixia is all about water, with waterfalls cascading down, spraying your face with a refreshing mist. Tianshuxia is about unique rock formations; the cliffs resemble open pages of a book, requiring you to look up to see. My suggestion: visit Jinshixia in the morning, Tianshuxia in the afternoon, and stay overnight in Mancheng Pass Ancient Town. 📍 The ancient town is small; you can walk through it in one street. But as evening falls and lanterns light up, sitting on the stone steps by the river and enjoying a bowl of fish soup is so relaxing you won't want to move. The Hundred Pagodas Temple is nearby; the ancient pagodas are scattered among the fields, and there aren't many tourists, making it perfect for quiet contemplation. ⚠️ There are many steps in the canyon; elderly people with knee problems shouldn't try to walk the entire way. Turn back halfway. Accommodation in the town is basic; don't have high expectations, just make sure it's clean. 03 Qujing|Yunnan Yunnan isn't just about Dali and Lijiang. Luoping in Qujing is truly a treasure in autumn. Think Luoping only has rapeseed flowers in spring? Wrong. In September, the rice turns golden, and the terraced fields stretch down to the foot of the mountains. The evening light shines down, even more gently than in spring. 📍 The Jiulong Waterfall Group is an hour's drive from Luoping County. Ten waterfalls cascade down in succession; when the water volume is high, you have to shout to speak from the viewing platform. I prefer walking on the lower boardwalk; it's closer to the water, and you can feel the moisture dampening your hair. ⏰ Enter the scenic area after 4 PM. The tour groups have already left, and the light is just right. Stay in Luoping County; there are guesthouses ranging from tens to two hundred yuan. ⚠️ Don't buy the "bamboo rice" at the scenic area exit; the rice is hard and the filling is sparse—a waste of money. If you want a panoramic view of the rice paddies, navigate to Jinji Peak Cluster and climb to the viewing platform halfway up the mountain. 04 Guangzhou|Guangdong Don't just think of the Canton Tower and Chimelong being packed with people when you think of Guangzhou. This time, I'm talking about Guangzhou for those in the know. The Chen Clan Academy is a must-see; the gray-plastered rooftops, densely packed with figures, flowers, and birds, can be stared at for half an hour. 📍 It's right there at Exit D of Chen Clan Academy Station on Metro Line 1—no detour. Baiyun Mountain is like a backyard for locals; tourists only know to take the cable car. I recommend entering from the west gate and taking the dirt road uphill. It takes two hours to reach Moxing Ridge. The breeze after a good sweat is ten times more refreshing than an air-conditioned room. ⚠️ Weekend mornings are crowded; for peace and quiet, go on a weekday morning. Canton Tower and Chimelong: If you absolutely must bring your child, go, but don't schedule them on the same day. Climb the Canton Tower in the evening to watch the sunset, and dedicate a whole day to Chimelong—don't be greedy. Stay in the old town of Yuexiu District; it's convenient to take the subway to Chen Clan Academy and Baiyun Mountain, and there are rice noodle roll shops and dessert shops downstairs. 🍜 The boat congee at 7 am is so generous with the ingredients you'd suspect the owner is losing money. 05 Linyi|Shandong Even Shandong locals underestimate Linyi. The Firefly Water Cave and the Underground Grand Canyon are connected; one ticket covers everything. The underground canyon takes over an hour to walk through, featuring underground rivers, caves, and stalactites. When you get tired, you can take a rafting trip; the rubber rafts bounce around in the waterways, making children scream and adults laugh. The Firefly Cave is accessed by boat. The boatman rows in the dark, with countless fireflies twinkling overhead. ⏰ The cave maintains a constant temperature year-round; bring a jacket in summer and autumn. 📍 Yimeng Mountain is an hour's drive away. The mountain isn't high, but the pine forests are dense. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow, and the wind blows them everywhere. ⚠️ The canyon floor is slippery; wear non-slip shoes, not flip-flops. Those glowing balloons sold at the entrance deflate as soon as you leave the cave, so don't waste your money. Stay in Yishui County; the hotels are clean and around 100 yuan. For food, go to the night market; the stir-fried chicken and scallion pancakes are generous portions. 06 Baoting County | Hainan Sanya is too crowded, so I'm taking you to Baoting. Binglang Valley and Yanoda are close to each other and can be visited in a day. Binglang Valley showcases Li and Miao culture; elderly people still live in the villages, weaving Li brocade and having tattooed faces – seeing it in person is much more vivid than in a museum. 📍 There are two live performances daily; check the schedule so you don't miss the last one. Yanoda is a tropical rainforest. Upon entering, take an electric cart to the top of the mountain, then walk down. Walk along the "Rainforest Boardwalk," with tree roots overhead and streams flowing past your feet; the air is so humid you could wring water out of it. Some people think it's similar to Sanya's Tropical Paradise, but it's less crowded, and you don't have to wait for photos. ⚠️ The silverware sold in Binglang Valley is just for show; don't buy anything. For the "Waterfall Trekking" activity at Yanoda, wear quick-drying clothing, as you'll get soaked; bring a change. Staying in Baoting County, both scenic spots are within a half-hour drive. 🍜 Jackfruit and roast suckling pig at the county's night market are half the price of those in the scenic areas. 07 Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou Libo Xiaoqikong Scenic Area is popular, but many people don't know it's located in Qiannan Prefecture. I'm referring to the entire Zhangjiang Scenic Area in Libo, not just the seven-arch bridge. The water is a deep blue-green, like melted jade poured into the river. 📍 Enter from the east gate, walk through Xiaoqikong first, then take a bus to Daqikong, exiting by water, avoiding backtracking. The Wolongtan Waterfall is semi-circular, with the water curtain cascading down like a light veil. In the morning, when there's no one around, you can only hear the sound of water and birdsong. ⏰ It's recommended to enter at 8:00 AM when it opens. After 10:00 AM, tour groups flood in, and the bridge becomes crowded, requiring a queue to take photos. ⚠️ The roasted potatoes and fried small fish in the scenic area are expensive and not very good; bring your own snacks. If you're going to play in the water, bring a pair of river tracing shoes, as the boardwalks are slippery and sneakers are easy to slip on. Stay in Libo County; there are buses to the scenic area, and taxis are inexpensive. Autumn is still the high-water season, so don't worry about it drying out. 08 Zhangye|Gansu I've seen countless photos of Zhangye's Rainbow Mountains, but seeing them in person is still breathtaking. The mountains look like someone spilled paint, with layers of red, yellow, orange, and green, changing colors under the sunlight. 📍 Viewing platform No. 4 is the best place to take panoramic photos; the afternoon light shines at an angle, making the colors most vibrant. The Giant Buddha Temple is in the city. Inside, the reclining Buddha, made of wood and clay, is over 30 meters long. Lying in the main hall, people standing next to it look incredibly small. ⚠️ Photography is not allowed inside the temple; don't take out your phone. Mati Temple is located at the foot of the Qilian Mountains. It's a grotto on a cliff, requiring a narrow ladder to climb; those with a fear of heights should proceed with caution. Liqian Ancient City is a man-made attraction; if time is limited, it's not worth visiting. ⏰ You absolutely must see the sunset at Danxia Landform; avoid going at midday, as the light is too harsh and the colors appear whitish. Stay in Zhangye city; there are shuttle buses to Danxia Landform, or you can hire a car for more flexibility. 🍜 At the city's night market, you can eat your fill of fish roe and fried dough sticks for just ten yuan.

Where to go for budget travel in September? These 8 places have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and save money. 01 Lu'an | Anhui ⏰ In September, the summer heat has faded at Tiantangzhai, and you'll need a light jacket in the mountains morning and evening. I recommend staying at a farmhouse right outside the scenic area. It costs about 70–80 yuan per person and includes breakfast and dinner. The owner can tell you which trails to take to see the waterfalls without the crowds. 📍 Take the sightseeing bus from the entrance to the mountainside, then hike to the main peak. The sound of the stream follows you the whole way, making it more interesting than just a regular hike. In the afternoon, head to Wanfo Lake. Rent a small boat and drift on the water; the breeze will help you completely relax. 🍜 Return to town in the evening for a bowl of Jinzhai hanging pot. The cured meat and dried bamboo shoots bubbling in the pot will fill you up for about 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ Remember to bring a raincoat. It can rain anytime in the mountains, and the ones sold in the scenic area are expensive and thin. 02 Pingdingshan | Henan Yaoshan and the Central Plains Buddha are connected. Let me be clear: if you try to do it all in one day, your legs will be toast. But don't worry—take the cable car up and walk down. It's the perfect way to see all the scenery without wearing yourself out. 📍 The view from Yuhuangding at the summit is excellent. Visibility is high in September, and you can see the layered mountain ridges in the distance. When you get down to the mountainside, the Buddha is right beneath your feet. Photos just can't capture how breathtaking it is. 🍜 The heluo noodles at the snack stalls at the foot of the mountain are a great deal at 6 yuan per bowl. The noodles are chewy, the broth is savory, and it's much better than the expensive, bland boxed meals inside the scenic area. ⚠️ Don't buy incense at the entrance; the prices inside are double, and you aren't allowed to bring your own incense into the main hall. 03 Shaoguan | Guangdong Places like Danxiashan are best visited in September when the sun isn't too harsh and hiking isn't stuffy. I recommend staying at a homestay outside the Yangyuanshan scenic area. You can hear insects chirping at night, and the next morning, you can climb Yangyuan Stone before the tourist crowds arrive. 📍 The stairs are almost vertical—you'll need to use your hands and feet to stay steady—but the view of the Jinjiang River winding around the mountain from the top is worth it. In the afternoon, hike Zhanglaofeng. Focus on seeing the Yinyuan Stone and the Sun-Watching Pavilion. At sunset, the light hits the red rock walls, making the whole mountain look like it's glowing. ⚠️ The shuttle bus in the scenic area stops running at 5:30 PM, so don't get too distracted and miss the last bus. 🚄 A taxi from Shaoguan Station costs about 40 yuan; ride-sharing is more cost-effective. 04 Linxia | Gansu In September, the water at Liujiaxia is a blue-green color, contrasting with the loess mountains on both banks—it's unrealistically clean. You can take a boat from the visitor center to Bingling Temple. The boat ride takes over an hour, and it's very windy on the water, so remember to bring a jacket. 📍 The Bingling Temple Grottoes are hidden on the steep cliffs along the Yellow River. The Buddha statues and murals are much less famous than those at the Mogao Caves, but there are so few people that you can quietly admire them for ten minutes. 🍜 After returning to the city, go to Bafang Thirteen Alleys for a bowl of Hezhou buns. The lamb and carrot filling, dipped in chili oil and vinegar, is delicious. ⚠️ Boat schedules are limited, so book your ticket a day in advance, or you'll waste a trip. The altitude isn't high here, but the UV rays are strong, so don't skip the hat. 05 Shaoxing | Zhejiang September is the most comfortable season in Shaoxing. The osmanthus flowers are starting to bloom, and the breeze is sweet. Go to Lu Xun's Hometown in the morning. It's free—just swipe your ID card to enter. The entrance to Baicao Garden and Sanwei Study is always crowded, but if you walk a few steps deeper into the alleys, you can find the feeling from the books. In the afternoon, go to Lanting. 📍 There are real geese honking by the Goose Pond, and you can sit on a stone in front of the Liushang Pavilion and imagine the scene of the "winding stream and floating wine cups." Head to Anchang Ancient Town in the evening. Most tourists leave before dark, and the lanterns light up one by one. 🍜 Sit by the river, order a plate of cured sausage with yellow wine, and you can snack on 5-yuan fennel beans for half an hour. ⚠️ There's a performance at Shen Garden in the evening. Tickets aren't cheap, so if you're not that interested in gardens, you can skip it. 06 Shangluo | Shaanxi If you like canyons and plank roads, Jinsixia won't disappoint. The water is still abundant in September, and the canyon is cool. 📍 Take the loop route after entering the scenic area. Go down to the valley floor to see the waterfalls first, then hike back up the plank road. The whole trip takes 3–4 hours; there are many stairs, but you don't have to backtrack. Tianshuxia is a bit wilder. The textures on the rocks really do look like book pages. It's best to take your time and not rush. In the afternoon, go to Mancuanguan Ancient Town. There's no admission fee. The bluestone roads and old opera stage still retain their former grandeur. Locals sit at their doorways shelling corn and chatting with you. 🍜 Have a bowl of potato ciba in town in the evening. It's sour and spicy, sticky, and while it looks ordinary, it gets addictive the more you eat. ⚠️ Baita Temple is under renovation and might be inaccessible in September, so call to confirm before you go. 07 Harbin | Heilongjiang Go to Harbin in September not for the ice, but for the autumn. The leaves along the Songhua River are starting to turn yellow, and the crowds on Central Street have thinned out, so you can finally walk without being packed in. 📍 The lighting at St. Sophia Cathedral is best after 5:00 PM. Pigeons fly around the dome; stand in the square for a while, and you'll get the perfect photo. Volga Manor is in the suburbs. The Russian-style architecture paired with the autumn birch forest feels like stumbling into a European town, but tickets aren't cheap—remember to bring your student ID. 🍜 Zhang Baopu in Laodaowai has a steamer of pork rib buns for 12 yuan. Pair it with a bowl of millet porridge, then go to the riverbank to catch the breeze. ⚠️ The Ice and Snow World is closed in September. If you want to see ice sculptures, change your itinerary so you don't have a wasted trip. 08 Chongqing Chongqing is still hot in September, but you can breathe a little easier in the morning and evening. The Dazu Rock Carvings are worth a full day. Tickets for Beishan and Baodingshan are sold separately; I recommend only seeing Baodingshan. The content is concentrated, and the carvings are well-preserved. 📍 When you stand in front of the Thousand-Hand Guanyin wall, you won't be able to help but hold your breath. Jinyun Mountain is quieter than Nanshan. Take the subway to Beibei and then a taxi up. The bamboo forest trails on the mountain are cool, making it perfect for a morning trip before heading back to the city for hot pot in the afternoon. If you don't have enough time, choose between Wulong Karst and the Yangtze Three Gorges. The former is for seeing the fissures and the Three Natural Bridges; the latter is for taking a cruise to see the river scenery. 🍜 Just find any old-school hot pot place in the city—don't go to the trendy ones. Go for the kind located under residential buildings. Once the nine-grid pot is boiling, start dipping your tripe and duck intestines. ⚠️ Remember to book the upstream direction for the Three Gorges cruise; it's cheaper and the scenery is more expansive.

Let's go! Let me take you to discover a magical hidden gem✨ Located in Baxian Town, Pingli, Shaanxi, Tianshu Gorge Forest Park is like an open book of wordless mysteries📖 Hidden deep within the mysterious Daba Mountains, every page is a masterpiece of nature's craftsmanship! 🌲 The primeval forest here is incredibly healing 🌿 The unique landscape formed by natural shale makes every photo look like a blockbuster 💦 Cascading waterfalls and springs provide instant refreshment 🌬️ A natural oxygen bar packed with negative oxygen ions 😎 It is definitely the perfect choice for a summer getaway! Did you know? It's known as the "Little Jiuzhai" of Shaanxi! Every snapshot is postcard-worthy scenery📸 ❤️ Recommendation rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🕒 Best time to visit: During the cool summer days 📸 Photography tips: Wear bright colors for better photos! Come and unlock this summer paradise~🌴

You've all been doing Ankang Mapanshan wrong. Staying overnight is truly relaxing You've all been doing Ankang Mapanshan wrong. Staying overnight is truly relaxing

Before, I always thought to see vast meadows and crystal-clear mountain lakes, I had to save up for a long holiday and fly thousands of miles to Xinjiang or Switzerland. It wasn’t until I explored cities within 2 hours by high-speed train from Hubei that I realized the same stunning scenery is much closer. You can set off on a weekend trip. ✨Yichang Trip highlights The windmills on the Bailihuang alpine grassland turn along the ridge. The pine breeze mixed with the scent of grass feels like stepping into a Swiss alpine pasture. On sunny days, every photo looks like it has a built-in filter. The primeval forest of Dalaoling hides cloud-top meadows. In autumn, colorful forests overlap with gold, creating an atmosphere just as enchanting as Kanas. The cliffs and peak forests of Chaibu Creek circle the sea of clouds. Standing on the plank road and looking into the distance, the layered mountain waves stretch to the horizon, with a more delicate charm than northern Xinjiang’s mountain views. Trip plan Day 1 Take the high-speed train from Wuhan to Yichang, then transfer directly to Bailihuang. Walk along the grassland trail to the sunset spot and wait for the orange dusk to spread over the windmill tips. Stay overnight in a wooden cabin on the mountain. Day 2 Get up early to visit Dalaoling. Walk the Tianzhu Mountain trail through the primeval forest and climb to the top to watch the sea of clouds. In the afternoon, visit the waterfall in the Three Gorges Bamboo Sea, then return in the evening. Food recommendations Freshly fried radish dumplings are crispy outside and tender inside. Cold shrimp is sticky and sweet with brown sugar water. The soup from stewed Three Gorges fatty fish is so fresh it makes you stomp your feet. Street stall baked small potatoes sprinkled with chili powder are super fragrant. Travel tips Bailihuang is at a high altitude, with a temperature difference of nearly 10 degrees between morning and night. Even in summer, bring a light jacket. There are many mosquitoes on the mountain. Remember to pack mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream. Some cliffside sections of Dalaoling have no guardrails. Don’t get too close when taking photos. ✨Ankang Trip highlights The volcanic rock peaks of Nangong Mountain are wrapped in dense primeval forest. Alpine meadows stretch up the slopes to the clouds. Standing on the golden summit and looking down, when the sea of clouds flows over the mountain tops, it feels like being on the aerial grasslands of Xinjiang. The streams of Tianshu Gorge flow through colorful forests. The clear pools reveal colorful stones at the bottom. Deep in the canyon, only the sounds of water and birds can be heard, as peaceful as the remote Swiss mountain gorges. The grasslands of Zhengyang stretch to the sky. Scattered wildflowers cover the grass, and when the wind blows, it has the same open feeling as Nalati. Trip plan Day 1 Take the high-speed train from Wuhan to Ankang. Have steamed noodles in the city, then transfer to stay at the foot of Nangong Mountain to rest. Day 2 Spend the whole day exploring Nangong Mountain. Walk the hanging plank road to see volcanic landforms, climb to the top to wait for the sea of clouds, then return to the city in the evening. Day 3 Visit Tianshu Gorge in the morning to explore the canyon and streams and photograph the colorful forest and pools. Take the high-speed train back in the afternoon. Food recommendations Ankang steamed noodles are sour and spicy to whet your appetite. Ziyang steamed buns are generously filled and flavorful. Baked flatbread is salty, crispy, and fragrant. Konjac snacks are addictive while watching shows. Travel tips Nangong Mountain has many steep steps. Wear non-slip sports shoes. The grassland area has strong UV rays. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and arm sleeves. Mountain weather changes quickly. Carry a portable raincoat instead of an umbrella. ✨Nanyang Trip highlights The main peak of Laojieling in the Funiu Mountains hides vast primeval forests. The cloud trail winds through pine waves. Standing on the watershed and looking down, the layered mountain waves stretch far, and in autumn when colorful forests cover the hills, it rivals Kanas in Xinjiang. The Bao Tianman canyon hides a series of waterfalls. The streams are clear and blue. Walking on the forest trail, shaded from the sun, it feels as cool as a Swiss summer resort valley. The starry sky on clear mountain nights is amazing. Looking up, the Milky Way fills the sky, creating an incredibly romantic scene. Trip plan Day 1 Take the high-speed train from Wuhan to Nanyang. Head straight to Laojieling, take the cable car to the summit, walk the cloud trail until evening, watch the sunset dye the mountain tops gold and red, and stay overnight in a mountain cabin. Day 2 Get up early to watch the sunrise at the viewing platform, then head to Bao Tianman to explore the primeval forest and canyon waterfalls. Return in the afternoon. Food recommendations Nanyang stewed noodles are chewy with rich broth. Xinye board noodles are spicy and flavorful. Fangcheng steamed dumplings are soft and fresh. Zhenping roast chicken is delicious when torn apart. Travel tips The mountain is 6 to 8 degrees cooler than the city. Even in summer, bring a warm jacket. The Laojieling cable car stops running at 5 PM. Plan your time carefully. Signal is weak deep in Bao Tianman. Download offline maps in advance and avoid undeveloped areas. ✨Jiujiang Trip highlights The Hanpoukou area of Lushan hides vast alpine meadows. Nearby Ruqin Lake is as blue as a gem. Pine forests grow along the slopes. On foggy days, mist floats over the lake, resembling Swiss mid-mountain lakes. When the sea of clouds surges over Wulao Peak, the peaks poke through the clouds, adding a sense of northern Xinjiang’s vastness. Islands scatter across Lushan West Sea’s blue lake. Take a boat tour through the islands, feel the lake breeze, and enjoy the healing green waters. Trip plan Day 1 Take the high-speed train from Wuhan to Jiujiang, then go directly to Lushan. Visit Ruqin Lake and Huajing. In the evening, go to Hanpoukou to watch the sunset. Stay overnight in Guling Town. Day 2 Get up early to climb Wulao Peak and watch the sea of clouds. Then visit Sandiequan waterfall. In the afternoon, descend and return to the city. Day 3 In the morning, take a boat tour on Lushan West Sea to visit islands and photograph the deep blue lake. Return in the afternoon. Food recommendations Jiujiang radish cakes are pan-fried to a crispy golden brown. Jiujiang fried noodles are full of flavor. Stone fish scrambled eggs are delicious with rice. Street-side clay pot soup is warm and comforting. Travel tips Lushan’s winding mountain roads have many curves. Take motion sickness medicine 30 minutes in advance if prone to car sickness. Prices in Guling Town are relatively high. Bring snacks and water before heading up. Boat tours on Lushan West Sea run in shifts. Check the schedule in advance to avoid waiting.

Ate cheap, fresh seafood Saw the beautiful scenery of Pipa Island Went for a fun beach BBQ and camping Experienced life in the 80s and 90s Lived without internet, using only cash

What parents fear most when traveling with kids isn’t the kids fussing but adults overheating and losing it first. If you want to find a cool place in August that won’t cost much, you really have to avoid those pricey, crowded influencer hotspots. I’ve filtered these 8 places by both “feels-like temperature” and “cost.” Some are even cold enough to need a jacket. If you’ve been to any, I’ll admit defeat. 1️⃣ Pingdingshan | Henan Don’t just think of Shaolin Temple when you hear Henan. Yao Mountain in Pingdingshan is the locals’ secret summer retreat. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Zhengzhou East to Pingdingshan West, about 1 hour. Then taxi to Yao Mountain Scenic Area, about 1 hour. Carpool costs about 30 yuan per person. ⏰ Enter the mountain at 8 AM. Take the cable car up and walk along the plank road under dense tree shade. The mountain breeze mixed with moisture feels 7–8 degrees cooler than downtown. Have a bowl of noodles at the farm restaurants by the entrance for 8 yuan to fill up. Don’t order wild vegetables—they’re way too salty. In the afternoon, stroll around the foot of the Central Plains Giant Buddha. ⚠️ Don’t buy incense at the entrance; you can get three sticks for free inside. If you have kids, there’s a shallow stream at the foot of the mountain with water just above the ankles where kids can play all afternoon. Bring extra clothes for changing. 2️⃣ Zunyi | Guizhou Chishui Danxia isn’t just red rocks. It’s a place where you can get goosebumps from the cold in August. 🍜 In the morning, explore Foguangyan Scenic Area. Walk along the cliff plank road where mist from the waterfall drifts down like natural air conditioning. Have bean curd rice for lunch in Bing’an Ancient Town for 20 yuan per person. The owner serves homemade pickled radish. ⚠️ Don’t buy raincoats at the entrance. The mist is heavy but dries after a half-hour walk. Wearing one will just make you sweat. In the afternoon, visit Swallow Rock. If you have kids, strongly consider the sightseeing bus. The stairs on the hiking path are steep and slippery, and carrying kids can be risky. ⏰ After 5 PM, the light softens, and the Danxia cliffs glow warm orange—no filter needed for photos. 3️⃣ Shangluo | Shaanxi Xi’an locals head to Shangluo in summer. It’s a half-hour high-speed train ride, like taking the subway to cool off. The main activity in Jin Silk Gorge is entering the valley in the afternoon. ⏰ After 2 PM, most tour groups leave, and the whole canyon is quiet except for the sound of water. If you have kids, turn back halfway. The full hike takes 4–5 hours, which is too much for little legs. Tianshu Gorge is wilder with slippery paths. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes. You can rent rubber shoes at the entrance for 10 yuan a pair—don’t skip this. Mankuan Pass Ancient Town and Baita Temple are great for evenings. After sunset, the alleyways have cool breezes. Try a bowl of sour and spicy fish soup to whet your appetite. 🚄 From Xi’an North to Shangluo Station, taxi to Jin Silk Gorge costs about 80 yuan. For groups, renting a car is more cost-effective. 4️⃣ Jinhua | Zhejiang Hengdian Film City is really hot in summer but also offers plenty of indoor escapes. ⚠️ Don’t buy combo tickets. With kids, just visit Ming and Qing Palace and Guangzhou Street + Hong Kong Street. Spend half a day in each and return to the hotel for a nap in between. 🎬 The “Storm at Sea” show on Guangzhou Street has a water spray section. The front row gets wet, and kids love it. Remember to wear quick-dry clothes. Shuanglong Scenic Area is the opposite extreme. The cave stays around 18 degrees year-round. ⚠️ Rent a thin jacket at the entrance for 10 yuan or you’ll shiver. 🚄 Taxi from Jinhua Station to Shuanglong Cave costs about 40 yuan. The cave stairs are slippery. For babies, use a carrier; strollers won’t work. 5️⃣ Altay Prefecture | Xinjiang This is the only place in August where you can wear a down jacket—not kidding. The morning mist at Kanas Lake clears around 7 AM. If you stay in a cabin inside the scenic area, you can see it right from your door, but prices are high. If on a budget, stay in Jiadenyu, which is half the price. 🚌 The shuttle bus runs every 30 minutes. Koktokay’s scenery is even more rugged. Spread a picnic blanket in the birch forest by the Irtysh River, munch on naan bread, and watch kids chase butterflies with snow-capped mountains in the background. ⚠️ Avoid horse riding. It costs 100 yuan for 20 minutes, and the guide will pressure you to pay extra to go farther. In the Altay grasslands, herders drive sheep home at dusk. 📍 Stand by the roadside to watch—it’s more breathtaking than any scenic spot. The northern Xinjiang snow scene is a bonus. The snowline remains on the mountain tops in August, just right for viewing through binoculars. 6️⃣ Chizhou | Anhui Jiuhua Mountain isn’t just for worship. The bamboo forest at the foot of the mountain is the right way to cool off with kids. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the dew hasn’t dried. The stone paths feel cool, and kids won’t get hot running around. Have vegetarian lunch by Qiyuan Temple for 10 yuan per person buffet with 7–8 dishes. Just don’t waste food. ⚠️ Don’t take the cable car to Tiantai. The wait is at least an hour. Climb the stairs slowly with kids. There are streams along the way to wash your face. In the afternoon, visit Baishou Palace. It’s so cool inside it feels like air conditioning. Buy a cucumber at the entrance for 5 yuan. It’s crisp, sweet, and refreshing. 🚄 Taxi from Chizhou Station to the visitor center costs about 50 yuan. The shuttle bus up the mountain is free. 7️⃣ Zhangzhou | Fujian The beauty of Yunshuiyao Ancient Town depends on a few big banyan trees. Sitting in their shade, you don’t even need a fan. 🍜 Have a bowl of four-fruit soup in the ancient town for 8 yuan at lunch. Add as much taro balls, grass jelly, and red beans as you want. Kids can drink two bowls. Don’t just visit the famous “four dishes and one soup” Tulou in Nanjing. It’s too crowded to move. 📍 Walk 10 minutes along the ridge to the nearby Hekeng Tulou cluster. Tickets are half the price and it’s quieter. The black rocky beach at the Coastal Volcano Geological Park is kids’ favorite. ⚠️ You can only reach the columnar jointing at low tide. Check the tide schedule in advance or you’ll waste the trip. 🚄 Taxi from Zhangzhou Station to Yunshuiyao costs about 120 yuan. Carpool costs about 40 yuan per person. 8️⃣ Chongqing Don’t just think of hot pot when you hear Chongqing. The city center is a furnace in August, but Wulong is truly cool. Baodingshan at Dazu Rock Carvings has shaded corridors. Walking and stopping to see the sculptures is more comfortable than shopping malls. ⚠️ Don’t hire guides at the entrance. Rent an audio guide for 20 yuan. It’s more detailed than a person. Jinyun Mountain is best for evening hikes. ⏰ After 5 PM, the sun is blocked by the canopy. At Lion Peak, you can catch the sunset. Kids are both scared and curious about the glass walkway in Wulong Karst. Watching them cling to the railing as they inch forward will make you laugh for a year. For Yangtze Three Gorges cruises, choose an afternoon departure. The river breeze blows away the heat. ⚠️ Don’t buy top-deck seats. The public deck offers the same view and saves you 80 yuan. 🚄 Take the bullet train from Chongqing North to Wulong. It’s a 2-hour direct ride.